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Until Lydia

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Can a wild mama bear and an orderly Tennessee State Trooper fight the BOOM? There are two sides to Lydia Roark. The wild, fun-loving woman who fights hard to protect bears and other animals. And the strait-laced, doting mother of twins who dresses properly and covers her tattoos so not to embarrass her husband. But when her life blows up in a silicon, Botoxed way, her fiery side is unleashed. The cheating husband she struggled to be perfect for will beg for mercy as Lydia fights for her children and becomes the mama bear she studies. Enter Maverick Whitlock, the argumentative state trooper has a bear problem and is instantly attracted to the curvy and newly single mom. He’s orderly and everything she doesn’t want anymore. He only wants to protect her and is okay with the chaos she and her children bring to his life. When Lydia’s ex comes after her and the kids, Maverick is willing to give up his badge for them. Lydia isn’t ready for another attempt at a happily ever after. But you can’t fight the BOOM when it finds you.

Until Lydia is part of Aurora Rose Reynolds's Happily Ever Alpha World.

153 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 4, 2023

52 people are currently reading
117 people want to read

About the author

E.M. Shue

102 books1,473 followers
E.M. Shue is an Alaskan award-winning romance author. She writes in many different sub-genres but always features badass heroines in gritty situations. As the mother to three grown daughters and two granddaughters she wants readers to be able to see that tough girls can have happy endings too. She is married to the love of her life of over twenty years who she married within months of starting to date, instalove is real.

She published her first book in 2017 after having a dream that later became the Beverley Award winning, Sniper’s Kiss. Since her debut, she has gone on to win this award three more times with different books and has published over forty titles.

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5 stars
145 (47%)
4 stars
87 (28%)
3 stars
51 (16%)
2 stars
19 (6%)
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4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Marija.
653 reviews43 followers
January 30, 2025
HEA

I love everything that is entwined with Until series and the boom. The chemistry, characters and every part of the story was wonderfully written. I will look into the author and read her past and future works.
Profile Image for TLynn.
1,467 reviews16 followers
October 8, 2023
Until Lydia is part of Aurora Rose Reynolds’s Happily Ever Alpha World where each book can be read as a standalone. This book was short but full of fun, romance, and second chances. It is the perfect book for a day spent reading. I was caught at the beginning of the book and had to finish it in one day. I have never read this author’s work before but I will certainly be on the lookout for it in the future.
Profile Image for Cheryl O'Harney.
1,255 reviews21 followers
August 5, 2023
E.M. Shue brings readers a fantastic addition to the Happily Ever Alpha World with this thrilling page turner of a romance read, there’s an element of danger, a protective swoon worthy hero and a strong heroine.

Lydia Roarks marriage is over, she knew there had been problems but never thought that her now ex-husband Colton would cheat on her, having filed for divorce she’s now concentrating on her two children as well as her job as bear expert and head curator at Nashville Zoo. 

Enter state trooper Maverick Whitlock, he and Lydia meet when he brings a trafficked bear cub to the zoo. Sparks fly between the two of them and despite the fact that neither were looking for love they catch feelings, after all they do say there’s no fighting the BOOM.

When Lydia’s ex Colton and his horrid new fiancee cause trouble for Lydia, Maverick’s got her back. Things go from bad to worse when Colton goes after both Lydia and the children. Maverick proves the lengths he’ll go to in order to keep what he deems his, safe, going as far as putting his badge on the line. Will they both get their HEA, proving once again the BOOM theory, or will outside interference see that never happens?

This one’s an absolute must read for those who are fans of the Happily Ever Alpha World, I was hooked from start to finish, another great addition to the series.

𝐵𝑜𝑜𝓀𝓈 & 𝐵𝑒𝓎𝑜𝓃𝒹 𝐵𝓁𝑜𝑔
𝔸ℝℂ 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨.
Profile Image for Kathy Wideman.
2,596 reviews42 followers
August 1, 2023
This book is part of the Happily Ever Alpha world. Each book can be read as a standalone. This book was a fantastic read. I was hooked right from the start. It is funny, romantic, action packed, and more. Lydia catches her husband cheating right away in the beginning. She doesn’t hesitate to start the divorce process. Maverick meets her when bringing a bear cub that is part of a case he is working. He wants Lydia right away but over hears that she is the process of a divorce. He knows he has to wait. The two keep running into each other off and on. More so when things start happening to Lydia and her friend. Mav is going to prove to Lydia that he isn’t like her ex. That he wants to be there not just for a good time but for the long run. He sees her and her children as his future. Lydia has mixed feelings about Mav. Not that she thinks he isn’t a good guy but that it is too soon. That she needs to focus on getting back to her old self and her children. But the more time she spends with and around Mav the less she wants to fight what she feels for him. The book does end with a surprising twist. I loved it though and found it a great ending. I loved these characters and would love to read more about them. Fantastic job E.M. Shue.
Profile Image for Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’.
3,307 reviews2 followers
August 3, 2023
4.50 Stars

I practically finished this one in one day… I loved it so much.

Lydia decides to surprise her husband to spice up her marriage, what happens next blows up her whole life. Now she is going through a messy divorce and trying to get her life on track for her kids. But it seems her ex doesn’t want her to move on and neither does the psyco woman his involved with.

Enter Sergeant Maverick Whitlock. He meets Lydia when he brings her a bear cub, he rescued in a case his working on. And immediately he is infatuated with this woman, but also realizes that she is going to need time to get her life in order. But it seems fate has other plans for them, when it keeps throwing them together. But he also has his work cut out for him proving to her that she can trust him and all he wants to do is protect her and her kids…

Lots of awesome moments in this story. I loved that its my favorite type of romance. Single mother, romance, throw in some suspense and a protective alpha and you have an amazing story. Loved it 😊

Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
3,350 reviews19 followers
August 3, 2023
Until Lydia by EM Shue 5 stars due 8/4/23
Lydia & Maverick

Sometimes you'll try anything to save a marriage from going bad. Sometimes there is no saving. Finding out the husband she has changed herself for is cheating on her and their twins is the end. There is no going back. She's devoting herself to her job as a mammal curator in the zoo and mother to her wonderful kids.

Enter Maverick with an animal she needs to save. An animal gang the authorities are tracking. He's on the case to find the culprits and to save the much too young animal to be separated from his mother. When he sees Lydia he is speechless—briefly. Teasing her might become a favorite thing for him. That and watching the gorgeous woman.

Another amazing story that can stand alone yet fans of the series will recognize characters from other stories. I did and really enjoyed catching up. They all have experienced the boom. Are Lydia and Maverick in for their own Boom?

Touching relationships with adults, family, kids, and animals—not counting the bad guys. Enjoy!
483 reviews8 followers
August 8, 2023
Lydia and Maverick

This book was so much fun to read! Lydia makes one last effort to put the spark back in her marriage. Things didn't go as planned. Suddenly, she's in for the fight of her life, and dealing with attorneys. At work, a baby bear has been brought in. He is too young to leave his mother and is sick. Enter, Maverick. He is with the Kentucky State Police investigating an animal smuggling ring. Lydia faces off with him, and lets him know where the zoo stands regarding the baby bear. Needless to say, when they meet, sparks flew. Lydia is in for a whirlwind of emotions but is up for the challenge. Maverick will do anything to keep her and her kids safe. Little does he know, his skills are going to be put to the test. Danger is lurking, and it's up to Maverick and his friends to take care of the problem. Can he get to Lydia in time to save her from a madman? Get this book and find out. I promise you won't regret it. Sorry no spoilers. I was given this ARC and here is my honest review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,076 reviews50 followers
August 5, 2023
This book had me at single mom then sold me on Maverick. He sounded like a guy to have Lydia and her kids' back. I was so proven right, but man did my heart hurt for the reason why Maverick had to protect the little family. Lydia's ex is a real nasty piece of work. He is true scum of the earth and she had no idea how much the evil ran deep in his veins. There were moments this book had me on the edge of my seat with the suspenseful moments, but there are plenty heartfelt moments along with steamy ones. This book had a great combination of heat, heat, and suspense. I really liked seeing some of my favorite characters of the Happily Ever Alpha World. I love when they make cameos. A great story that will have you hooked right from the beginning because of the characters. The epilogue is not only the reward for the reader, but for these characters as well for what they had endure to get their HEA.
Profile Image for Shelly.
Author 2 books38 followers
August 5, 2023
As soon as I read Tennessee, I was all in, considering it’s where I live! I love a good instalove that has spirited characters and this book perfectly fits that bill. Lydia’s ex reminded me a lot of my own – played worse than dirty — he was downright vile!

Maverick is headstrong and determined to claim Lydia as his own while also proving to her that he’s nothing like Colton. He immediately puts her and the kids first which is completely swoon-worthy! His actions were truly admirable as he gives Lydia the time she needs.

I related to the instalove/lust factor as that is what I experienced with my current husband. If you love a book that gets into your feels quickly, then get your hands on this one. You get a bit of risk alongside all of the banter and steam that keeps you feeling that deep tingle of a great story line.

I received a complimentary copy for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
924 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2023
Until Lydia by E. M. Shue is part of the Happily Ever Alpha world, and boy oh boy did it deliver on that delicious BOOM factor that I simply adore and can't get enough of!

Lydia is feisty and I love it! She's been knocked back a bit in life, but she keeps getting up and swinging, smiling whilst doing so! She's passionate, driven, loving, and has such inner strength.

And Maverick? Holy moly, goodness gracious, and everything in between! He's dedicated, charming, knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after it. He's ALL that.

This story is all about the connection that two halves of one whole have found in one another. It's action packed, dramatic, and emotional, evocative as it has your imagination swooning and leaves you breathless with anticipation.

I loved the BOOM that this delivered, and when you read it, I hope you do too!

P. S. Definitely off to reread Until Tucker again!
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
2,955 reviews56 followers
August 2, 2023
The BOOM has hit yet again in this wonderful slow burn mesmerising story in the 'Happily Every Alpha World', I loved everything about Until Lydia, she was a strong character who had been trying to be someone else for years to appease her soon-to-be ex, and now like a butterfly she is finally being able to be herself again, I adore grumpy silent, sexy heroes and policeman Maverick was dripping in both, but when he brought out his swoon not only for Lydia but her two children I was a goner, and what set this story apart was the brilliant woven in suspense element that kept me on my toes, twists, turns, slow-burning heat with the infamous BOOM thrown in what more could you want in your next must read.
Profile Image for Jennifer Brewster .
1,456 reviews18 followers
August 6, 2023
Mav & Lydia

So I read Until Trevor when it came out so I was so excited that Lydia was getting her story too. I love that this story fully immersed you in the world of the Mayson’s again cause I just love them so much.

The story features Lydia and her two adorable kids who are dealing with an unhinged ex. And Maverick works for the police. Lydia works at the zoo and they cross paths for the first time when Mav brings in a bear cub who was going to be trafficked.

The suspense was great. Mav & Lydia’s relationship was a slow burn even though Mav knew he wanted Lydia from the get go. He was giving her time to move on from her ex cause he knew he wasn’t gonna be a rebound.

This was another great addition to the Until series and I’m excited for more!!!
2,539 reviews7 followers
September 12, 2023
Lydia married Colton over seven years ago, has twins and works as the head curator at the Nashville Zoo. She is also the bear expert at the bear expert and was contacted when the brown bear cub was found. Micah and Michelle are fraternal twins and mean everything to Lydia.

Maverick is working with a unit of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and found a brown bear cub in a house they raided. He got out of the military and moved to Smyrna, TN. Maverick got his dog Sully over two years ago and is his companion.


Lydia and Maverick deal with so much throughout this book from raw emotions, abuse, threats, betrayal and danger. I absolutely loved Maverick’s relationship with Micah and Michelle.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
18.9k reviews236 followers
August 3, 2023
Lydia is a newly divorced from her cheating ex, and is a single mom to her little girls, and she is passionate and fights to save bears and other animals. Maverick is a state trooper, and he brings in a bear cub to Lydia, and he is instantly attracted to her. Can Maverick convince Lydia he is nothing like her ex? This is a well written action packed, emotionally charged story, which has friendships, family, twists, romance, humor, witty banter, suspense, and love, which leads to an entertaining addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,931 reviews16 followers
August 4, 2023
Until Lydia by E.M. Shue is part of the Happily Ever Alpha World Series. This book can be a standalone book if you wish to do so. This is the story of Maverick and Lydia. Lydia is starting a new chapter in her life after she caught her then husband cheating on her. Now she is trying to move forward with her life and her kids. But her ex-husband isn't taking things as good. Maverick Whitlock enters her world when he brings in a rescue animal to her. Maverick feels the 'boom' instantly but knows that she is fresh off a bad relationship so he knows he has to go slow. Loved this book and this series is the bomb!

1,391 reviews9 followers
August 4, 2023
This was a great story. Lydia found her husband cheating and filed for a divorce. She then meets Maverick, a cop, when he came to the zoo where she worked. There was immediate attraction between the two but Maverick held back because of her divorce proceedings. Lydia went through so much drama when dealing with her soon to be ex-husband and Maverick was there every time. I loved the drama and danger in this story and how Maverick was a gentleman waited for Lydia to complete her divorce and be ready to be with him. Loved this book. I received a review copy of this book and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
Profile Image for Jenn.
31 reviews
August 4, 2023
3.5-4 stars

Somewhat frustrating but mostly entertaining storyline. Liked Mav a lot but Lydia’s thoughts and actions were frustrating. If I had all that family money, two young kids to protect and a highly deranged and violent ex and his fiancée after them and physically assaulting her…I would’ve done anything to create a bubble of protection around me & my kids! Instead, she was so wishy washy and pushed back on being fully protected. But, I did want to read through the end to find out what happens. And I always like catching up with the Mason family.
Profile Image for Sara McClaflin.
125 reviews6 followers
August 4, 2023
Read my full review here: https://onreviewbysara.com/2023/08/04...

I was given this ARC as a gift from the author. My opinions and thoughts of the book are mine alone.

My Rating: I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. I believe this story fits into this enormous world. Now, I want to read more from this author. This book may have introduced me to the author, but the writing will keep me coming back for more. This is just the beginning of my obsession of this author. I look forward to more exciting adventures to come.
Profile Image for Tara Smith(Tara's Romance Reads).
717 reviews9 followers
August 5, 2023
Lydia is strong, sweet, and just trying to move on from her cheating husband. Maverick is strong, stubborn, and super protective. These two form such an amazing connection.

What a fantastic journey. Be prepared to be on the edge of your seat through the entire book. Full of intense suspense, twists and turns you won't see coming, passion, and love. I was hooked from the start and could not put it down. An absolute must read!
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,344 reviews118 followers
August 21, 2023
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0

~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ☆☆☆☆☆ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Lydia's heartbreak will not destroy her and she will take care her babies, then in walks Maverick; a man that will protect them all but is she ready for that and the BOOM. Her cheating husband and his side piece aren't done with her yet. I love the story, connections, drama and the BOOM. I love E.M. Shue so much and how she weaves a story. I highly recommend this book and story it was amazing.
Profile Image for Kirsty.
109 reviews
August 4, 2023
I love a good Boom!

Maverick and Lydia's story is great. I love how EM Shue has put parts of Tucker and Sydney's story with Mavericks and Lydia's.
Great storyline involving trafficked animals, a zoo, a crazy ex and Maverick and Lydia's boom. Some of the Maysons make a welcomed appearance too.
Loved it.
Profile Image for Surrender2silk.
1,381 reviews11 followers
August 5, 2023
Lydia is a sassy girl with tattoos. When she found her husband cheating. She’s finally free. She takes her her two kids and starts a new life with them. Maverick is a state trooper. So when he gets a call, surprise she meets Lydia. She know she’s still married but that won’t stop him from trying to break through her walls. Super cute story about second change for love.
Profile Image for Lynne Garlick.
2,329 reviews25 followers
August 5, 2023
Oh my heart!

Oh. My. Heart!! I love everything about the boom! And this story has quickly become one of my favourites!!
Maverick knows what he wants the minute Lydia sasses him! But there is so much going in and every instance Maverick is there to help.
The friendship that builds whilst chaos ensues is just beautiful. I have loved everything about this story!
Profile Image for Mimirureviewbooks.
2,060 reviews
August 14, 2023
Until Lydia is a great story written by author E.M. Shue. This is another great addition to the series Happily Ever Alpha World. This is state trooper Sergeant Maverick Whitlock & Dr. Lydia Roark, head curator at Nashville Zoo second chance romance story. This is another well written romance, great characters and a smooth flowing story line that is both sweet and steamy.
Profile Image for Denise Scott.
397 reviews13 followers
August 29, 2023
loved this and would not have missed it !

I loved this story but it’s not butterflies and rainbows . A story with a strong plot and romance in it . With Lydia working for a zoo and Maverick working for the state police and a crazy ex husband I loved the journey the book took me on !
Profile Image for Sheila.
2,113 reviews5 followers
December 5, 2023
⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟⭐️

I loved this book, it went right along with Tucker’s book. Lydia’s twin were the cutest. But their dad was the worst, I can’t believe the ending. I won’t spoil it but her being a bear expert and her crazy ex being a closet big game hunter…. Then there was the bear trap, ouch!! Carma
Profile Image for Robin.
2,299 reviews19 followers
August 6, 2023
Maverick & Lydia

Loved it!!! I went back and reread Until Tucker first (and loved it all over again). Maverick and Lydia’s story is the other half of Tucker & Sydney’s story. I could not put it down. I was on edge almost the whole book! The Boom is strong with this couple. ❤️
Profile Image for Stefanie Nelson hetland.
545 reviews16 followers
August 7, 2023
Hot

Omg I cannot say enough about this book! HOT, sexy cop that knows what he wants when he sees it. Lydia is getting out of a nasty divorce that turns worse than she can ever imagine. Maverick is there for it all and at Lydia’s side. The Boom hits again.
773 reviews4 followers
August 7, 2023
Good

This book was pretty good. I'm not sure it really deserves four stars because in a few places I found the characters lacking, that something that makes your heart beat faster. It's still worth your time to read. Shirley
Profile Image for Kathyjacks.
Author 0 books144 followers
August 12, 2023
Sweet HEA

Such a sweet romance. There are dark parts with the heroines ex but the hero is dreamy. They get their sweet HEA and we get to see characters make cameos from the until series. I loved this and it only took me a couple of hours to read .
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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