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Cape Cod Shore #1
In With the Tide
Lindsey Hunter never imagined she’d be returning to her Cape Cod home pregnant and divorced, but she’s determined to build a new life for her and her unborn baby. When car trouble leaves her stranded on the side of the road, ex-Marine Damien Trent rides to the rescue on his motorbike. Once upon a time, they’d been friends and briefly, they’d been something more…until he enlisted and left her behind. As Lindsey and Damien reconnect, the attraction is still as strong as ever. But Lindsey’s knows Damien’s not the staying kind.
Damien would rather do anything than come home to deal with his father’s estate. After years of abuse, he was more than ready to leave town the moment he graduated. With Lindsey back in his life, everything is complicated. He’s used to being a lone wolf – until Lindsey and her newborn baby give him a glimpse of the kind of family and future he’s always dreamed of. Can he be brave enough to reach out and grab it?
Damien would rather do anything than come home to deal with his father’s estate. After years of abuse, he was more than ready to leave town the moment he graduated. With Lindsey back in his life, everything is complicated. He’s used to being a lone wolf – until Lindsey and her newborn baby give him a glimpse of the kind of family and future he’s always dreamed of. Can he be brave enough to reach out and grab it?
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First published February 18, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
March 5, 2018
2.5 stars
In With the Tide isn’t my first outing with Charlee James, and after loving her fairytale retelling of Beauty and The Beast with another publisher, I had no qualms on grabbing this.
...she had the power to irreversibly untwine him—body, mind, and soul.”
This book suffered for its shorter length. The second chance creates that lovely familiarity between the characters which lessens the getting to know one another aspect, but overall I found it had a rushed feel with too many sub plots crammed in, time jumps which didn’t flow (several times I had to scroll back to see if I’d missed something) and a few too many moments where it ventured into telling rather than showing territory.
“Maybe everything we’ve gone through has been a stepping stone to bring us back together.”
Yet I pretty much read in one sitting and I largely attribute that to the moments when Charlee’s engaging writing style shone through. Given more page space, this story could have been taken from average to great.
Copy received courtesy of Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
In With the Tide isn’t my first outing with Charlee James, and after loving her fairytale retelling of Beauty and The Beast with another publisher, I had no qualms on grabbing this.
...she had the power to irreversibly untwine him—body, mind, and soul.”
This book suffered for its shorter length. The second chance creates that lovely familiarity between the characters which lessens the getting to know one another aspect, but overall I found it had a rushed feel with too many sub plots crammed in, time jumps which didn’t flow (several times I had to scroll back to see if I’d missed something) and a few too many moments where it ventured into telling rather than showing territory.
“Maybe everything we’ve gone through has been a stepping stone to bring us back together.”
Yet I pretty much read in one sitting and I largely attribute that to the moments when Charlee’s engaging writing style shone through. Given more page space, this story could have been taken from average to great.
Copy received courtesy of Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
March 5, 2018
3 - "The day you stole my lunch box, you stole my heart…" Stars.
A quick review for what is essentially a very quick read. And if I am honest I think that’s what detracted from my enjoyment of the overall product. When you are cracking out a novella length story I think you need to focus on the main characters and what is going on with them, which sadly wasn’t fully the case in In with the Tide.
He still wanted her… He had always wanted her.
Great premise with the whole second chance aspect between Lindsey and Damien, and as a pair they are both dealing with enough between them that the extraneous factors that were also thrown in made everything seem rushed, repetitive and extremely under developed. This book needed to be either 75-100 pages longer or two tropes lighter to allow for proper development of the main aspects of the story between this couple.
"Maybe everything we’ve gone through has been a stepping stone to bring us back together…"
I have read this author before, and there were glimpses of the beautiful emotive characterisations and story that she can put together in this one, but the story wasn’t given the chance to flow organically and everything was resolved with little or no real gravitas because of it.
"No more running from problems… No more fear."
I look forward to Jay’s book, I just hope it’s either longer, or less trope laden.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
A quick review for what is essentially a very quick read. And if I am honest I think that’s what detracted from my enjoyment of the overall product. When you are cracking out a novella length story I think you need to focus on the main characters and what is going on with them, which sadly wasn’t fully the case in In with the Tide.
He still wanted her… He had always wanted her.
Great premise with the whole second chance aspect between Lindsey and Damien, and as a pair they are both dealing with enough between them that the extraneous factors that were also thrown in made everything seem rushed, repetitive and extremely under developed. This book needed to be either 75-100 pages longer or two tropes lighter to allow for proper development of the main aspects of the story between this couple.
"Maybe everything we’ve gone through has been a stepping stone to bring us back together…"
I have read this author before, and there were glimpses of the beautiful emotive characterisations and story that she can put together in this one, but the story wasn’t given the chance to flow organically and everything was resolved with little or no real gravitas because of it.
"No more running from problems… No more fear."
I look forward to Jay’s book, I just hope it’s either longer, or less trope laden.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
February 20, 2018
Lindsey is back in her hometown. She's pregnant and divorced and hopes being in Cape Cod will heal her. The last person she expects to see there is Damien, her childhood best friend. They lost touch after sparks started to fly between them. Damien enlisted and couldn't leave quickly enough. Now that they've found each other again Lindsey and Damien can use each other's strengths and soon agreements are being made. Their feelings for each other never completely disappeared and they can't stay away from one another. Lindsey knows Damien isn't in town for good though and she isn't sure he'll change his mind.
Damien had a rotten childhood and the last thing he wants is being in the place that constantly reminds him of it. Damien is afraid to let anyone in and doesn't know if he can stay with Lindsey if it brings back so much pain to be in Cape Cod again. What will his heart tell him to do, will he be able to give love a chance? His biggest wish is to have his own family and this dream is within his reach, but fear keeps standing in his way, can he conquer it?
In With the Tide is a wonderful love story. Lindsey and Damien both deserve plenty of happiness. Lindsey is a sweetheart with a caring personality. Her ex-husband didn't appreciate her and didn't treat her well. She's heavily pregnant when she meets Damien and he instantly feels protective of her. He's such a gentle and kindhearted man and reading about his struggles brought tears to my eyes. He deserves to love and be loved and I kept hoping he'd find a way to overcome his obstacles. I love books about soul mates and it's clear from the start that Lindsey and Damien belong together. I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if they'd have a future together.
Charlee James vividly describes the emotions of her main characters, which makes them come to life very well. I was instantly captivated by Lindsey and Damien. They're beautiful people. Charlee James clearly cares about her main characters and that makes her story extra special. She combines this with a stunning setting and I loved how it all comes together. I especially enjoyed the gorgeous ending. In With the Tide is an endearing romantic story filled with touching deep moments and real love.
Damien had a rotten childhood and the last thing he wants is being in the place that constantly reminds him of it. Damien is afraid to let anyone in and doesn't know if he can stay with Lindsey if it brings back so much pain to be in Cape Cod again. What will his heart tell him to do, will he be able to give love a chance? His biggest wish is to have his own family and this dream is within his reach, but fear keeps standing in his way, can he conquer it?
In With the Tide is a wonderful love story. Lindsey and Damien both deserve plenty of happiness. Lindsey is a sweetheart with a caring personality. Her ex-husband didn't appreciate her and didn't treat her well. She's heavily pregnant when she meets Damien and he instantly feels protective of her. He's such a gentle and kindhearted man and reading about his struggles brought tears to my eyes. He deserves to love and be loved and I kept hoping he'd find a way to overcome his obstacles. I love books about soul mates and it's clear from the start that Lindsey and Damien belong together. I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if they'd have a future together.
Charlee James vividly describes the emotions of her main characters, which makes them come to life very well. I was instantly captivated by Lindsey and Damien. They're beautiful people. Charlee James clearly cares about her main characters and that makes her story extra special. She combines this with a stunning setting and I loved how it all comes together. I especially enjoyed the gorgeous ending. In With the Tide is an endearing romantic story filled with touching deep moments and real love.
August 27, 2023
This was a great read. It just felt so soft and domestic. Our two main characters had plenty of depth to them and while they frustrated me at times, it really felt like they were meant to be together and their reactions were very human (even if they had me screaming). This was just all very cute.
February 20, 2018
New to me author Charlee James stole my heart with In With The Tide. She wrote two amazing and broken characters and found a beautiful way to bring them together. Love lost and then found again written in the beautiful New England setting of Cape Code had me smiling and hoping that Lindsey and Damien would find their way through their personal turmoil and find love with each other once and for all.
Damien had demons. Lots of them. Lindsey was one of them. One of his best friends growing up, he pushed her away as a teenager feeling that she deserved more than what he was. He found his way out of Chatham and is not looking forward to going there again. He didn't have many good memories of being here and just needs to get in and get out again. But, reconnecting with Lindsey has him looking at things differently. Maybe he can stay the course. Maybe he has it in him to stay here and start a new life. Maybe Lindsey is who his heart has been waiting for. Now, it's his turn to be there for her just like she was for him. He also has to find a way to get her to see that she is a strong, capable woman who can stand on her own two feet and do what she wants in her life … not some cowering, unsure woman that her bastard ex-husband turned her into.
Lindsey is happy to be home after a terrible divorce. It's time to rebuild and move on with her baby. But, luck isn't on her side until her old friend Damien shows up just when she needs him most. She didn't expect him to offer to help her. She didn't expect him to stand by her side. She didn't expect to see the heat and want in his eyes. She knew he had a terrible upbringing and that his past is haunting him. She had to show him that there was someone who wouldn't walk away, who understood him, that could and would love him.
Two mistakes … that's all it took for Damien to walk away, to break Lindsey, to see what he really wanted in life. Now, let's hope that she'll forgive him and give him the family that he never had.
I adored this romantic, sweet and heart-wrenching story by Charlee James. She wrote a true romance that did touch my heart. She never once made wonder if this would end with a happy ending. She wrote endearing characters that had flaws but overcame them. In With The Tide is the first in the series and I cannot wait to see what else this author has for me.
February 19, 2018
It’s easy for family and friends to sympathize with someone they know who has been physically abused. But it is another story if a person is emotionally or verbally abused. Unless you yourself is suffering or has survived this kind of abuse, just like any psychological experience, it is difficult for those who have not lived with it to empathize.
Damien and Lindsey’s story is more than the “baby-in-the-picture” plot. It is a story of two people trying to live life while surviving and recovering from psychological violence. The length of time they have endured it does not matter, be it a couple of years or an entire childhood, it had long-lasting effects on them. It ingrained in them that they are at fault and are being made to feel guilty.
Should a trigger warning be given for this book? Maybe not? That’s my opinion but I’m not a survivor of such abuse, I don’t know what triggers them. In my observation, there were very few instances shown in the book about the abuse themselves. The story is how they recover from it. But you could read between the lines and know that they were both intimidated, criticized, and undermind. Lindsey was even economically abused and was told what she can and cannot do.
This review now sounds heavy, but the story is full of hope and new beginnings. It shows us we can heal and it is not a sign of weakness to lean on someone or ask for help.
Damien and Lindsey’s story is more than the “baby-in-the-picture” plot. It is a story of two people trying to live life while surviving and recovering from psychological violence. The length of time they have endured it does not matter, be it a couple of years or an entire childhood, it had long-lasting effects on them. It ingrained in them that they are at fault and are being made to feel guilty.
Should a trigger warning be given for this book? Maybe not? That’s my opinion but I’m not a survivor of such abuse, I don’t know what triggers them. In my observation, there were very few instances shown in the book about the abuse themselves. The story is how they recover from it. But you could read between the lines and know that they were both intimidated, criticized, and undermind. Lindsey was even economically abused and was told what she can and cannot do.
This review now sounds heavy, but the story is full of hope and new beginnings. It shows us we can heal and it is not a sign of weakness to lean on someone or ask for help.
February 7, 2018
When you lose your heart to the boy who stole your heart in grade school the world becomes perfect. Especially, when you continue to bring him a peanut butter sandwich every day. You become the best of friends. She never would know just how much that meant to Damien. At least Lindsey Hunter thought they were friends.
Until they hit middle school and were paired up to play spin the bottle. Damien Trent saw no harm in it. What could go wrong? Lindsey was not only his best friend but his secret crush too. But after they entered that small closet and their lips touched he came out and from that moment on he acted like she had the plague.
As soon as high school was over he joined the Marines. Lindsey's heart had always gone out to Damien because his dad was the town drunk and she knew his mom had left when he was seven. Leaving his heart scared. Not to mention his body from the beatings he would get from hands of his father.
Lindsey had gone to college, getting married to Matthew who turned out to be a controlling person. Rich and full of himself. O course he was none of those things before they were married or else she wouldn’t have married him. Soon after marrying him he changed.
He had her stop being around her family and friends, stopped painting saying she wasn’t very good and had her quit her job when she became pregnant. She surprised him at work on the day with homemade cookies. Well, she was the one that got the surprise. Because he had his secretary’s legs in the air on his desk as he had his member in her. Yup, he was having an affair.
So, after a year they were divorced. She was moving home to Cape Cod. Bought a fixer up on the beach. On her way there her car breaks down. Guess who finds her? After nine years in the Marines, he is home to settle up his father’s affairs since he just passed away. He needed to settle the will, have the funeral, and sell the home he hated. So, he helps her out. Since all the hotel room are full since it’s summer she helps him out by letting him stay in a room at her house for the night.
Within a week the baby arrives early changing the course of both of their lives. I enjoyed this nice easy laid-back read. I give this: 4 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
Until they hit middle school and were paired up to play spin the bottle. Damien Trent saw no harm in it. What could go wrong? Lindsey was not only his best friend but his secret crush too. But after they entered that small closet and their lips touched he came out and from that moment on he acted like she had the plague.
As soon as high school was over he joined the Marines. Lindsey's heart had always gone out to Damien because his dad was the town drunk and she knew his mom had left when he was seven. Leaving his heart scared. Not to mention his body from the beatings he would get from hands of his father.
Lindsey had gone to college, getting married to Matthew who turned out to be a controlling person. Rich and full of himself. O course he was none of those things before they were married or else she wouldn’t have married him. Soon after marrying him he changed.
He had her stop being around her family and friends, stopped painting saying she wasn’t very good and had her quit her job when she became pregnant. She surprised him at work on the day with homemade cookies. Well, she was the one that got the surprise. Because he had his secretary’s legs in the air on his desk as he had his member in her. Yup, he was having an affair.
So, after a year they were divorced. She was moving home to Cape Cod. Bought a fixer up on the beach. On her way there her car breaks down. Guess who finds her? After nine years in the Marines, he is home to settle up his father’s affairs since he just passed away. He needed to settle the will, have the funeral, and sell the home he hated. So, he helps her out. Since all the hotel room are full since it’s summer she helps him out by letting him stay in a room at her house for the night.
Within a week the baby arrives early changing the course of both of their lives. I enjoyed this nice easy laid-back read. I give this: 4 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
February 19, 2018
Awesome read! It was heartwarming and touched a place deep in my soul. Strong characters and excellent writing made this one very enjoyable.
Newly divorced and pregnant, Lindsey Hunter finds herself moving back to Cape Cod for a fresh start for herself and her baby. The last person she expects to run into is Damien Trent. Sure they were friends when they were very young but after middle school Damien basically ignored Lindsey. Then he enlisted and left his unhappy childhood and Lindsey in the rear view. They reconnect when he stops to help Lindsey after her car dies. It's obvious that the attraction and chemistry between them is still as strong as ever. The longer they spend time together the stronger the feelings become. Is there anyway for them to make this thing work this time?
Highly recommended.
Newly divorced and pregnant, Lindsey Hunter finds herself moving back to Cape Cod for a fresh start for herself and her baby. The last person she expects to run into is Damien Trent. Sure they were friends when they were very young but after middle school Damien basically ignored Lindsey. Then he enlisted and left his unhappy childhood and Lindsey in the rear view. They reconnect when he stops to help Lindsey after her car dies. It's obvious that the attraction and chemistry between them is still as strong as ever. The longer they spend time together the stronger the feelings become. Is there anyway for them to make this thing work this time?
Highly recommended.
February 18, 2018
I voluntarily read a advanced reader's copy of this book.
In With the Tide by Charlee Jones. A heart-warming story with great characters and storyline. I loved the setting. A great start to a new series the Cape Cod Shores series. I look forward to seeing what is up next in this series and to read more by this author.
In With the Tide by Charlee Jones. A heart-warming story with great characters and storyline. I loved the setting. A great start to a new series the Cape Cod Shores series. I look forward to seeing what is up next in this series and to read more by this author.
March 25, 2018
Rating 4.5/5*
This is a relatively short but sweet second-chance romance set in Cape Cod. Both Lindsey Hunter and her childhood friend Damien Trent had never thought they would return to their childhood home but fate has them doing so for very different reasons at the same time. She’s divorced and pregnant whilst he’s returning to sort out his late father’s estate. As teens these two had a brief more than friends relationship but then he’d left to join the marines, pushing her away as he never thought he was good enough for her.
Now they reconnect when he comes to her rescue after her car breaks down. The attraction is still there and Damien keeps turning up when she needs him most. He had a terrible childhood home and Lindsey was the only redeeming feature from that time, now he has to face up to all that time again and Lindsey is there to support him. This is a delightful and moving story with endearing characters who just can’t stay away from each other and prove to each other that they are stronger together and both deserve their chance to have a HEA together.
This is an emotively written story written in a way which makes it easy to relate to the characters, their angst and turmoil. The setting is brought to life by the vivid descriptions and the ending is superb. I enjoyed escaping into this lovely second-chance romance and have no hesitation in highly recommending it!
I requested and received a copy of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
This is a relatively short but sweet second-chance romance set in Cape Cod. Both Lindsey Hunter and her childhood friend Damien Trent had never thought they would return to their childhood home but fate has them doing so for very different reasons at the same time. She’s divorced and pregnant whilst he’s returning to sort out his late father’s estate. As teens these two had a brief more than friends relationship but then he’d left to join the marines, pushing her away as he never thought he was good enough for her.
Now they reconnect when he comes to her rescue after her car breaks down. The attraction is still there and Damien keeps turning up when she needs him most. He had a terrible childhood home and Lindsey was the only redeeming feature from that time, now he has to face up to all that time again and Lindsey is there to support him. This is a delightful and moving story with endearing characters who just can’t stay away from each other and prove to each other that they are stronger together and both deserve their chance to have a HEA together.
This is an emotively written story written in a way which makes it easy to relate to the characters, their angst and turmoil. The setting is brought to life by the vivid descriptions and the ending is superb. I enjoyed escaping into this lovely second-chance romance and have no hesitation in highly recommending it!
I requested and received a copy of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
February 17, 2018
In With the Tide by Charlee James is a lovely story about learning that to embrace the future, you must first let go of the past.
In With the Tide is a light, feel-good read. As with other novels by this author, characterisations are well done, and you can’t help but empathise with the main characters, Lindsey and Damien.
Lindsey, who despite having a happy childhood, ends up in a manipulate marriage where her self-esteem and sense of worth is stripped from her. Now divorced, heavily pregnant, and with limited funds, she returns to her hometown to start fresh.
Damien had anything but a happy childhood. Abandoned by his mother, abused by his father, he escaped to the military as soon as he could. Now, after the death of his father, he returns to his hometown to finalise his father’s affairs. As he returns home, he encounters Lindsey, his closest childhood friend, and the rest, as they say, is history…
In With the Tide is a light but emotional story of two lost souls who find each other, but both have their inner demons to conquer; Damien especially must reconcile his past if he is to move forward.
This is book one in the Cape Cod Shore series, and I have a feeling that Jay may be the next to get his HEA. I’m looking forward to reading whatever comes next.
All my reviews can be found here: The Word Nerd Reviews
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In With the Tide is a light, feel-good read. As with other novels by this author, characterisations are well done, and you can’t help but empathise with the main characters, Lindsey and Damien.
Lindsey, who despite having a happy childhood, ends up in a manipulate marriage where her self-esteem and sense of worth is stripped from her. Now divorced, heavily pregnant, and with limited funds, she returns to her hometown to start fresh.
Damien had anything but a happy childhood. Abandoned by his mother, abused by his father, he escaped to the military as soon as he could. Now, after the death of his father, he returns to his hometown to finalise his father’s affairs. As he returns home, he encounters Lindsey, his closest childhood friend, and the rest, as they say, is history…
In With the Tide is a light but emotional story of two lost souls who find each other, but both have their inner demons to conquer; Damien especially must reconcile his past if he is to move forward.
This is book one in the Cape Cod Shore series, and I have a feeling that Jay may be the next to get his HEA. I’m looking forward to reading whatever comes next.
All my reviews can be found here: The Word Nerd Reviews
Follow Me: Facebook & Twitter
February 13, 2018
This is a new to me author. I picked it up based on the synopsis. Single parent tropes get me every time. This one is also a second chance romance. Lindsey and Damien knew each other in high school but parted ways for a few years.
Sweet story with a bit of angst and self doubt layered in. Both Damien and Lindsey are good people with good hearts, they just kept bumbling over each other with big blowouts when they made bad assumptions.
The writing was a little choppy-- Jumped around quickly from scene to scene. I see promise here, though. I would pick up the next in the series just to see if things improve. Interesting secondary characters make me want to know their stories, too.
*Complimentary copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review
Sweet story with a bit of angst and self doubt layered in. Both Damien and Lindsey are good people with good hearts, they just kept bumbling over each other with big blowouts when they made bad assumptions.
The writing was a little choppy-- Jumped around quickly from scene to scene. I see promise here, though. I would pick up the next in the series just to see if things improve. Interesting secondary characters make me want to know their stories, too.
*Complimentary copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review
February 8, 2018
*ARC received in exchange for review*
I really liked this book! Of course I was pulled in because it is one of my favorite troupes. The H did grate on my nerves a bit, but not too bad. I would recommend this book if you're looking for a cute book that's not too angsty!
I really liked this book! Of course I was pulled in because it is one of my favorite troupes. The H did grate on my nerves a bit, but not too bad. I would recommend this book if you're looking for a cute book that's not too angsty!
February 19, 2018
A friends to lovers romance with sincerity and heart aplenty. Lindsey and Damien were two likeable characters and Jay and Alex just as interesting. The story has emotional moments and dramatic elements that kept this reader’s attention fixed to the pages. Some twists that snuck up on this reader and some contentious moments too, but overall In With The Tide by Charlee James is a read that leaves a smile.
Review copy received from Tule Publishing via Netgalley
Review copy received from Tule Publishing via Netgalley
February 21, 2018
I love this second chances story with a bad boy from the past and a woman determined to rebuild her life! The setting is gorgeous... Charlee James is a wonderful new voice in Romance.
February 22, 2018
Very sweet contemporary romance, with second chances. Full review to follow.
February 13, 2018
In with the Tide is a charming story filled with conflicting emotions and warring feelings. When two old friends intersect on a Cape Cod highway, life changes for both of them.
Lindsay Hunter saved Damien Trent many times when they were young and poles apart. He never forgot her sincerity and she never forgot him. When circumstances bring them together, a love erupts with its own volatility of insecurity and trust weariness. A lot has to happen to change insecurity to trust if the relationship is to survive.
Lindsay Hunter saved Damien Trent many times when they were young and poles apart. He never forgot her sincerity and she never forgot him. When circumstances bring them together, a love erupts with its own volatility of insecurity and trust weariness. A lot has to happen to change insecurity to trust if the relationship is to survive.
February 6, 2018
There are within this story such emotional moments that you'll find yourself drawing a quick breath at just how deeply you are touched. This is author is new to me, I have found her writing superb in creating attachments to her characters. Through the heartbreak she created for her characters, there is the brightness of a HEA that shined through providing a very satisfying ending to Damien and Lindsey's story.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
February 22, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
In With The Tide is an emotional romance of two wounded souls who were abused in different ways by those who should have loved, protected and cherished them at different times in their lives. I don’t feel there are true triggers in this story, yet certainly what they’ve both gone through is not hidden.
Lindsey and Damien both end up back in their home town years after they last saw each other. Damien to settle his father’s affairs. Lindsey to begin building her life over again after a divorce from a monster. She is pregnant, alone and life just keeps tossing bad things her way until one of those bad things leads her back to Damien once again. This is a second chance for them both to discover what they might mean to each other now as adults. They both have issues. Yet together they have a chance at something good and real… if they will take the risk with their hearts once again.
I found In With The Tide to be a combination of the style of second chance romance that I enjoy very much. Two people with definite reasons to be mistrusting of anyone will find that the feelings they had as young teens has withstood the test of time apart. Are they both perfect? Certainly not, no one is. But they can bring healing to each other through a solid love and respect for each other. This story is emotional, funny, touching and feels like a very real slice of life. Bad things happen – but good things can happen as well. I was drawn in to their romance and cheered them on to their happy ending. I’d not hesitate to recommend In With The Tide to any Contemporary Romance reader, and I’m definitely keeping an eye out for the next story in this series.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
In With The Tide is an emotional romance of two wounded souls who were abused in different ways by those who should have loved, protected and cherished them at different times in their lives. I don’t feel there are true triggers in this story, yet certainly what they’ve both gone through is not hidden.
Lindsey and Damien both end up back in their home town years after they last saw each other. Damien to settle his father’s affairs. Lindsey to begin building her life over again after a divorce from a monster. She is pregnant, alone and life just keeps tossing bad things her way until one of those bad things leads her back to Damien once again. This is a second chance for them both to discover what they might mean to each other now as adults. They both have issues. Yet together they have a chance at something good and real… if they will take the risk with their hearts once again.
I found In With The Tide to be a combination of the style of second chance romance that I enjoy very much. Two people with definite reasons to be mistrusting of anyone will find that the feelings they had as young teens has withstood the test of time apart. Are they both perfect? Certainly not, no one is. But they can bring healing to each other through a solid love and respect for each other. This story is emotional, funny, touching and feels like a very real slice of life. Bad things happen – but good things can happen as well. I was drawn in to their romance and cheered them on to their happy ending. I’d not hesitate to recommend In With The Tide to any Contemporary Romance reader, and I’m definitely keeping an eye out for the next story in this series.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
February 9, 2018
First, I want to start off by saying I LOVE the cover. It's different and precious! Now for the book...
This is the second book I've read by this author and I have really enjoyed both. This story of Lindsey and Damien is a second chance trope. They have known each other since they were fairly young and the attraction was always there, but Damien got spooked and shut down on her. Now they have both just arrived back in town and Damien "rescues" a pregnant Lindsey from a broken down car. What?
Ms. James has thrown a baby into the mix? What is more delightful than a sexy man with a baby? Maybe a sexy man with a baby that would really like to have sex with the baby's momma! There are the idiot moments by both Lindsey and Damien along the way that have to be overcome in any relationship. They did things that hurt the other that were amazingly similar, yet there wasn't any of the learned understanding I would have expected.
The story was really good. I would have given it 5 stars, but the beginning didn't work for me and made me fret throughout the entire book. Lindsey is pregnant and on her own because of her very controlling, cheating ex. The transition from being that used and hurt to having romantic feelings for Damien about three weeks late really rubbed me the wrong way. I guess I needed more hesitancy and learning curve on her part in order to buy into it. Those two things that didn't work for me were my only issues with this book. Maybe I just analyze too much. I do strongly suggest giving this book a chance. I think there will be great things coming from Ms. James in the future!
This is the second book I've read by this author and I have really enjoyed both. This story of Lindsey and Damien is a second chance trope. They have known each other since they were fairly young and the attraction was always there, but Damien got spooked and shut down on her. Now they have both just arrived back in town and Damien "rescues" a pregnant Lindsey from a broken down car. What?
Ms. James has thrown a baby into the mix? What is more delightful than a sexy man with a baby? Maybe a sexy man with a baby that would really like to have sex with the baby's momma! There are the idiot moments by both Lindsey and Damien along the way that have to be overcome in any relationship. They did things that hurt the other that were amazingly similar, yet there wasn't any of the learned understanding I would have expected.
The story was really good. I would have given it 5 stars, but the beginning didn't work for me and made me fret throughout the entire book. Lindsey is pregnant and on her own because of her very controlling, cheating ex. The transition from being that used and hurt to having romantic feelings for Damien about three weeks late really rubbed me the wrong way. I guess I needed more hesitancy and learning curve on her part in order to buy into it. Those two things that didn't work for me were my only issues with this book. Maybe I just analyze too much. I do strongly suggest giving this book a chance. I think there will be great things coming from Ms. James in the future!
July 1, 2023
FREE today (July 1, 2023) on Amazon.
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
3.5 stars.
A truly sweet romance! It’s a story about second chances on love, childhood sweethearts reunited and building and rebuilding families.
Damien, a former Marine with a troubled past, is a wonderful hero, a brawny and rugged man with scars inside and outside. Damien’s bonding with baby Maris is endearing to watch; and when he suggests “just cuddling” to the heroine, a recent mother who has given birth…
Lindsey is a great heroine too, who learns to overcome her insecurities.
The story felt a bit sappy sometimes but the strong, tender relationship between Damien, Lindsey and Maris made it really heartwarming.
We get a glimpse of Jay and Alex, I hope we’ll have their story soon.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Tule Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
3.5 stars.
A truly sweet romance! It’s a story about second chances on love, childhood sweethearts reunited and building and rebuilding families.
Damien, a former Marine with a troubled past, is a wonderful hero, a brawny and rugged man with scars inside and outside. Damien’s bonding with baby Maris is endearing to watch; and when he suggests “just cuddling” to the heroine, a recent mother who has given birth…
Lindsey is a great heroine too, who learns to overcome her insecurities.
The story felt a bit sappy sometimes but the strong, tender relationship between Damien, Lindsey and Maris made it really heartwarming.
We get a glimpse of Jay and Alex, I hope we’ll have their story soon.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Tule Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
April 1, 2022
I liked the premise of this book, but it just didn't pan out. I'm not sure how it has gotten such high ratings. I know that with friends that grew up together there is not the whole getting to know you phase, but good grief, these two haven't seen one another for ten years or so. I'm pretty sure they have changed since they once knew one another. But, then again, maybe not because Damien and Lindsey really didn't have all that much depth. There is so much going on in this book, but it goes on so fast that you feel like you're on a high-speed journey to nowhere. The author's writing style did not engage me at all.
October 11, 2019
I liked the concept but it was a little repetitive and I never did connect to the couple. I gave it 2.6 stars.
September 25, 2021
Shallow
Really very little plot development. Just a series of events slid right through as quickly as possible. Don't waste your money or time
Really very little plot development. Just a series of events slid right through as quickly as possible. Don't waste your money or time
February 20, 2018
In With the Tide by Charlee James
Lindsey Hunter never imagined she’d be returning to her Cape Cod home pregnant and divorced, but she’s determined to build a new life for her and her unborn baby. When car trouble leaves her stranded on the side of the road, ex-Marine Damien Trent rides to the rescue on his motorbike. Once upon a time, they’d been friends and briefly, they’d been something more…until he enlisted and left her behind. As Lindsey and Damien reconnect, the attraction is still as strong as ever. But Lindsey’s knows Damien’s not the staying kind.
Damien would rather do anything than come home to deal with his father’s estate. After years of abuse, he was more than ready to leave town the moment he graduated. With Lindsey back in his life, everything is complicated. He’s used to being a lone wolf – until Lindsey and her newborn baby give him a glimpse of the kind of family and future he’s always dreamed of. Can he be brave enough to reach out and grab it?
this is Lindsey Hunter and Damien Trent's story.
The small sedan was broken down in the worst possible spot—a bend in a blind drive. White smoke clouded the air around it. The driver stood on the side of the road, back turned to him, a thick fall of wheat-colored hair cascading over her shoulders. Damien forgot to breathe. Another ghost.
When he looked up at her, he was surprised to see the heavily rounded belly, and understood the caution that clouded her eyes. Voice softer now, he met her eyes. “Lindsey. Don’t you remember me?” “I’m so sorry, Damien. I didn’t recognize you.
Lindsey swung her arms around his shoulders and he gave her back a quick pat.
Damien lowered the hood and sure enough a black-and-white dog with a flat face, bulging eyes, and pointed ears too big for its head stared inquisitively back at him.
“A dog or a bat?” he questioned. “Pop the trunk. I’ll get what you have and drive you and the bat into town.”
“I’ll go slow.” Driving her would put a wrench in his plans, but there was no way he’d leave her stranded—or the dog.
They walked into the shop where Damien had held his first job in high school. It had been a taste of financial freedom and a chance to get away from the house and his father.
In With the Tide by Charlee James is a wonderful well written 4 star book.
I highly recommend reading.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Charlee's Books with Tule:
In With the Tide by Charlee James
Cape Cod ShoresBook,Book 1
Lindsey Hunter never imagined she’d be returning to her Cape Cod home pregnant and divorced, but she’s determined to build a new life for her and her unborn baby. When car trouble leaves her stranded on the side of the road, ex-Marine Damien Trent rides to the rescue on his motorbike. Once upon a time, they’d been friends and briefly, they’d been something more…until he enlisted and left her behind. As Lindsey and Damien reconnect, the attraction is still as strong as ever. But Lindsey’s knows Damien’s not the staying kind.
Damien would rather do anything than come home to deal with his father’s estate. After years of abuse, he was more than ready to leave town the moment he graduated. With Lindsey back in his life, everything is complicated. He’s used to being a lone wolf – until Lindsey and her newborn baby give him a glimpse of the kind of family and future he’s always dreamed of. Can he be brave enough to reach out and grab it?
this is Lindsey Hunter and Damien Trent's story.
The small sedan was broken down in the worst possible spot—a bend in a blind drive. White smoke clouded the air around it. The driver stood on the side of the road, back turned to him, a thick fall of wheat-colored hair cascading over her shoulders. Damien forgot to breathe. Another ghost.
When he looked up at her, he was surprised to see the heavily rounded belly, and understood the caution that clouded her eyes. Voice softer now, he met her eyes. “Lindsey. Don’t you remember me?” “I’m so sorry, Damien. I didn’t recognize you.
Lindsey swung her arms around his shoulders and he gave her back a quick pat.
Damien lowered the hood and sure enough a black-and-white dog with a flat face, bulging eyes, and pointed ears too big for its head stared inquisitively back at him.
“A dog or a bat?” he questioned. “Pop the trunk. I’ll get what you have and drive you and the bat into town.”
“I’ll go slow.” Driving her would put a wrench in his plans, but there was no way he’d leave her stranded—or the dog.
They walked into the shop where Damien had held his first job in high school. It had been a taste of financial freedom and a chance to get away from the house and his father.
In With the Tide by Charlee James is a wonderful well written 4 star book.
I highly recommend reading.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Charlee's Books with Tule:
In With the Tide by Charlee James
Cape Cod ShoresBook,Book 1
February 28, 2018
Damian’s father was dead and he was truly alone. The last blood tie , the final rope tying Damian to his past gone. Damian had gone into the Marines and he had served three tours in Iran and had been a Marine sniper and he learned a trick to cool his nerves when shells exploded around him that was to let his mind go blank. As he was doing now as he started to remember the beatings and the belt when his father was drunk which was a lot. Then as Damian rode his bike he saw a car broken down and the driver was a ghost from Damian's past- Lindsay who was very pregnant but her husband had cheated on her and now she came back to her hometown, divorced and about to be a single parent. Lindsay had brought a cottage without coming and seeing it as the photos had looked okay. But it was in no shape to bring a newborn home to. Damian had come back to clean out his father's house do some minor repairs and sell it. There was no room to be had at any of the hotels so damien offered to pay Lindsay to stay with her and that way she would have some extra money when the baby came. Lindsay had been kind to damien when he was a lot younger and as a teen they had kissed in a game of spin the bottle then he backed away from her and they didn’t even speak in HS. Lindsay didn’t belong with a guy like him. Then Lindsay offered to help him go through his father stuff and he could do some minor work for her. Damian was terrified of the affection that went through him every time Lindsay was near. Lindsay went into labor early and Damian was with her when Mavis was born.
I loved this book. It was a quick easy but emotional romance. I loved Damian and Lindsay together. I was so glad Damian decided not to leave. I also loved how Damian and Kate accepted each other like they had grown up together as brother and sister instead of just meeting. Lindsay was so much stronger than she thought. And i was so happy when she stood up to her ex Mathew. I chuckled while reading this book. I also got choked up at times. I read this in one setting bit i also didn’t want to put it down. It had my attention from beginning until end. I found nothing to criticize in this book I am happy to say. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend.
I loved this book. It was a quick easy but emotional romance. I loved Damian and Lindsay together. I was so glad Damian decided not to leave. I also loved how Damian and Kate accepted each other like they had grown up together as brother and sister instead of just meeting. Lindsay was so much stronger than she thought. And i was so happy when she stood up to her ex Mathew. I chuckled while reading this book. I also got choked up at times. I read this in one setting bit i also didn’t want to put it down. It had my attention from beginning until end. I found nothing to criticize in this book I am happy to say. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend.
February 23, 2018
Damien is back in town to bury his abusive father, whom he hasn't seen since he enlisted in the Marines. On his way through town, he sots Lindsay on the side of the road with a very pregnant belly and a little doggy and a broken down car.
Lindsay was the only one who paid him any attention when they were growing up,... she knew he had a bad homelife and she gave him some solace in his dark times.
Now back in town, Damien needs a place to stay while he gets his fathers house sold, so he can forget that terrible time in his life and move on, and Lindsay needs help getting her new cottage squared away before her baby gets here. Freshly divorced from the most vile man, shes doing it all alone....or, well, she thought she would....
Damien and Lindsay are back and forth a lot. It's not really the right time for either of them, but they cant stay away from one another, epsecially living togeher....It was a little irritating, because they both jump the gun a lot, and blow up at things that I didnt ersonally feel should end a relationshi and crush all trust in someone.... but, meh, whatever... I was more aggravated at the ex, who seriously was so moronic it was laughable.... where did he go, by the way.... he was all set to make trouble for LIndsay and take her baby from her, just to prove he could .... literally, those were his words.... but then he just left cuz LIndsay told him to.....Yeah, I wasnt buyin that, but whatever, I was glad to see him go, even if I do wish Damien couldve slit his throat or somethin first.....
Whatever, anyway, other than that.... the premise was good, it just fell a little flat for me, I reckon.
3 stars from me!
Lindsay was the only one who paid him any attention when they were growing up,... she knew he had a bad homelife and she gave him some solace in his dark times.
Now back in town, Damien needs a place to stay while he gets his fathers house sold, so he can forget that terrible time in his life and move on, and Lindsay needs help getting her new cottage squared away before her baby gets here. Freshly divorced from the most vile man, shes doing it all alone....or, well, she thought she would....
Damien and Lindsay are back and forth a lot. It's not really the right time for either of them, but they cant stay away from one another, epsecially living togeher....It was a little irritating, because they both jump the gun a lot, and blow up at things that I didnt ersonally feel should end a relationshi and crush all trust in someone.... but, meh, whatever... I was more aggravated at the ex, who seriously was so moronic it was laughable.... where did he go, by the way.... he was all set to make trouble for LIndsay and take her baby from her, just to prove he could .... literally, those were his words.... but then he just left cuz LIndsay told him to.....Yeah, I wasnt buyin that, but whatever, I was glad to see him go, even if I do wish Damien couldve slit his throat or somethin first.....
Whatever, anyway, other than that.... the premise was good, it just fell a little flat for me, I reckon.
3 stars from me!
March 8, 2018
The most special treasures are washed in with the tide.
Years ago, Lindsey Hunter and Damian Trent shared a first kiss. Afterwards Damian pulled away and Lindsey was left wondering why.
Lindsey was eight months pregnant and returning to her hometown of Chatham after her marriage ended. She was looking forward to starting her new life in the cute little beach cottage she had bought. She was headed there when her car broke down on the side of the road in a secluded area.
Damian was headed back home for his father’s funeral when he came across Lindsey with her broke down car on the side of the road. He couldn’t just leave her there. He had to help her even though he hadn’t planned on seeing her while he was in town. He just wanted to get his father’s house cleaned out and sold and then he would disappear again. But there was a glitch in his plans when he found out there were no vacancies in the hotels and Lindsey offered him her extra bedroom. Being that close to the girl who stole his heart all those years ago was going to be a challenge for Damian.
This was a wonderfully written book with lots of elements. For starters, there is Lindsey and Damian’s romance and their struggles learning to trust each other. Sweet baby Maris was born early and made Damian want to settle down which totally confused him. And then, there is a life changing discovery that Lindsey finds while going through paperwork at Damian’s father’s house. This discovery can either help Damian settle down or send him running for good. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good romance.
Years ago, Lindsey Hunter and Damian Trent shared a first kiss. Afterwards Damian pulled away and Lindsey was left wondering why.
Lindsey was eight months pregnant and returning to her hometown of Chatham after her marriage ended. She was looking forward to starting her new life in the cute little beach cottage she had bought. She was headed there when her car broke down on the side of the road in a secluded area.
Damian was headed back home for his father’s funeral when he came across Lindsey with her broke down car on the side of the road. He couldn’t just leave her there. He had to help her even though he hadn’t planned on seeing her while he was in town. He just wanted to get his father’s house cleaned out and sold and then he would disappear again. But there was a glitch in his plans when he found out there were no vacancies in the hotels and Lindsey offered him her extra bedroom. Being that close to the girl who stole his heart all those years ago was going to be a challenge for Damian.
This was a wonderfully written book with lots of elements. For starters, there is Lindsey and Damian’s romance and their struggles learning to trust each other. Sweet baby Maris was born early and made Damian want to settle down which totally confused him. And then, there is a life changing discovery that Lindsey finds while going through paperwork at Damian’s father’s house. This discovery can either help Damian settle down or send him running for good. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good romance.
February 2, 2018
I liked the premise of the book. Childhood friends reconnect after years of not seeing each other, he's a vet and she's pregnant. It's a cute idea with a lot of directions that the story can be taken. Damien is returning home for the first time in years after the death of his father to settle his affairs. Lindsey is coming home pregnant after finding out that her loser husband is cheating on her with his assistant.
The issue I had with the book wasn't with the story, but rather with the way it was written. I love to get lost in a good romance, where you know the voice of the characters, meaningful dialogue, and little gestures. In this book, there is very little dialogue. There are descriptions of talks late into the night, sharing of their lives, etc. but we, as the reader, don't get to "hear" any of that. Before you know it, a month has passed. A great opportunity presents itself when Lindsey goes into labor and Damien is there to support her. I was expecting this big birth scene where Damien cuts the cord and there is all of this celebration. Instead we read about him cutting the cord. For me, this would have been something to endear the characters more to me.
The story is really a great idea and the direction it takes is really interesting. I just felt like the characters fell a little flat.
** I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. **
The issue I had with the book wasn't with the story, but rather with the way it was written. I love to get lost in a good romance, where you know the voice of the characters, meaningful dialogue, and little gestures. In this book, there is very little dialogue. There are descriptions of talks late into the night, sharing of their lives, etc. but we, as the reader, don't get to "hear" any of that. Before you know it, a month has passed. A great opportunity presents itself when Lindsey goes into labor and Damien is there to support her. I was expecting this big birth scene where Damien cuts the cord and there is all of this celebration. Instead we read about him cutting the cord. For me, this would have been something to endear the characters more to me.
The story is really a great idea and the direction it takes is really interesting. I just felt like the characters fell a little flat.
** I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. **
February 20, 2018
After reading In With the Tide, I looked through all my books to see if I had read anything else by Charlee James. I didn’t remember this author or any of her books, sure enough this is the first book. Often the covers do not cause me to request or read a book but this one caught my eye. It is different in a refreshing way from the usual hot man cover. I liked the cover and I liked the book.
I liked it a lot and loved the characters for the most part. There is nothing but sweetness concerning Maris. Then what is not to love with a tough military man is wrapped around a newborn’s finger from day one. Even Lindsay is to be admired for working to stand on her own two feet as a single parent.
Lindsay and Damien are two wounded souls who are prickly and untrusting though it is their foremost desire to have someone trustworthy. Because of this there is a lot of drama in this well-written story; realistic but at times eyerolling too. I also liked the HEA which has a major changeup. The foreshadowing at the beginning of the book made me think something was in store for Damien, but I thought it would be the predictable ending. This was simply a well-done surprise.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I liked it a lot and loved the characters for the most part. There is nothing but sweetness concerning Maris. Then what is not to love with a tough military man is wrapped around a newborn’s finger from day one. Even Lindsay is to be admired for working to stand on her own two feet as a single parent.
Lindsay and Damien are two wounded souls who are prickly and untrusting though it is their foremost desire to have someone trustworthy. Because of this there is a lot of drama in this well-written story; realistic but at times eyerolling too. I also liked the HEA which has a major changeup. The foreshadowing at the beginning of the book made me think something was in store for Damien, but I thought it would be the predictable ending. This was simply a well-done surprise.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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