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Only One #2
Only Us
I had a picture perfect life. At least everyone thought I did.
But behind closed doors, my life is a mess.
My husband’s far from the man I’d fallen in love with years ago.
As my rocky marriage crumbles, my best friend, Noah, stays by my side.
But then, when my husband dies, the finger is pointed at Noah.
For years, he’s pushed me away, but when his life is threatened, I risk my heart to save him.
Only Us is a friends to lovers, small town romance and is a repackaged boxed set from the Noah & Katie duet in the Lawton Ridge duet series. There's no cliffhanger and ends in an HEA.
But behind closed doors, my life is a mess.
My husband’s far from the man I’d fallen in love with years ago.
As my rocky marriage crumbles, my best friend, Noah, stays by my side.
But then, when my husband dies, the finger is pointed at Noah.
For years, he’s pushed me away, but when his life is threatened, I risk my heart to save him.
Only Us is a friends to lovers, small town romance and is a repackaged boxed set from the Noah & Katie duet in the Lawton Ridge duet series. There's no cliffhanger and ends in an HEA.
458 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2022
About the author
Kennedy Fox
78 books5,748 followersBrooke Cumberland and Lyra Parish are a duo of romance authors under the USA Today pseudonym, Kennedy Fox. Their characters will make you blush and your heart melt. Cowboys in tight jeans are their kryptonite. They always guarantee a happily ever after!
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Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3AVNUxy
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View our full reading order here: http://bit.ly/2qgCqTu
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
November 7, 2022
Okay this one was gooooood!!
This one gave me a lot less anxiety than "Only Him" but the storyline was still intense! It was a romantic suspense that gripped me by the shirt and didn’t let me go until the end!!
This was the epitome of right person, wrong time. My heart was aching while learning more about the back story between Katie & Noah. Man they had it rough. Best friends who were both secreting pining for each other but no one ever made a move so she marries someone else. Her husband passed away and now there may be a chance for them to explore a chance at a relationship... but will Katie want that?! you'll have to read to find out!
There is tragedy, growth, redemption & so much progression!!!
Noah has my heart. He is so sweet and I swear I physically SWOONED on multiple occasions. And Katie's son, Owen 🥺🥺🥺🥺. OH MY GOSH. He was adorable.
The ending melted my heart oh my gosh. I’m so pumped for Everleigh's story!!
Tropes:
Best friends brother
Forced proximity
Second chance
It’s always been you
Childhood crushes
Single mom
Small town
Ex-con
This one gave me a lot less anxiety than "Only Him" but the storyline was still intense! It was a romantic suspense that gripped me by the shirt and didn’t let me go until the end!!
This was the epitome of right person, wrong time. My heart was aching while learning more about the back story between Katie & Noah. Man they had it rough. Best friends who were both secreting pining for each other but no one ever made a move so she marries someone else. Her husband passed away and now there may be a chance for them to explore a chance at a relationship... but will Katie want that?! you'll have to read to find out!
There is tragedy, growth, redemption & so much progression!!!
Noah has my heart. He is so sweet and I swear I physically SWOONED on multiple occasions. And Katie's son, Owen 🥺🥺🥺🥺. OH MY GOSH. He was adorable.
The ending melted my heart oh my gosh. I’m so pumped for Everleigh's story!!
Tropes:
Best friends brother
Forced proximity
Second chance
It’s always been you
Childhood crushes
Single mom
Small town
Ex-con
December 4, 2022
Book 2 in the Only One series and it was so good. Loved this friends to lovers romance. Noah was always by Katie’s side and the feeling between the two were also always there but neither ever acted on it. Since neither stepped forward to express their feelings, Katie married Noah’s cousin. Noah was still there on her side while watching Katie struggle in her marriage but tragedy strikes and Noah is sent to prison. Now over a decade later, Noah is back and the feeling are still there but time has passed and there will be some challenges that they will need to overcome to be able to finally get their happy. Lia Langola and Tor Thom bring the characters to life. Great narrators for a wonderful story that will pull you in from the very start.
September 5, 2022
➳ Rate: 4,5/ 5 stars
Been waiting for this couple for what seems like such a long time. Noah and Katie captured my attention from the first moment they were mentioned, I knew from that moment onwards their story would be amazing.
Their story is kinda of sad due to the incredibly tragic past they share but their book was so good and sweet. This couple is just adorable. They were pretty sexy too, don’t worry! Owen was so sweet too. He’s such a cute kid and he took to Noah so fast. We also get a lot of the previous couple and seeing them so happy was so great. I loved Tyler and Noah’s relationship. Tyler was such a great and supportive friend.
The story wasn’t as angsty as I had first thought it would be. I had expected Katie to make Noah work harder for her forgiveness. She didn’t make him grovel nearly as much as she should have. Even still, I enjoyed watching Noah beg her to listen to him. She was sort of forced to spend time with him and finally talk about what happened and how they always felt. Those moments were the best to read as they worked on Katie’s house and shared their feelings. I always love to read about house renovations, especially when they’re detailed. It’s so fun to me!
When it comes to the romance and the character getting what they deserved (well except for that bomb dropped at the end, I so was not expecting any of that🤯), I was very satisfied and really enjoyed Katie and Noah just being happy and building their future together.
Now when it comes to the suspense part of the story, I was a bit disappointed with how everything that happened was dealt with and how fast the main issue of the suspenseful plotline was solved in the second part of the book. There was so much potential to build that plotline. It ended up feeling like this book was divided into three books where the last part was more like a bonus novella where you get to see how the characters are doing after a while. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy when the characters are finally happy and get to enjoy each other but I’m just used to a heavier suspense/mystery plotline with KF’s books so when I read this book I was a bit disappointed with how it went in the beginning of the second part. But even still, it’s a great read and if you love Noah and Katie you’ll be so happy for them and how their story ended.
➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order from: Retailers
➳ Follow me on: Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Tiktok
Been waiting for this couple for what seems like such a long time. Noah and Katie captured my attention from the first moment they were mentioned, I knew from that moment onwards their story would be amazing.
Their story is kinda of sad due to the incredibly tragic past they share but their book was so good and sweet. This couple is just adorable. They were pretty sexy too, don’t worry! Owen was so sweet too. He’s such a cute kid and he took to Noah so fast. We also get a lot of the previous couple and seeing them so happy was so great. I loved Tyler and Noah’s relationship. Tyler was such a great and supportive friend.
The story wasn’t as angsty as I had first thought it would be. I had expected Katie to make Noah work harder for her forgiveness. She didn’t make him grovel nearly as much as she should have. Even still, I enjoyed watching Noah beg her to listen to him. She was sort of forced to spend time with him and finally talk about what happened and how they always felt. Those moments were the best to read as they worked on Katie’s house and shared their feelings. I always love to read about house renovations, especially when they’re detailed. It’s so fun to me!
When it comes to the romance and the character getting what they deserved (well except for that bomb dropped at the end, I so was not expecting any of that🤯), I was very satisfied and really enjoyed Katie and Noah just being happy and building their future together.
Now when it comes to the suspense part of the story, I was a bit disappointed with how everything that happened was dealt with and how fast the main issue of the suspenseful plotline was solved in the second part of the book. There was so much potential to build that plotline. It ended up feeling like this book was divided into three books where the last part was more like a bonus novella where you get to see how the characters are doing after a while. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy when the characters are finally happy and get to enjoy each other but I’m just used to a heavier suspense/mystery plotline with KF’s books so when I read this book I was a bit disappointed with how it went in the beginning of the second part. But even still, it’s a great read and if you love Noah and Katie you’ll be so happy for them and how their story ended.
➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Order from: Retailers
➳ Follow me on: Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Tiktok
September 12, 2022
Only Us is the second chance romance we deserve.
Noah and Katie stole my heart in this book. They were childhood friends who harbored feelings for each other but never acted on them. Unfortunately before Noah can confess his feelings for Katie, a tragic event happens that lands him in prison for 12 years.
The story begins at the 12 years later and man oh man does this romance deliver on the angst! What I absolutely adore about second chance romances is the pining and angst. Katie certainly makes Noah work for her forgiveness and I was here for it. I also liked that these two were honest and open with each other. Once they have the tough conversations, their relationship blossoms like a flower in spring. The love story is romantic and steamy. Noah was a dirty talker which I loved and was not expecting.
Kennedy Fox know how to give us a love story to root for and Only Us definitely had me cheering for the couple. The writing flows naturally and despite its almost 500 pages, I flew through this.
I would recommend Only Us for readers looking for second chance romance, childhood friends to lovers, friends to lovers, steamy romance, angst, mutual pining, awesome banter, romantic and low suspense.
This is a bind up of the duet in the Lawton Ridge series.
*Thank you to the authors for providing an advanced readers copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Noah and Katie stole my heart in this book. They were childhood friends who harbored feelings for each other but never acted on them. Unfortunately before Noah can confess his feelings for Katie, a tragic event happens that lands him in prison for 12 years.
The story begins at the 12 years later and man oh man does this romance deliver on the angst! What I absolutely adore about second chance romances is the pining and angst. Katie certainly makes Noah work for her forgiveness and I was here for it. I also liked that these two were honest and open with each other. Once they have the tough conversations, their relationship blossoms like a flower in spring. The love story is romantic and steamy. Noah was a dirty talker which I loved and was not expecting.
Kennedy Fox know how to give us a love story to root for and Only Us definitely had me cheering for the couple. The writing flows naturally and despite its almost 500 pages, I flew through this.
I would recommend Only Us for readers looking for second chance romance, childhood friends to lovers, friends to lovers, steamy romance, angst, mutual pining, awesome banter, romantic and low suspense.
This is a bind up of the duet in the Lawton Ridge series.
*Thank you to the authors for providing an advanced readers copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
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September 1, 2022
I’ve been waiting for Noah and Katie’s story since these two characters were first introduced. They were best friends, they were in love with each other, however, neither one of them admitted their feelings and Katie ended up marrying Noah’s cousin, Gabe, and Noah ended up in prison.
Now, ten years later, Noah is out of prison and Katie has to face him. There is a lot of pain and hurt there, however, there is also a lot of chemistry and neither of them can deny it. Some people aren’t happy that Noah is back in town and out of prison, so there is some drama around that. He also has to keep him and Katie’s relationship a secret because of everything going on around him. I loved they two of them together. There were so many sweet moments between them and moments between Noah and Katie’s son, Owen.
Noah and Katie haven’t had an easy relationship, especially given their past so you absolutely want the best for them. I am happy they got that and I loved seeing their chemistry and their relationship continue to grow throughout the story. Noah helping with Owen and truly caring for him like his own son was one of my favorite things.
If you’re looking for a friends to lovers with suspense and amazing chemistry this is one to read!
September 20, 2022
A read to give you all the emotions.
Katie and Noah were the best of friends while harboring secret feelings for each other but both were too scared to make a move. When Noah’s cousin moved to town and took an interest in Katie, Noah let him figuring that’s what she wanted. Fast forward and Katie’s in a rocky marriage while Noah sits on the sidelines and watches. One tragic accident tears both of their lives apart. A decade later, they’re back in each other’s lives and their old feelings start to resurface but lots and lots… and lots of obstacles are in their way.
I don’t want to give anything crazy away because this story had so many elements and turns but it took me through all of the emotions and I loved every second of it. It’s sweet, steamy, and suspenseful. Katie was so resilient and I wanted her to get her happy ending so bad. Noah was soooo hot and sweet and his dedication and love for Katie is literally so cute.
Katie and Noah were the best of friends while harboring secret feelings for each other but both were too scared to make a move. When Noah’s cousin moved to town and took an interest in Katie, Noah let him figuring that’s what she wanted. Fast forward and Katie’s in a rocky marriage while Noah sits on the sidelines and watches. One tragic accident tears both of their lives apart. A decade later, they’re back in each other’s lives and their old feelings start to resurface but lots and lots… and lots of obstacles are in their way.
I don’t want to give anything crazy away because this story had so many elements and turns but it took me through all of the emotions and I loved every second of it. It’s sweet, steamy, and suspenseful. Katie was so resilient and I wanted her to get her happy ending so bad. Noah was soooo hot and sweet and his dedication and love for Katie is literally so cute.
August 29, 2022
This series! I'm so glad I finally got these to the top of my TBR because I feel ridiculous that I didn't read them in their original duet form. I'm over here begging to get each book earlier because I'm desperate to continue following what happens.
Noah and Katie have my heart! GAH-- these two have been through so much. Two completely different people who's lives changed by Noah. And now, they are clawing their way back when he's released from prison. But, Katie doesn't trust Noah because he went radio silent on her while he was away when she just needed her best friend.
Noah having always loved Katie just makes me adore him. If there's one thing that man never wavers on, it's his commitment to her. Seeing Noah with Katie's son was so sweet too. Katie is so strong, and independent but she also needs someone to lean on. Watching them too of them rebuild after what happened was so sweet.
AND THE END OF THIS BOOK! When I tell you my jaw DROPPED at some of the shocking end reveals, I had to put the book down and just sit in silence because poor Katie.
Kennedy Fox really excels at not only world building, but teasers for remaining books. They introduce characters organically and then by the end of the book prior to that character's book, you've read enough tidbits to be desperate for their book. I love that about reading their stuff! I also love that they can be read as standalones, so you can read other books in between the books their series and not feel like you left the world and are confused.
I'm about to go beg for the final book early because I just can't get enough! I devoured this in 12 hours. I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Noah and Katie have my heart! GAH-- these two have been through so much. Two completely different people who's lives changed by Noah. And now, they are clawing their way back when he's released from prison. But, Katie doesn't trust Noah because he went radio silent on her while he was away when she just needed her best friend.
Noah having always loved Katie just makes me adore him. If there's one thing that man never wavers on, it's his commitment to her. Seeing Noah with Katie's son was so sweet too. Katie is so strong, and independent but she also needs someone to lean on. Watching them too of them rebuild after what happened was so sweet.
AND THE END OF THIS BOOK! When I tell you my jaw DROPPED at some of the shocking end reveals, I had to put the book down and just sit in silence because poor Katie.
Kennedy Fox really excels at not only world building, but teasers for remaining books. They introduce characters organically and then by the end of the book prior to that character's book, you've read enough tidbits to be desperate for their book. I love that about reading their stuff! I also love that they can be read as standalones, so you can read other books in between the books their series and not feel like you left the world and are confused.
I'm about to go beg for the final book early because I just can't get enough! I devoured this in 12 hours. I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2022
This single mom, friends to lover romance is a little of a tear jerker but has the perfect amount of romance at the same time. Both characters deserved the happy ending they needed after having a lot of obstacles in their way. Their road to the end of their story was not easy but it was definitely worth the read. Katie is a fighter, a hard working mom to Owen and someone who definitely wasn't going to let Noah off the hook very easily. Noah is no exception to Kennedy Fox's great list of book boyfriends. He now a "free" man after being released from prison and now it's time for him to make a change with Katie and of course it's time for some drama along with it. Noah and Katie's story might have been drama filled and no easy for the being but their story is off the charts when it comes to chemistry and all the love. Owen and the rest of the side characters made this story even more of a page turner. Noah with Owen was one of the sweetest things to follow along with in the story.
September 10, 2022
There’s just something about this series… I am so obsessed with all of these characters. Tyler and Gemma’s book is one of my all time favorite reads and honestly… I may have loved this equally.
This series keeps you on your toes which I love so much. Noah has a heart of gold and is officially my benchmark for future book boyfriends..
Katie is possibly one of my favourite main characters ever because of the way she cares for her son and puts him above everything else.
I am so excited for Everleigh’s book <3
This series keeps you on your toes which I love so much. Noah has a heart of gold and is officially my benchmark for future book boyfriends..
Katie is possibly one of my favourite main characters ever because of the way she cares for her son and puts him above everything else.
I am so excited for Everleigh’s book <3
October 20, 2022
After a traumatic event Noah ended up in prison for 10 years. He’s now out and goes back to his hometown to work for his brother in law who’s also a ex con. The first thing Noah does on his way back into town is stop and see Katie. The girl he’s loved since he was 15.
Katie is a single mother working her butt off to provide for her son. While working full time she’s also working on her fixer upper house. She doesn’t even know what to do other than slap Noah and kick him off her porch when he shows up. It’s been 10 years and he hasn’t spoke a word to her despite her attempts.
Katie and Noah have a heartbreaking beautiful story. I loved the suspense in this. Also loved the Star Wars references. All in all really enjoyed!
“Better grip the sheets, baby.”
“Loving you has always just been a part of who I am.”
Katie is a single mother working her butt off to provide for her son. While working full time she’s also working on her fixer upper house. She doesn’t even know what to do other than slap Noah and kick him off her porch when he shows up. It’s been 10 years and he hasn’t spoke a word to her despite her attempts.
Katie and Noah have a heartbreaking beautiful story. I loved the suspense in this. Also loved the Star Wars references. All in all really enjoyed!
“Better grip the sheets, baby.”
“Loving you has always just been a part of who I am.”
December 30, 2022
I was excited for book 2 in this series by Kennedy Fox.
It had the childhood friends/crushes-to-lovers and single mom tropes, which I enjoyed! I did rate this 3 stars, and while the spice was good, and the romance, I think I just needed some more groveling? To me, it almost just felt like intense dislike and anger to almost immediate forgiveness. While the characters did a great job of communicating those feelings and talking things through, I think maybe there could've just been a little more time before they really reconnected and found a relationship.
I also think that the ex-girlfriend of Katie's late husband should've dyed her hair or something, it just seemed odd that Noah would just forget seeing her as he remembers that night so vividly (she even confronts him) AND she spoke against him as a witness in his trial. I just feel like it was a little messy and my brain got taken away on those details for the story.
Otherwise, the story was cute and I am a sucker for a second chance type romance. Noah and Katie had some really sweet moments and I'm glad they were given a cute happily ever after.
It had the childhood friends/crushes-to-lovers and single mom tropes, which I enjoyed! I did rate this 3 stars, and while the spice was good, and the romance, I think I just needed some more groveling? To me, it almost just felt like intense dislike and anger to almost immediate forgiveness. While the characters did a great job of communicating those feelings and talking things through, I think maybe there could've just been a little more time before they really reconnected and found a relationship.
I also think that the ex-girlfriend of Katie's late husband should've dyed her hair or something, it just seemed odd that Noah would just forget seeing her as he remembers that night so vividly (she even confronts him) AND she spoke against him as a witness in his trial. I just feel like it was a little messy and my brain got taken away on those details for the story.
Otherwise, the story was cute and I am a sucker for a second chance type romance. Noah and Katie had some really sweet moments and I'm glad they were given a cute happily ever after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2022
4.5⭐️
“.. 𝘔𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
Katie is definitely my type of petty 🙈 I loved it. But at one point I was thinking this girl should just put Noah out of his misery. Lol I felt for both of them because they had both lost so much.
The banter between them was so good. 👌🏼 it felt like they had just always meant to be by each others side. Seeing Noah & Katie’s son together was so sweeet. They adored each other so much & i was glad to see Katie have him around to help her out.
Some of the twists I did predict but some of the other stuff was just wild to me. 😳 like WHAT did I just read?!
“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘵. 𝘞𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘦𝘵.”
“.. 𝘔𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
Katie is definitely my type of petty 🙈 I loved it. But at one point I was thinking this girl should just put Noah out of his misery. Lol I felt for both of them because they had both lost so much.
The banter between them was so good. 👌🏼 it felt like they had just always meant to be by each others side. Seeing Noah & Katie’s son together was so sweeet. They adored each other so much & i was glad to see Katie have him around to help her out.
Some of the twists I did predict but some of the other stuff was just wild to me. 😳 like WHAT did I just read?!
“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘵. 𝘞𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘦𝘵.”
September 12, 2022
THIS WAS EVERYTHING MY SOUL NEEDED. Sooooo, after coming off the high of Only Him, you may be feeling a little bit broken. And by a little bit, I mean a lot broken. Only Us takes your fragile, shattered heart pieces and puts it all back together like a big happy family. *sobs commence*
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In Only Us, we see the beautiful, yet complicated relationship of Noah and Katie come to be. This is a second chance, childhood best friends, ex-convict, single mom, mess of emotions you need to read. AKA, some of my favorite tropes ever, are we surprised? Okay, seriously, if you make it through this book without shedding a tear, are you even human?
We start out ten years ago, where an innocent night turns tragic. Katie is sitting at home with pregnancy pains when she reaches out to her childhood best friend, Noah. Noah is immediately upset by the fact that his cousin, Gabe, is nowhere to be found in helping take care of his very pregnant wife. So what's the logical thing to do? Go find Gabe and kick his ass, hoping to knock some common sense and decency into him. When Noah finds Gabe and his side chick in the local bar, smashed and living it up like he doesn't have real responsibilities waiting for him at home, Noah can't stop himself from telling Gabe how stupid and reckless his actions are. Of course, hot-headed Gabe can't take this bullshit from his cousin, so he starts the fight. The fight that Noah doesn't really want or start, but he damn well will finish. After delivering a knockout punch to Gabe, he collapses hitting his head harder than he should've. Gabe's unconscious and is rushed to the hospital where he's in a coma for the next five days. With the brain swelling, Gabe is declared brain dead, leaving his pregnant wife to raise their son alone. Meanwhile, Noah is being hauled to jail due to the upset of Gabe's parents and mistress. Noah pleads guilty in exchange for less time, so he has a long wait of ten years before he can see his best friend and her baby. Might I emphasize that I'm not spoiling anything here...as that's just the FREAKING PROLOGUE, YOU GUYS.
So we fast forward to ten years later. Can the friendship Noah and Katie both desperately miss and need ever be repaired? Katie knew she was in a shitty marriage, and she wasn't upset by the way things turned out with Gabe and Noah. It was all one big accident. Except after Noah goes away to prison, he refuses to see her and won't reply to any of her letters. Now that is unforgivable for her. Not only did she lose her husband and baby daddy in one night, but also her best friend.
Noah knows he messed up whenever he cut all ties between him and Katie when he got sent to prison. But now that he's out, Noah has a lot of remorse to express to Katie, if she'll listen without slamming the door in his face. Katie won't be able to ice him out for too long, as trouble is haunting Noah. Will she forgive him in order to help protect him from his attackers?
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Beware uncovering this rant over how much I love this fucking book, as there are some spoilers within. Although I try to keep them vague-ish. You've been warned...
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*Many thanks to the authors for providing a free copy in exchange for my honest review.*
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In Only Us, we see the beautiful, yet complicated relationship of Noah and Katie come to be. This is a second chance, childhood best friends, ex-convict, single mom, mess of emotions you need to read. AKA, some of my favorite tropes ever, are we surprised? Okay, seriously, if you make it through this book without shedding a tear, are you even human?
We start out ten years ago, where an innocent night turns tragic. Katie is sitting at home with pregnancy pains when she reaches out to her childhood best friend, Noah. Noah is immediately upset by the fact that his cousin, Gabe, is nowhere to be found in helping take care of his very pregnant wife. So what's the logical thing to do? Go find Gabe and kick his ass, hoping to knock some common sense and decency into him. When Noah finds Gabe and his side chick in the local bar, smashed and living it up like he doesn't have real responsibilities waiting for him at home, Noah can't stop himself from telling Gabe how stupid and reckless his actions are. Of course, hot-headed Gabe can't take this bullshit from his cousin, so he starts the fight. The fight that Noah doesn't really want or start, but he damn well will finish. After delivering a knockout punch to Gabe, he collapses hitting his head harder than he should've. Gabe's unconscious and is rushed to the hospital where he's in a coma for the next five days. With the brain swelling, Gabe is declared brain dead, leaving his pregnant wife to raise their son alone. Meanwhile, Noah is being hauled to jail due to the upset of Gabe's parents and mistress. Noah pleads guilty in exchange for less time, so he has a long wait of ten years before he can see his best friend and her baby. Might I emphasize that I'm not spoiling anything here...as that's just the FREAKING PROLOGUE, YOU GUYS.
So we fast forward to ten years later. Can the friendship Noah and Katie both desperately miss and need ever be repaired? Katie knew she was in a shitty marriage, and she wasn't upset by the way things turned out with Gabe and Noah. It was all one big accident. Except after Noah goes away to prison, he refuses to see her and won't reply to any of her letters. Now that is unforgivable for her. Not only did she lose her husband and baby daddy in one night, but also her best friend.
Noah knows he messed up whenever he cut all ties between him and Katie when he got sent to prison. But now that he's out, Noah has a lot of remorse to express to Katie, if she'll listen without slamming the door in his face. Katie won't be able to ice him out for too long, as trouble is haunting Noah. Will she forgive him in order to help protect him from his attackers?
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Beware uncovering this rant over how much I love this fucking book, as there are some spoilers within. Although I try to keep them vague-ish. You've been warned...
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*Many thanks to the authors for providing a free copy in exchange for my honest review.*
September 30, 2022
4 They're Each Other's Forever Stars!
I read both of these books when they were released as a duet. Now I've listened to them as expertly narrated by Lia Langola and Tor Thom. It was wonderful to reconnect with Noah and Katie and having the book brought to life with the narration made me love their story so much more. I could feel the tension between our H/h. If you're familiar with the story you know they have some hurdles to get over. And of course, the element of suspense in this story is truly bone chilling when all the emotions of the story are being played out!
Below are my reviews for the books as originally published as Pushing You Away and Holding You Close....
I just don’t know how Kennedy Fox continues to surprise me with their cliffie endings. I mean I know it’s coming and I think I might have a clue as to what to expect, but not this time!! I literally sat in my living room slack jawed when I got to the ending!!
I’ve been anxiously looking forward to Noah and Katie’s books since I read Gemma and Tyler’s story. And we get all the details of that night ten years ago that changed everyone’s lives. There were times in this book that I wanted to slap Noah upside the head, because he’s just so stubborn, especially when it comes to Katie. I get what he was trying to do all the years he was gone in not talking to her, but hindsight is 20/20 and he realizes he’s got a long road ahead of him to get the girl he’s always loved to give him a chance.
Needless to say, while Noah’s family and some friends are happy to have him home, this small Alabama town are not so keen on him being back and the things they experience were astonishingly cray-cray!! There’s a certain point in the book that Noah and Katie end up spending a lot of time with each other, and things start to shift for them. The love they’ve always had for each other, but never really admitted to, is gurgling at the surface and it’s going to spill over.
However, not everyone is happy about this and this is when plans are put in motion that could have devastating affects on those they each love!!
I’m ready for Holding You Close because I HAVE TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!!!!
The anticipation I had for this book after the stunning cliffie in book one was immense. The minute it hit my kindle I wanted to dive right in. But I also knew that once I started reading the conclusion of Noah and Katie’s book I wouldn’t be able to put it down so I waited until the weekend to start it and boy am I glad I did that because I finished this one in one sitting!!
There’re so many things that are resolved in this second book of this couple’s HEA. In addition to resolutions, there were some definite surprises that had my mouth hanging open or better yet had me snort laughing courtesy of Everleigh! I loved how Noah and Katie worked their way through the obstacles put in their path. And let me tell you, there were some fingernail biting pages that I thought are they actually going to get to their forever?
Kennedy Fox has definitely delivered in this duet. It was fast paced and engaging. We get to see more sides of the side characters and throw in a little suspense and it’s everything I love about this series. The love Noah and Katie have for each other is unstoppable proving that second chances really do exist!
I read both of these books when they were released as a duet. Now I've listened to them as expertly narrated by Lia Langola and Tor Thom. It was wonderful to reconnect with Noah and Katie and having the book brought to life with the narration made me love their story so much more. I could feel the tension between our H/h. If you're familiar with the story you know they have some hurdles to get over. And of course, the element of suspense in this story is truly bone chilling when all the emotions of the story are being played out!
Below are my reviews for the books as originally published as Pushing You Away and Holding You Close....
I just don’t know how Kennedy Fox continues to surprise me with their cliffie endings. I mean I know it’s coming and I think I might have a clue as to what to expect, but not this time!! I literally sat in my living room slack jawed when I got to the ending!!
I’ve been anxiously looking forward to Noah and Katie’s books since I read Gemma and Tyler’s story. And we get all the details of that night ten years ago that changed everyone’s lives. There were times in this book that I wanted to slap Noah upside the head, because he’s just so stubborn, especially when it comes to Katie. I get what he was trying to do all the years he was gone in not talking to her, but hindsight is 20/20 and he realizes he’s got a long road ahead of him to get the girl he’s always loved to give him a chance.
Needless to say, while Noah’s family and some friends are happy to have him home, this small Alabama town are not so keen on him being back and the things they experience were astonishingly cray-cray!! There’s a certain point in the book that Noah and Katie end up spending a lot of time with each other, and things start to shift for them. The love they’ve always had for each other, but never really admitted to, is gurgling at the surface and it’s going to spill over.
However, not everyone is happy about this and this is when plans are put in motion that could have devastating affects on those they each love!!
I’m ready for Holding You Close because I HAVE TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!!!!
The anticipation I had for this book after the stunning cliffie in book one was immense. The minute it hit my kindle I wanted to dive right in. But I also knew that once I started reading the conclusion of Noah and Katie’s book I wouldn’t be able to put it down so I waited until the weekend to start it and boy am I glad I did that because I finished this one in one sitting!!
There’re so many things that are resolved in this second book of this couple’s HEA. In addition to resolutions, there were some definite surprises that had my mouth hanging open or better yet had me snort laughing courtesy of Everleigh! I loved how Noah and Katie worked their way through the obstacles put in their path. And let me tell you, there were some fingernail biting pages that I thought are they actually going to get to their forever?
Kennedy Fox has definitely delivered in this duet. It was fast paced and engaging. We get to see more sides of the side characters and throw in a little suspense and it’s everything I love about this series. The love Noah and Katie have for each other is unstoppable proving that second chances really do exist!
September 5, 2022
Rating: 4.25⭐️
Noah and Katie are the poster child for second chances. They grew up as best friends both harboring secret feelings for the other and just when Noah is ready to throw caution to the wind and share his heart with Katie a third party enters the equation throwing them all for a loop. Katie falls fast & hard for Gabe and soon they're getting married and expecting. On the outside everything seems perfect, excepts Gabe's a terrible husband out drinking and sleeping with other woman when he should be home with Katie. When Noah get wind of Gabe's behavior he sets out to have a talk with him, but after an incredible mistake Gabe ends up dead with Noah taking the fall.
Twelve years later Noah is back, and set on rekindling his friendship with Katie. But, after twelve years of silence from him Katie isn't ready to forgive and forget. Katie and Noahs story is so unique because while they were best friends up until Noahs incarceration, neither of them were aware of the feelings brewing just beneath the surface. So, when we see them twelve years later, they have a lot more to overcome outside of 12 years of silence, they have 20+ years of hidden feelings to air out and work through.
I felt for Katie from the very beginning of the story, I can't imagine what it was like for her to lose her husband and father of her child, but also her best friend all in one go, and to still come out on the other side stronger than ever truly good for her. But, I also felt for Noah and the shame he felt for being not only the cause of Gabe's accident, but the cause of Katie ending up as a single mother. Both of these characters have incredible trauma to overcome in order to get to their HEA, but outside of that, they have these big feelings for one another that they seem be the only ones clueless to knowing exist. There's so much they have to work through and its tough at times, but I applaud the both of them for having those tough conversations, and being honest about how they're feeling. I don't think they ever would've found their way to forgiveness and happiness had they not been truly open and honest with one another from the beginning. They have such an incredible bond though, outside of the romance of their relationship, their friendship was so pure and true, they care so deeply for one another it was so beautiful to read. And Noahs relationship with Owen was really the icing on the cake. He couldn't have come home at a better time for those two and I loved seeing their little family bond grow into more.
This story had just as much suspense as Book 1 and so many plot twists I thought my head was spinning. Every time you thought you knew what was going on you got thrown for another spin and it kept me at the edge of my seat to the every end. I loved these two characters, loved seeing their relationship and family blossom and can't wait to see what Book 3 has in store for me!!
Noah and Katie are the poster child for second chances. They grew up as best friends both harboring secret feelings for the other and just when Noah is ready to throw caution to the wind and share his heart with Katie a third party enters the equation throwing them all for a loop. Katie falls fast & hard for Gabe and soon they're getting married and expecting. On the outside everything seems perfect, excepts Gabe's a terrible husband out drinking and sleeping with other woman when he should be home with Katie. When Noah get wind of Gabe's behavior he sets out to have a talk with him, but after an incredible mistake Gabe ends up dead with Noah taking the fall.
Twelve years later Noah is back, and set on rekindling his friendship with Katie. But, after twelve years of silence from him Katie isn't ready to forgive and forget. Katie and Noahs story is so unique because while they were best friends up until Noahs incarceration, neither of them were aware of the feelings brewing just beneath the surface. So, when we see them twelve years later, they have a lot more to overcome outside of 12 years of silence, they have 20+ years of hidden feelings to air out and work through.
I felt for Katie from the very beginning of the story, I can't imagine what it was like for her to lose her husband and father of her child, but also her best friend all in one go, and to still come out on the other side stronger than ever truly good for her. But, I also felt for Noah and the shame he felt for being not only the cause of Gabe's accident, but the cause of Katie ending up as a single mother. Both of these characters have incredible trauma to overcome in order to get to their HEA, but outside of that, they have these big feelings for one another that they seem be the only ones clueless to knowing exist. There's so much they have to work through and its tough at times, but I applaud the both of them for having those tough conversations, and being honest about how they're feeling. I don't think they ever would've found their way to forgiveness and happiness had they not been truly open and honest with one another from the beginning. They have such an incredible bond though, outside of the romance of their relationship, their friendship was so pure and true, they care so deeply for one another it was so beautiful to read. And Noahs relationship with Owen was really the icing on the cake. He couldn't have come home at a better time for those two and I loved seeing their little family bond grow into more.
This story had just as much suspense as Book 1 and so many plot twists I thought my head was spinning. Every time you thought you knew what was going on you got thrown for another spin and it kept me at the edge of my seat to the every end. I loved these two characters, loved seeing their relationship and family blossom and can't wait to see what Book 3 has in store for me!!
September 14, 2022
It's finally arrived people! Noah and Katie are about to bring us their story. If you are looking for a fiery, passionate affair filled with suspension and intrigue then look no further. This book takes you only a hay ride you will never forget.
Best friends from a very young age Noah and Katie always had a strong connection that ran deep. As they grew older the connection blossomed into feelings of love that neither acknowledged or acted upon. Fear of rejection and potential ruination of a wonderful friendship kept them both quiet even though it was plain as day to everyone else how they felt for each other. Noah lost Katie to his cousin Gabe and has quietly pined after Katie since.
One tragic accident sees Noah going to prison for Gabe's death. In 10 years, he has never communicated with Katie which had left her bitter and angry. So when Noah is released and lands on Katie's doorstep he gets the door slammed in his face.
Noah has to work hard to get back into Katie's good graces but once they open up to each other about their feelings and the past realising how much time has been wasted they both jump into each other head first and finally get what they have always wanted.
But there are others who are not happy with Noah being back and are making this known in very dangerous ways. Noah and his family are determined to live life as normal but at what cost?
Noah and Katie were the always meant to be couple and as it turns out there are forces that are determined to wreak havoc on the pairs budding romance. Noah has waited his whole life to be with Katie and even though the circumstances call for them to hide their relationship in the beginning Noah is not going to waste his second chance to love the woman of his dreams.
Katie as it turns out when she loves someone she will stop at nothing to protect them. She has spent her whole life hiding her feelings from Noah but now that they are out in the universe she is determined that they will be able to live their lives together no matter who she must confront.
The passion and chemistry between the couple burns hot and bright however Noah has exceptionally sweet moments that are what romance readers like me live for.
Add in the adorable nature of Katie's son Owen, along with quite a few surprises you will not regret reading their story it really is the stuff that fairy tales are made of.
Best friends from a very young age Noah and Katie always had a strong connection that ran deep. As they grew older the connection blossomed into feelings of love that neither acknowledged or acted upon. Fear of rejection and potential ruination of a wonderful friendship kept them both quiet even though it was plain as day to everyone else how they felt for each other. Noah lost Katie to his cousin Gabe and has quietly pined after Katie since.
One tragic accident sees Noah going to prison for Gabe's death. In 10 years, he has never communicated with Katie which had left her bitter and angry. So when Noah is released and lands on Katie's doorstep he gets the door slammed in his face.
Noah has to work hard to get back into Katie's good graces but once they open up to each other about their feelings and the past realising how much time has been wasted they both jump into each other head first and finally get what they have always wanted.
But there are others who are not happy with Noah being back and are making this known in very dangerous ways. Noah and his family are determined to live life as normal but at what cost?
Noah and Katie were the always meant to be couple and as it turns out there are forces that are determined to wreak havoc on the pairs budding romance. Noah has waited his whole life to be with Katie and even though the circumstances call for them to hide their relationship in the beginning Noah is not going to waste his second chance to love the woman of his dreams.
Katie as it turns out when she loves someone she will stop at nothing to protect them. She has spent her whole life hiding her feelings from Noah but now that they are out in the universe she is determined that they will be able to live their lives together no matter who she must confront.
The passion and chemistry between the couple burns hot and bright however Noah has exceptionally sweet moments that are what romance readers like me live for.
Add in the adorable nature of Katie's son Owen, along with quite a few surprises you will not regret reading their story it really is the stuff that fairy tales are made of.
September 1, 2022
This book is filled with angst and it is fast paced. I think I devoured this thing because it was over so quick but it is just that good that you won't be able to put it down. Katie and Noah have been friends forever and he has some of the the most intense feelings for her and just when he works up the courage to tell her how he is feeling his cousin Gabe moves to town and sweeps Katie off her feet and they end up getting married. Then comes the day that Noah finds Gabe cheating on Katie and a they get into this huge fight that ends up in Noah being send to prison for murder and he pushes Katie away. Big time. Now he is out of prison and the first place he is going is to Katie's and she shuts him out and wants nothing to do with him. Can he win her back? Will things ever be the same?I thought I was going to have heart failure right there but then I about exploded when Noah is sent to Prison for an accident. But now he is out and back in Lawton Ridge and the first thing on his mind is Katie, and if she was honest with herself no matter what he has started on her mind this entire time too. Now the time has come for these two to get their lives back. To have what they should have had from the very beginning. If only things were ever that easy though. Now they are going to have to deal with people wanting revenge. I have to stop talking about the story right there, or I am apt to give away something important. Though I will tell you I closed this book wanting to talk bot someone about what I had just read but there was no one here for me to tell. Plus this book has so much going on I don't know how you would tell anyone everything and not leave something out Oh my stars why do boys not read books so you have a reading buddy to talk about these amazing books when we finish or share a book hangover or two with? I loved these characters. Katie and Noah were fated to be together and I loved how hard they fought to be together no matter what. There are twists and turns, dangers and passion and a angst filled love story like no other between the pages of this book. I am so sad that my time with Noah and Katie is over. But, I know that my heart and mind will never ever forget them.
October 1, 2022
Fabulous Story & Listen🎧 Captivating & Heartfelt!
Only Us
Only One, Book 2
By: Kennedy Fox
Narrated by: Lia Langola, Tor Thom
Series: Only One, Book 2
Kennedy Fox continues to wow me with another amazing novel set in their “Only One” series, this one is a friends to lovers, small town romance. Each book in the series features a different couple, and this one is Noah and Katie’s story and what a story it is. Noah and Katie were childhood friends, but he felt more for her but never made a move and he gave up hope of anything more happening, other than friendship, when she started dating his cousin Gabe, who she married. But Gabe was not the man she thought he was, and when he went to set him straight, the unthinkable happened. That evening changed the path of both of their lives. Noah spends the next decade in jail and he refused contact with Katie, which angered her, so when he gets out she does not want to anything to do with him. But Noah will not give up on her and will find a way to make it up to her. His family is glad to have him home again, but not everyone in town is, and someone is out to get him. This wonderfully written and plotted story has plenty of drama, heartfelt emotions, some angst, mystery, thrilling and suspenseful moments, and a slow burn, but oh so worth the wait, romance. Kennedy Fox, thank you for another wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the amazing narration, Lia Langola and Tor Thom continue to deliver an outstanding performance, bringing these characters and their story to life. They have a complete understanding of the characters they are portraying, give each a voice that suits their character’s persona, sounding believable in every role they play. I loved how they took each, ran with it and made it their own. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture all the character’s emotions and project them into their performance. They set the perfect tone for the story and handle the brilliant dialogue with ease. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to, and their narration enhances an already amazing story to another level. Thank you for another fabulous listen.
Only Us
Only One, Book 2
By: Kennedy Fox
Narrated by: Lia Langola, Tor Thom
Series: Only One, Book 2
Kennedy Fox continues to wow me with another amazing novel set in their “Only One” series, this one is a friends to lovers, small town romance. Each book in the series features a different couple, and this one is Noah and Katie’s story and what a story it is. Noah and Katie were childhood friends, but he felt more for her but never made a move and he gave up hope of anything more happening, other than friendship, when she started dating his cousin Gabe, who she married. But Gabe was not the man she thought he was, and when he went to set him straight, the unthinkable happened. That evening changed the path of both of their lives. Noah spends the next decade in jail and he refused contact with Katie, which angered her, so when he gets out she does not want to anything to do with him. But Noah will not give up on her and will find a way to make it up to her. His family is glad to have him home again, but not everyone in town is, and someone is out to get him. This wonderfully written and plotted story has plenty of drama, heartfelt emotions, some angst, mystery, thrilling and suspenseful moments, and a slow burn, but oh so worth the wait, romance. Kennedy Fox, thank you for another wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the amazing narration, Lia Langola and Tor Thom continue to deliver an outstanding performance, bringing these characters and their story to life. They have a complete understanding of the characters they are portraying, give each a voice that suits their character’s persona, sounding believable in every role they play. I loved how they took each, ran with it and made it their own. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture all the character’s emotions and project them into their performance. They set the perfect tone for the story and handle the brilliant dialogue with ease. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to, and their narration enhances an already amazing story to another level. Thank you for another fabulous listen.
September 19, 2022
Noah and Katie’s story is an incredibly sweet and heartfelt second-chance love story. Their tragic story starts way back when they were best friends as children. Noah and Katie both had feelings for each other, but neither of them ever acted upon them. One day, Noah’s cousin Gabe moves to town and starts dating Katie all while Noah seems supportive. The two get married young, and Katie gets pregnant. However, Gabe isn’t a good husband, and one night he and Noah come to blows with disastrous consequences. Noah goes to prison and then effectively cuts Katie from his life. Fast forward 10 years to the present, and Noah’s finally out and Katie is livid. That’s really where their story begins, and we get to see them move forward, but will Katie ever forgive Noah? A lot happens in this book, and their relationship is fraught with old and new feelings and something more sinister is happening at the same time.
I knew Noah and Katie’s story would get me feeling all the things, and they truly tugged at my heartstrings. Noah’s fresh out of a decade in prison for an accidental homicide that continues to follow him, and Katie both lost her husband and her best friend for all that time and has been dealing with that. There’s so much emotion pouring out of these characters, and I was absolutely rivetted by their story. We get plenty of spice from them, too. I mean just imagine 15 plus years of pent-up tension between two people finally coming out, and you get some seriously steamy moments.
And the plot of this book is absolutely one of my favorites from these authors. I don’t want to ruin anything for you, but there’s a lot of suspense and angst here. This is suspenseful romance done right, and I devoured this story. The level of intrigue in this book is perfectly written, and it adds such a depth to Noah and Katie’s larger story. Plus, I enjoyed finding out how they got through everything to finally end up where they do.
This spicy, sweet, and exciting romance is an absolute must read. Like if you enjoy second-chance romances at all, you need to read this book. I’m completely in love with these characters and storyline, and I can't recommend it enough.
I knew Noah and Katie’s story would get me feeling all the things, and they truly tugged at my heartstrings. Noah’s fresh out of a decade in prison for an accidental homicide that continues to follow him, and Katie both lost her husband and her best friend for all that time and has been dealing with that. There’s so much emotion pouring out of these characters, and I was absolutely rivetted by their story. We get plenty of spice from them, too. I mean just imagine 15 plus years of pent-up tension between two people finally coming out, and you get some seriously steamy moments.
And the plot of this book is absolutely one of my favorites from these authors. I don’t want to ruin anything for you, but there’s a lot of suspense and angst here. This is suspenseful romance done right, and I devoured this story. The level of intrigue in this book is perfectly written, and it adds such a depth to Noah and Katie’s larger story. Plus, I enjoyed finding out how they got through everything to finally end up where they do.
This spicy, sweet, and exciting romance is an absolute must read. Like if you enjoy second-chance romances at all, you need to read this book. I’m completely in love with these characters and storyline, and I can't recommend it enough.
August 31, 2022
never believed it in high school when her girlfriends tried to tell her he had feelings for her. Katie ended up married to Noah’s cousin and pregnant. Noah was upset how his cousin was blatantly cheating on his pregnant wife and argued with him in a bar one night. His cousin was accidentally killed and Noah ends up taking a plea deal that puts him in the n prison for 10 years.
Katie and Noah have let the fear of letting the other know their true feelings keep them apart for way too long. I was frustrated with their missed opportunities at a chance to be together for so many years, but I was glad to see that they were finally admitting their feelings for each other now and willing to begin a romantic relationship. Seeing Noah make the best of his new freedom was heartwarming. I loved seeing him develop a relationship with Katie’s son Owen and how excited Owen is to have Noah’s attention
This book brings the suspenseful storyline to a satisfying close around the mark, and then we get to enjoy the steamy and sweet romance between Noah and Katie.
Noah is incredibly romantic and he can certainly bring plenty of steam too! I loved how developed these characters are and the relationship between Katie abs Noah with the other characters.
I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’m going to keep this short... it’s a fantastic read and gives you the full gamut of emotions. I loved this book and I am very eager to see the havoc and fun Everleigh will cause in the next book!
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review!
Katie and Noah have let the fear of letting the other know their true feelings keep them apart for way too long. I was frustrated with their missed opportunities at a chance to be together for so many years, but I was glad to see that they were finally admitting their feelings for each other now and willing to begin a romantic relationship. Seeing Noah make the best of his new freedom was heartwarming. I loved seeing him develop a relationship with Katie’s son Owen and how excited Owen is to have Noah’s attention
This book brings the suspenseful storyline to a satisfying close around the mark, and then we get to enjoy the steamy and sweet romance between Noah and Katie.
Noah is incredibly romantic and he can certainly bring plenty of steam too! I loved how developed these characters are and the relationship between Katie abs Noah with the other characters.
I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’m going to keep this short... it’s a fantastic read and gives you the full gamut of emotions. I loved this book and I am very eager to see the havoc and fun Everleigh will cause in the next book!
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review!
September 15, 2022
Kennedy Fox does it again!! I love these characters. This is an angsty slow burn, and I loved it. Katie is not gonna let Noah off the hook for ignoring her for 10 years, and Noah is not giving up on winning her back. I also loved getting to see other characters from the series again too. There's definitely a lot of moments of suspense in this one too, since the town has not forgotten that Noah is the reason Gabe died. And there's some mystery too. I had my suspicions from the start, and I turned out to be right!
Noah is a great guy, but he's dealing with a lot after prison. And Katie is dealing with a lot too, being a single mom. I love how strong and independent she is. And that Noah doesn't try to get in the way of that. Their dynamic was so good.
It's definitely easy to be on team Noah and Katie and want them to get their HEA. I loved seeing more of the relationship development. And seeing Noah build a bond with Owen. There's certainly a lot of action in this one to keep you hooked, and you won't want to put it down!
We get a ton of passion and emotion in this one too (in true KF fashion!). So it's definitely not lacking in the heat! And I liked the soft, emotional moments a lot too. Seeing Noah be so devoted to Katie and Owen was cute. Also loved getting more of their friends like Tyler and Gemma. And there's set up for the next books that I am sooooooo excited for!
As usual, I devoured this book in one sitting and couldn't get enough! If you haven't dived into this world yet, you're seriously missing out! I highly recommend everyone go get them now!
September 22, 2022
I really enjoyed this best friends to lovers/ small town romance by this fantastic duo that is Kennedy Fox. From page one I knew there were going to be some emotional moments but what a sweet and beautiful romance this book was.
Katie and Noah were the bestest of friends growing up, they harboured feelings for each other but never had the courage to act on them and Katie ended marrying Noah's cousin but her marriage wasn't not what she expected and after a unfortunate event, she ends up as a single mother and a young widow and Noah ends in jail, feeling guilty and pushing Katie away.
Ten years later Noah is back in town trying to build his life back and trying to earn the forgiveness of the only woman he ever care about but Katie won't make things easy because she is deeply hurt but when Noah's life seems threatened she is the only one who can help.
I love how this couple got to know each other all over again and how perfect they were for each other. I really like the strength Katie had being a single working mother and raising her son Owen . Noah is simply book boyfriend material, there is nothing about him I didn't love.
There is suspense, drama, heartbreak, family unity and so much love through the pages of this book, I listened to the audiobook which brought so much life to this story, the narrators did a fantastic job bringing Katie and Noah's book to life.
Their ending was just perfect and so deserving for this couple.
October 21, 2022
This is book 2 of the series. It can stand alone but there is so much more emotional pay off if you read in sequence. This was originally published as a duet so you get all of the drama of a cliffhanger without any of the frustration of needing to roll into another book.
Katie and Noah have so much history as best friends that never became more even though both of them had the feels but never acted on it... and after Noah's 10 years in jail (where he completely cut off contact with her) finding their friendship again is going to be tough. Add in some harassment, vandalism and being given a general hard time in a small town where everyone knows everyone's business, Noah's re-entry to society is looking to have more downs than ups.
These two once they are able to connect and hash it all out are terrific together. There is very little drama or angst between them, all the tension comes from outside the couple and that makes me very happy as a reader. I'm also smitten with all the Star Wars and Disney+ references.
The audio was performed by Tor Thom and Lia Langola. Tor has a great depth of tone in his voice. When he gets all gruff and lusty, it's a dream come true. Some of his higher register voices can sound a bit breathy, but I love that I can always tell the characters apart. Lia has a delightful range to her voice for Katie. There's ticked off yet professional, all the way through to desperate and yearning Katie. And I adore when she does kids. Katie's son is 10 so it's not a super young kid voice, but there is just an innocence that is the tone that makes me a very happy listener.
I requested and was provided a copy of the audiobook. These are my honest opinions.
Katie and Noah have so much history as best friends that never became more even though both of them had the feels but never acted on it... and after Noah's 10 years in jail (where he completely cut off contact with her) finding their friendship again is going to be tough. Add in some harassment, vandalism and being given a general hard time in a small town where everyone knows everyone's business, Noah's re-entry to society is looking to have more downs than ups.
These two once they are able to connect and hash it all out are terrific together. There is very little drama or angst between them, all the tension comes from outside the couple and that makes me very happy as a reader. I'm also smitten with all the Star Wars and Disney+ references.
The audio was performed by Tor Thom and Lia Langola. Tor has a great depth of tone in his voice. When he gets all gruff and lusty, it's a dream come true. Some of his higher register voices can sound a bit breathy, but I love that I can always tell the characters apart. Lia has a delightful range to her voice for Katie. There's ticked off yet professional, all the way through to desperate and yearning Katie. And I adore when she does kids. Katie's son is 10 so it's not a super young kid voice, but there is just an innocence that is the tone that makes me a very happy listener.
I requested and was provided a copy of the audiobook. These are my honest opinions.
September 14, 2022
Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Writing 5/5
Character Development 5/5
[I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book]
“Only Us” is the second book in Kennedy Fox’s Only One series. This book tells the story of Noah and Katie in a friends-to-lovers, small-town romance novel. On the outside, Katie is seen to have a perfect life, however, behind closed doors, her life is not so flawless. Her husband is unfaithful and although their marriage is on the verge of shambles, her best friend, Noah, has stuck by her side. One night Noah finds Katie’s husband at a bar. As Noah tries to get him home, the two get into a dispute. When Katie’s husband dies, all fingers are pointed at Noah. For years, Noah has kept his distance from Katie, but when his life is threatened, Katie does whatever it takes to save him, even if that means risking her heart.
YOO THIS BOOK STARTED OFF STRONG WITH THAT PROLOGUE!!! I love the plot and how well the story was written. I love how this is an interconnected series and I love that we got to read a bit about Gemma and Tyler again! I love small-town romances and this was just so so so cute! Also, I love a good whump scene and we got it in this book! The | s p i c e | is insane, Kennedy Fox know what they’re doing! I enjoyed seeing Noah and Katie grow throughout the book and I was content with the ending. I can't wait to read more of Kennedy Fox's work!
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Writing 5/5
Character Development 5/5
[I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book]
“Only Us” is the second book in Kennedy Fox’s Only One series. This book tells the story of Noah and Katie in a friends-to-lovers, small-town romance novel. On the outside, Katie is seen to have a perfect life, however, behind closed doors, her life is not so flawless. Her husband is unfaithful and although their marriage is on the verge of shambles, her best friend, Noah, has stuck by her side. One night Noah finds Katie’s husband at a bar. As Noah tries to get him home, the two get into a dispute. When Katie’s husband dies, all fingers are pointed at Noah. For years, Noah has kept his distance from Katie, but when his life is threatened, Katie does whatever it takes to save him, even if that means risking her heart.
YOO THIS BOOK STARTED OFF STRONG WITH THAT PROLOGUE!!! I love the plot and how well the story was written. I love how this is an interconnected series and I love that we got to read a bit about Gemma and Tyler again! I love small-town romances and this was just so so so cute! Also, I love a good whump scene and we got it in this book! The | s p i c e | is insane, Kennedy Fox know what they’re doing! I enjoyed seeing Noah and Katie grow throughout the book and I was content with the ending. I can't wait to read more of Kennedy Fox's work!
September 6, 2022
Noah and Katie’s story was well worth the wait! This was a wonderful best friends romance. I wasn’t sure how this book was going to go since Noah has been in love with Katie for 15 years, is fresh out of a 10year prison stint and the reason that Katie was widowed before her son was even born. But Kennedy Fox did a bang-up job in telling this story.
There is hurt and anger on Katie’s part, not because she blamed him for Gabe’s death, but because he was her best friend and he pushed her away when he went to prison. All Noah wants to do is set things right with the girl who was once his everything. It does take some time before he makes headway, and there is a really tender scene when he finally gets to tell Katie why he pushed her away when he was in prison. Soon after, they admit their true feelings, and they can’t help but wonder if they’d shared those truths back in high school, how would things have been different?
I loved the connection between these two childhood best friends, and how that grows as they fall in love. Noah is so great with Katie's son, Owen, and they really develop a nice relationship themselves. I also really liked the family reconciliations that came about by the end of the book, and there is a great set-up for Everleigh's book with Tyler's former cellmate, Asher. Oh, and that epilogue from Owen's POV was adorable!!
There is hurt and anger on Katie’s part, not because she blamed him for Gabe’s death, but because he was her best friend and he pushed her away when he went to prison. All Noah wants to do is set things right with the girl who was once his everything. It does take some time before he makes headway, and there is a really tender scene when he finally gets to tell Katie why he pushed her away when he was in prison. Soon after, they admit their true feelings, and they can’t help but wonder if they’d shared those truths back in high school, how would things have been different?
I loved the connection between these two childhood best friends, and how that grows as they fall in love. Noah is so great with Katie's son, Owen, and they really develop a nice relationship themselves. I also really liked the family reconciliations that came about by the end of the book, and there is a great set-up for Everleigh's book with Tyler's former cellmate, Asher. Oh, and that epilogue from Owen's POV was adorable!!
September 3, 2022
(Arc)
I thought Tyler and Gemma were gonna be my favorite couple of the series I was wrong. I absolutely loveeeeeee Noah and katie. I was really excited to read about them since we got to know them a bit in the first book. They were best friends who were in love with each other but too scared to say anything, then life happened and now it's years later. Katie is a widowed mom and Noah just got out of prison. There's a lot of emotions between them since the beginning I loved seeing them rebuild their friendship/relationship.
I felt like she could have made him grovel a little bit more but with everything that was going on i understand why she didn't want to waste time being mad at him. There was a lot of twists in this book that kept me coming back for more. The romance was good and the family dynamic was also really good. The only thing I would have liked was if the big plot was talked about a little bit more after it was solved. It was kind of like oh this is happening it gets solved and everyone moves on. A lot of traumatic stuff happens for them to just move on like nothing happened.
Besides that I enjoyed this books and if ur looking for a second chance, small town, best friends to lovers, single mom romance this is the one for you!!
I thought Tyler and Gemma were gonna be my favorite couple of the series I was wrong. I absolutely loveeeeeee Noah and katie. I was really excited to read about them since we got to know them a bit in the first book. They were best friends who were in love with each other but too scared to say anything, then life happened and now it's years later. Katie is a widowed mom and Noah just got out of prison. There's a lot of emotions between them since the beginning I loved seeing them rebuild their friendship/relationship.
I felt like she could have made him grovel a little bit more but with everything that was going on i understand why she didn't want to waste time being mad at him. There was a lot of twists in this book that kept me coming back for more. The romance was good and the family dynamic was also really good. The only thing I would have liked was if the big plot was talked about a little bit more after it was solved. It was kind of like oh this is happening it gets solved and everyone moves on. A lot of traumatic stuff happens for them to just move on like nothing happened.
Besides that I enjoyed this books and if ur looking for a second chance, small town, best friends to lovers, single mom romance this is the one for you!!
September 4, 2022
WHAT A STORY! We had seen parts of Noah and Katie’s story in the previous book but now we got a closer look at what all went down. We started off 10 years ago with a tragic accident. Both Katie and Noah have a very heartbreaking story. Their story becomes beautiful when they finally give in to their feelings and become a couple.
Noah is such a sweetheart and it is very easy to fall in love with him. (I esp love that he doesn’t have a man whore reputation) He has always been in love with his best friend Katie. When his cousin Gabe comes to town and asks her out first, he steps aside to let her be happy. That is, until he doesn’t think she is happy and the unthinkable happens. Fast forward 10 years with Noah getting out of prison and coming back to town.
Katie is furious with Noah but fresh out of jail Noah is ready for second chances and makes it his mission to get Katie to talk to him. Unfortunately, getting Katie to forgive him is actually going to be the easiest thing he has to do. A string of bad things happen to Noah and they soon realize he isn’t safe. The suspense in this story was so good. There were many surprises along the way and I was on the edge of my seat waiting to figure out what was going to happen and who was responsible.
Noah is such a sweetheart and it is very easy to fall in love with him. (I esp love that he doesn’t have a man whore reputation) He has always been in love with his best friend Katie. When his cousin Gabe comes to town and asks her out first, he steps aside to let her be happy. That is, until he doesn’t think she is happy and the unthinkable happens. Fast forward 10 years with Noah getting out of prison and coming back to town.
Katie is furious with Noah but fresh out of jail Noah is ready for second chances and makes it his mission to get Katie to talk to him. Unfortunately, getting Katie to forgive him is actually going to be the easiest thing he has to do. A string of bad things happen to Noah and they soon realize he isn’t safe. The suspense in this story was so good. There were many surprises along the way and I was on the edge of my seat waiting to figure out what was going to happen and who was responsible.
September 12, 2022
I was prepared to be lost in this world after reading the first book and as expected it was yet another emotional rollercoaster which tugged at my heart.
Noah and Katie stole my heart in the first book and after reading what happened with them and the reason for Noah going to prison broke my heart. My heart raced thinking how things would be different if they confessed when they were young but this is how their story was meant to be.
There is so much of raw pain and guilt accumulated over the years which they need to get through to regain the lost friendship. I loved the bond they shared and how Katie was there for Noah despite all the hurt.
It was exhilarating to read them get to know each other again. Develop a deeper friendship and fall in love. I loved the relationship between Noah and Owen and they way he treated Archer.
The threat and suspense kept me on the edge throughout the read. I had to finish it overnight to know the truth (although I guessed half of it).
The letters at the pumpkin patch made my heart race and I was so happy for Noah and Katie. My heart melted when I read Owen's POV in the epilogue.
Desperately waiting to read Everleigh's book.
Thanks to the author duo for the advanced readers copy for a honest review 😊.
Noah and Katie stole my heart in the first book and after reading what happened with them and the reason for Noah going to prison broke my heart. My heart raced thinking how things would be different if they confessed when they were young but this is how their story was meant to be.
There is so much of raw pain and guilt accumulated over the years which they need to get through to regain the lost friendship. I loved the bond they shared and how Katie was there for Noah despite all the hurt.
It was exhilarating to read them get to know each other again. Develop a deeper friendship and fall in love. I loved the relationship between Noah and Owen and they way he treated Archer.
The threat and suspense kept me on the edge throughout the read. I had to finish it overnight to know the truth (although I guessed half of it).
The letters at the pumpkin patch made my heart race and I was so happy for Noah and Katie. My heart melted when I read Owen's POV in the epilogue.
Desperately waiting to read Everleigh's book.
Thanks to the author duo for the advanced readers copy for a honest review 😊.
October 4, 2022
I loved this one! It was sooo good and really pulled me in from beginning to end. I loved watching Katie and Noah find a way back to each other and then as something more. Both always had a thing and loved the other but were never sure how the other one felt and didn't want to chance ruining their friendship. Noah is now out after years in prison from a bad accident and looking to get his life back on track and fix things with Katie. He couldn't handle seeing her while he was in prison, punishing himself by pushing her away and she has been pissed off for years over it. He has a lot of work to do to get her to be on even ground with him. I loved watching these two come together and clear the air. Once that was done they were able to start moving forward with things between them though they still have other obstacles to deal with. Such as someone coming after Noah and putting his life in danger. This story was great. I loved watching things come together and was engaged throughout the story. It easily held my attention and I love Katie, Gemma, and Everleigh together with their banter and antics. This was a great read and I can't wait for the Everleigh's story next!
The narrator did a fantastic job with this story and characters and I really enjoyed it!
The narrator did a fantastic job with this story and characters and I really enjoyed it!
October 16, 2022
Noah Reid is out of prison and back home with family. On the way home, Noah pleads to stop by Katie’s house. He doesn’t have the right especially after ignoring her all these years. Yet, Noah needs to make amends to his best friend. The love of his life. The one woman who will refuse to talk to him. He deserves that reaction. But if Katie would give him a few minutes to explain, she may understand. Besides, she couldn’t stay mad at him forever. Could she?
Katie Walker Reid is a single mom. She has worked hard to provide for her son while being angry at her best friend. She couldn’t deny she was ecstatic that Noah was coming home. But Katie was still angry that Noah cut all contact. Because of that, Katie was going to stay mad at Noah as long as she could. Then Gemma called saying that Noah’s life was in danger. Although Katie planned to remain mad, there was no way she was going to allow someone else to hurt the man she loved.
Katie and Noah are a hoot! Right off you can see the love and adoration between the two. And it doesn’t stop. This adds up to one happily ever after. Fantastic!
I received this book as an advance review copy free from the author. I have read and reviewed this book voluntarily.
--Brenda, JustViews
Katie Walker Reid is a single mom. She has worked hard to provide for her son while being angry at her best friend. She couldn’t deny she was ecstatic that Noah was coming home. But Katie was still angry that Noah cut all contact. Because of that, Katie was going to stay mad at Noah as long as she could. Then Gemma called saying that Noah’s life was in danger. Although Katie planned to remain mad, there was no way she was going to allow someone else to hurt the man she loved.
Katie and Noah are a hoot! Right off you can see the love and adoration between the two. And it doesn’t stop. This adds up to one happily ever after. Fantastic!
I received this book as an advance review copy free from the author. I have read and reviewed this book voluntarily.
--Brenda, JustViews
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