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Since You've Been Gone
'That special someone can walk in and out of your life, yet leave a permanent mark that lasts a lifetime...'
~ Since You've Been Gone ~
Lucy Love always wanted to travel and explore the world before being forced to grow up and act like an adult in the big bad world laid out before her.
Deciding to stick to her dreams, she ensues on a summer of a lifetime, making memories, having fun and falling in love for the very first time.
Like most things in life, all good things must come to an end, but will she be able to move past her broken heart and love again, or is that perfect summer destined to haunt her once again?
Now, ten years on Lucy has a budding career and the best family and friends that a girl could wish for, but after many failed relationships what's in store for her love life?
Is fate destined to bring Lucy and her one true love back together, or is it just an evil way of life, destined to break her heart once again?
~ Since You've Been Gone ~
Lucy Love always wanted to travel and explore the world before being forced to grow up and act like an adult in the big bad world laid out before her.
Deciding to stick to her dreams, she ensues on a summer of a lifetime, making memories, having fun and falling in love for the very first time.
Like most things in life, all good things must come to an end, but will she be able to move past her broken heart and love again, or is that perfect summer destined to haunt her once again?
Now, ten years on Lucy has a budding career and the best family and friends that a girl could wish for, but after many failed relationships what's in store for her love life?
Is fate destined to bring Lucy and her one true love back together, or is it just an evil way of life, destined to break her heart once again?
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
About the author
S.M. Phillips
23 books255 followersS.M Phillips is a fun loving mum from Manchester. When she’s not busy writing, you’ll most likely find her head buried deep inside her kindle with a cup of coffee in hand. Talk to her when she’s reading and things could get pretty colourful, pretty fast, just ask her Hubby.
She is a lover of chocolate, especially if it has peanut butter inside and loves a good cocktail or two. She often wonders if she should spend more time buying shoes, but then she remembers her never ending TBR list and realises that money can be spent on more important things… Books.
Stay up to date with S.M Phillips and follow her here:
~ https://www.facebook.com/sphillipsauthor
~ https://www.twitter.com/s_m_phillips_
~ https://www.smphillipsauthor.wordpres...
She is a lover of chocolate, especially if it has peanut butter inside and loves a good cocktail or two. She often wonders if she should spend more time buying shoes, but then she remembers her never ending TBR list and realises that money can be spent on more important things… Books.
Stay up to date with S.M Phillips and follow her here:
~ https://www.facebook.com/sphillipsauthor
~ https://www.twitter.com/s_m_phillips_
~ https://www.smphillipsauthor.wordpres...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 12, 2017
2.5 ★'s
Ugh...I don't think I'm ever going to learn my lesson about taking chances on books that none of my friends have read. To be fair, I did actually read the blurb and that's what had me intrigued. Unfortunately, I didn't stay that way.
The story's about Jake and Lucy who had a relationship ten years ago. Something happened and they don't see or talk to each other in all that time until they run into each other at Lucy's best friend's wedding.
We're immediately taken to the past and basically stay there until almost the end of the book. I was a bit frustrated because the heroine is constantly questioning her feelings and it takes f-o-r-e-v-e-r for anything to happen.
I usually love books with British terms or slang and this one is jammed pack, so much so, that sometimes it was a little hard to follow. It also doesn't help that this book needs a good edit, throw in misspelled words and random numbers popping up and it's a mess.
When we get back to the present, things are much better and we finally get some answers. I enjoyed how it ended, it was just unfortunate that the good parts were too short.
Ugh...I don't think I'm ever going to learn my lesson about taking chances on books that none of my friends have read. To be fair, I did actually read the blurb and that's what had me intrigued. Unfortunately, I didn't stay that way.
The story's about Jake and Lucy who had a relationship ten years ago. Something happened and they don't see or talk to each other in all that time until they run into each other at Lucy's best friend's wedding.
We're immediately taken to the past and basically stay there until almost the end of the book. I was a bit frustrated because the heroine is constantly questioning her feelings and it takes f-o-r-e-v-e-r for anything to happen.
I usually love books with British terms or slang and this one is jammed pack, so much so, that sometimes it was a little hard to follow. It also doesn't help that this book needs a good edit, throw in misspelled words and random numbers popping up and it's a mess.
When we get back to the present, things are much better and we finally get some answers. I enjoyed how it ended, it was just unfortunate that the good parts were too short.
October 3, 2016
This was my first read by SM Phillips despite having her other ebooks on my kindle shamefully. Having anticipated this book for so long I couldn't wait to get stuck in and I flew through it in one sitting. Lucy is a headstrong and sensible young woman who is taking some time out in Spain and doesn't expect anything other than fun and memory making. So when Jake shows us he kind of throws her off kilter! Flitting between past and present we learn the story of them both and how the years apart have changed them. But has it changed how they feel for each other?
Excerpt:
To me, he meant everything. He was my everything and now that he is here, right next to me, the barriers that I have built over the past ten years come crashing down all around me.
A lovely story filled with love, laughter and sunshine. I adored the characters and a single POV for a change from other stories these days. The author never failed to make me laugh with Lucy's self doubt and inner battles. Very relatable and just all round good fun. The ending was a little sudden and I could have easily read more!
I can't wait to start SM Phillips Down Under box set and it's shifting up my TBR list after this book!
Excerpt:
To me, he meant everything. He was my everything and now that he is here, right next to me, the barriers that I have built over the past ten years come crashing down all around me.
A lovely story filled with love, laughter and sunshine. I adored the characters and a single POV for a change from other stories these days. The author never failed to make me laugh with Lucy's self doubt and inner battles. Very relatable and just all round good fun. The ending was a little sudden and I could have easily read more!
I can't wait to start SM Phillips Down Under box set and it's shifting up my TBR list after this book!
October 9, 2016
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Since you’ve been gone was a great 4 star read.
We start out in the beginning with Lucy at her best friend Hannah’s wedding, when she sees a certain someone she is in shock. Why is he here?
We jump back 10 years to Lucy in Spain working for the summer. The first time that Lucy meets Jake is not the most pleasant of experiences. I enjoyed watching these two get to know each other, Lucy opened up more and more to him. You could feel the connection they had. Could he be the one?
If I thought I was scared before, it’s got nothing on how I’m feeling with him looking at me like that.
Something happens that causes Lucy to run. Which totally blew my mind. This story was great, although I think I would have liked a little more of a look into their lives the 10 years they were apart. Why did it take 10 years to find her?
The secondary characters added a great element to the story. Fran was not my most favorite of people, she seemed to always put herself first no matter what. Did she even care about Lucy?
I would like to see more from these two, I want to know where they go from here. Do they truly get their HEA? I need more from Lucy and Jake. Thank you S.M. Phillips for the great read.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
Since you’ve been gone was a great 4 star read.
We start out in the beginning with Lucy at her best friend Hannah’s wedding, when she sees a certain someone she is in shock. Why is he here?
We jump back 10 years to Lucy in Spain working for the summer. The first time that Lucy meets Jake is not the most pleasant of experiences. I enjoyed watching these two get to know each other, Lucy opened up more and more to him. You could feel the connection they had. Could he be the one?
If I thought I was scared before, it’s got nothing on how I’m feeling with him looking at me like that.
Something happens that causes Lucy to run. Which totally blew my mind. This story was great, although I think I would have liked a little more of a look into their lives the 10 years they were apart. Why did it take 10 years to find her?
The secondary characters added a great element to the story. Fran was not my most favorite of people, she seemed to always put herself first no matter what. Did she even care about Lucy?
I would like to see more from these two, I want to know where they go from here. Do they truly get their HEA? I need more from Lucy and Jake. Thank you S.M. Phillips for the great read.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
October 3, 2016
The book is mostly told in the past, 10 years ago, with the exception of the 1st chapter & last part of the book.
It starts off with Lucy at her bff's wedding. Things are going great until Lucy walks out into the wedding & she comes face to face with her past. The past she thought was gone forever. It then goes back 10 years to track Lucy's life. Jake & Lucy had a strong connection from the start even though they are nothing alike. I loved the banter between the two & watching them both grow & change throughout the book. I was waiting for a climax for most of the book & when it came I couldn't believe! I wanted to scream & throw something! I hated that Lucy just ran though instead of talking it over.
I gave it 4 stars because I felt that instead of just running, things should've been discussed or some kind of communication within those 10 years. It was like he dropped out of Lucy's life then dropped right back in at the VERY end of the book. I would've loved to see more of them at the end. That being said, I really enjoyed the book. I loved the English jargon & slang, also. It made me chuckle a lot.
It starts off with Lucy at her bff's wedding. Things are going great until Lucy walks out into the wedding & she comes face to face with her past. The past she thought was gone forever. It then goes back 10 years to track Lucy's life. Jake & Lucy had a strong connection from the start even though they are nothing alike. I loved the banter between the two & watching them both grow & change throughout the book. I was waiting for a climax for most of the book & when it came I couldn't believe! I wanted to scream & throw something! I hated that Lucy just ran though instead of talking it over.
I gave it 4 stars because I felt that instead of just running, things should've been discussed or some kind of communication within those 10 years. It was like he dropped out of Lucy's life then dropped right back in at the VERY end of the book. I would've loved to see more of them at the end. That being said, I really enjoyed the book. I loved the English jargon & slang, also. It made me chuckle a lot.
October 5, 2016
This is such a sweet, loving story of boy meets girl but that doesn’t mean the relationship runs smoothly!!
Lucy goes to work in Spain for the summer season and leaves her best friend Hannah at home. This is where she meets Jake. Their first meeting is not the best of ways to meet as she's out for her birthday and she pukes all over him but don't remember it until her flat mate makes her go out again the next night to face her fears...she sees him again and the chemistry is instant. The book starts in the present where she is maid of honour at Hannah's wedding then it goes back and tells a beautiful love story which ends in the present.
I loved this short story. The author’s words run so smoothly and I was hooked straight away. I read it in one sitting. This book has a feel good factor and I understood where the author went with the storyline but hope we haven't heard the last of Lucy and Jake. I've not read anything by this lady before but I certainly will be in the future.
Lucy goes to work in Spain for the summer season and leaves her best friend Hannah at home. This is where she meets Jake. Their first meeting is not the best of ways to meet as she's out for her birthday and she pukes all over him but don't remember it until her flat mate makes her go out again the next night to face her fears...she sees him again and the chemistry is instant. The book starts in the present where she is maid of honour at Hannah's wedding then it goes back and tells a beautiful love story which ends in the present.
I loved this short story. The author’s words run so smoothly and I was hooked straight away. I read it in one sitting. This book has a feel good factor and I understood where the author went with the storyline but hope we haven't heard the last of Lucy and Jake. I've not read anything by this lady before but I certainly will be in the future.
October 7, 2016
An interesting second chance romance. Lucy decides to enjoy her summer before facing the reality of working a real job. Jake has the same idea and their meeting didn't exactly end how she wishes it did. Lucy has the hots for him but she doubts he has the hots for her. Is it possible that he does? Can they make a fling work without her heart getting broken? Some time passes and some feelings grow. Can this be happening? Fast forward 10 years when Lucy is the maid of honor at her best friend's wedding and the past comes back. Can she get thru the rest of the day without facing him once again. Will the truth ever be heard? I enjoyed this book but must add I noticed some simple issues with editing. I'm sure they are fixed. The characters are likable (well I wasn't a fan of the roommate) and their growing feelings are encouraged...felt like I was cheering for them to fall in love. A nice second chance romance.
October 13, 2016
I've read several of S.M Phillip books and I love them more each time I read a new one. She is a very talented writer and her books have you hooked from the go.
Since You've Been Gone is an easy read and the storyline flows beautifully. I flew through this in a day. The book flitters between past and present as you are given the chance to see what happened 10 years ago between the two main characters Lucy and Jake and why she is so shaken to see him at her best friends wedding..
This is a story of second chances. Will Lucy hear what Jake has to say and give him the second chance he deserves as he finally gets the chance to explain what really happened all them years ago.
Another fabulous read from S.M Phillips and a very worthy 5 Stars.
Since You've Been Gone is an easy read and the storyline flows beautifully. I flew through this in a day. The book flitters between past and present as you are given the chance to see what happened 10 years ago between the two main characters Lucy and Jake and why she is so shaken to see him at her best friends wedding..
This is a story of second chances. Will Lucy hear what Jake has to say and give him the second chance he deserves as he finally gets the chance to explain what really happened all them years ago.
Another fabulous read from S.M Phillips and a very worthy 5 Stars.
October 14, 2016
This is the first time which I have read any of this authors work, and it will not be the last. This is the story of Lucy and Jake who meet while taking a time out in Spain. There is an instant and intense chemistry between them from the start. As is typical though, true love never runs smoothly.
This storyline is an emotional rollercoaster journey, and is written in the past and present. This is a well written second chance romance, and I loved the banter between all of the characters. I look forward to reading more of this authors work, and I recommend her work for all.
This storyline is an emotional rollercoaster journey, and is written in the past and present. This is a well written second chance romance, and I loved the banter between all of the characters. I look forward to reading more of this authors work, and I recommend her work for all.
October 2, 2016
Everyone deserves a second chance at love but does Lucy???
A beautiful love story that kept me gripped until the end. I'd definitely love the hear more about Jake & Lucy.
A beautiful love story that kept me gripped until the end. I'd definitely love the hear more about Jake & Lucy.
October 13, 2016
Since You've Been Gone by SM Phillips
3.5 stars
M/F YA Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Book Whores Brothel
I think that I'm in the minority for this story. Yes, it was an incredibly fast read, but it was fast because it lacked development.
Lucy is a great character. I would have liked to see her less of a people pleaser, especially with her selfish roommate, whom I wanted to smack whenever she was mentioned. What I think that I liked most about Lucy's character is that she's a romantic at heart and so optimistic about her future. She's in the stage of her life where anything is possible and this adventure is just another possibility.
Then you have Jack who was somewhat hard for me to relate to. He seemed almost disconnected at times to the story. While I can imagine what Phillips wanted to convey - strong, confident partner, I just didn't get that. He was young in his life, still figuring things out and again, he lacked development.
Fran is another story - she was abrasive, slight abusive and annoying as all hell. I had a difficult time whenever she was mentioned because she was lacking so much. In all actuality, she wrecked the "past" scenes that she was in. Not only was she careless, she was kind of a bully.
Hannah, on the other hand - man I wish she had taken the trip with Lucy. I think the story would have had a better flow from past to present and the reader would have known so much more (hopefully) about Hannah, who was kind of the heroine of the story.
The story flits from past to present only a few times, but the transitions were smooth. I am hoping that this book received a few more passes by an editor as there were a lot of mistakes and it needed a lot in that area.
While this story was sweet, I would categorize this book as a YA and not an adult story.
3.5 stars
M/F YA Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Book Whores Brothel
I think that I'm in the minority for this story. Yes, it was an incredibly fast read, but it was fast because it lacked development.
Lucy is a great character. I would have liked to see her less of a people pleaser, especially with her selfish roommate, whom I wanted to smack whenever she was mentioned. What I think that I liked most about Lucy's character is that she's a romantic at heart and so optimistic about her future. She's in the stage of her life where anything is possible and this adventure is just another possibility.
Then you have Jack who was somewhat hard for me to relate to. He seemed almost disconnected at times to the story. While I can imagine what Phillips wanted to convey - strong, confident partner, I just didn't get that. He was young in his life, still figuring things out and again, he lacked development.
Fran is another story - she was abrasive, slight abusive and annoying as all hell. I had a difficult time whenever she was mentioned because she was lacking so much. In all actuality, she wrecked the "past" scenes that she was in. Not only was she careless, she was kind of a bully.
Hannah, on the other hand - man I wish she had taken the trip with Lucy. I think the story would have had a better flow from past to present and the reader would have known so much more (hopefully) about Hannah, who was kind of the heroine of the story.
The story flits from past to present only a few times, but the transitions were smooth. I am hoping that this book received a few more passes by an editor as there were a lot of mistakes and it needed a lot in that area.
While this story was sweet, I would categorize this book as a YA and not an adult story.
October 20, 2016
Yay, finally! I've been so excited to read this book. Thank you so much Steph for the ARC. It's really worth the wait. I love this book so much that after reading the first chapter, there was no way to put the book down. I just had to find out what happened to Jake and Lucy.
I love how the story was played out. It started with the present then went back to the past. I got to see and experience the love that developed between two people destined to be together. I felt the love that Jake and Lucy had for each other from the moment they met. There was instant attraction no matter the circumstance that brought them together. I knew then that what Jake felt was real love.
A very heart warming second chance romance that made me smile a lot, cry a bit and swoon til the end. I love how this book made me feel all the emotions of two people falling in love. I was happy when they were just starting out and developed into something more. I was heart-broken at one point when their love was tested. It made me mad at the situation they were put into. But in the end, my heart was mended when they finally got back together. A true love that withstood the test of time.
This is the kind of book I needed right now. A book that made me think of my own life and my own marriage. One important thing that I learned is that, communication really is a big factor for a relationship to succeed. Jumping to conclusions without hearing the explanation might cause too much damage. I have had my own share of miscommunications. But thanks to this amazing book, I was reminded of it. To stop, listen and then talk things over.
Thank you so much Steph for writing such a wonderful love story. Though I would have wanted to read more especially on their time together, the ending was perfect. My heart was whole again. A must read for all who believe in love.
I love how the story was played out. It started with the present then went back to the past. I got to see and experience the love that developed between two people destined to be together. I felt the love that Jake and Lucy had for each other from the moment they met. There was instant attraction no matter the circumstance that brought them together. I knew then that what Jake felt was real love.
A very heart warming second chance romance that made me smile a lot, cry a bit and swoon til the end. I love how this book made me feel all the emotions of two people falling in love. I was happy when they were just starting out and developed into something more. I was heart-broken at one point when their love was tested. It made me mad at the situation they were put into. But in the end, my heart was mended when they finally got back together. A true love that withstood the test of time.
This is the kind of book I needed right now. A book that made me think of my own life and my own marriage. One important thing that I learned is that, communication really is a big factor for a relationship to succeed. Jumping to conclusions without hearing the explanation might cause too much damage. I have had my own share of miscommunications. But thanks to this amazing book, I was reminded of it. To stop, listen and then talk things over.
Thank you so much Steph for writing such a wonderful love story. Though I would have wanted to read more especially on their time together, the ending was perfect. My heart was whole again. A must read for all who believe in love.
October 11, 2016
There was a lot packed between the covers of this book, if the author was planning on giving my emotions and work out…she nailed it.
Most of the story was retrospective, looking back at past events, events that had left them both feeling cheated almost. The author did a great job of laying out their time together from their less than stellar start, through the glory of getting to know each other, right up until it all fell apart.
Their time is Spain was short but that didn’t mean it was insignificant and throughout the story we got to see what it meant to both of them, they worked well as a couple and it was fun watching them get to know each other back then.
But now we were a decade on, a lot older and wiser and the question was …what now?
I liked the look at what they had, had previously and what they had now, I just think I missed a bit by not knowing enough about what had happened to the pair of them in between.
Why had their never been the occasion for them to catch up with each other until now because I am certain that in Lucy’s imagination she never thought that her first sight of him after 10 years would be at her friend’s wedding!
While I think Jake and Lucy were a super couple and but I can’t say the same for some of the other characters. Most of them were ok but I really didn’t like Fran, actually I had to actively stop myself from skimming through paragraphs that she was in, she really grated on my very last nerve! Although I did love Hannah.
I’m not sure what the authors plans are for this pair but I think I might like to see where they go from here.
Most of the story was retrospective, looking back at past events, events that had left them both feeling cheated almost. The author did a great job of laying out their time together from their less than stellar start, through the glory of getting to know each other, right up until it all fell apart.
Their time is Spain was short but that didn’t mean it was insignificant and throughout the story we got to see what it meant to both of them, they worked well as a couple and it was fun watching them get to know each other back then.
But now we were a decade on, a lot older and wiser and the question was …what now?
I liked the look at what they had, had previously and what they had now, I just think I missed a bit by not knowing enough about what had happened to the pair of them in between.
Why had their never been the occasion for them to catch up with each other until now because I am certain that in Lucy’s imagination she never thought that her first sight of him after 10 years would be at her friend’s wedding!
While I think Jake and Lucy were a super couple and but I can’t say the same for some of the other characters. Most of them were ok but I really didn’t like Fran, actually I had to actively stop myself from skimming through paragraphs that she was in, she really grated on my very last nerve! Although I did love Hannah.
I’m not sure what the authors plans are for this pair but I think I might like to see where they go from here.
October 10, 2016
Happiness, confusion, yearning, anger, excitement, sadness… My mind flitted through a bevy of emotions while reading this book!
I loved every second that Jake & Lucy spent together… I only wish I could’ve seen more development in their relationship to understand why their feelings for one another were so intense at the end of the story. Their time at the beach was fun & eventually heated (YAY!) & every kiss & touch they shared was sweet… I just needed more of those kinds of things.
The setting of the book was cool & gave off a young, carefree vibe, which was a nice breath of fresh air. Plus, it provided a great setting for first love. The only thing I didn’t love there… Freaky Fran. I just didn’t get that chick & she was in a good chunk of the story. I like the idea of a wild & crazy-a** roommate but crap… She needed a good smack or two upside the head with a frying pan or something!
Thank gods for Hannah. Too bad she wasn’t Lucy’s roomie throughout the book! I would’ve loved getting the chance to know her more. Very happy she played a part in Lucy’s happily ever after.
I think this book could've used another run-through with an editor. There seemed to be lots of misused & missing words, which made the story a bit choppy for me at times.
Would’ve loved to have gotten more together time between Jake & Lucy at the end (at least an epilogue) but I’m pleased as punch that they got a second chance at love with one another. :)
~ Reviewed by Calla
I loved every second that Jake & Lucy spent together… I only wish I could’ve seen more development in their relationship to understand why their feelings for one another were so intense at the end of the story. Their time at the beach was fun & eventually heated (YAY!) & every kiss & touch they shared was sweet… I just needed more of those kinds of things.
The setting of the book was cool & gave off a young, carefree vibe, which was a nice breath of fresh air. Plus, it provided a great setting for first love. The only thing I didn’t love there… Freaky Fran. I just didn’t get that chick & she was in a good chunk of the story. I like the idea of a wild & crazy-a** roommate but crap… She needed a good smack or two upside the head with a frying pan or something!
Thank gods for Hannah. Too bad she wasn’t Lucy’s roomie throughout the book! I would’ve loved getting the chance to know her more. Very happy she played a part in Lucy’s happily ever after.
I think this book could've used another run-through with an editor. There seemed to be lots of misused & missing words, which made the story a bit choppy for me at times.
Would’ve loved to have gotten more together time between Jake & Lucy at the end (at least an epilogue) but I’m pleased as punch that they got a second chance at love with one another. :)
~ Reviewed by Calla
October 10, 2016
As usual, SM Phillips has gone and given us a fabulous new story to sink our teeth into.
This was quite a fast-paced story that had me utterly consumed for the last couple of hours.
Lucy is young, carefree and living the dream abroad for the summer. There she meets Jake, a sinfully sexy hunk with the most amazing cobalt eyes...*swoon*
The story, told from Lucy's POV, tells of a second chance romance. It had me questioning reality, even though I know it's meant to be a story to take you away from real life for a while. It made me wonder what would happen if my first love came knocking. I think even after 15 years, I would have to say I do still have some kind of feelings for him. I think no matter where I go from here, my heart will always hold a special place just for him. Silly? Maybe. But true nonetheless.
I'm always gripped by SM Phillips' stories. This was no different. It was a light-hearted, funny story, yet it had more serious undertones too. It was unusual to read a romance story that isn't littered with sex scenes and to be honest, it made a refreshing change. It was a great read and definitely worth a re-read when I'm in a reading funk and need something fresh to pull me out!
This was quite a fast-paced story that had me utterly consumed for the last couple of hours.
Lucy is young, carefree and living the dream abroad for the summer. There she meets Jake, a sinfully sexy hunk with the most amazing cobalt eyes...*swoon*
The story, told from Lucy's POV, tells of a second chance romance. It had me questioning reality, even though I know it's meant to be a story to take you away from real life for a while. It made me wonder what would happen if my first love came knocking. I think even after 15 years, I would have to say I do still have some kind of feelings for him. I think no matter where I go from here, my heart will always hold a special place just for him. Silly? Maybe. But true nonetheless.
I'm always gripped by SM Phillips' stories. This was no different. It was a light-hearted, funny story, yet it had more serious undertones too. It was unusual to read a romance story that isn't littered with sex scenes and to be honest, it made a refreshing change. It was a great read and definitely worth a re-read when I'm in a reading funk and need something fresh to pull me out!
October 15, 2016
I do want to start out saying that there are a few typos, not a big issue to me, I don't read a story to tear apart the grammar, I read it for the actual story. Also I will say I had to read a few parts over because of the different words she uses, as we live in different parts of the universe, it sometimes took me a minute, but I figured it out.
This book was really something I think I needed to read at the time I read it. I have been struggling with emotions, second chances, thoughtfulness and she kind of in a round about way showed me a different way to think about things. There is always a better way to show and say how you feel with out freaking out and running away. With that said, I can't say that if facing the same situation, I would have done a better job.
S. M. has done a remarkable job keeping me interested in the book, it read quicker once I got into the thick if it (sometimes takes me a bit for all reads). Again some grammar errors, misspelled words, but nothing I couldn't easily figure out on my own, just got missed is all.
I hope to see more for Luce and Jake. Maybe Hanna and Daniel, too...
This book was really something I think I needed to read at the time I read it. I have been struggling with emotions, second chances, thoughtfulness and she kind of in a round about way showed me a different way to think about things. There is always a better way to show and say how you feel with out freaking out and running away. With that said, I can't say that if facing the same situation, I would have done a better job.
S. M. has done a remarkable job keeping me interested in the book, it read quicker once I got into the thick if it (sometimes takes me a bit for all reads). Again some grammar errors, misspelled words, but nothing I couldn't easily figure out on my own, just got missed is all.
I hope to see more for Luce and Jake. Maybe Hanna and Daniel, too...February 8, 2017
A story of a second chance. Lucy as maid of honour at her best friend's wedding, helps calm Hannah's nerves to be met face on with her own past as they arrive at the altar..turning around and facing Jake in the congregation.. her first love from a summer working abroad 10 years ago who she fled from without a backward glance! will they be able to work things out if Hannah can even face him again. We are then taken back to 10 years ago and follow the sweet romance between Lucy and Jake. for a 'hot' guy Jake is a soft character and fell for the innocent Lucy even though she manages to put her foot in itvat every opportunity. the characters are relateable. im not sure about the final part of the storyline as it ends quite quickly.. and even though the story starts off at the wedding and he is there.. i think the bride inviting him just to try to get them back together would be a massive risk and a little unbelievable.. id certainly not do that on my wedding day.. I'd have preferred to see him as a relative of groom or something... but then this wouldnt work to show he'd been looking for her for years ....and then a little bit more of a storyline after. overall an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars. arvmc provided for an honest review
October 11, 2016
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review - Naomi / Scandalous Book Blog***
This was a great story that I couldn't put down. I loved the way the story was told and it was an emotional rollercoaster to say the least. However when I had finished I still wanted more, I would have loved to of gotten more of their story of them together...but maybe im just greedy! This book was different to what I would normally read but enjoyable all the same and I hope the author gives us more Jake and Lucy in the future.
Lucy is maid of honour for her best friend and its at the wedding that she comes face to face with her past...Why now?
10 Years ago whilst Lucy was working abroad she met Jake, with ups and down from the beginning this couple couldn't deny the pull to one another. Lucy found herself opening up and falling harder...but then everything changed and Lucy ran!!!
But now Jake is back and there is no where to run and she must deal with it all.
Second chances dont come round very often but are this couple strong enough to deal with the past and make a future together?
What happened in the 10 years apart?
Why is Jake here now?
This was a great story that I couldn't put down. I loved the way the story was told and it was an emotional rollercoaster to say the least. However when I had finished I still wanted more, I would have loved to of gotten more of their story of them together...but maybe im just greedy! This book was different to what I would normally read but enjoyable all the same and I hope the author gives us more Jake and Lucy in the future.
Lucy is maid of honour for her best friend and its at the wedding that she comes face to face with her past...Why now?
10 Years ago whilst Lucy was working abroad she met Jake, with ups and down from the beginning this couple couldn't deny the pull to one another. Lucy found herself opening up and falling harder...but then everything changed and Lucy ran!!!
But now Jake is back and there is no where to run and she must deal with it all.
Second chances dont come round very often but are this couple strong enough to deal with the past and make a future together?
What happened in the 10 years apart?
Why is Jake here now?
December 29, 2016
Title - Since You've Been Gone
Author - Steph M Phillips
This is a truly beautiful holiday romance, that breaks your heart but soon amends it again.
This was a short story which I read within a few hours, it starts in the present before jumping into the past, most of the book is past tense until towards the end where it jumps between present and past. This fits so well with the story though.
It is written well and it draws you in, you can connect with the characters especially if you have had a holiday romance.
Another amazing book by the talented S.M Phillips.
Merged review:
Title - Since You've Been Gone
Author - Steph M Phillips
This is a truly beautiful holiday romance, that breaks your heart but soon amends it again.
This was a short story which I read within a few hours, it starts in the present before jumping into the past, most of the book is past tense until towards the end where it jumps between present and past. This fits so well with the story though.
It is written well and it draws you in, you can connect with the characters especially if you have had a holiday romance.
Another amazing book by the talented S.M Phillips.
Author - Steph M Phillips
This is a truly beautiful holiday romance, that breaks your heart but soon amends it again.
This was a short story which I read within a few hours, it starts in the present before jumping into the past, most of the book is past tense until towards the end where it jumps between present and past. This fits so well with the story though.
It is written well and it draws you in, you can connect with the characters especially if you have had a holiday romance.
Another amazing book by the talented S.M Phillips.
Merged review:
Title - Since You've Been Gone
Author - Steph M Phillips
This is a truly beautiful holiday romance, that breaks your heart but soon amends it again.
This was a short story which I read within a few hours, it starts in the present before jumping into the past, most of the book is past tense until towards the end where it jumps between present and past. This fits so well with the story though.
It is written well and it draws you in, you can connect with the characters especially if you have had a holiday romance.
Another amazing book by the talented S.M Phillips.
October 16, 2016
⭐️I was extremely lucky to receive an ARC copy of this book from the Author ⭐️
This is my first read from this author and I went in blind not knowing a lot about the blurb etc and I certainly was not disappointed. This is a really great emotional second chance romance. That's written in the present and goes back to the past for the back story.
Lucy and Jake meet in Spain whilst taking some time out. Lucy is just expecting some fun and when Jake arrives it completely throws her off with the chemistry between them.
I love how this book goes back and forth between the past and present, showing us how they've changed in the years they've been apart and how their feelings have changed . You also find out what happened 10 years ago and why she's so shaken and surprised to see him at her bff's weddding.
https://m.facebook.com/Bookloversreview
This is my first read from this author and I went in blind not knowing a lot about the blurb etc and I certainly was not disappointed. This is a really great emotional second chance romance. That's written in the present and goes back to the past for the back story.
Lucy and Jake meet in Spain whilst taking some time out. Lucy is just expecting some fun and when Jake arrives it completely throws her off with the chemistry between them.
I love how this book goes back and forth between the past and present, showing us how they've changed in the years they've been apart and how their feelings have changed . You also find out what happened 10 years ago and why she's so shaken and surprised to see him at her bff's weddding.
https://m.facebook.com/Bookloversreview
October 18, 2016
Sometimes all you need is a second chance.
Lucy is a very reserved young lady looking for some fun while on holiday. Little did she know throwing up on Mr. Hottie would leave her panties melting and her heart throbbing after the events took place. The connect Jake and Lucy have is undeniable until the unthinkable happens and several years down the road makes it or breaks it.
I loved this book. It starts out pretty slow but the plot is solid and I was actually able to connect and relate to the characters. I wanted to slap Fran the roommate the entire book.
Even though I am alot like her with being wild and free (not sleeping around). just the carefree aspect of her. I could feel the emotions the author was writing from the beginning and enjoyed this book very much.
Voluntarily read and reviewed this book for my honest opinion.
Lucy is a very reserved young lady looking for some fun while on holiday. Little did she know throwing up on Mr. Hottie would leave her panties melting and her heart throbbing after the events took place. The connect Jake and Lucy have is undeniable until the unthinkable happens and several years down the road makes it or breaks it.
I loved this book. It starts out pretty slow but the plot is solid and I was actually able to connect and relate to the characters. I wanted to slap Fran the roommate the entire book.
Even though I am alot like her with being wild and free (not sleeping around). just the carefree aspect of her. I could feel the emotions the author was writing from the beginning and enjoyed this book very much.
Voluntarily read and reviewed this book for my honest opinion.
October 12, 2016
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I quite enjoyed this book.
The books starts with the past.
Lucy is working abroad for the summer when she meets the hot sexy Jake. Although their relationship was short it was intense.
Now its ten years later, and Lucy comes face to face with Jake at her friends wedding.
It was nice knowing the back ground of this couple, but i felt that ten years was just a bit much. Although this book was well written and the two man characters were totally likable, the others not so much. Especially Fran, yeah i would quite happily kick her to the curb!!
I loved Lucy and Jake's reconnection and their relationship, i wasn't ready for it to end !!
All in All a totally enjoyable read.
I quite enjoyed this book.
The books starts with the past.
Lucy is working abroad for the summer when she meets the hot sexy Jake. Although their relationship was short it was intense.
Now its ten years later, and Lucy comes face to face with Jake at her friends wedding.
It was nice knowing the back ground of this couple, but i felt that ten years was just a bit much. Although this book was well written and the two man characters were totally likable, the others not so much. Especially Fran, yeah i would quite happily kick her to the curb!!
I loved Lucy and Jake's reconnection and their relationship, i wasn't ready for it to end !!
All in All a totally enjoyable read.
October 23, 2016
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
The storyline is a sweet new adult read of first love whilst having a summer of fun in Spain. Lucy is in Spain for the summer, working for a night club and having fun. Her room mate, Fran, is all about having fun, drinking and getting laid, and trying to corrupt Lucy. Especially when she finds out how innocent Lucy is.
The story flashes back and forth between the past and present as Lucy reflects over meeting the love of her life whilst out in Spain, and in true romance/first love tradition, gets her heart broken.
The story was predictable in places, and I couldn't help but notice a lot of typos. Its a sweet, quick read but I feel that the characters could have been more developed and I kind of want to know more about them.
The storyline is a sweet new adult read of first love whilst having a summer of fun in Spain. Lucy is in Spain for the summer, working for a night club and having fun. Her room mate, Fran, is all about having fun, drinking and getting laid, and trying to corrupt Lucy. Especially when she finds out how innocent Lucy is.
The story flashes back and forth between the past and present as Lucy reflects over meeting the love of her life whilst out in Spain, and in true romance/first love tradition, gets her heart broken.
The story was predictable in places, and I couldn't help but notice a lot of typos. Its a sweet, quick read but I feel that the characters could have been more developed and I kind of want to know more about them.
April 27, 2017
Since you’ve been gone by S.M. Phillips satisfying five-star read. What can I say without spoiling the plot. Lucy Love has always spent time with her best friend Hannah they do everything together. Until Lucy decided instead of going to University together she is going to follow her dreams and go and spend a summer of a lifetime, making memories and creating a life for herself. This story is told as Lucy is now, and then we dip back to the summer 10 years ago, and see what happened to make her the woman she is now. Standing up at Hannah’s wedding with a head full of memories of failed relationships and wondering where it all went wrong. When Lucy sees a ghost from that summer, she wonders if fate is playing tricks on her, or is it finally being kind?
November 29, 2016
Since you've been gone is a heartfelt story about Lucy and what happens when a blast from her past turns up at her friends wedding. We are plunged back into the past and told the story of Lucy and her short lived relationship with Jack.
If someone came and asked for your forgiveness after 10 years would you give them it? Could you give them it? Lucy isn't so sure. After all, we are meant to move forward not backwards aren't we?
I thought this story was a really sweet tale of first love and forgiveness. It was easy to get into and read and I enjoyed it a lot.
If someone came and asked for your forgiveness after 10 years would you give them it? Could you give them it? Lucy isn't so sure. After all, we are meant to move forward not backwards aren't we?
I thought this story was a really sweet tale of first love and forgiveness. It was easy to get into and read and I enjoyed it a lot.
October 10, 2016
Again a first. There's my first book from S. M. Phillips. There's a beauty and sweet loving story. Likeable characters, but I was not at ease with 1-2.
One thought. Inflammation. Disastrous first encounter. A second chance.
Her bff's wedding Lucy is forced to confront the past.
I really enjoyed the story, and I hope I meet in the future the writer's work.
One thought. Inflammation. Disastrous first encounter. A second chance.
Her bff's wedding Lucy is forced to confront the past.
I really enjoyed the story, and I hope I meet in the future the writer's work.
December 28, 2017
Not my usual read but was lucky enough to receive an arc in return for a review.
A good storyline and characters you could connect to and left you wanting to know more.
Some laugh out loud moments and for me a couple of tears as well
I'd recommend it if your in between series books or if your after a light read as I was after a few dark ones.
A good storyline and characters you could connect to and left you wanting to know more.
Some laugh out loud moments and for me a couple of tears as well
I'd recommend it if your in between series books or if your after a light read as I was after a few dark ones.
November 14, 2016
This is a very fast paced story that you will love! Jake & Lucy will have you rooting for them all the way through this book. It is a light hearted story. I really enjoyed this book because it was not filled with sex scenes, Very refreshing! The writing is great, but I do wish the book was longer. I really wanted to read more about Lucy and Jake.
October 10, 2016
A good second chance romance. Jake is an amazing sweetheart that Lucy has thought about for 10 years. You get to go from the past to present to find out what happened and how it affects Lucy and Jake in the present day. Good, sweet read!
October 4, 2016
This was a cute second chance romance. It was a short read and focused more on the past then the present. I could definitely see this was one being longer with more details but I liked it overall!
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