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Part of the List
If you were dying, what would be on the list of moments that mattered most to you? That shaped your life? What would you choose to remember or choose to ignore even in the face of death? Who would you miss? What would you regret not doing? Who would you regret not loving? In the face of your own mortality or in the face of your lover's, what would be part of the list?
377 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2017
46 people are currently reading
214 people want to read
About the author
Xavier Neal
126 books2,251 followersI'm USA TODAY Bestselling Romance Author who has published over ninety works to date.
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LIST OF BOOKS!
Standalones
Cinderfella (YA Contemporary) - https://amzn.to/2pBHZff
The Gamble (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/2uf4ZFw
Part of The List (Contemporary Romance) - https://amzn.to/2udYwuz
Walking Away (Contemporary Ménage Romance) - https://amzn.to/2pAOEGf
Can’t Match This (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/2XapsVw
Hike, Hike Baby (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/32QqyJJ
Baewatch (Romantic Comedy) -https://amzn.to/2IHjMAl
Sleigh Bride (Holiday Romantic Comedy)- https://amzn.to/3nOfJ4L
Aleatory (Contemporary Age-Gap Romance) - https://amzn.to/2Pqt07F
Picnic Perfect (Romantic Comedy) -
https://amzn.to/3DKKrE2
Eden (Dark, Taboo Romance)-
https://amzn.to/3gfgQsj
Baby Got Pack (Romantic Comedy) -
https://amzn.to/3KZt0U0
Waiting (Contemporary Age- Gap Romance)
https://amzn.to/3BnItLc
SERIES
(COMPLETED)
Senses Series
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Duched Series
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The Bro Series
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Private Series
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The Bennett Duet
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The Love Duet
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The Compassion Series:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BL3WL1Y4
The Free:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C5S4SR5W
(OPEN)
Dalvegan Dragons-
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BS48MFW9
The Hockey Gods Series- https://amzn.to/31KBuXo
Adrenaline Series - https://amzn.to/2MAo669
Prince of Tease Series- https://amzn.to/2Iu3ZkA
The Just Series - https://amzn.to/2MBGDPi
Must Love Series- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074HX1VK2
Hollywood Exchange Series- https://amzn.to/2WqmfFo
The Culture Blind Series- https://amzn.to/2K5hDOv
Camelot Misfits Series - https://amzn.to/2XfW5pn
Synful Syndicate Series- https://amzn.to/2K311Xw
Haworth Enterprises Series-
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Draak Legacy Series -
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(My links listed here, my website, and on my social media are Amazon affiliate links.)
The Stud (Dalvegan Dragons #3) is NOW LIVE!
https://mybook.to/2g5Rt
Join me on Patreon!
https://www.patreon.com/AuthorXavierNeal
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2KAOA4z
Facebook: http://bit.ly/2K2UfBe
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2L3ePAz
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/2KA7tEW
Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3fkYPss
Spotify : http://bit.ly/XNSpotifyProfile
Merch : https://bit.ly/3C3bdqV
Store https://bit.ly/3ijVlZ3
Wanna stay up to date on my work?
Sign Up for ALERTS and get a FREE READ!
http://bit.ly/XNNLSL21
LIST OF BOOKS!
Standalones
Cinderfella (YA Contemporary) - https://amzn.to/2pBHZff
The Gamble (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/2uf4ZFw
Part of The List (Contemporary Romance) - https://amzn.to/2udYwuz
Walking Away (Contemporary Ménage Romance) - https://amzn.to/2pAOEGf
Can’t Match This (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/2XapsVw
Hike, Hike Baby (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/32QqyJJ
Baewatch (Romantic Comedy) -https://amzn.to/2IHjMAl
Sleigh Bride (Holiday Romantic Comedy)- https://amzn.to/3nOfJ4L
Aleatory (Contemporary Age-Gap Romance) - https://amzn.to/2Pqt07F
Picnic Perfect (Romantic Comedy) -
https://amzn.to/3DKKrE2
Eden (Dark, Taboo Romance)-
https://amzn.to/3gfgQsj
Baby Got Pack (Romantic Comedy) -
https://amzn.to/3KZt0U0
Waiting (Contemporary Age- Gap Romance)
https://amzn.to/3BnItLc
SERIES
(COMPLETED)
Senses Series
https://amzn.to/31fG013
Duched Series
https://amzn.to/2EXUF7B
The Bro Series
https://amzn.to/2IsPDRo
Private Series
https://amzn.to/2MzZURd
The Bennett Duet
https://amzn.to/36tEi0h
The Love Duet
https://amzn.to/3wLOFJp
The Compassion Series:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BL3WL1Y4
The Free:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C5S4SR5W
(OPEN)
Dalvegan Dragons-
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BS48MFW9
The Hockey Gods Series- https://amzn.to/31KBuXo
Adrenaline Series - https://amzn.to/2MAo669
Prince of Tease Series- https://amzn.to/2Iu3ZkA
The Just Series - https://amzn.to/2MBGDPi
Must Love Series- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074HX1VK2
Hollywood Exchange Series- https://amzn.to/2WqmfFo
The Culture Blind Series- https://amzn.to/2K5hDOv
Camelot Misfits Series - https://amzn.to/2XfW5pn
Synful Syndicate Series- https://amzn.to/2K311Xw
Haworth Enterprises Series-
https://amzn.to/3foSuwl
Draak Legacy Series -
https://amzn.to/3xm9Wta
(My links listed here, my website, and on my social media are Amazon affiliate links.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
March 10, 2017
4.5 Stars
I like Xavier Neal books so I bought this one and started reading it right away. This story is filled with angst, longing and pain. If you are NOT a fan of angst, this book is NOT for you -- trust me, I wouldn't steer you wrong. I have a love and hate relationship with this story -- I went back and forth -- and you, too will feel very emotional about these characters, if you decide to read it.
The book abruptly ended -- it didn't end on a cliffhanger and most would say the story was resolved. But, I beg to differ -- there is more to this story and I feel pretty confident in saying that there will be a Book 2 -- because NO way -- just NO way in heck that this is THE END!
I like Xavier Neal books so I bought this one and started reading it right away. This story is filled with angst, longing and pain. If you are NOT a fan of angst, this book is NOT for you -- trust me, I wouldn't steer you wrong. I have a love and hate relationship with this story -- I went back and forth -- and you, too will feel very emotional about these characters, if you decide to read it.
The book abruptly ended -- it didn't end on a cliffhanger and most would say the story was resolved. But, I beg to differ -- there is more to this story and I feel pretty confident in saying that there will be a Book 2 -- because NO way -- just NO way in heck that this is THE END!
February 28, 2017
Oh my. This book left me a slobbering, blubbering mess. I don't know whether I loved it for all the intense emotions it made me feel, or hate it because it came to an end. Can I love to hate it?
Kennedy and Bailey were pretty much soulmates from the time they met at ages 13 and 15. But there's a huge reason why Bailey can't be with her. Still, he finds a way to steal moments with Kennedy despite the secret he's hiding from her, and their relationship forever hovers between best friends and something more. Part Of The List tells the story of their love affair through the lens of a present day crisis as they both reflect on the defining moments of their relationship via flashbacks. I loved the way Xavier weaves the two together so seamlessly!
After so many stops and starts, I was thrilled that they finally, finally get together! But POTL is not just about being with the one you love through happy times -- it is just as much about loss, longing and grief.
"I love you. Always have. Always will." Oh my goodness! Those words, as much as they were shared in such loving and tender moments between Bailey and Kennedy, they also made me SOB like a baby! If you want a lighthearted love story, then this is not the book you are looking for. But if you want to feel every intense emotion in a relationship, good and bad, then pick this up. Grab some tissues and settle in. And when you are done, reflect upon the moments in your own relationship that would be on your list. And don't take the future moments for granted.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
Kennedy and Bailey were pretty much soulmates from the time they met at ages 13 and 15. But there's a huge reason why Bailey can't be with her. Still, he finds a way to steal moments with Kennedy despite the secret he's hiding from her, and their relationship forever hovers between best friends and something more. Part Of The List tells the story of their love affair through the lens of a present day crisis as they both reflect on the defining moments of their relationship via flashbacks. I loved the way Xavier weaves the two together so seamlessly!
After so many stops and starts, I was thrilled that they finally, finally get together! But POTL is not just about being with the one you love through happy times -- it is just as much about loss, longing and grief.
"I love you. Always have. Always will." Oh my goodness! Those words, as much as they were shared in such loving and tender moments between Bailey and Kennedy, they also made me SOB like a baby! If you want a lighthearted love story, then this is not the book you are looking for. But if you want to feel every intense emotion in a relationship, good and bad, then pick this up. Grab some tissues and settle in. And when you are done, reflect upon the moments in your own relationship that would be on your list. And don't take the future moments for granted.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
March 13, 2017
5++ FEELS ALL THE FEELS STARS!!!
“I love you. Always have. Always will.”
Eu nem sei o que dizer sobre esse livro... nem sei como explicar o quanto ele mexeu comigo, o quanto senti meu coração pesado e apertado. Perdi as contas de quantas vezes prendi a respiração ou chorei a ponto de soluçar.
"I swear it's that whole Adam and Eve thing. She wasn't just made for me. She was made from me. We’re one soul split into two, constantly trying to fuse back together."
O que mais chamou minha atenção e me fez querer ler foi a sinopse. É o tipo de livro que eu AMO, adoro quando a história deixa meus sentimentos a flor da pele. O bônus foi a surpresa ao me deparar com o tema que a autora abordou. Foi tão real, tão intenso. Tão a cara do que muitas pessoas enfrentam e combatem diariamente.
Não consegui parar de ler, não consegui parar de sentir...
"Sometimes people forget that hatred isn't born. It's bred."
Com toda a certeza, "Part Of The List" ganhou o meu quebrado coração e ocupa o meu TOP 5 de livros favoritos de 2017!❤
Agora só me resta juntar os caquinhos e curtir essa ressaca monstra!
“I love you. Always have. Always will.”
Eu nem sei o que dizer sobre esse livro... nem sei como explicar o quanto ele mexeu comigo, o quanto senti meu coração pesado e apertado. Perdi as contas de quantas vezes prendi a respiração ou chorei a ponto de soluçar.
"I swear it's that whole Adam and Eve thing. She wasn't just made for me. She was made from me. We’re one soul split into two, constantly trying to fuse back together."
O que mais chamou minha atenção e me fez querer ler foi a sinopse. É o tipo de livro que eu AMO, adoro quando a história deixa meus sentimentos a flor da pele. O bônus foi a surpresa ao me deparar com o tema que a autora abordou. Foi tão real, tão intenso. Tão a cara do que muitas pessoas enfrentam e combatem diariamente.
Não consegui parar de ler, não consegui parar de sentir...
"Sometimes people forget that hatred isn't born. It's bred."
Com toda a certeza, "Part Of The List" ganhou o meu quebrado coração e ocupa o meu TOP 5 de livros favoritos de 2017!❤
Agora só me resta juntar os caquinhos e curtir essa ressaca monstra!
March 9, 2017
5 Stars!!!
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Looking back on their memories, Bailey and Kennedy guide us through how life has brought them to the here and now.
Xavier Neal has written a story that is unique and powerful. There are a thousand messages hid behind the words; each is powerful and thought provoking. And many will stay with you for days, weeks and possibly months or even years to come.
This story flickers between the past and present and at first I found it unclear this was the layout of the story; however, once I established the technique in which this story was written, it made perfect sense and the story flowed perfectly.
Bailey and Kennedy were destined to be together and had one of life's hardest paths trying to get there. Only their story, sadly didn’t end, once their paths had united.
Bailey carried a secret with him, one that haunted him, broke him and caused him both mental and physical pain. This very secret is what set the path Bailey and Kennedy followed, that brought them to the very place they are today.
This story for me brought out a lot of emotions. It was heart breaking to see Bailey lose his true self as he fought to keep those he loved safe. It was beautiful to see how Kennedy and Bailey interacted together, how sweet they were together and sad to see the pain and torment Bailey faced each day. More than just Bailey and Kennedy touched my heart in this story, one other character brought to the forefront how lonely and challenging life can be.
With the heart-breaking aspect of this story aside, their story is also full of beautiful, magical and humorous moments that melt your heart.
Part of the List is a romance story with a heart wrenching twist.
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Looking back on their memories, Bailey and Kennedy guide us through how life has brought them to the here and now.
Xavier Neal has written a story that is unique and powerful. There are a thousand messages hid behind the words; each is powerful and thought provoking. And many will stay with you for days, weeks and possibly months or even years to come.
This story flickers between the past and present and at first I found it unclear this was the layout of the story; however, once I established the technique in which this story was written, it made perfect sense and the story flowed perfectly.
Bailey and Kennedy were destined to be together and had one of life's hardest paths trying to get there. Only their story, sadly didn’t end, once their paths had united.
Bailey carried a secret with him, one that haunted him, broke him and caused him both mental and physical pain. This very secret is what set the path Bailey and Kennedy followed, that brought them to the very place they are today.
This story for me brought out a lot of emotions. It was heart breaking to see Bailey lose his true self as he fought to keep those he loved safe. It was beautiful to see how Kennedy and Bailey interacted together, how sweet they were together and sad to see the pain and torment Bailey faced each day. More than just Bailey and Kennedy touched my heart in this story, one other character brought to the forefront how lonely and challenging life can be.
With the heart-breaking aspect of this story aside, their story is also full of beautiful, magical and humorous moments that melt your heart.
Part of the List is a romance story with a heart wrenching twist.
March 9, 2017
Why, Xavier, why??? Why do you keep breaking my heart like this??? Why did it have to end, and end like that??? My poor little heart keeps hoping (as much as I have tried to convince it not to) there will be another book and my poor little heart won't be broken again.
Nicely done, Xavier, nicely done! But give me a month or two before you send another one like this my way, PLEASE!!
Nicely done, Xavier, nicely done! But give me a month or two before you send another one like this my way, PLEASE!!
March 17, 2017
Kleenex is your friend
I loved this book and hated it at the same time. The hero's stupidity costs him the ultimate price in the end and I can't help but feel such pain for fictional characters. This is why I gave it a 4 star rating. I wanted the happy ending so badly for them. I wanted to know what will happen next to these characters. My heart simply aches. I wish I got more insight on the other characters and that they were fully fleshed out but with the way the story was told that was not meant to be.
Sometimes stories should be realistic as art should imitate life. Other times the reader will submerge themselves into in order to forget about reality. I'm firmly in the latter category but have a growing fondness for this particular author. I would recommend this for any person who would prefer reality being the ending, instead of the unspoken rule of romances ending in HFN or HEA.
I loved this book and hated it at the same time. The hero's stupidity costs him the ultimate price in the end and I can't help but feel such pain for fictional characters. This is why I gave it a 4 star rating. I wanted the happy ending so badly for them. I wanted to know what will happen next to these characters. My heart simply aches. I wish I got more insight on the other characters and that they were fully fleshed out but with the way the story was told that was not meant to be.
Sometimes stories should be realistic as art should imitate life. Other times the reader will submerge themselves into in order to forget about reality. I'm firmly in the latter category but have a growing fondness for this particular author. I would recommend this for any person who would prefer reality being the ending, instead of the unspoken rule of romances ending in HFN or HEA.
March 11, 2017
When I started this book, I did not know what to expect. Xavier has given me (ok, all of us) some amazing men and fun women, but nothing from her past books would have prepared me for this!!
This book is beautiful, soulful, moving, amazing, emotional, sweet, romanic and heart wrenching!!
This has quickly moved to my favorite from Xavier, and I may have wanted to throttle her at the end, I have to admit that I don't know that she will ever outdo this one!!
This book is beautiful, soulful, moving, amazing, emotional, sweet, romanic and heart wrenching!!
This has quickly moved to my favorite from Xavier, and I may have wanted to throttle her at the end, I have to admit that I don't know that she will ever outdo this one!!
March 14, 2017
Ugly cry
Wow this book was excellent from start to finish. This was my first read by this author! Don't want to give anything away but the two MC were meant to be together. Loved how the author wrote about their present life and past life growing up. I love books like this when it tells the tale or real true love how it starts when their kids and continues until adulthood.
Wow this book was excellent from start to finish. This was my first read by this author! Don't want to give anything away but the two MC were meant to be together. Loved how the author wrote about their present life and past life growing up. I love books like this when it tells the tale or real true love how it starts when their kids and continues until adulthood.
March 9, 2017
Feels all the feels
Wow. What can I say about this book. Tissues are a must...
It's beautiful, it's real, it's raw and it will break your heart and remain with you FOREVER!!
My poor poor heart.
Xavier knocked it outa the park with this book.
Wow. What can I say about this book. Tissues are a must...
It's beautiful, it's real, it's raw and it will break your heart and remain with you FOREVER!!
My poor poor heart.
Xavier knocked it outa the park with this book.
March 23, 2017
3.6 stars
I spend most of this book completely confused about what was really happening. I still think I don't have all the answers I was seeking while reading this so I am sad to say that I am a little disappointed.
I loved the writing style and how this author manages to make the words jump out at you, but for me there was a lot of their story missing; for me anyway.
But saying this, the ending did make me sniffle, it was heartbreaing for Kennedy and I have to say it was a touching moment. But, I can't say I completely enjoyed it when I'm not a 100% sure on what the heck was going on.
Some places had inconsistencies which made it difficult to read and also seemed a little rush. I enjoyed the concept of the story, the writing style and some of the characters. I don't like the racist story line as, as always, it's centred around a 'white' man doing it and that makes me feel ashamed to be 'white'. Other than that, I liked it to a certain level and would be interested in checking out this author's other work at a later date.
I spend most of this book completely confused about what was really happening. I still think I don't have all the answers I was seeking while reading this so I am sad to say that I am a little disappointed.
I loved the writing style and how this author manages to make the words jump out at you, but for me there was a lot of their story missing; for me anyway.
But saying this, the ending did make me sniffle, it was heartbreaing for Kennedy and I have to say it was a touching moment. But, I can't say I completely enjoyed it when I'm not a 100% sure on what the heck was going on.
Some places had inconsistencies which made it difficult to read and also seemed a little rush. I enjoyed the concept of the story, the writing style and some of the characters. I don't like the racist story line as, as always, it's centred around a 'white' man doing it and that makes me feel ashamed to be 'white'. Other than that, I liked it to a certain level and would be interested in checking out this author's other work at a later date.
March 11, 2017
Unglued
Part of the List... After reading this you get a glimpse of what it must be like to feel trapped. Some unable to walk away from family love.
My heart is feeling a little heavy right. This book is definitely worth the reads and tears I shed
Part of the List... After reading this you get a glimpse of what it must be like to feel trapped. Some unable to walk away from family love.
My heart is feeling a little heavy right. This book is definitely worth the reads and tears I shed
March 10, 2017
Amazing story, amazing read....simply amazing. Read in about 4-5 hours....could not put it down.
I enjoyed the writing style-going back in the past at moments-giving the reader the history. The development of secondary characters was great. I felt for every character in this story.
Enjoyed the love between the hero & heroine. Loved the depth of the hero....I enjoyed knowing his perspective and flaws and challenges. Hated his secret, hated that he held it for so long.....
(can I also say, selfishly, that I was not a fan of hero's mom......not b/c she was bad per se.....but didn't make great choices towards her kids well being...and that ending.....hated her for a moment)
I can't say the way it ended was my fave....but it had to end sometime.....and reality is just f*cked up sometimes.
just wondering if there could be a part two where things just.....(beep.....beep.....beep again)
I enjoyed the writing style-going back in the past at moments-giving the reader the history. The development of secondary characters was great. I felt for every character in this story.
Enjoyed the love between the hero & heroine. Loved the depth of the hero....I enjoyed knowing his perspective and flaws and challenges. Hated his secret, hated that he held it for so long.....
(can I also say, selfishly, that I was not a fan of hero's mom......not b/c she was bad per se.....but didn't make great choices towards her kids well being...and that ending.....hated her for a moment)
I can't say the way it ended was my fave....but it had to end sometime.....and reality is just f*cked up sometimes.
just wondering if there could be a part two where things just.....(beep.....beep.....beep again)
February 20, 2017
I give Part of the List 5 stars for being able to take such hateful acts and blend them with such hopeful dedication. Never thought these words "I love you. Always have. Always will." could make me cry so much. I felt that through all the sadness, loss, and hatred, there were also so many happy, hopeful, and loving moments.
Xavier Neal is an author I recently discovered and I truly think she is brilliant. She described this story from both their points of view, and it was fantastic. A real tear jerker but also a very thought provoking read.
Kennedy and Bailey met through their friends when they were teenagers. From day one it was love at first sight. Although there were many obstacles in their way, after many mistakes and many years, they finally got a chance at a future together. What did that future have in store for them?
Kennedy Russell fell in love with Bailey when he was fifteen, and her only thirteen. They have shared stolen moments together, and they forged a very tight friendship, only to be stolen away from them because he's kept secrets. What is he hiding from her?
Bailey Cooper loves Kenny, now and always will. He vows he's going to marry her one day. All he wants is to shield her from the hatred of the world, and he'd give his life for her. Will he have to?
Part of the List is a romance novel that will break your heart but at the same time will make you think about what lurks in the shadows. It talks about life issues that shouldn't exist, but unfortunately do.
I loved this story even though it kind of shattered my heart.
Xavier Neal is an author I recently discovered and I truly think she is brilliant. She described this story from both their points of view, and it was fantastic. A real tear jerker but also a very thought provoking read.
Kennedy and Bailey met through their friends when they were teenagers. From day one it was love at first sight. Although there were many obstacles in their way, after many mistakes and many years, they finally got a chance at a future together. What did that future have in store for them?
Kennedy Russell fell in love with Bailey when he was fifteen, and her only thirteen. They have shared stolen moments together, and they forged a very tight friendship, only to be stolen away from them because he's kept secrets. What is he hiding from her?
Bailey Cooper loves Kenny, now and always will. He vows he's going to marry her one day. All he wants is to shield her from the hatred of the world, and he'd give his life for her. Will he have to?
Part of the List is a romance novel that will break your heart but at the same time will make you think about what lurks in the shadows. It talks about life issues that shouldn't exist, but unfortunately do.
I loved this story even though it kind of shattered my heart.
September 23, 2017
There were certain details about Bailey and Kennedy's story that I did not care for, and that in other books probably would have made me rate it lower. But I just could not bring myself to do that here. The message, the characters, the story-telling, all too powerful for anything less.
First of all for the safety gang -->
Second, there were some triggers. MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR SPOILERS FOLLOW -- PROCEED WITH EXTREME CAUTION, AS SOME OF THESE PRETTY MUCH GIVE THE ENTIRE PLOT AWAY. PROCEED WITH CAUTION!!!! -->
In terms of the angst of the main characters, and how difficult it was for them to actually get together, this book reminded me of Kandi Steiner's A Love Letter to Whiskey . But unlike that one, Ms. Neal's book will rip your heart right out of your chest, and throw that bad boy into the blender. This book absolutely gutted me. It was the best and the worst thing I'd read in a long time. I loved it in the worst way.
So a note to the author: (Hint hint, nudge nudge, wink wink)
First of all for the safety gang -->
Second, there were some triggers. MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR SPOILERS FOLLOW -- PROCEED WITH EXTREME CAUTION, AS SOME OF THESE PRETTY MUCH GIVE THE ENTIRE PLOT AWAY. PROCEED WITH CAUTION!!!! -->
In terms of the angst of the main characters, and how difficult it was for them to actually get together, this book reminded me of Kandi Steiner's A Love Letter to Whiskey . But unlike that one, Ms. Neal's book will rip your heart right out of your chest, and throw that bad boy into the blender. This book absolutely gutted me. It was the best and the worst thing I'd read in a long time. I loved it in the worst way.
So a note to the author: (Hint hint, nudge nudge, wink wink)
March 12, 2017
How would you feel if you met your soulmate but couldn't be with that person? Part of the List tells the story of Bailey and Kennedy, soulmates destined to be together but torn apart by an unspeakable tragedy. This book is very different from this authors previous books but I'm glad she wrote it. Ms. Neals deals with so many issues and doesn't shield the reality of those issues. I've read a lot of books that have dealt with some of the topics the author focused on such as racism and suicide but this is the first book I've read in this genre that's realistic. Sometimes people are put in your life for a reason, season or lifetime. Kennedy and Bailey learn that the hard way. This was a great story that will definitely have you crying at the end but is satisfying and engaging throughout. Kuddos to Ms. Neal for being brave and challenging her readers.
P.S I would love to see a follow up but understand if the point of the book is to show that not everyone gets the happily ever after.
P.S I would love to see a follow up but understand if the point of the book is to show that not everyone gets the happily ever after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2017
I put off reading this book for ages because I knew it would end in tears. This love story is hard from beginning to end. The trials that the hero goes through for loving the woman that he wanted to be with (and sometimes from afar) was heartbreaking. Then when they finally get to be together disaster strikes. Definitely worth a read but be prepared to cry and your heart to feel heavy after you have finished this story.
January 4, 2023
3.5 Oh my word stars from me.
So conflicted about this one. It's a beautiful(ish) story unlike all other the Xavier Neal books I have read so far.
On one hand, I LOVED the overcoming severe adversity side of the story (Bailey's issues). On the other hand, I HATED that side of it. This is fiction, makebelieve, I know this, but it's a sad depiction of something that I am sure still happens in some homes in these contemporary times.
However, the love that the H & H have is beautiful, not just between themselves but for all of their loved ones. I loved the connection between Thomas, (big) Emma, their parents, and Kennedy's parents as well as with Kennedy and Bailey themselves. (But their struggles with these connections later on in the story felt real to me and reminded me of some of my own experiences). And (little) Emma was just a pint-sized purple loving bonus. Big happy families are not just made with blood.
I have to be honest though. I feel cheated. For a number of reasons. These are the reasons that I didn't rate the story higher.
1) I totally agree with another reviewer that this just can't be a standalone story. Although the ending is complete as it were, the story just feels unfinished to me.
2) And also, Ms. Neal I wish to make a formal complaint to you about (big) Emma. Why oh why oh why oh why... you get the drift?! .
3) And to return to the beginning, I, like Kennedy, fell for a 15-year-old Bailey who bonded with babies. This happened in the first paragraph of the book. Men (esp. boys) who are open in their tenderness with small children and small animals have a huge place in my heart, and I would have liked to have seen more glimpses of this part of Bailey as he got older. But, meh, I realize I want that for purely selfish reasons lol.
4) The ending... please make that reversible somehow in the sequel. Please. Pretty please. With big gorgeous flowers on??? (less)
So conflicted about this one. It's a beautiful(ish) story unlike all other the Xavier Neal books I have read so far.
On one hand, I LOVED the overcoming severe adversity side of the story (Bailey's issues). On the other hand, I HATED that side of it. This is fiction, makebelieve, I know this, but it's a sad depiction of something that I am sure still happens in some homes in these contemporary times.
However, the love that the H & H have is beautiful, not just between themselves but for all of their loved ones. I loved the connection between Thomas, (big) Emma, their parents, and Kennedy's parents as well as with Kennedy and Bailey themselves. (But their struggles with these connections later on in the story felt real to me and reminded me of some of my own experiences). And (little) Emma was just a pint-sized purple loving bonus. Big happy families are not just made with blood.
I have to be honest though. I feel cheated. For a number of reasons. These are the reasons that I didn't rate the story higher.
1) I totally agree with another reviewer that this just can't be a standalone story. Although the ending is complete as it were, the story just feels unfinished to me.
2) And also, Ms. Neal I wish to make a formal complaint to you about (big) Emma. Why oh why oh why oh why... you get the drift?! .
3) And to return to the beginning, I, like Kennedy, fell for a 15-year-old Bailey who bonded with babies. This happened in the first paragraph of the book. Men (esp. boys) who are open in their tenderness with small children and small animals have a huge place in my heart, and I would have liked to have seen more glimpses of this part of Bailey as he got older. But, meh, I realize I want that for purely selfish reasons lol.
4) The ending... please make that reversible somehow in the sequel. Please. Pretty please. With big gorgeous flowers on??? (less)
March 27, 2017
Diva's review!! *******Heart wrenching stars. Wow! Just wow! Based on the title of this book I was not expecting it to be anything like it was!! I should have known since its from Xavier Neal!!! Her books are all truly amazing and you never know what to expect!! I was drawn into this book the second I picked it up! Really got to feel connected to the characters because we get to know them from the first moment they met and we travel the journey right along with them reliving memories! My heart completely broke into a million pieces for Bailey and what he had to live through every day. No child should have to live a life like that. He was forced to push away Kennedy most of his life, the one person in the world who always held his heart. Too many years between these two, that never should have been apart. All the characters in this book drew me to them. I felt like I knew them personally. Such a tight knit group of friends that tore my heart out when things took a turn, not just once with Emma, but twice! I had fingers crossed, and my breath held hoping the HEA would come at the end, but..instead Xavier Neal had other plans…like ripping my heart out! I can only hope there’s a second book coming, because I’d love to see something amazing happen! And Baileys father, don’t get me started on him…I need another book to ensure he gets what he deserves! This book was definitely amazing as it had me laughing, smiling at times, and crying like a baby! I most definitely need some time to recover from this one!
March 11, 2017
~5 ++ Stars~
“I swear it’s that whole Adam and Eve thing. She wasn’t just made for me. She was made from me. We’re one soul split into two, constantly trying to fuse back together.”
Part of the List is one of those rare books that I have to sit and contemplate what I’m going to say in my review. It was beautiful and emotional. It made me swoon, made me laugh, made me not cry…but sob! It also made me grateful for the people whom I love in my life.
Bailey has been in love with Kennedy since they were teenagers, and Kennedy has been in love with Bailey.
“I loved the same person since I was barely 15. She smiled and my entire world at that point was consumed by her. I woke up in the morning because I knew she was my life. Because I knew I’d hear from her or possibly see her. I was terrified that between the moment I closed my eyes and opened them again she’d fade from existence. She’s more than just a person to me. She’s a literal piece that’s missing. I am incomplete without her.”
However, Bailey isn’t free to love her. I’ll be honest…I was so ticked off at him because I felt like he was leading her on and toying with her heart, that is, until I knew what he was doing. He was protecting her. He tried letting her go, but he couldn’t do it. Oh, it worked for a while, but then he would become weak, and reach out to her again…only to push her away. I began to wonder if these two would ever be free to be together. Xavier Neal made the wait very much worth it. I couldn’t help but love Kennedy. She wasn’t perfect, especially when she couldn’t reconcile her past with her present, and pushed her friends away because she couldn’t stand the pain of being around the memories of Bailey. She learned how to do that in somewhat of a painful way, but she did. She developed an incredible strength that I’m not sure many people are capable of having. She and Bailey were characters that will always have a special place in my heart.
As usual the addition of the secondary characters added to the story, especially Emma and Thomas. They weren’t just friends but family!
Xavier Neal is an incredibly talented author. She has written fantasy, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, erotica, but I have to say in my opinion, this is her crowning glory. Not only has she written an emotional, beautiful romance, but she’s touched on something we can all learn from. Hatred only causes pain and heartache, but love can heal, maybe not like we expect it to, but it does. She proves our DNA or the way we are raised determine who we love and how we live our lives. It’s our heart that dictates that! Thank you, Xavier Neal, for a book that truly speaks to the heart! And, yes, I still love you even though you broke my heart!
***Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
“I swear it’s that whole Adam and Eve thing. She wasn’t just made for me. She was made from me. We’re one soul split into two, constantly trying to fuse back together.”
Part of the List is one of those rare books that I have to sit and contemplate what I’m going to say in my review. It was beautiful and emotional. It made me swoon, made me laugh, made me not cry…but sob! It also made me grateful for the people whom I love in my life.
Bailey has been in love with Kennedy since they were teenagers, and Kennedy has been in love with Bailey.
“I loved the same person since I was barely 15. She smiled and my entire world at that point was consumed by her. I woke up in the morning because I knew she was my life. Because I knew I’d hear from her or possibly see her. I was terrified that between the moment I closed my eyes and opened them again she’d fade from existence. She’s more than just a person to me. She’s a literal piece that’s missing. I am incomplete without her.”
However, Bailey isn’t free to love her. I’ll be honest…I was so ticked off at him because I felt like he was leading her on and toying with her heart, that is, until I knew what he was doing. He was protecting her. He tried letting her go, but he couldn’t do it. Oh, it worked for a while, but then he would become weak, and reach out to her again…only to push her away. I began to wonder if these two would ever be free to be together. Xavier Neal made the wait very much worth it. I couldn’t help but love Kennedy. She wasn’t perfect, especially when she couldn’t reconcile her past with her present, and pushed her friends away because she couldn’t stand the pain of being around the memories of Bailey. She learned how to do that in somewhat of a painful way, but she did. She developed an incredible strength that I’m not sure many people are capable of having. She and Bailey were characters that will always have a special place in my heart.
As usual the addition of the secondary characters added to the story, especially Emma and Thomas. They weren’t just friends but family!
Xavier Neal is an incredibly talented author. She has written fantasy, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, erotica, but I have to say in my opinion, this is her crowning glory. Not only has she written an emotional, beautiful romance, but she’s touched on something we can all learn from. Hatred only causes pain and heartache, but love can heal, maybe not like we expect it to, but it does. She proves our DNA or the way we are raised determine who we love and how we live our lives. It’s our heart that dictates that! Thank you, Xavier Neal, for a book that truly speaks to the heart! And, yes, I still love you even though you broke my heart!
***Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
September 20, 2024
Not your conventional ending........
I love you.. Always have. Always will
This will be at the beginning and the end of this book
Spoilers.....
Spoilers.......
PARTS OF THE LIST:
Kenny and Bailey have been long-time friends since early childhood.
Bailey has confessed his love to Kennedy. Always.
One thing stands between them. Bailey's father.
He doesn't think Bailey and Kennedy should be together.
He beats Bailey EVERY time he is against him.
When Bailey gets to where he finally confronts his father when he and Kennedy are married and have a kid and one on the way.
He beats Bailey so badly.....Well....
Things aren't looking so good. HE ends up in the hospital.
I loved how this was written. How this author kept up with it all ....I don't know. It is a good
Book.
Parts I don't like.
Kennedy and Bailey never saw justice. Of any kind..
It was SAD. This book wrecked me. I was so mad. Not angry at the author. Angry at how people can be cruel, hurtful, and downright mean and I don't understand it sometimes.
I wanted more for them. JUST Something.
It was refreshing to have a different kind of ending. Not one like this though. I own many of her books and probably will get more.
This book hurts. Hopefully, someday she'll rewrite it and add to it.
I love you.. Always have. Always will
This will be at the beginning and the end of this book
Spoilers.....
Spoilers.......
PARTS OF THE LIST:
Kenny and Bailey have been long-time friends since early childhood.
Bailey has confessed his love to Kennedy. Always.
One thing stands between them. Bailey's father.
He doesn't think Bailey and Kennedy should be together.
He beats Bailey EVERY time he is against him.
When Bailey gets to where he finally confronts his father when he and Kennedy are married and have a kid and one on the way.
He beats Bailey so badly.....Well....
Things aren't looking so good. HE ends up in the hospital.
I loved how this was written. How this author kept up with it all ....I don't know. It is a good
Book.
Parts I don't like.
Kennedy and Bailey never saw justice. Of any kind..
It was SAD. This book wrecked me. I was so mad. Not angry at the author. Angry at how people can be cruel, hurtful, and downright mean and I don't understand it sometimes.
I wanted more for them. JUST Something.
It was refreshing to have a different kind of ending. Not one like this though. I own many of her books and probably will get more.
This book hurts. Hopefully, someday she'll rewrite it and add to it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2018
This was Difficult
I'm New to Me Neal's writing. This was only my second read of hers. I enjoyed a good portion of the book.
**SPOILER**
There is so much hate and discourse on the world right now, that I really try to escape into these books. I realize as Authors, you don't want to just be like every other writer, but your ending three me for a loop. I had to wait a day to write this, to make sure I was not being overly dramatic. But to be honest, I'm not sure I can trust your works to get me away from the turmoil that around us. We as readers truly get vested in your characters And you as writers. And to move away from you, saddens me, because you are excellent.
I hope you change your mind and at least make this a two parter in order to give those of us who just didn't care for this ending a reprieve.
I may come back to you, as you have quite a few works, but for now I have to step away.
I'm New to Me Neal's writing. This was only my second read of hers. I enjoyed a good portion of the book.
**SPOILER**
There is so much hate and discourse on the world right now, that I really try to escape into these books. I realize as Authors, you don't want to just be like every other writer, but your ending three me for a loop. I had to wait a day to write this, to make sure I was not being overly dramatic. But to be honest, I'm not sure I can trust your works to get me away from the turmoil that around us. We as readers truly get vested in your characters And you as writers. And to move away from you, saddens me, because you are excellent.
I hope you change your mind and at least make this a two parter in order to give those of us who just didn't care for this ending a reprieve.
I may come back to you, as you have quite a few works, but for now I have to step away.
May 4, 2017
Seriously Xavier?! Ok without spoilers I cant much more than that.
I am and probably always will be an Xavier Neal fan. I love every one of her books that I have read, and this one is no different. I cannot say that the ending wasnt a disappointment, but I guess I shoudnt be surprised.
How far do you go to be with THE ONE? What risks do you take? For Bailey and Kennedy these are questions they are asked over and over again. This is a very heart-wrenching story of 2 people who are meant for each other. And it is obviously to everyone around them. Including some who are willing to do anything to keep them apart. This is one of the few books Ive read in a REALLY long time that actually had me tearing up. Have the kleenexes ready!
I am and probably always will be an Xavier Neal fan. I love every one of her books that I have read, and this one is no different. I cannot say that the ending wasnt a disappointment, but I guess I shoudnt be surprised.
How far do you go to be with THE ONE? What risks do you take? For Bailey and Kennedy these are questions they are asked over and over again. This is a very heart-wrenching story of 2 people who are meant for each other. And it is obviously to everyone around them. Including some who are willing to do anything to keep them apart. This is one of the few books Ive read in a REALLY long time that actually had me tearing up. Have the kleenexes ready!
May 17, 2017
👏 Well Done!
I just finished one of the most gut wrenching stories,and I can honestly easy I'm heart broken.I know life happens and bad things happen to good people,but this story just took something out of me.This is not to say it was not a good story because it was the best.I loved every moment we got too read about the main characters,and what love was and is,this story gave new meaning to soulmate.This was a really good story,well written and with characters that are developed and written in a way you can believe that they are real.This was a job well done.
I just finished one of the most gut wrenching stories,and I can honestly easy I'm heart broken.I know life happens and bad things happen to good people,but this story just took something out of me.This is not to say it was not a good story because it was the best.I loved every moment we got too read about the main characters,and what love was and is,this story gave new meaning to soulmate.This was a really good story,well written and with characters that are developed and written in a way you can believe that they are real.This was a job well done.
July 20, 2020
😭😭😭😭😭
Usually I give anything by Xavier Neal 5 stars because I just cant get enough of her stories. This would have been no different except for the ending. And i will say that at first I was a bit confused by what was going on, but once I realized it was easier to follow. And I will admit that Bailey and Kennedy's story is unlike any other that I have read. But the ending left me feeling so raw and broken. Thats definitely not a reason to not read thought because it's really good. Hard to put down. Just be prepared for the ending....
Usually I give anything by Xavier Neal 5 stars because I just cant get enough of her stories. This would have been no different except for the ending. And i will say that at first I was a bit confused by what was going on, but once I realized it was easier to follow. And I will admit that Bailey and Kennedy's story is unlike any other that I have read. But the ending left me feeling so raw and broken. Thats definitely not a reason to not read thought because it's really good. Hard to put down. Just be prepared for the ending....
March 8, 2025
Forever is still not enough
This book was….Wow! I’ve read quite a few of Xavier Neal’s books, but this one pulled my heart strings. You’ll need the tissues. Bailey fights for his and Kenny’s love and you get to see how they grow and love each other. It is so beautiful how their story develops through time. The hatred Bailey protects his family from is beyond honorable. And every time I wished his Dad fell into a hole never to be found, but as they say hate keeps evil alive. I’m happy I got to experience this story and my heart is 💔 for them.
This book was….Wow! I’ve read quite a few of Xavier Neal’s books, but this one pulled my heart strings. You’ll need the tissues. Bailey fights for his and Kenny’s love and you get to see how they grow and love each other. It is so beautiful how their story develops through time. The hatred Bailey protects his family from is beyond honorable. And every time I wished his Dad fell into a hole never to be found, but as they say hate keeps evil alive. I’m happy I got to experience this story and my heart is 💔 for them.
March 10, 2017
No. Nope. Just stop.
This story kicks you right in the feels. And how cruel is it to make like 97% of the book full of hope! It was a great read as always. Loved the story. Just a few things left you wishing for a few more words. Just so you can give your imagination a push in the right direction, but maybe that's the hallmark of a good story. The reader can produce any HAPPY ending they choose. Grab some tissues though. It's required.
This story kicks you right in the feels. And how cruel is it to make like 97% of the book full of hope! It was a great read as always. Loved the story. Just a few things left you wishing for a few more words. Just so you can give your imagination a push in the right direction, but maybe that's the hallmark of a good story. The reader can produce any HAPPY ending they choose. Grab some tissues though. It's required.
February 12, 2019
I loved this book. The story line was great. I loved the characters, but was not soo happy about the ending. This topic happens in every day life. I'm sad to say that but we still have people out there just like Baileys dad. I was so hoping that it would not end this way. I did alot of crying reading this book. To me that means it must have hit home.
Love your books Xavier, keep them coming. And please finish the private series.
Sandy
Love your books Xavier, keep them coming. And please finish the private series.
Sandy
March 17, 2017
This is my review and how I see it. Author Xavier Neal pulls at your heartstrings in this interracial contemporary romance. From the summary of the book, you can tell that this is going to be somewhat of a tear jerker. I. SHEDDED. TEARS. almost from beginning to end. There were some parts in between that pissed me off as well as had me seeing the green-eyed monster called jealousy.
"I love you, Kenny. I always have...I always will..." ~ Bailey
Yes, this is a book of fictional characters; however, out there somewhere somebody is loving someone like Bailey loved Kennedy.
Xavier Neal, I. WANTED. MY. MIRACLE.DAMMIT!!! As I sit here and write this review I cannot help but cry for Bailey, Kennedy, and Emma. Some parts in this book where heartwrenching that I had to stop...pause and pick it back up.
This book is for those love stories such as this where the male lead character loves the female lead character so much that he feels that he has to make sacrifices to the point of leaving her. If you don't mind a book with racial undertones and that will make you reach for a case of tissue, this is the book for you.
Why is Prince's Purple Rain playing in my as I read this book, that song makes me cry too...
This is my review and how I see it.
"I love you, Kenny. I always have...I always will..." ~ Bailey
Yes, this is a book of fictional characters; however, out there somewhere somebody is loving someone like Bailey loved Kennedy.
Xavier Neal, I. WANTED. MY. MIRACLE.DAMMIT!!! As I sit here and write this review I cannot help but cry for Bailey, Kennedy, and Emma. Some parts in this book where heartwrenching that I had to stop...pause and pick it back up.
This book is for those love stories such as this where the male lead character loves the female lead character so much that he feels that he has to make sacrifices to the point of leaving her. If you don't mind a book with racial undertones and that will make you reach for a case of tissue, this is the book for you.
Why is Prince's Purple Rain playing in my as I read this book, that song makes me cry too...
This is my review and how I see it.
March 24, 2017
Soul snatched, heart broken
Like, I shed real tears, anxiety ramped up, heart pounding. Im such a big fan of Xavier Neal's and this story just ramped it up 10 notches. No happy ending here. But the sweet affectionate words whispered, " Always have, always will", will have you bawling like a baby. This is unlike any other coming of age, grow apart, come back together stories. It is one of honor and protection and devotion that Bailey has for Kennedy, that only a few people in this world ever gets. One of the best stories I've ever read! Period!
Like, I shed real tears, anxiety ramped up, heart pounding. Im such a big fan of Xavier Neal's and this story just ramped it up 10 notches. No happy ending here. But the sweet affectionate words whispered, " Always have, always will", will have you bawling like a baby. This is unlike any other coming of age, grow apart, come back together stories. It is one of honor and protection and devotion that Bailey has for Kennedy, that only a few people in this world ever gets. One of the best stories I've ever read! Period!
July 21, 2017
Love in spite of the pain
Wow!!! What a love story. Bailey loved Kennedy so much . This story has so much angst and pain. The couple finally made their way to each other and experienced their HEA. Bailey's father was a piece of work for sure. I really didn't expect that ending though. A wonderfully written love story.
Wow!!! What a love story. Bailey loved Kennedy so much . This story has so much angst and pain. The couple finally made their way to each other and experienced their HEA. Bailey's father was a piece of work for sure. I really didn't expect that ending though. A wonderfully written love story.
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