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Whiskey Tears

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Adley Gates.
The one that got away.
No, the one I permitted to get away.
Nope. That’s not right either.
The one I up and walked away from.

I had my reasons. When you’re reeling with pain of a tragedy, it doesn’t matter who you hurt to alleviate the ache. Even if it’s the person who means the most to you.

Years later, like a ghost of my past, she’s back in my life, hating me for what I did. I’m a shell of the man I once was, yet with one touch, she brings me back to life.
The only problem—I don’t deserve her forgiveness.
But that won’t stop me from fighting for her.
I need to prove we deserve a second chance.

***This book contains situations with drug use that might be disturbing to some readers.***

310 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 14, 2021

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Taylor Delong

28 books336 followers

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Laura.
1,138 reviews52 followers
October 4, 2021
"Thank you for loving me when I couldn't even love myself."

Damn! How I loved this one!!!

A second chance love story with all the feels. Heartbreaking and uplifting, this is a story of grief, sorrow and healing. One of acceptance, love and forgiveness. But most of all, one that feels real. A not quite perfect love between two not quite perfect people, who deal with tragic circumstances, each in their own way.

'When you’re reeling with pain of a tragedy, it doesn’t matter who you hurt to alleviate the ache. Even if it’s the person who means the most to you.'
We've all been there and done that, at one time or another but our MC here, Ethan, drives it to the extreme. He up and walked away from the only girl whom he'd ever called his own. Adley Gates -The only girl who'd ever held his heart.

'You're like this ray of sunshine I never knew was missing from my life, never knew I needed.'

And yet, he broke her heart.

I swear my own heart went out to Adley and I may have wanted to smack (*cough* more like trash) Ethan several times over for the way he behaved and what he did to her. And I will not admit AT ALL to rooting and sighing for him later on, when he was trying to make things right. Nope! I just had something come up in my eye. That's all!

But back to the story because that's what I was supposed to tell you about. :D Whiskey Tears is made up of two parts. One in which Adley and Ethan meet, where we'll get to experience the heartbreak alongside Adley. And the other set six years later, when their paths accidentally meet again. And it is here that the roller-coaster of emotions really kicks in, because we'll get to see how badly a wrong decision broke not one but two hearts.

I couldn't help but feel for Ethan after getting to see the consequences his own decision had on himself. I still wanted to smack him occasionally, but his determination to be there for Adley when she needed him the most... Him trying his damnedest to ease her pain and do whatever it takes to fix it... How can a girl not sigh for that!!!

I won't tell you more for fear of spoiling but if you decide to give this book a try know you're in for a heck of a ride. A rollercoaster of emotion topped with steamy hot scenes and chemistry that's just perfect... Fabulous characters side cast included and a relatable love story for the heart.
Oh! And I shouldn't forget about the epilogue! Absolutely PERFECT! Not because it's all candies and sunshine but because it's imperfect and real.

All in all, Whiskey tears is a second chance romance you should not miss.

"I wish I could keep you as my own."...
"You can."


A perfectly imperfect love story with all the feels!

Happy reading everyone
and be kind.

Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
1,816 reviews55 followers
July 5, 2021
Get ready for some seriously tragic stuff. And some annoyance and aggravation. Because Ethan brings the A words for sure, while Adley brings the small a versions once in a while.

From the very start, Ethan was cagey with commitments and answers, but he couldn’t stay away from Adley. As for Adley, I thought the issues were going to be hers at first. Or that Ethan was in a different situation than he was. So I was thrown for the first loop when neither ended up being what I’d feared. And when Ethan became nothing more than sad memories, I wanted to cry for Adley. Because when he came back into her life, it was clear that they weren’t in the same place to start anything up again. Or were they? Because when the most horrid nightmare happens again, Ethan is there for Adley. For her anger, her mourning, her fears, and her sadness. He’s there for hope and love and everything he swore he didn’t deserve again. So Ethan made the big steps to change and prove that he was all in, while Adley had to think about it....and take a hoodie or two as his penance.

As hard as this book was at times, it still felt like life. And that’s the magic of this author. She grabs you and pulls you into stories that aren’t outlandish or OTT with drama and nonsense. Instead, they’re tales of what could oh so easily happen in the real world. The hurts, the fears, the events, the loss and love and hope...all stuff that can and does happen in reality. And that epilogue? Ohhhhh, it felt like life with little kids. I read it and felt “yup, been there” and knew that this author gets it, because her characters do. So if you’re looking for an escape that doesn’t feel too fake, this one is definitely for you. Because it’s life. Messy, glorious, tragic life.
27 reviews10 followers
July 16, 2021

Are you ready for a bit of a roller coaster? Whiskey Tears is the story of Adley and Ethan. Like other books from Delong, Adley and Ethan fall hard and fast. Unfortunately, Ethan isn’t ready to go all in and further backs away when tragedy strikes his family. Adley is left questioning the whirlwind of their time together. Both characters are forced to make tough life decisions in the wake of Ethan’s tragedy. It isn’t until a few years later that Ethan sees a “ghost” of someone from his past and Adley suffers a great loss, that the fire is reignited.
Delong’s characters are well thought out. Each chapter brings you closer to Adley and Ethan. So much so, you think you are sitting there watching their lives unfold right in front of you. In true Deling fashion, you will get that epilogue (and bonus chapter) to make sure all loose ends are tied up.
Buckle up and come along for the ride to see how quickly one person can make a lifelong impact on another.
Profile Image for Cathy Brockman.
Author 5 books92 followers
July 13, 2021
This is a new to me author but I loved the writing and story and will look for more.
The Title sorta gives a sad emotional vibe and it was spot on. The book is written in two parts. The first part Adley is just arriving at college, going to her first frat party when she meets a gorgeous, sexy guy. They kiss and Adley is swept off her feet. But Eric has met his match and can’t stop thinking about his hoodie stealing, vodka drinking hottie.
There’s a reason Eric hides his identity to Adley and is sure when she finds out it will blow up I his face.
The first part of the book is very good. I loved the mystery of Eric and trying to figure out his secrets.
Then I wanted to punch him just as the author intended.
The second part I didn’t like near as much as the first. Adley was more subdued and Erica jerk. Until he wasn’t. He had some really romantic tendencies that made me swoon. So yeah he was one of those. You loved to hate and loved in the end.
The story had some really sad twists, is very emotional, but not an ugly cry.
It has a sweet, adorable epilogue.
All and all I enjoyed this story.
523 reviews6 followers
July 16, 2021
This was quite an emotional read but so worth it, the title is absolutely perfect & fitting for the story. I loved Adley and my heart broke for her. She met Ethan at college & he seemed kind of cagey about some things. When things happened in his life & he left her I could totally feel her sadness. When he reentered her life years later she hates him and has no place for him in her life at all. Ethan is prepared to fight for her & protect her when things arise in her life. There were some twists & turns in the story & a box of tissues nearby when you read it.
3,772 reviews27 followers
July 12, 2021
The book is a good, and enjoyable romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Leisa Ann.
636 reviews9 followers
July 17, 2021
I love second chance books so I was looking forward to reading this book. Honestly this book left me with more questions than answers. I don’t want to spoil the book for anyone but the Hero left me confused in his reasoning for walking away and the manner in which he did it left me scratching my head. The heroine’s willingness to take him back so readily was perplexing. I have enjoyed several books by this author and I’m looking forward to the next one.
914 reviews14 followers
July 19, 2021
3.5 stars. The overall storyline wasn’t bad. I still had some unanswered questions when I finished reading though. The hero had enough red flags that my daughter would have been interested in him. I don’t feel like I got enough details into his background and his movements in part one. I didn’t feel like he needed to leave, but I can deal with that. Characters often don’t listen to me.
I was a little surprised that he didn’t have to work harder for a second chance.
Profile Image for Vera Blaz.
1,302 reviews4 followers
July 19, 2021
The author posted a disclaimer about references to drug use in her Facebook group. I went into the book armed with that knowledge and prepared myself to read about it. But, like all things Taylor Delong, I should have expected the unexpected. Adley Gates and Ethan McThune met by chance. When they met, they disclosed only first initials to each other. As they got to know each other, or I should say Ethan got to know Adley and kept everything personal about himself close to the vest, the connection they felt only got stronger. It was so aggravating how Ethan didn't share himself with Adley, and while the mystery was intriguing for a while it began to be irritating. But good things come to those who wait, or in the case of the characters all is revealed eventually. Adley and Ethan share a common connection, but not in the way you'd expect. And everything you think you've figured out about the story may turn out wrong as you continue your journey through Adley and Ethan's story. Both characters suffer a similar loss and all the missing details reveal themselves. I'm not going to lie, you will cry. You will break. But, you'll also get pieced back together.

I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Raja.
Author 20 books300 followers
January 16, 2022
I'll start by saying, I love every single book written by Taylor. They always take me on an emotional rollercoaster ride I never knew I needed to take.

This one has got to be my second favorite one.

Second chance romance are normally not tropes I usually read, but I'm so glad I read this one.

Adley, oh my sweet sweet Adley. I loved her and all she stood for.

Ethan was battling something that made him push away the one person he loved most. That's what they always do, push away the person they love most...it's unavoidable. Luckily he was given a second chance and I'm glad he gave it his all.

This was one emotional ride I didn't know I needed but I'm glad I hopped on that rollercoaster.

There is so much more I can say about this book but I don't want to give NOTHING away. I'm actually rereading if you wanna join me.

Taylor, once again you have created characters and a story that has ingrained itself in my life. Keep on writing and giving me all the feels. I look forward to your next book!
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.6k reviews163 followers
August 7, 2021
Whiskey Tears is one hell of an emotional ride, and I have to say, one of my biggest emotions was rage at Ethan. Adley & Ethan met in college at a party, and their courtship was fast. Ethan wasn't so ready so he ghosted this poor girl instead of facing things & communicating with her so I wasn't a fan of his because he hurt Adley so much. Fast forward several years later, and Ethan & Adley come face to face. I'm telling you right now that I totally understood her mean feelings towards him, but I sure do wish she would have held onto a bit longer because I felt like he got off too lightly to be honest so I never warmed up to him & I make no apologies for it. I know that it's different strokes for different folks so I hope you'll decide for yourselves by hitting those one click buttons as this is only my opinion (and you may need tissues if you aren't fueled by rage like me LOL). HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
17.1k reviews206 followers
July 15, 2021
This is a new author to me, but I will certainly be looking out for her work in the future. This is Ethan and Adley’s story, and it is not an easy journey. When these two cross paths again Ethan is a shell of the man he used to be, and even though Adley is still hurt and angry at him, he finds himself unable to stay away from her and he still has commitment issues. Ethan is going to have his work cut out for him, but he is determined to convince Adley for a 2nd chance. This is a well written tragic story which is a heartwrenching, emotional roller coaster, with tragedy, loss, healing, twists, grieving, drama, forgiveness, and love. I was enthralled throughout this riveting page turner, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend.
132 reviews6 followers
July 16, 2021
I was not expecting all the emotions and twists in this one. Not at all. The blurb touches on only a small fraction of what this story is packed with, but it’s really a story you need to go into without knowing what’s coming.

It’s heartbreaking in a beautiful way. Adley and Ethan meet while she’s in collage, and though he hides a lot of who he is from her, she can’t help but be enamored. And then he steps up to the plate…and hits a home run.

Things go well for a little while until tragedy strikes. And then a few years later, again.

As I said, there’s a lot more to this story. You’ll have to check it out for yourself and read it.
Profile Image for Adina Grey.
Author 30 books229 followers
July 23, 2021
This book was interesting. We can split it into two parts.the first one where Ethan and Adley met at a frat house party and where it all began. Unfortunately for various reasons Ethan leaves Adley, totally ghosting her. It's one of the things that I didn't really understand, I don't think it would have been necessary, however, the reason will be explained . In the second part the story resumes, six years later, without too many hitches. As a new author to me, I can say it has been an enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Danielle Melo .
315 reviews5 followers
July 19, 2021
In love!

My goodness what an epic read! I love that it was based out of Rhode Island and the characters my God the characters were incredible. This book hit me in all of the feels! I couldn't put the book down. I just had to finish it. Some suspense, epic characters and a love story that will make you melt.
Profile Image for Gladys Cross.
Author 9 books144 followers
November 12, 2021
keeps you guessing

Ok I loved that you never really knew the hero and what his deal was. Even halfway through. To be honest still not totally sure, that’s the only drawback. I would have loved the author to clarify what kept the hero from seeing the heroine or feeling like they had a future until much later.
1,273 reviews
July 16, 2021
What a beautifully written emotional story. This story really pulled at my heart strings and had me feeling so many emotions I didn't want to stop reading. I was so mad at Ethan at times I wanted to smack him. An absolute must read story.
Profile Image for Layla Delaney.
Author 102 books22 followers
July 27, 2021
I am a sucker for two things in a romance novel: happy ever afters and second chances. This story checked off both of those boxes in a very big way. Yet the best part is that all the tough was in there, too. Love, love, loved this one, Taylor!
Profile Image for Michele Del Rey.
1,895 reviews23 followers
August 7, 2021
This one was definitely a roller coaster ride but worth the read. This book ranged many years with this couple, it is a second chance love. I loved the cover which pulled me in but the story was just as appealing.
Profile Image for Deb.
6,828 reviews26 followers
August 9, 2021
A story filled with emotional turmoil and drama surrounding the characters that gave it an intense vibe. I enjoyed reading this book because I bought into their romance. Nicely done. I requested a copy of this book and am voluntarily writing a review.
221 reviews2 followers
July 16, 2021
Wow! This book so did not go where I expected, so many unexpected twists….I love it. Taylor’s best work yet
Profile Image for K. Logan.
Author 4 books6 followers
July 19, 2021
If you have not read one of Taylor's books, this would be a good one to start with.

Taylor has this way of pulling you into a story within the first few pages and you just can't stop once you start. Her characters, both E and Adley are so relateable, you feel like you have known them your entire life.

This book, as I won't post any spoilers, will make you laugh, cry and hit you right in all the feels. Just when I think I figure it out, she throws me another curve ball that I am just not ready for.

This book is one of my top reads, ever. I fell in love with the characters and it hit me with all the feels.

Go get it, NOW
Profile Image for Sarah Strawinski.
Author 1 book32 followers
July 16, 2021
This book was heartbreaking but so good. I can’t say much about it or it will be major spoilers. I will say this though, go get it now. You will not regret it.
150 reviews
August 8, 2021
I do enjoy reading second chance romance stories. Ethan and Adley's story fit the bill. They met at a frat party, and Ethan did take a while before finally somewhat commiting to Adley, even though he did not fully disclose certain information to her. He had a big secret, and I don't really understand the reasoning behind keeping the information to himself. I'm not going to say much about it to avoid many spoilers, but you'll know what it is when you read the book. Tragedy strikes and Ethan leaves, totally ghosting Adley. When they do run into each other six years later, he's there to support Adley in her time of need. There are issues they have to work through, especially things Adley went through after Ethan left, but in the end they get their HEA. I loved the epilogue!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews

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