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Deception #1
Footprints
Standing by she watches her father leave board the huge grey beast. Taking him to who knows where. As a young girl, her mother raised her whilst her father was away at war. A single mother of sorts.
She saw familiar faces come and go, Flags wave in the breeze, Engines growl as they shut down. Each time the faces grew less and less.
Tragedy struck, leaving Riley and her mother to fend for themselves. Life was not easy. His memory covered the walls. The flag still hangs proud from the stark white walls.
She vowed she would never fall in love with a military man, she purposely steered clear of their nightly haunts. Until one day,
He came crashing into her life literally. Was it love at first sight, can she overcome the fear that comes with living the military life?
She saw familiar faces come and go, Flags wave in the breeze, Engines growl as they shut down. Each time the faces grew less and less.
Tragedy struck, leaving Riley and her mother to fend for themselves. Life was not easy. His memory covered the walls. The flag still hangs proud from the stark white walls.
She vowed she would never fall in love with a military man, she purposely steered clear of their nightly haunts. Until one day,
He came crashing into her life literally. Was it love at first sight, can she overcome the fear that comes with living the military life?
- GenresMilitary Fiction
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 19, 2013
2 people are currently reading
251 people want to read
About the author
Nicky Jayne
8 books89 followersNicky Jayne was born and raised in England but now resides in Las Vegas with her Husband and two boys. When she is not writing, she has her nose firmly placed in a book.
She released her first series in September 2013. The Embrace Series, Embracing Life and Embracing Love.
You can visit her at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicky-...
She released her first series in September 2013. The Embrace Series, Embracing Life and Embracing Love.
You can visit her at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicky-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 27, 2013
3 1/2 Star Review
First let me start off by saying that I love a good military romance because it’s something that affects me in my personal life. I will usually read anything military related and most of the times I am extremely hard on these books because I know what it’s like to love a man in uniform.
Footprints is a love story, yes but I think it is so much more than yet. I think Nicky did a beautiful job on giving us a character, Riley, that we can bond with. I became emotional attached to her throughout this read. I wanted to hold her while she cried and smack her when she did something stupid. I had to remember that she is such a young girl and will make choices and do and say things that maybe I wouldn’t because of her young age. She is a military brat and has promised to never give her heart to a man in uniform. But than life happens and she meets Tanner.
The instant connection between Riley and Tanner was there in the very beginning. He is soldier so you will see Riley struggle to keep her distance because she can’t go down that road. I think Nicky did a great job is showing us the chemistry that was between those 2 characters. You get to see them both struggle with their feelings and you get to see how they overcome them together and on their own. Tanner and Riley only know each other short time but you feel like it’s been a lifetime.
There were a few downfalls for me – nothing against the author or the story just my likes and dislikes. Okay if you know me you know I am a naughty girl, I need smut and I think this book was more along the lines of PG13 – it was a beautiful love story but it was missing the steam and smut that I love. Don’t get me wrong the tension was absolutely there and I loved that – I was just hoping for some skin on skin contact. Another thing I noticed was the how these two characters spoke in the book – much older than their actual age. I know Tanner is military and has had to grow up fast so I am guessing that’s why his maturity level and the way he spoke was how I would expect someone to speak much older than him. Those 2 factors didn’t weigh in on my rating whatsoever but I did notice them.
I enjoyed this story. I think Nicky did a great job on the key points of military deployment and just military life in general which I do get picky about in military books because being an Army wife myself. Other than the love story in Footprints I think Nicky was trying to send a bigger message – that no matter what has happened in your life you can’t live in the past – you must keep walking forward. You can’t live in the past and expect to have a happy future – the past in the past and you can’t change it all you can do is learn from it. Love is a strange thing because there is no rhyme or reason to it. Your heart wants who it wants and you can’t help who you love. You have 2 choices when a tragedy happens in your life you can either stay in the past and dwell on the whys, or you can pick yourself up, dust yourself off and move forward into the future and create your own <1>footprints.
First let me start off by saying that I love a good military romance because it’s something that affects me in my personal life. I will usually read anything military related and most of the times I am extremely hard on these books because I know what it’s like to love a man in uniform.
Footprints is a love story, yes but I think it is so much more than yet. I think Nicky did a beautiful job on giving us a character, Riley, that we can bond with. I became emotional attached to her throughout this read. I wanted to hold her while she cried and smack her when she did something stupid. I had to remember that she is such a young girl and will make choices and do and say things that maybe I wouldn’t because of her young age. She is a military brat and has promised to never give her heart to a man in uniform. But than life happens and she meets Tanner.
The instant connection between Riley and Tanner was there in the very beginning. He is soldier so you will see Riley struggle to keep her distance because she can’t go down that road. I think Nicky did a great job is showing us the chemistry that was between those 2 characters. You get to see them both struggle with their feelings and you get to see how they overcome them together and on their own. Tanner and Riley only know each other short time but you feel like it’s been a lifetime.
There were a few downfalls for me – nothing against the author or the story just my likes and dislikes. Okay if you know me you know I am a naughty girl, I need smut and I think this book was more along the lines of PG13 – it was a beautiful love story but it was missing the steam and smut that I love. Don’t get me wrong the tension was absolutely there and I loved that – I was just hoping for some skin on skin contact. Another thing I noticed was the how these two characters spoke in the book – much older than their actual age. I know Tanner is military and has had to grow up fast so I am guessing that’s why his maturity level and the way he spoke was how I would expect someone to speak much older than him. Those 2 factors didn’t weigh in on my rating whatsoever but I did notice them.
I enjoyed this story. I think Nicky did a great job on the key points of military deployment and just military life in general which I do get picky about in military books because being an Army wife myself. Other than the love story in Footprints I think Nicky was trying to send a bigger message – that no matter what has happened in your life you can’t live in the past – you must keep walking forward. You can’t live in the past and expect to have a happy future – the past in the past and you can’t change it all you can do is learn from it. Love is a strange thing because there is no rhyme or reason to it. Your heart wants who it wants and you can’t help who you love. You have 2 choices when a tragedy happens in your life you can either stay in the past and dwell on the whys, or you can pick yourself up, dust yourself off and move forward into the future and create your own <1>footprints.
December 28, 2013
I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I gave this book 4 stars.
This is Riley and Tanner's story.
This is a military story.
Riley has had enough loss in her life when she loses her father while he is serving his country. She has never gotten over the fact that he never came back when he said that he would. She promises herself that she will not fall for a military man. But that is hard because she is still living where she grew up, near all of the military men and woman. It has been 7 years since they have lost her father and both her mother and Riley are both still very torn up. They visit his grave every year and still continue to mourn him.
Riley meets Tanner and is instantly attracted to him, but she fights it because he is in the military. And she doesn't know yet but he is also got his papers for his leave within the next week of him meeting her. So Tanner as well fights the instant attraction he feels towards her because he knows he has to go.
That doesn't stop them in the end. They give in and she waits for him, and he writes her letters. Letters she can't reply to because she has no idea where he is at. Will this end the same way for poor Riley? Will she once again lose the man that she loves to war? Come on Riley's emotional journey as she learns to love again and trust.
This was an emotional read. Riley is so not over her fathers death and everything that she does reminds her of her daddy. Almost everything she does in her life is based on the fact that she lost her father. I really think this poor girl should have some counseling. Yes I understand why she is the way she is. I probably would be the same way. I know how death effects you when you lose a parent. And although some may think 7 years is a long time. It is a blink of an eye when you have to live without a parents love and presence.
It made her stronger before she needed to be strong. The only problem I had with the book is when Riley's dad dies she is 15 it says she is 15 when she goes and hugs her Uncle. And then when she meets Tanner he is trying to figure out her age and it is said that she is 20 .. well 7 years have gone by so that would have made her 13 when she lost her dad. so the age thing was a bit confusing. I would also have like a little more information about Tanner when he left, it doesn't talk about him really at all when he is in battle, just a little bit here and there. BUT that does not take away from the book in the least.
It is a great read. Thank you Nicky for your beautiful story about loss and love and learning to just breathe . . . <3
December 27, 2013
This book blew me away. It was full of real emotion and brought me to tears after just reading the prologue.
"You are my strength, I will wait for you, I will smile for you. I will think of you always. Visit me in my dreams daddy. I love you." ~ Riley
If that didn't just get your attention then I don't know what will. I knew from this cover that this book was going to be AMAZING and I am happy to say that it was just that.
My heart broke for Riley and the sense of loss she carried with her. Riley has made an informed decision that she will not follow the path of her mother and leave herself open to more pain and loss. But the heart wants what the heart wants and Riley's wants and needs Tanner.
Tanner comes from a military family as well and his father and Riley's family have history. When they meet sparks fly. I was swooning right along with Riley at the hotness we shall call Tanner.
Although their time together is brief the feelings are overwhelming. They are drawn to one another and Tanner wants nothing more than to take away Riley's pain. But Tanner is "broken" too and doesn't think that he deserves someone like Riley.
"I just couldn't leave things the way I did last time. I needed you to know I have thought of you, but you need to understand I am not the man for you. I am broken Riley." ~ Tanner
The push and pull of emotion throughout the story had me on the edge of my seat with tears streaming down my face. I was looking for the silver lining in the cloud, hoping against all hopes that Tanner and Riley could find happiness....maybe even together.
"Do you really understand that I cannot let someone who I love walk away from me again and never return. ~ RIley
"Wait for me Riley" ~ Tanner
Commence more tears.....this story just tore my heart out but put the pieces back together nicely. I will do you all a favor and advise that you should have a box of tissues handy. I am a huge fan of Nicky's writing and to me she knocked it out of the park on this one.
Do yourself a favor and grab this book....you may have puffy eyes when you are done but Riley and Tanner's story will leave "Footprints" on your heart.
Note: I received an ARC from the Author in exchange for an honest review
"You are my strength, I will wait for you, I will smile for you. I will think of you always. Visit me in my dreams daddy. I love you." ~ Riley
If that didn't just get your attention then I don't know what will. I knew from this cover that this book was going to be AMAZING and I am happy to say that it was just that.
My heart broke for Riley and the sense of loss she carried with her. Riley has made an informed decision that she will not follow the path of her mother and leave herself open to more pain and loss. But the heart wants what the heart wants and Riley's wants and needs Tanner.
Tanner comes from a military family as well and his father and Riley's family have history. When they meet sparks fly. I was swooning right along with Riley at the hotness we shall call Tanner.
Although their time together is brief the feelings are overwhelming. They are drawn to one another and Tanner wants nothing more than to take away Riley's pain. But Tanner is "broken" too and doesn't think that he deserves someone like Riley.
"I just couldn't leave things the way I did last time. I needed you to know I have thought of you, but you need to understand I am not the man for you. I am broken Riley." ~ Tanner
The push and pull of emotion throughout the story had me on the edge of my seat with tears streaming down my face. I was looking for the silver lining in the cloud, hoping against all hopes that Tanner and Riley could find happiness....maybe even together.
"Do you really understand that I cannot let someone who I love walk away from me again and never return. ~ RIley
"Wait for me Riley" ~ Tanner
Commence more tears.....this story just tore my heart out but put the pieces back together nicely. I will do you all a favor and advise that you should have a box of tissues handy. I am a huge fan of Nicky's writing and to me she knocked it out of the park on this one.
Do yourself a favor and grab this book....you may have puffy eyes when you are done but Riley and Tanner's story will leave "Footprints" on your heart.
Note: I received an ARC from the Author in exchange for an honest review
December 27, 2013
3.75 Stars
Riley lost her father at a young age. She was familiar with saying goodbyes to him every time he left to do his job. He was a military man and her hero. The heartache she felt when he didn’t return from duty…broke her.
Riley refused to lose another person the same way she had lost her father. She would not live the life her mother chose to live. Soldiers…men of war, she could not allow herself to fall for one. They were banned from her heart, she wouldn’t fall…or would she?
Tanner returns home on leave from the military to spend some time with his sister and father. He didn’t plan for anything more than that, but when he finds Riley, plans change.
No matter how hard they both try to fight t they can’t get away. They fall for one another and there is no looking back.
Tanner leaves for active duty asking Riley… “Wait For Me?”
She has lost once and is terrified of losing again…she knows her heart can’t take it.
This was an enjoyable read I just wished there was more depth into their time together. I felt for Riley and her struggles to cope with her father’s death and Tanner had struggles of his own. In the end Riley gets the love she deserves and Tanner gets his heart back.
Riley lost her father at a young age. She was familiar with saying goodbyes to him every time he left to do his job. He was a military man and her hero. The heartache she felt when he didn’t return from duty…broke her.
Riley refused to lose another person the same way she had lost her father. She would not live the life her mother chose to live. Soldiers…men of war, she could not allow herself to fall for one. They were banned from her heart, she wouldn’t fall…or would she?
Tanner returns home on leave from the military to spend some time with his sister and father. He didn’t plan for anything more than that, but when he finds Riley, plans change.
No matter how hard they both try to fight t they can’t get away. They fall for one another and there is no looking back.
Tanner leaves for active duty asking Riley… “Wait For Me?”
She has lost once and is terrified of losing again…she knows her heart can’t take it.
This was an enjoyable read I just wished there was more depth into their time together. I felt for Riley and her struggles to cope with her father’s death and Tanner had struggles of his own. In the end Riley gets the love she deserves and Tanner gets his heart back.
January 30, 2014
Am I the only one who noticed that Riley or Rylie was spelled different every chapter?? That drove me nuts. Not to mention, this book was really hard to get behind...8 hours with a guy and you're in love? Especially with the type guy that you swore you would never get attached to because he's just like your 'daddy'? It reminds me of middle school aged girls falling 'in love' with their boyfriend of a week. It just makes me rolls my eyes. Sorry, this book was just okay.. Nothing special and nothing I would recommend. I couldn't get into it, the plot was hard to follow and, although I wanted to love the characters, I just never felt the connection.
August 24, 2015
This is a really great well written story.
After seven years Riley is still struggling with the loss of her father who was serving for his country. Even though she lives near the military she vows never to get near any military men. That is until she meets Tanner.
This is a really great emotional read about two hurt and broken people who need to heal.
Highly recommend this story.
After seven years Riley is still struggling with the loss of her father who was serving for his country. Even though she lives near the military she vows never to get near any military men. That is until she meets Tanner.
This is a really great emotional read about two hurt and broken people who need to heal.
Highly recommend this story.
January 26, 2014
WOW! You will spend the first 10% of this book in TEARS!!! Like literally running down your face tears!!! But it’s so worth it. Such an amazing story!! So many wonderful people in Riley’s life and she couldn’t live without them and she’s grateful for them, but they are also hard reminders of the past. Her uncle and his friend that runs the local eatery all served with her dad at some point. It’s hard for her to even walk around her hometown since everyone knows she’s the girl whose dad died.
Riley is 15 when her dad dies. Her mom closes herself off and because she lives in a small military town and her dad dies in service to his country, it’s extremely hard for her to let go. She sees him everywhere. Riley is the child of a military parent which means she’s sorta used to him coming and going but he always came back. He came home to see her and her mom. He loved them both very much. She was a daddy’s girl and always will be.
Now she’s in her 20’s and in college 30 minutes from home. It’s far enough away that her mind is free of reminders but still close enough in case she needs someone. Everything changes for her when her mom picks her up for “the day”. The day her dad died. They are heading to the gravesite to tell him what has happened over the past year. So much happens on this day and it changes Riley forever. She breaks one of her own rules – I’ll never consider being with a guy in the military.
Riley speaking about her dad to Tanner:
“He left me. Over and over again, promising he would come home and I waited. We both did and then one day he didn’t come back, instead they brought him back as he lays today and I cannot put myself through that again. You say it is your last time, but what do you mean it’s your last? How do you know? How could you know? I may be young but I am anything but naïve, I know the life. I’m fully aware of the threats involved with what you do. There will be a day that you are called away from me again, and that may be the last time. Do you understand? Do you really understand that I cannot let someone who I love walk away from me again and never return.”
What happens? Tanner. He’s really something special. He’s back in town to visit his dad & sister while on leave. His mom died and he’s living with his dad, which he wasn’t able to spend much time with growing up since his dad had enlisted too. Tanner himself only went into the military in order to make his dad & hometown proud. It’s not a life for him and he’s already decided this is his last deployment. He’s going to tell his dad on his visit before he leaves.
Riley tries to fight off the attraction to Tanner because of her rule. She knows he’s leaving but she can’t help it. The attraction/Chemistry is so strong that they can almost talk to each other without speaking. He asks her to wait for him. She says she will. They write to each other and she waits.
Will Tanner come back to her? Will he do as promised and make this his last mission? Is the love she felt really real and does he truly feel the same about her?
Riley spends the time Tanner is away working on herself. Letting go of her dad’s grief and mending things with her mom. She has herself pretty put together and feels ready for her relationship with Tanner.
I loved this book!!! It’s different in that it’s steamy but in a romantic way. It’s not “throw you up against a wall” but more “I see everything in your eyes/feel everything in your kiss” type of book. It’s completely about Riley and her life and her relationships. There are other characters but it’s still all Riley’s point of view and how she feels. For this book, that writing just really worked for me. It’s an easy and very enjoyable read. It has a prologue and epilogue and I like that very much in a stand-alone book. Please read……you won’t be sorry!! Amazing!!!
Riley is 15 when her dad dies. Her mom closes herself off and because she lives in a small military town and her dad dies in service to his country, it’s extremely hard for her to let go. She sees him everywhere. Riley is the child of a military parent which means she’s sorta used to him coming and going but he always came back. He came home to see her and her mom. He loved them both very much. She was a daddy’s girl and always will be.
Now she’s in her 20’s and in college 30 minutes from home. It’s far enough away that her mind is free of reminders but still close enough in case she needs someone. Everything changes for her when her mom picks her up for “the day”. The day her dad died. They are heading to the gravesite to tell him what has happened over the past year. So much happens on this day and it changes Riley forever. She breaks one of her own rules – I’ll never consider being with a guy in the military.
Riley speaking about her dad to Tanner:
“He left me. Over and over again, promising he would come home and I waited. We both did and then one day he didn’t come back, instead they brought him back as he lays today and I cannot put myself through that again. You say it is your last time, but what do you mean it’s your last? How do you know? How could you know? I may be young but I am anything but naïve, I know the life. I’m fully aware of the threats involved with what you do. There will be a day that you are called away from me again, and that may be the last time. Do you understand? Do you really understand that I cannot let someone who I love walk away from me again and never return.”
What happens? Tanner. He’s really something special. He’s back in town to visit his dad & sister while on leave. His mom died and he’s living with his dad, which he wasn’t able to spend much time with growing up since his dad had enlisted too. Tanner himself only went into the military in order to make his dad & hometown proud. It’s not a life for him and he’s already decided this is his last deployment. He’s going to tell his dad on his visit before he leaves.
Riley tries to fight off the attraction to Tanner because of her rule. She knows he’s leaving but she can’t help it. The attraction/Chemistry is so strong that they can almost talk to each other without speaking. He asks her to wait for him. She says she will. They write to each other and she waits.
Will Tanner come back to her? Will he do as promised and make this his last mission? Is the love she felt really real and does he truly feel the same about her?
Riley spends the time Tanner is away working on herself. Letting go of her dad’s grief and mending things with her mom. She has herself pretty put together and feels ready for her relationship with Tanner.
I loved this book!!! It’s different in that it’s steamy but in a romantic way. It’s not “throw you up against a wall” but more “I see everything in your eyes/feel everything in your kiss” type of book. It’s completely about Riley and her life and her relationships. There are other characters but it’s still all Riley’s point of view and how she feels. For this book, that writing just really worked for me. It’s an easy and very enjoyable read. It has a prologue and epilogue and I like that very much in a stand-alone book. Please read……you won’t be sorry!! Amazing!!!
September 19, 2015
This will make you cry, of that I have absolutely no doubt.
Riley is the daughter of a military father that spends way too much of her younger years away from home on deployment and who is eventually taken from her completely, when he doesn’t make it back from his latest mission.
Devastated the young Riley makes herself a promise that she will protect her heart at all costs and will not suffer the heart ache that mother endured, military men are off her agenda – forever.
She is able to hold firm to her promise until Tanner. This broken man has her yearning for all manner of things she never thought she wanted.
Tanner is heading home before shipping out on his next deployment, He is a good man, completely devoted to his family but when he sees Riley his priorities suddenly shift but despite the fact that no matter where he turns she always seems to be around, when he gets to know her and her past, he isn’t sure that with everything he has going on in his life and his career, that starting up a relationship with Riley is really the best thing for either of them.
But Tanner is such a nice guy, really I was so taken with him, he deserved to be happy, but then so did Riley.
There was plenty happening in the story, it was delightful.
I liked the connection between Riley and Tanner, they went through so much.
Emotionally the story was strong, it ebbed and flowed and you will find that tissues are most definitely required on more than one occasion.
There were secondary characters that were a credit to the story – especially Marcie. She was such a sweetie and took everyone under her wing.
I love a happy ending and I while I had a warm feeling fairly early on that these two were going to make it, I have to say the story itself about the journey they took was very special.
Riley is the daughter of a military father that spends way too much of her younger years away from home on deployment and who is eventually taken from her completely, when he doesn’t make it back from his latest mission.
Devastated the young Riley makes herself a promise that she will protect her heart at all costs and will not suffer the heart ache that mother endured, military men are off her agenda – forever.
She is able to hold firm to her promise until Tanner. This broken man has her yearning for all manner of things she never thought she wanted.
Tanner is heading home before shipping out on his next deployment, He is a good man, completely devoted to his family but when he sees Riley his priorities suddenly shift but despite the fact that no matter where he turns she always seems to be around, when he gets to know her and her past, he isn’t sure that with everything he has going on in his life and his career, that starting up a relationship with Riley is really the best thing for either of them.
But Tanner is such a nice guy, really I was so taken with him, he deserved to be happy, but then so did Riley.
There was plenty happening in the story, it was delightful.
I liked the connection between Riley and Tanner, they went through so much.
Emotionally the story was strong, it ebbed and flowed and you will find that tissues are most definitely required on more than one occasion.
There were secondary characters that were a credit to the story – especially Marcie. She was such a sweetie and took everyone under her wing.
I love a happy ending and I while I had a warm feeling fairly early on that these two were going to make it, I have to say the story itself about the journey they took was very special.
November 28, 2013
** Book was provided free of charge from author as a betaread**
Footprints is heartwarming story about finding true love after loss, and letting your guard down.
Ten years ago, Riley said goodbye to her father for the final time while seeing him off on a deployment mission. Now she's a college student who has kept most people at a distance, afraid to get close to anyone. She doesn't go to parties, she doesn't date, she definitely doesn't get attached to military men.
Then one day, she meets Tanner. She is determined to keep her distance from him, refusing to fall in love with someone who could be taken from her in another war. But she just can't stop thinking about him.
Knowing he is leaving on his latest mission soon, Tanner tries to stay away from her, but he can't fight his feelings for her. They run into each other and admit their feelings, then he gets a phone call and has to leave immediately.
During his deployment, he sends letters to her - but she's unable to write back since he doesn't include his location. Soon the letters stop coming...
Does Riley get her heart broken by another military man? You'll have to read to find out!
Footprints is heartwarming story about finding true love after loss, and letting your guard down.
Ten years ago, Riley said goodbye to her father for the final time while seeing him off on a deployment mission. Now she's a college student who has kept most people at a distance, afraid to get close to anyone. She doesn't go to parties, she doesn't date, she definitely doesn't get attached to military men.
Then one day, she meets Tanner. She is determined to keep her distance from him, refusing to fall in love with someone who could be taken from her in another war. But she just can't stop thinking about him.
Knowing he is leaving on his latest mission soon, Tanner tries to stay away from her, but he can't fight his feelings for her. They run into each other and admit their feelings, then he gets a phone call and has to leave immediately.
During his deployment, he sends letters to her - but she's unable to write back since he doesn't include his location. Soon the letters stop coming...
Does Riley get her heart broken by another military man? You'll have to read to find out!
December 4, 2013
Footprints is heartwarming story about finding true love after loss, and letting your guard down.
Ten years ago, Riley said goodbye to her father for the final time while seeing him off on a deployment mission. She doesn't go to parties, she doesn't date, and def don't get attached to military men.
Now she's a college student who has kept most people at a distance, afraid to get close to anyone.
Then one day, she meets Tanner. She is determined to keep her distance from him, refusing to fall in love with someone who could be taken from her in another war. .
Knowing he is leaving on his latest mission soon, Tanner tries to stay away from her, but he can't fight his feelings for her. admit their feelings, then he gets a phone call and has to leave immediately.
During his deployment, he sends letters to her - Though she can't write back because she has no Clue where to send them
Ten years ago, Riley said goodbye to her father for the final time while seeing him off on a deployment mission. She doesn't go to parties, she doesn't date, and def don't get attached to military men.
Now she's a college student who has kept most people at a distance, afraid to get close to anyone.
Then one day, she meets Tanner. She is determined to keep her distance from him, refusing to fall in love with someone who could be taken from her in another war. .
Knowing he is leaving on his latest mission soon, Tanner tries to stay away from her, but he can't fight his feelings for her. admit their feelings, then he gets a phone call and has to leave immediately.
During his deployment, he sends letters to her - Though she can't write back because she has no Clue where to send them
December 26, 2013
I received this book from Roses Book Snobs for an honest review.
Footprints is a lovely book which I am sure many people who have lost loved ones can relate to. With Riley's father killed in action, she faces many emotional demons in coming to terms with her grief.
Anticipating yet another heartbreaking anniversary of her fathers death, she meets the mysterious Tanner. Tall, dark and handsome, Tanner catches Riley off-guard. The emotional tension between the two of them is frightening yet exciting at the same time..
With trepidation they circle this unknown territory.
A definite must read to find out how these two broken people come together and deal with their pain and find love.
Nicky Jane cuts right to the heart of families being left behind by those who swore to protect and serve.
Footprints is a lovely book which I am sure many people who have lost loved ones can relate to. With Riley's father killed in action, she faces many emotional demons in coming to terms with her grief.
Anticipating yet another heartbreaking anniversary of her fathers death, she meets the mysterious Tanner. Tall, dark and handsome, Tanner catches Riley off-guard. The emotional tension between the two of them is frightening yet exciting at the same time..
With trepidation they circle this unknown territory.
A definite must read to find out how these two broken people come together and deal with their pain and find love.
Nicky Jane cuts right to the heart of families being left behind by those who swore to protect and serve.
December 13, 2013
Footprints is a great story about letting your guard down and finding true love.
Riley had said bye to her father for the last time when she saw him off on a deployment mission. That was ten years ago. Now she doesn't' go to parties, date, or get attached to men. Especially military men. Now she's in college and she still keeps people at a distance, afraid to let anyone get too close.
Then she met Tanner. At first she is determined to keep her distance. She can't stand the chance of someone else being taken away from her.
Tanner knows he is leaving on a mission soon and wants so bad to stay with Riley. He just can't fight his feeling for her. Finally their feeling are admitted and Tanner has to leave.
I really liked this book and Nicky did a great job. A must read!
Riley had said bye to her father for the last time when she saw him off on a deployment mission. That was ten years ago. Now she doesn't' go to parties, date, or get attached to men. Especially military men. Now she's in college and she still keeps people at a distance, afraid to let anyone get too close.
Then she met Tanner. At first she is determined to keep her distance. She can't stand the chance of someone else being taken away from her.
Tanner knows he is leaving on a mission soon and wants so bad to stay with Riley. He just can't fight his feeling for her. Finally their feeling are admitted and Tanner has to leave.
I really liked this book and Nicky did a great job. A must read!
December 20, 2013
This book is a phenomenal emotional ride! Riley's life ha fate hasn't been easy. Losing her father takes a great toll on her. And seeing as he lost his life serving his country, she swears to herself that she'll never fall in love with a military man. This isn't an issue for some time. Then, one day, fate comes quite literally crashing into her, in an overwhelmingly-hot package going by the name of Tanner.
Tanner's a soldier busy fighting his own demons. Will he be able to persevere? And if he does, is it even possible to convince Riley to forget the promise she made to herself?
There's only one way to find out! Read this well-written novel, fall in love with the characters and join their emotional journey.
Tanner's a soldier busy fighting his own demons. Will he be able to persevere? And if he does, is it even possible to convince Riley to forget the promise she made to herself?
There's only one way to find out! Read this well-written novel, fall in love with the characters and join their emotional journey.
December 31, 2013
Breathtaking beautiful, emotional, heartwarming and touching story.
This is the story of Riley, a girl who had a hard time dealing with the death of her father for years, but then one day he came into her life. Tanner. She tried to stay away from him. To keep the distance because he is a soldier and she didn´t want to lose another person close to her heart because of the war.
She couldn´t fight the feelings she has for him. She left her guard down because she found love.
Simply loved it. Well done Nicky.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
This is the story of Riley, a girl who had a hard time dealing with the death of her father for years, but then one day he came into her life. Tanner. She tried to stay away from him. To keep the distance because he is a soldier and she didn´t want to lose another person close to her heart because of the war.
She couldn´t fight the feelings she has for him. She left her guard down because she found love.
Simply loved it. Well done Nicky.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
dnf
February 6, 2024I couldn't get into this book. After reading 20% of this book, I DNF. No rating. The book just wasn't for me.
June 11, 2014
“Footprints” by Nicky Jayne
3 out of 5 stars
Deep, moving, contemplative, epic…all of these words could be used to describe “Footprints” by Nicky Jayne. It’s a look at how tragedy can shape a young person’s life and then, eventually, be the catalyst for new beginnings.
Riley is a broken girl. After losing her solider father to war, she has built a wall around herself so high that no one gets in. She has sworn to never let herself be vulnerable to love again, especially with anyone associated with the military. One day a year, on the anniversary of her father’s death, she allows herself to drop the shields and grieve. It is on this day that she meets Tanner, a special ops solider on leave before his last mission. Will she be able to see a future with him and grab it or will her fear continue to hold her back?
Tragic loss affects everyone differently. For some it brings about a desire to live each day to the fullest. For others, like Riley, time freezes and life stops. Her pain was very real and extremely raw. Jayne did an excellent job conveying those emotions and bringing us fully into Riley’s head space. I felt her loss and understood her brokenness. I was able to identify with her reticence about all things military. Riley was a well developed character and I was definitely tuned into her.
Tanner is just as broken but in a different way. A product of his job within the Army, he has experienced too much death and destruction. He carries his scars, not just on his body but on his soul as well. His immediate attraction to Riley is rooted in the pureness he sees within her…almost like she is a beacon of goodness in his chaotic and dark existence.
Their attraction is almost otherworldly. Yes, they are physically attracted to each other, but Jayne is smart to make it more than that. It’s the glimpse of redemption and healing that they each see in the other that truly brings them together. It takes their love to another level and gives the story a beautiful and epic feeling.
Jayne excels at character development for her two leads. I was definitely invested in each of them and wanted to see where their story lead. However, the secondary characters fall flat. She doesn’t spend enough time really bringing them into the story so it seems disjointed when they appear in a scene. This also leads to small inconsistencies that can easily become a distraction from the main story. Overall her writing is somewhat jumpy. I’m not sure if it was because she was writing from both their perspectives, but it just never seemed to smooth out and really become fluid. I was reading a copy that hadn’t been fully edited so perhaps that has been addressed and fixed. I did enjoy the storyline and the two leads. They were the heart of the story and worth reading it for.
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Shannon, My Secret Book Spot
3 out of 5 stars
Deep, moving, contemplative, epic…all of these words could be used to describe “Footprints” by Nicky Jayne. It’s a look at how tragedy can shape a young person’s life and then, eventually, be the catalyst for new beginnings.
Riley is a broken girl. After losing her solider father to war, she has built a wall around herself so high that no one gets in. She has sworn to never let herself be vulnerable to love again, especially with anyone associated with the military. One day a year, on the anniversary of her father’s death, she allows herself to drop the shields and grieve. It is on this day that she meets Tanner, a special ops solider on leave before his last mission. Will she be able to see a future with him and grab it or will her fear continue to hold her back?
Tragic loss affects everyone differently. For some it brings about a desire to live each day to the fullest. For others, like Riley, time freezes and life stops. Her pain was very real and extremely raw. Jayne did an excellent job conveying those emotions and bringing us fully into Riley’s head space. I felt her loss and understood her brokenness. I was able to identify with her reticence about all things military. Riley was a well developed character and I was definitely tuned into her.
Tanner is just as broken but in a different way. A product of his job within the Army, he has experienced too much death and destruction. He carries his scars, not just on his body but on his soul as well. His immediate attraction to Riley is rooted in the pureness he sees within her…almost like she is a beacon of goodness in his chaotic and dark existence.
Their attraction is almost otherworldly. Yes, they are physically attracted to each other, but Jayne is smart to make it more than that. It’s the glimpse of redemption and healing that they each see in the other that truly brings them together. It takes their love to another level and gives the story a beautiful and epic feeling.
Jayne excels at character development for her two leads. I was definitely invested in each of them and wanted to see where their story lead. However, the secondary characters fall flat. She doesn’t spend enough time really bringing them into the story so it seems disjointed when they appear in a scene. This also leads to small inconsistencies that can easily become a distraction from the main story. Overall her writing is somewhat jumpy. I’m not sure if it was because she was writing from both their perspectives, but it just never seemed to smooth out and really become fluid. I was reading a copy that hadn’t been fully edited so perhaps that has been addressed and fixed. I did enjoy the storyline and the two leads. They were the heart of the story and worth reading it for.
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Shannon, My Secret Book Spot
June 3, 2014
This is the first book of a 3 part series. I really enjoyed this story it will make you cry. It's very emotional story it even have me chill bumps a few times. I've never read a story that has to do with the military but this story made it seem like it was you in the characters shoes instead of just a book.
Riley's Dad is in the military and always being deployed. But one time after his deployment something happens that leave Riley devastated. Riley vows she will never fall in love with a military man. Until one day when Tanner walks into her life. Tanner is a broken man in the military. He has seen so much in his time in the military and has so many scares from everything that has happened to him. Tanner is such a sweet man. But he feels he can never love anyone besides his family. So much happens in this story between these two. I loved all of the characters in this story. They all seemed like sweet and loving people. Marcie is one of my favorite characters in this story because she is a second mom to everyone in this story. She is a sweet old lady who is there for anyone when they need her most.
Nicky Jayne has wrote a great story and I don't know how she did it. This story has you on such an emotional roller coaster. I was sad,happy,sad again and then happy again. Her writing is amazing. I really have always wanted to know how authors come up with there stories and I wish she would tell me how she came up with this story. Everything in this story seemed so real and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Riley's Dad is in the military and always being deployed. But one time after his deployment something happens that leave Riley devastated. Riley vows she will never fall in love with a military man. Until one day when Tanner walks into her life. Tanner is a broken man in the military. He has seen so much in his time in the military and has so many scares from everything that has happened to him. Tanner is such a sweet man. But he feels he can never love anyone besides his family. So much happens in this story between these two. I loved all of the characters in this story. They all seemed like sweet and loving people. Marcie is one of my favorite characters in this story because she is a second mom to everyone in this story. She is a sweet old lady who is there for anyone when they need her most.
Nicky Jayne has wrote a great story and I don't know how she did it. This story has you on such an emotional roller coaster. I was sad,happy,sad again and then happy again. Her writing is amazing. I really have always wanted to know how authors come up with there stories and I wish she would tell me how she came up with this story. Everything in this story seemed so real and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
September 14, 2015
So…Can I just say that I really, really, really love this book? From the very beginning I was hooked and I couldn’t fall asleep without finishing it (cause you know I had to start it right before I was supposed to go to bed.) This book had everything I usually love about books in it. There was loss, heartbreak, hot guys, and falling in love for the first time. The fact that it was military themed was just a bonus for me.
Riley is a girl who knows what heartbreak is. After suffering a tragic loss at a young age, she knows what she doesn’t want to go through ever again. Or at least she thinks she does. But then Tanner walks into her life and blows everything out of the water. She finds herself unable to stop thinking about him and wanting more from him than she has ever wanted before.
Tanner is going home on leave before his next tour. He is also trying to find a way to tell his dad what he wants from life, and hope that he understands. When he see Riley for the first time, his mind is blown. When he can’t seem to go anywhere without running into her, he sees it as a sign. But when he learns of her past and has some other issues come up, he isn’t sure that he should pursue something after all.
This story is a very cute story with a happy ending. While I don’t believe in the love at first sight myself, I love to read about it and it warms my heart that things were able to work out for this couple. I can’t wait to see what is to come from Nicky Jane in the future.
Riley is a girl who knows what heartbreak is. After suffering a tragic loss at a young age, she knows what she doesn’t want to go through ever again. Or at least she thinks she does. But then Tanner walks into her life and blows everything out of the water. She finds herself unable to stop thinking about him and wanting more from him than she has ever wanted before.
Tanner is going home on leave before his next tour. He is also trying to find a way to tell his dad what he wants from life, and hope that he understands. When he see Riley for the first time, his mind is blown. When he can’t seem to go anywhere without running into her, he sees it as a sign. But when he learns of her past and has some other issues come up, he isn’t sure that he should pursue something after all.
This story is a very cute story with a happy ending. While I don’t believe in the love at first sight myself, I love to read about it and it warms my heart that things were able to work out for this couple. I can’t wait to see what is to come from Nicky Jane in the future.
May 4, 2014
Footprints is a beautiful love story, that's all it is !
It follows the story of Rilley who's father was killed in action at war. It takes years for her and her mother to come to terms with his death. On the anniversary she falls for Tanner, a soldier who is also going out to war. But will she wait for him when she vowed never to put herself in her mothers shoes ?
I just found it hard to connect with the characters in this book, I didn't feel it. I couldn't feel the connection with Rilley and Tanner and there situation ! I wanted to know more about Tanners troubled past, there was mentioning about it but that's all. I was disappointed, I just thought Nicky Jayne could have gone into more depth with Tanner. There was nothing exciting about Footprints, there were no turns, no twists or shocks.
If you enjoy reading an easy love story then this is the book for you. Just didn't grab my attention.
It follows the story of Rilley who's father was killed in action at war. It takes years for her and her mother to come to terms with his death. On the anniversary she falls for Tanner, a soldier who is also going out to war. But will she wait for him when she vowed never to put herself in her mothers shoes ?
I just found it hard to connect with the characters in this book, I didn't feel it. I couldn't feel the connection with Rilley and Tanner and there situation ! I wanted to know more about Tanners troubled past, there was mentioning about it but that's all. I was disappointed, I just thought Nicky Jayne could have gone into more depth with Tanner. There was nothing exciting about Footprints, there were no turns, no twists or shocks.
If you enjoy reading an easy love story then this is the book for you. Just didn't grab my attention.
September 14, 2015
Rileys father was away at war so it was just her and her mother until tragedy atruck leaving them to fend for themselves.
Life wasn’t easy for Riley and her mother.Seven years later she still mourns her father and vows never to fall for a man in the military….until Tanner crashes into her life.Tanners on leave and visiting his sister and his father he didn’t plan on meeting Riley but when he does everything changes.She cant help but fall for him,she tries to fight it.Riley doesn’t know hes leaving soon so he also tries to fight against the flood of feelings he has knowing he will have to leave her.But the heart wants what the heart wants and they give into the feelings for each other she says she will wait for him,Tanner writes letters to her that she can never reply to as she doesn’t know where he is.Will history repeat itself and she will lose another she loves to war or will Tanner come back to her?
Life wasn’t easy for Riley and her mother.Seven years later she still mourns her father and vows never to fall for a man in the military….until Tanner crashes into her life.Tanners on leave and visiting his sister and his father he didn’t plan on meeting Riley but when he does everything changes.She cant help but fall for him,she tries to fight it.Riley doesn’t know hes leaving soon so he also tries to fight against the flood of feelings he has knowing he will have to leave her.But the heart wants what the heart wants and they give into the feelings for each other she says she will wait for him,Tanner writes letters to her that she can never reply to as she doesn’t know where he is.Will history repeat itself and she will lose another she loves to war or will Tanner come back to her?
December 31, 2013
I received this book from Roses Book Snobs for an honest review.
Footprints is a lovely book which I am sure many people who have lost loved ones can relate to. With Riley's father killed in action, she faces many emotional demons in coming to terms with her grief.
Anticipating yet another heartbreaking anniversary of her fathers death, she meets the mysterious Tanner. Tall, dark and handsome, Tanner catches Riley off-guard. The emotional tension between the two of them is frightening yet exciting at the same time..
With trepidation they circle this unknown territory.
A definite must read to find out how these two broken people come together and deal with their pain and find love.
Nicky Jane cuts right to the heart of families being left behind by those who swore to protect and serve.
Review By: Jacqui
Footprints is a lovely book which I am sure many people who have lost loved ones can relate to. With Riley's father killed in action, she faces many emotional demons in coming to terms with her grief.
Anticipating yet another heartbreaking anniversary of her fathers death, she meets the mysterious Tanner. Tall, dark and handsome, Tanner catches Riley off-guard. The emotional tension between the two of them is frightening yet exciting at the same time..
With trepidation they circle this unknown territory.
A definite must read to find out how these two broken people come together and deal with their pain and find love.
Nicky Jane cuts right to the heart of families being left behind by those who swore to protect and serve.
Review By: Jacqui
September 10, 2016
It’s been a while since the beginning of a book made me cry. As a daughter of a military father, I connected with Riley right away. The pain of watching your father leave and not know if he will come home is unbearable. The connection that happens between Tanner and Riley is perfect. Because you always hear of that electric connection between two people, here you could feel it. The love that grows between them, even in the short time they are together is still so strong. You find yourself being drawn in by these two characters and when they hurt, you hurt. I was swooning when Riley drew that heart… I knew at that point Tanner was going to be a book boyfriend I will never forget. I love this book, the characters, and the profound love between Tanner and Riley. This is a definite must read.
December 3, 2014
Riley has lost her dad while he was over seas protecting his country. Her dad was her world and she just can't quite deal with life without him in it.
Tanner is a military boy. His sister is friends with Riley. He is immediately drawn to her.
Riley starts to fall for Tanner, even though she doesn't want to be with someone who is in the lifestyle her dad was in. She can't deal with it but all that is thrown out the window. Tanner wants Riley to wait for him while he's away.
This is a bittersweet story of loss, love and finding yourself. The dedication in the beginning had me tearing up and then within the first few pages I was full on crying! Its always hard to lose some one who holds a piece of your heart. Tanner has made his imprints on Riley's heart and I'm so glad they have each other!
Without a doubt, this book is a definite 5 star read!
Tanner is a military boy. His sister is friends with Riley. He is immediately drawn to her.
Riley starts to fall for Tanner, even though she doesn't want to be with someone who is in the lifestyle her dad was in. She can't deal with it but all that is thrown out the window. Tanner wants Riley to wait for him while he's away.
This is a bittersweet story of loss, love and finding yourself. The dedication in the beginning had me tearing up and then within the first few pages I was full on crying! Its always hard to lose some one who holds a piece of your heart. Tanner has made his imprints on Riley's heart and I'm so glad they have each other!
Without a doubt, this book is a definite 5 star read!
September 14, 2014
Can you say ugly cry? I was a mess with Footprints. When Riley's father died, I wanted to stop right there but yet I couldn't put the book down! What a heartfelt story between Riley and Tanner. You want them together so bad, but he doesn't want to get close to her and she doesn't want to lose her heart again. The tension was almost too much for me, I was yelling!!!
The read was smooth and consistant it was believable and seemed so real.I actually had a book hangover! I wanted more!!!!
This book was recommended to me and I will be reading more of Ms.Jayne's work. She is a true story teller.
The read was smooth and consistant it was believable and seemed so real.I actually had a book hangover! I wanted more!!!!
This book was recommended to me and I will be reading more of Ms.Jayne's work. She is a true story teller.
January 13, 2014
This is one of the best stories I've read in a very long time.
The pain Riley suffers for seven years is heart breaking. I cried a few times reading this. The loss of her father who she loved so much caused her relentless pain, causing her to shy away from her soulmate simply because he was military like her father.
Tanner is special ops, his life is exactly what Riley can't let herself be a part of. He's a broken man, just as broken as Riley but she doesn't know.
I won't giveaway too much but this story will rip your heart out and give you hope for Riley multiple times. A story that gets me that emotionally invested in it deserves five stars.
The pain Riley suffers for seven years is heart breaking. I cried a few times reading this. The loss of her father who she loved so much caused her relentless pain, causing her to shy away from her soulmate simply because he was military like her father.
Tanner is special ops, his life is exactly what Riley can't let herself be a part of. He's a broken man, just as broken as Riley but she doesn't know.
I won't giveaway too much but this story will rip your heart out and give you hope for Riley multiple times. A story that gets me that emotionally invested in it deserves five stars.
March 19, 2014
I absolutely love this book! Riley has been through something that I would hope no one would ever have to go through. In that, she closes herself off, limits her possibilities and without realizing it, cuts herself short on happiness. Tanner, who is SPEC OPS, has seen his fair share of heartbreak and tragedy. He knows he is broken, and feels that he isn't capable of giving someone what they need. These two broken souls meet. They have an instant connection. But will Riley's self made rules and limits keep them from a happy ending? Will Tanner allow his demons to drive him from the one thing that would complete the pieces of his heart? This is a must read!
January 19, 2015
I received this arc for an honest review.
Wow This book was so touching. Riley lost her father at a young age and it scarred her. Riley was living her life as best she could, just as her mother was. Until Tanner came into her life. It was an instant attraction, but they were both fighting it. They are both broken Riley who lost her father in the war and Tanner a special ops Man. They are both so scared, Tanner from everything he has seen. Its finally taken a toll on him. Poor Riley who is trying to live with the loss of her father. Oh the twist and turns in this novel is so heart wrenching. This is a most read.
Wow This book was so touching. Riley lost her father at a young age and it scarred her. Riley was living her life as best she could, just as her mother was. Until Tanner came into her life. It was an instant attraction, but they were both fighting it. They are both broken Riley who lost her father in the war and Tanner a special ops Man. They are both so scared, Tanner from everything he has seen. Its finally taken a toll on him. Poor Riley who is trying to live with the loss of her father. Oh the twist and turns in this novel is so heart wrenching. This is a most read.
October 10, 2014
This is a beautifully written tale of love, loss & so much more.
After literally crashing into each others lives Riley & Tanner are both thrown for a loop! Each broken in their own way, they fight their own internal battles.
In the end what will win, head or heart?
Nicky has painted such a vivid picture with her words I really could visualise the scenes she set. There is so much more I want to say but fear I may get too carried away & spoil things. This really is a journey that should be experienced first hand, so on that note I will end my review & go start book 2 Taking Flight.
September 22, 2015
This was a very emotional read for me and at times hard to get through. In the end, I am very happy I did.
Years after losing her father, Riley is determined to not make the same mistake her mother made by giving her heart to a military man yet when she meets Tanner, a unstoppable force draws them together.
I find it very hard to go into further detail about this book without giving too much away, but overall, Footprints is an emotional read that at many times will have you in tears but so worth the journey!
Years after losing her father, Riley is determined to not make the same mistake her mother made by giving her heart to a military man yet when she meets Tanner, a unstoppable force draws them together.
I find it very hard to go into further detail about this book without giving too much away, but overall, Footprints is an emotional read that at many times will have you in tears but so worth the journey!
January 28, 2014
I absolutely loved this book. You will need a box of tissues for the beginning. It hit very close to home for me, but I loved every word of it. Tanner and Riley are just amazing characters. They maybe "broken" but they are amazing. I love Riley's courage and I love how Tanner can bring out the true person she is. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a true love story. This is a book I will read over and over. I cannot wait for the next book in Tanner and Riley's story.
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