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Heartbreak Hill
From the author of Before I’m Gone comes an intensely affecting romance about love, loss, and second chances, sure to elicit a good ugly cry.
Grayson Caballero sees the glass half-empty. Born with a life-threatening heart defect, he’s been living on borrowed time. The uncertainty of tomorrow makes him push people away, helping Grayson to avoid any real commitment.
Then he meets Reid Sullivan and falls madly in love. The two work together at the Wold Collective, Grayson as a project manager and Reid in HR. They even live in the same apartment complex. But Grayson continues to keep his distance, despite their obvious attraction. And Reid’s not interested in waiting around.
When Grayson collapses at a basketball game, Reid learns he’s been keeping secrets from her. Now his life hangs in the balance…and a stranger from Boston holds the key to his survival.
Nadia Karlsson makes a life-changing decision after her husband, Rafe, is involved in a tragic accident near Harvard Square. Her choice will unwittingly alter the course of Grayson’s future—and tie his fate unexpectedly to her own.
Grayson Caballero sees the glass half-empty. Born with a life-threatening heart defect, he’s been living on borrowed time. The uncertainty of tomorrow makes him push people away, helping Grayson to avoid any real commitment.
Then he meets Reid Sullivan and falls madly in love. The two work together at the Wold Collective, Grayson as a project manager and Reid in HR. They even live in the same apartment complex. But Grayson continues to keep his distance, despite their obvious attraction. And Reid’s not interested in waiting around.
When Grayson collapses at a basketball game, Reid learns he’s been keeping secrets from her. Now his life hangs in the balance…and a stranger from Boston holds the key to his survival.
Nadia Karlsson makes a life-changing decision after her husband, Rafe, is involved in a tragic accident near Harvard Square. Her choice will unwittingly alter the course of Grayson’s future—and tie his fate unexpectedly to her own.
317 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2024
841 people are currently reading
6194 people want to read
About the author
Heidi McLaughlin
122 books7,431 followersHeidi McLaughlin is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of The Beaumont Series, The Boys of Summer, and The Archers.
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
May 19, 2024
A man dies in a tragic accident and he donates his organs. This book was about the impact of his death on the ones who loved him and one of the people who got one of his organs.
This book is extremely sad and depressing for the first half and may not be for everyone, keep that in mind. The details of the grief of his wife are heartbreaking.
I think the biggest thing I didn’t like about this book was that it was in 3rd person. I felt like it would have been better told in 1st person- more powerful and less boring parts. I did find it hard from about 1/2 way through the book to about 3/4 of the way to stay connected to the story.
The ending was very heartwarming and made me wonder if people who get organs ever actually experience these feelings. It did have a somewhat happy ending where everyone comes together, so that definitely made it less depressing overall.
Thank you to Netgalley for the free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book is extremely sad and depressing for the first half and may not be for everyone, keep that in mind. The details of the grief of his wife are heartbreaking.
I think the biggest thing I didn’t like about this book was that it was in 3rd person. I felt like it would have been better told in 1st person- more powerful and less boring parts. I did find it hard from about 1/2 way through the book to about 3/4 of the way to stay connected to the story.
The ending was very heartwarming and made me wonder if people who get organs ever actually experience these feelings. It did have a somewhat happy ending where everyone comes together, so that definitely made it less depressing overall.
Thank you to Netgalley for the free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2024
REVIEW TO COME😭😭😭😭😭!!!!!!!!
September 24, 2024
I love a title that forces me to stop and contemplate. My mind immediately went to the most challenging section of the Boston Marathon, also called Heartbreak Hill, and I presumed that the story held in my hands featured a defining incident and/or a challenging feature of a relationship between the main characters.
I wasn’t far off.
The same way extreme athletes require mental fortitude to push through the pain and keep going in order to conquer this section of the marathon, so do Grayson and Reid. They embrace a challenge, push through the pain and experience the triumph of conquering. Like the athletes, there is a physical and mental toll at a crucial point; especially when their journey intersects with that of Nadia and Rafe Karlsson. Heartbreak Hill is the most challenging place in any relationship. We’ll all face it at some point. How will we fare?
This book is really about a change of heart.
Grayson Caballero and Reid Sullivan both work at Wold Collective, live in the same apartment complex, are single, and have an obvious attraction to each other, yet Grayson keeps his distance. The thing is, if he waits too long, Reid will become tired waiting. Suddenly, something out of his control happens and it forces them to reconsider…everything.
I appreciated an opportunity to reevaluate and recalibrate. I learned about love in the face of death, about making life-changing decisions, and got a glimpse of the misunderstood and unique journey of grief. I was reminded that every loss is a death of sorts and was left considering where my feelings come from - is it a reaction or is it a stored memory?
This book about love, second chances and loss is one you’ll want on your reading list!
I wasn’t far off.
The same way extreme athletes require mental fortitude to push through the pain and keep going in order to conquer this section of the marathon, so do Grayson and Reid. They embrace a challenge, push through the pain and experience the triumph of conquering. Like the athletes, there is a physical and mental toll at a crucial point; especially when their journey intersects with that of Nadia and Rafe Karlsson. Heartbreak Hill is the most challenging place in any relationship. We’ll all face it at some point. How will we fare?
This book is really about a change of heart.
Grayson Caballero and Reid Sullivan both work at Wold Collective, live in the same apartment complex, are single, and have an obvious attraction to each other, yet Grayson keeps his distance. The thing is, if he waits too long, Reid will become tired waiting. Suddenly, something out of his control happens and it forces them to reconsider…everything.
I appreciated an opportunity to reevaluate and recalibrate. I learned about love in the face of death, about making life-changing decisions, and got a glimpse of the misunderstood and unique journey of grief. I was reminded that every loss is a death of sorts and was left considering where my feelings come from - is it a reaction or is it a stored memory?
This book about love, second chances and loss is one you’ll want on your reading list!
September 27, 2024
As a mum of 3 with a partner I adore this book was a difficult read and it really opened my eyes to the power of grief.
This book follows Grayson and Reid who have loved each other so deeply but Grayson keeps pushing Reid away and keeps her firmly in the friend zone as he has some secrets..until he collapses at a basketball game and is given a second chance at life, what will he change?
At the same time, we have Nadia, Rafe and their two daughters. Rafe is running the commonwealth race and he loving family are at the finish line, when Tragedy strikes. Leaving a heartbroken widow and two girls missing their daddy. Will the love ever be replaced?
This book wow, the grief representation on this book is everything. I cried so many times. I was really able to put myself in the shoes of Nadia and I just loved how this book was written. Highly recommend.
This book follows Grayson and Reid who have loved each other so deeply but Grayson keeps pushing Reid away and keeps her firmly in the friend zone as he has some secrets..until he collapses at a basketball game and is given a second chance at life, what will he change?
At the same time, we have Nadia, Rafe and their two daughters. Rafe is running the commonwealth race and he loving family are at the finish line, when Tragedy strikes. Leaving a heartbroken widow and two girls missing their daddy. Will the love ever be replaced?
This book wow, the grief representation on this book is everything. I cried so many times. I was really able to put myself in the shoes of Nadia and I just loved how this book was written. Highly recommend.
September 23, 2024
Finished reading: September 22nd 2024
"The thought crippled her. Worse now than before. She was scared she wouldn't fit in his life anymore, that there would be no space for her."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Montlake in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
REVIEW
May 31, 2024
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Montlake via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A story about hope, life and death, grief and new beginnings, “Heartbreak Hill”, by Heidi McLaughlin, also opens unexpected, surprising and fascinating twists in super risky medical procedures, inserting them in the narrative thread.
I loved the peculiar issues related to organ transplants, some not scientifically based, the author introduced and how they become part of the story and change characters and plot.
I really liked how Nadia’s grief is written and how ever so slowly something changes while she’s still in bereavement (I thought it could take even a bit longer).
I also loved Kiran’s character and his sweet personality and quiet intervention within the family.
In a way, I felt more moved by Nadia’s story than Grayson’s and Reid. The way Rafe's character is written is also great.
In the beginning I even disliked Grayson’s recklessness and selfishness; later I warmed up to him because of the connection with the girls.
The bonds between Grayson and the girls and the fact Nadia isn’t part of the equation are very interesting. The unexplained dimensions of the process are really compelling to read.
The tension, anxiety and pain of waiting for a matching donor; the donor’s family suffering – all is done superbly well.
I felt Grayson’s rehabilitation was too quick – and he was eating popcorn and drinking champagne already?! – to be fully convincing.
A story about hope, life and death, grief and new beginnings, “Heartbreak Hill”, by Heidi McLaughlin, also opens unexpected, surprising and fascinating twists in super risky medical procedures, inserting them in the narrative thread.
I loved the peculiar issues related to organ transplants, some not scientifically based, the author introduced and how they become part of the story and change characters and plot.
I really liked how Nadia’s grief is written and how ever so slowly something changes while she’s still in bereavement (I thought it could take even a bit longer).
I also loved Kiran’s character and his sweet personality and quiet intervention within the family.
In a way, I felt more moved by Nadia’s story than Grayson’s and Reid. The way Rafe's character is written is also great.
In the beginning I even disliked Grayson’s recklessness and selfishness; later I warmed up to him because of the connection with the girls.
The bonds between Grayson and the girls and the fact Nadia isn’t part of the equation are very interesting. The unexplained dimensions of the process are really compelling to read.
The tension, anxiety and pain of waiting for a matching donor; the donor’s family suffering – all is done superbly well.
I felt Grayson’s rehabilitation was too quick – and he was eating popcorn and drinking champagne already?! – to be fully convincing.
September 29, 2024
"Dance with me in heaven, Daddy"
During the chapters that showed the loss of a father and a husband, it was truly heartbreaking to see that side of grief, and how things are forever altered afterwards, including familial bonds, falling into depression, and expressing grief through other avenues, such as anger. Especially when it is so sudden and unexpected, and you don't even have time to say goodbye. It also highlights the importance of the decision of organ donation, and how being selfless can save more lives, even after someone has passed. I just knew what would be happening when these chapters first started, but I wasn't expecting how sad I would feel without being emotionally connected to the characters, since they had just been introduced.
On the other hand, with Grayson and Reid, it shows the alternative side, of someone who's heart has failed and desperately needs a heart transplant. With these chapters, it shows more about what happens to the organs after they are donated, the lives that they could save, and how the person lives afterwards, including the guilt that they may feel for receiving an organ from someone who had passed, and knowing that they need to make changes in order to live a better, healthier life.
And when the two sides converge, it's a whole new level of emotional.
Do I recommend this book? Absolutely, but be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions all the way through and have tissues ready.
During the chapters that showed the loss of a father and a husband, it was truly heartbreaking to see that side of grief, and how things are forever altered afterwards, including familial bonds, falling into depression, and expressing grief through other avenues, such as anger. Especially when it is so sudden and unexpected, and you don't even have time to say goodbye. It also highlights the importance of the decision of organ donation, and how being selfless can save more lives, even after someone has passed. I just knew what would be happening when these chapters first started, but I wasn't expecting how sad I would feel without being emotionally connected to the characters, since they had just been introduced.
On the other hand, with Grayson and Reid, it shows the alternative side, of someone who's heart has failed and desperately needs a heart transplant. With these chapters, it shows more about what happens to the organs after they are donated, the lives that they could save, and how the person lives afterwards, including the guilt that they may feel for receiving an organ from someone who had passed, and knowing that they need to make changes in order to live a better, healthier life.
And when the two sides converge, it's a whole new level of emotional.
Do I recommend this book? Absolutely, but be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions all the way through and have tissues ready.
October 1, 2024
Heidi has done it again - delivered another touching story that leaves readers emotionally charged days after finishing.
Heartbreak Hill is exactly that - heartbreaking beautiful. This story touches on so much - grief, second chances, donor/transplant recipient, love and family.
This story depicts the lives of multiple people - Reid, Grayson, Rafe and Nadia and their respective families. Each of them go through tumultuous emotions, questioning themselves and their decisions and trying to move forward with their new "normal".
This was not an easy read as it does delve into grief and some very strong emotions. But it absolutely worth the tears I cried, the emotions that it conjured up. But it also made me appreciate what I have in life, what I lost and the second chances I have been granted.
Heartbreak Hill is proof that we can survive the darkest of rains to enjoy the rainbows that shine afterwards. We cannot appreciate the light when we haven't live in the dark.
Heartbreak Hill is exactly that - heartbreaking beautiful. This story touches on so much - grief, second chances, donor/transplant recipient, love and family.
This story depicts the lives of multiple people - Reid, Grayson, Rafe and Nadia and their respective families. Each of them go through tumultuous emotions, questioning themselves and their decisions and trying to move forward with their new "normal".
This was not an easy read as it does delve into grief and some very strong emotions. But it absolutely worth the tears I cried, the emotions that it conjured up. But it also made me appreciate what I have in life, what I lost and the second chances I have been granted.
Heartbreak Hill is proof that we can survive the darkest of rains to enjoy the rainbows that shine afterwards. We cannot appreciate the light when we haven't live in the dark.
January 11, 2025
This is another book where I wonder if all of the 5 star reviews somehow read a different story than I did.
This. Book. Sucks.
The characters are flat, lifeless and cardboard. They're doing the things, but there's absolutely no real feeling behind it. Grayson is the WORST. Closely followed by Reid. Sure they "love" each other, but why? There's zero reason for it.
This. Book. Sucks.
The characters are flat, lifeless and cardboard. They're doing the things, but there's absolutely no real feeling behind it. Grayson is the WORST. Closely followed by Reid. Sure they "love" each other, but why? There's zero reason for it.
March 4, 2025
Don’t start without your tissues.
One criticism for those of us at a memory challenged age, there are a lot of secondary characters because of the 2 couples involved. I was getting the names and people confused.
One criticism for those of us at a memory challenged age, there are a lot of secondary characters because of the 2 couples involved. I was getting the names and people confused.
June 22, 2025
Serotonin in pages
June 23, 2024
As stated by the author This book started with a what if “what if a heart transplant patient has feelings that didn’t belong to them” a term known as “cellular memory” where “patients have personality changes after surgery, including new preferences, emotions, and memories that are similar to their donor’s” I actually googled cellular memory myself to learn more about it because that was fascinating to me.
If you don’t like loss and grief in your stories, then this book is not for you.
This book was just written in such a way where I didn’t really connect with the characters or the story that much and the whole thing just came off just kind of this big cheesy attempt in trying to tell a moving story about heart transplant.
This book is also about characters, which I didn’t mind. I just felt like the author tried to cram a lot of stuff into the story, unnecessary characters, unnecessary information that we didn’t need and it just came off as too much.
Grayson and Reid, our first main characters. Now the story starts off just jumping right into things, Grayson is at the rec center playing basketball and that’s where he has a heart attack and Reid thought he was joking at first because she knows nothing about his heart condition. These first couple of chapters, the author tries to cram so much in, and when a new side character is introduced, she just gives you a big information dump, their likes, their dislikes their history, just too much telling sometimes and not enough showing, and not gradually revealing stuff.
Then we have Rafe and Nadia. And I found myself liking Nadia‘s part more than Grayson and Reid’s. Grayson was at times so ridiculous, it made no sense why he never tells Reid about his heart condition and they’re supposedly so close and the best of friends. He just gave a lot of stupid reasons and just explanations that made no sense for not telling her. There was a lot of stupid dialogue on his part like after his heart transplant when he tells his mom why he hasn’t been taking his heart medication, was it because it caused him negative effects that interrupted his day-to-day life, no folks it was because taking his life saving medication made him feel like less of a man, made him feel weak, smh. It was at that point that I was just over this character. There’s a lot more just ridiculous repetitive dialogue. I’m not gonna spoil too much, but it was a struggle to get through some parts of this book.
The romance between Grayson and Reid was just bla to me. Didn’t connect with them, didn’t care enough so just skipped over that.
Like I said, I did enjoy Nadia’s part, watching her navigate all that she had to deal with after the accident and her kids, trying to get on with her life, those scenes I did care about and wanted to see her story more.
Also, as I stated, just too many side characters, I couldn’t keep up with all of them so I didn’t even bother trying.
As for the portion with the cellular memory stuff and how that part of the story was done, it was over the top cheesy but I wasn’t mad at it. I did enjoy Grayson‘s interactions with Nadia‘s two daughters.
Overall, I didn’t hate it, and I didn’t love it. I did enjoy Nadia’s view points more than the rest. It wasn’t a terrible read. I did struggle with some parts, too many unnecessary repetitive details and side characters, but it wasn’t terrible. I did enjoy some moments in this book.
This copy was provided by Netgelley in exchange for an honest review
If you don’t like loss and grief in your stories, then this book is not for you.
This book was just written in such a way where I didn’t really connect with the characters or the story that much and the whole thing just came off just kind of this big cheesy attempt in trying to tell a moving story about heart transplant.
This book is also about characters, which I didn’t mind. I just felt like the author tried to cram a lot of stuff into the story, unnecessary characters, unnecessary information that we didn’t need and it just came off as too much.
Grayson and Reid, our first main characters. Now the story starts off just jumping right into things, Grayson is at the rec center playing basketball and that’s where he has a heart attack and Reid thought he was joking at first because she knows nothing about his heart condition. These first couple of chapters, the author tries to cram so much in, and when a new side character is introduced, she just gives you a big information dump, their likes, their dislikes their history, just too much telling sometimes and not enough showing, and not gradually revealing stuff.
Then we have Rafe and Nadia. And I found myself liking Nadia‘s part more than Grayson and Reid’s. Grayson was at times so ridiculous, it made no sense why he never tells Reid about his heart condition and they’re supposedly so close and the best of friends. He just gave a lot of stupid reasons and just explanations that made no sense for not telling her. There was a lot of stupid dialogue on his part like after his heart transplant when he tells his mom why he hasn’t been taking his heart medication, was it because it caused him negative effects that interrupted his day-to-day life, no folks it was because taking his life saving medication made him feel like less of a man, made him feel weak, smh. It was at that point that I was just over this character. There’s a lot more just ridiculous repetitive dialogue. I’m not gonna spoil too much, but it was a struggle to get through some parts of this book.
The romance between Grayson and Reid was just bla to me. Didn’t connect with them, didn’t care enough so just skipped over that.
Like I said, I did enjoy Nadia’s part, watching her navigate all that she had to deal with after the accident and her kids, trying to get on with her life, those scenes I did care about and wanted to see her story more.
Also, as I stated, just too many side characters, I couldn’t keep up with all of them so I didn’t even bother trying.
As for the portion with the cellular memory stuff and how that part of the story was done, it was over the top cheesy but I wasn’t mad at it. I did enjoy Grayson‘s interactions with Nadia‘s two daughters.
Overall, I didn’t hate it, and I didn’t love it. I did enjoy Nadia’s view points more than the rest. It wasn’t a terrible read. I did struggle with some parts, too many unnecessary repetitive details and side characters, but it wasn’t terrible. I did enjoy some moments in this book.
This copy was provided by Netgelley in exchange for an honest review
July 31, 2025
Heartbreak Hill - Heidi McLaughlin
Narrated by: Christian Barillas and Kacy Combest
Narrator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
They did an excellent job bringing these characters to life. I felt their pacing and tone were perfect also. They brought forth all the emotions.
My Review:
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pages: 314
Genre: Romance
Tropes:
😢Second Chance Romance
😢Family Tragedy
😢Friends To Lovers
😢Grief And Healing
😢Compassionate
This book will have you either in tears or sobbing through quite a bit of this book. Main characters are Grayson Caballero, Reid Sullivan, Nadia Karlsson and Rafe Karlsson.
Grayson has a heart birth defect that has ran its course. Now he needs a heart transplant. Grayson and Reid have been in love for years but he has kept her in the friend zone because of his heart defect.
Rafe is a happily married man with two adorable daughters ages 8 and 6. He is an athlete who does marathons. On the day of a marathon in Boston a tragic accident occurs as he pushes another runner out of the way as a car with brakes failing heads for the runners. Nadia his wife goes through all the stages of grief by telling the love of her life goodbye, raising their two daughters alone.
Rafe is Grayson’s heart donor. Grayson is given a second chance at life. Determine to now live his second chance at life to the fullest. He confesses his love to Reid and they plan a life together.
Until Grayson finds out about his donor and a connection between the two families is discovered. Grayson is convinced his heart remembers its family.
This book is a story of redemption. The joining of two families. It is sad but it has joy too.
I highly recommend this book.
#secondchance #familytragedy #friendstolovers #griefandhealing #compassion #heidimclaughlin #heartbreakhill
Narrated by: Christian Barillas and Kacy Combest
Narrator Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
They did an excellent job bringing these characters to life. I felt their pacing and tone were perfect also. They brought forth all the emotions.
My Review:
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pages: 314
Genre: Romance
Tropes:
😢Second Chance Romance
😢Family Tragedy
😢Friends To Lovers
😢Grief And Healing
😢Compassionate
This book will have you either in tears or sobbing through quite a bit of this book. Main characters are Grayson Caballero, Reid Sullivan, Nadia Karlsson and Rafe Karlsson.
Grayson has a heart birth defect that has ran its course. Now he needs a heart transplant. Grayson and Reid have been in love for years but he has kept her in the friend zone because of his heart defect.
Rafe is a happily married man with two adorable daughters ages 8 and 6. He is an athlete who does marathons. On the day of a marathon in Boston a tragic accident occurs as he pushes another runner out of the way as a car with brakes failing heads for the runners. Nadia his wife goes through all the stages of grief by telling the love of her life goodbye, raising their two daughters alone.
Rafe is Grayson’s heart donor. Grayson is given a second chance at life. Determine to now live his second chance at life to the fullest. He confesses his love to Reid and they plan a life together.
Until Grayson finds out about his donor and a connection between the two families is discovered. Grayson is convinced his heart remembers its family.
This book is a story of redemption. The joining of two families. It is sad but it has joy too.
I highly recommend this book.
#secondchance #familytragedy #friendstolovers #griefandhealing #compassion #heidimclaughlin #heartbreakhill
September 23, 2024
Firstly, I want to send a huge Thank you to Netgalley, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Stars
I went into this book with high hopes because I love sad shit. Sad songs, sad movies, sad books. I eat that shit up. It is safe to say I was not let down.
I absolutely loved damn near everything about this book. The characters, the POVs, the ending. It was absolutely gut-wrenching at times and extremely heartwarming other times.
The absolute only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because of the word "nub" being used to describe her clit. And it wasn't just once. I'm sorry but that was the cringiest thing ever in the middle of otherwise REALLY well done spicy scenes.
I'm so happy this book ended the way it did. The daughters were so freaking cute and I loved how their personalities were written. My all time favorite book is Full Tilt and this really reminded me of that book in some ways.
Definitely recommend for those who enjoy some sad/beautiful/tragic love stories. Also with a little spice too. Also, Just wanted to give an extra shoutout there.
This is available to the public on OCTOBER 1, 2024!
4.5 Stars
I went into this book with high hopes because I love sad shit. Sad songs, sad movies, sad books. I eat that shit up. It is safe to say I was not let down.
I absolutely loved damn near everything about this book. The characters, the POVs, the ending. It was absolutely gut-wrenching at times and extremely heartwarming other times.
The absolute only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because of the word "nub" being used to describe her clit. And it wasn't just once. I'm sorry but that was the cringiest thing ever in the middle of otherwise REALLY well done spicy scenes.
I'm so happy this book ended the way it did. The daughters were so freaking cute and I loved how their personalities were written. My all time favorite book is Full Tilt and this really reminded me of that book in some ways.
Definitely recommend for those who enjoy some sad/beautiful/tragic love stories. Also with a little spice too. Also, Just wanted to give an extra shoutout there.
This is available to the public on OCTOBER 1, 2024!
September 16, 2024
When a man dies in a tragic accident, Grayson gets a second chance at life. He finally tells Reid, his best friend, that he loves her. But even as they start dating and he should be the happiest man ever, Grayson feels like something is missing.
Needless to say that this story is heavy on grief, so it may not be for everyone. I've read many reviews saying this was a heartbreaking tear-jerker, and although I get where they are coming from, I didn't shed a single tear. I feel like maybe I would've been more moved if the story had been told in first person (even if it's told in multiple POVs). I also had a hard time really sinking my teeth into this one at the start, as there was too much background thrown at us right off the bat, like a grocery list of things the author wanted to get out of the way. I prefer when the characters' backgrounds is sprinkled throughout the story. A few other things bugged me, but other than that, it was a nice heartwarming story about life, love, grief and new beginnings.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Needless to say that this story is heavy on grief, so it may not be for everyone. I've read many reviews saying this was a heartbreaking tear-jerker, and although I get where they are coming from, I didn't shed a single tear. I feel like maybe I would've been more moved if the story had been told in first person (even if it's told in multiple POVs). I also had a hard time really sinking my teeth into this one at the start, as there was too much background thrown at us right off the bat, like a grocery list of things the author wanted to get out of the way. I prefer when the characters' backgrounds is sprinkled throughout the story. A few other things bugged me, but other than that, it was a nice heartwarming story about life, love, grief and new beginnings.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 28, 2024
Reading this book was quite a journey for me. It delved into the profound and often painful experience of losing someone, which resonated deeply with my own life. The author did an exceptional job of portraying the raw emotions associated with grief—every page felt like a mirror reflecting my own struggles and feelings.
However, what struck me the most was the theme of redemption and the possibility of second chances. It was both uplifting and bittersweet, reminding me that life, despite its heart-wrenching moments, can offer us new beginnings. The characters’ resilience and ability to navigate their pain toward a brighter future left me feeling hopeful.
While it was a difficult read at times, I found it to be incredibly rewarding. It encouraged me to reflect on my own experiences with loss and the importance of embracing the second chances that life offers us. I would recommend it to anyone who’s been through a similar journey; it’s a poignant reminder that even in our darkest times, there’s always a glimmer of hope.
However, what struck me the most was the theme of redemption and the possibility of second chances. It was both uplifting and bittersweet, reminding me that life, despite its heart-wrenching moments, can offer us new beginnings. The characters’ resilience and ability to navigate their pain toward a brighter future left me feeling hopeful.
While it was a difficult read at times, I found it to be incredibly rewarding. It encouraged me to reflect on my own experiences with loss and the importance of embracing the second chances that life offers us. I would recommend it to anyone who’s been through a similar journey; it’s a poignant reminder that even in our darkest times, there’s always a glimmer of hope.
June 8, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Heartbreak Hill releases October 1st 2024.
The plot, which focuses on different impacts on people regarding chronic heart diseases and organ donation, was quite enjoyable! I really liked the different perspectives of the characters of Reid and Grayson compared to Nadia; it kept make me wonder if they would cross paths. I also love slow-burn, so I valued that romantic subplot, although I think it could've been expanded on a little more.
I believe that the world-building and character development could have been a little stronger and realistic, especially on Nadia's part. The immediate plot points made it difficult to sympathise at the beginning of the book, however, this was slightly redeemed by the later writing.
Overall, it was quite a short read and a heart-warming story, so it's quite easy to get into!
September 14, 2024
I was so captivated by this story. Grab the tissues and settle in if you love emotional heartfelt stories with intertwining connections between characters. This story felt so real— I truly felt for each of the characters and their storylines. You have Grayson and Reid and their story. Then you have Nadia, Rafe and their two girls. I love the way the story unfolded and we are experiencing all these events and the after effects with the characters. If you are okay with a grief/loss story and one that will make you cry I highly recommend reading this one.
The audiobook was narrated by Christian Barillas, Kacy Combest, Jeremy York, and Sarah Mollo-Christensen. This full cast narration really helped me feel all the emotions of each of the characters.
The audiobook was narrated by Christian Barillas, Kacy Combest, Jeremy York, and Sarah Mollo-Christensen. This full cast narration really helped me feel all the emotions of each of the characters.
January 18, 2025
This book was so emotional and had me crying on my way into work. The gift of life is so incredible with the second chance in life. I was shocked at the twist of connecting the two stories, but so glad it did connect the way it did. I loved Reid’s character as she grew so much with Grayson. Her fearlessness and poise throughout her character development was great. I truly expected her to hit the road running with Grayson returned from Boston.
This is a great read if you’re looking for an emotional book, but very “feel good” ending!
This is a great read if you’re looking for an emotional book, but very “feel good” ending!
November 25, 2024
Oh, my heart!
I don’t know when Heidi McLaughlin decided to step away from light, fluffy, run-of-the-mill formulaic contemporary romance to write these deep, heartbreaking love stories, but I am HERE FOR IT.
I absolutely LOVED Before I’m Gone - when I tell you I sobbed reading it, I mean running nose, smeared mascara, can’t hardly read through the tears crying. So I went into this one with a little trepidation. But fully prepared. And while this one didn’t make me cry as hard or as much, this one definitely took my heart on a roller coaster ride.
Heartbreak Hill is about a man in his mid-30s who knows he has a potentially fatal heart condition and therefore keeps the woman he loves in the dark and at arm's length. Then a medical crisis forces Grayson’s secret into the light and he has to decide if he’s going to make the most of the second chance at life he’s been given or squander the beautiful gift he received.
Several states away, at the same time Grayson is being kept alive by machines, Nadia loses her beloved husband and father of her three children in a terrible accident. In the aftermath, she makes the heart wrenching decision to donate his organs.
Heartbreak Hill is almost more of Nadia’s story of grief and heartache and navigating a life after her huge loss than it is of Grayson and his journey of healing and learning to live life to the fullest. As such, I feel like the given synopsis is a bit of a bait and switch. But I’m not really mad about it. I loved how the two stories intertwined and came to a heartwarming conclusion. This story was heartbreaking and beautiful and did make me cry. Just not quite as much as Before I’m Gone. Thank goodness.
I’ve been a fan of Heidi McLaughlin since her very first book, Forever My Girl. But these past two books have put her in a whole new category for me. Her previous books were entertaining, but satisfying in the way eating a full-size Snickers bar for lunch is…they filled my need for something to read, but weren’t particularly meaningful or substantial. Before I’m Gone and Heartbreak Hill are a four-course meal type of book. They hit all my senses, fill me up, and stay with me far after I’ve finished reading them. And there just don’t seem to be enough of those types in my life. After reading/listening to over 1800 books the past ten years and feeling like there are no new stories to be told and every romance book follows the same general path, Heartbreak Hill gives my cynicism a bump and reminds me there ARE still beautiful, breathtaking books out there for me to consume (and to consume ME). I hope Ms. McLaughlin’s next book is one of them.
* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I don’t know when Heidi McLaughlin decided to step away from light, fluffy, run-of-the-mill formulaic contemporary romance to write these deep, heartbreaking love stories, but I am HERE FOR IT.
I absolutely LOVED Before I’m Gone - when I tell you I sobbed reading it, I mean running nose, smeared mascara, can’t hardly read through the tears crying. So I went into this one with a little trepidation. But fully prepared. And while this one didn’t make me cry as hard or as much, this one definitely took my heart on a roller coaster ride.
Heartbreak Hill is about a man in his mid-30s who knows he has a potentially fatal heart condition and therefore keeps the woman he loves in the dark and at arm's length. Then a medical crisis forces Grayson’s secret into the light and he has to decide if he’s going to make the most of the second chance at life he’s been given or squander the beautiful gift he received.
Several states away, at the same time Grayson is being kept alive by machines, Nadia loses her beloved husband and father of her three children in a terrible accident. In the aftermath, she makes the heart wrenching decision to donate his organs.
Heartbreak Hill is almost more of Nadia’s story of grief and heartache and navigating a life after her huge loss than it is of Grayson and his journey of healing and learning to live life to the fullest. As such, I feel like the given synopsis is a bit of a bait and switch. But I’m not really mad about it. I loved how the two stories intertwined and came to a heartwarming conclusion. This story was heartbreaking and beautiful and did make me cry. Just not quite as much as Before I’m Gone. Thank goodness.
I’ve been a fan of Heidi McLaughlin since her very first book, Forever My Girl. But these past two books have put her in a whole new category for me. Her previous books were entertaining, but satisfying in the way eating a full-size Snickers bar for lunch is…they filled my need for something to read, but weren’t particularly meaningful or substantial. Before I’m Gone and Heartbreak Hill are a four-course meal type of book. They hit all my senses, fill me up, and stay with me far after I’ve finished reading them. And there just don’t seem to be enough of those types in my life. After reading/listening to over 1800 books the past ten years and feeling like there are no new stories to be told and every romance book follows the same general path, Heartbreak Hill gives my cynicism a bump and reminds me there ARE still beautiful, breathtaking books out there for me to consume (and to consume ME). I hope Ms. McLaughlin’s next book is one of them.
* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 2, 2024
I received a free copy of, Heartbreak Hill, by Heidi McLaughlin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Grayson Caballero has a heart defect, he tries to keep people at bay, until he meets Reid Sullivan and falls in love with her. Wow, this book is so complex, but such a dazzling read. It made me cry.
October 1, 2024
Truly an amazing heartbreaking story that pulled me in from the start. I just recently dealt with loss so it hit close to home for me. Heidi didn’t disappoint which I’m not surprised. Great characters that had my emotions all over the place.
October 14, 2024
This seemed a bit drawn out at times, but still enjoyable. A sweet story with great characters. Little in the way of spice, but still good. *I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 21, 2024
Soft dnf
October 27, 2024
This book was both beautiful and heat breaking.
March 11, 2025
This wasn’t quite what I expected or as sad as I thought it was going to be. It was actually quite beautiful and I really enjoyed it!
August 6, 2025
Why did I read two death books in a row?
The main female kind of drove me nuts.
The main female kind of drove me nuts.
May 30, 2024
Four chapters in and I was already in tears! This story is both heartbreaking and wonderful, a true emotional rollercoaster.
I was a huge fan of Reid and Grayson, but Nadia's chapters truly shattered me. Her narrative, along with the children's, was where the emotions hit hardest. I felt every moment deeply and couldn’t put the book down.
This is the second book I’ve read by Heidi, and I’m officially a big fan, even if she turns me into a blubbering mess!
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this incredible book
I was a huge fan of Reid and Grayson, but Nadia's chapters truly shattered me. Her narrative, along with the children's, was where the emotions hit hardest. I felt every moment deeply and couldn’t put the book down.
This is the second book I’ve read by Heidi, and I’m officially a big fan, even if she turns me into a blubbering mess!
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this incredible book
September 20, 2024
A story about a man who receives a heart transplant and the family that lost a man as a result. It was emotional and well written! I cared for both sides of the story and I like how the book wrapped up. My only complaint is how rushed grayson and Reid’s relationship felt. It didn’t feel realistic or normal for awhile. Overall a 4 ⭐️ read 🫶🏼
October 1, 2024
This was definitely a slow burn romance story. In the beginning I liked it a lot and was really into it and then once it got to the middle, I felt the story started to drag a bit.
I really liked Grayson, who was one of the MC’s. He had a secret that he kept from almost everyone in his life until the day he collapsed during a basketball game. Reid is his gf who tries to help process his emotions with his new heart and to navigate through his second chance at life.
On the other side of the story, we have Nadia whose husband had a tragic thing that happened to him. Nadia and her children try to go on through life with the loss of their loved one and that part of the story was sad but also at times was heartwarming.
I still thought it was a nice story. Please just make sure you check triggers before you read ⚠️
𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
❤️🩹 𝙶𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚛𝚊𝚕 𝚏𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗
💐𝚂𝚕𝚘𝚠 𝚋𝚞𝚛𝚗 𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
❤️🩹𝙵𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜
💐𝙴𝚖𝚘𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚊𝚕 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚜
❤️🩹𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎 & 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚜
💐𝚂𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚍 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎𝚜
❤️🩹𝙼𝚞𝚕𝚝𝚒𝚙𝚕𝚎 𝙿𝙾𝚅𝚜
✨Thank you to NetGalley and Montlak for this gifted arc in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked Grayson, who was one of the MC’s. He had a secret that he kept from almost everyone in his life until the day he collapsed during a basketball game. Reid is his gf who tries to help process his emotions with his new heart and to navigate through his second chance at life.
On the other side of the story, we have Nadia whose husband had a tragic thing that happened to him. Nadia and her children try to go on through life with the loss of their loved one and that part of the story was sad but also at times was heartwarming.
I still thought it was a nice story. Please just make sure you check triggers before you read ⚠️
𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
❤️🩹 𝙶𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚛𝚊𝚕 𝚏𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗
💐𝚂𝚕𝚘𝚠 𝚋𝚞𝚛𝚗 𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
❤️🩹𝙵𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜
💐𝙴𝚖𝚘𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚊𝚕 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚜
❤️🩹𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎 & 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚜
💐𝚂𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚍 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎𝚜
❤️🩹𝙼𝚞𝚕𝚝𝚒𝚙𝚕𝚎 𝙿𝙾𝚅𝚜
✨Thank you to NetGalley and Montlak for this gifted arc in exchange for an honest review.
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