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Without Fear of Falling: A Novel
Twenty-two-year-old Ellie Stewart would much rather forget that she can see into the past lives of those she meets, but when she crosses paths with Declan O Shea, an attractive yet troubled artist, flashes of 18th-century Britain begin to plague her mind and push Ellie to uncover the mystical connection that she and Declan share. Enlisting the help of her childhood mentor and psychic, Mrs. Dawes, Ellie is brought back to a time when she was Louisa, saintly and beautiful, and Declan was William, handsome and driven by a shameful past. Will Ellie be able to face the truth of all that happened so long ago? And if she can, will Declan believe her? Weaving between present-day Tobermory, Canada and 18th-century Tobermory, Scotland is a tale of love, loss and forgiveness across time.
- GenresRomance
252 pages, Paperback
First published April 16, 2013
3 people are currently reading
475 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Boonstra
4 books39 followersDanielle lives with her family just outside of Toronto, Canada.
Without Fear of Falling is her first novel and her next, The Sweetwood Series, will be released in June 2023 under her new author name, Danielle Hines.
Without Fear of Falling is her first novel and her next, The Sweetwood Series, will be released in June 2023 under her new author name, Danielle Hines.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 1, 2013
Well, it's my book so...you know...
I will say that I worked my butt off on it. It was one of the best experiences of my life to write it. I love the characters, the setting, the feel of this novel. Sometimes I really want to go back there and soak in it.
My hope is that Without Fear of Falling reaches everyone who can be helped by it...who will enjoy it.
I will say that I worked my butt off on it. It was one of the best experiences of my life to write it. I love the characters, the setting, the feel of this novel. Sometimes I really want to go back there and soak in it.
My hope is that Without Fear of Falling reaches everyone who can be helped by it...who will enjoy it.
April 8, 2013
I LOVED "Without Fear of Falling!" Danielle's writing is so artistic and graceful that I found myself vividly transported to the setting of her novel, Tobermory, Canada and Tobermory, Scotland. The story is touching and inspiring, and elicits a I-can't-put-this-down-because-I-need-to-know-what-happens-next feeling.
"Without Fear of Falling" creates an actual experience for the reader - it reminds us that Truth, Love, and Healing lay inside of us, and we don't have to look elsewhere for it. This is a must read!!
"Without Fear of Falling" creates an actual experience for the reader - it reminds us that Truth, Love, and Healing lay inside of us, and we don't have to look elsewhere for it. This is a must read!!
March 6, 2013
Danielle Boonstra’s first novel, Without Fear of Falling, captivated me from start to finish. Boonstra writes in a clear, smooth prose and treats love and romance with a nuanced, delicate touch. While I don’t usually read books that are in the romance genre, this book really splits genres, crossing from historical romance to modern paranormal psychodrama, and just as the author crosses between dramas, the main characters move back and forth between centuries, meeting up with one another time and again as their souls search for healing and their pain, resolution.
Reading Without Fear of Falling had an incredible effect on me. The male lead, Declan, has lived a life wrought with pain; in fact, he spent time in a mental institution before meeting Ellie. But something magical happens when he meets her: he finds healing. Now, this goes against much of what we think we know about psychology but it matches what I know from my own life about the human heart.
You see, I was one of those people, once broken, once almost mentally ill, who found healing as a result of finding my soulmate. Love really can mend the broken pieces inside of us. When I read Without Fear of Falling, I was reminded, in a very visceral way, both of the pain I’d buried and of the love that had helped me to finally bury that pain.
So for me, reading Boonstra’s first novel was a profound experience. It affected me on a personal level because it reminded me of the ways love has healed me. And as a writer, as a fan of fine craftsmanship, complex characterization and a well-constructed plot, I can give Without Fear of Falling my highest recommendation.
E.L. Farris, Author of Ripple, A Tale of Hope and Redemption; I Run: Running from Hell with El, and Michael’s Hand.
Reading Without Fear of Falling had an incredible effect on me. The male lead, Declan, has lived a life wrought with pain; in fact, he spent time in a mental institution before meeting Ellie. But something magical happens when he meets her: he finds healing. Now, this goes against much of what we think we know about psychology but it matches what I know from my own life about the human heart.
You see, I was one of those people, once broken, once almost mentally ill, who found healing as a result of finding my soulmate. Love really can mend the broken pieces inside of us. When I read Without Fear of Falling, I was reminded, in a very visceral way, both of the pain I’d buried and of the love that had helped me to finally bury that pain.
So for me, reading Boonstra’s first novel was a profound experience. It affected me on a personal level because it reminded me of the ways love has healed me. And as a writer, as a fan of fine craftsmanship, complex characterization and a well-constructed plot, I can give Without Fear of Falling my highest recommendation.
E.L. Farris, Author of Ripple, A Tale of Hope and Redemption; I Run: Running from Hell with El, and Michael’s Hand.
June 2, 2016
As strange as it may sound, a lot of time I receive spiritual guidance through books. I will feel attracted to a book cover or a book that I know nothing about; I just know I have to read it. Once I do read it, the reason that I needed it becomes more clear. This book was one of those books. I had seen references to it on a few social networking sites, and each time I did, I just felt drawn to it. I knew I had to read it, and the Universe conspired to get a copy in my hands.
I am relating this story because this, in essence, is the underlying message of the book: that we are all guided; that we all have a still, small voice within that leads us to higher spiritual wisdom if we choose to listen.
In the story, a young woman named Ellie grapples with a unique psychic gift. Specifically, she is able to see the past lives of herself and those around her. Her gift both scares and intrigues her, and the arrival of a troubled stranger awakens her visions in a way that forces her to address them. The story weaves back and forth between Ellie's present day life and a past life, and follows her development as she and those around her awaken to their spiritual power and learn to embrace the healing power of love.
The story in itself is magical, and I felt like I was reading a fairy tale the entire time. The characters are unique and lovable, and the writing is effortless and beautiful. There were several points in this book where a phrase just struck me right in the heart with its beauty and powerful wisdom, and I had tears in my eyes on more than one occasion!
As lovely as this book is just for the story's sake, the best stories teach us something. And that is what makes this book even more striking. The spiritual messages that are woven throughout are done so in a natural and flowing manner, and this story provides the perfect setting for the principles that are being conveyed. I'm trying not to be too specific so that I don't give anything away, but also because each person will come away with something different after reading this book. I felt uplifted, comforted, and peaceful, and I immediately wanted to read it again.
Every once in awhile I come across a book that I feel compelled to buy several copies of to give out as gifts; this one will definitely be my go-to gift this year! Whether you are a spiritual seeker looking for inspiration or understanding or you just want to be entertained by a good story, this is the book for you!
I truly look forward to more from this author in the future!
I am relating this story because this, in essence, is the underlying message of the book: that we are all guided; that we all have a still, small voice within that leads us to higher spiritual wisdom if we choose to listen.
In the story, a young woman named Ellie grapples with a unique psychic gift. Specifically, she is able to see the past lives of herself and those around her. Her gift both scares and intrigues her, and the arrival of a troubled stranger awakens her visions in a way that forces her to address them. The story weaves back and forth between Ellie's present day life and a past life, and follows her development as she and those around her awaken to their spiritual power and learn to embrace the healing power of love.
The story in itself is magical, and I felt like I was reading a fairy tale the entire time. The characters are unique and lovable, and the writing is effortless and beautiful. There were several points in this book where a phrase just struck me right in the heart with its beauty and powerful wisdom, and I had tears in my eyes on more than one occasion!
As lovely as this book is just for the story's sake, the best stories teach us something. And that is what makes this book even more striking. The spiritual messages that are woven throughout are done so in a natural and flowing manner, and this story provides the perfect setting for the principles that are being conveyed. I'm trying not to be too specific so that I don't give anything away, but also because each person will come away with something different after reading this book. I felt uplifted, comforted, and peaceful, and I immediately wanted to read it again.
Every once in awhile I come across a book that I feel compelled to buy several copies of to give out as gifts; this one will definitely be my go-to gift this year! Whether you are a spiritual seeker looking for inspiration or understanding or you just want to be entertained by a good story, this is the book for you!
I truly look forward to more from this author in the future!
May 10, 2013
Without Fear of Falling is a paranormal romance with reincarnation elements.
Ellie is a young woman who sees snippets of past lives–both hers and of people around her. She possesses an innate understanding of who the people in her visions are in the here and now.
For example, she might see a vision of a woman from Biblical times and know that woman is the coffee shop owner in her present day town. (That’s a made up example–and not a very good one–but Ellie’s visions are such a cool element in this book. I wanted to somehow do them justice.)
These visions of past lives are something Ellie has dealt with all her life, but as she ages, they sort of go away…until she meets Declan.
Declan re-awakens Ellie’s visions of past lives, and she can’t quit thinking about him. She soon realizes that her past incarnations are entwined with Declan’s and wants to know more.
Using past life regression, Ellie remembers the story of William and Louisa, who were Declan’s and her previous incarnations. She remembers the love and the tragedy they shared. That helps her analyze her attitudes about life and how she approaches it, both then and now.
What I loved about this book is that it’s about finding happiness and inner peace. In some ways, it’s about the choices we make, but the answers Ellie finds both surprised me and made me think.
Ellie is a young woman who sees snippets of past lives–both hers and of people around her. She possesses an innate understanding of who the people in her visions are in the here and now.
For example, she might see a vision of a woman from Biblical times and know that woman is the coffee shop owner in her present day town. (That’s a made up example–and not a very good one–but Ellie’s visions are such a cool element in this book. I wanted to somehow do them justice.)
These visions of past lives are something Ellie has dealt with all her life, but as she ages, they sort of go away…until she meets Declan.
Declan re-awakens Ellie’s visions of past lives, and she can’t quit thinking about him. She soon realizes that her past incarnations are entwined with Declan’s and wants to know more.
Using past life regression, Ellie remembers the story of William and Louisa, who were Declan’s and her previous incarnations. She remembers the love and the tragedy they shared. That helps her analyze her attitudes about life and how she approaches it, both then and now.
What I loved about this book is that it’s about finding happiness and inner peace. In some ways, it’s about the choices we make, but the answers Ellie finds both surprised me and made me think.
May 3, 2013
This story almost read itself to me it unfolded so beautifully from start to finish. It is an effortless read that dances with the concepts of past lives and loves and how two souls can be inextricably bound to one another in ways that nearly defy comprehension, the shared experiences of the past informing the present, often of ways in which we need to be healed. Early on Boonstra wrote of the heroine, "She's quiet, not shy. There's a difference," and I was hooked by the central character who has the ability to "see". I also loved that the author seeded her passages with metaphysical touches and deep wisdom as when the past-life father asks his daughter if a certain person will make her happy, and she replies, "No. He will not. That, dear Father, is a task all my own," and later to her fiance, "I do not need you, my love, but I want you." You may not need this book, but you'll want it. Trust me.
April 27, 2013
This romantic novel with lyrical prose got better and better as it went along, which is saying a lot when this is the first line: “There is a place in the world where the wind can cut you and lift you at the same time.” Remember that line, because when you finish the last page, it will be even more beautiful. Seriously, your breath will catch. This love story was REAL in that it showed the difference between needing someone and loving them, and it showed a deep, deep purpose to intimate relationships. This novel was spiritual, mystical...and the ending was powerful. I’m sooo looking forward to the next book from Danielle Boonstra!
June 6, 2014
If you are a person that likes to explore the possibility of past lives, this novel is for you. It is a well-written, and very interesting story, going back and forth, between a lifetime in the late 1700's, and a current lifetime. Like many of us, the main characters in this book have doubts and some fear about past life regression work. And yet, they remain open to the possibilities; and then resonate with the messages and insights gained during the journey that brings growth and healing into their lives. I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to more books written by this author
May 13, 2014
I picked up this book with the intention of reading for an hour or so, but could not put it down and as a result went to sleep way too late! The premise of small-town-Canada is a very Alice Munro-style setting, and the characters are not only riveting but also generation-transversing as they open up to their own internal secrets.
Ever felt as if you've known someone you've just met, for a very long time? Have you ever entertained the idea that perhaps you've met them in a past life? if so, this is the book for you.
Well written debut-novel-page-turner, well deserved of five stars.
Ever felt as if you've known someone you've just met, for a very long time? Have you ever entertained the idea that perhaps you've met them in a past life? if so, this is the book for you.
Well written debut-novel-page-turner, well deserved of five stars.
March 16, 2013
I think this is a wonderful book. The plot is intriguing and the characterization is nuanced. The message about the healing power of love is clear and compelling. This book made me feel good, and what could be better than that?
September 22, 2023
Well, it's my book so...you know...
I will say that I worked my butt off on it. It was one of the best experiences of my life to write it. I love the characters, the setting, the feel of this novel. Sometimes I really want to go back there and soak in it.
My hope is that Without Fear of Falling reaches everyone who can be helped by it...who will enjoy it.
I will say that I worked my butt off on it. It was one of the best experiences of my life to write it. I love the characters, the setting, the feel of this novel. Sometimes I really want to go back there and soak in it.
My hope is that Without Fear of Falling reaches everyone who can be helped by it...who will enjoy it.
December 9, 2018
A Love novel that will fulfill your heart with its beauty of interesting characters described in words.
July 1, 2013
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads. The star rating is for the Goodreads rating system and may not translate properly to other sites.
I liked the book although it read a bit slower than most books I read.
It brought insight into how all of our lifetimes are intertwined and we are often around the same people over several lifetimes. The author does this through a story vs how you might see it in a non-fiction book.
There were a couple errors although only one really bugged me (the first sentence of Chapter 7 starts with the name Ellie and I think that was actually supposed to be a header so I reread it a few times before I realized it wasn't part of the sentence).
I liked the book although it read a bit slower than most books I read.
It brought insight into how all of our lifetimes are intertwined and we are often around the same people over several lifetimes. The author does this through a story vs how you might see it in a non-fiction book.
There were a couple errors although only one really bugged me (the first sentence of Chapter 7 starts with the name Ellie and I think that was actually supposed to be a header so I reread it a few times before I realized it wasn't part of the sentence).
January 7, 2014
I got this book through goodreads giveaways. What a cover~ It is a great picture while as a book cover, Danielle's name kind of blends in with the path of sand and grass. The book is about 2 love stories in 2 different time lines by reincarnation. As the story goes the truth is unfolded. Louisa's death brought tear into my eyes and glad that mistake has been mend by Ellie and Declan. Nice plot and well written.
August 17, 2014
I loved this book. A lot of spiritual concepts that resonate with my own spiritual beliefs. Well written with excellent characters. The only unusual factor was having the protagonist tell people about having visions and guides - in which everyone is open and accepting to. Not many people are believers...
November 9, 2016
Wow, this reads like a first draft. With changes in tense mid-sentence. And descriptions reading like a huge bin of miscellaneous stuff at a thrift store. I could not get through it. Too many things that need editing. Like the grammar!!!
July 3, 2013
What a touching story. The characters were well described and developed. I enjoyed the feeling that I was along with them for their journey.
June 27, 2013
This book hooked me with a plot unlike anything else I've read. I enjoyed the love stories developed in two different time periods. However, I felt myself wanting more at times.
July 30, 2013
I loved this book from beginning to end. A real page turner that had me hooked!! So well written, what an amazing accomplishment from a first novel!!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews