Overall this was a good story. I was a little skeptical on how Jennifer Ryan would explain how Evangeline ended up in jail. I have to say overall it made sense and didn't feel unrealistic. I felt that Evangeline was actually too nice, especially in the face of her mother's anger and blame. I enjoyed the dynamic of Chris and Evangeline, though I felt he should have groveled a little more. I would have liked to have seen more detailed writing on the development of their relationship. Overall, a good romance.

A solid contemporary romance with a tinge of thriller thrown in for good measure. While the mystery angle isn't as strong as I'd like I did enjoy the evolution of Evangeline's relationships with her family and Chris as they gradually realize how misplaced their anger at her has been. Its something that could very easily descend in melodrama but everything feels justified and real. Solid supporting cast though Evangeline's nefarious ex boyfriend is a bit mustache twirling and if the plot suffers anywhere its with Evangeline's escaped attempting to trap him in his wine counterfeiting schemes (though I will say I didn't know that was a thing and that's a pretty cool crime).

I would definitely suggest this to fans of contemporary romance with a dash of family drama.

Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of The Me I Used to Be in exchange for my honest review.

It was a quick, fun and predictable read, but perfect for an afternoon at the pool or beach. I liked the characters, they were relatable and you cared about them.

The Me I Used To Be is an interesting light read. Evangeline returns home after serving time for a crime she didn't commit. Her father left her a burdensome inheritance, the family farm. It also comes with a mother and brothers who want nothing to do with her. Enter hero/good cop/love interest. He's decided to prove that Evangeline is innocent. You can probably guess the ending. It's a predictable story but still an enjoyable read. The story is engaging and well written. The characters are relatable, entertaining and some have charm. I liked the fact that I was able to read it quickly. If you are short on time but want a good story with substance, this will work for you. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.