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What If Duet #2
If We Fly
★ New edition!
The past won't let her go.
When Josie Mays returned to her hometown of Castille, Maine, she wanted to say goodbye to the past and start a new future. Then the "past" loomed up in the form of Cole Danforth, Josie's former love who has now turned into a ruthless CEO out for revenge on the town that failed him.
Though Josie is convinced her ocean-loving boy still exists behind Cole's toughened veneer, Cole is determined to shut her out. But not even this cold tycoon can resist the cherry-sweet, talented artist he once loved with his whole heart.
Just as Josie and Cole are starting to find their way back to each other, the tragedy that tore them apart years ago returns to threaten everything they are. And when Josie discovers the secret Cole has been keeping, his worst nightmare comes true.
Reading order of the What If series:
IF WE LEAP (free prequel)
IF WE FALL
IF WE FLY
The past won't let her go.
When Josie Mays returned to her hometown of Castille, Maine, she wanted to say goodbye to the past and start a new future. Then the "past" loomed up in the form of Cole Danforth, Josie's former love who has now turned into a ruthless CEO out for revenge on the town that failed him.
Though Josie is convinced her ocean-loving boy still exists behind Cole's toughened veneer, Cole is determined to shut her out. But not even this cold tycoon can resist the cherry-sweet, talented artist he once loved with his whole heart.
Just as Josie and Cole are starting to find their way back to each other, the tragedy that tore them apart years ago returns to threaten everything they are. And when Josie discovers the secret Cole has been keeping, his worst nightmare comes true.
Reading order of the What If series:
IF WE LEAP (free prequel)
IF WE FALL
IF WE FLY
152 pages, Paperback
First published September 13, 2018
151 people are currently reading
780 people want to read
About the author
Nina Lane
50 books2,291 followersBorn and raised in California, NEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY bestselling author Nina Lane now lives in Wisconsin where the winters are freezing and the cheese is exceptional. Mom to two teens and a neurotic dog, half her life consists of laundry, Girl Scouts, horses, and football, while the other half is filled with hot, swoony alpha heroes and the women who bring them to their knees.
Nina's a fan of popcorn, print magazines, working out, and checking the weather daily with her meteorologist husband. She holds a PhD in Art History and an MA in Library and Information Studies, but considers writing epic, emotional romances her one true calling in life. Thus, she is grateful and ecstatic to be able to bring the stories in her head to life for all her amazing fans. ♥
Please join my email list for new book alerts & fan extras (zero spam!)
→ www.ninalane.com/subscribe-to-the-new...
Nina's a fan of popcorn, print magazines, working out, and checking the weather daily with her meteorologist husband. She holds a PhD in Art History and an MA in Library and Information Studies, but considers writing epic, emotional romances her one true calling in life. Thus, she is grateful and ecstatic to be able to bring the stories in her head to life for all her amazing fans. ♥
Please join my email list for new book alerts & fan extras (zero spam!)
→ www.ninalane.com/subscribe-to-the-new...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
September 15, 2018
*****4.5 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
Part of my mind is still astonished by how easily any conflict between us can fall away with the onslaught of passion, but it’s as if our bodies remember how good we always were. He kissed me, and I fell into a swirl or pleasure. He touched me, and I flew into the stars.
Nina Lane has once again written another captivating love story that will have her readers dreaming of that once in a lifetime epic romance. Cole and Josie’s love for each other knows no bounds and no amount of time or distance apart has been able to diminish their feelings. These two are true soulmates.
It was easy to fall in love with Cole because he reminded me of a certain Professor whose heart only ever belonged to one woman. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do to ensure that Josie was safe and happy. He sacrificed everything to protect her from the truth and being back home is starting to bring back bits and pieces of the past for Josie.
Will the truth bring them closer together or tear the lovers apart once again?
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 4.5
Angst: 4
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
IF WE FLY is currently available! I highly recommend this steamy duet!!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2N1YWc6
Apple: https://apple.co/2Mse6vh
Nook: http://bit.ly/2wgyXGP
Google: http://bit.ly/2OOhYTS
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2weMsa0
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
Part of my mind is still astonished by how easily any conflict between us can fall away with the onslaught of passion, but it’s as if our bodies remember how good we always were. He kissed me, and I fell into a swirl or pleasure. He touched me, and I flew into the stars.
Nina Lane has once again written another captivating love story that will have her readers dreaming of that once in a lifetime epic romance. Cole and Josie’s love for each other knows no bounds and no amount of time or distance apart has been able to diminish their feelings. These two are true soulmates.
It was easy to fall in love with Cole because he reminded me of a certain Professor whose heart only ever belonged to one woman. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do to ensure that Josie was safe and happy. He sacrificed everything to protect her from the truth and being back home is starting to bring back bits and pieces of the past for Josie.
Will the truth bring them closer together or tear the lovers apart once again?
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 4.5
Angst: 4
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
IF WE FLY is currently available! I highly recommend this steamy duet!!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2N1YWc6
Apple: https://apple.co/2Mse6vh
Nook: http://bit.ly/2wgyXGP
Google: http://bit.ly/2OOhYTS
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2weMsa0
September 13, 2018
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author/Inkslinger PR)
Josie Mays is back home in Castille, Maine after being away for ten years. She's an artist, and is there to paint a mural for the town, and spend time with her sister. What she doesn't expect is to rekindle the passion with her ex Cole Danforth. Cole was her first love, her first everything. The boy who left her with so many broken pieces she's been struggling to find herself again after all these years. She could never resist him. She felt like she could unravel at any moment. She returned hoping she could fill the gaps in her memory, finally let go of the past, and move forward with her future.
Even though they have a long complicated history, Josie & Cole are enjoying their secret summer fling. They are spending time in her cottage, and shutting out the rest of the world. It's like no time has gone by when they touch. Josie is convinced her Cole is still there under his new hard shell. They are trying to keep things discreet since the residents of their town will never accept them together. They still view her as the tragic victim, and Cole as the ruthless CEO, town bad guy everyone loves to hate.
-I'm fucking powerless when it comes to her. A decade ago, that girl had been my every weakness. That hasn't changed. It never will.
Cole is extremely wealthy and successful. His life is in Castille, and Josie will be leaving and returning to California in two weeks. He doesn't know how he will be able to let her go again. Josie is uncertain where they stand, but knows no man has ever loved her the way Cole does. He'd always meant so much to her, but their trust was broken through tragedy and devastation. Now their beginning to find their way back to each other. She's feeling like she's in a good place, and then secrets and lies are revealed that threaten to destroy everything.
If We Fly is an amazing book about true love and second chances. Nina Lane wrote a unique, unforgettable, tragically beautiful, stunning story that will pull at your heart and make you feel everything! Just loved it!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2NyLobV
(ARC provided by author/Inkslinger PR)
Josie Mays is back home in Castille, Maine after being away for ten years. She's an artist, and is there to paint a mural for the town, and spend time with her sister. What she doesn't expect is to rekindle the passion with her ex Cole Danforth. Cole was her first love, her first everything. The boy who left her with so many broken pieces she's been struggling to find herself again after all these years. She could never resist him. She felt like she could unravel at any moment. She returned hoping she could fill the gaps in her memory, finally let go of the past, and move forward with her future.
Even though they have a long complicated history, Josie & Cole are enjoying their secret summer fling. They are spending time in her cottage, and shutting out the rest of the world. It's like no time has gone by when they touch. Josie is convinced her Cole is still there under his new hard shell. They are trying to keep things discreet since the residents of their town will never accept them together. They still view her as the tragic victim, and Cole as the ruthless CEO, town bad guy everyone loves to hate.
-I'm fucking powerless when it comes to her. A decade ago, that girl had been my every weakness. That hasn't changed. It never will.
Cole is extremely wealthy and successful. His life is in Castille, and Josie will be leaving and returning to California in two weeks. He doesn't know how he will be able to let her go again. Josie is uncertain where they stand, but knows no man has ever loved her the way Cole does. He'd always meant so much to her, but their trust was broken through tragedy and devastation. Now their beginning to find their way back to each other. She's feeling like she's in a good place, and then secrets and lies are revealed that threaten to destroy everything.
If We Fly is an amazing book about true love and second chances. Nina Lane wrote a unique, unforgettable, tragically beautiful, stunning story that will pull at your heart and make you feel everything! Just loved it!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2NyLobV
September 17, 2018
DNF @ 47%
The twist was told so soon and I felt the story dragged from the beginning! So I quit! BUT you can see from the rating and other reviews that it's ME, not the book! So read it, I'm sure you would enjoy it!
The twist was told so soon and I felt the story dragged from the beginning! So I quit! BUT you can see from the rating and other reviews that it's ME, not the book! So read it, I'm sure you would enjoy it!
September 16, 2018
4,5. Que lindo! Que história maravilhosa!
Amei! Apesar de ainda achar que a autora deveria ter explorado mais a história dos personagens principais.
Mas não diminuiu o brilho do livro.
Vale a leitura!
Amei! Apesar de ainda achar que a autora deveria ter explorado mais a história dos personagens principais.
Mas não diminuiu o brilho do livro.
Vale a leitura!
September 13, 2018
If We Fly was a beautifully written emotional journey in the What If Duet. In this continuation of Cole and Josie's heart-wrenching romance, we finally discover all the circumstances which tore this couple apart. Secrets and mysteries click together to solve the puzzle which haunted Josie for over a decade. The realization of what happened that horrific evening undeniably proved the extent of Cole's sacrifices for the woman he truly and perpetually loved. I stood alongside this couple, feeling all their sorrow, passion and joy. And once again, Lane held my heart in her hands, guiding me through the many plot twists and turns. Anxieties ran high in this magnificent conclusion of Nina Lane's steamy yet heartfelt series.
A story of unending love, forgiveness, hope and second chances, this series is a MUST READ that I highly recommend. As always, I am looking forward to falling into Lane's next adventure.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication
November 2, 2018
3.5-4 ⭐'s
Now we get to the nitty gritty of Cole and Josie's story...it's not hard to figure out but I'm not sure I'm happy about what Cole did. I think I'm as torn about it as Cole is.
It was interesting to see Josie work things out, remember things and come to term with it (somewhat). I especially loved their romance...and hey, the angst was really good too! 😉
Likes:
💓The town folk and the mural.
💓Some of Cole's secrets exposed.
💓Professor West's cameos.
💓The ending.
💓The epilogue.
Dislikes:
💔Cole's secrets.
💔This book is even shorter than the first one! 😌
I'm all for duets, in fact, I love multiple stories about the same couple. However, when the duets are this short (it's 136 pages), it's hard not to think it was one book simply cut in two. And that kind of screams a certain manipulation or marketing ploy...take your pick.
Either way, I was a sucker through and through. I loved Cole and Josie's romance and the angst made this one happy girl.
Now we get to the nitty gritty of Cole and Josie's story...it's not hard to figure out but I'm not sure I'm happy about what Cole did. I think I'm as torn about it as Cole is.
It was interesting to see Josie work things out, remember things and come to term with it (somewhat). I especially loved their romance...and hey, the angst was really good too! 😉
Likes:
💓The town folk and the mural.
💓Some of Cole's secrets exposed.
💓Professor West's cameos.
💓The ending.
💓The epilogue.
Dislikes:
💔Cole's secrets.
💔This book is even shorter than the first one! 😌
I'm all for duets, in fact, I love multiple stories about the same couple. However, when the duets are this short (it's 136 pages), it's hard not to think it was one book simply cut in two. And that kind of screams a certain manipulation or marketing ploy...take your pick.
Either way, I was a sucker through and through. I loved Cole and Josie's romance and the angst made this one happy girl.
December 10, 2018
Series Review
"What the hell happened to you?"
"You happened to me."
Nina Lane is the creator of one of our favourite erotic emotional romance series, The Spiral of Bliss delivering one of our favourite book couples and let's not forget one of our all-time favourite book boyfriends, the divine Professor Dean West, we'll never be able to thank her enough for that man! The Spiral of Bliss series will always remain in our hearts, and so it was with excited expectations that we dove into her new What If series. Eager once again to lose ourselves to Nina Lane's words.
The What If series is one of redemption, second chances and sacrifice, but most of all it's a story of unequivocal love. The soul mate kind born from childhood and it was a love that refused to yield. Not distance, time or tragedy could break the invisible bond that drew Cole and Josie together.
"Cole." She looks up at me, putting her hand on the side of my face. "Don't regret this." I swallow hard. "I could never regret you."
If We Leap is the prequel novella to the duet, and takes us back to those days of innocence between Josie and Cole, giving us an insight into their family life. Josie's full of love and bliss, and Cole's full of sorrow and loneliness, with the following two books taking us back to events that would shape the lives of Josephine May and Cole Danforth.
A devastating tragedy would rip them apart, forcing Cole to leave their tranquil home, hoping his decision would allow Josie to move on, pursue her love of art in San Francisco and turn leave behind the painful memories that would plague her. Ten years later, a project would reunite them, with the bitterness of the past, old wounds and deeply guarded secrets being exposed with painful consequences. Little was Josie to know the sacrifices Cole had made out of love for Josie. What he would endure and become because of those decisions.
"Promise me you'll be okay. Maybe even happy again one day. I can't live without know that. Please."
For the most part we did enjoy this series. The mystery, the questions, the past and present switches all worked very well, however we didn't fully experience the gut wrenching passion, nor the emotional intensity we had hoped their story would incite. There's no doubt Josie and Cole possessed a true soul mate love, and we so wanted to connect with them on that level, and believe us when we say it breaks our hearts to admit that we didn't.
"I'm not the Cole Danforth you used to know." Pain darkens her eyes. "And you have no idea how much that breaks my heart."
For us, the sex needs to enhance the story, and the times we felt the sex in the What If series overwhelmed the emotional aspect of the story, causing us to disconnect emotionally. Whilst we absolutely felt the physical connection, we were left wishing for the feverish intense emotion and the dizzying heights of character and story connection we'd hoped for. Now, please don't be put off by our rating because we know a lot of readers will devour this book and possibly have a differing opinion to us. Reading is indeed subjective and what effectively works for one reader, doesn't necessarily work for another, and we can't convey enough how gutted we are this series didn't give us those lofty emotions we had anticipated.
'What if I had known it would be our last kiss? What if I had known how hard we would fall?'
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest
"What the hell happened to you?"
"You happened to me."
Nina Lane is the creator of one of our favourite erotic emotional romance series, The Spiral of Bliss delivering one of our favourite book couples and let's not forget one of our all-time favourite book boyfriends, the divine Professor Dean West, we'll never be able to thank her enough for that man! The Spiral of Bliss series will always remain in our hearts, and so it was with excited expectations that we dove into her new What If series. Eager once again to lose ourselves to Nina Lane's words.
The What If series is one of redemption, second chances and sacrifice, but most of all it's a story of unequivocal love. The soul mate kind born from childhood and it was a love that refused to yield. Not distance, time or tragedy could break the invisible bond that drew Cole and Josie together.
"Cole." She looks up at me, putting her hand on the side of my face. "Don't regret this." I swallow hard. "I could never regret you."
If We Leap is the prequel novella to the duet, and takes us back to those days of innocence between Josie and Cole, giving us an insight into their family life. Josie's full of love and bliss, and Cole's full of sorrow and loneliness, with the following two books taking us back to events that would shape the lives of Josephine May and Cole Danforth.
A devastating tragedy would rip them apart, forcing Cole to leave their tranquil home, hoping his decision would allow Josie to move on, pursue her love of art in San Francisco and turn leave behind the painful memories that would plague her. Ten years later, a project would reunite them, with the bitterness of the past, old wounds and deeply guarded secrets being exposed with painful consequences. Little was Josie to know the sacrifices Cole had made out of love for Josie. What he would endure and become because of those decisions.
"Promise me you'll be okay. Maybe even happy again one day. I can't live without know that. Please."
For the most part we did enjoy this series. The mystery, the questions, the past and present switches all worked very well, however we didn't fully experience the gut wrenching passion, nor the emotional intensity we had hoped their story would incite. There's no doubt Josie and Cole possessed a true soul mate love, and we so wanted to connect with them on that level, and believe us when we say it breaks our hearts to admit that we didn't.
"I'm not the Cole Danforth you used to know." Pain darkens her eyes. "And you have no idea how much that breaks my heart."
For us, the sex needs to enhance the story, and the times we felt the sex in the What If series overwhelmed the emotional aspect of the story, causing us to disconnect emotionally. Whilst we absolutely felt the physical connection, we were left wishing for the feverish intense emotion and the dizzying heights of character and story connection we'd hoped for. Now, please don't be put off by our rating because we know a lot of readers will devour this book and possibly have a differing opinion to us. Reading is indeed subjective and what effectively works for one reader, doesn't necessarily work for another, and we can't convey enough how gutted we are this series didn't give us those lofty emotions we had anticipated.
'What if I had known it would be our last kiss? What if I had known how hard we would fall?'
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest
September 14, 2018
English / Português
4 stars
Really, guys! This was my first series by Nina Lane and I already am a fan. I love her writing, how it flows through the pages, how you can easily get lost on time reading her stories.
I had hated Cole's change, and I was afraid of not liking him, but thank God that went all down. What we don't do for love, right? And here he REALLY shows how much he loves Josie.
I really can't tell you much, but what I had imagined at the end of IF WE FALL came to fruition. It is a beautiful story of overcoming, forgiveness, especially to yourself and above all a lot of love. I highly recommend it!
*I received an ARC of this book. Thank you!
--------
English / Português
4 estrelas
É sério, gente! Esta foi a minha primeira série de Nina Lane e já sou fã. Amei a escrita dela, como ela flui através das páginas, como você pode facilmente se perder no tempo lendo suas histórias.
Eu tinha odiado a mudança do Cole, e estava com medo de não gostar dele, mas graças a Deus isso foi tudo por aguá a abaixo. O que a gente não faz por amor neh? E aqui ele demostra REALMENTE o tanto que ele ama a Josie.
Não dá pra contar muita coisa, mas o que havia imaginado no final de IF WE FALL se concretizou aqui. É uma bela história de superação, perdão, principalmente a si mesmo e acima de tudo muito amor. Recomendo demais!
* Recebi um ARC desse livro. Obrigada!
----------------------
* Pick a Book
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4 stars
Really, guys! This was my first series by Nina Lane and I already am a fan. I love her writing, how it flows through the pages, how you can easily get lost on time reading her stories.
I had hated Cole's change, and I was afraid of not liking him, but thank God that went all down. What we don't do for love, right? And here he REALLY shows how much he loves Josie.
I really can't tell you much, but what I had imagined at the end of IF WE FALL came to fruition. It is a beautiful story of overcoming, forgiveness, especially to yourself and above all a lot of love. I highly recommend it!
*I received an ARC of this book. Thank you!
--------
English / Português
4 estrelas
É sério, gente! Esta foi a minha primeira série de Nina Lane e já sou fã. Amei a escrita dela, como ela flui através das páginas, como você pode facilmente se perder no tempo lendo suas histórias.
Eu tinha odiado a mudança do Cole, e estava com medo de não gostar dele, mas graças a Deus isso foi tudo por aguá a abaixo. O que a gente não faz por amor neh? E aqui ele demostra REALMENTE o tanto que ele ama a Josie.
Não dá pra contar muita coisa, mas o que havia imaginado no final de IF WE FALL se concretizou aqui. É uma bela história de superação, perdão, principalmente a si mesmo e acima de tudo muito amor. Recomendo demais!
* Recebi um ARC desse livro. Obrigada!
----------------------
* Pick a Book
facebook / instagram / twitter / BookBub
pb.responde@gmail.com
September 11, 2018
Nina Lane ties up loose ends and wonderfully mends broken souls back together in the second installment of her What If? duet. With If We Fly she continues her tear-jerking love story, but this time there are happy tears in the horizon.
Cole Danforth and Josie Mays’ love was one in a million. They would have done anything for each other but a devastating accident broke them apart. Now, ten years later Josie is back in her hometown where Cole is not just the richest man around, he’s merciless and ruthless. Everyone wants him gone except Josie who sees past his façade and into the man she once loved. But looking too deep can be dangerous when there are secrets Cole doesn’t want her to find out about. When Josie starts to remember bits and pieces and the truth surfaces, will their love survive?
If We Fly picks up where If We Fall left off and the reader is taken on an emotional ride. Truths and lies must be faced. Even though the outcome was predictable, the enjoyment was in the journey. Cole, Josie and even some of the supporting characters must put the past behind them, and if Cole and Josie are to have a future together they must also learn to forgive.
Nina Lane writes a very well layered story, incorporating vivid imagery, history and art as well as favorite characters from her past novels. I was emotionally invested in these characters and couldn’t hope for a better story.
If We Fly is the second book in the What If? duet by Nina Lane. It is a raw, heartbreaking and heartwarming contemporary romance, told from both points of view.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2N25Dix
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Twitter * Pinterest Book Teasers * More reviews
Cole Danforth and Josie Mays’ love was one in a million. They would have done anything for each other but a devastating accident broke them apart. Now, ten years later Josie is back in her hometown where Cole is not just the richest man around, he’s merciless and ruthless. Everyone wants him gone except Josie who sees past his façade and into the man she once loved. But looking too deep can be dangerous when there are secrets Cole doesn’t want her to find out about. When Josie starts to remember bits and pieces and the truth surfaces, will their love survive?
If We Fly picks up where If We Fall left off and the reader is taken on an emotional ride. Truths and lies must be faced. Even though the outcome was predictable, the enjoyment was in the journey. Cole, Josie and even some of the supporting characters must put the past behind them, and if Cole and Josie are to have a future together they must also learn to forgive.
Nina Lane writes a very well layered story, incorporating vivid imagery, history and art as well as favorite characters from her past novels. I was emotionally invested in these characters and couldn’t hope for a better story.
If We Fly is the second book in the What If? duet by Nina Lane. It is a raw, heartbreaking and heartwarming contemporary romance, told from both points of view.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2N25Dix
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Twitter * Pinterest Book Teasers * More reviews
September 10, 2018
I’ve been going out of my mind ever since I finished If We Fall cause the ending took me by surprise. I didn’t see it coming so to finally read the conclusion was a relief and one heck of a roller coaster of emotions.
If We Fly picks up right where If We Fall ends and I was instantly on the edge of my seat. Josie and Cole has captured my heart with their amazing love and heartbreaking story.
They’re two strong people who still love each other despite the ten years they’ve been apart. It shows in how they interact with one another. Their connection and chemistry is freaking amazing. That’s one thing the author Nina Lane always masters to perfection in her books. The hero and heroine has dynamite chemistry and when they get together or are just around one another. It’s explosive. It’s the same with Josie and Cole. I enjoyed the flashbacks of their history and also the almighty surprise or twist in If We Fly.
If We Fly is about love, forgiveness and sacrifice. I enjoyed this story so much and certain scenes got me choked up because of the emotion and my investment in Josie and Cole. People can really surprise you and these two did. There’s no limits on what you wouldn’t do for the person you love. If We Fly nailed that to perfection.
4 Lifesaver Stars
*If We Fly provided by Inkslinger PR for an honest review*
If We Fly picks up right where If We Fall ends and I was instantly on the edge of my seat. Josie and Cole has captured my heart with their amazing love and heartbreaking story.
They’re two strong people who still love each other despite the ten years they’ve been apart. It shows in how they interact with one another. Their connection and chemistry is freaking amazing. That’s one thing the author Nina Lane always masters to perfection in her books. The hero and heroine has dynamite chemistry and when they get together or are just around one another. It’s explosive. It’s the same with Josie and Cole. I enjoyed the flashbacks of their history and also the almighty surprise or twist in If We Fly.
If We Fly is about love, forgiveness and sacrifice. I enjoyed this story so much and certain scenes got me choked up because of the emotion and my investment in Josie and Cole. People can really surprise you and these two did. There’s no limits on what you wouldn’t do for the person you love. If We Fly nailed that to perfection.
4 Lifesaver Stars
*If We Fly provided by Inkslinger PR for an honest review*
September 13, 2018
4 happy ending stars
The conclusion to If We Fall (and the prequel novella, If We Leap), this is a satisfying, emotional and gorgeously romantic ending to Cole and Josie’s story.
This book picks up immediately where the last one left off – Josie and Cole are enjoying their reunion after ten years apart, but they are still keeping it very much a secret. Josie is still wrestling with her demons, in town only temporarily to paint a mural to honor the history of the town, Cole has been painted as the town villain and is hated by pretty much everyone, and there is still so much between them that needs to be dealt with. But there’s no denying that those feels are still there, and I loved these two together!
In addition to dealing with Cole’s reappearance in her life, Josie has also started to actively seek out the answers for the events in her past that have left her so traumatised. What happened that night so long ago, and why can’t she move forward?
It’s an emotional read as secrets are revealed, and hearts are broken and healed, and though the twists and turns may not come as a surprise, they definitely add depth to the story as Josie and Cole fight their way free of their demons and figure out what they truly want.
This is a really sweet read, but as much as I enjoyed it, I can't help but wonder why it was made into a duet? This 'book' took me around two hours to read, and flowed so directly on from the first one that the story easily could have been combined and read together as one book. But regardless, this is a great end to Josie and Cole’s story, and I loved seeing them get their happy ending.
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The conclusion to If We Fall (and the prequel novella, If We Leap), this is a satisfying, emotional and gorgeously romantic ending to Cole and Josie’s story.
This book picks up immediately where the last one left off – Josie and Cole are enjoying their reunion after ten years apart, but they are still keeping it very much a secret. Josie is still wrestling with her demons, in town only temporarily to paint a mural to honor the history of the town, Cole has been painted as the town villain and is hated by pretty much everyone, and there is still so much between them that needs to be dealt with. But there’s no denying that those feels are still there, and I loved these two together!
“I can’t walk away from you, Josie. Not again.”
In addition to dealing with Cole’s reappearance in her life, Josie has also started to actively seek out the answers for the events in her past that have left her so traumatised. What happened that night so long ago, and why can’t she move forward?
It’s an emotional read as secrets are revealed, and hearts are broken and healed, and though the twists and turns may not come as a surprise, they definitely add depth to the story as Josie and Cole fight their way free of their demons and figure out what they truly want.
“I love you.” He presses his lips to the top of my head. A shudder ripples through him. “I never stopped loving you, Josie Bird.”
This is a really sweet read, but as much as I enjoyed it, I can't help but wonder why it was made into a duet? This 'book' took me around two hours to read, and flowed so directly on from the first one that the story easily could have been combined and read together as one book. But regardless, this is a great end to Josie and Cole’s story, and I loved seeing them get their happy ending.
4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2019
4 'Let's fly, Josie Bird' Stars!
Finally we get the answers to everything that happened in the past and Josie and Cole get their much deserved happily ever after! I loved reading this love story, seeing how it started, how it developed into so much more, how emotional it got and how finally everything sees the light. This book / duet was definitely intense! I love this couple, their journey together and their chemistry. Nina, as always, does not dissapoint in any department!
I do wish we got more happy moments for the couple and a longer ending but, as a whole, I really enjoyed If We Fly. Another beautiful love story with outstanding characters by one of my favorite writers and I can't wait to see what is next from her. I hope we get more stories of the people we met in the What If duet, especially Charlotte. Highly recommend checking out this emotional duet and Nina Lane's stories if you still haven't!
Finally we get the answers to everything that happened in the past and Josie and Cole get their much deserved happily ever after! I loved reading this love story, seeing how it started, how it developed into so much more, how emotional it got and how finally everything sees the light. This book / duet was definitely intense! I love this couple, their journey together and their chemistry. Nina, as always, does not dissapoint in any department!
I do wish we got more happy moments for the couple and a longer ending but, as a whole, I really enjoyed If We Fly. Another beautiful love story with outstanding characters by one of my favorite writers and I can't wait to see what is next from her. I hope we get more stories of the people we met in the What If duet, especially Charlotte. Highly recommend checking out this emotional duet and Nina Lane's stories if you still haven't!
September 10, 2018
Gah!! Nina Lane did it again!! She left me on the edge of my seat after that cliffy in book 1 and just drowned me in a sea of heartfelt emotions in book two. I JUST came up for air and can say I LOVE this book so much!! Josie and Cole were just amazing! The pure emotion, mystery and love in this book just rocked my world. This book will stay with me for so long!!
Without giving anything away, that ending in book 1 was crazy but book two took the cake. I loved everything about Josie and her integrity and love for Cole and her need to do the right thing! And let's just say that Cole is my new favorite Nina Lane hero (Sorry, Brody!!) His love for Josie was Everything. He would do anything for her and proved that. I absolutely loved this so much and seriously was hooked on every word. This series is so unbelievably intense, romantic, mysterious and sexy. I know these books will stay with me for a long time. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
Without giving anything away, that ending in book 1 was crazy but book two took the cake. I loved everything about Josie and her integrity and love for Cole and her need to do the right thing! And let's just say that Cole is my new favorite Nina Lane hero (Sorry, Brody!!) His love for Josie was Everything. He would do anything for her and proved that. I absolutely loved this so much and seriously was hooked on every word. This series is so unbelievably intense, romantic, mysterious and sexy. I know these books will stay with me for a long time. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
September 12, 2018
At the end of the first book Josie was beginning to slowly piece together the memories of that fateful night 10 years ago when she lost her family in an horrific tragedy.
She continues to work on her tribute mural and reminisce about her past in Castille. Her rediscovered relationship with Cole is becoming just as intense and addictive as it was when they were young.
The more Josie talks to people and spends time around places in the town she grew up the more intense the flashbacks are. Eventually all the pieces of the jigsaw slowly form the picture she has been trying so hard to remember and it is worse than she ever could have imagined.
The grief she felt when she first lost her family now feels like a tsunami bearing down on her. Josie now knows the truth and realises that everything she believed to be true was not as she was led to believe. The weight of this revelation is bearing down on her, making it hard to even breathe.
Cole Danforth never wanted Josie to know the secrets he has hidden from her, even if it meant pushing her away and sacrificing his own happiness. However, in doing so he took away her choices, sentencing her to a life of unhappiness without the boy she has loved since she was young. Now it may be too late…
Wow, I loved this duet, from the exciting prequel teaser I was hooked on this story. Nina did a fantastic job with capturing my interest and I was fully invested in this story. Loved this!
She continues to work on her tribute mural and reminisce about her past in Castille. Her rediscovered relationship with Cole is becoming just as intense and addictive as it was when they were young.
The more Josie talks to people and spends time around places in the town she grew up the more intense the flashbacks are. Eventually all the pieces of the jigsaw slowly form the picture she has been trying so hard to remember and it is worse than she ever could have imagined.
The grief she felt when she first lost her family now feels like a tsunami bearing down on her. Josie now knows the truth and realises that everything she believed to be true was not as she was led to believe. The weight of this revelation is bearing down on her, making it hard to even breathe.
Cole Danforth never wanted Josie to know the secrets he has hidden from her, even if it meant pushing her away and sacrificing his own happiness. However, in doing so he took away her choices, sentencing her to a life of unhappiness without the boy she has loved since she was young. Now it may be too late…
Wow, I loved this duet, from the exciting prequel teaser I was hooked on this story. Nina did a fantastic job with capturing my interest and I was fully invested in this story. Loved this!
September 15, 2018
4 💖💖💖💖🎡🎒📅🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️
September 19, 2018
I'm going to start by saying I love Nina Lane.
In this series she gives us another passionately in love couple who has a long history of knowing each other. Their future was bright. They were humble, bright, ambitious, and understood each other so well when everyone else misunderstood.
The prequel was of their past and how their love blossomed into somethong so intense and beautiful.
Then in IF WE FALL we get how they go from having a forever together to being broken. And oh how broken they both were. Circumstances happened that drastically changed their trajectory. Cole was barely unrecognizable. He actually was almost cruel until you figure out why but he frustrated me there for a bit. Josie was just a sad version of her former self but her inner beauty and talent wanted to find the light again. And just when they find their way back to each other does this book leaves you in a twisted cliffy.
IF WE FLY was too short. I wanted more Josie and Cole and how they heal and mend and find happiness again. But there's a lot packed on this short book and I wanted more of just them but there was a lot of other stuff so it felt rushed and too compact. Still the ending was really nice and Nina Lane managed to give us another passionate couple and I love that her couples can feel cocooned and intimate.
In this series she gives us another passionately in love couple who has a long history of knowing each other. Their future was bright. They were humble, bright, ambitious, and understood each other so well when everyone else misunderstood.
The prequel was of their past and how their love blossomed into somethong so intense and beautiful.
Then in IF WE FALL we get how they go from having a forever together to being broken. And oh how broken they both were. Circumstances happened that drastically changed their trajectory. Cole was barely unrecognizable. He actually was almost cruel until you figure out why but he frustrated me there for a bit. Josie was just a sad version of her former self but her inner beauty and talent wanted to find the light again. And just when they find their way back to each other does this book leaves you in a twisted cliffy.
IF WE FLY was too short. I wanted more Josie and Cole and how they heal and mend and find happiness again. But there's a lot packed on this short book and I wanted more of just them but there was a lot of other stuff so it felt rushed and too compact. Still the ending was really nice and Nina Lane managed to give us another passionate couple and I love that her couples can feel cocooned and intimate.
September 14, 2018
I started reading the book as soon as it hit my Kindle. If we fall might not have the biggest cliffhanger, but it got me suspicious about what had happened and I needed to see if I was right or wrong.
Josie and Cole don't have an easy journey. Especially Josie since she have so many things thrown at her and she has to deal with a lot of people and one of them is Vanessa, her sister. I did not like that woman at all. She got on my nerves and for most part I couldn't care for her or her character. Still, by the end of the book I liked her and I want to read her and Nathan's story. Charlotte will get one and I hope we will see more of these characters there.
I really wanted to see Cole revealing that he is not the bad guy, as most of the town thought and their reaction to that revelation. At least I was happy to see him doing something he loved in the epilogue. I my mind Cole is someone who is precious and needs to be protected. He was there for Josie even when she didn't know it.
The conclusion to Cole and Josie's story was everything I could ask for and a must read.
Josie and Cole don't have an easy journey. Especially Josie since she have so many things thrown at her and she has to deal with a lot of people and one of them is Vanessa, her sister. I did not like that woman at all. She got on my nerves and for most part I couldn't care for her or her character. Still, by the end of the book I liked her and I want to read her and Nathan's story. Charlotte will get one and I hope we will see more of these characters there.
I really wanted to see Cole revealing that he is not the bad guy, as most of the town thought and their reaction to that revelation. At least I was happy to see him doing something he loved in the epilogue. I my mind Cole is someone who is precious and needs to be protected. He was there for Josie even when she didn't know it.
The conclusion to Cole and Josie's story was everything I could ask for and a must read.
September 13, 2018
If we Fly carries on from where If we Fall finishes so there are no gaps or long periods of time.
What Nina Lane has written in this second book shows you how good she is. Josie and Cole will break your heart with their story which is beautifully written.
Nina has also shown that no matter the length of time two people who were madly in love can be apart they can always reconnect and the reconnection is electrifying.
This book will show you that although being apart Josie and Cole still have the attraction there and the love for each other they had when they first were together. The flashbacks into their lives and history I found great as it gave you a better understanding of the story. There are also a few surprises in this book which will keep you gripped to your seat.
I really enjoyed this Duet as it was written beautifully with no major gaps or unexplained storylines.
A story about love and forgiveness that I feel more people should read as they may have a different outlook on life after reading.
What Nina Lane has written in this second book shows you how good she is. Josie and Cole will break your heart with their story which is beautifully written.
Nina has also shown that no matter the length of time two people who were madly in love can be apart they can always reconnect and the reconnection is electrifying.
This book will show you that although being apart Josie and Cole still have the attraction there and the love for each other they had when they first were together. The flashbacks into their lives and history I found great as it gave you a better understanding of the story. There are also a few surprises in this book which will keep you gripped to your seat.
I really enjoyed this Duet as it was written beautifully with no major gaps or unexplained storylines.
A story about love and forgiveness that I feel more people should read as they may have a different outlook on life after reading.
September 25, 2018
This really didn't need to be a duet. There wasn't enough storyline to keep it interesting as it was obvious in book one what had happened.
I loved the kind of heroes the author wrote in her earlier books but now they are just too nice!
Sweet couple but story was a bit boring.
I loved the kind of heroes the author wrote in her earlier books but now they are just too nice!
Sweet couple but story was a bit boring.
September 14, 2018
“We fall into each other as easily as thread slipping through the eye of a needle.”
“Our life flashes between us, saturated with all the good, the frustrations, the hope. Everything spins and tumbles, all the little things that make us who we were together-pancakes, oil paint, salt-encrusted work boots, arguments about the calendar, cotton candy on the pier, sugary breakfast cereal. Bright, youthful love. The tension in the air suddenly breaks, like a balloon bursting. We lunge toward each other. He captures me in his arms, lifting me hard against his powerful chest. Our mouths collide in a firestorm of longing and despair. My dark, tangled emotions unravel.”
I don’t know about you guys, but after the way If We Fall ended, I have been waiting rather impatiently to get my hands on If We Fly. I had so many burning questions that I desperately needed answered.
If We Fly picks up right where the last book left off. Josie is still trying to piece together the moments that went missing from her mind. As if that wasn’t enough, she’s also trying to navigate her renewed relationship with Cole. Josie still has a lot to work through, but if there is anyone that can help put Josie back together, it’s Cole. His love for her is real and true and has stood the test of time. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for her……
If We Fly is an unforgettable second chance romance. It grips you from the very first page and never lets go. All the questions we had from book one will be revealed and I have to say, this story has been one of the best puzzles I’ve had the pleasure of unraveling. Just when you think you know everything, this author takes everything you think you know and throws it out of the window.
The road to happily ever after is not an easy one for Cole and Josie. Their love will be tested and demons will need to be battled. Josie and Cole’s story will take you on an unforgettable journey of love, and forgiveness. Their story is one of strength, hope and new beginnings. If We Fly is a terrific ending to a story I didn’t want to see end.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“Our life flashes between us, saturated with all the good, the frustrations, the hope. Everything spins and tumbles, all the little things that make us who we were together-pancakes, oil paint, salt-encrusted work boots, arguments about the calendar, cotton candy on the pier, sugary breakfast cereal. Bright, youthful love. The tension in the air suddenly breaks, like a balloon bursting. We lunge toward each other. He captures me in his arms, lifting me hard against his powerful chest. Our mouths collide in a firestorm of longing and despair. My dark, tangled emotions unravel.”
I don’t know about you guys, but after the way If We Fall ended, I have been waiting rather impatiently to get my hands on If We Fly. I had so many burning questions that I desperately needed answered.
If We Fly picks up right where the last book left off. Josie is still trying to piece together the moments that went missing from her mind. As if that wasn’t enough, she’s also trying to navigate her renewed relationship with Cole. Josie still has a lot to work through, but if there is anyone that can help put Josie back together, it’s Cole. His love for her is real and true and has stood the test of time. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for her……
If We Fly is an unforgettable second chance romance. It grips you from the very first page and never lets go. All the questions we had from book one will be revealed and I have to say, this story has been one of the best puzzles I’ve had the pleasure of unraveling. Just when you think you know everything, this author takes everything you think you know and throws it out of the window.
The road to happily ever after is not an easy one for Cole and Josie. Their love will be tested and demons will need to be battled. Josie and Cole’s story will take you on an unforgettable journey of love, and forgiveness. Their story is one of strength, hope and new beginnings. If We Fly is a terrific ending to a story I didn’t want to see end.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
September 10, 2018
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 5 Believe in Us Stars ~
What happens when saving a little girls Halloween candy turns into the love of your life??
If you want the answer to that question you need to read the What If Duet by Nina Lane. This duet is about love, sacrifice and forgiveness. I dare you NOT to get swept up in this story and the lives of these characters. It’s impossible!!!
If We Fly is the conclusion to this story and the journey of Cole and Josie. I thought this book was the PERFECT ending for their love story!!!
All the questions were answered and all the feelings were felt. This conclusion has sealed the deal on this being my ALL TIME FAVORITE book/series by Nina Lane. I can’t say enough about this story and the characters we fall in love with. But don’t just take my word for it….READ THIS DUET!!!!
This is the final book in this Duet and is told in Dual POV. As with the other book we get to see how Josie and Cole manage the ups and downs of their relationship. I am not going to tell you much about this book, because it is a book/duet that you need to go into blind. This is a quick read and will only take you a couple of hours to read it. My only complaint is that I wish the story was longer…..I didn’t want this to end. Maybe there can be a spin-off of another character we meet in this series ;)
I know this is short and vague, but all I can really say without spoiling anything is READ THIS BOOK!!! You won’t be sorry. Make sure to move this duet up on your TBR list. This is one of my favorite duets of 2018!!!
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~ 5 Believe in Us Stars ~
What happens when saving a little girls Halloween candy turns into the love of your life??
If you want the answer to that question you need to read the What If Duet by Nina Lane. This duet is about love, sacrifice and forgiveness. I dare you NOT to get swept up in this story and the lives of these characters. It’s impossible!!!
If We Fly is the conclusion to this story and the journey of Cole and Josie. I thought this book was the PERFECT ending for their love story!!!
All the questions were answered and all the feelings were felt. This conclusion has sealed the deal on this being my ALL TIME FAVORITE book/series by Nina Lane. I can’t say enough about this story and the characters we fall in love with. But don’t just take my word for it….READ THIS DUET!!!!
This is the final book in this Duet and is told in Dual POV. As with the other book we get to see how Josie and Cole manage the ups and downs of their relationship. I am not going to tell you much about this book, because it is a book/duet that you need to go into blind. This is a quick read and will only take you a couple of hours to read it. My only complaint is that I wish the story was longer…..I didn’t want this to end. Maybe there can be a spin-off of another character we meet in this series ;)
I know this is short and vague, but all I can really say without spoiling anything is READ THIS BOOK!!! You won’t be sorry. Make sure to move this duet up on your TBR list. This is one of my favorite duets of 2018!!!
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter
September 14, 2018
What a brilliant conclusion to an amazing story! If We Fly, book 2, in the What If duet by Nina Lane, is emotional, heartbreaking, heartwarming, sweet and sexy. It is a second chance love story that will fill your heart. It is beautifully written. I fell hard for Cole and Josie.
The story is told in alternating POV which is my favorite because it allows me to really be in the characters’ heads and understand where they’re coming from fully. Author Nina Lane is a master at using this style to let the reader know things the other character may not yet know. She also makes the story come alive with her vivid descriptive language. I fell for the town of Castile when I was first introduced to it in The Secret Thief. I loved the cameos made by some of my favorite characters in Nina Lane’s other books.
Cole and Josie continue to pull at my heart as they try to figure out where they stand and what the future holds for them. As they try to navigate the rough road they have before them, the past keeps trying to creep in, much to Cole’s dismay and fear. God, how he loves Josie. The feeling is palpable. It makes me love him more. But Josie is tired of hiding from the past and refuses to let it go. Secrets get uncovered and they rock her to the core. Cole and Josie have to overcome outside obstacles and their own demons.
I love this story. It is compelling and had me hooked from the start. I could not put it down. I highly recommend this duet. It is s beautiful story with twists, angst and steam. It’s about friendship, loyalty, love and redemption. You’re going to love it. I know I did.
~ Maria
The story is told in alternating POV which is my favorite because it allows me to really be in the characters’ heads and understand where they’re coming from fully. Author Nina Lane is a master at using this style to let the reader know things the other character may not yet know. She also makes the story come alive with her vivid descriptive language. I fell for the town of Castile when I was first introduced to it in The Secret Thief. I loved the cameos made by some of my favorite characters in Nina Lane’s other books.
Cole and Josie continue to pull at my heart as they try to figure out where they stand and what the future holds for them. As they try to navigate the rough road they have before them, the past keeps trying to creep in, much to Cole’s dismay and fear. God, how he loves Josie. The feeling is palpable. It makes me love him more. But Josie is tired of hiding from the past and refuses to let it go. Secrets get uncovered and they rock her to the core. Cole and Josie have to overcome outside obstacles and their own demons.
I love this story. It is compelling and had me hooked from the start. I could not put it down. I highly recommend this duet. It is s beautiful story with twists, angst and steam. It’s about friendship, loyalty, love and redemption. You’re going to love it. I know I did.
~ Maria
January 30, 2022
Una bilogía corta que se lee enseguida. La historia es sencilla bonita y entretenida. La pareja me parece muy tierna y me gusto pero se me hizo un poco más de lo mismo nada que haya amado pero buena lectura.
September 16, 2018
I LOVED this series!!! It made me feel!! Tapped into my emotions, especially due to a recent personal situation. The writing was amazing! I could picture everything perfectly! And...I am SO in love with Cole!!!
“Yeah, everyone wants to cling to reminders of the people we lost, but ultimately things don’t matter. Its memories of those people and how we feel about them that matters.”
“Yeah, everyone wants to cling to reminders of the people we lost, but ultimately things don’t matter. Its memories of those people and how we feel about them that matters.”
September 18, 2018
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars! This was a great Second Chance love story. This was so beautifully written and the content was moving. Great job to the author.
January 6, 2019
3.75 Stars
September 10, 2018
If We Fly is one helluva conclusion to the What If Duet. Nina Lane keeps the angst level high as Cole and Josie once again find themselves at a crossroads as past events become blatantly clear and threaten their second chance at true happiness. I have always wanted Josie to figure out exactly what happened that fateful night that changed the course of her life so many years ago. And with the way If We Fall ended, I just knew that when the truth finally came out, we'd all have to watch as everything would helplessly spiral out of control.
My emotions were all over the place as the jagged puzzle pieces of Josie's memories finally find their rightful place in her mind. My heart was in my throat as Cole tries his hardest to keep shielding her from the pain of the tragedy that continues to haunt both he and his Josie Bird. My shock at the revelations that are finally set free matched Josie's reactions and her sister Vanessa's as well. And even though it all made sense and just the thought of what Cole put himself through in order to protect Josie made me sigh more than once, I still hurt badly for all of them. Everyone's lives were put on hold all because a boy met a girl and loved her enough to make sure nothing would ever take away her happy. Even if that meant being hated by the town he was so desperate to leave. Cole embodies the very definition of selfless and I was both mad at him and wildly in awe at his choices in life. But to think he loved his Josie that much, was beyond beautiful.
I will admit I teared up more than once while reading this book. Nina Lane masterfully delivers the right amount of feeling and creates characters who react in a real way. Seeing members of the small community of Castille come to Josie's aid, whether it was simple act of asking to help paint her mural or the sincere offer of possible employment, they showed they cared. There isn't that relentless over the top anger at Cole despite what he may have been alluded to have been doing all of these years at the town's expense nor is their despair over what really did happen on that bridge after Josie's parents's anniversary party many years ago. Instead there is understanding and forgiveness, delivered together with the promise of a love that was clearly always meant to be.
The entire What If Duet (including the prequel novella) is a must read. There are numerous twists, turns and detours as Cole and Josie try to find their way back to each other. Both change throughout this series and in particular, I was thrilled to see Josie take back control of her life and find the determination to set things right. Along with some well-placed easter eggs and some very engaging secondary characters who I wouldn't mind seeing more of in the future, there is the overwhelming hope that love can and will conquer all. I never want it to be easy though, and this book delivers perfectly. And quite frankly isn't that what most of us want to see? I know I do and If We Fly checks off all those boxes for me.
If you love a well-written second chance romance, then the What If duet is for you. Start with If We Leap and get lost in the love that is Cole and Josie. It is just wonderful and you won't want it to end.
5 huge stars!
My emotions were all over the place as the jagged puzzle pieces of Josie's memories finally find their rightful place in her mind. My heart was in my throat as Cole tries his hardest to keep shielding her from the pain of the tragedy that continues to haunt both he and his Josie Bird. My shock at the revelations that are finally set free matched Josie's reactions and her sister Vanessa's as well. And even though it all made sense and just the thought of what Cole put himself through in order to protect Josie made me sigh more than once, I still hurt badly for all of them. Everyone's lives were put on hold all because a boy met a girl and loved her enough to make sure nothing would ever take away her happy. Even if that meant being hated by the town he was so desperate to leave. Cole embodies the very definition of selfless and I was both mad at him and wildly in awe at his choices in life. But to think he loved his Josie that much, was beyond beautiful.
I will admit I teared up more than once while reading this book. Nina Lane masterfully delivers the right amount of feeling and creates characters who react in a real way. Seeing members of the small community of Castille come to Josie's aid, whether it was simple act of asking to help paint her mural or the sincere offer of possible employment, they showed they cared. There isn't that relentless over the top anger at Cole despite what he may have been alluded to have been doing all of these years at the town's expense nor is their despair over what really did happen on that bridge after Josie's parents's anniversary party many years ago. Instead there is understanding and forgiveness, delivered together with the promise of a love that was clearly always meant to be.
The entire What If Duet (including the prequel novella) is a must read. There are numerous twists, turns and detours as Cole and Josie try to find their way back to each other. Both change throughout this series and in particular, I was thrilled to see Josie take back control of her life and find the determination to set things right. Along with some well-placed easter eggs and some very engaging secondary characters who I wouldn't mind seeing more of in the future, there is the overwhelming hope that love can and will conquer all. I never want it to be easy though, and this book delivers perfectly. And quite frankly isn't that what most of us want to see? I know I do and If We Fly checks off all those boxes for me.
If you love a well-written second chance romance, then the What If duet is for you. Start with If We Leap and get lost in the love that is Cole and Josie. It is just wonderful and you won't want it to end.
5 huge stars!
September 10, 2018
kfforever
Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse at KindleFriendsForever
If Lane left me gobsmacked in If We Fall, this last installment in the What If series literally played havoc with my emotions. I had a good idea what was coming; however, it was the author’s vivid and multi-faceted portrayal of her characters’ pasts clashing with the present that made the conclusion such an epic one. This exquisite love story brought out all the feels and even though I had a good cry, my tears didn’t stop me from turning the pages at a ridiculous speed. Also, apart from being the perfect Sunday read, it was one of those rare occasions when I could devour the book from beginning to end without interruptions or having to worry about a sleep deficit.
My heart went out to Cole. The townsfolk judged him unfairly and all because he’d buried a secret, inadvertently changing the path of lives and at the same time, sacrificing his own. I discovered why he'd held it so close to his chest, why he thought he’d done the right thing. Ahh, but sometimes it’s not up to us to make decisions for others. Now he’s got Josie back, or has he? Cole isn’t the boy she fell in love with years ago. Those very circumstances which broke them hardened him. She’s getting to know the new Cole, finding her way in a town she doesn’t know holds any kind of future.
At no time did Josie show anger towards the ones who loved her. Frustration and sadness; yes, and to my mind of thinking, a lot of patience. I felt for her while she tried to fit the pieces of a complicated puzzle together. Finding no answers and only receiving negative vibes from a close relative didn’t help matters either. Yet, the community rallied around. They were all aware that what she had to give was for their benefit. Saying that, in one scene she showed a moment of weakness, and I really thought she was going to throw the towel in. How could I have doubted this willful woman when all she’d had was misfortune!
Cole’s regrets are crushing, his love for Josie limitless. He thought he was protecting her by living a lie, and it was better than destroying her with what she believed to be the truth. Should he have ever questioned her strength or her feelings for him? He’d find out the hard way that love can move mountains if you trust in it. When she learns the facts, will forgiveness and letting go of the past give them a second chance? The only way you’ll find out is by one-clicking and if you haven’t started reading this series yet, what are you waiting for? If We Leap is free!
What. A. Read! Lane’s secondary character development is spot on. I loved the library atmosphere, the timid librarian, Charlotte and hmm...the extremely attractive Professor West who’s a mind of interesting information. And then her sister, Vanessa. It took me a good while to get on with her; especially seeing the way she’d treated Cole. Nathan, Allegra and the cameo appearances...all of them adding their voices to a story beautifully narrated from a dual point-of-view. Can I see a spin-off on the horizon? I really hope so! Bravo Lane!
Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse at KindleFriendsForever
If Lane left me gobsmacked in If We Fall, this last installment in the What If series literally played havoc with my emotions. I had a good idea what was coming; however, it was the author’s vivid and multi-faceted portrayal of her characters’ pasts clashing with the present that made the conclusion such an epic one. This exquisite love story brought out all the feels and even though I had a good cry, my tears didn’t stop me from turning the pages at a ridiculous speed. Also, apart from being the perfect Sunday read, it was one of those rare occasions when I could devour the book from beginning to end without interruptions or having to worry about a sleep deficit.
My heart went out to Cole. The townsfolk judged him unfairly and all because he’d buried a secret, inadvertently changing the path of lives and at the same time, sacrificing his own. I discovered why he'd held it so close to his chest, why he thought he’d done the right thing. Ahh, but sometimes it’s not up to us to make decisions for others. Now he’s got Josie back, or has he? Cole isn’t the boy she fell in love with years ago. Those very circumstances which broke them hardened him. She’s getting to know the new Cole, finding her way in a town she doesn’t know holds any kind of future.
At no time did Josie show anger towards the ones who loved her. Frustration and sadness; yes, and to my mind of thinking, a lot of patience. I felt for her while she tried to fit the pieces of a complicated puzzle together. Finding no answers and only receiving negative vibes from a close relative didn’t help matters either. Yet, the community rallied around. They were all aware that what she had to give was for their benefit. Saying that, in one scene she showed a moment of weakness, and I really thought she was going to throw the towel in. How could I have doubted this willful woman when all she’d had was misfortune!
Cole’s regrets are crushing, his love for Josie limitless. He thought he was protecting her by living a lie, and it was better than destroying her with what she believed to be the truth. Should he have ever questioned her strength or her feelings for him? He’d find out the hard way that love can move mountains if you trust in it. When she learns the facts, will forgiveness and letting go of the past give them a second chance? The only way you’ll find out is by one-clicking and if you haven’t started reading this series yet, what are you waiting for? If We Leap is free!
What. A. Read! Lane’s secondary character development is spot on. I loved the library atmosphere, the timid librarian, Charlotte and hmm...the extremely attractive Professor West who’s a mind of interesting information. And then her sister, Vanessa. It took me a good while to get on with her; especially seeing the way she’d treated Cole. Nathan, Allegra and the cameo appearances...all of them adding their voices to a story beautifully narrated from a dual point-of-view. Can I see a spin-off on the horizon? I really hope so! Bravo Lane!
September 16, 2018
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32
But while this is sage advice, sometimes the cost of the truth ruins lives…destroys hearts…crushes souls.
10 years ago, Cole’s lies stole his happily ever after with Josie and it’s that same misguided judgment that continues to divide these two soulmates. Because even though they’ve reunited their bodies, their hearts and souls still remain separated…still yearning for the love they once shared but making that seemingly impossible because they’re not the same people nor does Josie understand why Cole left her all those years ago.
Neither Cole nor Josie have the ability to rise above their pasts and the events that unequivocally altered the dynamics of not only their love but also of who they are at their core, and until their souls are set free…until they can let go of their grief, their anger, and their regret, they’ll truly never be able to rise above, to open up their hearts and their minds in a way that will allow them to fly high and no longer be trapped by their memories or the demons and nightmares that constantly plague them.
In If We Fly, Nina Lane forces Cole and Josie to face that god awful night 10 years ago…to shed the lies and accept the truths…to understand their respective actions and evaluate, whether or not, they can overcome everything that has spiraled out of control, accept who each other is in the present, and forgive what was lost when a single sentence was allowed to build an insurmountable wall between them.
Lane’s What If Duet, is perfectly named. The first book, If We Fall, illustrates what occurred when Cole made a decision that categorically altered every facet of both of their lives and then the story begins to help these soul mates find a way to move forward, to reconnect, and to heal what was broken all those years ago.
And, in If We Fly, Lane allows Cole and Josie to make their own decisions when it comes to what their present and future lives will look like and who they will share them with, and while these two appear to be unable to free themselves, perpetually grounded in the events of the past, re-opening their hearts and allowing the goodness back in will more than allow Cole and Josie to open their arms and fly high together, no longer giving their past the power it’s had for far too long.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
But while this is sage advice, sometimes the cost of the truth ruins lives…destroys hearts…crushes souls.
10 years ago, Cole’s lies stole his happily ever after with Josie and it’s that same misguided judgment that continues to divide these two soulmates. Because even though they’ve reunited their bodies, their hearts and souls still remain separated…still yearning for the love they once shared but making that seemingly impossible because they’re not the same people nor does Josie understand why Cole left her all those years ago.
Neither Cole nor Josie have the ability to rise above their pasts and the events that unequivocally altered the dynamics of not only their love but also of who they are at their core, and until their souls are set free…until they can let go of their grief, their anger, and their regret, they’ll truly never be able to rise above, to open up their hearts and their minds in a way that will allow them to fly high and no longer be trapped by their memories or the demons and nightmares that constantly plague them.
In If We Fly, Nina Lane forces Cole and Josie to face that god awful night 10 years ago…to shed the lies and accept the truths…to understand their respective actions and evaluate, whether or not, they can overcome everything that has spiraled out of control, accept who each other is in the present, and forgive what was lost when a single sentence was allowed to build an insurmountable wall between them.
Lane’s What If Duet, is perfectly named. The first book, If We Fall, illustrates what occurred when Cole made a decision that categorically altered every facet of both of their lives and then the story begins to help these soul mates find a way to move forward, to reconnect, and to heal what was broken all those years ago.
And, in If We Fly, Lane allows Cole and Josie to make their own decisions when it comes to what their present and future lives will look like and who they will share them with, and while these two appear to be unable to free themselves, perpetually grounded in the events of the past, re-opening their hearts and allowing the goodness back in will more than allow Cole and Josie to open their arms and fly high together, no longer giving their past the power it’s had for far too long.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
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