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By the Bay #4

The Mistakes I've Made

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Keep your friends close...
And your enemies closer.


I knew Leilani Hart was trouble from the minute she stepped foot into our small town.

With her big city ideas and hotel heiress reputation, I know she’ll turn our picturesque island into a tacky tourist trap if given the opportunity.

She’ll have to go through me first.

From our first meeting, we’re like fire and ice, and I can’t help but wonder what it would be like to pin her down and melt some of those frigid layers right off.

I’ve never believed in love, but for her, I just might be willing to risk it all.

Even if it means falling... for the enemy.

First published September 10, 2018

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About the author

J.L. Berg

28 books2,248 followers
J.L. Berg is the USA Today bestselling author of the Ready series, the Walls duet and the Lost & Found series. She is a California native living in the beautiful state of historic Virginia. Married to her high school sweetheart, they have two beautiful girls that drive them batty on a daily basis. When she's not writing, you will find her cuddled up, watching a movie with her family, obsessing over minions or devouring anything chocolate! J.L. Berg is represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, LLC.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for Hanne.
657 reviews71 followers
September 12, 2018
Taylor is Dean’s younger brother (from The Scars I Bare). He’s strong, charming, reliable, determined, rich and passionate. There was a time when Taylor couldn’t wait to leave Ocracoke, but that changed when his brother needed him. He loves the town now and the town loves him. Taylor also loves the family company. He works a lot, but he wants it to be successful all the time and he succeeds at this.

Leilani is passionate, feisty, determined, talented, honest and caring. Her dad owns several hotels. Leilani works for her dad and she loves what she does, but she has never had the chance to prove herself. When her dad buys a hotel in Ocracoke, she decides to go there and to do the job. Leilani isn’t welcomed into the town with open arms, even Taylor isn’t friendly to her when he knows who she really is.

This book is an enemies to lovers romance. There was an attraction between Leilani and Taylor from the start. But Taylor doesn’t like what Leilani wants to do with the hotel and Leilani doesn’t like that Taylor judges her for her last name. They try to avoid each other, but that doesn’t really work. They banter a lot. When Taylor needs to work with Leilani, they spend a lot of time together and get to know each other. The attraction between the both of them only becomes stronger. I adored Leilani and Taylor together! It took some time before they admitted anything about what they felt, but the wait was worth it.

I loved The Mistakes I’ve Made! I’m really loving the By The Bay series. I’m loving all the characters, the couples, the love, the emotions, the happiness and the covers. I can’t wait for the next one!

-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --
Profile Image for AJ.
3,023 reviews1,012 followers
September 10, 2018
4 stars!

This is such a gorgeous read! A sweet, easy, fun and sexy enemies-to-lovers romance that fits into theBy The Bay series beautifully, but can also be read as a standalone.

Taylor is the younger brother of Dean (hero of book #2, The Scars I Bare). Born and raised on the island of Ocracoke, he helps run his family’s fishing and tour boat business, and he has a deep love for his home, so when a big corporation buys an old hotel on the island with plans for turning it into a resort, he is immediately on the defensive and ready to protect the island he loves so much.

Lelaini is an interior designer who works for her hotel mogul father. Desperate to prove herself to him, she claims the job of redesigning the Ocracoke resort as her own and flies out with a plan to get straight to work. She’s not expecting the resistance of the town to her presence, or her plans, and it’s Taylor leading the charge letting her know in no uncertain terms that she is not welcome. But when Taylor is appointed as the town’s liaison to Lelaini, it pushes them together and an unexpected friendship forms – one which is heated by their undeniable attraction to each other, and very quickly everything begins to change.



I loved this romance! It’s easy, it’s natural, it’s sweet and sexy and lots of fun as Taylor and Lani follow their hearts – and their libidos – and dive on into exploring and enjoying each other. I could feel the happiness they have together and their deepening feelings, and it’s all so functional!

“We both said the other day, that we felt like we were waiting for our lives to start. Maybe we just need to learn how to take leaps when the universe offers them.”

But Lani’s time on the island is limited and they both know that their time together is coming to an end, and with Taylor strongly anti-relationship until Lani came into his life, they both need to figure out what it is they want, and then find a way to get it... before it’s too late

He cupped my face, sincerity written all over his. “I just don’t want to hurt you.”
“Then don’t,” I simply said.

I really enjoyed book, it’s a quick, fun read with lots of heart and a really sweet love story. I love that we got to catch up with previous couples from the series, and I’m looking forward to Macon’s book up next which seems like it’s going to be a really interesting one.

Loved it - 4 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Katerina.
794 reviews298 followers
Read
September 10, 2018
Won’t rate it seeing as I DNF’d ten pages along.
Prologue: he’s an annoying teenager who’s older brother tells him they are in financial trouble.

To chapter one some time on where he’s having a friends with benefits type of thing with a girl named Sierra as they wake up naked next to each other. Looking at her does “things” to his body🙄. Then he kicks her out bc he can’t be asked to make breakfast. Loool nah. Not my kind of book.
Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,175 reviews798 followers
September 10, 2018
Oh my gawd!!! I love Taylor and Lani!!! This couple just made me happy!

Taylor’s plans for life were derailed years ago when he needed to step up, become an adult, and help his family. And he has done just that. When his brother Dean was emotionally absent, Taylor carried on the family business.


description


His love for his family, friends and their small island town have kept him content. However, when others encourage him to find love he knows that that will never happen as love tends to disappear all too quickly.

In an effort to gain her father’s attention, admiration and acknowledgement, Lani sets out to renovate the small motel his company owns.


description


Located in the Outer Banks, her plans might include razing the building to the ground and starting over. Unfortunately, the citizens and business owners are not happy about it and the ring leader is none other than the hunky fisherman next door.

This was a wonderfully entertaining enemies to lovers story! Taylor was just so perfect in his attitude toward life despite his own disappointments. When he meets Lani for the first time he moves full force ahead until he learns who she is. Lani knows exactly who all the players are and she’s determined to ignore Taylor at all costs. When her father gives her an ultimatum, she is forced into Taylor’s company where she learns that history can be quite thrilling when accompanied with passionate kisses that break all the rules.


description


I loved how this couple’s relationship developed with anger, then laughter followed by plenty of steam and chemistry. Taylor and Lani complimented one another even as sparks flew each time they were together. The relationship drama was low angst which helped to showcase the amazing personalities of these characters. I absolutely loved Taylor’s sense of humor and how it brought out the best in Lani, who had lived a lifetime of loneliness. I usually don’t put a lot of weight on the heroine as it’s all about the hero for me. However, Lani was just too wonderful in all her actions and reactions to do anything but fall in love with her. She has definitely made it onto the top of my favorite heroine list, which include only two others.


description


This is a well-paced book that never bogs down and yet includes so many interesting facts about Ocracoke. The secondary characters are just as amazing as the hero and heroine without consuming the story. I adored Piper, Lani’s best friend, and I’d do almost anything for her story! The heat level is so freaking hot the steam from my kindle may have burned my fingerprints away. I wasn’t setting this little pretty down for anything, third degree burns be danged!

Overall, this is the best book in the series, although I’ve said that about each book. I dare you to find a couple that will make your heart sing more than Lani and Taylor.

Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Profile Image for Julia.
623 reviews603 followers
September 17, 2018
Again, there is no reason for me to know how much past sex the hero has had. Its just dumb details that, I guess, are supposed to make him seem like a man worth getting with when it actually does the opposite. The first couple of chapters are of the hero's brothers who keep telling him "you should settle down with a girlfriend" with the hero responding "nah thats not for me." Cool story, bro. I'm sure you're fun at parties.
Also, all of the other characters felt really flat and one dimensional.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,630 reviews164 followers
September 2, 2018
4.5 stars
Fans of this series already know Taylor Sutherland, Dean's younger brother. He has always lived in Dean's shadow and has given up his own dreams of college and adventure to stay home and take care of the family business. He is hardworking, protective, and loyal, but he's also broody, sarcastic, and a bit bitter. And he is a man that avoids relationships like the plague.

Leilani Hart is heiress to a hotel magnate, but has always felt invisible. She can never seem to impress her father and he makes her work harder than anyone else only to ignore her accomplishments. In an attempt to prove herself, she makes an impulsive choice and decides to take on a small hotel project in Ocracoke. And she is not prepared for the way the inhabitants of the town are interested in every detail of her plans and what it might mean for the quiet tourist town.

Taylor and Lani have an immediate attraction closely followed by antagonism, distrust, and frustration. He sees her as an interloper who does not care about their town and wants to sabotage her. She is out to prove that she has what it takes to get the project done, but she also knows she does not have a chance of impressing her father with the town against her.

It's attraction and distraction. They try to avoid it, and when they can't then they try to control it by rules. But rules are made to be broken. Suddenly they are experiencing something new and different. Where she had not really been living, he had not really been forming attachments. They had both been waiting to come out of limbo and for their real life to begin. Taking a leap could mean just that. But it also comes with complications and sacrifice. Things might just be getting too real and they are not prepared...and there is a lot at stake.

She is used to her choices being taken away and does not want that trend to continue. He has buried his own issues so deep that he can't really acknowledge them, but that does not mean they do not affect him and his choices. Sometimes trying to help or protect someone is not always the best option, and he might just be about to make the biggest mistake of his life.

Life is a series of chances, risks, choices, and mistakes. But communication and trust is also key. When it comes down to priorities, they will have to figure out what they can and cannot live without and make their needs known.

This is an emotional, steamy, angsty, humorous, enemies-to-lovers story with some twists and surprises. I love this series and all of the familiar characters make appearances in this one. They are a tight knit dynamic group who have been through their own struggles and challenges. I enjoy the small town island setting and how nosy everyone is. I liked seeing more of his brotherly relationship with Dean. I was intrigued by a scene with Macon so I am interested to see what his book will bring.

I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Profile Image for Flo.
1,761 reviews
September 2, 2018
Sweet addition to the By The Bay Series.
I really likdd that from the beginning the story finds a way to continue from the others seamlessly. Taylor was fierce family man while lani had been used to being alone through her life so you knew that there would be fireworks when these two characters came together.
Im happy to see who is coming in the next book and I can't wait!!!!!
Beautiful ending with all the feels!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,029 reviews90 followers
September 9, 2018
* A review copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review *

~ 4.5 Sometimes Dreams Change Stars ~

The Mistakes I’ve Made is another great addition to the By the Bay Series by J.L. Berg.

This book wasn’t as emotional for me as the others in the series, but it did still have some of my emotions flared up. I did like how this story flowed seamlessly into this series and kind of took off where the others have finished.

Each of these books are standalone novels, but this is a series that I would recommend reading in order. I think you will get a better feel for this small town and the characters we meet along the way if they are read in order. As with the others, this book is told in Dual POV. I thought the pace and flow of this story worked well for the characters. This is an enemies to lovers story. I did find this story to be quite steamy, angsty and at times kind of funny. I did like the back and forth between Taylor and Leilani (Lani).

In this story we follow Taylor and Leilani. If you have read the other books in this series then you have already met Taylor. He is Dean’s (Book 2) younger brother. He is co-owner and operates his family’s fishing business. Taylor was born and raised in Ocracoke, so he has strong feelings and ties to the small town. So when Leilani Hart comes into town, things get kind of heated. Lani is the daughter to a big hotel mogul, who has recently purchased the run down hotel in Ocracoke. Lani is determined to prove to her father that she is the right person to refurbish this hotel and to take over his company later on. Can these two find a common ground? Will they be able to get their HEA?? What happens when trust is put to the test, will they come out on the right side?? Read this book to find out the answers to these questions and more.

I again enjoyed that we get to see some familiar faces in this story. I loved that Molly and Millie played quite an important role in this story. Each for their own reason.

I would 100% recommend this book to everyone who likes an enemies to lovers romance. If you are a fan of JL Berg’s books then you don’t want to miss out on this series. I look forward to the next book in this series to come out.

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Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,839 reviews1,443 followers
September 10, 2018
Good golly! Y’all I can’t express how much fun I had while reading The Mistakes I’ve Made. It’s my new favorite of this excellent By the Bay series!

Seriously, I enjoyed this book so damn much. From Lani’s antics with her BFF, Piper, her determination to prove herself to her father and to herself, to her crazy, sexy, fun interactions with Taylor, I couldn’t put it down until I read the last word.

At times I found myself cringing, laughing and stupefied all at the same time because I just couldn’t believe what I was reading on the page. Taylor and Lani’s relationship went from zero to 60 and it was such a fun and sexy ride! They’re the perfect balance to each other. I love how their relationship developed—that they both wanted to hold onto what they built in the five weeks Lani was on the island.

The Mistakes I’ve Made is a fun, smart, flirty, sexy, heartwarming read. A classic enemies-to-lovers that’s perfectly balanced and fantastic addition to the series. I loved catching up with Jake and Molly, Dean and Cora and Millie and Aiden too!! And holy crap, the preview for Cam’s story *fans self*--I cannot wait! ~ Missy, 5 stars
Profile Image for Michell Hall casper.
925 reviews11 followers
September 10, 2018
This was another great read by J.L. Berg. I can't get enough of this series. They just keep getting better and better.

Taylor and Lani are supposed to be enemies. But they can't seem to stay away from each other. And when the town forces them to work together. Things are about to get interesting.

I loved the intensity between Taylor and Lani and the flirty banter. This was also an emotional read and hit a little home for me. I could relate to Lani in a way. And my heart just hurt for her. One of my favorites in the series.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,843 reviews156 followers
September 10, 2018
The thing that I’ve learned about J.L. Berg’s storytelling since I was introduced to her stories is that each and every one has heart, has powerful emotions, and has lessons to be learned through the characters’ experiences and conflicts. There hasn’t been one that hasn’t resonated in some way with me due to the relatability of the story line or the realistic presentation of her characters’ concerns and/or problems, and in Berg’s newest release, The Mistakes I’ve Made, I’m, once again, struck by how her characters’ struggles speak to me and make me hope against hope that the hero and heroine will find a way through the maelstrom and come out of it changed in ways that allow them to move forward instead of focusing on the past.

Despite the fact that Leilani (Lani) Hart, a hotel heiress, and Taylor Sutherland,
a business man in the small island town of Ocracoke, North Carolina, seemed to have lived very different lives and don’t appear to share a common vision about what’s to be done with the renovation of Ocracoke’s only hotel, they do manage to find common ground as the story progresses, proving that attraction and chemistry can easily overshadow first impressions and preconceived notions.

It’s easy to understand what motivates Lani’s actions and what she hopes to gain by overseeing the hotel’s revamping, but what’s also clear is that her father has never truly seen her as anything other than someone beneath him, and I don’t see that changing despite her best efforts. Readers can’t help but feel for this lonely girl who just wants her father’s love and acceptance, and even though that doesn’t seem to be something that will happen, the fact that Lani finds a new path to take during her time in Ocracoke, we’re hopeful that the connection she seeks can be found in people who see her for the amazing woman that she’s always been.

Taylor may resent the fact that he was never able to leave his small hometown and adventure out on his own, but he’s made the best of it by being a successful businessman and quite the ladies’ man as well, and even though he sees Lani and her father’s company as an enemy of Ocracoke, when he’s chosen to keep an eye on the pretty interloper and be the go between to ensure that Hart International’s intentions meet the wants and needs of the townspeople, these two ‘enemies’ become friends and soon give into the sexual tension that has surrounded them since Lani set foot on the small town island.

The title itself also lends to symbolic meanings, but even after finishing the text, I’m still not quite sure whose mistakes are in question and who deserves the forgiveness that could be obtained...but perhaps that Berg’s intention, which means that all readers are on point in their assessment of who’s to learn and who’s to forgive.

4.5 Poison Apples
Profile Image for J Kiwibooknerd .
1,811 reviews54 followers
September 8, 2018
5 stars photo: Rate 5 Stars Rate5.gif

Advanced Readers Copy Courtesy of Author...:)

Today there are so many authors and so many books to choose from that as a reader we have become quite spoilt with all the choices out there. Deciding who to give our hard earned money too, can be quite a hard decision for many of us, as we not only want a book that will grip us from start to finish, but as a romance reader we want a story with all the feels, the alpha male, the kick ass heroine, some hot sex , along with a happily ever after. With J.L.Berg we are guaranteed all the above and buying one of her books is actually not a difficult decision at all, as I can quite confidently guarantee you will enjoy it.

This series has fast become one of my favourite and going back to the island of Ocracoke is like going home and visiting friends. I love seeing how everyone is doing and catching up with all of the gang. This time around we are lucky to get Taylor's story and it was quite delightful to watch this one night stand kind of guy fall for the fiesty heiress whose father buys what he considers is his hotel.

Lelani is trying to prove to her dad that she is ready to take on a project of her own, and when their hotel empire acquires s a hotel in Ocracoke that is falling apart, she wants nothing more than to go to the little island and put her mark on the hotel. What she does not anticipate is Taylor Sutherland, the guy who has alot to say about a Hart hotel ruining their little island. When they butt heats, the chemistry flies between them and their attractions is off the charts. Too bad that are supposed to hate each other, as they find themselves on different sides of the fence.

This was a great read from start to finish and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I cannot wait for the next book, and to get a chance to check back in with my favourite little island.
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,073 reviews13 followers
September 10, 2018
Another great addition to this series.

This time it is Taylor's turn to find his HEA. Each book can be read independently to the rest. Taylor has been a bit of an enigma up until this point so it was an opportunity to find out what makes him tick. He was keen to get off the island at one point but gave it all up to stay and help save the family business. He is so passionate about the town he lives in that when it is threatened he is ready to go into battle for it.

Whilst Taylor has found his place, Leilani is still trying to find hers. Desperate for her father's attention, she resorts to underhand methods to try to do so. This leads her to becoming project manager for her father's latest hotel acquisition.

The two of them, despite their attraction for each other, do everything possible to annoy the other. It is the banter between them that makes this book as they try to learn the art form of compromise.

This is a special setting and one I take great pleasure in returning to. Unique stories and exceptional characters every step of the way.

***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Profile Image for Kimberly Anne.
3,167 reviews184 followers
September 16, 2018
I am loving this series!!

This is Taylor's and Lani's story and it's enenies-to-lovers? Maybe forbidden romance? They aren't really enemies, more like he's just supposed to be her enemy. Whatever you want to call it, the story is steamy, angsty, peppered with humor, and comes with more than one surprise.

Each and every book in this series is, without a doubt, a standalone but I recommend reading them all. In this one we got to catch up with some of the characters from the previous books which I think is tons of fun. And, boy oh boy!! The lead in to the next book has me waiting and ready!!

~ Kimberly Anne
September 8, 2018
This was the 4th book in the By The Bay Series. I have not read the first three books, and you should probably do that before you read this book. That was my own fault.

This was a very well written book. The characters were great and the chapters flowed. But I probably should have read the other books in this series before reading this one, and I would have probably knew a lot more about the other characters that were mentioned.
It was a little on the Insta-Love side, which is not something I like to read, so that is personal preference and has nothing to do with the author.

No over the top drama or angst. A light and easy read. I really enjoyed Taylor and Leilani's book.
Profile Image for Priscilla .
562 reviews39 followers
October 28, 2023
These 2 were cute rivals to lovers Taylor and Lani we a joy to read my only thing was the plot point towards the end felt a little off for me with some things that happened off page, I just felt a head spin cuz it happened outta no where at least for me. Other than that they were sexy and both had issues they needed to work through.


ARC provided by wildfire Marketing for free all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,165 reviews108 followers
September 9, 2018
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0

~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

I haven’t read the other books in this series yet, but I’m definitely going to after this one. I’ve discovered a new author and that’s the best part of being an avid reader.
Profile Image for MK.
1,403 reviews18 followers
September 10, 2018
This is the first book in the series I have read. I liked the characters a lot. Taylor and Lani were so great. The enemy to lover you could feel between them. But soon something changed. Things became different.

See where things lead them.
Profile Image for C.
981 reviews8 followers
September 11, 2018
I think it’s time for someone to get off the island . I’m ready for a character to branch away from the family at the inn. The story was ok.
Profile Image for Manoela.
1,178 reviews26 followers
September 10, 2018
4.5 Stars

In The Mistakes I've Made the Author takes us back to the small island of Ocracoke, now to tell the story of Taylor, Dean's younger brother.I'm going to start this review saying so far the story of Taylor and Lani is my favorite of this series.I simply loved those two, but whoever won me right back in the first pages was the heroine of this story. It's been a long time since a heroine was as captivating as it happened here.

Taylor is a more closed, skeptical character in love who had to put aside her teenage dreams of leaving this little island and living her dreams to take care of the business of their families, next to his brother.But I enjoyed seeing that despite this he didn't become a spiteful or bitter character, he accepted his fate and found happiness there.And now that a stranger threatens the tranquility of his small town he soon sees with a Threat that needs to go away for the good of not only his city but also his Heart.

Lani is the kind of heroine I adore, strong and vulnerable at the same time. My heart broke for her in a few moments at a time when she never stopped chasing after what she wanted and for that reason she does a little cheat in her father's company and puts her name as the designer to renovate the hotel in Ocracoke with the goal of gaining recognition from her father in her work but perhaps also her love since the their relationship is almost non-existent.She in the eyes of the world may be the heir to her father's empire, but the reality that she to him is just another of his subordinates.And with the renovation of this hotel she plans to change that, but of course it will not be easy to win the residents of this city and it will not be easy to deal with the difficult and sexy Taylor.

Here we do not have an instant love story, attraction maybe, but it was refreshing to see these two go through the motions, try to fight it, if they allow each other to know each other better and finally see this friendship becoming something more. I had fun and I moved along with them along that journey and from the front page it was clear that they were perfect for each other.

The Mistakes I've Made was a story that captivated me from start to finish, and as I said there in the beginning it became my favorite of this series.The story of Taylor and Lani replete with chemistry, fun times, sweet moments and a sweet and sexy romance .

I Received an unreleased copy of this book
Profile Image for Nightbird Novels.
1,098 reviews23 followers
September 10, 2018
Taylor Sutherland never planned on staying in Ocracoke forever, but the small coastal town in North Carolina is home and he would do anything to protect it.

Leilani Hart wants to prove herself to her father and be given the hotel re-design jobs she deserves. Hart international is a family business and she wants to continue it's legacy, not just be relegated to the sidelines forever.

When Hart international purchases a local Ocracoke inn, Leilani sees it as her chance to shine, while Taylor and the townspeople see the potential for the ruin of their very way of life... and they aren't going to take her renovation plans lightly...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I enjoyed this book so much! With humorous and authentic characters who you couldn't help but love, I was instantly drawn into this story and couldn't put it down.

Leilani is used to her father ignoring her, but she wants to show him what she is made of more than anything. Taking a big risk, she decides to take over the remodel of the inn at Ocracoke and dazzle him with her dedication and expertise. But, realizing that she has to win over the locals in her quest for completing the job, she may have her work cut out for her... especially with her not-so-welcoming town liaison.

Taylor lives life with as few entanglements as possible. As co-owner of a local boat tour business with his brother, the future plans for his town are very important to him. And he vehemently opposes the inn being torn down and replaced with something that won't fit the history of Ocracoke. But, resisting Leilani and the inexplicable draw he has to her is easier said then done... plus pushing her buttons is his new favorite pastime...

I loved Leilani and Taylor's initial meeting and their back and forth banter was just perfection. For two people to be on two opposite ends of a fight, their attraction and interest in each other inevitably will change everything they thought they knew...

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.

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https://nightbirdnovels.com/2018/09/1...

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Profile Image for Sarah.
593 reviews80 followers
September 9, 2018
The Mistakes I’ve Made was a fantastic addition to a series I already love. Leilani and Taylor were a fabulous couple, and I was happy to see Dean’s little brother finally get something for himself. Their story was a little enemies-to-lovers, quite beautiful, and a lovely layer to add to the fascinating town of Ocracoke.

Taylor and Leilani were like fire and ice when the story began; their dynamic was rife with intense chemistry and tension beyond their control. Once they finally worked through all the things they felt were holding them apart, they were a fabulous pair. The love and concern they had for one another shown through each and every interaction they had, and it was evident their souls had been made for one another.

Both Leilani and Taylor had a slew of issues regarding their parents – for entirely different reasons, of course – but both took those things with them and let them color their lives. Their similar experiences gave them a connection more profound than they may have otherwise experienced. They were also able to begin to help one another overcome the pain they’d carried for years and give one another a new perspective from which to understand the world.

The only wish I have for this book would have been to see more of Taylor’s healing arc. He had so much pain he was carrying around, it would have been nice to see him admit to his struggles and deal with the things he’d been carrying around for so long.

The Mistakes I’ve Made is the fourth book in JL Berg’s By the Bay series. These books are interconnected standalones and can be enjoyed independently. With the exception of a few appearances of the previous couples in the series, there are no storylines that continue through the novels. The Mistakes I’ve Made is written in dual first-person perspective, narrated by Leilani and Taylor.
September 11, 2018
I really enjoyed this "enemies to lovers" book!  It is my beach escape read and I really enjoyed heading back to the town and revisiting this family!

To give some backstory- Taylor is Dean's brother.  (Dean was the one involved in the accident in an earlier book).  He and his brother run their fishing company, but this wasn't always Taylor's dream.  When things were going south, he decided to stay home and help run it to keep it afloat instead of going off to college and chasing his own dreams. Lani is the daughter to hotel mogul that has recently acquired the Cozy Hotel.  And we all know what acquiring a business does in a small town- it spells TROUBLE!

Taylor and Lani are two characters that want each other, but should stay far away from each other because they are on opposite teams.  However, when Taylor is tasked with being the liason between the town and Lani, you know there will be trouble in paradise (trouble of the steamy kind!).  The chemistry between these two is hot an intense, but not in an insta- love kind of way. I love the way they love each other- whole-heartedly and want to defy the odds.  I love that they can't say no.

I love that Lani is trying to prove herself to her father and take reins of the company.  She is a strong heroine, who just can't help who her heart loves.  Taylor has done so much for his family, and as much as he has sacrificed, I love that he gets his happy ending!  This is one of the main reasons I think they both get exactly what they deserve- each other, but they also get so much more!

I love the small town vibe, I love the history and the time I have invested in these characters feel like family.  If you love small town romances, coupled with an outside enemy, then this book is for you!  I really do adore this family and cannot wait to see what else is in store.
2,387 reviews52 followers
September 13, 2018
The Mistakes I've Made hit me like a hurricane. I was blown away by the main characters, Taylor and Leilani. They have both been damaged by loss as children. Their actions are constantly affected by their pasts.

Taylor fears commitment to the point breakfast is out of the question with any female. His only loves are his family and his small island town of Ocracoke. When he hears that Hart International has purchased the old hotel next door his only thought is to run them out of town.

Leilani buries herself in her work trying to please the parent that ignores her. She is desperate to please her father the CEO of Hart International. She takes over the makeover of an old hotel on the small island town of Ocracoke without her dad's permission. When her father finds out he gives her outrageous expectations.

The little town that Taylor loves fears what will happen to the hotel and their town. The town leaders have a solution - put the person that keeps crossing paths with Leilani as her in a position to influence her decisions. How can Taylor protect his heart if he has to be in constant contact with Leilani? How will Leilani be able to meet her father's expectations with the constant distraction know as Taylor?

Taylor and Leilani's journey to a Happily Ever After has lots of bumps. They have lots of silly rules that are impossible to keep. There are obstacles and surprises that can derail them, destroy them. Every obstacle had me falling harder for the story, devouring every word. I laughed. I cried. I happy danced. I had a few colorful words for a certain individual (okay I had more than a few). I thoroughly enjoyed The Mistakes I've Made. Even the tears were cleansing. For me this book has gone on the must read again and again list.
Profile Image for 2OCC Reviews.
3,471 reviews247 followers
September 10, 2018
The Mistakes I’ve made is an amazingly beautiful story that takes place in a small town where everyone knows everyone. I really loved small town reads because I love reading about the closeness and friendship between the people that live in the town. The author really showcases this in this story and really, I really love the way this storyline was a lover to friends type of read. I love how the author really showed he emotions that the characters felt about their lives and between each other. I loved these characters together and found they were great together.

Lani was trying to get her father’s attention due to always feeling invisible to him. It is obvious that he puts his business ahead of her and I really felt for her when it is obvious how much this hurts her. But I love the way how she keeps going and the changed that she makes within the story. She was a really likable character that got along great with the other characters in the series.

Taylor was the hot local business owner that was scared of commitment. I really enjoyed the way that he tried not to fall for Lani and the way that he put her feelings ahead of his own. I really enjoyed the relationship he had with his brother and the way that they both annoyed each other.

The Mistakes I’ve made is the fourth book in the By The Bay series and focuses on Taylor Sutherland and the heiress Lani who comes to the series little town.

This can be read as a standalone, but I recommend to read the other books in the series so readers can enjoy all the characters of the series. This is definitely a book series you do not want to miss reading. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Stacie Christensen.
664 reviews17 followers
September 11, 2018
From USA Today bestselling author J.L. Berg comes an enemies to lovers stand-alone romance.

I was waiting for my life to start...

After forgoing college to help run the family business, I’d given up on the idea of a different life, and finally made peace with something a bit simpler.

That is, until Leilani Hart showed up.

There is nothing simple about about the hotel heiress and the minute our eyes meet, I know my carefree existence is a thing of the past. She has big ideas for our sleepy town and the motel she plans on transforming into a spa destination for the rich and famous.

She’ll have to go through me first.

From our first meeting, we’re like fire and ice and I can’t help but wonder what it would be like to pin her down and melt some of those frigid layers right off.

But, my town comes first. Or, at least, that’s what I keep telling myself. Unfortunately, my heart and head don’t seem to agree and soon, I don’t know where my loyalties lie. I’ve never believed in love, but for her, I just might be willing to risk it all.

Even if it means falling... for the enemy.
Loved Taylor and Lani's story. These two were polar opposite' s and couldn't stand each other. Their story was beautifully written on how they overcame their dislike for each other into something so much more. They both had heartbreaking experiences in the past and I have to say when Taylor fessed up to Dean about something he experienced in his childhood it literally broke my heart and gave you a much better picture of why he was such a playboy. I absolutely highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Theresa Alberts.
838 reviews6 followers
September 5, 2018
The Mistakes I've Made is the next book in the By the Bay Series. I love the stories of this little ocean town and the characters are interesting and unique in their own ways. If you don't know Taylor, he is Dean's younger brother, who stepped up to run the family business while Dean was recovering from the ferry boat accident that took his arm. Taylor is not a commitment kind of guy and is known for getting friendly with the beautiful female tourists, so it is no surprise that he asks out Leilani Hart when she flies into town, until he figures out who she is and what her presence truly means.

Leilani Hart is the heiress to a hotel chain, or so everyone thinks because of her father's success. But her father refuses to give her a chance to show what she can really do and she is stuck in an office with her creativity being squashed day after day. Lani takes matters into her own hands when she decides to assign the new hotel to herself. What she doesn't plan for is what this hotel means to the little ocean town where everyone knows and loves everyone else. Lani also doesn't plan for Taylor, a guy who she cannot stop spending time with, even when she knows she should be working.

I loved how these two characters each had to find their place in this small town community for different reasons, coming to terms with never leaving and dreams having changed, and arriving from the big city to a place that is small and caring.

You will enjoy this book as well as all of the By The Bay Books! I recommend this series.

3.5 stars
Profile Image for Elizabeth Horbaczek.
765 reviews6 followers
September 10, 2018
4 stars


This has been a great series and have enjoyed the characters in these books and this one was as well written as all the rest.   You know these characters.  If you don't I recommend reading the other books in this series first, only because you need to know all the story not just bits and pieces.  I love reading stories that have a little bit of drama at the beginning to get you started and with this book you do.  


Taylor just finished high school to find out his family business is in trouble.  He chooses family over going to college and stays to help the business.  Over the years things have gotten better but now some big shot has bought the hotel that was for sale and the whole town doesn't know what to think or who is going to destroy their little town.  Taylor is such a good guy in this book.  He only wants what is best for the town and his family.  I instantly loved him for that. 


Lani is the heir of the hotel chain.  Her father doesn't see everything that she does so she tries a new trick.  Put her name as lead designer of a hotel that was just bought and prove to her dad that she is something to be reckon with.  What she doesn't realize is that she might be finding much more than she thought.  Lani is strong, impulsive and someone that is looking for a much bigger picture.  What she will find is more than she ever could have wished for.


I loved these two.  How they connect and bow they try to stay neutral with each other is worth the read.  If you have loved this series so far you should dive right into this book.  I really enjoyed the read.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
101 reviews6 followers
September 12, 2018
I’ve said it before…I want to move to Ocracoke. J.L Berg has made this world irresistible for me as a reader yet again with The Mistakes I’ve Made.
In past By the Bay Books, Taylor Sutherland was always in the background and I never felt compelled to know more UNTIL I ready Chapter 1 of his own story. Taylor is definitely more than Dean’s younger brother and his demons are buried deep. Who would have thought breakfast was such a taboo thing? Taylor believed if he never passed that invisible line, then he would never fall.
Leilani Hart, Hotel Heiress, jumped head first into a project just to prove herself to her father. That was her one and only goal. At first. Once she opened her eyes and heart to the Orcracoke history and Community, she began to finally see that her life and dreams weren’t as limited as she believed. Who would have known that a crumbling, old hotel on a small island would offer her everything she had been missing in life – plus some?
Between her and Dean, the heartstrings are tugged with the loss of their fathers – albeit their losses were/are experienced differently. The reader is able to see the struggle and growth each one endures due to their hurt, as the story wraps up. I hate endings. I want the story to live on forever – especially in Berg’s books - but, the epilogue in this story was one of my favorites.

Also, thank you J.L Berg, for giving us peeks into the other residents of Ocracoke – Molly Jake, Dean, Cora and Lizzie. (LOVE LIZZIE!!!)
Profile Image for Alicia Harrietha.
547 reviews6 followers
September 10, 2018
I am so very happy that I read this book. The Mistakes I’ve Made by J.L.Berg is outstanding. This stand alone, enemies to lovers story pulls you in with each and every page. I couldn’t put it down, literally!!! Read this whole book in one evening.

Taylor was going to spend one last summer in his small tourist town and then get the hell out. He had dreams and determination to make a new life for himself. When tragedy hit and his brother almost died, Taylor stood by his family and helped pull them through. The thoughts of ever leaving however, are now forever behind him.

Leilani was the heir to a hotel empire but she never could prove to her father that she was worthy or ready to do more. As she struggle to be accepted and loved by him she devised a plan to get him to notice her. She was gonna fix up and redesign one of her fathers new hotel purchases. The start to this plan was not great and the town hated her before she even arrived.

From the moment Taylor and Lani met it was an instant attraction, yet their personalities conflicted and they couldn’t be in the same space as each other without fighting and snide remarks. As the two learned to work together however their need for each other grew. The chemistry was so undeniable it was steaming.

I just couldn’t get enough of this book and these character. To be honest all the characters combined made this book extra special. I need to go back and read more of this series because this one was just downright AMAZING!!
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