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Before I Love You
A single mom who's given up on finding love...
A single dad who wants to change her mind.
After finding out my relationship was a complete lie, I pack up my life and teenage daughter, seeking a fresh start in Tyson’s Creek. I planned on focusing on my daughter, making her my number one priority, until I meet a stranger determined to derail all my plans.
Our first meeting is like a strike of lightning, something that only happens in stories, giving me more than one reason to keep my distance. However, our meddling friends and daughters make that next to impossible.
Each time we meet, my heart softens further, toward him and the idea of falling in love again. Connor's panty dropping smile, and the way he dotes on my daughter spell nothing but trouble for the walls I constructed around my heart. Making it next to impossible not to fall in love with him.
NOTE: This story was previously published as Refuge in 2021. It has since been recovered and titled, reedited, and significant additions have been made to the story. Recommended for mature audiences only due to sensitive subject matter. This book contains the death of a loved one and grief.
A single dad who wants to change her mind.
After finding out my relationship was a complete lie, I pack up my life and teenage daughter, seeking a fresh start in Tyson’s Creek. I planned on focusing on my daughter, making her my number one priority, until I meet a stranger determined to derail all my plans.
Our first meeting is like a strike of lightning, something that only happens in stories, giving me more than one reason to keep my distance. However, our meddling friends and daughters make that next to impossible.
Each time we meet, my heart softens further, toward him and the idea of falling in love again. Connor's panty dropping smile, and the way he dotes on my daughter spell nothing but trouble for the walls I constructed around my heart. Making it next to impossible not to fall in love with him.
NOTE: This story was previously published as Refuge in 2021. It has since been recovered and titled, reedited, and significant additions have been made to the story. Recommended for mature audiences only due to sensitive subject matter. This book contains the death of a loved one and grief.
Published January 19, 2024
About the author
A.J. Alexander
263 books1,389 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author AJ Alexander has been writing romance since 2018. She loves writing small town romances with found families and all the nosey nellies that help her characters find their happily ever afters! She lives in Arizona, otherwise known as the surface of the sun, with her husband, two daughters, two cats, and a lovable golden retriever.
When she isn't writing you can find AJ reading, binging the latest true crime documentary on Netflix, or binging the latest Korean Drama or Anime that's released. AJ is a cynical hopeless romantic that believes in love at first sight, that bigger is always better, and everything should be put off for a nap.
Come find her in the wild! There's nothing she loves more than connecting with my readers.
Amazon: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderAmazon
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderBookBub
Facebook: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderFacebook
Instagram: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderInsta
Newsletter:https://bit.ly/ajalexandersubscribe
Reader Group: https://bit.ly/themeetcuties
Website: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderWebsite
When she isn't writing you can find AJ reading, binging the latest true crime documentary on Netflix, or binging the latest Korean Drama or Anime that's released. AJ is a cynical hopeless romantic that believes in love at first sight, that bigger is always better, and everything should be put off for a nap.
Come find her in the wild! There's nothing she loves more than connecting with my readers.
Amazon: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderAmazon
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderBookBub
Facebook: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderFacebook
Instagram: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderInsta
Newsletter:https://bit.ly/ajalexandersubscribe
Reader Group: https://bit.ly/themeetcuties
Website: http://bit.ly/AJAlexanderWebsite
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
September 21, 2024
Just the right amount of sweet and spice propel this second chance, blended families romance. It's my first book by the author and I appreciate the signed copy with matching bookmark.
January 30, 2024
she’s annoying
Whole book was her crying about the same thing, being her own enemy. Couldn’t finish after they got closer and she left him hanging. Vance deserves better and so does Connor.
Whole book was her crying about the same thing, being her own enemy. Couldn’t finish after they got closer and she left him hanging. Vance deserves better and so does Connor.
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February 12, 2024I'm sorry to say it, but this one is not catching my attention at all. Big surprise because it's single parents and that is usually my jam. I may come back to it some other time. If it comes back to mind, I'll give it another go. For now, DNF @ 15%
I feel guilty, like I didn't give it chance...
I feel guilty, like I didn't give it chance...
October 3, 2024
It's kind of crazy with the way Audrey grew up that she had no love for herself and kept letting man after man in, desperate for affection when she had all the love she could ever need from her made family. It's sad that she couldn't stand on that and actually wait for a love deserving of her and when she did find it she almost self sabotaged that. I kind of knew from first reading about Ian and how Audrey treated her daughter more like a friend than her kid that she was going to be hard to take a liking to...She definitely could of benefited from therapy. She relied to heavily on the tarot cards than actually living her life. My biggest pet peeve for this book is that all of the women Bristol, Selina, and Audrey are childish. This is like more YA than adult. I can't stand books with so much internal dialogue and not really honest adult conversations between adults! And also this small town everyone in your business gets old pretty fast.
June 14, 2024
Single parent trope
Second chance
Small town
Before I Love You by AJ Alexander is my type of book !!🥰🥰🥰
The chances to open one's heart again after disappointment and loss is not easy. Connor & Audrey with their daughters are a blend of repairing of the heart and making the family you want. I love how we were able to fall in love as the characters fell in love on page. Slow burn and little moments of vulnerability I will eat up every time!!! When their daughters play matchmaker, these single parents have no choice but to give into attraction and give love another chance.So glad to have had the opportunity to read this beautiful story ... Connor was such a swoony DADDY 🥰❤️❤️❤️❤️ I Walked away from this story smiling and kicking my heels because AJ wrote all the feels ....
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Second chance
Small town
Before I Love You by AJ Alexander is my type of book !!🥰🥰🥰
The chances to open one's heart again after disappointment and loss is not easy. Connor & Audrey with their daughters are a blend of repairing of the heart and making the family you want. I love how we were able to fall in love as the characters fell in love on page. Slow burn and little moments of vulnerability I will eat up every time!!! When their daughters play matchmaker, these single parents have no choice but to give into attraction and give love another chance.So glad to have had the opportunity to read this beautiful story ... Connor was such a swoony DADDY 🥰❤️❤️❤️❤️ I Walked away from this story smiling and kicking my heels because AJ wrote all the feels ....
🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 19, 2024
I read this very quickly, it was an easy read with some of my favorite tropes. I love a good small town, second chances, and single parent story. This is also my first time reading this author but not my last.
Audrey is starting over in Tyson’s Creek with her daughter, Love. She has moved there to be closer to friends. Connor is a widow, with a delightful daughter, Jade. Audrey and Connor are not looking for anything, but their teenage daughters are best friends. The chemistry is there, but the trepidation of a relationship is holding both back. Everyone can see that Connor and Audrey should be together, and their daughters are pushing hard for it to happen. Will things work out for Connor and Audrey?
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Audrey is starting over in Tyson’s Creek with her daughter, Love. She has moved there to be closer to friends. Connor is a widow, with a delightful daughter, Jade. Audrey and Connor are not looking for anything, but their teenage daughters are best friends. The chemistry is there, but the trepidation of a relationship is holding both back. Everyone can see that Connor and Audrey should be together, and their daughters are pushing hard for it to happen. Will things work out for Connor and Audrey?
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
January 26, 2024
Loved this book.
January 16, 2024
Second chance with single parents.
I did enjoy this, it was a good book with great characters but I've read better books that have these tropes to be honest.
I would still recommend it though, it was an easy read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I did enjoy this, it was a good book with great characters but I've read better books that have these tropes to be honest.
I would still recommend it though, it was an easy read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2024
The story was cute. But the FMC was miserable. She ruined the book for me with all her pity party poor me nobody can truly love me bs. At one point I started to think she was bipolar. The chick needed therapy and not tarot cards.
April 28, 2024
2.5 star rating
In this single-parent, second-chance, insta-love story has some enjoyable elements. However, it falls short of a two-and-a-half-star rating due to the lack of character development for the main female character (MFC). Her reliance on tarot cards for important life decisions, particularly her love life, shows a lack of maturity and self-awareness. Although I initially had high hopes for this book, the plot didn't captivate me. It lacked development, and I didn't feel much chemistry between Audrey and Conner. Perhaps this was because there wasn't enough time to build their relationship.
In this single-parent, second-chance, insta-love story has some enjoyable elements. However, it falls short of a two-and-a-half-star rating due to the lack of character development for the main female character (MFC). Her reliance on tarot cards for important life decisions, particularly her love life, shows a lack of maturity and self-awareness. Although I initially had high hopes for this book, the plot didn't captivate me. It lacked development, and I didn't feel much chemistry between Audrey and Conner. Perhaps this was because there wasn't enough time to build their relationship.
July 22, 2024
Crazy feelings on day two like second chapter… rubbed one out in the bathroom after falling from a ladder while she cooked dinner for your daughters… excessive use of the c word… why do they all act like 16 year olds
February 6, 2024
Cute Story if a little drawn out on Audrey’s part
Conner is friggin awesome and a sweetheart! The 2 daughters are so cute and funny as well as the supporting characters.... Audrey on the other hand, smh.....
Conner is friggin awesome and a sweetheart! The 2 daughters are so cute and funny as well as the supporting characters.... Audrey on the other hand, smh.....
January 26, 2024
I still feel exactly the same way today about this story than I did in August of 2020 when it was first published as Jaded by Love. It has since gone thru several different tiles, publication dates and of course extensive edits. However, the story’s core is still the same. Yes, it’s fleshed out a bit more here and there and it’s not so much of an insta story at this point, but again, same core storyline.
All of that being said, while I still enjoyed this read, I was hesitant to write this review because, if I’m being 100% honest, I’m a little twitchy about all the ”edits” this story has gone thru. I’m sure this is just a me thing and it truly doesn’t affect the impact the storyline had on me it’s just, ugh, why soooo many different titles?! You know the saying “measure twice cut once” … well, here we are LOL
If you’re wondering about the different edits for this story …
August 2020: Jaded by Love
March 2021: Seaside Disheartened
September 2021: Refuge
January 2024: Before I Love You
All of that being said, while I still enjoyed this read, I was hesitant to write this review because, if I’m being 100% honest, I’m a little twitchy about all the ”edits” this story has gone thru. I’m sure this is just a me thing and it truly doesn’t affect the impact the storyline had on me it’s just, ugh, why soooo many different titles?! You know the saying “measure twice cut once” … well, here we are LOL
Alrighty then, here are my thoughts from 2020 …
Is there anything more feel good than a romance journey for a single parent? YES, yes there is! A romance journey for two single parents!! *twirls* As some of you might have picked up from my previous reviews, I’m not a huge reader of blurbs so I had zero clue I what I was about to read until I was in it and daaaaayum was it awesome! It also didn’t hurt that I love this author’s voice and style! :)
There is very little conflict other than the obvious which is both Audrey and Connor both haven’t had much luck in the love department in the past (especially Audrey) and it obviously gets in the way a bit but most of the story is one huge bundle of bliss and goodness! It’s fun and humorous, sexy and emotional, and will capture your heart from beginning to end.
I’ve enjoyed the Written in the Stars series immensely since the beginning and I am super stoked to read the rest of the signs of love stories in the future!
If you’re wondering about the different edits for this story …
August 2020: Jaded by Love
March 2021: Seaside Disheartened
September 2021: Refuge
January 2024: Before I Love You
January 20, 2024
I really loved this small town insta-love romance.
I absolutely adored this full length small town release from Author AJ Alexander. I’ve long known her as Queen of insta-love novellas and BEFORE I LOVE YOU was a part of a series in it’s previous life as REFUGE, and was one of my favourites.
I’d described it as sweet and sexy in it’s previous guise, but BILY now has amazing meat on it’s bones and there was so much more to love. I had all the deets to read in the book that I didn’t know I’d wanted! There was still all the insta-love, but there was more to justify the reactions it had on both Audrey and Connor. It was deeper and there was soooooooooo much more to their characters, more introspection and waaaay more chemistry!
And it all involved a deck of cards, two single parents and a history of sadness. What they don’t know was that well meaning friends were looking to introduce them and hope like hell that they hit it off!
Audrey and Connor, were both single parents to 14-year-old daughters, both owned a background of loss and both were not looking to be set up by anyone, yet still managed to bump into each other and experience instant attraction even prior to an official introduction. Audrey and her daughter had just moved to small town of Tyson’s Creek to help out Audrey’s eight-month pregnant long-time friend, and she’d bumped into Connor in a coffee shop before he even knew who she was, and both experienced instant attraction. Meanwhile their daughters Love and Jade had met at the local dance school and had become friends.
What ensued was a beautiful and sexy story where love had no option but to blossom when fiercely encouraged by chemistry, meddling friends and two 14-year-old girls who decided they wanted to be sisters. The only thing that might let them down was Audrey’s long-time reliance on the tarot cards that have been a part of her life since birth.
If you love the insta-love and single parents tropes, then you need to be checking BEFORE I LOVE YOU out cos it’s a great read! 4.5 Stars and no cards in sight!🖤✿꧂
I absolutely adored this full length small town release from Author AJ Alexander. I’ve long known her as Queen of insta-love novellas and BEFORE I LOVE YOU was a part of a series in it’s previous life as REFUGE, and was one of my favourites.
I’d described it as sweet and sexy in it’s previous guise, but BILY now has amazing meat on it’s bones and there was so much more to love. I had all the deets to read in the book that I didn’t know I’d wanted! There was still all the insta-love, but there was more to justify the reactions it had on both Audrey and Connor. It was deeper and there was soooooooooo much more to their characters, more introspection and waaaay more chemistry!
And it all involved a deck of cards, two single parents and a history of sadness. What they don’t know was that well meaning friends were looking to introduce them and hope like hell that they hit it off!
Audrey and Connor, were both single parents to 14-year-old daughters, both owned a background of loss and both were not looking to be set up by anyone, yet still managed to bump into each other and experience instant attraction even prior to an official introduction. Audrey and her daughter had just moved to small town of Tyson’s Creek to help out Audrey’s eight-month pregnant long-time friend, and she’d bumped into Connor in a coffee shop before he even knew who she was, and both experienced instant attraction. Meanwhile their daughters Love and Jade had met at the local dance school and had become friends.
What ensued was a beautiful and sexy story where love had no option but to blossom when fiercely encouraged by chemistry, meddling friends and two 14-year-old girls who decided they wanted to be sisters. The only thing that might let them down was Audrey’s long-time reliance on the tarot cards that have been a part of her life since birth.
If you love the insta-love and single parents tropes, then you need to be checking BEFORE I LOVE YOU out cos it’s a great read! 4.5 Stars and no cards in sight!🖤✿꧂
January 19, 2024
Emotional single parent romance
A.J. Alexander has delivered an emotional, small town, slow burn, single parent story with her latest release BEFORE I LOVE YOU.
Audrey is a single mum to teenage daughter, Love. She's relocated them to the small town of Tyson's Creek to help out her best friend. Little did she expect to meet widower and single father Connor on her first day. Connor has a daughter Jade, who just happens to be the same age as Love, so naturally they become fast friends. Audrey's previous relationships haven't brought her much happiness, so beginning a new one isn't on her radar. Connor has been a widower for years, the thought of entering a relationship is not one he's ever considered.
I loved the friendship that grew between Audrey and Cooper. They took their time taking their relationship further than just friendship, even though their chemistry is electric. It takes some clever conniving by their daughters to get their parents on the right track. Audrey deserved to have a chance at finding love for once, while Connor deserved a second chance at love. Will they be able to put their fears behind them and find happiness together?
If you would love to read an emotional, slow burn, small town romance with two meddling teenagers, then BEFORE I LOVE YOU is the one for you.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FOUR STARS
A.J. Alexander has delivered an emotional, small town, slow burn, single parent story with her latest release BEFORE I LOVE YOU.
Audrey is a single mum to teenage daughter, Love. She's relocated them to the small town of Tyson's Creek to help out her best friend. Little did she expect to meet widower and single father Connor on her first day. Connor has a daughter Jade, who just happens to be the same age as Love, so naturally they become fast friends. Audrey's previous relationships haven't brought her much happiness, so beginning a new one isn't on her radar. Connor has been a widower for years, the thought of entering a relationship is not one he's ever considered.
I loved the friendship that grew between Audrey and Cooper. They took their time taking their relationship further than just friendship, even though their chemistry is electric. It takes some clever conniving by their daughters to get their parents on the right track. Audrey deserved to have a chance at finding love for once, while Connor deserved a second chance at love. Will they be able to put their fears behind them and find happiness together?
If you would love to read an emotional, slow burn, small town romance with two meddling teenagers, then BEFORE I LOVE YOU is the one for you.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FOUR STARS
February 11, 2024
Interesting, but flawed…
The good -
I love an interracial love story that’s not centered around the perceived stress of an interracial relationship. Audrey and Connor’s story isn’t caught up with drama over their different races. I’ve been in an interracial marriage for almost 20 years, and it has never been about our differences, but our love.
Supporting characters are interesting, if a little underdeveloped. There’s a lot of foreshadowing for their futures, but I would have rather had more character development.
The bad -
This book is poorly edited. If you’re going to write from two POVs, you have to be sharp. There are POV errors and grammatical errors that are just unnecessary. And maybe it’s a personal quibble, but having a main character named Love in a book about love is an unpleasant mind bender.
Audrey and Connor are both longtime single parents, but Audrey’s infantilization of both herself and Connor is beyond frustrating. The guy hasn’t been with a woman in 14 years, yet she treats him like a player looking for a smash and dash. And her emotional roller coaster just isn’t a fun one. I get that the conflict here is “feeling unworthy of real love,” but her frequent emotional breakdowns are tiring and annoying. I get that she will have doubts, but her emotional swings are too much for this strong woman.
The good -
I love an interracial love story that’s not centered around the perceived stress of an interracial relationship. Audrey and Connor’s story isn’t caught up with drama over their different races. I’ve been in an interracial marriage for almost 20 years, and it has never been about our differences, but our love.
Supporting characters are interesting, if a little underdeveloped. There’s a lot of foreshadowing for their futures, but I would have rather had more character development.
The bad -
This book is poorly edited. If you’re going to write from two POVs, you have to be sharp. There are POV errors and grammatical errors that are just unnecessary. And maybe it’s a personal quibble, but having a main character named Love in a book about love is an unpleasant mind bender.
Audrey and Connor are both longtime single parents, but Audrey’s infantilization of both herself and Connor is beyond frustrating. The guy hasn’t been with a woman in 14 years, yet she treats him like a player looking for a smash and dash. And her emotional roller coaster just isn’t a fun one. I get that the conflict here is “feeling unworthy of real love,” but her frequent emotional breakdowns are tiring and annoying. I get that she will have doubts, but her emotional swings are too much for this strong woman.
January 27, 2024
the cover lured me in
Audrey and Connor had an attraction to each other from the start. One had lossy love and the other was blindsided by love. Both were single parents to girls that were smart strong and determined. These two young ladies were determined to have each other in their lives. And to have their parents together. Jade and Love knew that to get what they wanted they had to make sure their parents were exposed to each other often.
With help from friends that were like family Audrey and Connor finds their way to each other. There was a lot of hesitation on the side of Audrey but that was just doing what was right for her daughter. Connor had not felt this type of attraction to anyone since his wife. He knew this was what he and his daughter needed.
What I like about the story was the family friend support, small town, connection between the girls, Audrey’s determination to do right by her daughter, Connor’s love for his daughter and determination that Audrey was going to be his. And that this was a long term courtship with a proposal to be a father and husband. The girls were a part of it all. I can’t pinpoint anything I did not like.
Audrey and Connor had an attraction to each other from the start. One had lossy love and the other was blindsided by love. Both were single parents to girls that were smart strong and determined. These two young ladies were determined to have each other in their lives. And to have their parents together. Jade and Love knew that to get what they wanted they had to make sure their parents were exposed to each other often.
With help from friends that were like family Audrey and Connor finds their way to each other. There was a lot of hesitation on the side of Audrey but that was just doing what was right for her daughter. Connor had not felt this type of attraction to anyone since his wife. He knew this was what he and his daughter needed.
What I like about the story was the family friend support, small town, connection between the girls, Audrey’s determination to do right by her daughter, Connor’s love for his daughter and determination that Audrey was going to be his. And that this was a long term courtship with a proposal to be a father and husband. The girls were a part of it all. I can’t pinpoint anything I did not like.
December 12, 2023
A second chance at love for a widow and single mom both with teenage daughters
Audrey and Connor are both parents of teenage daughters. Audrey moves to Tyson’s Creek to be closer to her three best friends after being betrayed by her latest live-in lover.
Connor Bennett has been a widowed father since his wife, Lydia dies during childbirth. He’s not had a relationship since that time regardless of how many times he’s been set up by his well meaning friends.
Yet, when Connor sees Audrey for the first time he is unbelievably drawn to her without knowing anything about her. But what he doesn’t know is that Audrey has sworn off men so she can devote her time and energy to raising her 14 year old daughter.
In the meantime, the daughters meet and immediately hit it off and not only become besties but form an undeniable bond of sisterhood.
After many hurdles, mostly from Audrey, they are able to overcome the issues and become a real, blended family with a happy ending.
Audrey and Connor are both parents of teenage daughters. Audrey moves to Tyson’s Creek to be closer to her three best friends after being betrayed by her latest live-in lover.
Connor Bennett has been a widowed father since his wife, Lydia dies during childbirth. He’s not had a relationship since that time regardless of how many times he’s been set up by his well meaning friends.
Yet, when Connor sees Audrey for the first time he is unbelievably drawn to her without knowing anything about her. But what he doesn’t know is that Audrey has sworn off men so she can devote her time and energy to raising her 14 year old daughter.
In the meantime, the daughters meet and immediately hit it off and not only become besties but form an undeniable bond of sisterhood.
After many hurdles, mostly from Audrey, they are able to overcome the issues and become a real, blended family with a happy ending.
January 24, 2024
A.J. Alexander is a new to me author, but I thought “Before I Love You” was a very sweet and emotional read! It held my attention the whole way through.
This was the story of Connor Bennett and Audrey Wilde - they’re both single parents, but he’s a widower who believes he will never love again, and she’s been burned so many times she’s afraid to give love a chance.
Audrey moved to the small town of Tyson’s Creek to have a fresh start with her teenage daughter, Love. Through their mutual love of dance, Love meets Connor’s daughter, Jade, and they immediately hit it off.
I could sense the attraction between Connor and Audrey from their very first meeting. It was obvious to everyone, including Love and Jade, who do their best to get their parents together.
I loved how devoted Connor and Audrey were to their daughters. Even though they had strong feelings for each other, they were always ready to put Love and Jade first.
All in all, this was an adorable read that I enjoyed. I’d recommend for fans of small town and/or single parent romance!
This was the story of Connor Bennett and Audrey Wilde - they’re both single parents, but he’s a widower who believes he will never love again, and she’s been burned so many times she’s afraid to give love a chance.
Audrey moved to the small town of Tyson’s Creek to have a fresh start with her teenage daughter, Love. Through their mutual love of dance, Love meets Connor’s daughter, Jade, and they immediately hit it off.
I could sense the attraction between Connor and Audrey from their very first meeting. It was obvious to everyone, including Love and Jade, who do their best to get their parents together.
I loved how devoted Connor and Audrey were to their daughters. Even though they had strong feelings for each other, they were always ready to put Love and Jade first.
All in all, this was an adorable read that I enjoyed. I’d recommend for fans of small town and/or single parent romance!
February 7, 2024
This book is a quick read that can be done in two days. Connor and Audrey have a very interesting story to tell. One who lost his first love in childbirth and another who has been hurt by any man she trusts. But when you have a small town where everyone knows everything and two matchmaking new best friends and 3 best friends of Audrey’s you have nothing but support but can Connor finally let Lydia stay in the past and really show Audrey that there are good men out there and he is the one who will treat her right? The chemistry these two have is captured the minute that take that first look and keeps building from there. We get this book in a dual POV and I love it. Also though you have two teenagers who for the first time feel like they belong and there not the odd one out. This book is that small town second chance single parent book and it won’t disappoint. Now I do wonder though if we will get Selina and Vance’s story because that would be a good one too.
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.
February 20, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ this book was cute and fun. It was an insta-love, (double) single parent story. If you’re looking for a fluffy romance this is definitely it. I liked all the MCs. The relationship between the parents and the kids was good and the relationship between Audrey and Connor was nice and actually believable with the insta-attraction/love trope.
I also liked the friendship we saw between the two daughters Love and Jade, as well as the side characters that made up the quads found family in this small town.
I do think at about 70% ish in the book got a bit repetitive with Audrey and Connor both recapping their pasts, multiple times within a short span of time when we already learned about both of their back stories very early on. I would have liked to have seen more of Audrey working through letting go of her fear by forming a healthy relationship with her tarot cards. Or even meeting Connor’s parents or something else for them to do besides rehash. Other than that, I still enjoyed their romance and am excited to read the next book in the series about Selina and Vance. ❤️
I also liked the friendship we saw between the two daughters Love and Jade, as well as the side characters that made up the quads found family in this small town.
I do think at about 70% ish in the book got a bit repetitive with Audrey and Connor both recapping their pasts, multiple times within a short span of time when we already learned about both of their back stories very early on. I would have liked to have seen more of Audrey working through letting go of her fear by forming a healthy relationship with her tarot cards. Or even meeting Connor’s parents or something else for them to do besides rehash. Other than that, I still enjoyed their romance and am excited to read the next book in the series about Selina and Vance. ❤️
January 22, 2024
This book was a good read. Connor and Audrey are both single parents of teenaged girls. He hasn’t been interested in anyone since his wife died during childbirth and she is trying to start over after she found out her boyfriend was a liar. When they meet the first time they are drawn together, but she pushes him away.
I liked how they started as friends, but he let her know he wanted more. He also expressed that he was willing to go slow. I did find it frustrating at times how she let her fear get in the way, but the lightbulb moment was worth it. I also loved both kids and how they supported their parents but wanted to be able to be kids.
All of their friends were a nice addition, but I wish we wouldn’t have found out all of their endings, if only so we could have more from them. I really enjoyed this book. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
I liked how they started as friends, but he let her know he wanted more. He also expressed that he was willing to go slow. I did find it frustrating at times how she let her fear get in the way, but the lightbulb moment was worth it. I also loved both kids and how they supported their parents but wanted to be able to be kids.
All of their friends were a nice addition, but I wish we wouldn’t have found out all of their endings, if only so we could have more from them. I really enjoyed this book. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
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January 14, 2024
Audrey is starting over with her daughter, Love. She heads to the small town of Tyson’s Creek to help out her best friend. Connor is a single dad and has lived in Tyson’s Creek with his daughter, Jade, his entire life. Audrey hasn’t had luck in the relationship department, so jumping into a new relationship is not something she is looking for and Connor is a widow, who hasn’t had a relationship since losing his wife during childbirth.
Their daughters become instant friends. The chemistry between Audrey and Connor is off the charts, however, there is both the fear of taking that leap that is holding them back. Yet, their friends and daughters continue to push them together.
If you’re looking for a small town, single parents, second chance at love romance check this one out.
Their daughters become instant friends. The chemistry between Audrey and Connor is off the charts, however, there is both the fear of taking that leap that is holding them back. Yet, their friends and daughters continue to push them together.
If you’re looking for a small town, single parents, second chance at love romance check this one out.
January 19, 2024
Author AJ Alexander’s words made me want to reach through the pages and hug Audrey from the beginning of “Before I Love You.” Audrey, a single mom from a young age, had gone through so much, and with the challenges she had with men, she deserved the very best HEA, and AJ delivered it.
I loved how much Connor cared about how his daughter felt about him dating—checking in with her occasionally. And though Connor hadn’t dated anyone in all the years since he lost his wife, the fact that Audrey was the one that sparked the fire just did it for me. I loved that so much.
“Before I Love You” was a slow burn, but much of it was a nice build-up showing both characters moving on and growing from their past losses.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved how much Connor cared about how his daughter felt about him dating—checking in with her occasionally. And though Connor hadn’t dated anyone in all the years since he lost his wife, the fact that Audrey was the one that sparked the fire just did it for me. I loved that so much.
“Before I Love You” was a slow burn, but much of it was a nice build-up showing both characters moving on and growing from their past losses.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 19, 2024
I adored this single parent romance. Audrey is a single mom, raising her teenage daughter on her own. Since the death of her parents, she has been desperately seeking someone to love and love her back. When her latest relationship blows up, she decides to move to Tyson’s Creek to be closer to friends.
Connor is widow who lost his wife during childbirth. When his daughter befriends the new girl, he finds himself drawn to the girl’s mother (Audrey). Leading to him wanting more than he has in years.
I loved the chemistry between these two. Audrey sometimes was a little too undecided for me and relied on the tarot cards for answers. Loved the storyline!
Connor is widow who lost his wife during childbirth. When his daughter befriends the new girl, he finds himself drawn to the girl’s mother (Audrey). Leading to him wanting more than he has in years.
I loved the chemistry between these two. Audrey sometimes was a little too undecided for me and relied on the tarot cards for answers. Loved the storyline!
January 21, 2024
This is single parents Connor and Audrey’s story.
Audrey is a single mom to a teenage daughter, and she moved to Tyson Creek for a fresh start. The last thing that Audrey wants is to fall in love, and Connor is just as determined to convince her to change her mind.
This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with loss, grief, humor, witty banter, family, friendships, challenges, engaging and relatable characters, romance, healing, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and steamy small town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Audrey is a single mom to a teenage daughter, and she moved to Tyson Creek for a fresh start. The last thing that Audrey wants is to fall in love, and Connor is just as determined to convince her to change her mind.
This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with loss, grief, humor, witty banter, family, friendships, challenges, engaging and relatable characters, romance, healing, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and steamy small town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
January 24, 2024
Single mom
Single dad
Small town
He falls first
Slow burn
Found family
This is a quick read packed with emotion.
Audrey moved to a Tyson’s creek to be near her friends and to get a new start. She has sent off men and will focus on her friends and teen daughter.
Connor has been widowed for 15 years. His wife died in childbirth and he hadn’t been in a relationship since then. He is not looking for anything.
A slow burn. The relationship develops from friends to lover. It’s not smooth sailing but they get there. Connor was patient with Audrey and her hang ups.
Entertaining with great characters.
Single dad
Small town
He falls first
Slow burn
Found family
This is a quick read packed with emotion.
Audrey moved to a Tyson’s creek to be near her friends and to get a new start. She has sent off men and will focus on her friends and teen daughter.
Connor has been widowed for 15 years. His wife died in childbirth and he hadn’t been in a relationship since then. He is not looking for anything.
A slow burn. The relationship develops from friends to lover. It’s not smooth sailing but they get there. Connor was patient with Audrey and her hang ups.
Entertaining with great characters.
February 16, 2024
Single parents find love
Audrey and Connor, two single parents to two beautiful, spirited 14-year old daughters, have an instant connection the minute their eyes meet. Unfortunately, both of them are scared to act on the attraction because of fear from the tragedies of their past. Luckily for these two that their daughters see how good they would be together, and the girls pull out all of the stops, including utilizing other friends and family to get them together.
As much as I enjoyed this story, Audrey's debilitating fear and dependency on the tarot cards really started to annoy me. Connors persistence and love kept me until the end.
Audrey and Connor, two single parents to two beautiful, spirited 14-year old daughters, have an instant connection the minute their eyes meet. Unfortunately, both of them are scared to act on the attraction because of fear from the tragedies of their past. Luckily for these two that their daughters see how good they would be together, and the girls pull out all of the stops, including utilizing other friends and family to get them together.
As much as I enjoyed this story, Audrey's debilitating fear and dependency on the tarot cards really started to annoy me. Connors persistence and love kept me until the end.
January 6, 2024
*Smalltown
*Single Parent
I loved this book. Audrey had rough start as a mom. It was one thing after another for her. When her best friend needed help she moved her and her daughter to a smalltown. Did she expect to meet someone the day she showed up nope.. but things have a funny way of working out. Connor was the best single dad he could be after tragedy struck him and his family. They were made for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*Single Parent
I loved this book. Audrey had rough start as a mom. It was one thing after another for her. When her best friend needed help she moved her and her daughter to a smalltown. Did she expect to meet someone the day she showed up nope.. but things have a funny way of working out. Connor was the best single dad he could be after tragedy struck him and his family. They were made for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2024
Received this as an ARC for literally yours PR through booksprout.
Before I love you follows Audrey, a single mom who has given up on love after being betrayed twice. & Conner, who is a single dad/widow. The first time they meet, they both know it's meant to be, but audrey belives she has to protect her daughter and stay away from relationships. Conner has to convince Audrey that he wants to be with her. Their teenage daughters end up hitting it off, becoming besties, and on a mission to get them to date. This was the perfect small town romance with just enough spice.
Before I love you follows Audrey, a single mom who has given up on love after being betrayed twice. & Conner, who is a single dad/widow. The first time they meet, they both know it's meant to be, but audrey belives she has to protect her daughter and stay away from relationships. Conner has to convince Audrey that he wants to be with her. Their teenage daughters end up hitting it off, becoming besties, and on a mission to get them to date. This was the perfect small town romance with just enough spice.
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