Blog Tour Stop: After Us (Before & After #2) by Amber Hart

"Beautiful, lyrical writing and a dangerously suspenseful plot. . .an unforgettable novel that readers will love." --Lucy Connors, author of The Lonesome Young

Sometimes secrets kill. Maybe slowly, maybe painfully. Maybe all at once.

Melissa smiles. She flirts. She jokes. But she never shows her scars. Eight months after tragedy ripped her from her closest friend, Melissa is broken. Plagued by grief, rage, and the painful memory of a single forbidden kiss.

Javier has scars of his own. Life in the States was supposed to be a new beginning, but a boy obsessed by vengeance has no time for the American dream. To honor his familia, Javier joins the gang who set up his cousin, Diego. The entrance price is blood. Death is the only escape.

Two broken souls could make each other whole again—or be shattered forever.

Our time will come. And we'll be ready.

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4 Stars

This is the first time read from this author and wow, I am impressed. After Us held my interest throughout the entire story. I didn't read the first book in this series, but there really was no need (but I will definitely be going back to catch up on Faith and Diego). It held its own and I was able to catch on with now confusion. 

Melissa is such a wonderful character, she may be broken and hurt, but she is strong and determined. She holds scars that bear secrets that she can't seem to face, but she continues on.

Javier has his own scars and is seeking revenge for the death of his cousin, Diego. He is determined to have justice on his own term. Javier and Melissa have a past through his cousin and her best friend, Faith. The attraction was always there and that one kiss was never forgotten. 

Melissa and Javier were a great couple, their innocent attraction and flirtation throughout this book was real and deep. But it wasn't easy. Their cultural differences was a big issue--not for them, but for Javier's family. It was just one of many hurdles that these two had to jump through to be together. 

And come on...when Javier called Melissa is "mami"...instant swoon. 

After Us is a fantastic read and I can't wait to read more from this author and this series. The diversity of the characters and their relationship made this story so unique and real. Plus, there were some intense moments and a big surprise. And the epilogue for these two couldn't have been more perfect.  

About Amber Hart

Amber Hart grew up in Orlando, Florida and Atlanta, Georgia. She now resides on the Florida coastline with family. When unable to find a book, she can be found writing, daydreaming, or with her toes in the sand. She's the author of BEFORE YOU, AFTER US, UNTIL YOU FIND ME, and sequel to UNTIL YOU FIND ME (untitled as of yet). Represented by Beth Miller of Writers House. 

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