Not Without You

I get consumed in these books.

Such a great book. Very relatable characters. I have power read all this authors books! Can not wait for her new one in November.

The third installment has been the best! I was dying to know what brought Taryn and Ryan to where they were in the beginning of this series and I was not disappointed. A wonderful read.

Once again, I couldn't put this away until I finished the whole book. The stories this author weaves always leave me waiting with anticipation for what will come next. Her writing has something for all age groups and sexual identities. One of my favorite present day authors.

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A slow burn romance about two people that have been hurt, but fall in love. It was heartbreaking, sweet, and romantic. I loved the chemistry and interactions between the characters, and their story ended beautifully.

Not Without You was a fantastic slowburn with all the feels. The characters were engaging and hooked me from the beginning. I loved the friendship Terayn and Wren shared and how no matter what they were there for the other. Ryan intrigued me and I enjoyed how he played the long game even when I wanted him and Ter to realize what they had right in front of them. The chemistry between them was palpable and as their walls slowly started to fall I found myself falling right along with them. Though this book is the third in this series it was my introduction to the By Your Side series and I was able to follow along easily. Not Without You had a bit of everything from engaging and witty characters to sweet yet heartbreaking moments that tugged at my heart and left me with a smile.

*voluntarily and honestly reviewing the ARC I received from the author*

This is a 4.3 for me. Similar to Wren's story (the first installment) but this time things are a little different. It's the only reason for my rating, because I otherwise thoroughly enjoyed myself. Wren, Terayn and Ryan are three people I both wish I knew and was a part of. Watson does great work with friendships and it's cute how she can write out simple, normal days and make me want to read what usually seems so mundane. I thought Ryan and Ter's issues were written out pretty well, and the concentration on their chemistry and a slow and steady trust built between them was what I needed.

The small things, mainly the details pertaining to their time in college, was what made this fun for me. It was like taking a stroll back to memory lane, and Ter's life as an art student was refreshing. I love that this installment was full of light-hearted love, long-time commitments and some heavy emotions that made me tear (okay I cried). If you've read the first two installments, it's a definite recommend because this made me reread the series and cry til about five in the morning. It's got some seriously funny lines, really hot tension and an overall feel-good ending.

Whoa, that was fantastic! Love these characters so much and boy did this story just add so much more to the whole story of where they are now in Wren's books. Like puzzle pieces... It fits so well.

Need a minute to wrap my head around a proper review, but dang that was great!

*****5 Stars*****

To go back to the beginning for Ryan and Ter put so much of the previous books in perspective. Like puzzle pieces, the dynamics of their friendships just fit together so perfectly. Those lifelong friends where the bonds are stronger than sisters, yet to find a man who can not only fit in that duo, but also become a part of it. Not easy to find and what a keeper when you do.

There were some super swoony moments, but in the coolest way possible. Ryan's got that sense of humor and sexy confidence about him that we all secretly hope for... Persistence, patience, and palpable sexual chemistry. Such a good man that genuinely made the effort, that didn't give up on her, pushed her boundaries, and worked hard for her. He could see it, even when she couldnt.

And gosh I could relate to Ter on so many levels. It's not easy hiding behind those high walls. Especially when You finally meet your match. But when those walls start to come down its both exhilarating and daunting at the same time. Frightened to feel the vulnerability of giving your heart away, loving and being loved, but more frightened of surviving the loss of that love someday. Gawh...

But the thing is.... you can't see the stars if you don't step outside at night. So I'm glad Ter found her courage to step outside...

This could be read as a standalone, but it follows Wren's story (I know Better and You Deserve Better) which puts some elements of those books into perspective. But I don't think there is anything that would effect this book. Both of those books are equally as great as this one btw. I'm a huge fan of this author, her writing style just jumps off the page for me. I adore the feisty characters she creates that are sassy, smart, and sarcastic. And Ry's sense of humor, manly decency and quiet confidence are the perfect mix for a solid keeper.

*ARCopy