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Second Chances #2
Fast Forward
A moving story about love, redemption and what happens when life switches to fast forward.
Cassie learned the hard way: Love forgives… in the end.
In No Reverse, Josh and Cassie’s epic love story went from the brink of destruction to a fragile new beginning. Now they must mend their broken family and win back the son they gave up five years ago.
But second chances need to be earned and the road ahead is rocky. With Cassie on tour and Josh trying his hand at a political career, the struggle becomes clear. When the adoption takes a bad turn, Cassie and Josh are prepared to give up everything for the fight of their lives.
Will this young family finally heal the years of heartache, or will they be torn apart for good?
* Note: There is no cliffhanger.
The first five chapters can be downloaded here (http://ow.ly/q9X8E)
Cassie learned the hard way: Love forgives… in the end.
In No Reverse, Josh and Cassie’s epic love story went from the brink of destruction to a fragile new beginning. Now they must mend their broken family and win back the son they gave up five years ago.
But second chances need to be earned and the road ahead is rocky. With Cassie on tour and Josh trying his hand at a political career, the struggle becomes clear. When the adoption takes a bad turn, Cassie and Josh are prepared to give up everything for the fight of their lives.
Will this young family finally heal the years of heartache, or will they be torn apart for good?
* Note: There is no cliffhanger.
The first five chapters can be downloaded here (http://ow.ly/q9X8E)
Paperback
First published December 16, 2013
18 people are currently reading
1212 people want to read
About the author
Marion Croslydon
8 books352 followersMarion loves to share happy vibes, talk book crush, fictional boyfriends and sexual chemistry with like-minded people. And because she spends most of her days on her own deep inside her writing cave, you are welcome to come and say “hello” from time to time. Just to make sure she doesn’t sink into insanity.
Her friends, family and arch-enemies (there are quite a few) will be forever grateful for your help.
That’s where you can find her:
Website: www.marioncroslydon.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/mcroslydon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/marioncroslydon
Her friends, family and arch-enemies (there are quite a few) will be forever grateful for your help.
That’s where you can find her:
Website: www.marioncroslydon.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/mcroslydon
Facebook: www.facebook.com/marioncroslydon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 13, 2014
4 Second Chance Stars
This was my chance- our chance- to make things right. I'd made a promise to Cass and damn it all to hell, I'd never break it.
Sweet mother of feels what an emotional roller coaster Josh and Cassie's story took me on. I'm still trying to get all my feels right because...damn...just damn.
Fast Forward is the highly emotional conclusion to the story introduced in No Reverse. Please note that if you haven't read the first book, this review might have minor spoilers.
Josh and Cassie have now reconciled and are back together trying to make a new life for themselves while fighting to get custody of their son. But nothing is ever easy for them...not even close.
I'll be honest, this books is not really my typical preference. As emotionally charged as the first book was, I really enjoyed it. This one, while not being what I'd normally read, I still enjoyed. The writing is phenominal. Marion Croslydon has a way with words, that much I can tell you.
So why the 4 stars? This book had a little too much drama for me. It was one road block after another followed by 5 more for these two. The second they would resolve one thing, something else would happen. It was non-stop.
Between the drunken/abusive father, the adoption, Josh's new job and ex-fiance, it was non stop drama. Some may really enjoy it, but I prefer my drama in doses...not through the whole book.
That being said, the book was beautifully written and the love story between Josh and Cassie was truly touching. Watching everything they go through and how it made them grow as people and as a couple was great. The epilogue was the perfect way to close their story. So while it may not be anything I'd go back to, it was still a very enjoyable read.
If you're looking for an emotional love story of second chances, then this book is definitely for you.
Read my review for book 1, No Reverse here
***ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review***
For more reviews visit
This was my chance- our chance- to make things right. I'd made a promise to Cass and damn it all to hell, I'd never break it.
Sweet mother of feels what an emotional roller coaster Josh and Cassie's story took me on. I'm still trying to get all my feels right because...damn...just damn.
Fast Forward is the highly emotional conclusion to the story introduced in No Reverse. Please note that if you haven't read the first book, this review might have minor spoilers.
Josh and Cassie have now reconciled and are back together trying to make a new life for themselves while fighting to get custody of their son. But nothing is ever easy for them...not even close.
I'll be honest, this books is not really my typical preference. As emotionally charged as the first book was, I really enjoyed it. This one, while not being what I'd normally read, I still enjoyed. The writing is phenominal. Marion Croslydon has a way with words, that much I can tell you.
So why the 4 stars? This book had a little too much drama for me. It was one road block after another followed by 5 more for these two. The second they would resolve one thing, something else would happen. It was non-stop.
Between the drunken/abusive father, the adoption, Josh's new job and ex-fiance, it was non stop drama. Some may really enjoy it, but I prefer my drama in doses...not through the whole book.
That being said, the book was beautifully written and the love story between Josh and Cassie was truly touching. Watching everything they go through and how it made them grow as people and as a couple was great. The epilogue was the perfect way to close their story. So while it may not be anything I'd go back to, it was still a very enjoyable read.
If you're looking for an emotional love story of second chances, then this book is definitely for you.
Read my review for book 1, No Reverse here
***ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review***
For more reviews visit
Read
December 22, 2013Fast Forward is the second and FINAL chapter in Cassie and Josh's story. It is the sequel to No Reverse. It is now available on Amazon.
The first five chapters of Fast Forward can be downloaded here (http://ow.ly/q9X8E)
Lenor and Sam (from No Reverse) will have their own second chance at love in Second Chances # 3 and Second Chances # 4, which should be released in May and August 2014 respectively. Full title, cover and blurb reveal before then of course! Both books will be stand-alone.
Marion x
The first five chapters of Fast Forward can be downloaded here (http://ow.ly/q9X8E)
Lenor and Sam (from No Reverse) will have their own second chance at love in Second Chances # 3 and Second Chances # 4, which should be released in May and August 2014 respectively. Full title, cover and blurb reveal before then of course! Both books will be stand-alone.
Marion x
January 14, 2014
Source: eARC for Honest Review from Author
After the very touching first book No Reverse I HAD to find out what happens with Josh and Cassie.
I think with this book I was expecting more happiness and joy. For poor Josh and Cassie things do not come easy for them. The battle for them and for their son Lucas is nothing but full of hardships and tribulations.
Because there was so many trials and tribulations it felt a bit much at times but watching the growth of Cassie and Josh as individuals as well as partners was worth the read.
It's heartbreaking how decisions good or bad can have such weight in reality. For Cass and Josh they have made their fair share of bad choices but they all come back to haunt them. When all they want is to make ammends for the choices and move on.
This book envelopes the true notion of second chances and Lucas just steals your heart.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
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I really do adore this series and Marion Croslydon's writing and I Can't wait to find out what happens with Lenor and Zach as well as Sam and maybe will get to Shawn get a book as well? (fingers crossed)
After the very touching first book No Reverse I HAD to find out what happens with Josh and Cassie.
I think with this book I was expecting more happiness and joy. For poor Josh and Cassie things do not come easy for them. The battle for them and for their son Lucas is nothing but full of hardships and tribulations.
Because there was so many trials and tribulations it felt a bit much at times but watching the growth of Cassie and Josh as individuals as well as partners was worth the read.
It's heartbreaking how decisions good or bad can have such weight in reality. For Cass and Josh they have made their fair share of bad choices but they all come back to haunt them. When all they want is to make ammends for the choices and move on.
This book envelopes the true notion of second chances and Lucas just steals your heart.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
Like us on Facebook Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Follow along with Twitter Live Read and Breathe Twitter
I really do adore this series and Marion Croslydon's writing and I Can't wait to find out what happens with Lenor and Zach as well as Sam and maybe will get to Shawn get a book as well? (fingers crossed)
January 18, 2014
First impression:
I loved Josh and Cassie's story in No Reverse. I was anxious to see if they would get their son back. I was satisfied with the ending of No Reverse, but I needed them to truly have a happy ending.
The story:
Fast Forward was about Josh and Cassie's struggle to get their son back. The adoption process was difficult on it's own, but Josh and Cassie are both at the beginning of their careers. Learning how to balance all of this stress is difficult on their relationship. They strive to rebuild their relationship, but past insecurities threaten to stand in the way, in addition to the stress of being apart and trying to get their son back.
I won't tell you what happens, but I was on the edge of my seat until the very end. They've both matured so much, even from the last book, and it was great to see how they work through their issues as a team when it mattered.
The characters:
Cassie reminds me of myself at times. She has trouble allowing others to support her. She's always been responsible for herself. I think she used it as a defense mechanism. And as much as she loved Josh, she always felt like her decisions and choices were the best for their relationship. Cassie needed to learn to trust that Josh would always put her first. Also, I appreciated seeing her follow her passion with her music career. I think it was important for her to follow that dream, just as much as it was for her to have her family back together.
I've always liked Josh. I don't think he's always handled the challenges in their relationships well, but he always put his love for Cassie first. Josh is the kind of guy that likes to be needed. He knows that Cassie likes to take the lead in their relationship, but it has created a lot of problems for them. Granted, she felt she was making the right choices for Josh, but Josh was fully prepared to make sacrifices for his family. I really loved seeing Josh fight for Cassie and their son, Lucas. I also loved that he finally stood up to Cassie and pleaded with her to have faith in him to make the best choices for them. He's really a good guy.
As for supporting characters, I'm looking forward to Lenor's book and I'm hoping that Sam will get a book too. Sam's reappearance in this book is short lived, but it made me miss him. I liked Sam in the first book, a lot.
What didn't work for me:
Ironically, what bothered me was also what I liked about Cassie. I liked that she followed her dreams, but the mother in me couldn't believe she would go off during the adoption process. I know there wasn't much they could do, but I know I wouldn't be able to stay away from my child.
Overall:
I was happy with the way Cassie and Josh's story wrapped up. It wasn't necessarily in a pretty bow and it wasn't fast, but I was happy in the end. They are a great couple and I wouldn't mind getting a novella in the future just to get an update. Although, I'm curious to see if they will make an appearance in the rest of the series. If you like stories about second chances, this is a great series to read. I'm certainly enjoying it!
Favorite Quotes:
~"One day...soon, I'll have more. Neither of you will be in need of anything. I swear to God. I'll make you both safe and happy, and I'll work hard to keep it that way. Always."-Loc 214
~"I believe in you, Joshua MacBride. I have faith in you and I rely on you. You're my hero. I should have told you that a long time ago and I'm sorry I didn't."-Loc 3419
I loved Josh and Cassie's story in No Reverse. I was anxious to see if they would get their son back. I was satisfied with the ending of No Reverse, but I needed them to truly have a happy ending.
The story:
Fast Forward was about Josh and Cassie's struggle to get their son back. The adoption process was difficult on it's own, but Josh and Cassie are both at the beginning of their careers. Learning how to balance all of this stress is difficult on their relationship. They strive to rebuild their relationship, but past insecurities threaten to stand in the way, in addition to the stress of being apart and trying to get their son back.
I won't tell you what happens, but I was on the edge of my seat until the very end. They've both matured so much, even from the last book, and it was great to see how they work through their issues as a team when it mattered.
The characters:
Cassie reminds me of myself at times. She has trouble allowing others to support her. She's always been responsible for herself. I think she used it as a defense mechanism. And as much as she loved Josh, she always felt like her decisions and choices were the best for their relationship. Cassie needed to learn to trust that Josh would always put her first. Also, I appreciated seeing her follow her passion with her music career. I think it was important for her to follow that dream, just as much as it was for her to have her family back together.
I've always liked Josh. I don't think he's always handled the challenges in their relationships well, but he always put his love for Cassie first. Josh is the kind of guy that likes to be needed. He knows that Cassie likes to take the lead in their relationship, but it has created a lot of problems for them. Granted, she felt she was making the right choices for Josh, but Josh was fully prepared to make sacrifices for his family. I really loved seeing Josh fight for Cassie and their son, Lucas. I also loved that he finally stood up to Cassie and pleaded with her to have faith in him to make the best choices for them. He's really a good guy.
As for supporting characters, I'm looking forward to Lenor's book and I'm hoping that Sam will get a book too. Sam's reappearance in this book is short lived, but it made me miss him. I liked Sam in the first book, a lot.
What didn't work for me:
Ironically, what bothered me was also what I liked about Cassie. I liked that she followed her dreams, but the mother in me couldn't believe she would go off during the adoption process. I know there wasn't much they could do, but I know I wouldn't be able to stay away from my child.
Overall:
I was happy with the way Cassie and Josh's story wrapped up. It wasn't necessarily in a pretty bow and it wasn't fast, but I was happy in the end. They are a great couple and I wouldn't mind getting a novella in the future just to get an update. Although, I'm curious to see if they will make an appearance in the rest of the series. If you like stories about second chances, this is a great series to read. I'm certainly enjoying it!
Favorite Quotes:
~"One day...soon, I'll have more. Neither of you will be in need of anything. I swear to God. I'll make you both safe and happy, and I'll work hard to keep it that way. Always."-Loc 214
~"I believe in you, Joshua MacBride. I have faith in you and I rely on you. You're my hero. I should have told you that a long time ago and I'm sorry I didn't."-Loc 3419
February 9, 2014
3.5 stars. This was a vast improvement from No Reverse, where Josh and Cassie are concerned. In this book, I felt their connection. Their struggle to navigate being married, working, outside influences trying to pull them apart, and their strong belief that they are mean to be. And the struggle to adopt their own damn son.
Cassie became a stronger woman in this book, but to me she still had more to go. She did act more mature, nurturing, and finally opened up to Josh expressing her concerns and doubt. The times theses two opened up and expressed their fears were the times I felt the honesty and real ness of their love. It's what sold me on them. Cassie needed to let Josh be her protector and provider. Not that he needed to be the boss, he needed to feel like her man. That he was capable of taking care of her and protect her. She was so used to fending for herself, she didn't realize how that affected him. For Josh it was important to not be stuck in their teenage relationship of the past, but the adults they were now. He needed to feel that she needed him, that is some ways she depended on him. It was very endearing.
While navigating Josh working in politics, Cassie was breaking into the music scene as a singer/songwriter. There were a couple of outside influences that could have caused drama, but the new Josh and Cass promised to be honest, and when there were any doubts or questions they actually talked. No unnecessary drama or cheating. That was another plus to them.
The process of adopting Lucas brought out the good and the bad. The what ifs. Doubts. You name it. But the commonality was the love they had for him. Which was created by their love for each other. In this book, I finally saw the bond between them that I craved in No Reverse. Loving Lucas wasn't the only thing binding them together. There were many ups and downs in that process and I found myself thinking they deserved to be a family.
Overall I actually enjoyed this book more than the first.
Cassie became a stronger woman in this book, but to me she still had more to go. She did act more mature, nurturing, and finally opened up to Josh expressing her concerns and doubt. The times theses two opened up and expressed their fears were the times I felt the honesty and real ness of their love. It's what sold me on them. Cassie needed to let Josh be her protector and provider. Not that he needed to be the boss, he needed to feel like her man. That he was capable of taking care of her and protect her. She was so used to fending for herself, she didn't realize how that affected him. For Josh it was important to not be stuck in their teenage relationship of the past, but the adults they were now. He needed to feel that she needed him, that is some ways she depended on him. It was very endearing.
While navigating Josh working in politics, Cassie was breaking into the music scene as a singer/songwriter. There were a couple of outside influences that could have caused drama, but the new Josh and Cass promised to be honest, and when there were any doubts or questions they actually talked. No unnecessary drama or cheating. That was another plus to them.
The process of adopting Lucas brought out the good and the bad. The what ifs. Doubts. You name it. But the commonality was the love they had for him. Which was created by their love for each other. In this book, I finally saw the bond between them that I craved in No Reverse. Loving Lucas wasn't the only thing binding them together. There were many ups and downs in that process and I found myself thinking they deserved to be a family.
Overall I actually enjoyed this book more than the first.
January 23, 2014
I can't wait. It will be like Christmas a few days early
Read
May 15, 2025also very soap opera-ish but also had some beautiful paragraphs so you can't blame me for reading it
"In the distance, I caught the sound of a bird singing. It echoed across the open ground around us. I filled up my chest with air and the frozen sensation stung my lungs.
“Cassandra O’Malley, do you want to be my wife?”
With her gaze locked with mine, she answered, “I do.”
The bird kept on singing as if it was spreading the good news to the whole world, but the outside world didn’t exist anymore for Cassie and me. For the first time, we allowed ourselves to be just the two of us. "
"In the distance, I caught the sound of a bird singing. It echoed across the open ground around us. I filled up my chest with air and the frozen sensation stung my lungs.
“Cassandra O’Malley, do you want to be my wife?”
With her gaze locked with mine, she answered, “I do.”
The bird kept on singing as if it was spreading the good news to the whole world, but the outside world didn’t exist anymore for Cassie and me. For the first time, we allowed ourselves to be just the two of us. "
January 10, 2014
4.5 Hearts
I fell in love with Cassie and Josh's story in No Reverse and have been anxiously awaiting the the release of Fast Forward to see how their chapter in this series would wind up. These two teenage sweethearts fell in love, were forced into early adulthood by a teenage pregnancy, torn apart by lies and misplaced responsibilities, then reunited five years later, despite circumstances that made it seem next to impossible for that to happen, desperate to recover the family and the love they lost years ago. Now together, Cassie and Josh face the battle of fighting to be able to get back their son Lucas, the challenges of Cassie's career as a singer, and the difficulties presented by Josh's career on Capitol Hill. Circumstances like these would challenge the strongest of couples, so needless to say, Cassie and Josh's love, their fragile relationship, their commitment, and their resolve are tested to the extreme in Fast Forward. They not only have to face the past and the circumstances and relationships from it, but they have to go through many difficult obstacles and roadblocks to adopt Lucas, while learning how to trust and love each other again. It is a definitely a rocky road, but nonetheless one that they are determined to travel.
I loved watching how Cassie and Josh's characters developed and matured in Fast Forward. It is obvious they love each other, yet each questions the other's love for them. Past relationships threaten to rise up and destroy them, and I was really pleased with how the each handled this. They go through so much together trying to get Lucas back, both trying to be strong, while learning to recognize their faults, and learning to be what the other person needs them to be. Lucas is the glue and the goal that cements them together, but they must go back to their roots, back to their beginning, and find that love is the foundation upon which family, relationship, and futures are built upon.
I love Marion Croslydn's writing. She has the ability to draw you into the story enabling you to identify with the characters and experience what they are going through right along with them. Fast Forward is told from both Cassie and Josh's point of view, which I loved. For me, the story had my attention from beginning to end and I was rooting for these two to find their happily ever after.
I loved how Marion Croslydon ended the story and brought everything together. There is also a beautiful epilogue, which is something I adore in a book. Fast Forward is a wonderful conclusion to Cassie and Josh's story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you love contemporary romance, then the Second Chances Series is one that I would definitely recommend adding to you TBR list. I can't wait to see where Marion Croslydon takes the story in future installments as we read the stories of some of the secondary characters.
Quotes:
“Cass, I’ve wanted to marry you since you stomped on my foot back in first grade. I just couldn’t do it then because we were six and it’d have been illegal."
" Family is about love, and love is something we have plenty of.”
"You are worth fighting for. You are worth dying for. And you are certainly worth living for."
“I believe in you, Joshua MacBride. I have faith in you and I rely on you. You’re my hero. I should have told you that a long time ago and I’m sorry I didn’t.”
I fell in love with Cassie and Josh's story in No Reverse and have been anxiously awaiting the the release of Fast Forward to see how their chapter in this series would wind up. These two teenage sweethearts fell in love, were forced into early adulthood by a teenage pregnancy, torn apart by lies and misplaced responsibilities, then reunited five years later, despite circumstances that made it seem next to impossible for that to happen, desperate to recover the family and the love they lost years ago. Now together, Cassie and Josh face the battle of fighting to be able to get back their son Lucas, the challenges of Cassie's career as a singer, and the difficulties presented by Josh's career on Capitol Hill. Circumstances like these would challenge the strongest of couples, so needless to say, Cassie and Josh's love, their fragile relationship, their commitment, and their resolve are tested to the extreme in Fast Forward. They not only have to face the past and the circumstances and relationships from it, but they have to go through many difficult obstacles and roadblocks to adopt Lucas, while learning how to trust and love each other again. It is a definitely a rocky road, but nonetheless one that they are determined to travel.
I loved watching how Cassie and Josh's characters developed and matured in Fast Forward. It is obvious they love each other, yet each questions the other's love for them. Past relationships threaten to rise up and destroy them, and I was really pleased with how the each handled this. They go through so much together trying to get Lucas back, both trying to be strong, while learning to recognize their faults, and learning to be what the other person needs them to be. Lucas is the glue and the goal that cements them together, but they must go back to their roots, back to their beginning, and find that love is the foundation upon which family, relationship, and futures are built upon.
I love Marion Croslydn's writing. She has the ability to draw you into the story enabling you to identify with the characters and experience what they are going through right along with them. Fast Forward is told from both Cassie and Josh's point of view, which I loved. For me, the story had my attention from beginning to end and I was rooting for these two to find their happily ever after.
I loved how Marion Croslydon ended the story and brought everything together. There is also a beautiful epilogue, which is something I adore in a book. Fast Forward is a wonderful conclusion to Cassie and Josh's story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you love contemporary romance, then the Second Chances Series is one that I would definitely recommend adding to you TBR list. I can't wait to see where Marion Croslydon takes the story in future installments as we read the stories of some of the secondary characters.
Quotes:
“Cass, I’ve wanted to marry you since you stomped on my foot back in first grade. I just couldn’t do it then because we were six and it’d have been illegal."
" Family is about love, and love is something we have plenty of.”
"You are worth fighting for. You are worth dying for. And you are certainly worth living for."
“I believe in you, Joshua MacBride. I have faith in you and I rely on you. You’re my hero. I should have told you that a long time ago and I’m sorry I didn’t.”
January 5, 2014
"You are worth fighting for. You are worth dying for. And you are certainly worth living for."
We follow Josh and Cassie's story from No Reverse where Cassie pursuits her husband for adoption qualifications and Josh pursuits her for a divorce. Revelations were made and lives were altered but amongst all their love for each other prevailed.
In Fast Forward, Cassie and Josh are back together and they are pursuing both of their dreams. Cassie's dream to be a well renowned singer and songwriter, Josh's dream to be a politician and serve his country and both of their dreams involving getting their Son back from the system and build a happy family. But the road to fulfilling all of that is not a walk in the park. Cassie must make a decision, her own personal dreams of being a singer or getting her own son back and this time she can't have her cake and eat it too. While Josh struggles as a junior staff at a Senator's office where the ghosts of his past keeps finding him, namely in the form of a sexy blonde, Megan and her ex supposed-to-be father-in-law, Senator Carrington. Then there's the Lorettis, the perfect American couple who has their eyes set into adopting Lucas also. Will they ever get their family back? Or maybe their second chance were just not meant to be?
I cannot compare my fondness of No Reverse to my fondness of Fast Forward. Yes, I have cried my eyes out on the former but I had my heart thumping and my hair pulling in suspense and frustration on the latter. The feelings the novel invoked in me were like a fire. Unpredictable and dangerous. I keep anticipating if one of them will slip up, yes, there are near instances but they regain there footing and both Josh and Cassie's determination moved me.
Whoever said that adoption is an easy process? We may have been brainwashed by the movie industry when a movie about adoption ends in a scene where the couple/individual goes up to a child, tells them they're gonna be their new mommy/daddy, hugs them, the child hugs back and BAM! The End. But nooooo, Fast Forward tells the true story behind every adoption. The nitty gritty details. That even in Josh and Cassie's case, with them being the biological parents, adoption is a very tedious process. One that can potentially ruin a relationship if the foundation is not strong enough.
I can also say that even and if their adoption will be granted, the path to raising Lucas will be full of potholes, bumps, and twists and turns. Especially, when he grows up and becomes inquisitive on his adoption. I am not asking for a thrid book, I am pretty much contented on how Croslydon ended things. I have waited for months for this sequel and yes, she has certainly delivered. Josh and Cassie's story has truly been an eye opener for me. I hope that others will, too.
Marion Croslydon
We follow Josh and Cassie's story from No Reverse where Cassie pursuits her husband for adoption qualifications and Josh pursuits her for a divorce. Revelations were made and lives were altered but amongst all their love for each other prevailed.
In Fast Forward, Cassie and Josh are back together and they are pursuing both of their dreams. Cassie's dream to be a well renowned singer and songwriter, Josh's dream to be a politician and serve his country and both of their dreams involving getting their Son back from the system and build a happy family. But the road to fulfilling all of that is not a walk in the park. Cassie must make a decision, her own personal dreams of being a singer or getting her own son back and this time she can't have her cake and eat it too. While Josh struggles as a junior staff at a Senator's office where the ghosts of his past keeps finding him, namely in the form of a sexy blonde, Megan and her ex supposed-to-be father-in-law, Senator Carrington. Then there's the Lorettis, the perfect American couple who has their eyes set into adopting Lucas also. Will they ever get their family back? Or maybe their second chance were just not meant to be?
I cannot compare my fondness of No Reverse to my fondness of Fast Forward. Yes, I have cried my eyes out on the former but I had my heart thumping and my hair pulling in suspense and frustration on the latter. The feelings the novel invoked in me were like a fire. Unpredictable and dangerous. I keep anticipating if one of them will slip up, yes, there are near instances but they regain there footing and both Josh and Cassie's determination moved me.
Whoever said that adoption is an easy process? We may have been brainwashed by the movie industry when a movie about adoption ends in a scene where the couple/individual goes up to a child, tells them they're gonna be their new mommy/daddy, hugs them, the child hugs back and BAM! The End. But nooooo, Fast Forward tells the true story behind every adoption. The nitty gritty details. That even in Josh and Cassie's case, with them being the biological parents, adoption is a very tedious process. One that can potentially ruin a relationship if the foundation is not strong enough.
I can also say that even and if their adoption will be granted, the path to raising Lucas will be full of potholes, bumps, and twists and turns. Especially, when he grows up and becomes inquisitive on his adoption. I am not asking for a thrid book, I am pretty much contented on how Croslydon ended things. I have waited for months for this sequel and yes, she has certainly delivered. Josh and Cassie's story has truly been an eye opener for me. I hope that others will, too.
Marion Croslydon
January 20, 2014
4-4.5stars
Second chance romances are never easy. For Cassie and Josh, the past six years apart have made the road to that fairy tale ending almost seemed impossible.
This was a very good sequel. Coming off the first book, I would have thought that there were no major battles looming ahead and the sequel would be the usual unnecessary ones. For one, Cassie and Josh had found each other again by the end of No Reverse. The fiancee had been dealt with - with as much grace as Josh could i.e. there was no nail-biting love triangle nor cheating involved.
BUT much to my surprise, so many bombs detonated along the way in this sequel. The conflicts just kept coming and they weren't even forced into the storyline. Given Cassie and Josh's situation, all these events were very realistic and relevant. They had a child together that Cassie had to give up for adoption. A child that Josh did not know existed until recently because Cassie gave him up to let Josh have his dream of a political future away from Steep Hill to Capitol Hill.
Finding each other again did not solve everything. There were plenty of difficulties in having to adopt Lucas given their past estrangement and Josh's recent engagement/recent filing for divorce to another couple battling them out for his adoption.
On fairy tale land, Josh and Cassie were destined to be together. Childhood friends turned lovers. They fell in love at sixteen only to get pregnant after losing their virginity to one another. They were from the differing ends of the social spectrum and at that age with the future all up in the air, it just wasn't meant to be. But given the mounting problems the second time around, you had to wonder if it really was meant to be.
I loved this sequel for putting us through so many emotions that my stomach was in knots the whole time. Every bump felt real though. Yet, the two never wavered in their love for each other. Yes, trust and forgiveness was a struggle but I never had any doubts about their love.
The gist of it is that the road to happiness is never easy. Nothing is ever perfect but people who are committed to each other, stay together and work hard to stay together.
Second chance romances are never easy. For Cassie and Josh, the past six years apart have made the road to that fairy tale ending almost seemed impossible.
This was a very good sequel. Coming off the first book, I would have thought that there were no major battles looming ahead and the sequel would be the usual unnecessary ones. For one, Cassie and Josh had found each other again by the end of No Reverse. The fiancee had been dealt with - with as much grace as Josh could i.e. there was no nail-biting love triangle nor cheating involved.
BUT much to my surprise, so many bombs detonated along the way in this sequel. The conflicts just kept coming and they weren't even forced into the storyline. Given Cassie and Josh's situation, all these events were very realistic and relevant. They had a child together that Cassie had to give up for adoption. A child that Josh did not know existed until recently because Cassie gave him up to let Josh have his dream of a political future away from Steep Hill to Capitol Hill.
Finding each other again did not solve everything. There were plenty of difficulties in having to adopt Lucas given their past estrangement and Josh's recent engagement/recent filing for divorce to another couple battling them out for his adoption.
On fairy tale land, Josh and Cassie were destined to be together. Childhood friends turned lovers. They fell in love at sixteen only to get pregnant after losing their virginity to one another. They were from the differing ends of the social spectrum and at that age with the future all up in the air, it just wasn't meant to be. But given the mounting problems the second time around, you had to wonder if it really was meant to be.
"No. Everything about us was meant to be. Everything. The beautiful along with the ugly, and it's all our doing."
I loved this sequel for putting us through so many emotions that my stomach was in knots the whole time. Every bump felt real though. Yet, the two never wavered in their love for each other. Yes, trust and forgiveness was a struggle but I never had any doubts about their love.
The gist of it is that the road to happiness is never easy. Nothing is ever perfect but people who are committed to each other, stay together and work hard to stay together.
January 18, 2014
MaRanda's Thoughts on BOTH books
No Reverse by Marie Croslydon
Love from two different sides of the track. Josh and Cassie had been best friends since they were six years old. They tried to live out their fairytale by getting married. But Josh’s father wasn’t having his son marry “white trash”. In Josh’s eyes, Cassie was his Cinderella.
This was one of the most emotional reads of 2013 for me. Getting married at such a young age, teen pregnancy, abortion/adoption and then heartache.
6 years later, fate brings the two back into each others lives. But Josh has moved on. He is set to marry someone else, if Cassie would just sign the divorce papers. Despite all the anger both have built up towards one another, they share one goal. Lucas, their son.
This story is told in present and flashbacks. It seems like a lot, but it’s well worth it.
Some fav quotes.
I couldn't get enough of that sweet taste of hers. It was like nothing else, no one else. Her taste was mine. I owned it. Right from the start, I'd owned it. I wanted the rest of her to be mine again.-pg 190
Gran always used to say that true love did not give second chances. If you were too careless to miss your first chance at it, you weren't worthy of it."-pg 242
Fast Forward by Marie Croslydon
After their encounter 6 years later, Cassie and Josh decide to give true love a second chance. They go through hell and back to be together and to get their son back. Can they prove that they are stable enough parents to win the grueling custody battle?
This story, I kid you not, sucked me in. In both books, I felt love, anger and sadness. This Author has a way with words.
I can’t wait to read more from this author.
I rate both books 4.5 book marks.
No Reverse by Marie Croslydon
Love from two different sides of the track. Josh and Cassie had been best friends since they were six years old. They tried to live out their fairytale by getting married. But Josh’s father wasn’t having his son marry “white trash”. In Josh’s eyes, Cassie was his Cinderella.
This was one of the most emotional reads of 2013 for me. Getting married at such a young age, teen pregnancy, abortion/adoption and then heartache.
6 years later, fate brings the two back into each others lives. But Josh has moved on. He is set to marry someone else, if Cassie would just sign the divorce papers. Despite all the anger both have built up towards one another, they share one goal. Lucas, their son.
This story is told in present and flashbacks. It seems like a lot, but it’s well worth it.
Some fav quotes.
I couldn't get enough of that sweet taste of hers. It was like nothing else, no one else. Her taste was mine. I owned it. Right from the start, I'd owned it. I wanted the rest of her to be mine again.-pg 190
Gran always used to say that true love did not give second chances. If you were too careless to miss your first chance at it, you weren't worthy of it."-pg 242
Fast Forward by Marie Croslydon
After their encounter 6 years later, Cassie and Josh decide to give true love a second chance. They go through hell and back to be together and to get their son back. Can they prove that they are stable enough parents to win the grueling custody battle?
This story, I kid you not, sucked me in. In both books, I felt love, anger and sadness. This Author has a way with words.
I can’t wait to read more from this author.
I rate both books 4.5 book marks.
January 9, 2014
“Cass, I’ve wanted to marry you since you stomped on my foot back in first grade. I just couldn’t do it then because we were six and it’d have been illegal.”- josh
wow what a way to end an amazing story of love and trust. Fast Forward is the continuation to No Reverse. Fast Forward starts right off from where we left of in the last book. We follow Josh and Cass together again and we see how they figure out a way to complete their family with Lucas in it. We see all the struggles that the characters encounter to finally adopt Lucas as their son. We also see how Josh and Cass rekindle their love towards one another and how they start getting to know each other again. We see the couple trying to build a family in a new city and in a new town. We see josh in his new job and Cass following her dreams in music.
"You are my future, Cassie O’Malley. The brightest of all. So, do we have a deal?”
I loved this story about second chances and unconditional love, I loved how we got to see the ups and the downs between Josh and Cass I loved to see how they learned to trust each other again and I love how much they loved Lucas . I'm glad our characters got their happily ever after because lords know they needed it . The author did an amazing job if you loved No Reversed you will love Fast Forward. I give this book 4 stars. I just wished it was a bit longer I felt like the ending was kind of rushed.
" Family is about love, and love is something we have plenty of.”
September 4, 2016
I love how this ended. It was a bumpy ride for Cassie and Josh. Cassie needed to learn to give up control and trust Josh. Josh needed to give up his anger and forgive. Cassie though did not make it easy for Josh. At christmas, she was horrendous and pushed him away. Almost broke Josh. Her desire to control all outcomes is destructive for them.
The journey to get their son back is not an easy one. His father and their past as obstacles to battle through and it puts a strain on them. Josh is patient with Cassie though no matter how mean and insecure she feels. He supports her no matter what. Even encourages her to pursue her career.
As Cassie is doing this Josh is pursuing his as well. His though has Cassie jealous and confused as to if Josh is going to be there. She expresses this to Josh and wounds him. Sometimes you wonder if Cassie can let go of the past and move on. Josh is trying so hard to prove himself. His love knows no bounds.
I am not saying Josh is not at fault for things for he is but he is trying so hard to prove himself and be what Cassie needs. Too bad she keeps pushing him away. In the end these two realize that they cannot live without each other and learn to trust and love no matter what.
A beautiful series on love and trust. A series that shows love conquers all and when you learn to become partners and trust each other a beautiful world opens up for you.
The journey to get their son back is not an easy one. His father and their past as obstacles to battle through and it puts a strain on them. Josh is patient with Cassie though no matter how mean and insecure she feels. He supports her no matter what. Even encourages her to pursue her career.
As Cassie is doing this Josh is pursuing his as well. His though has Cassie jealous and confused as to if Josh is going to be there. She expresses this to Josh and wounds him. Sometimes you wonder if Cassie can let go of the past and move on. Josh is trying so hard to prove himself. His love knows no bounds.
I am not saying Josh is not at fault for things for he is but he is trying so hard to prove himself and be what Cassie needs. Too bad she keeps pushing him away. In the end these two realize that they cannot live without each other and learn to trust and love no matter what.
A beautiful series on love and trust. A series that shows love conquers all and when you learn to become partners and trust each other a beautiful world opens up for you.
January 6, 2014
There is a plan in place. Cassie and Josh present a united front in order to be eligible to adopt their biological son. The toughest road is behind them right? They been through so much. What could stop them now? Little did they know that Josh's father would put a stumbling block in their way. They never would have thought that another family might want to adopt Lucas.
Can Cassie and Josh even survive as a couple if they are unable to get Lucas back?
It was heartbreaking to see everything that Josh and Cassie had to go through to be able to adopt their own son. I fell in love with Josh and Cassie all over again in Fast Forward and grew to admire their strength and courage throughout the adoption process. My only complaint is how this story ended. It was a bit abrupt and I felt a little robbed of Josh and Cassie's final "Happily Ever After". I felt like there were some unanswered questions as well.
Overall Fast Forward was a very enjoyable read. I would love it if Marion would give us a holiday novella someday to get another glimpse of Josh and Cassie's happiness.
Can Cassie and Josh even survive as a couple if they are unable to get Lucas back?
It was heartbreaking to see everything that Josh and Cassie had to go through to be able to adopt their own son. I fell in love with Josh and Cassie all over again in Fast Forward and grew to admire their strength and courage throughout the adoption process. My only complaint is how this story ended. It was a bit abrupt and I felt a little robbed of Josh and Cassie's final "Happily Ever After". I felt like there were some unanswered questions as well.
Overall Fast Forward was a very enjoyable read. I would love it if Marion would give us a holiday novella someday to get another glimpse of Josh and Cassie's happiness.
July 21, 2014
Josh is Cassie's one true love and she is his even though they have to work out trust issues the love is there. The fight to adopt Lucas adds to the stress of their putting together their marriage back together but in the end they are a family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2014
Love
Wow everyone needs a second chance like Josh and cassie. A long journey for them to reach there happily ever after but it was worth all the pain they went t through. I recommend this series to everybody.
Wow everyone needs a second chance like Josh and cassie. A long journey for them to reach there happily ever after but it was worth all the pain they went t through. I recommend this series to everybody.
September 6, 2016
Sorry, this was worse that previous one. too much drama for two 24th years old even though it looked like something out of Teen Mom..
The only character worth reading for was Sam and just out of curiousity.!
The only character worth reading for was Sam and just out of curiousity.!
January 12, 2014
Loved it
life isn't always easy but if you truly love someone anything is possible. Josh and Cassie never had it easy but they had each other.
life isn't always easy but if you truly love someone anything is possible. Josh and Cassie never had it easy but they had each other.
June 2, 2017
Escape into My Reads Book Blog
I loved reading No Reverse so I couldn’t wait to jump in and read the second book Fast Forward. In the continuation of Cassie and Josh’s story I could feel their hardships, their struggles, the obstacles standing in their way to the attainment of their son Lucas. The hurt caused by other people delaying and damaging their chances to finally be parents to Lucas. The pain as a parent felts so real and my heart seriously ached for Cassie and Josh. How much did they have to keep battling and how much suffering did they have to keep enduring in the fight to adopt their own son? It was emotional to read and made me feel sad, angry and frustrated. The writing made it easy to tap in to the character’s pain, fears, and hopes that I was able to emphasise with them on their journey to prove Lucas belonged with them.
Whilst Cassie and Josh are together they still have a lot to work on as a couple. Past issues have to be worked through, insecurities, communication, jealousy, sharing problems, distance, careers and being honest with their feelings and fears. The heat level is raised in this book and Josh is hot Hot HOT! The guy is just so sexy, possessive, badass, loveable and dreamy sweet, SWOON. Cassie is her usual strong self but Josh is intent to make her lean on him and trust that he will do anything to make her happy.
Whilst I loved reading No Reverse, Fast Forward for me felt just that in terms of some of its writing in this book. I wanted to soak up as much as I could of Cassie and Josh’s journey in being a couple and a family, but I felt the author left out scenes, or jumped too ahead when she could have extracted so much more depth on emotions and the situations. Like decorating the house, or include buying clothes for Lucas etc. Also at the beginning of the book it felt like no explanation was given as to where Josh and Cassie were living. Parts of the story felt rushed, excitement anti climatic in regards to Cassie’s career, and especially Lucas at the end, I mean seriously come on what a let-down! I expected so much more before the epilogue regarding Lucas and in the epilogue. After following Cassie and Josh’s painful journey it wasn’t enough I wanted to feel happy, excitement, contentment and see how Lucas reacted to learn Cassie and Josh were actually his real parents, but sadly I was left only partially satisfied and majorly disappointed. These flaws in the story as a reader should have been beta read more diligently and definitely picked up in the editing stage before being published imo. I wanted more insight into Cassie and Josh’s future as well I mean could Cassie have more kids or not because she so deserved to have more and what happened with their careers? It’s this type of poor execution of sub plots that prevents me from giving Fast Forward five stars. Spelling and grammar mistakes added to my rating. On a whole I absolutely loved Cassie and Josh's story and book one was a solid 5 stars for me, but book two let this duet down and this would influence my decision to not purchase the paperback as I originally wanted to do. It still makes my re-read list despite my feelings, I was just left wanting more!
I loved reading No Reverse so I couldn’t wait to jump in and read the second book Fast Forward. In the continuation of Cassie and Josh’s story I could feel their hardships, their struggles, the obstacles standing in their way to the attainment of their son Lucas. The hurt caused by other people delaying and damaging their chances to finally be parents to Lucas. The pain as a parent felts so real and my heart seriously ached for Cassie and Josh. How much did they have to keep battling and how much suffering did they have to keep enduring in the fight to adopt their own son? It was emotional to read and made me feel sad, angry and frustrated. The writing made it easy to tap in to the character’s pain, fears, and hopes that I was able to emphasise with them on their journey to prove Lucas belonged with them.
Whilst Cassie and Josh are together they still have a lot to work on as a couple. Past issues have to be worked through, insecurities, communication, jealousy, sharing problems, distance, careers and being honest with their feelings and fears. The heat level is raised in this book and Josh is hot Hot HOT! The guy is just so sexy, possessive, badass, loveable and dreamy sweet, SWOON. Cassie is her usual strong self but Josh is intent to make her lean on him and trust that he will do anything to make her happy.
Whilst I loved reading No Reverse, Fast Forward for me felt just that in terms of some of its writing in this book. I wanted to soak up as much as I could of Cassie and Josh’s journey in being a couple and a family, but I felt the author left out scenes, or jumped too ahead when she could have extracted so much more depth on emotions and the situations. Like decorating the house, or include buying clothes for Lucas etc. Also at the beginning of the book it felt like no explanation was given as to where Josh and Cassie were living. Parts of the story felt rushed, excitement anti climatic in regards to Cassie’s career, and especially Lucas at the end, I mean seriously come on what a let-down! I expected so much more before the epilogue regarding Lucas and in the epilogue. After following Cassie and Josh’s painful journey it wasn’t enough I wanted to feel happy, excitement, contentment and see how Lucas reacted to learn Cassie and Josh were actually his real parents, but sadly I was left only partially satisfied and majorly disappointed. These flaws in the story as a reader should have been beta read more diligently and definitely picked up in the editing stage before being published imo. I wanted more insight into Cassie and Josh’s future as well I mean could Cassie have more kids or not because she so deserved to have more and what happened with their careers? It’s this type of poor execution of sub plots that prevents me from giving Fast Forward five stars. Spelling and grammar mistakes added to my rating. On a whole I absolutely loved Cassie and Josh's story and book one was a solid 5 stars for me, but book two let this duet down and this would influence my decision to not purchase the paperback as I originally wanted to do. It still makes my re-read list despite my feelings, I was just left wanting more!
September 17, 2017
Again Wow! Every obstacle that could be put in Cassie and Josh's quest to pull their family back together seemed to materialize. Unbelievable. But what really ticked me off was the foster mother; the manipulative neighbors and the take no prisoners social worker. And in the meantime, a poor innocent five year old little boy's heart was breaking in two. All Lucas could think about was why did his "parents" have to die and why couldn't he live with Cassie and Josh. Really, really heart-breaking.
January 25, 2018
Fast Forward is the second book in the Second Chances series by Marion Croslydon. Great continuation of the first book in this series. The storyline was solid and well thought out. The characters were well developed and showed a lot of growth in this book. All in all a great book and I’m looking forward to more books in this series and more by this author.
August 6, 2018
I haven't liked this much. May there was too much of everything.
January 25, 2014
I reviewed this at MustReadBooksOrDie with my friend Shelley!
Shel: This novel picks up with Cassie and Josh as husband and wife trying very hard to adopt their biological son and find their footing in their marriage. It's been 6 years and those six years were growing and maturing years...post high school, beginning to figure things out years...so they definitely have some things to work out. They have issues. I mean, if you think about it, of course they do...they're young, trying to reconnect with each other and their son...it's a lot of pressure.
Court: Everything is such a whirlwind for them. You pointing out those six years apart, with a lot of bitterness and heartache in between (see book one for those deets!) and here we are. I had high hopes that they would be able to reconnect with one another, but all of the things stressing these two are going to be very hard to overcome.
Shel: Cassie seems lost to me. Again, she's young and has had a TON of unfortunate incidents to stunt her search for what she wants out of her life...and so with all of that, she just seemed lost. She's sweet and hardworking and loyal...and lost. She knows she wants her son and she loves Josh--those things she absolutely KNOWS...but how to be a parent to a 5 year old, how to be a wife, how to have a career she loves--those things she has a harder time with.
Court: Yikes. Sometimes with how they act, it is hard to remember that they're both only 24. And at the end of the day, sure they've grown up a lot, but they still lack some of the life experience that would mean going through these treacherous waters intact. Heck, that is my age and I know I don't have it all figured out so I would be majorly freaked to have all of my personal life laid bare in the way that hers is. I am 110% on Team Cass for most of this one.
Shel: Josh, while a little more directed, also seemed to lose his way at times. He has dreams of being a politician but also wants to be a father and husband and, with the hours he works, he doesn't seem to know how to make all of that work. He pauses often to question how he can juggle all of his desires in a way that will be fair and good to them all.
Court: Here is where I started to slip up. Sometimes Josh seemed to be too ambitious. That word is thrown around a lot, and from experience being ambitious in Washington D.C. doesn't usually bode well for the families of those people. An ambitious politician doesn't always do what he should do, so I spent a lot of time worried about whether or not Josh was going to step up!
Shel: So we have these two people trying to figure love and career and life out...now throw in a rigorous adoption process and people trying to create problems and you have more issues. In addition, they didn't seem to be connecting to each other very well ...so the entire time I felt incredibly frustrated. I wanted Cassie and Josh to be on the same page MORE, wanted more intimate moments, MORE details at the end, more connection...don't get me wrong, the ending isn't cliffy...it just felt like (for me), it needed more story about how they managed to get where they got. After all of their struggle, I wanted to live in the story of how they came together and feel the warmth of that more. It was definitely very real in the way the characters voiced frustrations and fears and struggles--I'm betting any 20-somethings in their shoes would feel a lot like Cassie and Josh. I just wanted a smidge more of the reward after working with them through their struggles.
Court: I completely agree. Their story becomes resolved, but I felt there was something missing in their connection that we felt in the first book. Maybe it was because a lot of the scenes in the first book were in the past when we knew they were in love. Now they (and us along with them) are not sure of that fact, so it is hard to get from point a to point b for me as well in the time frame that this story is set. The ending felt a little bit too rushed, to the point where I was having whiplash by the changing of thought processes going on in the epilogue. That was very disjointed and had me confused. After such great love for the first book I think the expectations in my head clouded my enjoyment of this one.
Shelley: 2 Stars
Courtney: 2 stars
Shel: This novel picks up with Cassie and Josh as husband and wife trying very hard to adopt their biological son and find their footing in their marriage. It's been 6 years and those six years were growing and maturing years...post high school, beginning to figure things out years...so they definitely have some things to work out. They have issues. I mean, if you think about it, of course they do...they're young, trying to reconnect with each other and their son...it's a lot of pressure.
Court: Everything is such a whirlwind for them. You pointing out those six years apart, with a lot of bitterness and heartache in between (see book one for those deets!) and here we are. I had high hopes that they would be able to reconnect with one another, but all of the things stressing these two are going to be very hard to overcome.
Shel: Cassie seems lost to me. Again, she's young and has had a TON of unfortunate incidents to stunt her search for what she wants out of her life...and so with all of that, she just seemed lost. She's sweet and hardworking and loyal...and lost. She knows she wants her son and she loves Josh--those things she absolutely KNOWS...but how to be a parent to a 5 year old, how to be a wife, how to have a career she loves--those things she has a harder time with.
Court: Yikes. Sometimes with how they act, it is hard to remember that they're both only 24. And at the end of the day, sure they've grown up a lot, but they still lack some of the life experience that would mean going through these treacherous waters intact. Heck, that is my age and I know I don't have it all figured out so I would be majorly freaked to have all of my personal life laid bare in the way that hers is. I am 110% on Team Cass for most of this one.
Shel: Josh, while a little more directed, also seemed to lose his way at times. He has dreams of being a politician but also wants to be a father and husband and, with the hours he works, he doesn't seem to know how to make all of that work. He pauses often to question how he can juggle all of his desires in a way that will be fair and good to them all.
Court: Here is where I started to slip up. Sometimes Josh seemed to be too ambitious. That word is thrown around a lot, and from experience being ambitious in Washington D.C. doesn't usually bode well for the families of those people. An ambitious politician doesn't always do what he should do, so I spent a lot of time worried about whether or not Josh was going to step up!
Shel: So we have these two people trying to figure love and career and life out...now throw in a rigorous adoption process and people trying to create problems and you have more issues. In addition, they didn't seem to be connecting to each other very well ...so the entire time I felt incredibly frustrated. I wanted Cassie and Josh to be on the same page MORE, wanted more intimate moments, MORE details at the end, more connection...don't get me wrong, the ending isn't cliffy...it just felt like (for me), it needed more story about how they managed to get where they got. After all of their struggle, I wanted to live in the story of how they came together and feel the warmth of that more. It was definitely very real in the way the characters voiced frustrations and fears and struggles--I'm betting any 20-somethings in their shoes would feel a lot like Cassie and Josh. I just wanted a smidge more of the reward after working with them through their struggles.
Court: I completely agree. Their story becomes resolved, but I felt there was something missing in their connection that we felt in the first book. Maybe it was because a lot of the scenes in the first book were in the past when we knew they were in love. Now they (and us along with them) are not sure of that fact, so it is hard to get from point a to point b for me as well in the time frame that this story is set. The ending felt a little bit too rushed, to the point where I was having whiplash by the changing of thought processes going on in the epilogue. That was very disjointed and had me confused. After such great love for the first book I think the expectations in my head clouded my enjoyment of this one.
Shelley: 2 Stars
Courtney: 2 stars
July 10, 2014
Disclaimer: I receive an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review as part of the Blog Tour
Warning: This review may content spoilers about first book
After their reencounter in London six years later, Cassie and Josh decided to have a second chance and together get back their son. But before they have to affront many hard moments and prove their love is stronger ever at the same time they have to fight for their son’s custody.
Cassie and Josh move to Washington DC for start their family and while Josh works with a senator in his run for the Hill, Cassie walks away her promising career as singer.
Can these differences get away each other?
Can they prove to be the lovely and responsible parents for raise their own child?
I had not finished with No Reverse (Book 1) when I start to read Fast Forward… well not literally but you know what I mean ;)
I really needed to read more about this love story and if No Reverse made me cry and want to fight Fast Forward too.
“I believe in you, Joshua MacBride. I have faith in you and I rely on you. You’re my hero. I should have told you that a long time ago and I’m sorry I didn’t.”
“I’m sorry.” How fucking lame.
Cassie was crying. I couldn’t hear her but the tiny shake of her shoulders told me as much.
I had failed them. I had failed my wife and my son. I couldn’t let that happen again.
I admire the author’s style for drag me (us) in her book; I felt love, sadness, anger, anguish and every little emotion with Cassie & Josh, I really did.
The dual POV was necessary and well used. The plot looks so well, it’s impossible put down this book or want to delete some chapters (mean people is another story)
“I am Lucas’s mother and I’m tired of hearing people tell me I should just move aside. I’m tired of people bullying me into giving up on him because it’d be better for him, for me… for Josh.” She challenged me with her gaze. “I’m not having an open adoption. I intend to be there for Lucas every morning when he opens his eyes and at the end of each day to kiss him goodnight, and every moment in between.” She stopped staring at Woodie to focus on me. “I’ll be doing that no matter what.”
I didn’t like the little evolution of main characters, especially Cassie, she should have returned to the school and get a diploma. C’mon she is a potential senator’s wife. She should balance being a wife, mom, a student, a songwriter and more… it’s easy? I suppose no, but she’s a XXI century woman. Respect that! She need to be so focused as her husband is.
In spite of I am not a seconds novels fan I think this one was necessary and most important it was so well development and I really enjoyed it. There is an improvement in the author’s style: no more flashback chapters or final lines in italics in every chapter, but she conserved the respectful sense of the story, the intimate scenes are sensual but no more.
How many stars deserve this book?
It has the same pros the previous book, improves the cons and failed in another issues.
My rate is 4 amazing stars
'cause this is a
But don’t get me wrong… Fast Forward is like a travel with people you know but it’s absolutely new and different
PS: Josh honey this is for you ;)
For more reviews and book news check out my blog Good Books & Good Coffee
January 17, 2014
Originally given 3.5 hearts at Rookie Romance.
So, Cassie and Josh's story continues in Fast Forward, and we get to have questions answered and see what the future has in store for them. After reconciling at the end of No Reverse, Josh and Cassie are determined to make the most of their second chance and fight to adopt their son, Lucas. But this journey is not going to be an easy one for either of them.
In the first book, I was firmly on Cassie's team and rooted for her throughout. And whilst I was still rooting for her-truly she deserved a happy ever after- I couldn't help but find her a bit annoying in this book. She is rife with insecurities about herself and her relationship with Josh and these can make her push Josh away when that's the last thing she should be doing. Overall though, I really admired Cassie's determination to do whatever it took to finally have Lucas back- even if it meant she had to give up her own dreams. She deserves to finally get to be a mother to her son, and find a peace and happiness that's long been missing from her life.
Ah, Josh. I felt like, as a reader, I connected more with Josh in this book. The chapters alternate between being in Cassie and Josh's POV, so it was great to really understand what Josh was thinking and feeling. He really has taken on the weight of the world in this book. He's trying to adopt his son, fix his relationship with Cassie, deal with his own fears and embark on his political career. Through it all, his love for Cassie and Lucas is what keeps him going. He wants nothing more than for Cassie to rely on him and to be able to make everything right for them.
Cassie and Josh's relationship had a realism about it which was refreshing, as they navigated around their insecurities and issues. They don't have an easy time of it, and they rarely get to enjoy being back together. But their love is their backbone of strength in this story, through the good and bad.
Saying that, although they did communicate fairly well, there were plenty of times I wanted to shake some sense into the pair of them. They spend a lot of time arguing and chasing around the same issues. They both let their worries take over and cause unnecessary pain.
At the heart of this story is the struggle of Cassie and Josh to reclaim their relationship and adopt their own son. It's not an easy journey, but it's one worth taking. Even if there is obstacle, after obstacle placed in their path.
Again, I really enjoyed the writing from Marion Croslydon. She has an emotive style that takes you to the heart of the story and keeps you there. Whilst I didn't love this sequel as much as I did the first book in the series, I definitely enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Especially Sam Blackhawk's story because that man is smoking hot. I'd definitely recommend this to lovers of second chance romances!
*I received a review copy as part of the blog tour, for my honest review. Thank you!
So, Cassie and Josh's story continues in Fast Forward, and we get to have questions answered and see what the future has in store for them. After reconciling at the end of No Reverse, Josh and Cassie are determined to make the most of their second chance and fight to adopt their son, Lucas. But this journey is not going to be an easy one for either of them.
In the first book, I was firmly on Cassie's team and rooted for her throughout. And whilst I was still rooting for her-truly she deserved a happy ever after- I couldn't help but find her a bit annoying in this book. She is rife with insecurities about herself and her relationship with Josh and these can make her push Josh away when that's the last thing she should be doing. Overall though, I really admired Cassie's determination to do whatever it took to finally have Lucas back- even if it meant she had to give up her own dreams. She deserves to finally get to be a mother to her son, and find a peace and happiness that's long been missing from her life.
Ah, Josh. I felt like, as a reader, I connected more with Josh in this book. The chapters alternate between being in Cassie and Josh's POV, so it was great to really understand what Josh was thinking and feeling. He really has taken on the weight of the world in this book. He's trying to adopt his son, fix his relationship with Cassie, deal with his own fears and embark on his political career. Through it all, his love for Cassie and Lucas is what keeps him going. He wants nothing more than for Cassie to rely on him and to be able to make everything right for them.
Cassie and Josh's relationship had a realism about it which was refreshing, as they navigated around their insecurities and issues. They don't have an easy time of it, and they rarely get to enjoy being back together. But their love is their backbone of strength in this story, through the good and bad.
Saying that, although they did communicate fairly well, there were plenty of times I wanted to shake some sense into the pair of them. They spend a lot of time arguing and chasing around the same issues. They both let their worries take over and cause unnecessary pain.
At the heart of this story is the struggle of Cassie and Josh to reclaim their relationship and adopt their own son. It's not an easy journey, but it's one worth taking. Even if there is obstacle, after obstacle placed in their path.
Again, I really enjoyed the writing from Marion Croslydon. She has an emotive style that takes you to the heart of the story and keeps you there. Whilst I didn't love this sequel as much as I did the first book in the series, I definitely enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Especially Sam Blackhawk's story because that man is smoking hot. I'd definitely recommend this to lovers of second chance romances!
*I received a review copy as part of the blog tour, for my honest review. Thank you!
January 14, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
Rating: 4.5 Stars
The epic conclusion of Cassie and Josh’s love story, and the promise of the absence of a cliff-hanger made me want to read FAST FORWARD asap. I fell in love with NO REVERSE, and I wanted to know what will happen to both our main characters after getting back together. Will they finally get their family back together?
Cassie wanted to have Lucas badly. Five years is long enough for Lucas to be away from her, and now that she finally got the chance to have him back, she would do anything, even give up (or postpone) her personal dreams that was just within her reach.
The road was not as smooth as they expected, as Cassie goes on tour, Josh tries a new career and with a new set of parents wanting Lucas to themselves. It was a struggle. The adoption process was no joke – it had tested their relationship, their patience and their love for one another. Both of them are in for the fight of their lives. What happens if they won’t get Lucas? Will their relationship remain or will losing Lucas seal the fate of this young couple?
It wasn’t an easy read as well, but I couldn’t help to read it until I reached the end page. It may have took a lot of fighting, insecurities starts to arise, old flames coming back, and old enemies wanting their family apart – it was one heck of a ride. One ride you should not miss. There was a point when I did almost give up – perhaps, their friends was right, they can give up Lucas, opted for an open adoption. I admire Cassie’s character, especially when didn’t give up even when it got hard, even when things got rough. She wanted her child back, and she will get him whatever it takes. Their relationship was stirred and is sitting on a cliff, with all the pressure and stress, will their love be enough?
Josh has finally unleashed his ‘bad side’. He was always composed and proper – but when one person bad-mouthed his family, and he reached the end of his patience, readers are in for the shock of their lives. I can’t believe Josh did it!!! He stood up, and fought (literally) for the people that are dear to him.
No matter how bumpy the journey is, the destination was worth it. Indeed, Marion Croslydon stuck to her promise of no-cliffhangers. The ending was a big relief, finally both our characters who have been through tough times is getting their HEA!!! They so deserve it! I can’t wait to read the next one in the series!
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
August 10, 2016
assie and Josh had decided to fight for Lucas and now that the time has come to start the process Josh changes the game-plan. He wants another chance with Cassie. He not only knows that is the right things to do, he is sure that he must do it. And this time he's going about it the right way.
Of course, plans don't always work as expected and Cassie and Josh soon find out that wanting to get Lucas back doesn't mean that they would be granted custody. Their faith is tested every step of the way. The obstacles are thrown at them from different directions but the message is the same - get your priorities straight, work on what tore your relationship apart and then, maybe, you stand a chance of getting the family you long to have.
This time around, Marion Croslydon brought even more emotions to play and I loved it. Every hesitation, every let down and every glimmer of hope was clearly depicted in the page for the reader to absorb it. You could not read Cassie and Josh's story as it was progressing and not feel as frustrated, elated, angry or confused as them.
I had a love/hate relationship with Cassie and Josh while reading. I loved watching them reconnect and learn each other again, but I hated, HATED to see them be so stubborn that they couldn't see what was right in front of their faces. I wanted to shake some sense into them and take them into a closed off room and just let them listen without making assumptions, judgements or interruptions. But I got to say that it made for some entertaining reading.
There were some past issues that were resolved. We get to see Josh confront his father and face some of his past when he return to the US. Needless to say that some new issues had to be dealt with. Cassie finally has her chance at a singing career and that affects not only their relationship but their chance of adopting Lucas.
The appearance of some past characters and the introduction of some new ones made for some revealing moments. Cassie and Josh showed a different side of themselves when they interacted with these characters. Each one of them helped or hindered Cassie and Josh's chances at a relationship and/or their attempt to get Lucas back. I was glad to see the closure some of them received and I'm looking forward to reading about some of the others.
All in all, a romantic touching read about second chances, keeping the faith and trusting the one you love to help you navigate the obstacles in life.
Of course, plans don't always work as expected and Cassie and Josh soon find out that wanting to get Lucas back doesn't mean that they would be granted custody. Their faith is tested every step of the way. The obstacles are thrown at them from different directions but the message is the same - get your priorities straight, work on what tore your relationship apart and then, maybe, you stand a chance of getting the family you long to have.
This time around, Marion Croslydon brought even more emotions to play and I loved it. Every hesitation, every let down and every glimmer of hope was clearly depicted in the page for the reader to absorb it. You could not read Cassie and Josh's story as it was progressing and not feel as frustrated, elated, angry or confused as them.
I had a love/hate relationship with Cassie and Josh while reading. I loved watching them reconnect and learn each other again, but I hated, HATED to see them be so stubborn that they couldn't see what was right in front of their faces. I wanted to shake some sense into them and take them into a closed off room and just let them listen without making assumptions, judgements or interruptions. But I got to say that it made for some entertaining reading.
There were some past issues that were resolved. We get to see Josh confront his father and face some of his past when he return to the US. Needless to say that some new issues had to be dealt with. Cassie finally has her chance at a singing career and that affects not only their relationship but their chance of adopting Lucas.
The appearance of some past characters and the introduction of some new ones made for some revealing moments. Cassie and Josh showed a different side of themselves when they interacted with these characters. Each one of them helped or hindered Cassie and Josh's chances at a relationship and/or their attempt to get Lucas back. I was glad to see the closure some of them received and I'm looking forward to reading about some of the others.
All in all, a romantic touching read about second chances, keeping the faith and trusting the one you love to help you navigate the obstacles in life.
October 30, 2014
Review of No reverse and Fast forward together.
I'll try not to give anything away for those who haven't read either book...no more than the descriptions anyways.
I was really excited for the storyline of these two books. Like this isn't your average second chance story. It has an awesome twist to it that is pretty clear from the descirption. But I was glad to have something that was different than all the other stories out there.
However I was quite disappointed once I read the books. It was a good story but I found I just didn't love the main characters and I just didn't feel their connection to each other. It felt a lot of the times like it was more obligation than anything. And although in their "thoughts" (most for Josh) he would say the things that make you think he was so in love with Cassie but their actions hardly relayed that at all. It was like it was a constant battle through two whole books of them trying to be together. There was just way more negative than positive it seemed.
I also found them to be kinda assholes to each other sometimes. I understand the circumstances and they were angry but through all the books it was never said that they forgive each other for the choices that were made and it just didn't put off a warm fuzzy vibe for them.
One of my favorite things of the stories was Sam though. And Shawn too. I look forward to Sam's story and I will read Turn Away too as it's a bit of an unrelated story I hope that it has a different feel. Maybe Marion will think about writing a story for Shawn sometime as well.
I'll try not to give anything away for those who haven't read either book...no more than the descriptions anyways.
I was really excited for the storyline of these two books. Like this isn't your average second chance story. It has an awesome twist to it that is pretty clear from the descirption. But I was glad to have something that was different than all the other stories out there.
However I was quite disappointed once I read the books. It was a good story but I found I just didn't love the main characters and I just didn't feel their connection to each other. It felt a lot of the times like it was more obligation than anything. And although in their "thoughts" (most for Josh) he would say the things that make you think he was so in love with Cassie but their actions hardly relayed that at all. It was like it was a constant battle through two whole books of them trying to be together. There was just way more negative than positive it seemed.
I also found them to be kinda assholes to each other sometimes. I understand the circumstances and they were angry but through all the books it was never said that they forgive each other for the choices that were made and it just didn't put off a warm fuzzy vibe for them.
One of my favorite things of the stories was Sam though. And Shawn too. I look forward to Sam's story and I will read Turn Away too as it's a bit of an unrelated story I hope that it has a different feel. Maybe Marion will think about writing a story for Shawn sometime as well.
August 31, 2016
Marion Croslydon by Fast Forward is the second book in the Second Chances series.
Where the first book was about the past, it's mistakes, and trying to fix them now and rediscover the love Josh and Cassie had for each other in the beginning, this one is the beginning of that rediscovery and the attempted recovery of their son Lucas.
Given up for adoption in secret so that Josh could accept his entrance to georgetown and make something of himself, Cassie now has, with Josh's help, the chance to adopt her own son back. The couple that initially adopted him died in a car accident in book one and he has been in foster care.
Now, not only do Josh and Cassie have to overcome the brutal facts of the past five years apart and the damage the secrets and obliviousness have caused, they have to work together as a couple to be approved for adopting their own flesh and blood.
This book is that journey and it's a wonderful one. Ups and downs for sure so have a few tissues handy, but there is no cliffhanger ending so you may remain calm.
Where the first book was about the past, it's mistakes, and trying to fix them now and rediscover the love Josh and Cassie had for each other in the beginning, this one is the beginning of that rediscovery and the attempted recovery of their son Lucas.
Given up for adoption in secret so that Josh could accept his entrance to georgetown and make something of himself, Cassie now has, with Josh's help, the chance to adopt her own son back. The couple that initially adopted him died in a car accident in book one and he has been in foster care.
Now, not only do Josh and Cassie have to overcome the brutal facts of the past five years apart and the damage the secrets and obliviousness have caused, they have to work together as a couple to be approved for adopting their own flesh and blood.
This book is that journey and it's a wonderful one. Ups and downs for sure so have a few tissues handy, but there is no cliffhanger ending so you may remain calm.
January 14, 2014
finished and punches in the air.
But a sadly point to this book goes to the fact I felt it a little bit less thrilling than the first. But with this one I went quite violent since I wanted to punch of some people face. 3 ( the loretti and Mr the bad father manipulative man)
So I really enjoyed this series and the happy well deserve ending. This book was about mending, the road to a family with openness to trust and love blood bond or not. And finally to what it meant to be even with the gasp or up and down.
I truly loved the characters, none of them changed from book 1 only that they developed and with more determination. All questions possibly in a relationship, their relationship were all answered.
Same love as a bog and a girl.
lust from ...
the right thing.
luca's sake
dreams
giving up
=> all to say, love was a fact but it wasn't giving up for the sake of someone. Some things and people are more important and there was no about giving up. Working and dreams are as important there were driving people and that's life bug there also compromise for better things in the long haul.
But a sadly point to this book goes to the fact I felt it a little bit less thrilling than the first. But with this one I went quite violent since I wanted to punch of some people face. 3 ( the loretti and Mr the bad father manipulative man)
So I really enjoyed this series and the happy well deserve ending. This book was about mending, the road to a family with openness to trust and love blood bond or not. And finally to what it meant to be even with the gasp or up and down.
I truly loved the characters, none of them changed from book 1 only that they developed and with more determination. All questions possibly in a relationship, their relationship were all answered.
Same love as a bog and a girl.
lust from ...
the right thing.
luca's sake
dreams
giving up
=> all to say, love was a fact but it wasn't giving up for the sake of someone. Some things and people are more important and there was no about giving up. Working and dreams are as important there were driving people and that's life bug there also compromise for better things in the long haul.
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