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Beautifully Broken #2
If You Leave
"In If You Leave, we continue the wild ride Courtney Cole started us on in If You Stay. This raw story of heartbreak and hope solidifies Cole's standing as a rising star in hot contemporary romance." -New York Times Bestselling author of Down to You, M. Leighton
"Another raw, gritty masterpiece with a sexy-as-hell Army Ranger to swoon over." -K.A. Tucker, author of Ten Tiny Breaths
Courtney Cole's New York Times bestselling Beautifully Broken series continues with IF YOU LEAVE.
26-year old Gabriel Vincent is a badass hero. Or he used to be, anyway. As an ex-Army Ranger, Gabe never thought he needed anyone. But after one horrible night in Afghanistan scars him in a way that he can't get past, he needs someone who can help him heal...even if he doesn't realize it.
25-year old Madison Hill doesn't need anybody...or so she thinks. She grew up watching her parents' messed-up abusive relationship and she knows there's no way in hell that she's ever letting that happen to her.
They don't know it in the beginning, but Gabriel and Madison will soon develop a Each other.
But Gabriel's got a secret, a hidden monster that he's afraid Maddy could never overcome... And Maddy's got issues that she's afraid Gabe will never understand. They quickly realize that they need each other to be whole, but at the same time they know that they've got demons to fight.
And the problem with demons is that they never die quietly.
"Another raw, gritty masterpiece with a sexy-as-hell Army Ranger to swoon over." -K.A. Tucker, author of Ten Tiny Breaths
Courtney Cole's New York Times bestselling Beautifully Broken series continues with IF YOU LEAVE.
26-year old Gabriel Vincent is a badass hero. Or he used to be, anyway. As an ex-Army Ranger, Gabe never thought he needed anyone. But after one horrible night in Afghanistan scars him in a way that he can't get past, he needs someone who can help him heal...even if he doesn't realize it.
25-year old Madison Hill doesn't need anybody...or so she thinks. She grew up watching her parents' messed-up abusive relationship and she knows there's no way in hell that she's ever letting that happen to her.
They don't know it in the beginning, but Gabriel and Madison will soon develop a Each other.
But Gabriel's got a secret, a hidden monster that he's afraid Maddy could never overcome... And Maddy's got issues that she's afraid Gabe will never understand. They quickly realize that they need each other to be whole, but at the same time they know that they've got demons to fight.
And the problem with demons is that they never die quietly.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
121 people are currently reading
9692 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Cole
44 books4,546 followersCourtney Cole is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling novelist who loves to eat your emotions for breakfast.
She believes in the power of blonde hair dye and red lipstick, and that a well-timed smile can save the world.
Learn more about Courtney and her books at www.courtneycolecreates.com
Find her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/courtneyc...
She believes in the power of blonde hair dye and red lipstick, and that a well-timed smile can save the world.
Learn more about Courtney and her books at www.courtneycolecreates.com
Find her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/courtneyc...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 652 reviews
August 17, 2013
5 (I wish I could give it more) Beautifully Broken Stars
I knew going in that I can't ever be with anyone. That I'm not whole. That I'm not normal. That I'm a monster. That I'm the bad thing.
She wants me. And I want her. Fucking her would be like harnessing a raging summer storm.
This book book gutted me, it broke my heart into a million different pieces, and then it put it back together piece by shattered piece.
The book starts off with a bang, as I've come to associate to books written by Courtney Cole. It grabs you with the first few lines, and doesn't let you up until the very last page.
Gabriel is an Army Ranger, who is still dealing with the demons that haunt his nightmares since his last tour in Afganistan. Try as he does, as hard as he runs, he knows that he can't outrun them. The bad thing has finally caught him, and he know's there's no escape.
Madison is dealing with demons of her own, though hers come from a different type of memory.
An accidental meeting behind a club in Chicago brings these two damaged souls together. What was supposed to be a few moments spent naked and sweaty between the sheets, get interrupted by a freak accident that bring Gabriel's secret demons, that he's been struggling to keep hidden, roaring to the surface.
Madison knows a fucked up person when she sees one. So as gorgeous as the dark haired stranger was, she leaves him with no expectations for their paths to ever cross again. Of course nothing is quite so simple, and she finds herself coming face to face with the beautiful and broken soldier once again.
Fighting issues of her own, the last thing that Maddy needs is to take on the issues of Gabe. But she has a hard time fighting the immediate and overwhelming attraction that burns between them.
I couldn't get enough of both of these characters. Maddy is broken in her own way. And she hides her damaged heart behind a veil of a cold bitch. But Gabe is determined to win the game of cat and mouse between them, and to chip away at the cold exterior to the woman that she hides underneath.
Let me tell you, when these two finally get together...
IT.WAS.DAMN.HOT.
Madison begins to see beyond the shadows of pain, to the true damaged warrior underneath. But while Gabe helps her heal the wounds of her past, he maintains a strong hold on his own hidden demons. But little by little, Maddy begins to get bits and pieces of what broke such a strong man.
While she knows that she can't force him to deal with his past, she knows that she wants to be by his side when he finally does.
Gabe, oh my poor damaged, completely fucked up Gabe. My heart absolutely broke for him. When each new detail of that dark came to light, I found myself crying like a baby. I just wanted to hug him. I wanted to fix him.
Courtney Cole did not shy away from any gritty, dark, and utterly devastating detail. It was gutting to read it, yet I couldn't put the book down.
She took an incredibly dark and painful subject matter, and she painted an incredibly beautiful story. I loved that she spared no detail, and gave focus to Gabe actually DEALING with his PTSD. It was not glossed over, it didn't fade to black. She took the reader on that journey along with Gabe, and Kudos to you Miss Cole for doing that.
While characters from the first book make an appearance in this book, (Maddy is Mila's sister from If You Stay) it could easily be read as a standalone. The details from the past book are explained away, so you wouldn't miss much. Though it IS a series, so I'd recommend starting from book one.
This book was utterly captivating, dark, gritty, devastating, heart breaking, and I LOVED EVERY SINGLE PAGE OF IT!
There is a sneak peak into book three, and the hero sounds like the ULTIMATELY broken and damaged asshole
Though I don't know how I feel about Jacey being the heroine. I couldn't stand her in this book. She was immature and just drove me nuts. Unless she overgoes a complete personality change, I can't see myself changing my opinion of her. But I guess I'll just have to wait and find out.
If you read and loved the first book, you will love this one even more.
If you were like me and the first book didn't quite work for you, this one will completely blow the first one out of the water. I can't recommend it enough. I still can't stop thinking about it.
Seriously, Courtney Cole, bravo!
For more reviews visit: Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog
I knew going in that I can't ever be with anyone. That I'm not whole. That I'm not normal. That I'm a monster. That I'm the bad thing.
She wants me. And I want her. Fucking her would be like harnessing a raging summer storm.
This book book gutted me, it broke my heart into a million different pieces, and then it put it back together piece by shattered piece.
The book starts off with a bang, as I've come to associate to books written by Courtney Cole. It grabs you with the first few lines, and doesn't let you up until the very last page.
Gabriel is an Army Ranger, who is still dealing with the demons that haunt his nightmares since his last tour in Afganistan. Try as he does, as hard as he runs, he knows that he can't outrun them. The bad thing has finally caught him, and he know's there's no escape.
Madison is dealing with demons of her own, though hers come from a different type of memory.
An accidental meeting behind a club in Chicago brings these two damaged souls together. What was supposed to be a few moments spent naked and sweaty between the sheets, get interrupted by a freak accident that bring Gabriel's secret demons, that he's been struggling to keep hidden, roaring to the surface.
Madison knows a fucked up person when she sees one. So as gorgeous as the dark haired stranger was, she leaves him with no expectations for their paths to ever cross again. Of course nothing is quite so simple, and she finds herself coming face to face with the beautiful and broken soldier once again.
Fighting issues of her own, the last thing that Maddy needs is to take on the issues of Gabe. But she has a hard time fighting the immediate and overwhelming attraction that burns between them.
I couldn't get enough of both of these characters. Maddy is broken in her own way. And she hides her damaged heart behind a veil of a cold bitch. But Gabe is determined to win the game of cat and mouse between them, and to chip away at the cold exterior to the woman that she hides underneath.
Let me tell you, when these two finally get together...
IT.WAS.DAMN.HOT.
Madison begins to see beyond the shadows of pain, to the true damaged warrior underneath. But while Gabe helps her heal the wounds of her past, he maintains a strong hold on his own hidden demons. But little by little, Maddy begins to get bits and pieces of what broke such a strong man.
While she knows that she can't force him to deal with his past, she knows that she wants to be by his side when he finally does.
Gabe, oh my poor damaged, completely fucked up Gabe. My heart absolutely broke for him. When each new detail of that dark came to light, I found myself crying like a baby. I just wanted to hug him. I wanted to fix him.
Courtney Cole did not shy away from any gritty, dark, and utterly devastating detail. It was gutting to read it, yet I couldn't put the book down.
She took an incredibly dark and painful subject matter, and she painted an incredibly beautiful story. I loved that she spared no detail, and gave focus to Gabe actually DEALING with his PTSD. It was not glossed over, it didn't fade to black. She took the reader on that journey along with Gabe, and Kudos to you Miss Cole for doing that.
While characters from the first book make an appearance in this book, (Maddy is Mila's sister from If You Stay) it could easily be read as a standalone. The details from the past book are explained away, so you wouldn't miss much. Though it IS a series, so I'd recommend starting from book one.
This book was utterly captivating, dark, gritty, devastating, heart breaking, and I LOVED EVERY SINGLE PAGE OF IT!
There is a sneak peak into book three, and the hero sounds like the ULTIMATELY broken and damaged asshole
Though I don't know how I feel about Jacey being the heroine. I couldn't stand her in this book. She was immature and just drove me nuts. Unless she overgoes a complete personality change, I can't see myself changing my opinion of her. But I guess I'll just have to wait and find out.
If you read and loved the first book, you will love this one even more.
If you were like me and the first book didn't quite work for you, this one will completely blow the first one out of the water. I can't recommend it enough. I still can't stop thinking about it.
Seriously, Courtney Cole, bravo!
For more reviews visit: Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog
August 12, 2013
I don't normally read romance. That may or may not be surprising to some. Usually it's because I get bored easily and have low-tolerance for a genre flooded with insipid writing, flat characters and lack of plot.
BUT THIS BOOK HAS NONE OF THAT.
Cole's writing is easy, yet poetic. Her characters are tough, flawed and tortured by very real demons. There's enough believable plot to keep my interest piqued and the pages turning.
Told from the dual POV of Madison and Gabriel, we are given one fiesty and relatable heroine (er, aside from her model-like looks and thin physique...bitch) and one hell of an amazing man. Lt. Gabriel Vincent. I kept seeing Hugh Jackman in an army uniform. Seriously, this man with his potty-mouth and bedroom skills and terribly ravaged soul won me over. I could SEE him clear as day. He's real and faces the same monsters that stalk so many men and women in the military. And ladies, I am PICKY when it comes to my leading men but Gabe stole my heart and panties.
If you're a romance junkie who wants a quick yet realistic read, hot sex (and aggravating sexual tension) and happy schmappy feelings when you've finished the book...get it. Read it. Love it.
BUT THIS BOOK HAS NONE OF THAT.
Cole's writing is easy, yet poetic. Her characters are tough, flawed and tortured by very real demons. There's enough believable plot to keep my interest piqued and the pages turning.
Told from the dual POV of Madison and Gabriel, we are given one fiesty and relatable heroine (er, aside from her model-like looks and thin physique...bitch) and one hell of an amazing man. Lt. Gabriel Vincent. I kept seeing Hugh Jackman in an army uniform. Seriously, this man with his potty-mouth and bedroom skills and terribly ravaged soul won me over. I could SEE him clear as day. He's real and faces the same monsters that stalk so many men and women in the military. And ladies, I am PICKY when it comes to my leading men but Gabe stole my heart and panties.
If you're a romance junkie who wants a quick yet realistic read, hot sex (and aggravating sexual tension) and happy schmappy feelings when you've finished the book...get it. Read it. Love it.
August 13, 2013
If You Leave
is a continuing story of If You Stay with secondary characters from the first book as main characters in this book. I had forgotten what a *bang* these books open up with…it grabs you right from the first chapter.
The series is amply titled: Beautifully Broken for all the tragedy and heartache these characters must endure to find happiness.
Gabriel is an emotionally wounded soldier who has come home damaged. Maddy is an emotionally damaged woman from her parents' death and her dad’s torment on the family while he was alive.
If You Leave deals with heavy subject matter :. Also there are some intense, heart pounding chapters.
SERIES:
No cliffhangers.
The series is amply titled: Beautifully Broken for all the tragedy and heartache these characters must endure to find happiness.
Gabriel is an emotionally wounded soldier who has come home damaged. Maddy is an emotionally damaged woman from her parents' death and her dad’s torment on the family while he was alive.
If You Leave deals with heavy subject matter :. Also there are some intense, heart pounding chapters.
SERIES:
No cliffhangers.
December 9, 2013
Wow I really loved this book. It was such a great and heartfelt story. I love the writing and the characters. Their is no way someone can hate this book. 5 stars!
Why would anyone give this 1 star already?? It is not out nor do you know what it is about...
Go away!
Why would anyone give this 1 star already?? It is not out nor do you know what it is about...
Go away!
August 23, 2014
I want to start saying that I loved Pax and Mila's story, so maybe one of my problems with this book is that my expectations were great. Unfortunately is difficult to live up to such high expectations.
Pros:
- I think the author has an amazing talent and she sure knows how to create alpha males that will make you swoon and feel protective of them at the same time.
- The sexy scenes are hot and will leave you wanting for more.
- It was nice to read more about Pax and Mila. Those two make me smile!
Cons:
- How can you give a story more than 3 stars when you think that one of the two main characters of a book was, for lack of better words, weakly written? When you can't think a thing you enjoyed about a character?
This book has over 300 pages and I can honestly say that after reading it I don't have a clue who Madison is. I felt I was reading about a different Madison every second chapter and that was because I didn't really know anything about her, besides my own ideas which were based in her reactions when faced with drama ( besides drinking wine; what else do we know about her hobbies, her day to day life...?) .
The whole, I meet a guy, spend 20 minutes with him ( 17 hooking up) and 100 pages wondering what is wrong with me for feeling so attracted to him when he is obviously bad news, left me feeling sorry for her ( and me for having to read it) not having a friend telling her that she is just horny.
- Jacey: she is the kind of character I can't stand. Immature, irresponsible and spoiled. Ohhhh, the poor thing has daddy issues so instead of trying to get her to see her behaviour is not acceptable, lets cuddle her and make excuses for It. And when shit hits the fan, lets not lecture her because the poor thing is sad. Give me a break!
At the end of this book there is a preview of " Before we fall", which seems to be Jacey's story. As you can imagine after reading how I feel about her I am going to sit this one out.
Pros:
- I think the author has an amazing talent and she sure knows how to create alpha males that will make you swoon and feel protective of them at the same time.
- The sexy scenes are hot and will leave you wanting for more.
- It was nice to read more about Pax and Mila. Those two make me smile!
Cons:
- How can you give a story more than 3 stars when you think that one of the two main characters of a book was, for lack of better words, weakly written? When you can't think a thing you enjoyed about a character?
This book has over 300 pages and I can honestly say that after reading it I don't have a clue who Madison is. I felt I was reading about a different Madison every second chapter and that was because I didn't really know anything about her, besides my own ideas which were based in her reactions when faced with drama ( besides drinking wine; what else do we know about her hobbies, her day to day life...?) .
The whole, I meet a guy, spend 20 minutes with him ( 17 hooking up) and 100 pages wondering what is wrong with me for feeling so attracted to him when he is obviously bad news, left me feeling sorry for her ( and me for having to read it) not having a friend telling her that she is just horny.
- Jacey: she is the kind of character I can't stand. Immature, irresponsible and spoiled. Ohhhh, the poor thing has daddy issues so instead of trying to get her to see her behaviour is not acceptable, lets cuddle her and make excuses for It. And when shit hits the fan, lets not lecture her because the poor thing is sad. Give me a break!
At the end of this book there is a preview of " Before we fall", which seems to be Jacey's story. As you can imagine after reading how I feel about her I am going to sit this one out.
June 15, 2020
Dear author,
At least that you can do is research, before u want to tell a story about sensitive subjects like the war.just one simple example : Afghan people speak Dari or Pashto not Arabic.
U know how I know? I just googled it.
At least that you can do is research, before u want to tell a story about sensitive subjects like the war.just one simple example : Afghan people speak Dari or Pashto not Arabic.
U know how I know? I just googled it.
November 18, 2015
Uuuuuuuuuuuugh
. I just did not like this book. I feel so bad writing a bad review when I don't like a book THIS much because it's hard to say things that aren't mean.
The thing is, if you like typical romance books, you'll like this one. It's like all the others. I personally don't like romance genre, and I don't really like NA books anymore either...again they are all the same; new name, new career, but same old story. The guy is damaged from a damaged past, the girl is damaged from a damaged past, and then they fall into damaged love and un-damage each other in the end. Now and then, someone writes a version of these type of books that will just wow me. It'll be original, and it will have twists and turns that I didn't see coming that will grip me till the end. But that happens so rarely now. I love a good love story though, I'm a total sucker for them, so I tend to do this to myself over and over — read a book in one of these genres hoping that this will be my next epic-love-story read. This was not it. This was achingly typical.
Just get a load of this...
This book starts as Maddy is going to meet her friend Jacey for her birthday at a club in the city. It's not her typical scene, but Jacey has convinced her to "let go" and have a night of fun, and Maddy decides to embrace that. I guess "letting go and having fun" means being super slutty. She literally meets Gabriel in a dangerous back alley — the kind of alley one would get raped in — and he's super hot (Oh and Maddy is super sexy with model looks too. Wouldn't want you to think she has a flaw or anything), so she thinks, what the hell, I should totally let go for one night and just screw this guy, so she tells him that her feet hurt and she'd like to take her shoes off...in his room.
This was the point that I thought, yeah, no, this is not my kind of read, and I just became a whole lot disappointed that an author I love said such wonderful things about this story. But then I thought that I'm only a few pages in, maybe I'm wrong.
**sigh** I wanted to be wrong.
As they're dry humping in the taxi on the way to his place (and, well actually, I think they got to like 3rd base), this really cool scene happens. Gabriel (alley man) is a former Army Ranger, and he hears the sound of tires squealing while, ya know, gettin' it on in the back seat, and he goes into "protect mode" and throws Maddy down to the base of the car, lays on top of her, and then immediately they're T-boned by another vehicle, smashing his door in. It was a pretty neat scene, and I liked the whole protective nature thing. I thought for a second that maybe the beginning was kind of a weird start and maybe this story would be interesting after all.
So they don't end up finishing out what was supposed to be their one night stand obviously, and things get really weird after the accident for the rest of that night. I won't go into that further just incase you feel like reading this story, but turns out that Gabriel is Jacey's brother, so when Maddy thinks she'll never have to see this guy that she had the strangest night ever with, she actually ends up meeting him again the next night at Jacey's work birthday dinner.
From this point on, it's like an I-hate-him-so-much-for-no-reason-but-I'm-so-attracted-to-him book. Maddy starts dating this guy she doesn't even like for a while....and what even happened there? He just disappeared after she realized her true feelings for Gabriel. WHAT. HAPPENED. THERE?! Same thing with the guy that Jacey was dating at the very beginning of the book, all of a sudden we just don't talk about him either. It's like the Twilight Zone. People just disappear!
Oh and anyone else think it was weird that Maddy never said, hey, thanks for saving my ass in that car accident? That wasn't normal, people! That was heroic, and Maddy just acts like that was the same as using a seatbelt. No biggie. No need to mention it again. Ever. In the whole book.
Now there's another thing I need to discuss, and that is that you cannot just have one tragedy after another happen and call that a plot. That's the whole story. Tragedy tragedy tragedy. And it's not even sad because none of these people feel real. But this is how the story keeps moving forward — what do we do now? let's kill another person and be messed up about that for a while... again.
And then —and this is one of the worst parts — for the last 15-20% of the book, everyone is just getting so much closure. It's a closure-fest. I couldn't help but read that whole section internally with a monotone voice. It was like, Dear Gabriel, you have to know how nothing was your fault and how you are a hero...I see that now, Maddy, and I've learned so much about life...I'm so scared to lose you because you mean everything to me...don't be scared because you have to live your life and be happy....Mila (the sister) you mean everything to me....Maddy you mean everything to me too, but you have to be happy and live your own life. I just want you to be happy...Jacey, I'm so sorry. I just said those things when I was mad, but I know it's not your fault. I forgive you. Now you have to forgive yourself...
That's not direct quoting, but the whole last 20% of the book was like that, and I just can't go back in and pull that stuff out. I can't. I don't want to.
I didn't want to read this book. The whole time. I just didn't. It was really hard to force myself to finish it. I just like to complete what I start, so I forced myself to (and since I'm sick in bed, I have time, so I convinced myself to just do it).
Goodreads star ratings are a matter of opinion, and one star means, did not like it, and that would be more accurate for me, but I'll give it 2 stars because I have read worse books than this one. If you like typical romance books, you'll like this one.
I didn't.
Update:
Nah. 1 star. I just didn't like it. Sorry.
The thing is, if you like typical romance books, you'll like this one. It's like all the others. I personally don't like romance genre, and I don't really like NA books anymore either...again they are all the same; new name, new career, but same old story. The guy is damaged from a damaged past, the girl is damaged from a damaged past, and then they fall into damaged love and un-damage each other in the end. Now and then, someone writes a version of these type of books that will just wow me. It'll be original, and it will have twists and turns that I didn't see coming that will grip me till the end. But that happens so rarely now. I love a good love story though, I'm a total sucker for them, so I tend to do this to myself over and over — read a book in one of these genres hoping that this will be my next epic-love-story read. This was not it. This was achingly typical.
Just get a load of this...
This book starts as Maddy is going to meet her friend Jacey for her birthday at a club in the city. It's not her typical scene, but Jacey has convinced her to "let go" and have a night of fun, and Maddy decides to embrace that. I guess "letting go and having fun" means being super slutty. She literally meets Gabriel in a dangerous back alley — the kind of alley one would get raped in — and he's super hot (Oh and Maddy is super sexy with model looks too. Wouldn't want you to think she has a flaw or anything), so she thinks, what the hell, I should totally let go for one night and just screw this guy, so she tells him that her feet hurt and she'd like to take her shoes off...in his room.
This was the point that I thought, yeah, no, this is not my kind of read, and I just became a whole lot disappointed that an author I love said such wonderful things about this story. But then I thought that I'm only a few pages in, maybe I'm wrong.
**sigh** I wanted to be wrong.
As they're dry humping in the taxi on the way to his place (and, well actually, I think they got to like 3rd base), this really cool scene happens. Gabriel (alley man) is a former Army Ranger, and he hears the sound of tires squealing while, ya know, gettin' it on in the back seat, and he goes into "protect mode" and throws Maddy down to the base of the car, lays on top of her, and then immediately they're T-boned by another vehicle, smashing his door in. It was a pretty neat scene, and I liked the whole protective nature thing. I thought for a second that maybe the beginning was kind of a weird start and maybe this story would be interesting after all.
So they don't end up finishing out what was supposed to be their one night stand obviously, and things get really weird after the accident for the rest of that night. I won't go into that further just incase you feel like reading this story, but turns out that Gabriel is Jacey's brother, so when Maddy thinks she'll never have to see this guy that she had the strangest night ever with, she actually ends up meeting him again the next night at Jacey's work birthday dinner.
From this point on, it's like an I-hate-him-so-much-for-no-reason-but-I'm-so-attracted-to-him book. Maddy starts dating this guy she doesn't even like for a while....and what even happened there? He just disappeared after she realized her true feelings for Gabriel. WHAT. HAPPENED. THERE?! Same thing with the guy that Jacey was dating at the very beginning of the book, all of a sudden we just don't talk about him either. It's like the Twilight Zone. People just disappear!
Oh and anyone else think it was weird that Maddy never said, hey, thanks for saving my ass in that car accident? That wasn't normal, people! That was heroic, and Maddy just acts like that was the same as using a seatbelt. No biggie. No need to mention it again. Ever. In the whole book.
Now there's another thing I need to discuss, and that is that you cannot just have one tragedy after another happen and call that a plot. That's the whole story. Tragedy tragedy tragedy. And it's not even sad because none of these people feel real. But this is how the story keeps moving forward — what do we do now? let's kill another person and be messed up about that for a while... again.
And then —and this is one of the worst parts — for the last 15-20% of the book, everyone is just getting so much closure. It's a closure-fest. I couldn't help but read that whole section internally with a monotone voice. It was like, Dear Gabriel, you have to know how nothing was your fault and how you are a hero...I see that now, Maddy, and I've learned so much about life...I'm so scared to lose you because you mean everything to me...don't be scared because you have to live your life and be happy....Mila (the sister) you mean everything to me....Maddy you mean everything to me too, but you have to be happy and live your own life. I just want you to be happy...Jacey, I'm so sorry. I just said those things when I was mad, but I know it's not your fault. I forgive you. Now you have to forgive yourself...
That's not direct quoting, but the whole last 20% of the book was like that, and I just can't go back in and pull that stuff out. I can't. I don't want to.
I didn't want to read this book. The whole time. I just didn't. It was really hard to force myself to finish it. I just like to complete what I start, so I forced myself to (and since I'm sick in bed, I have time, so I convinced myself to just do it).
Goodreads star ratings are a matter of opinion, and one star means, did not like it, and that would be more accurate for me, but I'll give it 2 stars because I have read worse books than this one. If you like typical romance books, you'll like this one.
I didn't.
Update:
Nah. 1 star. I just didn't like it. Sorry.
November 24, 2013
I've been putting off writing this review because I honestly don't know where it all went so terribly wrong. I didn't really care for Gabe nor Madison. I really, really liked the first two chapters because they were original and quite lovely in addition to intense, but then it just went downhill from there. Why? Because it went on as every other "Broken Character Needs Fixing 101" NA book. It didn't have anything new. I have already read this plot a thousand times and honestly? You know how JLA has these funny, sarcastic jokes that define her writing? Maggie Stiefvater has this lyrical-slash-magical way of putting her words into a sentence? Yes, well, most authors don't have that defining factor to their writing and the fact that Courtney Cole is a good author, but not excellent (in my eyes only, of course), didn't make the book stand out to me either. With that being said, I'm most likely the black sheep in the GR family because every other person seems to have adored this broken hero stuff while I'm just getting more tired of it day by day. I hope that you do love this story when you decide to give it a chance, this just wasn't anything spectacular in my honest opinion.
November 25, 2019
Sorry mrs Cole as much as liked and loved Mila and Pax with Maddy and Gabe no chemistry and a little annoyance
So two stars only for little Mila and Pax sweet baby that has been the only reason that kept me reading and finish this book
So two stars only for little Mila and Pax sweet baby that has been the only reason that kept me reading and finish this book
August 13, 2013
Lonely and living a life that she would never had envisioned, Maddy's life becomes less and less hers and more her parents.
Maddy let her dreams go and stepped in to her parents life when they passed away.
No longer happy, Maddy can't seem to find the strength to let go and follow her own dreams.
~ No one needs to know that I really don't know shit- that I drift along in life without any real answers. No one needs to now that there are times when I seriously hate how things turned out, and that I am powerless to change it ~
One night she decides to let go and finds herself going home with one sexy Ex-Army ranger for one night of passion.
~ This guy… he definitely seems rugged. Everything about him screams strength and power. ~
Gabe is a war hero. With his time in Afghanistan, seeing and doing the things he had to do has him thinking otherwise. Guilt controls his life, yet he refuses to deal with it.
He tortures himself reliving the ugliness he saw every night with Night Terrors. Gabe understands he suffers from PTSD, yet the blame he puts on himself, leaves him no choice to accept the demons that chase him.
~ I'm not crazy… exactly. The army doctors say I just need time. They call it PTSD. Posttraumatic stress disorder. I call it something else entirely: fucked up. ~
Being approached my Maddy is exactly what he needs to help forget.
Their one night of passion unexpectedly comes to an abrupt end when Gabe's demons come to a head.
Maddy gets to witness the ugliness that Gabe hides.
With her one night stand bust, Maddy brushes herself off and goes about her life.
Little does she know that their lives will be crossing again.
Gabe is the Brother of her co-worker and friend Jacey.
When he acts as though nothing happened between him and Maddy, she decides she doesn't need the drama of his craziness. Even though she is intrigued by what he is hiding.
But is seems Gabe has an invisible ribbon connected to her, pulling her to him at every turn. She makes a judgement about him that she soon finds out that is so very wrong.
He is able to break through Maddy's issue, helping her overcome them.
~ "Fear is a choice, Maddy. But so is being happy."~
Maddy want's to help Gabe overcome his demons. How can this man not see the way others see him?
~ “You think that you’re a bad thing, but you’re not. You protect the rest of us from bad things. You’re badass and lethal and scary, and you’re as far from weak as you can get. You’re a protector, Gabe. My protector.” ~
But he himself needs to recognise this and want to reach out for help. No one can push him to that.
Soon they find themselves in deeper. Gabe still holds back but can't seem to let go of Maddy. When one night turns deadly, Gabe makes the one decision that will ultimately break Maddy.
~ "Gabe," I gasp desperately…
I can't speak anymore. Gabe's grip on my throat is too tight.
I can't move. He's fifty times stronger than I am.
And I can't breathe.
As I close my eyes and everything goes black, I realise that this is what it's like to die. ~
He refuses to hurt her. He loves this woman, but can never be the man she deserves. He does the only thing acceptable and leaves her.
His story is really heartbreaking. When you think he has reached rock bottom he sinks lower. Leaving you begging him to stop. With some help from his mate and fellow Ranger, Brand, Gabe, comes to realise he has to face his demons or he'll never be able to find and share happiness with anyone.
Madison is the push he needs to conquer his own fears.
~ "It's like I'm not whole when I'm not with you..You're a piece of me. A big piece of me. And when you're gone, I can't function right. I'm only half a person”~
But is it to late? Can he prove to her that he won't leave again? Soon his greatest fear isn't the demons that have been chasing him. It's the thought of not having Maddy in his life.
If you leave was intense and difficult to read at times. Cole told a powerful story. I was completely an emotionally invested in Maddy and Gabe's journey.
Their recovery was real, and it hurt to read their truths. But under all the heartbreak, was also an intense love story.
Gabe is broken and vulnerable yet still was the strong Alpha I love. Their chemistry was smoking hot. The sex did not disappoint.
The 1st chapter alone had me hooked. I'm gonna put it out there as one of the most intense 1st chapters I have ever read!
I loved catching up with Mila and Pax. The shower scene with Mila was freaking intense! Cole's writing style is perfection and will read anything this woman writes! Definitely add this to your TBR list now!
Favorite Quotes
~ Love is deathless. ~
~ To anyone who knows what it's like to be broken and to everyone who is stronger because of it. ~
~ Still hurts like a bitch, but you know what they say. Pain is just weakness leaving the body. ~
★ 5 Intense Stars ★
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August 5, 2013
IF YOU LEAVE was emotionally gripping, tragic, and heartbreaking, but there was also tenderness and love. I've read a few different books where the main characters have suffered from PTSD, but I can tell you that this book provided, what I imagine to be, a very realistic account of what it must be like to live with or with someone suffering from PTSD. Cole did an amazing job at grabbing the reader immediately into these characters lives.
I'm going to start with Maddy, because I felt a strong attachment to her character in the first book. I admire her and also sympathize with her character in so many ways. Maddy is the backbone of her family. Of course, she really didn't have a choice after her parents death. She left her dreams behind and came home to run the family restaurant. In a lot of ways, Maddy has been at a stand still in her life. She maneuvers her way through the day to day, but she doesn't really have anything that makes her happy. She sees the kind of love Mila and Pax have and wants that with someone. However, Maddy doesn't trust in love. Her parents tumultuous relationship left her feeling guarded. She doesn't want to feel that vulnerable with someone. Ever. There is one guy that tests all her reservations. Gabe.
Gabe is haunted. That is the best way I can describe his character. He's an Army Ranger that's returned home after witnessing and being part of some truly nightmarish events. I can't even imagine what that must be like to suffer though that kind of pain. And Gabe is functioning, but just barely. Sleep is his enemy now. The nightmares come and he's having trouble moving forward. When he meets Maddy, she opens him up in ways he thought were closed. He can't cover up how raw and vulnerable he is with Maddy. On the outside, he looks and acts tough. And he is very much an Alpha. However, he's so wounded inside. Luckily for them both, they recognize the fact that they both need to allow themselves to heal and forgive in order to move on with their lives. While Gabe and Maddy's journey was emotional to read at times, I was cheering for them the whole way through. I absolutely loved them both.
As for the secondary characters, I loved seeing Mila and Pax again. I don't want to go into detail, but there are some things that happen to Mila that made my tummy roll. But, in the end I couldn't be happier where things are for Mila and Pax. They're still very much in love. Then, there's Jacey. She's Gabe's sister, but also works at Maddy's restaurant. Jacey made some bad decisions in this book that often frustrated me, but I think we'll understand her more and the reason why she makes bad choices, with men in particular, when we get to her book, Before We Fall. We meet a new character in this book. His name is Brand and he is Gabe's best friend. Brand also served with Gabe overseas and was instrumental in helping Gabe get the help he needed. I want Brand to have a book. I really loved him.
Overall, I loved it! Despite the obstacles this couple had to overcome, it was truly a heartwarming story. I will say that a box of tissues is needed while reading this book. It made me cry more than once, but I absolutely loved the ending. It made all the tears and heartache worth it. It was inspirational too. If you're looking for a series that sucks you in with not only the characters, but the story, check this one out! It's definitely a favorite for me.
Side note: While reading this book, I couldn't help but have the original version of If You Leave by OMD playing in my head. In fact, while writing my review, I was listening to the song. The song fits the book in so many ways.
Quotes:
~"You don't know what I'm going to do."
"No," Gabriel concedes. "But I know what you want. You want me."
"Oh geez. Are we back to that?" I shake my head, but his words cause a rush of warmth to spread through me. I do want him, asshole cockiness and all.-Loc 1845
~I close my eyes again, reveling in the comfort that Gabe brings me, surprised by it, actually. I never expected to find someone who affects me the way Gabriel does. It's like an unexpected gift.-Loc 2322
~"Let's make this work, no matter what. Promise me, Gabe. I know there's shit to work through. But we can do it. Because all that really matters is you and me."-Loc 4702
I'm going to start with Maddy, because I felt a strong attachment to her character in the first book. I admire her and also sympathize with her character in so many ways. Maddy is the backbone of her family. Of course, she really didn't have a choice after her parents death. She left her dreams behind and came home to run the family restaurant. In a lot of ways, Maddy has been at a stand still in her life. She maneuvers her way through the day to day, but she doesn't really have anything that makes her happy. She sees the kind of love Mila and Pax have and wants that with someone. However, Maddy doesn't trust in love. Her parents tumultuous relationship left her feeling guarded. She doesn't want to feel that vulnerable with someone. Ever. There is one guy that tests all her reservations. Gabe.
Gabe is haunted. That is the best way I can describe his character. He's an Army Ranger that's returned home after witnessing and being part of some truly nightmarish events. I can't even imagine what that must be like to suffer though that kind of pain. And Gabe is functioning, but just barely. Sleep is his enemy now. The nightmares come and he's having trouble moving forward. When he meets Maddy, she opens him up in ways he thought were closed. He can't cover up how raw and vulnerable he is with Maddy. On the outside, he looks and acts tough. And he is very much an Alpha. However, he's so wounded inside. Luckily for them both, they recognize the fact that they both need to allow themselves to heal and forgive in order to move on with their lives. While Gabe and Maddy's journey was emotional to read at times, I was cheering for them the whole way through. I absolutely loved them both.
As for the secondary characters, I loved seeing Mila and Pax again. I don't want to go into detail, but there are some things that happen to Mila that made my tummy roll. But, in the end I couldn't be happier where things are for Mila and Pax. They're still very much in love. Then, there's Jacey. She's Gabe's sister, but also works at Maddy's restaurant. Jacey made some bad decisions in this book that often frustrated me, but I think we'll understand her more and the reason why she makes bad choices, with men in particular, when we get to her book, Before We Fall. We meet a new character in this book. His name is Brand and he is Gabe's best friend. Brand also served with Gabe overseas and was instrumental in helping Gabe get the help he needed. I want Brand to have a book. I really loved him.
Overall, I loved it! Despite the obstacles this couple had to overcome, it was truly a heartwarming story. I will say that a box of tissues is needed while reading this book. It made me cry more than once, but I absolutely loved the ending. It made all the tears and heartache worth it. It was inspirational too. If you're looking for a series that sucks you in with not only the characters, but the story, check this one out! It's definitely a favorite for me.
Side note: While reading this book, I couldn't help but have the original version of If You Leave by OMD playing in my head. In fact, while writing my review, I was listening to the song. The song fits the book in so many ways.
Quotes:
~"You don't know what I'm going to do."
"No," Gabriel concedes. "But I know what you want. You want me."
"Oh geez. Are we back to that?" I shake my head, but his words cause a rush of warmth to spread through me. I do want him, asshole cockiness and all.-Loc 1845
~I close my eyes again, reveling in the comfort that Gabe brings me, surprised by it, actually. I never expected to find someone who affects me the way Gabriel does. It's like an unexpected gift.-Loc 2322
~"Let's make this work, no matter what. Promise me, Gabe. I know there's shit to work through. But we can do it. Because all that really matters is you and me."-Loc 4702
December 22, 2015
I read If You Stay a little over 2 years ago and really enjoyed the book and didn't realize there was a sequel until just recently. I picked up If You Leave with high expectations, but I was really disappointed with all of it.
Two big issues with this book: Gabriel is constantly a "fucking pussy" and Madison needs to get that stick out of her ass. It was honestly drama, drama, drama CONSTANTLY. I hated it.
I know the books I read are fictional but Maddy having so many tragedies in her life was getting a little unreasonable. At first I felt bad for her based off of the insight I got from the first book on her abusive father. Everything else that follows afterwards? Way too dramatic. How many tragedies can one person possibly have before it becomes unrelistic?
I really hated that Gabe and Maddy came together in a dark alley where they were going to have a one night stand but circumstances has it so they don't. She see's Gabe later on in town and she's torn between wanting him and not. They kept referring to their relationship as a game and I hated that. Their relationship was based off of nothing and their attraction was a really terrible excuse to their so called love story.
The book started to become really predictable too. Here are just a few examples.
No one's life should be this dramatic. It was honestly tragedy over tragedy.
I also couldn't connect with the characters for the life of me. Gabe wasn't charmingly cocky. He was just plain cocky. I didn't like that he had kept calling himself a "fucking pussy" time and time again. I kept shouting "Do something about it then, you fucking pussy!" Yeah... Not my brightest moments. Also, his didn't make me sad, it made me more irritated with him. He kept saying "death before honor," but all he did was act like a diva.
As for Maddy, she drove me more nuts than Gabe. It's like she had something against doctors. After Gabe kept calling the guy she dated a candy ass for dressing nicely and looking like a prep, Maddy starts referring to him as a candy-ass when they encountered certain circumstances. He honestly wasn't that bad of a guy. They just cut him out to be one. Then when Maddy goes to the doctors later on with Mila, she says that the doctor is being too emotionless. I was just exasperated with her by now.
Maddy is quick to judge and it irritated me. She kept saying she realized certain things now but kept on judging some more later. Towards the end of the book, she's a complete bitch to Jacey because of an incident. I understood why because I think Jacey is honestly the stupidest character in the series so far. She's got daddy issues but everyone coddles her so she's just spoiled and a complete idiot.
However, the way Maddy explodes on Jacey and points the blame at her really annoyed me. Maddy had initially given Gabe advice that the incident in his life isn't his fault and . Yet, Maddy did that exact thing to Jacey. I know that she was upset but Maddy contradicted herself a lot and I could never connect with her.
Really disappointed with the characters and the story overall.
March 17, 2017
This book was an emotional roller coaster I wanted to DNF it so much times. But for me Gabriel saved the book I just really felt like he was to good for Maddy. Even after he had a nightmare and he accidentally hurt her.
I wanted to kick and punch so much of the other characters in this book. But mostly I just rolled my eyes at Maddy's POV I know that she had some reasoning for being scared of Gabe at that point but after that and how she acted I just wanted her to shut up.
For goodness sake why the hell was Gabriel still apologizing to Maddy for leaving when she wouldn't reply to his email when he contacted her. He made the right choice to leave because Maddy couldn't help him and he definitely needed help. The only thing Gabe saw in Maddy's eyes was fear so what was a guy to do. The only thing he should've done differently was talk to her before he left. But she should've got it and understand why he did it and not make it all about herself.
{MY LIKE SCALE}
Romance: 3/5 (I liked them together in the beginning but I really didn't like when they played mind games and I definitely didn't like how Maddy handle herself when Gabe left)
Drama: 3.5/5 (So Much Drama)
Cover: 4/5 (Good Cover)
Madison "Maddy": 3/5 (She was okay in the beginning but I couldn't stand her for the rest of the book)
Gabriel "Gabe": 4.5/5 (I really liked him and I understand why he did what he did and he shouldn't have to apologize for wanting to protect her)
Writings: 3.5/5 (Okay Story but it piss me off a lot)
Humour: 3.5/5 (had a little but could've had more)
Hotness: 4/5 (had enough but I lost interest)
HEA:
March 4, 2014
I am in the minority here. I didn't care for the first book and I think I liked this one even less. I didn't buy into the love story. When exactly did Madison and Gabe fall in love? They didn't really hang out enough to fall in love for me. Almost hooking up, hating each other, then finally having sex, doesn't make true love.
I also thought Madison was a bit harsh on him when he left for therapy. How many times does the guy have to apologize for leaving? Cut him some slack. He is finally trying to get help. That was another thing. I had a hard time buying a guy who almost killed 2 women in his sleep would wait for so long to get help. Come on, really?
Finally, I detested Jacey. The juvenile things she pulled were annoying and unforgivable. I don't think that I will be reading her story, which is next.
I also thought Madison was a bit harsh on him when he left for therapy. How many times does the guy have to apologize for leaving? Cut him some slack. He is finally trying to get help. That was another thing. I had a hard time buying a guy who almost killed 2 women in his sleep would wait for so long to get help. Come on, really?
Finally, I detested Jacey. The juvenile things she pulled were annoying and unforgivable. I don't think that I will be reading her story, which is next.
March 24, 2019
I prefer this book more than the previous one. It was such a beautiful, heartfelt story!
I love reading about military, so I liked that this was Gabe's background. He suffers from PTSD and this really affects his life. I really adored him, he's relationship with Madison was great. It was good that Gabe was only leaving to protect Maddy, and I was happy how he solved his problems to be together with her.
P. S. It was also good to have Mila and Pax involved here in this book too.
I love reading about military, so I liked that this was Gabe's background. He suffers from PTSD and this really affects his life. I really adored him, he's relationship with Madison was great. It was good that Gabe was only leaving to protect Maddy, and I was happy how he solved his problems to be together with her.
P. S. It was also good to have Mila and Pax involved here in this book too.
September 13, 2013
One word to describe this book would be "awful"... Not only was it boring, there was zero chemistry and nothing likeable about the main characters. I always finish a book but was tempted time and time again to stop reading this one. Big disappointment.
February 26, 2020
Did not finish....haven't read any of authors other books, but started with this one. I didnt think the characters will likeable, Gabriel was a cocky, conceited, smirking a-hole, and then running into Madison on her date and getting into it with him over nothing continually calling him a candy-ass??? That's where I stopped.
August 9, 2013
“Everyone always seems to leave me, Gabe… if you leave, if you leave, nothing will ever be OK again.”
Gabriel “Gabe” Vincent is a war hero, broken by the horrors he had to see and live through. He suppresses his memories and the scars they left on his psyche by refusing to deal with them, but they torture him in his sleep, night terrors making him relive all the ugliness he survived, filling his every night with violence and making him believe that he is irreparably broken.
“Is everyone in the world broken, Gabriel?”
Madison “Maddy” Hill’s life has been filled with loss and violence of a different kind. Her parents’ confusing example of a relationship based on obsessive love, jealousy and blind devotion, has warped Maddy’s view on love, making her inherently afraid of violent bullies in her life. She sees her father’s violent tendencies in every man she meets, and after watching her mother willingly stay in an abusive relationship, Maddy has become overcautious in her own relationships, never trusting a man not to become violent with her. She fears falling in love as much as she fears violence, fiercely guarding her heart from potential heartbreak and putting her love life on hold to fulfil her responsibilities towards her family.
“I search for my father’s traits in every man.”
But deep down Maddy is unhappy, lonely, trapped in a life that does not belong to her and bound by a sense of loyalty to her family’s legacy and what she thinks others expect her to do and be. She is unable to escape the guilt pressing down on her from grieving the loss of her parents and hating them at the same time for the poor example they set with their dysfunctional relationship. Loss is a trigger for Maddy, she sees everything as transient, believing that even those closest to her could be taken away from her at any given moment. For that very reason, apart from the relationships she was born into, Maddy chooses to form no permanent bonds in her life, especially those where her heart could be at stake.
“… everything you love, everyone you love, even if you love them and hate them at the same time, can be taken away in a moment and there isn’t anything you can do to change it.”
When Gabe and Maddy accidentally meet in a dark alley behind a night club, they are just two strangers instinctively and immediately attracted to each other, stripped from their past, temporarily escaping their present, and desperate for a connection to fill the voids in their lonely hearts. They are not looking for anything more than a way to satisfy their bodies, hungry for just one night of pleasure, free from complications or inhibitions. But even though nothing goes as planned, their connection goes beyond the flesh and soon life is throwing them in each other’s paths, forcing them to deal with feelings that neither of them were expecting to have to own or face so soon.
“We need to finish what we started.”
This is ultimately a beautiful story of finding something more powerful in yourself than the crippling fear that stops you from living and moving ahead by embracing happiness and love. It’s a love story entwined with a sensitively handled tale of loss, survival and courage. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a dominant theme and yet it is tackled skilfully and gently, giving it enough importance in the story without overwhelming the reader or the storyline with overly-gruesome details. Ms Cole gives us a problem and a swift solution, putting the emphasis on the courage it takes to confront those issues and seek help, rather than the lengthy process it takes to achieve the desired result. We are given a broken hero who learns to ask for help when he cannot deal any longer with his inner demons, and shows us that asking for help is not a sign a weakness, but rather the mark of a true hero.
“… everyone has demons and I haven’t shown mine who’s boss yet.”
The secondary characters play a large role in the story, their close bonds and interactions with the main characters helping to mould the storyline by directly affecting Gabe and Maddy’s actions. We get to revisit some old friends, Pax and Mila, see where their happily-ever-after takes them, and we meet some new ones that will find themselves in the limelight in future instalments. No man is an island and we are the direct product of the love and support of those we love and who love us, regardless of family ties. Fear is the only villain in this story – fear of loving another, fear of losing that love, fear of not being worthy of someone’s love. Maddy and Gabe’s story is written with sensitivity and thoughtfulness, making us love those characters as well as feel overwhelming protectiveness towards them. While their chemistry sizzles off the pages, their growing feelings for one another, their ups and downs, the natural progression of their relationship and the hardships pulling them apart make this book a true modern love story.
I was not familiar with Ms Cole’s incredible writing style before this book, but let me tell you, I am taking full notice now.
“Life goes on. Whether it’s bad or good or otherwise, it goes on. And there’s not anything we can do but make the best of it.”
[4.5 STARS]
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August 8, 2013
..Courtney Cole you did it again..
~Gabriel & Madison~
This was the perfect follow up to "If You Stay" although tone of this book is very different from the first.
I loved Gabriel and Madison what amazing characters. Such a powerful and wonderfully written story, down to the wooden spoon. I just love Courtney's writing style...she drags you into a tale that will leave you breathless. So intense, raw and just amazing. If you haven't read her books GO NOW AND DO SO!!!
I would recommend this book to everyone, female or male, young or old. It's a wonderful read. Just have wine, tissues, ice cream or whatever makes you feel better after a few tears!
For the UK readers you can find "If You Leave" in the link below.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/YOU-LEAVE-Bea...
Before We Fall: The Beautifully Broken Series: Book 3 is now available for Pre-Order.
http://www.amazon.com/Before-We-Fall-...
~Happy reading~
~Gabriel & Madison~
This was the perfect follow up to "If You Stay" although tone of this book is very different from the first.
I loved Gabriel and Madison what amazing characters. Such a powerful and wonderfully written story, down to the wooden spoon. I just love Courtney's writing style...she drags you into a tale that will leave you breathless. So intense, raw and just amazing. If you haven't read her books GO NOW AND DO SO!!!
I would recommend this book to everyone, female or male, young or old. It's a wonderful read. Just have wine, tissues, ice cream or whatever makes you feel better after a few tears!
For the UK readers you can find "If You Leave" in the link below.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/YOU-LEAVE-Bea...
Before We Fall: The Beautifully Broken Series: Book 3 is now available for Pre-Order.
http://www.amazon.com/Before-We-Fall-...
~Happy reading~
August 20, 2013
HOLY SHIT!!! Once again, Courtney you have blown me away!!!
Courtney Cole has done it again!!! She had me hooked from beginning to end.
If You Leave is Gabriel (Gabe) and Madison's (Maddy) story. Maddy is Mila's sister from the first book If You Stay and we got to know her a little bit in that book. Gabriel is an ex-Army Ranger and his sister is Jacey who happens to be Maddy's best friend.
Maddy and Gabe first meet outside of a club one night but have no clue who the other person really is. Gabe was suppose to meeting his sister Jacey and Maddy was out celebrating with Jacey and was suppose to meet her brother. They are both just looking for a quick hook-up that night, so neither has any issues when things lead back to Gabe's place.
However - what the don't realize is that they will meet up again - very soon.
Gabe and Maddy both have their own demons that haunt them. Madison grew up with her parents unhealthy relationship and had to deal with their sudden death right after she graduated college. Gabe experienced and saw many things in Afghanistan that no-one should ever have to endure and returns home with PTSD. However, one incident still haunts him and he can't seem to shake the nightmares from that.
They both try to work on overcoming their demons. However things will get much worse for the both of them. Maddy can't seem to escape tragedy in her life and Gabe tries to deal with his PTSD by pushing people away and throwing himself into bad habits.
“You think that you’re a bad thing, but you’re not. You protect the rest of us from bad things. You’re badass and lethal and scary, and you’re as far from weak as you can get. You’re a protector, Gabe. My protector.”
I love that we get to read about how things are moving forward for Pax and Mila. They have some huge moments in their lives during this book too.
If You Leave was definitely an emotional read for me. As you are reading this, you will feel like you are walking in their shoes. I love that it's told in both Maddy and Gabe's POV.
This entire series deals with some very tough issues and this one dealt with PTSD. Because of what they see and face each day, they return home a different person. Soldiers fight so we can rest easily. They are our protectors, our heroes. I will be forever grateful to every man and woman who chooses to serve and protect us.
Side note:
PTSD isn't something to take lightly and affects each individual differently. If you want to support a cause to help these injured soldiers, one site that I have fully supported for years is the Wounded Warrior Project. You can visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org for more information.
***VISIT LOVENBOOKS.COM FOR MORE REVIEWS***
Courtney Cole has done it again!!! She had me hooked from beginning to end.
If You Leave is Gabriel (Gabe) and Madison's (Maddy) story. Maddy is Mila's sister from the first book If You Stay and we got to know her a little bit in that book. Gabriel is an ex-Army Ranger and his sister is Jacey who happens to be Maddy's best friend.
Maddy and Gabe first meet outside of a club one night but have no clue who the other person really is. Gabe was suppose to meeting his sister Jacey and Maddy was out celebrating with Jacey and was suppose to meet her brother. They are both just looking for a quick hook-up that night, so neither has any issues when things lead back to Gabe's place.
However - what the don't realize is that they will meet up again - very soon.
Gabe and Maddy both have their own demons that haunt them. Madison grew up with her parents unhealthy relationship and had to deal with their sudden death right after she graduated college. Gabe experienced and saw many things in Afghanistan that no-one should ever have to endure and returns home with PTSD. However, one incident still haunts him and he can't seem to shake the nightmares from that.
They both try to work on overcoming their demons. However things will get much worse for the both of them. Maddy can't seem to escape tragedy in her life and Gabe tries to deal with his PTSD by pushing people away and throwing himself into bad habits.
“You think that you’re a bad thing, but you’re not. You protect the rest of us from bad things. You’re badass and lethal and scary, and you’re as far from weak as you can get. You’re a protector, Gabe. My protector.”
I love that we get to read about how things are moving forward for Pax and Mila. They have some huge moments in their lives during this book too.
If You Leave was definitely an emotional read for me. As you are reading this, you will feel like you are walking in their shoes. I love that it's told in both Maddy and Gabe's POV.
This entire series deals with some very tough issues and this one dealt with PTSD. Because of what they see and face each day, they return home a different person. Soldiers fight so we can rest easily. They are our protectors, our heroes. I will be forever grateful to every man and woman who chooses to serve and protect us.
Side note:
PTSD isn't something to take lightly and affects each individual differently. If you want to support a cause to help these injured soldiers, one site that I have fully supported for years is the Wounded Warrior Project. You can visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org for more information.
***VISIT LOVENBOOKS.COM FOR MORE REVIEWS***
August 7, 2013
As an avid reader of this genre I know how much emphasis we put on "book boyfriends", myself included. Madison Hill from If You Leave changes that for me. Madison would be top five on my list of book girlfriends. She is an incredibly strong heroine. She's also incredibly broken. Tainted by the volatile relationship of her parents and scarred from their tragic death leaves Madison a shell of her former self. But she never stops. She assumes responsibility for her parents lives even though she resents them. This stems from the fact that Madison is devoted and loyal to those that are closest to her. Her healthiest relationship is with her sister Mila and her brother in law. The closeness of their relationship is so reflective of her loyalty and devotion. Madison has been through so much in her young life and has overcome such tragedy that her willingness to even get out of bed in the morning is admirable. A lot of people crumble for much less.
Madison is floating through life, wanting a partner like Mila has found in Pax, wanting to get back to where she feels secure in her life. And while Madison is strong she also wants a protector. She finally finds that in Gabriel. Courtney Cole wrote this story so well that I felt the connection to Gabriel through Madison when she first laid eyes on him in the alley behind the club. It was almost instant that you knew they would be perfect for each other to start healing.
Gabriel is broken. The stories of his time in Afghanistan are gut wrenching. His inner monologues make you just want to reach out and hold his hand. He is also an arrogant ass. He's fun. And he wants Maddy. It's no wonder why she is so drawn to him; he's a walking contradiction. Strong and powerful yet mentally he's broken. When Gabe finally opens himself to actually feel he knows that he can help her heal even if he can't help himself. My favorite scene in the story is when they are trapped at Madison's house and he aids in her conquering her fears. It's cleansing and uplifting. Gabe has it in him to quietly conquer. Madison is the push he needs to conquer his own fears. There's a point in the story where Maddy asks him if "everyone is broken". Gabe answers honestly and his answer, while simple, is quite thought provoking. Cole also makes it a point to honor our troops and the sacrifice they make everyday for our freedom with her words. If You Leave reminds us of that sacrifice in a big way and makes you thankful.
Madison and Gabriel are awesome. Their connection is hot. Their banter is fun. And their moments of complete vulnerability make you feel vulnerable too. Courtney Cole nailed it. If You Leave is a powerful and beautifully written story.
Madison is floating through life, wanting a partner like Mila has found in Pax, wanting to get back to where she feels secure in her life. And while Madison is strong she also wants a protector. She finally finds that in Gabriel. Courtney Cole wrote this story so well that I felt the connection to Gabriel through Madison when she first laid eyes on him in the alley behind the club. It was almost instant that you knew they would be perfect for each other to start healing.
Gabriel is broken. The stories of his time in Afghanistan are gut wrenching. His inner monologues make you just want to reach out and hold his hand. He is also an arrogant ass. He's fun. And he wants Maddy. It's no wonder why she is so drawn to him; he's a walking contradiction. Strong and powerful yet mentally he's broken. When Gabe finally opens himself to actually feel he knows that he can help her heal even if he can't help himself. My favorite scene in the story is when they are trapped at Madison's house and he aids in her conquering her fears. It's cleansing and uplifting. Gabe has it in him to quietly conquer. Madison is the push he needs to conquer his own fears. There's a point in the story where Maddy asks him if "everyone is broken". Gabe answers honestly and his answer, while simple, is quite thought provoking. Cole also makes it a point to honor our troops and the sacrifice they make everyday for our freedom with her words. If You Leave reminds us of that sacrifice in a big way and makes you thankful.
Madison and Gabriel are awesome. Their connection is hot. Their banter is fun. And their moments of complete vulnerability make you feel vulnerable too. Courtney Cole nailed it. If You Leave is a powerful and beautifully written story.
September 4, 2013
Read more of my reviews at Nick's Book Blog.
I wasn't the biggest fan of the first book, If You Stay, in this series, but I liked the premise of this book and wanted to give it a shot. If You Leave tells the story of Gabriel, an ex-Army ranger, who returns to the US from Afghanistan, emotionally scarred from the events of one brutal night. PTSD is a topic that intrigues me. My first encounter with it in books was in Something Like Normal by Trish Doller. Now, while I do not like to compare books, I went into If You Leave, expecting an emotional story similar to Something Like Normal. This book was emotional, but I didn't feel the full impact of Gabriel's feelings. I did really like Madison's character. She was strong, independent and didn't mince her words. The romance in this book was sweet, but like expected, it was full of obstacles because of Gabriel's PTSD. Part of me did think they fell in love a little too fast, but it never bothered me as much considering both their situations. What I liked about If You Leave was the involvement of the secondary characters in the lives of the main characters. Overall, this was an okay read, but it didn't pack that emotional punch that I felt it needed to make it an impressive read.
August 10, 2013
this book is going to be amaaazing <3
August 2, 2013
The bad thing caught you.
I've never retreated away from a fight and I've never cowered in fear. Ever. That's not who I am. But I've been in combat long enough to know that when something unbeatable chases you, you do the only you can do. You run.
Gabe is a retired Army Ranger that went through trauma in Afghanistan and is having difficulty adjusting to civilian life and putting the horror behind him. I felt for Gabe from the very beginning. He was a tough alpha hero with a tortured, guilt-ridden soul. He was charismatic, cocky, arrogant, and challenging. But he had a good heart and wanted to protect those he cared about. But he had such deep feelings of guilt, anxiety, fear, and nightmares that it was ruining his chance for a normal life or happiness.
All I know is Gabriel has that kind of confidence. The kind that turns my stomach inside out. And there's something else about him, too...something intriguing. I don't even know him, but there's something in his eyes, something dark and haunted that draws me to him.
We first me Madison in If You Stay since she is Mila's older sister. Madison gave up her whole life when her parents died and moved home, took care of her little sister, and her family's restaurant. But her life is not really the one she planned on living. She lost some of her spark and enjoyment of life. She had fears and insecurities stemming from her home life as a child. She was stuck in the past and not facing her fears or moving on. She was serious, stand offish, and controlled.
Try as I might to stay away from powerful, strong guys who command a room, guys who might hurt me...I am totally and completely attracted to those guys. I'm attracted to the very things that might hurt me the most. And it is glaringly obvious that Gabriel is all of those things. And more.
Madison and Gabe both have their pasts and demons to fight that have left them emotionally scarred and fearful of getting close to anyone. From their first meeting they had an instant connection and explosive chemistry, unfortunately their first night together was unexpectedly interrupted. Their lives seem to keep crossing. It took a lot of back and forth before Madison was willing to give Gabe a second chance. She really made Gabe work for it.
Their interactions were snarky, sarcastic, intense, and full of need. But both of these people did not really want to need anyone. Their pasts had altered their perceptions on relationships, but they cannot seem to stop the attraction and magnetic pull they have for each other. Before they realize it, they are in over their heads.
"This is you and me, Madison. This is just you and me. We might be f***ed up in some ways, but like Jacey says, we're good people. We'll figure it out. Everything will be fine."
No matter how close they get, Gabe's nightmares will not go away. He is very protective of Maddy and does not want to hurt her. And he cannot start a life with Maddy unless he can heal himself. But her biggest fear is loss. So their worst fears are conflicting and there is no right solution to solve their issues.
Before either of them can truly find their way together, they have to learn to face their own fears and forgive themselves and accept the things they cannot change.
This was not a sweet, sappy love story. It was raw, gritty, heart breaking, and intense. There were deep issues to deal with, difficult situations, painful pasts, sadness, and guilt. I felt everything they felt and my heart hurt for them.
"It's like I'm not whole when I'm not with you..You're a piece of me. A big piece of me. And when you're gone, I can't function right. I'm only half a person.~Gabe "
"Everyone always seems to leave me, Gabe...And if you leave...if you leave nothing will ever be OK again."
They were two broken and lost individuals, but somehow they fit together. But once all of the secrets are out and pasts are revealed, can they deal with the fall out? Can they fix themselves and each other or will they be left more shattered than before?
Courtney Cole starts her books with a gut punch. She hits you immediately with a harsh reality from the first page, hooks you in the story and makes you feel for the characters. I could not put it down. It was wonderful to continue Mila and Pax's story and see what has happened with them since the first book. And they were a big part of this story as well. The next book Before We Fall is about Gabe's sister and Maddy's friend Jacey. She had her own issues to deal with during this story. I would love to see a story about Gabe's Army Ranger buddy Brand in the future as well. He is another tough alpha who will do anything for his friends.
This book was emotional, heartbreaking, heartwarming, and inspiring. But it was not pretty. It was also real, rough, painful, and difficult. I teared up in times because of their pain and at other times in happiness. But sometimes the harder the story is to tell, the more poignant and beautiful it is. I was completely emotionally invested in this couple and their recovery.
Thanks to Courtney Cole, Netgalley, Hachette/Grand Central Publishing/Forever for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Quotes are from ARC and are subject to change in final draft. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
I've never retreated away from a fight and I've never cowered in fear. Ever. That's not who I am. But I've been in combat long enough to know that when something unbeatable chases you, you do the only you can do. You run.
Gabe is a retired Army Ranger that went through trauma in Afghanistan and is having difficulty adjusting to civilian life and putting the horror behind him. I felt for Gabe from the very beginning. He was a tough alpha hero with a tortured, guilt-ridden soul. He was charismatic, cocky, arrogant, and challenging. But he had a good heart and wanted to protect those he cared about. But he had such deep feelings of guilt, anxiety, fear, and nightmares that it was ruining his chance for a normal life or happiness.
All I know is Gabriel has that kind of confidence. The kind that turns my stomach inside out. And there's something else about him, too...something intriguing. I don't even know him, but there's something in his eyes, something dark and haunted that draws me to him.
We first me Madison in If You Stay since she is Mila's older sister. Madison gave up her whole life when her parents died and moved home, took care of her little sister, and her family's restaurant. But her life is not really the one she planned on living. She lost some of her spark and enjoyment of life. She had fears and insecurities stemming from her home life as a child. She was stuck in the past and not facing her fears or moving on. She was serious, stand offish, and controlled.
Try as I might to stay away from powerful, strong guys who command a room, guys who might hurt me...I am totally and completely attracted to those guys. I'm attracted to the very things that might hurt me the most. And it is glaringly obvious that Gabriel is all of those things. And more.
Madison and Gabe both have their pasts and demons to fight that have left them emotionally scarred and fearful of getting close to anyone. From their first meeting they had an instant connection and explosive chemistry, unfortunately their first night together was unexpectedly interrupted. Their lives seem to keep crossing. It took a lot of back and forth before Madison was willing to give Gabe a second chance. She really made Gabe work for it.
Their interactions were snarky, sarcastic, intense, and full of need. But both of these people did not really want to need anyone. Their pasts had altered their perceptions on relationships, but they cannot seem to stop the attraction and magnetic pull they have for each other. Before they realize it, they are in over their heads.
"This is you and me, Madison. This is just you and me. We might be f***ed up in some ways, but like Jacey says, we're good people. We'll figure it out. Everything will be fine."
No matter how close they get, Gabe's nightmares will not go away. He is very protective of Maddy and does not want to hurt her. And he cannot start a life with Maddy unless he can heal himself. But her biggest fear is loss. So their worst fears are conflicting and there is no right solution to solve their issues.
Before either of them can truly find their way together, they have to learn to face their own fears and forgive themselves and accept the things they cannot change.
This was not a sweet, sappy love story. It was raw, gritty, heart breaking, and intense. There were deep issues to deal with, difficult situations, painful pasts, sadness, and guilt. I felt everything they felt and my heart hurt for them.
"It's like I'm not whole when I'm not with you..You're a piece of me. A big piece of me. And when you're gone, I can't function right. I'm only half a person.~Gabe "
"Everyone always seems to leave me, Gabe...And if you leave...if you leave nothing will ever be OK again."
They were two broken and lost individuals, but somehow they fit together. But once all of the secrets are out and pasts are revealed, can they deal with the fall out? Can they fix themselves and each other or will they be left more shattered than before?
Courtney Cole starts her books with a gut punch. She hits you immediately with a harsh reality from the first page, hooks you in the story and makes you feel for the characters. I could not put it down. It was wonderful to continue Mila and Pax's story and see what has happened with them since the first book. And they were a big part of this story as well. The next book Before We Fall is about Gabe's sister and Maddy's friend Jacey. She had her own issues to deal with during this story. I would love to see a story about Gabe's Army Ranger buddy Brand in the future as well. He is another tough alpha who will do anything for his friends.
This book was emotional, heartbreaking, heartwarming, and inspiring. But it was not pretty. It was also real, rough, painful, and difficult. I teared up in times because of their pain and at other times in happiness. But sometimes the harder the story is to tell, the more poignant and beautiful it is. I was completely emotionally invested in this couple and their recovery.
Thanks to Courtney Cole, Netgalley, Hachette/Grand Central Publishing/Forever for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Quotes are from ARC and are subject to change in final draft. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
August 6, 2013
Copy was provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for an honest review.
5 Beautifully Broken Stars.
The bad thing caught you.
I’ve never retreated in my life. I’ve never backed away from a fight and I’ve never cowered in fear. Ever. That’s not who I am. But I’ve been in combat long enough to know that when something unbeatable chases you, you do the only thing you can do.
You run. – Gabe
Gabe is a badass army hero, but he has seen a lot of messed up shit. Sometimes you don’t come back from that, so he decides that it is time to come home. While waiting to go meet his sister and her friend inside a club he meets the perfect one night stand outside.
“remember when I told you that my feet hurt? I’d like to take my shoes off.”
I stare down at her. “so take them off.”
“At your place,” she adds.
I inhale sharply as I grip her hips even tighter.
“You don’t have to say that twice.”
Maddy has been drug out by her friend Jace and just wants to get out of this club. While trying to find her friend she runs into Mr. Tall, rugged and handsome. Perfect. She just needs to cut loose and have a little fun.
But, the night never goes as they planned….
Maddy is getting back into the groove of running her parents restaurant which is hard to do with a hangover, when in walks Mr. Tall rugged and handsome. She never thought she would see him again, and why is he hugging Jace? ….. as Maddy thinks on this she realizes…Oh shit, that’s Jacey’s big army hero brother!
Gabe does not want anything lasting with Maddy, but he loves the game they are playing. Who doesn’t like to play cat and mouse when you are the one winning? Plus, when the cat catches the mouse it is always fun.
I gasp, then hold on as he thrust into me.
I needed this so much.
I needed him and I didn’t even realize it. – Maddy
But, the game always catches up to us and soon Gabe is wrapped up in Maddy. He didn’t mean for this to happen. Gabe is in over his head with Maddy but, wants to help her through her struggles even if his are killing him.
“The good news is that fear is a choice. You can stand in fromt of it, punch it in the face and get on with life.”- Gabe
Gabe and Maddy both have shit they are dealing with, Gabe chooses to ignore his and try to help Maddy with hers, but in the meantime, the Bad Thing catches him again and this time, it caught Maddy too.
It’s hard to swallow when your throat is full of pain. – Maddy
Gabe cannot stand himself so he does what he thinks is best and leaves Maddy behind before something terrible happens.
You can’t make me love you, then just leave.
Fuck you, Gabe. – Maddy
Gabe falls into a deep depression and trying to fight off this Bad Thing. He finally, with the help of his best friend Brand, decides to get help. When he comes home after a tragedy has happened. He tries to be there for Maddy the only way he can. He just wants to explain everything to her, all of it. You will have to read to find out all the amazing things that this book has to say. I loved this story. My review does not due it justice, there is so much more to this book than I can write.Below are a few of my favorite quotes from If You Leave.
Love is deathless. – Pashka Sahar
“It’s not fair that you’re prettier than me even while you’re pregnant. Big sisters are always supposed to be hotter. It’s a law of nature. I didn’t make the rules, Mila, but we should definitely follow them. Try to gain a few pounds.” – maddy
Maddy said in the story, soldiers fight so that we can rest easily. They guard us against the things that go bump in the night. They serve with honor so that we can live free. They’re all heroes and ill never forget that. I hope you won’t, either. – Courtney Cole, Author.
& I know I will never forget the Hero’s that fight for us! Thank you to all past, present and future heroes of America.
-Ashley Christin, Blogger at Fiction's Our Addiciton
5 Beautifully Broken Stars.
The bad thing caught you.
I’ve never retreated in my life. I’ve never backed away from a fight and I’ve never cowered in fear. Ever. That’s not who I am. But I’ve been in combat long enough to know that when something unbeatable chases you, you do the only thing you can do.
You run. – Gabe
Gabe is a badass army hero, but he has seen a lot of messed up shit. Sometimes you don’t come back from that, so he decides that it is time to come home. While waiting to go meet his sister and her friend inside a club he meets the perfect one night stand outside.
“remember when I told you that my feet hurt? I’d like to take my shoes off.”
I stare down at her. “so take them off.”
“At your place,” she adds.
I inhale sharply as I grip her hips even tighter.
“You don’t have to say that twice.”
Maddy has been drug out by her friend Jace and just wants to get out of this club. While trying to find her friend she runs into Mr. Tall, rugged and handsome. Perfect. She just needs to cut loose and have a little fun.
But, the night never goes as they planned….
Maddy is getting back into the groove of running her parents restaurant which is hard to do with a hangover, when in walks Mr. Tall rugged and handsome. She never thought she would see him again, and why is he hugging Jace? ….. as Maddy thinks on this she realizes…Oh shit, that’s Jacey’s big army hero brother!
Gabe does not want anything lasting with Maddy, but he loves the game they are playing. Who doesn’t like to play cat and mouse when you are the one winning? Plus, when the cat catches the mouse it is always fun.
I gasp, then hold on as he thrust into me.
I needed this so much.
I needed him and I didn’t even realize it. – Maddy
But, the game always catches up to us and soon Gabe is wrapped up in Maddy. He didn’t mean for this to happen. Gabe is in over his head with Maddy but, wants to help her through her struggles even if his are killing him.
“The good news is that fear is a choice. You can stand in fromt of it, punch it in the face and get on with life.”- Gabe
Gabe and Maddy both have shit they are dealing with, Gabe chooses to ignore his and try to help Maddy with hers, but in the meantime, the Bad Thing catches him again and this time, it caught Maddy too.
It’s hard to swallow when your throat is full of pain. – Maddy
Gabe cannot stand himself so he does what he thinks is best and leaves Maddy behind before something terrible happens.
You can’t make me love you, then just leave.
Fuck you, Gabe. – Maddy
Gabe falls into a deep depression and trying to fight off this Bad Thing. He finally, with the help of his best friend Brand, decides to get help. When he comes home after a tragedy has happened. He tries to be there for Maddy the only way he can. He just wants to explain everything to her, all of it. You will have to read to find out all the amazing things that this book has to say. I loved this story. My review does not due it justice, there is so much more to this book than I can write.Below are a few of my favorite quotes from If You Leave.
Love is deathless. – Pashka Sahar
“It’s not fair that you’re prettier than me even while you’re pregnant. Big sisters are always supposed to be hotter. It’s a law of nature. I didn’t make the rules, Mila, but we should definitely follow them. Try to gain a few pounds.” – maddy
Maddy said in the story, soldiers fight so that we can rest easily. They guard us against the things that go bump in the night. They serve with honor so that we can live free. They’re all heroes and ill never forget that. I hope you won’t, either. – Courtney Cole, Author.
& I know I will never forget the Hero’s that fight for us! Thank you to all past, present and future heroes of America.
-Ashley Christin, Blogger at Fiction's Our Addiciton
August 16, 2013
5 HEART WRENCHINGLY BEAUTIFUL STARS!!!!!
This book was AMAZING. This is the 4th book by Courtney Cole that I have read and I have to say she never disappoints me. She has become an automatic buy Author for me. I love her writing style. The way she can create so much feeling into her stories and books is outstanding. Every book I read by her brings out a gamut of different emotions for me. This book was no different. I smiled like a goon, I swooned, I got pissed and I cried my eyes out. I love when a book can do that to me. That in my opinion is what makes a 5 star author. I loved book 1 in this series ( If You Stay ). I totally loved Madison in If You Stay, so I was extremely excited to learn that she was getting her own book. This book touched on some pretty heavy subjects, but I felt that the way Courtney wrote this story, she really gave an accurate portrayal of the real side of these topics. She didn't glam them up or skirt around the tough stuff, she makes you see the harsh side of things. I don't want to say to much because I feel it would give to much of this amazing story away. So all I will say is that this book/series is a DEFINITE MUST READ!!!!!
Like I said before, I loved Madison. She is an amazing female character. With everything that has happened to her you would think she would be a shell of a person, but she isn't. She is loyal to a fault and I love that about her. She really shows you that she is willing to do anything for the people she loves. But she also has a huge fear and I don't blame her for it one bit. I was glad to see that with time and the help of Gabriel she was able to overcome her fears and open herself up to love and life. Now Gabriel.....WOW, he is absolutely swoon worthy. He is also loyal to a fault. He proves that by his love and protection of both Madison and Jacey ( his sister). He is an alpha male with such a sweet protective side that you can't help but fall in love with him. And he also has a steamy side that makes your panties melt. He also has some serious demons to overcome. There is one part that I didn't like him very much and I didn't agree with his decisions, but in the long run I understood why he did things they way he did them. He was protecting the ones he loved. I was also glad to see that he is able to start on the road to recovery. I think his demons will take a little longer to overcome then Madison's, but I think together they can do it.
I was absolutely thrilled to see Pax and Mila in this story. I figured we would get some glimpses here and there, but no, they are an important part of this book. Which I LOVED. I was so happy to see how things turned out for this couple, and was even surprised to see that their story wasn't drama free. It added a whole nother level to this book. I was glad to see how their story concluded.
The secondary characters of this book were also really great. I loved Tony, he was a strong father figure to Mila and Madison. Brand ( Gabe's BFF ) he is another swoon worthy character. I really hope he gets his own book someday. Jacey ( Gabe's sister ) I don't really know where to start with her. She is all kinds of messed up, but was also a great support to Madison. I didn't agree with some of the things Jacey did in this book, but like i said all kinds of crazy :) I am glad to see that the next book in the series is Jacey's story. I really hope we get to see her straighten herself out.
I would definitely recommend this book/series to everyone!!!!! I truly can't think of one bad thing about this book. Courtney's books always leave me satisfied and happy in the end. Pick up this book, you won't be sorry.
Favorite Line :
"Maddy, I consider wherever you are home."....Gabriel
**Reviewed for www.bookbitchesblog.com**
This book was AMAZING. This is the 4th book by Courtney Cole that I have read and I have to say she never disappoints me. She has become an automatic buy Author for me. I love her writing style. The way she can create so much feeling into her stories and books is outstanding. Every book I read by her brings out a gamut of different emotions for me. This book was no different. I smiled like a goon, I swooned, I got pissed and I cried my eyes out. I love when a book can do that to me. That in my opinion is what makes a 5 star author. I loved book 1 in this series ( If You Stay ). I totally loved Madison in If You Stay, so I was extremely excited to learn that she was getting her own book. This book touched on some pretty heavy subjects, but I felt that the way Courtney wrote this story, she really gave an accurate portrayal of the real side of these topics. She didn't glam them up or skirt around the tough stuff, she makes you see the harsh side of things. I don't want to say to much because I feel it would give to much of this amazing story away. So all I will say is that this book/series is a DEFINITE MUST READ!!!!!
Like I said before, I loved Madison. She is an amazing female character. With everything that has happened to her you would think she would be a shell of a person, but she isn't. She is loyal to a fault and I love that about her. She really shows you that she is willing to do anything for the people she loves. But she also has a huge fear and I don't blame her for it one bit. I was glad to see that with time and the help of Gabriel she was able to overcome her fears and open herself up to love and life. Now Gabriel.....WOW, he is absolutely swoon worthy. He is also loyal to a fault. He proves that by his love and protection of both Madison and Jacey ( his sister). He is an alpha male with such a sweet protective side that you can't help but fall in love with him. And he also has a steamy side that makes your panties melt. He also has some serious demons to overcome. There is one part that I didn't like him very much and I didn't agree with his decisions, but in the long run I understood why he did things they way he did them. He was protecting the ones he loved. I was also glad to see that he is able to start on the road to recovery. I think his demons will take a little longer to overcome then Madison's, but I think together they can do it.
I was absolutely thrilled to see Pax and Mila in this story. I figured we would get some glimpses here and there, but no, they are an important part of this book. Which I LOVED. I was so happy to see how things turned out for this couple, and was even surprised to see that their story wasn't drama free. It added a whole nother level to this book. I was glad to see how their story concluded.
The secondary characters of this book were also really great. I loved Tony, he was a strong father figure to Mila and Madison. Brand ( Gabe's BFF ) he is another swoon worthy character. I really hope he gets his own book someday. Jacey ( Gabe's sister ) I don't really know where to start with her. She is all kinds of messed up, but was also a great support to Madison. I didn't agree with some of the things Jacey did in this book, but like i said all kinds of crazy :) I am glad to see that the next book in the series is Jacey's story. I really hope we get to see her straighten herself out.
I would definitely recommend this book/series to everyone!!!!! I truly can't think of one bad thing about this book. Courtney's books always leave me satisfied and happy in the end. Pick up this book, you won't be sorry.
Favorite Line :
"Maddy, I consider wherever you are home."....Gabriel
**Reviewed for www.bookbitchesblog.com**
March 2, 2015
4.5 you saved me stars.
Madison Hill had to grow up fast. Her youth was spent protecting her sister Mila from the ugliness of her father and her young adult life was spent carrying the dreams of her parents who passed away. She’s responsible and she’s been hardened because of her choices in life, choices she never wanted to make.
Gabriel Vincent is running from his past. Years spent living his dreams of an Army Ranger and now nights filled with nightmares that he can’t seem to escape. He’s drowning in the guilt of things beyond his control, things that can’t be unseen.
When a twist of fate brings Gabe into Madison’s life the connection and chemistry is instant. She’s not the type of girl that finds herself pressed against a hard body outside a club, but for one night she wants to be that girl, she needs to be that girl. But as her night unfolds an event spurs Gabe into a tailspin, he’s lost within his own memories and Madison walks away from a man that intrigues her but also scares the crap out of her.
When their paths cross yet again, Madison can’t seem to get him out of her head. But Gabe isn’t ready to chase his demons yet or open up to her to explain just what causes his night terrors or his need to distance himself from her.
As these two share more intimate moments together, Madison finds herself being shoved further away as she falls deeper into him. He’s not ready to face his past and he knows if he stays he’ll only hurt her more.
This was a beautifully told story of a soldier returning from the ugliness of war. The type of ugliness that you can’t escape from. But when he starts to fall for Madison he realizes that he has to make a choice, he can let the fear destroy him or he can fight his demons. Madison was a very strong heroine that you could not help but fall completely in love with. She was the protector of her sister for years, walking away from her own dreams to ensure her sister could live hers. But the one thing she wants most of all is far too damaged to keep.
There were moments during this story that were completely gut-wrenching to read. There is a soft spot in my heart for stories where the hero is a soldier. Although these are works of fiction, we all know the authors speak with members of the military and their families to ensure that there is a realistic feel to the story, to how the events play out. To know that so many out there sacrifice themselves for so many, knowing that they can’t simply wipe the memories of what they experienced when they return home. For this reason there was no way to avoid being crushed with so many emotions.
We also get to see Pax & Mila’s story continue as they carry forward with their life. Jacey is introduced as the feisty waitress (Gabe’s sister) who can’t seem to stop making bad choices for all the wrong reasons (Jacey is featured in Before We Fall).
Courtney Cole does an amazing job touching on so many tragic real life issues and transforming them into beautiful romances. Stories that could easily be someone’s life, stories that can be the just the inspiration needed to change the direction of someone’s life. Her gift is used not just for simply entertaining the readers but to shine a little light in the darkness.
Madison Hill had to grow up fast. Her youth was spent protecting her sister Mila from the ugliness of her father and her young adult life was spent carrying the dreams of her parents who passed away. She’s responsible and she’s been hardened because of her choices in life, choices she never wanted to make.
Gabriel Vincent is running from his past. Years spent living his dreams of an Army Ranger and now nights filled with nightmares that he can’t seem to escape. He’s drowning in the guilt of things beyond his control, things that can’t be unseen.
“The bad thing caught you.”
When a twist of fate brings Gabe into Madison’s life the connection and chemistry is instant. She’s not the type of girl that finds herself pressed against a hard body outside a club, but for one night she wants to be that girl, she needs to be that girl. But as her night unfolds an event spurs Gabe into a tailspin, he’s lost within his own memories and Madison walks away from a man that intrigues her but also scares the crap out of her.
“The good news is that fear is a choice. You can stand in front of it, punch it in the face and get on with life.”
When their paths cross yet again, Madison can’t seem to get him out of her head. But Gabe isn’t ready to chase his demons yet or open up to her to explain just what causes his night terrors or his need to distance himself from her.
As these two share more intimate moments together, Madison finds herself being shoved further away as she falls deeper into him. He’s not ready to face his past and he knows if he stays he’ll only hurt her more.
This was a beautifully told story of a soldier returning from the ugliness of war. The type of ugliness that you can’t escape from. But when he starts to fall for Madison he realizes that he has to make a choice, he can let the fear destroy him or he can fight his demons. Madison was a very strong heroine that you could not help but fall completely in love with. She was the protector of her sister for years, walking away from her own dreams to ensure her sister could live hers. But the one thing she wants most of all is far too damaged to keep.
There were moments during this story that were completely gut-wrenching to read. There is a soft spot in my heart for stories where the hero is a soldier. Although these are works of fiction, we all know the authors speak with members of the military and their families to ensure that there is a realistic feel to the story, to how the events play out. To know that so many out there sacrifice themselves for so many, knowing that they can’t simply wipe the memories of what they experienced when they return home. For this reason there was no way to avoid being crushed with so many emotions.
We also get to see Pax & Mila’s story continue as they carry forward with their life. Jacey is introduced as the feisty waitress (Gabe’s sister) who can’t seem to stop making bad choices for all the wrong reasons (Jacey is featured in Before We Fall).
Courtney Cole does an amazing job touching on so many tragic real life issues and transforming them into beautiful romances. Stories that could easily be someone’s life, stories that can be the just the inspiration needed to change the direction of someone’s life. Her gift is used not just for simply entertaining the readers but to shine a little light in the darkness.
August 7, 2013
**See more of my reviews at www.girlbooklove.com!
If You Leave is the story of Madison and Gabriel. I really liked Madison from If You Stay, book 1 of the Beautifully Broken series, and was glad she was getting her own story.
Madison came with her best friend Jacey to a club to celebrate her friend’s birthday, but after Jacey disappears with a guy and Madison feet start hurting, she decides to head home. In the process of trying to find Jacey, Madison stumbles upon the sexiest, most rugged man in the dark alley behind the club. yum.
“He’s undeniably sexy. Normally I would stay far away from someone like him, someone sinfully sexy but so…forceful. A guy like that is trouble. That’s for sure. But I didn’t come to the club tonight to run away. I came here to hook up. To blow off my responsibilities and be reckless for a night. To act my age. To be someone i’m not. I eye the guy again. Normally I would run away from him. But maybe…just tonight…I won’t.”
Gabriel is supposed to meet his sister Jacey at a club downtown to celebrate her birthday, but is second guessing his decision. While smoking in the alley behind the club he meets Madison. She is all dolled up and ready to sink her claws in Gabriel for the night, and he’s gonna let her. He’ s in desperate need of a little action and a one night stand with this super confident and feisty girl is exactly what he needs.
Little do they know…they would see each other again. The next day.
Madison and Gabriel both have their fair share of demons. Madison grew up around her parent’s unhealthy relationship and Gabriel experienced things while being an Army Ranger that no one should experience. They are both hanging on with all they have, but it doesn’t seem to be enough, they aren’t happy and they certainly aren’t fully living their lives. Yet, with each other, they find a little piece of themselves. They both start to work on dealing with their pasts but it’s not easy and it gets a whole lot worse before it gets better.
“You think that you’re a bad thing, but you’re not. You protect the rest of us from bad things. You’re badass and lethal and scary, and you’re as far from weak as you can get. You’re a protector, Gabe. My protector.”
I loved Madison and Gabriel’s story. It was so raw and honest. They both dealt with some pretty huge issues. I also loved getting to see Mila and Pax again. They had their own share of life changing events happening in this book too! I’ve got my fingers crossed for more of this series!
P.S. This book came out today, so go get your copy!!
**I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
My Madison and Gabriel-
If You Leave is the story of Madison and Gabriel. I really liked Madison from If You Stay, book 1 of the Beautifully Broken series, and was glad she was getting her own story.
Madison came with her best friend Jacey to a club to celebrate her friend’s birthday, but after Jacey disappears with a guy and Madison feet start hurting, she decides to head home. In the process of trying to find Jacey, Madison stumbles upon the sexiest, most rugged man in the dark alley behind the club. yum.
“He’s undeniably sexy. Normally I would stay far away from someone like him, someone sinfully sexy but so…forceful. A guy like that is trouble. That’s for sure. But I didn’t come to the club tonight to run away. I came here to hook up. To blow off my responsibilities and be reckless for a night. To act my age. To be someone i’m not. I eye the guy again. Normally I would run away from him. But maybe…just tonight…I won’t.”
Gabriel is supposed to meet his sister Jacey at a club downtown to celebrate her birthday, but is second guessing his decision. While smoking in the alley behind the club he meets Madison. She is all dolled up and ready to sink her claws in Gabriel for the night, and he’s gonna let her. He’ s in desperate need of a little action and a one night stand with this super confident and feisty girl is exactly what he needs.
Little do they know…they would see each other again. The next day.
Madison and Gabriel both have their fair share of demons. Madison grew up around her parent’s unhealthy relationship and Gabriel experienced things while being an Army Ranger that no one should experience. They are both hanging on with all they have, but it doesn’t seem to be enough, they aren’t happy and they certainly aren’t fully living their lives. Yet, with each other, they find a little piece of themselves. They both start to work on dealing with their pasts but it’s not easy and it gets a whole lot worse before it gets better.
“You think that you’re a bad thing, but you’re not. You protect the rest of us from bad things. You’re badass and lethal and scary, and you’re as far from weak as you can get. You’re a protector, Gabe. My protector.”
I loved Madison and Gabriel’s story. It was so raw and honest. They both dealt with some pretty huge issues. I also loved getting to see Mila and Pax again. They had their own share of life changing events happening in this book too! I’ve got my fingers crossed for more of this series!
P.S. This book came out today, so go get your copy!!
**I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
My Madison and Gabriel-
August 17, 2015
This book follows on from If You Stay but with different lead characters. This is Gabriel and Maddy's story. Both characters have their issues and this leads to some emotional and heart breaking scenes. Gabriel being a war hero has many issues and the PTSD that he was rewarded with for his service leads to nightmares or should I say night terrors, so he is permanently tortured. He believes that he is irreparably broken. Maddy has her own issues too, borne from parents in a violent and loveless marriage. Her views on relationships and marriage are jaded and as such she doesn't trust easily and protects her heart with seemingly impenetrable walls.
When their paths cross can these two be just what the other needs? Will they both be able to see that they do deserve love even if they are "broken." This is a journey about loss and devastation but most of all love and courage. Courage to change, courage to take those fears and deal with them, courage to want and deserve more. This is not an easy journey, it is an emotional one and fraught with their own issues but it was real, it was honest and it was a fantastic read.
When their paths cross can these two be just what the other needs? Will they both be able to see that they do deserve love even if they are "broken." This is a journey about loss and devastation but most of all love and courage. Courage to change, courage to take those fears and deal with them, courage to want and deserve more. This is not an easy journey, it is an emotional one and fraught with their own issues but it was real, it was honest and it was a fantastic read.
September 11, 2017
Liking this story a lot I will def. come back to read the first book as the secondary characters were just lovely and I am intrigued what happend to them in the previous book.
If you did not start yet I would suggest starting with the right order of the books to not spoiler yourself the ending.
Why 4 and not 5 stars ? simply because coming near the end there was a plotstring that did not need to be there and that took away a part of the climax from the story. It would have been a solid 5 star otherwise
Great writing and the characters felt real to me so a book to def. recommend.
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