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Infinite Love #1
Learning to Live
Ciera
All I wanted was to be able to make it through my senior year. I didn’t need the stares, the jokes, or the bullies. I thought I could do it all on my own, but I was wrong. He filled my veins like a poison, the kind you can’t run from. Harsh and uncaring, he was broken, but somewhere along the way he seeped into my pores. There was no way out, so that left me with one choice: to open his eyes to the beauty around him. To help him live.
Topher
She wasn’t on my agenda; it was fate’s cruel way of telling me I needed to get my shit together. To be fair, my head was so far up my ass, I’m not sure how we extracted it. I knew the power I held over my peers, I exuded it daily. I could have any girl I wanted at the snap of my fingers, and yet I found myself fantasizing about her-someone so far off my radar it wasn’t even funny. She helped me understand that sometimes you need to let go to really live. Sometimes being alive means taking risks.
Learning to Live is the first book in the Infinite Love series.
All I wanted was to be able to make it through my senior year. I didn’t need the stares, the jokes, or the bullies. I thought I could do it all on my own, but I was wrong. He filled my veins like a poison, the kind you can’t run from. Harsh and uncaring, he was broken, but somewhere along the way he seeped into my pores. There was no way out, so that left me with one choice: to open his eyes to the beauty around him. To help him live.
Topher
She wasn’t on my agenda; it was fate’s cruel way of telling me I needed to get my shit together. To be fair, my head was so far up my ass, I’m not sure how we extracted it. I knew the power I held over my peers, I exuded it daily. I could have any girl I wanted at the snap of my fingers, and yet I found myself fantasizing about her-someone so far off my radar it wasn’t even funny. She helped me understand that sometimes you need to let go to really live. Sometimes being alive means taking risks.
Learning to Live is the first book in the Infinite Love series.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2015
35 people are currently reading
545 people want to read
About the author
Kira Adams
22 books636 followersKrista Pakseresht has always been a dreamer, from the first time she opened her eyes. Creating worlds through words is one thing she is truly talented at. She specializes in Young adult/New adult romance, horror, action, fantasy, and non-fiction under the pen name Kira Adams.
She is the author of the Infinite Love series, the Foundation series, the Darkness Falls series, and the Looking Glass series.
https://www.facebook.com/KiraAdamsauthor
http://www.wattpad.com/user/xKiraAdamsx
http://figment.com/users/375251-Krist...
http://www.amazon.com/Kira-Adams/e/B0...
She is the author of the Infinite Love series, the Foundation series, the Darkness Falls series, and the Looking Glass series.
https://www.facebook.com/KiraAdamsauthor
http://www.wattpad.com/user/xKiraAdamsx
http://figment.com/users/375251-Krist...
http://www.amazon.com/Kira-Adams/e/B0...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
May 6, 2015
FREE ON KINDLE UNTIL MAY 10TH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S4D0RJY/r...
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Kira Adams.)
“We made no sense. She was oil and I was water… but somehow, we worked” - Topher
“He taught me how to live and I taught him how to let go.” - Ciera
This was a moving and emotional story of young love, and heartbreak.
I loved Ciera and Topher in this story. Ciera was such a loving person, who would do anything for those that she loved, and while Topher started out as a bit of ass, after a while his true colours really started to shine through. I felt really sorry for Ciera, both with the things she was going through personally, as well as the way she was treated by the ‘A-Team’, and I was pleased when finally someone started to be nice to her, and to not treat her like she didn’t matter.
“Wait… were you kissing me with your eyes open?”
“I was trying to commit this moment to memory. Commit you to memory.”
The storyline in this was really good, I had a feeling early on in the book that something upsetting was coming, and unfortunately I was right. I really felt for both Ciera and Topher as they dealt with the big bad monster in their lives, and I loved how they made every second count.
“I kind of have this list of things I want to try to do within the next couple of months.”
He raises his eyebrows. “Like a bucket list?”
The air between us grows thick. “Yeah, something like that. I just realized I haven’t really been living for a while now, and what better time to start?”
The romance in this was so sweet, and Ciera and Topher made such a cute couple. They really did compliment each other perfectly, and the way they grew to love each other was really special.
“I learn more about you every day,” he murmurs softly.
I tuck my hair behind my ears nervously. “Yeah, I guess you do.”
“I love you,” she whispers.
I swallow, digesting her words. There is no doubt in my mind whatsoever that I love her.
The ending to this book was really sad and emotional, and it was really sad that the book had to end the way it did. It was a really beautiful kind of sad though, and the epilogue was also fitting.
“You always say that I am the best thing that ever happened to you. But you’re the best thing that ever happened to me.”
9 out of 10
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S4D0RJY/r...
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Kira Adams.)
“We made no sense. She was oil and I was water… but somehow, we worked” - Topher
“He taught me how to live and I taught him how to let go.” - Ciera
This was a moving and emotional story of young love, and heartbreak.
I loved Ciera and Topher in this story. Ciera was such a loving person, who would do anything for those that she loved, and while Topher started out as a bit of ass, after a while his true colours really started to shine through. I felt really sorry for Ciera, both with the things she was going through personally, as well as the way she was treated by the ‘A-Team’, and I was pleased when finally someone started to be nice to her, and to not treat her like she didn’t matter.
“Wait… were you kissing me with your eyes open?”
“I was trying to commit this moment to memory. Commit you to memory.”
The storyline in this was really good, I had a feeling early on in the book that something upsetting was coming, and unfortunately I was right. I really felt for both Ciera and Topher as they dealt with the big bad monster in their lives, and I loved how they made every second count.
“I kind of have this list of things I want to try to do within the next couple of months.”
He raises his eyebrows. “Like a bucket list?”
The air between us grows thick. “Yeah, something like that. I just realized I haven’t really been living for a while now, and what better time to start?”
The romance in this was so sweet, and Ciera and Topher made such a cute couple. They really did compliment each other perfectly, and the way they grew to love each other was really special.
“I learn more about you every day,” he murmurs softly.
I tuck my hair behind my ears nervously. “Yeah, I guess you do.”
“I love you,” she whispers.
I swallow, digesting her words. There is no doubt in my mind whatsoever that I love her.
The ending to this book was really sad and emotional, and it was really sad that the book had to end the way it did. It was a really beautiful kind of sad though, and the epilogue was also fitting.
“You always say that I am the best thing that ever happened to you. But you’re the best thing that ever happened to me.”
9 out of 10
August 8, 2020
THE DETAILS ￮ 4¼ STARS ￮ INFINITE LOVE SERIES ￮ CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE ￮ YOUNG ADULT ￮ I READ AN ARC THROUGH NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR A HONEST REVIEW
MY THOUGHTS⇣
Plot: 4.2/5 A sweetly satisfying romance, it was sad but ultimately gratifying to see how profoundly Ciera affects Topher.
Characters: 4.5/5 Ciera and Topher were amazing. I think that some of the bullying that Ciera goes through seems over the top…like no one can be that horrible to somebody just because they're poor. Can they?
The Feels: 4.3/5
Theme: 5/5 It did make me cry…the beauty of this is in its message.
Flow: 4/5 Just a few small glitches.
Originality: 4/5
Book Cover: 3/5
Sex Factor: Yes, but not explicit
Ending: 5/5 Cliffhanger: No
This book truly moved me and I will remember it for some time to come. It's hard to say anything about this book without giving away the ending, but I tried. It's well worth the read.
MY THOUGHTS⇣
Plot: 4.2/5 A sweetly satisfying romance, it was sad but ultimately gratifying to see how profoundly Ciera affects Topher.
Characters: 4.5/5 Ciera and Topher were amazing. I think that some of the bullying that Ciera goes through seems over the top…like no one can be that horrible to somebody just because they're poor. Can they?
The Feels: 4.3/5
Theme: 5/5 It did make me cry…the beauty of this is in its message.
Flow: 4/5 Just a few small glitches.
Originality: 4/5
Book Cover: 3/5
Sex Factor: Yes, but not explicit
Ending: 5/5 Cliffhanger: No
This book truly moved me and I will remember it for some time to come. It's hard to say anything about this book without giving away the ending, but I tried. It's well worth the read.
January 2, 2016
(I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.)
WARNING - This book will break your heart.
I felt so sorry for Ciera. She had to get through so many tough things in her life! I didn't like Topher at first, but when he got to know Ciera properly, he changed. I really liked him after that.
They made such a cute couple!
There's not many books that have made me cry, but his one has. There's not many books that get a 5 star rating from me, but this one has. (And it's the first of the year too!) It broke my heart, and I didn't want the story to end.
Overall, A brilliant read.
WARNING - This book will break your heart.
I felt so sorry for Ciera. She had to get through so many tough things in her life! I didn't like Topher at first, but when he got to know Ciera properly, he changed. I really liked him after that.
They made such a cute couple!
There's not many books that have made me cry, but his one has. There's not many books that get a 5 star rating from me, but this one has. (And it's the first of the year too!) It broke my heart, and I didn't want the story to end.
Overall, A brilliant read.
January 6, 2015
This book contains one of those controversial storylines drawn straight from today’s headlines. From the blurb, readers will immediately know that they are on a path filled with sadness and pain as Ciera and Topher tell their story. But there’s so much more, too. I was moved to tears and crushed by its heartbreaking message. I was also touched by the sweet laughter and tender moments that were shared by this young couple amid the serious issues covered. This is also the kind of story that you get lost in and is hard to forget. It reminds us of all the good that can come from a little forgiveness and kindness towards one another. One act of kindness can go a long way in brightening another’s day.
My biggest complaint is with where the author chose to end this story. Although I find no mention of it, I am hopeful that Topher will get a conclusion to his story in a future book. I want to know that he has moved on from the loss and sadness. Readers need to see the new and improved Topher find his happily-ever-after. As it stands, there are some unanswered questions that leave Topher hanging from the cliff. This reader is definitely begging for more.
The author did an admirable job in developing and growing the characters. Opposites that attract discover and nurture a friendship that turns an ugly situation into something special and rewarding. The hurt and pain, along with the growing relationship between Topher and Ciera, is written in a realistic and believable manner.
Notice was taken of some minor editing problems throughout the book that could have used the eye of a good proofreader. They won’t interfere with the rewards of the story itself, but irritating when they pop up on the pages.
Overall, a solid and memorable reading experience. I will definitely continue with this series.
Note: I was gifted a copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
My biggest complaint is with where the author chose to end this story. Although I find no mention of it, I am hopeful that Topher will get a conclusion to his story in a future book. I want to know that he has moved on from the loss and sadness. Readers need to see the new and improved Topher find his happily-ever-after. As it stands, there are some unanswered questions that leave Topher hanging from the cliff. This reader is definitely begging for more.
The author did an admirable job in developing and growing the characters. Opposites that attract discover and nurture a friendship that turns an ugly situation into something special and rewarding. The hurt and pain, along with the growing relationship between Topher and Ciera, is written in a realistic and believable manner.
Notice was taken of some minor editing problems throughout the book that could have used the eye of a good proofreader. They won’t interfere with the rewards of the story itself, but irritating when they pop up on the pages.
Overall, a solid and memorable reading experience. I will definitely continue with this series.
Note: I was gifted a copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
November 19, 2015
Learning to Live is actually my first Kira Adams book, and to say my first, HELL! Definitely it wont be my last. When I was given a copy of this story, I was kinda "Oh the blurb". Might as well be prepared with Kleenex and a glass of wine or two.
True to this, I needed more than wine or Kleenex for that matter. I wanted more. The story I thought started off easy became gut wrenching and will drain you emotionally. This is not your typical high school romance turned true love then TADA! Happily Ever After. No, it was far from it. This is where you experience an emotional topsy-turvy on two different people from two different worlds whom one taught the other to live while the other to let go.
" In one year I felt every emotion imaginable: sadness, hopelessness, happiness, even guilt. In one year I kissed a boy and fell in love. In one year I was able to realize the reason for living. It's love and it's you. Hold on to that. you did that for me. You were selfless."
Read the book. Savor every moment of it. Then finally, realize,
"Sometimes you have to let go to really live. Sometimes being alive means taking risks."
4 HEARTBREAKING STARS!
True to this, I needed more than wine or Kleenex for that matter. I wanted more. The story I thought started off easy became gut wrenching and will drain you emotionally. This is not your typical high school romance turned true love then TADA! Happily Ever After. No, it was far from it. This is where you experience an emotional topsy-turvy on two different people from two different worlds whom one taught the other to live while the other to let go.
" In one year I felt every emotion imaginable: sadness, hopelessness, happiness, even guilt. In one year I kissed a boy and fell in love. In one year I was able to realize the reason for living. It's love and it's you. Hold on to that. you did that for me. You were selfless."
Read the book. Savor every moment of it. Then finally, realize,
"Sometimes you have to let go to really live. Sometimes being alive means taking risks."
4 HEARTBREAKING STARS!
August 23, 2022
I had no idea what I was in for. This book is perfect if you're looking for a good cry. Ciera and Topher's love story is everything 🥲 I loved seeing the mmc go from being an unlikable jock to a character I genuinely cared for. The development is endearing and you quickly find yourself self deeply involved in the story. It also had me contemplating a lot about my feelings and how we as humans get so used to our routine that we end up taking a lot of things for granted. It got me thinking I needed to show appreciation and love to people around me more often, but also live with no regrets. Carpe diem, am I right ?
Thanks to author Kira Adams and katieandbreypa for providing me with an e-arc in exchange of an honest review ♡ I'm really looking forward to Madalynne and Parker's story ♡
Thanks to author Kira Adams and katieandbreypa for providing me with an e-arc in exchange of an honest review ♡ I'm really looking forward to Madalynne and Parker's story ♡
September 3, 2022
Thank you so much to @katieandbreypa and the author @kiraadamsauthor for the opportunity to read and review "Learning to Live.” I received a copy in exchange for my honest review and feedback.
This is the first book I read by the author, Kira Adams, and will certainly not be my last. I love that feeling when an author can grip you by the heart with words and emotions that run deep. I felt that feeling while reading this book, characters’ raw emotions and heartfelt feelings throughout the narrative.
The story is told in dual POVs by Ciara Nelson and Topher Carlson. Ciera and Topher's love story is everything. You will read and you will cry your eyes out. Be prepared and forewarned. I felt every single one of their emotions and all in part to the author’s meticulous way of writing and allowing you to develop these feelings for the characters. Your heart will grip and tighten in the process.
A story not to miss!!
This is the first book I read by the author, Kira Adams, and will certainly not be my last. I love that feeling when an author can grip you by the heart with words and emotions that run deep. I felt that feeling while reading this book, characters’ raw emotions and heartfelt feelings throughout the narrative.
The story is told in dual POVs by Ciara Nelson and Topher Carlson. Ciera and Topher's love story is everything. You will read and you will cry your eyes out. Be prepared and forewarned. I felt every single one of their emotions and all in part to the author’s meticulous way of writing and allowing you to develop these feelings for the characters. Your heart will grip and tighten in the process.
A story not to miss!!
December 15, 2015
No clue why I decide to torture my emotions with these heartbreaking reads but this one really took me to a different emotional level. I sobbed like a damn baby. It was an emotional cleanse. Topher learned some really hard lessons during his time with Ciera. The growth in him was staggering. I was just wrecked but I don't regret the glimpse into these characters for a second.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2015
"Sometimes, you have to be fully broken
in order to piece yourself together again".
This is the first book of a series The Infinite Love Series. I found it and got it free on amazon.com. When I read the plot I thought it was about growing up and learning to love and that it was a tetralogy. I was really in for a good young adult love series... I'm in this chick-lit period and I'm kind of enjoying myself.
Well... after a little bit I figured out that this book was not part of a series but a standalone. I know I should have read the plot better. I'm the one at fault, but still that kind of disappointed me. 2.5 stars is all I can rate it.
Some spoilers -
This story is about a girl, Ciera, who has lived all her life as an outcast, she get's to be picked on, she is shy, has only one friend and a really big financial crisis at home. Stil she gets up everyday and smiles. Cliché but I got past that, I thought she was really cute... until ... I'm going to get back to it.
Then we have Topher, hot bad guy. Nothing too original there... samo samo. We have a stereotypical bad guy that turns out to be just a problematic kid who needs to be loved. Well he is one of the many that pick on poor Ciera, well at least thats what the first pages and the author tells us since he starts to find her attractive. Why you must ask??? I forgot to say that there is a little bit of Cinderella, black swan. There is this girl who just can't stand watching her being bullied and never fight back and actually decides to step up and help her becoming her fairy godmother!
Where was I? OH YES... Until we find out she has just a couple of months left. Last stage of cancer. My jaw literally fell, and not in a good way. The disappointment just grew. I'm sorry but for one brief second I thought it was going to be a tetralogy, and that Ciera was going to fight the cancer... and that for once we were going to read something different, but when I figured out that she was actually dying and writing a bucket list I just wanted to close the book and never open it again. But the style was okay and the love story between her and Topher cute... so I decided to give it a try.
A really okay story, some feels, some smiles... but that's about it. Couldn't get past the fact that I was reading ANOTHER story of a girl about to dye, that didn't want to get involved, that never experienced love, making love, and all that love and life have to offer. This book had soooooo many analogies with Spark's A Walk to Remember or the movie A time for dancing. I snorted so many times, it was like reading Walk to remember all over again. Sigh :(
I'm sorry, I know cancer is a really big issue but that doesn't mean it can be used so lightly. It kind of pisses me of that it gets used so often as a good expediant.
September 6, 2015
5 Cranky Stars!
The story of Ciera Nelson is one of strength, courage, and the will to live your life to the fullest while you still have the chance. It was absolutely heart shattering yet one of the most beautiful stories I’ve ever read. Bravo to author Kira Adams for bringing real life situations into this story and taking us on the journey right along with the characters.
Topher Carlson is the epitome of high school popularity, and a total douche bag. Star football player with the perfect cheerleader girlfriend, Sophia. Between the two of them and their best friend Joe, they bully a certain girl relentlessly. This girl happens to be Ciera, who is also Sophia’s ex best friend.
Ciera is a shell of a person, never looking anyone in the eye, keeps to herself, and has one friend, Mack. They are what you’d call “outcasts” by the jocks. That all changes for Ciera one day at school when one of the popular girls, Madlynne, sees Sophia and one of her minions bullying Ciera in the bathroom. Madlynne instantly befriends her, and for once in her life, Ciera is treated like a human being, not a piece of trash.
Changes in her appearance and the way she carries herself, has Topher looking at her in a brand new light. He can’t figure it out, and soon makes it his mission to get to know her and right the wrongs he’s committed against her. Little does he know, she’s hiding a secret that could change everyone’s lives that know and love her. One of the most straight to the heart stories I’ve ever read, and I was a sobbing mess by the end, but it was well worth it, and I can’t wait to get my grabby hands on book 2.
The story of Ciera Nelson is one of strength, courage, and the will to live your life to the fullest while you still have the chance. It was absolutely heart shattering yet one of the most beautiful stories I’ve ever read. Bravo to author Kira Adams for bringing real life situations into this story and taking us on the journey right along with the characters.
Topher Carlson is the epitome of high school popularity, and a total douche bag. Star football player with the perfect cheerleader girlfriend, Sophia. Between the two of them and their best friend Joe, they bully a certain girl relentlessly. This girl happens to be Ciera, who is also Sophia’s ex best friend.
Ciera is a shell of a person, never looking anyone in the eye, keeps to herself, and has one friend, Mack. They are what you’d call “outcasts” by the jocks. That all changes for Ciera one day at school when one of the popular girls, Madlynne, sees Sophia and one of her minions bullying Ciera in the bathroom. Madlynne instantly befriends her, and for once in her life, Ciera is treated like a human being, not a piece of trash.
Changes in her appearance and the way she carries herself, has Topher looking at her in a brand new light. He can’t figure it out, and soon makes it his mission to get to know her and right the wrongs he’s committed against her. Little does he know, she’s hiding a secret that could change everyone’s lives that know and love her. One of the most straight to the heart stories I’ve ever read, and I was a sobbing mess by the end, but it was well worth it, and I can’t wait to get my grabby hands on book 2.
January 20, 2015
Please note this review may contain spoilers.
Learning to Live is a romance but I have to warn you that if you are prone to an “ugly cry” then do not read this in public. Swear to god at some points I wanted to crawl into a corner and rock backwards and forwards and try to soothe my soul before I continued on.
Don’t let me scare you off, on the other hand it is also an uplifting journey of two young people Topher & Ciera who need to basically learn to live with the cards they have been dealt. It is a story of forgiveness, second chances, seeing beauty through someone else’s eyes and living for the moment. Two people from two totally different walks of life teach each other some of life’s most important lessons in such a short period of time.
There is only one area in this book I felt a bit let down with is that I really wanted Sophia (aka the bully) and Ciera to have their moment for reflection, closure and acknowledgement of poor behaviour. The whole scene where Ciera is curled into a ball and Sophia is hitting her I was appalled at and then we kind of jump ahead and I really wanted Sophia to be pointed out as a bitch and coward, I needed retribution for Ciera – I was so angry.
These kinds of books make you realise your life is actually pretty good and although we know how this story is going to end I was appreciative as to the compassionate way the writer expressed Ciera and Topher’s relationship.
I note there is three other books in the series and I really want to read My Forever with Madalynne & Parker as those two friends of Topher I absolutely loved.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
Learning to Live is a romance but I have to warn you that if you are prone to an “ugly cry” then do not read this in public. Swear to god at some points I wanted to crawl into a corner and rock backwards and forwards and try to soothe my soul before I continued on.
Don’t let me scare you off, on the other hand it is also an uplifting journey of two young people Topher & Ciera who need to basically learn to live with the cards they have been dealt. It is a story of forgiveness, second chances, seeing beauty through someone else’s eyes and living for the moment. Two people from two totally different walks of life teach each other some of life’s most important lessons in such a short period of time.
There is only one area in this book I felt a bit let down with is that I really wanted Sophia (aka the bully) and Ciera to have their moment for reflection, closure and acknowledgement of poor behaviour. The whole scene where Ciera is curled into a ball and Sophia is hitting her I was appalled at and then we kind of jump ahead and I really wanted Sophia to be pointed out as a bitch and coward, I needed retribution for Ciera – I was so angry.
These kinds of books make you realise your life is actually pretty good and although we know how this story is going to end I was appreciative as to the compassionate way the writer expressed Ciera and Topher’s relationship.
I note there is three other books in the series and I really want to read My Forever with Madalynne & Parker as those two friends of Topher I absolutely loved.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
January 21, 2015
*Book received in exchange for honest review.*
Topher Carlson is the most popular guy in school, plays football, dating the high school cheer squad captain, comes from money, and lavishes in sexy cars. Sophia, the cheer head, is little miss perfect, feeling superior above all others, she bullies. She bullies the one girl in school who is different because she doesn't come from money, can't afford nice clothes or nice hair. Sophia, Topher, Joe and gang. Formerly known as the A-Team, make her life a living hell for six years straight. Poor Ciera Nelson, she has just one friend, Mack. She never looks anyone in the eye and is a straight A student. After one horrid incident involving the A-Team in the school bathrooms, she is befriended by one of them, Madlynne. She takes Ciera under her wing and turns her into someone beautiful and gives her more confidence then she has ever had. Topher can't take his eyes off her, or get her out his mind. One thing leads to another....But Ciera is hiding a massive secrets from her few friends and peers, how will she tell the people she cares about? How will they react?
Damn it to hell and back. This book had me sobbing on multiple occasions, full blown wailing at the end. This book is beautifully written and the storyline is portrayed with dignity and respect. It's a love story with an ending that I'm not used to. But my goodness, this has my heart, hook, line and sinker. I would like to see where Topher's life leads and how he copes.
This is a YA novel, with slight sexual content.
Topher Carlson is the most popular guy in school, plays football, dating the high school cheer squad captain, comes from money, and lavishes in sexy cars. Sophia, the cheer head, is little miss perfect, feeling superior above all others, she bullies. She bullies the one girl in school who is different because she doesn't come from money, can't afford nice clothes or nice hair. Sophia, Topher, Joe and gang. Formerly known as the A-Team, make her life a living hell for six years straight. Poor Ciera Nelson, she has just one friend, Mack. She never looks anyone in the eye and is a straight A student. After one horrid incident involving the A-Team in the school bathrooms, she is befriended by one of them, Madlynne. She takes Ciera under her wing and turns her into someone beautiful and gives her more confidence then she has ever had. Topher can't take his eyes off her, or get her out his mind. One thing leads to another....But Ciera is hiding a massive secrets from her few friends and peers, how will she tell the people she cares about? How will they react?
Damn it to hell and back. This book had me sobbing on multiple occasions, full blown wailing at the end. This book is beautifully written and the storyline is portrayed with dignity and respect. It's a love story with an ending that I'm not used to. But my goodness, this has my heart, hook, line and sinker. I would like to see where Topher's life leads and how he copes.
This is a YA novel, with slight sexual content.
May 24, 2015
Two people from different worlds. Ciera has a hard life, is poor and has been bullied at school for years because of it. Topher is a popular jock, is rich and does not know what it's like to really live a tough life.
Topher was part of a group of bullies who have been making Ciera's life a living hell but he opens his eyes when he sees her made up/made over. That is when starts paying attention to her and eventually changes his perspective on life. I couldn't help question, would he had even given her the time of day if she continued around in the frumpy clothing? I think no...that's why I didn't like the circumstances surrounding how these two people came together. After he takes the time to get to know the real Ciera, the change in him was quick and drastic which wasn't quite explainable. However, the process of Topher getting to know Ciera was sweet. I definitely liked him better After. I felt Ciera's character was more consistent and she had believable reactions to how Topher was paying attention to her, given that he had bullied her for years. She was one tough cookie with all the bad and unfair things happening in her life and I couldn't help feel for her.
Learning to Live was a heart tugging story of how two people changed their lives after discovering each other.
Topher was part of a group of bullies who have been making Ciera's life a living hell but he opens his eyes when he sees her made up/made over. That is when starts paying attention to her and eventually changes his perspective on life. I couldn't help question, would he had even given her the time of day if she continued around in the frumpy clothing? I think no...that's why I didn't like the circumstances surrounding how these two people came together. After he takes the time to get to know the real Ciera, the change in him was quick and drastic which wasn't quite explainable. However, the process of Topher getting to know Ciera was sweet. I definitely liked him better After. I felt Ciera's character was more consistent and she had believable reactions to how Topher was paying attention to her, given that he had bullied her for years. She was one tough cookie with all the bad and unfair things happening in her life and I couldn't help feel for her.
Learning to Live was a heart tugging story of how two people changed their lives after discovering each other.
February 16, 2015
What can I say about this book. It's a very emotional book, but we'll written. I liked the book. You can't help but fall in love with the main character. For me I got attached to Ciera Nelson.
Ciera Nelson is a seventeen year old girl, who has been bullied on, not noticed at times. She is also very ill. The book gives you hints as you read, you are left think what is wrong with her, you will find out, and you will have a few tears along the way.
Ciera Nelson is a caring, loving and all around a good person. She is trying to live her life to the fullest. She gets to know Topher, he used to be one of her tormentors. But he becomes one of the main characters. When you read the book you will see why.
Ciera and Topher gets close and they start dating. Ciera has made a list of things she wants to do, and Topher helps her with it along the way..
This is one of those ugly cry books, and at parts of the book, I wish it would have gone more into certain parts of it.
I can't really say anymore without giving away what the book is. You will have to read it to find out.
Ciera Nelson is a seventeen year old girl, who has been bullied on, not noticed at times. She is also very ill. The book gives you hints as you read, you are left think what is wrong with her, you will find out, and you will have a few tears along the way.
Ciera Nelson is a caring, loving and all around a good person. She is trying to live her life to the fullest. She gets to know Topher, he used to be one of her tormentors. But he becomes one of the main characters. When you read the book you will see why.
Ciera and Topher gets close and they start dating. Ciera has made a list of things she wants to do, and Topher helps her with it along the way..
This is one of those ugly cry books, and at parts of the book, I wish it would have gone more into certain parts of it.
I can't really say anymore without giving away what the book is. You will have to read it to find out.
May 3, 2021
By 25% I was sobbing my heart out and my only thoughts was oh dear god this is going to be a train wreck I cannot look away from.
Where do I start!
So Ciera is (for want of a better reference) the unpopular girl on the playground or in this case the high school. She gets bullied by the popular kids that she and her best friend Mack have christened the A-Team but then she meets Maddy she is a member of the A-Team but she is also a game-changer and then in walks Topher! he is Hotheaded, Rude, Arrogant and he's also the leader of the A-Team or is he...? Ciera is convinced he is but now that he has his sights set on her he does not plan on going down without a fight He just never understood the battle he was about to take part in.
Ugly cry, Amazing, Heartwarming, Heartbreaking, this rollercoaster of emotions is so worth reading this book. I read this in one sitting because I refused to put it down!
Where do I start!
So Ciera is (for want of a better reference) the unpopular girl on the playground or in this case the high school. She gets bullied by the popular kids that she and her best friend Mack have christened the A-Team but then she meets Maddy she is a member of the A-Team but she is also a game-changer and then in walks Topher! he is Hotheaded, Rude, Arrogant and he's also the leader of the A-Team or is he...? Ciera is convinced he is but now that he has his sights set on her he does not plan on going down without a fight He just never understood the battle he was about to take part in.
Ugly cry, Amazing, Heartwarming, Heartbreaking, this rollercoaster of emotions is so worth reading this book. I read this in one sitting because I refused to put it down!
August 5, 2015
4.5 Stars. This is not your average romance or HEA. If that is something you need than this book isn't for you. This book had me experiencing such a range of emotions that I don't know if I could even identify them all. Ciera begins the story as a bullied young woman that I pitied. The farther the plot progressed the more I realized Ciera was one of the strongest characters I have read. Topher, well let's just say I hated him in the beginning. In fact I'm not sure hate is a strong enough word. I truly didn't see redemption being in my eyes for him. Boy was I wrong. Ms. Adams has weaved a tale that grabbed my heart and took me right along for the ride. The flow, character development, and plot were smooth, captivating, and intriguing. If you enjoy an emotional explosion that takes control of your tear ducts than I highly recommend this book for you. It is one I will not soon forget.
January 12, 2015
This is one of my favorite books by Kira Adams. It made me ugly cry and go through so many tissues it's not even funny. This was a story about a popular boy who doesn't care about anyone but himself learning to find himself, and fall in love with a smart talented beautiful outcast. I was hooked on Ciera from the beginning because she's just so sweet how can you not like her. Topher I wanted to smack around a little until he got his head straight. Alyssa and Sophia both needed a bitch slap and throat punch and Joe needed a throat punch a a knee in the nuts. Kira just makes you feel all of her characters she's such an awesome writer and I'm so proud to be able to call her my friend. Keep writing awesome books!
August 11, 2015
It was such a beautiful book. So easy to read on, i finished it in one and it made me she some real ugly tears.
This book has the potential to just reach you right into your soul, shatter you into pieces. This book was heart-breakingly beautiful.
The character of Topher was so well built, it was tough not to fall in love with him.. Well who didn't want to fall in love with Topher :P
I loved the character of Ciera as well. Completely complimenting the story line and I felt so bad for her :(
Overall it was a great book. A real tearjerker.. Can't wait for more of Topher :)
This book has the potential to just reach you right into your soul, shatter you into pieces. This book was heart-breakingly beautiful.
The character of Topher was so well built, it was tough not to fall in love with him.. Well who didn't want to fall in love with Topher :P
I loved the character of Ciera as well. Completely complimenting the story line and I felt so bad for her :(
Overall it was a great book. A real tearjerker.. Can't wait for more of Topher :)
May 24, 2015
living these books more and more..... Can't wait to read the next one!!! if you haven't read them you really need to look these up
February 15, 2021
Learning to Live: An Enemy to Lovers Ugly Cry (The Infinite Love Series Book One)
By Kira Adams
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book Learning to Live: An Enemy to Lovers Ugly Cry (The Infinite Love Series Book One) by Kira Adams. It is a story that had my emotions going up and down. I loved the character of Ciera. She is a young woman who is intelligent, strong, and faces situations that are very difficult to endure. I had a harder time warming up to Topher, He is arrogant, confident, and is seeing Ciera in a new light. After a while, he developed into a character that I liked. What does the future hold for them? Read this book to find out. This is a story that had me turning pages to see what happens next. The author does a wonderful job of making the story and the characters come alive. There are additional characters some of whom are friendly and others who are hurtful. Don’t miss out on an amazing book that is entertaining and takes you on an emotional journey that you will not soon forget. I highly recommend reading it.
By Kira Adams
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book Learning to Live: An Enemy to Lovers Ugly Cry (The Infinite Love Series Book One) by Kira Adams. It is a story that had my emotions going up and down. I loved the character of Ciera. She is a young woman who is intelligent, strong, and faces situations that are very difficult to endure. I had a harder time warming up to Topher, He is arrogant, confident, and is seeing Ciera in a new light. After a while, he developed into a character that I liked. What does the future hold for them? Read this book to find out. This is a story that had me turning pages to see what happens next. The author does a wonderful job of making the story and the characters come alive. There are additional characters some of whom are friendly and others who are hurtful. Don’t miss out on an amazing book that is entertaining and takes you on an emotional journey that you will not soon forget. I highly recommend reading it.
February 16, 2021
4 Stars
Learning to Live: An Enemy to Lovers Ugly Cry is the first book in the Infinite Love series by Kira Adams. I was so not ready for the emotional walloping that comes with this book. This is both a heartbreaking and touching love story- bringing up a myriad of emotions as I followed the characters through all their ups and downs.
I loved Ciera and really felt for everything she went through. I wasn’t so keen on Topher at the beginning- but he did win me over after a while- much to my surprise. There is a sweetness to their story too- which I wasn’t expecting either. But that ending- no words- sooo many tears. GAH!
I really don’t want to go into the story and give anything away which would ruin it for you. But if you love a heart-wrenching and emotional reads- then this is definitely the book for you.
Thank you, Kira Adams!
Learning to Live: An Enemy to Lovers Ugly Cry is the first book in the Infinite Love series by Kira Adams. I was so not ready for the emotional walloping that comes with this book. This is both a heartbreaking and touching love story- bringing up a myriad of emotions as I followed the characters through all their ups and downs.
I loved Ciera and really felt for everything she went through. I wasn’t so keen on Topher at the beginning- but he did win me over after a while- much to my surprise. There is a sweetness to their story too- which I wasn’t expecting either. But that ending- no words- sooo many tears. GAH!
I really don’t want to go into the story and give anything away which would ruin it for you. But if you love a heart-wrenching and emotional reads- then this is definitely the book for you.
Thank you, Kira Adams!
February 14, 2021
“ We made no sense. She was oil and I was water.. but somehow, we worked. No one would ever understand it fully, and I liked that. “
I was woefully under prepared for how much this book was going to wreck me. I also did not expect to love it as much as I did. Learning to live deserves all 5 stars and then some! It was so well written plus the characters jumped right off the page into my head and my heart. Every scene in this book was described so well I felt like I was experiencing everything first hand with Topher and Ciera. The last 20% or so of the book had my heart literally in pieces. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who likes this genre or even someone just looking for an powerful, innocent love story.
I was woefully under prepared for how much this book was going to wreck me. I also did not expect to love it as much as I did. Learning to live deserves all 5 stars and then some! It was so well written plus the characters jumped right off the page into my head and my heart. Every scene in this book was described so well I felt like I was experiencing everything first hand with Topher and Ciera. The last 20% or so of the book had my heart literally in pieces. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who likes this genre or even someone just looking for an powerful, innocent love story.
March 1, 2021
Learning to Live: An Enemy to Lovers Ugly Cry (The Infinite Love Series, Book 1) by Kira Adams is a YA contemporary romance. It is an emotion inducing read that will require tissues, a strong drink and lots of hugs. This moving, soul wrenching, heartbreaking tale has some delightful, tender and sweet moments. There are a number of hot topics and messages through out that Kira lovingly weaves together.
The story is about two young people Topher & Ciera who come from completely different worlds and who have to deal with difficulties, bullying and harassment and the fall out from it. It is also a story of forgiveness and second chances.
The story is about two young people Topher & Ciera who come from completely different worlds and who have to deal with difficulties, bullying and harassment and the fall out from it. It is also a story of forgiveness and second chances.
March 25, 2021
I ended up having complicated feelings about this book. The storyline here is complex and compelling. There is a grittiness to this story and for me, it was not always an easy book to read. I certainly felt for Ciera for a multitude of reasons, some more obvious than others. Topher was OK. I can't really go into much more without getting into spoiler territory and that I won't due. This is my forthright review that I am posting of my own accord.
August 24, 2022
This book had me ugly crying from the start. Ciera is the outcast of the school, bullied for dressing differently & not being from the same socioeconomic circle. Topher is the token rich boy with fancy cars & his choice of women. They don't really know each other & seemingly from nowhere he starts to see her everywhere-school parties, football games, and detention. They start an unlikely friendship which blossoms into so much more. Soon they realize the other taught them how to live.
I couldn't put this book down, I finished it in a few hours. It was a mix of A Walk to Remember & She's All That--an amazing story, well written with true to life characters and emotions.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
I couldn't put this book down, I finished it in a few hours. It was a mix of A Walk to Remember & She's All That--an amazing story, well written with true to life characters and emotions.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
August 10, 2022
This felt like a more modern version of A Walk to Remember but a bit more… extreme? Told from a dual POV I absolutely hated Topher for the first 40%? That’s the point though! He’s supposed to be absorbed, selfish, and unaware of people around him. Ciera, oh my goodness. I loved Ciera, I loved that she didn’t automatically fling herself at Topher when he started to acknowledge her or pay her attention. She challenged him in deeper ways. Her storyline absolutely wrecked me even before knowing what was happening at the end. Growing up poor, trying to support her younger siblings and work to help her mom, being so extremely bullied that all her self-worth and confidence is just wrecked. Both characters offered so much and when I say I ugly cried at the ending, ooof. The character growth of Topher is beautiful. The blossoming of confidence in Ciera is inspiring. This story doesn’t back down from all the ugly and tough topics of life and high school. This was one I’m glad I gave a real chance to and can’t wait to read the follow-up.
4.5 stars rounded up
4.5 stars rounded up
September 12, 2022
⚠️: UGLY CRY NOVEL
This book was amazing! I loved every minute of this story. Ciera is the sweetest, most amazing woman in this whole story. She did not deserve what she experienced daily but she was strong and such an inspiration. Topher had his head up his ass being a cruel jerk and a bully to Ciera. But when they collided it was pure beauty and magic. This book had me crying almost the whole way through. If you need a good cry I definitely recommend this read. Adams did a phenomenal job and I could feel every word in my heart and soul.
This book was amazing! I loved every minute of this story. Ciera is the sweetest, most amazing woman in this whole story. She did not deserve what she experienced daily but she was strong and such an inspiration. Topher had his head up his ass being a cruel jerk and a bully to Ciera. But when they collided it was pure beauty and magic. This book had me crying almost the whole way through. If you need a good cry I definitely recommend this read. Adams did a phenomenal job and I could feel every word in my heart and soul.
March 6, 2021
Learning to Live by Kira Adams a must read five-star read. This is number one in the infinite love series and I need number two now, this one had me sobbing in the toilets at work, I had tried to sneak a few pages in at lunch time, just as the ball was dropped and well, even though I knew it was coming, there was just something that made that one scene just so much more powerful, the drugs will put lots off as not everyone agrees but everyone should have the choice, and if you don’t you need to read this story. I am not going to lie, I hated Topher at first, him and all of the A-Team, they all just made me want to get violent, but he did get there and that was all Ciera, she was a compelling character, and one I wished we heard more from, her love for her family and life was sublime, she just kept barrelling through whatever terrible thing was thrown at her and that takes strength not many possess. I am so desperate for number two, but I honestly don’t know if I am strong enough, maybe I should steal some of Ciera’s strength.
July 25, 2022
This book was so full of emotion, and everything you would expect when it comes to a girl who’s dying.
What do you do when you know you’re time on earth is ending, and you’ve always been a bit invisible to others? That’s where Ciera sits at the beginning of the book. Not even her best friend, Mack, knows her life has an expiration date. She’s always tried to hide in the background, even when her best friend for years, Sophia, betrayed her and became part of the A Team. A couple of chance occurrences end with Topher - one of the leads of the A Team - realizing that maybe life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, and popularity isn’t everything.
Topher has to “deal” with finding out his father is gay - and as Ciera points out - there is nothing wrong with it! He’s been so in with the in crowd for so long that he’s lost sight of what it’s all really about. Ciera is the person to turn his world upside down, but is it enough? Is it enough time? Is it enough encouragement to be different?
The book gave me A Walk to Remember vibes, but also had bits that made it different and even more relatable (if that’s even possible). I loved the change in Topher, and even the change in some of the other characters we briefly saw at the end. I definitely need to continue this series now that I’ve read the first!
What do you do when you know you’re time on earth is ending, and you’ve always been a bit invisible to others? That’s where Ciera sits at the beginning of the book. Not even her best friend, Mack, knows her life has an expiration date. She’s always tried to hide in the background, even when her best friend for years, Sophia, betrayed her and became part of the A Team. A couple of chance occurrences end with Topher - one of the leads of the A Team - realizing that maybe life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, and popularity isn’t everything.
Topher has to “deal” with finding out his father is gay - and as Ciera points out - there is nothing wrong with it! He’s been so in with the in crowd for so long that he’s lost sight of what it’s all really about. Ciera is the person to turn his world upside down, but is it enough? Is it enough time? Is it enough encouragement to be different?
The book gave me A Walk to Remember vibes, but also had bits that made it different and even more relatable (if that’s even possible). I loved the change in Topher, and even the change in some of the other characters we briefly saw at the end. I definitely need to continue this series now that I’ve read the first!
January 14, 2015
"I love how romance authors can make you feel every emotion in their books that you feel invested in the characters. By the end of the story, you feel as if you know them on some kind of a personal level, and you mourn the loss of them when it's over."
Upon opening Learning to Live I was thrown into Topher, and Ciera's life. Into the chaotic, insecurities that come with being a senior in High School. For Topher, there is so much more than just school, his girlfriend of four years, and a father who doesn't seem to respect himself, or the choices in his life that may affect his son.
Ciera is the quiet girl in the class. Ridiculed, pushed around, and constantly being made fun of, she cannot wait for graduation to come. And it can't come soon enough. But for her, nothing can come soon enough. With her own clock ticking, there isn't really enough time for her to do the things she wants to do with her life. And the "A-Team" doesn't help with her insecurities that she faces on a daily basis.
When Topher finally notices her, she can't believe her luck. Thinking it can potentially be a bad sort of notice, she hides. She hides her life from him, she hides her secret from him, and she runs. She runs away from him, on a constant basis. It was heartbreaking how she refused to let him into her life. When the smoke clears, it is even more heartbreaking the reason why she doesn't want him getting close to her.
A friend steps forward. A friend that Ciera never knew she would have the opportunity of knowing had it not been for a group of the A-Team ridiculing her in the bathroom, and making her life a living hell. This part of the book saddened me off that someone as sweet as Ciera was getting this kind of treatment. I understood as more came to light throughout the book as to why she sort of just took the A-Team's horrid antics that they kept swinging at her.
I cried as Topher, and Ciera's story came to an end. As soon as the blackouts starting happening to Ciera, I knew something horrid was coming. I wasn't prepared for the heartbreak that Kira brought to her readers. I was not prepared for the absolute empty hole in my heart that I would feel after finishing Learning to Live. I swear...I moped around my house for a few days before I could even think about picking up another book.
I loved that Kira brought a very controversial piece of reality into her book. With a particular person who recently just took an Oregon law to heart, it was nice to - not relate to - but understand the reasoning as to why someone would choose to do what happens in this book. Kira did a wonderful job bringing this controversial topic to view for her readers, and it wasn't overkill in the book, either.
If you haven't bought this book. I highly recommend it. I am looking forward to the second book in the series, My Forever that comes from Madalynne's point of view in her own life.
Thank you Kira, for the opportunity to review Learning to Live!
Upon opening Learning to Live I was thrown into Topher, and Ciera's life. Into the chaotic, insecurities that come with being a senior in High School. For Topher, there is so much more than just school, his girlfriend of four years, and a father who doesn't seem to respect himself, or the choices in his life that may affect his son.
Ciera is the quiet girl in the class. Ridiculed, pushed around, and constantly being made fun of, she cannot wait for graduation to come. And it can't come soon enough. But for her, nothing can come soon enough. With her own clock ticking, there isn't really enough time for her to do the things she wants to do with her life. And the "A-Team" doesn't help with her insecurities that she faces on a daily basis.
When Topher finally notices her, she can't believe her luck. Thinking it can potentially be a bad sort of notice, she hides. She hides her life from him, she hides her secret from him, and she runs. She runs away from him, on a constant basis. It was heartbreaking how she refused to let him into her life. When the smoke clears, it is even more heartbreaking the reason why she doesn't want him getting close to her.
A friend steps forward. A friend that Ciera never knew she would have the opportunity of knowing had it not been for a group of the A-Team ridiculing her in the bathroom, and making her life a living hell. This part of the book saddened me off that someone as sweet as Ciera was getting this kind of treatment. I understood as more came to light throughout the book as to why she sort of just took the A-Team's horrid antics that they kept swinging at her.
I cried as Topher, and Ciera's story came to an end. As soon as the blackouts starting happening to Ciera, I knew something horrid was coming. I wasn't prepared for the heartbreak that Kira brought to her readers. I was not prepared for the absolute empty hole in my heart that I would feel after finishing Learning to Live. I swear...I moped around my house for a few days before I could even think about picking up another book.
I loved that Kira brought a very controversial piece of reality into her book. With a particular person who recently just took an Oregon law to heart, it was nice to - not relate to - but understand the reasoning as to why someone would choose to do what happens in this book. Kira did a wonderful job bringing this controversial topic to view for her readers, and it wasn't overkill in the book, either.
If you haven't bought this book. I highly recommend it. I am looking forward to the second book in the series, My Forever that comes from Madalynne's point of view in her own life.
Thank you Kira, for the opportunity to review Learning to Live!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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