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Heart Breaths
After a tragedy nearly ripped 21 year old Madeline Darlington-Gray’s life in half, she's spent the past three years trying to put the pieces back together. But pieces never just fit back together, and when she's betrayed by those she trusts, everything crumbles. Shoving everything she owns into the trunk of her car, Maddie drives south, trying to run from her past. Eno, North Carolina seems like the perfect place to hide. Working at a local café is light years from Maddie's Manhattan existence and for the first time in a while, she's finding her family. There's Grandma, the café owner; Samantha, the hairstylist next door with plans to make Maddie's life unsuck and Noie, the three year old girl who's stolen Maddie's heart. And then there’s Gabriel Mendez, Noie’s single dad. He’s intrigued Maddie since the first time she met him, and while he has his own secrets, he wants more from her than just friendship. But the past never stays past, and all too soon, Maddie realizes she can't hide from hers. If she can't put the pieces of her shattered life together this time, she'll have no hope for a future. A future she desperately wants.
386 pages, Paperback
First published November 2, 2013
About the author
K.K. Hendin
25 books175 followersKK Hendin writes books where people flirt awkwardly, make out, dish out a whole lot of sass and ridiculousness, and live happily ever after. She's the author of many books, including the weekly serial, ALL THE WRONG REASONS.
She also writes books as Brontë Reeve, where people aren't as nice and Happily Ever After isn't a guarantee.
KK is currently writing way too many books and is still waiting for the subway to run on a regular schedule. When she's not playing book Tetris in an attempt to fit everything onto the bookshelves in her tiny NYC apartment, she's probably wandering her neighborhood with her camera or drinking yet another cup of coffee.
She also writes books as Brontë Reeve, where people aren't as nice and Happily Ever After isn't a guarantee.
KK is currently writing way too many books and is still waiting for the subway to run on a regular schedule. When she's not playing book Tetris in an attempt to fit everything onto the bookshelves in her tiny NYC apartment, she's probably wandering her neighborhood with her camera or drinking yet another cup of coffee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 14, 2013
I really enjoyed reading it, but I felt the ending was rushed and it left me unsatisfied.
November 19, 2013
I can't swear to it, but this is what I imagine a Nicholas Sparks novel must be like. There's just waaay too much going on here for me.
Between all of these things:
There is way too much angst, as well as a writing style I don't love. Also, too many people whispering.
Between all of these things:
There is way too much angst, as well as a writing style I don't love. Also, too many people whispering.
October 27, 2013
♥ Find my reviews here: Literary Meanderings
- - -
21-year-old Manhattan socialite, Madeline Darlington-Gray, is running. She's running from heartbreak, from betrayal, from her past...
They say you can't escape the consequences of your choices. But damn if I wasn't going to try.Driving south with no destination in mind, Madeline (Maddie) ends up in a small ocean-side town in North Carolina. The charm of the town and it's people grow on her. She ends up working in a small café and living in a small space above the place.
She makes friends with the café owner, Grandma, and also with some of the local girls. Then there is Gabe. Tall, dark, handsome Gabe. Maddie has been attracted to him since the very first time she laid eyes on him. But Maddie isn't going to allow herself to fall for someone, especially someone with a three-year-old daughter. Little Noie is just the thing that could ruin all the progress Maddie has made in letting go of her past—or just the thing Maddie needs to finally let it go completely.
- - -
Heart Breaths was such a pleasant surprise! I was expecting your run-of-the-mill New Adult book—which is fine, I enjoy those a great deal, but this one had a little something more.
Before I continue, please know that this review will contain some spoilers. Nothing big, but I can't leave out the reason for Maddie's pain and still accurately explain how I feel about this book. :)
So, with that said...
*SPOILERS AHEAD!*
Maddie has suffered great loss. Maddie lost a fiancé and a child. Maddie got pregnant at a young age. Her boyfriend was a stand-up guy and they made a little life for themselves. Maddie and Ravi (and eventually their daughter Devi) were the perfect little family.
Until the accident that ended it all.
The story begins three years after the horrific accident that took Ravi and Devi away from Maddie. Maddie was making strides toward moving on, dating a new guy, and then he betrayed her. It was the straw that broke the camel's back. She hops in her car and drives south... and this is where we begin.
Maddie is a wonderful protagonist. She has a lot of pain to work through and it was an inspiring journey to watch her do just that. The most devastating part is that it isn't just the pain of loss, but the pain of guilt as well. A situation like this could easily become whiny and overly-done, but I think K.K. Hendin balanced the tough parts out very well with the more hopeful elements from Maddie's new life, new friends, and tentative relationship with both Gabe and Noie. It was sad, but not hopeless, and I suppose that's the point. While I haven't experienced anything remotely close to what Maddie did, I connected with her easily.
The romance was intense, but not unrealistic. No insta-love. Insta-lust? Yes! Right from the get-go Maddie struggles with herself. She is attracted to Gabe but she's built her walls up so high after the betrayal of her last boyfriend that the prospect of any sort of new relationship isn't even within her grasp. But, of course, Gabe and Noie begin to chip away at those walls. Soon enough, the two get to a point where they can test the waters of a relationship. It's easier said than done though. I'll let you read about that yourself. ;) But my point is that the author gave us a truly realistic portrayal of a woman wounded by grief and betrayal, and how difficult it can be to simply let someone into your heart. I enjoyed the slow-building romance and the fact that this book wasn't 100% focused on Maddie falling in love with Gabe. It was about so much more than just romance.
While this is a contemporary read, there is a slightly paranormal aspect. I'd say it leans toward magical-realism, but not quite. I won't spoil this part, but it's a nice twist on the story. I applaud the author for weaving such an unexpected element into the plot so flawlessly!
Now, I wouldn't be writing a fair review if I didn't mention what I didn't like. For me, the story was amazing all-around. The pace is where I had a problem. Everything was perfect until the end. All of a sudden, stuff hits the fan. All at once, things are happening. I don't want to get spoilery here, but all the issues within the story are wrapped up in a matter of 5% of the book. It's too close together. It almost comes out of nowhere, too. I feel like it should've been spread out a little more. With it all being so mushed together, it happens too fast and you're a bit winded.
Overall, Heart Breaths was a wonderful read! Think Safe Haven, but with a twist and for a slightly younger audience. Maddie is a protagonist you will love right from the first page. Her past is one that will break your heart, but journeying with her into acceptance is something you won't soon forget. This book is filled with hopefulness and silver-lining. It's about coping and moving on, but not forgetting what you've lost. It's about learning to open your heart and to love without restraint. It's about living life to the fullest. It's about friendship. It's about breathing in the new; the hopeful; the love, and breathing out the pain; the distrust; the past. Heart breaths.
This is a beautiful story with beautiful characters that'll touch your heart. I recommend this to anyone that can appreciate a good contemporary that isn't solely focused on hormones and forbidden love. It's deeper, more complicated, and completely moving.
- - -
Book source: From the author for review
Publisher: Self-published
January 6, 2014
First I want to say,God knows how much I liked Noie! She's just so adorable! I want to hug her so tight :( I wish she was real and she was here with me so I could hug...
Noie besides,I love Madeline most.
If there was no character but Maddie I would love to read that book too.But with this characters I love it too.
All I wanted to do was drive— drive until my tires ran flat, get a new pair, and keep going. Drive until I couldn’t drive anymore, until the allure of wherever I was became stronger than the urge to bury my head in the sand and never, ever come out. Far enough away that my memories would all magically fade away into a bizarre kind of nostalgia, the kind that only comes from knowing how bad things sucked.
All Madeline want is a fresh start.. There's a new town,new neighbors,a little cute child,granny and a handsome hot single dad.
Dear God, he was beautiful. Tall, dark, with tousled brown hair and a five o’clock shadow, in a button-down and slacks, he stood towering over his daughter. I could see somewhat of a resemblance between the two of them— they both had the same startling green eyes.
This is really a unique read, that had me amazed. I haven't read anything like this, and I felt Maddie's sadness and I was curious to know who or what had hurt her and if she would be able to recover.I love the paranormal touch of the book.It's create a curiosity that wondered what's going to happen in the next page. You can feel Maddie's heartbreak and hope that you'll love and trust again.
You know what? I don't know if I can explain but I really understand Maddie's trust problems.I love the writing and idea of the book. This is The author's debut novel and I think she successed to creating a great book.
Noie besides,I love Madeline most.
If there was no character but Maddie I would love to read that book too.But with this characters I love it too.
All I wanted to do was drive— drive until my tires ran flat, get a new pair, and keep going. Drive until I couldn’t drive anymore, until the allure of wherever I was became stronger than the urge to bury my head in the sand and never, ever come out. Far enough away that my memories would all magically fade away into a bizarre kind of nostalgia, the kind that only comes from knowing how bad things sucked.
All Madeline want is a fresh start.. There's a new town,new neighbors,a little cute child,granny and a handsome hot single dad.
Dear God, he was beautiful. Tall, dark, with tousled brown hair and a five o’clock shadow, in a button-down and slacks, he stood towering over his daughter. I could see somewhat of a resemblance between the two of them— they both had the same startling green eyes.
This is really a unique read, that had me amazed. I haven't read anything like this, and I felt Maddie's sadness and I was curious to know who or what had hurt her and if she would be able to recover.I love the paranormal touch of the book.It's create a curiosity that wondered what's going to happen in the next page. You can feel Maddie's heartbreak and hope that you'll love and trust again.
You know what? I don't know if I can explain but I really understand Maddie's trust problems.I love the writing and idea of the book. This is The author's debut novel and I think she successed to creating a great book.
January 8, 2014
Original review posted: http://www.aliisbookjungle.com/2/post...
Before I begin I need to point out the lushness of the cover!...Okay moment over. So I received this as an ARC courtesy of the fab author, way, way, WAY before the tour came along and due to unavoidable circumstances I was never able to publish my review. Sufficed to say I was feeling pretty shitty about that, because I don't like breaking promises. So I had a plan in sight to make up for it all, when all of a sudden BOOM! A blog tour invite popped up in my mail box and I thought to myself, what better way to make it up to K.K. than being part of the blog tour?! More exposure, more bloggers and more Geektastic awesomeness. So I sat there thinking...It. Is. Genius! And the rest as they say is history, and here we are.
So what are my thoughts? Well I really liked the book actually. I say that a little surprised, because reading the synopsis I was all set for an emotional somewhat depressing read. Woah there, let me finish! It was definitely emotional there's no denying that, but I wouldn't call it depressing. The storyline was actually really well put together, and I found myself enthralled from the first chapter, no seriously, it took me like a day to finish! I was that enthralled, and you know that says a lot. Maddie's story was a hard one to hear, and I admit K.K. had me bawling my eyes out at just 26%. It was so hard to feel for all the pain and hardship Maddie's been through, I found myself often wondering how I would handle such grief, because it's hard not to try and contemplate. I admired her strength of character, her compassion, her bravery and really big heart. She was a well developed character, and I don't think as a reader you could really hate her, that's not to say there weren't times when she was annoying or too damn stubborn, but in the end you just have a whole new level of respect for the woman.
Her relationship with Noie was heartbreaking and beautiful all at the same time, I'm a sucker for stories with children involved. Makes me all mushy and happy. I think in their own unique way they helped heal each other a little, through their relationship you could see the fear slowly disintegrate, the trust begin to grow and the buckets of love just flourishing. It was cute, sweet and adorable as hell.
“Changing your location doesn’t necessarily mean losing your problems. They’ll show up wherever you are, changing to fit the situation. But until you break them down and deal with it, there is nowhere far enough for you to run away from them.”
Oh Gabe. My dear Gabe. Where shall I even begin? Hmm...well I loved his character for starters. He was thoughtful, sweet, funny and hot! I liked his relationship with Maddie, it was a good depiction of people attempting to move on after suffering such loss in their life. There was no easy fix, and there relationship definitely had it's ups and downs, but in the end they manage to find a half way point, meeting in the middle. I liked the slow progression of their relationship, 'cause as you know Alii is not a fan of the insta-love scene, so watching theirs slowly bloom was captivating. In all honesty I was acting like a complete girl, screaming at my Kindle 'Kiss her! Kiss her now!' and other such things young girls are prone to scream.
I loved how he was with Noie, like dude could father of the year. Their scenes had me in sighing in content, and getting all mushy inside. I just wanted to hug them sooo bad, but that wasn't possible so I hugged my Kindle pushing all my happiness through to them. Yeah I know how I sound, but hey it was a good book damn it and I'll be damned if it doesn't get the appreciation it deserves.
Everyone’s past has ways of sneaking up on them. You just have to be in a place in the present that you’re strong enough to deal with when your past comes to visit.
Alas my friends, as much as I liked the book it fell short for me in certain places. It seemed at times as though K.K. was getting a little repetitive, especially where Maddie's feelings were concerned and it started to get just a teensy bit annoying. Maddie's relationship with Gabe was also a little disappointing, it all felt kind of secondary compared to Maddie's feelings. At the start it was very much involved in the story and had a lot to do with their healing, but by the end it seemed to fall apart and other things began to over shadow it. I wasn't expecting a HEA where they all ride off into the sunset, but I also wasn't expecting how it ended. There was also the freaky stuff going on with Noie, like the book was going to take a paranormal turn but then didn't and so it all felt a bit too much like coincidence.
Therefore my rating is 3 endearing stars. K.K. has a lot of potential, and her writing style is something to take notice of. I loved the story of Fort Raleigh being incorporated into the book, and I'd actually heard it before in Supernatural...gotta love the Winchesters! As a history buff that kinda thing makes me all tingly and intrigued...it's a historian thing. So if you're looking for a book with awesome background characters (who aren't really in the background), a town where you feel right at home and as though you've known another since forever, the most adorable 3 year old you'll have the pleasure of meeting and a hero and heroine fighting their pasts for the HEA, then look no further minions.
For more:
Facebook Page
Twitter
Before I begin I need to point out the lushness of the cover!...Okay moment over. So I received this as an ARC courtesy of the fab author, way, way, WAY before the tour came along and due to unavoidable circumstances I was never able to publish my review. Sufficed to say I was feeling pretty shitty about that, because I don't like breaking promises. So I had a plan in sight to make up for it all, when all of a sudden BOOM! A blog tour invite popped up in my mail box and I thought to myself, what better way to make it up to K.K. than being part of the blog tour?! More exposure, more bloggers and more Geektastic awesomeness. So I sat there thinking...It. Is. Genius! And the rest as they say is history, and here we are.
So what are my thoughts? Well I really liked the book actually. I say that a little surprised, because reading the synopsis I was all set for an emotional somewhat depressing read. Woah there, let me finish! It was definitely emotional there's no denying that, but I wouldn't call it depressing. The storyline was actually really well put together, and I found myself enthralled from the first chapter, no seriously, it took me like a day to finish! I was that enthralled, and you know that says a lot. Maddie's story was a hard one to hear, and I admit K.K. had me bawling my eyes out at just 26%. It was so hard to feel for all the pain and hardship Maddie's been through, I found myself often wondering how I would handle such grief, because it's hard not to try and contemplate. I admired her strength of character, her compassion, her bravery and really big heart. She was a well developed character, and I don't think as a reader you could really hate her, that's not to say there weren't times when she was annoying or too damn stubborn, but in the end you just have a whole new level of respect for the woman.
Her relationship with Noie was heartbreaking and beautiful all at the same time, I'm a sucker for stories with children involved. Makes me all mushy and happy. I think in their own unique way they helped heal each other a little, through their relationship you could see the fear slowly disintegrate, the trust begin to grow and the buckets of love just flourishing. It was cute, sweet and adorable as hell.
“Changing your location doesn’t necessarily mean losing your problems. They’ll show up wherever you are, changing to fit the situation. But until you break them down and deal with it, there is nowhere far enough for you to run away from them.”
Oh Gabe. My dear Gabe. Where shall I even begin? Hmm...well I loved his character for starters. He was thoughtful, sweet, funny and hot! I liked his relationship with Maddie, it was a good depiction of people attempting to move on after suffering such loss in their life. There was no easy fix, and there relationship definitely had it's ups and downs, but in the end they manage to find a half way point, meeting in the middle. I liked the slow progression of their relationship, 'cause as you know Alii is not a fan of the insta-love scene, so watching theirs slowly bloom was captivating. In all honesty I was acting like a complete girl, screaming at my Kindle 'Kiss her! Kiss her now!' and other such things young girls are prone to scream.
I loved how he was with Noie, like dude could father of the year. Their scenes had me in sighing in content, and getting all mushy inside. I just wanted to hug them sooo bad, but that wasn't possible so I hugged my Kindle pushing all my happiness through to them. Yeah I know how I sound, but hey it was a good book damn it and I'll be damned if it doesn't get the appreciation it deserves.
Everyone’s past has ways of sneaking up on them. You just have to be in a place in the present that you’re strong enough to deal with when your past comes to visit.
Alas my friends, as much as I liked the book it fell short for me in certain places. It seemed at times as though K.K. was getting a little repetitive, especially where Maddie's feelings were concerned and it started to get just a teensy bit annoying. Maddie's relationship with Gabe was also a little disappointing, it all felt kind of secondary compared to Maddie's feelings. At the start it was very much involved in the story and had a lot to do with their healing, but by the end it seemed to fall apart and other things began to over shadow it. I wasn't expecting a HEA where they all ride off into the sunset, but I also wasn't expecting how it ended. There was also the freaky stuff going on with Noie, like the book was going to take a paranormal turn but then didn't and so it all felt a bit too much like coincidence.
Therefore my rating is 3 endearing stars. K.K. has a lot of potential, and her writing style is something to take notice of. I loved the story of Fort Raleigh being incorporated into the book, and I'd actually heard it before in Supernatural...gotta love the Winchesters! As a history buff that kinda thing makes me all tingly and intrigued...it's a historian thing. So if you're looking for a book with awesome background characters (who aren't really in the background), a town where you feel right at home and as though you've known another since forever, the most adorable 3 year old you'll have the pleasure of meeting and a hero and heroine fighting their pasts for the HEA, then look no further minions.
For more:
Facebook Page
November 27, 2017
"Maddie, when there are hearts involved, there's always the risk of getting hurt. That's just what happens."
"Everyone's past has ways of sneaking up on them. You just have to be in a place in the present that you're strong enough to deal with when your past comes to visit."
"Sometimes it wouldn't work out the way you wanted it to--sometimes crashing and burning was the inevitable end. But even then, there was always that glimmer of possibility hiding. As long as your heart was breathing, there was always a chance. There was always the choice to keep going."
"Everyone's past has ways of sneaking up on them. You just have to be in a place in the present that you're strong enough to deal with when your past comes to visit."
"Sometimes it wouldn't work out the way you wanted it to--sometimes crashing and burning was the inevitable end. But even then, there was always that glimmer of possibility hiding. As long as your heart was breathing, there was always a chance. There was always the choice to keep going."
January 3, 2017
I liked the book very much. Just wished the ending wasn't so rushed for the reason that there needed to be a little more to the story instead of just ending. Because it ended the way it did I would think there would be a sequel but I don't think there will be. But all in all it was a great 'finding yourself' kind of book.
3.75-4 stars
3.75-4 stars
January 3, 2014
Maddie or Madeline had a really painful past that she can't get away from.She's still broken,unhappy and barely finds the courage to keep going.
"I wondered what that felt like,to be that happy.To have a laugh that made others almost as happy as you..."
"My sobs grew louder,trying to overpower the memories that were threatening to suffocate me."
She decided to leave it all behind...So she gets in her car and starts driving.Destination?Unknown.When she ends up in the small city of Eno,she finds a piece she never even imagined and meets some amazing people that become the family she never had.They support her,love her for who she really is and don't expect anything in return.
Then,there's Gabe.Another tortured soul who has to raise a his three year old daughter by himself.Noie is a three year old angel but she's terrified of strangers so everybody's surprised when she meets Maddie and instead of freaking out,she talks to her and becomes her friend.They're brave...together.
"We're going to be brave together,okay?"I whispered.
"Okay"she whispered back.
At the beginning,Gabe doesn't trust Maddie but they end up falling for each other.But will they stop being afraid of the past and the future,and just enjoy the present?
I fell in love with Heart Breaths from the moment I started reading it.I fell in love with the characters and little Noie stole my heart.She was so sweet and adorable.I was enjoying the book so much that I didn't want to stop reading so I ended up finishing it in a day.
Maddie was a great main character.She went through so much an I loved the fact that she stayed strong.Even though she felt hopeless and missed what she lost,she was such a brave and strong character.She went through everything alone and the betrayal of her family broke her ever more but she survived.She was broken and I could see it,I could feel it and it made me really sad.She went through so much and she didn't have anyone to support her.
"Sometimes I wished that all I had left was a carving on a fence post.Instead I had the scars of my mistakes,and nightmares that haunted me while I was awake..."
Let's move on to Gabe.To tell you the truth,I connected with him as a character and Maddie's love interest but I didn't love him.I don't know why but I hated the way he treated Maddie sometimes.And he broke her heart and didn't even care to see how she was doing.I could understand the need to protect himself and his daughter but he didn't achieve anything by pushing the best thing that ever happened to him away.Maddie was broken two but he gave their relationship a chance.The only thing he did was break her heart...again.
"Turning,he walked away,shredding what was left of my heart."
"I don't know how long I lay there,letting my heart bleed..."
The secondary characters like Sam,Grandma Evelyn,Mary Elizabeth and Hannah supported Maddie and stood next to her like a true family.I really enjoyed their time together and it was obvious that they helped Maddie heal.And let's not forget about Noie who I fell in love with!
The author did an amazing job with the plot and character development.We saw both Maddie and Gabe developing as characters and starting to heal and move on with the help of each other and their loyal and dedicated friends.
"I breathed out and felt a piece from the wall around my heart crack off.I felt my heart breathe a little..."
The amount of heartache and grief Maddie had to suffer through was really hard some times and her hitting rock bottom was heartbreaking.But the way her family treated her was just awful.And I was so happy and satisfied when Grandma Evelyn and the girls put Jen,Maddie's sister in her place.I also have to admit that I cried a couple of times throughout the book.I was so sad and heartbroken for everything the characters,especially Maddie had to go through.
The ending was a bit abrupt and I felt like the author could have ended the story differently and given us hungry readers an ending where more things happened.That's my only problem which isn't a problem at all because I loved the book.The author could write a sequel or small novella giving as more details about Maddie and Gabe's happily ever after!Just saying;)
Heart Breaths was such an inspiring and heartbreaking story about love,loss and the effect the past has on everyone's present.It was such an enjoyable and quick read and I highly recommend it.Get ready to cry a bit though.If your an emotional person like me that is!
P.S.If you haven't heard Whiskey Lullaby,go ahead and listen to it.It was beautiful,it made me cry and I loved it as much as I loved the book itself!
"As long as your heart was breathing,there was always a chance.There was always a choice to keep going..."
"I wondered what that felt like,to be that happy.To have a laugh that made others almost as happy as you..."
"My sobs grew louder,trying to overpower the memories that were threatening to suffocate me."
She decided to leave it all behind...So she gets in her car and starts driving.Destination?Unknown.When she ends up in the small city of Eno,she finds a piece she never even imagined and meets some amazing people that become the family she never had.They support her,love her for who she really is and don't expect anything in return.
Then,there's Gabe.Another tortured soul who has to raise a his three year old daughter by himself.Noie is a three year old angel but she's terrified of strangers so everybody's surprised when she meets Maddie and instead of freaking out,she talks to her and becomes her friend.They're brave...together.
"We're going to be brave together,okay?"I whispered.
"Okay"she whispered back.
At the beginning,Gabe doesn't trust Maddie but they end up falling for each other.But will they stop being afraid of the past and the future,and just enjoy the present?
I fell in love with Heart Breaths from the moment I started reading it.I fell in love with the characters and little Noie stole my heart.She was so sweet and adorable.I was enjoying the book so much that I didn't want to stop reading so I ended up finishing it in a day.
Maddie was a great main character.She went through so much an I loved the fact that she stayed strong.Even though she felt hopeless and missed what she lost,she was such a brave and strong character.She went through everything alone and the betrayal of her family broke her ever more but she survived.She was broken and I could see it,I could feel it and it made me really sad.She went through so much and she didn't have anyone to support her.
"Sometimes I wished that all I had left was a carving on a fence post.Instead I had the scars of my mistakes,and nightmares that haunted me while I was awake..."
Let's move on to Gabe.To tell you the truth,I connected with him as a character and Maddie's love interest but I didn't love him.I don't know why but I hated the way he treated Maddie sometimes.And he broke her heart and didn't even care to see how she was doing.I could understand the need to protect himself and his daughter but he didn't achieve anything by pushing the best thing that ever happened to him away.Maddie was broken two but he gave their relationship a chance.The only thing he did was break her heart...again.
"Turning,he walked away,shredding what was left of my heart."
"I don't know how long I lay there,letting my heart bleed..."
The secondary characters like Sam,Grandma Evelyn,Mary Elizabeth and Hannah supported Maddie and stood next to her like a true family.I really enjoyed their time together and it was obvious that they helped Maddie heal.And let's not forget about Noie who I fell in love with!
The author did an amazing job with the plot and character development.We saw both Maddie and Gabe developing as characters and starting to heal and move on with the help of each other and their loyal and dedicated friends.
"I breathed out and felt a piece from the wall around my heart crack off.I felt my heart breathe a little..."
The amount of heartache and grief Maddie had to suffer through was really hard some times and her hitting rock bottom was heartbreaking.But the way her family treated her was just awful.And I was so happy and satisfied when Grandma Evelyn and the girls put Jen,Maddie's sister in her place.I also have to admit that I cried a couple of times throughout the book.I was so sad and heartbroken for everything the characters,especially Maddie had to go through.
The ending was a bit abrupt and I felt like the author could have ended the story differently and given us hungry readers an ending where more things happened.That's my only problem which isn't a problem at all because I loved the book.The author could write a sequel or small novella giving as more details about Maddie and Gabe's happily ever after!Just saying;)
Heart Breaths was such an inspiring and heartbreaking story about love,loss and the effect the past has on everyone's present.It was such an enjoyable and quick read and I highly recommend it.Get ready to cry a bit though.If your an emotional person like me that is!
P.S.If you haven't heard Whiskey Lullaby,go ahead and listen to it.It was beautiful,it made me cry and I loved it as much as I loved the book itself!
"As long as your heart was breathing,there was always a chance.There was always a choice to keep going..."
January 9, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
This one was of those books...
I didn’t expect to LOVE this novel SOOOOOOOO MUCH!
Let me start off by listing all those terrible characters in this book that had made me cry:
The 3-year old Noie
Grandma Evelyn
And the girls.
Kidding!
But they did make me cry. Imagine HOW can a 3-year old burst your bubble hard enough for you to shed tears? I can’t imagine as well, until I read this novel.
One tragedy to the next – that’s how Madeline Darlington-Gray’s life had been, and she was just 21 years old. She was lost, broken and hurt. She had lost someone who is dearly close to her, it didn’t help when she was betrayed by someone she trusted the most. She just wanted to walk away from it all. She took her car, drove away, threw her mobile phone in the middle of nowhere and ran away from her past.
Changing your location doesn’t necessarily mean losing your problems. They’ll show up wherever you are, changing to fit the situation. But until you break them down and deal with it, there is nowhere far enough for you to run away from them.
She ended up in Eno, North Carolina. The perfect place to hide, not just because the population was small, nor the beautiful beach that was just nearby – but this was something way out of her ordinary mundane past. She unexpectedly found work in a café as a waitress, a place to live and some new friends.
There was Noie – yes, yes, the three year old who made me cry! But she was just SOOOOO adorable. She likes pink, had an awful stranger’s anxiety and an imaginary friend named, Devi. Maddy was the only stranger she wasn’t afraid of. Maddy and Noie’s life is much more intertwined that they would have thought. There’s Grandma – who had a surprise of her own. She own’s the café. I love her, she’s cool, she’s hip and sensitive. She knew exactly what Maddy needed, space, and when the time came, a shoulder to cry on. She didn’t push, prodded, she allowed Maddy to set the tone of their relationship. Of course, there’s Sam – the lively, energetic and persuasive friend who constantly push her out of her comfort zone. Then of course, there’s Gabe. The single father who had her heart palpitating the first time she saw him. Both of them had troubled past, they have enough baggage already. They must settle with their past in order for them to find peace in the present.
I love, I love, I love this book!!! It was an unexpected surprise for me. It started out with so much pain, and I was glad to join Maddy in her journey towards healing. Fate had perhaps pushed her towards Eno. It didn’t just helped her heal and finally got the peace of mind she was desperately searching but she also found new friends, new family and perhaps, a new love…
This was not just a story about love, second chances, and moving on – this story is so much more… It had the hair on my arms rose on its rather surprising twists that had really caught me off guard. They were more connected that I can possibly imagine. I was glued from the first page, until the very final one – the moment I was at the end – I was surprised. Again, K.K. Hendin gave me an unexpected ending, but nevertheless, over all, this was an amazing work and I would love to read more from this author!
Here’s something for KK Hendin…
AND...
Everyone’s past has ways of sneaking up on them. You just have to be in a place in the present that you’re strong enough to deal with when your past comes to visit.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
February 20, 2014
*A review copy was provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
Amazon Buy Link--->> Heart Breaths
~~ 4 Emotional Stars ~~
I want to start by saying thank you to KK Hendin for letting me read and review her book Heart Breaths. I have had this book on my kindle for awhile and I am kicking myself for not getting to this book sooner. This was such an enjoyable book!! This was so much more then a love story. The love story of this book actually takes a back seat to the main theme of the story and that is forgiveness and learning to live again and opening your heart again and letting love in. I thought the writing of this story was wonderful…it flowed smoothly and the pace was great. I thought the storyline and characters were developed very well. We were given the right amount of information to feel the story was complete, but we weren't overwhelmed with information that would normally make the story drag. The only real negative I have about this book would be the ending. I thought it was kind of abrupt. It has a happy ending but I just felt that we could've gotten more when it came to Maddie and Gabe. I will say that I truly believe that this book was more about the story and journey that Maddie and Gabe took, then it was about the HEA. Like I said the love story between Maddie and Gabe was truly not the main focus of the story.
It is very rare that I fall in love with all the characters in a book. But KK Hendin has created such a wonderful cast of characters in this book…I loved almost all of them. (Of course you can't have a story without the bad characters…Diane and Jen) We meet Maddie, Gabe, Noie (Gabe's Daughter), Grandma Evelyn, Sam (Gabe's sister), Hannah (Sam's friend), and Mary Elizabeth (Sam's friend)…plus a few more in this story and each of the characters were great…each in their own way. After reading this story it almost makes me wish I lived in Eno North Carolina (even though it doesn't exist) This town was just a small home town that Maddie stumbled upon, when running away from her family in New York. What Maddie found here was people who would do anything to protect the people they love. I love how the author was able to suck you in and make you feel like you were a part of this wonderful group of friends and town. I loved watching Maddie grow as the story continued….I really think she still has a long way to go, but she is definitely going in the right direction. I truly believe everyone should read this book and meet this wonderful cast of characters. They will have you laughing, crying, yelling and even a little bit of swooning.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a love story, but that is more than that. This book is truly a journey of one person who finds herself along the way. It's a story about how you can still love people who aren't with us anymore, but still open our hearts to let new love come in. This is an emotional story, so you will want some tissues while you read it. I believe this book is a standalone, but with the way it ended and some of the things that weren't made clear…I could see a future book…maybe about other characters or even more about Gabe and Maddie.
For more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog
Amazon Buy Link--->> Heart Breaths
~~ 4 Emotional Stars ~~
I want to start by saying thank you to KK Hendin for letting me read and review her book Heart Breaths. I have had this book on my kindle for awhile and I am kicking myself for not getting to this book sooner. This was such an enjoyable book!! This was so much more then a love story. The love story of this book actually takes a back seat to the main theme of the story and that is forgiveness and learning to live again and opening your heart again and letting love in. I thought the writing of this story was wonderful…it flowed smoothly and the pace was great. I thought the storyline and characters were developed very well. We were given the right amount of information to feel the story was complete, but we weren't overwhelmed with information that would normally make the story drag. The only real negative I have about this book would be the ending. I thought it was kind of abrupt. It has a happy ending but I just felt that we could've gotten more when it came to Maddie and Gabe. I will say that I truly believe that this book was more about the story and journey that Maddie and Gabe took, then it was about the HEA. Like I said the love story between Maddie and Gabe was truly not the main focus of the story.
It is very rare that I fall in love with all the characters in a book. But KK Hendin has created such a wonderful cast of characters in this book…I loved almost all of them. (Of course you can't have a story without the bad characters…Diane and Jen) We meet Maddie, Gabe, Noie (Gabe's Daughter), Grandma Evelyn, Sam (Gabe's sister), Hannah (Sam's friend), and Mary Elizabeth (Sam's friend)…plus a few more in this story and each of the characters were great…each in their own way. After reading this story it almost makes me wish I lived in Eno North Carolina (even though it doesn't exist) This town was just a small home town that Maddie stumbled upon, when running away from her family in New York. What Maddie found here was people who would do anything to protect the people they love. I love how the author was able to suck you in and make you feel like you were a part of this wonderful group of friends and town. I loved watching Maddie grow as the story continued….I really think she still has a long way to go, but she is definitely going in the right direction. I truly believe everyone should read this book and meet this wonderful cast of characters. They will have you laughing, crying, yelling and even a little bit of swooning.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a love story, but that is more than that. This book is truly a journey of one person who finds herself along the way. It's a story about how you can still love people who aren't with us anymore, but still open our hearts to let new love come in. This is an emotional story, so you will want some tissues while you read it. I believe this book is a standalone, but with the way it ended and some of the things that weren't made clear…I could see a future book…maybe about other characters or even more about Gabe and Maddie.
For more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog
November 3, 2013
I had not heard of the author or this book prior to being contacted regarding a review. After a quick visit to goodreads to find out more about the book, and also get a look at the breathtaking cover, I replied with a 'yes please' and soon found myself downloading Heart Breaths onto my iPad.
The beginning of Heart Breaths keeps things vague, the protagonist Madeline is running from something, with sporadic thoughts of traumatic event, and hints about something she wants to forget. It's not until that she settles in Eno that we start to discover what she is running from.
While it took a while to find out what was going on, it took no time at all to fall into the pages of Heart Breaths. Experiencing the emotions that Madeline is going through makes it easy to connect to her, and while I have not experienced what she has, my heart broke for her. As she begins to settle and get to know her new 'neighbours' in this small town I felt happier for her. When we meet Noie my heat melted, she is such a sweet little girl and I love how much she took to Madeline, especially when we see her usual reaction to strangers.
Heart Breaths was a surprise read, while they synopsis gives us basic information, there is so much going on under the surface of it all and I love how seamlessly it weaves together to make this a unique story. Heart Breaths deals with love and heart breaking loss, about learning how to deal with your past but also find a way to live in your future, in your here and now. Its about not forgetting where you have come from, but using that to make a better person, using it like a building block, a small stepping stone on the path you want to take and to be the person you want to be. Seeing that wrote down sounds easy, but it's a struggle not only for Madeline, but also for Gabe, Noie's Dad.
The friendships Madeline has made with Sam, Mary Elizabeth and Sam are strong, and seeing how these girls have accepted Madeline into their group, but also how they all have each others backs makes is easier for Madeline, but also shows her what a real family does for you, blood related or not.
Heart Breaths had twists that I didn't expect but they were very fitting to the story itself. I read Heart Breaths faster than I expected to, and while it didn't have a confirmation of 'this is how it ends', it is left open for you to picture what you want to happen. I laughed, cried, and cheered the characters. K.K Hendin has a way of drawing you into the story and really making you feel part of it.
After getting the links for the author info, I also discovered that K.K. Hendin has possibly one of the funniest profiles info I have ever seen.
The beginning of Heart Breaths keeps things vague, the protagonist Madeline is running from something, with sporadic thoughts of traumatic event, and hints about something she wants to forget. It's not until that she settles in Eno that we start to discover what she is running from.
While it took a while to find out what was going on, it took no time at all to fall into the pages of Heart Breaths. Experiencing the emotions that Madeline is going through makes it easy to connect to her, and while I have not experienced what she has, my heart broke for her. As she begins to settle and get to know her new 'neighbours' in this small town I felt happier for her. When we meet Noie my heat melted, she is such a sweet little girl and I love how much she took to Madeline, especially when we see her usual reaction to strangers.
Heart Breaths was a surprise read, while they synopsis gives us basic information, there is so much going on under the surface of it all and I love how seamlessly it weaves together to make this a unique story. Heart Breaths deals with love and heart breaking loss, about learning how to deal with your past but also find a way to live in your future, in your here and now. Its about not forgetting where you have come from, but using that to make a better person, using it like a building block, a small stepping stone on the path you want to take and to be the person you want to be. Seeing that wrote down sounds easy, but it's a struggle not only for Madeline, but also for Gabe, Noie's Dad.
The friendships Madeline has made with Sam, Mary Elizabeth and Sam are strong, and seeing how these girls have accepted Madeline into their group, but also how they all have each others backs makes is easier for Madeline, but also shows her what a real family does for you, blood related or not.
Heart Breaths had twists that I didn't expect but they were very fitting to the story itself. I read Heart Breaths faster than I expected to, and while it didn't have a confirmation of 'this is how it ends', it is left open for you to picture what you want to happen. I laughed, cried, and cheered the characters. K.K Hendin has a way of drawing you into the story and really making you feel part of it.
After getting the links for the author info, I also discovered that K.K. Hendin has possibly one of the funniest profiles info I have ever seen.
KK Hendin's real life ambition is to become a pink fluffy unicorn who dances with rainbows. But the schooling for that is all sorts of complicated, so until that gets sorted out, she'll just write. Preferably things with angst and love. And things that require chocolate.
January 22, 2014
Meg’s Review:
http://novelgrounds.com/2013/12/21/he...
|Amazon|Goodreads|4 Stars
Meg's Review:
When I was contacted by the author for a review of this novel I was intrigued. I get a lot of requests, but this book really stuck out. The synopsis grabbed me as well. I love a good "escape" novel. By that I mean someone needing to get out of their life and find themselves. This is exactly what Heart Breaths is. A story that tells of a heart in need.
The story takes a little bit to dive into. Not in a bad way, kinda of in that peel the layers type of way. It doesn't jump right in and throw everything at you. It introduces you to the characters and you get to meet them. Just ass you get to meet new people her story unfold as her journey continues. I Love this type of novel and I loved the twists that this one came with.
I cried in this. Beware. I warned you. One we get into the story you get thrown into the deep end. Madeline has been through the ringer, not only once, and not only in one circumstance. Life has thrown some doozies her way. This story though, has so much going on in it. A broken woman, a man who's life is also been through the ringer and through these faults and hurt, they find love. They find a chance.
Like others have said the ending is what you make of it. There is no happily ever after, but there is a chance for you to picture it. This is a story of life, love, and the hurt that we sometimes endure in the process. I felt the ending fit it perfectly.
Read it.
Synopsis:
After a tragedy nearly ripped 21 year old Madeline Darlington-Gray’s life in half, she's spent the past three years trying to put the pieces back together. But pieces never just fit back together, and when she's betrayed by those she trusts, everything crumbles. Shoving everything she owns into the trunk of her car, Maddie drives south, trying to run from her past.
Eno, North Carolina seems like the perfect place to hide. Working at a local café is light years from Maddie's Manhattan existence and for the first time in a while, she's finding her family. There's Grandma, the café owner; Samantha, the hairstylist next door with plans to make Maddie's life unsuck and Noie, the three year old girl who's stolen Maddie's heart.
And then there’s Gabriel Mendez, Noie’s single dad. He’s intrigued Maddie since the first time she met him, and while he has his own secrets, he wants more from her than just friendship. But the past never stays past, and all too soon, Maddie realizes she can't hide from hers. If she can't put the pieces of her shattered life together this time, she'll have no hope for a future.
A future she desperately wants.
http://novelgrounds.com/2013/12/21/he...
|Amazon|Goodreads|4 Stars
Meg's Review:
When I was contacted by the author for a review of this novel I was intrigued. I get a lot of requests, but this book really stuck out. The synopsis grabbed me as well. I love a good "escape" novel. By that I mean someone needing to get out of their life and find themselves. This is exactly what Heart Breaths is. A story that tells of a heart in need.
The story takes a little bit to dive into. Not in a bad way, kinda of in that peel the layers type of way. It doesn't jump right in and throw everything at you. It introduces you to the characters and you get to meet them. Just ass you get to meet new people her story unfold as her journey continues. I Love this type of novel and I loved the twists that this one came with.
I cried in this. Beware. I warned you. One we get into the story you get thrown into the deep end. Madeline has been through the ringer, not only once, and not only in one circumstance. Life has thrown some doozies her way. This story though, has so much going on in it. A broken woman, a man who's life is also been through the ringer and through these faults and hurt, they find love. They find a chance.
Like others have said the ending is what you make of it. There is no happily ever after, but there is a chance for you to picture it. This is a story of life, love, and the hurt that we sometimes endure in the process. I felt the ending fit it perfectly.
Read it.
Synopsis:
After a tragedy nearly ripped 21 year old Madeline Darlington-Gray’s life in half, she's spent the past three years trying to put the pieces back together. But pieces never just fit back together, and when she's betrayed by those she trusts, everything crumbles. Shoving everything she owns into the trunk of her car, Maddie drives south, trying to run from her past.
Eno, North Carolina seems like the perfect place to hide. Working at a local café is light years from Maddie's Manhattan existence and for the first time in a while, she's finding her family. There's Grandma, the café owner; Samantha, the hairstylist next door with plans to make Maddie's life unsuck and Noie, the three year old girl who's stolen Maddie's heart.
And then there’s Gabriel Mendez, Noie’s single dad. He’s intrigued Maddie since the first time she met him, and while he has his own secrets, he wants more from her than just friendship. But the past never stays past, and all too soon, Maddie realizes she can't hide from hers. If she can't put the pieces of her shattered life together this time, she'll have no hope for a future.
A future she desperately wants.
November 11, 2013
Real rating: 4.5 stars
Writer Person
Well! If you love contemporary, I don't see how you can pass this one up. Honestly, I was shocked. Granted, I figured most of her tragedy from the very beginning. What got me confused was the actual timeline of events. So I was constantly waiting for that to be explained. And when it was, I felt like crying and maybe kicking the wall. Whether you see it coming or not, it's still heartbreaking. I can't imagine going through anything like that myself. But it was a beautiful book about dealing with loss and pain.
Characters
So I'd say my favorite character is a tie between Sam and Noie. And both of them are in the synopsis! See, there's nothing unpredictable about a contemporary. You don't read contemporaries for it's surprises. I think expecting that right off the bat will help you enjoy them more. I loved this one immensely.
Sam is rather crazy and wild. But she's such a great friend. I love how defensive she is of the people she loves. It was sweet and it definitely showed another way to heal- friendship as opposed to romance.
Noie, on the other hand, was painful to deal with sometimes. Why? That's the whole question! I maintain that there are rarely surprises in contemporary, but Noie's role actually was surprising at times. I loved her so much. How could you not love an adorable 3-year-old?
Oh, yeah. Her dad. Aka Gabe. Aka the instalust in this contemporary. Yeah, I said it. Instalust. I have to appreciate the fact that K. K. Hendin made that abundantly clear. You can't love someone you don't know, people! But if they're as good-looking as Gabe sounds, well....
Plot
I mentioned the instalust so I feel like I must also mention this: Yes, this is a new adult. Or at least that's what I was told when I signed up to review this. I'm not entirely sure what the difference between YA and NA is sometimes. I suppose it's the age of the characters?
Nevermind, I'm not sure.
The point here is that Heart Breaths is super clean. There are plenty of insinuations, don't get me wrong. But it was never graphic. Gabe has a 3 year old daughter. Their efforts to be decent were a bit mandatory.
Other than that long note, the pacing is pretty great. Obviously there are the big reveals, but everything in between had its own meaning so it didn't feel like it was dragging on and on and on...
That is always appreciated. I was hooked.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Why: it was such a beautiful book. Even after reading Me After You (aka another contemporary about loss and such), I was impressed by how unique this was.
Recommendation: Those who love contemporary will love this. Simple as that.
Writer Person
Well! If you love contemporary, I don't see how you can pass this one up. Honestly, I was shocked. Granted, I figured most of her tragedy from the very beginning. What got me confused was the actual timeline of events. So I was constantly waiting for that to be explained. And when it was, I felt like crying and maybe kicking the wall. Whether you see it coming or not, it's still heartbreaking. I can't imagine going through anything like that myself. But it was a beautiful book about dealing with loss and pain.
Characters
So I'd say my favorite character is a tie between Sam and Noie. And both of them are in the synopsis! See, there's nothing unpredictable about a contemporary. You don't read contemporaries for it's surprises. I think expecting that right off the bat will help you enjoy them more. I loved this one immensely.
Sam is rather crazy and wild. But she's such a great friend. I love how defensive she is of the people she loves. It was sweet and it definitely showed another way to heal- friendship as opposed to romance.
Noie, on the other hand, was painful to deal with sometimes. Why? That's the whole question! I maintain that there are rarely surprises in contemporary, but Noie's role actually was surprising at times. I loved her so much. How could you not love an adorable 3-year-old?
Oh, yeah. Her dad. Aka Gabe. Aka the instalust in this contemporary. Yeah, I said it. Instalust. I have to appreciate the fact that K. K. Hendin made that abundantly clear. You can't love someone you don't know, people! But if they're as good-looking as Gabe sounds, well....
Plot
I mentioned the instalust so I feel like I must also mention this: Yes, this is a new adult. Or at least that's what I was told when I signed up to review this. I'm not entirely sure what the difference between YA and NA is sometimes. I suppose it's the age of the characters?
Nevermind, I'm not sure.
The point here is that Heart Breaths is super clean. There are plenty of insinuations, don't get me wrong. But it was never graphic. Gabe has a 3 year old daughter. Their efforts to be decent were a bit mandatory.
Other than that long note, the pacing is pretty great. Obviously there are the big reveals, but everything in between had its own meaning so it didn't feel like it was dragging on and on and on...
That is always appreciated. I was hooked.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Why: it was such a beautiful book. Even after reading Me After You (aka another contemporary about loss and such), I was impressed by how unique this was.
Recommendation: Those who love contemporary will love this. Simple as that.
December 4, 2013
Heart Breaths by K.K. Hendin
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Maddie has left everything behind, she has left her socialite family behind in New York and decided to drive until she is too tired to go any further. She leaves behind grief, fear, guilt, and a secret. She finds herself in Eno, North Carolina, a quaint beach town searching for a place and a purpose. After spending a day or two in the town she decides to take a job as a waitress working for Grandma Evelyn in her cafe. Maddie also meets Gabe and his young daughter, Noie. The young girl instantly steals Maddie's heart, but there is also a secret hidden with the single father and his unique daughter. Will Maddie be able to escape her sadness and make Eno her home? Or will the past come back to haunt her? I don't want to give too much away because I don't want to ruin the story for anyone else!!
This is really a unique read, that had me hooked. I haven't read anything like this, and I felt Maddie's sadness and I was curious to know who or what had hurt her and if she would be able to recover. You feel Maddie's heartbreak, and hope that she is able to remember and love again.
"You find one person. One thing. Something. It doesn't matter what. And you need to take a little breath of air, just for them. You have to love them enough to take a small breath. And then you take another one. A little one, too. Just a small breath. One breath in, and one breath out. Love one person, for one moment. That is your breath in. And then, take one moment of hurt. One moment that made you put up your wall. And breathe it out. Let it out of your body, slowly. Tell it that it has done its job for you. It has served you well, and now it's time to breathe it out."
The characters were well developed, and you genuinely start to feel like you were part of the small town. There is a really good story between Maddie and Noie, but I fear giving too much away and ruining it for everyone else! My only complaint as I neared the end of the book, I wanted more from Gabe and Maddie and felt like the ending was somewhat rushed. That being said, maybe there could be a novella coming?
Thank you very much to K.K. Hendin for the opportunity to read and review just a unique and wonderful novel.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Maddie has left everything behind, she has left her socialite family behind in New York and decided to drive until she is too tired to go any further. She leaves behind grief, fear, guilt, and a secret. She finds herself in Eno, North Carolina, a quaint beach town searching for a place and a purpose. After spending a day or two in the town she decides to take a job as a waitress working for Grandma Evelyn in her cafe. Maddie also meets Gabe and his young daughter, Noie. The young girl instantly steals Maddie's heart, but there is also a secret hidden with the single father and his unique daughter. Will Maddie be able to escape her sadness and make Eno her home? Or will the past come back to haunt her? I don't want to give too much away because I don't want to ruin the story for anyone else!!
This is really a unique read, that had me hooked. I haven't read anything like this, and I felt Maddie's sadness and I was curious to know who or what had hurt her and if she would be able to recover. You feel Maddie's heartbreak, and hope that she is able to remember and love again.
"You find one person. One thing. Something. It doesn't matter what. And you need to take a little breath of air, just for them. You have to love them enough to take a small breath. And then you take another one. A little one, too. Just a small breath. One breath in, and one breath out. Love one person, for one moment. That is your breath in. And then, take one moment of hurt. One moment that made you put up your wall. And breathe it out. Let it out of your body, slowly. Tell it that it has done its job for you. It has served you well, and now it's time to breathe it out."
The characters were well developed, and you genuinely start to feel like you were part of the small town. There is a really good story between Maddie and Noie, but I fear giving too much away and ruining it for everyone else! My only complaint as I neared the end of the book, I wanted more from Gabe and Maddie and felt like the ending was somewhat rushed. That being said, maybe there could be a novella coming?
Thank you very much to K.K. Hendin for the opportunity to read and review just a unique and wonderful novel.
October 26, 2013
:sniffle: I have to stop reading books with so many feels because this amount of tears over a book can not be healthy. I'm not even someone who will cry this easy so when I say a book made me cry, I consider that a credit to how awesome it really turned out. The story of Maddie Darlington-Gray was so heart breaking that I couldn't possibly hold it together throughout the whole story. However, the little ray of sunshine came in the form one adorable little girl named Noie and her tall, dark and handsome father Gabriel. The whole town of Eno, North Carolina is really to be credited with how much Maddie's life turns around in the pages of Heart Breaths and is a shining example of how people should be treated, no matter the hardships they have endured in the past.
Maddie herself is such a strong and beautiful character that you almost didn't need all the other amazing characters around her, but I am so happy the author made them so amazing! Coming from a rich and affluent family, it was so jarringly brutal the way her family treated her from the time she got pregnant at fifteen all the way through the end of this book. The amount of grief and heartache that Maddie had to suffer through was hard to read about and her amount of self esteem is rock bottom low but coming to Eno and meeting these people really started to break down that hard wall she has around her heart and you saw her start to heal because of them.
I say start to heal because she obviously has a long road ahead of her to get over all the horrible things that happened in the past but it gave you the warm and fuzzies to see that transition start to happen and not just with Maddie either. Gabe has his own scars to get over and I can not wait to see how the two of them together can lean on one another to do just that, it's just going to take and hopefully another book to get there! This story was inspiring and uplifting right along with being heartbreaking and tear-jerking, and when a book can balance those two categories well, it shines brighter than most things I have read. I encourage you to take this journey with Maddie and dive into a book that just maybe teach you something about inner strength and the will to keep on living.
Maddie herself is such a strong and beautiful character that you almost didn't need all the other amazing characters around her, but I am so happy the author made them so amazing! Coming from a rich and affluent family, it was so jarringly brutal the way her family treated her from the time she got pregnant at fifteen all the way through the end of this book. The amount of grief and heartache that Maddie had to suffer through was hard to read about and her amount of self esteem is rock bottom low but coming to Eno and meeting these people really started to break down that hard wall she has around her heart and you saw her start to heal because of them.
I say start to heal because she obviously has a long road ahead of her to get over all the horrible things that happened in the past but it gave you the warm and fuzzies to see that transition start to happen and not just with Maddie either. Gabe has his own scars to get over and I can not wait to see how the two of them together can lean on one another to do just that, it's just going to take and hopefully another book to get there! This story was inspiring and uplifting right along with being heartbreaking and tear-jerking, and when a book can balance those two categories well, it shines brighter than most things I have read. I encourage you to take this journey with Maddie and dive into a book that just maybe teach you something about inner strength and the will to keep on living.
January 6, 2014
I received an ARC of this book for this Blog Tour in exchange for an honest review.
What a lovely book. I really really enjoyed this read, it was a beautiful story about redemption and love and second chances. I didn't really now where it was going to lead, but it was a wonderful surprise and so beautiful. I love Madeline, she was such an amazing character, she goes through so much in her young life, and despite her tragedy and her heartless family (especially her sister and Mother... ooooohhhh I wanted to smack them) it makes her so strong. She learns that life is what you make it, and the same goes for family.
When she stops at a ramdom beach town after running away from her life, she stumbles upon what will turn out to be her saving grace. She meets Grandma, who can tell Maddie is a lost soul and gives her a job and a place to live. The town slowly begins to heal Maddie's heart, and a big part of that is a beautiful little girl named Noelle, her Aunty Sam and her father Gabe. Sam pulls Maddie into her life and she has insta-friends who throw down for her at the drop of a hat. Gabe and Maddie although having amazing chemistry, begin a wonderful friendship, the friendship and love that Maddie has for Noie and her amazing charisma is so healing and therapeutic for her.
Gabe is such a wonderful man, a single dad, he does everything he can to make Noie happy, after having a rough few years things are starting to look up with Noie. I'm not going to spoil the twist in this book, so I am going to give as little info about the book as possible. I loved this book and would recommend anyone who wants a nice happy second chance book to read this. My only issue with this book was that I wanted an epilogue!!!!!! I love getting a glimpse of the HEA!!!! I will just have to use my imagination!
"The only sounds in the room, were the sounds of the piano and the violin, dancing together in the sea air, wrapping around everyone."
"Cracking a smile, he looked down at me. "What I want is to lick you from top to bottom," he said, his voice growing husky. "But what you need is to get some rest."
What a lovely book. I really really enjoyed this read, it was a beautiful story about redemption and love and second chances. I didn't really now where it was going to lead, but it was a wonderful surprise and so beautiful. I love Madeline, she was such an amazing character, she goes through so much in her young life, and despite her tragedy and her heartless family (especially her sister and Mother... ooooohhhh I wanted to smack them) it makes her so strong. She learns that life is what you make it, and the same goes for family.
When she stops at a ramdom beach town after running away from her life, she stumbles upon what will turn out to be her saving grace. She meets Grandma, who can tell Maddie is a lost soul and gives her a job and a place to live. The town slowly begins to heal Maddie's heart, and a big part of that is a beautiful little girl named Noelle, her Aunty Sam and her father Gabe. Sam pulls Maddie into her life and she has insta-friends who throw down for her at the drop of a hat. Gabe and Maddie although having amazing chemistry, begin a wonderful friendship, the friendship and love that Maddie has for Noie and her amazing charisma is so healing and therapeutic for her.
Gabe is such a wonderful man, a single dad, he does everything he can to make Noie happy, after having a rough few years things are starting to look up with Noie. I'm not going to spoil the twist in this book, so I am going to give as little info about the book as possible. I loved this book and would recommend anyone who wants a nice happy second chance book to read this. My only issue with this book was that I wanted an epilogue!!!!!! I love getting a glimpse of the HEA!!!! I will just have to use my imagination!
"The only sounds in the room, were the sounds of the piano and the violin, dancing together in the sea air, wrapping around everyone."
"Cracking a smile, he looked down at me. "What I want is to lick you from top to bottom," he said, his voice growing husky. "But what you need is to get some rest."
October 20, 2013
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you Itching for Books and K.K. Hendin for the chance to read Heart Breaths.
This book was the silver-lightning, perfect for my day. I couldn’t put it down; it captivated me so much that I barely moved until I finished it! It broke my heart, than it showed me what life can put you through. Just pay attention and go with the flow. At least that was my feeling.
Madeline Darlington-Gray is a girl who is running from her suffering. She can’t stand her life anymore, the pain and the broken heart. She just a new start, a fresh start were everything can be left behind. After she lost her husband and daughter in a car accident she at lost, her life wasn’t supposed to turn up this way. She decides to try and move on and maybe give another guy a chance. Bad mistake because he ends up betraying her. She has had enough! She jumps in the car and just drives until she feels she hit her destination, and that is North Carolina. The sight it’s beautiful, the ocean does the trick and the locals that are kind.
Madeline finds a nice place to live in, it’s small but it feels like home, she gets an apartment above a café place. The owner it’s Grandma a nice lady who loves her dearly, but there is someone else. There is Gabe, the perfect guy with good looks and everything a girl could want. But, can she trust him? Can she start another relationship? Is she ready? Madeline feels guilty for what happened with her family and she doesn’t want to start a new relationship, even if Gabe it’s perfect. He also has a three-year-old daughter, Noie. She is afraid of loss and suffering.
For me, this story was an experience, something like I never read before. It was fantastic! I loved the characters and the way they reacted, the way they settled. I am truly in love with this book! I felt everything Madeline was going through, and I was sorry I couldn’t help her. Anyway, enough with the spoilers. I highly recommend this one, but be cautious because it’s going to amaze you!
This book was the silver-lightning, perfect for my day. I couldn’t put it down; it captivated me so much that I barely moved until I finished it! It broke my heart, than it showed me what life can put you through. Just pay attention and go with the flow. At least that was my feeling.
Madeline Darlington-Gray is a girl who is running from her suffering. She can’t stand her life anymore, the pain and the broken heart. She just a new start, a fresh start were everything can be left behind. After she lost her husband and daughter in a car accident she at lost, her life wasn’t supposed to turn up this way. She decides to try and move on and maybe give another guy a chance. Bad mistake because he ends up betraying her. She has had enough! She jumps in the car and just drives until she feels she hit her destination, and that is North Carolina. The sight it’s beautiful, the ocean does the trick and the locals that are kind.
Madeline finds a nice place to live in, it’s small but it feels like home, she gets an apartment above a café place. The owner it’s Grandma a nice lady who loves her dearly, but there is someone else. There is Gabe, the perfect guy with good looks and everything a girl could want. But, can she trust him? Can she start another relationship? Is she ready? Madeline feels guilty for what happened with her family and she doesn’t want to start a new relationship, even if Gabe it’s perfect. He also has a three-year-old daughter, Noie. She is afraid of loss and suffering.
For me, this story was an experience, something like I never read before. It was fantastic! I loved the characters and the way they reacted, the way they settled. I am truly in love with this book! I felt everything Madeline was going through, and I was sorry I couldn’t help her. Anyway, enough with the spoilers. I highly recommend this one, but be cautious because it’s going to amaze you!
January 8, 2014
Read more reviews at The Anonymous Book Life.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
I really, really, really loved this story. It hit me right in the feels and left me with more emotions than I ever like to have. I seem to be reading a lot of stories about loss and they all manage to make me feel for the characters as though they are real people. Hendin accomplished that and then some with Heart Breaths.
The fact that the single parent in this story is the father was something that I really appreciated. It seems that not many authors, these days at least, have fathers as the main parent, especially as a single parent. I feel as though it brought a whole new set of challenges that are not always seen, especially since Noie comes with challenges of her own. The relationship between Noie and Gabe was perfect and it made me feel as though they are the best father/daughter duo a person can ask for. Maddie seamlessly fits into the equation upon being introduced to the two of them and it just seemed natural for her to be there.
The heartbreaking reality that is Maddie’s life is something no young woman should have to go through at that age. Given her circumstances and the reasons that drove her to flee her home, she really finds a place that she is able to let her guard down and start to find a new way to live. With the help of some kick ass friends and people that genuinely love her, she found something and someone to live for again. Watching her journey unfold made reading the story easy and had me setting a fast pace to see what new daily adventures she was embarking on along the road to happiness.
The one and only gripe I have about this story was the abrupt ending!! I feel as though I got no closure with the characters and I would have loved to see how they all turned out. Other than that, I cannot express how much I loved this story. I will definitely be on the lookout for any more stories that Hendin puts out.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
I really, really, really loved this story. It hit me right in the feels and left me with more emotions than I ever like to have. I seem to be reading a lot of stories about loss and they all manage to make me feel for the characters as though they are real people. Hendin accomplished that and then some with Heart Breaths.
The fact that the single parent in this story is the father was something that I really appreciated. It seems that not many authors, these days at least, have fathers as the main parent, especially as a single parent. I feel as though it brought a whole new set of challenges that are not always seen, especially since Noie comes with challenges of her own. The relationship between Noie and Gabe was perfect and it made me feel as though they are the best father/daughter duo a person can ask for. Maddie seamlessly fits into the equation upon being introduced to the two of them and it just seemed natural for her to be there.
The heartbreaking reality that is Maddie’s life is something no young woman should have to go through at that age. Given her circumstances and the reasons that drove her to flee her home, she really finds a place that she is able to let her guard down and start to find a new way to live. With the help of some kick ass friends and people that genuinely love her, she found something and someone to live for again. Watching her journey unfold made reading the story easy and had me setting a fast pace to see what new daily adventures she was embarking on along the road to happiness.
The one and only gripe I have about this story was the abrupt ending!! I feel as though I got no closure with the characters and I would have loved to see how they all turned out. Other than that, I cannot express how much I loved this story. I will definitely be on the lookout for any more stories that Hendin puts out.
December 24, 2013
Maddie has lost everything twice over. After experiencing almost unimaginable tragedy, she was betrayed by those she trusted most. With nothing left, she leaves, driving aimlessly south as she tries to outrun her past. What's supposed to be a quick stop in a sleepy beach town becomes a longer stay when she accepts a job at a homey cafe, befriends the locals, and meets a little girl with whom she has an amazing connection.
Gabe's life hasn't been easy, especially when it comes to love, but he's since built his entire world around his daughter Noie. Terrified of strangers for some unexplained reason, Noie surprises everyone when she immediately attaches herself to Maddie, telling everyone they're friends. While their connection brings Gabe and Maddie closer to each other, it also opens an otherworldly door to finally healing and moving on.
The ending to the story was so abrupt that I thought I'd somehow skipped a chapter. It didn't make for a bad read, but even though it implied a happily ever after, it seemed to leave some loose ends and had me wondering what would happen next. While this move was obviously intentional, it was rather disappointing after becoming so wrapped up in the characters.
Were it not for the quick drop-off of an ending, I probably would have said this book was perfect. I loved that Noie wasn't just a replacement for what Maddie had lost, but rather a link to it. I also loved the slow build of her relationship with Gabe. But in the end, I'm not sure I'd classify it as romance first. It was more the tale of one woman beginning to heal and move on, and while the romance certainly played a part, it wasn't the main focus of the story. In any case, it's a lovely story about friendship, healing, and finding a new start, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys something more meaningful than just another romance novel.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Gabe's life hasn't been easy, especially when it comes to love, but he's since built his entire world around his daughter Noie. Terrified of strangers for some unexplained reason, Noie surprises everyone when she immediately attaches herself to Maddie, telling everyone they're friends. While their connection brings Gabe and Maddie closer to each other, it also opens an otherworldly door to finally healing and moving on.
The ending to the story was so abrupt that I thought I'd somehow skipped a chapter. It didn't make for a bad read, but even though it implied a happily ever after, it seemed to leave some loose ends and had me wondering what would happen next. While this move was obviously intentional, it was rather disappointing after becoming so wrapped up in the characters.
Were it not for the quick drop-off of an ending, I probably would have said this book was perfect. I loved that Noie wasn't just a replacement for what Maddie had lost, but rather a link to it. I also loved the slow build of her relationship with Gabe. But in the end, I'm not sure I'd classify it as romance first. It was more the tale of one woman beginning to heal and move on, and while the romance certainly played a part, it wasn't the main focus of the story. In any case, it's a lovely story about friendship, healing, and finding a new start, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys something more meaningful than just another romance novel.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2013
Review from Fairy Tale Ending Book Reviews
Read: 5 November 2013
Why: Copy received in exchange for honest review
Rating: 4.5 stars
Brief synopsis: When Maddie shoved everything she owned into the trunk of her car and set off to an unknown destination, she was hoping to escape the memories of the past three years.
But the past never stays past, and all too soon, Maddie realises she can't hide from hers. If she can't put the pieces of her shattered life together this time, she'll have no hope for a future.
A future she desperately wants.
What I thought: This book was not at all what I expected... it was so much better! It is a wonderful story that really tugs at your heartstrings.
The book is packed full of fabulous characters; Sam and the girls that love to jam whilst wearing their mall bling; sweet little Noie and her hunky single-dad Gabe; young at heart Grandma Evelyn providing sex ed to the cafe customers and last, but certainly not least, Maddie. Right from the start you can't help but like Maddie, and as her tragic past is revealed, those feelings are well and truly cemented.
There's an unexpected twist to the story, and whilst I can't say that is something I've ever really believed in, the story is told in such a compelling way you feel like it couldn't possibly not be true. The beautiful ending is just perfect and gives you a moment to take a heart breath of your own.
Favourite quote:
"'You need to stop treating your heart like it is a safe box, Maddie,' she said. 'You need to treat your heart like it is your lungs. It needs to breathe. It needs to keep on opening itself up, over and over and over. You can't live without your heart breathing.'"
Read: 5 November 2013
Why: Copy received in exchange for honest review
Rating: 4.5 stars
Brief synopsis: When Maddie shoved everything she owned into the trunk of her car and set off to an unknown destination, she was hoping to escape the memories of the past three years.
But the past never stays past, and all too soon, Maddie realises she can't hide from hers. If she can't put the pieces of her shattered life together this time, she'll have no hope for a future.
A future she desperately wants.
What I thought: This book was not at all what I expected... it was so much better! It is a wonderful story that really tugs at your heartstrings.
The book is packed full of fabulous characters; Sam and the girls that love to jam whilst wearing their mall bling; sweet little Noie and her hunky single-dad Gabe; young at heart Grandma Evelyn providing sex ed to the cafe customers and last, but certainly not least, Maddie. Right from the start you can't help but like Maddie, and as her tragic past is revealed, those feelings are well and truly cemented.
There's an unexpected twist to the story, and whilst I can't say that is something I've ever really believed in, the story is told in such a compelling way you feel like it couldn't possibly not be true. The beautiful ending is just perfect and gives you a moment to take a heart breath of your own.
Favourite quote:
"'You need to stop treating your heart like it is a safe box, Maddie,' she said. 'You need to treat your heart like it is your lungs. It needs to breathe. It needs to keep on opening itself up, over and over and over. You can't live without your heart breathing.'"
January 8, 2014
This book was a pleasure to read, and I'm not just saying that.
This is a story of how someone comes to terms with the past by means of embracing the future, and by trying to make the most out of the present.
Maddie has lost so much in her life, and it came to the point where in she doesn't have an idea about who she is anymore, and has no idea what she wants to do with her life. So she drives South, tries to find a new place for her to live in, and tries to find herself again.
One of the things I enjoyed about this book is the fact that it's set in North Carolina, which works well for me, since I'm a big Nicholas Sparks fan and most of his works are set in North Carolina, too. The imagery was so there, and all the emotions needed were played out well in this story.
Another thing I loved about this book is the fact that it's very comforting to read and it's so hard to put down. You'll really want to know why Noie is the way she is; why she's not scared of Maddie; and how the relationship between Maddie and Gab will develop. It's a story that has so many layers to it, and that's what makes it beautiful. It's also the kind of book that will tug at your heartstrings, and really put the feelings into play.
I think we can expect more from KK Hendin in the future. This book is a good debut, and it's something that you definitely have to try reading.
This is a story of how someone comes to terms with the past by means of embracing the future, and by trying to make the most out of the present.
Maddie has lost so much in her life, and it came to the point where in she doesn't have an idea about who she is anymore, and has no idea what she wants to do with her life. So she drives South, tries to find a new place for her to live in, and tries to find herself again.
One of the things I enjoyed about this book is the fact that it's set in North Carolina, which works well for me, since I'm a big Nicholas Sparks fan and most of his works are set in North Carolina, too. The imagery was so there, and all the emotions needed were played out well in this story.
Another thing I loved about this book is the fact that it's very comforting to read and it's so hard to put down. You'll really want to know why Noie is the way she is; why she's not scared of Maddie; and how the relationship between Maddie and Gab will develop. It's a story that has so many layers to it, and that's what makes it beautiful. It's also the kind of book that will tug at your heartstrings, and really put the feelings into play.
I think we can expect more from KK Hendin in the future. This book is a good debut, and it's something that you definitely have to try reading.
March 24, 2014
The story grabbed me from the beginning. There is a lot of mystery behind who the main character is, where she came from, and why she's going where she's going. As new characters are introduced, there are new levels to Maddy that begin to come out---not just the young woman who has lost people she loves, but the 21 year old, the girl who is still growing up.
Many people suggested that the book ended in the wrong place, and I disagree.
This will definitely be a book I keep going back to. Lovely, brilliant, easy read.
Many people suggested that the book ended in the wrong place, and I disagree.
This will definitely be a book I keep going back to. Lovely, brilliant, easy read.
October 27, 2013
Original review at Gabic Reads. ARC received from author -- Thank you!!
I fell in love with this heart-breaking novel. The story is real and amazing. Maddie's pain was gut-wrenching. Gabe has a good background. Maddie's history is painful. I hurt for her and yet loved delving into her past. Gabe's past is similarly painful, but not as much as Gabe's. But Noie is the one who stole my heart. I have two younger siblings around the age of three and I love little kids. I could just picture her running around everywhere. She is the character that came to life the most. And, like Maddie, I fell in love with her.
The only thing that prevented a five star rating was that the reincarnation thing was kinda strange. But it did fit in with the whole Indian heritage thing.
Heart Breaths is a very real, heart-breaking, yet beautiful and hopeful novel. I recommend it for everybody.
I fell in love with this heart-breaking novel. The story is real and amazing. Maddie's pain was gut-wrenching. Gabe has a good background. Maddie's history is painful. I hurt for her and yet loved delving into her past. Gabe's past is similarly painful, but not as much as Gabe's. But Noie is the one who stole my heart. I have two younger siblings around the age of three and I love little kids. I could just picture her running around everywhere. She is the character that came to life the most. And, like Maddie, I fell in love with her.
The only thing that prevented a five star rating was that the reincarnation thing was kinda strange. But it did fit in with the whole Indian heritage thing.
Heart Breaths is a very real, heart-breaking, yet beautiful and hopeful novel. I recommend it for everybody.
December 16, 2013
Heart Breaths by K.K. Hendin is a beautiful story of loss, love, pain, guilt and redemption.
Maddie has suffered one too many tragedies. One too many betrayals. She is out, gone, leaving her life behind. She is leaving Manhattan far behind in her rearview and winds up in Eno, North Carolina. A sleepy little coastal town. Can the people she meets here manage to get through her walls and into her heart?
Day by day Maddie's past loses the grip it has on her heart and her hope. She slowly gains more confidence in her self and her choices and lets the guilt of her past go.
A beautiful story with some very goose-bumpy, hair-raising moments that will completely surprise you.
Maddie has suffered one too many tragedies. One too many betrayals. She is out, gone, leaving her life behind. She is leaving Manhattan far behind in her rearview and winds up in Eno, North Carolina. A sleepy little coastal town. Can the people she meets here manage to get through her walls and into her heart?
Day by day Maddie's past loses the grip it has on her heart and her hope. She slowly gains more confidence in her self and her choices and lets the guilt of her past go.
A beautiful story with some very goose-bumpy, hair-raising moments that will completely surprise you.
January 5, 2014
The book was given to in exchange for my honest review by the IFB tours
Dreamers a time to breath, because this is a winner!
I can't express the emotion that I felt reading this book. I cried thru most of this story :( Maddie Darlington- Gray was so heart breaking that I didn't want to put it down until the end. But at the end of every rainy day there is a rainbow, and her name is Gabriel the whole town of Nwo, North, Carolina is ready for this little ball of sunshine. Maddie is a strong and beautiful character, that light up the pages of this book and Gabriel bring hope to a town that have none. If you can stand a little tears and a lot of amazing characters this is the perfect story for you, so what are you waiting on go get your copy....
A perfect name for a perfect story Heart Breaths
Dreamers this is something to dream about*****5 dreams
http:// cometomefantasy.blogspot.com
November 10, 2013
Finally, a romance novel that does not make me want to bang my head against a wall. I genuinely liked Heart Breaths. It was a perfect blend of mystery and heartbreak, and I just wanted to give Maddie a hug. She deserved that and more. I really wanted her to be happy and be able to let her past go. I liked seeing her relationship with Gabe develop slowly, and her relationship with Noie was very special. My only real compliant with Heart Breaths was the abrupt ending. I needed at least thirty more pages and more resolution. Were things okay with Gabe and Maddie? Is she ever going to see her family again? Too much went unanswered for me, and there doesn't seem to be a sequel in sight. Recommended for someone looking for a refreshing romance.
January 5, 2014
This book ended VERY abruptly. I didn't even see it coming; I had to flip the last couple pages twice to make sure I wasn't missing any. I also checked the author's page numerous times to find out if there's a sequel. Nada. This book left me extremely unsatisfied and mighty disappointed. There were sooo many things left unanswered. Maddie and Gabe's issues haven't even been resolved. When I got to the very end, all I could think about was WTF was that? This book could've had the potential, seriously. It started out okay, but once you get to the second half, it just goes downhill. There are so many issues I want to rant about, but I figured this book doesn't really deserve even that. Anyways, I'm giving it two stars for starting out okay and for the potential it had. Such a shame though.
November 6, 2013
Heart Breaths is an emotional and gut-wrenching read. It is simply amazing.
This is the story of Madeline Darlington-Gray. Her life was turned upside down three years ago when she lost her whole world. And for three years she is trying to pick up the pieces and make a whole. But it is not easy.
And now there are these two. A little cutie and her drop dead gorgeous dad.
The ending was a bit rushed. I really wanted it to be more developed but other than that I loved everything else.
This story simply captures your attention from the very beginning and keeps it captured the entire time.
A great debut novel.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
This is the story of Madeline Darlington-Gray. Her life was turned upside down three years ago when she lost her whole world. And for three years she is trying to pick up the pieces and make a whole. But it is not easy.
And now there are these two. A little cutie and her drop dead gorgeous dad.
The ending was a bit rushed. I really wanted it to be more developed but other than that I loved everything else.
This story simply captures your attention from the very beginning and keeps it captured the entire time.
A great debut novel.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
November 13, 2013
This was the first I have heard of this author and gave the book a chance. It was breathtaking and beautiful to where I had to remember to breath at times. Is isn't your typical type of romance, no cliffy but somewhat a happily for now ending. This is very emotional and tragic.
I loved Maddie, Gabe and the cute little Noie. There is reincarnation involved so that is why I put it under supernatural category also. I gave the book overall 3 1/2 stars because the end of the book was so rushed and didn't feel resolved of the feelings with Gabe and Maddie as a whole. I loved Grandma Evelyn and the girls were freaking hilarious!! Still enjoyable to read. Hoping there could be a book 2!!!
I loved Maddie, Gabe and the cute little Noie. There is reincarnation involved so that is why I put it under supernatural category also. I gave the book overall 3 1/2 stars because the end of the book was so rushed and didn't feel resolved of the feelings with Gabe and Maddie as a whole. I loved Grandma Evelyn and the girls were freaking hilarious!! Still enjoyable to read. Hoping there could be a book 2!!!
December 3, 2013
What can I say about this book? AMAZING! I really enjoyed it! This book has a such a beautiful and heart warming story. The characters are very loveable! I think one of my favorite parts was when Maddie has a confrontation with Diane. I won't say much about it, since I do not want to spoiler who, what and why. But it was WOW, you can hear a pin drop during this scene. I love the way Maddie grew and healed from her loss during her journey in this book. I love the ending! It was such a sweet and heartwarming ending.
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