The Memory of Us

A brand-new love story for 2024. Filled with heart-wrenching romance, family love, and mystery

This title was previously available on NetGalley and is now archived.
Buy on Amazon Buy on Waterstones
*This page contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you.
Send NetGalley books directly to your Kindle or Kindle app

1
To read on a Kindle or Kindle app, please add kindle@netgalley.com as an approved email address to receive files in your Amazon account. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
2
Also find your Kindle email address within your Amazon account, and enter it here.
Pub Date 15 Feb 2024 | Archive Date 16 Feb 2024

Talking about this book? Use #TheMemoryOfUs #NetGalley. More hashtag tips!


Description

'A beautifully written, gripping and moving novel about the lengths we will go to for the people who mean the most to us... I was utterly captivated, from start to finish' - Holly Miller

***

If you can't trust your head, can you trust your heart?

If she had been found moments later, Amelia's heart would have stopped and never recovered. Instead she was taken from the desolate beach to the nearest hospital just in time to save her life. When her sister Lexi arrives from New York, Amelia's heart is beating, but the accident has implanted a series of false memories. These memories revolve around a man named Sam, and a perfect love story that never existed.

Determined to help her sister, Lexi enlists the help of Nick, a local vet who bears a striking resemblance to Sam. Together, Lexi and Nick recreate and photograph Amelia's dream dates in the hopes of triggering her true memories.

But as love starts to stir between Lexi and Nick, they must navigate a complex web of emotions. How can Lexi fall for Amelia's dream man without hurting her sister?

Filled with breathtaking romance, heart-wrenching emotion, the magic of destiny and the power of sisterhood, The Memory of Us is a must-read for fans of Holly Miller and Colleen Hoover.

***

'Wow... This book has everything, heartache, passion and twists galore' - Jenny O'Brien

'Gripping, devastating and romantic... A tale of mystery, intrigue, despair and hope – but above all, of love' - Gillian Harvey

'A beautifully written, gripping and moving novel about the lengths we will go to for the people who mean the most to us... I was utterly captivated, from start to finish' - Holly Miller

***

If you...


Advance Praise

Wow. Aikins really understands her craft. This book has everything, Heartache, passion and twists galore. She’s one of my favourite writers. Always delivers. - Jenny O'Brien

Wow. Aikins really understands her craft. This book has everything, Heartache, passion and twists galore. She’s one of my favourite writers. Always delivers. - Jenny O'Brien


Available Editions

EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9781804540213
PRICE £20.00 (GBP)
PAGES 464

Available on NetGalley

NetGalley Shelf App (EPUB)
Send to Kindle (EPUB)
Download (EPUB)

Average rating from 227 members


Featured Reviews

I wanted to read this as it was compared to Colleen Hoover and I was pleasantly surprised as I ended up really enjoying this book.

Was this review helpful?

This book created a lump in my throat and brought forth the ugliest cries, wrenching my heart! I haven't read something so sad and tear-jerking in a long time, and after reading this book all day, I found myself deeply affected, in my bluest mood, dabbing my tears whenever I remembered the events that took place in the story.

The supernatural part of the story is well-crafted, even though it wraps up with some kind of logical explanation that is open-ended, leaving room for interpretation.

I've read previous works by Dani Atkins, and I've always enjoyed how she seamlessly incorporates supernatural elements into her romance stories, adding to their charm.

In this book, the romance parts are slightly overshadowed by the unconditional bond of sisterhood, family drama, and health issues. At times, I felt like I could barely breathe after witnessing the challenges the characters were going through. During moments when I felt suffocated, I took short breaks to soothe my hyperventilations. I loved Lexi and Mimi's intense, honest bond and how far they would go for each other's happiness.

If you're in a depressive mood, I advise you to read this book at a later time when you're feeling better because the story of the sisters is guaranteed to make you cry for a long time.

Here's a quick summary: When her sister, Amelia, is found on a deserted beach where her heart stopped beating for a few moments, Lexi urgently flies from New York to take care of her sister. But Lexi realizes her sister keeps talking about Sam, the husband they never met, and memories they had shared. To help her sister, Lexi starts searching for the dream man she described, and her path crosses with the local veterinarian, Nick, who is a kind-hearted, caring man. He extends his helping hand to recreate the memories Amelia told Lexi about by going on dates with Lexi and taking photos just like Amelia described. The photos turn into a memory box to help her sister connect with her happy moments with the dream man. But as Lexi spends more time with Nick, she realizes she's falling for her sister's dream husband. She feels like she's betraying her sister by stealing her own chance at happiness. But what if, by sacrificing herself, she's sabotaging her last chance to find happiness forever?

The painful twist in the story left me deeply disturbed. This is a heart-wrenching, highly sentimental, and well-developed women's fiction novel! The ending also left me emotionally wrecked. It's still a beautifully written novel, but as I advised, keep your tissues close and brace your heart for an emotional journey.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Was this review helpful?

Dani Atkins is one of my go-to Authors so I was hugely excited to read this!

I finished it in one sitting! I was hooked from the first page and was unable to put it down. I loved the characters and the stunning way that Atkins brings them to life so realistically.

Heart-warming and life-affirming - a must read.

Was this review helpful?

This novel is a hug in a book, and I loved it. It is so heartwarming to read about kind, good, loving people, who are willing to make sacrifices for the ones they love. Amelia and Lexi are devoted sisters, both trying to look out for and protect the other. Amelia’s memory loss is complicated when she develops clear but totally false memories of the husband who doesn’t exist. To make matters worse, Lexi, in trying to help her sister, falls in love with a man who is the spitting image of Amelia’s imaginary husband. This is a story of a caring family and of kindness. It is also a story about loss and about very real health conditions, heart disease and Alzheimer’s. I was gripped from the first page through to the final twist. Highly recommended.

Was this review helpful?

I remember years ago seeking out love stories that had more substance. Stories that truly felt like the author had put her heart into them. That’s when I discovered a Dani Atkins book and I’ve been a loyal fan ever since.

She pours so much of her heart into her books which makes
for such beautiful stories. Amelia and Lexi absolutely came alive on these pages. There was love and loss in this book and a perfect recipe for ugly cries. I just want to physically hug this book. It was so beautiful.

Thank you to netgalley and Aria and Aries for this ARC!

Was this review helpful?

I love this author's books and her willingness to deal with real problems, heartbreaking stories, deep emotions, illness and death. Somehow though, for me, this one slightly missed the mark. It is all there, but there is a strand running through it that relies on coincidence, inexplicable predictions, false memory and the highly unlikely. That took me out of the real emotional side of the story and into something I struggled to believe in. Still a 4 star read but not the author's best.

Was this review helpful?

The Memory of Us is although heartbreaking is uplifting and joyful to read about the special bond between two sisters.
Amelia is found on a beach unconscious by two off duty doctors, she is in cardiac arrest and they resuscitate her. Her sister Lexi living in New York rushes back to UK to be with her. On the HDU the staff are unsure due to how she was found if Amelia will be left with any brain damage.
On awakening Amelia keeps asking for her husband Sam, describing him, their wedding etc. these are false memories that no amount of trying to convince her will she accept.
Lexi decides she will do all she can to help her sister. This leads to a lot of problems least of which is falling in love with the man who she asks to help her.
This is such a well written book with characters of such depth you fall in love with them as well. But for me I found the finale devastating but that shows just how good this book is for me to become so emotionally involved.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.

Was this review helpful?

When Lexi gets the phone call that her sister, Amelia is in hospital she immediately leaves her life in New York to be by her side in Somerset where she lives.

When Amelia awakens she is confused and talking about her husband, Sam. Even more confused are Lexi and their mum because Amelia isn’t married. She is so certain of this man that Amelia can draw pictures as clear as day of the man she claims to be married to. So when Lexi spots the man from her sisters drawing while on the beach, she has to ask if he knows her sister. This meeting is the catalyst for everything that follows and it is how Lexi hopes to help her sisters recovery. Unfortunately in doing so, Lexi’s feeling for this man become more and she finds herself falling for her sisters ‘husband’.

Having read other books by this author I had a feeling I’d like it.

This book is packed from the start with twists and turns and filled with emotion. I love the sisters close relationship and how they know each other so well. I literally couldn’t put the book down and there were definitely tears so make sure you have the tissues to hand.

An amazing and emotional read that I highly recommend.

Was this review helpful?

What a beautiful read. I'm always excited to read a Dani Atkins book and I'm never dissapointed and this one is no exception it's a fantastic read from start to finish..When Ameilia is found on the beach she wasn't breathing and no one knew how long it had been and when her sister arrives from New York things didn't look good but what happened when she regained consciousness was a shock and was something they could never have predicted.As they try and make sense of what Ameilia says Lexi and her mum must try and do whatever they can to help her. It's a lovely story full of emotion and beautifully written and a real tearjerker I loved it and highly recommended it

Was this review helpful?

Fast becoming a favourite author of mine! DO NOT START THIS UNTIL YOU CLEAR YOUR SCHEDULES AS YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN!!!!… I absolutely LOVED… Perfect read to lift your spirits, make you cry, and keep you hooked… Will keep you up late at night

Was this review helpful?

This is an incredible - and almost incredulous - story about two remarkable sisters /twins, family and love. Lexi has built a life in New York but when she receives a devastating middle of the night phone call from her mum she doesn’t hesitate to return to England where her sister Amelia is seriously ill having been found unresponsive on a beach by two off duty doctors who miraculously managed to resuscitate her. When Amelia wakes she is desperate to see her husband Sam but this is some freak delusion as she’s never been married but to keep her calm Lexi doesn’t challenge her. Amelia misses Sam so badly she draws some portraits of him so she can keep looking at him but then one morning Lexi meets the man in the picture who isn’t called Sam and has never met Amelia however Lexi realises this is an opportunity to try offer some comfort to Amelia setting off a chain of events that leave her impossibly in love.

This was a decent read for around the first three quarters with some brilliant family drama with Lexi, Amelia and her mum; the staggering belief that Amelia had in Sam and the devastation this caused her family and the worries about Amelia’s physical health too. Add in the complicated relationship between Lexi and Nick and the memories they created whilst the tension between the grew and the way Lexi put her sister above everything. The last quarter though was gut wrenching with a devastating reveal and the difficult decision Lexi struggled with. This was a real heartbreaker and brilliantly written, if at first you’re not totally hooked this is one that definitely worth persevering with as it will stay with you after. 9/10

Was this review helpful?

So i was given the opportunity to read this book, so i took it, so thank you netgalley. I have read a previous book by Dani which i thoroughly enjoyed. This was the same. I absolutely loved this read. I spent the last few chapters in absolute tears!! It was a beautiful story and it really focuses on family and how strong bonds can really be. How far would you go for a family member. This book shows how far some people will go for loved ones. I really did like all the characters within this story and i waa rooting for all of them. If you get the chance to reas this, i would recommend you do. Its definitely 5 stars from me and i felt privileged to read an advanxed copy so thank you

Was this review helpful?

I enjoyed the dynamic and plotline of the book. The plotline was intriguing and made me want to read on to see how things played out. Personally, it started slow for me and it was hard to get into but as I advanced on, I got increasingly into it and became very easy to read and I ended up finishing it like a day later.

Was this review helpful?

A thought and tear provoking novel about sisters, Amelia and Alexià and their unique bond.
Amelia is discovered on the beach one night in crisis by two doctors. Lexi immediately flies home to the UK to be by her side and is greeted by stories of a whirlwind live affair and mystery husband Sam. Determined to support her sister in the best possible way she can she manages to persuade local vet Nick to help her after a chance encounter.

Was this review helpful?

Love Dani Atkins books and this is no exception. Lexi lives in New York but rushes back home when she hears her sister Amelia is seriously ill. She was found on the beach unconscious and her heart had stopped. She wakes up insisting she's married to someone called Sam

Was this review helpful?

When Lexi flies from NY to the UK to care for Amelia, her sick sister, she finds that Amelia has memories of a marriage that never existed.
The novel is full of emotions from the love between the sisters to the birth of a romance between Nick and Lexi. At times it is difficult for the family who are dealing with a person who is not living the same reality as them but both Lexi and her mother move forward with hope.
#TheMemoryOfUs is a heartbreaking, bittersweet novel about how far you will go for the people you love the most, emotionally engaging with well-rounded characters and a gripping storyline.

Was this review helpful?

I loved this book and the emotional rollercoaster it took me on. I liked that it wasn’t cliched and didn’t shy away from tougher subjects. Brilliant read.

Was this review helpful?

Lexi rushes to Somerset when she learns that her sister Amelia is hospitalized. Amelia wakes up confused and mentions a man named Sam, whom no one knows. One day, Lexi sees the man from Amelia's drawing, gets to know him more, and falls for him. The book is full of twists and turns, with a strong portrayal of sisterly love and understanding.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Was this review helpful?

I love Dani Atkins and this one was as good if not better than all her others.
She has a magical talent for taking the tragic and making it so relatable and yet so full of joy too.
I'll be recommending this to all of my book friends!

Was this review helpful?

Well, this was certainly a rollercoaster of emotions!
I was invested in Lexi's story from the start, and I was really impressed by how strongly I could feel the sisters' bond as I was reading.
There were some very tough subjects covered sensitively and it really made me think about how far I would go to help/protect the people I love.
I also enjoyed the fact that we weren't treated to a fairytale happy ending, making it a more realistic read and also cathartic as I was in bits reading the final chapter!

Was this review helpful?

Omg i have no tears left! I loved this book so much! I fellIn love
loved with all the characters and the emotional rollercoaster it took me on. This was an amazing read!

Was this review helpful?

I loved this story from beginning to end, it held my attention and I didn't want it to end. The storyline is clever and unique, it was fascinating to see it evolve as the story unfolds. The book made me smile a lot, sigh over the love story and sob a few times. This is a great story.

I became really absorbed in the lives of Amelia and Lexi and found I didn't want to put the book down. The two sisters, Amelia and Lexi are twins, although they are born 10 years apart, they have a close connection. When Lexi is found dying on the mud flats near her cottage, her heart is restarted and the story begins. I loved their connection; they were so close and Lexi's determination to do everything to help Amelia. Nick, a vet who walked on the beach near Amelia's home, was such a kind man who I couldn't help but love him too.

Dani Atkins always writes a good story and this one is superb. I sobbed through the end and admired the sisters so much for their resilience and love for each other. I can highly recommend this beautifully written story.

Was this review helpful?

I’ve never read a novel by Dani Atkins, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. After seeing so many great reviews of The Memory of Us, I knew I had to read it! Though I found the twins part of the story to be a little outlandish, it was certainly a creative and interesting twist. Lexi and Amelia’s relationship throughout the book was beautiful. The sisterly devotion they have to one another is something I found myself envying quite a bit! Though this book wasn’t a favorite, I did enjoy it and am looking forward to checking out more by this Author. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4! Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for gifting me an ARC in exchange for my honest review,

Was this review helpful?

I stopped everything to start this book. The description of this was too hard to resist and it was EVERYTHING! This was the best kind of story. Not only finding love with Nick but reuniting the love of Lexi and Amelia. This author is new to me but I must now read her previous work. I loved everything about this other than reading the last few chapters with blurred vision. This for me is one of the greats that I’ve read in awhile. Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Was this review helpful?

This book was so much more than I expected! It was heartbreaking, incredible, thoughtful, and so loving. The sister/twin bond is written beautifully and I loved the depth of the characters. The progress of the book is perfect and the twin empathy felt natural.

Was this review helpful?

This story centres around twins born several years apart. One is involved in an accident that almost kills her and leaves her with serious neurological issues afterwards, making up a whole other life full of false memories. Her sister flies back from America where she lives in order to help and embarks on a journey of her own. She tries to recreate her sister’s memories and ends up sending her own life on a different path.

This was definitely not what I expected and was quite an emotional book to read but I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Was this review helpful?

Wow what a spectacular read. I love this author and this is by far their best work, in my opinion. It was beautifully written and the characters were so likeable especially the main character Lexi. Her relationship with her sister especially portrayed love and devotion. One piece of advice is to have the tissues at the ready as I found myself in tears for much of the last quarter of the book. The book focuses on a lot of hard hitting subjects such as twin relationships, genetic diseases and heart problems as well as the unusual romance plot. I can’t recommend this one enough

Was this review helpful?

Thank you for the review copy - I loved this book, it’s absolutely heartbreaking though and I sobbed at the end!

Was this review helpful?

THE MEMORY OF US is one emotional, miraculous read that made me feel all the feelings. I was already hooked just by the premise, but so much more happens in this story, putting this book on a whole different level. I really loved how even in the most emotional moments, the author still founds ways to bring in humor which would just make me even more emotional when reading... that to me is creme de la creme when reading a book.

This is a beautiful story of the things we do for people we love who are in need, what desperate measures a sister will go through, even sabotaging her happily ever after for the chance to help keep her sister smiling. I so appreciated the reminder that we can't predict the future but we can decide who we get to be in the present. The readers are invited to witness how much premonitions and fate pertains to this story to see why events had to happen the way they did.

I thought the author did an incredible job giving so much complexity and depth to the characters. They all felt real, grounded, and relatable. And I really liked how the author acknowledges how our personalties are shaped by our past unhealed traumas even from very young ages. I admired how the book is not just focused on Nick and Lexi's relationship but also the relationship between sisters Amelia and Lexi, who even though are eight years apart, are just as close and connected to one another as twins are. So connected that they can sense and feel pain the other one is feeling, even if thousands of miles away.

I loved all the supporting characters as well, which doesn't happen too often. I really liked how the main character Lexi is a romance fiction editor, I thought the choice added several nice layers throughout the story. This is my first time reading work by this author and look forward to reading her other published work.

Thank you to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for the advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

Wow what can I say, I loved this book! It was difficult reading the last few chapters though as my eyes were full of tears. The relationship between the sisters was beautiful.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book.

Was this review helpful?

After a slow start I found this an enjoyable read that tackled many sensitive subjects.

The sisterly bond between Lexi and Amelia was the focal point of the story with a supporting cast of characters that you wanted to have a happy ending.

Although at times I wanted to shake Lexi and follow her own path rather than worry about everyone else.

Thanks to netgalley for the opportunity to review this book this is my honest opinion

Was this review helpful?

A beautiful, but heartbreaking story about the love and connection between siblings. It shows how siblings will do whatever they can to protect one another, and support one another. You will fall in love with all of the characters, they are caring, kind, resilient and full of hope. You will want them to all have their happily ever after. This book shows the struggle of trying to do what is best for someone else, without losing out on what is best for yourself. Such an incredibly written story that will make you smile, laugh and cry.

Was this review helpful?

Another superb, heartbreaking novel by Dani Atkins. Great characters, smaltzy love story, a family saga - what’s not to love?! Yes, the story was predictable but that doesn’t take away the enjoyment. Chic lit at it’s best.

Was this review helpful?

Dani Atkins is a reliable author and if you love her books then this latest title will not disappoint that’s for sure

Was this review helpful?

Dani writes from the heart in such a tender and believable way. This novel had it all, smiles and tears. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to all.

Was this review helpful?

Such a beautiful yet heart breaking story that is impossible to put down. The characters are so well written, you connect with them immediately and the story weaves you into living each moment and feeling each emotion.

Was this review helpful?

When Amelia is found on a deserted English beach, it is a miracle that she survives. With doctors believing that her heart stopped if just briefly, her younger sister Lexi makes a mad dash from New York to be with her. When Amelia wakens, she believes herself married to a man called Sam. She has created a series of false memories, which stun both Lexi and her mother. Determined to help her sister, Lexi enlists the help of Nick, a local vet who bears a striking resemblance to Sam. Together, Lexi and Nick recreate and photograph Amelia's dream dates in the hopes of triggering her true memories. However, soon love begins to blossom between Lexi and Nick, and Lexi is uncertain how the relationship will continue if Amelia finds out.
This book had me hooked from the start. Amelia is so determined in her belief of Sam, that she retells every detail of their romance to Lexi. It was quite sweet to see Lexi and Nick fall in love, the same as Amelia believes herself to have. The relationships between the sisters, between the girls and their mother, and with Lexi and Nick, are so well delivered that finishing this book, meant that I could no longer be a part of their story. This story had me smiling and crying, making it one of my favourites for the year. This is a book to be savoured.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

This is a romance and an emotional roller coaster
Beautifully written and by the end you will be crying as you will be so involved with the two sisters and what happens next.
I have read all Dani Atkins books and they never let you down.

Was this review helpful?

I love this author's books, so I knew I was going to enjoy this one. The story is about two sisters, Amelia and Lexi. When Amelia is found unconscious, near death, on a remote beach, her sister Lexi flies over from America immediately. Lexi finds her sister alive, but due to the accident she is suffering from what appears to be false memories, believing herself to be married to a man called Sam, who none of the family have ever heard of.

I really enjoyed this book. The book begins with a mystery leaving me wondering how and why Amelia came to be unconscious on a beach. When Amelia then believes she is married to a man called Sam, another mystery arises making me think perhaps she was and her family didn't know this! There were lots of little twists throughout the book which really kept me on my toes, swapping and switching my ideas of what was actually going on.

The introduction of Nick's character was clever, bringing an element of romance into the storyline and I enjoyed his relationship with Lexi. The idea of Nick being Amelia's mystery husband certainly posed more questions and I wondered whether he really was and there was another element being added into their stories! All does become clear as the book moves on, and I have to admit to being completely hooked into their storylines very quickly.

I won't spoil the ending, but it was safe to say I definitely needed a supply of tissues to get me through it! The storyline took a twist I wasn't expecting, but was so cleverly done and so well written - thumbs up to the author! It's certainly a heart-breaking read but also one filled with love on all counts. Would definitely recommend.

Was this review helpful?

Dani Atkins gives us another thought provoking novel, packed full of emotion.
The book tells of Lexi and her older ‘twin’ Amelia. Following a near fatal accident, the story describes the strange twists of fate that bring Lexi and Nick together.
Similar to her other novels, there is a bit of fantasy built in, but this weaves well into the story.
I very much enjoyed this novel, looking forward to each chapter and I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys some escapism, mixed with romance.
A lovely and satisfying read

Was this review helpful?

Thanks to Netgalley and Aria for a review copy of the book. I have read and enjoyed a few other Dani Atkins in the past and looked forward to reading this and I have to say I wasn’t disappointed. Initially as I read it I thought perhaps I might find the premise a bit too fantastical but it won me over almost immediately and I found myself completely absorbed in the storyline.

When Lexi hears her sister, Amelia has been snatched from the jaws of death after being revived on a remote beach in the middle of winter, she flees New York to Somerset to be by her side. Technically twins, but born eight years apart through IVF, she and her sister have a very special connection that borders on supernatural so Lexi would do anything for her. Even after her sister awakes and she possesses memories of people and incidents that are false, Lexi and her mother play along as the doctor advises. When Lexi bumps into a man, Nick, who is exactly like the husband her sister had described, but with a different name, Lexi will even go so far as to create photos depicting the incidents. But as the two get to know each other and Amelia slowly recovers Lexi realises she may have to choose between her own happiness and her sister’s.

A lovely book that can suck the reader in, full of many moving and even heart wrenching moments, so get the box of tissues out. This is a novel about family loyalty, sisterly devotion and the choices a person can be forced to make. Really enjoyable.

Was this review helpful?

Dani Atkins is one of my favourites and couldn't wait to start this one!

It all starts off with an accident involving Amelia, sister Lexi travel New York to support her and their mother only Amelia's memory isn't quite right, sharing memories about a man named Sam, and a perfect love story that never existed.

Enter Nick, who helps Lexi create the memories Amelia but as these picture perfect moments are being recreated Lexi is feeling things for Nick that she may not be able to act on.

The memories of us is a heartbreaking, bittersweet read. An emotionally engaging story, loved all the characters, Lexi a great main character and the relationship between nick and Amelia were just beautiful and Tom was such a sweetie too!

Dani Atkins at her best! Beautiful ❤️

Was this review helpful?

I am already a huge Dani Atkins fan and have read most if not all of her previous books. This book has surpassed all my expectations! I was hooked from the first page and couldn’t put it down until I had finished every last line! It is heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the time time. The best book I have read this year.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this arc. I have not read a novel by Dani Atkins before and did not know what to expect. This book is a very emotional love story about two sisters, and family. This book had plot twists I definitely did not see coming. This book drew me in unexpectedly and I could not put it down once I started it. I recommend reading this book.

Was this review helpful?

"The Memories of Us" is a heart-wrenching and poignant story, with exceptionally well-crafted characters that immediately draw you in. It's an emotional roller coaster of a read, filled with bittersweet moments.
Tissues are a must have item for this one!

Was this review helpful?

'The Memory of Us' by Dani Atkins is a heartwarming story about two sisters. Also inside, there's a love story. Amelia is faced with a near-death experience. After that, she believes she was in a relationship with a guy named Sam. Her sister Lexi met Nick, who looks like Sam. Lexi fell in love with Nick and they both started a plan to help Amelia get better. There are plenty of emotional scenes in this book.

I wanted to thank the publishers and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in order to write a review.

Was this review helpful?

Dani Atkins is an absolute favourite of mine and I couldn’t wait to read this.
Everything you could want in a book and more. It will have you laughing, crying and turning the pages so fast just to devour everything.
Will definitely recommend this. Will also go on my ‘ will read again ‘ pile too!
Perfect!

Was this review helpful?

This book had me hooked from the start. Lexi, Amelia, their mum along with Nick and Tom were a fantastic bunch of characters. I was rooting for the traditional happy ending and even though I didn’t get exactly what I wanted it was wonderful and emotional.

Was this review helpful?

This is a beautiful story about two sisters. As we have come to expect with a Dani Atkins book, be prepared for a total emotional rollercoaster of a ride. I really enjoyed this story. Recommended.

Was this review helpful?

The Memory of Us - Dani Atkins
When Lexi gets the call to return home, that there's been an accident, she doesn't hesitate. She rushes back home to find out her sister had been found dead on the beach, but luckily was found and resuscitated in time. The long term effects currently unknown.
As Amelia wakes, she doesn't seem like herself. Her calm, put together sister is the exact opposite.
When Amelia starts asking questions about her husband, and where he is, Lexi and her mother try to explain to Amelia that she isn't married, or even dating anyone. But the more they tell Amelia that, the more upset she gets, not believing the truth. She goes as far as drawing a picture of her so-called husband, Sam, in explicit detail. So sure they he exists and they have a life together.
As Lexi takes some time to herself, wandering the path on the beach that Amelia may have taken, she sees a man with a striking familiarity. That man is Sam.
As Lexi gets to know this man that her sister thinks is Sam, the unthinkable happens and there is chemistry between them that she can't seem to fight.
How does Lexi navigate getting Amelia to see the truth, helping her heal, and not hurt her by being in love with the man she is so sure is her husband.
I didn't know it at the time, but this book was exactly what I needed. You can't help but fall in love with the dynamic between all the characters.
I loved Lexie's mission to protect her sister at all costs, and her loyalty. I loved the adventures that her and Nick put together and it's no wonder they fell in love.
Best of all, I love that this book continued past Amelia's trauma and you got to see how everything played out. It gave the best closure and you finished it with only one question left lingering.
This one doesn't come out until February 2024, but I can't recommend it enough. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!

Was this review helpful?

This beautiful novel is a love story between sisters, between a mother and her daughters, between a man and a woman and in the fantasy of what the mind can conjure up about love.

Though eight years apart, Lexi and Amelia not only look so much alike they refer to themselves as twins. After suffering a tragic accident on the beach near her cottage in the UK, Lexi is called home from New York where she currently lives and works as a book editor. Upon awakening in the hospital, single Amelia is convinced that she is married to Sam and provides explicit details of what he looks like and how their love story unfolded. In a twist of fate, Lexi meets handsome Nick, a veterinarian who looks eerily like Sam. What transpires, will take you on an emotional journey in the relationships of all these wonderful characters, that you will fall in love with them. .

This heart wrenching story will deliver all the feels that you’d hope to get from a really good romance and family saga. Thank you NetGalley, Aria and Dani Adkins for introducing this reader to these lovely characters and allowing me to witness their love stories.

Was this review helpful?

I’m not going to lie to you, this book made me cry ~3 times. It demonstrates love and loss so well, it’s almost unreal. I previously thought that it was unrealistic, but I realized how realistic it was. It takes you away to the beach and makes you live with the characters. I could perfectly see the setting, and it was so mystical and I would recommend it to someone who wants to escape their daily lives and go on a journey of wrong loves and borrowed time.

For me, one of the biggest things was how Dani Atkins wrote the characters’ relationships. When Lexi and Amelia were smiling together, I was smiling with them. When they were struggling, I was right there with them. She managed to make them feel real, like I could open my door and Nick would be right there waiting for me. I got to live, really live, through Lexi’s eyes, not just read about what was going on.

I also loved the ending. There was a big emphasis on “not everything is perfect and that’s fine” in this book. It added a heartbreaking aspect to the book, which was needed and a sort of reset, even though it was painful.

The one thing that bothered me a little was the ending. As someone who needs closure, I couldn’t find it in this book. It’s by no means bad, it was just a surprising change of pace from the regular “all ends are taken care of” feeling you get from many of these books.

All in all, it was a wonderful read. If there’s ever a day you’re by the beach and willing to read something that will fill your heart and make you cry, this is the book for you. Thank you Netgalley, Aria, and Dani Atkins for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

One of my favorite books of the year, even though it's technically a 2024 book.

It's a book about love and not just romantic love. I would say that "the story of us" is the story of many loves, of those we may -or may not- be fortunate to meet throughout life.

It is the story of Lexi, and her almost twin sister, Amelia; it is also the story of them and their mother, as well as of Lexi and Nick. Amelia has an accident and Lexi worriedly leaves the safety of New York to return to her hometown, where she will find an unexplained event and consequences to deal with.

A sea of doubts and bad news that is difficult to deal with will lead Lexi to Nick, a man who looks a lot like her sister's supposed husband, one born of memories that never existed. Lexi's choices lead her to unsuspected, impossible places and bonds... but so human, so strong, so made to match. Lexi will be guided by love and this will not always be one way....

It is a painful book, full of love and of a reality that is little talked about, a reality where people and their caregivers keep their pain to themselves, so as not to make it more difficult....

It's a plot twist that maybe you can see coming, with a scientific underpinning that leaves you satisfied (and with a hole in your chest because... why?).

I loved this book and while I don't 100% agree with the ending... I get it. For me it felt too open ended and I would have liked a little more certainty after so much suffering but again, I get it.

A must read for those who love romance and suffer a little - or a lot - in the process.

It was a fluke to get this far and what a beautiful experience it was... I have no regrets, just as I know these characters have no regrets about their decisions and the coincidences that connected them either.

Was this review helpful?

This is another wonderful Dani Atkins book. It is heartbreaking and uplifting and will certainly have you in tears by the end. Deals with a number of difficult issues and family bonds. Outstanding.

Was this review helpful?

This was a really sweet read. A cutesy, Hallmark type romance novel that is realistic and relatable. The story opens with a prologue - two doctors are on a break and headed out to the English river for fishing where they spot an unconscious woman. Cut to New York where we meet our protagonist who works in publishing and is in no-strings attached style relationship. She gets a call from her mum. Her sister was found unconscious outside her house in a river. Our MC heads out to the UK where she meets her sister, who seems to have gained fake memories in which she is married to a handsome stranger. Things become even weirder when the MC then spots this handsome stranger, whose description matches her sister’s drawing…So she proposes a strange deal. To take romantic pictures with this stranger based on her sister’s “anecdotes” in order to go along with her plan.
I really enjoyed reading this. It’s such a cleanser from those awful KU romance books I’ve reading. The characters are fleshed out and the story is very cutesy. Their actions are relatable and when you find out at the end why the sister got these fake memories at the end, it’s quite poignant. This was a lovely comfort read that plucks at your heartstrings, but I especially liked the sister relationship and Nick (the stranger) is such a relatable and realistic romantic lead. I really enjoyed the date scenes, which was slightly cheesy but so endearing. A wonderful, beautiful romance read.

Was this review helpful?

Beautifully romantic and brimming with chemistry and suspense The Memory Of Us is a fabulous read.

I adored the unique premise which was tantalisingly mysterious. The romance between Lexi and Nick which was pitch perfect and the gorgeous setting.

The prose was accomplished and the narrative poignant yet fast paced.

Highly recommended

Was this review helpful?

A lovely Hallmark-style novel following a sister who returns to England to find her sister has amnesia but instead of forgetting, has adopted fake memories.
I was intrigued by this unique premise and completely fell in love with this cute story set in a small town in England. As well as exploring sisterly love, there is a blooming romance too which wasn’t overly saccharine but rather wholesome. The ending is so heart wrenching when things come together and you get answers to the story. Just simply beautiful.

Was this review helpful?

Wow. Aikins really understands her craft. This book has everything, Heartache, passion and twists galore. She’s one of my favourite writers. Always delivers.

Was this review helpful?

The Memory of Us by @daniatkinsauthor is a beautiful book about a love between two sisters.

Dani always writes so beautifully. her stories have so much depth and as with any of Dani's books, they will have you sobbing till the end.

Synopsis:
Amelia is found on a beach, unconscious and not breathing. Her life is saved but when she wakes up she talks about a life she never lived.

Lexi rushes to the aid if her sister and helps her to recover but struggles to keep up the pretence of Amelia's delusions, until she meets Nick on the beach, the man Amelia has described as her husband.

Lexi and Nick bond and create Amelia's memories but start to fall in love. Lexi knows she has to put her sister first as Amelia would feel betrayed that she'd stolen her imaginary husband and so Lexi sacrifices her true love for her sister.

#ariesfiction #thememoryofus #bookreviwer #bookstagram #novemberreads #lovestories

Was this review helpful?

Readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster that explores the delicate threads of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. The novel introduces us to two sisters, a woman whose life takes a sudden turn when she wakes up in the hospital with no memory of how she got there. Atkins skillfully unfolds a tale of heartbreak, sisterhood, and the power of love. The narrative is poignant and thought-provoking, blending elements of romance and drama to create a story that draws at the heartstrings. The characters are authentically portrayed, and their struggles resonate with the reader. While the plot occassionally ventures into predictable territory, Atkins infuses the story with enough emotional depth and unexpected twists to keep the reader engaged.

Was this review helpful?

The Memory of Us is a faux-dating type of novel with a story angle I’ve not come across yet (and there’s a big chance you probably won’t have either). Given there are many many books of this type I definitely think this one stands out. The story is very emotional in the end. It’s more than a romance novel, it is just as much a story about family and the strong bond between sisters.

You might have to suspend some belief but if I could do it then I’m sure it won’t pose a problem for you either. See when Amelia is revived after a heart failure she remembers having a husband when there is none. Her sister Lexi then meets this non-existent husband because she recognized him from a picture her sister drew of him, and because the doctors told them to just go along with her sister’s idea for the time being she asks for this stranger’s help.

The story showed some holes because I can’t see how you can recreate an exact photo when someone describes a memory. And how to explain photos but no phone? You know what though, I happily went along with this too because the budding romance did feel very real and adorable and I was just happy to see it happen.

Nick is an amazing guy, good-looking and kind, he has a good sense of humor and a very big heart for animals. He’s the next book boyfriend and he’ll steal everyone’s heart. But that’s just the problem here… how can Lexi be with him if her sister thinks he’s her husband? Ah impossible love, there’s nothing like it.

Amelia and Lexi have more problems coming their way though and there are some tough choices throughout this story. There is a tangible sadness that seeps between these pages and it’s impossible to overcome. Amelia isn’t out of the woods and Lexi can’t just be happy go lucky with Nick any more. Things were changing for them and it made me quite emotional.

This isn’t just some lighthearted romance novel, there’s a lot of lovely tension building up but the last part of the novel is quite tragic and gut wrenching so you better be prepared. Is it possible to have a happy ending? I did have a bittersweet feeling in the end so it didn’t leave me wanting a different kind of ending, even if that was possible. I highly recommend reading this!

Was this review helpful?

I Received this book off netgalley for an honest review.

Wow

What a wonderful beautiful story. Lots of laughter and a lot of tears it's beautifully written. A bond between two sisters which shows true sisterly love between Lexi and Amelia. That they would do anything for each other. All the characters are brilliant especially nick and Tom. I bawled my eyes out towards the end. I will definitely be reading more from this author.

Five stars from me

Was this review helpful?

4.5 stars

When I first started reading The Memory of Us , I had no idea in which direction things were going to go. But by the time, I got to around chapters 4-5, I knew this book would be a hard-hitting, emotional rollercoaster. This book has one of the most stunning portrayals of grief, love and the bond between two sisters. Trust me, it will get you right in your feels.

I truly truly loved Lexi as our main protagonist and how protective she feels towards her older sister. Her fear of losing Amelia and her determination to help her sister through the immense trauma that she has gone through will move your heart.

It is this very determination that lands Lexi in front of Nick, who bears a striking resemblance to Amelia's "mysterious husband". And honestly, Lexi and Nick's friendship and eventually romance was one of the best parts of the book. The chemistry between these two was intense and really obvious from the get-go. I am truly glad they got the ending they did.

The book ends on a solemn, but good note, that concludes a very important part of this wonderful book. All in all, The Memory of Us is a book that I will definitely be coming back to and rereading.

Was this review helpful?

What a tearjerker! And a wonderful story. Thank you for the chance to review this book.

When Lexi gets a call about her sister, she's on the first flight home that she can get to be by her side. Although they're twins, they're years apart thanks to IVF. They have a special connection, bordering on supernatural, and have always been incredibly close. Lexi is full of concern and confusion - particularly when her sister wakes up believing she's married to a man named Sam. After Lexi takes a beach walk and stumbles across the man of Amelia's dreams, she must decide between her sister's happiness or her own.

I really enjoyed this story! There were so many moving pieces and it was a little tricky to explain what was going on to my husband, but we got there in the end! I loved the relationship between Lexi and Nick, as well as the love story between her mum and Tom. He seemed like such sweet guy and I'm so glad her mum found happiness too. I would have loved to find out the results of the test at the end, but I do like the way it was left. I'd love to read more by this author.

Was this review helpful?

What a wonderful book! The emotional journey it took me on was just amazing. I struggle with emotional books normally but this one got me in the feels and had me in tears. There was humorous moments which really lightened up the story throughout. Gut wrenching and wonderful.

Was this review helpful?

If she had been found moments later, Amelia's heart would have stopped and never recovered. Instead she was taken from the desolate beach to the nearest hospital just in time to save her life. When her sister Lexi arrives from New York, Amelia's heart is beating, but the accident has implanted a series of false memories. These memories revolve around a man named Sam, and a perfect love story that never existed.

Determined to help her sister, Lexi enlists the help of Nick, a local vet who bears a striking resemblance to Sam. Together, Lexi and Nick recreate and photograph Amelia's dream dates in the hopes of triggering her true memories. But as love starts to stir between Lexi and Nick, they must navigate a complex web of emotions. How can Lexi fall for Amelia's dream man without hurting her sister?

OMG, get out your tissues! This novel is a work of art, exploring the deep bond between two sisters and what it means to love someone. Quite the twist at the end that left me broken, but in the best way. Thought provoking, tear inducing, heart wrenching. This is definitely a diamond of a book! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced digital reader's copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review!

Was this review helpful?

Dani Atkins never fails to deliver a poignant and emotional story, and 'The Memory of Us' is just another perfect example of this.
I thought the story was beautifully written, capturing the love, friendship and the greatest bond between two 'twin' sisters, Amelia and Lexi.

When Lexi receives a call in New York to say Amelia has been in an near death accident, she drops everything and rushes back home to Somerset to be with her. When Amelia wakes up from her medically induced coma, she is frantic and asking for her husband, Sam, not realising he doesn't actually exist! Due to the trauma of being medically dead for a brief period of time, this has falsely implanted memories in her brain, unable to differentiate between fantasy and reality. Lexi loves her sister and would do anything for her - even going along with Amelia's story that Sam and her are real - to avoid exacerbating her sister's weak condition.

Lexi decides to temporarily stay at Amelia's coastal home for the time being and decides to go for a run on the beach one morning. Fate answers her call as she bumps into a man who looks strikingly similar to Sam, down to the same shaggy Old English sheepdog by his side. She finds out his name is Nick (not Sam) and literally begs him for a favour - to pose in a series of photos for her sister, Amelia. He kindly agrees and part ways, probably never to see each other again.

Fate however has other plans, and Lexi and Nick are thrown into a series of events where they meet again and become friends. Nick agrees to help Lexi and together they recreate memories of Amelia and Sam, hoping Amelia will believe it's a moment in time from her own love story with Sam. Through their time spent together, Lexi and Nick start to fall for each other, but with Lexi's impending move back to New York and feeling like the worse sister ever by loving the "same" person, she does the unthinkable and tells Nick there can't be an 'Us', thus breaking her and his heart in the process.

Reading this story, my heart literally broke for everyone! Dani did such an amazing job creating a close-knit family unit that stuck together through heartache and loss.... And let's not forget about Nick and Tom.
The ending will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat, full of twists and turns I'm sure you won't see coming! So get your tissues ready and ENJOY ❤️

Thank you to NetGalley and Aria publishing for providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.

Was this review helpful?

Thanks Netgalley, Aria& Aries and Dani Atkins for the advance copy of The Memory of Us by Dani Atkins.

The Memory Of Us is a love story about sisterhood, family and unexpected fates in ones happiness. Lexi was struggling to help her sister Mimi recover from an accident that left her Memory altered imagining a love story in very vivid imagery. Nick fulfilled the criteria of the faberated tale and Lexi longed to aid in her sister recovery by recovering the memories.

This story had my heart racing, my eyes tearing and my questions answered. I enjoyed how she intertwined the title into multiple components of the book and really elaborated on the different characters in the book. I enjoyed her style of writing as it was my first book of Dani Atkins and I know it won't be my last. Realistic love stories are my favorite , life is full of ups and downs; it's how we overcome them that makes the difference and together with family is always better.

February 15, 2024 is the date to keep yourself available to purchase this fantastic unexpected love story.

Thanks again for the opportunity for the advance copy for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

This was a very heart-wrenching read, and encompassed more than just the romance genre. It touched on sisterhood, family, memory loss, illness. This book is highly emotional, which I love, and it was a really great read. It gripped me from beginning to end!

Was this review helpful?

I thought it was very appropriate that this book mentions Hallmark because the entire time I was reading it, I kept thinking “this would make a great Hallmark Channel movie!” If you like a cozy love story, with a few tears sprinkled in as the story tugs on your emotions, this book is for you. Perfect for a holiday by-the-fire read, or even on a warm beach somewhere in the sun. Overall enjoyable, feel good read.

Was this review helpful?

In typical Dani Atkins fashion, "The Memory of Us" unfolds as yet another poignant and emotionally charged masterpiece. Atkins' storytelling prowess shines through as she crafts a narrative that delicately captures the profound bonds of love and friendship, especially between the 'twin' sisters, Amelia and Lexi.

The story begins with a compelling jolt when Lexi rushes back to Somerset from New York upon learning of Amelia's near-death accident. The aftermath of trauma renders Amelia unable to distinguish between reality and fantasy, falsely implanting memories of a non-existent husband, Sam. Lexi, devoted to her sister, willingly goes along with the charade to protect Amelia's fragile state.

The intricate plot takes a surprising turn when Lexi, during a run on the beach, encounters Nick, a man eerily similar to the imaginary Sam. Their paths cross, and fate weaves a complex tapestry of events, leading them to recreate memories of Amelia and Sam. As Lexi and Nick navigate the delicate dance of maintaining the facade, a genuine connection blossoms between them. However, looming factors, such as Lexi's imminent return to New York and the guilt of loving the "same" person as her sister, compel her to make a heart-wrenching decision—ending their budding relationship.

Throughout the narrative, Dani Atkins skillfully constructs a close-knit family unit that weathers heartache and loss, inviting readers to empathize with each character's struggles. The emotional impact extends to the nuanced portrayals of Nick and Tom, adding depth and richness to the story.

As the story hurtles towards its conclusion, Atkins keeps readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns. The final chapters, laden with emotional intensity, deliver a cathartic and satisfying resolution. Be prepared to reach for the tissues, as "The Memory of Us" weaves a tapestry of tangled memories and heartstrings, leaving a lasting impression of love, sacrifice, and resilience.

Was this review helpful?

Have thoroughly enjoyed all Dani Atkins previous tales, she writes with such compassion, yes her stories are sometimes sad, but they will also fill you with a sense of belonging and you will want to read on to find out it’s conclusion

Was this review helpful?

Two sisters who are almost Twins yet born 8 years apart & when something tragic happens to one of them it sets a whole set of things in motion , this story will make you laugh at times , it will even make you angry at how fragile & unfair life can be in some families. It is a book full of love & raw emotions & I loved every single page & will be buying copies as gifts for friends so I highly recommend it. #NetGalley, #Goodreads, #Amazon.co.uk, #FB, #Instagram, #<img src="https://www.netgalley.com/badge/8a5b541512e66ae64954bdaab137035a5b2a89d2" width="80" height="80" alt="200 Book Reviews" title="200 Book Reviews"/>, #<img src="https://www.netgalley.com/badge/ef856e6ce35e6d2d729539aa1808a5fb4326a415" width="80" height="80" alt="Reviews Published" title="Reviews Published"/>, #<img src="https://www.netgalley.com/badge/aa60c7e77cc330186f26ea1f647542df8af8326a" width="80" height="80" alt="Professional Reader" title="Professional Reader"/>.

Was this review helpful?

WOW! The opening prologue basically dragged me into this book, so good, got the heart pumping and from then I just couldn’t leave this book til I’d finished it! Sorry housework, dinner, etc you can wait!!

One night Amelia is found on a beach unresponsive but her life is saved. Her sister Lexi rushes across the Atlantic to be with her. When she arrives Amelia wants to know where her husband Sam is. Amelia has no husband, but believes she does, she remembers everything about him and can even draw him in detail. Then Lexi meets Nick, who is identical to Sam and she convinces him to take some pictures of Amelia and Sam’s memories but Lexi begins to fall for Nick and how can she when he is her sister’s ’husband’

‘There’s a bond the two of you share that’s stronger than your dad and I could ever understand. She’d walk through fire for you, and I know you’d do the same for her.’

This is about family bonds, love and memory. It will tug at your heartstrings and run the whole gamut of emotions. I loved the characters of Nick and Lexi, the will they won’t they, misunderstandings and the way they bantered and teased each other was fabulous. I also had a soft spot for old Tom too, he made me smile.

‘…suddenly our eyes connected and everything slowly went quiet and very, very still. It was a moment spun out of delicate glass..’

I got so wrapped up in this story, it is absolutely incredible and made me cry, Dani Atkins, you took my heart and squeezed it so hard it nearly broke me, the tears fell fast but I would not have missed this one!

‘Losing something you love is always painful, but the good memories you’re left with are proof that it was worth it.’

This book will stay with me for a long time. What a book!

Was this review helpful?

The Memory of Us had me hooked in! I couldn't put it down. I was not expecting this book to be such an emotional rollercoaster (get your tissues ready). I liked that this story was so much more than a romance. Atkins did a beautiful job creating multi-dimensional characters. Nick was the definition of a book boyfriend! He was supportive, vulnerable, and witty. I thought that the conflict between Lexi and Nick was devastating and believable. There were some things in the book that felt unanswered at points. There was one point where I found myself wondering about Lexi's job. I also was confused about Holly at the end of the book. Where did she go? Speaking of the ending, I was not happy about the unanswered questions. I sort of wish the author never included that final bit at the end. Despite that, I highly recommend this book! Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the ARC.

Was this review helpful?

I had never heard of the author but when I saw the blurb I knew I had to read it, and I am so glad I did.

This is the story of 2 sisters who started life in the same petri dish as twins, but one was born several years before the other. The younger sister, Lexi, was living and working in America when she got the call that her sister had ‘died’ on the beach, and been brought back by some doctors who just happened to be there. When Lexi comes home and races to the hospital, she finds her sister Mimi in a bad way, and changed in personality – she is also convinced that she has a husband called Sam, who doesn’t exist.

When Lexi finds a man who matches the description of the fictitious Sam, Lexi asks him to recreate some of the scenes in Mimi’s imaginary dates with Sam. There starts a relationship between Lexi and Nick (the Sam look alike) that threatens to break the sisters apart.

I absolutely loved this book. It ran the through all the emotions – and left me with a book hangover when it was finished. I loved it and will be looking for more books from this author.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195391756-the-memory-of-us

Was this review helpful?

Dani Atkins books are always so beautiful and tear jerking. Been reading and acquiring them for many years. She happens to combine love, loss, and the in between so poignantly. Thrilled to have read this one! Readers are going to devour it! The mystery has me on my toes!

Was this review helpful?

I enjoyed reading this book from beginning to end. Lexi changes throughout the book to become who she was meant to be, all because she comes home to help take care of her big sister. This book was unlike any other book I’ve read. It had me laughing, crying, and feeling every emotion in between. If you’re looking for a good book to take you on an emotional journey, this is the book for you.

Thank you NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the opportunity to read this book prior to publication.

Was this review helpful?

The memory of us by Dani Atkins is another heartfelt, emotional story.
The story starts when Amelia is found unconscious on a deserted beach by two doctors. Apparently, she had a cardiac arrest and is lucky to be alive because of the two doctors. Older sister Lexi gets a call at home in New York that her sister is gravely ill and told to come home. So, she takes the first flight out.
When Amelia wakes up, she asks where her husband Sam is. But the only problem with that is she has never been married and there is no husband Sam. She tries to argue and describes him. She is asked by her sister to search for him. But when he is discovered. The guy’s name is not Sam, but Nick and he has not heard of woman called Amelia. To help with her sister’s memory, she asks Nick to help take photos. To try and jog her sister’s memory to find out what happened to her that she ended up on the beach.
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for a copy of ‘The Memory of us’ I have read books from the author before and know that she writes emotional, heartfelt stories. But when I read the first few paragraphs of this story. My first thoughts that the author has changed her genre and was surprised how it started. But as it went further it came to a story full on emotion I know and love. This is a beautifully written and poignant tale about sisters’ relationships and dealing when someone you love has a type of Alzheimer’s that is relevant to today. This is a great read. 4 stars from me.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of The Memory of Us by Dani Atkins in return for my honest review.
This is a lovely heartwarming story of love and family and in true Dani Atkins style is beautifully written. This is a perfect holiday read.

Was this review helpful?

Oh my goodness, what a wonderful story. It was such a heart wrenching read with such amazing characters, all very believable. I thought it was going to be quite a soppy love story but I couldn’t have been more wrong. The exceptionally strong bond between the two sisters was something else!! The storyline of Amelia & Sam was adorable and i am glad it was all explained at the end. Who wouldn’t want to be Lexi with a guy who completely adored her the way Nick did, it was a crazy path but they got there in the end. It was so well written and I can’t wait to read more by this author. If i could give it 6 stars then I would.

Thanks to Aria and Aries and NetGalley for allowing me an advanced copy to read in exchange for my open and honest review. As always, my reviews will also be posted on Amazon, Goodreads and Waterstones and interaction on Facebook and instagram where possible.

Was this review helpful?

Wow, when I first started reading this I thought it was going to be a typical cheesy rom com how wrong was I? I have just finished this and the tears are still rolling, it's been a long time since a book has done this to me. I absolutely loved this story, bit unbelievable at times with the photos I can't imagine any stranger agreeing to that lol. But it was so powerful, the love between mimi and lexi shone through and the ending was spot on. Absolutely my book of the year thank u

Was this review helpful?

Oh god, this book! I haven’t ugly cried over a book in a while, but this brought tears, lots of tears. Make sure you have tissues and a stiff drink before starting.

I really enjoy the authors writing style and need to catch up on her back catalogue, you can really feel the emotions that the characters are feeling. All of the characters are relatable and the bond between the sisters was beautiful.

I loved the whole parallel universe had me hooked and I couldn’t wait to see how each of the photo were staged, also the development of love through both romantic and family relationships. this needs to be a film!

Was this review helpful?

What an amazing story. Such an interesting idea. I was hooked right from the start and I really had no idea what was going to happen until it did.

Amelia has memories of a life she appears to not have lived. I really didn’t know if it was going to be a parallel universe thing, or the second half of the book being told from an Amelia with no memory of a husband, I was kept on my toes.

I really enjoyed how it all panned out and I admit to crying my eyes out with all the emotion. Lexi and Nick are amazing and so in love. So many feels in this book and everyone should read it.

Was this review helpful?

When Lexi's sister Amelia is admitted to the hospital following a cardiac arrest at the beach, Lexi is shocked to hear Amelia wake up and ask for her husband Sam... Because Amelia isn't married, and Sam doesn't exist. But when Lexi meets Nick, a man who looks exactly as Amelia describes Sam, Lexi enlists his help to recreate some memories of their confabulated relationship. Things get complicated when Lexi starts falling for Nick herself.

This read ended up being a pleasant surprise. The first part of the story, as described above, was a bit drawn out and frustrating. Once we got to the how and why, I was a lot more interested and emotionally invested in the story and it was so much more than I was expecting. I can't say much more about the plot without giving away key points, but the plot was reminiscent of a couple of books I'd read many years ago, definitely tugging at the heartstrings a bit. The two main characters were ok, but both annoyed me quite a bit for the first half. I appreciated them a lot more in the latter half once it was revealed what was happening. I was again frustrated with the very end for reasons I can't explain without spoilers, but that is simply a personal opinion and I think most readers would appreciate how this wrapped up.

Was this review helpful?

Wow, this book had my emotions all over the place. It was so beautifully written. Nick was my favorite character. He was so kind and compassionate. I don't want to leave any spoilers in this review, so this is very brief. I cried many times throughout the book, but I felt the ending left me feeling complete and was a good conclusion to this emotional story. If you are in the mood for a heartfelt book, I highly recommend picking this book up.

Was this review helpful?

Loved this book full of emotion that tugs at your heart following sisters Amelia and Lexi who are different personalities.
Amelia is found collapsed on a beach near her cottage and is revived so when her sister Lexi arrives from America she is in HDU and when Amelia comes round she keeps asking for Sam who she reckons is her husband. Lexi is determined to help her sister so when she meets the local vet Nick while staying in her sisters cottage she persuades him to pose as Amelia's husband Sam.
This story is full of comedy moments but also tugs at your heart and emotionally heart warming.
I would highly recommend this book.
received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Was this review helpful?

Another brilliant read from one of my favourite authors, beautifully written which held my interest from the beginning until the ending.

I loved the characters, they all had their own part to play in this storyline, so well described I felt as though I knew them all.

I have read all books from this author and cannot wait for her next masterpiece.

Thank you to Netgalley and Aria & Aries for this fantastic ARC which I have no hesitation in recommending.

Was this review helpful?

I have read and adored each of Dani Atkins’ books and always eagerly await her new one coming out. I therefore felt very lucky when I was invited to read this beautiful novel.

If Amelia had been found just moments later, her heart would never have started beating again. Luckily, she was taken from the desolate beach to the nearest hospital just in time for her life to be saved. When Lexi, Amelia’s sister, arrives from New York, Amelia’s heart is beating again. But the accident has left Amelia with a series of false memories in her head. She is convinced that she is married to a man named Sam, and that they have a perfect love story together. Determined to help her sister with her recovery, Lexi enlists the help of Nick, a local vet who bears a striking resemblance to the Sam in the drawings that Amelia has created from her memory. Because of course, there are no photos of Amelia and Sam together! But as Lexi starts to develop feelings towards Nick, she realises things may become a little more complicated than she first thought...

I always feel such a deep connection to Dani Atkins’ characters thanks to her beautiful writing and that was the case again with this beautiful novel. Right from the outset I cared so much about both Amelia and Lexi; their story truly captured my heart and was so unique too! I was really invested to see what would happen next for these sisters and there were so many clever moments throughout. I liked that this book took me by surprise too, and I definitely went on an emotional journey as I was reading. I also thought the little reference to Dani’s previous book The Wedding Dress was cool!

The Memory of Us is such an incredible, beautiful story and I honestly cannot recommend it highly enough (as well as all of Dani’s previous books)!

Was this review helpful?

What I return to all Dani Atkins books for is the wonderful way she writes about human connections and experiences, be they extraordinary or mundane, often a mix of both embedded within the characters of the plots, but all who you feel a connection to.

The Memory of Us brings those connections and beautiful prose to coastal Somerset and the unravelling mystery of what our memories mean to us.

Sisters Lexi and Amelia and their mum are a tight trio who have always been there together through tragedy, and now those bonds are tested even more when Amelia falls seriously ill. Through her recovery the unconditional love and support of Amelia's family comes at a cost, and with impossible choices.

Life affirming and powerful this book is heart wrenching but hopeful.

Was this review helpful?

I really enjoyed The Memory of Us, I loved the bond between the sisters and what one would do for the other. The characters were great and it was well written.

Was this review helpful?

This was such an emotional read! The bond and love between the two sisters was incredibly well done. The romance was so good too and had me feeling all types of things. I will say the ending left me very contemplative and it is kind of bittersweet if that isn’t your thing but for me it made sense. Would highly recommend this book!

Was this review helpful?

This was such a lovely emotive read, it had me in tears several times! The main characters were just great and both so selfless putting someone else's needs above their own. their love story was so beautiful and I was just hoping for a happy ending all the way through although I couldnt see how this would happen! I would highly recommend this, dont forget your tissues!!

Was this review helpful?

When Lexi gets a call that her sister Lexi is in the hospital, she takes the next transatlantic flight from NY to London, leaving behind a boyfriend and a new job offer. Nothing is more important than Amelia to Lexi. They’re biologically twins, despite being born 8 years apart through the wonder of science.

When Amelia wakes up and is clearly not the same person mentally that she was before, Lexi goes to great lengths to keep Amelia’s dreams alive. This puts her in a position to meet Nick, who helps with her plan.

I don’t write spoilers so I can’t go into details, but this is a beautiful story that will have you in tears often. The bond between the sisters, their Mom, Nick and neighbor Tom is magical and so supportive. I felt hopeful, happiness and despair in equal measure throughout the book.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

This was a lovely story, although very emotional at times.

I liked the characters, the two sisters especially had an unbreakable bond and they would have done absolutely anything for each other. The other people in the story all had a part to play too, from the neighbour right down to doctors and nurses.

I found the first the first few chapters to be slow but it soon picked up its pace and I really started to care about what happened to the people in the book. I was sad when I finished the book but thought the ending was perfect.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for ARC of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

I loved this book, it was heartfelt and warm, this was a nice switch from my usual thrillers. Very emotional, so keep the tissue box at the ready. This book had all the feels and my best read so far this year. Great character connection! I will sure be checking out more from this author. Thank you to netgalley and Aria for the ARC
4.5 stars

Was this review helpful?

Just wow! I’m still sitting here with tears on my face after finishing this book. If you have a sister, this book will really touch your soul. Amelia and Lexi are twins separated by years using IVF. They are closer than close and have a bond that is unbreakable. When Amelia is found on the beach without a heartbeat, she is rescued and brought back to life. When she wakes up, she wants to see her husband Sam. But, who is Sam? Her mother and sister have never heard of this man let alone that she was married? Amelia is adamant that Sam exists and wants to see him. She describes Sam to Lexi and begs for her to find him. Lexi goes to Amelia’s house and when walking on the beach sees a man and his dog which describes Sam. Lexi soon finds out this man’s name is Nick and not Sam. To try to help her sister, Lexi re-enacts the photos Amelia describes. But, Lexi feels she needs to stop and cut ties with Nick as she is starting to have feelings for him. I don’t want to give anything else away, but something else happens when Lexi suffers a heart attack that changes everything. I was so invested in these sisters and their stories. Make sure to have tissues ready for the ending of this one. It’s a true example of the power of love. Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this. Do not miss this one.

Was this review helpful?

Beautifully written an emotional story. I loved the storyline, and all the characters and the setting on a beach. Started as a mystery it slowly became a love story withlots of emotions. I loved the bond shared by Amelia and Lexi. Nick and Lexi had a great chemistry. This book made me cry so many times. An emotional roller coaster, for sure. Loved it, highly recommended. Thanks a lot to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an eARC.

Was this review helpful?

Dani has such a lovely way with words that always moves her readers. This beautiful book is no exception.

Was this review helpful?

Set on the Somerset coast,the beach and sea are featured heavily in this beautiful emotional story. I was hooked from the first page and picked up the book at every opportunity as I was so intrigued to find out what happened to the characters. I've loved every one of Dani Atkins' books and this is another winner. Packed with so many emotions including memory loss, mystery, family love, romance and some thought provoking dilemmas, it really tugs at the heart strings. After an especially emotional ending this book is going to be a hard act to follow. Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.






















.

Was this review helpful?

Amelia is found on the beach at night without a heartbeat. Efforts to revive her are successful, but after 30 minutes of being "dead", her heart is damaged and her memory is playing tricks on her.
Lexi is Amelia's sister, 7 years younger, but technically her twin. She returns home from New York to be with her sister. With Amelia's memory reminding her of a different life, Lexi goes to great lengths to recreate these memories, believing this will help her sister's recovery.
This is a tear-inducing, heart-wrenching book.
Thoughtfully written and unpredictable.
A really great read.

Was this review helpful?

I have read a lot of books by this author and have loved them all so when I saw this one on @netgalley I was super excited. I have had this one since October which really isn’t very long but I wish I had picked it up sooner. I loved the characters and the storyline and it was such a beautiful love story but heartbreaking at the same time.
I would highly recommend this author and her books and this is going to be another great one when it’s released later in February.

Was this review helpful?

Amelia is found on a deserted beach unconscious by two doctors. she is alive, just but when she wakes up he is convinced she is married to Sam with all their memories. But she has never married.
Her sister, Lexi, comes home from New York to help her mum look after her. she wants to help her sister so, with the help of a Sam look alike, she sets up photos and memories for her sister.
However, Lexi soon finds herself falling in love .
This book will make you both laugh and cry right to the very last page.

Was this review helpful?

Lexi Edwards living and working in New York receives a call through the night, from her mother in Somerset, England. Lexi’s sister Amelia is in hospital, she packs and puts the wheels in motion immediately to get back to England on the fastest flight she can.

This book was a good read from the start, with a twist in it I hadn’t seen coming.
Lexi and Amelia are very close sisters,, although there is an age gap, and a significant distance where they live, New York USA, and England.
An emotional storyline that tugged at my heartstrings, and I did shed a tear or two.
I really enjoyed reading this.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Publisher for an advanced e-book copy. Opinions about the book are entirely my own.

Was this review helpful?

Dani Atkins never disappoints with her books and this one was no exception. A beautiful story told full of emotion with great characters which kept me turning the pages from start to finish. A real gem of a book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

Any Dani Atkins book is one you approach with a box of tissues as you know it will be an emotional read and this one is no different! Our heroine is Lexi who has to rush home from.New York to be with her sister Amelia - who was found on an abandoned beach and was saved just in time. When Amelia woke up she has developed a series of false memories and it's up to Lexi to help her sister get better, along with handsome vet, Nick. An excellent read that had me gripped at all times - loved it.

Was this review helpful?

Upon receiving a distressing call about her sister Amelia's hospitalisation, Lexi abruptly leaves her life in New York to be at her side in Somerset. When Amelia regains consciousness, she bewilders Lexi and their mother by insisting on her marriage to a man named Sam—a claim that seems entirely unfounded.

Amelia is so convinced of Sam's existence that she vividly illustrates him through detailed drawings. Intrigued, Lexi decides to investigate further. Spotting a man resembling the one in her sister's drawings on the beach, Lexi can't resist inquiring if he knows Amelia. This chance encounter becomes the linchpin for subsequent events, setting the stage for Lexi's efforts to aid her sister's recovery.

However, as Lexi delves deeper into unravelling the mystery, unexpected emotions arise. She finds herself developing feelings for the man her sister believes to be her husband.

The story unfolds with a compelling blend of twists, turns, and emotional depth, captivating readers from the very beginning.

Thank you so much to the author - @daniatkinsauthor as well as the team at @headofzeus for the ARC.

Was this review helpful?

Tear Jerker.
An emotional tale with a strong sisterly bond, medical issues and an interesting love story. Hope to read more by this author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this story from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

Be still my bleeding heart because it simply hasn’t recovered since I finished this a couple weeks ago. Talk about a heartwrenching, beautiful read. I knew my the synopsis that I was in for some Atkins handed emotional warfare and I was not wrong.

If I’m being honest, I picked this up because it has a Veterinarian love interest and as a budding Veterinarian, narcissism prevails. I think this book has my favorite book boyfriend of all time. He hit ALL of my favorite tropes/traits: single dad, fake dating, ‘I don’t want to pretend anymore,’ pining on pining on pining, and an animal lover. He was just soooo perfect and selfless without being so perfect that he’s unrealistic. The romance was a fantastic component in this book and had me swooning the entire time.

The only thing better than the romance was the sisterly bond between our main character and her ill sister. It was beautiful to read about the depths of their love and how much the MC was willing to sacrifice for her sister’s happiness. I was so in my feels over these two.

I’m conflicted about the ending because it literally ripped my heart in two. I knew that it would be sad but Atkins made it EVEN SADDER. I’m absolutely crushed, devastated, upset, and any other adjective that describes emotional trauma from a fictional read. I also personally hate when letters are involved in a storyline that don’t get opened because I’m nosy.

Overall, highly recommend if you love tragic books that are guaranteed to bring you to tears at least once. Beautiful writing, story, and character bonds.

Was this review helpful?

Well... wasn't this book a lot of fun... and heartache!
I don't usually read this genre of book as I often find them lacking enough substance for me compared with my usual hard boiled reads. But I do have my go to authors who I have tried and tested, and consider these reads as kinda Bonne Bouche books!
So... Amelia is found on the deserted beach near her home just in the nick of time. She is rushed to hospital and her family called to be with her. Easy for Mum who doesn't live far away, but sister Lexi has to jump a plane from New York. Amelia and Lexi are sort of twins. I'll leave the author to explain that one to you but suffice to say they are very similar looking. Which really helps when Amelia wakes up convinced that she is married. To Sam. Who... well... doesn't exist. False Memory Syndrome, apparently. She describes him, but nothing sparks the other two's memories, until she also mentions that she can now draw. Perfectly. And so she draws him. And also reminisces with her family about all the major love and life events she and Sam have shared.
Coincidentally, the man she draws turns out to be Nick, a local vet, who, after a strange conversation, agrees to recreate some of the events with Lexi to create photos for Amelia. And then they, well, get a bit too close...
Are you still with me... I know... but... that's where we are!
OK.. so I struggled with a few things in this book that really didn't make sense, were too convenient, too bonkers, too obvious, and then too emotional. But only really in a kinda minor way and, once I just accepted what was going on, I was better placed to read on and more/less enjoy the ride. Side eyeing and eye rolling as I went. Especially when the author hit me with that whammy towards the end. Bit brutal... Wasn't ready for that!
But all in all, it ticked most of the boxes (credibility aside) for me and kept me occupied/quite for a while and did leave me mostly satisfied at the end. I'd recommend with caveats. And it definitely hasn't put me off the author. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

Was this review helpful?

There’s a very good reason why Dani Atkins is my favourite author. Her books are always incredible and “The Memory of Us” is no exception.

I’m not generally a romance reader or a big fan of the supernatural in fiction, but Dani’s books just pull me in, rip my heart into pieces and somehow put it back together again, leaving me with emotionally exhausted. I love twists and generally associate them with thrillers, so the skilfully written twists always make Dani’s books stand out as more than a love story.

Amelia and Lexi are IVF twins, born eight years apart and share a very strong bond. When Amelia is found on a beach, hypothermic and not breathing, and is resuscitated, she wakes with a memory condition which has created false memories. She is convinced she is married to a man called Sam and can even draw him. Lexi can’t bear to see her sister so upset at Sam not being there, so she does everything she can to create the non-existent memories Amelia describes of Sam, with far reaching consequences.

I loved all of the characters, especially the connection between Lexi and Nick and their shared sense of humour. Actually, I loved Nick full stop! The close friendship between fisherman Tom and the girl’s mum was adorable too. Dani’s characters all have real depth and feel so real and relatable.

Just one thing I really want to know - what’s in the envelope?

5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Dani Atkins and Aria & Aries for an ARC in return for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

The dramatic beginning sets the scene for an emotional story of courage, family, love and romance. It is a heartbreaking but heartwarming story about two sisters and their emotional bond. The story has a medical element, but relationships and life-changing themes resonate. Lexi sets out to recreate the perfect love her sister, Mimi, believes in. The memories are false, but Lexi will try anything to help her sister recover her identity. The romance that grows from Lexi's unlikely quest is unexpected, resulting in emotional angst alongside the pleasure. The twists in this story are breathtaking and poignant, and the ending sad but uplifting. I loved the characters, the sensitivity of the writing and the love that this story celebrates.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

Was this review helpful?

What an original idea for a story. The strong bond between sisters, the bond between a mother and her daughters.
This is a tearjerker of a read.
The connection between Amelia and Lexi was so interesting- almost two like, they shared emotions and feelings all through their lives and Amelia’s accident was another link for them to work through.
I must admit I couldn’t quite get my head around Lexi’s method of helping her sister - but you can’t deny the love between them. The memories so clear in Amelia’s mind were so important in her recovery.
This is a true love story, and although I loved the Lexi and Nick thread, it was more about the bond between the sisters that gave me all the emotions.

Was this review helpful?

Wow. What a book. The tension and story builds so much, it becomes unputtadownable. And get the tissues ready.
This story really twisted and turned and I was utterly captivated by it. I loved the story and bond between Amelia and Lexi. They are IVF twins born 8 years apart and live in separate countries when Lexi gets the call that Amelia has been found hypothermic and needing rescuitation on the beach. When she is brought back she has a very different memory of her past and she believes she was married to Sam.
The book features on the relationship between the sisters and what they will do for each other.
A brilliant book and I’d highly recommend. I think this book will stay with me for some time

Was this review helpful?

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the story has you hooked from beginning to end. You will need tissues handy.

Lexi and Amelia are sisters and live in different countries. Lexi receives a call informing her that Amelia has been found on a beach on her own and taken into hospital.

When Amelia regains consciousness, her memory is so different that she informs her family that she’s married to Sam.

The story is about the bond of the sisters and the lengths they go to for each other.

I highly recommend this book.

Was this review helpful?

➡️ Did I like the book?

Never had I imagined I’d get stuck on the first question of my review format! Don’t worry and don’t run, I am not about to tell you The Memory of Us sucked. It didn’t. It doesn’t. It simply falls into the category of “books that should come with a warning: tissues needed” or “it will break your heart but you’ll love it” Like however. I can’t decide if the word is too strong or too weak. It just doesn’t feel right to associate “like” with The Memory of Us. This novel is a beautiful but tough slice of fiction that really hit close to home for me. So close it has now become part of my home. 

When I read the blurb, I was NOT expecting to 1) get so invested in Lexi’s quest to help her sister and her memory 2) find an adorable vet that would make me wish I had one just like that (sorry but not sorry, when you have fur babies, dating a vet is such a plus!!!!) 3) get one of the biggest plot-slap of my book reader’s career! I don’t feel like letting you on on the twist that got me all twisted and teary-eyed… and frankly sobbing because I would betray Lexi and Alexa. I refuse to do this. But we warned: the author knows how to create characters you fall for. She knows how to break hearts with a crystal-clear, heart-beating writing that makes you feel you’ve jumped right into the pages. If you are not ready for anything medical-related, come back to this book when you are in a better place. 

➡️ Did I enjoy reading it?

Apart from the moments when I had to blow my nose because I was full-on crying, yes, I did. Very much. Somerset, sisters with a special bond, charming men (in their own ways). And strong women. So strong.  Oh and don't worry, I might talk about tears a lot, but there are many awesome moments to make you smile and laugh too!

➡️ What did I feel?

A better question would be “what did I not feel?” !!!!!!! I remember being surprised when right from the beginning, I felt connected to Lexi. Was it the invisible string of all the souls who have left everything they knew to create a life a world away? Maybe. I definitely could relate to her anxiety at not being close to her family, the rush of coming back… and the shadow of having to go back to one’s life. I think that night on the beach, two hearts stopped beating. One literally. Both were shook back to reality and this story is about reconnecting, syncing, rediscovering one’s balanced heart beat. 

I read A Million Dreams by Dani Atkins and was swept away by her poignant writing and how she was able to convey so much without relying on the “tell, don’t show” In this novel, the magic happens again. I am in awe of the author’s way to paint life as it is, with its laughs, its emotions, its tears, its fears, all mixed up. Because we are all made up of a million things and we can’t really separate one from another. The yellow, the blue, the grey, the black. Dani Atkins does it all with such precision it cuts right to your heart. Seeing someone fear, fall in love, hope, try, and jump and step back and… You get the idea, seeing all of this served in such a beautiful yet realistic way was a gift. 

➡️ How would I describe it?

Better than onions to make you cry. Filled with love with a L. And Life.

Was this review helpful?

Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful novel by Dani Atkins - 4.5 stars!

Amelia was found collapsed on the beach and is only alive due to two passing doctors who found her and restarted her heart. Her sister, Lexi, races from her home in NYC to be at her side. Amelia and Lexi are more than sisters - they are twins conceived by IVF and born 7 years apart, but they've always had that twin connection. When Amelia wakes up, she is convinced she is married to Sam and is distraught that he's not there. She's even able to draw a picture of him. But Lexi and her mom know that it's not true. However, walking on the beach later, Lexi sees a man who looks just like the picture of Sam that Amelia drew. She eventually convinces this stranger, Nick, to help her with a plan to recreate Amelia's memories.

I'm not always the biggest romance fan, but I loved this story. It's full of magical realism, heart, loyalty, and the connection between sisters. And while it may be a tad predictable, my heart was still fully engaged throughout and I dare anyone to not shed a few tears along the way! I haven't read any of this author's previous works but I can definitely recommend this one!

Was this review helpful?

I do not think I have ever read a Dani Atkins novel before. She has a very easy style of writing and a smooth way of telling a story. I thought I was going to be reading a simple family story and love story. I was wrong! Best friends and sisterly love are there for each other the length of what you do for family. Lovely concept. Plot twist sister is diagnosed with SPOILER ALERT FAD. Probably not the right choice for me to be reading as I just lost my mother to Alzheimer’s, but I continued. Atkins does not focus on the disease as much as she does about choices early detection and love.


Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

Oh my goodness what a book it has everything romance, sadness and laughs one of the best books I have read.

Lexie lives in New York as an editor when she gets a phone call from her Mum saying her sister Mimi is in hospital. She goes flys back to be by her sister’s side. She Mimi wakes up she seems to think she is married and keeps asking for Sam her husband. Lexie meets Nick who is the spitting image of Sam from what Mimi had described. Lexie and Nick help recreate the things that Mimi said she and Sam did on dates.

It was very emotional and you will need tissues at the ready. It was like a rollercoaster one minute happy the next sad.

I would recommend this book would be a lovely film to make on this book.

Was this review helpful?

What an emotional rollercoaster!
This story delves into the strong bond between twins Amelia and Lexi, born 8 years apart..
When Amelia is found unresponsive on the mudflats near her cottage, twin Lexi rushes over from America to be by her side. As Amelia
finally recovers consciousness, she remembers false memories and is adamant that she is married and even draws a picture of her ‘husband’.
When Lexi meets the man in the picture the real problems begin.
I loved this book; it made me laugh and cry and allowed me to make my own decisions at the end.
I have read previous books by Dani Atkins and can recommend them all.

Was this review helpful?

As with all of Dani Atkins novels this is beautifully written from the heart and has family and love at the very centre of it.

Amelia and Lexi are sisters, twins but from ivf eggs fertilised at different times in their parents lives. When older sister Amelia is found unresponsive on a beach near her home, Lexi flies from New York back home to the UK to be with her.

Amelia wakes believing that she is married to a handsome man called Sam and Lexi believes she must encourage this to help her sisters recovery. In the process Lexi meets dashing vet Nick and the real love story, beside the tragedy of Amelia’s diagnosis, begins.

An emotional and interesting story and one that I found at first was a little difficult to understand. Maybe being a twin would make me feel differently but I went with the story and was blinding along with happy and sad tears at the final chapters.

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

I’d like to thank Aria & Aries and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘The Memory of Us’ written by Dani Atkins in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.

Two doctors on a fishing trip catch a glimpse of a woman unconscious on mudflats and manage to get her heart beating again. When the woman, Amelia, regains consciousness in hospital she recollects false memories including being married to a man called Sam. Despite her younger sister Lexi knowing that Sam doesn’t exist, she’ll do whatever she can to recreate him even if it means finding a stranger to take on his identity.

‘The Memory Of Us’ is an exceptional love story that describes the special relationship between two sisters who are IVF twins but born eight years apart. I’ve been gripped from the start as Lexi strives to correct Amelia’s false memories by finding a man who looks like Sam, not realising that it might not be in her sister’s best interests. I’ve loved every story that Dani Atkins has written but this beautifully written novel must rate as one of her best and I’m so grateful that Aria & Aries have allowed me to read it. It’s been a joy to read and is worth far more than the five stars I’m allowed to give and while I wholeheartedly recommend this novel I do suggest having a good supply of tissues to hand as they’ll definitely be needed.

Was this review helpful?

Another beautiful and will written book from Dani, with twists and turns that keeps you continually reading the book to the end. Thank you for the ARC.

Was this review helpful?

I really adored this story and couldn't put it down,
Amelia had an accident which ended with her in hospital, she had been saved just in time, Her sister Lexi makes her way back from New York to be by her side and very quickly they realised that Amelia had no memory of her life, but instead could remember a whole life that just wasn't her own.

I wasn't sure where the story was going and at the beginning it felt a little eerie, especially since Amelia had a whole fake memory of a life she wasn't living!

Highly recommend!

Was this review helpful?

Readers who liked this book also liked: