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Fall

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Construction is in Julia's blood, so when she is promoted to Project Manager to renovate a turn-of-the-century school house in a bed and breakfast, she has high hopes of proving herself in the male-dominated construction industry.

But Julia discovers there is more to managing a construction project than just contracts and budgets - especially when she meets Matthew Rigo, the demolition contractor who seems bound and determined to cross the lines Julia has imposed.

Vandalism and other unexplainable occurances beset the project, leading Julia to believe there is much more to the school house than she first realizes. Something is inside the hundred year old school house, and it wants out. Is Julia the key to its release? And are Matthew and Nathan what they appear to be?

282 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2011

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Jennifer Latas

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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Theresa Sneed.
Author 30 books242 followers
October 2, 2011
If you're into things paranormal, you'll enjoy Jennifer Hurst's, Fall!

When twenty-one year old JD Halstead, born as Julia Halstead, finally gets the go ahead to run her first construction job, she doesn't have any clue that a world of demons and angels surrounds her in the small, out-of-the-way town Of Torrey, Utah where her grandfather's construction company has been hired to renovate an old schoolhouse into a bed-and-breakfast. And she doesn't have any clue what dark secret will be unearthed within the walls of the old building that will change her life forever.

Fall is a well-written paranormal fantasy that will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat until the end and wanting to know the rest of the story when its finished.
Profile Image for Sheila (sheilasbookreviewer).
1,470 reviews55 followers
November 7, 2011
I enjoyed reading Fall. The book is made up of short chapters and this book is a quick read. It has 298 pages(paperback form) and less pages(218) in e-book form. There is a little bit of everything in Fall for male and female readers: action and romance.

To read the rest of my review, please go to my blog at:

http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot....
Profile Image for Andrew Forsythe.
1 review
August 5, 2013
An entertaining read, I love her depiction of the local towns of rural central Utah. She captures the breath taking feelings that the areas capture. I also appreciate the new twists in background rules for established speculative beings. A great start with a breakout novel, I will look further for what Jennifer Latas writes further and to see how both her talent and her characters develop. *a tip of the hat* A very good job!
1 review1 follower
December 6, 2011
Loved it!
Great read, kept me the on the edge of my seat and interested the whole time!
Up late to finish because I didn't want to put it down :-)
Great characters and I liked the short chapters that kept you involved in the diverse adventure!
Can't wait for the sequel!
Profile Image for J. Morgan.
Author 20 books43 followers
October 6, 2011
Julia D. Halstead (primarily known as JD) is something of a paradox. She's a project manager for a construction company, yet she wears high heels and carries a zebra striped purse. She shows the ability of commanding a room full of contractors bidding for a project, while at the same time finds herself turning to jelly when one of the well built, young and handsome contractors smiles at her. While she has never had any use for religion, things from the spiritual world have use for her.

"Fall" tells of JD's first solo assignment--renovating an old school house in the small town of Torrey, Utah into a bed and breakfast. The project will take several months. JD finds life in the small town a far cry from life in LA. Soon, construction is underway, and despite her better judgment, she becomes romantically involved with Matthew, one of her contractors. Little does she know that Matthew's interest in her isn't just romantic, but he needs her to carry out his devious plans.

I was delighted when I was asked to review this book. I met Jennifer at the August Authorama where she was enlisted to do facing painting. I was blown away by her talent, and even let her work her magic on my cheek!

Imagine my surprise when I was told she was a writer as well. It's not fair for someone to be that talented!

Despite my previous experience with Jennifer, I wanted to make sure to write an honest review of her book. I'm happy to say that she has decided to update the cover from the copy that I got. The first cover wasn't bad, it just doesn't have the impact of the new cover.

One of the first things I noticed was the details of what a construction project manager does on a day to day basis. I was impressed because it added a level of credibility to the story and the main character. It wasn't until I finished the book that I learned that Jennifer once worked in the construction industry. So I applaud her with using the experience from her life in the book.

JD, as a character, is hard not to like. At 21 years old, she is trying to prove herself in what is primarily a man's world. But at the same time, she is also a woman who finds herself attracted to one of her contractors--something which is a bit of a no-no.

I didn't look at the back blurb of the book before I started reading. It's something of a habit of mine. Too often, I feel, the blurbs give too much away. While I don't think that is the case with "Fall", I went into the book not knowing what to expect. For the beginning part of the book, it started to feel like a romance. There are a lot of descriptions of how JD feels about Matthew and the conflicting emotions that come from following her heart and trying to show her Grandpa (the owner of the company) that she is able to handle a project on her own.

The story then takes a left turn and introduces that things aren't what they appear. And no, I'm not going to spoil it for you. Suffice it to say, JD is given much more to handle than a construction project.

I honestly enjoyed reading "Fall". I thought the characters were well defined and interesting. The chapters were short, and the story was limited to very few points of few which helped it move along well. Even being a man, I felt what JD was feeling--which isn't easy for an author to get me to do.

The story delves into some pretty dark places at times--not graphic in nature, but there were times where things became downright spooky and creepy. At the same time, there are heroic characters who give you someone to cheer for and bring hope to the events that surround JD.

Who would enjoy this book? I'd say its geared for more of a mature audience--not really for tweens. There isn't any bad language, nor are there graphic scenes of sex or violence, yet the emotions and events may be too much for younger readers.

Overall, I would like to congratulate Jennifer Hurst on a wonderful book. I wish you the best of success and I look forward to reading more of your work!
Profile Image for Misty.
Author 13 books152 followers
October 11, 2011
Using elements of local history and folklore, Hurst crafts a unique story about the age old battle between good and evil set in the pictureque town of Torrey, Utah and centered around the reconstruction of the old Torrey schoolhouse.

Paranormal fiction is really prevalent right now, but in a corresponding post on my personal website today (see link below), Hurst explains what makes this paranormal romance different from the others that are out there. While other paras focus on the attention grabbing tactics of teen angst and low morals, Fall focuses more on good fighting evil, the redemption of souls, second chances to make things right, and accepting the consequences of choices--all things I really appreciated.

Things that normally bug me in a book, (such as the handful of typos, tired phrases, or occurrences that have no bearing on the plot), just didn't in this book. The story was so engaging and the characters so memorable that I became engrossed in the story quickly and only cared about what would happen next.

I would like to have seen the main character, JD, developed more fully. Was she anal and organized? Or was she flighty and impulsive? I did understand that JD, like many of us, could be both ways, but I felt that this was told in the narration more than it was shown in the story, and I failed to connect with who JD really was. Also, JD started out strong with both organized and impulsive behaviors, but as the story played out she began to be someone who was acted upon, someone who bad things just happend to, rather than develop into a strong character who learns to control herself and her life. BUT, those are things I am expecting to see in a sequel.

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with my enjoyment of Fall. Not that I expected to not enjoy it--I guess I just didn't know what to expect. Hurst's writing flowed smoothly from event to event. Her voice was easy without being informal or colloquial. Her exciting scenes were exciting, and her creepy scenes were creepy. A successful piece, achieving everything it attempted. Really, a thumbs up on this unique blend of paranormal and real life.

Full review at http://sixmixedreviews.blogspot.com/2...
Profile Image for Jennifer.
314 reviews10 followers
March 22, 2013
What a great, short read! Having been abandoned by her mother as a baby and raised by her Grandfather, who owns a construction company, JD knows the business inside and out. At 21, she is finally granted the opportunity to be project manager of a schoolhouse to bed and breakfast renovation in the sleepy town of Torrey, Utah. A little nervous she dives right in and takes charge. Enter Matthew, the tan, muscular, charming cowboy placing a bid for the demolition part of the job. As Matthew works his way into JD heart, she of course starts to fall for him. Having never been in love, yet alone ever have a boyfriend or a first kiss, it doesn't take much for her to fall quick and fall hard. After discovering a strange box hidden in one of the walls of the schoolhouse, strange things being to happen. As JD soon realizes people are not what they seem and she struggles to put the pieces together of what is really going on and why. Little does JD know she is involved more than she could ever imagine.
The story moved at a perfect pace and was full of excitement. There were plenty of twists and surprises from beginning to end that had my jaw dropping as they took me by surprise. The characters were very well developed and the way they connected was well done. About 50 pages from the end I thought how great it would be for a sequel to this story and after the way it ended I really hope so. There are so many places the author could take this story line and the characters. I really wanted to give this read 5 stars but I did notice quite a few grammatical errors in the second half of the book, which surprised me because the first half didn't have but maybe a couple, if that. These errors in no way distracted me from the story and I was able to just move past them. Based on this book, I firmly believe this author has a lot of potential and cannot wait to see if this story line continues! I would definitely recommend this read!
Profile Image for Rachel.
67 reviews28 followers
October 12, 2011
* Rating is high 3.5 stars.

A promising new series begins here, with Jennifer Hurst’s debut self-published novel Fall. Although it’s not perfect, Fall was an enjoyable read with engaging characters and an exciting story-line.

Julia, or JD as she prefers to be known, was a strong protagonist and had interesting quirks - she was completely organized when it came to her construction work, but also let her impulsivity take over a little too much in her normal life. She showed a strong work ethic, always wanting to prove herself in the very male-dominated industry she worked in. I enjoyed getting inside JD’s head - she made some very funny comments throughout the novel, but I would have liked to have seen her more fleshed out as a character. I felt like there was something deeper that the author could have explored, but I hope this will be resolved in the sequel.

The brothers, Matthew and Nathan, were compelling love interests. I feel like the two brother love triangle trope is a little worn out, but here it did work. Although I felt like JD rushed into things with the two a little too haphazardly, this was resolved and I came to understand her decisions better. I’m looking forward to more depth being added to both relationships in the sequel, I think this will be an intriguing love triangle to follow.

Overall, I found this a promising start to a new series. The characters were strong and the plot was gripping, with plenty of twists to keep readers interested. I definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading paranormal romance, especially you’re interested in reading about characters more mature than the typical teen protagonists that dominate this genre.

Find this review and more at http://www.crackaspinebookreviews.blo...
Profile Image for Shanda.
354 reviews68 followers
Read
April 16, 2012
JD is capable, talented, and feminine construction manager. She likes hot pink animal print accents and heels. She appreciates good-looking men, even if she’s not necessarily looking for a relationship. So when demolitionist Matthew Rigo shows up in a tight black t-shirt pointing out a mistake on her blueprints, she’s both attracted to him and annoyed.

When JD starts investigating the cause of the incorrect measurements of the building she’s renovating, strange noises come from the floor above send her scrambling out to her car. From there the story progresses to a mysterious, dark romance with motorcycle-riding bad boy Matt and feelings that JD just can’t seem to resist. A few steamy kisses and chemistry-filled encounters lead to JD finding herself a pawn involved in forces of good and evil that she never would have imagined.

Set in picturesque Torrey, Utah, Fall is about angels and demons, good vs. evil, and choice and consequence. While certain parts of the story could have used just a bit more polish, I was easily pulled into the story. The characters had depth, and I’m curious to see what will happen next.

If you are a reader who likes paranormal romance with adult characters or are tired of the high school/teenage aspect, then you will most likely enjoy Fall.

Content

I don’t remember any language or graphic violence (it’s been a little while since I read it), though there are some scary incidents of strange noises, etc. Some steamy kisses, but nothing too graphic. At one point, Matt carries JD into the bedroom and while we can guess what happens, no details are given. (This incident proves integral to the story and is not gratuitous.)
Profile Image for Heather .
572 reviews104 followers
September 7, 2011
JD Halstead is a young woman bound and determined to make her way as a woman into an almost all male field of construction. When she lands her first big project in Torrey, Utah things are supposed to run smoothly. But all hell literally breaks loose as a handsome demolition man Matt saunters onto the site and discovers a mysterious box full of secrets inside the building. JD finds herself drawn to the new member of the crew and begins to act impulsively as she become swept up in his allure. What she doesn't know is that there are consequences far more severe than losing her job wrapped up in the whirlwind attraction. In a full battle between good and evil, the historical town of Torrey is about to be turned upside down.

Jennifer Hurst does a wonderful job of creating memorable characters. My only wish is that each one of the side people would get some what of an introduction and preface before they pop up in the story. There were a few grammatical errors in my ARC which I hope were fixed before final release. But overall, Fall was an engaging paranormal romance that stuck with me and made me want to read the sequel. It has lessons of not acting impulsively, choosing your life path and the redemption of a soul from evil to good. Thanks so much to Jennifer for the book and Tristi Pinkston blog tours for selecting Fire and Ice as a stop on the Fall tour.

Content: one swear word, sex between the main two characters, some violence and dark themes. Recommended for adults.

Profile Image for Jennifer.
515 reviews
October 2, 2011
JD is a woman of strength. She is determined to make it in her grandfather’s construction company on her own merits. When she finally gets her big break at managing a construction site on her own she jumps at the chance with gusto. Even though JD is one smart cookie she falls for one of the contractors she has hired to do demolition on the project. He is everything she likes but he has one little secret that will cost JD more than she knows. Then there is Nathan. Someone who shares a connection with JD even though she doesn’t understand it. Everything starts to unravel as JD learns a few things about her life.
I liked the story for many reasons. I love characters and JD (Julia) was a great character. She had a self awareness that made her want to prove herself. She tried to portray strength to the people around her but in her inner thoughts there was a vulnerability that made her seem more real. I liked that she turned to a milkshake at one point to get a little perspective. That moment made her someone I could connect with. I liked the aspect of angles/fallen angels. I’m not going to say any more about that but it added to my enjoyment of this story.
What I didn’t like: Even though the author does give some background to the connection between Nathan and Julia (JD) it is incomplete. I still found that I had questions and felt like I wasn’t getting the complete story between these two.
Overall Fall is a great read. I recommend this book to all those who enjoy a bit of the paranormal/romance/action cocktail.
Profile Image for Cathy.
Author 7 books7 followers
September 23, 2011
In the book ‘Fall’ Julia Halstead meets two brothers who are heavenly beings. Of course she doesn’t realize this right away. Not until dark forces combine to battle for her soul.

Julia, who goes by J.D. finds herself in the quiet little town of Torrey, Utah as the project manager to remake an old school house into a bed and breakfast. It’s a big project, and Julia can’t wait to show her grandfather that she can handle it. Construction is in her blood. This is something she has always wanted to do. But when vandalism and mysterious occurrences threaten the project, Julia turns to Matthew Rigo, her demolition contractor for help. At first he seems to be an answer to her prayers, but then the nightmare begins.

Jennifer has written a story with great characters. Julia is a tough, tool toting construction gal who still caters to her feminine side. She improves her yellow construction boots with hot pink and black leopard print. She has a soft spot for the grandfather who raised her after her mother abandoned her and struggles with how she feels about her place in a family.

Liu, an elderly Asian woman who runs the towns grocery store is a great supporting character. She offers care and advice when J.D. needs her.

I won’t tell you about the men in the story, suffice it to say there are rippling muscles and meaningful glances aplenty.

Fall is a paranoramal romance even your teenager could read. No cursing or intimate scenes in this book.
Profile Image for Crystal ✬ Lost in Storyland.
988 reviews200 followers
February 10, 2013
Fall is a bit of a crossover between the YA and adult genres, if you count twenty-one as somewhere in between. Plus, there are paranormal elements, which everyone has to love (at least, I do). JD, as Julia goes by, has been given her dream project of remodeling a schoolhouse into a bed and breakfast. Almost immediately, trouble appears in the form of Matthew, a handsome cowboy who is also head of demolition, adding tension to the story as their relationship progresses. If that’s not enough trouble, strange occurrences around the site generate suspense and intrigue.

I liked the characters, especially JD with her weird quirks and her determination to make progress in a male-dominated field. As for Matthew... well, there are times where his intentions are doubtful, but who can resist a handsome cowboy? There's a reason Western novels are so popular. Matthew's brother Nathan also won a place in my heart, but I won't go into spoilers. I also have to admit that I love the out-of-the-way setting. It’s true that too many paranormal stories take place in such settings, but Jennifer Hurst does such a wonderful job setting up the setting and cast of characters. To sum it up in two words, two sentences: Torrey, Utah. Must visit.

There are some mature themes, but you see so much more in many YA books today. Fall is an intriguing book. If you don’t mind somewhat older characters, check it out!
Profile Image for Carolyn Frank.
Author 30 books97 followers
October 7, 2011
Fall unfolds in the delightful setting of the coral canyons of southern Utah. Add to it JD, a main character determined to restore an old school building, despite being a female contractor in a male dominated career, the premise of Fall immediately caught my interest.
Though I was pulled in and introduced quickly to a mysterious anomaly within the old school, I felt the author substituted a soap opera-like romance in the place of solving the mystery. When JD's whirlwind romantic interest comes into the light as a jerk (and a fallen angel) who was using her, the sappy romance made more sense to me. I was relieved when she falls for the jerk's brother, Nathan, a good angel.
Fall is filled with mystery and vivid details of demons who lurk in the background of everyday life, camouflaged to their potential, unsuspecting victims. The reader learns angels are just as invisible, but are contstantly struggling to keep victims like JD safe.
The book will appeal to readers of paranormal romance and/or fans of fantastical characters like demons and angels
Profile Image for Andrea Pearson.
Author 99 books333 followers
January 22, 2012
What I really liked: Jennifer has the ability to create awesome tense scenes. Her characters were well developed, and it was easy to see the differences between Matthew and Nathan. Jennifer did a great job at showing the evil and good sides of these two.

What didn't work for me: I didn't feel attached to JD as a main character - I think if she were real (and she felt very real - good job, Jennifer, at creating authentic-feeling characters), we would only be acquaintances, nothing more. :-)

That aside, she is very unique, especially for a woman working in construction, and I envy her wardrobe. :-) The premise is excellent, and the setting wonderful (I've been to Torrey and it really is beautiful). Over all, I would recommend Fall to people who need a book that is different while still employing familiar themes.
Profile Image for Jesse Kimmel-Freeman.
Author 28 books66 followers
September 19, 2013
This one of those books that suck you in. I wasn't sure how much I was going to like it in the beginning, but I wanted to give it a fair chance... I loved it. JD is a strong female- something that our literature needs more of. The fact that she is placed into a male dominated realm is perfect because you can really see her butt heads as she tries to show what's she worth in it.

Jennifer does an great job a weaving the concepts of angels and demons into the book. It gives the reader a different look at JD than simply a B & B.

I've always wanted a turn-of-the-century house, it just was never in the stars for me, but that hasn't stopped my love for them. This story totally connected to that part of me, and the person that loves a strong female lead.

I can't wait to see what Jennifer comes up with next! Check it out if you like paranormal stories that are set in the real world.
Profile Image for Mandi Slack.
Author 4 books64 followers
October 11, 2011
This book was filled with romance, intrigue, and suspense. I liked the story line and I thought the plot made for a very interesting story. The characters were well developed and I enjoyed the descriptions of the area. I thought the end wrapped up too fast and I would have liked a little more closure, but overall, I found this novel a fun, enjoyable read.

Read my full review here: http://heyyouslackers.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Cami Checketts.
Author 298 books1,131 followers
September 8, 2011
This book was fabulous. Loved all the the plot twists and the characters. Can't wait to read the sequel.
Profile Image for Melissa Cunningham.
Author 8 books147 followers
December 2, 2011
Loved this book. It had a very strong, intense story line and kept me hooked to the very end. I also LOVE the cover!
Profile Image for Alexandria.
4 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2013
I enjoyed reading this book. The plot was interesting and made me want to keep on reading. It was a fairly easy read, and I loved to read it as I relaxed at home after work.
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