| Title | : | Always (Spiral of Bliss, #5) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | - |
| Publication | : | First published June 21, 2016 |
Without darkness, there is no light.
Dean has always been Liv's hero, her knight in tailored suits. Not once has this iron-willed professor retreated from battle. Not once has he failed to keep his wife safe. Not once has he broken his promise to slay monsters for her.
But now Dean is forced to confront a monster he can't destroy. A monster he can't even face.
And for the first time ever, there is nothing he can do to protect the woman who owns his heart.
Always (Spiral of Bliss, #5) Reviews
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*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
(BR with Mel)
Over the years, throughout the craziness of our daily lives, careers, travel, child-rearing, and all the happy chaos and painful challenges that life brings, I’ve always held on to one unbreakable truth. At the end of the day, she’ll always be waiting for me. The girl who lit an eternal fire right in the center of my heart. The beauty who saved me and became my reason for being. The wife who taught me the meaning of strength and courage. The woman who is my home, the place where the stars shine so bright we can see into eternity. My Liv will always be right here.
When I heard that there was going to be a fifth book in the Spiral of Bliss series, I was excited but wondered where Nina Lane could take Dean and Liv West since their story seemed to end perfectly in ADORE. I wasn’t complaining because to be able to spend more time with Professor West is definitely like getting an extra special Christmas present!! I just wasn’t prepared to have my heart literally ripped to shreds by this story. During the first half of the book, I was wishing Nina Lane didn’t take our beloved characters down this path. I wondered if she made a mistake by writing this book, but by the second half of the book, Dean West obliterated all my doubts. I couldn’t love this book harder if I tried!! I fell madly in love with Dean all over again and just wished like I have throughout this series that I could have found a man like him. The depth of his love and adoration for Liv is beyond BEAUTIFUL!!! I can’t even tell you how many times I cried while reading this book!!
I have to say this was the first love story I read, where I felt the characters were so REAL. Some of the problems they face are things that any couple would encounter, and yet these stories are still so very captivating. Through every hardship, Dean and Liv always are there for each other or they find their way back to the love that keeps them together. Dean’s need to keep Liv and his children safe so deeply rooted within him that when circumstances take that control away from him, he has a very hard time accepting the feelings of helplessness. They find themselves facing an enemy that he can’t just swoop in and obliterate. Liv is facing the biggest battle of her life and Dean is in utter despair because there is nothing he can do to fix this for her!!
But this man is truly amazing! His love for her never wavers and no matter what, his passion for Liv never tapers off in the slightest, which is what she needs the most. He always made her feel desirable and loved beyond measure!!!!
Archer was almost as swoon-worthy as Dean in this book. I have not read his book but now you better believe I am making it my mission to get to his book soon. This man stepped up to the plate countless times throughout this story and FINALLY the West brothers get over the pain from the past and find their way back to the relationship they once had when they were younger. He was the one person that was able to comfort Dean and helped him cope with the unthinkable.
When tragedy hits you, you find out who your real friends are. This story covered a very poignant topic that affects so many people these days and for me, it really felt like it was happening to one of my closest friends. I cried for Liv, Dean, and their two children. I wanted to rage on certain characters who seemed to just drop out of existence when the going got tough, but later on when things are revealed, you better believe I cried like a baby!! Even now as I write this review, I feel the tears welling up!
I can’t tell you just how much this series has meant to me. It’s one of my most beloved of all time. I am thankful to Nina Lane for letting us take one more journey with the Professor and his Beauty. This is EXACTLY how their story had to come to a beautiful end!! I wouldn’t change a thing!!!
ALWAYS is currently available and I wholeheartedly recommend it!!!
AMAZON US:
http://amzn.to/28Yq24g
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4+ always stars.
The content is a secret and this objective makes it practically impossible to review Always without giving anything away. For the time being, there will be no teaser quotes either. Though what I can say is...
It's the book everyone of you will want to read who loves this couple as intensely as Dean and Liv are in love and will always be.
It's the book you have to read because hot cocoa and a snowy night fit.
It's the book you anticipate to read because of Archer, the BEST brother a man like Dean could have wished for.
It's the book you should not dread to read because there is light after darkness. There is happiness after all the sorrow, angst, and tears.
It's the book you must read because it's the final cherry on top of Dean and Liv's incredible and unforgettable love story.
It's the book you can't not read because Dean is Liv's knight in shining armor who even slays invisible monsters for her - in his own distinct and unique way. Always.
It's the book you desire to read because of Dean. Dean...always and evermore.
…ALWAYS…
Hopefully I'll be back with more at a later date.
Recommended read.
Reading order:
Arouse
Allure
Awaken
Arrive
Adore
Always
Don't forget to check out Archer's story
Break the Sky
Pre-reading Always:
YESSS!! This will be one of my personal reading highlights of the year! I'm beta reading for Nina Lane. #BloodyExcited -
5+ 'An Important Thing' Stars!
It's always hard to say goodbye to books or series that you love. It's even harder to say goodbye to the characters that stole your heart while reading. This is what happened with the Spiral of Bliss series and their main characters, Dean and Olivia West. The professor and his beauty gave us a journey full of all-types of moments and for that, they will stay forever with me. Thank you for this outstanding series, Nina Lane!
Always is the fifth and final installment in the Spiral of Bliss series and it concludes the story of our dearest Dean West and his beauty. In this novel, Dean and especially Liv have to fight against a monster that the professor cannot slay. It's extremely emotional and extremely good because of that.
A life filled with both change and lovely sameness. I’ve finally learned that life is all about those things existing side by side, like a pathway curving alongside an ever-moving river. Sometimes you take one route, sometimes the other, but both will move you forward.
After I finished the fourth book (Adore), I thought that was it. I thought Nina gave her readers Dean and Liv's happy ending and there would not be another book (I felt it was not necessary). But, of course, Always is a great addition to the series. The Spiral of Bliss couple are enjoying their life as a family together with their two children. Everything is good, the kids are the cutest thing ever and the married couple still have sizzling chemistry.
“I love you like milk loves cookies,” I murmur against his mouth.
He squeezes my ass. “I can’t wait to eat you tonight.”
A sinister territory stretches in front of us. A land of monsters.
How do I fight? What are my weapons? How do I protect her?
But, everything changes when Dean and Liv are forced to surpass one of the hardest things that life can bring you. They struggle, they argue, there is lots of tears and some scary moments. My poor heart! How I suffered while reading this! I love this couple so much and I was so afraid for them. However, of course, they fight against this horrible monster. Dean and Olivia continued being a couple who did not give up and a couple that considers their love the most important thing of all.
Nicholas will always believe in superheroes and Legos. Bella will always know cute animals and finger paints are better than medicine. I will always champion doing your best and taking risks. And Dean will always stand guard over us, only allowing the good into our dreams.
Obviously Nina Lane, together with heart-breaking moments, continued giving us the off-the-charts chemistry between Dean and Liv West. I have always loved their loving relationship, I love how Dean can be sweet and extremely hot at the same time. I love how intimate their sex scenes are. I love every freaking part of the professor and his beauty together (as a couple and as a family)!
“Liv.”
“Right here.”
“You… you live inside me.” I press a hand to my chest, my heart that beats in rhythm with hers. “Everywhere. You are the key to every part of me.”
“Marry me again,” I say.
“I’ll never stop marrying you.”
These two are one of the best (married) couples in Contemporary Romance. Nina Lane has created unforgettable characters that will remain forever in our hearts: Dean, Liv, Archer, Kelsey, Nicholas, Isabella, Allie, etc. She has created a wonderful love story with a couple that has the most beautiful relationship. As I said, it's hard to say goodbye to them, but Always was a great way to do it!
“Give me a kiss, beauty.”
Therefore, my rating for Always is, of course, my special 6 STARS rating because there wasn't a single thing I did not enjoy about this book. It's a great a addition to this outstanding series and the sweetest conclusion for Dean and Olivia West. Again, thank you Nina for giving us this fantastic love story! And, PLEASE, if you haven't read this series and you want to enjoy the amazing relationship between the professor and his beauty, check the Spiral of Bliss series. You will not regret it, I highly HIGHLY recommend!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
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4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
(BR with Patty)
Dean & Olivia West and their two children returned over a year ago to Mirror Lake after spending some time in Paris. They are settled back into their life living at the Butterfly House. Dean is still a professor at King's University & Liv is still a co-owner at the Wonderland Café. Their life is happy chaos, & they wouldn't change a thing. They are still a couple very much in love. When these two are together & intimate, they are explosive. Their chemistry is electric & Dean absolutely worships Liv body, mind & soul.
-"Give me a kiss, beauty."
-That command is one I never can or want to resist.
-My husband looks both sinful and so arrestingly beautiful that my whole body flames with need.
-He's mine. Dean West has always been mine, always will be.
-Dean West will always have all of me- every warm patch of sunlight and every cold, dark corner.
Suddenly their life is thrown off course when the unexpected happens. They realize some things in life are out of their control, & they have to fight for what's most important. When life throws you a curve & things aren't just peachy, you really find out what someone is made of, & let me tell you, Dean West is made of everything beautiful! This man is total perfection. The way he loves his wife is breathtakingly stunning. He is not only super dad, but he is a protective, devoted, tender, comforting, & loving husband. The intimacy this couple shares is so special & every time he calls her his beauty I melt a little more.
-"I love you," she whispers. "I love you, beauty."
-"With everything I am."
-You've always had all of me. You always will.
-"You live inside me."
-"Everywhere. You are the key to every part of me."
I thought this was a fabulous book! It was such a beautiful story. This couple truly touched my heart. I can't ever get enough of my sexy professor West. As usual Dean & Liv indulge in one another often, & it's absolutely delicious! I also loved we get plenty of swoony Archer West too. I would also love books for both Nicholas & Bella.
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5 BEAUTIFUL STARS
"You and I are okay.We will always be okay, no matter what happens."
Finished this book having happy tears! Dean and Liv showed me for once again how original and realistic their love story is! I haven't read a love so strong as the one before.They have their family and they have to deal with problems but they always manage to do it together. This story is emotional, intense, passionate and super hot. I loved their journey and I adored seeing them growing as a characters. Especially Liv!
In this book there are a lot of surprises some of them made me happy and others made me cry.So far this is the book I was more heartbroken. I can't say anything about the plot because it's difficult to talk without giving anything away. But you will happy apart from Liv, Dean and their kids to see more of Archer and Kelsey!!
"I love you, beauty.My hearts goes with you."
"Mine stays with you."
Get your tissues and be prepared for an emotional and beautiful ride! I don't want to think about this series being over.I want to believe that Nina will surprise us with a novella giving us something from our favorite characters!
*An advance reading copy was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
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4 ★'s
I was sooo excited to get another book for Dean and Liv even though I thought their story was over. However, I was in no way prepared for what the drama would be and it is heart breaking...
But once the shock wears off a bit, Dean and Liv get down to business. And while definitely hats off to Liv, Dean shines through like the Knight in shining armor he is.
There's never been any question that nothing would ever tear Dean and Liv apart and this only goes to show that they can weather any storm. I do have to admit, I was a little worried about Dean there...a few times in fact.
Thank goodness for Archer...he certainly came through in flying colors. Not only was he amazing with the kids but he did all the right things with Dean. Most importantly I loved his patience with Kelsey and it was sooo sweet where that got him!
A big disappointment was Allie. I kind of had an idea of why she acted the way she did but still shame on her! She should've known better and what she did, even though it was sweet, was nowhere near enough. I hated that Dean felt he needed to apologize.
I really loved all the scenes with North and that he was a well needed balm for the whole family. It was wonderful how much the kids connected to him.
So, as heart breaking as the drama is...it's very heartwarming as well. We get put through the ringer but it's an amazing journey. Do I wish things were different? Hell yea but it is what it is.
Dean and Liv's story wraps up very sweetly, romantically and hot as hell (as always)...there is definitely no shortage of steamy scenes. I'm sad to see them go...I will miss The Professor and His Beauty!
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Perfection. Nina Lane penned an exquisite ending to her heartfelt romantic series. Professor Dean West, I fell in love with you all over again.
I was delighted and honored to receive the ARC for Always. I followed this couples’ journey from the beginning, and with each tale, my love and adoration for these characters flourished. Their love, their missteps, their pain, their growth, everything they endured, touched me in an unforgettable way. This is without a doubt one of my all time favorite series and there are not enough stars in the sky to award my beloved Dean, his beauty Olivia, and this read. Once finishing Always, I found myself at a loss. Unable to find the words that can fully explain how my heart felt as I stepped inside their truly incredible love story. I can try, but my words will never do their profound beauty justice.
I. Was. Floored.
Overwhelmed.
Astounded by this bittersweet, emotionally driven finale. It is here where they face an unexpected, life-altering obstacle. Liv continues to strengthen her resolve to push herself and her family forward, as Dean struggles with the fact that some situations are beyond his control. He cannot slay all the dragons, but will do anything and everything for the love of his life.
Dean West ~ the bravest and most valiant knight, whose kinks and flaws in his armor made him THE PERFECT hero. My love for his character is immeasurable. The professor was just as swoon worthy, commanding and sexier than ever. All his passion, his vulnerability, his devotion, the fathomless love for his beauty, scorched my soul. I just wanted to crawl inside this story and wrap my arms around him.
Olivia ~ one of the most gentle, soft-spoken heroines ever, and I absolutely adored her. Just like a butterfly, her transformation was remarkable ~ from the insecure timid girl I first met in Arouse, to an admirable woman of strength ~ she left me in awe.
Liv and Dean's journey was an epic love story that will be forever seared deep within my soul. I cherished every moment of their passion (these two, as always, are HOT); sniffled my way through their heartaches; giggled in their moments of levity; and those quirky jokes and drawings made me smile. As I made my way through each book within this series, Nina Lane held my heart in the palm of her hand, causing it to sing with joy over the triumphs or weep with sorrow in their moments of darkness. It was an absolutely incredible experience. I was filled with bliss seeing their continuing tale, but mourning the end of their journey. My only consolation is to revisit the quaint town of Mirror Lake whenever I feel these characters calling. If you love sizzling romances laced with passion, that will twirl your emotions, I highly recommend this series. And as always, I’m looking forward to Lane’s next magical romance.
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***TOP FAVE OF THE YEAR***
❝Together we'll always be a white knight and his beauty who battled monsters and won.❞
Nina Lane, you have me under your spell. You know the phrase, if they build it, they will come... well, if you write it, I will read it. I have loved Liv and Dean from the start. (I've read some of the books in the series more than once.) I've loved them all. But, 'Always' is my favorite.❝A handsome professor who showed a damsel in distress what it means to love and to be loved. A student who learned how to trust one man alone with her body and soul. A barista who saved the freshest cookies for a certain customer who always wore a tailored suit and perfectly knotted tie. A dorky medievalist who championed obscure foreign films. A girl who learned she already had everything she needed to become a woman. A man who protected her with the whole of his heart and kept her safe through it all.❞
That is a perfect summary of this series. True, all-encompassing love. Love so powerful, that not even the highest mountain is impossible to climb. It's when you are broken and tired and the only thing you want is to give up, you look across the room to your strength, your heart, your source of life and keep going. Liv and Dean's passion is captivating, the romance is addictive.❝Wrapped in Dean's arms, intoxicated by his kisses, I'm just Liv again, the starry-eyed girl who melts at his touch, and he's the captivating man who loves me with a wild tenderness that is more powerful and eternal than time itself.❞
In 'Always', Liv and Dean face the battle no one wants to face. One that could change the course of their future, the story of their history. When Liv is at her lowest and the Professor is unable to fix, slay, or bring the monster to heel, their world suddenly lays on shaky ground. Dean is at a loss, locking himself in his tower leaving Liv without her Knight. But to the rescue is the Knight's brother, Archer. Knowing exactly what Dean needs to push forward, and being the solid ground for him, allowed Dean to realize it's okay to not always be the hero. Sometimes, monsters are too big.
Liv's battle was far from easy and seeing Dean in pain adds guilt to her daily struggle. She can't help her herself, let alone her husband.❝An unexpected surge of guilt hits me, filling my chest. I did this to him. I'm the one causing him this torture, this pain. ❞
We are granted with two Epilogues. Gratefully, since this is the last book of the series. They were fantastic and since there has to be an ending, they perfect way to end the West's story!
Nina Lane has given us a passionate love story which rivals the classics. Dean and Olivia's story is real. The challenges they have faced along the way are challenges married couples face daily. And they have faced them head on --- together.❝We were destined to create a life together, one in which promises are kept, blessings are counted and our marriage is the safe harbor to which we always return.❞
Liv and Dean, as well as their friends and family, have become more than just characters in a book. To me, they have become part of my landscape. Theirs is a story I would wish would never end.
Top Fave of the Year!
***ARC graciously provided in exchange for review***
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After:
And look at this covergasm.
And look at the last page.
I CAN'T. I'll miss this series sooooooo fucking much.
And Dean.
Because of him, forever alone is not just a meme, but reality. My "standards" now are Dean-high aka humanly impossible.
Before:
ONE MORE?! ONE MORE!!!!!!!!
Till there's no cheating and no one is dead, I'll read E V E R Y T H I N G about them. Hands down, one of the best fictional couples evahhhhh. -
4.25 "Beauty and Professor Stars"
I knew it. I knew this would be a hard read. I knew when I read the blurb that this would be the hardest for me. And I was right.
If you've taking this journey with Liv and Dean then you already know how beautiful their love story is. This is no different. Their love is endearing and beautiful and strong. They've fought for the lives they have and going through the journey with them has been addicting and fascinating.
In this last installment, they endure the ultimate obstacle and though there were many tears-enducing moments, it also showed just how special their love really is. And with some struggle, you truly get to see the determination and strength of people. This just further shows how steadfast and loving Dean is. How truly beautiful and caring Liv is. How each person either runs away from or steps up in the face of adversity.Throughout this life of ours, we know we will always be us, one heart beating beneath all that we do and all that we are.
A professor who showed a damsel in distress what it means to love and be loved. A student who learned how to trust that man alone with her body and her soul. A gentleman who waited for her. A barista who save the freshest cookies for a certain handsome customer. A dorky medievalist who championed obscure foreign files. A girl who discovered she already had all she needed to become a woman. A man who protected her with every beat of his fiercely steadfast heart.
We'll always be Liv and Dean, who knew at first glance that we would do more than simply live a life together. We knew we would create a life together, one in which promises are kept, blessings are counted, and our marriage is the blissful haven to which we always return.
The break out character in this story for me is Archer. OMG Archer! Archer is quietly strong...he is...AWESOME! I'm unable to put into words how important he was to me throughout this story. I hope his and Kelsey's story isn't quite done because that man would make a wonderful father. He's already an amazing brother, partner, uncle. He is steadfast, strong, and understanding. The progression of Dean and Archer's relationship is amazing. They've both come a long way and I love where they're at.
Nina Lane has gifted us with not one..but two fantastic epilogues.
Do yourself a favor and read this series if you haven't already done so. Dean and Liv is that couple that I'll never forget. They are unforgettable. Their love is truly special. -
The Spiral of Bliss series by Nina Lane is a favourite of mine because it is written in such a way that it is so intangibly real you almost believe that this couple and their family really do exist. I also love that this is a series about a married couple in their 30’s who are going through real life issues that most people can relate to.
Dean & Liv have a beautiful relationship, they have that soul deep love that some people wait a life time for yet never experience. They now have two children, Nicholas & Bella and have really busy lives. It is a happy life though and above all else they put their relationship & their children first.
'He is the man who has perfected the indefinable art of making love to me, of loving me'
Archer & Kelsey also feature a lot in this story which was awesome! Kelsey is still allergic to the idea of marriage and Archer is very patient about her affliction.
Dean & Liv’s idyllic life is completely shattered by a health scare that could potentially have tragic consequences for them. For the first time throughout their relationship, Dean’s ability to protect Liv from monsters is rocked. This life changing moment is out of his control and it completely rattles him.
'A sinister territory stretches in front of us. A land of monsters. How do I fight? What are my weapons? How do I protect her? I hold my wife tighter that I ever have before.'
Archer & Dean’s relationship reaches a new level in this story that was so endearing. Archer has always looked up to Dean and felt like he doesn’t really measure up to his amazing Professor brother. However, it is Dean that now feels that way about Archer as he becomes a pillar of support & strength for Dean as he struggles with what is happening to his family. These two reconnect amidst all the sadness. Ironic that the 'storm hunter' is now helping Dean & Liv weather the storm.
Sometimes the strength of a marriage can be measured by how you handle the curve balls that can be thrown at you. Now more than ever those marriage vows that Dean & Liv made years ago are being put to the test.
I absolutely LOVED this beautifully written conclusion to Dean & Liv's story. It was just perfect and then to top it off there are two gorgeous epilogues that gave me even more than I could have hoped for.
'Dean and I have kissed in the moonlight and walked through fire together, but one strong, glittering thread binds us more powerfully than anything else. Throughout this life of ours, we know we will always be us, one heart beating beneath all that we do and all that we are. A handsome professor who showed a damsel in distress what it means to love and be loved.' -
What a way to end one of the best series I've ever read. Amazingly Beautiful. Heartbreaking. Absolutely epic. Dean & Liv's story ends perfectly.
"Since the day we met, it's always been we and us. Everything we've been through has pulled us closer together." This was Dean & Liv's motto throughout the whole series. But man did it prove so true in the final installment, Always. Every book throughout the series has been so compelling, enticing you to keep wanting more. This story is so real, I often wonder who's story Ms. Lane is really writing about. The writing is spot on, it's captivating, and it completely pulls you in. I felt so connected, like the characters are REAL life people. I will ALWAYS remember this series and genuinely recommend it to those of you who haven't read it, YET ❤️❤️ -
I love nina lane can't wait to read this.
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Trigger Warnings:
Bro this book... I did not expect to cry so bloody much. I didn't expect this last book to be so emotional. I didn't expect this huge tragedy to happen, I'm not gonna get into it here but I'll get more into it in the spoiler section. If you haven't read the previous books in this series, you need to if you want to read this since it isn't a standalone. You also need to read the nouvellas to understand the backstory of two other characters, but if you enjoy marriage in trouble books, this is for you. I'm gonna use the summary from my first review since I don't want to spoil this book.
This story follows Olivia, who is married to the love of her life, Dean. Dean is a professor and Olivia used to be a student that is now struggling to find a job and a place where she belongs. Dean and Olivia met in a university, and their life has been everything they wanted. Dean and Olivia share everything with one another, or so they believe. After feeling doubts, their marriage is suddenly plummeting, both of them struggle to save the one safe place they have had in their lives, the marriage they value with one another is nearing its end unless they do something about it.
Now for spoilers
It has been a long journey, but a pretty good one. It is sad, but it is time to say goodbye to Liv and Dean and hello to new characters. I was glad I was able to read about their journey, this series was great, I can't wait to read more by
Nina Lane in the future. Stay safe and awesome folks!
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I'm one very happy and satisfied reader. I've just finished Always, the final book in the Spiral of Bliss series, and the conclusion was and had everything I could've asked for. Ever since I read Arouse I've been obsessed and addicted to Dean and Liv. These two hold a very special place in my heart. I feel I've been right along with them on their journey. From when they first met at the University where Dean was teaching and Liv was studying and up till now at the end of this story Always. It has been a beautiful, emotional and at times difficult journey for them both. But one thing that has always prevailed was their love for one another.
Always was in some way nostalgic for me. There were so many beautiful and emotional moments from Dean and Liv's time together. I could easily remember certain moments, that were mentioned, that happened in Arouse, Allure, Awaken or Adore. It was like going down memory lane with them. But Always certainly had it serious and dark moments too when something happened to Liv, that also affected Dean and the kids as well. It almost felt too real and all the emotions and helplessness Dean and Liv felt was emotional and tough to experience. Dean once again proved he would do anything to protect his Beauty but this was a monster he couldn't defeat. Liv tried to be strong and fought the best she could. For her family and her love. She proved to be the always loving and loyal wife, mother and friend. Her change and growth has been nothing but remarkable. All thanks to Dean who's been supporting Liv throughout their endeavors.
I really enjoyed the other characters as well. It's one huge family in Mirror Lake. My love for Archer intensified, so did it for Kelsey and Allie. I loved the relationship Dean and Archer ended up with. Brothers at last. Their scenes were heartwarming and I enjoyed them immensely. The two epilogues were icing on the cake. It captured and showed how much Dean and Liv had grown and yet what will always remain. Their undying love for one another and their children.
This was the perfect ending to a phenomenal series. I love Dean and Liv! They are the definition of true love and soul mates.
5 BadAssProfessor&BeautyStars
Arc generously provided for an honest review -
:::5 Stars!:::
"Nothing, nothing will ever have the power over us. We are so much stronger than any monster."
Full review to come:) -
4.5 beautifully painful stars
"We’ll always be Liv and Dean, who knew at first glance that we would do more than simply live a life together."
This book was so much more. The emotions- they flow out of the pages and grab you. Liv and Dean were dealt such a tough hand in this book, it just hurt me to think of another alternate ending, because that would have been devastating let me tell you.
So our alpha, protective knight of a professor, Dean West and his lovely wife, Olivia (Liv) West, find out in the beginning of the book that she has a malignant breast cancer.
Dean, being Liv's protector cannot fathom that she is battling something he cannot fight for her. Most of his part in book is about how he comes to terms that sometimes life throws curveballs that you cannot dodge and prevent."I get it. The woman you love, your wife… you want to be the one to save her."
And as for Liv, she has to deal with the cancer, and also the emotional ride that comes with it- like not being a good enough wife, and not being there for her family. It was such a big insight into the mind of someone going through that, because the fight was not only physical for her, but also mental, and to watch her win it was the moment in the book."I want you to be happy again. Please. That’s what I desperately want for you. Happiness."
It was very a simple book, but so powerful and emotional, that at times I could feel my pulse throbbing painfully. I loved the side characters- Kelsey, Archer, Nicholas, Bella- they were such a good family, so adorable and so supportive of both- Dean and Liv.
I couldn't expect a better ending to this series than tying up all the loose ends in the previous books, and Lane does such an amazing job of it."My heart lifts like a bird taking flight. A tangible current of love and hope flows between us. The end of something grueling. The start of something good.
No. The continuation of something good." -
What can I say? I loved this book so so so much! I cried, I laughed, I fell in love, I hoped, I swooned, I did not want this book, this story to end – and not necessarily in this order. Be prepared to be swept off your feet… I am rereading Book I, I love this story soo much!!!
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Man oh man
I have read this series from book one and I absolutely adore Dean. Through my constant googling of him I surpassed Liv a lot until this book. The strength of her character really shines through in this novel.
This series is one of the top series I have read this year. Because it shows the struggles and tragedies of a couple and the way they use their love for each other to overcome all the obstacles that come their way. I cried and laughed as the author took me on the amazing journey of Dean and Liv and left me feeling completely satisfied at the end. -
The thing I loved most about this book was how realistic it was. Honestly, it was so close to real life and what I've experienced and witnessed that it's hard to summarize exactly how I felt while reading it. It was at once fulfilling and heartbreaking.
Between Dean and Liv, the love is ALWAYS there. It will never fade. It will never be broken. It will never die. Each obstacle, each hurdle, every trial and tribulation thrown their way only serves to strengthen their love and their bond. Their connection, although fiction, is what everyone should strive for. ** Dean is still one of my top book boyfriends!! He was a phenomenal character in this story. AGAIN!! **
I applaud the author for the way she was able to extend this couple's story over 6.5 books without making their tale become repetitive or boring. Each installment introduced a new challenge and a new triumph and this one was no exception.
For this book's ordeal, the emotions I expected Dean and Liv to feel were there and they were incredibly authentic. I believed in their love, hope, faith, trust and commitment. I also understood their fear, anger, frustration and helplessness.
This couple, once again, overcame huge odds and were stronger than ever for it. I'm glad I got this final look into the life and times of Dean and Liv, as well as finally getting some closure for Archer and Kelsey.
XO
P.S. I don't think I could have forgiven Allie so readily. I get her motivations and I liked how she discreetly and anonymously showed Liv and Dean her support, but how she treated Liv was deplorable. A friend just doesn't do that! -
Another Dean and Liv story!!! Fabulous! ;-D
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Wow…what a way to end one of the most EPIC love stories I’ve ever read. The Spiral of Bliss series is not your run of the mill book that you can find on Amazon or any e-book site there days. It’s a series that will have you falling in love with a couple that is head over heels for each other.. The love that Dean and Liv have for each other and their children is one for the record books. It’s a love you want to aspire to, treasure, and read over and over again.
Dean and Liv have returned back to their home, Mirror Lakes after being in Paris. They now are the proud parents of two children, Nick and Bella, and they have immersed themselves in their community. They are both back at work, Liv at the Wonderland Café, and Dean is back teaching again. Everything is going right in their lives, until it isn’t anymore.
"You are the only place in the world where I feel safe. You always will be."
The Wests are rocked by something that Dean cannot fix. It’s out of his hands. It’s something he can’t go to war with and take down like the sexy professor we all know he is. That in itself, I think was the hardest thing for me to swallow while reading Always. Dean has always been the fighter in their beautiful world, the man that makes everything better. His helplessness is what brought on the big ugly tears and watching him come to terms with everything was heartbreaking. It was up to Olivia to help move her family past this tragedy and right their world again.
Yes, there was some angst that kept me up in late hours furiously reading but I needed to make sure that everything would be okay for the one couple I hold so dear. There is also a lot of Archer and Kelsey in this book and I love where Nina took their story. Both West brothers are completely undeniable but a certain professor has slayed me for all book boyfriends…he literally is the ultimate.
"I love you, beauty. My heart goes with you."
If you have not read this series, it’s a must. It’s beautiful, sexy, and well, just perfect. Thank you Nina for giving us the perfect ending to the most deserving couple out there. It’s a bit heartbreaking to say goodbye to a series that I’ve loved for so long.
P.S. Nina...I love you and your writing like Dean loves Liv. -
DNF @ 55%.
This book is an excellent example of why author's shouldn't keep writing about the same couple when they have run out of a story. I enjoyed the first 3 books in this series but the last 2 are completely unnecessary. Plus, this book was such a disappointment. Did we really need to read about this couple going through such a tragedy after everything else they have endured? And how about giving another book to Archer. Yes, Kelsey is a b*%@h but I would have preferred reading about her. On the other hand, why the hell does Archer want to marry someone who keeps rejecting him? -
DNF. Having enjoyed the first three books about Liv and Dean, I found the fourth book a bit boring and wasn't sure I would bother with this one. I started reading but once I got to the depressing part, I decided to give up. I know these things happen in real life but I read romance as escapism from real life. I don't like reading this type of plot and not to a heroine I have a fondness for.
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DEAN: I love you like eggs love bacon.
LIV: I can’t wait for you to have me over-easy.
DEAN: You’d better not be yolk-ing.
LIV: Well, it’s been a while since I got laid.
DEAN: Now I’m getting hard-boiled.
LIV: You crack me up.
DEAN: You’re eggs-quisite.
LIV: You’re eggs-traordinary.
DEAN: I love you, beauty.
LIV: I love you, professor.
Me encantan sus conversaciones y sus dibujos nerds 💕
Las 5 ⭐️ van más por lo real que la misma historia. El suceso como pesadilla escrito en este último libro de la saga toca muy cerca de casa (en mi caso) siendo un poco duro leerlo, porque muchas cosas ocurrieron de dicha forma.
Mi mamá vivió esta pesadilla. Gracias a todo, la tengo aún conmigo, como Bella y Nicholas tienen a Liv.
Por lo mismo, sentí que muchas reacciones fueron verdaderas. Desconozco si la misma autora ha sufrido algún caso cercano a esto, pero acertó en muchas situaciones. La reacción de la gente que te rodea, los cambios involuntarios que suceden, la intención de querer hacerlo todo sin ayuda, la desesperación de ver cómo todo puede cambiar de un día a otro. Las conversaciones que quieres evitar, las cosas que te tocan enfrentar.
Quedé tranquila y lloré en varias partes del libro.
Gracias Liv y Dean por mostrarme y recordarme que siempre se puede salir adelante. Pensar positivo es un medicamento necesario el cual debe ser recetado de forma diaria, 24/7.
Ay, ya los extraño :(
Me gustaría leer sobre sus hijos si se puede más adelante. -
First, thanks to the author for a copy of this book for review. I loved books 1-2 of this series. Dean West is awesome. Book 3 and 4- well, read my reviews. I like spending time with the H and h in their relationship however, since book 3 - I skim the sex scenes. Also, Liv gets on my nerves sometimes. Ok, the real reason I rated this one so low? I have to hide as this might spoil it for some - but just a note - I do not read nor want to read certain books - I did like the kids - kind of rare for me - but I liked the interaction with them. I liked Archer too.
Again, thanks to the author for a copy. 2 not for me stars. -
What can I say? Professor Dean is one of my all time favorite hero.
Liv, as usual, is great. We get to see more of Nicholas and Bella (their kids) too. -
A perfect end for a perfect couple.
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I can sum up my review in one word: Perfection. Sheer and utter perfection.
"Always" is Book Five of the exquisite "Spiral of Bliss series by author Nina Lane. Hands down, this series has put me through every imaginable emotion more than any series I’ve ever read.
Dean and Liv West are the perfect couple. Yes, their life is peppered with laughter and tears, pain and joy. They’ve basked in the light, and persevered through darkness over the course of four beautiful novels. The one unwavering element, the thing that has seen them through it all has been their steadfast love and devotion to one another. It’s a quirky, sometimes dorky love that has made me smile, a deep and erotic love that has sped up my heart, and a fierce, dependable love that has twisted my heart nearly to the point of breaking more than once.
Dean West is his wife’s champion in every large way, as well as all of the small ones. Life has definitely given the Wests some battles to fight, but the Professor has never hesitated to don his suit of armor and slay every dragon for his Beauty. The latest dragon, though, is headed straight for Liv, and this time, her white night is powerless to stop it. There is nothing Dean can do but be a spectator, watching helplessly from the sidelines as the love of his life wages her own crusade.
Liv is fighting a terrifying real-life battle, and author Nina Lane treats this difficult and painful topic with great care and sensitivity. While Liv’s pain is real, the struggle Dean faces is no less painful. His instinctive need to protect his wife from every possible enemy leaves him literally paralyzed with fear, reversing their roles, casting Olivia as Dean’s champion. It’s Liv’s turn to save her professor.
Excerpt (with the author’s permission):
Dean’s POV:
“Liv.”
“Right here.”
“You… you live inside me.” I press a hand to my chest, my heart that beats in rhythm with hers. “Everywhere. You are the key to every part of me.
“Except when you build walls that have no doors or locks.” She lifts her head, her eyes warm and gentle. “I can’t force my way in, Dean. You have to let me in.”
I have to keep her in, this woman who has all the power in the world over my pain. She’s my fire and my freedom. She’ll always be the girl who saved me.
“I will.” My voice is hoarse. “I promise.”
The series has been written from alternating POVs throughout, and the author continues to tell it from that approach in "Always." I love the alternating POVs, because it allows me to not only read, but feel the story along with the characters.
All the "Spiral" characters are here for this final book. Readers see the Wests at their best (and sometimes their worst) as they struggle to keep life in balance for Nicholas and Bella, the son and daughter that bring them more joy than either of them could have ever imagined. Their Mirror Lake friends surround them with constant support, including Dean’s irrepressible best friend Kelsey, and his brother Archer. Kelsey and Archer make more than mere cameo appearances in "Always," and I love that Nina brings them back as a vital part of Liv and Dean’s final story.
"Always" is an emotional read. It ebbs and flows with all the things readers have come to love and expect from the author and these characters. From their corny playful banter, to the silly love notes, to some of the hottest erotic scenes ever written, "Always" will compel you. Gonna need tissues, and lots of them, but it will be so worth the tears.
Six PERFECT stars. This series is one on a very short list my must re-reads.
