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The Second Chance Series #1
Another Sky
Teófila Morales found her soulmate when she was seven years old. Through their formative years, they were complete opposites, something she always felt insecure about. But by the time they graduate, she’s shocked when he declares his love for her.
Until one tragic night changes everything Teófila thought she knew about the world and their places in it. And before she can reconcile the differences in the person she once knew best, his catapult into fame completely upends the plans they never had a chance to make.
As she watches the love of her life spiral into notoriety, Teófila struggles to find her footing in her life without him.
After all, she has no idea what’s left of love when best friends become forgotten lovers.
Until one tragic night changes everything Teófila thought she knew about the world and their places in it. And before she can reconcile the differences in the person she once knew best, his catapult into fame completely upends the plans they never had a chance to make.
As she watches the love of her life spiral into notoriety, Teófila struggles to find her footing in her life without him.
After all, she has no idea what’s left of love when best friends become forgotten lovers.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 16, 2019
51 people are currently reading
581 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia A. Rodriguez
25 books402 followersCynthia hates writing her own bio. In her down-time, you can find her watching movies, ranging anywhere from classic to action flicks (she has a weakness for Marvel adaptations), and reading any novel she can get her hands on.
She loves hearing from her readers! You can reach Cynthia at cynthia.a.rodriguez6@gmail.com. Both her Twitter and Instagram handles are @thecynrodriguez.
She loves hearing from her readers! You can reach Cynthia at cynthia.a.rodriguez6@gmail.com. Both her Twitter and Instagram handles are @thecynrodriguez.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
October 15, 2025
Oh my days.
Cynthia A. Rodriguez, you are a STORYTELLER!
Another Sky was absolutely devastating, and is one of the darkest contemporary romances I've ever read that's not a dark romance—I promise these are compliments! This is a heavy, heavy read containing racism/police brutality, addiction, emotional abuse, feelings of inadequacy, the woes of fame, self-harm, parental neglect, and many more challenging topics. This is also a hopeful, reflective read filled with perfectly imperfect characters who repeatedly try again until they get it right.
Teófila was a powerhouse of a woman, filled with so much love and optimism while battling her own demons. I wish I was even a fraction as understanding and forgiving and open to love as she was! Elijah was an excellent depiction of how Black men can internalize their traumas until it eats them alive in their venture to pretend they're not traumatized.
Overall, this is a story of self-exploration, but it is also a story of nature vs nurture and how a solid family foundation can be the make or break factor for people suffering from similar demons. The writing was so raw and honest, handled with utmost care and respect and vulnerability. What a bold start to this series!
5 ⭐️s
2 🌶️
Cynthia A. Rodriguez, you are a STORYTELLER!
Another Sky was absolutely devastating, and is one of the darkest contemporary romances I've ever read that's not a dark romance—I promise these are compliments! This is a heavy, heavy read containing racism/police brutality, addiction, emotional abuse, feelings of inadequacy, the woes of fame, self-harm, parental neglect, and many more challenging topics. This is also a hopeful, reflective read filled with perfectly imperfect characters who repeatedly try again until they get it right.
Teófila was a powerhouse of a woman, filled with so much love and optimism while battling her own demons. I wish I was even a fraction as understanding and forgiving and open to love as she was! Elijah was an excellent depiction of how Black men can internalize their traumas until it eats them alive in their venture to pretend they're not traumatized.
Overall, this is a story of self-exploration, but it is also a story of nature vs nurture and how a solid family foundation can be the make or break factor for people suffering from similar demons. The writing was so raw and honest, handled with utmost care and respect and vulnerability. What a bold start to this series!
5 ⭐️s
2 🌶️
July 19, 2019
<3 4-4,5 STARS <3
A unique story with two original characters and an epic romance,this is exactly what you'll find if you read Teófila’s Guide to Saving the Sun. Teófila and Elijah take you to an emotional journey through the years.
This is a powerful story with a deep meaning.I loved their journey and I felt like I was a part of it!Full of emotions and intensity and you can't stop yourself from falling in love with both characters.
A beautiful story that should be read from everyone!
A unique story with two original characters and an epic romance,this is exactly what you'll find if you read Teófila’s Guide to Saving the Sun. Teófila and Elijah take you to an emotional journey through the years.
This is a powerful story with a deep meaning.I loved their journey and I felt like I was a part of it!Full of emotions and intensity and you can't stop yourself from falling in love with both characters.
A beautiful story that should be read from everyone!
July 16, 2019
This book was a trip. A sad trip. Books laced with melancholy stay with me. And, everyone knows I don't read or write lighthearted books.
Teófila and Elijah go through quite the journey in this novel. It spans over 20 years and shows the kind of all-consuming-love not many people experience. I wish I could have stepped into the novel to see Elijah sing on stage. To see T's face when she looked at him.
I legit want this to be a movie. I cast Gina Rodriguez and Michael B Jordan in my head as I read. It would be MFing epic to watch it play out. The fights, the tears, the lows, and the blinding highs of their journey back to each other and apart, over and over again.
Also, Cynthia's writing is so good it makes me sick. It's GD poetry. Every line is heavy as shit. It sinks into your gut and I wonder what genius demon/angel possessed her as she wrote. In short, I'm honored to know her.
Teófila and Elijah go through quite the journey in this novel. It spans over 20 years and shows the kind of all-consuming-love not many people experience. I wish I could have stepped into the novel to see Elijah sing on stage. To see T's face when she looked at him.
I legit want this to be a movie. I cast Gina Rodriguez and Michael B Jordan in my head as I read. It would be MFing epic to watch it play out. The fights, the tears, the lows, and the blinding highs of their journey back to each other and apart, over and over again.
Also, Cynthia's writing is so good it makes me sick. It's GD poetry. Every line is heavy as shit. It sinks into your gut and I wonder what genius demon/angel possessed her as she wrote. In short, I'm honored to know her.
July 29, 2019
I was expecting a long and angsty read after I read the blurb of this book, however, the story felt rushed. The chapters were short, which I didn't minded, however the author didn't go into a lot of details, we just got flashes of the important moments in Teófila and Elijah's lives. I really enjoyed the first half of the book, and was expecting a lot from the second. But it was a bit of a let down. I think if this book was longer I would've been able to connect better to the characters and care for them. I think some things were added to create unnecessary drama, and it felt a bit forced.
The majority of this book felt like a Young Adult novel and then it turned into more of a New Adult towards the end. I would've also liked to see some chapters told from Elijah's POV, because he was an interesting character, and I was curious to see what he was thinking. This book had a lot of potential, I especially liked the first few chapters focusing on how Teófila and Elijah met and how their friendship developed. I do want to say that I liked the characters and that they were original and interesting. The author did a good job in keeping me invested and interested enough to finish the book (and trust me that isn't easy, I DNF books a LOT), and see what would happen to the characters. I just wanted more depth in the story and characters.
March 7, 2023
This is my first book by this author and I just want to say that her writing is impeccable! Cynthia is super talented. She’s so good she made me want to throw my kindle during the second half of the book. When an author makes you feel all the things—you better pay attention. Folks are sleeping on this book and the incredible author!!
August 8, 2024
Updated Review August 2024:
Previously titled Teófila’s Guide to Saving the Sun, Another Sky is Cynthia A. Rodriguez's latest release about a young woman, her best friend, and the coming of age experiences that shaped their formative years. Teófila and Elijah are best friends, but while Elijah is popular and well liked, as well as outgoing, T is quieter, preferring her seclusion to the judgemental voices of others. T's parents want her to have what they could not, an education, a chance to escape, a life away from crime and hard minimum pay labor. As the two face school together, Elijah sets out to party and find his own escape, while T fights depression and worries for her parents and for Elijah. Their bond holds strong, until the day Elijah makes his escape and T must move on on her own.
This is such a profound story, one that I have read many itterations of, thank you Cynthia, that highlights the important of representation in our novels. Elijah and Teófila face racism, depression, police brutality, judgement from classmates and others, and the way they must work in different ways to achieve the same success as others. It also is a story of friendship, family, compassion, resilience, and love. It's a book that makes me cry more than I'd like to admit, that makes me connect to the experience of others in ways that I would never be able to, that takes me on a journey into the heartache and beauty of life. It's a story of finding hope in the dark times and how sometimes the world moves in mysterious ways to give you what is meant for you.
I will always love this book, I will always recommend this story, and I think the new title, cover, and updates to it will grab readers in in a new way. If you've already read this book, read it again. If you haven't, grab some tissues and get comfortable, this is one beautiful story of love and life that you have to read.
ARC provided.
Previously titled Teófila’s Guide to Saving the Sun, Another Sky is Cynthia A. Rodriguez's latest release about a young woman, her best friend, and the coming of age experiences that shaped their formative years. Teófila and Elijah are best friends, but while Elijah is popular and well liked, as well as outgoing, T is quieter, preferring her seclusion to the judgemental voices of others. T's parents want her to have what they could not, an education, a chance to escape, a life away from crime and hard minimum pay labor. As the two face school together, Elijah sets out to party and find his own escape, while T fights depression and worries for her parents and for Elijah. Their bond holds strong, until the day Elijah makes his escape and T must move on on her own.
This is such a profound story, one that I have read many itterations of, thank you Cynthia, that highlights the important of representation in our novels. Elijah and Teófila face racism, depression, police brutality, judgement from classmates and others, and the way they must work in different ways to achieve the same success as others. It also is a story of friendship, family, compassion, resilience, and love. It's a book that makes me cry more than I'd like to admit, that makes me connect to the experience of others in ways that I would never be able to, that takes me on a journey into the heartache and beauty of life. It's a story of finding hope in the dark times and how sometimes the world moves in mysterious ways to give you what is meant for you.
I will always love this book, I will always recommend this story, and I think the new title, cover, and updates to it will grab readers in in a new way. If you've already read this book, read it again. If you haven't, grab some tissues and get comfortable, this is one beautiful story of love and life that you have to read.
ARC provided.
July 15, 2019
When I picked up this book, I had no idea what to expect. The title threw me for a loop and I had ZERO idea where Cynthia was going to take this one. But once I started reading, everything kind of just fell into place. The title meaning, the story meaning, the characters, all of it. It was a fantastic journey.
I think my most favorite part of this book was watching Teofila and Elijah grow and evolve over the years. They took turns. While one went through something, the other was there to help and vice versa. I think the balance of it all was executed nicely. Not only that, bu the time span of this book is 20 years. Not many people can pull this off in one book, but Cynthia does an incredible job of making it all flow together nicely.
This book contains some of Cynthia's best writing. To date. It was sharp and articulate. It was delicate and all engaging. No line was left untouched. Every line I read packed a ton of feeling. Whether it was short or long, the words in this book will hit someone in all the right places.
If you are looking for:
Two unforgettable characters.
One unforgettable story line.
A best friend that is a true ride or die for Teofila. (I freaking LOVED Miley)
A book full of self-discovery, love, second chances, and hope.
Look no further-- I think Teofila's Guide to Saving the Sun is just the book for you. I know it was just the book for me.
I think my most favorite part of this book was watching Teofila and Elijah grow and evolve over the years. They took turns. While one went through something, the other was there to help and vice versa. I think the balance of it all was executed nicely. Not only that, bu the time span of this book is 20 years. Not many people can pull this off in one book, but Cynthia does an incredible job of making it all flow together nicely.
This book contains some of Cynthia's best writing. To date. It was sharp and articulate. It was delicate and all engaging. No line was left untouched. Every line I read packed a ton of feeling. Whether it was short or long, the words in this book will hit someone in all the right places.
If you are looking for:
Two unforgettable characters.
One unforgettable story line.
A best friend that is a true ride or die for Teofila. (I freaking LOVED Miley)
A book full of self-discovery, love, second chances, and hope.
Look no further-- I think Teofila's Guide to Saving the Sun is just the book for you. I know it was just the book for me.
May 29, 2025
A second chance romance that tackles some extremely heavy themes while balancing a fated romance.
Book Stats:
📖: 342 pages
Genre: Romance
Publisher: Indie
Format: FMC singular POV
Series: Book 1/4 in The Second Chance Series
Themes:
🎤 :Letting destiny come to you
🎤: Finding what makes you happy
🎤: Letting go of things you can't control
Representation:
🎵 :Anxiety and Depression
🎵: Mexican FMC/Black MMC
🎵: Addiction Recovery
Tropes:
💗: Soulmates
💗: Slooooow burn
💗: Rockstar MMC
🥵: Spice: 🌶️
Potential Triggers: drug addiction resulting in overdose/self harm. **check authors page/socials for full list.
Short Synopsis:
Teófila (T) is just seven years old when she meets her soulmate. Elijah is larger than life and exudes a confidence that T wishes she could possess herself. Elijah remains by T's side throughout their adolescence until they finally commit to each other as teenagers. But sometimes destiny isn't easy and a series of very cataclysmic ups and downs forces them out of each other's orbit as adults. Can Elijah overcome his demons and be the man that T needs in her life? Can T love herself enough to walk away?
General Thoughts:
This book fucked me all the way up. I started this book at 11 PM and didn't finish until 3 AM. I stayed up way past my old ass bedtime in order to finish this book. The author does a spectacular job of balancing a fated romance and the heavy themes discussed in this book. They are written in a way the depicts the seriousness of the situation while remaining readable and emotional. While both MC's had their vices to deal with it remained very relatable. I felt the decision and actions taken by each MC was true to character and age.
The chemistry between T and Elijah was palpable. They sizzled on page even when the times were rough. I never doubted the love between them. The spice is light on description and easily read and enjoyed by a range of spice lovers. I felt like the relationship choices made by T throughout the book were true to how her character was written.
The real shining aspect of this book is the way it made me ✨FEEL✨ I have never felt so much from the beginning to the end of the book. The love. The betrayal. The harm. The highs. I was on a roller coaster of emotion and I was powerless to stop it. I sobbed like a giant baby at several points in this book.
Overall, I really enjoyed the novel and I definitely will read anything else that comes out by this author. I have already looked into this authors backlog and I can't wait to dive in.
Disclaimer: I read this as a part of the Kindle unlimited membership. But I will be buying a paperback copy.
Book Stats:
📖: 342 pages
Genre: Romance
Publisher: Indie
Format: FMC singular POV
Series: Book 1/4 in The Second Chance Series
Themes:
🎤 :Letting destiny come to you
🎤: Finding what makes you happy
🎤: Letting go of things you can't control
Representation:
🎵 :Anxiety and Depression
🎵: Mexican FMC/Black MMC
🎵: Addiction Recovery
Tropes:
💗: Soulmates
💗: Slooooow burn
💗: Rockstar MMC
🥵: Spice: 🌶️
Potential Triggers: drug addiction resulting in overdose/self harm. **check authors page/socials for full list.
Short Synopsis:
Teófila (T) is just seven years old when she meets her soulmate. Elijah is larger than life and exudes a confidence that T wishes she could possess herself. Elijah remains by T's side throughout their adolescence until they finally commit to each other as teenagers. But sometimes destiny isn't easy and a series of very cataclysmic ups and downs forces them out of each other's orbit as adults. Can Elijah overcome his demons and be the man that T needs in her life? Can T love herself enough to walk away?
General Thoughts:
This book fucked me all the way up. I started this book at 11 PM and didn't finish until 3 AM. I stayed up way past my old ass bedtime in order to finish this book. The author does a spectacular job of balancing a fated romance and the heavy themes discussed in this book. They are written in a way the depicts the seriousness of the situation while remaining readable and emotional. While both MC's had their vices to deal with it remained very relatable. I felt the decision and actions taken by each MC was true to character and age.
The chemistry between T and Elijah was palpable. They sizzled on page even when the times were rough. I never doubted the love between them. The spice is light on description and easily read and enjoyed by a range of spice lovers. I felt like the relationship choices made by T throughout the book were true to how her character was written.
The real shining aspect of this book is the way it made me ✨FEEL✨ I have never felt so much from the beginning to the end of the book. The love. The betrayal. The harm. The highs. I was on a roller coaster of emotion and I was powerless to stop it. I sobbed like a giant baby at several points in this book.
Overall, I really enjoyed the novel and I definitely will read anything else that comes out by this author. I have already looked into this authors backlog and I can't wait to dive in.
Disclaimer: I read this as a part of the Kindle unlimited membership. But I will be buying a paperback copy.
July 25, 2019
I know this is fiction, but I feel like authors always hide some truth inside their stories. Some topics are impossible to write about and come across as authentic, unless you've been through it. You have to feel the hurt before you can explain it. Cynthia writes about human emotion and gets to the very root of it, in a way that some people spend a lifetime trying to achieve. Yet, she does it effortlessly, which means that she's writing from her heart.
"Why do you hide this side of you from the world?" I ask him.
"I never met anyone else who deserved it."
Teófila's Guide to Saving the Sun is a novel that touches on so many subjects... coming of age, addiction, vices, depression... just to name a few. As heavy as you'd think that would feel, it has a spark of hopefulness throughout. You can have a hundred people tell you that you can't do something, but it just takes that one person who believes in you enough to carry you through. That is Teòfila and Elijah.
If you're looking for a light and romantic read. This is not your book. But. If you're looking to open your mind and read a book by an author, who has quickly become one of my favorites, then Teòfila's Guide to Saving the Sun is for you.
"Why do you hide this side of you from the world?" I ask him.
"I never met anyone else who deserved it."
Teófila's Guide to Saving the Sun is a novel that touches on so many subjects... coming of age, addiction, vices, depression... just to name a few. As heavy as you'd think that would feel, it has a spark of hopefulness throughout. You can have a hundred people tell you that you can't do something, but it just takes that one person who believes in you enough to carry you through. That is Teòfila and Elijah.
If you're looking for a light and romantic read. This is not your book. But. If you're looking to open your mind and read a book by an author, who has quickly become one of my favorites, then Teòfila's Guide to Saving the Sun is for you.
September 4, 2024
Previously titled Teófila’s Guide to Saving the Sun, Another Sky is Cynthia A. Rodriguez's latest release about a young woman, her best friend, and the coming of age experiences that shaped their formative years. Teófila and Elijah are best friends, but while Elijah is popular and well liked, as well as outgoing, T is quieter, preferring her seclusion to the judgemental voices of others. T's parents want her to have what they could not, an education, a chance to escape, a life away from crime and hard minimum pay labor. As the two face school together, Elijah sets out to party and find his own escape, while T fights depression and worries for her parents and for Elijah. Their bond holds strong, until the day Elijah makes his escape and T must move on on her own.
This is such a profound story, one that I have read many itterations of, thank you Cynthia, that highlights the important of representation in our novels. Elijah and Teófila face racism, depression, police brutality, judgement from classmates and others, and the way they must work in different ways to achieve the same success as others. It also is a story of friendship, family, compassion, resilience, and love. It's a book that makes me cry more than I'd like to admit, that makes me connect to the experience of others in ways that I would never be able to, that takes me on a journey into the heartache and beauty of life. It's a story of finding hope in the dark times and how sometimes the world moves in mysterious ways to give you what is meant for you.
I will always love this book, I will always recommend this story, and I think the new title, cover, and updates to it will grab readers in in a new way. If you've already read this book, read it again. If you haven't, grab some tissues and get comfortable, this is one beautiful story of love and life that you have to read.
This is such a profound story, one that I have read many itterations of, thank you Cynthia, that highlights the important of representation in our novels. Elijah and Teófila face racism, depression, police brutality, judgement from classmates and others, and the way they must work in different ways to achieve the same success as others. It also is a story of friendship, family, compassion, resilience, and love. It's a book that makes me cry more than I'd like to admit, that makes me connect to the experience of others in ways that I would never be able to, that takes me on a journey into the heartache and beauty of life. It's a story of finding hope in the dark times and how sometimes the world moves in mysterious ways to give you what is meant for you.
I will always love this book, I will always recommend this story, and I think the new title, cover, and updates to it will grab readers in in a new way. If you've already read this book, read it again. If you haven't, grab some tissues and get comfortable, this is one beautiful story of love and life that you have to read.
July 31, 2020
Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon AU / Amazon CA
Teófila and Elijah go on an epic journey in this story. They grow and develop over the course of years and years. They start as youngsters and grow into adults, loving and living, and going through every emotion under the sun. I truly, truly was fascinated with this emotional, at times quite sad, journey of friends turned more. Kudos to Cynthia for this one!
ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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July 22, 2019
This book has a raw beauty to it. It speaks of truths to the darker side of life some may be afraid to speak about but after reading this you will see you are not alone. It also shows the lovely side of falling in love with who you are and growing to become a stronger person. So you can love true and honestly.
Teofila’s journey with Elijah spans decades. Theirs is one literally written in the stars. It makes you believe that fate can make things happen and that things do happen for a reason good, bad, silly and crazy because it all defines the person who you will become. Cynthia’s telling of their story is one so honest that there were times I was left speechless and breathless only to find it all again a few pages later.
It will leave you asking yourself, “Do I take a left turn here and see what fate has in store for me?”
Teofila’s journey with Elijah spans decades. Theirs is one literally written in the stars. It makes you believe that fate can make things happen and that things do happen for a reason good, bad, silly and crazy because it all defines the person who you will become. Cynthia’s telling of their story is one so honest that there were times I was left speechless and breathless only to find it all again a few pages later.
It will leave you asking yourself, “Do I take a left turn here and see what fate has in store for me?”
July 17, 2019
This has been an amazing year so far for finding new authors and now I have a new to add to my list.
I remember seeing the cover of the book and I was intrigued. Did I know what to expect, absolutely not but I fell into this story and days later I'm still thinking about it.
Teófila and Elijah's story spans over 20 years. From young children to teenagers to broken adults. We get a birds eye view to their all consuming love and crucially their pain and insecurities. There is a painful truth running throughout the whole book. Sometimes what we show the world on the outside hides do much. This story will make you think and hopefully look a little deeper. Learning to accept who you are and to love that person is the main theme I will take from this book.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
I remember seeing the cover of the book and I was intrigued. Did I know what to expect, absolutely not but I fell into this story and days later I'm still thinking about it.
Teófila and Elijah's story spans over 20 years. From young children to teenagers to broken adults. We get a birds eye view to their all consuming love and crucially their pain and insecurities. There is a painful truth running throughout the whole book. Sometimes what we show the world on the outside hides do much. This story will make you think and hopefully look a little deeper. Learning to accept who you are and to love that person is the main theme I will take from this book.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
July 9, 2024
This book tore at my soul in such an unfair but welcomed way.
❝ 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐧....𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐤𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞, 𝐓.❞
I can not emphasize how painfully beautiful this was.
Torturedly Poetic and angsty
Heartbreaking And soul-mending
❝ 𝐀 𝐛𝐨𝐲 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐧; 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐲𝐞𝐭 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭.❞
🄷🄴🅁🄴'🅂 🅆🄷🄰🅃 🅃🄾 🄴🅇🄿🄴🄲🅃 :
🥀 Childhood Friends to lovers
🥀 Soulmates
🥀" Always have been you"
🥀 Second chance
🥀 Interracial couple
🥀 Mental health rep
🥀 Celebrity
🥀 Quirky Heroine
🥀 Jealous possessive hero
🥀 TW: Body Dy$morphia
🥀 Angsty/ emotional
❝ 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐧....𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐤𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞, 𝐓.❞
I can not emphasize how painfully beautiful this was.
Torturedly Poetic and angsty
Heartbreaking And soul-mending
❝ 𝐀 𝐛𝐨𝐲 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐧; 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐲𝐞𝐭 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭.❞
🄷🄴🅁🄴'🅂 🅆🄷🄰🅃 🅃🄾 🄴🅇🄿🄴🄲🅃 :
🥀 Childhood Friends to lovers
🥀 Soulmates
🥀" Always have been you"
🥀 Second chance
🥀 Interracial couple
🥀 Mental health rep
🥀 Celebrity
🥀 Quirky Heroine
🥀 Jealous possessive hero
🥀 TW: Body Dy$morphia
🥀 Angsty/ emotional
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July 5, 2024Sensitivity reader-
Holy shit the emotions I felt. I was captivated, destroyed, and put back together. I need more.
Holy shit the emotions I felt. I was captivated, destroyed, and put back together. I need more.
July 17, 2019
This book hurts. It's a painful, exorcism of emotions, fears, and toxicity. It's love in it's most ugly, and still so beautiful, form.
Teófila's Guide to Saving the Sun sounded like a good idea. I saw the blurb, appreciated the unique title and the gorgeous cover art. I shrugged and said sure why not. Wrong reason to read this book!
The feels are almost soul crushing. The intensity and vibrancy of the emotions are impossible not to feel down to your morrow. The love and lost feelings. The need and hope. The despair and longing. They are echos and also a percussion baton to your skull at the same time. You hear the remnants of their existence while being battered with them in the now. Think of this as a beating. I know, just trust me. You get jumped outside on a starry night. You weren't watching where you were going. You made a wrong turn but didn't realize because you were looking up. The amazing, awe inspiring stars had you captured in their gazes. When you were hit with the first blow, it was such a shock you didn't have time to react. By the time you have registered the pain, you're already too late to defend yourself. It's six on one or more. You are just trying to protect your head. And then as the blackness seeps in, the pain too much, you see the stars and you ask them why? That is Teófila's Guide to Saving the Sun.
It's brutal, it's agonizing, and it's so damn beautiful you don't need an answer to the why. You are just so glad you were looking up in the beginning. There are some amazing, inspiring quotes hidden in these pages. I marked my copy up with highlights galore. I can't bear to share them with you because they are such pivotal realizations. But I can't help but tell you, they are life changing thoughts. Soul warming comfort in a world that isn't so bright.
Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Teófila's Guide to Saving the Sun sounded like a good idea. I saw the blurb, appreciated the unique title and the gorgeous cover art. I shrugged and said sure why not. Wrong reason to read this book!
The feels are almost soul crushing. The intensity and vibrancy of the emotions are impossible not to feel down to your morrow. The love and lost feelings. The need and hope. The despair and longing. They are echos and also a percussion baton to your skull at the same time. You hear the remnants of their existence while being battered with them in the now. Think of this as a beating. I know, just trust me. You get jumped outside on a starry night. You weren't watching where you were going. You made a wrong turn but didn't realize because you were looking up. The amazing, awe inspiring stars had you captured in their gazes. When you were hit with the first blow, it was such a shock you didn't have time to react. By the time you have registered the pain, you're already too late to defend yourself. It's six on one or more. You are just trying to protect your head. And then as the blackness seeps in, the pain too much, you see the stars and you ask them why? That is Teófila's Guide to Saving the Sun.
It's brutal, it's agonizing, and it's so damn beautiful you don't need an answer to the why. You are just so glad you were looking up in the beginning. There are some amazing, inspiring quotes hidden in these pages. I marked my copy up with highlights galore. I can't bear to share them with you because they are such pivotal realizations. But I can't help but tell you, they are life changing thoughts. Soul warming comfort in a world that isn't so bright.
Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
July 18, 2019
As the cover so rightly depicts, this is a more than love story.
Romantic beginnings are often fast, wild, all-consuming. Teófila and Elijah's beginning is not this way. It's slow, mild, a friendship between children that develops into something more before either of them fully understand what it is.
In a story that spans about twenty years, you are taken on this journey with them. Because that is what this book is: A journey. An experience. You witness the characters' shortcomings. Their highs. Their lows. Their drug addictions, their stardom, their freedom. You witness a rare and undying love through the eyes of the poetic and profound Teófila.
And we are asked to make choices with her as she makes them for herself. What we would do, given the circumstances. What we would do, with a bond so strong.
"But that’s how it starts, isn’t it?
We all think we’re so powerful.
We think we can love past pain.
That we can force the caterpillar to molt into a butterfly.
We think we are capable of such things. Elijah humbles me.
He reminds me that I am the master of none.
And I’m so grateful for the lesson."
This novel is a humbling lesson in humanity and forgiveness.
Five stars for some of my favorite characters I've ever known, and for the author who wrote these two to life. Cynthia Rodriguez is quickly becoming one of my go-to authors that I recommend on a daily basis. Read this novel, and find out why.
Romantic beginnings are often fast, wild, all-consuming. Teófila and Elijah's beginning is not this way. It's slow, mild, a friendship between children that develops into something more before either of them fully understand what it is.
In a story that spans about twenty years, you are taken on this journey with them. Because that is what this book is: A journey. An experience. You witness the characters' shortcomings. Their highs. Their lows. Their drug addictions, their stardom, their freedom. You witness a rare and undying love through the eyes of the poetic and profound Teófila.
And we are asked to make choices with her as she makes them for herself. What we would do, given the circumstances. What we would do, with a bond so strong.
"But that’s how it starts, isn’t it?
We all think we’re so powerful.
We think we can love past pain.
That we can force the caterpillar to molt into a butterfly.
We think we are capable of such things. Elijah humbles me.
He reminds me that I am the master of none.
And I’m so grateful for the lesson."
This novel is a humbling lesson in humanity and forgiveness.
Five stars for some of my favorite characters I've ever known, and for the author who wrote these two to life. Cynthia Rodriguez is quickly becoming one of my go-to authors that I recommend on a daily basis. Read this novel, and find out why.
June 27, 2020
Cynthia A. Rodriguez is a new to me author and one that I will certainly follow and one whom I’ll read more. Her writing is phenomenal and realistic Raw, gritty and full of deep rooted powerful emotions written from the heart With the power to pull me toward introspection.
Looking inward, I could feel Teófila’s insecurities and depression as my own. The story was both warm, and heartbreakingly beautiful.
“I stare up at the crescent in the sky and wonder if the moon ever gets lonely. I read somewhere that the sun lights the moon. How strange to never meet your only friend.”
I struggled with parts of the story feeling angry and disappointed in how easily Teófila could forgive Elijah.
“The boy birthed by the sun created in light and full of night.”
Yes, she was in love, yes, she was compassionate and understanding but yet, I couldn’t help being disappointed with her for being a bit naive and gullible blinded by her love falling into a dissent alongside him for awhile. I was glad that she was resolved to find herself and eventually evolved and asserted herself.
They grew up together and through the early years they were there for each other, best friends throughout. However, as Elijah’s career skyrocketed, I felt Teófila was there for him much more than vice versa. She was so forgiving, the second chances were more than once and ultimately her experiences with him led her to the realization she had to be there for herself!
I don’t think Elijah groveled enough and I never could truly feel his undeniable love for Teófila. Not until the end when he finally exposed himself to her in front of an audience did I feel he was trying to redeem himself for all he had done and put her through.
“I more than love you. I live you. I breathe you...”
Looking inward, I could feel Teófila’s insecurities and depression as my own. The story was both warm, and heartbreakingly beautiful.
“I stare up at the crescent in the sky and wonder if the moon ever gets lonely. I read somewhere that the sun lights the moon. How strange to never meet your only friend.”
I struggled with parts of the story feeling angry and disappointed in how easily Teófila could forgive Elijah.
“The boy birthed by the sun created in light and full of night.”
Yes, she was in love, yes, she was compassionate and understanding but yet, I couldn’t help being disappointed with her for being a bit naive and gullible blinded by her love falling into a dissent alongside him for awhile. I was glad that she was resolved to find herself and eventually evolved and asserted herself.
They grew up together and through the early years they were there for each other, best friends throughout. However, as Elijah’s career skyrocketed, I felt Teófila was there for him much more than vice versa. She was so forgiving, the second chances were more than once and ultimately her experiences with him led her to the realization she had to be there for herself!
I don’t think Elijah groveled enough and I never could truly feel his undeniable love for Teófila. Not until the end when he finally exposed himself to her in front of an audience did I feel he was trying to redeem himself for all he had done and put her through.
“I more than love you. I live you. I breathe you...”
July 17, 2019
This book is for the girls who have such great love in their lives yet sometimes feel suffocated by the loneliness and self doubt.
T is all of us. Every struggle and triumph we can relate to. Loving someone so much you feel like you're going to burst from it and struggling to love yourself enough so you can withstand it all.
I wish I could properly articulate how much this book touched me. Cynthia has a way with words that is magical.
"Why do you hide this side of you fro the world?" I ask him.
"I never met anyone else who deserved it."
T is all of us. Every struggle and triumph we can relate to. Loving someone so much you feel like you're going to burst from it and struggling to love yourself enough so you can withstand it all.
I wish I could properly articulate how much this book touched me. Cynthia has a way with words that is magical.
"Why do you hide this side of you fro the world?" I ask him.
"I never met anyone else who deserved it."
April 27, 2021
4.5 stars
This was a new to me author and her writing is beautiful. I hurt for T and Elijah. I was caught up in their story. The reason this didn't get 5 stars was the ending felt abrupt for me.
This was a new to me author and her writing is beautiful. I hurt for T and Elijah. I was caught up in their story. The reason this didn't get 5 stars was the ending felt abrupt for me.
July 13, 2024
Broke me and put me back together 😭😍 I seriously loved this book!
November 25, 2021
3.5 stars
Ho iniziato a seguire Cynthia dopo la lettura di Folie a deux un libro dark e twisted più nelle mie corde, durante la stesura del nuovo libro era incuriosita ma avevo questa strana sensazione che ha mantenuto basse le mie aspettative.
La lettura non è inizia male anzi è la parte che più mi ha coinvolta, Téofila e Elijah si conoscono in tenera età e dopo un piccolo battibecco su una buca di formiche diventano subito amici. Condividono i tempi migliori ma soprattutto i peggiori.
Téofila è una ragazza riservata, non ha molti amici, piena di angosce e dubbi che cerca di insabbiare. Trova gioia nella scrittura e in Elijah, il suo sole.
Elijah è il ragazzo che piace a tutte, estroverso e sempre con il sorriso sulle labbra, è il protettore Tèofila e la difende da chiunque anche da se stessa.
“Why are you here?”
“Because you are the moon and I’m the sun.”
L’amore tra i due nasce presto ma i due si dichiarano in tempi lontani quando il loro amore ormai è ovvio a tutti quindi c’è parecchio da penare e disperarsi con questi due nel corso degli anni. Il tempismo non è il loro alleato migliore perchè poco tempo dopo Elijah parte per inseguire il suo sogno da rockstar.
Da un amore tenero e giovane questo si trasforma in qualcosa di tossico e deleterio, Elijah oltre ad essere l’amore della sua vita diventa per Tèofila colui che le procura più sofferenza.
A lettura terminata quella strana sensazione non è svanita perchè proprio non riesco a decidermi se il libro mi sia piaciuto o meno.
Più penso alla storia e al percorso dei personaggi e più mi colpisce, la protagonista nonostante le sue fragilità è un personaggio forte, ha superato ed è sopravvissuta a tante cadute. Ha avuto la forza non solo per salvare se stessa ma anche per aiutare Elijah e stare al suo fianco.
La storia ha una durata di venti anni e Cynthia ha bilanciato i vari anni senza appesantire la lettura, cosa che ho apprezzato ma in alcuni punti sembrava che mancasse qualcosa e necessitava maggiore attenzione.
Ho iniziato a seguire Cynthia dopo la lettura di Folie a deux un libro dark e twisted più nelle mie corde, durante la stesura del nuovo libro era incuriosita ma avevo questa strana sensazione che ha mantenuto basse le mie aspettative.
La lettura non è inizia male anzi è la parte che più mi ha coinvolta, Téofila e Elijah si conoscono in tenera età e dopo un piccolo battibecco su una buca di formiche diventano subito amici. Condividono i tempi migliori ma soprattutto i peggiori.
Téofila è una ragazza riservata, non ha molti amici, piena di angosce e dubbi che cerca di insabbiare. Trova gioia nella scrittura e in Elijah, il suo sole.
Elijah è il ragazzo che piace a tutte, estroverso e sempre con il sorriso sulle labbra, è il protettore Tèofila e la difende da chiunque anche da se stessa.
“Why are you here?”
“Because you are the moon and I’m the sun.”
L’amore tra i due nasce presto ma i due si dichiarano in tempi lontani quando il loro amore ormai è ovvio a tutti quindi c’è parecchio da penare e disperarsi con questi due nel corso degli anni. Il tempismo non è il loro alleato migliore perchè poco tempo dopo Elijah parte per inseguire il suo sogno da rockstar.
Da un amore tenero e giovane questo si trasforma in qualcosa di tossico e deleterio, Elijah oltre ad essere l’amore della sua vita diventa per Tèofila colui che le procura più sofferenza.
A lettura terminata quella strana sensazione non è svanita perchè proprio non riesco a decidermi se il libro mi sia piaciuto o meno.
Più penso alla storia e al percorso dei personaggi e più mi colpisce, la protagonista nonostante le sue fragilità è un personaggio forte, ha superato ed è sopravvissuta a tante cadute. Ha avuto la forza non solo per salvare se stessa ma anche per aiutare Elijah e stare al suo fianco.
La storia ha una durata di venti anni e Cynthia ha bilanciato i vari anni senza appesantire la lettura, cosa che ho apprezzato ma in alcuni punti sembrava che mancasse qualcosa e necessitava maggiore attenzione.
December 30, 2021
Quando ho letto la trama di questo libro ho pensato subito che non facesse al caso mio. Non amo più gli YA, anche se poi i personaggi crescono come in questo caso, ma devo dire che forse quella è stata la parte che mi è piaciuta di più di questa storia, perchè più questi due crescono e più io storcevo il naso.
Teofila e Elijah non hanno una storia rose e fiori, per niente, e alcune cose ci stanno anche, per l'amor del cielo, perchè tutti le abbiamo o le stiamo passando, peró non capisco perchè a volte le autrici devono metterci sempre di più e sempre di più in modo che la storia diventa... TROPPO.
Troppo assurda, troppo movimentata, troppo tutto. C'è un limite a tutto, e sono consapevole che queste cose continuano a capitare tutti i giorni, ma qui mi sono sembrate davvero che soffocassero la storia. Non l'ho trovata più credibile ad un certo punto, non era una storia malata fra due ragazzi, era una specie di concerto hippie con Janis Joplin che distribuiva eroina come se fosse caramelle.
carino il finale, ho apprezzato che dopo tutto sto macello durato 20 anni non abbia scritto un HEA in perfetto stile romance.
Ho voluto dare una chance a Cynthia perchè ho letto e apprezzato Foliè a Deux, ma qui non ho avuto lo stesso entusiasmo.
Teofila e Elijah non hanno una storia rose e fiori, per niente, e alcune cose ci stanno anche, per l'amor del cielo, perchè tutti le abbiamo o le stiamo passando, peró non capisco perchè a volte le autrici devono metterci sempre di più e sempre di più in modo che la storia diventa... TROPPO.
Troppo assurda, troppo movimentata, troppo tutto. C'è un limite a tutto, e sono consapevole che queste cose continuano a capitare tutti i giorni, ma qui mi sono sembrate davvero che soffocassero la storia. Non l'ho trovata più credibile ad un certo punto, non era una storia malata fra due ragazzi, era una specie di concerto hippie con Janis Joplin che distribuiva eroina come se fosse caramelle.
carino il finale, ho apprezzato che dopo tutto sto macello durato 20 anni non abbia scritto un HEA in perfetto stile romance.
Ho voluto dare una chance a Cynthia perchè ho letto e apprezzato Foliè a Deux, ma qui non ho avuto lo stesso entusiasmo.
July 31, 2019
Beautiful. Utterly devastatingly beautiful!
"I more than love. I live you. I breathe you."
"I more than love. I live you. I breathe you."
July 5, 2020
OMG....I absolutely loved this book. Teofila's Guide to Saving The Sun was my first Cynthia A Rodriguez novel and it definitely won't be my last. This coming of age novel spanned about 20 years and will give you all the feels as we go on this journey with Teofila and Elijah. The story was well-written, raw and realistic and gives us a look at an all-consuming love, at the ups and downs and everything in between.
Watching Teofila and Elijah grow and mature throughout the years and seeing how their relationship evolve had me consumed with this novel and I could not put it down.
It is a story about love, hope, friendship, self discovery and second chances and it touched on some tough topics like coming of age, addiction, depression and more. It's a story that shows how certain events can have an impact on our lives and how sometimes the brave face we show to the world can actually be hiding something else. This page-turner was a phenomenal read. It was utterly devastating yet oh so beautiful. Worthy of a five star status I loved it and would highly recommend this novel to all lovers of contemporary romance.
"Why do you hide this side of you fro the world?" I ask him.
"I never met anyone else who deserved it."
"I've been in love with you for most of my life. But I never really took the time to learn how to love you."
"Let me learn. Please?
Watching Teofila and Elijah grow and mature throughout the years and seeing how their relationship evolve had me consumed with this novel and I could not put it down.
It is a story about love, hope, friendship, self discovery and second chances and it touched on some tough topics like coming of age, addiction, depression and more. It's a story that shows how certain events can have an impact on our lives and how sometimes the brave face we show to the world can actually be hiding something else. This page-turner was a phenomenal read. It was utterly devastating yet oh so beautiful. Worthy of a five star status I loved it and would highly recommend this novel to all lovers of contemporary romance.
"Why do you hide this side of you fro the world?" I ask him.
"I never met anyone else who deserved it."
"I've been in love with you for most of my life. But I never really took the time to learn how to love you."
"Let me learn. Please?
July 31, 2019
I don’t even know where to start. I don’t know what words to use, hope my words do this book justice.
I haven’t been able to read in like 10 months and I didn’t think would find the motivation to read again with everything going on in my mind. I thought I would just read the prologue and see how it starts, but I could not put it down. The way can writes is just magical, she takes you on a journey with her words and it feels like you are watching the movie play right on front of your eyes.
She explores difficult subjects, such as addiction, depression and cutting and she does it brilliantly. It isn’t just in passing or a few mentions in the book, she makes u understand the emotions en choices of the character.
This story will make you laugh, cry and even reflect on your own path of discovery. The importance of choosing your own sanity and healing over love.
The beautifully observed story is about the course of Elijah and Teófila’s lives as they find and lose and find each other again. It is a loaded journey, shadowed by the scars of their histories. Time, it seems, does not heal all wounds.
It is a novel that will compel you to think deeply about the consequences of unacknowledged mental illness, questions love and loyalty and the emotional journey toward healing and forgiveness.
I fell in love with Cynthia’s writing after Evol and now she has a lifetime fan in me.
I implore you all to read this book, if there is a time you will take my advice…DO IT NOW!!!.
I haven’t been able to read in like 10 months and I didn’t think would find the motivation to read again with everything going on in my mind. I thought I would just read the prologue and see how it starts, but I could not put it down. The way can writes is just magical, she takes you on a journey with her words and it feels like you are watching the movie play right on front of your eyes.
She explores difficult subjects, such as addiction, depression and cutting and she does it brilliantly. It isn’t just in passing or a few mentions in the book, she makes u understand the emotions en choices of the character.
This story will make you laugh, cry and even reflect on your own path of discovery. The importance of choosing your own sanity and healing over love.
The beautifully observed story is about the course of Elijah and Teófila’s lives as they find and lose and find each other again. It is a loaded journey, shadowed by the scars of their histories. Time, it seems, does not heal all wounds.
It is a novel that will compel you to think deeply about the consequences of unacknowledged mental illness, questions love and loyalty and the emotional journey toward healing and forgiveness.
I fell in love with Cynthia’s writing after Evol and now she has a lifetime fan in me.
I implore you all to read this book, if there is a time you will take my advice…DO IT NOW!!!.
July 17, 2019
I have to say after reading this author's last work I wasn't sure what to expect with this title and cover. I'm not even sure if this was it but let me tell you, she totally had me from the first chapter and didn't let go.
Teofila and Elijah's story is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. It's also been quite awhile since I've read characters who's evolution through the pages was quite this powerful. 20 years, lots of tears, broken hearts, fears and sadness but also love, so much love. And I'm not talking about the love that makes you feel good inside. I'm talking about the love that heals.
This is Cynthia's best work yet and I will one of the first in line for her next to see what she has up her sleeve. If this book is any indication on how this author is going to make her mark on this world, whether it's just my heart, then I am here for it.
Teofila and Elijah's story is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. It's also been quite awhile since I've read characters who's evolution through the pages was quite this powerful. 20 years, lots of tears, broken hearts, fears and sadness but also love, so much love. And I'm not talking about the love that makes you feel good inside. I'm talking about the love that heals.
This is Cynthia's best work yet and I will one of the first in line for her next to see what she has up her sleeve. If this book is any indication on how this author is going to make her mark on this world, whether it's just my heart, then I am here for it.
April 12, 2022
I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked this book up. I read Rodriguez's EVOL and loved the unique format and storyline mixed with the agony of life. I'm not sure why I thought this would be a light and fun romance read (I didn't read the blurb, okay!?). This was achingly beautiful in so many ways... I hardly know where to begin! Teófila and Elijah are real; painful and love and patience. Their relationship had me on edge and rooting for them in the best ways. And yet, I was also rooting for Teófila at the same time. I cheered for her peace and her happiness and said "screw him!" so many times throughout the book ...while also understanding her pure love and connection to him. Rodriguez wrote an amazingly strong female protagonist that spoke to my heart. Sometimes being strong feels a lot like being weak... And she captured it in her writing. OHHH, her writing! The first half of the book was mesmerizing and melancholy all at the same time. It mimicked the character's depression without beating it to death with words .. it showed without telling. And seriously, it was beautiful. Every piece of it from start to finish.
July 3, 2020
A brilliant intense emotional and raw read that will break your heart and then mend the broken pieces bit by bit .
This is not just a story, its a lifes journey, it shows real situations and real life altering actions and the inevitable consequences from these actions its a hard and heavy read but oh so worth it . Elijah and Teofila have a love that is grown from the root a love so strong its enviable they will be each others rock, but the path of true love is never straight forward and both have to overcome some heartbreaking moments and dig deep within and fight the dark inside to hopefully help the sun shine again.....
"Because. You're the moon and I'm the sun"
A beautifully written thought provoking book that you will remember well after you've finished the last page.
This is not just a story, its a lifes journey, it shows real situations and real life altering actions and the inevitable consequences from these actions its a hard and heavy read but oh so worth it . Elijah and Teofila have a love that is grown from the root a love so strong its enviable they will be each others rock, but the path of true love is never straight forward and both have to overcome some heartbreaking moments and dig deep within and fight the dark inside to hopefully help the sun shine again.....
"Because. You're the moon and I'm the sun"
A beautifully written thought provoking book that you will remember well after you've finished the last page.
September 15, 2019
I kept seeing amazing reviews on this book and the premise drew me in. This book did not disappoint and was definitely one of my top 2019 reads. I loved this story of friends to lovers and the span of time it took for their story to come to fruition pulled at my heart in so many ways. I always enjoy reading about characters and their personal/spiritual/mental growth and I found these characters to be so easy to attach to which lost me in their story that much further.
Truly an amazing read
Truly an amazing read
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