Review Card & Book Review- When I Should’ve Stayed By Max Monroe

She thought they were divorced. He never filed the papers.

Now he’s determined to prove their love story isn’t over.

Josie: Before The Moment

There are ghosts at every corner. In the stolen kisses while I waitressed at the diner, in the town festivals in the square, in the many jokes about Betty Bagley and her pie at the Fall Farmer’s Market, and in countless nights spent watching Clay make drinks with that handsome smile of his plastered on his face while I sat on a stool at the bar. It should all feel familiar and comforting, and yet, it makes it hard for the person I am now to breathe at all. I wish I’d been stronger. I wish I’d been wiser. I wish I didn’t have to do this. I wish.

Tonight will be a defining moment for the rest of my life. I have to end it now……before it ends me.

Clay: After The Moment

When Josie and I said, ‘I do’, I thought it’d be us against the world forever. But I wasn’t expecting the world to be so against us. I know I should’ve stayed that night, and I should have gone back a heck of a lot sooner. Because I don’t know how to be here. I don’t know how to be anywhere. Truth is, I don’t know how to be without Josie at all. She might think we’re done, but I’m going to spend the rest of my life making sure we’re not.

About The Author

My Review

This story follows Clay, a hero who’s completely and unapologetically in love with Josie. He’s the kind of man who makes you swoon—loyal, gentle, and devoted to the woman he never stopped loving. Josie, however, carries the weight of grief and secrets that once kept her from fully embracing their relationship. Their breakup was painful, but when Clay returns five years later determined to win her back, his quiet persistence and heartfelt sincerity make their second chance deeply moving.

The book shines through Clay’s unwavering devotion and the tender way he helps Josie lower her guard again. Their chemistry remains strong despite the years apart, and their reunion brims with emotion and hope. The themes of grief and healing are explored with care, making Josie’s journey feel authentic and touching.

Although the pacing and timeline could have been smoother, the emotional payoff and beautifully drawn characters—especially Clay—make this a memorable and heartfelt addition to the Red Bridge series.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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