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Smoke #10
Ashes
She had been his sole obsession. He would have done anything to have her and he did. She had been a light in his darkness. She had made him want to be more, better, different.
Nothing mattered more than her.
Until she betrayed him and in a moment of revenge he slept with her stepsister. That one drunken mistake lost him his soul.
Oakley Watson had learned at a young age to protect her heart. Not to trust anyone with it. But when Wilder Jones walked into her life, she didn’t just give it to him -she left it at his feet. Their forever ended the day he told her that he’d gotten her stepsister pregnant.
A love greater than anything she’d ever imagined had burned so brightly she’d been blinded. But that was nine years ago, and all in the past.
The only thing left of the fire that had once been, were the ashes left behind.
Nothing mattered more than her.
Until she betrayed him and in a moment of revenge he slept with her stepsister. That one drunken mistake lost him his soul.
Oakley Watson had learned at a young age to protect her heart. Not to trust anyone with it. But when Wilder Jones walked into her life, she didn’t just give it to him -she left it at his feet. Their forever ended the day he told her that he’d gotten her stepsister pregnant.
A love greater than anything she’d ever imagined had burned so brightly she’d been blinded. But that was nine years ago, and all in the past.
The only thing left of the fire that had once been, were the ashes left behind.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2023
About the author
Abbi Glines
118 books86k followersAbbi Glines is a #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Rosemary Beach, Smoke, Sea Breeze, Vincent Boys, Field Party and Existence series. She never cooks unless baking during the Christmas holiday counts. She believes in ghosts and has a habit of asking people if their house is haunted before she goes in it. She drinks afternoon tea because she wants to be British but she now lives in New England and that's as close as it is going to get. When asked how many books she has written she has to stop and count on her fingers. When she’s not locked away writing, she is reading, watching Netflix and all the introverted stuff.
You can connect with Abbi online in several different ways. She uses social media to procrastinate.
You can connect with Abbi online in several different ways. She uses social media to procrastinate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
December 27, 2023
This man cheats on her, gets another woman pregnant, marrys that other woman, treats her like garbage for 9 years, then once he finds out the truth he has sex with her and tells her they can’t be more, she takes all of this like a beaten dog and NOT once does this man apologize to her. Forget hoping for a grovel. This book was straight trash.
February 5, 2024
Hero is a stupid loser. He hates the heroine for ages because he's the big fat idiot that believes the conniving step-sister's lies. But the h is the soul mate he never got over. Don't bother talking to her, but get the step-sis pregnant because of a Facebook pic where the h is getting hugged by another guy. Hugged. I'm shocked he didn't blame Zuckerberg too as this guy will never take responsibility.
On the other hand, the h has Welcome tattooed on her backside, grateful for any crumb the hero throws her way.
I'm so depressed.
And the cherry on top, he's in the mafia. Yeah, a killer, but he walks the moral high ground.
On the other hand, the h has Welcome tattooed on her backside, grateful for any crumb the hero throws her way.
I'm so depressed.
And the cherry on top, he's in the mafia. Yeah, a killer, but he walks the moral high ground.
December 27, 2023
One of the worst second chance romance I've read.
Oakley (h) went to college so they were in long distance relationship. Her stepsister showed Wilder (H) a photo of h dancing with other man at a party (mind you, he was her friend and also gay), telling him that she was cheating on him. So instead of calling her and letting her explain herself, he got drunk and slept with ow. Then he married ow and on their wedding day he told h that ow was pregnant with his child.
Nine years later ow dies (they divorced after few years, they had shared custody) and h stays taking care of her niece (she loves her very much) after H has to leave for about a week (he's in mafia btw) He hates her and only tolerates her because his daughter loves her. Then her life is threatened (another mafia stuff), he saves her and they sleep together for the first time ever. Then we get to read his inner monologue in which he regrets only one thing - that he wasn't the one to take her virginity (she promised to save it for him):
“Treasure her the way he had wanted to. But she wasn’t a virgin anymore. She wasn’t that girl I had loved.”
“I did. I regretted it—the fact that I had waited nine years to have her, that I hadn’t been the one to take her virginity, that she had been with other men. I had a world of regrets.”
“Should have been mine to take. You should have kept it for me. Not been so impatient. I would have given you all you needed. Taken care of this hot little cunt.” - says someone who literally cheated on her
“Sebastian was the one to take your virginity—something you’d held on to for so long. And you gave it to him. A man I have to see, work with, and know he loved you and had you in a way I never will.” - poor him. Never mind that h had to watch him get married to her own stepsister who was also pregnant with his child.
Then after they sleep together he's like:
“This didn’t have to be more than physical. If I could just touch her, taste her, sink inside of her, then it would be enough. The rest I could shut off. My emotions didn’t have to be connected to my pleasure.”
“Did you want me to say I’d like you to stay because I want to keep fucking you for hours every night or that I’m not ready to stop waking up with you, sweet and willing, in my arms? Because I can promise you, both of those are reasons.” - this is what he tells her when she thinks they are done
Then they have another sex, talk about why he cheated etc., declare their love for each other after he realizes he wants her and the end.
Oakley (h) went to college so they were in long distance relationship. Her stepsister showed Wilder (H) a photo of h dancing with other man at a party (mind you, he was her friend and also gay), telling him that she was cheating on him. So instead of calling her and letting her explain herself, he got drunk and slept with ow. Then he married ow and on their wedding day he told h that ow was pregnant with his child.
Nine years later ow dies (they divorced after few years, they had shared custody) and h stays taking care of her niece (she loves her very much) after H has to leave for about a week (he's in mafia btw) He hates her and only tolerates her because his daughter loves her. Then her life is threatened (another mafia stuff), he saves her and they sleep together for the first time ever. Then we get to read his inner monologue in which he regrets only one thing - that he wasn't the one to take her virginity (she promised to save it for him):
“Treasure her the way he had wanted to. But she wasn’t a virgin anymore. She wasn’t that girl I had loved.”
“I did. I regretted it—the fact that I had waited nine years to have her, that I hadn’t been the one to take her virginity, that she had been with other men. I had a world of regrets.”
“Should have been mine to take. You should have kept it for me. Not been so impatient. I would have given you all you needed. Taken care of this hot little cunt.” - says someone who literally cheated on her
“Sebastian was the one to take your virginity—something you’d held on to for so long. And you gave it to him. A man I have to see, work with, and know he loved you and had you in a way I never will.” - poor him. Never mind that h had to watch him get married to her own stepsister who was also pregnant with his child.
Then after they sleep together he's like:
“This didn’t have to be more than physical. If I could just touch her, taste her, sink inside of her, then it would be enough. The rest I could shut off. My emotions didn’t have to be connected to my pleasure.”
“Did you want me to say I’d like you to stay because I want to keep fucking you for hours every night or that I’m not ready to stop waking up with you, sweet and willing, in my arms? Because I can promise you, both of those are reasons.” - this is what he tells her when she thinks they are done
Then they have another sex, talk about why he cheated etc., declare their love for each other after he realizes he wants her and the end.
February 14, 2024
2.5 - This one had a lot of potential but I feel like Abbi phoned this one in. She didn’t set the stage properly for any of this to make sense.
The h was a selfless angel who everyone loved. Pure in heart and deed. She sh*t sunshine and rainbows…. And yet she was so petty and vindictive that she lied to a judge about the fitness of the hero to father his daughter (the h’s step-niece) - thus keeping him from getting a reasonable 50/50 custody agreement. Say what?? How does that even make sense? I was hoping her family had pressured or coerced her, but no she really is a petty bitch who kept a man from his child because he cheated on her. 😐😐 Not only is this despicable, it’s also completely out of character. Like she had a freaking brain transplant.
Then we find out that the H believed disgusting lies about his sweet baby angel h… lies from the h’s stepsister - who it’s never even established he knows. He took the word of a stranger and 1 picture of a dude hugging the h… no questions asked, even though all other evidence pointed to the h being hopelessly devoted to him…. And that was his reason to get blackout drunk and screw the step sister. Really??
Then he’s all butt hurt that the h lost her vCard to one of his buddies over the last 9 years. And while I did like his initial jealous/possessiveness… it just flitters away in a super abrupt ending. He’s enraged about it, but they don’t really talk about it and there’s no resolution. And he never has any introspection about what a shithead he was to sleep with and impregnate her step-sister (drunk or not) on the basis of a single picture. Where’s his horror over THAT?? (PS - you can regret your actions even if you don’t regret your daughter. Those two things can and should coexist, you lame asshole.) I thought we’d get some good claiming scenes while they work through their grief over their stolen years and all the consequences of that. I was expecting a confrontation/resolution between the men - maybe where the OM points out what jackass hypocrite the hero is 👀🤷🏼♀️ - … but nope it’s just brought up then the book is over. It was so weird.
Also, the heroine (27) apparently has been engaged FIVE times… but the only sex that is mentioned between her and these OM is when she gave her vCard up… and that wasn’t good… so was that it? He broke up with her when she was 18. So in 9 years she only had sex one time with her many fiancés? Why isn’t this explained or explored? He’s so upset about her being with his friend but he has no questions about the other fiancés? It doesn’t make sense and leaves the story feeling unfinished.
And what about him? Who has he been banging the past 9 years? He didn’t have feelings for the sister, but it’s never said if they had relations or not after he married her because she was pregnant. Just that he avoided her. They were married for 3 years. I feel like all of this is important info.
Also since when do any of these men in the “Southern Mafia” give a sh*t about an age gap??? What was keeping the H from being with the h when she turned 18 (he was almost 25)? Why the hell was he so set on sending her off to college to “grow up” and “experience other men” so she’d know what she wants?? And then why was that also the reason he got someone else pregnant??? Even if it wasn’t true… wasn’t that what he wanted and expected?? I really hate this thinking by an H and I hate it even more when it doesn’t make any sense for the characters or the story.
Why wasn’t he more curious about what was going on with her and her family? Both in the past and the present? He was super perceptive about her relationship with his cousin but totally tone deaf about the abuse she received by her family and didn’t ever really ask much about it when he had the chance. He was so protective in other ways. It was bizarre and didn’t make sense.
Also I spent the whole book thinking that the heroine thought the H was “unfit” because he was involved in The Southern Mafia (🙄) but we find out at the end of the book she didn’t even know that at the time. She’s *shocked* to find out in present time. So WTF did she tell the judge?? And why would this woman who loved the H’s daughter so fiercely keep her from her father and leave her with a truly unfit mother?? Just to be petty? Make it make sense.
Anyway. This book felt unfinished even though I was entertained. It has some really great angsty moments that I felt like should have been fleshed out. It’s a shame because I was definitely interested in their story. And it’s one of maybe 2 in this series without gratuitous on-page OW sex. 😐
The h was a selfless angel who everyone loved. Pure in heart and deed. She sh*t sunshine and rainbows…. And yet she was so petty and vindictive that she lied to a judge about the fitness of the hero to father his daughter (the h’s step-niece) - thus keeping him from getting a reasonable 50/50 custody agreement. Say what?? How does that even make sense? I was hoping her family had pressured or coerced her, but no she really is a petty bitch who kept a man from his child because he cheated on her. 😐😐 Not only is this despicable, it’s also completely out of character. Like she had a freaking brain transplant.
Then we find out that the H believed disgusting lies about his sweet baby angel h… lies from the h’s stepsister - who it’s never even established he knows. He took the word of a stranger and 1 picture of a dude hugging the h… no questions asked, even though all other evidence pointed to the h being hopelessly devoted to him…. And that was his reason to get blackout drunk and screw the step sister. Really??
Then he’s all butt hurt that the h lost her vCard to one of his buddies over the last 9 years. And while I did like his initial jealous/possessiveness… it just flitters away in a super abrupt ending. He’s enraged about it, but they don’t really talk about it and there’s no resolution. And he never has any introspection about what a shithead he was to sleep with and impregnate her step-sister (drunk or not) on the basis of a single picture. Where’s his horror over THAT?? (PS - you can regret your actions even if you don’t regret your daughter. Those two things can and should coexist, you lame asshole.) I thought we’d get some good claiming scenes while they work through their grief over their stolen years and all the consequences of that. I was expecting a confrontation/resolution between the men - maybe where the OM points out what jackass hypocrite the hero is 👀🤷🏼♀️ - … but nope it’s just brought up then the book is over. It was so weird.
Also, the heroine (27) apparently has been engaged FIVE times… but the only sex that is mentioned between her and these OM is when she gave her vCard up… and that wasn’t good… so was that it? He broke up with her when she was 18. So in 9 years she only had sex one time with her many fiancés? Why isn’t this explained or explored? He’s so upset about her being with his friend but he has no questions about the other fiancés? It doesn’t make sense and leaves the story feeling unfinished.
And what about him? Who has he been banging the past 9 years? He didn’t have feelings for the sister, but it’s never said if they had relations or not after he married her because she was pregnant. Just that he avoided her. They were married for 3 years. I feel like all of this is important info.
Also since when do any of these men in the “Southern Mafia” give a sh*t about an age gap??? What was keeping the H from being with the h when she turned 18 (he was almost 25)? Why the hell was he so set on sending her off to college to “grow up” and “experience other men” so she’d know what she wants?? And then why was that also the reason he got someone else pregnant??? Even if it wasn’t true… wasn’t that what he wanted and expected?? I really hate this thinking by an H and I hate it even more when it doesn’t make any sense for the characters or the story.
Why wasn’t he more curious about what was going on with her and her family? Both in the past and the present? He was super perceptive about her relationship with his cousin but totally tone deaf about the abuse she received by her family and didn’t ever really ask much about it when he had the chance. He was so protective in other ways. It was bizarre and didn’t make sense.
Also I spent the whole book thinking that the heroine thought the H was “unfit” because he was involved in The Southern Mafia (🙄) but we find out at the end of the book she didn’t even know that at the time. She’s *shocked* to find out in present time. So WTF did she tell the judge?? And why would this woman who loved the H’s daughter so fiercely keep her from her father and leave her with a truly unfit mother?? Just to be petty? Make it make sense.
Anyway. This book felt unfinished even though I was entertained. It has some really great angsty moments that I felt like should have been fleshed out. It’s a shame because I was definitely interested in their story. And it’s one of maybe 2 in this series without gratuitous on-page OW sex. 😐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2024
🎭Sigh…I probably shouldn’t…but I probably will…and I did🎭
You’d think there would be some sort of growth or grovel at the very least.
He NEVER apologises. NOT ONCE. Not one single sorry. No remorse. Regrets, yes. But not one single word or deed of reparation.
Sarah - H and ow’s drunk revenge cheat child
Oakley - h
Wilder - H
Sylvia - ow, his ex wife, her stepsister
Her: …“I never had sex with anyone in college,”
Him: … “His dark, piercing gaze hardened. “You’re lying.”…
Her:… “I’m not.”…he had believed I was cheating on him? I couldn’t wrap my head around that. I had worshipped the ground he walked on.”
Him:… “She told me,” he said with an enraged breath. “Sylvia told me, and I believed her.”… “She had pictures of you at parties. ”… “You can’t deny a fucking picture, Oakley. You might not have been having sex with him [Sam, her gay friend], but you sure as hell were cozy with him. ”
Her:…“Sam is gay….”… “Knowing the truth, it helps. I understand, and maybe I can finally heal. Finally let go of what we once were. Maybe…”
Him:… “Can you? Because I don’t think that’s what this knowledge does for me. ”
“I have a fucking mountain of regrets I made with you that I’m not sure I can work through. At least not anytime soon.” The agony in his expression, which he wasn’t even trying to mask, broke me.”
He spends 85% of the book not loving the h:
“…the two females in my life who had ever had a hold on me. The one [h] who HAD owned my heart once and the one [H x ow affair child] who had healed it.”
He spends 85% of the book hating and disliking the h:
“the one female on earth [the h] who I didn’t like could bring her [his daughter] joy. ”
Then (((SUDDENLY))) like in a few minutes/sentences, not even over a period of time - by the last 3rd of the book:
“Emotions for this woman that I had thought were gone, never to return, came barreling back with a vengeance. ”
But of course:
“I had to put her [his daughter] first. Not my need for Oakley Watson [h].”
And just when he I thought he’d make some kind of worthy hero:
“Dad,” Sarah said against my arm.
I wasn’t able to let her go yet. “Yeah, sweetheart?”
“Oaky loves you too.”
I stilled, but said nothing. What the hell had Oakley said to Sarah? I should be angry. Pissed the fuck off. We weren’t going to upset Sarah anymore. No rocking her world and upsetting the balance of things.”
and…
Him: “Why was it that all the reasons for not pursuing her made sense during the day, but at night, none of that shit mattered? I had her in my arms, and I felt like a damn king.”
Me: *scoff…as if you don’t know, arsehole.
Meanwhile…
Miss Crumbs, I’ll-Settle-For-Less-cos-I-luf-him:
Him: “I want you. But I’m not sure if I trust myself to love you.”
Her: I wanted to tell him that if he was going to love me, then he wouldn’t be able to control it. He’d just love me. It would be a force that took over and roared to life. The fact that he thought he could keep from loving me meant he never really would.
That was a sorrow I would carry my entire life. One that trumped all other losses I’d faced.
But for now, I had him. He was mine.”
“I would make my memories with him, and when we were done, I would suffer in silence. I had to—for Sarah.”
Nothing that they say and do and think after this point changes my mind about her continuing to be:
the twofer: the convenient lay and the babysitter.
What rankles even more is the fact that he knew she loved him even while he treated her like shite:
Her: “I love you,” I said feeling the words warm me.”
Him: “I know,” he said with a crooked grin. “You might not have said the words in nine years, but those pretty blue eyes don’t lie. They never have.”
…And then it’s just THE END…
…some conflict…someMafia stuff…no growth…the end…
🙄
You’d think there would be some sort of growth or grovel at the very least.
He NEVER apologises. NOT ONCE. Not one single sorry. No remorse. Regrets, yes. But not one single word or deed of reparation.
Sarah - H and ow’s drunk revenge cheat child
Oakley - h
Wilder - H
Sylvia - ow, his ex wife, her stepsister
Her: …“I never had sex with anyone in college,”
Him: … “His dark, piercing gaze hardened. “You’re lying.”…
Her:… “I’m not.”…he had believed I was cheating on him? I couldn’t wrap my head around that. I had worshipped the ground he walked on.”
Him:… “She told me,” he said with an enraged breath. “Sylvia told me, and I believed her.”… “She had pictures of you at parties. ”… “You can’t deny a fucking picture, Oakley. You might not have been having sex with him [Sam, her gay friend], but you sure as hell were cozy with him. ”
Her:…“Sam is gay….”… “Knowing the truth, it helps. I understand, and maybe I can finally heal. Finally let go of what we once were. Maybe…”
Him:… “Can you? Because I don’t think that’s what this knowledge does for me. ”
“I have a fucking mountain of regrets I made with you that I’m not sure I can work through. At least not anytime soon.” The agony in his expression, which he wasn’t even trying to mask, broke me.”
He spends 85% of the book not loving the h:
“…the two females in my life who had ever had a hold on me. The one [h] who HAD owned my heart once and the one [H x ow affair child] who had healed it.”
He spends 85% of the book hating and disliking the h:
“the one female on earth [the h] who I didn’t like could bring her [his daughter] joy. ”
Then (((SUDDENLY))) like in a few minutes/sentences, not even over a period of time - by the last 3rd of the book:
“Emotions for this woman that I had thought were gone, never to return, came barreling back with a vengeance. ”
But of course:
“I had to put her [his daughter] first. Not my need for Oakley Watson [h].”
And just when he I thought he’d make some kind of worthy hero:
“Dad,” Sarah said against my arm.
I wasn’t able to let her go yet. “Yeah, sweetheart?”
“Oaky loves you too.”
I stilled, but said nothing. What the hell had Oakley said to Sarah? I should be angry. Pissed the fuck off. We weren’t going to upset Sarah anymore. No rocking her world and upsetting the balance of things.”
and…
Him: “Why was it that all the reasons for not pursuing her made sense during the day, but at night, none of that shit mattered? I had her in my arms, and I felt like a damn king.”
Me: *scoff…as if you don’t know, arsehole.
Meanwhile…
Miss Crumbs, I’ll-Settle-For-Less-cos-I-luf-him:
Him: “I want you. But I’m not sure if I trust myself to love you.”
Her: I wanted to tell him that if he was going to love me, then he wouldn’t be able to control it. He’d just love me. It would be a force that took over and roared to life. The fact that he thought he could keep from loving me meant he never really would.
That was a sorrow I would carry my entire life. One that trumped all other losses I’d faced.
But for now, I had him. He was mine.”
“I would make my memories with him, and when we were done, I would suffer in silence. I had to—for Sarah.”
Nothing that they say and do and think after this point changes my mind about her continuing to be:
the twofer: the convenient lay and the babysitter.
What rankles even more is the fact that he knew she loved him even while he treated her like shite:
Her: “I love you,” I said feeling the words warm me.”
Him: “I know,” he said with a crooked grin. “You might not have said the words in nine years, but those pretty blue eyes don’t lie. They never have.”
…And then it’s just THE END…
…some conflict…someMafia stuff…no growth…the end…
🙄
December 21, 2023
This series just keeps getting better with every single book. I’ve been dying for Wilder’s story since Straight Fire, Gage and Shiloh’s book came out. I couldn’t wait to find out more about his past. This book did not disappoint, it was everything I needed it to be. I’m usually not a fan of the story line switching between now and then, but it really worked in this book. As always, Abbi Glines knocked it out of the park and I can’t wait to see what’s next for the series.
Shelved as 'don-t-waste-my-time'
March 20, 2024I feel like I need brain bleach just from reading the reviews. Why do so many romance authors hate women?!?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2023
I was not impressed with Wilder because he didn't deserve Oatley. Sorry, not sorry. His butt hurt was ridiculous. Oatley was a saint and a doormat.
February 12, 2024
I wish I could rate this one higher because I was so sucked up and entertained while reading it. I liked the story and both characters and the way they loved each other but, I struggle with vindictive hs.
The h. I liked her in every other way. It’s such a shame. I don’t if AG really realized how this one move would ruin her character. The fact that she would risk the safety and happiness of her niece, who she absolutely adores, just to be petty and hurt the H really bothered me. I figured it was because she knew he was in the mafia and was generally being honest to the judge about him not being a good choice for custody especially since we have this whole narrative about how this h is always honest. But, no, we find out later that she had no clue he was in the mafia. She admits that she did this to hurt him. I could maybe, maybe forgive her of that if the little girls mother was good and loving but she’s not. She’s a drug addict, she’s horrible and mean, and dealing with major mental health issues. Issues that are so bad that the h has to quit her job to take care of the daughter. 😵💫😵💫 Just to be a petty bitch you’re willing to ruin a little girls life? Ugh, ughhhhhh. Everyone is all pissed about the H getting drunk and sleeping with the hs stepsister when he was heart broken and thought the h cheated. I think what the h did was way worse. Sure the H is a dumbass and he should have talked to the h at the very least, if he couldn’t trust her which he should have, about the evidence he’s been shown but the h purposely made this decision to do this years after they have broken up. Without that one component, i can’t with purposefully cruel hs-they will not ever be my thing, I would have really liked this.
I liked that he had to deal with the fact that she dated a few guys in his inner circle including one that wanted to marry her and she lost her virginity too. It was delicious how that made him rage knowing the decision he made kept him from being her first. All the stuff with the holidays and the little girl was so much fun. I don’t always like books with kids but I really liked Sarah and how the plot revolved around her.
The h. I liked her in every other way. It’s such a shame. I don’t if AG really realized how this one move would ruin her character. The fact that she would risk the safety and happiness of her niece, who she absolutely adores, just to be petty and hurt the H really bothered me. I figured it was because she knew he was in the mafia and was generally being honest to the judge about him not being a good choice for custody especially since we have this whole narrative about how this h is always honest. But, no, we find out later that she had no clue he was in the mafia. She admits that she did this to hurt him. I could maybe, maybe forgive her of that if the little girls mother was good and loving but she’s not. She’s a drug addict, she’s horrible and mean, and dealing with major mental health issues. Issues that are so bad that the h has to quit her job to take care of the daughter. 😵💫😵💫 Just to be a petty bitch you’re willing to ruin a little girls life? Ugh, ughhhhhh. Everyone is all pissed about the H getting drunk and sleeping with the hs stepsister when he was heart broken and thought the h cheated. I think what the h did was way worse. Sure the H is a dumbass and he should have talked to the h at the very least, if he couldn’t trust her which he should have, about the evidence he’s been shown but the h purposely made this decision to do this years after they have broken up. Without that one component, i can’t with purposefully cruel hs-they will not ever be my thing, I would have really liked this.
I liked that he had to deal with the fact that she dated a few guys in his inner circle including one that wanted to marry her and she lost her virginity too. It was delicious how that made him rage knowing the decision he made kept him from being her first. All the stuff with the holidays and the little girl was so much fun. I don’t always like books with kids but I really liked Sarah and how the plot revolved around her.
Shelved as 'avoid'
February 14, 2024Just read other 1star reviews and avoid this
He’s a cheater
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
He’s a cheater
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 4, 2024
Yea… I agree with a lot of other people, this guy sucks and the h was a complete doormat. There’s no grovel, let alone an apology. We also don’t get any reason on why the OW acted the way she did or the history behind the three of them. We don’t even get any closure with the h and her family.
This was the first book in this series that I’ve read and I was a bit confused. They were the mafia, but they acted like some special ops team? I think the other books are needed for a clearer picture.
I normally really like this author, but this one didn’t work for me.
This was the first book in this series that I’ve read and I was a bit confused. They were the mafia, but they acted like some special ops team? I think the other books are needed for a clearer picture.
I normally really like this author, but this one didn’t work for me.
December 25, 2023
Wilder and Oakley were beautiful...until he broke them! I loved having both the present and back story of these two. Add Wilder's daughter, Sarah, and what great central characters this book has. But Wilder is stubborn and refuses to see what's right in front of him. It broke my heart when Sarah was telling Wilder the things that she heard and the way Oakley just expected to be left behind by everyone. Fabulous book to end the year!!
December 21, 2023
Alrighty - apparently Abbi Glines can write 10 books in a year about the Southern Mafia and finish off the year with an entire new cast of characters within the Southern Mafia that I now need stories for asap!
This is how good this series is- she just branched off and I’m here for it. I loved Wilder. We met him with Gage’s story and I’m happy he got his HEA - Sarah was the cutest kid and I loved the banter.
I read a lot of books, have a short attention span but this entire series just sucks me in. The author introduces a cast of characters you fall in love with, need more off and also want to smack!
Let’s just keep them coming Abbi!
This is how good this series is- she just branched off and I’m here for it. I loved Wilder. We met him with Gage’s story and I’m happy he got his HEA - Sarah was the cutest kid and I loved the banter.
I read a lot of books, have a short attention span but this entire series just sucks me in. The author introduces a cast of characters you fall in love with, need more off and also want to smack!
Let’s just keep them coming Abbi!
December 26, 2023
Abbi Glines is on fire!!! The Smoke series continues with Ashes and brings us a whole new cast of characters to love! I can't seem to get these books to last more than 2 days!
Walker Jones and Oakly Watson were once deeply in love. Walker is six years older and wanted to take things slow. He never expected her betrayal while away at college. This led to a bad decision with an avalanche effect...
Oakly had always been that girl. The one men wanted to possess.
What to say! Wilder is having a hard time seeing Oakly again. Her betrayal is still raw even after all of these years. That makes him a bit mean or angry. Oakly is a victim of circumstances. That has made her insecure and full of self-doubt. But she projects herself in a positive way. She is kind and loyal. Their story has a slow burn to it going between the past and the present. It took a while before Oakly's betrayal was revealed. Add in some drama and a twist and then BAM! I need the next book! The Tropes are Second Chance Romance, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers, and Age Gap.
Damn her for being a walking wet dream. Destroying men everywhere she went.
Abbi Glines has been pumping out this series and I am LOVING IT! Sexy, fun, possessive alphas, mafia. What more do you need? There were some funny lines toward the end. For those who have read the series you will love the meet up with Gage! Wilder's daughter Sarah fit nicely into the story along with her dog, Belladonna. Scorch (book #9) was one of my favorites in the Smoke series but Ashes is right there with it! And next up is Micha's story in Bombshell!
The only thing left of the fire that had once been, were the ashes left behind.
All of the Smoke series books are interconnected and can be read as a stand-alone. Although it is best to read them in order. Enjoy!
#AuthorAbbiGlines #Ashes #Scorch #Burn #Smokeshow #Fireball #SmokeBomb #WhiskeySmoke #HotAndSteamy #WilderAndOakly #SmokeSeries #Romance #Mafia #FriendToLovers
Walker Jones and Oakly Watson were once deeply in love. Walker is six years older and wanted to take things slow. He never expected her betrayal while away at college. This led to a bad decision with an avalanche effect...
Oakly had always been that girl. The one men wanted to possess.
What to say! Wilder is having a hard time seeing Oakly again. Her betrayal is still raw even after all of these years. That makes him a bit mean or angry. Oakly is a victim of circumstances. That has made her insecure and full of self-doubt. But she projects herself in a positive way. She is kind and loyal. Their story has a slow burn to it going between the past and the present. It took a while before Oakly's betrayal was revealed. Add in some drama and a twist and then BAM! I need the next book! The Tropes are Second Chance Romance, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers, and Age Gap.
Damn her for being a walking wet dream. Destroying men everywhere she went.
Abbi Glines has been pumping out this series and I am LOVING IT! Sexy, fun, possessive alphas, mafia. What more do you need? There were some funny lines toward the end. For those who have read the series you will love the meet up with Gage! Wilder's daughter Sarah fit nicely into the story along with her dog, Belladonna. Scorch (book #9) was one of my favorites in the Smoke series but Ashes is right there with it! And next up is Micha's story in Bombshell!
The only thing left of the fire that had once been, were the ashes left behind.
All of the Smoke series books are interconnected and can be read as a stand-alone. Although it is best to read them in order. Enjoy!
#AuthorAbbiGlines #Ashes #Scorch #Burn #Smokeshow #Fireball #SmokeBomb #WhiskeySmoke #HotAndSteamy #WilderAndOakly #SmokeSeries #Romance #Mafia #FriendToLovers
January 21, 2024
ASHES by Abbi Glines is book 10 in the Smoke Series. This is the story of Walker Jones and Oakly Watson. Walker and Oakly where once in love but Walker was told that Oakly had done something that made Walker break that off. Walker ended up marrying someone else while Oakly was devastated. This book has them clearing up the misunderstanding and getting a second chance.
December 30, 2023
This was one of my favorite books in this series.
Oakley and Wilder were both people that make mistakes that required forgiveness for them to move on.
Sarah was the glue that held them together.
The connection to the Hughes didn’t overtake the story and added another angle without getting lost in the characters we already met.
Oakley and Wilder were both people that make mistakes that required forgiveness for them to move on.
Sarah was the glue that held them together.
The connection to the Hughes didn’t overtake the story and added another angle without getting lost in the characters we already met.
January 21, 2024
4.25 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 4, 2024
Wow! This is not the kind of work I expect from Abbi Glines. Full of typical old school clichés. So disappointed.
January 7, 2024
I didn't like it at all . It lacks the main element for second chance romance . True love which was clear with every step. They want each other nothing could stop this union everyone is supporting pushing them tobe together . No remorse for both of them. Heroine is really weak. She has no self respect. Once she got a chance she jumped into his bed she has zero self respect . I have to skip so many pages because I am searching for a good dialogue or something about pain or what she went through until she found her place in this world. Nothing . If it was true love and betrayal ,she would feel deep pain and would resist him to not feel this way again. Unfortunately what she had been through was not easy . I am sorry I don't have a second chance love .all I got pathetic couple with zero self respect .
January 2, 2024
I Wanna Like This Series, But it's Difficult
Terrible, terrible ending! Tell a great back story about them and then BAM - story is over! Probably one of the worse endings to a non-cliffhanger book.
I'm glad that the author has backed off some of the vulgarity and profanity that she was using to write this series.
Terrible, terrible ending! Tell a great back story about them and then BAM - story is over! Probably one of the worse endings to a non-cliffhanger book.
I'm glad that the author has backed off some of the vulgarity and profanity that she was using to write this series.
January 12, 2024
Wilder got on my nerves he didn't deserve Oakley.
Smoke has been one of my favorite Abbi Glines series. Her heroes obsession with their girls is something I love to read from her BUT I didn't like Wilder.
He never showed any feelings towards the heroine, not even at the end (which was too abrupt). He needed to suffer, to grovel, to ask for forgiveness.
Smoke has been one of my favorite Abbi Glines series. Her heroes obsession with their girls is something I love to read from her BUT I didn't like Wilder.
He never showed any feelings towards the heroine, not even at the end (which was too abrupt). He needed to suffer, to grovel, to ask for forgiveness.
January 25, 2024
I mostly just can’t believe what I just read… The MMC literally hooks up with/marries/HAS A BABY WITH the FMC’s stepsister because the stepsister (WHO HATES THE FMC) told him she was cheating on him. AND HE JUST BELIEVES HER. But supposedly claims to love her. LIKE WHAT?! And then the FMC just takes him back!!!! Wait actually, not even that, she’s basically willing to be his fuck toy first while not even knowing why he cheated with her stepsister. Like just goes I’ll love him enough for the both of us as he HAS SEX WITH HER & SAYS IT’LL NEVER BE MORE THAN THAT. Not ONCE does this man even apologize to her for treating her like shit & believing her stepsister (who, once again, LITERALLY HATES HER - AND HE KNOWS THIS) and then they STILL END UP TOGETHER?! WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2023
No one quite ensnares me like Abbi Glines!! This whole series has been such a unique deviation from what first drew me to her work, and I'm loving exploring this whole Smoke world. I mean Abbi Glines and mafia?! But what I adore about her writing works so well with this beloved trope. Possessive, obsessive, and edgey alpha leading mean, soft and vulnerable heroines who grow into their strength, and SO MUCH drama and angst. I've loved many of the stories in the prolific series, but this is definitely high up there, especially since I have a soft spot for softer heroines AND single dads. Each are interconnected (characters and plotlines show up in following stories, but each can be read as a standlone. Ashes felt. bit slower burn, but was still utterly delicious. I loved the chemistry between these two, I loved our scene stealing kiddo (and her dogg0), and I love this big mad, fun mafia crew.
December 23, 2023
Rating 4.5
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶
Tropes:
- Mafia Romance
- Second chance
- Enemies to lovers
- Single dad
- Angsty
- Spice
- Slow burn
Triggers in this book include:
Suicide, family trauma, bullying, abuse, kidnapping, and stalking.
Abbi Glines is the Queen of angst and the right amount of spice. She always leaves you wanting more, and the needing the next book asap. I'm so excited that Micha's story is next.
This book is between Wilder, whom we met in Gage and Shiloh's book as her neighbor, and Oakley. This book takes you into the Georgia Southern Mafia. Introducing you to new characters who don't worry still works for Blaise. You still get to hear from the amazing characters from the Florida chapter, while she delivers you equally hot and mysteriously new mafia men.
This story is a slow burn but still gives you ask the angst. It also gives you a glimpse into the past between Wilder and Oakley. The love they once had and the betrayal they went through. Oh, how my heart ached for Oakley. Everything she had gone through from her own family to even Wilder himself. This book is the one I could relate to a character the most.
Even though Wilder himself knew exactly what Oakley's family did to her and put her through, he still treated her just like they did. Even believing them, which lead to mistakes and 1 night Wilder could never take back. Oakley left her heart at Wilders feet that day he chose to marry her stepsister, and she never loved anyone else. Until Sarah, her niece came along. Can we talk about how cute and amazing Sarah is. Always having her Aunt Oaky back and giving her the love she needed to go on. Even trying to be a matchmaker for her. That little girl was so loveable. I imagine the author put some of her own little girl into Sarah.
Oakley is such a strong, loving, and beautiful woman. Loving Sarah like a real mother should, even though she was her aunt. Oakley never had 1 person in her life on her side to love her once her own mother died, then her Granny. She had Wilder, an older guy, who gave her the love and support she needed. Once that was gone, all she had was Sarah. The fear that Wilder would take her away from her niece after her sister died. Even though Wilder hated Oakley, he could never hurt his daughter that way. Oakley was Sarah's favorite person in the world. You could feel their love for each other. More as a mother daughter relationship, but when you read the book, you'll understand that part. Oakley always gives Sarah what a little girl needs from a woman in her life. What a mother should give their child. Even if Sarah wasn't hers, she protected and kept her safe at the time she needed to. Wilder hated that Oakley did all these things with and for Sarah.I hated how Wilder treated Oakley throughout this book. When he did learn the truth, I secretly wished he would have broken his hand, punching that rock wall. When Wilder did decide he wanted Oakley, he still held himself and her back from the love they both secretly wanted. I enjoyed when Wilder went crazy with worry for Oakley when the suspense and threat happened.
Abbi Glines always delivers in her books. She keeps me stuck on her pages. Always on the edge of my seat and at times cussing out the MMC in her books. Most of the men in her books need a wake-up call, but always delivering an equally matched character to give them the wake-up call they need. She gives you suspense, action, and all the stream and spice. I'm always a fan of this authors writing. Waiting for the next book to come out is the hardest part.
I received this book as an ARC through Wordsmith Publicity. Thank you to Autumn in their team and Abbi herself for letting me read this book. Now I need the next one soon!
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶
Tropes:
- Mafia Romance
- Second chance
- Enemies to lovers
- Single dad
- Angsty
- Spice
- Slow burn
Triggers in this book include:
Suicide, family trauma, bullying, abuse, kidnapping, and stalking.
Abbi Glines is the Queen of angst and the right amount of spice. She always leaves you wanting more, and the needing the next book asap. I'm so excited that Micha's story is next.
This book is between Wilder, whom we met in Gage and Shiloh's book as her neighbor, and Oakley. This book takes you into the Georgia Southern Mafia. Introducing you to new characters who don't worry still works for Blaise. You still get to hear from the amazing characters from the Florida chapter, while she delivers you equally hot and mysteriously new mafia men.
This story is a slow burn but still gives you ask the angst. It also gives you a glimpse into the past between Wilder and Oakley. The love they once had and the betrayal they went through. Oh, how my heart ached for Oakley. Everything she had gone through from her own family to even Wilder himself. This book is the one I could relate to a character the most.
Even though Wilder himself knew exactly what Oakley's family did to her and put her through, he still treated her just like they did. Even believing them, which lead to mistakes and 1 night Wilder could never take back. Oakley left her heart at Wilders feet that day he chose to marry her stepsister, and she never loved anyone else. Until Sarah, her niece came along. Can we talk about how cute and amazing Sarah is. Always having her Aunt Oaky back and giving her the love she needed to go on. Even trying to be a matchmaker for her. That little girl was so loveable. I imagine the author put some of her own little girl into Sarah.
Oakley is such a strong, loving, and beautiful woman. Loving Sarah like a real mother should, even though she was her aunt. Oakley never had 1 person in her life on her side to love her once her own mother died, then her Granny. She had Wilder, an older guy, who gave her the love and support she needed. Once that was gone, all she had was Sarah. The fear that Wilder would take her away from her niece after her sister died. Even though Wilder hated Oakley, he could never hurt his daughter that way. Oakley was Sarah's favorite person in the world. You could feel their love for each other. More as a mother daughter relationship, but when you read the book, you'll understand that part. Oakley always gives Sarah what a little girl needs from a woman in her life. What a mother should give their child. Even if Sarah wasn't hers, she protected and kept her safe at the time she needed to. Wilder hated that Oakley did all these things with and for Sarah.I hated how Wilder treated Oakley throughout this book. When he did learn the truth, I secretly wished he would have broken his hand, punching that rock wall. When Wilder did decide he wanted Oakley, he still held himself and her back from the love they both secretly wanted. I enjoyed when Wilder went crazy with worry for Oakley when the suspense and threat happened.
Abbi Glines always delivers in her books. She keeps me stuck on her pages. Always on the edge of my seat and at times cussing out the MMC in her books. Most of the men in her books need a wake-up call, but always delivering an equally matched character to give them the wake-up call they need. She gives you suspense, action, and all the stream and spice. I'm always a fan of this authors writing. Waiting for the next book to come out is the hardest part.
I received this book as an ARC through Wordsmith Publicity. Thank you to Autumn in their team and Abbi herself for letting me read this book. Now I need the next one soon!
January 1, 2024
Oakley Watson has wanted to claim Wilder Jones as her own since the moment she met him, but with age differences and other outside forces the time for them was never really right. Then he married her step sister and her hopes of him becoming hers were dashed, so she moved on. But now life has given them a second chance... but can she really give the guy her broke her heart years ago a second chance?
The pages of Ashes will have you at their mercy from beginning to end, it's words so captivating that it's impossible to put the book down. Oakley and Wilder have a past, one that is filled with hurt and hate, and now that they are thrown back into one another's lives they have to decide if it's time to let the past go and find common ground or continue to hide from their true feelings and keep their distance. It's a reunion that is bound to do a number on your heart, but well worth the pain... I promise!!
I loved what I found between the pages here, in true fashion Ms. Glines has once again given us a story brimming with drama and heart torturing emotion that captivates on a whole other level. The moment you meet these wonderfully crafted characters you won't be able to let them go. They'll find their way into your heart and just keep drawing you farther into their dangerous world and making it impossible for you to leave. I thought it would be hard for Ms. Glines to top her Rosemary series, as is it pretty amazing, but she is doing it with this new venture of hers, the Smoke series has easily become my favorite of mine!! One that I highly recommend you check out!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
The pages of Ashes will have you at their mercy from beginning to end, it's words so captivating that it's impossible to put the book down. Oakley and Wilder have a past, one that is filled with hurt and hate, and now that they are thrown back into one another's lives they have to decide if it's time to let the past go and find common ground or continue to hide from their true feelings and keep their distance. It's a reunion that is bound to do a number on your heart, but well worth the pain... I promise!!
I loved what I found between the pages here, in true fashion Ms. Glines has once again given us a story brimming with drama and heart torturing emotion that captivates on a whole other level. The moment you meet these wonderfully crafted characters you won't be able to let them go. They'll find their way into your heart and just keep drawing you farther into their dangerous world and making it impossible for you to leave. I thought it would be hard for Ms. Glines to top her Rosemary series, as is it pretty amazing, but she is doing it with this new venture of hers, the Smoke series has easily become my favorite of mine!! One that I highly recommend you check out!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
December 26, 2023
I liked Wilder from when he appeared in Straight Fire, so I was excited to read his story. I read this book with a lot of fascination and some frustration. I can’t believe a guy can be so dumb and stubborn in trying to hate a woman that deep down, he really loves. How can you know a woman and not really know how she operates? The question of the year!
Wilder and Oakley met when she was sixteen, he was twenty-three. From the get-go, Wilder was entranced by Oakley’s beauty and warm personality. He only befriended her because he deemed her too young for him. He kept them on a friendship basis until she turned eighteen, then they started dating until she went to college and he went hostile to her.
Soon he was marrying her stepsister whom he got pregnant, and thus starts nine years of unrequited love and enmity. I was so angry at Wilder! He suddenly starts hating her and never thought to talk to her and clear things up? As the book progresses and the mafia business starts heating up, truths are revealed little by little. In all events, Oakley is only guilty of loving Wilder without hope and without much pride. Her feelings and her heart are always open and visible as she loves this man and forgives him for the way he treats her.
I loved Oakley, her generous spirit and how hard she loves. Loved little Sarah, who had an idillic childhood thanks to Oakley and none to her mother. As for Wilder, I could cheerfully smack him for being such an idiot. I loved how he progressed from being a jerk to Oakley, to being grateful for making little Sarah happy, to being possessive and jealous, and finally!, giving in to the huge love he’s always had for her.
The story, as all the stories in this series, is fascinating and riveting. I loved the glimpses we got of Gage, Kye, Hunk, and Blaise. This is the Georgia branch of the Southern Mafia and I can’t wait to continue reading on the other guys, especially Thatcher. He gives me vibes he’s psycho like Gage!
Wilder and Oakley met when she was sixteen, he was twenty-three. From the get-go, Wilder was entranced by Oakley’s beauty and warm personality. He only befriended her because he deemed her too young for him. He kept them on a friendship basis until she turned eighteen, then they started dating until she went to college and he went hostile to her.
Soon he was marrying her stepsister whom he got pregnant, and thus starts nine years of unrequited love and enmity. I was so angry at Wilder! He suddenly starts hating her and never thought to talk to her and clear things up? As the book progresses and the mafia business starts heating up, truths are revealed little by little. In all events, Oakley is only guilty of loving Wilder without hope and without much pride. Her feelings and her heart are always open and visible as she loves this man and forgives him for the way he treats her.
I loved Oakley, her generous spirit and how hard she loves. Loved little Sarah, who had an idillic childhood thanks to Oakley and none to her mother. As for Wilder, I could cheerfully smack him for being such an idiot. I loved how he progressed from being a jerk to Oakley, to being grateful for making little Sarah happy, to being possessive and jealous, and finally!, giving in to the huge love he’s always had for her.
The story, as all the stories in this series, is fascinating and riveting. I loved the glimpses we got of Gage, Kye, Hunk, and Blaise. This is the Georgia branch of the Southern Mafia and I can’t wait to continue reading on the other guys, especially Thatcher. He gives me vibes he’s psycho like Gage!
December 26, 2023
Abbi Glines strikes again with her latest installment in the Smoke series, Ashes. This novel delves into the complex world of miscommunication and second chances, weaving a tale of love, and betrayal.
At the heart of the story is the tumultuous relationship between Oakley Watson and Wilder Jones. Glines skillfully portrays their connection as an intense flame that once burned brightly but was reduced to mere ashes after a devastating betrayal. It unfolds with a gripping exploration of their past, illustrating the depth of their love and the subsequent heartbreak that shattered it.
One of the strengths of Ashes lies in Glines' ability to craft relatable characters with genuine emotions. Oakley's journey from vulnerability to resilience is portrayed with authenticity, and readers can't help but empathize with her struggles. Wilder, haunted by the consequences of a drunken mistake, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making the reader question the boundaries of forgiveness and redemption.
The theme of miscommunication is expertly woven throughout the plot, creating tension and suspense that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. Glines masterfully captures the intricacies of human relationships, highlighting the destructive power of assumptions and the importance of clear communication in matters of the heart.
Glines skillfully navigates the delicate balance between heartache and hope, allowing readers to witness the characters' growth and transformation. The emotional depth of the story is palpable, and each page is infused with the raw intensity of love regained.
As a fan of Abbi Glines' work, I can confidently say that Ashes surpasses expectations. The series has consistently evolved, with each installment surpassing the last. Glines has a knack for drawing readers into her fictional worlds, and Ashes is no exception.
At the heart of the story is the tumultuous relationship between Oakley Watson and Wilder Jones. Glines skillfully portrays their connection as an intense flame that once burned brightly but was reduced to mere ashes after a devastating betrayal. It unfolds with a gripping exploration of their past, illustrating the depth of their love and the subsequent heartbreak that shattered it.
One of the strengths of Ashes lies in Glines' ability to craft relatable characters with genuine emotions. Oakley's journey from vulnerability to resilience is portrayed with authenticity, and readers can't help but empathize with her struggles. Wilder, haunted by the consequences of a drunken mistake, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making the reader question the boundaries of forgiveness and redemption.
The theme of miscommunication is expertly woven throughout the plot, creating tension and suspense that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. Glines masterfully captures the intricacies of human relationships, highlighting the destructive power of assumptions and the importance of clear communication in matters of the heart.
Glines skillfully navigates the delicate balance between heartache and hope, allowing readers to witness the characters' growth and transformation. The emotional depth of the story is palpable, and each page is infused with the raw intensity of love regained.
As a fan of Abbi Glines' work, I can confidently say that Ashes surpasses expectations. The series has consistently evolved, with each installment surpassing the last. Glines has a knack for drawing readers into her fictional worlds, and Ashes is no exception.
December 26, 2023
Lots Going On
Whew, with a blurb like this one, I wasn’t sure how Abbi Glines was going to make the story line work, but she did. Ashes is Oakley and Wilder’s story.
“She’d broken my heart. That was what I had hated. Not her. I doubted I ever could.”
That is the crux of Wilder’s horrific attitude towards Oakley. He was about seven years older than her sixteen years old when they met, but she lit up his life then, and again now when they cross paths again years later. After making a dumb choice with Oakley’s stepsister, he’s cemented himself in Oakley’s life with his child, her niece, one she loves to death. Oakley broke his heart, he hates her, life must go on normal for the kid.
“We were different people. Life changed us. Yet it hadn’t managed to unlink us.”
Fast forward and Oakley once again will find herself at the mercy of Wilder, unbeknownst to him. It drove me crazy how rude he was to her; the constant push and pull. Miscommunication caused so much tension that blockhead wouldn’t listen, he’d rather wallow in the misery he created. Drove me crazy. I liked both characters and was hoping Oakley would stand her ground when confronted with the handsome Wilder.
“Loving Oakley had never been the issue. It was surviving her.”
The book is well written and along with the angst, we have a little action going on in the background. Wilder wasn’t the man Oakley thought was and talk about her being caught off guard. It was the perfect balance of romance and more. This was the only book I’ve read in the series, and it read well as a standalone.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog
Whew, with a blurb like this one, I wasn’t sure how Abbi Glines was going to make the story line work, but she did. Ashes is Oakley and Wilder’s story.
“She’d broken my heart. That was what I had hated. Not her. I doubted I ever could.”
That is the crux of Wilder’s horrific attitude towards Oakley. He was about seven years older than her sixteen years old when they met, but she lit up his life then, and again now when they cross paths again years later. After making a dumb choice with Oakley’s stepsister, he’s cemented himself in Oakley’s life with his child, her niece, one she loves to death. Oakley broke his heart, he hates her, life must go on normal for the kid.
“We were different people. Life changed us. Yet it hadn’t managed to unlink us.”
Fast forward and Oakley once again will find herself at the mercy of Wilder, unbeknownst to him. It drove me crazy how rude he was to her; the constant push and pull. Miscommunication caused so much tension that blockhead wouldn’t listen, he’d rather wallow in the misery he created. Drove me crazy. I liked both characters and was hoping Oakley would stand her ground when confronted with the handsome Wilder.
“Loving Oakley had never been the issue. It was surviving her.”
The book is well written and along with the angst, we have a little action going on in the background. Wilder wasn’t the man Oakley thought was and talk about her being caught off guard. It was the perfect balance of romance and more. This was the only book I’ve read in the series, and it read well as a standalone.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog
January 20, 2024
Fully obsessed with this series and can’t get enough! These books just keep getting better and better, and I find myself fully invested and unable to stop reading once I start, and sitting on the edge of my seat with what will happen next! Wilder and Oakley have a past together, where Oakley was in love with him and he fought it because of their age, until he didn’t and then everything changed when she comes home from school and finds that Wilder’s engaged to her stepsister and is pregnant with his child. Years later, Oakley is a staple person in her niece’s life, but everything is about to change because her stepsister is dead and her niece is going to live with Wilder full-time, since they had got a divorce years ago. Determined to stay in her niece’s life, Oakley quits her job to be available any time Wilder needs a sitter, and he’s extremely reluctant to do so. Thankfully fate continues to intervene, and he needs a sitter, and his daughter insists on her aunt to watch her. While I was banging my head wanting Wilder to get out of his attitude and figure out what went wrong all those years ago, and thankfully that finally happens, and we find out what Oakley’s life truly is and he comes in and saves her again. I can’t wait for the next book – I am truly obsessed and love these books!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
December 26, 2023
*4,5 stars*
I know I'm very late to the party as this was my first read by this author but it definitely won't be my last one. I really enjoyed the story from beginning until end as getting to know the characters. Of course everytime it's also a single parent book, I get drawn even more to it. The way it was written An enjoyable read that also had suspense to it. Definitely a favorite for 2023!
As Wilder prepares to move town with his daughter Sarah, a lot of memories are being left behind but he never thought Oakley would stand by him in the moment that his little girl needs it the most. He tries to do whatever it takes to keep her safe and happy, but doesn't really know how to go about that as there's so much hurt. He tries to let go of the past but it isn't easy as he lets Oakley back into his life. After all that has happened, Oakley tries to do the best she can for Sarah although the relationship with Wilder is still every tricky. But with time, maybe she can make him see that they both want to do what is right by his daughter. Maybe, just maybe, their relationship can be mended. But there's a threat looming over them that is creeping closer. Will they find their way to one another in the end?...
I know I'm very late to the party as this was my first read by this author but it definitely won't be my last one. I really enjoyed the story from beginning until end as getting to know the characters. Of course everytime it's also a single parent book, I get drawn even more to it. The way it was written An enjoyable read that also had suspense to it. Definitely a favorite for 2023!
As Wilder prepares to move town with his daughter Sarah, a lot of memories are being left behind but he never thought Oakley would stand by him in the moment that his little girl needs it the most. He tries to do whatever it takes to keep her safe and happy, but doesn't really know how to go about that as there's so much hurt. He tries to let go of the past but it isn't easy as he lets Oakley back into his life. After all that has happened, Oakley tries to do the best she can for Sarah although the relationship with Wilder is still every tricky. But with time, maybe she can make him see that they both want to do what is right by his daughter. Maybe, just maybe, their relationship can be mended. But there's a threat looming over them that is creeping closer. Will they find their way to one another in the end?...
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