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Returning to Eden
A conversation I was never supposed to hear.
A bargain I had no right to make.
A promise I couldn’t break, no matter the consequences.
It cost me what I love most.
Her.
I know Eden thinks it’s all my fault.
And it is.
But it’s hers, too. Because she ran, vanished, before I had a chance to explain.
Before I had a chance to tell her the one thing that could’ve saved us.
Now she’s back and I’m determined to make up for all the years we lost.
Determined to win back the woman who’s always been mine...
Consequences be damned.
A bargain I had no right to make.
A promise I couldn’t break, no matter the consequences.
It cost me what I love most.
Her.
I know Eden thinks it’s all my fault.
And it is.
But it’s hers, too. Because she ran, vanished, before I had a chance to explain.
Before I had a chance to tell her the one thing that could’ve saved us.
Now she’s back and I’m determined to make up for all the years we lost.
Determined to win back the woman who’s always been mine...
Consequences be damned.
Kindle Edition
Published September 28, 2018
9 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
Katy Ames
10 books293 followersBoy mom. Bourbon drinker. Binge-reader since I could hold a book. I love adventure, on and off the page. But I love naps even more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 28, 2018
Returning to Eden is my first read from Katy Ames, and she pretty much had me itching with anticipation every time something new was slowly revealed about Eden, Jude, Allie, or Noah.
I think this story reads best if you go in blind, so I’m not going to say too much. You can read the blurb for that, but what I WILL say is that this is an EMOTIONAL sort of second chance romance, with twists and turns you might not see coming. It is pretty steamy at points, and I would also like to mention that if you’re looking for cookie cutter safe contemporary, then this is not it. Some of the happenings in this story may make you feel a little itchy. The characters are imperfect, and if you enjoy that you will definitely fall for these characters and their rollercoaster stories.
All in all a very good read. That kept me guessing until the end, and has me excited to see what may come for Allie. Seems like it could be a bit of a lighter read haha!
*ARC*
I think this story reads best if you go in blind, so I’m not going to say too much. You can read the blurb for that, but what I WILL say is that this is an EMOTIONAL sort of second chance romance, with twists and turns you might not see coming. It is pretty steamy at points, and I would also like to mention that if you’re looking for cookie cutter safe contemporary, then this is not it. Some of the happenings in this story may make you feel a little itchy. The characters are imperfect, and if you enjoy that you will definitely fall for these characters and their rollercoaster stories.
All in all a very good read. That kept me guessing until the end, and has me excited to see what may come for Allie. Seems like it could be a bit of a lighter read haha!
*ARC*
September 28, 2018
Returning to Eden is written in a unique way where my heart was grabbed by Eden and Jude’s story, and I couldn’t help but feel there pain and love along side of them. Great read!
September 29, 2018
I don’t have many nice things to say about this one.
July 7, 2021
Hero married heroine's step sister as a sacrifice.
The step sister was pregnant after being assaulted and their dad was threatening to stop the heroine going off to get her education as he couldn't afford to support them all.
The Hero and step sister marry but nothing is explained to the heroine so she thinks he cheated.
15 years later things are resolved.
The Hero and step sister later are pregnant with their own baby but she looses it.
The heroine almost gets engaged to another man while away.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
She's a bit 'i can't resist him'.
HEA.
The step sister was pregnant after being assaulted and their dad was threatening to stop the heroine going off to get her education as he couldn't afford to support them all.
The Hero and step sister marry but nothing is explained to the heroine so she thinks he cheated.
15 years later things are resolved.
The Hero and step sister later are pregnant with their own baby but she looses it.
The heroine almost gets engaged to another man while away.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
She's a bit 'i can't resist him'.
HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. Ughhhhhhh. So many feels! Katy Ames knows how to hook a reader into a story. It is a second chance romance, which is one of my favorite tropes, but there are dark secrets. The flashbacks (not too many) slowly revealed how Eden and Jude’s relationship unraveled in the first place and it is heartbreaking. But slowly but surely they find their way back. The epilogue is great. I highly recommend this book!
September 1, 2018
Omg all the feels!!!!! Eden and Jude’s Love Story is heartwrenchingly beautiful!! I’m so glad they got their second chance! Katy Ames is amazing and has such an alluring pull with the way she writes, it captures your attention and holds it from the very first paragraph! I also loved her note to the readers in the beginning. It really made me feel like I went on the journey with her in writing this book. It had me tearing up. Fantastic! Go ahead Mrs. Ames, Do your thang!! The next book I predict to be great as well with Allie as the heroine. Can’t wait!
October 7, 2018
WOW, WOW, WOW!!!! I absolutely loved RETURNING TO EDEN. I was supposed to read this one a few weeks ago, it because I’m a complete moron and suck at life, I forgot. BUT, it was totally worth the wait, I love a good second chance, and Eden and Jude’s story was beautiful. Katy Ames is a new to me author, but after falling in love with her writing, i know that I will be reading more of her work very soon!
September 2, 2018
“All those things I always wanted, they meant so much less without you. And it took years and thousands of miles for me to figure that out. Now that I’m back, I’m not letting go.” Returning to Eden, Katy Ames
The obvious love between Jude and Eden was heartwarming, hot, funny, and filled with just the right amount of angst. This second chance romance was so well written and had me falling in love with each of the characters- flaws and all! I have a new favorite in this author and cannot wait for the next book in this series.
The obvious love between Jude and Eden was heartwarming, hot, funny, and filled with just the right amount of angst. This second chance romance was so well written and had me falling in love with each of the characters- flaws and all! I have a new favorite in this author and cannot wait for the next book in this series.
September 15, 2018
All the WOWs. Like all of them. Returning to Eden is definitely one of my favorite reads of 2018. The writing, the story, the everything. I absolutely loved Jude and Eden’s story so much that I wanted to crawl into my eReader and hug and cry with them both. Not only was this an emotional read at times, it was also powerful. Katy Ames out did herself in this one and I applaud her. So, if you’re looking for a read that comes with all the WOWs, this is the one. Just be sure to grab the tissues.
5 beautifully written stars!
5 beautifully written stars!
August 26, 2018
This author's writing always packs a punch and this story is a terrific example of her sharp and lyrical style. With no wasted words, Ames hooks the reader immediately and never lets go.
Jude and Eden's second chance story is both heartbreaking and uplifting. On each page, their emotions are palpable as they navigate through the past and the present to see if they have a future.
Highly recommended! Please don't miss this beautiful story.
Jude and Eden's second chance story is both heartbreaking and uplifting. On each page, their emotions are palpable as they navigate through the past and the present to see if they have a future.
Highly recommended! Please don't miss this beautiful story.
September 4, 2018
"A piece of me died that day and, honestly, I'm not sure it can ever be revived. But that's the thing about destruction - you can either let it kill you or you can decide to keep living."
Wow, just wow! I devoured this book in a day, I absolutely couldn't put it down!!! Eden and Jude's story is one of my favorites this year. I highly recommend this second chance romance! This book gave me so many feels - I laughed, I cried, I swooned! I felt it all! Can't wait to read more from Katy!
Wow, just wow! I devoured this book in a day, I absolutely couldn't put it down!!! Eden and Jude's story is one of my favorites this year. I highly recommend this second chance romance! This book gave me so many feels - I laughed, I cried, I swooned! I felt it all! Can't wait to read more from Katy!
September 1, 2018
This story is one you won't want to put down, cause I didn’t! Eden & Jude's story was gorgeous, heartbreaking with what they and other characters endure! This story will pull at your heartstrings! Loved this second chance romance, and will read more by this author!
A must read!
A must read!
September 3, 2018
Katy Ames has a way of pulling you into her characters, their lives, and their heart aches that leaves you feeling like you have found friends. Returning to Eden is full of emotions. Full of "cravings" to use Jude's own words. The emotion that she brings to her steamy romances feels real and deep.
I don't want to ruin the story with spoilers, but I do want to share some of Katy's lovely words:
"I'm the withering plant, she's the sun breaking free from the clouds. Me, the earth; her, the quake that tears it quickly, violently apart."
"Jude's mouth erases every line on the perfect kiss list. And burns the goddamn paper to ash...My perfect kiss isn't a list. It's a man. It's Jude."
"I've missed the piece of me that left with you. The part that grounded me, the part that's always known you are what made this town home."
You want emotion. You want heart felt reconciliation. You want Katy Ames.
I received an ARC of this book, but my review is heartfelt.
I don't want to ruin the story with spoilers, but I do want to share some of Katy's lovely words:
"I'm the withering plant, she's the sun breaking free from the clouds. Me, the earth; her, the quake that tears it quickly, violently apart."
"Jude's mouth erases every line on the perfect kiss list. And burns the goddamn paper to ash...My perfect kiss isn't a list. It's a man. It's Jude."
"I've missed the piece of me that left with you. The part that grounded me, the part that's always known you are what made this town home."
You want emotion. You want heart felt reconciliation. You want Katy Ames.
I received an ARC of this book, but my review is heartfelt.
September 7, 2018
Jude and Edens story is beautifully heart wrenching!!! If you’re looking for a book with all the feels look no further. Second chances, first loves, secrets, broken hearts, and forever. Katy has done a fantastic job in telling their second chance Romance. It will break your heart and then put it back together. 💗 definitely a must read!
September 6, 2018
This book has a lot of twists and shocks.
Great story with love and heart breaks.
Great story with love and heart breaks.
September 9, 2018
This book was copied from my romance novel review blog: romanticallyinclinedreviews.com
Returning to Eden wasn't a happy-go-lucky lighthearted read, but it was a good one. It's the sort of book that drags you in and holds you down, force feeding you good writing and plot lines that make your stomach clench with anxiety. A few times I had to pull the book away and take a couple deep breaths because I was experiencing the character's emotions far too deeply for comfort. But just when you think there's no way that you can take anymore pain, Katy Ames gives you hope.
Second chance romances always make me more nervous than typical romances because there's constantly that underlying reminder that--for some reason--the relationship didn't work out the first time, and there's a chance that whatever tore it apart before is waiting just around the corner to do it again. Eden and Jude have more than their share of reasons for losing it all those years ago and I genuinely wondered a couple times whether they'd get it together enough to give it another chance.
Or even whether it was good for either of them to do so. Some relationships fail for very good reasons, some that even time, distance, or good explanations can't fix.
I liked Eden. She was a hard-working woman who did what she could to turn her life around after everything fell apart. She wasn't perfect and she made lots of mistakes, but she did the best she could. All you can hope for in a main character, honestly. I rooted for her the entire time, and the spiteful, selfish part of me totally agreed with her actions.
Jude tried so hard to be a good guy but ultimately it was at his hand that their relationship died a quick, painful death and Eden spent the rest of her life running from the pain of it. I found it difficult to forgive him, even after hearing his side of things, but teenagers make stupid decisions, so as the story went on I found the strength to let go of the second-hand anger I was feeling.
Returning to Eden took me an afternoon to start and finish. I needed to know how Eden and Jude could possibly put aside their past to form a future together. For a while it just didn't seem possible! Katy Ames has a way with words that had me on a bumpy roller coaster of emotions. Just when I was getting comfortable and thinking that there was finally a resolution to the drama she went and threw another wrench into the plans. This book will keep you on your toes, but it's worth the ride if you want honest characters and plot with heart.
Returning to Eden wasn't a happy-go-lucky lighthearted read, but it was a good one. It's the sort of book that drags you in and holds you down, force feeding you good writing and plot lines that make your stomach clench with anxiety. A few times I had to pull the book away and take a couple deep breaths because I was experiencing the character's emotions far too deeply for comfort. But just when you think there's no way that you can take anymore pain, Katy Ames gives you hope.
Second chance romances always make me more nervous than typical romances because there's constantly that underlying reminder that--for some reason--the relationship didn't work out the first time, and there's a chance that whatever tore it apart before is waiting just around the corner to do it again. Eden and Jude have more than their share of reasons for losing it all those years ago and I genuinely wondered a couple times whether they'd get it together enough to give it another chance.
Or even whether it was good for either of them to do so. Some relationships fail for very good reasons, some that even time, distance, or good explanations can't fix.
I liked Eden. She was a hard-working woman who did what she could to turn her life around after everything fell apart. She wasn't perfect and she made lots of mistakes, but she did the best she could. All you can hope for in a main character, honestly. I rooted for her the entire time, and the spiteful, selfish part of me totally agreed with her actions.
Jude tried so hard to be a good guy but ultimately it was at his hand that their relationship died a quick, painful death and Eden spent the rest of her life running from the pain of it. I found it difficult to forgive him, even after hearing his side of things, but teenagers make stupid decisions, so as the story went on I found the strength to let go of the second-hand anger I was feeling.
Returning to Eden took me an afternoon to start and finish. I needed to know how Eden and Jude could possibly put aside their past to form a future together. For a while it just didn't seem possible! Katy Ames has a way with words that had me on a bumpy roller coaster of emotions. Just when I was getting comfortable and thinking that there was finally a resolution to the drama she went and threw another wrench into the plans. This book will keep you on your toes, but it's worth the ride if you want honest characters and plot with heart.
September 8, 2018
“It’s always been you,” She whispers, her lips brushing my cheek. “You were always the one to push me, encourage me. And always the one who made sure I was safe. You demanded the most from me, even when I wasn’t sure I had anything to give. And you were willing to give up everything just so I could have all the things I’ve ever wanted. Except...”
I’m m so glad Katy Ames reached out and let me read the ARC for “Returning to Eden”. Y’all this book is good! The history that Eden and Jude have is indescribable.My heart aches for him and what he did to help Eden takes an incredible selfless person. When I found out the truth about Noah y’all lost it. I had to stop reading I crying so much I couldn’t see my kindle. I had such a hard time putting this book down when I needed to. I think every girl deserves a man like Jude. This book comes out September 28th and I strongly suggest you read it.
A conversation I was never supposed to hear. A bargain I had no right to make. A promise I couldn’t break. It cost me what I love the most. Her. I know Eden thinks it’s all my fault. And it is. But it’s her fault, too. Because she ran, vanished, before I had the chance to tell her the one thing that could have saved us. Now she’s back and I’m determined to make up for all the years lost. Determined to win back the woman who’s always been mine... consequences be damned.
I’m m so glad Katy Ames reached out and let me read the ARC for “Returning to Eden”. Y’all this book is good! The history that Eden and Jude have is indescribable.My heart aches for him and what he did to help Eden takes an incredible selfless person. When I found out the truth about Noah y’all lost it. I had to stop reading I crying so much I couldn’t see my kindle. I had such a hard time putting this book down when I needed to. I think every girl deserves a man like Jude. This book comes out September 28th and I strongly suggest you read it.
A conversation I was never supposed to hear. A bargain I had no right to make. A promise I couldn’t break. It cost me what I love the most. Her. I know Eden thinks it’s all my fault. And it is. But it’s her fault, too. Because she ran, vanished, before I had the chance to tell her the one thing that could have saved us. Now she’s back and I’m determined to make up for all the years lost. Determined to win back the woman who’s always been mine... consequences be damned.
October 11, 2018
I was given an advanced readers copy of this book and have decided to leave a voluntary honest review. Jude and Eden's story more than messed with my head on more than one occasion. It made me angry, sad, happy, yiu name it I felt it. It's not your typical romance at all. This book you will definitely need one or two Kleenexs lol. Some decisions Jude made this book I completely didn't agree with. I understand why he made those decisions but I don't agree with how he handled them in more than one way. And I can't for life of me blame Eden for running away. She did what she had to. And I'm sorry if this makes you upset but I find Allie selfish in this book. That's my honest opinion and you can make your judgement after reading it. Some may agree some may not. I will say this was not easy book to read.
September 9, 2018
Jude hears a conversation that put in his mind that he could be the one to keep the peace in Eden’s family. Eden has been kept in the dark because if she knew she never would have left for college. She finds out from her good friend that the love of her life, Jude, married Eden’s step-sister. Eden is so upset she doesn’t come back home until Noah dies. She missed the funeral but she did come home. Jude and Eden have a hard time getting to know each other all over again but the chemistry is still overwhelming. This book is a book that you will not be able to put down.
September 2, 2018
Have you ever read a book that makes your heart pound, your stomach drop, and your eyes tear up all at once? That’s what this book did to me. Jude and Eden broke, so I broke with them. They hurt, so I hurt. They put themselves back together, so I felt whole again, too. The raw emotion in this book cuts deep, and the secrets trying to fight their way to the surface demand that you continue reading.
I adored Jude, Eden, and even Allie in this book. I wanted to find Allie’s dad and high-five him with a brick, and I honestly wanted to do the same to Eden’s mother. To know that some should-be-grown-and-mature adults allowed the lives of those they loved (or should have loved) to be torn apart to save face disgusted me, but that all made this story that much more compelling. The secrets, lies, and twists in this book kept me enthralled, even while my stomach was in my feet and I almost didn’t want to delve further into Eden’s heartbreak. Once all of the secrets were laid out for all to see, the love that Jude had for Eden, and the lengths he’d go to for her to have what he thought she wanted in life made for a beautiful, painful, gripping story.
I adored Jude, Eden, and even Allie in this book. I wanted to find Allie’s dad and high-five him with a brick, and I honestly wanted to do the same to Eden’s mother. To know that some should-be-grown-and-mature adults allowed the lives of those they loved (or should have loved) to be torn apart to save face disgusted me, but that all made this story that much more compelling. The secrets, lies, and twists in this book kept me enthralled, even while my stomach was in my feet and I almost didn’t want to delve further into Eden’s heartbreak. Once all of the secrets were laid out for all to see, the love that Jude had for Eden, and the lengths he’d go to for her to have what he thought she wanted in life made for a beautiful, painful, gripping story.
September 5, 2018
Going into this book I was apprehensive. I knew this was going to give me all the feels and it did!!!
I usually shy away from these types of stories because I get angry well Katy just showed me. This story was outstanding. Each chapter was another layer of both Jude and Eden. A crazy turn of events that left everyone broken and battered. In the end their strength came together and they were able to find love again.
Amy, Allie and Maddie were also fantastic characters! Noah was the catalyst that started the whole thing off. I appreciated the side characters more as their stories got told. There is more to this group for sure. Allie and Wes both need to find their matches. Would love for Maddie to gear the story as well because I feel it is important for her to know the truth.
Cannot wait for the next book!
I usually shy away from these types of stories because I get angry well Katy just showed me. This story was outstanding. Each chapter was another layer of both Jude and Eden. A crazy turn of events that left everyone broken and battered. In the end their strength came together and they were able to find love again.
Amy, Allie and Maddie were also fantastic characters! Noah was the catalyst that started the whole thing off. I appreciated the side characters more as their stories got told. There is more to this group for sure. Allie and Wes both need to find their matches. Would love for Maddie to gear the story as well because I feel it is important for her to know the truth.
Cannot wait for the next book!
September 3, 2018
Oh man. Eden and Jude. I don’t even know what to say.
First of all, get yourself some tissues, some chocolate, and be ready to ignore the world for a bit. Eden and Jude’s story will hook you and not let you go until that last page.
Eden and Jude’s relationship formed when they were still just kids but they had big plans. Plans that were interrupted and led to Eden’s heart being smashed into smithereens. Jude’s heart wasn’t left unscathed after his sacrifice, though, and the two of them spent so much time apart.
When Eden finally returns home after so long, it’s no vacation and we see the pieces start to come together. But the two of them have changed so much and their lives are so different. I found myself turning the page eagerly to see if they would find their happily ever after.
This was a great second chance romance and I absolutely cannot wait for the release of a certain someone’s book to see where her life goes!
First of all, get yourself some tissues, some chocolate, and be ready to ignore the world for a bit. Eden and Jude’s story will hook you and not let you go until that last page.
Eden and Jude’s relationship formed when they were still just kids but they had big plans. Plans that were interrupted and led to Eden’s heart being smashed into smithereens. Jude’s heart wasn’t left unscathed after his sacrifice, though, and the two of them spent so much time apart.
When Eden finally returns home after so long, it’s no vacation and we see the pieces start to come together. But the two of them have changed so much and their lives are so different. I found myself turning the page eagerly to see if they would find their happily ever after.
This was a great second chance romance and I absolutely cannot wait for the release of a certain someone’s book to see where her life goes!
September 19, 2018
My favourite piece of work from Katy to date! Returning to Eden is a masterpiece of twists and turns. It's the kind of story that unfolds bit by tantalizing, agonizing bit, leaving you desperate to get your hands on the whole picture. I was floored by how captivated this story kept me from start to finish; it's definitely one of those can't-put-it-down reads. Eden and Jude's chemistry is off the charts to begin with, and I loved seeing it deepen and grow into a fierce and passionate bond as the past that joined them together was revealed to me. Be ready to get hit by a serious feels train when you dive into this one! It's not a read to be missed, and I can't wait to see what Katy follows it up with.
avoid
July 9, 2022Self note : avoid. H marries h step-sister ( but it’s for the h🙄). Step sis and H later get preg.
September 2, 2018
I won this book as an ARC and I am so glad that I did. OMG where do I start. This book gives you all the feels. I cried, I smiled and at some bits had to sit up straight on the edge of my seat. I loved the authors style of writing and how the book flowed. I could not put this book down. I must of looked like a right loon at the end cause I had a massive smile on my face lol. I loved the storyline and the build up for each character. I will definitely be looking out for the next book.
October 8, 2018
Are you looking for a book to take you through the whole range of emotions? Then stop right now and go buy Returning to Eden. Katy Ames outdid herself with this unique story, beautiful writing that will draw you in and a perfectly paced story that will keep you invested and wanting more. A slow build through the book gains traction and intrigue leaving you as a reader eager to know what happened to these characters and why. Fantastic read! I highly recommend!
-Mackenzie
-Mackenzie
September 28, 2018
I've read an ARC, and I guarantee you will fall in love with this book! 😍😍
Updated Review:
Like many of her readers, I first fell in love with Eden and Jude during the #ChooseYourOwnRomance short story teaser that ran on the author's Instragram earlier this year. Each week, I'd eagerly anticipate the next installment of this amazing story--wishing--desperately hoping for the moment this couple would overcome everything that occurred in the past and reunite forever. It was such a bittersweet moment when all my hopes for their happy ending came to fruition. For me, it meant that their story was coming to an end way too soon. So...
When Katy Ames later announced she'd written an extended version of Returning to Eden, wild horses couldn't keep me from getting my hands on an ARC about one of my favorite couples! LOL! It was everything I'd hoped and imagined it would be. It never once lost that emotion and passion that drew me in from the very beginning.
First of all, second chance romances are at the top of my favorite tropes list. There's something powerful about a couple who has a bit of a history and must prevail over the loss and pain they brought on themselves. Stories such as these hold a special place in my heart, and Eden and Jude's emotional story are as special as they come.
Sacrifices were made. Hearts were crushed to bitter little pieces. Distance and time separated two people who were destined to be together from the moment they came into each others' lives. My heart truly ached for Eden and Jude. Would it be too extreme to say that I might have, probably, sort of, kind of actually suffered little palpitations reading this story?! It was so agonizing knowing that what kept them apart all these years could have been resolved so long ago--if only Jude had discussed his plans... if only Eden had stayed and listened... if only Eden had better parents...if only, if only... But no matter the circumstances, whatever occurred in their lives, or whoever they were with--time and distance did nothing to diminish their love for each other. The pull between them was as strong as ever:
"Eden has always affected me on the most basic level. It's elemental, a force of nature. I'm the withering plant, she's the sun breaking from the clouds. Me, the earth, her, the quake that tears it quickly, violently apart."
I could go on and on about how much I love this story, how much Eden and Jude have climbed into my heart, or how I felt their pain and anguish, or even how I breathed their passion, and--most of all--how much I truly love this author's way with words:
I don't know why she's doing it, why she's letting me in. But the pounding of my heart drowns out all of my questions, and we fall into a rhythm. Lips open, together, tongues touch, retreat, breaths halt, meld. The kiss feels endless. Perfect and forbidden...
"I didn't know how to explain before, the overwhelming craving that hits me when I taste you... I used to think kisses were simple. Straightforward. Not always a means to an end, but not necessarily things to be savored either. But with you... Sometimes I think I could live off kissing you, the way your breathe fills me, and your little sighs satisfy me like nothing else can..."
Years ago, Eden felt betrayed, and rightfully so, but my heart absolutely broke for Jude--all he ever wanted was to make Eden happy, to make her dreams come true, to make sure she had and did everything she ever wanted--but in the midst of all his sacrificing, he didn't quite realize that the one thing she truly wanted was him.
Updated Review:
Like many of her readers, I first fell in love with Eden and Jude during the #ChooseYourOwnRomance short story teaser that ran on the author's Instragram earlier this year. Each week, I'd eagerly anticipate the next installment of this amazing story--wishing--desperately hoping for the moment this couple would overcome everything that occurred in the past and reunite forever. It was such a bittersweet moment when all my hopes for their happy ending came to fruition. For me, it meant that their story was coming to an end way too soon. So...
When Katy Ames later announced she'd written an extended version of Returning to Eden, wild horses couldn't keep me from getting my hands on an ARC about one of my favorite couples! LOL! It was everything I'd hoped and imagined it would be. It never once lost that emotion and passion that drew me in from the very beginning.
First of all, second chance romances are at the top of my favorite tropes list. There's something powerful about a couple who has a bit of a history and must prevail over the loss and pain they brought on themselves. Stories such as these hold a special place in my heart, and Eden and Jude's emotional story are as special as they come.
Sacrifices were made. Hearts were crushed to bitter little pieces. Distance and time separated two people who were destined to be together from the moment they came into each others' lives. My heart truly ached for Eden and Jude. Would it be too extreme to say that I might have, probably, sort of, kind of actually suffered little palpitations reading this story?! It was so agonizing knowing that what kept them apart all these years could have been resolved so long ago--if only Jude had discussed his plans... if only Eden had stayed and listened... if only Eden had better parents...if only, if only... But no matter the circumstances, whatever occurred in their lives, or whoever they were with--time and distance did nothing to diminish their love for each other. The pull between them was as strong as ever:
"Eden has always affected me on the most basic level. It's elemental, a force of nature. I'm the withering plant, she's the sun breaking from the clouds. Me, the earth, her, the quake that tears it quickly, violently apart."
I could go on and on about how much I love this story, how much Eden and Jude have climbed into my heart, or how I felt their pain and anguish, or even how I breathed their passion, and--most of all--how much I truly love this author's way with words:
I don't know why she's doing it, why she's letting me in. But the pounding of my heart drowns out all of my questions, and we fall into a rhythm. Lips open, together, tongues touch, retreat, breaths halt, meld. The kiss feels endless. Perfect and forbidden...
"I didn't know how to explain before, the overwhelming craving that hits me when I taste you... I used to think kisses were simple. Straightforward. Not always a means to an end, but not necessarily things to be savored either. But with you... Sometimes I think I could live off kissing you, the way your breathe fills me, and your little sighs satisfy me like nothing else can..."
Years ago, Eden felt betrayed, and rightfully so, but my heart absolutely broke for Jude--all he ever wanted was to make Eden happy, to make her dreams come true, to make sure she had and did everything she ever wanted--but in the midst of all his sacrificing, he didn't quite realize that the one thing she truly wanted was him.
September 28, 2018
**FULL REVIEW -- AVAILABLE NOW**
ARC provided by the author for review
If You Haven't Ready Katy Ames Before, Returning to Eden is a Damn Good Place to Start
RETURNING TO EDEN, Katy Ames’ latest, started as a “Choose Your Own Romance” for her Instagram followers. She introduced us to Eden, Jude and Noah and week by week, we’d check in and vote A or B on the next move. It was a fun way to get to know these characters and it created the heart of a full-blown second-chance romance.
Full disclosure, I beta read the novel, so I’ve had a little more exposure to these characters than a first-time reader would, and that may be part of my love for this book. That said…
I’m not prone to writing squee reviews. I don’t give out 5 stars like they’re participation awards. So when I say Returning to Eden is nothing short of amazing, please believe me. It’s an emotional, sexy-as-hell second chance romance about how complicated it can be to go home again. If you haven’t read Katy Ames before, Returning to Eden is a damn good place to start.
Eden, Jude and Noah were like the Three Musketeers growing up. Just as Eden is about to leave for college, she impulsively asks Jude to go to New York with her. Something happens to drive a wedge into their budding relationship. Eden leaves for college and doesn’t look back. She travels the world as a war zone photographer, then life forces her back to her hometown, where she has to confront what she ran from: Jude.
Ames’ writing sucks you right in. The book artfully pops back and forth between past and present, just enough to establish the history and relationship among these characters. In real life, I might not have gone along with the core conflict here, but it works to create the “What the what?!” drama needed to propel the story forward.
Once Eden is back, Jude is at the same time tentative and keen to make up for lost time, but Eden lays it down, “We’re good at silence and secrets. Fuck, we’ve practically perfected them. And as fun as our little trips down memory lane have been, I think it’s time we face facts.”
Yet...Jude is also very persuasive.
One of the things that makes Returning to Eden so enjoyable is that it’s not a straight line from reunited to HEA. Eden voices her doubts and insecurities and reservations and confesses all the things she’s kept buried and whoa, the payoff!! The other thing that I really appreciated is that Ames delivers the HEA, but she doesn’t force checking all the boxes on us. It’s a really satisfying ending (and epilogue!!).
****************************
INITIAL REVIEW- 9/19/18
Sexy as hell second chance romance. I don't usually write SQUEE reviews, but I feel one coming on. If you haven't read Katy Ames before, this is gonna be a damn good place to start.
This book is everything. I'm not even kidding.
Drops on September 28.
Full review to come.
ARC provided by the author for review
If You Haven't Ready Katy Ames Before, Returning to Eden is a Damn Good Place to Start
RETURNING TO EDEN, Katy Ames’ latest, started as a “Choose Your Own Romance” for her Instagram followers. She introduced us to Eden, Jude and Noah and week by week, we’d check in and vote A or B on the next move. It was a fun way to get to know these characters and it created the heart of a full-blown second-chance romance.
Full disclosure, I beta read the novel, so I’ve had a little more exposure to these characters than a first-time reader would, and that may be part of my love for this book. That said…
I’m not prone to writing squee reviews. I don’t give out 5 stars like they’re participation awards. So when I say Returning to Eden is nothing short of amazing, please believe me. It’s an emotional, sexy-as-hell second chance romance about how complicated it can be to go home again. If you haven’t read Katy Ames before, Returning to Eden is a damn good place to start.
Eden, Jude and Noah were like the Three Musketeers growing up. Just as Eden is about to leave for college, she impulsively asks Jude to go to New York with her. Something happens to drive a wedge into their budding relationship. Eden leaves for college and doesn’t look back. She travels the world as a war zone photographer, then life forces her back to her hometown, where she has to confront what she ran from: Jude.
Ames’ writing sucks you right in. The book artfully pops back and forth between past and present, just enough to establish the history and relationship among these characters. In real life, I might not have gone along with the core conflict here, but it works to create the “What the what?!” drama needed to propel the story forward.
Once Eden is back, Jude is at the same time tentative and keen to make up for lost time, but Eden lays it down, “We’re good at silence and secrets. Fuck, we’ve practically perfected them. And as fun as our little trips down memory lane have been, I think it’s time we face facts.”
Yet...Jude is also very persuasive.
One of the things that makes Returning to Eden so enjoyable is that it’s not a straight line from reunited to HEA. Eden voices her doubts and insecurities and reservations and confesses all the things she’s kept buried and whoa, the payoff!! The other thing that I really appreciated is that Ames delivers the HEA, but she doesn’t force checking all the boxes on us. It’s a really satisfying ending (and epilogue!!).
****************************
INITIAL REVIEW- 9/19/18
Sexy as hell second chance romance. I don't usually write SQUEE reviews, but I feel one coming on. If you haven't read Katy Ames before, this is gonna be a damn good place to start.
This book is everything. I'm not even kidding.
Drops on September 28.
Full review to come.
September 27, 2018
I adored Eden from the very beginning with her snarky attitude and her determined mind. I hated Jude and learned to fall in love with him as the story progressed.
Why you ask?
Because along with Eden we found out the truths that had been hidden away for 15 years. Ones that broke Eden's heart and forged her to fled and never turn back. She left her friends, her family and her home to just get away from it all and vowed to never return until fate forced her hand and she had to. But it had been 15 long years and although she still had a small smidge of that teenage girl, she had grown up and seen horrific things, Jude had to earn her back and try to convince her to stay for good.
Hey Jude....
Even though I was not a fan of Jude's from the beginning, I adored him by the end! He really and truly is a genuinely good guy. There were so many secrets that he kept from Eden and although some of them killed him to tell her, he had decided that this time, he was going to lay all his cards out on the table and not let her leave again. His love for Eden amazed me and really sent my heart soaring. Especially since he was so young himself when he made life altering decisions that proved his love for her.
Bow chicka wow wow
The love scenes were so steamy, even I needed to take a cold shower. Ms. Ames has mastered the art of leaving the reader feeling breathless with their heart pounding right along side her characters. The whole book was not filled with smexy time but what there was, was HAWT! Phew wee! Break out the fan ladies!
Would I recommend?
Absolutely! I found it a little slow going in the beginning but once I got through the first couple of chapters, I really didn't want to put the book down! This story is about long lost teenage love and what happens when you risk everything to save the one you love. It's about holding a grudge and keeping fear inside you for so long that you miss a whole lifetime of being close and making memories with those you adore and do not figure it out until it's too late! This dual POV love story is highly recommended. It was a short read that kept me on my toes and wanting to come back for more!
Why you ask?
Because along with Eden we found out the truths that had been hidden away for 15 years. Ones that broke Eden's heart and forged her to fled and never turn back. She left her friends, her family and her home to just get away from it all and vowed to never return until fate forced her hand and she had to. But it had been 15 long years and although she still had a small smidge of that teenage girl, she had grown up and seen horrific things, Jude had to earn her back and try to convince her to stay for good.
Hey Jude....
Even though I was not a fan of Jude's from the beginning, I adored him by the end! He really and truly is a genuinely good guy. There were so many secrets that he kept from Eden and although some of them killed him to tell her, he had decided that this time, he was going to lay all his cards out on the table and not let her leave again. His love for Eden amazed me and really sent my heart soaring. Especially since he was so young himself when he made life altering decisions that proved his love for her.
Bow chicka wow wow
The love scenes were so steamy, even I needed to take a cold shower. Ms. Ames has mastered the art of leaving the reader feeling breathless with their heart pounding right along side her characters. The whole book was not filled with smexy time but what there was, was HAWT! Phew wee! Break out the fan ladies!
Would I recommend?
Absolutely! I found it a little slow going in the beginning but once I got through the first couple of chapters, I really didn't want to put the book down! This story is about long lost teenage love and what happens when you risk everything to save the one you love. It's about holding a grudge and keeping fear inside you for so long that you miss a whole lifetime of being close and making memories with those you adore and do not figure it out until it's too late! This dual POV love story is highly recommended. It was a short read that kept me on my toes and wanting to come back for more!
October 1, 2018
Thank you Katy Ames books for my arc of Returning to Eden .
This is a hard review to write without giving spoilers but I’ll try.
Eden’s mission was to get out of her small town and that means taking the lover of her life Jude with her. But when circumstances occur Jude makes a tough decision that makes Eden never look back. Following the death of a mutual friend, Jude and Eden are brought together. Can Jude make Eden understand what transpired years ago? Is Eden ready to listen or will the past consume her?
This is a second chance friends to lovers romance.
Let me say I love friends to lovers romances and the aspects of that in the story I truly enjoyed and I wished they were expanded on a little bit more so I can truly see their friendship develop into more. I enjoyed the characters they were given a very real range of emotions so I felt more absorbed in the story and the writing was perfect. The second chance romance part was not for me. The reason for their separation, to me, felt unrealistic. It’d be a cold day in hell before I would EVER forgive any of this from Jude’s reasoning to everyone’s reactions (friends and family) everyone would have got cussed the f out and throttled 🤬. It would have been fight night in my home town but that’s just me 😂. Although I didn’t agree with that I thought the storytelling and writing was so good that I put my indignation to the side and kept it moving. Extra points for #katyevans for making me enjoy a story that I usually stay away from and for making me feel a variety of emotions.
Check this book out on it Sept 28th!
I know I’m evil but I’m not a big proponent of second chances. Ask Brittany 😂 she’ll tell you a story or two. What are your thoughts?
This is a hard review to write without giving spoilers but I’ll try.
Eden’s mission was to get out of her small town and that means taking the lover of her life Jude with her. But when circumstances occur Jude makes a tough decision that makes Eden never look back. Following the death of a mutual friend, Jude and Eden are brought together. Can Jude make Eden understand what transpired years ago? Is Eden ready to listen or will the past consume her?
This is a second chance friends to lovers romance.
Let me say I love friends to lovers romances and the aspects of that in the story I truly enjoyed and I wished they were expanded on a little bit more so I can truly see their friendship develop into more. I enjoyed the characters they were given a very real range of emotions so I felt more absorbed in the story and the writing was perfect. The second chance romance part was not for me. The reason for their separation, to me, felt unrealistic. It’d be a cold day in hell before I would EVER forgive any of this from Jude’s reasoning to everyone’s reactions (friends and family) everyone would have got cussed the f out and throttled 🤬. It would have been fight night in my home town but that’s just me 😂. Although I didn’t agree with that I thought the storytelling and writing was so good that I put my indignation to the side and kept it moving. Extra points for #katyevans for making me enjoy a story that I usually stay away from and for making me feel a variety of emotions.
Check this book out on it Sept 28th!
I know I’m evil but I’m not a big proponent of second chances. Ask Brittany 😂 she’ll tell you a story or two. What are your thoughts?
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