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Forever Layla
Layla isn't her name...or is it?
What if the woman you envied most is the person you are destined to become?
In 1994, high school senior David Foster was the lackey and soundboard geek for his best friend's grunge band. During spring break, the band lands a dream gig playing at a motel in Myrtle Beach, SC. David expected all the girls to ogle the guys on stage, but when a beautiful blond "Bond Girl" approaches him and calls him by name, he's shocked to find out she knows more about him than a stranger should.
She even knows about his notebooks and his visions of time travel.
What she thought was a quick time-travel-sightseeing trip takes a surprising turn when she meets the young adult version of the man she'd heard stories about as a child. His fairy-tale romance with the woman he'd loved, Layla, inspired her to accept nothing less than a love just as strong...but hopefully not as tragic. When she won't tell the younger version of him her name, he calls her Layla--and the world as she knows it changes forever.
What if the woman you envied most is the person you are destined to become?
In 1994, high school senior David Foster was the lackey and soundboard geek for his best friend's grunge band. During spring break, the band lands a dream gig playing at a motel in Myrtle Beach, SC. David expected all the girls to ogle the guys on stage, but when a beautiful blond "Bond Girl" approaches him and calls him by name, he's shocked to find out she knows more about him than a stranger should.
She even knows about his notebooks and his visions of time travel.
What she thought was a quick time-travel-sightseeing trip takes a surprising turn when she meets the young adult version of the man she'd heard stories about as a child. His fairy-tale romance with the woman he'd loved, Layla, inspired her to accept nothing less than a love just as strong...but hopefully not as tragic. When she won't tell the younger version of him her name, he calls her Layla--and the world as she knows it changes forever.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 25, 2014
I have never read a story that has captivated my heart from the very first word, held me in suspense and awe the entire time, and ripped my heart to shreds only to be so tenderly and completely healed by the end. I read this book in one sitting, and I was literally crying as the end overtook me. Never has a book been shrouded in so much fascinating mystery and yet peaceful assurance that I was utterly helpless to let it go until the last word was read. What a brilliant and heartfelt masterpiece! Whatever you do, you absolutely need to put this on your reading list. You will not be sorry.
David is a normal high school guy who is spending his spring break at the beach with his friends who happen to be part of a band. You would assume that he would be looking forward to all of the female fans that flock to his friends’ band, but David only has eyes for the intriguing girl that is abandoned by her ride. He can’t help but be pulled in by her mystery, beauty, and compulsion to keep her identity and her past a secret for reasons she won’t and can’t tell him. He is jolted into the realization that he is looking at this future when he looks at her. No one and nothing can prepare him for the adventure that he is about to begin. The only thing that is certain is that everything is about to change. The only question that remains is if he is willing to follow his heart or relinquish control to the plans that his family has laid out for him.
David and this mystery girl he has named Layla are anything but conventional. While their meeting might not be so strange, the way they see each other and their future is something that even his own parents refuse to understand or acknowledge. Their hearts tell them the truth of their instant and deep connection, and they refuse to take any shortcuts in turning their dreams into reality. Layla’s hard and scaring past has turned her into a survivor and she is determined to help David accomplish his deepest and most secret desire in any way that she can. Nothing will deter her in her endeavor as she pours her entire heart and soul into her husband’s present and his future. David couldn’t have asked for anyone as precious and wonderful as his Layla, and he will do everything he can to make the most of her sacrifice and hard work on his behalf. What these two share is immeasurable, priceless, and extremely profound.
This journey speaks of the depth and yearning of a love so pure and true that no pain, disappointment, or loss could stop or even slow down the desire to assist and guide the hopes and dreams of the other to blossom and prosper. The focus with which this love was channeled is something that we don’t see much of in this world anymore. Love is replaced or watered down with personal ambition and vain pursuits. Just imagine what might happen if we practiced this type of love?! The planet Earth would undoubtedly shine brighter than even the sun if this type of love became contagious and created a white hot fire that burned inside the hearts of all mankind.
Melissa Turner Lee writes with a heart of a dreamer, the strength of a warrior, and the tenderness of a mother. Her stories have touched my heart in a way that no other author has or ever will. She is much more then she can even see. Through her writing we find a direct and open link to the Creator of this Universe and the lover of your soul. Risk giving your heart to the only One who can not only heal it but fill it and transform it into what it was always created to be – a reflection of His incomprehensible love, His boundless mercy, and His astounding grace.
David is a normal high school guy who is spending his spring break at the beach with his friends who happen to be part of a band. You would assume that he would be looking forward to all of the female fans that flock to his friends’ band, but David only has eyes for the intriguing girl that is abandoned by her ride. He can’t help but be pulled in by her mystery, beauty, and compulsion to keep her identity and her past a secret for reasons she won’t and can’t tell him. He is jolted into the realization that he is looking at this future when he looks at her. No one and nothing can prepare him for the adventure that he is about to begin. The only thing that is certain is that everything is about to change. The only question that remains is if he is willing to follow his heart or relinquish control to the plans that his family has laid out for him.
David and this mystery girl he has named Layla are anything but conventional. While their meeting might not be so strange, the way they see each other and their future is something that even his own parents refuse to understand or acknowledge. Their hearts tell them the truth of their instant and deep connection, and they refuse to take any shortcuts in turning their dreams into reality. Layla’s hard and scaring past has turned her into a survivor and she is determined to help David accomplish his deepest and most secret desire in any way that she can. Nothing will deter her in her endeavor as she pours her entire heart and soul into her husband’s present and his future. David couldn’t have asked for anyone as precious and wonderful as his Layla, and he will do everything he can to make the most of her sacrifice and hard work on his behalf. What these two share is immeasurable, priceless, and extremely profound.
This journey speaks of the depth and yearning of a love so pure and true that no pain, disappointment, or loss could stop or even slow down the desire to assist and guide the hopes and dreams of the other to blossom and prosper. The focus with which this love was channeled is something that we don’t see much of in this world anymore. Love is replaced or watered down with personal ambition and vain pursuits. Just imagine what might happen if we practiced this type of love?! The planet Earth would undoubtedly shine brighter than even the sun if this type of love became contagious and created a white hot fire that burned inside the hearts of all mankind.
Melissa Turner Lee writes with a heart of a dreamer, the strength of a warrior, and the tenderness of a mother. Her stories have touched my heart in a way that no other author has or ever will. She is much more then she can even see. Through her writing we find a direct and open link to the Creator of this Universe and the lover of your soul. Risk giving your heart to the only One who can not only heal it but fill it and transform it into what it was always created to be – a reflection of His incomprehensible love, His boundless mercy, and His astounding grace.
May 25, 2014
IF YOU ONLY READ ONE BOOK THIS YEAR MAKE THIS IT. I don't ever say that but this time I'm telling you this book was a could not stop till it was done read. Not only that but it is the first book I ever read that I then sat up the rest of the night thinking about. Here I expected a good book because I love Melissa's books but this was a GREAT BOOK. I wanted it made into a movie right then. The story was fresh and had several little surprises that overtook me some of which I didn't realize what they were until the last page. IF you love time travel if you love heroic last minute rescues or self sacrificing tells of love that keep you praying for a different outcome even though you know it has to be this way then this is the book for you. I honestly believe Mrs. Lee has written the novel of the year. Get your copy today heck get two so once you wear the first one out you'll be ready to start it again. Now excuse me I think I'm going to do just that. I was given an advance read copy of this book for my honest review it didn't have to be a good review but I honestly couldn't find anything bad to say about it.
January 20, 2015
First and foremost, I must state that I got to read this fabulous novel for free from Story Cartel in exchange for my honest review!
I must say, this book had me skeptical at first. Just picking up a book and reading with no prior history regarding the author always puts me on edge because I never know what I’m getting into. However, the teaser for the book was all too enticing and I simply could not resist giving it a try. To my delight, I discovered this Forever Layla to be Christian Fiction and clean. My biggest fear in trying new books is that they will 1. Be riddled with foul words and graphic sexual description and 2. Have no substance to the story: it’s all physical attraction. Boy was I in for a surprise!
Forever Layla begins in 1994 with David meeting a mysterious girl at a beach concert for which he is the sound guy. She refuses to tell David her name and who utterly abandoned her on the beach with no means of returning back to her home. David, being the chivalrous guy that you see him to be throughout the entire book, takes it upon himself to help the lost beauty in front of him. They soon discover that she can’t return home because she’s been abandoned without any money or identification. To the woman’s dismay, David, in his need for a name for her calls her “Layla”. Mysterious Layla knows more about David than any normal person should. She knows about his favourite drink, she knows where he keeps his puffer, and most odd is her knowledge of his secret journals in which he keeps records of his visions of time travel. She knows all this about him because she is from the future and she has been abandoned in 1994. You sit enraptured as the journey unravels between the two with both of their perspectives. David plots out their “long”, lovely lives together and Layla sees it for how it really is; a beautiful love story that ends inevitably in tragedy.
Melissa Turner Lee weaves together an artful story filled with suspense and foreshadowing. I can’t actually get over just how well the skill of foreshadowing is employed. This specific type of writing is rather difficult to do well and even more difficult to do again and again throughout a book. But, somehow, Melissa manages to weave a common thread throughout the entire story, from the very first snippets of interaction between Layla and David to the ending with Layla’s final words. I would probably have to go back and reread the novel a second time to pick up on all of the subtleties. Well done!
At times I found the plot to move a bit too quickly without having the blanks filled in, however, to fill in the blanks would make her 215 page book far longer and I can’t actually say that the blanks needed to be filled in. I enjoy all of the details and not having any missing pieces, but to fill in those blanks, in this case, would have bogged down the story. The only other critique I have would be a few minor type-o errors. There is one instance of missing quotations and at least one other of a miscellaneous letter tacked onto the end of another word.
As one with rather conservative morals, I was delighted to read David’s pure view of relationships and Layla’s steadfast convictions. Though the two ended up in a few situations where their purity was on the verge of complete compromise, they realized the peril they were headed toward and were able to take a few steps back. I would have liked to see a bit more development of David and Layla’s relationship with God as a personal God. He seemed kind of distant throughout the majority of the novel. Though, to Melissa’s credit, as the novel progresses and the relationship between David and Layla becomes more solid, God is introduced as a more important factor of their lives.
Alright, I have a wee bit of a confession to make… I may or may not have leaked wet stuff from my eyes as Forever Layla kept me firmly within its grasp with Melissa Turner Lee transporting me through time to follow a magnificent love story that transcends time.
I must say, this book had me skeptical at first. Just picking up a book and reading with no prior history regarding the author always puts me on edge because I never know what I’m getting into. However, the teaser for the book was all too enticing and I simply could not resist giving it a try. To my delight, I discovered this Forever Layla to be Christian Fiction and clean. My biggest fear in trying new books is that they will 1. Be riddled with foul words and graphic sexual description and 2. Have no substance to the story: it’s all physical attraction. Boy was I in for a surprise!
Forever Layla begins in 1994 with David meeting a mysterious girl at a beach concert for which he is the sound guy. She refuses to tell David her name and who utterly abandoned her on the beach with no means of returning back to her home. David, being the chivalrous guy that you see him to be throughout the entire book, takes it upon himself to help the lost beauty in front of him. They soon discover that she can’t return home because she’s been abandoned without any money or identification. To the woman’s dismay, David, in his need for a name for her calls her “Layla”. Mysterious Layla knows more about David than any normal person should. She knows about his favourite drink, she knows where he keeps his puffer, and most odd is her knowledge of his secret journals in which he keeps records of his visions of time travel. She knows all this about him because she is from the future and she has been abandoned in 1994. You sit enraptured as the journey unravels between the two with both of their perspectives. David plots out their “long”, lovely lives together and Layla sees it for how it really is; a beautiful love story that ends inevitably in tragedy.
Melissa Turner Lee weaves together an artful story filled with suspense and foreshadowing. I can’t actually get over just how well the skill of foreshadowing is employed. This specific type of writing is rather difficult to do well and even more difficult to do again and again throughout a book. But, somehow, Melissa manages to weave a common thread throughout the entire story, from the very first snippets of interaction between Layla and David to the ending with Layla’s final words. I would probably have to go back and reread the novel a second time to pick up on all of the subtleties. Well done!
At times I found the plot to move a bit too quickly without having the blanks filled in, however, to fill in the blanks would make her 215 page book far longer and I can’t actually say that the blanks needed to be filled in. I enjoy all of the details and not having any missing pieces, but to fill in those blanks, in this case, would have bogged down the story. The only other critique I have would be a few minor type-o errors. There is one instance of missing quotations and at least one other of a miscellaneous letter tacked onto the end of another word.
As one with rather conservative morals, I was delighted to read David’s pure view of relationships and Layla’s steadfast convictions. Though the two ended up in a few situations where their purity was on the verge of complete compromise, they realized the peril they were headed toward and were able to take a few steps back. I would have liked to see a bit more development of David and Layla’s relationship with God as a personal God. He seemed kind of distant throughout the majority of the novel. Though, to Melissa’s credit, as the novel progresses and the relationship between David and Layla becomes more solid, God is introduced as a more important factor of their lives.
Alright, I have a wee bit of a confession to make… I may or may not have leaked wet stuff from my eyes as Forever Layla kept me firmly within its grasp with Melissa Turner Lee transporting me through time to follow a magnificent love story that transcends time.
January 7, 2022
Clearing my kindle of its older titles as currently participating in a YearAThon ReadAThon on Instagram and one of the prompts is clearing your TBR pile and with a massive kindle library, I am aiming this year to get rid of some of my older books. I wasn't sure what this book was about as I have had it since 2014 and now, we are in 2022. Forever Layla was an interesting read as it was more than a romance if you had to choose two books to describe this - I would say Forever Layla is The Notebook meets The Time Travellers Wife. The year is early 1994 and Kurt Cobain is still alive and David is 17- 18 next week and working on the soundboard for a garage band. Normally girls come for the band members, not geeky him. This girl here is for David though. For years the girl who we later meet in the book has grown up hearing stories about him and the woman Layla who he fell for and their eternal love story. You see this girl is from the future from the year 2013/2014 where she sells insurance and is in love with her friend's dad David. See what 1994, David doesn't realize is that he invents when he is older - time travel and becomes a hero to 2014 female. The book watches us our main character known as "Forever Layla" comes back to 1994 and falls for David, she is living day by day as she knows her time soon will end. I have to say at first it was a little confusing to read, but as you get on with the story and understand timelines and dates, then it all makes sense. Forever, Layla is another one of those books you go blind into and find a diamond in the rough as Forever Layla by Melissa Turner Lee is one of those True Love- Soulmate reads.
June 5, 2014
DNF(did not finish) -
I don't like doing DNF posts most of the time because I figure I might eventually go back to the book and change my mind but I figured I may as well write out my thoughts on this one real quick. First I want to say that it's not that I think this is a completely horrible book that no one should waste their time and money on, no it's not like that at all. I'm sure many people will and have loved this book I just was not one of those people.
First of all, and this is unfair to the author and book I know but still it's how it was, I went into this book expecting to love it, excepting it to break my heart in the best way possible and I didn't want to admit that it wasn't going to do that even when I got half way and seriously considered stopping reading it, I put it aside and then came back to it and then about 10 pages later I quit. I got halfway through and nothing happened. A girl from the future arrives and meets a boy who she knows is going to be a very important person, some one she has idolized forever, and she gets stuck in the past with him. So she's freaking out and trying, and failing, to keep everything a secret and yeah.
Reasons why I stopped reading -
- Insta love - I have been trying to be less critical of insta love but I just could not stand it in this case.
- Layla - She's 24 and not exactly immature but not really mature either. I can't explain it but I didn't like her at all.
- David -Again I just didn't like him. He accepts without a second thought that Layla is from the future and that they're destined to fall in love and he's like a love sick puppy willing to do anything to not seem like a kid to her since he's only 18 and I didn't like him or her or them.
- I read half the book and basically nothing happened and I didn't love the plot or like the characters and this book was just not for me.
I don't like doing DNF posts most of the time because I figure I might eventually go back to the book and change my mind but I figured I may as well write out my thoughts on this one real quick. First I want to say that it's not that I think this is a completely horrible book that no one should waste their time and money on, no it's not like that at all. I'm sure many people will and have loved this book I just was not one of those people.
First of all, and this is unfair to the author and book I know but still it's how it was, I went into this book expecting to love it, excepting it to break my heart in the best way possible and I didn't want to admit that it wasn't going to do that even when I got half way and seriously considered stopping reading it, I put it aside and then came back to it and then about 10 pages later I quit. I got halfway through and nothing happened. A girl from the future arrives and meets a boy who she knows is going to be a very important person, some one she has idolized forever, and she gets stuck in the past with him. So she's freaking out and trying, and failing, to keep everything a secret and yeah.
Reasons why I stopped reading -
- Insta love - I have been trying to be less critical of insta love but I just could not stand it in this case.
- Layla - She's 24 and not exactly immature but not really mature either. I can't explain it but I didn't like her at all.
- David -Again I just didn't like him. He accepts without a second thought that Layla is from the future and that they're destined to fall in love and he's like a love sick puppy willing to do anything to not seem like a kid to her since he's only 18 and I didn't like him or her or them.
- I read half the book and basically nothing happened and I didn't love the plot or like the characters and this book was just not for me.
June 2, 2014
Forever Layla is a timeless love story. The book is well-written and the foreshadowing is excellent. Although Layla struggles to keep everything to herself, bits and pieces of the future are scattered throughout the story. It’s compelling and keeps the reader reading hoping the entire time that the clues don’t add up to the conclusion to which they point.
Labeling Forever Layla as a NA Romance sells the story short. There is so much more to the romance than new adults falling in love. I struggled to like Layla’s character as she was forced to withhold so much of herself from David. Can it be true love when you are holding so much back? But David… Well, let’s just say that it’s no wonder that Layla grew-up thinking David’s romance was fairy-tale like. A man that would invent time travel just so that he could revisit the love of his life has got to be one of the best heroes of romance ever.
In a story about time travel, it is essential to get the details about certain time periods correct. Unfortunately, Forever Layla falls short in this area. For example, people definitely lived together before marriage in 1994 and love still exists in 2014. Even though I’m not a fashionista, the incorrectness of some of the fashion time periods bothered me.
I really enjoyed this book and yes I may have even let a tear or two fall as I read it. I recommend this book to all romance lovers.
Labeling Forever Layla as a NA Romance sells the story short. There is so much more to the romance than new adults falling in love. I struggled to like Layla’s character as she was forced to withhold so much of herself from David. Can it be true love when you are holding so much back? But David… Well, let’s just say that it’s no wonder that Layla grew-up thinking David’s romance was fairy-tale like. A man that would invent time travel just so that he could revisit the love of his life has got to be one of the best heroes of romance ever.
In a story about time travel, it is essential to get the details about certain time periods correct. Unfortunately, Forever Layla falls short in this area. For example, people definitely lived together before marriage in 1994 and love still exists in 2014. Even though I’m not a fashionista, the incorrectness of some of the fashion time periods bothered me.
I really enjoyed this book and yes I may have even let a tear or two fall as I read it. I recommend this book to all romance lovers.
June 16, 2014
I received a free download of this book from Story Cartel, thank you!
This book was an interesting read and I enjoyed it. Towards the end, it was a little hard for me to keep track of all the time travelers, but I was able to figure things out and not get lost. I thought it was fun to read about a short interaction between two characters, and then afterwards realize, "Wait a second! That was an older/younger version of the same person!" Mind.Blown.
I was impressed by Layla's character, and how she was strong enough to follow through with everything even when she knew what was going to happen. I thought that was admirable, and I don't know if I would be able to do it without trying to change something about my future. If given the opportunity, I might travel backwards into the past to re-live some happy moments, but I definitely would not want to know the future. I will live my life as it comes to me in regular time, thanks. :-)
I would recommend this book to others, and I would read other books by this author.
This book was an interesting read and I enjoyed it. Towards the end, it was a little hard for me to keep track of all the time travelers, but I was able to figure things out and not get lost. I thought it was fun to read about a short interaction between two characters, and then afterwards realize, "Wait a second! That was an older/younger version of the same person!" Mind.Blown.
I was impressed by Layla's character, and how she was strong enough to follow through with everything even when she knew what was going to happen. I thought that was admirable, and I don't know if I would be able to do it without trying to change something about my future. If given the opportunity, I might travel backwards into the past to re-live some happy moments, but I definitely would not want to know the future. I will live my life as it comes to me in regular time, thanks. :-)
I would recommend this book to others, and I would read other books by this author.
December 15, 2014
I had the pleasure to receive a early ARC of this wonderful novel. Melissa Turner Lee did amazing job with this storyline. The characters in this story will have you to fall in love with them as soon as you meet them. The love from the two main characters stand the test of time, literally. They find each other over and over in many decades through time travel. I was in tears many different times with this story. It had me hooked from the first line in the book until the last word. I absolutely I loved this story. It will keep you hooked until you read the last sentence. This romance is a one of a kind love and you will only find it in this book. Thanks to this author for making me enter her world of time travel and fall in love with this story.
September 2, 2014
Beautiful! Its a never-ending, everlasting love story. Loved it the moment I started reading it, and couldn't stop until I finished it.
May 29, 2016
I love time travel books and I really wanted to like "Forever Layla" but sadly to say this book wasn't for me.
Happy Reading
Lisa
Happy Reading
Lisa
June 9, 2014
3.5 out of 5
Forever Layla is a sweet, unique and fast paced read that is like nothing I've ever come across before. It's complex in it's plot lines and every little detail cleverly knits together as the book progresses. It is a story that will have you holding you breath as you wait for the last piece of the puzzle to slot into place.
Now this is where I would usually try and go into the plot a little bit but for a short book it has a rather complicated story, so I'll try my best, although I think only Doctor Who himself could explain it without giving too much away!
It's the story of Layla and David. It's the story of how they fell in love and how knowing what's around the corner can affect the way you see things. Layla is from the future, it wasn't her choice to come back but now she's here - here being 1994 - she's got to figure out how to live in a time she doesn't belong. Although, as time passes and David becomes an important part of her life, Layla starts to question whether she was always meant to be living in the past. What time does she really belong in? And can she be in the past without screwing up the future?
Okay, so there were only two things I struggled with when reading Forever Layla. One being the words 'time travel' and two being Layla. So the time travel thing isn't that big a deal and a completely personal issue! I just found that whenever those words were used it felt kind of corny. Although at the same time you can't write a time travel book without them so...
Then there was the Layla thing, which was a little more of a issue. It's not that I didn't like her, in fact I really kind of felt for her. I just found her a little annoying at times. Especially in the beginning. She's very stubborn and isn't used to having to rely on people, which did - at times - come across as a little snobby.
Forever Layla is another dual narrative that at the beginning seemed a little one sided but the Layla chapters started to become more frequent and you were able to really submerge yourself into the story. Their story. Both character's also had very distinct voices, making it easy to tell who's point of view you were reading.
As I've said this book is unique and compelling and very well written. I actually would have liked another 50 pages or so as I felt there was more to Layla and David's story that could have been told. Some of the in between moments. Which yes, would have slowed the pace down but also I think it could have given the reader more time to feel for the characters.
The last 20% of the book had me holding my breath. I had a feeling I knew where it was going but no idea how it was going to get there. It's the kind of book that has you wishing for that all important happily ever after. Overall the way the whole story twists back on itself is ridiculously cleaver and I think Melissa Turner Lee deserves a medal for keeping it all straight in her head as she wrote it!
Forever Layla didn't disappoint. It's quirky and fresh and I think you're going to really enjoy it!
Forever Layla is a sweet, unique and fast paced read that is like nothing I've ever come across before. It's complex in it's plot lines and every little detail cleverly knits together as the book progresses. It is a story that will have you holding you breath as you wait for the last piece of the puzzle to slot into place.
Now this is where I would usually try and go into the plot a little bit but for a short book it has a rather complicated story, so I'll try my best, although I think only Doctor Who himself could explain it without giving too much away!
It's the story of Layla and David. It's the story of how they fell in love and how knowing what's around the corner can affect the way you see things. Layla is from the future, it wasn't her choice to come back but now she's here - here being 1994 - she's got to figure out how to live in a time she doesn't belong. Although, as time passes and David becomes an important part of her life, Layla starts to question whether she was always meant to be living in the past. What time does she really belong in? And can she be in the past without screwing up the future?
Okay, so there were only two things I struggled with when reading Forever Layla. One being the words 'time travel' and two being Layla. So the time travel thing isn't that big a deal and a completely personal issue! I just found that whenever those words were used it felt kind of corny. Although at the same time you can't write a time travel book without them so...
Then there was the Layla thing, which was a little more of a issue. It's not that I didn't like her, in fact I really kind of felt for her. I just found her a little annoying at times. Especially in the beginning. She's very stubborn and isn't used to having to rely on people, which did - at times - come across as a little snobby.
Forever Layla is another dual narrative that at the beginning seemed a little one sided but the Layla chapters started to become more frequent and you were able to really submerge yourself into the story. Their story. Both character's also had very distinct voices, making it easy to tell who's point of view you were reading.
As I've said this book is unique and compelling and very well written. I actually would have liked another 50 pages or so as I felt there was more to Layla and David's story that could have been told. Some of the in between moments. Which yes, would have slowed the pace down but also I think it could have given the reader more time to feel for the characters.
The last 20% of the book had me holding my breath. I had a feeling I knew where it was going but no idea how it was going to get there. It's the kind of book that has you wishing for that all important happily ever after. Overall the way the whole story twists back on itself is ridiculously cleaver and I think Melissa Turner Lee deserves a medal for keeping it all straight in her head as she wrote it!
Forever Layla didn't disappoint. It's quirky and fresh and I think you're going to really enjoy it!
June 3, 2014
Wow! Lovely book. It’s a page turner and soul touching book that let me dream of pure love, the time travel machine invention and the cure for cancer.
My attention was kept from beginning till the last page and I found myself laughing, crying, praying, thinking so deep & craving to read more.
This story is about an impossible love that comes true only with the help of time travel machine. It’s about pure love; sacrifice for the loved ones, forgiveness and about all of us. It’s an emotional book that let us re-think our own lives.
I love Layla and David. Also I like their special love story and sweet clever child DJ. I felt sorry for Mr. Duke.
I recommend this book to everyone and I very much appreciate the author’s work. Thank you!
There are many quotes I've liked in this book. Here are some of them:
“ whatever happens, the pain and sorrow will be worth it in the long run.”
“Whenever I've felt attracted to a guy who didn't meet my standard, I've always backed off.”
“I've always known it was all on me to get it right. There’s no one to pick up the pieces for me. It’s all on me to do it right the first time.”
“When a guy finds out all his dreams will come true and he ends up with the super hot girl, he gets a little confident.”
“Life isn't easy and no one is going to take care of you except you.”
“Life moves fast. It’s over before you know it.”
“It’s the job of the older woman to teach the younger ones how to love their husbands.”
“If we choose to follow one path, we also make the choice not to follow another. When we choose to add some people into our lives, it often means we choose to leave others behind.”
My attention was kept from beginning till the last page and I found myself laughing, crying, praying, thinking so deep & craving to read more.
This story is about an impossible love that comes true only with the help of time travel machine. It’s about pure love; sacrifice for the loved ones, forgiveness and about all of us. It’s an emotional book that let us re-think our own lives.
I love Layla and David. Also I like their special love story and sweet clever child DJ. I felt sorry for Mr. Duke.
I recommend this book to everyone and I very much appreciate the author’s work. Thank you!
There are many quotes I've liked in this book. Here are some of them:
“ whatever happens, the pain and sorrow will be worth it in the long run.”
“Whenever I've felt attracted to a guy who didn't meet my standard, I've always backed off.”
“I've always known it was all on me to get it right. There’s no one to pick up the pieces for me. It’s all on me to do it right the first time.”
“When a guy finds out all his dreams will come true and he ends up with the super hot girl, he gets a little confident.”
“Life isn't easy and no one is going to take care of you except you.”
“Life moves fast. It’s over before you know it.”
“It’s the job of the older woman to teach the younger ones how to love their husbands.”
“If we choose to follow one path, we also make the choice not to follow another. When we choose to add some people into our lives, it often means we choose to leave others behind.”
August 13, 2014
Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
Forever Layla by Melissa Turner Lee is a beautiful story of love, sacrifice, and time travel. The characters, Layla and David, are fully fleshed out in within this book. Knowing the future is a curse. Especially for Layla. Her duty to her family and ultimately the world astounds me. She carried it all on her shoulders. What a strong character! David was amazing too. His loyalty and dedication to Layla was never ending. The plot was gripping and flowed nicely. These were characters you could really grab onto. I believed them and their story. I felt entirely immersed into their lives as I read. I wanted it to be real. I loved that the time travel was to the more recent past. I enjoy a good book that travels back to the colonial days or the Victorian Era, but the 90's? I loved it! This is a time period I was around for. I remember all the music and the clothing. There was so much fun to be had in the 90's. I cried a couple of times too. Tears of sadness and tears of happiness. It was an emotional read on many levels for me. It also offered some pleasant surprises all along the way as the full picture gets pieced together. I wasn't expecting to be so completely captivated by Forever Layla, but that's just what it did. There are no other words. This is definitely one of my favorites of the year so far! This is one you definitely need to read!
The ARC of Forever Layla by Melissa Turner Lee was kindly provided to me by Juniper Grove for review. The opinions are my own.
June 13, 2014
In April 1994, David gets a visit from a beautiful young woman who seems to know him but who has no memory of. When she won't tell him her name, he calls her Layla after the song that's playing, and she freaks out. After a bit of prompting, Layla claims to have come from the future (2014). Of course David thinks this is a prank, but slowly he starts to believe, ultimately discovering that he himself will one day unlock the secret of time travel. As David and Layla get closer, we learn that they have always been destined to be together. But how are their futures intertwined and why is Layla always so sad?
The story is told alternately from the points-of-view of David and Layla. This is a necessary device, as we find Layla is keeping a lot of secrets from David. The relevance of some scenes is questionable (e.g., hair extensions, Backstreet Boys) but it's fun to reminisce about the past and note how much things have changed in such a short time. The story is cleverly woven, revealing just enough to keep us guessing. And it is beautifully rounded, with the ending bringing us back to the beginning to show us how everything fits together. The ARC I read contained a number of editing errors that are hopefully corrected in the final version.
This is a wonderfully romantic, clever, and thought-provoking story.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
The story is told alternately from the points-of-view of David and Layla. This is a necessary device, as we find Layla is keeping a lot of secrets from David. The relevance of some scenes is questionable (e.g., hair extensions, Backstreet Boys) but it's fun to reminisce about the past and note how much things have changed in such a short time. The story is cleverly woven, revealing just enough to keep us guessing. And it is beautifully rounded, with the ending bringing us back to the beginning to show us how everything fits together. The ARC I read contained a number of editing errors that are hopefully corrected in the final version.
This is a wonderfully romantic, clever, and thought-provoking story.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
June 10, 2014
**I received this book from Story Cartel in exchange for an honest review.**
David Foster is 17 years old, a few days away from being 18, on the road as a sound guy for his best friend, Michael's Band, and his life is about to change forever.
Layla is 24. She's in town from California and when she see David for the first time, like this, she's not quite sure what to do.
How does Layla know so much about David? Did his friends put her up to this as a prank for his birthday? But Layla knows things he would never tell Michael. So as David gets to know Layla better and as she gets to know the David she already knows in a whole other way, they form a bond that is not so easily broken.
Forever Layla is a story of love, happiness, trust, and science all wrapped up in one. David is living in 1994 and Layla shows up in his life from 2014. David is the kind of man every girl dreams of meeting, but Layla is afraid to mess up his life what she already knows. How can she make a life with him without giving away too much about who she is and how and why is now in his life.
This is a very well written book and it was very difficult to put down.
David Foster is 17 years old, a few days away from being 18, on the road as a sound guy for his best friend, Michael's Band, and his life is about to change forever.
Layla is 24. She's in town from California and when she see David for the first time, like this, she's not quite sure what to do.
How does Layla know so much about David? Did his friends put her up to this as a prank for his birthday? But Layla knows things he would never tell Michael. So as David gets to know Layla better and as she gets to know the David she already knows in a whole other way, they form a bond that is not so easily broken.
Forever Layla is a story of love, happiness, trust, and science all wrapped up in one. David is living in 1994 and Layla shows up in his life from 2014. David is the kind of man every girl dreams of meeting, but Layla is afraid to mess up his life what she already knows. How can she make a life with him without giving away too much about who she is and how and why is now in his life.
This is a very well written book and it was very difficult to put down.
June 22, 2014
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was an amazing, time-traveling, pull at the heartstrings type of book. I have only found a few time travel books that I like, but this one is near the top of that list. Melissa Turner Lee has such a unique voice. The beginning seemed to be slow, but hold on because then you are pulled through the story. Hope to read more from this author in the very near future.
This was an amazing, time-traveling, pull at the heartstrings type of book. I have only found a few time travel books that I like, but this one is near the top of that list. Melissa Turner Lee has such a unique voice. The beginning seemed to be slow, but hold on because then you are pulled through the story. Hope to read more from this author in the very near future.
September 21, 2014
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this story! The characters drew me in from the start to the finish and it also had me crying! This is the first book I've read by this author so good job Melissa Turner Lee because I will be reading more and thank you for sharing Forever Layla with me!
I loved this story! The characters drew me in from the start to the finish and it also had me crying! This is the first book I've read by this author so good job Melissa Turner Lee because I will be reading more and thank you for sharing Forever Layla with me!
December 11, 2014
This book was freaking WONDERFUL! I loved it! I want MORE! I can't imagine how hard it must be to write books about time travel...but ultimately this book is about unending LOVE! How love of parents, grandparents, children, husbands, wives & friends can literally change our world! Thank YOU Ms. Lee for this book and changing MY world! U are awesome!
June 22, 2014
Wow, this was an amazing read. This book kept me interested from the moment I started reading, till I finished the last word. You cannot help but fall in love with these characters and you want to see them overcome everything in their way.
A must read, no doubt about it.
A must read, no doubt about it.
August 11, 2016
Love this book!
April 3, 2017
Ah, time travel. How you vex me so.
Here is a story which tries to avoid paradoxes and treat time travel incidentally. And yet it is a huge part of the plot. Although the book is largely character driven, there is still the backdrop of that pesky time travel going on.
This book actually does have a great story. Although it sets a circular time pattern in motion, it compensates for the general lack of scientific detail by concentrating on the characters. Layla is a woman out of her own time. Part of what drives the plot is her unwillingness to talk about herself - who she is, where she's from, how she got there. This is slowly revealed as the two main characters, Layla and David, forge their relationship.
The characters developed nicely. The relationships in the book changed realistically. David and Layla's relationship takes some turns that, were they happening in real life, seem a little farfetched. Not that it never happens, just that mostly it doesn't. But these things about their relationship were what endeared me to them. The author touches on some things momentarily, but doesn't dwell. Rather, she just gives them enough of a mention to accent the story.
What's interesting about this plot is that it seems predictable and yet it's not. The ending, while it went the direction I thought it would, still surprised me slightly. Things that were on the fringes of implausible were balanced with things that were completely what you'd expect in real life.
What did bother me about this novel was the writing. It reads very much like a first novel. There are a lot of informational statements interspersed with dialogue that just don't have that nuanced "between the lines" feel to them. It was fine; it just wasn't stellar. It didn't flow. The story progressed, but it felt a bit rough. Maybe it's just the author's style. She told the story well, but she didn't write exceptionally well. Again, the flow - this is what distinguishes an amazing writer from an average one.
I will be interested to see what Turner Lee does next. She can tell a good story. I'm sure she'll get better and better with the way she tells it as she continues to write.
Here is a story which tries to avoid paradoxes and treat time travel incidentally. And yet it is a huge part of the plot. Although the book is largely character driven, there is still the backdrop of that pesky time travel going on.
This book actually does have a great story. Although it sets a circular time pattern in motion, it compensates for the general lack of scientific detail by concentrating on the characters. Layla is a woman out of her own time. Part of what drives the plot is her unwillingness to talk about herself - who she is, where she's from, how she got there. This is slowly revealed as the two main characters, Layla and David, forge their relationship.
The characters developed nicely. The relationships in the book changed realistically. David and Layla's relationship takes some turns that, were they happening in real life, seem a little farfetched. Not that it never happens, just that mostly it doesn't. But these things about their relationship were what endeared me to them. The author touches on some things momentarily, but doesn't dwell. Rather, she just gives them enough of a mention to accent the story.
What's interesting about this plot is that it seems predictable and yet it's not. The ending, while it went the direction I thought it would, still surprised me slightly. Things that were on the fringes of implausible were balanced with things that were completely what you'd expect in real life.
What did bother me about this novel was the writing. It reads very much like a first novel. There are a lot of informational statements interspersed with dialogue that just don't have that nuanced "between the lines" feel to them. It was fine; it just wasn't stellar. It didn't flow. The story progressed, but it felt a bit rough. Maybe it's just the author's style. She told the story well, but she didn't write exceptionally well. Again, the flow - this is what distinguishes an amazing writer from an average one.
I will be interested to see what Turner Lee does next. She can tell a good story. I'm sure she'll get better and better with the way she tells it as she continues to write.
May 5, 2015
Very unique, very original. A different view on time travel than the others I've read. It's beautiful in it's own messy way. :) It's a story that I will remember forever. Review soon!
Even though I don't like fantasy novels, my week spot has always been time travel and aliens. For that reason, I signed up for the blog tour of Forever Layla. And boy, am I glad that I decided to join despite my busy schedule because it's one of the most original and amazing time travel books I've ever read.
In the spring break of 1994, David's best friend's band lands a gig playing at a motel in Myrtle Beach, SC. David, being the soundboard guy, got to go with them. David never expected girls to notice him, but then came a mysterious girl who knows his name and about his notebooks. This girl claims to have lost her ride but won't say more about the past. When this girl doesn't tell him her name, David decides to call her Layla.
Layla could not accept being called Layla. She has heard so many stories about the beautiful Layla, and that Layla cannot be her! But as the story goes on, she learns to accept the fact that she is, indeed, the Layla of the stories she heard, and she works hard to assume her role to help her husband build the time travel machine that he was destined to build.
Forever Layla is an original time-travel story that captivated me with its unique twists and turns. It was a different take on all the other time travel books I've read, and it was really good. Every twist was a surprise, and that kept the book very interesting and entertaining. The romance element was good, and soon I couldn't put the book down!
My only problem about this book was that Layla was too clueless about the 90s. If her age is correct, she should know what some of the things David was talking about, like the beeper. Even I know what that is. Aside from that though, this book was a short read that was easy to love.
I recommend this to time travel lovers and plot twist lovers alike. It's really and intriguing book that will keep you entertained!
Even though I don't like fantasy novels, my week spot has always been time travel and aliens. For that reason, I signed up for the blog tour of Forever Layla. And boy, am I glad that I decided to join despite my busy schedule because it's one of the most original and amazing time travel books I've ever read.
In the spring break of 1994, David's best friend's band lands a gig playing at a motel in Myrtle Beach, SC. David, being the soundboard guy, got to go with them. David never expected girls to notice him, but then came a mysterious girl who knows his name and about his notebooks. This girl claims to have lost her ride but won't say more about the past. When this girl doesn't tell him her name, David decides to call her Layla.
Layla could not accept being called Layla. She has heard so many stories about the beautiful Layla, and that Layla cannot be her! But as the story goes on, she learns to accept the fact that she is, indeed, the Layla of the stories she heard, and she works hard to assume her role to help her husband build the time travel machine that he was destined to build.
Forever Layla is an original time-travel story that captivated me with its unique twists and turns. It was a different take on all the other time travel books I've read, and it was really good. Every twist was a surprise, and that kept the book very interesting and entertaining. The romance element was good, and soon I couldn't put the book down!
My only problem about this book was that Layla was too clueless about the 90s. If her age is correct, she should know what some of the things David was talking about, like the beeper. Even I know what that is. Aside from that though, this book was a short read that was easy to love.
I recommend this to time travel lovers and plot twist lovers alike. It's really and intriguing book that will keep you entertained!
May 25, 2014
Fair notice: I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
(Short version of the review: It was so good I bought a Kindle and paperback copy. And no, I don't know the author.)
First, the genre. It's being marketed as romance. If you don't like romance, but love time-travel books, you still need to buy it. I'd call it sci-fi and romance.
If I'm counting right, this is Melissa Lee's fifth novel. Her first few were good, and they keep getting better and better.
I love everything about this book. The romance is just right. Once again, Melissa Lee paints a picture of romance that is accurate and beautiful, and, better yet, isn't confused with lust. Parts of it get a little weird.... but if they didn't, it wouldn't be a time-travel story ;)
Speaking of which, I generally don't like time travel stories. I've been a sci-fi fan forever, so usually the bad physics and lack of thought in a story ruins time travel stories. Pick a Star Trek episode with time-travel. Most of have you thinking "Why didn't they just...."
Forever Layla avoids all these pitfalls. The story is solid, and it had me thinking about it for days. It's beautiful how all the parts fit together, even when you mentally re-construct the timeline from another characters point of view. I could go on and on about the great stuff in here, but it'd all be spoilers... on the one hand, it wouldn't matter too much, because one of those books, you know the kind, the ones that you can re-read again and again and delight in noticing little hints and things you didn't see, or wondered about the first time through. But people don't like when I do that, so I won't. I'll let you discover them on your own. Go read this right now.
How would I rate Forever Layla? Well, let's put it this way. It's easily in the top five books I've reviewed here so far (and that's facing some pretty stiff competition.... including Armored Hearts... also by Melissa Lee (and Pauline Creeden....))
Five Stars. Easily five stars.
(Short version of the review: It was so good I bought a Kindle and paperback copy. And no, I don't know the author.)
First, the genre. It's being marketed as romance. If you don't like romance, but love time-travel books, you still need to buy it. I'd call it sci-fi and romance.
If I'm counting right, this is Melissa Lee's fifth novel. Her first few were good, and they keep getting better and better.
I love everything about this book. The romance is just right. Once again, Melissa Lee paints a picture of romance that is accurate and beautiful, and, better yet, isn't confused with lust. Parts of it get a little weird.... but if they didn't, it wouldn't be a time-travel story ;)
Speaking of which, I generally don't like time travel stories. I've been a sci-fi fan forever, so usually the bad physics and lack of thought in a story ruins time travel stories. Pick a Star Trek episode with time-travel. Most of have you thinking "Why didn't they just...."
Forever Layla avoids all these pitfalls. The story is solid, and it had me thinking about it for days. It's beautiful how all the parts fit together, even when you mentally re-construct the timeline from another characters point of view. I could go on and on about the great stuff in here, but it'd all be spoilers... on the one hand, it wouldn't matter too much, because one of those books, you know the kind, the ones that you can re-read again and again and delight in noticing little hints and things you didn't see, or wondered about the first time through. But people don't like when I do that, so I won't. I'll let you discover them on your own. Go read this right now.
How would I rate Forever Layla? Well, let's put it this way. It's easily in the top five books I've reviewed here so far (and that's facing some pretty stiff competition.... including Armored Hearts... also by Melissa Lee (and Pauline Creeden....))
Five Stars. Easily five stars.
July 20, 2014
Time travel fiction is tricky to read and must be even trickier to write. There are certain parameters that have been almost set in concrete for years and years, such as the idea that one must never meet oneself, but a few stalwart souls have ignored this in recent times. Most notable right now is the TV show, Continuum, which just happens to be one of my must-see shows these days and which mostly handles the problem by having multiple timelines. Melissa Turner Lee has also chosen to not let it be a concern in Forever Layla and, while I did enjoy this very entertaining read, I don’t think the concept works quite as well here as it does in Continuum because Layla does indeed meet herself and changes what happens.
The other thing that I didn’t quite understand is why, when she suddenly finds herself in 1994, Layla can’t seem to keep her mouth shut. Surely a time traveler would be more prepared to cope with the immediate need to fit in, wouldn’t she? Instead, Layla babbles.
All that aside, there were things I enjoyed very much about this novel, not least of which are the characters. David is thoroughly likeable (although I did find his maturity to be a bit unlikely) and Layla appealed to me a lot, especially her motivation for making this trip back in time. I’m not generally a fan of insta-love but it actually works pretty well in this case, maybe because she already has such a strong attachment to him.
One other thing I especially enjoyed was Ms. Lee’s writing style and her attention to detail. The intertwining present and future could be confusing at times but the author always seemed to bring it together before things got too convoluted. I was also very grateful for her use of past tense and the alternating points of view. I wonder what Ms. Lee will have for us next :-)
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, June 2014.
The other thing that I didn’t quite understand is why, when she suddenly finds herself in 1994, Layla can’t seem to keep her mouth shut. Surely a time traveler would be more prepared to cope with the immediate need to fit in, wouldn’t she? Instead, Layla babbles.
All that aside, there were things I enjoyed very much about this novel, not least of which are the characters. David is thoroughly likeable (although I did find his maturity to be a bit unlikely) and Layla appealed to me a lot, especially her motivation for making this trip back in time. I’m not generally a fan of insta-love but it actually works pretty well in this case, maybe because she already has such a strong attachment to him.
One other thing I especially enjoyed was Ms. Lee’s writing style and her attention to detail. The intertwining present and future could be confusing at times but the author always seemed to bring it together before things got too convoluted. I was also very grateful for her use of past tense and the alternating points of view. I wonder what Ms. Lee will have for us next :-)
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, June 2014.
August 4, 2015
Whatever happens, the pain and sorrow will be worth it in the long run.
When I signed up for the blog tour for Forever Layla and read the synopsis it peaked my interest. However, when I finished the first chapter I became hooked! I’m normally easily confused when it comes to time travel, it’s a complex concept to have in stories and most times authors do a poor job at covering all their bases. This however was not the case for Melissa.
The story is split from being told from David’s perspective and then it switches to Layla. I actually enjoyed this style; it allowed for getting a better sense of both characters and the chance to build a connection. While this was a solid story I wasn’t a fan of the ending, I found it was so abrupt and didn’t follow the overall flow of Forever Layla .
Overall, this was a unique and captivating read. I definitely recommend Forever Layla to anyone who wants a great romance, with strong characters and a well laid out plot.
June 6, 2014
My Rating: 4.5/5
A super sweet and delightfully romantic read about how far love can transcend, Forever Layla was a fantastic romance. I really liked this amazing book. It was a true gem of a read.
Layla was a lovely heroine. She was strong enough to live her life without regrets, even knowing what would happen to her. My only issue was that she referred to her life with David, several times, as a duty to the future, to ensure that David lived up to his full potential. It made it seem like David was a job for her. It didn't help that she withheld things from from him instead of sharing her burden, if even I did understand her reasoning. But, this was all more of an annoyance, and I still liked her character.
David was the sweetest. Ugh, he was just so adorable! He was so utterly devoted to Layla, willing to change his life for her and even invent time travel just so that he could see her again. He was absolutely wonderful and I adored him.
The romance was wonderful. Layla and David were so sweet together. They loved each other so completely that it would transcend time, the type of love that flourished no matter the circumstances. I thought they were a perfect couple.
The plot was well paced and I was hooked the entire way through. I loved the story and the ending was lovely.
Forever Layla was a fantastic New Adult romance. I totally loved this book! It was so sweet and romantic and just a wonderful read. Romance lovers, this is a book you won't want to miss.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
A super sweet and delightfully romantic read about how far love can transcend, Forever Layla was a fantastic romance. I really liked this amazing book. It was a true gem of a read.
Layla was a lovely heroine. She was strong enough to live her life without regrets, even knowing what would happen to her. My only issue was that she referred to her life with David, several times, as a duty to the future, to ensure that David lived up to his full potential. It made it seem like David was a job for her. It didn't help that she withheld things from from him instead of sharing her burden, if even I did understand her reasoning. But, this was all more of an annoyance, and I still liked her character.
David was the sweetest. Ugh, he was just so adorable! He was so utterly devoted to Layla, willing to change his life for her and even invent time travel just so that he could see her again. He was absolutely wonderful and I adored him.
The romance was wonderful. Layla and David were so sweet together. They loved each other so completely that it would transcend time, the type of love that flourished no matter the circumstances. I thought they were a perfect couple.
The plot was well paced and I was hooked the entire way through. I loved the story and the ending was lovely.
Forever Layla was a fantastic New Adult romance. I totally loved this book! It was so sweet and romantic and just a wonderful read. Romance lovers, this is a book you won't want to miss.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
July 16, 2014
I Just finished reading Forever Layla and to be honest im rather speechless. Coherent thought has all but shut down. I want to see Forever Layla on the big screen. I see it so beautifully in my head.
When I first began reading Forever Layla I groaned inwardly. Im sure when I signed up for this tour that I looked at the cover and liked it well enough to sign up. But as I began reading I was so confused I didnt know which was up and thought I would never make it through to the end. Clearly I was super wrong. Somewhere in there I got hooked! Probably around 30%.
Layla as we call her travels from 2014 to 1994. And meets David who shes had a crush on forever shes 24 hes 17 going on 18. They meet, she refuses to tell him her name so he begins to call her Layla. Shes basically heartbroken over this. The Epic love story that is David and Layla ends in heartbreak. Eventually she comes to accept that she really is Layla and they build a life together.
There is a weird kinda instalove, im actually quite on the fence about the instalove. When you read it please share your thoughts with me Id love to get another persons opinion. The characters are likeable. The brilliance (at least to me) is all in the storytelling. You are given tiny bits of info just in passing that later play pretty big parts in the story. Im pretty sure I uttered OooOOhhh more than 3 times while reading. Melissa Turner Lee is nothing short of an amazing storyteller, Forever Layla completely captured me as a reader I couldnt help but smile, laugh and cry with the characters.
When I first began reading Forever Layla I groaned inwardly. Im sure when I signed up for this tour that I looked at the cover and liked it well enough to sign up. But as I began reading I was so confused I didnt know which was up and thought I would never make it through to the end. Clearly I was super wrong. Somewhere in there I got hooked! Probably around 30%.
Layla as we call her travels from 2014 to 1994. And meets David who shes had a crush on forever shes 24 hes 17 going on 18. They meet, she refuses to tell him her name so he begins to call her Layla. Shes basically heartbroken over this. The Epic love story that is David and Layla ends in heartbreak. Eventually she comes to accept that she really is Layla and they build a life together.
There is a weird kinda instalove, im actually quite on the fence about the instalove. When you read it please share your thoughts with me Id love to get another persons opinion. The characters are likeable. The brilliance (at least to me) is all in the storytelling. You are given tiny bits of info just in passing that later play pretty big parts in the story. Im pretty sure I uttered OooOOhhh more than 3 times while reading. Melissa Turner Lee is nothing short of an amazing storyteller, Forever Layla completely captured me as a reader I couldnt help but smile, laugh and cry with the characters.
June 12, 2014
I'm not even sure where to start with this book. I'm used to reading mostly contemporary and historical novels. I've read a handful of books that tackle time travel and have generally loved them. When the opportunity to join this book tour came about, I was a little hesitant but decided to go for it; I'm so glad I did.
When I first started reading, the book was a little slow to get into, but it picked up at about 20% and after that I didn't stop reading. I was a little confused about Layla and what she knew, but I've got to admit to admiring her for everything she did and her values. We all handle situations differently, but they way Layla handled things left me in stunned admiration. David was adorable. As things became clearer, my heart broke for both of them.
I loved how the story slowly built up to the climax at the end. There were so many twists I wasn't expecting and they really kept me guessing. I've never read a book by Melissa Turner Lee before, but if her other books are anything like this one, I've definitely missed out. If you're a fan of time travel books, make sure you add this one to your list. If time travel or paranormal isn't what you like to read, then this book is a good way to try and see if might be.
David and Layla's story is beautiful, heart breaking, and beautifully written. If this is what I've been missing on, I really need to try new things more often.
When I first started reading, the book was a little slow to get into, but it picked up at about 20% and after that I didn't stop reading. I was a little confused about Layla and what she knew, but I've got to admit to admiring her for everything she did and her values. We all handle situations differently, but they way Layla handled things left me in stunned admiration. David was adorable. As things became clearer, my heart broke for both of them.
I loved how the story slowly built up to the climax at the end. There were so many twists I wasn't expecting and they really kept me guessing. I've never read a book by Melissa Turner Lee before, but if her other books are anything like this one, I've definitely missed out. If you're a fan of time travel books, make sure you add this one to your list. If time travel or paranormal isn't what you like to read, then this book is a good way to try and see if might be.
David and Layla's story is beautiful, heart breaking, and beautifully written. If this is what I've been missing on, I really need to try new things more often.
June 8, 2014
Michael, Travis, Joey, Mark, & David Foster (PhD) (24; soundboard) played in a rock band: Head Trauma. In 1994, they were at Myrtle Beach, S.C. doing a spring break gig. David meets Layla (18; California; Chesnee HS).
Fast forward & the 2 fall in love. How will their lives turnout? What is in David’s notebook?
My favorite place to party Myrtle Beach SC.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well bizarre mysterious young romance written book. It was very easy to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. No grammar errors, repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great spooky romantic movie, or mini TV series. Geared for a young reader. Could have been a little more mushy (romantic; kissy kissy even mild sex) for me. 1 you must read to the very end. It was just OK for me. So I will rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free book (Story Cartel)
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Fast forward & the 2 fall in love. How will their lives turnout? What is in David’s notebook?
My favorite place to party Myrtle Beach SC.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well bizarre mysterious young romance written book. It was very easy to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. No grammar errors, repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great spooky romantic movie, or mini TV series. Geared for a young reader. Could have been a little more mushy (romantic; kissy kissy even mild sex) for me. 1 you must read to the very end. It was just OK for me. So I will rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free book (Story Cartel)
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
October 18, 2014
I won this book in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway so I feel kinda bad giving it a one star, but this was possibly the worst book I've ever read. It was very instalovey and i didn't really feel the love connection between the two characters at all. It took me forever to finish this book and it was so bad that it made me just not want to read at all. The characters were really boring and they didn't have a lot of emotion. The ending was very confusing and I didn't understand it at all. I actually have no idea how things were going to happen in the end and the book did not do a good job of explaining it. Also this could be easily fixed but first it said DJ was in an Cross Country uniform, but then it said he was going to track practice. These are two totally different sports and they are in two different seasons. I do both so i should know the difference. This wasn't a huge mistake but it just frustrated me by how easily it could be fixed. I hope this mistake didn't go into the final copy of the book. I'm sorry I didn't like this book but i wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
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