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The Fall Before Flight

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Alternate cover edition of ISBN13: 979-8868468872 / ASIN B0CNT8XNVB


I didn’t try to kill myself. It was an accident. No, more than that — a natural disaster. Fate’s fickle lightning strike.
No one believes me.I can't blame them, really. There’s something wrong with me. I'm incapable of emotions that come naturally to others. Fear, compassion, love...I might be a sociopath.
Everyone thinks I’m beyond help. Everyone but Dr. Leo Chastain. One of us is going to break the other...
Care to place a bet?

322 pages, Paperback

First published October 11, 2018

549 people are currently reading
3238 people want to read

About the author

L.M. Halloran

22 books1,079 followers
When she's not reading or writing, the author enjoys walking barefoot and chasing her spirited daughter. She's a rabid fan of coffee, moongazing, and small dogs that resemble Ewoks. She lives in Portland, OR.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 441 reviews
Profile Image for Dri ✰.
693 reviews240 followers
October 13, 2018
★ 4 STARS ★

“When the rest of us tried to hide and ignore our broken wings, you tried to fly with them.”


▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬

Ao contrário do que parece, eu não avalio um livro com nota baixa por diversão, não escrevo uma resenha negativa por esporte ou implicância. Minha opinião é e sempre será a mais honesta possível, tentando passar aquilo que determinada história me fez sentir. As minhas escolhas anteriores não foram felizes, e realmente estava difícil encontrar um livro que se destacasse entre a maioria, que realmente me agradasse...
Felizmente The Fall Before Flight foi uma grata e refrescante surpresa e finalmente tirou o gosto amargo das decepções passadas! 💖💖

Eu gostei muito da Amelia, uma personagem muito interessante, complexa e intensa. Mia tem uma personalidade bem marcante e difícil de esquecer, pra mim, foi uma boa mocinha.

“When I see people, I don’t see… people. I see puzzles to solve. Weaknesses to exploit. Answers to find. I like watching people break.” I shake my head. “No, I love watching people break.”


Leonardo despertou minha curiosidade instantaneamente. Esse personagem foi um enigma pra mim. Queria muito entrar na sua mente e descobrir seus pensamentos, saber o que se escondia por trás da calma e paciência que tanto demonstrou ter. Leo foi um mocinho incrível também e me agradou muito!

“I’m a horrible person. A slave to impulse. A user and a breaker, and he’s the ultimate prize.”


Devido a situação em que Leo e Mia se encontram, a forma como a autora conduziu a interação entre estes dois personagens me agradou muito. Como desenvolveram uma confiança e assim então pouco a pouco um relacionamento. Penso que tudo aconteceu no seu tempo certo. O caminho que percorreram não foi perfeito e cheio de flores. Foi turbulendo, com altos e baixos, curvas e cercado de segredos e mentiras.

“...some part of me realizes this is the last house on the block. This is either where I end, or where I begin.”


A história é bem envolvente, intrigante e não aquela coisa previsível. Há reviravoltas e revelações, algumas destas que me surpreenderam. Os personagens secundários foram cativantes, cada um com os seus problemas e personalidades me encantaram e espero muito poder ler suas histórias.
Embora tenha muitos pontos positivos, ainda assim acho que a partir da segunda parte a trama perdeu um pouco do ritmo constante que seguia. Assim como os personagens tiveram também uma pequena queda, porém nada tão agravante que retirasse todo o brilho ou que diminuísse o meu interesse em continuar lendo.

“You’re… a force of nature. A perfect wave. Everyone who has tried to ride that wave has wiped out, but mark my words, every one of them would give anything to ride it again. Even for a few seconds.”


Se eu não me engano, esse é o terceiro livro que leio da autora e mais um vez fui totalmente envolvida por sua escrita e narrativa! Não fui capaz de parar por muito tempo, quanto mais avançava na história, mais queria saber o que aconteceria a seguir.
Acho que esse é um dos poucos livros que realmente desejei que a história tivesse POVs duplos.
Enfim, a leitura foi ótima e muito prazerosa!
Adorei e recomendo! 💖💖
Profile Image for The Sassy Bookworm.
4,047 reviews2,863 followers
October 4, 2018
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description~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~
Oddly enough, this is the second book this week that I have read featuring a psychiatrist and his patient. I enjoyed the other book immensely, but this book...well this book pretty much blew me away. This author has quickly found herself a top spot on my MUST READ list. The writing was phenomenal. The pace was perfection itself. The plot was engaging. So much so, I didn't move from my sofa for the three and a half hours it took for me to finish it. That said, a part of me wished that this had been told in a dual POV format. I would have liked to have gotten a peek at some of Leo's inner thoughts. However, it didn't bother me enough that it affected my enjoyment in the least. I was especially fond of the DAY format that part of the book was told in. We also get a few flashbacks which added some extra depth to both the plot and the characters themselves. There were also a couple twists and turns that legit took me by surprise. Last, it was all wrapped up in a sweet ending.


~HERO~
LEO...Leo is a bit of an enigma through most of the book, and I completely understand why the author developed his character that way. Even without the benefit of being inside his head, he was a fantastic hero. Sexy. Smart. Dirty in bed. A little tortured. A genuine human being. I loved him.


~HEROINE~
AMELIA...Since we are told the story through the eyes of Mia herself, her character was the more developed of the two. I loved Mia. Usually, when I read these type of "taboo" stories we tend to have a heroine that is young and almost always naïve. Mia was neither (not that 28 is old mind you). She was intelligent. Fiesty. Smart-mouthed, but kind. Damaged, but also strong. Funny. She was a really great heroine.


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~SECONDARY CHARACTERS~
One of the other great things about this book that made it such an enjoyable read were the secondary characters, and there were quite a few of them. They weren't just placeholders to prop up the main characters. They had depth (some more than others). Distinct personalities. Stories of their own that broke my heart. They showed growth throughout the story. I would love to read a book about each and every one of them. 


~HEAT LEVEL~
LOW...this was a super slow burn, and I am going to have to reevaluate my stance on not liking slow burns since this is the third or fourth slow burn book I have read lately that I loved (go figure). That is not to say that there wasn't sex. When this couple finally does give in to their sexual attraction, they burn up the sheets. 


~ANGST LEVEL - SEXUAL HISTORIES~
Low to Medium. "I" didn't find this one particularly angsty. However, this couple doesn't have a smooth journey. There are lies and secrets. Bumps and sharp turns. All of it just made their journey that much more perfect. Neither were virgins, and there wasn't really any OW or OM drama in a sexual sense. 


~IN THE END~
Did I enjoy it? SO very much YES!   
Was it perfect? Again, SO very much YES!  
Would I recommend it? YES! YES! YES!  
Who would enjoy this book? I think most readers would enjoy this story. Those who love a good taboo romance. Those who love a good slow burn romance. It was just a fantasticly written book.description



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Profile Image for SHOMPA.
600 reviews323 followers
March 8, 2023
What the ever loving fuck did I just read? And people are giving this shit 4-5 stars too!? Bloody hell....am I missing something or what? Seriously, I really don't know what I should say. I’m at a loss for polite words.
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews489 followers
December 14, 2018
Let me say that this book took me by surprise in a great way! It captured my attention right from the start and I felt I needed to unravel the mystery of Leo Chastain!

Amelia always felt like she was the odd one from her twin. But behind that façade there was someone that was vulnerable and scared but the only way to protect her heart was putting a shield to deflect everything and everyone.

Leo Chastain was a mystery and I needed to know what he was hiding and why. All I will say is that the closer I got to the end the faster my heart palpitated and I didn't know if I would be able to survive it. Let me say that I didn't expect it at all.

I can't wait for what else L.M. Halloran has in stored for us! Kara~ 5 Stars
Profile Image for Jenny - TotallybookedBlog.
1,907 reviews2,053 followers
October 12, 2018
description

‘Escaping reality is my ultimate high – chasing that elusive feeling until I achieve my goal. Freedom from memory. From pain. Do I want to die? No. Do I want to live? That’s harder to answer.’

Once again L.M Halloran showed us through her words why she’s become one of our favourite Authors. We’ve read a couple of books over the last few months where mental health plays a big role in the storyline. It’s a topic which is very close to our hearts and we applaud any author who takes it on and brings a spotlight to those who live it daily; the vocal fighters as well as the silent warriors.

‘Being mentally healthy is fucking hard.’

It’s a topic which must be approached cautiously, studiously and thoughtfully in order to represent and avoid the danger of trivialising. We cannot stress how important we feel research is and we were incredibly overwhelmed with just how brilliantly L.M Halloran wrote her story which showed in-depth research, care, and attention. Yes, it’s ultimately a romance however it’s so much more than that. It’s a story of personal acceptance, re-awakening, soul searching, acceptance as well as learning how to heal, cope, live and love.

“You’re safe, Amelia. I’ve got you.”
“Is that what you think?” I ask sadly, then shake my head and walk to the door. “No one’s got me, Doc. Too many missing pieces.”


The character development in The Fall Before Flight was second to none. We completely connected with Amelia, we understood her, empathised with her and we felt everything she was going through. Her emotions, passion, confusion and her reactions. Amelia is retrospective in nature, seeking acceptance of who she is, yet not fully understanding the true nature and purpose of her actions. Whilst you learn to accept who you are; learning to live with it can be an arduous journey. The feisty, sarcastic and lovable Amelia with her own complexities of mind had us riveted, and let’s not forget the palpable –forbidden- attraction she had to the enigmatic Dr Chastain. On that, we were with her too!

‘I want to tackle him, crawl inside his skin, and stay safe and warm until everything isn’t so frightening anymore.’

Dr Leo Chastain is Amelia’s psychiatrist at the Oasis live-in facility. From the moment we began spending time with them in their one to one therapy sessions we felt the tension yet at the same time the beginning of a healing process through self-discovery and learning of coping tools. Leo cuts a powerful figure. Intelligent, caring and understanding. Yet inside the gentle and good mannered doctor lies a passionate beating heart and a filthy mind waiting to pounce. However, ethics and propriety comes first in its utmost importance. We have to say though that when Leo let’s go, he lets go in the most spine thrilling way that had us falling in lust and love.

"Damn you, Amelia. Damn your sarcasm, your lies, your eyes that tell me more than your mouth ever has, your scent that drives me crazy, and your beautiful, wounded heart. You’re goddamn perfect and I’m going straight to hell.”

The power of L.M Halloran’s words never fail to compel us. Once more she excited us with a wonderfully addictive and compelling story which had a slow burn, simmering romance that at times took a backseat to the important story of following a road to self-discovery and healing. The Fall Before Flight was an outstanding character driven story which left us breathless at times. Full of soul searching and a complex life broken by dark tragedy; it had a great dose of angst, twists, passion and ultimately love.

“I’m keeping you,” he whispers.
“Okay,” I whisper back. “Can I keep you, too?”
“I’m already yours.”


Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK


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Profile Image for Mandy.
1,559 reviews233 followers
October 11, 2018
This is the first book I have read by this author. I cannot wait to go through and read every book she's ever written after reading this one. The writing was fantastic! I was hooked from the first page and didn't want to put this down. I told my husband I would read one more chapter before bed and instead I had to read to the end because I couldn't stop. I was so wrapped up in these characters and this story. This book was everything. Complex, well-developed characters that you can't help but fall in love with. Amazing supporting characters with complex personalities as well. I loved the heroine of this book - strong, intelligent, funny, a bit hard but loving and kind. She was the kind of heroine I wish more authors would write. There were so many layers to Amelia and I loved how they peeled away as the book progressed. Leo was a wonderful hero. I loved his professional side but even more I loved that Amelia was his weakness. This book is so good that I didn't want it to end. It's a book I look forward to rereading and it's a top pick of 2018 for me. I highly recommend this one!!!
Profile Image for Dilek VT.
1,548 reviews1,717 followers
May 21, 2021
Well, this was my second book from this writer and I am sure I will not try her books again. It is because she can't make me feel.

This book has decent writing, the character development is not bad and the plot line is interesting. And it has this taboo aspect, which I am a fan of. Still, it didn't make me feel at all.

*********************************************

The book is told only from the heroine's point of view until the Epilogue. Maybe because of that I never understood when and how he became so smitten and obsessed with this girl.

And although I read it from her point of view, I didn't believe in her feelings for him either. It started as lust and I never understood when it became love for her.

Actually, I never understood when "a girl who was capable of doing all that crazy" learnt how to love. The transition was so quick and so smooth. It wasn't convincing for me.



The first half of the book - until she is healed - is interesting. But the second half of the book during which the hero has a hard time to decide if he should date her or not is a bit disappointing and boring.

*********************************************

“I’m a horrible person,” I say flatly. “I use people. I eat them up and spit them out. I don’t care about anyone. I love my brother, but that’s it. Everyone else can burn.”

***

“I’m sick,” I whisper, trying to make him understand something I don’t really understand myself. “When I see people, I don’t see… people. I see puzzles to solve. Weaknesses to exploit. Answers to find. I like watching people break.” I shake my head. “No, I love watching people break.”

***

“You’re safe, Amelia. I’ve got you.”
“Is that what you think?” I ask sadly, then shake my head and walk to the door. “No one’s got me, Doc. Too many missing pieces.”

***

“We’re only as sick as our secrets.”

***

“There’s nothing scarier in the world than intimacy. If you really want to conquer fear, show someone all of yourself.”


*********************************************

The book felt like 2 stars for me. Still, I am giving it 3 stars for its decent writing even though I didn't love it much.

*********************************************

Safety:

Heatness Level: Meh. Didn't make me feel.

*********************************************

If you want to read a good taboo book about a woman and her psychiatrist, then these are definitely better and worth reading:

Medicine Man by Saffron A. Kent
Lust by Leddy Harper


But even more than those ones above☝️, I would suggest you read Veiled Innocence by Ella Frank, which is a taboo book about a teacher and his student and the heroine is in a mental institution for some reason. The book has it all. The taboo aspect and the intriguing mental condition of the heroine make it a unique book. Its writing is extraordinary. And it is so HOT.

*********************************************

You can follow my Instagram page from here
Profile Image for Melanie (mells_view).
1,920 reviews393 followers
October 12, 2018
This. Was. An. Emotional. Rollercoaster.

Once again this author has blown me away with her ability to immerse me in the world she creates. Not only was I invested in Mia’s story, but I fell for all of her (sort of) friends as well. I loved the star crossed lovers vibe that Mia and Dr. Chastain had. Their relationship felt taboo, but also not at all. I feel like the first half of this book reads like angst-filled genfic, and the second half feels more angsty whirlwind romance. I enjoyed both halves and loved that L.M. Halloran kind of kept me wondering how things would all turn out until the very end.

One request... can I have more of some of the other “campers,” PLEASE? *cough* Callum *cough*
Profile Image for Kathy West.
1,301 reviews26 followers
July 3, 2022
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Excellent - Highly Recommended
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
Profile Image for Gitte TotallyBookedBlog.
2,094 reviews940 followers
October 11, 2018
description

description

‘Escaping reality is my ultimate high – chasing that elusive feeling until I achieve my goal. Freedom from memory. From pain. Do I want to die? No. Do I want to live? That’s harder to answer.’

Once again L.M Halloran showed us through her words why she’s become one of our favourite Authors. We’ve read a couple of books over the last few months where mental health plays a big role in the storyline. It’s a topic which is very close to our hearts and we applaud any author who takes it on and brings a spotlight to those who live it daily; the vocal fighters as well as the silent warriors.

‘Being mentally healthy is fucking hard.’

It’s a topic which must be approached cautiously, studiously and thoughtfully in order to represent and avoid the danger of trivialising. We cannot stress how important we feel research is and we were incredibly overwhelmed with just how brilliantly L.M Halloran wrote her story which showed in-depth research, care, and attention. Yes, it’s ultimately a romance however it’s so much more than that. It’s a story of personal acceptance, re-awakening, soul searching, acceptance as well as learning how to heal, cope, live and love.

“You’re safe, Amelia. I’ve got you.”
“Is that what you think?” I ask sadly, then shake my head and walk to the door. “No one’s got me, Doc. Too many missing pieces.”


The character development in The Fall Before Flight was second to none. We completely connected with Amelia, we understood her, empathised with her and we felt everything she was going through. Her emotions, passion, confusion and her reactions. Amelia is retrospective in nature, seeking acceptance of who she is, yet not fully understanding the true nature and purpose of her actions. Whilst you learn to accept who you are; learning to live with it can be an arduous journey. The feisty, sarcastic and lovable Amelia with her own complexities of mind had us riveted, and let’s not forget the palpable –forbidden- attraction she had to the enigmatic Dr Chastain. On that, we were with her too!

‘I want to tackle him, crawl inside his skin, and stay safe and warm until everything isn’t so frightening anymore.’

Dr Leo Chastain is Amelia’s psychiatrist at the Oasis live-in facility. From the moment we began spending time with them in their one to one therapy sessions we felt the tension yet at the same time the beginning of a healing process through self-discovery and learning of coping tools. Leo cuts a powerful figure. Intelligent, caring and understanding. Yet inside the gentle and good mannered doctor lies a passionate beating heart and a filthy mind waiting to pounce. However, ethics and propriety comes first in its utmost importance. We have to say though that when Leo let’s go, he lets go in the most spine thrilling way that had us falling in lust and love.

"Damn you, Amelia. Damn your sarcasm, your lies, your eyes that tell me more than your mouth ever has, your scent that drives me crazy, and your beautiful, wounded heart. You’re goddamn perfect and I’m going straight to hell.”

The power of L.M Halloran’s words never fail to compel us. Once more she excited us with a wonderfully addictive and compelling story which had a slow burn, simmering romance that at times took a backseat to the important story of following a road to self-discovery and healing. The Fall Before Flight was an outstanding character driven story which left us breathless at times. Full of soul searching and a complex life broken by dark tragedy; it had a great dose of angst, twists, passion and ultimately love.

“I’m keeping you,” he whispers.

“Okay,” I whisper back. “Can I keep you, too?”

“I’m already yours.”


Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK


Come visit and follow us at:

description

TotallyBookedBlog

TBB on Facebook

TBB on Instagram

TBB on Twitter

TBB on Pinterest

Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
3,985 reviews430 followers
October 11, 2018
Wow I’m floored. I’m not sure what I expected but it wasn’t that. I’ve just finished this amazing story and I’m speechless. The author gives us a tiny glimpse with the blurb but in all honesty it’s a teaser, a wee teaser of what’s to become. You really need to read the story, feel the words. It really is so good.

Amelia is a complex character and I found her very likeable throughout the story. I love how we got into her head. I really would have loved Leo’s point of view throughout the story. So wanted to get in his head too.

There are some amazing secondary characters in this story. Would love them to get their own story... even a novella. I’m not begging honestly lol

This is an amazing story with a brilliant storyline. Just when I thought I knew what way the story was gonna go the author threw a curveball at me. Cannot praise this story highly enough.
Profile Image for Mika Auguste.
250 reviews2,510 followers
December 10, 2024
wait why did i enjoy this WAY more than i was expecting…L.M. Halloran you have a new fan in me yupp
Profile Image for juli✨.
1,168 reviews145 followers
February 3, 2022
❝he’s growing on you, isn’t he?❞
❝like a sexy fungus.❞


my immediate thought when i finished the fall before flight was, ❛that was very nice.❜ which, you know, isn't a terrible thought to have.

but, i don't know …
i can't help but feel like tfbf was so close to being more than just nice.


✩✩✩✩ first half.
✩✩ second half.
Profile Image for Ana | SheSaidYestoBooks.
1,987 reviews148 followers
January 7, 2022
What. An. Emotional. Rollercoaster!

Any romance book about a patient and psychiatrist is a big taboo. However, the author pulls it off wonderfully. Amelia and Leo have that unforgettable kind of chemistry and unforgettable kind of story. And even though this was a very slow burn kind of romance, once they got together, talk about FIRE!! Only one thing to say, Amelia was a very lucky woman…🥵

The entire story is filled with real characters and has all the feels as does the friendships that develop. This was a beautifully emotional, sexy story.
Profile Image for ✰  BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰.
3,022 reviews12 followers
September 26, 2018
ARC received for an honest review


L.M Halloran has again weaved her magic on me whilst reading The Fall Before Flight, as again I have become absolutely enamoured with her stories.


It is never going to be the easiest read when it comes to one of her stories. She always delves into the darker side of lives, and I am always amazed. She takes us down the rabbit hole with Leo and Amelia's story, and I didn't want to come back.

"Everyone's broken. Some of us are just better are gluing the pieces back together."

So many secrets and lies are revealed as Amelia finds her way back to herself. Just when I thought I knew what was going on, Ms Halloran threw another curve ball at me that had me rethinking everything I had read.

My heart hurts for Amelia as the story progresses. I am sure we have all had some of the thoughts that she has had at times.

Gah, there is so much I want to say about this book, but I don't want to give anything away. This is story that you need to dive in blind and let envelop you, body and soul.

Buy this book. That is all.


description Smokin Hot Book Blog Email
Profile Image for oritty: books and i (tilayov).
1,231 reviews66 followers
October 25, 2019
i was looking for some light reading in what turned to be difficult days and found myself reading one of the best books i ever read, and i read a lot! how does it feel to go through life feeling invisible, needing extra experiences just to feel alive, having so much pain - too much for one to bare and how much strength does it take to be the rock for someone else in need! Amelia is amazing - she lives to the extreme so vividly that her family thinks she is suicidal and you want to believe her when she says she is not and she has so much color inside her that everyone who touches it, while you think they will step away, are drawn to her. she presents herself in a very negative way but once given a real mirror to look inside - she has courage to do it, make changes and even move forward. Leo is one of the best male characters i have read - he is smart, passionate, and he won't give up and not give in no matter what it takes and no matter the personal price he has to pay. as you read more and more into the story you get how invested he is in helping her and the choices in own life that made him so special. chapeau to l.m. halloran - great writing.
Profile Image for Jenn (The Book Refuge).
2,645 reviews4,457 followers
November 10, 2025
I had my eye on this book from when I read The Dark Before Light early this year, and I was intrigued by the kind of gender-swapped therapist/patient dynamic from how things were in that book.

These are completely different stories. As they should be. I was sucked into Amelia's mind immediately and the chaos that existed there. I could tell she was fractured in a way that would bleed out deep hurt. Yet she was covering it with adrenaline and busy-making things. She really did need her family to step in.

I often have a really hard time with forced institutionalization. It is one of my worst fears and it has been a nightmare for me more than once. Yet, the way the author handled things was with a very deft touch. I will also admit that the "rich kid daycare" Amelia goes to is not quite the same thing I fear. There are still serious issues she is being counseled on and Leo, her therapist, cares so deeply for her and all his patients.

Really the only thing lacking for me, was more time spent on their romance. I understand why it had to be delayed until a certain part of the book, but I think it was rushed once we got there. This was also largely a single POV story, making it feels more like Amelia's journey is the only part that matters. Leaving me with a feeling that this was more Women's Fiction, that Romance. I do understand why we had to "hide" Leo's POV to some degree, for a certain reveal, but I think dropping a few peaks here and there would have made his story feel more included.

Overall, this was very powerful and I continue to be impressed by L.M. Halloran.

Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor with an epilogue by Austin Stone

4 Stars
3 on the spice scale

CW: Self Harm, grief, PTSD, mental health, pregnancy loss, forced institutionalization, power imbalance

*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*

Profile Image for A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog.
2,787 reviews107 followers
October 4, 2018
Where to begin with this review.....
This was the third book I read by LM Halloran. The other two books were Perfect Vision and Double Vision and while I did enjoy those books a lot, this one is a step above. The writing, the plot, the characters, the twists and turns and sudden drops of this story kept me on my toes. It’s not a simple story about two people who meet, fall in love, have some conflict, and find their way back to each other. This is much more complex than that and Ms Halloran artfully weaves this tale about Amelia (Mia) and Leo and how they find their way to each other. Oh and Leo....he’s one hot psychiatrist! And the cover is stunning! This book is a 1 click for sure!

Reviewed by: Alexis B.
Profile Image for mads ꫂৎ.
194 reviews29 followers
June 24, 2025
3.25 ₊ ⊹

I loved the mental health representation in this one 🤧. I wished we’d gotten more information on her background though. I also felt it dragged in certain parts and there was an element missing that could really keep my interest. Aside from these things I really enjoyed this book ❤️‍🩹.
Profile Image for Gal.
377 reviews19 followers
January 27, 2019
4.5 כוכבים של הנאה מספר קליל, מתוק וכייפי להפליא!

אני לא קוראת המון רומנים עכשוויים, אני מודה. לרוב, ההעדפה שלי תהיה לפנטזיה או דיסטופיה. ובכל זאת, כמעט תמיד אני מכניסה "בין לבין" איזה ספר או שניים, שאני רואה בהם משהו קליל ולא מחייב וכך גם הגעתי לספר הזה.
ראשית, חשוב לי לציין שלפחות עבורי חוויית הקריאה היתה מיוחדת, מאחר והספר הזה כביכול מאגד בתוכו 3 "סיפורים" שונים - הדמויות, אמנם, לא מתחלפות, אבל הכיוון העיקרי של העלילה דווקא כן, כך שאנחנו כמעט מקבלים 3 חלקים שונים, שלכל אחד מהם מוקד עלילתי שונה.
בחלק הראשון, אמיליה (מיה), הגיבורה שלנו, בחורה עם לא מעט בעיות רגשיות ושדים בעברה, מגיעה למרכז טיפולי מיוחד במינו, כזה שמונה עד 6 מטופלים ומציע טיפולים רגשיים לעשירון העליון. במהלך שהותה במרכז, אמיליה פוגשת פסיכיאטר חתיך ומוכשר, שמטפל בה, הלא הוא ד"ר ליאו צ'סטיין. כבר בשלב הזה, מדובר ברעיון נחמד לסיפור, גם אם לא אמין במיוחד, שהרי איפה נשמע כדבר הזה - רומן בין מטופלת למטפל? פחחח... פחות. אבל נשים לרגע בצד את האמינות ה"מקצועית" ונתמקד בעיקר, הלא הוא סיפור האהבה שלפנינו.
ובכן, אני יכולה לומר לכם שבחלק הזה נהניתי מאד מהקריאה. יש בה משהו מיוחד באמיליה, הגיבורה. היא מדליקה באופן מיוחד, היא שנונה וחריפה ואין בכלל ספק שהיא דמות חזקה, על אף השבריריות, שמתקיימת בה במקביל לחלקים הפגועים והפצועים. בעודי קוראת, מצאתי את עצמי מדגישה עוד ועוד פסקאות, חושבת קצת "כמוה" ובאופן כללי נהנית מאד מהדרך בה היא רואה ומתארת את המציאות. על אף הפגיעות שלה והטראומות שחוותה, אמיליה היא בחורה חזקה ואמיצה. הדרך בה היא מתמודדת עם המציאות היא תמיד מאד מעניינת וכך גם התובנות שלה בנוגע לעצמה, לאחרים ולחיים בכלל.
וד"ר צ'סטיין? ובכן, אתם מכירים את זה שאתם מחבבים את הגיבור פשוט כי הוא הגיבור ולא מאיזו סיבה מהותית אחרת? אז אני חוששת שכך קצת הרגשתי בסיפור הזה. אם בהתחלה עוד חיכיתי למשהו שיקרה ויגרום לי ליפול Head over heels בקסמו, הרי שבדיעבד אני יכולה לומר שבספר המסוים הזה הגיבורה היא-היא ש"לוקחת" בגדול והיא הדמות המעניינת יותר מבין השתיים.
כשמתקדמים קצת, הספר לוקח פתאום כיוון חדש (להלן: חלק 2) - פתאום הולכת ונחשפת סוג של "תעלומה" שיש ברקע ואנחנו סקרנים להבין את איך החלקים השונים מתחברים לתמונה שלמה. כמובן שלא ארחיב יתר על המידה לגבי החלק הזה, מאחר וכמעט כל דבר שאגיד יהיה ספויילר במידה זו או אחרת. כך או אחרת, בעוד התעלומה" הולכת לנחשפת, כך גם מתקדמים היחסים בין אמיליה לד"ר צ'סטיין, עד לרגע המימוש המכריע, שגם מטה את הכף העלילתית ומעמיד את הדמויות הראשיות שלנו בצומת של החלטות קשות.
ואחרי שעברנו את שלב הטיפול והתמודדנו עם ה"תעלומה", כל שנותר הוא להגיע להתרה המבורכת של סבך היחסים ולקטרזיס המתבקש. ובכן, אני יכולה לבשר לכל המעוניין שהחלק השלישי, תופס בסופו של דבר כיוון רומנטי ומתוק ביותר. יש מי שיגידו שזה נהדר ויש מי שיחשבו שזה קצת מפוצץ להם את הבלון. אני? אני חושבת שזה היה ספר נהדר, בדיוק מה שאני מצפה מספר כזה, שעבורי הוא ממתק בלתי מחייב.
ויחד עם זאת, אני חייבת לומר מילה אחת על בניית דמות הגיבור - למה? לא, באמת, למה? אילו כל סופרת אחרת היתה עושה לי את זה אחרי 3 ספרים בסדרת פנטזיה, הייתי קצת כועסת עליה. זה לא כל כך פייר לקחת גיבור, שעד כה היה מרוחק ובלתי מושג ובשנייה אחת להפוך לי אותו לכזה לאבי-דאבי משתפך. כאילו, זה חמוד, זה סוגר את הכל מאד מאד מתוק ורומנטי, אבל וואלה... בעיניי זה קצת פחות.
בסופו של דבר, אני ממליצה בחום ובהחלט חושבת שזה אחד מהספרים ה"אלה" היותר נחמדים שקראתי, אז למי שאוהבת Contemporary ורומנטיקה - אל תפספסו את הממתק המקסים הזה!
Profile Image for Picky_Book_B1tch.
625 reviews56 followers
July 23, 2019
This is one of those books where I feel completely torn.

The first half of the book was riveting, with an original story and interesting characters. The second half...........not so much. It was blah, unoriginal and the characters became paper doll cut outs of a million others just like them. Mental wellness doesn't have to mean boring and having your life resemble everyone else's.

Everything I fell in love with through the first half was obliterated in the second half. A story with so much potential to be original and a standout read, reverted to a carbon copy of most contemporary romance I've read lately.


Profile Image for Auden Dar.
Author 8 books1,156 followers
October 6, 2018
Just finished this unexpected surprise! I woke up very early on a Saturday morning to finish Leo and Amelia's story.

This patient/psychiatrist forbidden romance is definitely going on a faves shelf for me. The story is not only beautiful, it's beautifully-written. I've read parts of the book out loud because it was that gorgeous.

A full review to come after my book hangover.
Profile Image for Yael Shalom.
639 reviews38 followers
October 14, 2018
Beautiful book . Sensitive , touching . Very good characters , so real and painfully honest .
It was'nt light reading and I Ioved it !!!
I must say - it's not perfect , there were things that for me was not so reliable ... but I chose to ignore it because as I said - I loved it !
Profile Image for Katie.
711 reviews19 followers
February 16, 2020
I really enjoyed this book.

Am now rereading with the knowledge of the full disclosure from the end of the book.
Profile Image for |Stephanie|.
1,230 reviews41 followers
August 10, 2025
"When the rest of us tried to hide and ignore our broken wings, you tried to fly with them.”

If THE FALL BEFORE FLIGHT was just about our heroine Amelia's healing this book would get more stars but the romance which was after the first half (my favorite part) took center stage and I just didn't care for it or the hero to be honest. Plus the amnesia storyline was confusing to say the least. It felt jarring and I found myself having to reread certain parts.

So, sadly this book wasn't what I hoped but I truly loved the therapy rep and how our leading lady tackles her battles head-on to fight for her happiness.
Profile Image for nikki.
795 reviews105 followers
February 24, 2019
THIS. BOOK.
Gahhhhhhh!!
It’s absolutely incredible.
I stumbled across it on Amazon and loved the sound of the taboo aspect (psychiatrist/patient) so I decided to give it a go. Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop and I don’t think I moved from my chair because I just didn’t want to take my eyes off it for a second. LM Halloran is a new to me author, but I will most certainly be looking up more of her work after this.
Profile Image for Em.
252 reviews
October 12, 2018
I’m sure this is my first book from this author but it would not be the last.

I finally took a break recently so I’ve been catching up on some books. I saw this today and without reading the blurb, just went ahead and read it.

I freakin loved this. It’s something I wasn’t looking for but never knew I needed. The plot and characters were immensely enjoyable!
Profile Image for Vero Exposito.
644 reviews5 followers
March 2, 2024
4.88 Stars

Omg this book is exactly what I needed. I flew threw this pages. It was so easy and enjoyable to read. The pacing was amazing and the love story and individual story of the characters were chefs kiss. I adored Amelia and Leo 🥺. They’re my babies.

Amelia came a long way and Leo, obviously, was there through it all. I think the book took the therapist-patient trope to another level because of how maturely the issue was handled. Truly incredible. Also the side characters: Callum, Nix, Kinsey, Tiffany, Preston, Jameson, even the dad and Jessica. It just made the story richer and full of life.

This book was perfect after all the 1 and 2 stars books I read. I really enjoyed it and recommend. Look for TW's before reading it and I hope you enjoy this as much as I did. Toodles!
Profile Image for Sienasummerrreads.
595 reviews345 followers
November 8, 2025
What an angsty and emotional journey this story takes you on. Listening to the audiobook alongside it was fantastic. I love Samantha as a narrator, and the special guest appearance by Austin Stone was a great addition. I highly recommend picking it up in this format.

Starting with the storyline, there was so much substance here. A lot was happening while trying to piece together what actually happened to Mia. Her character has incredible depth, and it felt mysterious waiting for the blanks to be filled in. I loved the tension between Leo and Mia. Since it’s told from only one perspective, I often wished I knew what Leo was thinking, though I understand why it was written that way.

This story deals with some heavy topics, so be mindful before diving in. At times, I had to backtrack to make sure I understood what was happening, as it needs your full attention. This isn’t something you can be have just on in the background. I really love how L.M. Halloran writes, and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.

Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 32mins
Narrators: Samantha Brentmoor and Austin Stone (Epilogue Only) - Solo
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️.5
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes or Themes: Forbidden, Age Gap (8yrs), Single Dad, Slowburn, Therapist / Patient, Angsty, Therapy, Forced Institution, Amnesia, Mental Health, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Oral Play, Water Scene, Shower Scene
Mentions and Discusses: Suicide, Death Of Parent and Sibling, Car Accident, Grief and Pregnancy Loss.
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