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New Castle #1
White Chocolate
Passion erupts in this spicy contemporary romance from bestselling author Lydia Michaels when the irresistible new neighbor, Tyson Adams, offers his “services” to the shy, single mom on the street.
Kat D’Angelo’s bittersweet life is about to get decadent. Four years after the scandal of her young pregnancy, Kat has finally come to terms with her otherwise lackluster life. Budgeted to the penny and scheduled to the minute, Kat’s highest priority is her daughter, Mia. After being deserted by Mia’s father, abandoned by her conservative family, and broke to the point of near starvation, Kat has learned not to trust others with her happiness.
She is determined, for the sake of her daughter, to maintain a simple, organized life free of unnecessary pleasures or indulgent distractions. But when Tyson Adams, a successful entrepreneur, becomes her new neighbor, Kat learns that some pleasures are too sweet to resist, and passion erupts.
Kat D’Angelo’s bittersweet life is about to get decadent. Four years after the scandal of her young pregnancy, Kat has finally come to terms with her otherwise lackluster life. Budgeted to the penny and scheduled to the minute, Kat’s highest priority is her daughter, Mia. After being deserted by Mia’s father, abandoned by her conservative family, and broke to the point of near starvation, Kat has learned not to trust others with her happiness.
She is determined, for the sake of her daughter, to maintain a simple, organized life free of unnecessary pleasures or indulgent distractions. But when Tyson Adams, a successful entrepreneur, becomes her new neighbor, Kat learns that some pleasures are too sweet to resist, and passion erupts.
ebook
First published August 20, 2012
About the author
Lydia Michaels
66 books1,546 followersLydia Michaels is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than forty novels. She writes heart-clenching, unpredictable romance with dark elements and high heat. Her work is character-driven and bursting with broken heroes and badass females. With a sweet spot for overbearing, territorial types, her deeply emotional books are spicy, emotionally satisfying, and guaranteed to leave readers with many book hangovers.
Lydia is the consecutive winner of the 2018 & 2019 Author of the Year Award from Happenings Media and the recipient of the 2014 Best Author Award from the Courier Times. She has been featured by USA Today, Romantic Times Magazine, the Women in Publishing Summit, and more.
Michaels has been a recognized presence in the author community since starting her career in 2007. She is the CEO of LMC Consulting and a certified author coach specializing in characterization and plot development. She takes great joy in hosting author events celebrating diversity within the book industry. She has bridged connections among many authors since founding renowned events such as the East Coast Author Convention and the Annual Behind the Keys Author Retreat. However, the gem of her work is, by far, her extensive backlist (see LydiaMichaelsBooks.com).
She is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Her favorite things include cooking Italian cuisine, hosting extravagant dinner parties, sipping martinis, listening to her husband play piano, and escaping to her coastal home on the Jersey Shore. She’s an LGBTQ ally, a BLM supporter, and a firm believer that the patriarchy must burn (women’s rights are human rights).
You can follow Lydia on Instagram, TikTok, & Facebook!
Instagram: @lydia_michaels_books
Facebook: @LydiaMichaels
TikTok: @LydiaMichaels
Lydia is the consecutive winner of the 2018 & 2019 Author of the Year Award from Happenings Media and the recipient of the 2014 Best Author Award from the Courier Times. She has been featured by USA Today, Romantic Times Magazine, the Women in Publishing Summit, and more.
Michaels has been a recognized presence in the author community since starting her career in 2007. She is the CEO of LMC Consulting and a certified author coach specializing in characterization and plot development. She takes great joy in hosting author events celebrating diversity within the book industry. She has bridged connections among many authors since founding renowned events such as the East Coast Author Convention and the Annual Behind the Keys Author Retreat. However, the gem of her work is, by far, her extensive backlist (see LydiaMichaelsBooks.com).
She is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Her favorite things include cooking Italian cuisine, hosting extravagant dinner parties, sipping martinis, listening to her husband play piano, and escaping to her coastal home on the Jersey Shore. She’s an LGBTQ ally, a BLM supporter, and a firm believer that the patriarchy must burn (women’s rights are human rights).
You can follow Lydia on Instagram, TikTok, & Facebook!
Instagram: @lydia_michaels_books
Facebook: @LydiaMichaels
TikTok: @LydiaMichaels
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
April 5, 2014
I have mixed feelings about this book. The story was pretty good and the hero was such a nice guy. The big issue was the heroine. She was so immature and had no self esteem or backbone. She let her family treat her like crap and order her around and just kept coming back for more. She got a little better around half way through but then starting acting like an idiot again. If the heroine had been less annoying this story would have been good. I like the fact that it was an inter-racial romance that was thoughtful to differences between the leads. The hero was a saint to put up with this heroine at times, though she seems to have found some backbone by the end.
June 7, 2015
I really disliked Kat. TSTL is an understatement. Tyson was awesome. Just a really good man. Totally deserved better. She, however, was childish, stupid, unable to carry on a conversation, immature (there are not enough words to express how much), insecure, thoughtless,...the list goes on. How someone raises a child for 3 years and had zero common sense or social skills is beyond me.
I thought what she did with Dawson was cheating. Especially going on the second date. And I hated how she reacted to the money from Jeremy and how she let him off the hook for being a total d-bag for 4 years.
I had such high hopes. But feel very unhappy after finishing this book.
I thought what she did with Dawson was cheating. Especially going on the second date. And I hated how she reacted to the money from Jeremy and how she let him off the hook for being a total d-bag for 4 years.
I had such high hopes. But feel very unhappy after finishing this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2014
04/06/2014 --
Overall Rating = 3.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 1 / 4 / 3 = 2.5 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character Development = 4 Stars
Story Appreciation = 4 Stars
Ending = 4 Star
Worth the Chili = 4 Stars -- [$3.99 on Amazon]
Smexy [HEAT] Rating = Moderate
422 pages
I can't seem to get enough of Lydia Michaels. I started to read another book/another author, but then I kept thinking about her stories and began looking through her back-list for another one to read. I LOVE a good bi-racial love story, so this one particularly appealed. I think the author did a decent job pulling it off.
What did I really like in this one?
1 -- The bi-racial angle was played really well. We had just enough of the cultural struggles to make the story believable without it being off-putting. Tyson's family was a joy to read about. I hope we get more of them in future books.
2 -- I loved Tyson. He had everything together. He didn't come into the relationship with tons of baggage. He knows how to treat the people he cares for. I think the only thing that gave him pause in his relationship with Kat, was the significant age gap, but he was able to get past that really easily. Her life experiences gave her an age well beyond her mere 21. She is a beautiful white woman and he wanted her. He came to really care about her child. I really liked that this guy didn't play any games. None. This man could easily be the perfect Hero. There was not a single bad thing about him.
3 -- Kat, she could be a bit annoying with her insecurities [which, after reading several of this authors books -- know now this is a theme she likes to use]. Even so, you came to appreciate her. I understood why she felt she had to be so in control of things. Why she put up with so much from her parents. I liked her, but she was probably the weakest part of this story.
4 -- Lydia Michaels does a really nice job with secondary characters. They aren't just wallpaper. They really add to the story. In this one, Mia and Jade were remarkable. Jeremy too, at a later point. Mia, the little 3 year old, added so much to my liking for Tyson and Kat. She really made the story. Jade is a character and I'm looking forward to her story. Jeremy. I'm not sure I would have been as forgiving of this shit as Kat was, but she was and it worked out beautifully. Our returning Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans hold a special place in my heart. I enjoy seeing these adds to a story play out nicely. Jeremy matured and wanted, needed, to be part of his daughters life. He stepped up committed to making her a priority. I loved reading this. I have a bit of history with a father who saw his child for a hot second and has never been seen again. It is life hurdle that shouldn't be had on a young child. They have enough crosses to bear. Regardless of whether the parents are involved at any level. This should never be an obstacle for an innocent to deal with.
5 -- The beginning of this story is killer. She grabs you immediately. Kat is in the delivery room having Mia. We learn about Kat's circumstances in the first chapter. It is probably one of the best first chapters I've read in a while. She sucks you in and you want to see what is going on .. immediately. Nicely done.
6 -- I love a nice long story. This one was a bit over 400 pages. I'm not fond of short stories. I pause if a book is less than 200 pages. A huge selling point for me is the length of a book. I think 400 pages is a sweet spot for me. I get really excited when I know I'll be in a story for a while. Sometimes it doesn't work out, but I'm more inclined to try than a shorter one when deciding what to read. I'm a strange one .. I know it.
Okay, what were the things that bugged me?
1 - Mia was 3 years old. The behaviors given to her by the author, the language and the activities, the reason/logic were all of a child older than 3. There was no need for Mia to be 3. She could have very easily been 5 or 6. I had to put my logic aside and continue with the story. I've actually not finished a story before for this very reason. In that one it was a bit over the top. Here, I was able to put my issues aside and read on, but it BUGGED me big time.
2 -- Insecurity of the heroine is a theme for this author. Insecurities are okay, but she takes it to a place of character weakness. We all have some insecurity or another. You can demonstrate an insecurity for a character without it getting to the point of actual weakness of character. How am I supposed to really like someone I feel has a weak character. How do they / I ever get past feeling they are less than?
3 -- What the hell is on this cover. I've looked at it and can't figure it out. It has some pretty colors. I think it is supposed to be something with "white chocolate", but it misses the mark for me. Awful.
4 -- I think I've figured out that for a book, by this publisher, to be considered erotic, it has to have one episode of backyard play. First of all, this book wasn't erotic. It has some hot intimacy, but nothing particularly erotic. It had one small episode of anal play, but nothing too involved. I'm not sure what this added to this story? It seemed strange for these two.
This one isn't a 5 Star read for me. It was good and I did enjoy the characters. There is something about this author that pulls me to read another. Not sure what it is, because none of them have been off the charts. I still think she has a 5 star read in her somewhere. Maybe. I'm keeping the faith!
I'm moving onto Jade's story. She is an interesting one and can't wait to see what this author has in store for her.
An overall, enjoyable read.
Happy Reading!
Overall Rating = 3.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 1 / 4 / 3 = 2.5 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character Development = 4 Stars
Story Appreciation = 4 Stars
Ending = 4 Star
Worth the Chili = 4 Stars -- [$3.99 on Amazon]
Smexy [HEAT] Rating = Moderate
422 pages
I can't seem to get enough of Lydia Michaels. I started to read another book/another author, but then I kept thinking about her stories and began looking through her back-list for another one to read. I LOVE a good bi-racial love story, so this one particularly appealed. I think the author did a decent job pulling it off.
What did I really like in this one?
1 -- The bi-racial angle was played really well. We had just enough of the cultural struggles to make the story believable without it being off-putting. Tyson's family was a joy to read about. I hope we get more of them in future books.
2 -- I loved Tyson. He had everything together. He didn't come into the relationship with tons of baggage. He knows how to treat the people he cares for. I think the only thing that gave him pause in his relationship with Kat, was the significant age gap, but he was able to get past that really easily. Her life experiences gave her an age well beyond her mere 21. She is a beautiful white woman and he wanted her. He came to really care about her child. I really liked that this guy didn't play any games. None. This man could easily be the perfect Hero. There was not a single bad thing about him.
3 -- Kat, she could be a bit annoying with her insecurities [which, after reading several of this authors books -- know now this is a theme she likes to use]. Even so, you came to appreciate her. I understood why she felt she had to be so in control of things. Why she put up with so much from her parents. I liked her, but she was probably the weakest part of this story.
4 -- Lydia Michaels does a really nice job with secondary characters. They aren't just wallpaper. They really add to the story. In this one, Mia and Jade were remarkable. Jeremy too, at a later point. Mia, the little 3 year old, added so much to my liking for Tyson and Kat. She really made the story. Jade is a character and I'm looking forward to her story. Jeremy. I'm not sure I would have been as forgiving of this shit as Kat was, but she was and it worked out beautifully. Our returning Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans hold a special place in my heart. I enjoy seeing these adds to a story play out nicely. Jeremy matured and wanted, needed, to be part of his daughters life. He stepped up committed to making her a priority. I loved reading this. I have a bit of history with a father who saw his child for a hot second and has never been seen again. It is life hurdle that shouldn't be had on a young child. They have enough crosses to bear. Regardless of whether the parents are involved at any level. This should never be an obstacle for an innocent to deal with.
5 -- The beginning of this story is killer. She grabs you immediately. Kat is in the delivery room having Mia. We learn about Kat's circumstances in the first chapter. It is probably one of the best first chapters I've read in a while. She sucks you in and you want to see what is going on .. immediately. Nicely done.
6 -- I love a nice long story. This one was a bit over 400 pages. I'm not fond of short stories. I pause if a book is less than 200 pages. A huge selling point for me is the length of a book. I think 400 pages is a sweet spot for me. I get really excited when I know I'll be in a story for a while. Sometimes it doesn't work out, but I'm more inclined to try than a shorter one when deciding what to read. I'm a strange one .. I know it.
Okay, what were the things that bugged me?
1 - Mia was 3 years old. The behaviors given to her by the author, the language and the activities, the reason/logic were all of a child older than 3. There was no need for Mia to be 3. She could have very easily been 5 or 6. I had to put my logic aside and continue with the story. I've actually not finished a story before for this very reason. In that one it was a bit over the top. Here, I was able to put my issues aside and read on, but it BUGGED me big time.
2 -- Insecurity of the heroine is a theme for this author. Insecurities are okay, but she takes it to a place of character weakness. We all have some insecurity or another. You can demonstrate an insecurity for a character without it getting to the point of actual weakness of character. How am I supposed to really like someone I feel has a weak character. How do they / I ever get past feeling they are less than?
3 -- What the hell is on this cover. I've looked at it and can't figure it out. It has some pretty colors. I think it is supposed to be something with "white chocolate", but it misses the mark for me. Awful.
4 -- I think I've figured out that for a book, by this publisher, to be considered erotic, it has to have one episode of backyard play. First of all, this book wasn't erotic. It has some hot intimacy, but nothing particularly erotic. It had one small episode of anal play, but nothing too involved. I'm not sure what this added to this story? It seemed strange for these two.
This one isn't a 5 Star read for me. It was good and I did enjoy the characters. There is something about this author that pulls me to read another. Not sure what it is, because none of them have been off the charts. I still think she has a 5 star read in her somewhere. Maybe. I'm keeping the faith!
I'm moving onto Jade's story. She is an interesting one and can't wait to see what this author has in store for her.
An overall, enjoyable read.
Happy Reading!
May 14, 2018
4.5 stars!
Lydia Michaels never fails to stun me. Whether she's writing dramatic angsty love stories or those with a touch of laughter. There's something in her writing and characters that's real.
Kat D'angelo may be the mother of beautiful, precocious three year old Mia, but she's still a young girl at heart. I really liked Kat but I hated to see her struggle with the constant need to try and please her parents, who I frankly didn't think were worth the effort. I loved seeing her self-confidence grow. And that was mostly due to Tyson.
Tyson Adams is a successful, single man, who just happens to be Kat's new neighbor. I loved how he and Kat sort of danced around each other in the beginning. I really loved how patient he was with Kat and how open and loving he was with Mia.
Kat and Tyson have wonderful chemistry. I loved the slow build up between them that quickly turned super hot. I mean like melt your panties hot. I like how Lydia handled Tyson being black and the stereotypes that may come with that. It wasn't something she focused on, but it wasn't neglected or swept under the rug either.
The story started off slowly for me, but I quickly was hooked and then couldn't put the book down. There were also few loose ends that bothered me not just because I have unanswered questions but because I'm hoping they'll be addressed in the next book in the series.
If you're looking for something hot yet sweet and great read, I'd strongly recommend you pick this book up!
Lydia Michaels never fails to stun me. Whether she's writing dramatic angsty love stories or those with a touch of laughter. There's something in her writing and characters that's real.
Kat D'angelo may be the mother of beautiful, precocious three year old Mia, but she's still a young girl at heart. I really liked Kat but I hated to see her struggle with the constant need to try and please her parents, who I frankly didn't think were worth the effort. I loved seeing her self-confidence grow. And that was mostly due to Tyson.
Tyson Adams is a successful, single man, who just happens to be Kat's new neighbor. I loved how he and Kat sort of danced around each other in the beginning. I really loved how patient he was with Kat and how open and loving he was with Mia.
Kat and Tyson have wonderful chemistry. I loved the slow build up between them that quickly turned super hot. I mean like melt your panties hot. I like how Lydia handled Tyson being black and the stereotypes that may come with that. It wasn't something she focused on, but it wasn't neglected or swept under the rug either.
The story started off slowly for me, but I quickly was hooked and then couldn't put the book down. There were also few loose ends that bothered me not just because I have unanswered questions but because I'm hoping they'll be addressed in the next book in the series.
If you're looking for something hot yet sweet and great read, I'd strongly recommend you pick this book up!
November 28, 2017
This story deals with all important issues from teenage pregnancy, dropping out of school, single mom, being shunned by those that are supposed to love you, to interracial relationships, deadbeat dads, etc. Lydia Michaels' way of writing deals with everyday issues that affect us all. Lydia can enlighten your opinion of what you think you know. Is there anything Lydia can't write?
April 14, 2014
ROUNDING UP TO 4 STARS. Kat is very young in this book, 21 years old and a mom of an adorable (of course!) three yr old daughter, Mia. Normally 21 yrs old, and it would be a NA/YA book, but for the entire book, Kat is struggling to make a living & to support her daughter. So this seems more like a regular contemporary romance. At the beginning of the book, her affluent parents drop her off to live on her own. They provide financial support for a very short time & then cut her off. Her mother, when not ignoring her, constantly puts her down. The level of coldness, seems almost unbearable. I can't figure out where Kat gets her determination. Kat meets Tyson, who's several years older than her. He owns his own business and encourages Kat and let's her know that she is loved. Kat has a hard time believing it. She, of course thinks he will leave her too. Kat (tries to) resist the attraction to Ty. Their relationship grows slowly, due to Ty's encouragement. I thought that at 21 yrs old and no affection from her parents, she would have jumped into the next relationship. I liked Tyson a lot but I don't know if a 36 yr old man would be that patient with a young girl. I was happy, later in the book when Kat starts to take a more assertive role in her life. Kat's mother gets the prize for the biggest bitch that has ever been written. I loved the last 25%. Kat was very uptight and nervous at the beginning. At the end, she seemed a lot more grown up and seemed to realize what she wanted and needed. great HEA.
May 23, 2013
Kat annoyed me at first with her self doubt. I understand that people in her life were really mean but she did need some back bone for her sake and for Mia. It was amazing to see her grow up and really become stronger and more self aware of her worth and strength..a great read and refreshing. Tyler and Mia were really amazing strong personalities. Enjoyed the journey of the relationships. Must read and will continue on with the series Jade and Jeremy really become interesting..
June 8, 2021
Good Read👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
First time reading this author's work. Good character development and engaging plot. May not be everyone's cup of tea, but I enjoyed it immensely. I'm a sucker for a well written book.
Buy it, read it and enjoy.👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥
First time reading this author's work. Good character development and engaging plot. May not be everyone's cup of tea, but I enjoyed it immensely. I'm a sucker for a well written book.
Buy it, read it and enjoy.👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥
February 22, 2016
Too long, there was a build up like something was going to happen and never did. Ened up skimming a little and still felt like it took forever to get to the ending.
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October 14, 2017
Lydia Michaels never seems to disappoint. This one was another amazing one, and I couldn't get enough.
I can honestly say, I don't think I have ever read a book with an interracial relationship. Which is rather sad, and is something I need to change, asap. I absolutely loved this book. I absolutely loved seeing them over come so much, including the people who are against them being together. Not only do they have personal things to overcome, but also a big hurtle to overcome because of their difference in race.
Kat has lived her life being abandoned, let down, defenseless, and knowing she wasn't good enough. Nor would she ever been. Having put her family through a 'horrible' scandal, they don't seem to take to well to it. Shutting her out, pushing her away is the only thing they do. They don't even help her through her 'situation'. Struggling to make a life on her own, she does what she has to do, even if it's to deal with her mother's craziness.
Tyson has to go through heartache and lose, to realize his life isn't as good as it could be. He worked hard to get where he is in life, but at the end of the day, when work is over, he wants more. He wants more out of life and for his life. He didn't think that more would come in the form of his neighbor and her strawberry blonde 3 year old little girl, who quickly wraps herself around his heart. He has never been so drawn to someone and unable to stay away, until the shy, uncertain woman next door, who seems to trip over her words when he's around.
Ty is a dream come true. If he was real, I would want to snatch him up in a quick hurry. His patience, his kindness, his understanding, is all so charming. And on the other hand, his protectiveness, his work ethic, his sculpted body, his no back down attitude, is down right sexy as all H-E-DOUBLE HOCKEY STICK!! I fell in love....quickly.
Kat is someone I wanted to slap upside the head and try to get her to wake up and see she was better than the people around her made her feel. She has so much to be happy about, and to celebrate for, but she let's other put her down and makes her doubt herself. She is so much better than the company she was forced to keep.
They are absolutely perfect for each other. This story rooted itself in my heart and I don't see it going any where any time soon. Which I am so totally OK with.
Now I definitely need Jade's story. I need to find out what all happened.
I can honestly say, I don't think I have ever read a book with an interracial relationship. Which is rather sad, and is something I need to change, asap. I absolutely loved this book. I absolutely loved seeing them over come so much, including the people who are against them being together. Not only do they have personal things to overcome, but also a big hurtle to overcome because of their difference in race.
Kat has lived her life being abandoned, let down, defenseless, and knowing she wasn't good enough. Nor would she ever been. Having put her family through a 'horrible' scandal, they don't seem to take to well to it. Shutting her out, pushing her away is the only thing they do. They don't even help her through her 'situation'. Struggling to make a life on her own, she does what she has to do, even if it's to deal with her mother's craziness.
Tyson has to go through heartache and lose, to realize his life isn't as good as it could be. He worked hard to get where he is in life, but at the end of the day, when work is over, he wants more. He wants more out of life and for his life. He didn't think that more would come in the form of his neighbor and her strawberry blonde 3 year old little girl, who quickly wraps herself around his heart. He has never been so drawn to someone and unable to stay away, until the shy, uncertain woman next door, who seems to trip over her words when he's around.
Ty is a dream come true. If he was real, I would want to snatch him up in a quick hurry. His patience, his kindness, his understanding, is all so charming. And on the other hand, his protectiveness, his work ethic, his sculpted body, his no back down attitude, is down right sexy as all H-E-DOUBLE HOCKEY STICK!! I fell in love....quickly.
Kat is someone I wanted to slap upside the head and try to get her to wake up and see she was better than the people around her made her feel. She has so much to be happy about, and to celebrate for, but she let's other put her down and makes her doubt herself. She is so much better than the company she was forced to keep.
They are absolutely perfect for each other. This story rooted itself in my heart and I don't see it going any where any time soon. Which I am so totally OK with.
Now I definitely need Jade's story. I need to find out what all happened.
December 15, 2017
The struggles of being a single parent is no joke especially when you're young and have no one to lend a hand. Kat finds herself in this predicament. Her parents have obviously disowned her due to her getting pregnant at such a young age.
At her mere 17 years of age, she has to learn how to take care of a baby on her own with no support whatsoever from her parents. It sucks to not have any siblings either that could lend a helping hand when needed.
Tyson is a successful businessman. I loved the fact that he was of a different race and even though he was African-American, he was a very well educated, highly successful man who was seeking a woman to spend the rest of his life with. He wanted love and everything that comes with it.
When Kat comes into his life, he not only takes her under his wing, but he falls in love with her daughter as well.
This book was about the struggles in life being a single parents with no support and finding out that life isn't all what it seems to be when you don't have the stability, wealth and love.
But once Tyson and Kat got their groove on, things worked out for them in the end and that's all that mattered.
I've become fastly addicted to Lydia Michaels' books and her writing.
4.5 stars for this beautifully written book
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
At her mere 17 years of age, she has to learn how to take care of a baby on her own with no support whatsoever from her parents. It sucks to not have any siblings either that could lend a helping hand when needed.
Tyson is a successful businessman. I loved the fact that he was of a different race and even though he was African-American, he was a very well educated, highly successful man who was seeking a woman to spend the rest of his life with. He wanted love and everything that comes with it.
When Kat comes into his life, he not only takes her under his wing, but he falls in love with her daughter as well.
This book was about the struggles in life being a single parents with no support and finding out that life isn't all what it seems to be when you don't have the stability, wealth and love.
But once Tyson and Kat got their groove on, things worked out for them in the end and that's all that mattered.
I've become fastly addicted to Lydia Michaels' books and her writing.
4.5 stars for this beautifully written book
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
September 5, 2017
Lydia Michaels never ceases to amaze me with the brilliance of her books. I love second chances. And this one is a second chance romance with a twist. Not just a second chance at love, but a second chance at life, family, and healing.
Pregnant at 17, abandoned by her baby’s father and her own parents, Kat D’Angelo had to grow up fast. She was struggling to get by but she was making a life for herself and her daughter, Mia. Kat thought she was content with her organized life until she met her new neighbor, Tyson Adams.
At 36, Tyson had made a success of his life. Ran his own business and bought his own home. But for all that success, his life still felt empty. When he meets his new neighbor and her daughter though, he realizes exactly what he needs in his life.
I loved the characters in this book. Kat was strong when it came to taking care of her daughter, but weak when it came to standing up to her parents. I got that. Everyone wants their parents’ approval and Kat was trying to hold on to the only family she’d ever known. Tyson was a genuine and honest man. He came from a loving, supportive family so I think Kat’s need to please her parents was hard for him to understand but he was willing to help her. Ty gave Kat the support she’d never experienced before. He was patient and encouraging and gave her room to figure life out. Through Ty’s support, Kat learned her own self-worth. She’d given everything to her daughter, her family. She knew how to love. Thanks to Ty, she learned how to be loved too. A sweet, steamy, and moving story.
Pregnant at 17, abandoned by her baby’s father and her own parents, Kat D’Angelo had to grow up fast. She was struggling to get by but she was making a life for herself and her daughter, Mia. Kat thought she was content with her organized life until she met her new neighbor, Tyson Adams.
At 36, Tyson had made a success of his life. Ran his own business and bought his own home. But for all that success, his life still felt empty. When he meets his new neighbor and her daughter though, he realizes exactly what he needs in his life.
I loved the characters in this book. Kat was strong when it came to taking care of her daughter, but weak when it came to standing up to her parents. I got that. Everyone wants their parents’ approval and Kat was trying to hold on to the only family she’d ever known. Tyson was a genuine and honest man. He came from a loving, supportive family so I think Kat’s need to please her parents was hard for him to understand but he was willing to help her. Ty gave Kat the support she’d never experienced before. He was patient and encouraging and gave her room to figure life out. Through Ty’s support, Kat learned her own self-worth. She’d given everything to her daughter, her family. She knew how to love. Thanks to Ty, she learned how to be loved too. A sweet, steamy, and moving story.
November 12, 2017
4Stars
This was a great read. It's 230 in the morning and I just finished reading it. I had to stay up to finish. I was that into it. I started it last night and read close to half before I fell asleep but tonight I was like I finishing this one. Can't wait for Jade story.
This was a great read. It's 230 in the morning and I just finished reading it. I had to stay up to finish. I was that into it. I started it last night and read close to half before I fell asleep but tonight I was like I finishing this one. Can't wait for Jade story.
December 9, 2017
Every time I read a book from Lydia Michaels I think, “Omg this was amazing! Definitely my favorite from this author!” How does that happen?!? ❤️
First Comes Love is about Kat and Tyson. Kat is a young single mother doing the best she can to raise her daughter on her own. Tyson is a successful albeit older man who owns his own business. They become neighbors and the sparks immediately fire up!
This was such a lovely and beautiful story. They face their share of problems but together they figure things out.
I’m definitely looking forward to book 2 in this series!
First Comes Love is about Kat and Tyson. Kat is a young single mother doing the best she can to raise her daughter on her own. Tyson is a successful albeit older man who owns his own business. They become neighbors and the sparks immediately fire up!
This was such a lovely and beautiful story. They face their share of problems but together they figure things out.
I’m definitely looking forward to book 2 in this series!
July 19, 2017
Absolutely loved it ❤️💍❤️💍❤️💍❤️💍
October 21, 2017
This book is exactly what I needed. It was truly a beautiful and achingly realistic love story. I would just randomly notice I was smiling in the middle of reading. I literally saw the sun starting to rise I stayed up so late to finish this.
Kat is such a relatable character, even though my life is absolutely nothing like hers I felt her on a level I normally don't feel a character. I can't imagine living the life she had, she was so strong and such a great mom. She was insecure and didn't trust men, but when she finally opened herself up to love she was serious. She didn't play games and there was no silly or unnecessary drama. I adored her
And Tyson, oh god, what a man. He's loyal and unwavering and so totally willing to put himself out there with Kat. He's a total alpha male but without all the unnecessary angriness and drama that comes along with the tortured alpha male character (although I totally like them too). He was a breath of fresh air, the kind of guy you hope to find in real life but more than likely won't. I think I'm in love.
And Mia was a doll baby! Loved her and her relationship with her mom. And her relationship with Ty (I'm not going to get into though or this will just become an essay where I gush more about Tyson).
Overall a great read.
Kat is such a relatable character, even though my life is absolutely nothing like hers I felt her on a level I normally don't feel a character. I can't imagine living the life she had, she was so strong and such a great mom. She was insecure and didn't trust men, but when she finally opened herself up to love she was serious. She didn't play games and there was no silly or unnecessary drama. I adored her
And Tyson, oh god, what a man. He's loyal and unwavering and so totally willing to put himself out there with Kat. He's a total alpha male but without all the unnecessary angriness and drama that comes along with the tortured alpha male character (although I totally like them too). He was a breath of fresh air, the kind of guy you hope to find in real life but more than likely won't. I think I'm in love.
And Mia was a doll baby! Loved her and her relationship with her mom. And her relationship with Ty (I'm not going to get into though or this will just become an essay where I gush more about Tyson).
Overall a great read.
April 10, 2018
Single Mother Power
I loved this story it hit close to home I'm a single mother so it hit close to home it told the struggles of single parenthood without support, little money it was a realistic story. It was a different love story an interracial love story was my first and I wasnt expecting it and loved it and this was my first book by Lydia and loved it!!! Im very impressed!!!
I loved this story it hit close to home I'm a single mother so it hit close to home it told the struggles of single parenthood without support, little money it was a realistic story. It was a different love story an interracial love story was my first and I wasnt expecting it and loved it and this was my first book by Lydia and loved it!!! Im very impressed!!!
May 24, 2013
2.5/5.0
Seventeen year old Kat D'Angelo dropped out of high school to become a full-time mom to her daughter, Mia. Both her parents, politically active, public figures and the father of her baby disapproved of her "situation" and abandoned her. She's left to fend for herself, just a terrified kid trying to raise a kid of her own. Three years pass, and she's barely making ends meet, but luckily she has grown into a mature woman and a wonderful mother. Kat's life is about to get even sweeter when she meets, African-American, contractor Tyson Adams who sports a dimple and just moved in next door. Tyson is tired of bachelorhood and longs for a family of his own, so he steals a kiss from Kat which ignites a flame that's hard to extinguish. Can love work its magic on this mismatched pair?
Readers who are seeking a hot and heavy romance with toe-curling sex acts won't find it in book one of The New Castle series. Michaels does capture an essence of passion and affection between the main characters fairly well, but the lead up to their physical activities is almost painful as we struggle with anticipation. Some of the chapters move along sluggishly with too much detail that results in overkill of dialogue. The storyline was drawn out, and although the author focuses on the power of a mother's love, the term "erotica" just seemed awkward, out of place and almost completely unnecessary except for a few steamy scenes. An enjoyable read, but not recommended for the most seasoned erotica fans who may be let down.
Seventeen year old Kat D'Angelo dropped out of high school to become a full-time mom to her daughter, Mia. Both her parents, politically active, public figures and the father of her baby disapproved of her "situation" and abandoned her. She's left to fend for herself, just a terrified kid trying to raise a kid of her own. Three years pass, and she's barely making ends meet, but luckily she has grown into a mature woman and a wonderful mother. Kat's life is about to get even sweeter when she meets, African-American, contractor Tyson Adams who sports a dimple and just moved in next door. Tyson is tired of bachelorhood and longs for a family of his own, so he steals a kiss from Kat which ignites a flame that's hard to extinguish. Can love work its magic on this mismatched pair?
Readers who are seeking a hot and heavy romance with toe-curling sex acts won't find it in book one of The New Castle series. Michaels does capture an essence of passion and affection between the main characters fairly well, but the lead up to their physical activities is almost painful as we struggle with anticipation. Some of the chapters move along sluggishly with too much detail that results in overkill of dialogue. The storyline was drawn out, and although the author focuses on the power of a mother's love, the term "erotica" just seemed awkward, out of place and almost completely unnecessary except for a few steamy scenes. An enjoyable read, but not recommended for the most seasoned erotica fans who may be let down.
September 16, 2017
This is a really good story about love and healing . Meet Kat a young single mom , who has been deserted by both her family and her teenage boyfriend when they found out she was pregnant . She has relied on herself and has done everything to raise her daughter Mia all by herself . Until the day that a sexy hot older guy moves in next door . With the help of Mia they become friends and more . Will Kat be strong enough to follow her heart and will Tyson be strong enough to fight for her and make her his .
I had a little bit of a hard time getting to like Kat . To me she was very naïve and a little bit immature at the start of the book. But as you read you actually see her starting to grow up . There are parts of her that are still stuck in the naïve stage especially around her parents but she does grow and mature through out the book . Tyson is the owner of his own construction company and he is so hot and a little older but you can tell there is something missing and when he meets Kat and Mia , his life is changed for the better . I really loved these two together they make such a good team once they realize they want and need each other .
This was a sweet read that will have you shedding a tear and laughing all at the same time . Especially the baking scene between Tyson and Mia . That was such a good scene . The book is such a sweet love story and you will fall in love with all the characters . It also proves that family is what you make of it. the more people you let in the happier you are . So if you want a sweet read check out FIRST COMES LOVE
I had a little bit of a hard time getting to like Kat . To me she was very naïve and a little bit immature at the start of the book. But as you read you actually see her starting to grow up . There are parts of her that are still stuck in the naïve stage especially around her parents but she does grow and mature through out the book . Tyson is the owner of his own construction company and he is so hot and a little older but you can tell there is something missing and when he meets Kat and Mia , his life is changed for the better . I really loved these two together they make such a good team once they realize they want and need each other .
This was a sweet read that will have you shedding a tear and laughing all at the same time . Especially the baking scene between Tyson and Mia . That was such a good scene . The book is such a sweet love story and you will fall in love with all the characters . It also proves that family is what you make of it. the more people you let in the happier you are . So if you want a sweet read check out FIRST COMES LOVE
July 10, 2014
Now let me get this out that this is a interracial Erotic Romance! I loved this story and fell in love with both Tyson and Kat!! This is a full-size novel and I couldn't put it down once I started reading it!! I'm thinking this is my first time reading this author but it ain't going to be the last, that's for sure!! BTW this is the first in Ms. Michaels series "New Castle Series"
Here is the write-in from Amazon:
Kat D’Angelo’s bittersweet life is about to get decadent. Four years after the scandal of her young pregnancy, Kat has finally managed to come to terms with her otherwise lackluster life. Budgeted to the penny and scheduled to the minute, Kat’s highest priority is her daughter, Mia. After being deserted by Mia’s father, abandoned by her conservative family, and broke to the point of near starvation, Kat has grown into a woman incapable of trusting others with her happiness. She is determined, for the sake of her daughter, to maintain a simple, organized life, free of unnecessary pleasures. However, when Tyson Adams, a successful, African American entrepreneur, becomes her new neighbor, Kat learns that some pleasures are too sweet to resist.
A beautiful telling of the power of love, the fear of diversity and a mother’s unconditional sacrifice that bursts with emotion, touches the heart, and erupts with passion. Unforgettable.
Here is the write-in from Amazon:
Kat D’Angelo’s bittersweet life is about to get decadent. Four years after the scandal of her young pregnancy, Kat has finally managed to come to terms with her otherwise lackluster life. Budgeted to the penny and scheduled to the minute, Kat’s highest priority is her daughter, Mia. After being deserted by Mia’s father, abandoned by her conservative family, and broke to the point of near starvation, Kat has grown into a woman incapable of trusting others with her happiness. She is determined, for the sake of her daughter, to maintain a simple, organized life, free of unnecessary pleasures. However, when Tyson Adams, a successful, African American entrepreneur, becomes her new neighbor, Kat learns that some pleasures are too sweet to resist.
A beautiful telling of the power of love, the fear of diversity and a mother’s unconditional sacrifice that bursts with emotion, touches the heart, and erupts with passion. Unforgettable.
July 14, 2013
http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...
All the characters were emotionally complex and although Tyson was supposedly the
mature one, both he and Kat developed emotionally through the course of the book. I also very much liked the fact that although, there were a lot of bumps in the road for the couple, there wasn´t a lot of angst due to any miscommunications or them not talking to each other. The journey was a struggle, but it ended very happily.
I really enjoyed this book, with interesting characters and a good story about the power of love and about personal growth.
All the characters were emotionally complex and although Tyson was supposedly the
mature one, both he and Kat developed emotionally through the course of the book. I also very much liked the fact that although, there were a lot of bumps in the road for the couple, there wasn´t a lot of angst due to any miscommunications or them not talking to each other. The journey was a struggle, but it ended very happily.
I really enjoyed this book, with interesting characters and a good story about the power of love and about personal growth.
July 17, 2013
Wonderful story encompassing racial issues; class snobbery; family dynamics; and one woman's quest to provide a stable environment for her daughter. Really enjoyed Kat and Tyson's journey toward overcoming fears, taking chances, and ultimately, learning to trust. The ONLY reason it took me so long to finish this was family issues and loss of reading time. Otherwise, I'd have finished this a LOT sooner!
January 2, 2023
Another great read from Lydia Michaels. You must come and meet Tyson!! I love this character. This is the story of a single mom named Kat who falls for her new new neighbor Tyson. Not that easy, I tell you. Nothing has been easy for Kat, and she doesn't allow love with Tyson to be easy. That is until Tyson helps her see things differently. This is a great story about love, friendship and family.
May 23, 2013
Talk about real life events in a book. I laughed and cried and wanted to choke Vivian and kill Dawson. I am happy Kat found her strength and grew up. Tyson gave great advice and I so want my real life Ty. OMG happy it was suggested to me and will refer it to others. On to book 2.
February 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this.
I wasn't going to write a review, but I felt some of the other reviews were a tad harsh in their judgement of Kat. I saw some where they said she was a doormat and TSTL. I saw a sheltered, nonconfrontational introvert who spent most of her life trying to please miserable stuck-up and verbally abusive parents that used their love as a weapon.
Kat was 17, still in high school and 8 months pregnant, when her parents dropped her off at an apartment with $2000 and told her to figure it out. Kat's father was in politics and her parents couldn't believe she could be so selfish to bring this disgrace upon her family since she refused to get an abortion. Oh, yeah and the baby daddy showed up on the baby's birthday just to say he's not ready to be a dad and disappears.
For the main portion of the story, Kat is now 22 with an almost 4-year-old daughter Mia. She works as a receptionist and has everything budgeted to a tee just to make ends me and make sure all her daughter's needs are met. Kat sacrifices everything for herself, not even having a cell phone. She doesn't go out or spend money on herself. Kat has a routine, and everything scheduled to within an inch of their lives. She organizes everything with an OCD kind of madness, because with all that she's gone through this is how she feels in control and that everything will be okay.
I didn't see that as TSTL, I just saw it as very difficult and commendable. I saw Kat as someone who was struggling to barely keep their head above water for almost four years with no help and yet she was she was still going strong.
Now, maybe some people don't understand what it's like to have a parent that will never find you good enough. Trained from a young age, to be quiet and do as your told or you don't get my time or attention. If you don't behave correctly or embarrass them in some way, they punish you by not giving you affection or validation. I have. It sucks.
In kindergarten my dad couldn't be proud of A's and B's, I was asked why I didn't get straight A's. At 14, I had a fight with my dad where I told him I felt he loved his dogs more than he loved me, and so he refused to talk to me or take my calls. Two months into the silent treatment, I had a showcase dance for the first time in dancing at our year end recital. I swallowed my pride and begged him to come in multiple voice messages, even leaving tickets at will call. He never showed. Just to punish me. My stepmother validated his decision telling me, "What do you expect? He was angry at you." Even as an adult, when my dad would come over to my house he would go around and run his fingers over things looking for dust, to let me know I didn't meet his standards. And so many many more stories to add to that.
It's very hard to break out of that type of relationship if it's been ingrained in you, your whole life. Not to mention devastating to someone if their love language might be quality time, words of encouragement and affirmation, or acts of service. I'm glad I had my husband to support me when I finally started standing up and letting my dad know what I wouldn't tolerate if he wanted to be a part of my life, just as Tyson did for Kat.
In present time in the book Kat's relationship with her parents is strained but Kat makes an effort to please them because they take Mia every Sunday. It gives her a small break and a chance to run errands and get everything ready for the coming week. But the main reason she's still trying to please them is for Mia's sake. They are her only other family and Mia loves her grandparents. She would be hurt if they disappeared out of her life for something she didn't understand and certainly not her fault. So again, Kat was being a great mother, sacrificing her own wants for her daughter's happiness.
Anyway, I really liked this. Tyson was wonderful. He was yummy as yummy gets. Sweet, loving, supportive and ovary explodingly wonderful with Mia. As a hands-on construction company owner, he does a lot of work in the heat with no shirt on and I was all for it lol. Tyson sees the real Kat. A sweet, innocent girl who has been beat down and abandoned by so many. Something about her calls to him and is determined to make her see what her worth and beauty truly are.
This definitely wasn't insta-love. Tyson had so many obstacles to overcome to get Kat to open up and give him a chance. But like he told her...he could be a patient man. I'm not gonna lie, the chemistry and slow build between Tyson and Kat was sizzling and scrumptious.
I loved Kat's transformation. I loved how she grew into herself and stood up for herself. She let go and allowed herself to have what she wanted, even if it was terrifying. No matter the cost or consequence. A big part of the story is her growth, so that's why I didn't get people griping about her not standing up for herself when she does start standing up for herself. Like, what?! Maybe some didn't realize that was the central conflict, ya know, to get resolved for a HEA.
Contemporary isn't one of my favorite genres, but I do love a good neighbor story or single parent trope and this one delivered on both!
I wasn't going to write a review, but I felt some of the other reviews were a tad harsh in their judgement of Kat. I saw some where they said she was a doormat and TSTL. I saw a sheltered, nonconfrontational introvert who spent most of her life trying to please miserable stuck-up and verbally abusive parents that used their love as a weapon.
Kat was 17, still in high school and 8 months pregnant, when her parents dropped her off at an apartment with $2000 and told her to figure it out. Kat's father was in politics and her parents couldn't believe she could be so selfish to bring this disgrace upon her family since she refused to get an abortion. Oh, yeah and the baby daddy showed up on the baby's birthday just to say he's not ready to be a dad and disappears.
For the main portion of the story, Kat is now 22 with an almost 4-year-old daughter Mia. She works as a receptionist and has everything budgeted to a tee just to make ends me and make sure all her daughter's needs are met. Kat sacrifices everything for herself, not even having a cell phone. She doesn't go out or spend money on herself. Kat has a routine, and everything scheduled to within an inch of their lives. She organizes everything with an OCD kind of madness, because with all that she's gone through this is how she feels in control and that everything will be okay.
I didn't see that as TSTL, I just saw it as very difficult and commendable. I saw Kat as someone who was struggling to barely keep their head above water for almost four years with no help and yet she was she was still going strong.
Now, maybe some people don't understand what it's like to have a parent that will never find you good enough. Trained from a young age, to be quiet and do as your told or you don't get my time or attention. If you don't behave correctly or embarrass them in some way, they punish you by not giving you affection or validation. I have. It sucks.
In kindergarten my dad couldn't be proud of A's and B's, I was asked why I didn't get straight A's. At 14, I had a fight with my dad where I told him I felt he loved his dogs more than he loved me, and so he refused to talk to me or take my calls. Two months into the silent treatment, I had a showcase dance for the first time in dancing at our year end recital. I swallowed my pride and begged him to come in multiple voice messages, even leaving tickets at will call. He never showed. Just to punish me. My stepmother validated his decision telling me, "What do you expect? He was angry at you." Even as an adult, when my dad would come over to my house he would go around and run his fingers over things looking for dust, to let me know I didn't meet his standards. And so many many more stories to add to that.
It's very hard to break out of that type of relationship if it's been ingrained in you, your whole life. Not to mention devastating to someone if their love language might be quality time, words of encouragement and affirmation, or acts of service. I'm glad I had my husband to support me when I finally started standing up and letting my dad know what I wouldn't tolerate if he wanted to be a part of my life, just as Tyson did for Kat.
In present time in the book Kat's relationship with her parents is strained but Kat makes an effort to please them because they take Mia every Sunday. It gives her a small break and a chance to run errands and get everything ready for the coming week. But the main reason she's still trying to please them is for Mia's sake. They are her only other family and Mia loves her grandparents. She would be hurt if they disappeared out of her life for something she didn't understand and certainly not her fault. So again, Kat was being a great mother, sacrificing her own wants for her daughter's happiness.
Anyway, I really liked this. Tyson was wonderful. He was yummy as yummy gets. Sweet, loving, supportive and ovary explodingly wonderful with Mia. As a hands-on construction company owner, he does a lot of work in the heat with no shirt on and I was all for it lol. Tyson sees the real Kat. A sweet, innocent girl who has been beat down and abandoned by so many. Something about her calls to him and is determined to make her see what her worth and beauty truly are.
This definitely wasn't insta-love. Tyson had so many obstacles to overcome to get Kat to open up and give him a chance. But like he told her...he could be a patient man. I'm not gonna lie, the chemistry and slow build between Tyson and Kat was sizzling and scrumptious.
I loved Kat's transformation. I loved how she grew into herself and stood up for herself. She let go and allowed herself to have what she wanted, even if it was terrifying. No matter the cost or consequence. A big part of the story is her growth, so that's why I didn't get people griping about her not standing up for herself when she does start standing up for herself. Like, what?! Maybe some didn't realize that was the central conflict, ya know, to get resolved for a HEA.
Contemporary isn't one of my favorite genres, but I do love a good neighbor story or single parent trope and this one delivered on both!
October 18, 2017
This book is about and deals with relationships.
It delves into the complex most fundamental types of relationships that most of us have.
Parents are supposed to love their child unconditionally.
But what happens and what is the result when the parents abandon their (only) child for a perceived wrong?
This is what First Comes Love deals with.
Katherine gets pregnant at the very young age of 17. Her parents are outraged and abandon her and her baby girl Mia. Their anger and embarrassment towards Kat is based on their social standing in the community,how their social circle will ostracize them. They cared more about their circle of friends than their own flesh and blood. They eat and drank the finest of foods not giving a thought if their daughter and granddaughter have anything to eat. Knowing that she did not graduate high school and had to job. They lived and enjoyed the merry life.
Even her daughter’s dad abandons and leaves her to persue his own life and dreams.
Everything Kat’s been through and lived has turned her into a woman who doesn’t trust nor depends on others for anything.
She’s an outstanding mom. She sacrifices her needs to make sure Mia has all her needs meet.
She loves her unconditionally and with every fiber of her being. All her decisions and actions are always based on and around Mia.
When a handsome successful man buys the house next door her life is about to forever change.
Tyson is a 36yr old African American man who owns his own design/construction company. He has made a success of his life and has everything he needs. At this point in his life he now wants a lasting forever relationship.
Him and Kat start to interact a lot together not only due that their neighbors but because Mia adores Ty the minute she sees him.
Kat and Ty start forming a more than a friends type of relationship,not a sexual one but a slow buildup of getting to know one another. Tyson wants her to trust and depend on him. Depend not the financial way but emotionally. He wants her to know that he will not abandon nor leave her and Mia.
Kat very gradually gives in but still guards herself.
Her parents are somewhat back in her life. They see Mia once a week on Sundays.
Kat’s mom is a vicious mean woman with an evil tongue. She verbally abuses Kat every time she sees her and calls her. Kat endures the tongue lashing she gets from her mom for Mia’s sake.
Kat is a strong independent young lady that has overcome so much. Yet when it comes to her mom she was so weak and so scared of her. Her mom contributes nothing to Kat.
Either emotionally or financially. But she ALWAYS does what her mom tells her to do.
To the point that Kat put herself in a very harmful position on a date her mom insisted she go on.
It was frustrating and hard to see Kat bending over backwards and staying quiet about the verbal and metal abuse her mom puts her through.
Kat doesn’t really stay up to anyone except Ty. But for some reason,whether it’s not push him away or to prove to herself he’s just like everyone else in her life who’s left her or maybe the fact that she’s scared to put her trust in him to avoid disappointment but she’s always pushing Ty and standing up to him. Even when all his intentions are good.
Great character development of all involved even the evil mom.
Loved all the secondary characters are well,especially Mia and Jade.
The writing is great and detailed.
Ms. Michael’s took on a complex issue of relationships and wrote it with great care and taste.
Especially the interracial relationship between Ty and Kat.
It delves into the complex most fundamental types of relationships that most of us have.
Parents are supposed to love their child unconditionally.
But what happens and what is the result when the parents abandon their (only) child for a perceived wrong?
This is what First Comes Love deals with.
Katherine gets pregnant at the very young age of 17. Her parents are outraged and abandon her and her baby girl Mia. Their anger and embarrassment towards Kat is based on their social standing in the community,how their social circle will ostracize them. They cared more about their circle of friends than their own flesh and blood. They eat and drank the finest of foods not giving a thought if their daughter and granddaughter have anything to eat. Knowing that she did not graduate high school and had to job. They lived and enjoyed the merry life.
Even her daughter’s dad abandons and leaves her to persue his own life and dreams.
Everything Kat’s been through and lived has turned her into a woman who doesn’t trust nor depends on others for anything.
She’s an outstanding mom. She sacrifices her needs to make sure Mia has all her needs meet.
She loves her unconditionally and with every fiber of her being. All her decisions and actions are always based on and around Mia.
When a handsome successful man buys the house next door her life is about to forever change.
Tyson is a 36yr old African American man who owns his own design/construction company. He has made a success of his life and has everything he needs. At this point in his life he now wants a lasting forever relationship.
Him and Kat start to interact a lot together not only due that their neighbors but because Mia adores Ty the minute she sees him.
Kat and Ty start forming a more than a friends type of relationship,not a sexual one but a slow buildup of getting to know one another. Tyson wants her to trust and depend on him. Depend not the financial way but emotionally. He wants her to know that he will not abandon nor leave her and Mia.
Kat very gradually gives in but still guards herself.
Her parents are somewhat back in her life. They see Mia once a week on Sundays.
Kat’s mom is a vicious mean woman with an evil tongue. She verbally abuses Kat every time she sees her and calls her. Kat endures the tongue lashing she gets from her mom for Mia’s sake.
Kat is a strong independent young lady that has overcome so much. Yet when it comes to her mom she was so weak and so scared of her. Her mom contributes nothing to Kat.
Either emotionally or financially. But she ALWAYS does what her mom tells her to do.
To the point that Kat put herself in a very harmful position on a date her mom insisted she go on.
It was frustrating and hard to see Kat bending over backwards and staying quiet about the verbal and metal abuse her mom puts her through.
Kat doesn’t really stay up to anyone except Ty. But for some reason,whether it’s not push him away or to prove to herself he’s just like everyone else in her life who’s left her or maybe the fact that she’s scared to put her trust in him to avoid disappointment but she’s always pushing Ty and standing up to him. Even when all his intentions are good.
Great character development of all involved even the evil mom.
Loved all the secondary characters are well,especially Mia and Jade.
The writing is great and detailed.
Ms. Michael’s took on a complex issue of relationships and wrote it with great care and taste.
Especially the interracial relationship between Ty and Kat.
December 18, 2017
First Comes Love is the start of the New Castle series. I really enjoyed it. The story is filled with love, hope, dreams, disappointment, lots of ‘feels’ and angst. There was a slow build up but it was worth it. I enjoyed getting to know the complex characters while seeing their hopes and fears. The story not only deals with teen pregnancy but also other social issues like class and race.
The prologue. Wow. It is so emotional. Kat is alone and afraid while giving birth at the hospital. She is abandoned by her boyfriend and her parents. She gives birth to a beautiful baby girl, Mia.
Kat D’Angelo had to grow up very quickly. Being pregnant at 17 is scandalous for Kat’s conservative family. Her dad has been the mayor for many years and aspires to become a senator. Everything must appear neat and tidy. When she turned eighteen her parents packed her up and got her an apartment so that she would not be visible during her ‘situation’. Alone and afraid, she learns how to manage her finances and prepare for a baby. The only upside is that her dad paid the rent for the first year and provided an allowance until she could get a job after the baby was born. But still, she was alone.
Three years later Kat has life down to a “T”…..
Her entire world was Mia. Their life was structured at a level she could control and that was the way she liked it.
Kat’s life was about to change. Tyson Adams moves in across the street. Tyson is a successful African American entrepreneur. He owns his own construction company. The house is in dire need of work and so Tyson and his crew set out to fix it up. Kat sees Tyson on the roof and something unfamiliar stirs in her. At first Kat does not realize he is the owner. She thinks he is a worker. The attraction between them is mutual. However, Kat’s inexperience makes her very insecure and unsure. Her mother always put her down and told her repeatedly about her ‘flaws’.
What happens next is a story beautifully told. Kat and Tyson are from such different backgrounds. Together they take a journey and learn about unconditional love. Tyson’s life is full of family and love. Kat’s is full of obligations and criticism except for Mia. Kat is amazing! Resilient, brave, and kind. She is also shy and awkward at times. She has many issues to overcome.
Kat’s relationship with Mia is amazing. She has learned how to be a wonderful mom with almost no help. I loved Mia! She was so sweet and funny. Mia’s thoughts and comments had me laughing!
Tyson is patient, perceptive and kind but on the flip side - he is HOT HOT HOT! *fans self* He is the complete package. He is at a point in his life where he realizes that he wants to settle down and have a family.
“There isn’t one thing about you I don’t like, except for your inability to see the value in yourself. Stop listening to people who do nothing but hurt you, Kat.”
There is a small twist at the end. Although there is quite a buildup, I was not disappointed at all with the outcome. I really enjoyed their story and look forward to If I Fall which features Kat’s best friend, Jade.
“I get that you like everything to be nice and neat, but love’s better than that. It’s spontaneous, passionate, and messy.”
4.5 stars
The prologue. Wow. It is so emotional. Kat is alone and afraid while giving birth at the hospital. She is abandoned by her boyfriend and her parents. She gives birth to a beautiful baby girl, Mia.
Kat D’Angelo had to grow up very quickly. Being pregnant at 17 is scandalous for Kat’s conservative family. Her dad has been the mayor for many years and aspires to become a senator. Everything must appear neat and tidy. When she turned eighteen her parents packed her up and got her an apartment so that she would not be visible during her ‘situation’. Alone and afraid, she learns how to manage her finances and prepare for a baby. The only upside is that her dad paid the rent for the first year and provided an allowance until she could get a job after the baby was born. But still, she was alone.
Three years later Kat has life down to a “T”…..
Her entire world was Mia. Their life was structured at a level she could control and that was the way she liked it.
Kat’s life was about to change. Tyson Adams moves in across the street. Tyson is a successful African American entrepreneur. He owns his own construction company. The house is in dire need of work and so Tyson and his crew set out to fix it up. Kat sees Tyson on the roof and something unfamiliar stirs in her. At first Kat does not realize he is the owner. She thinks he is a worker. The attraction between them is mutual. However, Kat’s inexperience makes her very insecure and unsure. Her mother always put her down and told her repeatedly about her ‘flaws’.
What happens next is a story beautifully told. Kat and Tyson are from such different backgrounds. Together they take a journey and learn about unconditional love. Tyson’s life is full of family and love. Kat’s is full of obligations and criticism except for Mia. Kat is amazing! Resilient, brave, and kind. She is also shy and awkward at times. She has many issues to overcome.
Kat’s relationship with Mia is amazing. She has learned how to be a wonderful mom with almost no help. I loved Mia! She was so sweet and funny. Mia’s thoughts and comments had me laughing!
Tyson is patient, perceptive and kind but on the flip side - he is HOT HOT HOT! *fans self* He is the complete package. He is at a point in his life where he realizes that he wants to settle down and have a family.
“There isn’t one thing about you I don’t like, except for your inability to see the value in yourself. Stop listening to people who do nothing but hurt you, Kat.”
There is a small twist at the end. Although there is quite a buildup, I was not disappointed at all with the outcome. I really enjoyed their story and look forward to If I Fall which features Kat’s best friend, Jade.
“I get that you like everything to be nice and neat, but love’s better than that. It’s spontaneous, passionate, and messy.”
4.5 stars
April 4, 2018
Lydia Michaels does it again! I LOVED this story. Book 1 of the New Castle series touches on many subjects, including teenage pregnancy, single-motherhood, and interracial relationships. It tells the story of Kat, a young mother who, at the age of 18, was shunned by her rich parents and abandoned by the father of her daughter. It’s the story of unconditional love between a young mother and her daughter, Mia, of the struggles and sacrifices they live through, Kat’s determination and pride, the unwavering support of Kat’s best friend, Jade, and the constant need Kat has to seek the approval and affection of her parents -- even though her mother is an unreasonable meddler. When Kat meets, befriends, and falls for her new neighbor and business owner, Tyson, he offers friendship, comfort, and support to Kat and Mia, and so much more. Another complication eventually arrives in the form of Mia’s dad, Jeremy, who has decided he wants to be part of their lives after four years in the military. As they all work through their issues and relationships, it shows that with love, all things, including happiness, are possible. This story was so good that I immediately moved on to reading Book 2.
December 17, 2017
First Comes Love (New Castle #1) Well I am writing my reviews bass ackwards since, I wrote my review and posted it already for If I Fall.
I love, love, love this book! First Comes Love is Kat D’Angelo, Tyson Adams and Mia Rose D’Angelo’s story.
Kat is on her own. She had to move out of her parents house when she found out she was pregnant. She was abandoned by the baby’s father. What a strong woman Kat is! She has her baby on her own. She trusts no one since there was no one to depend on. Tyson moves in next door and starts remodeling it. At first Kat thought Tyson was just working on the house but, later learns he is the home owner and this beautiful story goes on from here.
I felt this was an emotional book to read and Lydia Michaels had me crying at times in this book. Good tears and sad tears.
I am so happy that I have discovered this author. So far all the books that I have read have been great and I highly recommend this author.
I give First Comes Love 5+ stars.
Reviewed for TaSTy WordGasms
I love, love, love this book! First Comes Love is Kat D’Angelo, Tyson Adams and Mia Rose D’Angelo’s story.
Kat is on her own. She had to move out of her parents house when she found out she was pregnant. She was abandoned by the baby’s father. What a strong woman Kat is! She has her baby on her own. She trusts no one since there was no one to depend on. Tyson moves in next door and starts remodeling it. At first Kat thought Tyson was just working on the house but, later learns he is the home owner and this beautiful story goes on from here.
I felt this was an emotional book to read and Lydia Michaels had me crying at times in this book. Good tears and sad tears.
I am so happy that I have discovered this author. So far all the books that I have read have been great and I highly recommend this author.
I give First Comes Love 5+ stars.
Reviewed for TaSTy WordGasms
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