Book Review: Embracing the Change by Kristen Ashley

I am a huge fan of the River Rain series. I love the characters, the world, and all the intricate details and connections. To say I was excited about a new story would be an understatement. The fact it was about Jamie and Nora, I was beside myself. I loved these two so much. Fantastic story!

Embracing the Change (River Rain #6) by Kristen Ashley

From New York Times bestselling author Kristen Ashley comes the new book in her River Rain Series, Embracing the Change.

That Kiss…

Gorgeous New York socialite, Nora Ellington has been waiting a very long time for her happily ever after.

So long, she’s given up on it and has decided, even though she’s the plus-one friend without benefits to a man she’s head over heels in love with, an HEA will forever be out of her reach.

Handsome billionaire Jamie Oakley thought he’d had two happily ever afters in his life. However, neither lasted long, and both ended in tragedy. He’s not about to try it again or put his children through the trauma Jamie has learned from experience undoubtedly will come their way.

And he’s made this decision even if the woman who’s become his constant companion is a woman he loves straight to his soul….and wants with everything that is him.

But then, one night, Jamie loses control and kisses Nora.

He can’t go there.

She can’t go on without it.

They’ll never be the same.

Or will they?

5 out of 5 stars

Embracing the Change was an amazing story! I was thrilled to immerse myself back into the River Rain world and for Nora and Jamie to get their happily ever after and I was not disappointed. I loved the drama, the emotion, and all the bonds and love with their family and friends. It was sweet and heartfelt I couldn't get enough. I love how Kristen Ashley always makes me feel like I'm a part of these characters' lives, right there with them, feeling it all.

I loved Jamie and Nora and really getting to know them. Nora is rich and owns it but she's also all class and has the biggest heart and is good to her core. I loved her! I adored Jamie, he's the perfect combination between old school and modern and I love how deeply he cared for others. I felt for him because of the losses he's suffered and the drama with his father, so I was incredibly happy that he finally had goodness coming his way. I loved learning about Nora and Jamie’s friendship and just how far back it went, and watching that bond and their attraction grow into so much more. I felt for Jamie as he fought his feelings and loved them coming out on the other side. These two together thrilled me to no end!

I have loved all the characters in this series as well as the new ones introduced in this book and the different connections. I loved the bonds and strength of their family and friends and how they’re all there for one another. I loved the relationship that Nora formed with Jamie's daughter Dru and I loved Jamie getting to know Nora's kids. I loved the updates on other couples, what's going on in their lives, and the hints of what might be brewing between a possible couple. I also liked getting small bits of Corey and Rhys since they are very much a part of this series.

There were great building details, development, and different levels of drama and it all kept me hooked. I loved all the dots connecting. There were also several fun moments and humor woven in just when I needed some levity. This was a fantastic story filled with an outpouring of love and emotion that made my heart feel full. I loved Jamie and Nora finding their way to one another and embracing their love. All the healing and acceptance was a beautiful thing. Another five-star read from my favorite author!

Complimentary copy received.