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When Stars Burn Out
Stars die in one of two ways.
So slowly that each layer burning out feels like agony … or suddenly, exploding into a million pieces before the universe even has a grasp of what is happening.
When Paxton Shaw left Demi Rosen without so much as a goodbye, he stole her shine in both manners.
Now, eight years later, he’s trying to pull her back into his orbit. The nation’s most beloved football player, a tight end with a seriously tight end, has finally realized Demi is the one who got away.
But she’s a different woman than the weak girl who used to come running whenever he called in the middle of the night. Strong, successful, her life’s mission being to grant the wishes of children whose flames have all but been extinguished.
And untouchable, as dark and cold as a midnight sky with no moon in sight.
When one special child forces their star-crossed paths to collide, it’s impossible to keep the feelings of their past buried. Paxton had been her Halley’s Comet; the once in a lifetime love that scorched Demi’s heart in the most spectacular of fashions.
She promised herself she would never make that mistake again. But, how can she forget the dreams of love she once had, when Paxton wants to make them come true?
So slowly that each layer burning out feels like agony … or suddenly, exploding into a million pieces before the universe even has a grasp of what is happening.
When Paxton Shaw left Demi Rosen without so much as a goodbye, he stole her shine in both manners.
Now, eight years later, he’s trying to pull her back into his orbit. The nation’s most beloved football player, a tight end with a seriously tight end, has finally realized Demi is the one who got away.
But she’s a different woman than the weak girl who used to come running whenever he called in the middle of the night. Strong, successful, her life’s mission being to grant the wishes of children whose flames have all but been extinguished.
And untouchable, as dark and cold as a midnight sky with no moon in sight.
When one special child forces their star-crossed paths to collide, it’s impossible to keep the feelings of their past buried. Paxton had been her Halley’s Comet; the once in a lifetime love that scorched Demi’s heart in the most spectacular of fashions.
She promised herself she would never make that mistake again. But, how can she forget the dreams of love she once had, when Paxton wants to make them come true?
218 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2018
About the author
Carrie Aarons
58 books2,959 followersAuthor of romance novels such as Fleeting and Love at First Fight, Carrie Aarons writes books that are just as swoon-worthy as they are sarcastic. Her stories are fueled by vanilla lattes, meloncholy music, and copious amounts of candles.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
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May 26, 20182 Stars
Overall Opinion: Welp...I finished it! It was not for me, and I'm kinda surprised I did tbh. I really enjoy jerk Hs, and I really enjoy unrequited love situations -- BUT! This didn't work very well for me. I felt like the H was OTT jerk to the point that I never got over the way he acted, thought about, or treated the h! The h knew she deserved better, constantly was treated horribly, and still ran when he called = doormat h! I felt bad for what she went through, but then it didn't take me long to get upset by the fact she put up with it. I don't know...maybe it's my mood or something, but these characters and the overall storyline simply didn't work for me 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Demi and Paxton's story. They met in college where they became f-buddies off and on for 2 years. Paxton leaves when he starts his career in the NFL and they are separated for about 8 years. They are reunited when Demi's company that grants wishes to terminal children hooks up with Paxton and his NFL team. Demi is shocked to be reunited, and hasn't fully gotten over the hurt he caused her in the past. Paxton had gone though some big life changes after his parents died suddenly, and he is ready to pursue Demi like she deserved. There is some past baggage they have to work through, some sexy and sweet times...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Demi and Paxton's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I skimmed some, but I think that was mainly because I was frustrated with the characters not necessarily the pacing. I thought it flowed pretty well.
Instalove:No. They h had been in love with the H since college, and the H takes until after their reunion to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 2 stars. Paxton. I couldn't get past his past behavior and attitude. He was nasty to/about the h in the past, and even though he bought some flowers and publicly committed-- I wasn't won over.
h rating: 2 stars. Demi. Doormat 🤦🏻♀️ Enough said.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Okay. They have some okay tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: Not sex
Cheating: Not technically
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had pretty good closure with a HEA .
Safety: This one is probably either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Overall Opinion: Welp...I finished it! It was not for me, and I'm kinda surprised I did tbh. I really enjoy jerk Hs, and I really enjoy unrequited love situations -- BUT! This didn't work very well for me. I felt like the H was OTT jerk to the point that I never got over the way he acted, thought about, or treated the h! The h knew she deserved better, constantly was treated horribly, and still ran when he called = doormat h! I felt bad for what she went through, but then it didn't take me long to get upset by the fact she put up with it. I don't know...maybe it's my mood or something, but these characters and the overall storyline simply didn't work for me 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Demi and Paxton's story. They met in college where they became f-buddies off and on for 2 years. Paxton leaves when he starts his career in the NFL and they are separated for about 8 years. They are reunited when Demi's company that grants wishes to terminal children hooks up with Paxton and his NFL team. Demi is shocked to be reunited, and hasn't fully gotten over the hurt he caused her in the past. Paxton had gone though some big life changes after his parents died suddenly, and he is ready to pursue Demi like she deserved. There is some past baggage they have to work through, some sexy and sweet times...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Demi and Paxton's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I skimmed some, but I think that was mainly because I was frustrated with the characters not necessarily the pacing. I thought it flowed pretty well.
Instalove:No. They h had been in love with the H since college, and the H takes until after their reunion to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 2 stars. Paxton. I couldn't get past his past behavior and attitude. He was nasty to/about the h in the past, and even though he bought some flowers and publicly committed-- I wasn't won over.
h rating: 2 stars. Demi. Doormat 🤦🏻♀️ Enough said.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Okay. They have some okay tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: Not sex
Cheating: Not technically
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had pretty good closure with a HEA .
Safety: This one is probably either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
December 12, 2021
What kind of name is Paxton. Not enough grovel, she took him back too easily it was boring. Also “I went to Israel with my parents last year for Rosh Hashanah. It was incredible.” ? First of all, it's Palestine. Second of all, it's Palestine.
April 24, 2018
A beautiful and moving tale about loss, love and second chances. A story of two people that despite the odds become something more.
When Stars Burn Out is a story that brought back many memories. The opening lines took me back to a time when I, just like Demi, used to think that the hero was going to see us as something more than just a fuck buddy. Because we know that love is blind, and that when we are in love we believe everything is possible, but sometimes not all of us get their happily ever after.
I have been a fan of Carrie's writing for some time now. What I love the most about her is how versatile she can be. She has the ability to make me laugh with one book and then tear my heart apart with another one. When Stars Burn Out falls into the second category, Carrie Aarons delivered an inspiring, touching story that pulled me in from the very first line and didn't let me go until I hit the very last word.
Let's talk about a bit about the main characters. Demi was... simply beautiful inside and out. She was inspiring, she took her pain and used it to do good, and there was nothing that I wanted more for her that to get her HEA. And even though, I struggled a little with her decision, I know that Pax was her heart. And of course, in the end, he won mine too, but Gawd, I just wanted to see him suffer a little bit more. Call me a bitch if you want, but he deserved it.
If second chances are your thing, Demi & Pax are waiting for you. Carrie Aarons' poignant writing style ensures you that you feel everything, every touch, every kiss, because "if it's written in the stars, then it is fated to happen."
You can find me here: INSTAGRAM
April 13, 2018
You know that scene in Elf where Buddy is yelling out, "I'm in love. I'm in love, and I don't care who knows it!"? That's me right now. Carrie Aarons has given us a beautiful second chance romance with When Stars Burn Out. Romantic, sweet, and sexy, Demi and Paxton's relationship is the sort that girl's dreams are made of, except for the part where it started in college and Paxton was a total jerk. I'd love to say that part never happened, as I am all about this relationship they have as adults, but I also really appreciate the realistic way it helped them grow together. Told from Pax and Demi's alternating perspectives, When Stars Burn Out is easily one of the sweetest, most romantic novels I've read this year. We're treated to flashbacks of their college days filled with lust and desperation, we feel the pain, heartbreak, and losses with them as they grow older and life happens, and we too become protective, alongside Demi's friends, as Pax tries to score one final touchdown with the girl who got away.
"And I was never going to allow myself to be hurt again."
Demi is the perfect blend of strong and sweet, as a character we root for her to find love and passion, as a woman we stand behind her as she defends her hurt heart and strives for independence. I really appreciated that Carrie Aarons wrote her as a blend of the woman she once was, the woman she is now, and the women she surrounds herself with. Talk about realistic! Her friends genuinely seem to care for her, they weigh in on the hard decisions, and they uplift her when she needs it, which actually makes her an even better character in my eyes. I always struggle when a character doesn't surround themselves with good people, that's how you end up with the overbearing dude, hello! Paxton, oh Paxton, he's a tough cookie. We don't like what he's done to Demi, but man that boy has some serious character growth in the novel. He realizes what he really wants is more than the fame game, that his parent's dreams for him really are his own dreams, and that the girl he once left in the dust is really the girl who can make his wishes come true. I loved his natural, automatic reaction to Demi being lust, soon turning into a desperate desire to woo her with his more-than-football knowledge company and his ability to buy gorgeous flowers. He pulls out all the stops and there is no way for Demi, or us readers, to protect our heart from the handsome man.
"He's a man now, so different than the boy I once knew, but still so much the same."
These two, the stars are meant to align for them, even if their past is filled with hushed words, secret rendezvous, and a crack in Demi's heart that could never be healed, except maybe by the man who put it there. I so appreciated how realistic the story was and how Carrie Aarons highlighted that neither Demi or Pax had really gone about things the right way in the beginning. The new relationship, the do-over, it's magical, but it's made more magical by the hard past they shared and learned to overcome. Yes, the book is so sweet, but it also has the angsty hard stuff that makes it authentic. I swooned right alongside Demi, especially as Pax revealed how in awe of her he was and how he spent so much time making sure things were completely opposite of how they once were...okay, everywhere except in the bedroom. ;) Parts of my couldn't believe Demi gave the man a second chance, but Pax changed my mind and hers and I'm so glad he did.
"I was serious about Demi, so serious that nothing was a consequence."
I love a good romance, I love second chance, and I love everything written by Carrie Aarons, and usually I'm not one to pick favorites, but Pax and Demi are my favorite. Their romance is so perfect, bumps along the way and all. I fell head over heels in love with their story and it definitely deserves more than 5 stars. If you're looking for a romantic, swoony read, When Stars Burn Out is a must read.
ARC provided.
"And I was never going to allow myself to be hurt again."
Demi is the perfect blend of strong and sweet, as a character we root for her to find love and passion, as a woman we stand behind her as she defends her hurt heart and strives for independence. I really appreciated that Carrie Aarons wrote her as a blend of the woman she once was, the woman she is now, and the women she surrounds herself with. Talk about realistic! Her friends genuinely seem to care for her, they weigh in on the hard decisions, and they uplift her when she needs it, which actually makes her an even better character in my eyes. I always struggle when a character doesn't surround themselves with good people, that's how you end up with the overbearing dude, hello! Paxton, oh Paxton, he's a tough cookie. We don't like what he's done to Demi, but man that boy has some serious character growth in the novel. He realizes what he really wants is more than the fame game, that his parent's dreams for him really are his own dreams, and that the girl he once left in the dust is really the girl who can make his wishes come true. I loved his natural, automatic reaction to Demi being lust, soon turning into a desperate desire to woo her with his more-than-football knowledge company and his ability to buy gorgeous flowers. He pulls out all the stops and there is no way for Demi, or us readers, to protect our heart from the handsome man.
"He's a man now, so different than the boy I once knew, but still so much the same."
These two, the stars are meant to align for them, even if their past is filled with hushed words, secret rendezvous, and a crack in Demi's heart that could never be healed, except maybe by the man who put it there. I so appreciated how realistic the story was and how Carrie Aarons highlighted that neither Demi or Pax had really gone about things the right way in the beginning. The new relationship, the do-over, it's magical, but it's made more magical by the hard past they shared and learned to overcome. Yes, the book is so sweet, but it also has the angsty hard stuff that makes it authentic. I swooned right alongside Demi, especially as Pax revealed how in awe of her he was and how he spent so much time making sure things were completely opposite of how they once were...okay, everywhere except in the bedroom. ;) Parts of my couldn't believe Demi gave the man a second chance, but Pax changed my mind and hers and I'm so glad he did.
"I was serious about Demi, so serious that nothing was a consequence."
I love a good romance, I love second chance, and I love everything written by Carrie Aarons, and usually I'm not one to pick favorites, but Pax and Demi are my favorite. Their romance is so perfect, bumps along the way and all. I fell head over heels in love with their story and it definitely deserves more than 5 stars. If you're looking for a romantic, swoony read, When Stars Burn Out is a must read.
ARC provided.
January 15, 2022
Full reread 1/14/2022:
Two issues…
1. He treated her like a whore for the 2 years they hooked up/were together in college.
2. She let him.
He fells guilty, but never guilty enough to track her down in 8 years to apologize.
He does everything right, but can it be enough? Not for me.
Skim read, maybe something to come back to.
Two issues…
1. He treated her like a whore for the 2 years they hooked up/were together in college.
2. She let him.
He fells guilty, but never guilty enough to track her down in 8 years to apologize.
He does everything right, but can it be enough? Not for me.
Skim read, maybe something to come back to.
April 23, 2018
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***
3 CROWNS
I wanted to love this book, the synopsis. The once snubbed and forgotten heroine gets her moment, wins the guy, but at the end of it, I just felt an ambivalence towards it all. I never truly connected with either character, and their journey back to each other lacked the signature angst I have come to expect from Carrie Aarons.
Paxton as an adult had that charm that pulls readers in, but I had a hard time reconciling his character with who he was in the past. He asks for forgiveness and proves that he has changed, but after more of their past is revealed it just didn't feel like enough atonement had occurred for his mistreatment of the heroine.
Demi is another character I wanted to love, but I didn't enjoy who she was when she was with him. I wanted the strong heroine we meet in the present before she reconnects. I wanted the self-assured CEO. I love her, and I struggled to connect with her when she was floundering from her past with him.
The road for these two isn't bumpy at all. In fact, they fall back together pretty seamlessly, and I needed their road to be bumpy. The pain and heartache inflicted on Demi requires more than verbal apologies and romantic gestures. I need his change to be more developed, and it seemed surface level. There is no doubt of their feelings for each other, and in another story, I would have swooned over Paxton, but I just couldn't get past their history and the easy way them seemed to reconcile with one another.
Carrie Aarons has been one of my one-click, angst loving authors. I always expect high drama and heated intimacy, but this one missed the mark for me. I wanted to love it. I did.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
3 CROWNS
I wanted to love this book, the synopsis. The once snubbed and forgotten heroine gets her moment, wins the guy, but at the end of it, I just felt an ambivalence towards it all. I never truly connected with either character, and their journey back to each other lacked the signature angst I have come to expect from Carrie Aarons.
Paxton as an adult had that charm that pulls readers in, but I had a hard time reconciling his character with who he was in the past. He asks for forgiveness and proves that he has changed, but after more of their past is revealed it just didn't feel like enough atonement had occurred for his mistreatment of the heroine.
Demi is another character I wanted to love, but I didn't enjoy who she was when she was with him. I wanted the strong heroine we meet in the present before she reconnects. I wanted the self-assured CEO. I love her, and I struggled to connect with her when she was floundering from her past with him.
The road for these two isn't bumpy at all. In fact, they fall back together pretty seamlessly, and I needed their road to be bumpy. The pain and heartache inflicted on Demi requires more than verbal apologies and romantic gestures. I need his change to be more developed, and it seemed surface level. There is no doubt of their feelings for each other, and in another story, I would have swooned over Paxton, but I just couldn't get past their history and the easy way them seemed to reconcile with one another.
Carrie Aarons has been one of my one-click, angst loving authors. I always expect high drama and heated intimacy, but this one missed the mark for me. I wanted to love it. I did.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Shelved as 'dnr'
June 4, 2018Well he's sorry now for being a cheating (do not even bother to correct me on this)....turdhole years ago and treating the young girl in love with him in such demeaning ways!
SO fucking what! Doesn't mean he deserves forgiveness or the girl he was a fuckwit to now that HE is ready! So fucking what if he's ready NOW.
This is not a love story but a cautionary tale for young women to avoid assholes like this FOREVER.
It's NOT a "beautiful story about second chances"...eye roll.
SO fucking what! Doesn't mean he deserves forgiveness or the girl he was a fuckwit to now that HE is ready! So fucking what if he's ready NOW.
This is not a love story but a cautionary tale for young women to avoid assholes like this FOREVER.
It's NOT a "beautiful story about second chances"...eye roll.
December 19, 2021
some ppl should just not write second chance
December 19, 2019
DNF 42%
No pude continuar con esto.... no me agradaron los protagonistas
Y mira que me gustan las historias de segundas oportunidades, pero en mi opinión, esta historia no debió darle segunda oportunidad a nadie!!
No pude continuar con esto.... no me agradaron los protagonistas
Y mira que me gustan las historias de segundas oportunidades, pero en mi opinión, esta historia no debió darle segunda oportunidad a nadie!!
April 22, 2018
The blurb on this book completely drew me to it: a potentially angsty second-chance romance featuring a superstar football player? Sign. Me. Up. Every time.
And let me tell you, I was not one bit disappointed with the story I got. In fact, I think it might be an even bigger and better story than the one I was expecting.
The past that Demi and Paxton shared rang so true to me. I feel like Ms. Aarons captured some sort of raw insecurity that is sort of the hallmark of early 20’s life (or at least my own life) so authentically a part of me re-lived some of those uncomfortable moments all over again through Demi. I never experienced exactly what Demi experienced, but her voice rang so true to me. I felt what she felt. I remember that sort of desperate, futile love. And using brutal history between these two as the ground zero of their present relationship was…well, a touch of genius actually. I was completely sold on this storyline. Completely sucked into it. And because so much of it reminded me so much of my own early 20s – my heart leapt on board immediately.
There are few things I love more than the redemption of a hero and I feel like I definitely go that with Paxton. I could not get enough of his relentless wooing of Demi. And I adored Demi – in part because I related to her so much, and in part because she’s the kind of person I want to be when I grow up. That said, I might have liked to have seen a little more fight from her. I feel like her wounds ran deeper than the emotions we were allowed to see from her and while I do think respect was given to her healing process, I also felt like she and Paxton never had it out like I needed them to in order for me to get my closure. Make no mistake, this did not have any kind of negative impact on the story for me. I loved these two just the way they are. This is just one of those rare occasions where I think I might have liked a little more angst.
In all – this felt like a fresh and new take on second-chance romance. And I loved it! It’s a quick read. An easy read, in spite of some emotional punches. It’s sexy, heartwarming (and sometimes a little heart-wrenching) and satisfying. Definitely one not to miss! ~ Shelly, 4 Stars
******
Carrie Aarons is the type of author that can woo me and win me over with whatever she writes. Whatever the genre - a second chance, sports or enemies to lovers romance - I am sold. The minute I read the blurb I knew I had to read it. This second chance/football love story was great and Demi and Paxton were amazing! I thought their chemistry was so sexy with their past providing a satisfying emotional gut punch.
While I really liked this story, I won't lie, it was difficult to read as college Demi rang a few familiar bells in me and struck a chord. I equally loved and hated that she was so hopeful and trusting as it killed me to see how Paxton treated her. But in the same light it helped her become the strong and amazing no-nonsense woman that she was today. Likewise, Paxton was fantastic. I loved that he evolved and changed so much since college even though a small (spiteful) part of me wanted Demi to lay him out and leave him hanging LOL. But my feelings prove that Aarons did a wonderful job making me feel every emotion. We felt Demi's hope, sadness and turmoil in the past and could see how much Pax had changed. I loved his pursuit of her and his determination to show her how much she meant to him, despite his callous treatment in the past.
All in all, I thought this was a sweet second chance story and I look forward to more from this author in the future. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
And let me tell you, I was not one bit disappointed with the story I got. In fact, I think it might be an even bigger and better story than the one I was expecting.
The past that Demi and Paxton shared rang so true to me. I feel like Ms. Aarons captured some sort of raw insecurity that is sort of the hallmark of early 20’s life (or at least my own life) so authentically a part of me re-lived some of those uncomfortable moments all over again through Demi. I never experienced exactly what Demi experienced, but her voice rang so true to me. I felt what she felt. I remember that sort of desperate, futile love. And using brutal history between these two as the ground zero of their present relationship was…well, a touch of genius actually. I was completely sold on this storyline. Completely sucked into it. And because so much of it reminded me so much of my own early 20s – my heart leapt on board immediately.
There are few things I love more than the redemption of a hero and I feel like I definitely go that with Paxton. I could not get enough of his relentless wooing of Demi. And I adored Demi – in part because I related to her so much, and in part because she’s the kind of person I want to be when I grow up. That said, I might have liked to have seen a little more fight from her. I feel like her wounds ran deeper than the emotions we were allowed to see from her and while I do think respect was given to her healing process, I also felt like she and Paxton never had it out like I needed them to in order for me to get my closure. Make no mistake, this did not have any kind of negative impact on the story for me. I loved these two just the way they are. This is just one of those rare occasions where I think I might have liked a little more angst.
In all – this felt like a fresh and new take on second-chance romance. And I loved it! It’s a quick read. An easy read, in spite of some emotional punches. It’s sexy, heartwarming (and sometimes a little heart-wrenching) and satisfying. Definitely one not to miss! ~ Shelly, 4 Stars
******
Carrie Aarons is the type of author that can woo me and win me over with whatever she writes. Whatever the genre - a second chance, sports or enemies to lovers romance - I am sold. The minute I read the blurb I knew I had to read it. This second chance/football love story was great and Demi and Paxton were amazing! I thought their chemistry was so sexy with their past providing a satisfying emotional gut punch.
While I really liked this story, I won't lie, it was difficult to read as college Demi rang a few familiar bells in me and struck a chord. I equally loved and hated that she was so hopeful and trusting as it killed me to see how Paxton treated her. But in the same light it helped her become the strong and amazing no-nonsense woman that she was today. Likewise, Paxton was fantastic. I loved that he evolved and changed so much since college even though a small (spiteful) part of me wanted Demi to lay him out and leave him hanging LOL. But my feelings prove that Aarons did a wonderful job making me feel every emotion. We felt Demi's hope, sadness and turmoil in the past and could see how much Pax had changed. I loved his pursuit of her and his determination to show her how much she meant to him, despite his callous treatment in the past.
All in all, I thought this was a sweet second chance story and I look forward to more from this author in the future. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
November 18, 2022
Flash backs with heroine being just a hookup for two years although she was in love with the hero. 8years later they cross paths and she is taking him back easy and they say i love like 2days later. 😑
January 22, 2022
So basically a wattpad story with a little bit of oomph tbh. It was a solid one day read and the plot was relatively interesting I liked it for the most part but definitely reiterated that men are dumb and won’t realize it until it’s too late (most of the time). 3.5/5 for sure
September 4, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an early copy of this book :) I was very hesitant before starting this book... don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore Carrie's writing style, but she writes such different stories and characters, that I dod't love each of her books equally... and that's great :) because that means all of you can find one just for you :) but this one deals with themes that I am not the biggest fan of in novels... let me explain by telling you more about this story :)
Our main couple, Pax and Demi, met in college... they were actually involved during those times.... although that may not be the best way to describe their "relationship"... Pax treated her pretty horribly back then... like a guaranteed booty call... and yes, she let him do it, always coming when he called and texted... but still... one day, he left without a word of goodbye and they don't see one another for eight years... now Demi has a non-profit foundation that works on granting sick kids their wishes, meeting a famous person and such, and Pax is one of the most famous football players... and yes, you probably guessed correctly... they meet again because of one of the kids in her foundation... and yes, he wants another shot with her... this time, a serious one... ok, that's basically all I can tell you about the overall plot of the story, so now let me jump into all the reasons why I loved this book so much and why you all need to read it :)
I am not the biggest fan of second chance romances... it's a personal preference, connected to my own backstory that you don't need to know ;) it's right up there with the other tropes I hate: cheating, love triangles and secret baby... :) I very rarely pick up those kind of stories, because it's almost never done in a good way... at least, not in my opinion :) please, don't get me wrong, I know that some people love those stories, and I am happy for you... go forth and read as many of them as you want :) but they are just not for me... so why did I pick this one up, you ask? that is a great question... :) I'm not really sure... I guess, I just... had a good feeling... plus, I wanted to give Carrie a chance to change my mind... "I can always put it down if it starts to annoy me" I said to myself before diving into it... yeah... I inhaled this book... I was simply unable to put it down... *sighs dreamily* it was absolutely wonderful... we have chapters written from two perspectives, so Pax, as well as Demi, have their own moments to show us what's inside their heads... :) and it was done incredibly... especially since there were also flashbacks to those college years between different chapters... and those parts broke my heart... to see how big of a jerk Pax was... how stupid and selfish he acted... how naive and hopeful Demi was... how she let him treat her like that... but it was necessary to fully understand how both of them changed... a lot of things happened within those eight years in both of their lives and they are two different people now... trust me, no one was more surprised than yours truly when I pretty quickly started to cheer Pax on to win Demi's heart again... no one... :) but their story... really hit me in all the feels... I ached for them... an don't even get me started on how they acted like adults... you know, talking and explaining how they feel... which does not happen as often as I want in books... how respectful Pax was of her boundaries... yes, he was pretty relentless and determined, but in the best and tactful possible way... :) there was no stupid, unnecessary drama... yes, there were problems and issues they had to face to find their happy ending, but all of that was understandable considering their past... but what I think got throught to me the most was the writing style... it was just... so raw... so honest... it hit me straight into my heart... I fell in love with both of them and seeing their happy ending might even brought a tear or two into my eyes... ;) I think this beautiful gem is now my favourtie story by Carrie :) I did my best to convince you to give it a try, and hopefully a lot of you will actually listen ;) trust me, even if you are not a fan of those type of stories, you should try it... if I loved it as much, I'm sure you will find something wonderful in it as well... :)
XOXO
A
Our main couple, Pax and Demi, met in college... they were actually involved during those times.... although that may not be the best way to describe their "relationship"... Pax treated her pretty horribly back then... like a guaranteed booty call... and yes, she let him do it, always coming when he called and texted... but still... one day, he left without a word of goodbye and they don't see one another for eight years... now Demi has a non-profit foundation that works on granting sick kids their wishes, meeting a famous person and such, and Pax is one of the most famous football players... and yes, you probably guessed correctly... they meet again because of one of the kids in her foundation... and yes, he wants another shot with her... this time, a serious one... ok, that's basically all I can tell you about the overall plot of the story, so now let me jump into all the reasons why I loved this book so much and why you all need to read it :)
I am not the biggest fan of second chance romances... it's a personal preference, connected to my own backstory that you don't need to know ;) it's right up there with the other tropes I hate: cheating, love triangles and secret baby... :) I very rarely pick up those kind of stories, because it's almost never done in a good way... at least, not in my opinion :) please, don't get me wrong, I know that some people love those stories, and I am happy for you... go forth and read as many of them as you want :) but they are just not for me... so why did I pick this one up, you ask? that is a great question... :) I'm not really sure... I guess, I just... had a good feeling... plus, I wanted to give Carrie a chance to change my mind... "I can always put it down if it starts to annoy me" I said to myself before diving into it... yeah... I inhaled this book... I was simply unable to put it down... *sighs dreamily* it was absolutely wonderful... we have chapters written from two perspectives, so Pax, as well as Demi, have their own moments to show us what's inside their heads... :) and it was done incredibly... especially since there were also flashbacks to those college years between different chapters... and those parts broke my heart... to see how big of a jerk Pax was... how stupid and selfish he acted... how naive and hopeful Demi was... how she let him treat her like that... but it was necessary to fully understand how both of them changed... a lot of things happened within those eight years in both of their lives and they are two different people now... trust me, no one was more surprised than yours truly when I pretty quickly started to cheer Pax on to win Demi's heart again... no one... :) but their story... really hit me in all the feels... I ached for them... an don't even get me started on how they acted like adults... you know, talking and explaining how they feel... which does not happen as often as I want in books... how respectful Pax was of her boundaries... yes, he was pretty relentless and determined, but in the best and tactful possible way... :) there was no stupid, unnecessary drama... yes, there were problems and issues they had to face to find their happy ending, but all of that was understandable considering their past... but what I think got throught to me the most was the writing style... it was just... so raw... so honest... it hit me straight into my heart... I fell in love with both of them and seeing their happy ending might even brought a tear or two into my eyes... ;) I think this beautiful gem is now my favourtie story by Carrie :) I did my best to convince you to give it a try, and hopefully a lot of you will actually listen ;) trust me, even if you are not a fan of those type of stories, you should try it... if I loved it as much, I'm sure you will find something wonderful in it as well... :)
XOXO
A
April 22, 2018
You know how in every other NA romance the hero is a manwhore with a semi regular hook-up before meeting THE girl and then girl he used to hook-up with is being slut shamed?
I always hated this majorly sexist storyline so I was excited to read about the other side.
Demi and Pax used to hook up back in college. They were on and off for two years with him stringing her along the whole time. He never gave her the time of the day (literally and figuratively), badmouthed her in front of his friends and was an overall dickhead while she was blindly in love with him.
I love a good come back story where the mcs are far from perfect, make mistakes but are able to redeem themselves.
I wanted to Paxton to grovel more. He really was a selfish prick in college with no regards for Demi’s feelings.
I realize that he has changed after his parents tragic death, became more self-aware and stuff, I just expected a little more because he definitely was a manipulative bastard back in the day.
There are snippets of their college days interspersed but not one mentions (maybe the last one at the very end of the story) Pax having some kind of feelings (friendship or romantic) for Demi. I probably would have been more open to forgiving him if he was just afraid of his feelings instead of being a plain asshole.
Demi had one serious relationship in the past because of her experience with Pax in college. She had severe trust and self-confidence issues because of him. And she still compared every guy she met to him. How incredibly unhealthy is that?!
I know that they truly loved each other in the end so that makes me feel a little better about this. Although I did want Paxton to suffer a little and work a little harder to get the girl.
I always hated this majorly sexist storyline so I was excited to read about the other side.
Demi and Pax used to hook up back in college. They were on and off for two years with him stringing her along the whole time. He never gave her the time of the day (literally and figuratively), badmouthed her in front of his friends and was an overall dickhead while she was blindly in love with him.
I love a good come back story where the mcs are far from perfect, make mistakes but are able to redeem themselves.
I wanted to Paxton to grovel more. He really was a selfish prick in college with no regards for Demi’s feelings.
I realize that he has changed after his parents tragic death, became more self-aware and stuff, I just expected a little more because he definitely was a manipulative bastard back in the day.
There are snippets of their college days interspersed but not one mentions (maybe the last one at the very end of the story) Pax having some kind of feelings (friendship or romantic) for Demi. I probably would have been more open to forgiving him if he was just afraid of his feelings instead of being a plain asshole.
Demi had one serious relationship in the past because of her experience with Pax in college. She had severe trust and self-confidence issues because of him. And she still compared every guy she met to him. How incredibly unhealthy is that?!
I know that they truly loved each other in the end so that makes me feel a little better about this. Although I did want Paxton to suffer a little and work a little harder to get the girl.
April 24, 2018
A beautiful written second chances at love.
Pax and Demi were not your typical boyfriend/girlfriend they were just your normal college hookups, fast forward 8 years later and they reconnect.
This story is shared by both Paxton and Demi's povs and how life took them in different directions. This is not your fall in love at first sight but for Demi it was more. This story has heartbroken written all over, you’ll feel and cry along with Demi and to top it off her job is also just as sweet tender and emotional. I never expected Paxton to be who he became but he definitely was an ass but you'll love the older version of him. Second chances, and forgiveness is what it's all about and you hope for the best between them since I'm not going to give anything away. This story is beautiful and it shares the struggles of loved ones dealing with their illnesses and their passings to losing loved ones and also to having amazing friends, lovable but laughable parents, and the teammates.
Pax and Demi were not your typical boyfriend/girlfriend they were just your normal college hookups, fast forward 8 years later and they reconnect.
This story is shared by both Paxton and Demi's povs and how life took them in different directions. This is not your fall in love at first sight but for Demi it was more. This story has heartbroken written all over, you’ll feel and cry along with Demi and to top it off her job is also just as sweet tender and emotional. I never expected Paxton to be who he became but he definitely was an ass but you'll love the older version of him. Second chances, and forgiveness is what it's all about and you hope for the best between them since I'm not going to give anything away. This story is beautiful and it shares the struggles of loved ones dealing with their illnesses and their passings to losing loved ones and also to having amazing friends, lovable but laughable parents, and the teammates.
April 22, 2018
Link: https://wp.me/p8if78-79X
Book Review: 4 Stars
I've been known to have a bunch of Carrie Aarons books in my kindle collection but never find the time to finally read them. Tell me crazy but I am Collector so that's my job. But it was indeed long due for me to eventually get my hands on her books. And I can say that one story was enough for me to get me hooked and get me on the race to read every other of hers I have.
Since the very first moment I read the title my attention and my hackles were up. And then I read the blurb and I screamed "Hell to the yeah!!!!". And then, the cover came and my eyes got all starry-eyed. The final blow though was dealt the moment I started it until I finished it. And to say "I devoured it" is only the first level of my fall.
I always had a thing with the stars, the universe and what they symbolize or how their existence and the mystery they hide behind it can be used in the mundane world. The eternity they have is more than flooring and awing. And that quality Aarons couldn't interpret it more beautifully into this love story full of so much soul.
"If it's written in the stars, then it is fated to happen."
Demi & Paxton undoubtedly captivated my heart from the very start. The chemistry that was existing between them was apparent from miles away; either I was reading a moment of theirs back in college or I was reading moment from their reconnection in the present. One of the things that I loved the most and what made me unable to put it down even for me to eat, was that impressive personality change both of them went through. Paxton going from his asshole, arrogant, uncaring self when he was in college to the sensitive, generous and romantic in-his-own-special-way self he is now and Demi going from the insecure, "pathetic", in love self to this successful, charitable, sensitive, independent, AMAZEBALLS woman she has become. Also, just the fact that she is the CEO of a non-profit which helps children who suffer from heavy and heart-breaking illnesses to make their wishes come true, only as incredible, awesome and TOP-QUALITY female I can put her in my books. She is a real bad ass, no questions asked and I won't accept anything different from that simple truth! As for Pax, I can't say that I was surprised from his transformation - this is a Second Chance romance story after all -, but what made me love him despite the things he did to Demi in the past was how he worked around his change and how he used it with the way he needed and knew would make his rest of his life perfect. And don't get me started on his wooing mechanisms because...... Phew!!!!
Demi and Pax's second chance love may be the main axis of this book's unfolding, but sometimes it's not the main river you should pay attention to but its tributaries because that's where its mysteries and small treasures are hidden. So, just like the river, the true treasures of this story are hidden in the rest of it. And the most precious of them all is Ryan; the boy who was the reason for Pax to find his way back to Demi. Ryan is a small boy who suffers from a stage-4 cancer and he goes to Demi to help him with his wish to meet his favorite football player; who happens to be Pax. But he might functioned as the connecting link so these two lovers find their HEA, although I must look at him separately from that role of his because he is a true treasure, no matter what. My heart was hurting for the pain he was going though - I know that he is a fictional, but I don't give a damn really - and then I was smiling wide and bright just because the scenes where he was showing his radiant personality, his strength, his courage, his golden heart were enough to make me forget the reason she went to Demi in the first place. His appearance can be described only as the "God intervention" because "secondary" is too small and dull for the impact his little self had on the story. And I was already referred to the non-profit Demi owns but I left unsaid the truth that her organization is in reality the other treasure this story contains. The hard work she does and the passion and emotion she puts into it just so she can be able to see that huge smile and grin from these kids when their wish is fulfilled and to know that she helped them forget for a bit the horrible card life dealt them, made her one of those heroines who deserve every gold medallion and high praise that exists. What can be more inspirational than that?
"I think each one of these children as a precious star. They may be burning out for us, we may soon be unable to see their shine but they will always be here, looking over us when the night sky comes to life."
Aarons spell bounded me with her words and the emotions she evoked in me through this amazing story. I may wanted more pages so I can fall even more, but I think, in the end, those 250 pages were the right number for this amazing world to unfold. I wish there would be a spin-off or something in the future (uhhmm, Carrie? just an idea? :p ) just so I can have more of Demi & Pax since I can't give them up.
It seems that I need to get my a** moving and devour down the rest of her books, both those I own and those I don't but I will. Because I WILL get them all!! :p
May 1, 2018
Amazing read from Carrie Aarons I just loved it.
Sort of a second chance- she loved him in college he used her then just left town for the NFL. He's close to retirement and she is running her own charitable organization. She isn't going to go easy, and he isn't giving up on her. One little boy makes all the difference. Beautiful, touching amazing story.
Sort of a second chance- she loved him in college he used her then just left town for the NFL. He's close to retirement and she is running her own charitable organization. She isn't going to go easy, and he isn't giving up on her. One little boy makes all the difference. Beautiful, touching amazing story.
July 4, 2021
h is a doormat
I believe in second chances but I couldn’t get pass the fact that the H treated the h so badly. I mean speaking bad about her in the back ? Booty calls in the middle of the night without any concern beside himself , rubbing OW in front of her. H didn’t make for me .
I think she forgive him too easy .
I believe in second chances but I couldn’t get pass the fact that the H treated the h so badly. I mean speaking bad about her in the back ? Booty calls in the middle of the night without any concern beside himself , rubbing OW in front of her. H didn’t make for me .
I think she forgive him too easy .
April 23, 2018
"If it's written in the stars, then it is fated to happen."
I absolutely loved this charming story.
I absolutely loved this charming story.
April 20, 2018
➳ Rate: 4,5 / 5 stars
Paxton and Demi's story had me glued to the pages of this book, waiting and wanting to know their whole story, past and present. I wanted to know every detail of these two's journey and what made them the way they are today.
Paxton is a football player who was just traded and is now back in the city where he went to college.
College Paxton thought he couldn't have his cake and eat it too. He thought he could only have one thing, not both. So he chose to focus on football over having a girl, and he acted like an asshole towards the one girl who was always there for him hoping one day they could be more than fuck buddies.
Demi is now the owner of a company who grants wishes to children called Wish Upon A Star. A very special wish to her, brings her into the same room as Paxton Shaw, a blast from the past. The guy she had been in love with eight years ago. The one who used her and left her in a blink of an eye with no goodbye.
He’d been the reason I couldn’t fall in love with anyone else, not when I’d been so rejected for so long by the one man I’d loved blindly. Even when someone had loved me faithfully, with all of my flaws, I couldn’t give enough to make it work.
Paxton sees this as an opportunity to right his wrongs. He isn't the same man he was eight years ago. He knows what he wants. He knows what he did to her was so so wrong. And he wants to make it up to her but Demi was really hurt and still is over what happened between them all those years ago. So he needs to up his game and really bring out the big gesture for Demi to know he's serious about her this time. With the help of their little friend, Paxton gets a second chance to be with Demi. To show her this time he's playing for keeps.
“You’re too good at this,” I murmur. “What’s that?” His lips meet my ear. “Making me fall.”
When Stars Burn Out is a beautiful story about loss, love and second chances. Carrie really outdid herself with this one. I really enjoyed it. It was sweet, heartbreaking and important. I loved Demi's job and seeing all that she did for Ryan and all the other kids. It makes me happy to think they are people in this world like her. She was a gem.
➳ARC kindly provided by author, in exchange for an honest review.
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Paxton and Demi's story had me glued to the pages of this book, waiting and wanting to know their whole story, past and present. I wanted to know every detail of these two's journey and what made them the way they are today.
Paxton is a football player who was just traded and is now back in the city where he went to college.
College Paxton thought he couldn't have his cake and eat it too. He thought he could only have one thing, not both. So he chose to focus on football over having a girl, and he acted like an asshole towards the one girl who was always there for him hoping one day they could be more than fuck buddies.
Demi is now the owner of a company who grants wishes to children called Wish Upon A Star. A very special wish to her, brings her into the same room as Paxton Shaw, a blast from the past. The guy she had been in love with eight years ago. The one who used her and left her in a blink of an eye with no goodbye.
He’d been the reason I couldn’t fall in love with anyone else, not when I’d been so rejected for so long by the one man I’d loved blindly. Even when someone had loved me faithfully, with all of my flaws, I couldn’t give enough to make it work.
Paxton sees this as an opportunity to right his wrongs. He isn't the same man he was eight years ago. He knows what he wants. He knows what he did to her was so so wrong. And he wants to make it up to her but Demi was really hurt and still is over what happened between them all those years ago. So he needs to up his game and really bring out the big gesture for Demi to know he's serious about her this time. With the help of their little friend, Paxton gets a second chance to be with Demi. To show her this time he's playing for keeps.
“You’re too good at this,” I murmur. “What’s that?” His lips meet my ear. “Making me fall.”
When Stars Burn Out is a beautiful story about loss, love and second chances. Carrie really outdid herself with this one. I really enjoyed it. It was sweet, heartbreaking and important. I loved Demi's job and seeing all that she did for Ryan and all the other kids. It makes me happy to think they are people in this world like her. She was a gem.
➳ARC kindly provided by author, in exchange for an honest review.
➳ Follow me on: Blog ⁕ Instagram ⁕ Facebook ⁕ Twitter
April 22, 2018
I don’t even know how to properly express my deep love for this story!
When I first saw the cover I knew I had to read it (I mean, it’s BEAUTIFUL), then the blurb convinced me of it even more, and when I finally started reading it I was hooked in so quickly, I had to put my life on hold so I could immerse myself in the story without trouble and stay there until I reached the end.
It was so easy to lose myself in this story because of how much Demi and Paxton’s emotions evoked in me. Pain, anger, sadness, and so much love. Even if it was hidden behind a cloud of resentment and regrets, the love they have for each other is there, making their hearts beat to the same rhythm and mine going crazy, beating harder and faster for them. The butterflies in my belly went nuts, and at one point my cheeks hurt because of how much this book made me smile. Don’t get me wrong, I may have cried a little bit because, there is a long and dark road ahead of them to get to a second chance point, one where you will remember with them, feel their pain, but also realize how much these two have grown.
This story is filled with loss, sorrow and a love so beautiful that makes of this book a second chance at its best.
Heartwarming, capturing and oh so sweet.
When I first saw the cover I knew I had to read it (I mean, it’s BEAUTIFUL), then the blurb convinced me of it even more, and when I finally started reading it I was hooked in so quickly, I had to put my life on hold so I could immerse myself in the story without trouble and stay there until I reached the end.
It was so easy to lose myself in this story because of how much Demi and Paxton’s emotions evoked in me. Pain, anger, sadness, and so much love. Even if it was hidden behind a cloud of resentment and regrets, the love they have for each other is there, making their hearts beat to the same rhythm and mine going crazy, beating harder and faster for them. The butterflies in my belly went nuts, and at one point my cheeks hurt because of how much this book made me smile. Don’t get me wrong, I may have cried a little bit because, there is a long and dark road ahead of them to get to a second chance point, one where you will remember with them, feel their pain, but also realize how much these two have grown.
This story is filled with loss, sorrow and a love so beautiful that makes of this book a second chance at its best.
Heartwarming, capturing and oh so sweet.
April 14, 2018
This was such an emotional second chance romance. I'm a big fan of these types of stories. I love reading and getting absorbed in the past the characters need to work through. I enjoy the tension of the present that has brought them back together for whatever reason and is putting them in a position to face their demons. And of course I truly am hooked on the push and pull of wondering will they or won't they work things out to have a future together. This book gave me all of that in one very well told story.
I was connected to Demi from the beginning. The girl she was before and the woman we see in her present were different and yet both likable. She was written as someone you want to go to bat for and can easily get angry at anyone hurting her.
Paxton was a character who really grew between his past and present self. I'm impressed by the author's ability to write someone that had me disliking the then version, but loving the now.
This is a book I absolutely recommend. Fellow readers who enjoy two people getting a second chance with some football thrown into the mix should pick this up.
April 22, 2018
When Stars Burn Out by Carrie Aarons was a sweet and beautiful second chance story. A shared history, a broken heart and a possible second chance to win back the one that got away. You just know a story like that will have all the feels.
Told in dual point of views with a look at the past and present. I was captivated from start to finish. Paxton and Demi knew each other in college, but Paxton decided football was more important. Heartbroken, Demi moved forward. Years later, circumstances bring them back together again. But this time around, Demi is determined to protect her heart. But Paxton is just as determined to win her back.
Paxton was a complete jerk to Demi in college. But years later, you could see how much he has grown and come to realize what matters the most. Demi was so hurt over what happened with Paxton, she was never able to really get over him. The last thing she wants is to be left heartbroken again. Could she learn to open up to her again?
With every book I read from Carrie Aarons, the more addicted I become. She gives us emotionally charged stories that consumes her readers. I loved the characters, the story and the feels in this story. Carrie Aarons gave us a lovely second chance story full of hope and possibilities.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
Told in dual point of views with a look at the past and present. I was captivated from start to finish. Paxton and Demi knew each other in college, but Paxton decided football was more important. Heartbroken, Demi moved forward. Years later, circumstances bring them back together again. But this time around, Demi is determined to protect her heart. But Paxton is just as determined to win her back.
Paxton was a complete jerk to Demi in college. But years later, you could see how much he has grown and come to realize what matters the most. Demi was so hurt over what happened with Paxton, she was never able to really get over him. The last thing she wants is to be left heartbroken again. Could she learn to open up to her again?
With every book I read from Carrie Aarons, the more addicted I become. She gives us emotionally charged stories that consumes her readers. I loved the characters, the story and the feels in this story. Carrie Aarons gave us a lovely second chance story full of hope and possibilities.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
April 30, 2018
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a beautiful story of second chances. I cant say im surprised that i enjoyed this one so much, im already a big fan of Carrie Aarons (As Long As You Hate Me is a firm favourite) so i went into this one with quite high expectations, and i definitely wasnt disappointed.
Demi and Paxton had a relationship of sorts when they were in college. He didnt treat her very well and one day just up and leaves to begin his football career. Years later, they meet again, and to say that Demi isnt his number 1 fan would be a massive understatement. I loved their story and the fact that Demi didnt just forgive him instantly, she was strong and she made Pax work for it. And work for it, he did.
This story flips between past and present, and we get to see what a massive A-Hole Paxton was in college. Some of the things he said and did to Demi really made my heart hurt. BUT, he had realised the error of his ways, and grown up A LOT, and he really did everything in his power to get the love of his life back.
This really was a sweet story. I loved the characters and im always a sucker for a football player. If you are already a fan of Carrie Aarons, or if you have never read any of her books before, I would highly recommend you give this one a go!
What a beautiful story of second chances. I cant say im surprised that i enjoyed this one so much, im already a big fan of Carrie Aarons (As Long As You Hate Me is a firm favourite) so i went into this one with quite high expectations, and i definitely wasnt disappointed.
Demi and Paxton had a relationship of sorts when they were in college. He didnt treat her very well and one day just up and leaves to begin his football career. Years later, they meet again, and to say that Demi isnt his number 1 fan would be a massive understatement. I loved their story and the fact that Demi didnt just forgive him instantly, she was strong and she made Pax work for it. And work for it, he did.
This story flips between past and present, and we get to see what a massive A-Hole Paxton was in college. Some of the things he said and did to Demi really made my heart hurt. BUT, he had realised the error of his ways, and grown up A LOT, and he really did everything in his power to get the love of his life back.
This really was a sweet story. I loved the characters and im always a sucker for a football player. If you are already a fan of Carrie Aarons, or if you have never read any of her books before, I would highly recommend you give this one a go!
April 26, 2022
I really likes the book but the times and dates kinda jumped around
April 7, 2022
I first got interested reading the blurb, it was different and something that I’ve never read before. About the guy and girl being sort of fuck buddies and then losing contact and then years later meeting again and falling in love. But what I didn’t expect was for the male, Paxton to be a total asshole who treated the female, Demi like total shit and act as if she was his dog when he would call she would go running to him!! But let me get into detail…
Paxton during college when they first got together treated it as a normal one night stand which is understandable and then became fb, all fine it was college so they didn’t have to commit to each other and were able to have some fun. But the disrespect that Paxton treats Demi with is unbearable. Talking about her with his friends saying that she was a good time who goes running to him whenever he called or texted saying that she was desperate to be with him and would talk to his friends about how she is just sex for him and that she means nothing. And many more things that are just plain hurtful behind her back! And didn’t have the decency to say goodbye when he left for the draft even though they were on and off for two years( with him enjoying time with other girls obviously) So eight years later, Paxton is lonely and sees all his friends married off and having families and decides that’s something he wants. And when he meets Demi again he greets her like if he didn’t use her, “but understands that what he did when he was younger was not good and that he knows he hurt her:(“ and then just cause he remembers what a good lay she was he decides that she’s the one who he wants to peruse. Long story short they get together and whenever she doesn’t feel ready to open up he keeps saying but I changed and I’m a different person. But when he first saw her all he remembered was the good sex and how desperate she was to be with him.
Demi seems like a nice and good person but she is a doormat for Paxton and lets him walk all over her. Just cause he is hot and pleasures her makes her forget that he was a total asshole that had her running to him even at 2-3 in the morning for a blowjob. I liked her and felt bad that she was treated that way, the blurb explains that she has a heart of stone or something but I never saw that the first few times seeing Paxton she would get serious yes but the moment he asks for a second chance and that she could be the one that got away she takes about five seconds to forget all the hurt that he caused her. And when she learns that his parents had died tragically a few years back she feels bad that she didn’t send flowers or a card to him. I thought I would honestly like her but the moment he says please she says ok or yes to whatever he asks. So when the blurb says that he works for his time for her, it means that he sent a couple flower bouquets that got him a date and then another date, until she got scared about being with him and the possible heart break, he confronted her and got annoyed, (awww how hard for him;( ). I stopped reading after that I’m not into the whole he gets whatever he wants she lets him do whatever storyline.
Paxton during college when they first got together treated it as a normal one night stand which is understandable and then became fb, all fine it was college so they didn’t have to commit to each other and were able to have some fun. But the disrespect that Paxton treats Demi with is unbearable. Talking about her with his friends saying that she was a good time who goes running to him whenever he called or texted saying that she was desperate to be with him and would talk to his friends about how she is just sex for him and that she means nothing. And many more things that are just plain hurtful behind her back! And didn’t have the decency to say goodbye when he left for the draft even though they were on and off for two years( with him enjoying time with other girls obviously) So eight years later, Paxton is lonely and sees all his friends married off and having families and decides that’s something he wants. And when he meets Demi again he greets her like if he didn’t use her, “but understands that what he did when he was younger was not good and that he knows he hurt her:(“ and then just cause he remembers what a good lay she was he decides that she’s the one who he wants to peruse. Long story short they get together and whenever she doesn’t feel ready to open up he keeps saying but I changed and I’m a different person. But when he first saw her all he remembered was the good sex and how desperate she was to be with him.
Demi seems like a nice and good person but she is a doormat for Paxton and lets him walk all over her. Just cause he is hot and pleasures her makes her forget that he was a total asshole that had her running to him even at 2-3 in the morning for a blowjob. I liked her and felt bad that she was treated that way, the blurb explains that she has a heart of stone or something but I never saw that the first few times seeing Paxton she would get serious yes but the moment he asks for a second chance and that she could be the one that got away she takes about five seconds to forget all the hurt that he caused her. And when she learns that his parents had died tragically a few years back she feels bad that she didn’t send flowers or a card to him. I thought I would honestly like her but the moment he says please she says ok or yes to whatever he asks. So when the blurb says that he works for his time for her, it means that he sent a couple flower bouquets that got him a date and then another date, until she got scared about being with him and the possible heart break, he confronted her and got annoyed, (awww how hard for him;( ). I stopped reading after that I’m not into the whole he gets whatever he wants she lets him do whatever storyline.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2022
I just couldn't get over how badly he treated her in college. There wasn't nearly enough groveling for her just to take him back.
January 9, 2022
if I could rate this book in the negatives i would: girl was a CARPET that boy walked ALL OVER THAT BITCH
January 23, 2022
2.5 rated down
- I needed more grovelling???
- think the writing could have been better
- it went so fast
- SERIOUSLY WHERE WAS THE GROVELLING THE GUY WAS A JERK AND A HALF
- I needed more grovelling???
- think the writing could have been better
- it went so fast
- SERIOUSLY WHERE WAS THE GROVELLING THE GUY WAS A JERK AND A HALF
April 15, 2018
When I saw the beautiful cover and title, WHEN STARS BURNOUT, I wanted to read this latest book by Carrie Aarons. They say you can't tell a book by it's cover, but this book did not disappoint. It is a beautiful Second Chance Romance. But from the Prologue I was worried that I could never like Paxton Shaw.
Demi Rosen was madly in love with the college football's star player. For two years she waited by her phone, because when Paxton called, she would go. She had never or never would, say no. Her friends were disapproving of her being at his beck and call. She knows she is weak, but knows she won't stop. Because being with him is the best high she had ever known. Because when he touches her, there is no better feeling in the entire world. Paxton's relationship with Demi (if you could even call it that) when they were in college, was him being a total jerk. When Paxton Shaw left Demi Rosen without so much as a goodbye, he took her star shine with him. Her universe exploded!
Eight years have passed since she had last laid eyes on Paxton Shaw. Demi had started her own charitable company, and was CEO of Wish Upon a Star. She had started it with an inheritance from her grandfather when he died. She lost a younger brother to cancer when he was only seven. All the children that she worked with now reminded her of stars who might lose their shine here on earth, but they would be watching from above. Imagine her surprise when the wish of Ryan, one of her favorite children at Wish Upon a Star, had his very wish standing in front of her. Paxton Shaw, all-star tight end in the National Football League was now playing here in Charlotte. She wanted to run, but being the professional that she was, she stepped forward to help Ryan's wish come true.
Both of them were now thirty years old. They were not the young college students, and both had drastic changes in their lives. Demi felt he had ruined her for anyone else, forever, and was never going to be hurt by him again. Paxton was filled with guilt over how he had treated her back then. How his life would be so different if they had only both committed to each other. He wanted her now like he never had back then. She denied him, but every time she saw him, amnesia set in where the feelings of abandonment were concerned. That he was the earth and she was the moon, and she couldn't help but get pulled back to him.
Demi Rosen was madly in love with the college football's star player. For two years she waited by her phone, because when Paxton called, she would go. She had never or never would, say no. Her friends were disapproving of her being at his beck and call. She knows she is weak, but knows she won't stop. Because being with him is the best high she had ever known. Because when he touches her, there is no better feeling in the entire world. Paxton's relationship with Demi (if you could even call it that) when they were in college, was him being a total jerk. When Paxton Shaw left Demi Rosen without so much as a goodbye, he took her star shine with him. Her universe exploded!
Eight years have passed since she had last laid eyes on Paxton Shaw. Demi had started her own charitable company, and was CEO of Wish Upon a Star. She had started it with an inheritance from her grandfather when he died. She lost a younger brother to cancer when he was only seven. All the children that she worked with now reminded her of stars who might lose their shine here on earth, but they would be watching from above. Imagine her surprise when the wish of Ryan, one of her favorite children at Wish Upon a Star, had his very wish standing in front of her. Paxton Shaw, all-star tight end in the National Football League was now playing here in Charlotte. She wanted to run, but being the professional that she was, she stepped forward to help Ryan's wish come true.
Both of them were now thirty years old. They were not the young college students, and both had drastic changes in their lives. Demi felt he had ruined her for anyone else, forever, and was never going to be hurt by him again. Paxton was filled with guilt over how he had treated her back then. How his life would be so different if they had only both committed to each other. He wanted her now like he never had back then. She denied him, but every time she saw him, amnesia set in where the feelings of abandonment were concerned. That he was the earth and she was the moon, and she couldn't help but get pulled back to him.
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