Review sites are so back up these days, it has become common to receive a  new review months after your book has been released. I was happy to experience this phenomenon today when Bitten by Books gave Everlong 5 tombstones, and a glowing review.

As for the book itself, I can’t begin to tell you how pleased I am with Everlong by Hailey Edwards. It’s a story about forgiveness, breaking out of your shell, and allowing yourself to love someone with all your heart. Madelyn is stubborn, spoiled, but willing to admit when she’s made a mistake. Her growth throughout the book is extensive, transforming her from the naïve princess to a woman who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. Clayton was a complete surprise. He’s the leader of the colony and can insight drooling from any female at fifty paces. Normally, these characteristics go hand in hand with a stereotypical alpha male: controlling, if not loyal, headstrong, and ready to take what he believes is his. Clayton is nothing like that. Yes, he’s loyal and he can be headstrong, but his feelings for Maddie are so intense he’s willing to whatever it takes to make sure she’s happy, even give her up.

I sincerely hope there will be more stories in this world. An uprising is on the horizon, and I picked out a few side characters I’d love to learn more about. It’s rare to find a book with this much emotion and sexual tension without being bombarded by an overload of the actual sexual act. Again, I was surprised. Maddie and Clayton waited until they were both sure before taking their relationship to the next level. That’s just another reason why Everlong receives 5 tombstones. Very well done, Hailey!