This book grips you from the first chapter. I knew I had never read a book by Shelly Cruz, but I was surprised that this was a debut novel. Very well done and edited for a first time author. Congratulations. I cannot wait to read more.

This debut novel from Shelly Cruz is filled with emotion. From the 1st chapter until the author's note, all-consuming emotion is there in nearly every page.
I felt it when reading the 1st chapter, when Lena is leaving the love of her life, Massimo, for reasons revealed only 70% into the book.
I felt it when Lena and Massimo meet by chance in a store after 9 years and realize their love is still very much alive.
I felt it when they got their happy ending.
I felt it in the author's note when the author explains how this book is based on her life experience.
Even though the reason behind Lena's decision to flee Boston 2 months before her wedding is revealed very late in the book, I guest it pretty early on. I wish the author would have had Lena tell us sooner what she went through and go through the rough moments with her.
I would also have liked Massimo's POV during Lena's 9 year absence instead of after she was back. I think it would have made for a smoother storyline.
I appreciated the insight into Boston, the restaurants, the music inserts, the different foods specific to Puerto-Rican and Italian cultures.
Overall, a pretty impressive debut novel.

Okay, so, it's a page turner, that's for sure, it didn't have the sticky, cheesy vibe that most romance novels got nowadays, i would actually call it a "mature romance", from the storyline to the characters, their flaws and attractiveness, it was pretty decent.
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However, as much as i liked it, there were some details that wasn't a deal breaker for me per se, i mean, i finished the book, that says something, but i could've definitely enjoyed it more if not for these details.
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Firstly, i know the book was meant to be read by adults, which is me so no problem here, but i was actually kind of bored of the intimate scenes, they were all the same details, they kind of had the same dialogue and it got so repetitive, i also didn't think the storyline was in need of all these scenes, could've been less in my opinion 🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️
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Secondly, i know each person is entitled to their opinion, but Massimo's perspective on adoption was kind of disheartening, and it wasn't his dislike of the concept, but it was the way he expressed his side that was cringe-y, he should've been more respectful, i think it was written by the author just to make us picture how the communication was between them both.
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There were some paragraphs that were handled rather blandly by the author, there would be a climax scene when something is revealed or an emotional conversation happening, and then the author swiftly goes on about the weather, or the scenery, or music, it was like going into the top of a rollercoaster but instead of going down abruptly, you descend slowly, which was frustrating.
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Other than what i mentioned i actually enjoyed it, the storyline although not a new one, it was powerful, raw and real, especially after reading the author's note at the end clarifying that the book was mostly based on her own story.
The characters were loveable and attractive, you could feel their deep love through the pages, and as a result, fall in love with them.
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*I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review via netgalley and the publisher*

Oh my heck. This book took me on an emotional roller coaster. I was gripped with curiosity and interest wondering what would happen next! Lenas journey was relatable and gripping. I couldn’t put this down. Loved the characters, we need more strong women in books!

Absolutely amazing debut! Shelly Cruz is talented right out of the gate. I can not wait to see what she does in the future.
Nine Years Gone was steamy angst - my favorite kind of book. She nailed the push and pull of the main characters relationship. My heart almost couldn't take their story. Solid writing and great characters make this a book that NEEDS to be read.

Thanks to the Author, Shelly Cruz, the publisher (Shelly Cruz Writes LLC) and NetGalley for an ARC for an honest review.

Very hard to believe that this was a debut novel--way to go Shelly Cruz. This 'love story' between Lena and Massimo was true and real; this relationship was something you could see in every day life, and then Lena ups and leaves everything she knows and loves. The story is set between past and present, and you get that bit of mystery of the why she left, throughout the story line.

I would recommend this book and author any day!!

I was hooked by the first chapter! The writing keeps you engaged and the characters are to die for! Would totally recommend!!

This is a debut book but you would never know. The book follows the love story of Marialena and Massimo and is told both in past and present. I enjoyed getting to see them as a loving couple before Lena makes the decision to leave everyone she loves behind. There is an air of mystery to the story as we don't know why she leaves and that kept me reading. I had my theories and wanted to know if I was correct. Although this is a love story for me it is more about Lena and one that will resonate with so many woman. I hate that I cannot talk about it but once you read the book you will understand why I didn't spoil it for you. The storyline was well thought out, with characters that are easy to relate my only complaint is I would have liked more from Massimo's perspective.

Nine Years Gone is the debut book from Shelly Cruz. She takes a very difficult subject matter and gives it her own spin. It will touch on a women's issue that will be very personal to many women, so hold tight before you make any decisions about the heroine.

Marialena and Massimo's story begins with a goodbye. Their story is one of instant attraction when they meet. But it's a case of bad timing, until Lena is free from her current relationship and she takes Massimo up on his many offers of asking her out. We get to see a relationship in past and present and see how they got to where they are at. We get to see a relationship build and see how strongly they connected from day one. But there is one thing that will ruin them. The one thing that Lena will make a decision about and it isn't taken lightly.

I have to say, I understood Lena in some ways but I was frustrated with her in others. She took something away without letting anyone else in. But it was a part of her that meant something (and something she thought was a make or break deal in her relationship) and she had to act. This is where communication is so very important to any relationship. Communicate!! But this is a romance and romance isn't perfect. What would you do for love? What would you give up for love? Would you pay the price and would it be worth it?

Overall, this was a good debut. The story flowed well and we got to see the thought process from Lena. I would've liked to see more from Massimo from the years gone from his POV. I think it would've been nice to see where his head was at. The parts that shined were when they were together. Their love of music, food and Boston was obvious (I was getting hungry with all the food talk 😉), but I liked seeing the bits of them in the past so we could understand them better. I wish there was more from their time apart so we could feel their longing, but it also wasn't completely necessary. After Lena's return, the story went by quick and was pretty fast-paced, but that's how feelings go when you know.
The author's note at the end was a personal one and I'm glad she added that so we could better understand the content and the decisions her character made. I know Lena did not take her decisions lightly. It hurt her just as much. But NINE years?! I don't know if I could do that. But it's the sacrifices you make for others that could change your whole life. What would YOU do??

What a great story! Lena and Massimo are characters you love and want to know... their story is sad, yet you still want to read it! I, after reading it, have all of these ideas about what they do in their lives.

Lena ran... I completely get that.. it may be what I would do if I were in the same situation. Massimo had things he wanted for them 9 years ago, and he never wavered. What if it could never happen? How can Lena ever keep him from something he’s always wanted? She knew she couldn’t... and didn’t know any other way out, so she left.

When she returns, she knows she made a mistake, knows she should have talked to Massimo, knows she was the cause of much hurt that may never be made better... but part of her still thinks she did the right thing.... at least in one way.

If you’ve not read this, I encourage you to do so! Massimo is a wonderful, yet flawed man who loves with all of his heart. Lena is loving, and selfless in her way. They were a strong couple, completely devoted to each other.... until something shook Lena to her core and she made a decision for Massimo. But was she right? Read it and see for yourself!!

Unfortunately I personally couldn't connect with the characters or plot. After finishing the book you learn more about the author, so I get why it was done the way it was, and I truly hope it was cathartic writing it for her, and helps others. The miscommunication and the way the female lead went about things drove me mental, even knowing the why.
In saying all of this it was still a good debut that shows promise.

This is a love story between Lena a tall, olive skinned, long dark haired beauty who falls in love with Massimo, a tall, dark haired good looking Italian. Their romance was hot and steamy until Lena made a decision that would change everyone's lives. Then you ask yourself, WHAT just happened, WHO is she really, WHERE is her life going, and WHY did she do what she did.
This is the first time I have read anything by Shelly Cruz and it certainly won't be the last, I was impressed with the reality and details of the story.

4*
Marialena was in a loving relationship with Massimo until she left him with no word to anyone before their wedding.
Massimo is distraught and eventually rebuilds his life with camila & has 2 boys lucio 4 & leondro 3.
He's never felt complete but now she is back he wants answers, she's never stopped loving him but did she make the right decision?
Miscommunication at its worst.
A difficult story of love and sacrifices.

Deep. Dark. These words encapsulate what love and heartbreak can really be, especially when you're the one hiding something, doing the breaking, and even trying to rebuild. I loved the twists and story line. Definitely an interesting read if you're into romance but don't want the super steamy happenings all the time.