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The Bridge #1
The Ballad
Does love follow a formula?
Ever since Alanis Morissette’s awkward days on Nickelodeon, Canadian Chloe LeGrange has dreamt of the rock star life in New York City. She’s impulsive and honest, making for a confident musician—but her emotions are in constant need of balance. When Chloe settles into her city life during the summer of '03, she reluctantly offers to go on a blind date.
Enter fate—stepping in and disrupting the storyline. A flicker of light, an instant attraction, an undeniable connection—Adam Ford’s perceptive narrative launches their story.
But what if the ballad of Adam and Chloe starts with the end? The chorus before the verse…
Ever since Alanis Morissette’s awkward days on Nickelodeon, Canadian Chloe LeGrange has dreamt of the rock star life in New York City. She’s impulsive and honest, making for a confident musician—but her emotions are in constant need of balance. When Chloe settles into her city life during the summer of '03, she reluctantly offers to go on a blind date.
Enter fate—stepping in and disrupting the storyline. A flicker of light, an instant attraction, an undeniable connection—Adam Ford’s perceptive narrative launches their story.
But what if the ballad of Adam and Chloe starts with the end? The chorus before the verse…
230 pages, ebook
First published July 2, 2013
6 people are currently reading
699 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
July 18, 2013
THE BALLAD written by Ashley Pullo was an intriguing read. Her use of an outstanding vocabulary and flow of the story was fantastic. I did find this story unique as it started with their lives (Cloe and Adam) today and working backwards to their initial meeting. The story was so realistic of life, not just the ordinary love story. Chapters include their meeting, falling in love, marriage, children, buying a home, death of a family member and other real-life happenings. Their love for each other was evident throughout the book. I would strongly recommend this book. It wasn't the typical romance book, but a true love story. The author needs to be commended for her style of writing,
July 4, 2014
First brought to my attention as a 5 star top recommendation from Angie via Smut Book Club, I was compelled to read it recently as a top recommendation from a Vixen Book Club friend, I am so glad to have read this because it was such a beautiful story.
A palette cleanser, a departure from billionaires, bikers, fighters and rockers, this is simply a wonderfully lyrical story about a married couple. It starts with a happy picture of a couple in their mid thirties, with children, celebrating her (Chloe's) 35th birthday. Only each chapter goes back in time, and you learn that their happiness today, has been fought hard for, through difficult events and stages through the years. You are effectively peeling back layers to reveal the places that they have come from: normal everyday events like children, births, depression, family, death, wedding, engagement, etc. it has been a wonderful mystery. There is no created drama, everything is incredibly real.
Underlying it all, is this incredible passion and romance between Chloe and Husband Adam. Hot, hot delicious sex scenes, I spent a lot f time admiring and swooning over Adam!! He is such an incredibly strong character, who's strength carries Chloe through some of her dark times.
I'll never forget this story, and look forward to reading the next books.
Thanks Beth for this recommendation!!
A palette cleanser, a departure from billionaires, bikers, fighters and rockers, this is simply a wonderfully lyrical story about a married couple. It starts with a happy picture of a couple in their mid thirties, with children, celebrating her (Chloe's) 35th birthday. Only each chapter goes back in time, and you learn that their happiness today, has been fought hard for, through difficult events and stages through the years. You are effectively peeling back layers to reveal the places that they have come from: normal everyday events like children, births, depression, family, death, wedding, engagement, etc. it has been a wonderful mystery. There is no created drama, everything is incredibly real.
Underlying it all, is this incredible passion and romance between Chloe and Husband Adam. Hot, hot delicious sex scenes, I spent a lot f time admiring and swooning over Adam!! He is such an incredibly strong character, who's strength carries Chloe through some of her dark times.
I'll never forget this story, and look forward to reading the next books.
Thanks Beth for this recommendation!!
August 4, 2013
FULL REVIEW AND FAVORITE QUOTES ON SMUTBOOKCLUB.COM
Always. That's approximately how long I'll be thinking about Chloe and Adam and their normal-yet-lyrical love story.
Always. That's approximately how long I'll be thinking about Chloe and Adam and their normal-yet-lyrical love story.
December 31, 2014
Sometimes we get lucky and we come across something special. The Ballad came up as a freebie one weekend. I devoured it. The Ballad featured characters that were handled with love and care. A narration that was intelligent and witty. A story that was laced with details and depth. The Ballad was a love story about two remarkable characters and their ups and downs. Real life issues and genuine love. All I can say is “I love tacos” and I love that story. I was laughing and crying, felt everything Chloe was. (Cheers to: The pick, him in the back watching her show, kit kats, Green Day , hands down best Maid of Honor’s speech, tacos, Smelly Cat, Violent Femmes , honestly the list goes on….)
August 18, 2013
AWESOME BOOK!!!! Well written and great story!! I can't wait to read the next one!!!!
December 28, 2013
4 1/2 Stars
"I received a complementary copy of The Ballad in exchange for an honest review."
I was completely taken off guard by this unique ballad of life. Author Ashley Pullo amazed me with her incredible written skill as she unfolded the story of Chole’s and Adam’s life. The idea of telling the love story of how it came to be in reverse was masterful to say the least. We always seem to read the story of how the characters meet and fall in love but these characters are already in love and we get to see how it progressed from the present to the past. Each chapter is a pivotal moment in Chole’s life. Some perfect and some not so much. The Ballad is a beautiful tell of all those special life moments that make up are life’s story, our own Ballad of Life.
Author Ashley Pullo writes real characters that could easily be you or me. Chole is vibrant, talented, and passionate about her life, so much that she has her own ballad to go with her life’s moments. She is by no means perfect and faces things in life that are common to the everyday person. It was so wonderful to see and read a moment in my life and have it jump off the page at me. I had to stop and laugh at one point and say “my God she is writing my life”. Chole is you, she is me and is every woman living her day to day life as a mom, wife, sister and friend.
Now let’s not forget are hunky hero, Adam Chole’s other half. Adam is intense, serious, kind and completely head over heels in love with Chole. He may have his own way of showing it, but the intensity in his eyes is all the emotion Chole needs for him to express his desire for her. And boy does he express it. Whew, is it getting hot in here?
When I was done reading The Ballad I wanted to grab Ashley Pullo and just hug the stuffing out of her. She got this story right!!! It may not be my life word for word but I can so closely relate to it that it will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Chole’s Ballad is perfection at its best and I can’t wait to see what is in store for her and the many other characters in Intermission.
"I received a complementary copy of The Ballad in exchange for an honest review."
I was completely taken off guard by this unique ballad of life. Author Ashley Pullo amazed me with her incredible written skill as she unfolded the story of Chole’s and Adam’s life. The idea of telling the love story of how it came to be in reverse was masterful to say the least. We always seem to read the story of how the characters meet and fall in love but these characters are already in love and we get to see how it progressed from the present to the past. Each chapter is a pivotal moment in Chole’s life. Some perfect and some not so much. The Ballad is a beautiful tell of all those special life moments that make up are life’s story, our own Ballad of Life.
Author Ashley Pullo writes real characters that could easily be you or me. Chole is vibrant, talented, and passionate about her life, so much that she has her own ballad to go with her life’s moments. She is by no means perfect and faces things in life that are common to the everyday person. It was so wonderful to see and read a moment in my life and have it jump off the page at me. I had to stop and laugh at one point and say “my God she is writing my life”. Chole is you, she is me and is every woman living her day to day life as a mom, wife, sister and friend.
Now let’s not forget are hunky hero, Adam Chole’s other half. Adam is intense, serious, kind and completely head over heels in love with Chole. He may have his own way of showing it, but the intensity in his eyes is all the emotion Chole needs for him to express his desire for her. And boy does he express it. Whew, is it getting hot in here?
When I was done reading The Ballad I wanted to grab Ashley Pullo and just hug the stuffing out of her. She got this story right!!! It may not be my life word for word but I can so closely relate to it that it will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Chole’s Ballad is perfection at its best and I can’t wait to see what is in store for her and the many other characters in Intermission.
July 29, 2013
I finished reading The Ballad and it is the most refreshing novel I've read this summer. I actually got it for free on my Kindle and I'm so glad I decided to give it shot. The style is unique and it contains all the things a romance novel should have, BUT everything in this story is real and plausible. It truly feels like I could've been a fly on the wall.
The music is an awesome touch, but what I appreciate the most is the secondary characters are completely developed. The kids are important, the parents are important, the friends are important. I hate when authors introduce characters for one funny line and then they disappear or when kids are in the novel as background scenery. It's like a little movie that I could watch over and over (or in this case, revisit some great chapters)
The music is an awesome touch, but what I appreciate the most is the secondary characters are completely developed. The kids are important, the parents are important, the friends are important. I hate when authors introduce characters for one funny line and then they disappear or when kids are in the novel as background scenery. It's like a little movie that I could watch over and over (or in this case, revisit some great chapters)
August 18, 2013
I love the unconventional format of this book and the "this is so awesome" feeling I had while reading. It's like meeting the characters and then slowly learning about them. The way the author used so many details to share their story forced me to reread certain chapters to see what else I missed. There is no outrageous plot and the dialog is highly believable and honest. I can't wait to read the second installment and hang out in Brooklyn with Chloe and Adam.
*Chloe is the coolest female character I have encountered in a long time. She's brave and confident, but suffers from honest insecurities.
*Chloe is the coolest female character I have encountered in a long time. She's brave and confident, but suffers from honest insecurities.
August 10, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed The Ballad. I loved how it takes you from the present through the past of Adam and Chloe's relationship. Ms. Pullo gives her readers a female character they can relate to at any age. For me, I most related to Chloe as a first time mom, the postpartum depression, and feeling resentful of the spouse who goes to work everyday while you're at home doing it all. I found myself thinking "I've been there. I know how that feels" throughout the book. I also appreciated that Ms. Pullo gives a little bit of Adam's side at the end where he meets Chloe. I can't wait to read Adam's story when it comes out!
August 17, 2013
I'm not a typical romance reader, or for that matter much of a reader of novels. But just let me say here that weeks after finishing the book, I'm still thinking about it!!! The characters are so real and endearing, not sappy and cliché, that I am left wanting to know more about them. The book is written starting in the present and proceeds backward revealing the subtle love clues between Adam and Chloe and their deep meanings and significance as the story is told in reverse.
Can't wait for the next in the series!!!
Can't wait for the next in the series!!!
January 30, 2014
This book was gifted to me by a friend from the "reading community" and I am so glad she sent this to me. This story made me smile from start to finiah. I loved that the characters were married and in love. I loved that they were both established adults. I loved that it was a feel good story. I loved everything about it! It was interesting that the story took place from the present then worked itself back in time only to end again in the present. I would suggest reading this story and letting it put a smile on your face too.
August 18, 2013
This is such a unique and thoughtful love story. The characters are fully developed adults, that are totally authentic and easy to bond with. The style of the book is marvelous, their poignant and dynamic story unfolding in unexpected originality. Music is such a powerful storytelling asset here, you can hear their soundtrack while reading about their personal journeys to finding each other and, ultimately, happiness. Enjoy!
September 16, 2013
This one tugged at my emotions, mostly in the middle of the book. I love the flow of the book. And I love that the 2 main characters have a deep bond. I really look forward to reading the 2nd book from Adam's POV.
March 13, 2014
This was a really different take on a romance book in the way the story was told , beautiful writing that left you with a lovely warm feeling no angst or drama , which I thrive on usually but a great book .
July 8, 2013
This was a great love story that we got to see flourish. It has wonderful humor to balance with the sweetness and reality.
August 18, 2013
I was very surprised by this book! The structure of the story kept me interested right from the start. Definitely looking forward to the next one. Check it out!
Want to read
August 24, 2013FREE TODAY on Amazon 8-24-13 (Not sure for how long so grab it now) Average rating on Amazon is 5stars on GR's it is 4.06
LINK: http://amzn.com/B00DROONSQ
LINK: http://amzn.com/B00DROONSQ
March 1, 2014
Genius.
May 27, 2014
It all started with The Ballad – and I was unexpectedly hooked.
This is the first book in the series, and although I have typed my review for The Refrain first, I have read this one some days prior, and I must admit – this book, this series actually is something out of the ordinary from the usual reads I have.
It’s refreshing, and the narrative is beautiful. The flow of the story may not be conducive to some, since it goes back and forth the past and present – but each chapter holds a depth and meaning to the characters.
I love Chloe, and all her flaws, most especially I love her cool & calm husband Adam, not to mention Nat!!! Chloe & Adam’s relationship may not be perfect, and this book revealed how much their relationship have been through – the highs and the lows – but in the end, they made it out alive and their relationship stronger than ever. Ashley Pullo slaps in reality into this story, and is not afraid to show how real relationship works, and what is happening to some marriages – it may not be pleasant, but its real, and a whole lot of readers can relate to it.
I love the way she writes – compelling and powerful. You can’t help but stick your eyes into the pages until finally you’re at the end and still screaming for more. The Ballad had not just made me fall in love, but it had taught me that sometimes, it’s okay to try something different too – who knows you might just love it more. And I did – this might not be the type of stories I read, but it didn’t make it less beautiful.
The realism of this book is astonishing. Pullo covers a lot of issues that are very common in relationships, especially relationships that are long term and she doesn't sugar coat it. This is such a breath of fresh air compared to the fantastical relationships that are out there right now. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy those too, but there is something about reading a novel filled with people who you can relate to and learn from. I totally got a high after reading this. I called my friend and gushed over it from a solid hour. I love coming across books that are different. It excites me because it opens doors for other authors who want to take chances too.
✪Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.✪
This is the first book in the series, and although I have typed my review for The Refrain first, I have read this one some days prior, and I must admit – this book, this series actually is something out of the ordinary from the usual reads I have.
It’s refreshing, and the narrative is beautiful. The flow of the story may not be conducive to some, since it goes back and forth the past and present – but each chapter holds a depth and meaning to the characters.
I love Chloe, and all her flaws, most especially I love her cool & calm husband Adam, not to mention Nat!!! Chloe & Adam’s relationship may not be perfect, and this book revealed how much their relationship have been through – the highs and the lows – but in the end, they made it out alive and their relationship stronger than ever. Ashley Pullo slaps in reality into this story, and is not afraid to show how real relationship works, and what is happening to some marriages – it may not be pleasant, but its real, and a whole lot of readers can relate to it.
I love the way she writes – compelling and powerful. You can’t help but stick your eyes into the pages until finally you’re at the end and still screaming for more. The Ballad had not just made me fall in love, but it had taught me that sometimes, it’s okay to try something different too – who knows you might just love it more. And I did – this might not be the type of stories I read, but it didn’t make it less beautiful.
The realism of this book is astonishing. Pullo covers a lot of issues that are very common in relationships, especially relationships that are long term and she doesn't sugar coat it. This is such a breath of fresh air compared to the fantastical relationships that are out there right now. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy those too, but there is something about reading a novel filled with people who you can relate to and learn from. I totally got a high after reading this. I called my friend and gushed over it from a solid hour. I love coming across books that are different. It excites me because it opens doors for other authors who want to take chances too.
✪Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.✪
March 21, 2014
First of all I have to say I don't usually read books of this genre, however, after being convinced by my wife to give it a try I have to admit I couldn't put it down. So where do I begin ? I found it interesting to have the story begin in the now and work backwards to when they met which in some strange way reminded me of " Pulp Fiction" . It was nice to read a story of two people, Chloe and Adam who were just in love . There didn't have to be a life changing moment or acts of infidelity to get your attention and I felt they were a couple that could be your neighbors or friends , meaning they weren't snobs.
I loved Chloe because she wasn't perfect and she knew it. I pictured her as pretty with a curvy shape but in no way a runway model most authors use as a springboard and she just felt real from her attitude towards child birth , her opinion on the woman who had two babies to her own struggles with postpartum depression. In reading this book there were times Chloe reminded me of my wife. In my opinion Chloe was as down to earth as any character I've read about in the past.
Having said that I did have some issues.. Of course with most books of this nature ( as far as I can tell) once again the male character has to be perfect and Adam is no different. Although I did find him dedicated and very likable he was pretty much perfect in every way and ... Shocker... He was built like a Greek God ! In fact, the only flaw in him was he was so good looking - ok, let's switch places!!! I felt his friends Anthony and Pete were a little to perfect as well .
I enjoyed the sex scenes and found them to be quite believable and I got a kick out of the " Lost" reference and of course the hating of Valentine's Day earned a special place in my heart .
I very much enjoyed " The Ballad" and look forward to future stories of Chloe and Adam ... Well done Ashley Pullo!!
I loved Chloe because she wasn't perfect and she knew it. I pictured her as pretty with a curvy shape but in no way a runway model most authors use as a springboard and she just felt real from her attitude towards child birth , her opinion on the woman who had two babies to her own struggles with postpartum depression. In reading this book there were times Chloe reminded me of my wife. In my opinion Chloe was as down to earth as any character I've read about in the past.
Having said that I did have some issues.. Of course with most books of this nature ( as far as I can tell) once again the male character has to be perfect and Adam is no different. Although I did find him dedicated and very likable he was pretty much perfect in every way and ... Shocker... He was built like a Greek God ! In fact, the only flaw in him was he was so good looking - ok, let's switch places!!! I felt his friends Anthony and Pete were a little to perfect as well .
I enjoyed the sex scenes and found them to be quite believable and I got a kick out of the " Lost" reference and of course the hating of Valentine's Day earned a special place in my heart .
I very much enjoyed " The Ballad" and look forward to future stories of Chloe and Adam ... Well done Ashley Pullo!!
December 11, 2014
Sometimes, just sometimes it takes a simply action to catapult something straight out of the ball park and Ashley Pullo obviously did just that when she first determined how she wanted to portray the characters in this book, because starting at the end and working backwards was an absolute stroke of genius !
The story is beautifully told, richly descriptive and completely engaging.
Each chapter a chance to regress with Chloe and Adam, to the most pivotal points in their lives, the ones that brought them together and has given them the life that they have now.
Chloe is like a thousand women before her, talented, happy go lucky and determined to live her life to the full.
Life is what you make of the events that happen to you on your journey and with Chloe, I could have been reading a diary of any friend that I have, she was just that down to earth – I loved her.
Adam was Chloe’s strength and protector. His love for her was so complete it was beautiful to read. The man was everything that I would look for in a hero and to Chloe he most definitely was her hero. He loved her implicitly and without expectation. The connection between the two of them was just magnificent (oh and did I forget to say it was seriously hot!)
The Ballad will sing to you, it will carry along on its lilting tune and deposit you smiling and replete at the end.
This is a rare find, a book that is as honest as it is reverent.
The story is beautifully told, richly descriptive and completely engaging.
Each chapter a chance to regress with Chloe and Adam, to the most pivotal points in their lives, the ones that brought them together and has given them the life that they have now.
Chloe is like a thousand women before her, talented, happy go lucky and determined to live her life to the full.
Life is what you make of the events that happen to you on your journey and with Chloe, I could have been reading a diary of any friend that I have, she was just that down to earth – I loved her.
Adam was Chloe’s strength and protector. His love for her was so complete it was beautiful to read. The man was everything that I would look for in a hero and to Chloe he most definitely was her hero. He loved her implicitly and without expectation. The connection between the two of them was just magnificent (oh and did I forget to say it was seriously hot!)
The Ballad will sing to you, it will carry along on its lilting tune and deposit you smiling and replete at the end.
This is a rare find, a book that is as honest as it is reverent.
July 16, 2014
I won a free copy of this book from the author, and, if I am being quite honest, I really had no idea what it was about. But I like music and I like love stories and I love almost all kinds of books.....
Let me just say, I was very pleasantly surprised. It wasn't that I didn't think I would like the story, But I really had no idea what to expect. This book is so different - in the best way!
Full disclosure - I read the ends of books first. Always. For me, knowing what happens does not take away from the story - I enjoy seeing how it plays out and what has to happen to get to that end point. So for me to find out that this book is written starting in the present and going back to the first meeting of Chloe and Adam?? LOVED IT!! I got the ending first - without having to read the actual end of the book!
I adored the relationship between Chloe and Adam. There were parts that had me giggling out loud (sorry to those who walked by my office at that specific moment and likely now think I am insane). And as someone who loves music, but is not musically gifted, I really enjoyed the way music is incorporated into the story.
This was a quick, easy read. Fantastically and uniquely written.
4.5 Stars!
Let me just say, I was very pleasantly surprised. It wasn't that I didn't think I would like the story, But I really had no idea what to expect. This book is so different - in the best way!
Full disclosure - I read the ends of books first. Always. For me, knowing what happens does not take away from the story - I enjoy seeing how it plays out and what has to happen to get to that end point. So for me to find out that this book is written starting in the present and going back to the first meeting of Chloe and Adam?? LOVED IT!! I got the ending first - without having to read the actual end of the book!
I adored the relationship between Chloe and Adam. There were parts that had me giggling out loud (sorry to those who walked by my office at that specific moment and likely now think I am insane). And as someone who loves music, but is not musically gifted, I really enjoyed the way music is incorporated into the story.
This was a quick, easy read. Fantastically and uniquely written.
4.5 Stars!
May 30, 2014
4.5 stars
This book starts off backwards. Yes, backwards. It starts with Chloe's 35th birthday among her family and friends, and the love of her life, Adam. After that, it goes backwards in time and stops through a lot of significant moments in their relationship. Each character instead of developing as we usually see in books, especially of this genre, they break down from what and who they are now and what they were. Beautifully told with great attention to detail in a manner much like some songs the author mentions in the beginning of this book, which is something I loved. Among the characters in this book, Adam stood out to me the most. He's brooding and intense and doesn't show much emotion. If you just skim through, you might even think he has little personality. But the author decided to make him so sublime and subtle, it packs a punch AFTER you read the story. His feelings are actually never in question and his gestures tell you all you need to know about him.
A beautiful beginning to what I'm sure is a fantastic series.
Complimentary copy received in exchange for honest review.
This book starts off backwards. Yes, backwards. It starts with Chloe's 35th birthday among her family and friends, and the love of her life, Adam. After that, it goes backwards in time and stops through a lot of significant moments in their relationship. Each character instead of developing as we usually see in books, especially of this genre, they break down from what and who they are now and what they were. Beautifully told with great attention to detail in a manner much like some songs the author mentions in the beginning of this book, which is something I loved. Among the characters in this book, Adam stood out to me the most. He's brooding and intense and doesn't show much emotion. If you just skim through, you might even think he has little personality. But the author decided to make him so sublime and subtle, it packs a punch AFTER you read the story. His feelings are actually never in question and his gestures tell you all you need to know about him.
A beautiful beginning to what I'm sure is a fantastic series.
Complimentary copy received in exchange for honest review.
November 14, 2013
Also posted on my blog: http://theravishingpen.blogspot.com
The ballad of Chloe and Adam was one of the most original story structures I've seen in quite some time. I was drawn in from the very first by Ashley Pullo's incredible skill at setting a scene, and describe it with beautiful word imagery. I spent a couple of pages after the birthday party entirely confused, only to realize that she was telling Chloe and Adam's love story in reverse! We start from Chloe's 35th birthday, and go from there to the first meeting of Adam and Chloe. What I believe I enjoyed the most about this story was how REAL it is. It's not all fluffy and perfect, everyone is not staring at each other in longing for half the book. It's an everyday love type of story, where you meet someone who is generally your opposite, as is the case for the extremely emotional musician Chloe and guarded and trouble Attorney Adam, and you work through your issues to find the love underneath. I was incredibly impressed by this novel of Ashley Pullo's.
The ballad of Chloe and Adam was one of the most original story structures I've seen in quite some time. I was drawn in from the very first by Ashley Pullo's incredible skill at setting a scene, and describe it with beautiful word imagery. I spent a couple of pages after the birthday party entirely confused, only to realize that she was telling Chloe and Adam's love story in reverse! We start from Chloe's 35th birthday, and go from there to the first meeting of Adam and Chloe. What I believe I enjoyed the most about this story was how REAL it is. It's not all fluffy and perfect, everyone is not staring at each other in longing for half the book. It's an everyday love type of story, where you meet someone who is generally your opposite, as is the case for the extremely emotional musician Chloe and guarded and trouble Attorney Adam, and you work through your issues to find the love underneath. I was incredibly impressed by this novel of Ashley Pullo's.
March 8, 2014
I really enjoyed The Ballad. This is technically the first book in the Bridge series. I went out of sequence a bit by reading Intermission first. Honestly, it didn't matter. When I read Intermission I got a taste of the characters and knew I wanted more of them and that's exactly what I got from The Ballad only a little older. I loved getting to know Chloe and Adam more in this story and seeing how their relationship developed. I really like the style of writing. Ashley's words flow effortlessly from descriptive to dialogue. There is a great mix of humor and heartbreak. I also liked the fact that the characters are relatable and real dealing with real issues. It was refreshing to read about one of the issues Chloe and Adam are faced with that I know a lot of women go through, but I haven't read it in another book. One of the marks of a good book is when I want to be friends with the characters. I want to be friends with Chloe, Adam, Nat and the rest of the cast. I look forward to seeing how things end up in the third book, The Refrain.
July 23, 2014
I was scared. I admit it. It is so hard to read a book after someone has so adamantly said that they didn’t care for it. But I forged ahead, trying to put everything out of my mind and experience it for myself. The first three chapters were rough for me. Then it hit me, I saw what the author was doing by writing the book backwards. “It’s quite an accomplishment for a musician to build a story in reverse and maintain the momentum of a ballad.” Chills, girl! I loved the little things that I discovered about Chloe and Adam and their relationship by experiencing it IN REVERSE. Like why they hold pinkies…sigh….
My favorite quote in the whole series has to be “Every great love story has a beginning, whether it’s a planned meeting, a random encounter or an impulsive jump into the unknown. But it’s the middle of the story that really counts, the part when life happens, either propelling the relationship into a beautiful romance or dissolving into a predictable wasteland of misconceptions.”
A deliciously wonderful read!!!
My favorite quote in the whole series has to be “Every great love story has a beginning, whether it’s a planned meeting, a random encounter or an impulsive jump into the unknown. But it’s the middle of the story that really counts, the part when life happens, either propelling the relationship into a beautiful romance or dissolving into a predictable wasteland of misconceptions.”
A deliciously wonderful read!!!
August 5, 2014
3.5 Stars
The Ballad tells the story of Adam and Chloe but goes in reverse chronological order. The first 75% reminded me of After I Do since it focused some of the challenges and milestones of married life, but not as depressing or as poignant as After I Do.
It was kind of fun to witness the unveiling of the MCs relationship up until the moment they meet. The whole going backwards in time was fun and different but there wasn't a *whoa* moment at the end like I was hoping for. This format would probably work well with a book that was a mystery or one that had a huge secret that was revealed at the end. There really was no plot or any real drama to this book. But it was still somewhat entertaining, nonetheless.
The Ballad tells the story of Adam and Chloe but goes in reverse chronological order. The first 75% reminded me of After I Do since it focused some of the challenges and milestones of married life, but not as depressing or as poignant as After I Do.
It was kind of fun to witness the unveiling of the MCs relationship up until the moment they meet. The whole going backwards in time was fun and different but there wasn't a *whoa* moment at the end like I was hoping for. This format would probably work well with a book that was a mystery or one that had a huge secret that was revealed at the end. There really was no plot or any real drama to this book. But it was still somewhat entertaining, nonetheless.
January 31, 2014
This is a lovely sweet romantic story. This is the story of Chloe and Adams life told in reverse which was a nice refreshing change.
Chloe is a fantastic character. I think a lot of us will relate to her as she is so real and so lively. Thoroughly loved Adam. He is such an intense character.
Never read anything by this author so this was both a surprise and a joy to read.
Received in return for an honest review.
Chloe is a fantastic character. I think a lot of us will relate to her as she is so real and so lively. Thoroughly loved Adam. He is such an intense character.
Never read anything by this author so this was both a surprise and a joy to read.
Received in return for an honest review.
June 18, 2015
I really liked this book. I happened upon this book by accident, and I am glad I did. The author is a fantastic story teller.
The only negative was the arrangement for me. I actually read the story in reverse and liked it better.
I believe Ashley Pullo will be an author to look out for in the future!
The only negative was the arrangement for me. I actually read the story in reverse and liked it better.
I believe Ashley Pullo will be an author to look out for in the future!
January 15, 2014
I really enjoyed this little book. The characters are crisp and well defined, you know them and like them as they could be people we know. I want to go listen to Chole play music and if I had young children I would want my kids to be friends with theirs. Two passionate people who appreciate the uniqueness of each other. Just a wonderful story.
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