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Nine Years Gone
What would you sacrifice for the one you love?
When Marialena Lopez flees Boston in secret, she leaves behind everything and everyone. She sacrifices herself, disrupts lives, and damages relationships—all for the man she loves.
While she knows she made the right decision for Massimo DeLorenzo, she recognizes she made the wrong decision for their relationship.
Nine years later she’s back in Boston attempting to repair the destruction she left in her wake. She still loves Massimo, but finding forgiveness means she will have to finally confess her darkest secret to him. Will the truth be enough to mend their broken hearts, and will her sacrifice have been worth it?
When Marialena Lopez flees Boston in secret, she leaves behind everything and everyone. She sacrifices herself, disrupts lives, and damages relationships—all for the man she loves.
While she knows she made the right decision for Massimo DeLorenzo, she recognizes she made the wrong decision for their relationship.
Nine years later she’s back in Boston attempting to repair the destruction she left in her wake. She still loves Massimo, but finding forgiveness means she will have to finally confess her darkest secret to him. Will the truth be enough to mend their broken hearts, and will her sacrifice have been worth it?
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2020
13 people are currently reading
1984 people want to read
About the author
Shelly Cruz
5 books175 followersShelly Cruz is a native Bostonian who lives in Miami, FL with her Husband and their rescued dog. She’s a Latina Lawyer who survives on cafecito and yerba mate, is obsessed with wearing lipstick, and speaks fluent Spanglish. When she’s not researching and writing legal documents, she enjoys expressing her creativity by writing fiction. She’s a lover of love, romance, and relationships, which is why she writes wicked sexy romance. In her free time, Shelly loves reading, traveling, and riding on the back of her husband’s Harley Davidson motorcycle while enjoying the open road.
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June 3, 2021
3.75 "emotional" stars
***ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
This debut novel from Shelly Cruz is filled with emotion. From the 1st chapter until the author's acknowledgments, all-consuming emotion is there in nearly every page.
I felt it when reading the 1st chapter, when Lena is leaving the love of her life, Massimo, for reasons revealed only 70% into the book. I felt it when Lena and Massimo meet by chance in a store after 9 years and realize their love is still very much alive. I felt it when they got their happy ending.
I felt it in the acknowledgements when the author explains how this book is based on her life experience.
Even though the reason behind Lena's decision to flee Boston 2 months before her wedding is revealed very late in the book, I guest it pretty early on. I wish the author would have had Lena tell us sooner what she went through and go through the rough moments with her.
I would also have liked Massimo's POV during Lena's 9 year absence instead of after she was back. I think it would have made for a smoother storyline.
I appreciated the insight into Boston, the restaurants, the music inserts, the different foods specific to Puerto-Rican and Italian cultures.
If this book taught me something, it is that communication is key in a relationship, to not make unilateral decisions and assume you know what the other person will decide before they do.
This book has triggers but if I tell you what they are, I may ruin the story for you. Let me know in the comments if you want more info.
Overall, a pretty impressive debut novel.
***ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
This debut novel from Shelly Cruz is filled with emotion. From the 1st chapter until the author's acknowledgments, all-consuming emotion is there in nearly every page.
I felt it when reading the 1st chapter, when Lena is leaving the love of her life, Massimo, for reasons revealed only 70% into the book. I felt it when Lena and Massimo meet by chance in a store after 9 years and realize their love is still very much alive. I felt it when they got their happy ending.
I felt it in the acknowledgements when the author explains how this book is based on her life experience.
Even though the reason behind Lena's decision to flee Boston 2 months before her wedding is revealed very late in the book, I guest it pretty early on. I wish the author would have had Lena tell us sooner what she went through and go through the rough moments with her.
I would also have liked Massimo's POV during Lena's 9 year absence instead of after she was back. I think it would have made for a smoother storyline.
I appreciated the insight into Boston, the restaurants, the music inserts, the different foods specific to Puerto-Rican and Italian cultures.
If this book taught me something, it is that communication is key in a relationship, to not make unilateral decisions and assume you know what the other person will decide before they do.
This book has triggers but if I tell you what they are, I may ruin the story for you. Let me know in the comments if you want more info.
Overall, a pretty impressive debut novel.
December 13, 2020
Cannot wait to read the final version of this book!! Beta read it and will read it again to see how the story has transformed.
Nine Years Gone is the debut book from Shelly Cruz. She takes a very difficult subject matter and gives it her own spin. It will touch on a women's issue that will be very personal to many women, so hold tight before you make any decisions about the heroine.
Marialena and Massimo's story begins with a goodbye. Their story is one of instant attraction when they meet. But it's a case of bad timing, until Lena is free from her current relationship and she takes Massimo up on his many offers of asking her out. We get to see a relationship in past and present and see how they got to where they are at. We get to see a relationship build and see how strongly they connected from day one. But there is one thing that will ruin them. The one thing that Lena will make a decision about and it isn't taken lightly.
I have to say, I understood Lena in some ways but I was frustrated with her in others. She took something away without letting anyone else in. But it was a part of her that meant something (and something she thought was a make or break deal in her relationship) and she had to act. This is where communication is so very important to any relationship. Communicate!! But this is a romance and romance isn't perfect. What would you do for love? What would you give up for love? Would you pay the price and would it be worth it?
Overall, this was a good debut. The story flowed well and we got to see the thought process from Lena. I would've liked to see more from Massimo from the years gone from his POV. I think it would've been nice to see where his head was at. The parts that shined were when they were together. Their love of music, food and Boston was obvious (I was getting hungry with all the food talk 😉), but I liked seeing the bits of them in the past so we could understand them better. I wish there was more from their time apart so we could feel their longing, but it also wasn't completely necessary. After Lena's return, the story went by quick and was pretty fast-paced, but that's how feelings go when you know.
The author's note at the end was a personal one and I'm glad she added that so we could better understand the content and the decisions her character made. I know Lena did not take her decisions lightly. It hurt her just as much. But NINE years?! I don't know if I could do that. But it's the sacrifices you make for others that could change your whole life. What would YOU do??
Nine Years Gone is the debut book from Shelly Cruz. She takes a very difficult subject matter and gives it her own spin. It will touch on a women's issue that will be very personal to many women, so hold tight before you make any decisions about the heroine.
Marialena and Massimo's story begins with a goodbye. Their story is one of instant attraction when they meet. But it's a case of bad timing, until Lena is free from her current relationship and she takes Massimo up on his many offers of asking her out. We get to see a relationship in past and present and see how they got to where they are at. We get to see a relationship build and see how strongly they connected from day one. But there is one thing that will ruin them. The one thing that Lena will make a decision about and it isn't taken lightly.
I have to say, I understood Lena in some ways but I was frustrated with her in others. She took something away without letting anyone else in. But it was a part of her that meant something (and something she thought was a make or break deal in her relationship) and she had to act. This is where communication is so very important to any relationship. Communicate!! But this is a romance and romance isn't perfect. What would you do for love? What would you give up for love? Would you pay the price and would it be worth it?
Overall, this was a good debut. The story flowed well and we got to see the thought process from Lena. I would've liked to see more from Massimo from the years gone from his POV. I think it would've been nice to see where his head was at. The parts that shined were when they were together. Their love of music, food and Boston was obvious (I was getting hungry with all the food talk 😉), but I liked seeing the bits of them in the past so we could understand them better. I wish there was more from their time apart so we could feel their longing, but it also wasn't completely necessary. After Lena's return, the story went by quick and was pretty fast-paced, but that's how feelings go when you know.
The author's note at the end was a personal one and I'm glad she added that so we could better understand the content and the decisions her character made. I know Lena did not take her decisions lightly. It hurt her just as much. But NINE years?! I don't know if I could do that. But it's the sacrifices you make for others that could change your whole life. What would YOU do??
December 4, 2020
4*
Marialena was in a loving relationship with Massimo until she left him with no word to anyone before their wedding.
Massimo is distraught and eventually rebuilds his life with camila & has 2 boys lucio 4 & leondro 3.
He's never felt complete but now she is back he wants answers, she's never stopped loving him but did she make the right decision?
Miscommunication at its worst.
A difficult story of love and sacrifices.
Marialena was in a loving relationship with Massimo until she left him with no word to anyone before their wedding.
Massimo is distraught and eventually rebuilds his life with camila & has 2 boys lucio 4 & leondro 3.
He's never felt complete but now she is back he wants answers, she's never stopped loving him but did she make the right decision?
Miscommunication at its worst.
A difficult story of love and sacrifices.
December 8, 2020
This is a debut book but you would never know. The book follows the love story of Marialena and Massimo and is told both in past and present. I enjoyed getting to see them as a loving couple before Lena makes the decision to leave everyone she loves behind. There is an air of mystery to the story as we don't know why she leaves and that kept me reading. I had my theories and wanted to know if I was correct. Although this is a love story for me it is more about Lena and one that will resonate with so many woman. I hate that I cannot talk about it but once you read the book you will understand why I didn't spoil it for you. The storyline was well thought out, with characters that are easy to relate my only complaint is I would have liked more from Massimo's perspective.
December 5, 2020
This book was intoxicating. The characters, the story, and being able to connect with real life sacrifices people must make. I couldn’t put it down. Cruz has a gift for writing and for bringing these characters and their story to life. I can’t wait to read more from her!
December 11, 2020
Unfortunately I personally couldn't connect with the characters or plot. After finishing the book you learn more about the author, so I get why it was done the way it was, and I truly hope it was cathartic writing it for her, and helps others. The miscommunication and the way the female lead went about things drove me mental, even knowing the why.
In saying all of this it was still a good debut that shows promise.
In saying all of this it was still a good debut that shows promise.
December 10, 2020
This is a love story between Lena a tall, olive skinned, long dark haired beauty who falls in love with Massimo, a tall, dark haired good looking Italian. Their romance was hot and steamy until Lena made a decision that would change everyone's lives. Then you ask yourself, WHAT just happened, WHO is she really, WHERE is her life going, and WHY did she do what she did.
This is the first time I have read anything by Shelly Cruz and it certainly won't be the last, I was impressed with the reality and details of the story.
This is the first time I have read anything by Shelly Cruz and it certainly won't be the last, I was impressed with the reality and details of the story.
December 11, 2020
An emotional debut reading! I could not put it down and finished it at 4am!!
I seldom read author's note, but I did this time..
Shelly, I wish you all the best :)
I seldom read author's note, but I did this time..
Shelly, I wish you all the best :)
November 18, 2020
Started reading this book and I am glued to it already!
December 11, 2020
Hard to believe this is debut novel. Very well developed characters that you can connect with. Interesting and well developed plot twists but not to be undercut by the hot, steamy sex! This is not your average romance novel. Not just a girl getting swept off her feet by the romantic hero. There is a lot of heart and soul to this story. A tortured, pained romance that transcends time! This book is easy to read and hooks you quickly. I highly recommend.
dnf
December 10, 2020Waste of my time...
January 1, 2021
Absolutely amazing debut! Shelly Cruz is talented right out of the gate. I can not wait to see what she does in the future.
Nine Years Gone was steamy angst - my favorite kind of book. She nailed the push and pull of the main characters relationship. My heart almost couldn't take their story. Solid writing and great characters make this a book that NEEDS to be read.
Nine Years Gone was steamy angst - my favorite kind of book. She nailed the push and pull of the main characters relationship. My heart almost couldn't take their story. Solid writing and great characters make this a book that NEEDS to be read.
September 17, 2021
4.5 stars
Super romantic and deep love story.
Lots of angst and longing, i like how it starts with a break up and forwards to years later..
All throughout you get glimpses of a deep secret Lena was holding and why she makes the decision she made. But Massimo is the real deal, as soon as their paths cross he refuses to let her go and wont stop until he gets answers. Gotta love that guy!
Super romantic and deep love story.
Lots of angst and longing, i like how it starts with a break up and forwards to years later..
All throughout you get glimpses of a deep secret Lena was holding and why she makes the decision she made. But Massimo is the real deal, as soon as their paths cross he refuses to let her go and wont stop until he gets answers. Gotta love that guy!
December 31, 2020
I could not put this book down! I laughed, I cried. I got angry. I loved every second of it. I love that the author was in some ways writing from her own personal experiences. It made the book feel so real. Like the characters are people I know!
December 12, 2020
What a great story! Lena and Massimo are characters you love and want to know... their story is sad, yet you still want to read it! I, after reading it, have all of these ideas about what they do in their lives.
Lena ran... I completely get that.. it may be what I would do if I were in the same situation. Massimo had things he wanted for them 9 years ago, and he never wavered. What if it could never happen? How can Lena ever keep him from something he’s always wanted? She knew she couldn’t... and didn’t know any other way out, so she left.
When she returns, she knows she made a mistake, knows she should have talked to Massimo, knows she was the cause of much hurt that may never be made better... but part of her still thinks she did the right thing.... at least in one way.
If you’ve not read this, I encourage you to do so! Massimo is a wonderful, yet flawed man who loves with all of his heart. Lena is loving, and selfless in her way. They were a strong couple, completely devoted to each other.... until something shook Lena to her core and she made a decision for Massimo. But was she right? Read it and see for yourself!!
Lena ran... I completely get that.. it may be what I would do if I were in the same situation. Massimo had things he wanted for them 9 years ago, and he never wavered. What if it could never happen? How can Lena ever keep him from something he’s always wanted? She knew she couldn’t... and didn’t know any other way out, so she left.
When she returns, she knows she made a mistake, knows she should have talked to Massimo, knows she was the cause of much hurt that may never be made better... but part of her still thinks she did the right thing.... at least in one way.
If you’ve not read this, I encourage you to do so! Massimo is a wonderful, yet flawed man who loves with all of his heart. Lena is loving, and selfless in her way. They were a strong couple, completely devoted to each other.... until something shook Lena to her core and she made a decision for Massimo. But was she right? Read it and see for yourself!!
January 12, 2021
I loved this book, it was such a real story that I completely related to. This book pulled on my heart strings, sank my heart and lifted me up all in one motion. It was like nothing I’ve ever read because it was so real. It was such a heartfelt story about one woman’s inner struggle, both mentally and physically that she couldn’t move past it. It held her back from creating a life that she would be happy with. The most enjoyable part was that the female lead was such a strong intelligent and courageous character and we definitely need more of those these days.
What a breath of fresh air, this book. Dealing with struggles some know nothing about. ❤️❤️
What a breath of fresh air, this book. Dealing with struggles some know nothing about. ❤️❤️
December 11, 2020
So many emotions
Lena and Massimo meet and fall in love but this isn't your typical love story. Lena leaves 2 months before she is set to marry the man of her dreams without so much as a goodbye. Nine years later she feels she owes an explanation and comes back to Boston. Will this end in happily ever after?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It had me wanting more through the whole book. I had a whole lot of feelings and emotions throughout and for this authors debut i thought it was amazing.
Lena and Massimo meet and fall in love but this isn't your typical love story. Lena leaves 2 months before she is set to marry the man of her dreams without so much as a goodbye. Nine years later she feels she owes an explanation and comes back to Boston. Will this end in happily ever after?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It had me wanting more through the whole book. I had a whole lot of feelings and emotions throughout and for this authors debut i thought it was amazing.
December 31, 2020
Not your typical story
I really liked this books. The struggles the characters went through and the life they lived wasn’t your typical story. I enjoyed how the story played out and seemed more like real life than just a spun story. I enjoyed the main character Lena and her struggles with something that is very neat and dear to my heart! Thank you to this author for sharing a bit of struggle with everyone and giving us faith to know that we can overcome!
I really liked this books. The struggles the characters went through and the life they lived wasn’t your typical story. I enjoyed how the story played out and seemed more like real life than just a spun story. I enjoyed the main character Lena and her struggles with something that is very neat and dear to my heart! Thank you to this author for sharing a bit of struggle with everyone and giving us faith to know that we can overcome!
December 14, 2020
Amazing
If I didn’t know that this was a debut novel, I would be shocked to learn it was. Shelly Cruz intertwines personal experience with fiction to create the story of a couple that you care about. While generally, the whole past/present thing with jumping between time frames isn’t something I’m fond of, she did it in a way that was necessary and the flow made sense. Massimo and Maria Elena had a complicated story, and the author addressed it with grace. While I figured out early on what the reason for the nine years was, seeing it fall into place in vivid detail was just what I was looking for. I can only hope that the next book is Luci and Dom’s story, because there’s no doubt there’s a great one developing there! And that author’s note brought tears to my eyes. Thank you so much for finding the voice to share your story and let us join you on your journey! Congratulations Shelly! I’m so happy for you and so proud of you for your first release! You’ve got a great future ahead in between the pages!
If I didn’t know that this was a debut novel, I would be shocked to learn it was. Shelly Cruz intertwines personal experience with fiction to create the story of a couple that you care about. While generally, the whole past/present thing with jumping between time frames isn’t something I’m fond of, she did it in a way that was necessary and the flow made sense. Massimo and Maria Elena had a complicated story, and the author addressed it with grace. While I figured out early on what the reason for the nine years was, seeing it fall into place in vivid detail was just what I was looking for. I can only hope that the next book is Luci and Dom’s story, because there’s no doubt there’s a great one developing there! And that author’s note brought tears to my eyes. Thank you so much for finding the voice to share your story and let us join you on your journey! Congratulations Shelly! I’m so happy for you and so proud of you for your first release! You’ve got a great future ahead in between the pages!
January 3, 2021
I picked an exceptional book for my first romance novel! I absolutely fell in love with the characters and could not put the book down. The raw emotion and real life experience is truly remarkable.
Thank you so much for sharing this with us! If this is your debut, I can barely wait for your second book!
Thank you so much for sharing this with us! If this is your debut, I can barely wait for your second book!
December 18, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! It was a page turner for me. I don’t want to give away the details because everyone should absolutely read it, BUT let’s just say it’s not what I was expecting or thought it would be. I loved the excitement and how emotional it was. The references to Boston made me feel like a local. The characters had so much depth. Can’t wait to read her next book!
July 25, 2021
Okay, so, it's a page turner, that's for sure, it didn't have the sticky, cheesy vibe that most romance novels got nowadays, i would actually call it a "mature romance", from the storyline to the characters, their flaws and attractiveness, it was pretty decent.
.
However, as much as i liked it, there were some details that wasn't a deal breaker for me per se, i mean, i finished the book, that says something, but i could've definitely enjoyed it more if not for these details.
.
Firstly, i know the book was meant to be read by adults, which is me so no problem here, but i was actually kind of bored of the intimate scenes, they were all the same details, they kind of had the same dialogue and it got so repetitive, i also didn't think the storyline was in need of all these scenes, could've been less in my opinion 🤷♀️🤷♀️
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Secondly, i know each person is entitled to their opinion, but Massimo's perspective on adoption was kind of disheartening, and it wasn't his dislike of the concept, but it was the way he expressed his side that was cringe-y, he should've been more respectful, i think it was written by the author just to make us picture how the communication was between them both.
.
There were some paragraphs that were handled rather blandly by the author, there would be a climax scene when something is revealed or an emotional conversation happening, and then the author swiftly goes on about the weather, or the scenery, or music, it was like going into the top of a rollercoaster but instead of going down abruptly, you descend slowly, which was frustrating.
.
Other than what i mentioned i actually enjoyed it, the storyline although not a new one, it was powerful, raw and real, especially after reading the author's note at the end clarifying that the book was mostly based on her own story.
The characters were loveable and attractive, you could feel their deep love through the pages, and as a result, fall in love with them.
.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review via netgalley and the publisher*
.
However, as much as i liked it, there were some details that wasn't a deal breaker for me per se, i mean, i finished the book, that says something, but i could've definitely enjoyed it more if not for these details.
.
Firstly, i know the book was meant to be read by adults, which is me so no problem here, but i was actually kind of bored of the intimate scenes, they were all the same details, they kind of had the same dialogue and it got so repetitive, i also didn't think the storyline was in need of all these scenes, could've been less in my opinion 🤷♀️🤷♀️
.
Secondly, i know each person is entitled to their opinion, but Massimo's perspective on adoption was kind of disheartening, and it wasn't his dislike of the concept, but it was the way he expressed his side that was cringe-y, he should've been more respectful, i think it was written by the author just to make us picture how the communication was between them both.
.
There were some paragraphs that were handled rather blandly by the author, there would be a climax scene when something is revealed or an emotional conversation happening, and then the author swiftly goes on about the weather, or the scenery, or music, it was like going into the top of a rollercoaster but instead of going down abruptly, you descend slowly, which was frustrating.
.
Other than what i mentioned i actually enjoyed it, the storyline although not a new one, it was powerful, raw and real, especially after reading the author's note at the end clarifying that the book was mostly based on her own story.
The characters were loveable and attractive, you could feel their deep love through the pages, and as a result, fall in love with them.
.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review via netgalley and the publisher*
January 31, 2021
This is a story that captured my attention from the beginning. It is a realistic portrayal of a women struggling with one of the biggest secrets of her life. Lena has finally found someone who she loves. Massimo is happy and can’t wait to marry the love of his life. They have a great life, only something is telling Lena to make a change. She is really struggling with her choices and decides to put career first.
Years later, Lena returns. A chance encounter with Massimo leaves her struggling emotionally. He wants answers and together they talk through what drove Lena to leave.
The book is an emotional journey. Both characters learn and grow from each other. They begin to see that not everything was what it seemed. Can they get back what they had, or will they struggle to reconcile?
The author does a great job writing this book. I liked the past sequences intertwined with the present. This gives the readers the a complete story. She really captured the feelings of each character well. I would definitely recommend this second chance romance!
Years later, Lena returns. A chance encounter with Massimo leaves her struggling emotionally. He wants answers and together they talk through what drove Lena to leave.
The book is an emotional journey. Both characters learn and grow from each other. They begin to see that not everything was what it seemed. Can they get back what they had, or will they struggle to reconcile?
The author does a great job writing this book. I liked the past sequences intertwined with the present. This gives the readers the a complete story. She really captured the feelings of each character well. I would definitely recommend this second chance romance!
March 8, 2021
I enjoyed this second chance romance. In a different way it was the Heroine who was the anti-hero in the story and not the hero which I enjoyed. Massimo is beyond dreamy. The kind of guy anyone would be lucky to be with. I had a harder time with Marialena and while I understood her and figured out pretty quickly what was going on she isn't very likable. There is a bit of suspense although I found it obvious what was going on. I did feel bad for her though with how her best friend sometimes treated her. I like the no BS angle but didn't care for her friend acting as if she had a right to all her secrets and struggles. Some of the language was confusing as it quotes the characters in Spanish or Italian which sometimes did throw me as I had to stop and look some of it up.
SPOILER alert and WARNING
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it deals with infertility if that is a hot button or trigger for you.
SPOILER alert and WARNING
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it deals with infertility if that is a hot button or trigger for you.
February 27, 2021
Nine Years Gone- Shelly Cruz
This books, oh man. It’s been a long time since a book made me cry, but this one got me right in the feels.
Lena and Massimo are perfect for each other, at least it seems that way. Them out of nowhere, Lena leaves Massimo to start over, leaving a cryptic note that it’s all for him. What?!
Nine years pass, and Lena moved back to Boston and runs into Massimo pretty quickly. As the secrets begin to unravel, everything is not as it seems. Lena us a lot of explaining to do, since she left and didn’t tell a soul why. Friends and family have a deep seeded resentment for the person who broke Massimo.
After the truth is out can everyone forgive her, including Massimo? Massimo and Lenas chemistry is amazing from night one, they are goals, absolutely.
I loved this book! I devoured in one sitting. I can’t wait to read what Shelly writes next!
This books, oh man. It’s been a long time since a book made me cry, but this one got me right in the feels.
Lena and Massimo are perfect for each other, at least it seems that way. Them out of nowhere, Lena leaves Massimo to start over, leaving a cryptic note that it’s all for him. What?!
Nine years pass, and Lena moved back to Boston and runs into Massimo pretty quickly. As the secrets begin to unravel, everything is not as it seems. Lena us a lot of explaining to do, since she left and didn’t tell a soul why. Friends and family have a deep seeded resentment for the person who broke Massimo.
After the truth is out can everyone forgive her, including Massimo? Massimo and Lenas chemistry is amazing from night one, they are goals, absolutely.
I loved this book! I devoured in one sitting. I can’t wait to read what Shelly writes next!
February 4, 2021
I am absolutely floored by this amazing book!!! Shelly Cruz totally rocked this debut book out. From a strong female lead to a sexy smart leading male this book was destined for great things. The story is so well written with forward story approach and glances at the past. I hate that it took our leads nine years to reconnect but boy howdy when they did was it stunning. I hope to see another book from Cruz that dives into our leading ladies BFF Luci. I think we all would love to see her spirit come to life even more in her own book.
Overall I’m so pleased with this story. I love that a topic that’s hard to discuss amongst women was brought to light and that others can see they aren’t alone.
Overall I’m so pleased with this story. I love that a topic that’s hard to discuss amongst women was brought to light and that others can see they aren’t alone.
December 11, 2020
This is a first book that this author has put out and what?
This book was raw had real life situations and with all that you get a roller coaster of emotions and completely sucked into the book. I can personally relate to this book and have no words. I have always wanted to read a book like this, now that I have? Amazing. I couldn’t help but love it, I can’t wait to see what this author comes out with next
This book was raw had real life situations and with all that you get a roller coaster of emotions and completely sucked into the book. I can personally relate to this book and have no words. I have always wanted to read a book like this, now that I have? Amazing. I couldn’t help but love it, I can’t wait to see what this author comes out with next
February 2, 2021
I was sucked right into this story from page one. The emotions are real. The people are real. The story is real. The love and sacrifices are real. 5 stars all the way. I will remember this for a long time to come.
April 5, 2021
This was a story alot of women could relate too. I loved the characters and how the stiry eas written . Shelly drew me in with her story. Love wins always. Keep writing.
January 22, 2021
This is a story about Lena and Massimo, a seemingly in love and perfect couple. Despite that, the story actually begins as she is planning to leave him without his knowledge. She insists that this is a decision that she is making for him. The remainder of the story is the reader waiting to find out what this mysterious reason for her ghosting him is. I personally think that though she felt that she did the right thing disappearing on him for almost a decade, the entire conflict could had been avoided with a little open communication. It made me question their entire relationship if she couldn't trust him enough to confide in him. On a positive note, it kept me intrigued leading up to the big reveal and I enjoyed the character development details in the story.
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