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Never Blue #1
Never Lasting
Tali DiPietro is a good girl with a streak of punk rock rebel.
Before I left for college, my mom told me not to settle down with the first guy who crosses my path. Sage advise, sure, but that’s hard to do after I share an elevator with a guy who is nothing like the boys back home. I swore off musicians a long time ago, but when I see Jude on stage for the first time, I know I’m going to fall for him, and I’m damn sure it’s going to hurt.
Jude Goldman is a bad boy with a guitar and big dreams.
I have one goal: making it as a musician. There's no obstacle I won't destroy to be the one under the spotlight. Nothing has slowed me down, not until a chocolate-eyed girl with a New York accent enters my world. Tali becomes as important as landing a record deal, and I’ll do anything to have both, no matter how much it hurts.
We’re two ships moored together in a storm of excess, stardom, and broken promises pulled apart and yanked back in, until we’re both battered and breaking. We have that forever kind of love, but for us, forever might be nothing more than stardust and memories.
(The Never Blue duet is a spin-off of the Blue is the Color series, but can be read as a complete standalone!)
Before I left for college, my mom told me not to settle down with the first guy who crosses my path. Sage advise, sure, but that’s hard to do after I share an elevator with a guy who is nothing like the boys back home. I swore off musicians a long time ago, but when I see Jude on stage for the first time, I know I’m going to fall for him, and I’m damn sure it’s going to hurt.
Jude Goldman is a bad boy with a guitar and big dreams.
I have one goal: making it as a musician. There's no obstacle I won't destroy to be the one under the spotlight. Nothing has slowed me down, not until a chocolate-eyed girl with a New York accent enters my world. Tali becomes as important as landing a record deal, and I’ll do anything to have both, no matter how much it hurts.
We’re two ships moored together in a storm of excess, stardom, and broken promises pulled apart and yanked back in, until we’re both battered and breaking. We have that forever kind of love, but for us, forever might be nothing more than stardust and memories.
(The Never Blue duet is a spin-off of the Blue is the Color series, but can be read as a complete standalone!)
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2019
429 people are currently reading
977 people want to read
About the author
Julia Wolf
49 books3,521 followersJulia lives in Maryland with her patient husband and three crazy, beautiful kids!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
June 2, 2020
5 ❤️ ❤️ it’s always 💔 gonna be you 💔💔 🎶 love, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll 🎶 ✨✨✨✨✨s❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️
I am always looking for books that turn out to be beautiful gems and leave me astonished or speechless.
The first part of this duet was more than intense and riveting.
Jude and Tali were young when they fell in love. Jude loved her derp and with no limits.
“You’re my forever.” Jude
He was afraid to hope or believe that one day he would be a famous rock star, due to his up to then life experiences.
Tali loved music. She also loved Jude. She was the thinkiest thinker Jude would ever meet, smart, mature, a giving person.
Their relationship developed gradually and it was powerful and full of passion.
“I want to tattoo my name and lyrics all over you.” Jude
So, as Jude’s fame started taking off, their time was borrowed, while both of them were chasing their dreams. Tali had to finish her studies and Jude had to leave either on a tour or for recording.
And Jude’s mistakes kept piling...
And my heart was breaking into pieces, watching their incredible love falling apart..
And then Jude let Tali go...
Six months later Tali let Jude go...
I was captivated by the author’s beautiful writing, the gripping story, the amazing characters. Main and secondary were outstanding! Each one of them!
I don’t know how this story will turn out in the second part, but soon I will definitely read the “Blue is the Color” series!
This part was far more than I expected...
I am always looking for books that turn out to be beautiful gems and leave me astonished or speechless.
The first part of this duet was more than intense and riveting.
Jude and Tali were young when they fell in love. Jude loved her derp and with no limits.
“You’re my forever.” Jude
He was afraid to hope or believe that one day he would be a famous rock star, due to his up to then life experiences.
Tali loved music. She also loved Jude. She was the thinkiest thinker Jude would ever meet, smart, mature, a giving person.
Their relationship developed gradually and it was powerful and full of passion.
“I want to tattoo my name and lyrics all over you.” Jude
So, as Jude’s fame started taking off, their time was borrowed, while both of them were chasing their dreams. Tali had to finish her studies and Jude had to leave either on a tour or for recording.
And Jude’s mistakes kept piling...
And my heart was breaking into pieces, watching their incredible love falling apart..
And then Jude let Tali go...
Six months later Tali let Jude go...
I was captivated by the author’s beautiful writing, the gripping story, the amazing characters. Main and secondary were outstanding! Each one of them!
I don’t know how this story will turn out in the second part, but soon I will definitely read the “Blue is the Color” series!
This part was far more than I expected...
August 15, 2021
Note to self avoid this duet.
Hero sleeps with ow after sex with h, during fights & short separations with h. Read it’s constant.
Technically not cheating but still he’s fucking ow and he’s a drug addict rocker.
Book ends with a break up, book 2 is them 10+ yrs later.🙄
Hero sleeps with ow after sex with h, during fights & short separations with h. Read it’s constant.
Technically not cheating but still he’s fucking ow and he’s a drug addict rocker.
Book ends with a break up, book 2 is them 10+ yrs later.🙄
November 26, 2019
If you've read any of books in Julia Wolf's amazing Blue is the Color
rockstar romance series (if you haven't yet, get busy!) you've already met an older, more mature Tali DiPietro, Blue's unflappable manager. Maybe wondered what makes her tick... why is she so tough and secretive about her past? This book goes back in time, shows the beginning of her story as a young adult, ready to live and learn. It explores the wonderful new friendships and the personal growth she finds after leaving the protective shell her big, loving, Italian family provided. Tali meets 2 beautiful men on that 1st day in her new college. One in particular stands out and try as she might, there's no looking away from him. Their smoldering story will have you holding on for dear life as the gifted musician's star begins to rise and Tali juggles her feelings for him, along with school, friends and distance.
Ahhh... young love! It might lift you up but could just as easily break your heart. Resistance is futile, just as the flutter of those inevitable butterflies beat their pretty wings against it. The love feels so warm and delicious, you ignore the warnings to guard your heart and shove them out the window of your mind.
Never Lasting is a heartstopping ride, so real and omg, I was just right there with every one of these unique and colorful characters. Hearing this young couples points of view and personal thoughts, revealed a gamut of emotions at any given moment and I loved them all. Every ounce of what they felt, I was feeling too, even if I knew it was going to kill me. Talia and Jude had my heart and soul so completely invested in their complex story, I was unable to set it down until I reached the unbelievable ending. Gaaahhhhhh! What an ending it was!
Jeez Louise!!! I'm dying here now, but I'll just say is this- read Never Lasting- it's a story you don't want to miss, angst and all!
There are some rocky roads on Tali and Jude's journey, but I wanted to know every detail of it...but enough said for now!
Julia, you devil of a storyteller! I'm once again glued to every chapter, absorbed into another one of your amazing books world. This author has the ability to bring me to my knees with twists I never saw coming. She took my heart and squished it between her talented fingers, but I'm going to leave it in her capable hands and see where that takes me. She has blown me away yet again and may have just outdone herself this time.
Part 2 of the duet, Never Again, will complete the story, but not to worry, it will release just 2 weeks after this one... a very short interlude, right?? Although reading the Blue is the Color series is not neccessary to understand this 1st part of the duet, you might want to binge the hell out of them, just because you can, as you wait for part 2 of this beautifully written story. Tali is there waiting for you there, all grown up and what a force to be reckoned with she is.
An early copy of this amazing book was generously given to review and I am sharing my heartfelt feelings with you now.
rockstar romance series (if you haven't yet, get busy!) you've already met an older, more mature Tali DiPietro, Blue's unflappable manager. Maybe wondered what makes her tick... why is she so tough and secretive about her past? This book goes back in time, shows the beginning of her story as a young adult, ready to live and learn. It explores the wonderful new friendships and the personal growth she finds after leaving the protective shell her big, loving, Italian family provided. Tali meets 2 beautiful men on that 1st day in her new college. One in particular stands out and try as she might, there's no looking away from him. Their smoldering story will have you holding on for dear life as the gifted musician's star begins to rise and Tali juggles her feelings for him, along with school, friends and distance.
Ahhh... young love! It might lift you up but could just as easily break your heart. Resistance is futile, just as the flutter of those inevitable butterflies beat their pretty wings against it. The love feels so warm and delicious, you ignore the warnings to guard your heart and shove them out the window of your mind.
Never Lasting is a heartstopping ride, so real and omg, I was just right there with every one of these unique and colorful characters. Hearing this young couples points of view and personal thoughts, revealed a gamut of emotions at any given moment and I loved them all. Every ounce of what they felt, I was feeling too, even if I knew it was going to kill me. Talia and Jude had my heart and soul so completely invested in their complex story, I was unable to set it down until I reached the unbelievable ending. Gaaahhhhhh! What an ending it was!
Jeez Louise!!! I'm dying here now, but I'll just say is this- read Never Lasting- it's a story you don't want to miss, angst and all!
There are some rocky roads on Tali and Jude's journey, but I wanted to know every detail of it...but enough said for now!
Julia, you devil of a storyteller! I'm once again glued to every chapter, absorbed into another one of your amazing books world. This author has the ability to bring me to my knees with twists I never saw coming. She took my heart and squished it between her talented fingers, but I'm going to leave it in her capable hands and see where that takes me. She has blown me away yet again and may have just outdone herself this time.
Part 2 of the duet, Never Again, will complete the story, but not to worry, it will release just 2 weeks after this one... a very short interlude, right?? Although reading the Blue is the Color series is not neccessary to understand this 1st part of the duet, you might want to binge the hell out of them, just because you can, as you wait for part 2 of this beautifully written story. Tali is there waiting for you there, all grown up and what a force to be reckoned with she is.
An early copy of this amazing book was generously given to review and I am sharing my heartfelt feelings with you now.
December 4, 2019
OH MY EVER LOVIN' HELL Julia Wolf! You ripped my heart out, and I'm not sure that you can fix it at this point, after that brutal cliffy. Jude & Tali's story is too much, it's too much! Never Lasting is the beginning of Tali & Jude's story, and OMG! I can't tell you all that's happened, but I really really want to. They met, kept meeting, until they decided to go for it, and see how they were together, as Tali was in college while Jude was trying to be a rock star. The ups & down were so frustrating as Jude's music career started taking off, and I was ready to throw in the towel. I fell hard for Jude, but I'm not so happy with him anymore, in fact, I really really really want to take turns throat punching him to junk punching, to throat punching...etc. I'm not sure I'll ever be able to forgive him after that ending, but time will tell, though it's not looking good. So, I'm going to keep this review short & sweet because not only am I super emotional, I'm afraid I'll go on a rant to end all rants, which would end up with spoilers spilling out. Julia Wolf is such a talented author that I'm all in, and all extreme emotions like this was all happening in my world, so do yourselves a solid, and hit that one click button! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
February 9, 2021
3.5 Stars for this one. I knew this book would break my heart. I tried to prepare myself for a typical rock star - sex, drugs, and rock n roll - but still I hated watching the descent. There was so much good about Jude and Tali, I felt like the characters had depth and I was pulled into their story. But as expected, Jude throws it all away and the hurt was too much forgive. And though there isn't any actual cheating, I always hate when the so called Hero runs off and has sex with other people after declaring he wants our heroine. In this case, Jude does it in the beginning, and again in the end. Any time he can't have her he's off having someone else. Doesn't exactly scream devotion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
November 18, 2019Book 1 in Tali's duet, Never Lasting, is up for pre-order! It will release on December 3, and so far my ARC readers are losing their minds. Who's ready to lose their minds too?
mybook.to/NeverLasting
Book 2, Never Again, releases two weeks later on December 17!
mybook.to/NeverBlueDuet
Are you ready?
mybook.to/NeverLasting
Book 2, Never Again, releases two weeks later on December 17!
mybook.to/NeverBlueDuet
Are you ready?
November 13, 2019
So there’s this author I like to read. She’s reinvented herself a couple of times now, what with a funny, light series, followed by a darker, grittier series that I adored. Guess what? She’s done it AGAIN. Tali and Jude’s story has managed to ruin me. And yet, here I am, waiting and hoping for the rest of their story.
Tali and Jude aren’t quite the typical young love couple. They start with an accidental meeting, then more accidental encounters (on one part, at least), until Jude finally gets himself together enough to play it totally straight. After all, he’s already falling for Tali and feels like he’s been chasing her all along, so why not let her know just how serious he is about her?
Tali isn’t sure that she’s ready for the intensity that Jude is sure to bring, but she knows that she’s falling for him. Even if she doesn’t want to, she can’t help but feel that Jude could be her everything. So she gives in and gives their love a shot. A damn good shot, at that.
Tali and Jude make their way together through the desperate twists and turns of immature love. They’re of legal age, but they’re not quite adults mentally just yet. They’re mature, but not mature enough for what lies in wait for them. When dreams come true, lies start piling up. Both parties hide truths, so of course it all blows up. Then comes the big, giant, “we can’t come back from this” betrayal. The very first promise is broken. The very promise that was valued above all others. The one promise that would guarantee that trust is lost.
I wanted to scream and cry at the last two chapters of this book. My heart pounded and then broke on the last page of this book. And yet, here I sit, waiting for the second half of their duet. How can Jude and Tali POSSIBLY move forward from this? I don’t know, but I can’t wait to find out. After all, I know this author won’t steer me wrong.
Tali and Jude aren’t quite the typical young love couple. They start with an accidental meeting, then more accidental encounters (on one part, at least), until Jude finally gets himself together enough to play it totally straight. After all, he’s already falling for Tali and feels like he’s been chasing her all along, so why not let her know just how serious he is about her?
Tali isn’t sure that she’s ready for the intensity that Jude is sure to bring, but she knows that she’s falling for him. Even if she doesn’t want to, she can’t help but feel that Jude could be her everything. So she gives in and gives their love a shot. A damn good shot, at that.
Tali and Jude make their way together through the desperate twists and turns of immature love. They’re of legal age, but they’re not quite adults mentally just yet. They’re mature, but not mature enough for what lies in wait for them. When dreams come true, lies start piling up. Both parties hide truths, so of course it all blows up. Then comes the big, giant, “we can’t come back from this” betrayal. The very first promise is broken. The very promise that was valued above all others. The one promise that would guarantee that trust is lost.
I wanted to scream and cry at the last two chapters of this book. My heart pounded and then broke on the last page of this book. And yet, here I sit, waiting for the second half of their duet. How can Jude and Tali POSSIBLY move forward from this? I don’t know, but I can’t wait to find out. After all, I know this author won’t steer me wrong.
December 5, 2019
This is the first book from this author that I have read. I really enjoyed this book. Beautifully written story and wonderful characters. Jude and Tali were so good together. I can’t wait to read book 2 so I can get the rest of their story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 3, 2020
Seen it coming
What makes this a terrific book is the depth of feelings the Author pulls out of every character, not just Jude and Talia. Family and friendships that are believable, as a reader I felt like I was there, witnessing Jude and Talia falling in love and then those annoying flutters started in my stomach. Where you just knew, heartache was waiting to strike.
What makes this a terrific book is the depth of feelings the Author pulls out of every character, not just Jude and Talia. Family and friendships that are believable, as a reader I felt like I was there, witnessing Jude and Talia falling in love and then those annoying flutters started in my stomach. Where you just knew, heartache was waiting to strike.
September 12, 2020
Pages: 267
My rating: 4
Read other books by this author in the future:
MC: Tali, Jude
I was looking for a good rockstar romance and found out that books of Julia Wolf are recommended. I did not know this author, so I put a book on my wish list. Recently I got it free for a limited time and bought it.
Tali is a 19 year old girl with an Italian family. At the beginning of the book she changed form a community college to another collage in her sophomore year. She is housing with Nina her cousin. On her first day on campus they for lunch, but because Tali forgot her ID in her room she goes back and meets two guys in an elevator. She is pretty shy but they are taken by her and hazel eyes gives her a bracelet. Turns out that hazel eyes is Jude a musician and the other guy is his friend Ben, who has a class with Tali. The become friend and in case of Jude Tali really likes him. Jude lives a rockstar live: he has a girlfriend, sometime indulges in alcohol and drugs. There is a mention of some Tragedy in Bens and Jude’s life but we do not know what it is.
I liked the characters, Nina is a good friend with a shitty taste in her girlfriend department. Tino sees Tali and likes her very much as a close friend. He is really sweet with Tali. He is gay. Ben is a good guy with a troubled passed. We only learn in the second book what happened in the past.
I love that the relationship between Tali and Jude started quite quickly. After she hears Jude sing she knows he is in for a big career. She gets him started by calling a Festival organiser and sending demo tapes to different people. But as Jude gets more successful he has to be away form Tali a lot and he starts to struggle and with him the relationship starts to struggle.
They are in for a long rough tragic ride. But there is no HEA at the end of book 1 and you have to read the sequel to see, how this will end.
I loved this book and read it every free minute I had. I felt for Tali, Jude, Ben, Tino and Nina. They are good people.
And I do agree with the reviews I read before putting this book on my wish list: Julia is a great romance author.
Want to read
September 8, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/8/2020)! 🎁
December 3, 2019
In Never Lasting, book one in Julia Wolf's Never Blue Duet, she presents a coming of age love story that leaves a timeless impression of unfiltered true love!
Readers will be hard put to find a more tortured hero than Jude. His struggle was painful to watch play out as he fought through every barrier put up to save him only to ultimately succumb to the inner demons tethered to him leaving a wake of misery and condemnation all around him. Bad things happen to good people and Jude was a classic example of that as he constantly tried to move past his pain and reach for the one thing he truly wanted Tali. Nothing is more satisfying than a heroine that is not only smart and strong but likeable. Tali was fierce in her integrity standing by Jude yet knowing her boundaries even when her heart wanted to cross their boundaries over and over again. This couple never had a chance but to be together because the minute they found each other they were wrecked for anyone else. Reading Jude and Tali's love story made other love stories pale in comparison with the hold they each held on the other's hearts. This work was intense and took no easy roads.
Julia Wolf built in so many little details to her characters that they rose above the pages that their story resided on and gave them a depth that is rare. This author went to some dark places and reached further than most. Her portrayals loves were your loves and their hates were your hates making every emotion this writer disclosed in her book her readers as well. This work was not about finding first love or even love but finding the love and the power of its discovery both good and bad. Julia Wolf was blunt in her truth but the beauty of her words in Never Lasting made the telling of her story an extraordinary experience worth the unavoidable anguish in knowing it.
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
*This book should be read with Never Ending to reach the conclusion of the Never Blue Duet.*
Readers will be hard put to find a more tortured hero than Jude. His struggle was painful to watch play out as he fought through every barrier put up to save him only to ultimately succumb to the inner demons tethered to him leaving a wake of misery and condemnation all around him. Bad things happen to good people and Jude was a classic example of that as he constantly tried to move past his pain and reach for the one thing he truly wanted Tali. Nothing is more satisfying than a heroine that is not only smart and strong but likeable. Tali was fierce in her integrity standing by Jude yet knowing her boundaries even when her heart wanted to cross their boundaries over and over again. This couple never had a chance but to be together because the minute they found each other they were wrecked for anyone else. Reading Jude and Tali's love story made other love stories pale in comparison with the hold they each held on the other's hearts. This work was intense and took no easy roads.
Julia Wolf built in so many little details to her characters that they rose above the pages that their story resided on and gave them a depth that is rare. This author went to some dark places and reached further than most. Her portrayals loves were your loves and their hates were your hates making every emotion this writer disclosed in her book her readers as well. This work was not about finding first love or even love but finding the love and the power of its discovery both good and bad. Julia Wolf was blunt in her truth but the beauty of her words in Never Lasting made the telling of her story an extraordinary experience worth the unavoidable anguish in knowing it.
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
*This book should be read with Never Ending to reach the conclusion of the Never Blue Duet.*
December 12, 2019
When Tali finally escapes the bubble that is her family, she meets Jude. Jude who is undeniably her soul mate and will affect and change her life in countless ways. Alas, young love, first love, is often times not meant to be, or at least, not meant to last in its young form. So be prepared for the heartbreaking end of Never Lasting. It's not pretty but it will definitely get you right in the feels.
I loved this first part of Tali and Jude's story. It's New Adult/rockstar love at its finest and though I've already read (and loved) the conclusion, I can safely say I can't wait to read it again right after I've read this first part again.
ARC via HEA PR for an honest review.
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November 20, 2019
Never Lasting is a devastatingly beautiful, emotionally charged love story that is sure to put you through all of the feels complete with moments of laughter, swooning, and heartbreak. This book is mostly set when the very organized and studious Tali is in college and meets the musically talented Jude. These two possess such undeniable soul connection that the passion and love between them is palpable. Jude and Tali are both extremely supportive of each other and deeply in love, but there are mistakes, bad decisions, and hurdles that create destructive fissures in their hearts. There were times where I was laughing at some of the antics of the secondary characters as well as some kindle melting moments that left me fanning myself. Towards the end, I felt that my heart was ripped completely out of my chest as I ugly cried for all that occurred between the pages of those last few chapters. Never Lasting a well written book with amazing, well-developed characters; an entertaining storyline that moves at a good pace; and elicits all of the feels. I am very much looking forward to the next and final book in this duet.
I received an early complimentary copy of this book.
I received an early complimentary copy of this book.
November 18, 2019
If I could give more than five stars I would for this story. Holy crap my emotions are all over the place. The angst and drama Tali and Jude go through will put you through the ringer. The story started a bit slow but when it got going I couldn’t put it down. Another must read by this author!!!
December 3, 2019
Never Lasting is a perfect example of what Julia Wolf does best and that is she weaves absolute magic with her words, she takes you on a journey of angst, heartbreak and destruction with love trying to survive. Jude and Tali have a connection, one that is soul deep but as the life of a Rockstar takes Jude into a world that Tali won't accept, lies will be told and heart wrenching pain will be dealt. As anxiety levels hit DEFCON 1, my heart was beating out of my chest, my pulse was racing and I was almost left breathless as their worlds turn upside down all in the blink of an eye. Their story is one that demonstrates that sometimes love just isn't enough. As the end approaches on this first part of the Never Blue Duet you will be hoping that this pain is never lasting and that the chemistry and soul deep love is never ending.
August 17, 2021
A heartbreaking story of first love and how the road you travel is never easy. Sometimes love isn’t always enough. How many second chances can you give to someone you love before you lose yourself?
This is the perfect college, rockstar romance that will pull at your heart strings and have you binging the pages and not coming up for air. It will leave you breathless and your heart broken in two!
A must read! Now on to book two so Julia Wolf can rip out my heart some more.
This is the perfect college, rockstar romance that will pull at your heart strings and have you binging the pages and not coming up for air. It will leave you breathless and your heart broken in two!
A must read! Now on to book two so Julia Wolf can rip out my heart some more.
September 9, 2023
this broke me a little tbh
May 30, 2020
This book hurt my heart. I could see the ending coming as I expected it would, but it hurt when I turned out to be right. I just wanted to smack Jude so many times. Im about to dive into book 2 and hope for some type of band aid for my poor wounded heart.
November 22, 2019
This duet comepltley blew me away! I was nowhere near prepared for the angst, love, drama, friendship, heartbreak and redemption these books took me on. I've been in quite a book slump lately, and Jude and Tali not only cured it, but simultaneously making me unable to move on from their love.
Tali is nineteen years old when we first meet her, and she's grabbing the college life with both hands. She's just gotten free from her parents overprotective clutches, and with her best friend slash cousin, Nina in tow, she is ready to start her life. When a chance encounter has her meeting two boys that will forever change her life, she is caught up in a whirlwind that she never saw coming.
Jude, who is a little older than Tali and a lot more experienced, is the epitome of a rising star: without the cocky attitude (thank goodness.) He was fascinated by Tali when they first met, but when he sees her again at a college party which his band had just performed, he's immediately enchanted by her. Knowing that he should stay away from her, but refusing to, they soon embark on a love that most yearn for.
I loved everything leading up to their relationship: their flirtation, their explosive chemistry, their mutual love for music, and the depth of their connection made me feel like I was witnessing their love up close. I also loved that even though Jude had a girlfriend when they first met, he immediately knew that Tali was the one he was supposed to be with. And even though Tali knew she shouldn't get swept up with all that was Jude.. she couldn't fight it.
I also loved how independent Tali was. She was so focused on her school work and making sure her dreams would come true. She may have been the "thinkiest thinker" out there, but she also loved with her entire being. She was also a badass feminist who didn't let any man walk over her.🙌🙌
Though their love is powerful, all consuming, and so passionate, it's also flawed. When Jude is chasing his own dream, and the realization that all he's ever wanted is becoming a clear possibility, he comes at a crossroad versus who he is and who is wants to be. Though he and Tali have dabbled recreationally in drugs, Jude falls into the clenches of little white lines. Even with the warnings from Tali, it ends up taking over his every thought. At the beginning when he thinks he has it under control, the cracks in his and Tali's relationship appears. When Jude goes on tour, and they both keep things from each other, and the loss of such a beautiful soul, these two are catapulted to the outside of their love. Filled with heartbreak, broken trust, resentment, pain, and anger, Jude and Tali struggle with the fallout of their actions.
The ending of this first book had me devastated, wondering where this amazingly talented author would take us next, and just how Jude would be able to fix all that he destroyed. Trust me when I say that this is by far Julia's best work!!
Here are some of my favorite quotes!:
“It’s really good to see you. And not because you did something for me. It’s you, Stripes. It’s always gonna be you.”
"This was more than like. More than lust. I wasn’t ready to put a word to it, but I knew. She’d be every song I ever wrote. She’d be the morning and the night. Tali was it."
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!!**
Tali is nineteen years old when we first meet her, and she's grabbing the college life with both hands. She's just gotten free from her parents overprotective clutches, and with her best friend slash cousin, Nina in tow, she is ready to start her life. When a chance encounter has her meeting two boys that will forever change her life, she is caught up in a whirlwind that she never saw coming.
Jude, who is a little older than Tali and a lot more experienced, is the epitome of a rising star: without the cocky attitude (thank goodness.) He was fascinated by Tali when they first met, but when he sees her again at a college party which his band had just performed, he's immediately enchanted by her. Knowing that he should stay away from her, but refusing to, they soon embark on a love that most yearn for.
I loved everything leading up to their relationship: their flirtation, their explosive chemistry, their mutual love for music, and the depth of their connection made me feel like I was witnessing their love up close. I also loved that even though Jude had a girlfriend when they first met, he immediately knew that Tali was the one he was supposed to be with. And even though Tali knew she shouldn't get swept up with all that was Jude.. she couldn't fight it.
I also loved how independent Tali was. She was so focused on her school work and making sure her dreams would come true. She may have been the "thinkiest thinker" out there, but she also loved with her entire being. She was also a badass feminist who didn't let any man walk over her.🙌🙌
Though their love is powerful, all consuming, and so passionate, it's also flawed. When Jude is chasing his own dream, and the realization that all he's ever wanted is becoming a clear possibility, he comes at a crossroad versus who he is and who is wants to be. Though he and Tali have dabbled recreationally in drugs, Jude falls into the clenches of little white lines. Even with the warnings from Tali, it ends up taking over his every thought. At the beginning when he thinks he has it under control, the cracks in his and Tali's relationship appears. When Jude goes on tour, and they both keep things from each other, and the loss of such a beautiful soul, these two are catapulted to the outside of their love. Filled with heartbreak, broken trust, resentment, pain, and anger, Jude and Tali struggle with the fallout of their actions.
The ending of this first book had me devastated, wondering where this amazingly talented author would take us next, and just how Jude would be able to fix all that he destroyed. Trust me when I say that this is by far Julia's best work!!
Here are some of my favorite quotes!:
“It’s really good to see you. And not because you did something for me. It’s you, Stripes. It’s always gonna be you.”
"This was more than like. More than lust. I wasn’t ready to put a word to it, but I knew. She’d be every song I ever wrote. She’d be the morning and the night. Tali was it."
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!!**
November 26, 2019
We have been getting to know all the characters from Blue is the Color for some time now in this most excellent series. We've seen all the members of the band find their happily ever afters and the only one left is their manager Tali. In Never Lasting we meet Tali as she enters the University of Maryland and meets Jude. And. It. Is. Magic. He is her first love. She is as he says, "...every song I ever wrote." This is a beautiful story of young love. The story of promises and hope birthed by that young love and how decisions and choices can break those promises and leave hopes shattered. We see that tragedy hits no matter the age and the fact that people don't always handle tragedy well. Tragedy often causes those hurt to act in unhealthy ways and there's a hellishly long road to get to the other side. This book deals with a lot of hard topics, and honestly, I cried many times through the book as I read about these young souls dealing with things they really shouldn't have to be dealing with. I watched in sadness as these characters I really care about head down dark dark tunnels and I have to wait to see them come out the other side. I also note, what we think is the road to our dream and our ultimate goal is often lined with temptations and ditches that often can end us. And those temptations and ditches can steer us to ultimate redemption. There is so much promise here for Tali and Jude I want to see them get through. I will have to wait for the second part of the duet to see that promise. Julia has truly stepped up her game here. I thought she knocked it out of the part with "Under the Bridge" and the emotional telling of Ian and Valentina's story. Uh no. I was, in a word, wrecked upon finishing this book, and it is going to be so worth waiting for the second part of the duet.
On a side note, I've always liked the Killers and White Stripes. My daughter and friends have entertained me many times screaming "Mr. Brightside." And one of the first songs she learned to play on the bass was the infamous riff from "7 Nation Army." Julia has nailed it with a playlist to go with the book https://open.spotify.com/playlist/48I...
These songs only add feeling and atmosphere to the book. Give it a listen.
On a side note, I've always liked the Killers and White Stripes. My daughter and friends have entertained me many times screaming "Mr. Brightside." And one of the first songs she learned to play on the bass was the infamous riff from "7 Nation Army." Julia has nailed it with a playlist to go with the book https://open.spotify.com/playlist/48I...
These songs only add feeling and atmosphere to the book. Give it a listen.
December 29, 2019
Tali is a character I've been interested about since meeting her in the Blue is the Color series. She's a tough one that can handle a band of rock stars, so that made me very curious. Not anyone can do that, haha. Never Lasting takes us back to the early 2000s. I'm really happy that the author chose to do this, because it let me understand these characters so much more!
Tali is a music lover and it was fun reading about all of the different references. She gew up in a very loving family and at times they can be a tad overprotective. Let's just say she's happy to go away to college and have some freedom. I love Tali's serious attitude. She's determined to get her degree. So she doesn't party unless she has everything done. It's fun seeing Tali let loose and fall in love, but it isn't without consequences.
Jude is a character that caught my attention from the start and I knew he was going to be trouble. He's a rock star and is really hoping to break through with his band. He's a bad boy, but there's also a very loving and protective side of him. Meeting Tali flips his world upside down and he'd give anything for her. That being said, Jude's story also really breaks my heart. There's a lot to him and that explains in many ways why he chooses certain paths.
On top of an epic romance, I love the side characters in this story. Her cousin Nina is a fun one and you just want to hug her at times. Ben is whole different story and I really didn't see certain events coming. This author is that good. My favorite of them all is Tino. He left a smile on my face. I wouldn't complain if we got more of him eventually!
Tali and Jude's love story is epic and heartbreaking. There are so many twists and turns in Never Lasting that my heart couldn't keep up with the emotional roller coaster ride. I wanted nothing but for them to have their happily ever after, but it didn't seem to be in the cards for them at the time. I love Julia Wolf, because she makes us feel all the emotions when she writes us a story. And that ending had my heart in so many pieces... Definitely read this book after you make sure you own the sequel!
Tali is a music lover and it was fun reading about all of the different references. She gew up in a very loving family and at times they can be a tad overprotective. Let's just say she's happy to go away to college and have some freedom. I love Tali's serious attitude. She's determined to get her degree. So she doesn't party unless she has everything done. It's fun seeing Tali let loose and fall in love, but it isn't without consequences.
Jude is a character that caught my attention from the start and I knew he was going to be trouble. He's a rock star and is really hoping to break through with his band. He's a bad boy, but there's also a very loving and protective side of him. Meeting Tali flips his world upside down and he'd give anything for her. That being said, Jude's story also really breaks my heart. There's a lot to him and that explains in many ways why he chooses certain paths.
On top of an epic romance, I love the side characters in this story. Her cousin Nina is a fun one and you just want to hug her at times. Ben is whole different story and I really didn't see certain events coming. This author is that good. My favorite of them all is Tino. He left a smile on my face. I wouldn't complain if we got more of him eventually!
Tali and Jude's love story is epic and heartbreaking. There are so many twists and turns in Never Lasting that my heart couldn't keep up with the emotional roller coaster ride. I wanted nothing but for them to have their happily ever after, but it didn't seem to be in the cards for them at the time. I love Julia Wolf, because she makes us feel all the emotions when she writes us a story. And that ending had my heart in so many pieces... Definitely read this book after you make sure you own the sequel!
December 1, 2019
This Never Blue duet from Julia is definitely on my top ten list of best books of 2019. Julia is such an amazing writer but every book I read from her shows so surpasses the one before.
This is the backstory of Tali Di DiPietro the super organized and polished manager of Blue is the Colour who helped their career fly into the stratosphere. In Never Lasting we meet 19 year old Tali just entering her sophomore year at university along with her cousin and best friend Nina. Oh this so took me back to my college days feeling nervous but soon getting into the swing of things, meeting amazing new people and having lots of fun. Straightaway she meets two gorgeous young men, Ben and Jude. Ben becomes one of her close circle of friends, Jude becomes so much more.
Tali was determined to not get involved with anyone, she wanted to get the best education she could to set her up for a brilliant future career to make her beloved family proud, but it was impossible to resist the mesmerizing up and coming rock star Jude. Jude finds himself totally intrigued with Tali and connected to her in ways he has never felt before.
This was an incredible love story to read, with all the intensity, angst and heartbreak of first love. Tali is a very strong heroine whose secure family background and her will to be successful in life contrasts with Jude's insecurity. He is part of a broken family that gives him little support. He feels less worthy because to his best friend and girlfriend a good education is all important, while his only ambition is to be successful musician. This may be the reason why he goes down the path that he does that leads to the ending in the book.
Enjoy meeting Tali's family especially her Dad who still loved vinyl even in the early 2000's when everyone else was listing to cds and who encouraged Tali's passion for music which served her so well in her future career.
This is a must read, but you need to keep a box of tissues handy as you navigate this rocky but totally unforgettable romance with Tali and Jude.
This is the backstory of Tali Di DiPietro the super organized and polished manager of Blue is the Colour who helped their career fly into the stratosphere. In Never Lasting we meet 19 year old Tali just entering her sophomore year at university along with her cousin and best friend Nina. Oh this so took me back to my college days feeling nervous but soon getting into the swing of things, meeting amazing new people and having lots of fun. Straightaway she meets two gorgeous young men, Ben and Jude. Ben becomes one of her close circle of friends, Jude becomes so much more.
Tali was determined to not get involved with anyone, she wanted to get the best education she could to set her up for a brilliant future career to make her beloved family proud, but it was impossible to resist the mesmerizing up and coming rock star Jude. Jude finds himself totally intrigued with Tali and connected to her in ways he has never felt before.
This was an incredible love story to read, with all the intensity, angst and heartbreak of first love. Tali is a very strong heroine whose secure family background and her will to be successful in life contrasts with Jude's insecurity. He is part of a broken family that gives him little support. He feels less worthy because to his best friend and girlfriend a good education is all important, while his only ambition is to be successful musician. This may be the reason why he goes down the path that he does that leads to the ending in the book.
Enjoy meeting Tali's family especially her Dad who still loved vinyl even in the early 2000's when everyone else was listing to cds and who encouraged Tali's passion for music which served her so well in her future career.
This is a must read, but you need to keep a box of tissues handy as you navigate this rocky but totally unforgettable romance with Tali and Jude.
December 3, 2019
Wow! Absolutely amazing! This first book in the duet will have you joining the Julia Wolf train for one heck of a rollercoaster ride. You will laugh, scream at the pages at times,gasp, have your heart racing and cry... definitely cry! It’s an extremely thought provoking read.
Tali and Jude’s story starts with a chance meeting in an elevator, with a little bit of Benny thrown in. Oh my how I loved Benny! The nicknames he and Jude gave her were really cute, elevator girl and stripes. You’ll have to find out for yourselves how this chance meeting and nicknames play out throughout the story.
Jude is an up and coming young rock star who doesn’t know how to cope with everything that comes with the fame. He copes in not a favourable way. I don’t want to say too much as I don’t want to give away spoilers. He loves hard and makes endless mistakes. Tali a college girl who lives for music and is very knowledgeable on the subject is so patient and understanding, she has a very loyal best friend, who with the other secondary characters have significant parts in the story. I loved Tino he made me laugh frequently.
As for Tali and Jude facing bumps in he road, they faced two whacking great boulders near the end of the book, never mind bumps! The first one I sort of had an inkling but really hoped I was wrong, the second I did not see that one!
I couldn’t wait for the second book and I was lucky enough to receive them as an ARC...my first ARC. My ARC cherry has been well and truly popped! Julia you’ve done a fantastic job again!
Tali and Jude’s story starts with a chance meeting in an elevator, with a little bit of Benny thrown in. Oh my how I loved Benny! The nicknames he and Jude gave her were really cute, elevator girl and stripes. You’ll have to find out for yourselves how this chance meeting and nicknames play out throughout the story.
Jude is an up and coming young rock star who doesn’t know how to cope with everything that comes with the fame. He copes in not a favourable way. I don’t want to say too much as I don’t want to give away spoilers. He loves hard and makes endless mistakes. Tali a college girl who lives for music and is very knowledgeable on the subject is so patient and understanding, she has a very loyal best friend, who with the other secondary characters have significant parts in the story. I loved Tino he made me laugh frequently.
As for Tali and Jude facing bumps in he road, they faced two whacking great boulders near the end of the book, never mind bumps! The first one I sort of had an inkling but really hoped I was wrong, the second I did not see that one!
I couldn’t wait for the second book and I was lucky enough to receive them as an ARC...my first ARC. My ARC cherry has been well and truly popped! Julia you’ve done a fantastic job again!
December 4, 2019
I was soo excited to finally read Tali's story but damn I did not think what I read would be what her story would be like. I loved how Tali had a whole lot of sass and the love of music even when she was younger and totally thought she would be a bit of a nerdy check but also have a fun side. Her and Jude's love affair is a bot of a slow burn then all sorts of intense, gutting and captivating almost like a car losing control but you hope they regain control before it crashes. Tali's friendship with Tino was soo adorable and Nina was such a hoot and they all gave you loads to laugh at, while with Jude you knew his heart was in the right place but there was an under current of something and Ben well where to start I knew he was pretty intense from the party when Tali see's him and Jude for the second time but wow to be honest with both Jude and Ben I don't know whether to be sad or angry at them but I do know I wanted to slap them up side the head a few times. I don't know what will happen in book 2 but boy after the intensity and emotions you got with this one I think a bottle of wine and some chocolate might be called for! (actually I would recommend that for this book too😉 )
December 5, 2019
Have you ever started a book and become instantly obsessed with the story? Yes? That was me with Never Lasting.
I had met Tali in the Blue is the Color Series so I was STOKED to get her story and WHAT A BEGINNING to what I know is an epic journey, you guys!! I was immediately PULLED IN completely and all I wanted to do was READ. I stayed up way past my bedtime last night because I simply could not put down this book!!!
Angsty, emotional, sexy, and even funny at times, this book had it ALL.
JUDE. Oh my gosh...JUDE.
Suffice it to say that after THAT ending, which absolutely WRECKED ME, I NEEEEED to start book 2. Oh. My. Gosh.
Julia Wolf delivered.
This book was written beautifully with amazing characters (love Tino and the rest of the gang!). Julia's writing style is easy to fall in love with!! I can't get enough of her words!!!
Get this book. DEVOUR IT. Start the duet...trust me!!
FIVE STARS!!!!
I had met Tali in the Blue is the Color Series so I was STOKED to get her story and WHAT A BEGINNING to what I know is an epic journey, you guys!! I was immediately PULLED IN completely and all I wanted to do was READ. I stayed up way past my bedtime last night because I simply could not put down this book!!!
Angsty, emotional, sexy, and even funny at times, this book had it ALL.
JUDE. Oh my gosh...JUDE.
Suffice it to say that after THAT ending, which absolutely WRECKED ME, I NEEEEED to start book 2. Oh. My. Gosh.
Julia Wolf delivered.
This book was written beautifully with amazing characters (love Tino and the rest of the gang!). Julia's writing style is easy to fall in love with!! I can't get enough of her words!!!
Get this book. DEVOUR IT. Start the duet...trust me!!
FIVE STARS!!!!
December 4, 2019
Never Lasting is book one in the Never Blue series. For fans of the author’s Blue is the Color series we already know Tali as a supporting character in that series so it is great that she has her own book to tell her story. Book one takes place before Tali meets Blue is the Color and it is great seeing what shapes her to be the character we already know.
I really enjoyed the support and friendships between Tali, Nina, and Tino. The author does a wonderful job that it is easy to visualize the relationships.
Jude and Ben’s friendship is something of a mystery and it will keep you wondering is the best I can explain without giving away any spoilers.
You will find yourself on an emotional roller coaster ride with Tali and Jude. There are twists and things don’t happen as you would want them to. Their story doesn’t end with this book and thankfully we do not have to wait long for book two.
I really enjoyed the support and friendships between Tali, Nina, and Tino. The author does a wonderful job that it is easy to visualize the relationships.
Jude and Ben’s friendship is something of a mystery and it will keep you wondering is the best I can explain without giving away any spoilers.
You will find yourself on an emotional roller coaster ride with Tali and Jude. There are twists and things don’t happen as you would want them to. Their story doesn’t end with this book and thankfully we do not have to wait long for book two.
November 21, 2019
The early 2000 vibes come on strong in book one of this amazing duet. Tali is a fresh faced 19 year old with the whole world ahead of her. With Nina, her cousin and best friend at her side, Tali is ready to begin her sophomore year at the University of Maryland.
This book has you falling in love with Tali and Jude's journey right from the get go. Their chemistry is off the charts. We are also introduced to Ben and Tino who are both amazing characters in their own ways. The friendship she builds with both of them is truly beautiful at times. Both relationships, along with Nina's, are so very important to the storyline.
Never Lasting was such an emotional read. There were times I had an ache in my chest, the words were just too much. Tali's story is beautiful and broken. It left me devastated and I loved it. Going forward, it can only get better.....right?
This book has you falling in love with Tali and Jude's journey right from the get go. Their chemistry is off the charts. We are also introduced to Ben and Tino who are both amazing characters in their own ways. The friendship she builds with both of them is truly beautiful at times. Both relationships, along with Nina's, are so very important to the storyline.
Never Lasting was such an emotional read. There were times I had an ache in my chest, the words were just too much. Tali's story is beautiful and broken. It left me devastated and I loved it. Going forward, it can only get better.....right?
November 21, 2019
I had high hopes for this book but it exceeded my expectations in a major way.
Tali is a determined and good student. She has her life sorted out and knows exactly where she’s heading.
Jude on the other hand seems more like a dreamer. Rockstar is the only thing he ever wanted to be and he’s hoping for a big chance while he’s working and partying.
When they meet two worlds colliding, we get a fierce love story. It’s starting out so well, but it’s difficult because of different circumstances and life situations. It’s a struggle and I’m aching for them and want to kick someone at the same time.
I’m in agony when the book ends and can’t wait for the next. So many broken promises and burned bridges will take a saints patience and understanding to mend. I’m not sure I root for the rockstar but I feel his pain.
Tali is a determined and good student. She has her life sorted out and knows exactly where she’s heading.
Jude on the other hand seems more like a dreamer. Rockstar is the only thing he ever wanted to be and he’s hoping for a big chance while he’s working and partying.
When they meet two worlds colliding, we get a fierce love story. It’s starting out so well, but it’s difficult because of different circumstances and life situations. It’s a struggle and I’m aching for them and want to kick someone at the same time.
I’m in agony when the book ends and can’t wait for the next. So many broken promises and burned bridges will take a saints patience and understanding to mend. I’m not sure I root for the rockstar but I feel his pain.
November 24, 2019
This book! Above and well beyond her past books (and honestly there was not a bad one in the bunch I read, so that is quite the feat!), this book is to show us the background of manager Tali, and it makes you want to reread all the Blue Is The Color books so you can pinpoint everything she does and say 'Oh I get it now'! You can totally jump in here and read this as a stand alone (well, you can read the Duet alone I should say). Its set in the early 2000's so lots of nostalgia with an eclectic music lover like myself. Tali really goes through alot in this book, but I just know it will be made up to her in the end. I don't like Jude much in this book, I see ALOT of growing up for him to do if he ever has any hope of earning Tali back, but Tali has some growing to do as well. Can't wait for book two!
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