The last time I saw my first love was twelve years ago. We fell hard and fast, but it didn’t stop me from leaving.
I never expected to see her again, but when I move back to my small hometown, there’s no avoiding it—especially since her dad’s my new boss.
The more time we spend together, the more I want a second chance to be the man she deserves. As old sparks resurface, we grow closer. Though … grow closer. Though she denies she feels the same, I notice the way her body reacts when I’m near.
Gemma isn’t mine—yet—but I’m willing to risk everything for her.
KEEPING YOU AWAY is book 1 in the Tyler & Gemma duet and must be read first.
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This epic “all the feels” second chance romance pulled me in on the first page and started tugging my feels very early on in the book and throughout the entire book I don’t think my heart rate slowed down. The phrase “it’s complicated” was made for Tyler and Gemma.
The chemistry between them was intense anytime they were in the same room you could FEEL the pull between them. This felt like the ultimate slow burn that leads to an epic explosion.
I’m glad we don’t have to wait long for book 2 of Tyler and Gemma I need to know what happens next.
Keeping You Away is the first title in the Ex Con Duet series, featuring Tyler and Gemma. Tyler appeared in Always Mine and Always Yours, Liam and Madelyn’s duet, and I couldn’t wait to read his story. Gemma and Tyler’s story is an intense, angsty, slow burn, second chance romance.
Tyler is my kind of hero, loyal, kind ,caring, compassionate, charming, hardworking and honest. He’s a former military man, who has returned to the town of his childhood after leaving prison for a crime he did not commit. He’s a good guy, and his loyalty knows no bounds when it comes to those he holds dear.
Gemma is Tyler’s younger sister’s best friend. Tyler was her first love, and now she doesn’t know what to make of her feelings now that he has returned to town, and she’s preparing to get married.
The chemistry and sexual tension between this pair is undeniable and oozes off the page. I’m generally not a fan of flashbacks, but in this title they are in the form of letters that Gemma and Tyler sent to each other whilst he in the military and it shows the course of their romance, and how they fell in love.
I can’t wait to see what happens next in Needing You Close.
Slow clap in the front for the ladies of Kennedy Fox!!! They have done it again. This is Kennedy Fox at their finest. They have managed to perfect the slow burn, angst filled, heartbreaking second chance story with the right amount of suspense and danger mixed in. Have you ever felt like you had heart palpitations that grew with every single page you turned? That is Tyler & Gemma’s story. While I couldn’t stop reading I also wanted to slow down and take my time because I knew the end of the book was going to leave me dying to find out what happens next. So I will just be sitting over here in my corner counting down the days till the second book comes out.
Kennedy Fox bring the best of suspense, angst, swoon and hotness in Keeping You Away. Tyler and Gemma’s heartaching journey ripped my heart out. And at the same time the explosive storyline kept me on the edge. The writing just blew me away!
Tyler came out of prison after five years and decided to set his roots down in his home town. He was framed by the evil mafia princess Victoria O’Leary after he helped his best friends Liam and Maddie to escape her clutches. Now he needs a new start. But someone important from his past is there. Gemma. The only girl he ever loved. The girl whose heart he broke. The girl who is now a beautiful woman and engaged to a rich man. The girl whose father gave him a job despite his ex convict reputation.
So Kennedy Fox excel at few things and they unleashed their genius in full force. Bringing small town quirk, warmth and sweetness. Writing epic starcrossed couple. And creating a simple yet complicated storyline that will hook you from first page. Tyler was one of my favourite character from their previous books. And I desperately want a happily ever after for him. He had a tough life and he has shaped himself into a great man. Chivalrous. Charming. Protective. Hard working. Loyal. Honest. Ready to endanger himself for his friends and family. He made my heart and soul melt instantly! My heart breaks for him as he has to suffer silently to see Gemma with another undeserving man. He is still dealing with pain and anger from his unfair imprisonment. Gemma is such an amazing woman. Oh I feel all her doubts, fears, hesitation and heartache perfectly. She is torn between her responsibilities and her feelings.
You can expect all the angst to shred your heart! The back and forth moments, the almost there kisses, the hot and cold excitement- I was biting my nails and just wanted the answers. They have scorching hot chemistry and unresolved feelings. And the tension was so thick and terrifying! They try to resist the magnetic pull but it comes back to hurt and haunt them every single time. I positively hate Gemma’s fiance and I just need him out of the picture. But Kennedy Fox left me at that dangerous and cruel cliffhanger. I should be used to those punches but they still break me!
Keeping You Away by Kennedy Fox is the special kind of sexy and intense romance that I crave from them! And they didn’t disappoint me at all. Another must read romance from Kennedy Fox.
Received ARC for honest review
Tyler and Gemma are the two lead characters in this second chance at love, suspense story which is told in two books, um, I need book two now, just sayin’. I just knew it would be her! That’s all I am saying about the ending but holy moly are we in for a ride in Needing You Close!
First up, I really liked both characters but I did want to shake them, particularly Gemma, a time or two. How she couldn’t see Robert for the manipulative man I believe him to be I will never know. Yes, as you can tell, Robert isn’t my favorite character but he isn’t the worst… well I hope not. Tyler has such great qualities like loyalty and trustworthiness. I did understand his need to get away when he was younger but poor Gemma. She is such a caring person, family and friends mean everything to her and she too is very loyal. Their chemistry is so real and the tension around them so thick you’d need a machete to cut it.
The storyline is fast-paced with everything that goes on but the romance is very slow-burning, considering she is engaged that’s fair too. There is more going on than just the romance and holy moly is the suspense element heating up, I kept thinking things were going to happen around each corner. A fantastic sign as far as I’m concerned as it shows how embedded in the story I’d become and so quickly too.
I am counting down the days until book two releases.
Reviewer: Robyn
I really enjoyed reading Keeping You Away by Kennedy Fox. It’s the story of a young woman named Gemma, who is engaged to a man who is about 15 years older than she is whose name is Robert; Gemma is 30 years old. When Gemma was in high school she had a huge crush on her best friend, Everleigh’s brother, whose name is Tyler. Tyler joined the military after he graduated from high school, and he and Gemma wrote to each other the entire four years that Tyler served in the military. Gemma admitted to Tyler that she had feelings for him a couple of years after they started writing to each other, and shortly after Tyler confessed to Gemma that he had feelings for her, too. Shortly before Tyler was discharged from his military service, Gemma wrote to Tyler telling him that she was a virgin and that she wanted him to be her first lover, and the night of Gemma’s high school graduation, Gemma’s wish came true. Gemma and Tyler spent almost every minute together that summer, but after three months Tyler wanted to leave their hometown of Lawton Ridge, Alabama, and he begged Gemma to come with him. When Gemma told Tyler that she didn’t want to leave her friends and family, Tyler left town without her.
The book continues seven years later when Tyler returns to Lawton Ridge after spending five years in prison, for a crime he didn’t commit. He is hired by Gemma’s father, to work as a mechanic in his garage, and since Gemma works as the office manager there, they see each other every day. This novel tells the story of Gemma and Tyler trying to become friends after Tyler broke Gemma’s heart all those years ago.
I loved this book about Gemma and Tyler, and I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series. If you love romance novels, you will definitely enjoy this book. Kennedy Fox are wonderful writers of romance. This book has a great story and many interesting characters, and you will definitely be entertained!
Tyler has never forgotten his beautiful Gemma, nor gotten over her. But after having served in the military and having gotten out of prison for a crime he didn’t commit, he’s not in any state to be thinking of starting anything with her. Not to mention that she’s an engaged woman now. In a way he wishes he wouldn’t have to see her again, but he’s going to be working for her dad, so seeing her is inevitable. He’ll just have to suck it up.
Gemma’s less than pleased to find out her dad hired the man who broke her heart all those years ago. But her dad is all about paying it forward and giving people chances, so she’ll have to suck it up. She just didn’t count on her damn body betraying her every time she’s in the same room as he. But she’s an engaged woman, and loves her fiancé, so she won’t be anything more to Tyler than just a friend and his boss’s daughter. Right?
Wrong…because the chemistry between them cannot be denied, no matter that she’s engaged. And I just know they’ll find their way back to each other. If and that’s a big if, the person who came on the scene in the ending doesn’t mess things up for them!
I am dying to find out what happens next for Tyler and Gemma, mainly for Tyler because I want him to find the happiness he deserves. I admit I’m not that fond of Gemma – she’s wishy washy and a bit of a wimp. I wanted her to stand up to her douchey fiancé earlier, and take back her life. I also didn’t like how she lashed out at Tyler when she was in the wrong. Eh. But Tyler loves her so I’ll deal because she’s who he wants. Though this part of their story was slow burn, it set up for what I can tell is going to be an epic conclusion.
Tyler and Gemma are the two lead characters in this second chance at love, suspense story which is told in two books, um, I need book two now, just sayin’. I just knew it would be her! That’s all I am saying about the ending but holy moly are we in for a ride in Needing You Close!
First up, I really liked both characters but I did want to shake them, particularly Gemma, a time or two. How she couldn’t see Robert for the manipulative man I believe him to be I will never know. Yes, as you can tell, Robert isn’t my favourite character but he isn’t the worst… wellll I hope not. Tyler has such great qualities like loyalty and trustworthiness. I did understand his need to get away when he was younger but poor Gemma. She is such a caring person, family and friends mean everything to her and she too is very loyal. Their chemistry is so real and the tension around them so thick you’d need a machete to cut it.
The storyline is fast paced with everything that goes on but the romance is very slow burning, considering she is engaged that’s fair too. There is more going on than just the romance and holy moly is the suspense element heating up, I kept thinking things were going to happen around each corner. A fantastic sign as far as I’m concerned as it shows how embedded in the story I’d become and so quickly too.
I am counting down the days until book two releases.
Holy smokes, I don’t know how they do it with every duet! Kennedy Fox really leaves you hanging at the end there. Now I’m extra glad it’s only a month until book 2 is released!
Tyler Blackwood was Gemma Reid’s first love. He’s her best friend, Everleigh’s, older brother. A retired army man, a guy who loves boxing, and he’s kind. Gemma is the stereotypical quiet and shy girl who tends to get overlooked.
Will Tyler and Gemma beat the odds or will life destroy their chances?
Gemma is the one that got away. Tyler will always be the love of her life. It’s been 12 years since they’ve seen each other and he returns after some tough years and being setup. When he returns Gemma is no longer his but you can tell that they still have feelings for each other. Tyler respected her new relationship and she kept questioning her current one along with insecurities. I loved how Tyler kept in contact with Maddie and Liam. And his relationship with his Everleigh was beautiful. But he still had resentment towards the person that put him behind bars. And O M GGGGGGGGG the cliffhanger made me gasp and wonder wtf is going on?!?! I can’t wait for book 2!!!!
This book really sucked me in. The Ex-Con series is a spin-off from Kennedy Fox’s Roommate Duet series – Always Mine and Always Yours being the last of those. They are referenced quite a bit in this book, but I was able to catch on pretty quickly. Though if you want background, I’d start there.
The story picks up with Tyler getting released from prison after serving 5 years inside for a crime he didn’t commit – he was framed. He goes home to Lawton Ridge, Alabama, hoping to start his life over. But he ends up working at the same car repair shop where Gemma works. Gemma… the only girl he’s ever loved, but whose heart he broke 12 years earlier when he left town for the military.
He has no expectations of getting back together with Gemma, but the heat between them becomes impossible to ignore. The problem is Gemma is engaged to someone else, and Robert, her fiance, is a REAL piece of work. But Gemma doesn’t see what everyone else seems to see – that Robert is controlling and possessive and only seems to want her as a trophy wife.
Gemma’s feelings for Tyler don’t help her relationship with Robert, of course, and she has some serious misgivings about whether Robert is right for her – but we have to wait until the next book to find out what happens!! Aaargh! Between that and the cliffhanger related to Tyler’s dealings with the mob family he used to be mixed up with – I’m not sure how I’m gonna wait a month… Serenity Now….Serenity Now…..
The slow-burn chemistry between Tyler and Gemma is *delicious*. This was definitely one book I stayed up way too late to finish! My guess is when their relationship finally gets *ahem* consummated, it’s gonna be hot as all-get-out! Just be warned – you’ll be counting the days until Needing You Close comes out!
I’m a little late reading Kennedy Fox’s books, so I’m not caught up on this series. That being said, you really didn’t need to know much going into this one. Other characters and problems from the past are mentioned and I felt like you’re brought up to speed fairly well. I loved the angst and forbiddenness between Tyler and Gemma. There’s this pull between them even though its been years since they were together. Love his sister and all the girl friends that give Gemma so much support. Not a huge fan of Robert. Especially excited to read the second book after that ending and needing to know what’s going to happen!
OMG! I am on pins and needles and want book 2 now! Tyler and Gemma knew each other as kids then Tyler joined the military and Gemma began writing him letters. Even though she is his sister’s best friend and 4 years younger, these two found that spark and connection. When he left the military, they shared an amazing summer but Tyler didn’t want to stay in Lawton Ridge and Gemma didn’t want to leave with him. It’s now 12 years later and Tyler has just gotten out of prison and returned home. What Gemma doesn’t expect is for her father to hire him to work at their family garage. Their feelings are still there, bubbling under the surface but Gemma is engaged to Robert. I don’t like Robert and his controlling and manipulating ways. I want Gemma to wake up and realize she is going through the motions. AUGH! Tyler has skeletons in his past from living in Vegas which may try to destroy what he is building as he restarts his life. I love how this story ended with a perfect tease for upcoming drama which has me desperate for book 2. I voluntarily read an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I LOVED this book! Tyler was a fantastic, swoon worthy hero who you just couldn’t help but fall in love with. For the first time in all the books I’ve read I could really relate to the female main character, Gemma. I really felt her struggle and had been in the same position myself. Kennedy Fox sure knows how to do angst and I love it! So well written and entertaining. I can’t wait for the second half to see how everything turns out! Definitely recommend!!
Voluntary review of an ARC
Kennedy Fox’s Keeping You Away by far one of the best ex lovers trope I have read in a long time!!
Tyler and Gemma have known each other their whole lives. They have one mutual person in common which is Tyler’s sister and Gemma’s best friend, Everleigh. While Tyler was in the service, he and Gemma became close while writing to each other. During the time they would write to one another, the friendship they had started to become more. After he completes his service tours, they spend the best summer together but he feels trapped and leaves town. 5 years later, Tyler was released from prison for a crime he didn’t do and goes back to his hometown. Gemma is now engaged but the pull they have for each other is undeniable.
Will these two be able to be friends or will they be tempted to by the attraction that they still have?
Kennedy Fox does it again in keeping you away! I am glad we got to know more about Tyler and finally meet Gemma! I enjoyed the slow burn and the conversations between the characters. Lets just say Book 2 is going to be a ride and I am ready! Get this book you won’t be disappointed!
I think I need a real life Tyler! This book was everything I needed during this pandemic. Some days it’s hard to get into reading, well I couldn’t put this book down. Chores and work be damned! This book grabs you from the first page. Young love, that was four years of friendship, I love a good solid foundation in romance novels. Things happen and twelve years pass and the tension between Tyler and Gemma is felt through your reading device. I found myself having to slow down reading so I could savor their story. There’s twists, there’s turns, there surprises and there’s that gasping moment. Yes it leaves you hanging but if your a Kennedy Fox fan you already know that, so don’t be surprised or mad about it! I promise you it will be worth reading before book 2 comes out!
I received and ARC copy in return for my honest review
First… ARE YOU KIDDING ME? LoL
Ex Con Duet series…We are in for roller coaster ride..be ready as the wonderful Kennedy Fox amazingly Delivered in Keeping You Away.
Tyler and Gemma story is so precious that you want to take time…slow down and feel every word pouring out of this lovely book especially with the letters. That’s a beautiful touch there as you get to know more of Tyler and Gemma.
This is completely different flow to any other books they’ve written and this Ex Con Duet is at their BEST yet.
This is a slow burn…angst…page turner…easy to read …longing…beautiful…its just exquisite.
We first met Tyler in Maddie and Liam’s duet and I would urge you to read them as it fills in alot of the blanks of his life before he comes home. I devoured this book in one sitting.
I really liked Tyler’s character his strength and selflessness was what drew me to him previosuly. Coming home has made Tyler reflective and I enjoyed seeing that side of him. He is still tough as nails but the softer caring side shine through. Gemma is the girl he left behind but has never forgotten but she is not single. I really enjoyed the way the tentative friendship was written, you can feel the turmoil because time hasn’t changed how they feel about each other. Tyler is about to find out that he can’t outrun his past and danger is coming to town.
Rate: 4,5 / 5 stars
Did you read Liam and Maddie’s duet? Do you remember Tyler? Did you fall in love with him like I did? If you answered yes to any or all of these 3 questions, then you’ll be super happy to know that his story is here!!!
I love that we got to see Tyler reunite with Liam and Maddie in the first chapter. Tyler and Maddie’s friendship cracks me up and warms my heart at the same time. I love the bond they have. We also get to hear from these two a lot throughout the book and I love that. I love that although they now live far away from each other, they keep in touch often and are always there for each other. I’m kind of really hoping Liam and Maddie visit Tyler soon so Maddie can meet Gemma and Tyler’s sister, I feel like they’d be instant friends and it’d be super entertaining to see them all together.
I also love the letters omg. I love that we not only got to see a little of past Gemma and Tyler in the prologue but we also get to read some of the letters these two exchanged while Tyler was in the military, it’s such a nice touch to the story and it really builds the bond they created years ago.
Tyler and Gemma, as any second chance romance where there is a third person in the picture, were very frustrating. I mean I loved watching them reconnect, reminisce, get over the awkwardness and try not to take their ‘friendship’ too far. It was fun to see them try to deny their connection and chemistry but also finding a way to each other all the time, specially when something was wrong. As has been stated by me many times, I loveeee Tyler. I fell in love with him in Liam and Maddie’s story and I was dying for his story. It’s exactly like I thought it was gonna be frustrating, a slow burn that is always simmering and sometimes blows up but it was also so much more. I feel like Tyler is there to show Gemma what a relationship should and shouldn’t be about and I truly hope she opens her eyes soon, or more, does something about what she’s been seeing. For me, that has been the most frustrating thing about this book. Gemma’s relationship with her fiancé, they are so different. There are so many things wrong with their dynamic and all the new red flags that he’s giving her and all her doubts and still she just doesn’t know what to do. Girl, the universe is giving you all the clues to make the right decision. Just make it!
Meanwhile Gemma is in this mess of a relationship, Tyler finally gets his chance at a possible revenge agains Victoria but this opportunity is gonna put him on her map again and we’ve all seen how vicious she can get. I’m freaking scared for him and what’s gonna happen after how this book ended. I feel like a partnership is about to be born and make Gemma and Tyler’s lives hell. I’m scare but I also can’t wait to see how these two will get out of all this mess.
I know the Ex-Con series is currently only two duets and from this book we already know who the second couple will be and honestly gosh it’s gonna be so good gah. But I also really REALLY hope Tyler’s sister gets her own book. She’s amazing and fun and so anti-relatiosnhips that her book would be amazing.
Keeping You Away is part one of Tyler and Gemma’s story and it’s one of reconnection with the world, family, old friends and past loves. It’s also a story about rediscovery of one self and the people you once left behind and now are getting to know again. These two will give you all that slow burning goodness, the longing that comes with reminiscing about old times and that feeling of not knowing what to do, how to act now that the one that got away is back in your life. Tyler and Gemma were made for each other, I’m excited to see how their find their back into each other’s arms.