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Back to Life #2

Back to Reality

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When Sahara Lee’s past and present collided, a series of events occurred that changed her life forever, leaving her future up in the air.

As a college freshman, a tragic accident changed the course of Sahara’s life. Ten years later, just when she started putting her life back together, Sahara’s world was rocked again due to a similar accident.

Heartbroken and guilt ridden, Sahara fell into old, familiar habits before quickly realizing that she wasn’t the same Sahara Lee anymore. Unable to live a lonely, loveless, isolated life anymore, Sahara decided that the way she coped before wasn’t going to work this time around.

Time didn’t heal her wounds, but forgiveness might.

Unknown Binding

First published November 22, 2013

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About the author

Danielle Allen

82 books3,105 followers
Diversity in Romance Advocate.
Life Coach.

XOXO

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Danielle Allen.
Author 82 books3,105 followers
November 1, 2013
My 5 star rating is only partially biased ;)

XOXO
Profile Image for Julie .
4,238 reviews38k followers
December 4, 2013
Back to Reality by Danielle Allen was just released this week- December 2013. I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Back to Reality is the follow up novel to Back to Life. This book picks up right where the first one left off.
It seems that Sahara can't catch a break. She was finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel when BAM! she gets blindsided. So, now Sahara is right back in the same hole she was before. Emmanuelle or Tyree?
After Sahara reacts to tragedy and pressure the same way she always has, both men are at their wits end with her. Thankfully, Sahara seeks counseling. She meets another young man at the hospital and for the first time, Sahara feels capable of having a friend. But, even here things are not all they appear to be.

Meanwhile, Sahara's best friend and Manny's sister, Emily, is getting married!
While this is exciting and Emily is getting to live her dream out, Sahara is once more on the verge of finding peace, until ..... you guessed it- another bombshell.
So, once again Sahara finds herself in limbo. She still can't think things out or find that elusive peace she so longs for until she has the forgiveness she needs from the men in her life.
Thankfully, she makes progress through her therapy in dealing with the past and is able to begin to find closure in those areas of her life. If only her love life would work itself out!!



As with any love triangle, people reading the book will naturally chose a side. It's pretty much unavoidable. I also chose sides, but not until I got about half way through this book. While some may judge Sahara for being indecisive, I understood her completely. She did actually love both men. She also felt things so deeply and had internalized things for so long, she didn't know any other way to cope. But, of course she will really pick one of these guys and for me, although I had the inevitable mixed feelings, I was super happy with the ending.
I strongly recommend that you read the first book so you really understand the characters and why they do the things they do.

Danielle did a great job bringing deeply wounded and flawed characters to a place of hope and healing , back to life and to reality. A really uplifting ending no matter whose team you were cheering for.
Overall this one is an A.

I would like to invite everyone to check out the book release party going one this week for Back to Reality. The blog tours will be going all this week through 12/8/13. Check out my blog post on the 8th at http://www.blogspot.com
WARNING: ADULTS ONLY! These guys are HOT! HOT! HOT! Don't miss it!
Profile Image for Gwen ~the Book Diva.
376 reviews117 followers
December 2, 2013
5 "I could not put it down" stars!

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review!

After reading Back to Life, I knew this story would only get better. In Back to Reality, Sahara is faced with a lot of tough choices. She needs to decide to take back her life and live it the way she wants, not the way she feels she deserves. She also must decide who she wants to share that new life with.

Her new love, Ty, is sex-on-stick wrapped with confidence and drive. Her first love, Emmanuel, is panty-dropping gorgeous with eyes that could claim your soul.

Uh, choose?! Well that's not exactly an easy thing to do!
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Before she can choose, she needs to take a long hard look at herself. Holding on to ten years of guilt has done terrible things to her confidence.

"Everything is not always my fault."-Sahara

These words become her mantra because for so long she's blamed herself for things beyond her control and it needed to stop. She has to admit and accept some very hard facts about her herself in order to change and finally allow herself to be loved.

I loved that I could not predict how things would turn out in the end. I could easily see her with either guy. They both had qualities that made them equally irresistible. But...I did make a choice...and so did she!

"You're it for me. Even if the only reason you've come here is to break my heart and to tell me you want nothing to do with me anymore. That doesn't change anything on my end. You are the one." - Sahara

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Yay! Let's just say that I got my wish!! It was an incredibly powerful moment! I felt that both Ty and Emmanuel were fairly represented and that the author treated them both with so much dignity and respect. No heartbroken guy hovering in the corner, thankfully! It just all made sense in the end and came together beautifully!

So to recap: I loved the plot, the characters, and the playlist. I devoured the life lessons on heart break and the renewal of spirit but my most favorite part was... ALL OF IT!

I'm a huge fan of Danielle Allen's and will read anything she writes!

For more reviews, book chat and other craziness visit our blog at http://www.rebelbookchicks.com/
Profile Image for Heather Carver.
602 reviews7 followers
December 31, 2013


5 Stars

I really loved this book. It was a continuation to Back to Life. If you have not read that book yet, stop whatever you are doing and get on it! You don't want to miss out on this gut wrenching, tear your heart out series.

Sahara is trying to decide who she wants, Emanuel the guy she has loved all her life or Tyree, the guy who helped her start to live again. The only problem is when the going gets tough, she starts packing. She runs away from all her problems, thinking it will make them go away. Finally after this last times she wants to learn to live again and not run away from everything. With the help of a Dr. can she overcome her guilt? Will she finally be able to chose which man she wants?

Tyree has never felt as strongly for anyone as he does for Sahara. He never expected for her to be on love with a childhood friend. So when they worked things out and them gets in a wreck he wasn't expecting her to be gone. He doesn't understand why she would leave after everything she said to him before the accident. Will he forgive her for walking away? Or will he decide he is better off without her?

Emanuel has been in love with Sahara for years. It seems like Every time they have a chance to be together something gets in their way. He wants her, but can only handle being pushed away so many times. Will he move on with Ashlyn? Or does he wait for her?

This book is a must read book. I don't think I have ever wanted to throw my kindle more in any book. I seriously had to get up walk away from kindle and vent to the author over this book. Yes, I needed to say my peace as I read (love you Danielle)! To pull such strong emotions out of a reader is a true talent. It means a lot to me that she can make me feel so strongly about a fictional character. Well done Danielle and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for us now!!
Profile Image for Lori Garside.
246 reviews15 followers
December 3, 2013
♥♥♥♥♥"Back To Reality" by Danielle Allen should be on everyone's TBR. Don't miss the spectacular conclusion to Sahara's traumatic journey!

In “Back To Reality” - the second book in the Back To Life series - Sahara continues to resolve her personal issues, begins to accept that she should only feel guilty for things she’s done that SHE could control, and attempts to get her personal and love life in order. She is still having trouble with her feelings for both Tyree and Emmanuel, and is learning to trust herself.

Is it possible to love two men at the same time? Sahara does love both Tyree and Emmanuel, and each man fills an emotional need. Sahara has come so very far in her personal development and is tearing down her walls brick by brick. Her biggest decision is going to have to be which man will share her life!

Will it be the new man in her life, Tyree Barker? He’s handsome, extremely successful, and panty wetting sexy. But he’s pushing Sahara to make decisions she KNOWS she is not yet ready to make. Or will it be Emmanuel – the man she has loved seemingly forever? Whenever she is near Emmanuel Sahara can only hold on for dear life – because his charisma, sex appeal, and ties to her past are like water to Sahara’s thirsty heart, but she is petrified to hurt him anymore. Both men are pushing her to choose, but can she?

Sahara’s continuing journey of self-discovery and acceptance is both heartbreaking and uplifting. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the Back To Life series and look forward to reading more of Danielle Allen’s work!



Profile Image for Melissa Rolka.
Author 5 books218 followers
July 26, 2016
This is the 2nd book in the Back to Life series. You definitely want to read the first one before diving into this one. Book 2 picks up right away where things left off in the first. Answer are still not clear for Sahara and she retreats back to her old ways of running, but she presses herself to move forward. Therapy and Emily play a huge role in the book. Danielle's writing grew and her descriptions were flawless. Although, I personally feel that the constant brand descriptions could have been toned down, you do get a clear vision in your head. At times things slowed in the middle, but wow I loved the ending. And yes, Sahara finally makes a decision! No cliffhanger here. Although... I can see a third book... maybe a spin off/different pov. I would definitely be up for reading a book in the voice of the guy Sahara chooses!! Give it to us, Danielle!
Great job!
***Don't hesitate to read these books!***
Profile Image for Jennifer Sons.
403 reviews18 followers
December 2, 2013
This is another great job by Danielle Allen! I really liked the book! However, I did find that the back & forth between the 2 men has been seen many many times! It was a little redundant & I felt like a yoyo going back & forth! That's the reason for 3 1/2-4 stars instead of 5!

With that being said, the story line is fabulous! I loved the end! I was shocked & surprised!! I never seen that coming! It's definitely worth reading! I'll add Emanuel & Ty to my book boyfriends too!

Review will be posted on Through the Booking Glass fb page!
Profile Image for MidnightAce.
189 reviews
November 16, 2016
This installment begins where BtoL left off, with Sahara continuing to struggle with trying to have a wholesome life.

She finally comes face to face with the tragedy and family she left behind. Once the past and present collide it leaves Sahara more unstable, it doesn’t help that she hadn’t fully dealt with her loss before old emotions flare and she finds herself in love with two men..
I was grateful for the therapist, it helped her deal with her indecisiveness to choose between Tyree and Emanuel, the crying and apologizing for everything. I was pretty sure which person she would choose from the way the author wrote the love scenes with both guys.

I believe the author dealt with some sensitive subject matters and shed light on the need to sometimes seek help to deal with issues.

I hope the author continues with this series, I would love more on these characters…..and Sahara completely healed.
Profile Image for Lindsey Melia.
384 reviews10 followers
November 13, 2013
I was Giving an ARC of this book for an honest review so here goes....

Just when I taught I couldn't love Danielle Allen's writing anymore,she goes ahead a blows book one out of the water. I was all over the place reading this book. I was nervous,sad,excited,shocked,happy JESUS at one point I was crying! I was a flipping mess. I still am. The book had so many twists and turns it really kept me on my toes. Just when you think the book is going one way.....BOOM it went the other.

As you know from book one,it's about Sahara Lee. Who after something horrific happened her in college she up and ran away. She couldn't face what happened that night,the night that not only changer her life for good but also her best friend Emily and her brother Emmanuel.

This book picks up right where book one ends. She is now in the hospital waiting on word on how Ty is after his car crash on the way to her apartment. Bennett,Ty's cousin doesn't want her there though. Well after all she is standing there with Emmanuel. Yep that's right,after all he was there when she received the news. She is so upset waiting for news,but Ty sends her away. He's so upset that she's there with the bloke she kissed on Ty. You can't really blame him. Even if he's a jerk about it. So she goes home,only to realize she has a choice in front of her. Emmanuel didn't turn up for nothing. He wants Sahara. But she's with Ty. So either way someone's heart is gonna be broken. She just can't make the choice yet...she needs...time. BUT instead what she really does is run again. Yep just like after the accident she up's and leaves. Thinking that Ty and Emmanuel would be better off without her. I wanted to slap her so bad!!!!

She moves to another place,gets another new job and apartment and starts over. Again.... But this time she is gonna try to start healing herself. She promised Emily she would see a therapist. Which she follows through on. And bot by bit she starts to get her head together. Don;t get me wrong she is still heart broken over both men. But she's healing old scars that where well over due.

So with everything she is learning about healing herself she decides to confront her past. She fly's back to see Ty..... She turn's up at his job wanting to talk. And his welcome is anything but warm. But she does it. Well try's to. His "You have five minutes,starting now." Isn't very helpful. So knowing her things need to be said to him,she does it another way. She has to get everything off her chest. And boy does she.

SO with him taking care of there's only one more person to confront...Emmanuel. She has to go back to her home town anyways for Emily's dance studio opening. So it's now or never. But things need to be said before she can be free of them. And lets just say that confrontation goes.....swell. But she has to say what's on her mind and then he can ignore her. Well you can blame him been mad,she did disappear again. With no phone number,or address. Just like after the accident. He told her not to run,and she did. To say he's annoyed would be an understatement. But just as Sahara thinks she's finally in the best place she's been in years....BOOM. It's all took off her. Her life is yet again turned upside down. And literally swung around. Will this girl every be giving a break????

I won't go on more then that because I want everyone to be as shocked as me reading this book. I could go from crying to wanting to beat the ever loving crap outta Sahara in the blink of an eye. I was shouting at my kindle at one point! (Yes i can get carried away reading DO NOT JUDGE!) BUT Danielle Allen done this to me. She is pure EVIL ;) Well no she's not.....But when it comes to messing with my head over these characters she is. BUT I loved it. From the bottom of my soul. I would recommend it to EVERYONE I know who reads,because It's a book I'd read again for sure. And that's how I know I love a book. When I'm already planning on reading it again! Also because of how emotional it is,I have no dout I would be screaming and crying all over again at my kindle :) I hope everyone else loves this much anticipated book two as I did!! :) And here's to more amazing read's from Danielle! :) <3
Profile Image for Di.
610 reviews11 followers
December 8, 2013
Back to Reality (Back to Life #2) by Danielle Allen ARC received in return for an honest review.

This is a great series and I thoroughly enjoyed reading both books. In the first book we are introduced to all the Sahara meets and falls for Tyree Barker. When she then comes face to face with her past love later you know that things are just going to get messy.

This book picks up where Back to Life ended. The mess that is Sahara's love life shows no signs of calming down any time soon. As Sahara tries in vain to do the right thing for all those that she loves, it only compounds on her own hurt and inevitably does not make anything better for those she is trying to protect.

Again, Sahara finds herself running from her problems, only this time she is quick to realise this won't work this time around. Too much has changed. She has changed. So she decides to meet her problems head on.

I found myself wanting to slap some sense into Sahara. She was always too-ing and fro-ing and didn't have a clear idea about who or what she wanted. Just when she thought she had made that choice, BANG, something else came up and pulled the rug from under her feet. She wasn't the only character that made me mad, I would find myself getting annoyed with Ty and Emanuel. I like when you get a book that makes you feel connected with the characters, that they stir a whole variety of emotions within you whilst you are reading it. Sometimes I would find myself thinking that Sahara was weak, but then as the story progressed you could see how strong she was and despite the weaker moments, she was fiercely strong and it took her a while to see just how strong she actually was. I felt like I took every step with her on that road of self discovery.

Danielle Allen did a really good job of painting a vivid picture of everything so clearly, you could almost envisage yourself standing off to the side and watching events unfold before you. No part of the book was rushed and right up to the end you were left wondering who she would choose. I thought I knew who I wanted her to be with in Back to Life, but as that story unfolded, I found myself changing my mind with Sahara. It was the same in Back to Reality. I couldn't make up my mind who she should choose, but in the end I was happy with the choice she made.

Feeling like you have witnessed events take place, feeling like you share the confusion Sahara had surrounding both Ty and Emanuel, feeling the pain that everyone felt throughout the story was fantastic. Danielle Allen pulls you in and you have no choice but to ride the story out and before you know it the words 'The End' appear on your screen. I read both these books in one sitting and loved them both. If I was to have criticism it would be the continual perfect tune popping on the ipod everytime it was switched on. That said it is only a minor bug bear and could not detract from my overall enjoyment of the books.
Profile Image for Emma Edwards.
225 reviews5 followers
January 13, 2017
I received and ARC for an honest review!! 4.5 stars !!!

I love Danielle Allen's writing she is very detailed and leaves no stone unturned ,,, this book is the second from this series and is a continuation of the first so please read the first book prior to this!!!

So we have Sahara, and then there is Ty and Manny ,,, this story is from Saharas POV ,,, she loves two guys each in their own unique way ,,, she feels like she hurts and ruins the lives of anyone she goes near, cares about and loves ,,, thinking it's best for them she removes herself from their lives ,,, that's the best thing for them right?

Ty had been in an accident at the end of book 1 and Sahara wanted to be there for him, make sure he was ok, let him know she was there and she cared but she wasn't allowed to do this, she was pushed away ,,, being messed up, confused and indecisive she decided to do what she does best ,,, run!! ,,, but Emily wanted her friend to be apart of an important event in her life and it meant the Sahara couldn't hide any longer ,,, after seeking therapy she realised she needed to make amends for all of her wrongs ,,,, but will they listen

Her relationship with Emanuel is tainted and as soon as things look good it all goes sour again ,,, maybe it wasn't meant to be!!

Her relationship with Ty is good but there is a distance and that can only make a couple stronger or tear them apart ,,, but will their love be strong enough??

Sahara FINALLY makes the decision of who she does and doesn't want to be with ,,, she loves them both so it takes time to get there ,,, you will not be able to work out which choices she will be making as this story has been written in such a way you will be continuously guessing right the way till the end

I must say I'm glad that finally a line will be drawn under this triangle,,, you'll feel for all concerned and the back and forth between them is hard for all concerned so now there is a conclusion to it all everyone can now move on :)

I really enjoyed this book and I'm sure you will too it's emotionally charged throughout the entire book and you'll be unsure of what's next to happen ,,, it's one of them where you think you know where it's going then BAM! It's off in another direction completely throwing off the scent !!
Profile Image for Awa.
26 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2014
26th of June

I am angry. Goddamn angry I just finished “Back to life” and for fucks sake I was in near tears. Let me explain, the fact that Sahara fucking Lee would even think about repeating her stupid, stupid past actions is more then fucking batshit crazy. It’s infuriating, and I am near throwing my laptop across the room. It’s probably going to be a great book, and I don’t even know whom she will end up with but I sure as hell know whom she should. Ty, remember him Sahara? The one who mad you forget about all the shit that’s been going on. Yeah, between someone who you never forget and someone who makes you forget the latter would be the sane acceptable right choice but noooo this is a book. A work of fiction so of course this brilliant author had to take it in all the perspectives, I mean it’s not that easy to choose between two amazing guys. Really, Danielle Allen I’ve go to hand it to you because right now I’m just thirty-one pages in the book and you’ve turned me into a mad, insane, love-triangle crazed reader.

Two minutes after the previous.
ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME? ARE FUCKING SHITTING WITH ME? Allen, you are playing hard adding another player in the run huh. And one with an accent, you know what I don’t think this is very healthy. I’m probably going to read over these and laugh at myself but goddamit it’s 3:04 Am, I’m having another one of my insomnia episodes and your book is all I have to carry me through it.



6th of July 6, 2014

Woah. Just woah. I wasn’t expecting that at all, and if there is anything good in the world then Danielle Allen is currently writing a new book called “Back to _____” because it simply cannot end like this. This is such a beautiful piece of work; I absolutely adore the way it ends. It’s not one of those books who wrap everything up nicely in perfect way, it’s a book who leaves it scattered and a mess and gut wrenching because that is how life is.
Profile Image for Knock Your Books Off.
80 reviews8 followers
December 7, 2013
Book 2 of the Back To Life series and just when you think that this may be the same old story retold by a different author ~ Danielle Allen manages to throw enough curveballs to keep you guessing and on the metaphorical edge of your seat.
Sahara has done a lot of soul searching and realised that she needs to make things right, she wants to be totally honest with everybody in her life whilst being true to herself if she is to find the peace she so desperately craves. But old habits die hard & Sahara takes a step back from her life once again, leaving everybody who cares for her second guessing her next move. I did sometimes feel as if she'd never learn & wanted to shake her but I also couldn't help empathising with her inner turmoil & her absolute belief that she was doing the right thing.
Emily's wedding brings Sahara back into the fold of the Mills family & she's once again having to choose between the two loves of her life. My heart broke for both Ty & Manny, they can't both have Sahara completely & when we finally find out who she chooses it was honestly one of the most poignant scenes I've ever read in a book, I shed a tear & that scene will truly stay with me forever.
However, the path of true love never runs smooth & Sahara is once again having to deal with all kinds of dramas, the roller coaster of emotions this book drags you through, it's a wonder we're not in therapy with Sahara!!!
I loved both Ty & Manny equally & it soothed my soul to see Sahara attempt to get herself well & functioning whilst dealing with all life throws at her. Emily's still an unfaltering friend and a sweetheart to boot.
All in all a highly enjoyable read, a lot of questions answered and a heartbreaking ending setting us up nicely for book 3!!!

Arc provided by author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Magic Within the Pages.
397 reviews15 followers
December 18, 2013
Reviewer: Kaylene - Magic Within The Pages
Rating: 5 Stars

This book was as captivating from the beginning as the first book in the series. Sahara is lost in her own world of pain and hurt, when she has more problems choosing between the Love of her life Emmanuelle (Manny) or the Love of her life Tyree (Ty). Yes that’s right, it’s a love triangle of epic proportions. Sahara reacts to pressure and tragedy in the only way she knows, she runs, runs away from the people she loves and basically her reasons are always that she is doing it for them.

Thankfully in this book Sahara finally seeks counseling and there does seem to be some light at the end of the dark tunnel she is travelling. She also befriends the first “real” friend in her life since the tragedy of the accident all those years ago. Ben unfortunately turns out to be something less than that and things are not always what they appear to be. I found that part of the book quite sad, as I really thought she has found a true friend.

Emily, Sarah’s best friend and Manny’s sister is getting married and of course Sahara is excited, but it’s a very hard road for Sahara to travel. Sahara finally figures that she wants to be with the Love of her life, Manny but of course another tragedy befalls them and she runs away again.

The ending is blunt but I really liked it, Sahara chooses the man she loves and there is a bit of a shock as well. I thought the ending was a little too final, I turned my kindle over hoping there were a few more pages just to tie off the ending a bit more.

I was emotionally invested in this book the whole way through, and at times I even felt a tear or two. These books are awesome and this book did not disappoint me. I would definitely recommend this read to others.

*Copy received in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Louise Ramsey.
693 reviews26 followers
November 18, 2013
You know you've read a good book when you sit back, your emotions are running wild and you cant stop thinking about the characters you've just finished reading about!

Thats exactly what Danielle Allen did to me with this story!

Picking up pretty much where back to life left off, Ty is in the hospital after his accident and Manny is following Sahara round like a little lost puppy waiting for any part of herself she throws at him.

In the end after basically being dismissed by Ty Sahara does what she does best.....runs away cutting off contact everyone except Emily.

She starts a new job, moves to a new house and begins therapy.

But its all still playing on her mind, still the nightmares and panic attacks haunt her. So off she pops back to her old life to go make ammends for the damage she has caused and try and repair the relationships she has damaged.

And this is where it all begins all over again...............

Ty doesnt want to be with Sahara anymore- so she goes back to Manny.....

Manny cant be with Sahara so she goes back to Ty.......

And its just one big vicious circle.

In the end I found it very difficult to feel sorry for Sahara any more. She was a victim of her own making. After a while I was beginning to think she loved being depressed due to the attention it gave her from the 2 guys and her friend.

Its quite difficult to review this book with out giving away the ending especially given my feelings towards the 2 male characters. I loved one I hated the other. So I wont comment on what I thought otherwise it will be pretty obvious whom she ends up with in the end!

When in truth I was hoping both of them would come to their senses and make it so neither of them wanted her!

For me book 2 was far more supeior to book 1.

Profile Image for Kaylene Osborn.
394 reviews24 followers
December 16, 2013
This book was as captivating from the beginning as the first book in the series. Sahara is lost in her own world of pain and hurt, when she has more problems choosing between the Love of her life Emmanuelle (Manny) or the Love of her life Tyree (Ty). Yes that’s right, it’s a love triangle of epic proportions. Sahara reacts to pressure and tragedy in the only way she knows, she runs, runs away from the people she loves and basically her reasons are always that she is doing it for them.

Thankfully in this book Sahara finally seeks counselling and there does seem to be some light at the end of the dark tunnel she is travelling. She also befriends the first “real” friend in her life since the tragedy of the accident all those years ago. Ben unfortunately turns out to be something less than that and things are not always what they appear to be. I found that part of the book quite sad, as I really thought she has found a true friend.

Emily, Sarah’s best friend and Manny’s sister is getting married and of course Sahara is excited, but it’s a very hard road for Sahara to travel. Sahara finally figures that she wants to be with the Love of her life, Manny but of course another tragedy befalls them and she runs away again.

The ending is blunt but I really liked it, Sahara chooses the man she loves and there is a bit of a shock as well. I thought the ending was a little too final, I turned my kindle over hoping there were a few more pages just to tie off the ending a bit more.

I was emotionally invested in this book the whole way through, and at times I even felt a tear or two. These books are awesome and this book did not disappoint me. I would definitely recommend this read to others.

I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
Profile Image for Knock Your Books Off.
80 reviews8 followers
December 7, 2013
Book 2 of the Back To Life series and just when you think that this may be the same old story retold by a different author ~ Danielle Allen manages to throw enough curveballs to keep you guessing and on the metaphorical edge of your seat.
Sahara has done a lot of soul searching and realised that she needs to make things right, she wants to be totally honest with everybody in her life whilst being true to herself if she is to find the peace she so desperately craves. But old habits die hard & Sahara takes a step back from her life once again, leaving everybody who cares for her second guessing her next move. I did sometimes feel as if she'd never learn & wanted to shake her but I also couldn't help empathising with her inner turmoil & her absolute belief that she was doing the right thing.
Emily's wedding brings Sahara back into the fold of the Mills family & she's once again having to choose between the two loves of her life. My heart broke for both Ty & Manny, they can't both have Sahara completely & when we finally find out who she chooses it was honestly one of the most poignant scenes I've ever read in a book, I shed a tear & that scene will truly stay with me forever.
However, the path of true love never runs smooth & Sahara is once again having to deal with all kinds of dramas, the roller coaster of emotions this book drags you through, it's a wonder we're not in therapy with Sahara!!!
I loved both Ty & Manny equally & it soothed my soul to see Sahara attempt to get herself well & functioning whilst dealing with all life throws at her. Emily's still an unfaltering friend and a sweetheart to boot.
All in all a highly enjoyable read, a lot of questions answered and a heartbreaking ending setting us up nicely for book 3!!!

Arc provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jenny Charles.
221 reviews
December 8, 2013
*ARC provided by author for honest review*

I have been anticipating this book since a finished Back to Reality and let me tell you, Danielle didn't disappoint.  When we last left Sahara she had chosen Tyree over Emanuel. As she is about to reconcile officially with Tyree we find out that Tyree has been in a car accident. Not to mention, Emanuel has come to her apartment and declared his love for her and he won't give up on them. What happens is a rollercoaster ride of emotions for Sahara, Tyree and Emanuel that keeps you guessing what will happen next.

 

Sahara still blames herself for  everything that happens. She still places a lot of blame on herself, which a time could be annoying. I wanted to shake her and scream, "You can't control everything".  There's a lot of misunderstanding between Sahara and Tyree and Sahara and Emanuel, which leads to a lot of back and forth between the two men. At times, while reading the book, I would be rooting for Tyree and then I would find myself rooting for Emanuel. There is a WTF moment with Emanuel that I kind of saw coming, but it still made my jaw drop.

In the end, Sahara does finally choose between Tyree and Emanuel.  One of the great parts in the book is her reconnection with her best friend Emily. Although they have not been close for a number of years, it was great to see Emily support Sahara without judgement.

Danielle Allen is such a great writer. You could literally feel the emotions of  Sahara, Tyree and Emanuel. Her writing has a way that make you become emtionally invested in each character. You want to laugh with them, cry with them, be angry with them. I couldn't put down the book. Such a great book!
Profile Image for Jenny Charles.
221 reviews
December 8, 2013
I have been anticipating this book since a finished Back to Reality and let me tell you, Danielle didn't disappoint.  When we last left Sahara she had chosen Tyree over Emanuel. As she is about to reconcile officially with Tyree we find out that Tyree has been in a car accident. Not to mention, Emanuel has come to her apartment and declared his love for her and he won't give up on them. What happens is a rollercoaster ride of emotions for Sahara, Tyree and Emanuel that keeps you guessing what will happen next.

 

Sahara still blames herself for  everything that happens. She still places a lot of blame on herself, which a time could be annoying. I wanted to shake her and scream, "You can't control everything".  There's a lot of misunderstanding between Sahara and Tyree and Sahara and Emanuel, which leads to a lot of back and forth between the two men. At times, while reading the book, I would be rooting for Tyree and then I would find myself rooting for Emanuel. There is a WTF moment with Emanuel that I kind of saw coming, but it still made my jaw drop.

In the end, Sahara does finally choose between Tyree and Emanuel.  One of the great parts in the book is her reconnection with her best friend Emily. Although they have not been close for a number of years, it was great to see Emily support Sahara without judgement.

Danielle Allen is such a great writer. You could literally feel the emotions of  Sahara, Tyree and Emanuel. Her writing has a way that make you become emtionally invested in each character. You want to laugh with them, cry with them, be angry with them. I couldn't put down the book. Such a great book!

 
Profile Image for Samantha.
Author 2 books18 followers
January 9, 2014
Holy Smoly my heart is still racing after finishing reading this. I didn't really expect any of this, I didn't even know what to expect after what happened at the end of book one.
Let me start at the beginning. Our favorite characters are back! Yay! And some new ones, and some not so favorite characters -.-. You don't know how much I love them. They're so real to me, I connect with them on levels I love and hate. Love because I adore being able to connect with great characters, and hate because they're not real and I really want them to be (if only in me dreams :p). They're growing even more in this book, and being with them every step of the way through the ups and downs feels like an honor to me (that sounds weird I know).
Next up, we have a great plot. It was crazy, those plot twists sent me whirling. I was going insane trying to process this and that, and then when I finally felt I had a handle on things... Bam! I loved every second of it, being kept on my toes helps keep the book from getting boring. And this book was anything but boring, believe me. I wasn't prepared for how this book ended. If I had even had a glimpse of it, I would had fastened my seat belts. All I have to say is there should be a book three (and I want it right now) and I also want four, five, six, I think you see where I am going with this.This was another fabulous installment to a fabulous first book. My heart was racing and I really didn't want it to end. I recommend this book very much. And if you haven't read the first one, I don't see what you're waiting for!
312 reviews
February 28, 2015
Sahara - too much guilt, not able to choose and hurting 2 men she said she loves all over again
Sahara´s family and friends from the past - they really really let her be by herself 10 years? no one tried to contact her? really? the lawyer had contact so if they wanted they could come to her.
Tyree - perfect guy able to forgive almost everything and going all over the country for her
Manny - another perfect guy able to forgive anything
ending - Im not very happy, because at the end someone got hurt and really badly, I do not think it was fair... she shoud stay alone to deal with her guilt and panick attacks and only after that seeking the love

Overall I like the characters and the story about love but the guys were able to forgive everything and she was always not able to decide, crying, panicking or leaving. And the end seemed little bit rushed - she chose Manny because Tyree was giving more to his job. But during book he said she was the reason why not to focus only at work. SO for me it seemed author created some obstacle why her relationship with Ty should not work so Sahara would feel ok for choosing Manny. She chose the one who was available. BTW Ty didnt want to move to her and she didnt want to move to him - what about Manny? Because of child he was for sure not moving, so she moved back to Thomasville (after she said to T that it is not good for her because of the doctor)?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Natalie.
546 reviews41 followers
March 6, 2014
This was yet another amazing book by Danielle Allen. I'm so lost on how to even start this review. I don't want to write a review that spoils it for anyone so I'll try to be careful.

Sahara, bless her heart she's so conflicted in life period and I think we can all relate to her in some way or another. After her father died she didn't know his to carry on through life without hurting everyone around her. I love Sahara because she is such an intelligent, successful, beautiful, caring, and loving black woman. Although she has all this awesome characteristics she has a part of her that is lost, scared, and confused.

I love Ty because he is the sexy, successful, and buff black man that just makes you want him all through the two books. Well at least I did. Lol

I love the yummy Emanuel because he is the sexy, buff, Hispanic man. He just has you on the edge of your seat when he's around because you know there will be passion, angst, frustration and such sexiness.

Throughout both of these books I was so torn between who I wanted her to end up with. I'm still not sure if agree but I'm not disappointed in the least. I am so proud of Danielle because these being her first books ever written I am so surprised at how amazing they are. She is truly talented and look forward to her continuing her talent as an author. I have once again granted her five stars :)
Profile Image for H.P..
Author 7 books75 followers
December 10, 2013
There is nothing more frustrating than a cliffhanger—so when Back to Life finished I was panting for the continuation. Oh I did have a thing for Emmanuel but I was just as confused as Sahara.

Let it be known that I want to punch her in the throat. Two men—TWO—panting for her y’all and she decides its all too much. She can’t choose and she doesn’t deserve either! Gahhhhhhh talk about frustration but the greatest thing about the book is that it did get a rise out of me. I love books that pull me hard and she definitely did. Another perk is that you finally see her grow into the person she should have been before everything in her life went to crap over a decade ago.

Now I could spoil it and tell you that she ends up with ------ nahhhh! Not going to happen but I will tell you that she does definitely wake up and picks the right guy for her. And just when you think its all about to work out--- BAM!!!! The author throws you for a loop and pushes you down the well of deep sadness and misery. Yes, that’s how I felt but I will let you know why.

Lastly one of the greatest features about this book is--- NO CLIFFHANGER!! Yay! So pick it up and let me know if you wanted to punch her in the throat too.
Profile Image for For the Love of Books.
755 reviews28 followers
December 14, 2013
Back to Reality is the follow up to Back to Life. So you definitely can’t read the second without reading the first or you will be totally lost. This book picks up where the first ended. How do you deal with loving two men at the same time? And loving them both for different reasons. Then just as you get ready to make a decision, BAM!!! You’re hit with chaos! Nothing can ever be simple and it never is for Sahara in this book. I did enjoy the books, but kind of got irritated with Sahara. She’s so indecisive sometimes that it just got on my nerves. But I guess in all reality, if I was in that situation and had to make the decision she has to, I would be wishy washy too. We get to see a lot of growth in Sahara throughout the book and end up feeling just as conflicted as she does about choosing a side. ~Lauren
15 reviews1 follower
December 6, 2013
Sahara is on the run again. Being torn between two guys, she decided to leave them both and start a new life (again). This time, she maintains the connection with her bestfriend Emily. She has decided to go through therapy. She also learned to make friends. She found out she is missing a mother's love. Odd to her but it is a refreshing change. She avoided Tyree but there is no way she can avoid Emmanuel and she doesn't want to runaway from Emily ever again.

Emily moved on with her life and business. Since Sahara promised to not runaway again and make up for the lost time with her bestfriend, she deciced to be there for Emily's major life events. With that, she has to be where Emmanuel is. Emmanual is going through a rough time in his life as well.

More here
Profile Image for Tonya.
2,065 reviews11 followers
January 22, 2014
I loved this story. Drama just seems to follow Sahara everywhere she goes. This is the 2nd book. It picks up right where the 1st one left off. She is on the run from her past, again, but also her present and possibly future this time. I don't know If I've ever heard someone apologize so much for the same thing, over and over and over again. Ty and Manny are still her loves, but will she choose 1 or leave them both for good? I would like to read a 3rd one, just to see how everything ends up being after her choices.
Profile Image for Drue DePompei-Hoffman.
259 reviews7 followers
December 9, 2013
In Back to Reality Saraha faces the root of her issues, she also faces unbelievable circumstances with Ty and Manny, and just when everything is looking peachy, life throws a wrench at everything. But Saraha pulls through, and starts piecing her life back together, and then the pivotal moment when she can no longer deny what she has always known comes.

- See more at: http://druesrandomchatter.blogspot.co...
Profile Image for Dashauna.
2 reviews
April 30, 2014
You will NOT put this book down! I read and the book because I was just so into the story. There are twists you are not expecting there are situations and emotions in what the characters live through. I think everyone can relate to at LEAST one character and say "that was/is me" at some point. I can't wait to read other works by Danielle I've come to look forward to "finding" pieces of me in the worlds she creates in her works.
Profile Image for Gemini.
1,601 reviews
May 2, 2021
After completing two books in this series, Sahara has to be one of the most annoying characters I’ve ever encountered. She had this horrible self-deprecating attitude. She felt guilty about every single thing. She cried nonstop for two books. She even cried in her sleep! Her nonsense killed the vibe for me. The story was just okay for me outside of her crybaby antics. I didn’t care for the ending, but I’m committed to finishing the series.
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