Six years ago, Blythe had a choice to make. A choice that would alter the course of her life, and the lives of the two men she loved, forever. There was Finn, the tough and mysterious bad boy who took Blythe into his home, and Asher, the handsome go-getter who showed Blythe a world she’d never known. Both men had secrets. Both men wanted Blythe for their own. The choice was hers to make.
This story starts with a question. Six years ago, Blythe made her choice. Did she choose the better man?
KIERSTEN MODGLIN is a #1 bestselling author of psychological thrillers. Her books have sold over two million copies and been translated into multiple languages. Kiersten is a member of International Thriller Writers, Novelists, Inc., and the Alliance of Independent Authors. She is a KDP Select All-Star and a recipient of ThrillerFix's Best Psychological Thriller Award, Suspense Magazine's Best Book of 2021 Award, a 2022 Silver Falchion for Best Suspense, and a 2022 Silver Falchion for Best Overall Book of 2021. Kiersten grew up in rural western Kentucky and later relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where she now lives with her family. Kiersten's readers across the world lovingly refer to her as "KMod." A binge-watching expert, psychology fanatic, and indoor enthusiast, Kiersten enjoys rainy days spent with her favorite people and evenings with her nose in a book.
This book is brimming with romance—like, seriously, plenty dramatic romance! Now, that’s not a bad thing at all, just not exactly what I was expecting. As for Blythe, she’s definitely a quirky one. Sometimes I just couldn't quite click with her. But overall, it's still a pretty decent read.
"I think I might love you, Blythe." "You may have mentioned that." "I'll mention it every single day until you're ready to say it back."
Decisions, decisions, decisions. Can you really ever be 100% sure you made the right one? Isn't hindsight 20/20? If you're anything like me, you make a choice, and then spend the next days, months, years wondering "what if". Well, Blythe has a choice to make - and its a doozy!!
On one hand, she has Finn O'Brien. He's handsome and sexy and came to her rescue on her first day in the city. He's non-committal, his apartment decor consists of empty pizza boxes, he's sending her mixed signals, but he's always there for her no matter what. Protecting her, even when danger literally comes knocking. He's surrounded by mystery and secrets but something about him draws her to him like a moth to a flame. She knows he feels it too, but he's keeping her at arm's length. Are the secrets bound to destroy them?
On the other hand, she has Asher Grace. He's got movie-star good looks, runs in the high society circles and has a bank account that could give her everything she'd ever want. But it's not the money she cares about. He makes her feel... special. He loves her, there's no doubt and he'll give her the world if that's what she wants. But is it? Asher has his own secrets, and the truth just might ruin everything.
In one glance, one crucial moment, her world starts unraveling. Everything she believed, has turned out to be a lie. Can she really trust anyone? Among the lies and secrets, is the truth. And in that truth, lies the one she belongs with. But who will it be?
I absolutely love this author. I love how she entwined everyone's lives but still kept you guessing at who is lying and who is telling the truth and who she's going to choose!! In true Modglin fashion, when it all comes out, I audibly gasped and said "Nooooo way!" So good!! Great read! Grab it now and find out if Blythe made the better choice, or if she made the wrong one!
This is my first Kiersten Modglin story and I am really impressed. The writing and story telling was great and I found myself really engrossed in the story, and the characters. There were times I was so frustrated and heartbroken but I couldn't make myself put it down. I am not really a love triangle type of person, I tend to shy away from them, but I really enjoyed this one. I knew immediately who I wanted Blythe to be with and she definitely picked the better man. I loved how the story played out and will definitely be reading more by Kiersten in the future. 4 1/2 stars from me!
The Better Choice focuses on Blythe as the female lead as she navigates life in the Big Apple. Blythe doesn’t have any remaining family, except a disinterested Aunt, so she is totally on her own. Shortly after being in the city, she meets both Finn and Asher, and that’s where the drama begins.
Kiersten Modglin is the author of The Better Choice, a stand alone novel. Kiersten focuses on suspense and twists and turns while dabbling in other sub genres. She has multiple stand alone novels as well as a series called The Messes.
This book was fantastic, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the twists and turns, as a person who usually doesn’t enjoy surprises. I couldn’t get enough from this story. I was totally invested in Blythe’s story, I was genuinely rooting for her.
The story is told from Blythe’s perspective, which normally I like to hear it from both the male and female leads perspective but only hearing from Blythe really made sense. She was relatable and I just empathized with her.
Now, let me just say that I am totally Team Finn, I loved him from the instant he was introduced in the book. He has a bit of a questionable past but he is there for Blythe on her first day in the city. Finn also has a certain chemistry and bond that Blythe is drawn to. Asher is more of your average guy with money, he seems pretty stereotypical but Blythe uncovers quite a few of his secrets, but he also provides some security and stability for Blythe. But as most know, you can’t have the best of both worlds.
I highly recommend taking a chance on this book, it’s not the typical romance format but I was hooked. Kiersten did a fantastic job and I can’t wait to read more of her books. You truly navigate the journey with Blythe and even through the drama, there are touching and heartwarming moments.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I thoroughly enjoyed The Better Choice. Modglin has a talent for writing “edge of your seat” stories - stories that twist and turn unexpectedly. I literally stayed up all night reading because I couldn’t put the book down, and I normally only read historical romance. I loved the intelligent dialogue and the witty banter. I enjoyed the heroine Blythe and the two men in the book - Asher and Finn. Being a native Texan, I thought she portrayed Blythe as a very real, believable Southern girl. My only complaint is that I wish I had a clearer picture of the heroine’s physical traits. I like to picture the characters and I didn’t feel like there was ever a thorough description of Blythe. But I feel this book is a solid 5 stars and I am looking forward to reading more. I think I’m hooked on Modglin.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat! I literally could not put it down! It was full of twists and turns! It is my favorite read by this author, and I have read all her books!
This tension filled book keeps you on the edge of your seat, because every time you think you know where the book is leading you there is another curveball. For me, actions speak louder than words, and I was so frustrated with Blythe when there were times she couldn’t see that. After being introduced to Blythe’s two love interests, it was immediately clear to me who the better man is. One treats her with respect. One cares for her when she needs it. One listens when she talks. But neither man makes it obvious with both his words and actions what his true intentions are.
The story follows Blythe, a small town girl from Texas. On her first night living in New York City, she’s mugged and Finn comes to her rescue. He takes her back to his place and patches her up, then they spend a platonic night together despite the sparks flying between them. They part ways, and one month later she meets Asher. He’s rich and slick, wooing her with fancy clothes and restaurants. They fall into bed quickly and Blythe is left reeling when he tells her he doesn’t want to be exclusive. She goes to her safe place - Finn’s home - and when he doesn’t give her the answer she wants, she is torn between the two men.
The writing in this is great because while there were times like I felt like I wasn’t enjoying the book (because Blythe was with the wrong guy), I could not put it down. It’s engrossing and intriguing, romantic and a little heartbreaking. This is most definitely worth a read - just prepare to be frustrated and surprised several times over.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kiersten Modglin is what I consider to be a sleeper author, one that I wish the world knew more about! I stumbled across her a few stories ago, and I never want to stop reading her. Ever!
The Better Choice is a fast-paced story that will have you wondering if indeed the right choice was made. It starts off with a question and follows the life of Blythe as she embarks on a new journey in a new city all alone. Two men, two choices...all the feelings. The story itself is very emotional and has you questioning a lot of things, even decisions you might make personally. Finn and Asher, so opposite and yet so wrong...or right for Blythe. Gosh, I was torn from what I wanted to happen, what I didn't want to happen and what actually did happen. A whirlwind of a story but oh so dang good!!
Modglin's is mad-talented--her writing is beautiful and mind-blowing. The Better Choice is yet another example of just how strong and an endearing Modglin is with her writing ability. Grab the story, indulge in it and savor it because you're going to agree when you're done, that this is one heck of a tale!
This book begins with a question and will keep you wondering, second-guessing yourself, and seeking answers until you're almost at the end... but that's not the best part about this romance. The best part for me was Blythe's journey in NYC, navigating new romantic connections after the huge loss she faced back home, and the questions she asks of herself when faced with difficult choices, temptation, new ideas about love, and especially long-held beliefs. It's all the little choices Blythe makes along the way that bring meaning to this story, and although I had made a choice of my own between the two men who had a piece of her heart early on, I questioned much of what I knew, as Blythe did. This book had Kiersten's signature "Modglin Twist" (I'm making that a thing, if it isn't already, because it deserves to be, as her loyal readers can all attest to!), making it all the more exciting, keeping me on my toes, delivering moments of wisdom and deeper meaning, and sending me reeling towards the finale of this story with tears in my eyes, rooting for Blythe and the HEA she deserved.
I don’t think Kiersten Modglin could write a boring story if she tried. Once again, she proves that she can twist a simple story and leave you on the edge of your seat. Up until now, I have only read her thriller novels, and I have to say I’m hooked now no matter what she writes. The writing is fantastic, not like other romances I have read. This author blazes her own path instead of following a formula and I admire that.
I neglected life while I read this because I simple had to find out who Blythe was going to choose. I highly recommend that you read this book. Bravo, once again, Kiersten, for knowing how to write a story that engrosses the reader and keeps them turning the page.
Wow. I loved this book. I honestly did not anticipate how this book would turn out but yes i believe Blythe made the right choice. I know he left for her own good but im glad he came back for her. They have chemistry and a connection that is hard to come by.
This is the first book I have read from this author and it will not be my last. This was a super read with lots of twists and turn it had me hooked and on the edge of my seat. This was a well written book with a great storyline and good interesting characters and I would recommend it.
I'll start by saying I read a different book by this author and LOVED it. I was highly let down with this book and the author should stick to writing suspense, not Romance.
First of all, what woman on her first day in NEW YORK is going to follow a man up to his apartment so he can bandage her elbow? *eye roll*
Also, she could not decide if she wanted Blythe to be a HO, or not. I do not care if a single woman fancies herself in falling into different beds. When Asher asks her to come up to his apartment to "make bad decisions together" she's all *Oh I never do this kind of thing but I want to make a decision based on what I want*... Heifer, yes you do. If you're spending your first 2 night in New York in 2 different men's beds then YES, you do that all the time. Own it though, don't be fake about it.
This book was EXTREMELY rushed. Every chapter is *2 months later* and I felt like we were missing huge pieces of their relationships that made the characters connect emotionally to each other.
Other things that made me roll my eyes: -Why do we have to mention morning breath 2 chapters in a row? -"What a nice body it was.. chiseled and toned in all the right places" .... Just, Seriously? -These characters stuttered ("w-what?") and said "um" so much that I just wanted to scream USE YOUR WORDS.
This book was so anti-climactic. Chapter 1 ends with "I'm here to see my son..." *bum bum bum* The book ends "he's not yours"..... "Oh, Okay. Sorry for all the shit I did. See ya around." ..... What?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The Better Choice by Kiersten Modglin 6h 32m narrated by EJ Lavery, 250 pages
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Featuring: Family Drama, New York City, Texas, Dual Timeline, Sex, Love Triangle Trope
Rating as a movie: R for adult themes
Songs for the soundtrack: "Ordinary People" by John Legend
My rating: ⭐️⭐️½☘️
My thoughts: This story was okay. It was basic and predictable but a lot of that is because it was published 4 years or 24 books ago and the author is on a different level now. Although it is labeled as a romantic suspense it didn't feel like it to me it mostly felt like drama.
Recommend to others: Not likely, but with Kiersten Modglin you really need to read for yourself to know if it's for you.
if you have read some of Kiersten’s other books, then you know to expect some shocking surprises. She does not disappoint! through the first 17 chapters, you might be thinking you know what a few of the surprises will be, you will be wrong! this was suspenseful, but not in the same manner that you may be expecting. However, you will still find yourself addicted!
Blythe'ın 6 yıl önce New York'a yeni taşınmışken 2 adam ile tanışmasını, aralarında yaşananları ve seçim yapmasını anlatıyor.
İlk bölümde şimdiki zamanda evli ve çocuklu ama kiminle evlendi kimi seçti ve seçimi doğru muydu? Sonraki bölümlerde 6 yıl önceki New York maceraları ve kimi seçeceği ve kim kimdir diye tahmin etmekten kitaba gömülüyorsunuz.
Çok akıcı çok sarıyor zaten yazarın tarzına bayılıyorum gizem gerilim yazıyor genelde 1 tane de romantik okuyayım dedim. Benim için çok keyifli bir okumaydı. ❤️
I've read a few of this author's books and I've loved every book that I've read from her, so I always look forward to a new release from her! I was excited about this book because the synopsis is very intriguing and I really wanted to know more! I then put my name down for an ARC of this book and made it my next read once I received the ARC! After reading this book, I can say that I wasn’t too sure what to expect from the plot! The synopsis doesn’t give anything away apart from that there’s a love triangle! The love triangle was the main point of the plot, but the author added quite a few unexpected twist and turns to keep things interesting and to shake the plot up! I was surprised with a few of the twists and one major one changed the plot a lot! The characters were also amazing and made this book even better! Blythe was the main character, and she had lost her family and she was in a new place and was trying to find her feet again! This did make me feel sorry for her, but she worked hard and found herself a good job! I also felt like Blythe was way too trusting in the book! She just went off with her love interests when she knew absolutely nothing about them! This was dangerous, especially in a place as big as New York! I did connect with Blythe and I felt like she did come a long way in this book and made the best choice for her! There was obviously a love triangle in this book and I don't want to reveal which guy Blythe chooses because that would be a huge spoiler, so I'm going to discuss both guys instead lol! Finn and Asher were both the love interests of Blythe! I actually wasn’t sure what to make of both guys when they were first introduced! Finn helped Blythe out and didn’t push her into a relationship! He tried to be there to support her too! Asher on the other hand was slightly more persistent when it came to Blythe! He was also more about showing off his family’s money and trying to impress Blythe! Finn didn’t care about money and he just wanted to be happy! Both guys had also done bad things, but only one had learned from his mistakes and moved on! This book was only written from Blythe’s point of view, which didn’t really surprise me! I mean, I would have loved a few chapters to have been written from Finn and Asher’s point of views, but it was Blythe’s story and it was about her deciding which guy was right for her! It allowed for secrets to be revealed too and for Blythe and the reader to find them out at the same time! I was also still able to connect with Finn and Asher! I can also completely understand why this book is a standalone! All the questions raised were answered and the plot was wrapped up and left at the perfect place for Blythe and the guy she chose! I still have a few of this author’s other books to read, which I’ll definitely be doing soon and I can’t wait to see what she’s going to release next! The cover for this book is also absolutely perfect for it! I love it a lot and it suits the feel of the book! The cover image also suits what happens in the book and the cover models are perfect too! Big thank you to Kiersten for an ARC of The Better Choice!
Kiersten never ceases to amaze me with her books. Her storylines are amazing from beginning to end. They are not only gripping but they keep you on the edge of your seat with twists turns and shocking moments you never show coming. This book has it all. The Better Choice was the perfect title for this one. Blythe loses everything important to her. She comes to New York to start over. Her first day there she is mugged. She ends up at Finn's apartment. These two become friends. Sometime down the road she ends up running into a guy at a party Asher. They hit it off but she runs into Finn again and she has feelings for him. But Finn is not the person that she thinks that he is. Her and Asher hit it off and take over into the sunset. But before she can ruin her future she learns somethings about Asher that will change everything. This whole time Asher and Finn know each other very well. Who does she end up with? Does she make the right choice? Will it be happy ever after? I freaking loved this one. Her books just keep getting better and better. This one was just so gripping you are taking on quite the ride with Blythe as she decides who is better for her future but fate also has a hand in what happens. I absolutely love Kiersten's books because every book is an adventure that you are truly taken into. You can easily feel each and every emotion from the character. This one has been added to my top 10 of 2019. Just loved it. Knocked it out of the park.
This is a “Cinderella” story with a “princess” who works at a caterer’s in NYC after her parents unexpected and tragic death. Without any friends, Blythe heads to NY to start a new life. There she meets Finn and Asher, both young men who want to marry her, but she can only choose one of them. The dilemma is one that all of us would like to have. After all, who doesn’t want two very eligible and good-looking men craving them? Blythe has to search her heart carefully to make a choice, but is it the right one? The author does a good job of telling the story artfully and with a style that keeps the reader engaged. The sub-plot, the connection between the two young men, is a mystery almost until the end and is another reason to just keep reading. This is a fast-paced book that will entertain and make you happy, regardless of Blythe’s final choice.
Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
SYNOPSIS: After experiencing the death of her parents, and her childhood house burning down, Blythe decided to move to New York City for a fresh start. Her very first day in NYC she is mugged; her money, her wallet, her mother’s necklace and pictures all gone and her elbow is bleeding. A nice stranger, Finn, helps her and she stays the night at Finn’s place. The next day, Blythe goes to her Aunts house, where she will be staying. Blythe finds a job as a waitress with a catering company. This is where she meets Asher, a wealthy, confident, and good looking man. Both of these men want Blythe and she has a choice to make. Both of these men have secrets. What are these secrets? Who does Blythe choose? Did she make the better choice?
REVIEW: “I’d rather be hurt a thousand times than give up on the idea of finding love and being truly happy.” I absolutely loved this book. I could not put it down and read it in one day. I did figure out who Blythe would pick quickly, but I DID NOT figure out the two major twists in the story. The story just flowed beautifully and I was really invested in what was going to happen. I have not been this invested in characters in a while; I am starting to think that romantic suspense might be a new genre for me!
Blythe made many choices in her life that led her to New York City. She wanted a fresh start away from her small town, where the memories were just too hard to deal with. In the big city, she was anonymous; no one knew her business or gossiped behind her back. She was looking forward to her future with positivity and excitement, and she only hoped she would always make the best choices. But sometimes the right choice is not the one worthy of being chosen.
Blythe never thought she could be interested in two men at the same time. Finn is dark, secretive and foreboding and Asher is wealthy, carefree and full of himself. She was very conflicted about her feelings for them and she was unsure as to what path to take. Blythe wanted the fairytale ending full of love, hope and magical dreams. Everything was happening so fast and she felt as if her emotions were swirling around her, creating a whirlwind of confusion. Both roads could lead to a happily ever after, but will her journey take a toll on her heart?
This romance story is a twisted web of three people who have a past that is not pretty. These three will capture your heart, break it, and then put it back together piece by piece. The author is amazing at developing this world and making you part of it as you read.
So I never expected the book to have all of the twists and turns it did. The author has a way of creating a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat and creates so many emotions in you. I was emotional, angry, and enthralled as I flipped the pages of this book. I loved every moment between the characters of this book.
Asher and Finn have quite the past. It is nothing like you expect when you start this book. Blythe becomes a piece in the puzzle that just fits. Their story is one twisted, emotional story of secrets and deception that leads to a happy ending like you would not believe. It will melt your heart and leave you swooning.
Every time I start one of this author's books I have to get rid of all of my preconceived notions or expectations because no matter where I think her story is going it never quite meets with what she delivers. From the start I was hooked, even with the blurb I found myself waiting for the bomb to drop. I suspected I toiled and I read. Their story is the age old one but the twist this author throws in, the zoom zooms and wham whams are always a pleasing surprise and add to the suspense and depth of her characters. Yes, she gets her hea. Yes, she meets him when doesn't expect him. No they never do until they know there are no ties. Yes he does lie. Yes they know for sure. See now all you need to do is read it and find out who and what these are answers to. All the way to the end you will wonder with her, until there is no doubt in either of their minds that she made the better choice.