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Falls Village Collection #4
What Once Was Mine
For years I was lost, bitter, angry at the way my life turned out. I fought hard to find my way back to happiness, and I was almost there. I just needed one push, and it came in the form of Cole Alexander. For one night, we connected in a way neither of us anticipated—an attraction I wasn’t ready for. I did what any normal woman on the cusp of the next stage in her life would do. I left, never expecting to see him again.
I’ve never been so wrong in my entire life.
Falls Village, Maine was a place meant for second chances, and it became my primary destination, the place that would heal me. Little did I know I’d find the man who had a small part in changing my world mere miles away.
I’ve never been so wrong in my entire life.
Falls Village, Maine was a place meant for second chances, and it became my primary destination, the place that would heal me. Little did I know I’d find the man who had a small part in changing my world mere miles away.
About the author
Krystyna Allyn
16 books224 followersKrystyna Allyn lives in somewhere USA with her amazingly awesome husband. Though she works full time, blogs and reads like a maniac, she still manages to find time to write all of her crazy stories.
Her hobbies include baking, skydiving, karaoke and general mischief.
Her hobbies include baking, skydiving, karaoke and general mischief.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 22 reviews
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August 5, 2020❤️ WHAT ONCE WAS MINE ❤️
🎊𝑵𝑶𝑾 𝑳𝑰𝑽𝑬 🎊
For years I was lost, bitter, angry at the way my life turned out. I fought hard to find my way back to happiness, and I was almost there. I just needed one push, and it came in the form of Cole Alexander
𝑨𝒎𝒂𝒛𝒐𝒏 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒂𝒍 → http://getbook.at/oncemine
𝑷𝒂𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 → http://getbook.at/onceminepb
⭐️ 𝑰𝒏 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 ⭐️
🔥The Rest of Forever (Book #1) by Kitty Berry 🔥
→ http://getbook.at/TheRestofForever
🐶 Puppy Love (Book #2) by MJ Santangelo 🐶
→ http://getbook.at/PuppyLoveFallsVillage
🏀 From Then Until Forever (Book #3) by Kitty Berry 🏀
→ http://getbook.at/FromThenUntilForever
#kindleunlimited #ku #fallsvillage #nowavailable #anthology #smalltownromance #newrelease #secondchanceromance #onenightstand #interracialromance #booklover #booknerds #bookishladiesclub #romancelover #romanceauthorsofinstagram #bookstagram #authorsofinstagram #author #bookaholic #junereads #krystynaallyn #romanceauthor
🎊𝑵𝑶𝑾 𝑳𝑰𝑽𝑬 🎊
For years I was lost, bitter, angry at the way my life turned out. I fought hard to find my way back to happiness, and I was almost there. I just needed one push, and it came in the form of Cole Alexander
𝑨𝒎𝒂𝒛𝒐𝒏 𝑼𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒂𝒍 → http://getbook.at/oncemine
𝑷𝒂𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 → http://getbook.at/onceminepb
⭐️ 𝑰𝒏 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 ⭐️
🔥The Rest of Forever (Book #1) by Kitty Berry 🔥
→ http://getbook.at/TheRestofForever
🐶 Puppy Love (Book #2) by MJ Santangelo 🐶
→ http://getbook.at/PuppyLoveFallsVillage
🏀 From Then Until Forever (Book #3) by Kitty Berry 🏀
→ http://getbook.at/FromThenUntilForever
#kindleunlimited #ku #fallsvillage #nowavailable #anthology #smalltownromance #newrelease #secondchanceromance #onenightstand #interracialromance #booklover #booknerds #bookishladiesclub #romancelover #romanceauthorsofinstagram #bookstagram #authorsofinstagram #author #bookaholic #junereads #krystynaallyn #romanceauthor
August 10, 2020
Krystyna Allyn writes some of the best RomCom I’ve read to date.
With complex yet likable characters that challenge you, banter that is off the charts (the Pop Culture references are golden!!) and the inevitable twist she throws in every book....I absolutely fell in love with Marley and Cole. Add in the whole crew from Falls Village and you’ve got the makings of a fabulous book/series.
Must read!!
With complex yet likable characters that challenge you, banter that is off the charts (the Pop Culture references are golden!!) and the inevitable twist she throws in every book....I absolutely fell in love with Marley and Cole. Add in the whole crew from Falls Village and you’ve got the makings of a fabulous book/series.
Must read!!
June 16, 2020
Cole took a little bit of time to like because he had to prove himself to me, but I’ll definitely read more from this author for the sole fact that she didn’t give us an OTT insanely jealous and vile scorned woman. Taylor and Marley were everything women should be for each other, and their friendship meant more to me than anything Marley had with Cole. I mean, he redeemed himself and didn’t give up on proving his worth, but the camaraderie between women was so much more than a simple romance.
This was my first read by this author, but it won’t be my last.
This was my first read by this author, but it won’t be my last.
August 10, 2022
It was just ok for me. I would read more from the author though. 3.5 Stars.
July 16, 2020
This book was AMAZING!
Jam packed with lust, love, fatal attraction and a HEA!
I loved the opening to the book and how it lead to so much more (I don’t want to give anything away). Sparkle used one of the best tricks in the book when it came to an alleged one night stand. I absolutely adore her character because not only is she an 80s baby and her references to one of the greatest times of history, she is kind, lovable and soft hearted. We could be sisters or besties because we have some of the same characteristics.
Cole was every women’s hottest fantasy in male form. He had a womanizing streak all through life, let’s face it, we’ve known a few here and there and in between right. Men that only want sometimes the same thing as the woman...a one night stand filled with all you could ever hope for and that’s it. Everyone goes there separate ways in the end.
When the two worlds collide, what do you think will happen?
Let’s talk about Taylor!! I LOVE her heroic spirit and how she really set aside her differences to ban together with the town when one of their own found themselves in trouble. I love her passion and courage, She is what I strive to be...heroic and passionate.
The whole town makes you feel welcomed, like you belong there. Everyone knows everyone which helps when you know no one or your the new person in town.
Each character brought something different to the table and they interconnected on some level. The tables turned when a couple of secrets came to light that threatened to rock them all to the core.
Not only was this a romance book, but it had a hint of thriller and mystery that fit perfect into the mix!
I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves HEA with a twist!
Jam packed with lust, love, fatal attraction and a HEA!
I loved the opening to the book and how it lead to so much more (I don’t want to give anything away). Sparkle used one of the best tricks in the book when it came to an alleged one night stand. I absolutely adore her character because not only is she an 80s baby and her references to one of the greatest times of history, she is kind, lovable and soft hearted. We could be sisters or besties because we have some of the same characteristics.
Cole was every women’s hottest fantasy in male form. He had a womanizing streak all through life, let’s face it, we’ve known a few here and there and in between right. Men that only want sometimes the same thing as the woman...a one night stand filled with all you could ever hope for and that’s it. Everyone goes there separate ways in the end.
When the two worlds collide, what do you think will happen?
Let’s talk about Taylor!! I LOVE her heroic spirit and how she really set aside her differences to ban together with the town when one of their own found themselves in trouble. I love her passion and courage, She is what I strive to be...heroic and passionate.
The whole town makes you feel welcomed, like you belong there. Everyone knows everyone which helps when you know no one or your the new person in town.
Each character brought something different to the table and they interconnected on some level. The tables turned when a couple of secrets came to light that threatened to rock them all to the core.
Not only was this a romance book, but it had a hint of thriller and mystery that fit perfect into the mix!
I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves HEA with a twist!
June 26, 2020
What a fun concept. The Falls Village collection is a series of interconnected standalones written by multiple RomantiConn authors. What Once Was Mine is Book 4, and my first glimpse of this fascinating little town!
For me, Cole, on initial appearance, was not a likable character. I disliked the way he treated many of the supporting characters, which means he had a lot of work to do to redeem himself. He isn't necessarily a bad person, just a little bit misguided. Though he may not see it, his actions and words are hurtful. BUT people can change and be better.
Marley is a very likable character. Even though she is dealing with a lot of issues stemming from her parents, trauma, and loss, she is still vibrant and full of life. Everyone likes her and wants to be around her. She is a genuinely good and kind person.
The connection between Cole and Marley is deep and instant. And it is so much more than physical chemistry. It is a sense of belonging. These two see one another - past the masks and the flaws.
The suspense woven throughout makes for an interesting plot point. And it is a twist that no one sees coming.
I also got a kick out of the Affirmations and Bro Tips that appear at the start of each chapter. They are some pretty valuable words of wisdom (and some are pretty darn funny).
I adore Krystyna's writing style. It is the perfect blend of heart and heat. What Once Was Mine is a great way to ease into her writing style for those who have never read her.
I'm planning to pick up the rest of the books in this series, so I can lean more about this quirky little town and its residents.
For me, Cole, on initial appearance, was not a likable character. I disliked the way he treated many of the supporting characters, which means he had a lot of work to do to redeem himself. He isn't necessarily a bad person, just a little bit misguided. Though he may not see it, his actions and words are hurtful. BUT people can change and be better.
Marley is a very likable character. Even though she is dealing with a lot of issues stemming from her parents, trauma, and loss, she is still vibrant and full of life. Everyone likes her and wants to be around her. She is a genuinely good and kind person.
The connection between Cole and Marley is deep and instant. And it is so much more than physical chemistry. It is a sense of belonging. These two see one another - past the masks and the flaws.
The suspense woven throughout makes for an interesting plot point. And it is a twist that no one sees coming.
I also got a kick out of the Affirmations and Bro Tips that appear at the start of each chapter. They are some pretty valuable words of wisdom (and some are pretty darn funny).
I adore Krystyna's writing style. It is the perfect blend of heart and heat. What Once Was Mine is a great way to ease into her writing style for those who have never read her.
I'm planning to pick up the rest of the books in this series, so I can lean more about this quirky little town and its residents.
July 1, 2020
Wasn't what I expected...
This had a bit of everything. There was a bit of mystery, family drama, questionable parentage, and a few other things it covered. It took a minute for it to get going, but I found myself into it, mostly, once it it. The main characters, Marley and Cole, had a one night stand six months prior, with Marley having to leave while Cole was still asleep. Six months later she shows up in the town where Cole lives and begins working for Taylor; Cole's ex-lover. Cole is a cheating man-whore who had a lot of growing up to do and he really got on my nerves because he felt somehow offended that Marley (who smartly gave him a fake name with the ONS) left without telling him. Guess he forgot what a ONS is all about because he whined soooo much. They finally meet again, have a few missteps, but work it out.
Then there's Marley's mother, a real piece of work! The best moment of the book for me was the dinner scene with her mother and sperm donor. I had my doubts about Marley's strength concerning her mother, but she came through that dinner like a pro and got them both good and told! There's also a bit of a stalker mystery that during dark and some messy stuff with Cole that he handles.
Stick with it, you might like it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This had a bit of everything. There was a bit of mystery, family drama, questionable parentage, and a few other things it covered. It took a minute for it to get going, but I found myself into it, mostly, once it it. The main characters, Marley and Cole, had a one night stand six months prior, with Marley having to leave while Cole was still asleep. Six months later she shows up in the town where Cole lives and begins working for Taylor; Cole's ex-lover. Cole is a cheating man-whore who had a lot of growing up to do and he really got on my nerves because he felt somehow offended that Marley (who smartly gave him a fake name with the ONS) left without telling him. Guess he forgot what a ONS is all about because he whined soooo much. They finally meet again, have a few missteps, but work it out.
Then there's Marley's mother, a real piece of work! The best moment of the book for me was the dinner scene with her mother and sperm donor. I had my doubts about Marley's strength concerning her mother, but she came through that dinner like a pro and got them both good and told! There's also a bit of a stalker mystery that during dark and some messy stuff with Cole that he handles.
Stick with it, you might like it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2020
I received an ARC of What Was Once Mine, the fourth book in the amazing Falls Village series. This story centers on some of the delightful characters in the first three books in this series and Cole Alexander who connected one night with Marley Bishop in New York, who had a difficult past. Marley left thinking she would never see him again. Marley moves to Falls Village Maine seeking healing and peace never thinking she would connect again with Cole. This story has a beautifully written brilliant plot, great depth of characters, full of heartbreak, danger, excitement, romance and twists and turns. The fantastic character of Lenny who works for Cole, adds so much colorful humor to this amazing story. This is my first time reading this author and as I loved this beautiful story, I am looking forward to reading more of her work. The Falls Village series is being written by multi RomantiConn authors which gives the reader a chance to sample authors they may not have read and gives us more time to enjoy these delicious characters and storylines.
July 7, 2020
Didn’t quite meet the Mark
Going into the book, I didn't have necessarily high expectations. I thought the plot was something I would want to read since it’s different.
The deeper I got into it, the more I realize how confusing is the narration.
For example Cole and Marley had a one night stand. After months of not seeing each other Cole found out she’s living in the small town in Maine where he also happen to be inhabiting. He goes to Marley, her and he became intimate then soon after Cole became cold and Marley turn into a dismissive bitter person. That scene confused the heck out of me and I’m still trying to wring my brain cells around it.
I was desiring for a light, slow burn read, but this turn into a boring angst hot mess half way through. And the constant comparison of movies by Marley was very disconcerting.
It was a somewhat disjointed written, underdeveloped story and I was just not into it like I thought I’ll be.
Not something I’ll easily recommend.
Going into the book, I didn't have necessarily high expectations. I thought the plot was something I would want to read since it’s different.
The deeper I got into it, the more I realize how confusing is the narration.
For example Cole and Marley had a one night stand. After months of not seeing each other Cole found out she’s living in the small town in Maine where he also happen to be inhabiting. He goes to Marley, her and he became intimate then soon after Cole became cold and Marley turn into a dismissive bitter person. That scene confused the heck out of me and I’m still trying to wring my brain cells around it.
I was desiring for a light, slow burn read, but this turn into a boring angst hot mess half way through. And the constant comparison of movies by Marley was very disconcerting.
It was a somewhat disjointed written, underdeveloped story and I was just not into it like I thought I’ll be.
Not something I’ll easily recommend.
July 17, 2021
This was fairly painful for me to read. It’s rare for me to finish a book and rate it this poorly, but this book failed to meet my expectations in so many ways. Let’s start with the synopsis—it doesn’t match the book. Nothing in the synopsis prepared me for a kidnapping by an incestuous psycho. Cole has got to be in the top 5 of the worst romantic heroes I have encountered, and I’ve read over 300 romances in the last few years. He is an immature, selfish a-hole who not once redeemed himself. The insta-love factor here was eye-roll inducing. Marley herself was tolerable.
There are two more big reasons for this 2 star rating—glaring holes in the plot and a serious lack of editing. Did anyone bother reading this book for typos? This author needs a lesson in how to use quotation marks. Lastly, how did Taylor end up in the kidnapper’s SUV? How did the psychiatrist become connected to the kidnapper? Both seem like important pieces of plot that a reader should know.
There are two more big reasons for this 2 star rating—glaring holes in the plot and a serious lack of editing. Did anyone bother reading this book for typos? This author needs a lesson in how to use quotation marks. Lastly, how did Taylor end up in the kidnapper’s SUV? How did the psychiatrist become connected to the kidnapper? Both seem like important pieces of plot that a reader should know.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2020
Cole and Marley...what a story. This book was amazing. The authors writing is engaging and the story line and characters make the book feel more real.
Cole and Marley are very unique, both have their own troubles and pasts that they want to run away from, but facing them is the only ways this couple can ever possibly move forward. An easy read but with plenty of unexpected twists and turns. I loved the banter between the couple, their protectiveness and dedication. This book has plenty of emotion attached, lots of humour to off set the angst in parts.
Overall I loved this book and will look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cole and Marley are very unique, both have their own troubles and pasts that they want to run away from, but facing them is the only ways this couple can ever possibly move forward. An easy read but with plenty of unexpected twists and turns. I loved the banter between the couple, their protectiveness and dedication. This book has plenty of emotion attached, lots of humour to off set the angst in parts.
Overall I loved this book and will look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 18, 2020
Marley and Cole meet and their lives are changed forever. The characters are personable and enjoyable. They both have their flaws; but, those flaws make them real and likeable. The town of Falls Ridge, Maine sounds like a quaint, but exciting place I'd like to visit! I can't wait to read about some of the other town characters, There's a nice plot twist in the story, so keep your eyes on all the characters or you will miss important clues you'll need to help you with a big mystery. All in all, grab a cup of your favorite beverage so you can sit and enjoy a great story!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 27, 2020
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of What Once Was Mine, and I have to say I really enjoyed it.
Marley and Cole meet up and have a one night stand, never thinking they would ever see each other again, but Cole can't stop thinking about her, to the point he can't seem to enjoy being with other women.
Cole is more than surprised when Marley turns up in Falls Ridge, Maine, where he lives and works.
There's lots to this story, Romance, twists and turns etc.
I have read all of Krystyna's books, I love her style of writing.
Well done Krystyna another well earned 5*
Marley and Cole meet up and have a one night stand, never thinking they would ever see each other again, but Cole can't stop thinking about her, to the point he can't seem to enjoy being with other women.
Cole is more than surprised when Marley turns up in Falls Ridge, Maine, where he lives and works.
There's lots to this story, Romance, twists and turns etc.
I have read all of Krystyna's books, I love her style of writing.
Well done Krystyna another well earned 5*
January 30, 2021
Insta Love and Suspense
I have not read any of the Falls Village Books but followed Marley from New York. She had a one night hook up with Cole in Seducing My Valentine. Cole was upset that she left him sleeping....that is usually his move. Cole has lived a truly messy hedonistic life style and perhaps this is karma because he can’t get her out of his mind. When Marley moves unknowingly to Cole’s town, I was so eager for them to reconnect....it was epic. The book has so many cringe worthy moments courtesy of the villain....I was gobsmacked when he was revealed. Great story.
I have not read any of the Falls Village Books but followed Marley from New York. She had a one night hook up with Cole in Seducing My Valentine. Cole was upset that she left him sleeping....that is usually his move. Cole has lived a truly messy hedonistic life style and perhaps this is karma because he can’t get her out of his mind. When Marley moves unknowingly to Cole’s town, I was so eager for them to reconnect....it was epic. The book has so many cringe worthy moments courtesy of the villain....I was gobsmacked when he was revealed. Great story.
July 5, 2020
I've read several books written by Krystyna Allyn; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2020
Fun, angsty, steamy and suspenseful.
What happens when an one-night stand turns into the love a lifetime....sparks fly. I loved seeing heartbreaker Cole come to terms with his ways and work to better himself. It was touching to see him fight for Marley. Also enjoyed the girls working and developing their friendship. Once the story got going it was a page turner. Enjoyed the twist and suspense towards the end.
What happens when an one-night stand turns into the love a lifetime....sparks fly. I loved seeing heartbreaker Cole come to terms with his ways and work to better himself. It was touching to see him fight for Marley. Also enjoyed the girls working and developing their friendship. Once the story got going it was a page turner. Enjoyed the twist and suspense towards the end.
August 26, 2020
I really enjoyed finding out more about Marley. I liked that she took a chance on herself and went for it! This book was fun to read because of the mystery. I thought I knew who was behind everything, but I was wrong! I did not expect it to be, well you all need to read it to find out! I'm not telling!! Happy Reading!!
August 27, 2020
Great characters that will keep your interest extremely well.
I'm not going to go into detail, no spoilers, just read the book if you are even mildly intrigued by the blurb. You'll thank me later!
The chemistry, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things interesting. Add in drama and passion and you have a good read.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
I'm not going to go into detail, no spoilers, just read the book if you are even mildly intrigued by the blurb. You'll thank me later!
The chemistry, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things interesting. Add in drama and passion and you have a good read.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
August 2, 2020
I have read other books by this author but I must say this might be one of my favorite books from her. The story is one you get lost in. One that you need the next page of words like your next breath.
June 28, 2020
I have read and loved all the books by this author, but this one might be my favorite. I am a lover of small town stories and this one had all the ingredients that make those stories page turners. With characters that you can't help but root for, this book is a must click for small town romance lovers.
June 28, 2020
Author Krystyna Allyn knows how to give the right amount of romance with a twist and suspense that you will not see coming.
Loved Marley & Cole's story!
It was funny, heartfelt and had just the right amount of sexy.
I liked the strong character of Marley and her journey of finding herself again.
Cole is a man with many flaws but he redeems himself when he meets Marley.
She brings out a side of him no one ever saw coming as well as he shows Marley that she can be more than what she sees herself as.
Loved how the development of the characters and the way the story flowed.
Falls Village is full of tons of characters that are all intertwined.
This book can be read as a standalone but believe me once you read this book, you will want to read them all in the series to know what happens next.
5 🍒🍒🍒🍒🍒popped!
Loved Marley & Cole's story!
It was funny, heartfelt and had just the right amount of sexy.
I liked the strong character of Marley and her journey of finding herself again.
Cole is a man with many flaws but he redeems himself when he meets Marley.
She brings out a side of him no one ever saw coming as well as he shows Marley that she can be more than what she sees herself as.
Loved how the development of the characters and the way the story flowed.
Falls Village is full of tons of characters that are all intertwined.
This book can be read as a standalone but believe me once you read this book, you will want to read them all in the series to know what happens next.
5 🍒🍒🍒🍒🍒popped!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 22 reviews