The Way I Am Now

By: Amber Smith

Narrated by: Jordan Fisher, Rebekkah Ross

Length: 10 hrs and 37 mins

Publisher's summary

Eden and Josh decide to give their relationship another chance in this much anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestseller The Way I Used to Be that explores how to move forward after trauma—in life and in love.

Eden and Josh never had a fair shot at a healthy relationship. When they dated in high school, they each had their own problems getting in the way of the deep connection they felt toward one another. Unbeknownst to Josh, Eden was carrying the burden of a devastating sexual assault, while Josh was dealing with his own private struggle of having an alcoholic father.

Months after Eden and two other girls publicly accuse their rapist, Eden is starting college while her case goes to trial. Now when she and Josh reconnect, it seems like it might finally be in the right place at the right time for them to make it work. But is their love strong enough to withstand the challenges and chaos of college and the crushing realities of a trial that will determine whether Eden gets the justice she deserves?

©2023 Amber Smith (P)2023 Simon & Schuster Audio

Thank you.

I picked up The Way I Used To Be years ago and come back to it every few months to not feel alone. I always liked that Eden got to be fully complex and make mistakes that aren’t treated as nails in the coffin.

I was scared to pick up the sequel because I feared it would all be whittled down to something trite or focused solely on the trial (forgive me, I am learning to trust again).

I love that we got to hear what was going on in Josh’s eyes and also flesh him out more as a whole person.

It’s a deeply satisfying and inspiring follow up to a book I never expected to have a follow up.

(Don’t let anyone badger you into another sequel, should you feel you have nothing more to add. Your points were made eloquently, compassionately, and profoundly. Thank you.)

Didn’t know I needed.

Reading the first book was difficult for me. I bought it red part of it and I couldn’t handle it then few years later I was able to listen to it and I’m glad I did as someone who has been in this situation and reacted very similar. It brought me peace that I didn’t know I needed. “ he didn’t ask” The simple words….

Relationships

I didn't enjoy this one as much as The Way I Used To Be but greatful for how it ended. I also appreciate the different perspectives.

Listened in One Sitting

This was the perfect sequel. I couldn’t stop listening! If you liked the first book, you definitely need to read or listen to this one.

Loved it!

I wish there was an epilogue! She developed these characters so much more, and they became so real to me. I felt like I knew them. It’s hard to believe someone as thoughtful and level headed as Josh really exists, but it certainly was a page turner. I think everyone needs a Josh in their lives in one way or another. That’s for sure.

Changed my life?

After this I feel so heavy with emotion and so free at the same time

Pretty good

I loved the characters. The narration was fantastic. Why do you make me use 15 words when I am a woman a few words? 

She did it again

Could not stop listening! They grew so much! I wish it would have ended a little different.... Hopefully book 3 is in the works!

Amazing book

I love both of these books so so much. A great story and brings insight to something so many experience.

Loved it

Listened to the whole thing in a day. The perfect sequel to Eden’s journey for healing♥️