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Outbreak Hearts #1
Against All Odds
The bomb ticking inside Abigail Williams has shadowed every moment of her adult life. With the timer counting down, Abi embarks on one final adventure into theAustralian outback before returning to L.A. to fight for her life. Sergeant Ryder Harper survived over a decade in Australia’s most elite military unit. He’s ready to hang up his assault rifle and drag what’s left of his broken body back home. He dreads the long flight back to Brisbane, until he collides with the stubborn, maddening seductress sitting beside him. Abi ignites a need deep inside Ryder, leaving him desperate for more time with this woman with mesmerizing eyes and an even more intoxicating spirit. But when Abi finally relents to Ryder’s offer to be her outback guide, she has one When it’s time, he’ll have to let her go.
320 pages, Paperback
Published August 29, 2017
About the author
Jezz de Silva
2 books25 followersPlease don’t freak out. I’m just your average Aussie romance writer 😜
Allow me the honour of taking you on journeys with tough heroes, tougher heroines, and guaranteed happily ever afters.
My long suffering First Reader and I live in a tiny one wombat town in the hills outside Melbourne, Australia. And when I say one wombat town I really mean it. I see the little girl when walking Bear and Max, my plot and character consultants 🐶🐶
Our little patch of heaven is overrun by a zoo of geriatric rescued animals who eat us out of house and home when not sleeping or guilting us into walks. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.
When not tapping my fingers or banging my head on a keyboard creating happily ever afters, I love spending time with family and friends, cooking, EATING, gardening, renovating our castle, and teaching personal protection.
Allow me the honour of taking you on journeys with tough heroes, tougher heroines, and guaranteed happily ever afters.
My long suffering First Reader and I live in a tiny one wombat town in the hills outside Melbourne, Australia. And when I say one wombat town I really mean it. I see the little girl when walking Bear and Max, my plot and character consultants 🐶🐶
Our little patch of heaven is overrun by a zoo of geriatric rescued animals who eat us out of house and home when not sleeping or guilting us into walks. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.
When not tapping my fingers or banging my head on a keyboard creating happily ever afters, I love spending time with family and friends, cooking, EATING, gardening, renovating our castle, and teaching personal protection.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 8, 2017
One of my 2017 reading resolution goals is to pick up more books by new to me authors. Not knowing anything about their writing style means it can be a hit or miss venture. In this case, it’s a hit as I found Against All Odds by Jezz de Silva definitely worth the read!
Abigail Williams has five weeks before she goes under the knife for a brain tumor operation that could spell a new lease on life, or just the opposite. She’s taken a leave of absence from her teaching job and is on her way to Australia to mark off things from her notebook bucket list (including her sister Olivia’s addition to ‘Have Sex!’ complete with stick figure position ideas). While her bright pink headscarf likely gives away more than she’d like about her personal situation, the wig she brought with her sits crushed in her suitcase (to her chagrin) when her seatmate turns out to be a weary but very handsome soldier.
Sergeant Ryder Harper is on his way home after receiving medals of honor for a joint US/Australia military mission in which he lost not only his teammates, but a leg too. An amputee with a state of the art prosthesis, he recognizes in Abigail a kindred spirit. Plus, she’s damn cute with her spirited attitude and a life saver when she pretends to be his girlfriend so he can avoid a first class seat and the fawning recognition of the crew over his hero status. Tucked in the back of the plane, the two share confidences, a bonding experience that makes Ryder unable to let Abby go off into the Australian wilderness alone. One night together becomes more when he convinces her to let him show her the real Australia and give her an experience to remember. But Abby’s time is ticking and she knows that the time is fast approaching for a reckoning not of her own making. She’s determined to keep things simple between them. When the time comes, will Ryder be able to let her go home alone, to face an uncertain future?
The summary above makes clear that this is a story that doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of cancer, but don’t be worried, there is a very satisfying happy ending for this couple, even if there’s a lot of drama and emotional scenes on the way to it! I loved both characters in this romance. Abby and Ryder’s banter is fun and flirty, but they also recognize that they’ve both gone through hard times and their connection is swift. Abby is a virgin heroine due to a number of circumstances in her life, cancer notwithstanding, and Ryder is a caring and considerate lover who makes her first experience memorable – so memorable in fact that he’s able to persuade her to come home with him to his family in the Outback.
The author is Australian and this makes the setting come alive and feel very authentic. Ryder is very close to his adopted mother who is of indigenous descent, as well as his brothers and sisters. A close relationship means they can tease each other, and still show concern and they welcome Abby warmly to their home. It makes Abby’s eventual departure that much harder to contemplate. There were times I wasn’t sure that the HEA would happen for this couple but it does, and there is a sweet epilogue too. If I have a complaint, it’s that there are times the author has a tendency to write with hyperbole, embellishing descriptions where a more simple phrasing would have conveyed the same point. It makes the first part of the story feel a bit clunky but is improved in the second half. I’m chalking this up to writing inexperience. It didn’t detract from my love of the characters, setting, and overall story. Against All Odds is an emotional and heartfelt romance of two wounded souls who find healing in each other.
This review also appears at: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Abigail Williams has five weeks before she goes under the knife for a brain tumor operation that could spell a new lease on life, or just the opposite. She’s taken a leave of absence from her teaching job and is on her way to Australia to mark off things from her notebook bucket list (including her sister Olivia’s addition to ‘Have Sex!’ complete with stick figure position ideas). While her bright pink headscarf likely gives away more than she’d like about her personal situation, the wig she brought with her sits crushed in her suitcase (to her chagrin) when her seatmate turns out to be a weary but very handsome soldier.
Sergeant Ryder Harper is on his way home after receiving medals of honor for a joint US/Australia military mission in which he lost not only his teammates, but a leg too. An amputee with a state of the art prosthesis, he recognizes in Abigail a kindred spirit. Plus, she’s damn cute with her spirited attitude and a life saver when she pretends to be his girlfriend so he can avoid a first class seat and the fawning recognition of the crew over his hero status. Tucked in the back of the plane, the two share confidences, a bonding experience that makes Ryder unable to let Abby go off into the Australian wilderness alone. One night together becomes more when he convinces her to let him show her the real Australia and give her an experience to remember. But Abby’s time is ticking and she knows that the time is fast approaching for a reckoning not of her own making. She’s determined to keep things simple between them. When the time comes, will Ryder be able to let her go home alone, to face an uncertain future?
The summary above makes clear that this is a story that doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of cancer, but don’t be worried, there is a very satisfying happy ending for this couple, even if there’s a lot of drama and emotional scenes on the way to it! I loved both characters in this romance. Abby and Ryder’s banter is fun and flirty, but they also recognize that they’ve both gone through hard times and their connection is swift. Abby is a virgin heroine due to a number of circumstances in her life, cancer notwithstanding, and Ryder is a caring and considerate lover who makes her first experience memorable – so memorable in fact that he’s able to persuade her to come home with him to his family in the Outback.
The author is Australian and this makes the setting come alive and feel very authentic. Ryder is very close to his adopted mother who is of indigenous descent, as well as his brothers and sisters. A close relationship means they can tease each other, and still show concern and they welcome Abby warmly to their home. It makes Abby’s eventual departure that much harder to contemplate. There were times I wasn’t sure that the HEA would happen for this couple but it does, and there is a sweet epilogue too. If I have a complaint, it’s that there are times the author has a tendency to write with hyperbole, embellishing descriptions where a more simple phrasing would have conveyed the same point. It makes the first part of the story feel a bit clunky but is improved in the second half. I’m chalking this up to writing inexperience. It didn’t detract from my love of the characters, setting, and overall story. Against All Odds is an emotional and heartfelt romance of two wounded souls who find healing in each other.
This review also appears at: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
September 25, 2017
Abigail, a teacher, is going to live a little, because in five weeks she may no longer be alive. See, she has a brain tumor and the surgery could literally save her life, or take it. She's currently on leave from her job and is headed to Australia...it's bucket list time, with some additions from her sister, Olivia, such as have sex. LOL And ooh, the man sitting beside her would definitely be her choice to fulfill that one with.
Ryder, a sergeant, is a hero, but he doesn't feel like one, nor be treated as such. His last mission turned tragic, causing the deaths of his teammates and the loss of his leg. Unfortunately, the crew insists upon giving him special treatment and won't take no for an answer...until the cute woman beside him introduces herself as his girlfriend, and they leave him alone. Man, does he owe her for that. They get to know each other, and he sees the same bone deep sadness he carries around now. You can't help but bond over that kind of pain.
They share an explosive night, and while that's all it was meant to be, it becomes more as neither are ready to say good-bye, and Ryder's offer to show her around Australia is the perfect opportunity to continue their time together.
As they grow closer with every encounter, it's getting harder for Abigail to keep it temporary, but, with what she knows may happen, she feels that's all it can be. However, Ryder just may have something to say about that.
Will Abigail tell Ryder about her diagnosis and quickly approaching surgery? Or will she keep it from him, worried about his reaction? Will Ryder realize what Abigail means to him and fight for her, for them? Or will he let her go, believing he doesn't deserve happiness? Will Abigail's surgery help her go on to live a normal life? Will she and Ryder enjoy that life together?
One-click now and follow along as two strangers meet and slowly begin falling in love, only to be faced with the realities of life.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Ryder, a sergeant, is a hero, but he doesn't feel like one, nor be treated as such. His last mission turned tragic, causing the deaths of his teammates and the loss of his leg. Unfortunately, the crew insists upon giving him special treatment and won't take no for an answer...until the cute woman beside him introduces herself as his girlfriend, and they leave him alone. Man, does he owe her for that. They get to know each other, and he sees the same bone deep sadness he carries around now. You can't help but bond over that kind of pain.
They share an explosive night, and while that's all it was meant to be, it becomes more as neither are ready to say good-bye, and Ryder's offer to show her around Australia is the perfect opportunity to continue their time together.
As they grow closer with every encounter, it's getting harder for Abigail to keep it temporary, but, with what she knows may happen, she feels that's all it can be. However, Ryder just may have something to say about that.
Will Abigail tell Ryder about her diagnosis and quickly approaching surgery? Or will she keep it from him, worried about his reaction? Will Ryder realize what Abigail means to him and fight for her, for them? Or will he let her go, believing he doesn't deserve happiness? Will Abigail's surgery help her go on to live a normal life? Will she and Ryder enjoy that life together?
One-click now and follow along as two strangers meet and slowly begin falling in love, only to be faced with the realities of life.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
August 31, 2017
**I received a copy of Against all Odds from Entangled Publishing and Net Galley in exchange for a voluntary and honest review**
Against all Odds by Jazz De Silva is the authors second book of what I hope will be a series about the Harper Family and their ranch in the Outback. After all if I count right, there is six adults left plus Abigail's sister Olivia who need their happily ever after.
Abigail Williams has a bucket list of things to do before she goes into surgery again to remove a brain tumor aka Doris. Little does she know that in her flight to Australia she'll meet ex special ops soldier Ryder Harper who will help her tackle the very first item on the list. You will fall in love with Ryder and he's siblings who were adopted like he was by a special parents who love each one of them no matter how they started their life in the world. But when Doris decides to make herself known Abi pushes Ryder away knowing that she may not be the same after surgery. But can he stay away or will he listen to the Wishing Tree when he realizes that she's worth fighting for.
Ryder Harper is finally returning home to his beloved Outback after being fitted for a new leg. His guilt has encompassed his soul because he survived an ambush but his unit didn't. But when he gives up his first class seat to a young mother and chikd. Little does he know that he'll fall for his seat mate and that his life will be changed forever.
I don't usually read romance stories written by a man but this book caught my interest immediately with its blurb. All I can say is hurry up and write the next book please?
Against all Odds by Jazz De Silva is the authors second book of what I hope will be a series about the Harper Family and their ranch in the Outback. After all if I count right, there is six adults left plus Abigail's sister Olivia who need their happily ever after.
Abigail Williams has a bucket list of things to do before she goes into surgery again to remove a brain tumor aka Doris. Little does she know that in her flight to Australia she'll meet ex special ops soldier Ryder Harper who will help her tackle the very first item on the list. You will fall in love with Ryder and he's siblings who were adopted like he was by a special parents who love each one of them no matter how they started their life in the world. But when Doris decides to make herself known Abi pushes Ryder away knowing that she may not be the same after surgery. But can he stay away or will he listen to the Wishing Tree when he realizes that she's worth fighting for.
Ryder Harper is finally returning home to his beloved Outback after being fitted for a new leg. His guilt has encompassed his soul because he survived an ambush but his unit didn't. But when he gives up his first class seat to a young mother and chikd. Little does he know that he'll fall for his seat mate and that his life will be changed forever.
I don't usually read romance stories written by a man but this book caught my interest immediately with its blurb. All I can say is hurry up and write the next book please?
September 14, 2017
What an incredibly emotional read! You're going to laugh and cry with this one so be prepared!
Abigail is on a trip of a lifetime...literally as this very well may be the last trip she ever takes. She's about to undergo a dangerous operation which could result in her death. Before undergoing the operation she decides to take one last vacation, complete with a bucket list. She's determined to see and do everything on her list...but everything changes when a stranger sits down next to her and she becomes his fake fiance for the trip.
Ryder...what is not to love about Ryder. First off he's gorgeous, second off he's a hero and third off he loves his family. He's taken by Abigail the moment he sees her and determined to make the most of their time together, refusing to let her run away and turn what they had into a one night stand.
An incredible story that will pull at your heart strings.
Abigail is on a trip of a lifetime...literally as this very well may be the last trip she ever takes. She's about to undergo a dangerous operation which could result in her death. Before undergoing the operation she decides to take one last vacation, complete with a bucket list. She's determined to see and do everything on her list...but everything changes when a stranger sits down next to her and she becomes his fake fiance for the trip.
Ryder...what is not to love about Ryder. First off he's gorgeous, second off he's a hero and third off he loves his family. He's taken by Abigail the moment he sees her and determined to make the most of their time together, refusing to let her run away and turn what they had into a one night stand.
An incredible story that will pull at your heart strings.
September 25, 2017
Actual 3.5*
I'm not traditionally much of a Romance reader, but I'm so glad I picked up this book. Abi & Ryder are the sort of couple you can't help but root for. There's a lot to take in with this book, from the life threatening illness to the remote edges of the Australian outback. In the end it all comes together for our heroine and her hero. If you like feel good stories with a bit of hot and heavy action, this book's for you!
I'm not traditionally much of a Romance reader, but I'm so glad I picked up this book. Abi & Ryder are the sort of couple you can't help but root for. There's a lot to take in with this book, from the life threatening illness to the remote edges of the Australian outback. In the end it all comes together for our heroine and her hero. If you like feel good stories with a bit of hot and heavy action, this book's for you!
February 18, 2018
I liked the dialogue in this one, particularly in the back half of the book when Abi meets Ryder's extended family on the station.
It took just a little bit long for things to get going in the start of the book, a bit long in conversation on the plane no matter how sparkling that conversation was.
My favourite lines were toward the end. I got tears as Abi battled 'Doris', and at the thought of her doing this with Ryder as friend, nursemaid, protector etc.
It took just a little bit long for things to get going in the start of the book, a bit long in conversation on the plane no matter how sparkling that conversation was.
My favourite lines were toward the end. I got tears as Abi battled 'Doris', and at the thought of her doing this with Ryder as friend, nursemaid, protector etc.
Did Not Finish
September 7, 2017 DNF at 10%
The writing style was simply too chunky and distracting; even in those three chapters, I spent more time going over sentences and revising them in my mind than actually enjoying the story. I can't tell you much of anything about the plot being set up or the two characters. It's just time to move on to something else.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
I will be talking about the book on my next Whatcha Reading? podcast which will go up on TBQ's Book Palace Saturday (9/9).
The writing style was simply too chunky and distracting; even in those three chapters, I spent more time going over sentences and revising them in my mind than actually enjoying the story. I can't tell you much of anything about the plot being set up or the two characters. It's just time to move on to something else.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
I will be talking about the book on my next Whatcha Reading? podcast which will go up on TBQ's Book Palace Saturday (9/9).
September 5, 2017
If you didn't have a hunger for a strong Australian man before this book, you most certainly will after reading it! Put down your books with vain rogues and arrogant millionaires. They are pansies compared to this rugged hunk of masculinity - I am quite serious, put those books down right now. You are also going to want to get out your credit card, buy a plane ticket to Australia, and get down on your knees and pray a guy like Ryder Harper sits down next to you. Just wait. You'll read this book and realize that Meghan is not nuts. Meghan is in love.
On a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Australia after getting devastating news from her doctors, Abi Williams is just trying to live her life before it might be taken away against her will. Suffering from a recurring brain tumor, Abi is determined to make the most of every moment. And that includes the moment when a stud of a cowboy sits down next to her on her plane. Sergeant Ryder Harper, a war hero with a prosthetic leg and arm muscles as big as her thigh, is exactly what she needs. After thirteen hours, she is dreaming of joining the mile-high club and accepts his offer to go home with him for the night. One night soon turns into weeks in the outback at his family's station, but Abi knows that this will never last. She eventually will have to go home and leave him behind. But not if Ryder can help it.
Have I mentioned I want a Ryder? I want one. Badly. He has great personality, charming humor, and gorgeous looks that we can only gaze upon when we look at pictures of cover models. So far out of my reach, it's bordering on pathetic, but hey - if Abi can get one, it gives me hope! Abi is a sweetheart, with a lot more gumption than I would expect from someone who has been through so much. Maybe that's why she's still alive and kicking. She refuses to be defeated, even when she knows that it's an uphill battle. Ryder doesn't even flinch when he sees Abi's bald, scarf-covered head, knowing that her heart is worth more than any head of hair. His affection towards her, even when she's fighting him, is so genuine and inspiring. If every partner could be like that when someone gets cancer, it would make it a bit more bearable. Instead of running away, he keeps running towards her, even when she does her best to create distance between them.
It was a beautiful love story! I hope that Ryder's siblings will be getting books soon. I am eager to read about them all.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
On a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Australia after getting devastating news from her doctors, Abi Williams is just trying to live her life before it might be taken away against her will. Suffering from a recurring brain tumor, Abi is determined to make the most of every moment. And that includes the moment when a stud of a cowboy sits down next to her on her plane. Sergeant Ryder Harper, a war hero with a prosthetic leg and arm muscles as big as her thigh, is exactly what she needs. After thirteen hours, she is dreaming of joining the mile-high club and accepts his offer to go home with him for the night. One night soon turns into weeks in the outback at his family's station, but Abi knows that this will never last. She eventually will have to go home and leave him behind. But not if Ryder can help it.
Have I mentioned I want a Ryder? I want one. Badly. He has great personality, charming humor, and gorgeous looks that we can only gaze upon when we look at pictures of cover models. So far out of my reach, it's bordering on pathetic, but hey - if Abi can get one, it gives me hope! Abi is a sweetheart, with a lot more gumption than I would expect from someone who has been through so much. Maybe that's why she's still alive and kicking. She refuses to be defeated, even when she knows that it's an uphill battle. Ryder doesn't even flinch when he sees Abi's bald, scarf-covered head, knowing that her heart is worth more than any head of hair. His affection towards her, even when she's fighting him, is so genuine and inspiring. If every partner could be like that when someone gets cancer, it would make it a bit more bearable. Instead of running away, he keeps running towards her, even when she does her best to create distance between them.
It was a beautiful love story! I hope that Ryder's siblings will be getting books soon. I am eager to read about them all.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
January 12, 2018
As an author I have a lot of author friends. I don't read all their books and it is extraordinarily rare for me to review one. But... OH MY GOD. I loved this book. The obvious plot hooks aren't even my triggers (hot special forces guy, Australian Outback), so if they are yours then I recommend you prepare yourself to read STRAIGHT through. For me it was a struggle of wanting to stay in this world FOREVER with this crazy, amazing family and not being able to stop reading. Sadly, the book was over long before I wanted to leave them, but I've confirmed that there will be MANY MORE books coming in this series. I'm so excited! Definitely pick this one up because I bet you will find a LOT in it to love. A wounded hero, smart ass heroine, amazing family, and compelling descriptions of the Outback that made me want to hop on a 20 hour plane ride just to see if it could possibly live up to my new-found love of it.
February 1, 2018
Okay, first of all, the cover designer needs to be fired because that’s not at all how the hero is described and does no justice to him or the book.
ANYWAY
Description from the publisher:
The bomb ticking inside Abigail Williams has shadowed every moment of her adult life. With the timer counting down, Abi embarks on one final adventure into the Australian outback before returning to L.A. to fight for her life.
Sergeant Ryder Harper survived over a decade in Australia’s most elite military unit. He’s ready to hang up his assault rifle and drag what’s left of his broken body back home. He dreads the long flight back to Brisbane, until he collides with the stubborn, maddening seductress sitting beside him.
Abi ignites a need deep inside Ryder, leaving him desperate for more time with this woman with mesmerizing eyes and an even more intoxicating spirit. But when Abi finally relents to Ryder’s offer to be her outback guide, she has one condition: When it’s time, he’ll have to let her go.
I loved this. Loved loved loved. The fact that this is a debut outing for a new author is astonishing to me. Jezz, where have you been all my life? Oh right, in Australia.
This book hit all of my happy places: high stakes that fostered real conflict and dread, super Alpha Hero who is as kind and caring as can be (no Jerk McDoucheFace in need of redemption here), a wonderful heroine who is simultaneously innocent and world weary, shy and snarky, all without ever being exhausting or unbelievable, a major disability and chronic illness plot that is never glossed over but also never slows our hero and heroine down, and an author who knows his stuff. From the details and attitudes (and humor, there was a specific joking threat in there that I’ve only ever heard other Marines use) one would expect of a salty special forces soldier to the medical facts and emotional trauma of cancer, Jezz has clearly either lived through all of these things or takes his research very seriously.
The book alternates between Abi and Ryder’s perspectives and does this adorable thing in which the two of them are constantly echoing each other’s thoughts. In a lesser author’s hands, this story would have been insta-love that felt forced and unnatural. Instead, Jezz does such a good job fleshing out their feelings and the emotional baggage that would naturally lead two people to seek shelter in each other, that the story feels real and honest.
There were no lame misunderstandings or manufactured conflicts. In fact, our lead couple’s conflicts have little if anything to do with *each other* and everything to do with Abi’s illness. When Abi pushes him away (for very, very good reasons), Ryder always sees through it and fights for her. I’m reading another book in which the heroine pushes the hero away for a good reason, and the hero takes her at her word and is a huge jerk to her about it because his feelings are hurt, and I’m just about ready to shelve that book without finishing it. Why bother when there are books out there like Against All Odds where the hero isn’t a big self involved a-hole?
The physical and emotional stakes were pitch perfect and written so well, I found myself tearing up when it got rough. This will not be any easy read for anyone with close experience dealing with cancer or other often terminal chronic illnesses. For me it was refreshing and deeply satisfying to read something written by someone who clearly has his own emotional stakes in the game and of course getting a happy ending after so much tragedy.
At the end of the day, Jezz wrote two people I really like and made me root for them the whole way through. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
5/5, might even read again.
ANYWAY
Description from the publisher:
The bomb ticking inside Abigail Williams has shadowed every moment of her adult life. With the timer counting down, Abi embarks on one final adventure into the Australian outback before returning to L.A. to fight for her life.
Sergeant Ryder Harper survived over a decade in Australia’s most elite military unit. He’s ready to hang up his assault rifle and drag what’s left of his broken body back home. He dreads the long flight back to Brisbane, until he collides with the stubborn, maddening seductress sitting beside him.
Abi ignites a need deep inside Ryder, leaving him desperate for more time with this woman with mesmerizing eyes and an even more intoxicating spirit. But when Abi finally relents to Ryder’s offer to be her outback guide, she has one condition: When it’s time, he’ll have to let her go.
I loved this. Loved loved loved. The fact that this is a debut outing for a new author is astonishing to me. Jezz, where have you been all my life? Oh right, in Australia.
This book hit all of my happy places: high stakes that fostered real conflict and dread, super Alpha Hero who is as kind and caring as can be (no Jerk McDoucheFace in need of redemption here), a wonderful heroine who is simultaneously innocent and world weary, shy and snarky, all without ever being exhausting or unbelievable, a major disability and chronic illness plot that is never glossed over but also never slows our hero and heroine down, and an author who knows his stuff. From the details and attitudes (and humor, there was a specific joking threat in there that I’ve only ever heard other Marines use) one would expect of a salty special forces soldier to the medical facts and emotional trauma of cancer, Jezz has clearly either lived through all of these things or takes his research very seriously.
The book alternates between Abi and Ryder’s perspectives and does this adorable thing in which the two of them are constantly echoing each other’s thoughts. In a lesser author’s hands, this story would have been insta-love that felt forced and unnatural. Instead, Jezz does such a good job fleshing out their feelings and the emotional baggage that would naturally lead two people to seek shelter in each other, that the story feels real and honest.
There were no lame misunderstandings or manufactured conflicts. In fact, our lead couple’s conflicts have little if anything to do with *each other* and everything to do with Abi’s illness. When Abi pushes him away (for very, very good reasons), Ryder always sees through it and fights for her. I’m reading another book in which the heroine pushes the hero away for a good reason, and the hero takes her at her word and is a huge jerk to her about it because his feelings are hurt, and I’m just about ready to shelve that book without finishing it. Why bother when there are books out there like Against All Odds where the hero isn’t a big self involved a-hole?
The physical and emotional stakes were pitch perfect and written so well, I found myself tearing up when it got rough. This will not be any easy read for anyone with close experience dealing with cancer or other often terminal chronic illnesses. For me it was refreshing and deeply satisfying to read something written by someone who clearly has his own emotional stakes in the game and of course getting a happy ending after so much tragedy.
At the end of the day, Jezz wrote two people I really like and made me root for them the whole way through. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
5/5, might even read again.
September 26, 2017
Abigail Williams is in for the fight of her life, so embarking on a trip to Australia is the perfect idea before she undergoes surgery. However, she never imagined she'd meet the love of her life on the flight from LA to Australia. Spending time with Sergeant Ryder Harper is a dream come true, but when the time comes for her to leave, will Ryder be able to stick to the promise he makes her or will he do everything he can to fight for their chance at forever after?
This is the first book I've read by this author, but I've got to say that it won't be my last, especially when it comes to this series since Ryder's family are an absolute delight and I'd love to read more about them, as his siblings each deserve their happy ever after too. Right from the beginning, this story was extremely riveting, as the heroine is a total survivor and doing everything she can to enjoy life to the fullest in case she doesn't survive what she's going through. However, the moment that the hero and heroine met was one of the best moments, as both have been through so much and after the sweet thing she witnesses Ryder do, it's hard for her not to be fascinated by him.
As for the dialogue, it took me on an emotional rollercoaster, as the hero and heroine have been through difficult times in their lives and it was hard not to be affected by everything that's happened to them. Truly, Abigail isn't the only one that's a total trooper; someone that's had to fight for their life. However, in saying that, the dialogue wasn't all intense and made me laugh or smile due to the heroine's sassiness and her desire to make her adventure the trip of a lifetime. Will Abigail experience everything on her bucket list?
Both the main characters were enthralling and their back stories certainly made them the engaging and fascinating characters they are. The heroine has been through so much, and yet, she continues to fight for her life with everything in her, even though she may die because of what she has. Really, she's resilient, courageous and I liked how determined she was to have fun and enjoy the adventure she was on. I also liked the bond she shared with her sister and how the pair would do anything for each other, especially since Abigail did so much for her sister growing up and now it seems her sister is determined to return the favor.
While the hero, he's had it tough due to his time in the military and what happened to him that had him leaving the elite military unit he was a part of. Yet, he's confident, strong, brave and I liked how determined he was to win the heroine over, even though she has a condition that when it's time for her to leave that he needs to let her go without a fight. Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero is the bond he shares with his family and how their warmth and love for each other extends to Abigail, even before they get to know her fully.
Overall, this author has penned a well-written and highly entertaining read in this story where the chemistry between this couple was off-the-charts and had me reading quickly, determined to discover how things would work out for this couple. Will Abigail survive what's happening to her for the pair to have their happy ever after? However, in saying that, I was stunned by what happens to the heroine that tears this couple's relationship apart at the critical moment in the story, but I absolutely loved how things worked out for this couple, as no one is more deserving of happy ever after than Ryder and Abigail. Yet, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up wonderfully, because of what the heroine's sister did for her to make sure Abigail lived her life for her. I would recommend Against all Odds by Jezz De Silva, if you enjoy books with ex-military heroes or sassy heroines; or if you enjoy books by authors Tif Marcelo, Mia Sosa, Olivia Dade and Amy Andrews.
September 29, 2017
Abi and Ryder are kindred spirits. While Ryder has already been through surgery and rehab and physical therapy, Abi hasn't. She will but not until after she's lived as much life as she can between now and her surgery date. They meet on a plane, Ryder to go home, Abi to find adventure and make memories. Their attraction and interest in one another has much to do with physical appearances as it does with their life-changing situations, which caused a lot of "Will they?" "Won't they?" for me. Not sex. *chuckles* That's a given because Abi was reminded by her loving sister to have sex while she traveled. Being a virgin wasn't in the cards for her at this age; neither was having a bomb in her head. But it was what it was and now it was time to live like tomorrow was her last.
And living took on a whole new meaning when Ryder insisted he show her his beautiful country himself. Spending that much time together allowed them to get to know each other beyond the physical, and, man, was it a lovely sight to see. To feel so much from a chance meeting is incredible.
This is where the "Will they?" "Won't they?" came in. See, Abi's condition was never hidden. It was shelved for a moment while she enjoyed herself but it was always there, in the back of her mind, in the back of mine. It hovered over what, in other stories, would have been a guaranteed HEA. That's not to say Ryder and Abi didn't have one, but there was this constant push and pull inside of me. There was plenty of doubt they'd have one but Mr. de Silva gave them one they oh-so happily deserved.
Reality doesn't always disappear where books are concerned. The topics of disease and death are, honestly, two I try to avoid when reading. There are exceptions to that, of course, but I usually read to escape. The reality of both these topics hits far too close to home for me, especially now.
The characters, their support team, their outlook on life--even if devastation might lie on the horizon instead of hope--makes these stories worth reading. The ability to capture those emotional highs and lows can't possibly be easy to do. Mr. de Silva does it beautifully.
Ryder and Abi's story will made me laugh and smile, but it was also a sober reminder that sh*t happens and that it's up to you to make the most of where you are and what you have.
Received from publisher for an honest review
And living took on a whole new meaning when Ryder insisted he show her his beautiful country himself. Spending that much time together allowed them to get to know each other beyond the physical, and, man, was it a lovely sight to see. To feel so much from a chance meeting is incredible.
This is where the "Will they?" "Won't they?" came in. See, Abi's condition was never hidden. It was shelved for a moment while she enjoyed herself but it was always there, in the back of her mind, in the back of mine. It hovered over what, in other stories, would have been a guaranteed HEA. That's not to say Ryder and Abi didn't have one, but there was this constant push and pull inside of me. There was plenty of doubt they'd have one but Mr. de Silva gave them one they oh-so happily deserved.
Reality doesn't always disappear where books are concerned. The topics of disease and death are, honestly, two I try to avoid when reading. There are exceptions to that, of course, but I usually read to escape. The reality of both these topics hits far too close to home for me, especially now.
The characters, their support team, their outlook on life--even if devastation might lie on the horizon instead of hope--makes these stories worth reading. The ability to capture those emotional highs and lows can't possibly be easy to do. Mr. de Silva does it beautifully.
Ryder and Abi's story will made me laugh and smile, but it was also a sober reminder that sh*t happens and that it's up to you to make the most of where you are and what you have.
Received from publisher for an honest review
February 24, 2019
I can't stop thinking about this book and not because it has changed my life, shifted a perspective or done some other amazing things. But let's start form the beginning.
Abigail Williams jumps on a plane to Australia to fill her bucket list and meets the man of her dream. That, technically, would be the whole book summarised in one sentence, however, the story is more complicated that that. Abi, as it turns out, has a cancer and in some time she will have the final surgery that would either kill her or save her life. Ryder Harper is a sergeant who left the army (I think, the details are fuzzy I read this book a while ago) and he's coming back to his family home to relax and... have a life.
They meet, instant attraction starts between them and holy shit. I've been shifting my thoughts from wanting to kill these characters and just hug them because they have been through some shit, but otherwise they're just irritating. Abi knows she can die and still doesn't end her relationship with Ryder as a normal and sensitive person would do. Ryder is... well, just bland? These two just ogle each other and want to have hot sex, sometimes tease each other about the sex but the book never indicates that they actually, like, talk. About things they like, things that they don't like.
There's the ATTRACTION and CHEMISTRY but for god's sake how can a couple build a relationship solely on that?
Abi is a teacher in America, Ryder is ex-solder that is going to be a rancher (still unclear on that part), they're from two different worlds and the reader is supposed to believe that they will get their Happy Ever After they deserve.
Then there was Ryder's family and, like, you know each one of them is going to have their own book. They're all adopted, all hot, of course they're going to have their own books.
The good thing about the books was setting - Australia, the Australian outbacks which is unusual and picked my interest.
I'm tired with the trope of the heroes looking at each other and their bodies going all hot and bothered. I get that it happens, I get that relationships start this way but in this book it was just over the top.
Won't read the next one I think.
Abigail Williams jumps on a plane to Australia to fill her bucket list and meets the man of her dream. That, technically, would be the whole book summarised in one sentence, however, the story is more complicated that that. Abi, as it turns out, has a cancer and in some time she will have the final surgery that would either kill her or save her life. Ryder Harper is a sergeant who left the army (I think, the details are fuzzy I read this book a while ago) and he's coming back to his family home to relax and... have a life.
They meet, instant attraction starts between them and holy shit. I've been shifting my thoughts from wanting to kill these characters and just hug them because they have been through some shit, but otherwise they're just irritating. Abi knows she can die and still doesn't end her relationship with Ryder as a normal and sensitive person would do. Ryder is... well, just bland? These two just ogle each other and want to have hot sex, sometimes tease each other about the sex but the book never indicates that they actually, like, talk. About things they like, things that they don't like.
There's the ATTRACTION and CHEMISTRY but for god's sake how can a couple build a relationship solely on that?
Abi is a teacher in America, Ryder is ex-solder that is going to be a rancher (still unclear on that part), they're from two different worlds and the reader is supposed to believe that they will get their Happy Ever After they deserve.
Then there was Ryder's family and, like, you know each one of them is going to have their own book. They're all adopted, all hot, of course they're going to have their own books.
The good thing about the books was setting - Australia, the Australian outbacks which is unusual and picked my interest.
I'm tired with the trope of the heroes looking at each other and their bodies going all hot and bothered. I get that it happens, I get that relationships start this way but in this book it was just over the top.
Won't read the next one I think.
September 21, 2017
This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.
I don't even know where to start to describe the roller coaster of emotions that this book evokes! I was so involved in the book, that I think I read it all in one day, as I could not put the book down. It took me a few chapters to figure out that Abi refers to her brain tumor as Doris, but it finally made sense to me. When she meets Ryder on the plane, you can just see the sparks flying and that they were made for each other.
You understand that Abi is reluctant to get involved with anyone when she knows that she is scheduled for yet another surgery to kick her cancer. She is very strong and has had a hard life and this is just another hard knock on that hard life. I love how her bucket list played such a great role in this story, and how she found the things she thought were important changed when she met Ryder.
Ryder also had a rough start in life but found a wonderful adoptive family that is he still close to and loves, but then he joined Australia's special forces and was injured. He is a returning war hero who does not want all the attention that is showered on him!
When Abi is worried about no hair and the scars from her previous brain surgeries, Ryder shows her his prosthetic leg. From that point, you know they just fit!
Things don't quite go according to plans when Doris throws a fit and Abi is rushed to the hospital. This part is just gut wrenching and hard to read. I don't want to give anything away here but they both are gutted by their feelings and go their separate ways until Ryder changes things.
I sure hope that there are more books to this series as a few things that are brought up in the book as side issues, sound very interesting and were left unresolved. It would be great if there were more books about each of Ryder's siblings, and of course keep us updated on Ryder and Abi's life!
I don't even know where to start to describe the roller coaster of emotions that this book evokes! I was so involved in the book, that I think I read it all in one day, as I could not put the book down. It took me a few chapters to figure out that Abi refers to her brain tumor as Doris, but it finally made sense to me. When she meets Ryder on the plane, you can just see the sparks flying and that they were made for each other.
You understand that Abi is reluctant to get involved with anyone when she knows that she is scheduled for yet another surgery to kick her cancer. She is very strong and has had a hard life and this is just another hard knock on that hard life. I love how her bucket list played such a great role in this story, and how she found the things she thought were important changed when she met Ryder.
Ryder also had a rough start in life but found a wonderful adoptive family that is he still close to and loves, but then he joined Australia's special forces and was injured. He is a returning war hero who does not want all the attention that is showered on him!
When Abi is worried about no hair and the scars from her previous brain surgeries, Ryder shows her his prosthetic leg. From that point, you know they just fit!
Things don't quite go according to plans when Doris throws a fit and Abi is rushed to the hospital. This part is just gut wrenching and hard to read. I don't want to give anything away here but they both are gutted by their feelings and go their separate ways until Ryder changes things.
I sure hope that there are more books to this series as a few things that are brought up in the book as side issues, sound very interesting and were left unresolved. It would be great if there were more books about each of Ryder's siblings, and of course keep us updated on Ryder and Abi's life!
December 23, 2017
What a beautiful story! I’ll admit it Against All Odds brought tears to my eyes a few times; but I loved every minute of the journey.
Jezz de Silva is a new author to me. I only discovered him because I was offered an ARC of his second book A Choice of Fate. I read the first few pages of that book and was completely overcome with a need to start the series from the beginning to get the full story.
I’m so glad I did. Jezz de Silva has a beautiful rhythmic writing style that just grabs your attention and won’t let go. His characterisations were spot on. You couldn’t help falling in love with the big marshmallow Ryder or admire Abigails strength. They were believable as a couple, you could almost feel the chemistry coming off the page.
The fact that this is an Aussie author is just a bonus, but what I truly loved was his ability to weave a tale set in the Australian Outback and have the reader know without a doubt just where they were without relying on Australian stereotypes. I mean I love Crocodile Dundee and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, but I don’t want to feel like I am reading a script based on these movies when reading a contemporary romance. That didn’t happen here but there also wasn’t any doubt just where in the world the characters were either. Yes, some of the colourful Australian lingo made the pages but it was understated and done in a way to provide humour. It was tastefully done and I loved every minute of it.
I haven’t become so engrossed in a romance for a while and I’m so happy I took a step back and started this series from the beginning. I can’t wait to read book 2!
All my reviews can be found on my blog The Word Nerd Reviews
Jezz de Silva is a new author to me. I only discovered him because I was offered an ARC of his second book A Choice of Fate. I read the first few pages of that book and was completely overcome with a need to start the series from the beginning to get the full story.
I’m so glad I did. Jezz de Silva has a beautiful rhythmic writing style that just grabs your attention and won’t let go. His characterisations were spot on. You couldn’t help falling in love with the big marshmallow Ryder or admire Abigails strength. They were believable as a couple, you could almost feel the chemistry coming off the page.
The fact that this is an Aussie author is just a bonus, but what I truly loved was his ability to weave a tale set in the Australian Outback and have the reader know without a doubt just where they were without relying on Australian stereotypes. I mean I love Crocodile Dundee and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, but I don’t want to feel like I am reading a script based on these movies when reading a contemporary romance. That didn’t happen here but there also wasn’t any doubt just where in the world the characters were either. Yes, some of the colourful Australian lingo made the pages but it was understated and done in a way to provide humour. It was tastefully done and I loved every minute of it.
I haven’t become so engrossed in a romance for a while and I’m so happy I took a step back and started this series from the beginning. I can’t wait to read book 2!
All my reviews can be found on my blog The Word Nerd Reviews
September 19, 2017
The bomb ticking inside Abigail Williams has shadowed every moment of her adult life. With the timer counting down, Abi embarks on one final adventure into the Australian outback before returning to L.A. to fight for her life.
Sergeant Ryder Harper survived over a decade in Australia’s most elite military unit. He’s ready to hang up his assault rifle and drag what’s left of his broken body back home. He dreads the long flight back to Brisbane, until he collides with the stubborn, maddening seductress sitting beside him.
Abi ignites a need deep inside Ryder, leaving him desperate for more time with this woman with mesmerizing eyes and an even more intoxicating spirit. But when Abi finally relents to Ryder’s offer to be her outback guide, she has one condition: When it’s time, he’ll have to let her go.
Review:
These two sure have had their share of ups and downs, and the downs are pretty big but they are fighters. The journey of this couple is a whirlwind of emotions, romance, sexiness and some fun too. I think the Author did a great job of not making this book too heavy. One of the ways she did that was keeping Abi snarky, witty and stubborn. I love that she has a name for her tumor, Doris. Ryder is the ultimate good guy. He is a war hero, his moral compass points true north, caring and just so sexy. I loved Abi's sister and Ryder's whole family, they are some fun characters and really add to the story. I am assuming by the series title that maybe some of the siblings will get a story too.
A story to make your heart feel happy.
4Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*
Sergeant Ryder Harper survived over a decade in Australia’s most elite military unit. He’s ready to hang up his assault rifle and drag what’s left of his broken body back home. He dreads the long flight back to Brisbane, until he collides with the stubborn, maddening seductress sitting beside him.
Abi ignites a need deep inside Ryder, leaving him desperate for more time with this woman with mesmerizing eyes and an even more intoxicating spirit. But when Abi finally relents to Ryder’s offer to be her outback guide, she has one condition: When it’s time, he’ll have to let her go.
Review:
These two sure have had their share of ups and downs, and the downs are pretty big but they are fighters. The journey of this couple is a whirlwind of emotions, romance, sexiness and some fun too. I think the Author did a great job of not making this book too heavy. One of the ways she did that was keeping Abi snarky, witty and stubborn. I love that she has a name for her tumor, Doris. Ryder is the ultimate good guy. He is a war hero, his moral compass points true north, caring and just so sexy. I loved Abi's sister and Ryder's whole family, they are some fun characters and really add to the story. I am assuming by the series title that maybe some of the siblings will get a story too.
A story to make your heart feel happy.
4Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*
September 4, 2017
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
3.5 stars
I have mixed feelings about this one and some trouble classifying it. While I loved the characters, the different setting (the Australian Outback) and finding a new Australian author, I thought there was a lot of melodrama and the writing style showed a tendency toward hyperbole and overdramatizing, which aren’t really my favorite strategies.
So, the hero Ryder Harper, is a wounded hero (here in the most denotative sense), a former Australian Special Forces soldier, who is a larger than life character – a “battle-hardened Prince Charming”, a huge, gentle warrior with a “granite jaw”, “massive biceps”, a “mountainous torso”, a blending of male ruggedness, sexiness and gentleness.
He is “cocky, overbearing, overprotective, over-skilled”. He’s “just too much – too much muscle, too much charm, and too much alpha-male confidence and experience”.
His fierce devotion to the heroine is admirable.
The heroine, Abi… she’s really strong. I had my doubts about the feasibility of some of her actions and I had to suspend the disbelief what with her condition.
This is an insta-attraction and insta-love romance – I found it credible. Even though I liked the parts about Ryder’s family, giving an insight into life in the Australian Outback, I thought that could have been reduced.
So, this was intense but with lots of eye-rolling. And I’ve enjoyed it.
+++I'm grateful to the publisher, Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy. All quotes from ARC+++
3.5 stars
I have mixed feelings about this one and some trouble classifying it. While I loved the characters, the different setting (the Australian Outback) and finding a new Australian author, I thought there was a lot of melodrama and the writing style showed a tendency toward hyperbole and overdramatizing, which aren’t really my favorite strategies.
So, the hero Ryder Harper, is a wounded hero (here in the most denotative sense), a former Australian Special Forces soldier, who is a larger than life character – a “battle-hardened Prince Charming”, a huge, gentle warrior with a “granite jaw”, “massive biceps”, a “mountainous torso”, a blending of male ruggedness, sexiness and gentleness.
He is “cocky, overbearing, overprotective, over-skilled”. He’s “just too much – too much muscle, too much charm, and too much alpha-male confidence and experience”.
His fierce devotion to the heroine is admirable.
The heroine, Abi… she’s really strong. I had my doubts about the feasibility of some of her actions and I had to suspend the disbelief what with her condition.
This is an insta-attraction and insta-love romance – I found it credible. Even though I liked the parts about Ryder’s family, giving an insight into life in the Australian Outback, I thought that could have been reduced.
So, this was intense but with lots of eye-rolling. And I’ve enjoyed it.
+++I'm grateful to the publisher, Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy. All quotes from ARC+++
September 17, 2017
ryder harper gets on a plane back to australia expecting to only be down his leg. after all, he'd lost it years ago while on assignment in afghanistan. his experiences in war had him surviving death more than once. but when he meets his seat mate in against all odds, he's pretty sure that he's down his heart too.
the last thing abi expects is for a real life australian super hero to sit next to her. her luck hasn't been close to good recently, what with the rediscovery of her third brain tumor, a glioblastoma she's christened doris. this trip is kind of a last hurrah, a chance to see and experience the world while she still can.
but somewhere along the pacific, ryder and abi fall in love. not that they'll admit it. ryder knows it will scare her away. and abi doesn't want ryder loving her if it will only mean losing her. from then on this is the push-pull of the novel. abi's future, her health is something that hangs over the plot, sometimes it drags it down. in the end, the characters get a happy for now. but when you know enough about brain cancer, you know that at most abi has ten years. it's her third bout of the disease. it's hard to buy the happily ever after.
and there's nothing wrong with the "better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all" school of thought. it's just it's kind of a downer, and not what i'm looking for in my romance novels. to be honest, i prefer my romances to be cancer-free.
**against all odds will publish on september 18, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (select contemporary) in exchange for my honest review.
the last thing abi expects is for a real life australian super hero to sit next to her. her luck hasn't been close to good recently, what with the rediscovery of her third brain tumor, a glioblastoma she's christened doris. this trip is kind of a last hurrah, a chance to see and experience the world while she still can.
but somewhere along the pacific, ryder and abi fall in love. not that they'll admit it. ryder knows it will scare her away. and abi doesn't want ryder loving her if it will only mean losing her. from then on this is the push-pull of the novel. abi's future, her health is something that hangs over the plot, sometimes it drags it down. in the end, the characters get a happy for now. but when you know enough about brain cancer, you know that at most abi has ten years. it's her third bout of the disease. it's hard to buy the happily ever after.
and there's nothing wrong with the "better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all" school of thought. it's just it's kind of a downer, and not what i'm looking for in my romance novels. to be honest, i prefer my romances to be cancer-free.
**against all odds will publish on september 18, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (select contemporary) in exchange for my honest review.
September 15, 2017
LOVED this book! I was immediately engrossed in the characters' story - so much that I felt invested in their tale and kept hoping for them to get a HEA. Both Abi and Ryder have lived lives that have shown them great pain, but somehow they forge an unlikely connection that makes it more bearable. Ryder is the oh so sexy special ops war hero who doesn't feel very heroic and only wants to return home to his family and never leave again. Abi is the teacher who sacrificed to raise her sister and then has had to deal with one health crisis after another. Somehow, their connection works - I'm surprised my kindle didn't ignite from all the sparks flying in their relationship.
This is the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be the last. This is a must read for fans of the genre. I've added the author to my must read authors' list.
This is the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be the last. This is a must read for fans of the genre. I've added the author to my must read authors' list.
December 30, 2017
Oh my goodness, hold onto your heart and prep your cheek muscles. This story is simply magic and the banter between all the characters is hilarious. I laughed and smiled so many times. Abi and Ryder were sarcastic, sharp tongued, flirtatious, and quick witted. They sucked me in from their first meeting. They were full of heart, love, and determination. I could not put this book down and read it continuously. Simply amazing story - strong family connections on both Abi's and Ryder's side. I loved how she blended perfectly with his family and how easily he bonded with her sister. It was beautiful, tear inducing, and funny all at the same time. Definitely a roller coaster of emotions in this story, but every one felt is worth it.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
December 17, 2017
This is the 2nd book by this new author that I have read last year. I was in tears most of the time and had to stop reading to calm myself before I continued reading. My heart went out to Abi the heroine, for being so strong with regard to her serious illness yet willing to give live a go and let herself fall in love with the caring handsome ex-soldier. I loved the outback setting and the family of mixed breeds living together in love and harmony in the outback homestead. It was the perfect setting for the two lovebirds. I was very relieved at the happy ending. Waiting for the next book.
September 29, 2017
When life is starting to go down hill for Abi. Her plan to fix it? She is going to go to Australia to do things she wouldn't normally do. Worn out and tired of the past few years.... Ryder knows he needs a life change. Being in a America collecting medals for almost dying...well it's not for him. Meeting on a plane sitting next to each other for a 13 hour flight...well things are going to heat up. When he suggests that he is going to be her tour guide. It will be one wild ride.
I enjoyed this one. It was interesting to read and a nice break from the happiness and perfect love story.
I enjoyed this one. It was interesting to read and a nice break from the happiness and perfect love story.
March 3, 2018
Ah, hell, I hate books that make me cry and this is the second in as many weeks. On the other hand, it's a story that needed to be told and the author did an excellent job.
Some have complained about the writing style or phrasing. I chalk it up to Aussie vs American English or beauty is in the eye of the beholder and leave it at that. I found it an easier read than recent British novels, so full of slang I had to google.
Will I read the next book in the series? Sure, after I work a little on my backlog of TBRs.
Some have complained about the writing style or phrasing. I chalk it up to Aussie vs American English or beauty is in the eye of the beholder and leave it at that. I found it an easier read than recent British novels, so full of slang I had to google.
Will I read the next book in the series? Sure, after I work a little on my backlog of TBRs.
July 27, 2022
I loved the story. Abi has is traveling to Austrila for what she hopes will not be her last time on earth. She has been fighting for her life against a brain tumor that has already taken so much of her dreams away. She is facing brain sugery in 5 short weeks, when she broads the plane. Little doe she know that she will meet the love of her life. The reader is taken an an emotional journey with Abi, as she falls more in loved the her big Aussie hero, and his family of misfits. The reader cheers for Abi as she fights for her life and the love of her likfe.
February 5, 2018
This is the second Jezz de Silva book that I’ve read, and I have no regrets. None at all.
After reading this book , I'd found my favorite author.
Everything Jezz de Silva writes, I will read it because I know that it won't be disappointing.
After reading this book , I'd found my favorite author.
Everything Jezz de Silva writes, I will read it because I know that it won't be disappointing.
October 25, 2018
So good!!!
The characters are fun and feisty and complicated. The style is bold and funny, even while being heart-wrenching and heart-filling.
This book is a definite winner and I'm looking forward to many more by this author!
The characters are fun and feisty and complicated. The style is bold and funny, even while being heart-wrenching and heart-filling.
This book is a definite winner and I'm looking forward to many more by this author!
August 29, 2017
Oh, goodness. I cried so hard reading this book! And then I swooned. Jezz de Silva broke my heart and put it back together again! And Ryder is 😍. Loved it!
November 3, 2017
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 20, 2017
Page 54 and they're still on that freaking plane! I mean, I get it's a long flight, and they need to get to know each other, but criminy, a little fast forward never hurt anybody! DNF!
January 29, 2018
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher*
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