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Just The Way You Are
Can you truly forgive and forget? Ambri and Henry have been best friends forever. They've been through the highs and lows of life with each other by their sides. The worst? When Henry's wife, and Ambri's sister, died. Together, they can face it all. Until one night destroys everything. Two years after he stepped out of it Henry walks back into Ambri's life and she's more than a little shocked. But as old friends fall into even older habits they need to decide whether they can forget the past and embrace their future. Perfect for fans of Nicholas Sparks, Jodi Picoult and Anna Bell.
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First published April 16, 2019
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About the author
Aimee Brown
15 books331 followersAimee Brown is a romantic comedy/contemporary romantic comedy author. Happily Ever After’s keep her going in a world less than likable at times. She’s been married for twenty-five years and has raised three kids. She’s lived in four different states, has a house full of pets, and houseplants, and can usually be found reading, writing, cleaning, or watching her favorite shows over and over.
Aimee is very active on social media. She'd love to have you stop by and say hi!
FB - http://facebook.com/authoraimeebrown
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Twitter - http://twitter.com/aimeebwrites
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/profile/aimee...
Website - https://aimeebwrites.com/
Aimee writes closed-door sex with sweary bits and representation of mental health.
Aimee is very active on social media. She'd love to have you stop by and say hi!
FB - http://facebook.com/authoraimeebrown
Instagram - http://instagram.com/authoraimeeb
Twitter - http://twitter.com/aimeebwrites
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/profile/aimee...
Website - https://aimeebwrites.com/
Aimee writes closed-door sex with sweary bits and representation of mental health.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
April 9, 2019
Ambri and Henry were supposed to always be there for each other. And they’ve been through more than a lot— like when Ambri’s sister, Henry’s wife, died. They made it through that together, but then one moment ruined everything and split them apart. However, two years later, Henry’s back in town and, after a chance encounter with Ambri, untold feelings bubble over.
Some romances throw everything at the reader upfront, and others opt for a more careful attitude, letting information trickle out and build up. Author Aimee Brown is an expert in the second approach. Sure, at the beginning, there’s an understood connection between Henry and Ambri. But Brown keeps their history close at hand, doling it out as complications in the present unfold, and ultimately producing a completely layered view of the two. It almost sneaks up on the reader.
Part of what makes this so successful is that Ambri and Henry and such rich characters. Writing in alternating first person chapters, Brown gives each a time to shine, showcasing both their triumphs and problems. Ambri is a food writer somewhat struggling with her company. Henry is readjusting to Portland, though haunted by the death of his wife. These subplots are compelling, and Brown makes it impossible not to root for these characters to find their happy endings— however they might look.
Plus this book oozes tension on every page. Both Ambri and Henry are in new relationships that seem to be in good places. They’re hesitant to even see each other, and Ambri is driven by pure rage from their previous encounter. Yet Brown continually finds creative ways of forcing these two together. It’s complicated and messy without ever veering into melodramatic territory.
Most importantly, all loose ends are tied together in the end in a realistic and satisfying way. However, that would be impossible without Brown’s careful crafting. Her sharp writing and attention to her characters make this book soar.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
Some romances throw everything at the reader upfront, and others opt for a more careful attitude, letting information trickle out and build up. Author Aimee Brown is an expert in the second approach. Sure, at the beginning, there’s an understood connection between Henry and Ambri. But Brown keeps their history close at hand, doling it out as complications in the present unfold, and ultimately producing a completely layered view of the two. It almost sneaks up on the reader.
Part of what makes this so successful is that Ambri and Henry and such rich characters. Writing in alternating first person chapters, Brown gives each a time to shine, showcasing both their triumphs and problems. Ambri is a food writer somewhat struggling with her company. Henry is readjusting to Portland, though haunted by the death of his wife. These subplots are compelling, and Brown makes it impossible not to root for these characters to find their happy endings— however they might look.
Plus this book oozes tension on every page. Both Ambri and Henry are in new relationships that seem to be in good places. They’re hesitant to even see each other, and Ambri is driven by pure rage from their previous encounter. Yet Brown continually finds creative ways of forcing these two together. It’s complicated and messy without ever veering into melodramatic territory.
Most importantly, all loose ends are tied together in the end in a realistic and satisfying way. However, that would be impossible without Brown’s careful crafting. Her sharp writing and attention to her characters make this book soar.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
April 19, 2019
4.5/5
Everyone knows that transitioning from friends to more than friends can be messy but what if that shift in a relationship happens after your sister dies? Oh and she was also married to your best friend now turned more than friend, can you say complicated?! Complex love stories are the best, real life relationships are super complex and reading a book with authentic relationships is always so refreshing and this one was as genuine as they come.
One of the things I liked the most in the authors previous book was the fantastic characters that feel like real people and there is that same feeling here. This flips back and forth between Ambri and Henry and I had her back right away, she was so adorable and endearing but poor Henry didn’t win me over until much later, he had to prove himself to me 😜 Besides those two they have friends, Chloe and Ben who are married and I loved them as well, their marriage was fun and silly and added some lightness when things went deep between Ambri and Henry.
There was such a nice balance here, plenty of wit and humor one minute and then heartbreak and grief the next but it all flowed together so well for me. Overall this was a really sweet second chance romance full of heart and humor, I absolutely loved it! Recommended when you want a cute romance with depth that mirrors real life, it’s totally authentic.
The Last Dance in three words: Genuine, Sweet and Adorable.
Everyone knows that transitioning from friends to more than friends can be messy but what if that shift in a relationship happens after your sister dies? Oh and she was also married to your best friend now turned more than friend, can you say complicated?! Complex love stories are the best, real life relationships are super complex and reading a book with authentic relationships is always so refreshing and this one was as genuine as they come.
One of the things I liked the most in the authors previous book was the fantastic characters that feel like real people and there is that same feeling here. This flips back and forth between Ambri and Henry and I had her back right away, she was so adorable and endearing but poor Henry didn’t win me over until much later, he had to prove himself to me 😜 Besides those two they have friends, Chloe and Ben who are married and I loved them as well, their marriage was fun and silly and added some lightness when things went deep between Ambri and Henry.
There was such a nice balance here, plenty of wit and humor one minute and then heartbreak and grief the next but it all flowed together so well for me. Overall this was a really sweet second chance romance full of heart and humor, I absolutely loved it! Recommended when you want a cute romance with depth that mirrors real life, it’s totally authentic.
The Last Dance in three words: Genuine, Sweet and Adorable.
April 19, 2019
A cute book from beginning to the end. The story hit me, not because it was a love story but because it was a story where people in love were real. The made mistakes, they got scared, they hurt each other even when they didn't want to.
Ambri and Henry had a connection, they bonded from the first day, they seemed to complement each other. Till Henry fell for Ambri's sister and married her before her death. A year on, they discovered their romantic connection, made love, and Henry left as he was still in depression and scared.
My first book by Aimee Brown, it saw me wavering between hating and loving Henry. I could understand his reasons for leaving, I hated his way of leaving. The love between the two was palpable, and it found its place even when they were in a relationship with others. Ambri was cute in the entire book, her heart was way more generous than mine would have been in the same circumstances.
Then came my niggles, a little more backstory would have given the book a depth and more emotions would have helped me connect better. I understand the pain of when a guy leaves suddenly without an explanation, I couldn't feel Ambri's.
But love found its way in the book and they lived happily ever after. A fun love story.
Ambri and Henry had a connection, they bonded from the first day, they seemed to complement each other. Till Henry fell for Ambri's sister and married her before her death. A year on, they discovered their romantic connection, made love, and Henry left as he was still in depression and scared.
My first book by Aimee Brown, it saw me wavering between hating and loving Henry. I could understand his reasons for leaving, I hated his way of leaving. The love between the two was palpable, and it found its place even when they were in a relationship with others. Ambri was cute in the entire book, her heart was way more generous than mine would have been in the same circumstances.
Then came my niggles, a little more backstory would have given the book a depth and more emotions would have helped me connect better. I understand the pain of when a guy leaves suddenly without an explanation, I couldn't feel Ambri's.
But love found its way in the book and they lived happily ever after. A fun love story.
April 21, 2019
The Last Dance hits on all my favorite "angst" inducing tropes; unrequited love, rejection, friends to lovers, and redemption. Aimee Brown sets the story in Portland, Oregon (another draw for me), and gives us the story of teen-age friends becoming family and having it all fall apart after one emotional night. After having recognized deeper feelings for his best friend and "sister-in-law" Ambri, Henry finds himself at a cross roads and takes the cowards way out. Henry makes a few too many mistakes and finds that path to forgiveness is not an easy one. But you can't help yourself in rooting for these two to find their way back to each other.
After leaving Portland and abruptly cutting ties with Ambri, Henry returns home with him his new love interest. At this point Ambri too has seemingly moved on, but fate has other ideas about their future. Ambri is a spunky and brave young women. She's incredibly in-tune with how she feels, talented and compassionate, and she doesn't give herself enough credit - making her entirely relatable. As her best friend, Henry was always there for her, well, until he wasn't
"Not that I’m anyone special, but he always made me feel as if I were. He was always the one to remind me that I could do anything I wanted."
The story is told from both of their perspectives so we are always aware of the intesity and depth of their relationship. Henry knows his mistakes are monumental, and when he finds himself a part of Ambri's life again he begins to see the inevitable.
"What’s left of my heart now feeling like it would only show a flat line if on a heart monitor. I’m not over her like I’ve been telling myself I was. Not even a little bit."
I was a bit worried about the "sister in law aspect", after all Henry was married to Ambris' sister Rory. But Brown does a masterful job at the intricacies of connection between these three individuals. We get to know Rory through both Ambri's and Henry's memories and see what an amazing person she was.
Brown creates an amazing world is this circle of friends; Ben and Claire, Noah, Karmen, and of course Ambri and Henry. There are so many nuances in their relationship, and moments that show who they are to each other. Their history is deep and not being in each others lives took it's toll on their spirits. I found myself completely immersed in their world and read this in one afternoon and I can't recommend this book enough. Browns' writing is impeccable and I look forward to reading more from this new to me author.
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
After leaving Portland and abruptly cutting ties with Ambri, Henry returns home with him his new love interest. At this point Ambri too has seemingly moved on, but fate has other ideas about their future. Ambri is a spunky and brave young women. She's incredibly in-tune with how she feels, talented and compassionate, and she doesn't give herself enough credit - making her entirely relatable. As her best friend, Henry was always there for her, well, until he wasn't
"Not that I’m anyone special, but he always made me feel as if I were. He was always the one to remind me that I could do anything I wanted."
The story is told from both of their perspectives so we are always aware of the intesity and depth of their relationship. Henry knows his mistakes are monumental, and when he finds himself a part of Ambri's life again he begins to see the inevitable.
"What’s left of my heart now feeling like it would only show a flat line if on a heart monitor. I’m not over her like I’ve been telling myself I was. Not even a little bit."
I was a bit worried about the "sister in law aspect", after all Henry was married to Ambris' sister Rory. But Brown does a masterful job at the intricacies of connection between these three individuals. We get to know Rory through both Ambri's and Henry's memories and see what an amazing person she was.
Brown creates an amazing world is this circle of friends; Ben and Claire, Noah, Karmen, and of course Ambri and Henry. There are so many nuances in their relationship, and moments that show who they are to each other. Their history is deep and not being in each others lives took it's toll on their spirits. I found myself completely immersed in their world and read this in one afternoon and I can't recommend this book enough. Browns' writing is impeccable and I look forward to reading more from this new to me author.
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
February 15, 2019
Well, I started this on Valentine's Day and it was perfect. There is a good story...it's not perfect...you may think Henry was the villain and he was, but waiting it out gets you the layers of what happened and what was happening in their lives back then. I guess I took a star off for me never feeling a true connection to the sister who died. I got all the facts (eventually) but I never truly understood Henry and her and maybe if he had given his POV I'd have felt the difference in how he feels about both sisters because loving two sisters seems hard to understand.
I feel Henry has got it truly right but what makes it different from the first sister. Read the book and tell me what you think.
ARC Netgalley for honest review.
I feel Henry has got it truly right but what makes it different from the first sister. Read the book and tell me what you think.
ARC Netgalley for honest review.
January 5, 2019
Wow, I just finished my ARC. I loved the story, it felt so real. The characters are exceptionally written.
A must read!
A must read!
January 11, 2019
📚I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review📚
“Sometimes life takes you for a ride you’re not sure you’re ready for. Either you buckle up and make it through, or you give up and let life run you over. I’m now happily buckled in, and turns out fate seems to be on my side this time.”
– Aimee Brown in The Last Dance
I know that the end of the story is predictable but I could not help myself from reading this book. I love seeing how Ambri finally was able to shout at Henry saying “You destroyed me!” I somehow can relate myself to her love-starved and loneliness…and the worst one of all…the feeling of being unwanted by someone you love. Ah, the book is just perfect! a perfect companion for one to read during the relaxing time with a glass of wine (I prefer Vodka) and Nat King Cole’s voice singing “Smile.” Raising my glass of vodka! Well done, Ms. Brown! I am waiting for your next writing!
Full review: https://literatureisliving.wordpress....
March 18, 2019
This romance novel follows childhood best friends Ambri and Henry on the twisty and sometimes jagged path from friendship to maybe more.
This book gave me all the feels! This is not an “everything is happy all the time” romance novel. A major plot point is that Henry was married to Ambri’s sister. I appreciate that the author didn’t attempt to put Ambri and Henry together immediately after Henry becomes a widow – a lengthy period of time passes within the novel. Ultimately this book was about friendship and I think the author does a beautiful job of demonstrating not just the problems the characters face in trying to come together but their deep and genuine emotions of betrayal and love.
If you enjoy realistic romance novels I recommend The Last Dance!
I read an ARC copy. The opinions in this review are honest and my own.
This book gave me all the feels! This is not an “everything is happy all the time” romance novel. A major plot point is that Henry was married to Ambri’s sister. I appreciate that the author didn’t attempt to put Ambri and Henry together immediately after Henry becomes a widow – a lengthy period of time passes within the novel. Ultimately this book was about friendship and I think the author does a beautiful job of demonstrating not just the problems the characters face in trying to come together but their deep and genuine emotions of betrayal and love.
If you enjoy realistic romance novels I recommend The Last Dance!
I read an ARC copy. The opinions in this review are honest and my own.
no-way-jose
April 19, 2019Another sibling double dipping. The hero's wife is heroine's sister and died. Noting, hero was heroine's best friend before meeting the (now dead) sister. What a mess. When I read blurbs like this Jerry Springer tv how comes to mind. A big NO for me
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
April 19, 2019
Just no!
April 16, 2019
The Last Dance is a sweet and emotional friends to lovers novel.
Ambri and Henry were best friends since they were students. They were always side by side during the good and bad days, until they go through such a terrible heartbreak and loss that will test their friendship.
I liked how this story unfolds,I didn't feel like it was rushed at all.
I appreciate how the main characters come back together little by little also with some help from their friends.
I will defintely pick up Aimee Brown next book because I enjoy her writing and her characters.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
January 13, 2019
A heartwarming and heart-wrenching novel full of soul and humor.
December 31, 2018
Just finished the ARC of this one. This is the first time I’ve read anything by this author and she did not disappoint!
Ambri and Henry go through so much through this story. A lot of ups and downs, heartbreaks and huge life changes. I enjoyed the whole thing. Some parts were a bit predictable, but it is definitely book that I recommend to pick up in 2019.
Ambri and Henry go through so much through this story. A lot of ups and downs, heartbreaks and huge life changes. I enjoyed the whole thing. Some parts were a bit predictable, but it is definitely book that I recommend to pick up in 2019.
February 27, 2019
Aimee Brown does it again! This emerging author delivers another “must read,” showcasing her writing chops and proving her bestselling debut, THE LUCKY DRESS, was not a one-hit-wonder!
THE LAST DANCE is a complicated, unconventional contemporary romance, tugging at the heartstrings from the first pages. Contrary to popular pastiche of this genre, the protagonists have soul, all the rough edges and imperfections we find in real life.
When Henry moves back to #WeirdPortland with his new girlfriend, he soon realizes that the ghosts of his past are around every corner, and it’s clear within moments of seeing her, he’s not over Ambri, his ex-best friend / one-time lover / sister of his deceased wife (See? It’s complicated.)
So many layers are peeled away as Brown deftly reveals their past through a series of memories. As Ambri and Henry confront their unfinished business, we are treated to heart-stopping, messy moments:
“‘Why are you telling me this?’
‘Because I’m tired of living my life without you in it. We used to tell each other everything. You are my person, Ambri.’
I grunt a disbelieving laugh. ‘I’m your person? Just like that.’”
Lots of believable, funny dialog told through Ambri’s and Henry’s alternating first person point of views, sensual scenes, and likable characters, along with the authentic vibe of this quirky Pacific Northwest city, drive the story to its happily-ever-after and kept me turning pages into the early morning hours. Despite our heroine Ambri’s disdain for the word “epic” — “I hate that word. I hate that people use it for everything. What an epic coffee. I had an epic adventure...Just no. Not everything can be epic.” — THE LAST DANCE is an epic read that you don’t want to miss! —Christina Boyd, editor THE DARCY MONOLOGUES
THE LAST DANCE is a complicated, unconventional contemporary romance, tugging at the heartstrings from the first pages. Contrary to popular pastiche of this genre, the protagonists have soul, all the rough edges and imperfections we find in real life.
When Henry moves back to #WeirdPortland with his new girlfriend, he soon realizes that the ghosts of his past are around every corner, and it’s clear within moments of seeing her, he’s not over Ambri, his ex-best friend / one-time lover / sister of his deceased wife (See? It’s complicated.)
So many layers are peeled away as Brown deftly reveals their past through a series of memories. As Ambri and Henry confront their unfinished business, we are treated to heart-stopping, messy moments:
“‘Why are you telling me this?’
‘Because I’m tired of living my life without you in it. We used to tell each other everything. You are my person, Ambri.’
I grunt a disbelieving laugh. ‘I’m your person? Just like that.’”
Lots of believable, funny dialog told through Ambri’s and Henry’s alternating first person point of views, sensual scenes, and likable characters, along with the authentic vibe of this quirky Pacific Northwest city, drive the story to its happily-ever-after and kept me turning pages into the early morning hours. Despite our heroine Ambri’s disdain for the word “epic” — “I hate that word. I hate that people use it for everything. What an epic coffee. I had an epic adventure...Just no. Not everything can be epic.” — THE LAST DANCE is an epic read that you don’t want to miss! —Christina Boyd, editor THE DARCY MONOLOGUES
December 27, 2018
I'm going to be completely honest and admit that this is my first time reading the author, Aimee Brown's work and I must say that I definitely wasn't disappointed at all! :)
In this story, the main characters, Henry and Ambri, have to go through some serious obstacles that life throws in their path to truly make them realize what's in front of them. This was honestly an emotional, funny, intense story of how it's never too late to get a second chance at forgiveness, acceptance, honesty and most importantly, love <3 :)
I definitely recommend this read to anyone who's interested in a great story. This comes out in 2019 and I can guarantee you guys won't regret reading it because it's worth it ;)
In this story, the main characters, Henry and Ambri, have to go through some serious obstacles that life throws in their path to truly make them realize what's in front of them. This was honestly an emotional, funny, intense story of how it's never too late to get a second chance at forgiveness, acceptance, honesty and most importantly, love <3 :)
I definitely recommend this read to anyone who's interested in a great story. This comes out in 2019 and I can guarantee you guys won't regret reading it because it's worth it ;)
May 7, 2019
Ambri doesn't know how to help her best friend, Henry, now. He's still grieving his wife, who happened to be Ambri's sister, and Ambri's worried because Henry just is not dealing. And when things get intimate between the two and Henri takes off after, dealing Ambri the biggest blow of her life, will she ever forgive him? Give him a second chance when he walks back into her life two years later? Honestly, if I were Ambri, I'd never have spoken to him again, but that's just me. I'm vindictive when I'm hurt and it's obvious Ambri's a much better person than I. Luckily for Henry.
I enjoyed this story. It's much more realistic than any of the other friends to enemies to lovers romances I've ever read. I especially loved Ambri, as she's fun and funny and tough, and a normal woman. Henry I had a much harder time with, even toward the end when he sorta redeemed himself. But because I loved Ambri so much, and the story was so realistic and heartwarming, I can kinda give him a big pass. So, 4 stars because Ambri and the story are top notch. 1 star taken away though, because Henry is a douchenozzle.
ARC via Hidden Gems Books for an honest review.
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April 20, 2019
I struggled with this book, sorry to say. I don't know what it was exactly that didn't work for me but I had problems with it.
I don't have much issue with the whole sister thing per se, and the sister in question had died. There are other tropes that I find squicky but this one not so much.
It just didn't ring true to me that Henry was best friends with Ambri first but never felt anything deeper for her. But then he fell in love with - and married - Ambri's older sister, Rory. And she was fine with it? No, I don't buy it.
The execution was just off overall. I don't know how best to explain it. Henry wasn't well-defined at all and his actions made it hard to root for a relationship between him and Ambri. He needs her, clings to her, finally sleeps with her - and then cuts her dead because he wasn't ready feels guilt and regret for betraying his wife's memory. He actually leaves town because he believes he will never heal without a clean break from his life.
Never mind the fact that his best friend Then two years later he moves back...with a GIRLFRIEND.
What the actual f*ck.
Anyway, not developed or angsty enough AND it's dual POV, which I hate with passion. In this case for sure, being privy to Henry's thoughts only made his actions that much more frustrating.
Still, my feelings about this one were lukewarm overall, so while that disappointed me I can't be arsed.
Hopefully my next choice works out better.
I don't have much issue with the whole sister thing per se, and the sister in question had died. There are other tropes that I find squicky but this one not so much.
It just didn't ring true to me that Henry was best friends with Ambri first but never felt anything deeper for her. But then he fell in love with - and married - Ambri's older sister, Rory. And she was fine with it? No, I don't buy it.
The execution was just off overall. I don't know how best to explain it. Henry wasn't well-defined at all and his actions made it hard to root for a relationship between him and Ambri. He needs her, clings to her, finally sleeps with her - and then cuts her dead because he wasn't ready feels guilt and regret for betraying his wife's memory. He actually leaves town because he believes he will never heal without a clean break from his life.
Never mind the fact that his best friend Then two years later he moves back...with a GIRLFRIEND.
What the actual f*ck.
Anyway, not developed or angsty enough AND it's dual POV, which I hate with passion. In this case for sure, being privy to Henry's thoughts only made his actions that much more frustrating.
Still, my feelings about this one were lukewarm overall, so while that disappointed me I can't be arsed.
Hopefully my next choice works out better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2019
Thanks to Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I tried to enjoy this story, I really did, but I just never made a connection. As much as I tried to love Henry and Ambri, both as individuals and as a couple, it never happened. To be completely honest, I ended up liking the supporting characters, Ben and Claire, a whole lot more than Henry and Ambri. I think part of it was that I absolutely couldn’t wrap my head around how despite the fact that Ambri was his best friend for years, he ended up falling in love with her sister, Rory, seemingly out of nowhere. Henry’s grief was believable, but it was much harder to believe that it was over Ambri’s sister. Maybe it was because there wasn’t too much of a back story for how Henry and Rory’s relationship began as much as there was a story of how their relationship ended. I also think it would have helped if the author had showed more sisterly moments between Ambri and Rory in the flashbacks. As a result it ended up feeling like Ambri was helping Henry mourn someone she didn’t know personally. That being said, I am a sucker for a love story, and in the end that’s what this story was, despite how disconnected some aspects of this story felt. I give this book two stars.
I tried to enjoy this story, I really did, but I just never made a connection. As much as I tried to love Henry and Ambri, both as individuals and as a couple, it never happened. To be completely honest, I ended up liking the supporting characters, Ben and Claire, a whole lot more than Henry and Ambri. I think part of it was that I absolutely couldn’t wrap my head around how despite the fact that Ambri was his best friend for years, he ended up falling in love with her sister, Rory, seemingly out of nowhere. Henry’s grief was believable, but it was much harder to believe that it was over Ambri’s sister. Maybe it was because there wasn’t too much of a back story for how Henry and Rory’s relationship began as much as there was a story of how their relationship ended. I also think it would have helped if the author had showed more sisterly moments between Ambri and Rory in the flashbacks. As a result it ended up feeling like Ambri was helping Henry mourn someone she didn’t know personally. That being said, I am a sucker for a love story, and in the end that’s what this story was, despite how disconnected some aspects of this story felt. I give this book two stars.
April 21, 2019
Ambri and Henry, people who have shared so much. One event shattered their world, the death of Ambri's sister who was also Henry's wife. Ambri and Henry tried to move on in life but have never forgotten each other.
A chance encounter sees them meeting again and there are so many raw feelings, hate hurt love and loss. I was moved by the title and synopsis of this book but even more so by the plot and subplots.
The writing flows so well and is flawless.
Aimee Brown has an amazing way of getting inside characters' heads and making the most hidden of emotions come to the surface. The book is full of romance, the struggle to figure out what you really feel and is also so laced with sadness.
Aimee Brown has done it again and written a romance with dramatic undertones that had me hooked from the first word to the last.
Thanks to Aimee Brown and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review and I'm thrilled to have a spot on the blog tour for this title.
5 stars.
A chance encounter sees them meeting again and there are so many raw feelings, hate hurt love and loss. I was moved by the title and synopsis of this book but even more so by the plot and subplots.
The writing flows so well and is flawless.
Aimee Brown has an amazing way of getting inside characters' heads and making the most hidden of emotions come to the surface. The book is full of romance, the struggle to figure out what you really feel and is also so laced with sadness.
Aimee Brown has done it again and written a romance with dramatic undertones that had me hooked from the first word to the last.
Thanks to Aimee Brown and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review and I'm thrilled to have a spot on the blog tour for this title.
5 stars.
April 14, 2019
Loved loved loved this book! This is the first book I've read by Aimee, and I was not disappointed. Perfect sweet, realistic, emotional, pull-at-your-heartstrings romance. This is already one of my top reads of this year. Henry and Ambri's story from friends to more was anything but typical. It was heartbreaking, raw, and so darn angsty I loved it. But it was not all angst. There was a good balance between sweetness and the angst. It was a rollercoaster ride, and I was here for it! Warning - You may hate Henry at first, but just wait till Aimee wields her magic wand and slowly blends the past with the present.
Also, I'm glad Henry's late wife's history with him was not portrayed that much from his POV, because I felt drawing a comparison between the two sisters would be unfair, and also, it would have made it difficult for me to get invested in the present romance.
A must read for all!
Also, I'm glad Henry's late wife's history with him was not portrayed that much from his POV, because I felt drawing a comparison between the two sisters would be unfair, and also, it would have made it difficult for me to get invested in the present romance.
A must read for all!
May 7, 2019
Best friends who realise they are in love and struggle their way to a HEA
Fairly well written but slow and long winded in certain places ... also I found this to be more along the lines of chick lit and less of a romance ...
h came across as judgmental in certain places (apparently she hates people who use the word epic; maybe people who use that word hate people who don't use them). She also had some judgments to make about people who like to really dress up, case in point, the OW - it was written off as her observations but came across as slightly judgy so ...
H was wishy washy ... he couldn't seemed to be able to take a decision on his own ... he also seemed happy to pass judgment on OW when he realised she cheated on him with her ex ... but he also cheated ... he was in love with h but was in a live in relationship with OW so he didn't need to make judgments ...
Fairly well written but slow and long winded in certain places ... also I found this to be more along the lines of chick lit and less of a romance ...
h came across as judgmental in certain places (apparently she hates people who use the word epic; maybe people who use that word hate people who don't use them). She also had some judgments to make about people who like to really dress up, case in point, the OW - it was written off as her observations but came across as slightly judgy so ...
H was wishy washy ... he couldn't seemed to be able to take a decision on his own ... he also seemed happy to pass judgment on OW when he realised she cheated on him with her ex ... but he also cheated ... he was in love with h but was in a live in relationship with OW so he didn't need to make judgments ...
January 30, 2019
I was immediately pulled into this wonderful story and couldn't put the book down!! Put this one on the top of your to-be-read pile!
Aimee Brown blended the past with the present seamlessly, yanked on my heart strings with grief, then built me back up with the oh so perfect love story.
As a huge fan of music (especially live shows), coffee, food, and people watching, I feel I'd fit right in and be friends with this tight-knit group of friends! You won't want to leave once you join them!!
Aimee Brown blended the past with the present seamlessly, yanked on my heart strings with grief, then built me back up with the oh so perfect love story.
As a huge fan of music (especially live shows), coffee, food, and people watching, I feel I'd fit right in and be friends with this tight-knit group of friends! You won't want to leave once you join them!!
June 10, 2019
3.5/5.0
This friends-to-lovers story really delves deep inside the heads of the main characters, letting us feel their emotions.
Read full review in the 2019 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
This friends-to-lovers story really delves deep inside the heads of the main characters, letting us feel their emotions.
Read full review in the 2019 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 9, 2019
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 Stars)
Title: The Last Dance
Author(s): Aimee Brown
Character(s):
― Ambri Jennings: 27 years old, Brunette
― Henry Decker: 29 years old, Blonde, Blue Eyed
Setting: Portland, Oregon
Tag(s): Romance, Contemporary
Content Rating: PG-13
POV: Alternates between Heroine/Hero
Smexy Level: Subtle
Favorite Quote(s):
― “You are my person, Ambri.”
― “You’re human, Ambri. You don’t always choose who you fall in love with. The heart wants what it wants sometimes . More often than not it doesn’t go in the direction you expected. I think it’s worth the time it takes to figure it out though. You don’t want to look back and realize you did the wrong thing because you made a decision too soon.”
Overall Opinion:
Henry stepping out of his best friend life, two years has come and gone. Through all the highs and all the lows, including the death of Henry late wife and Ambri sister Rory, one night changes everything and they are left estranged. When he walks back into her life, old habits die hard but would they be able to forgive and forget?
What I liked the most about this read was the realism of life and death, peoples struggles with depression and learning to forgive. It was easy to see how Henry and Ambri were able to fall in love with each other. It was years in the making and even though misunderstandings happen, they were able to persevere and learn to forgive. it was known from the get-go that they were made for each other and you couldn't wait to see their happily ever after. Unlike some other heroines in romance novels, Ambri didn’t shy away fron how much Henry has hurt her. She screamed, she yelled, she cried and it’s hard not to feel the gut-wretching raw emotions she was able expressed to him. Additional, a few negatives I will mention is how unappealing the side relationships were when added into the mix with the leads. It was redundant and I felt bad with how Ambri romance with Noah ended. It was just a little too convenient how the leads partners were also still in love with their exes, etc. What was the point of them even being included? Overall, I understand Henry's reason behind his actions but how quickly they were able to fall back together and leave everyone in the dust left a bad taste in my mouth. Let alone how supportive their friends were about it. Didn't they spend a year getting to know Noah, built a friendship and was able to witnessed how great he treated her? It would have been better if Ambri and Henry were both single in the first place while trying to fix their relationship. Overall not exactly Nicholas Sparks, but I guess it could be considered close enough.
April 17, 2019
The Last Dance by Aimee Brown is an intense, well-written, second chance at love story that follows Ambri and Henry through the ups and downs of a relationship that is detailed in alternating POV chapters.
I didn't like Henry in the beginning and didn't feel he deserved a second chance with Ambri, but he does redeem himself spectacularly.
"Ambri was always the one to watch from the sidelines as Ben and I did over-the-top crazy romantic things for our girlfriends. I don't want her to be on the sidelines of my life anymore. I want her to have those experiences from me."
Ambri is wary of being hurt again, but her big heart allows Henry back into her life.
"We may have our demons but they're the same ones and it's easier to fight when I've got someone on my side who's done it before..
I enjoyed reading the book and would recommend it.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I didn't like Henry in the beginning and didn't feel he deserved a second chance with Ambri, but he does redeem himself spectacularly.
"Ambri was always the one to watch from the sidelines as Ben and I did over-the-top crazy romantic things for our girlfriends. I don't want her to be on the sidelines of my life anymore. I want her to have those experiences from me."
Ambri is wary of being hurt again, but her big heart allows Henry back into her life.
"We may have our demons but they're the same ones and it's easier to fight when I've got someone on my side who's done it before..
I enjoyed reading the book and would recommend it.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
January 3, 2019
I adored this book and the two main characters, Ambri & Henry. They have been best friends forever and Henry ends up going out with Rory, Ambri sister however Rory dies. Henry and Ambri try to stumble on but it is too much and too many sad memories so Henry needs to get away from it all including Ambri. Fast forward two years Henry is back with a new girlfriend in tow and he has to finally face all those sad memories.
I really believed in the two main characters and had such a visceral reaction to some of their intense moments which were gut wrenching and so so sad. To me they were real and I was very invested in the outcome of their story.
This is a first from this author from me and I am keen to read more.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for a review.
I really believed in the two main characters and had such a visceral reaction to some of their intense moments which were gut wrenching and so so sad. To me they were real and I was very invested in the outcome of their story.
This is a first from this author from me and I am keen to read more.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for a review.
April 16, 2019
This is a deeply touching and captivating novel about a couple who are meant to be but are torn apart by the choice one of them makes. Ambri and Henry have been best friends since high school. He dates her sister who learns she is dying and her last request is to be married. Henry agrees to it but the consequences for him are dire. Devastated by her death, Henry is consoled by her sister, his best friend. Ambri is his rock but one fateful night it all blows up in his face and he leaves her for two years. She has no idea why and is left with feelings too hard to bear.
The story is of their unlikely progression back to each other with all of the accompanying doubts, mistrust and pain to be handled.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The story is of their unlikely progression back to each other with all of the accompanying doubts, mistrust and pain to be handled.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 2, 2019
This is a good romance story where the ending is predictable but not the journey.
“Never once have I fallen for the guy in the beginning who puts a Band-Aid on the heroine’s scratched-up knee. I need the big overdone, hearts-racing, if-he-doesn’t-hurry-it-might-not-happen kind of moment.” ~ Ambri
That is what this book was for me. It started of just like any Romantic book a little slow, but it picked up quickly. I hated Henry and was a little said for Noah until the end. The big grand gesture was my favorite (I too like Billy Idol).
I look forward to reading more books by the author. I was given an advance copy from Net Galley and the publisher for my honest review.
http://prissreadinglounge.weebly.com/...
“Never once have I fallen for the guy in the beginning who puts a Band-Aid on the heroine’s scratched-up knee. I need the big overdone, hearts-racing, if-he-doesn’t-hurry-it-might-not-happen kind of moment.” ~ Ambri
That is what this book was for me. It started of just like any Romantic book a little slow, but it picked up quickly. I hated Henry and was a little said for Noah until the end. The big grand gesture was my favorite (I too like Billy Idol).
I look forward to reading more books by the author. I was given an advance copy from Net Galley and the publisher for my honest review.
http://prissreadinglounge.weebly.com/...
April 12, 2019
I really enjoyed this fun, heartfelt, and at times serious romantic read that rolled elements of love, heartbreak, grief, friendship, and soulmates into one. To lifelong best friends reach a turning point, and face the ultimate decision--maintain the friendship or risk it all for a forever love affair. Over the course of the book the two live in the aftermath of a one night romance that topples their friendship. This story takes a more serious turn than Aimee Browns first novel, The Lucky Dress (Little Grey Dress - a fab rom-com), but is equally enjoyable. Brown has a breezy style that creates relatable, complex characters you can't help but root for and keeps you entertained, gushing and guessing to the bittersweet end! Beach read bliss!
April 16, 2019
I was asked to write an honest review for this book and this is MY honest review. If you like a good friendship, a beautiful romance and cool characters, then you'll love this book.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Ambri and Henry and how it was developed. It's like when you read a character and you fall in love with them, that's what happened to me when I read them.
It was my first time reading anything by this author and it did not disappoint. I couldn't put it down, I loved every bit of it.
So! I totally recommend it. Buy it, read it, you will not be disappointed!
I absolutely loved the relationship between Ambri and Henry and how it was developed. It's like when you read a character and you fall in love with them, that's what happened to me when I read them.
It was my first time reading anything by this author and it did not disappoint. I couldn't put it down, I loved every bit of it.
So! I totally recommend it. Buy it, read it, you will not be disappointed!
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