Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Until the Last Breath

Rate this book
Years ago, I fell in love with a man named Maximilian tall, smooth talking, and handsome as hell.

He was my everything; a man who could do no wrong. Then, he did the one thing he promised he’d never do...he broke my heart.

Now, nearly seven years later, I’m happily married to a man who has completely changed my life. But with my health hanging in the balance, I often wonder what his future entails, because I know there is a possibility that he’ll have to live without me. John, my husband, is the love of my life, and I have never questioned our love.

Until my past came knocking at the door.

Every girl has that one guy - the one whom she can’t seem to forget or completely let go of, no matter how toxic the relationship was or how badly it ended. Well, this story is a little different. This is the story of how Maximilian Grant went from being my toxic first love, to the man who ultimately saved my life. And trust me, it will not play out the way you think it will.

Audible Audio

First published September 10, 2020

578 people are currently reading
2380 people want to read

About the author

Shanora Williams

77 books6,716 followers
Shanora Williams is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty romance and diverse suspense novels.
She currently lives near Charlotte, North Carolina and is the mother of three amazing boys, has a fiercely devoted and supportive husband, and is a sister to eleven.
When she isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her family, binge reading, or running marathons on TV streaming services. Visit her at shanorawilliams.com or interact with her on Instagram @reallyshanora.

Follow me:
Instagram: Instagram.com/reallyshanora
Facebook: Facebook.com/ShanoraWilliamsAuthor
Facebook Fan Group: Facebook.com/groups/ShanorasSweethearts
Twitter: Twitter.com/shanorawilliams

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
471 (42%)
4 stars
342 (30%)
3 stars
201 (18%)
2 stars
65 (5%)
1 star
34 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
Profile Image for Kat valentine ( Katsbookcornerreads).
776 reviews1,268 followers
October 13, 2020
Love hurts

This was a awesome read about one woman and the two loves of her life. First their was max the charming ladies man who every woman dreams of being with who is the first to bring passion,love and pain all rolled into one into her life. They had a great chemistry and with many highs,but it also came with lows and when shannon needed him most Max was too consumed with the loss of his parents to be their for her.So a decision had to be made and what seemed like a love of a life time was the ending for them instead.But time heals most wounds and even though Shannon hasn't forgotten that day at the doctor's office and the little life she gave up it still haunts her.But she meets another fabulous guy John who only wants to take care of her and loves her so damn well and is passionate and kind, so what could go wrong this time! And then she gets the news she has a incurable lung disease that is slowly taking her life. Her days are spent in pain and she is so weakened and although her husband John has gotten her the best doc's and is their through it all, she has basically given up and is preparing for the end. But when max walks back in her life it stirs up old memories and max can't stand to see her like this. Two men ,one a ex lover who abandoned her but who is still a good friend, One who tries to control everthing in hopes of keeping her alive.But who loves her so very much that he can't imagine living without her by his side. But when a freak accident happens a gift of life comes from a great tragedy,but it's a promise kept from long ago from one lover to a another lover and life will go on for Shannon but at what cost. Very beautifully written with a interesting storyline and great characters as well. I truly enjoyed this book it was a tear jeaker and very thought provoking and just goes to show that true love is never easy but so worth the ride. Until next time Luv's💋💕
Profile Image for Shabby  -BookBistroBlog.
1,938 reviews987 followers
August 30, 2020
If there was a book that fit into the cateogary of - "Dreading turning the page cause I can sorta guess how it ends"....it'd be this one.
But this is NOT how it ends!!
Shanora pulls the rabbit out of the hat and turns the story on its head and the tears that were streaming endlessly throughout the story suddenly become a deluge. I didn't know who I was crying for cause all three characters who'd become my own were in misery and I was breathlessly suffocating with them.

description

The entire book had me holding my breath. Several times I felt it'd be my last, such was the emotional intensity of every chapter. It's an ill-fated romance, part reminiscent, part Carpe-diem about a girl who's had the privilege of loving twice and being loved equally wholesomely both times.
"I love my husband with every fiber of my being. But my love for Max is…different. It’s a raw kind of love—a love a woman will never, ever forget, no matter how bad some of it may have been."
Shannon Hales never had time to focus on herself, struggling to keep surviving with her little sister depending on her, she goes from euphoric, pulse pounding love of Maximilian Grant to quiet, relaxed state of bliss with John Streeter and neither get the experience to live long with her. Her clock is ticking!!

description

"It's okay to be selfish for once. If anyone has the right to be selfish now, it's you!
You have to stop worrying at some point and just live your damn life."

But how much life... That is the million dollar question!
The story is an epic lesson in tenacity in the face of debilitating struggle to keep breathing
"Stay or go?
Leave or settle?
Live or die?"

Of the characters, Maximilian Grant was the liveliest, sexiest and no wonder women fell at his feet and Shannon felt like a Queen at top of King Max

description

Shannon was honest, loyal and courageous. But teh title of True Hero and Tragedy King goes to Jonathan Streeter. He's the epitome of selfless love & caring protector.
Of all three, Max was most colourful and John the most subdued but they all got their fare share in the sunshine that is Shannon.

description

Shanora is truely diverse in her writing, from giving us dark, nefarious stories to Tabboo- forbidden ones,she can equally adeptly twist the sentimental knife and gut your heart with her words.
It's powerful and hard hitting, be sure to sit in a safe corner with a box of tissues cause you'll be making a spectacle of yourself, crying, hiccupping, cussing aloud throughout the book
It will keep you on tenterhooks,trying to snatch every shred of life a mere step ahead of the reaper.
One or two things seemed a bit unlikely to me,but the tsunami of sentiments just washed my doubts away
This story shall remain with you, Always and Forever....
Until the Last Breath

5 stars for Little Shakes
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow me on:
BookBistroBlog@gmail.com
https://Twitter.com/BookBistro
www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
Profile Image for Just A Girl With Spirit.
1,403 reviews13.3k followers
November 9, 2020
I’m a sobbing mess!! This is Shanora’s finest that I’ve read. She just keeps getting better, and I love seeing that in an author.

Is there such thing as beautiful heartbreak? This book definitely fits the bill. I cried in this one like I did in Me Before You by JoJo Moyes. Damn my heart hurts.

I haven’t read many stories that have dual love stories going on with no cheating or ménage. Let that sink in. The way this was written was perfection and is a true testament of just how complex the human heart is and what it was made to do. My heart broke for each character in this story.

Shannon, Max and John 4ever.

A definite must read!
Profile Image for Anne OK.
4,103 reviews553 followers
September 16, 2020
Different – definitely!
Rolls right on by those comfort zones and assuredly leaves a lasting impression – but I’m not completely sure of defining mine yet. It wasn’t anywhere near what I envisioned.

With an end date not far in the future, three main characters Shannon, the wife who I just couldn't ever fully understand, John, the husband who is maybe a bit controlling and strait-laced, and Max, Shannon's first love and a wealthy playboy who hasn't ever quite grown up -- all playing maddening games with each other's hearts. I'll give credit for there being no actual cheating -- but it came mighty close to crossing the lines.

Until the Last Breath, I was still hoping for more or even different -- something that felt real to me. I never warmed up to the characters, nor did I shed a tear – not because it wasn’t a sad situation because it was – but because those feelings were never projected well enough or with enough depth to draw out those kind of emotions from me.

Nothing else to say except that this one just didn't work for me. Yes, it was a sad and tragic tale, but I just never felt the depth of emotions in the writing. It felt stiff and each movement from word to word so "motionless" - if that even makes sense. I couldn't connect with two of the main characters in any manner. And I felt really sorry for the other one in the triangle -- yet he upset me as well because of his reactions to the way he was treated. Not a single character made me weep for them or understand their actions (except for John Streeter a few times when I thought he meant well). This book felt unbelievable and unreal in the way everything was plotted. Frankly, I just didn't care for the story or the presentation.
Profile Image for Tanya (Girl Plus Books).
1,173 reviews74 followers
January 13, 2021
When I read the synopsis for this one I was intrigued, and I did something I rarely do – I purchased a physical copy of a book by an unknown-to-me author. Yeah, bad move on my part.

I’m all for a good tearjerker now and then but in order to make your readers cry, you have to make them care. You have to give them characters worth crying over. And these were not those characters. Main character Shannon was, well… awful. I suppose having a terminal illness was supposed to automatically make her sympathetic but being ill does not make you a decent person. Shitty people get sick, too, and Shannon was a shitty person. She was married to a man who loved and adored her, who she called her soulmate, and yet she still pined for her equally shitty ex-boyfriend, Max. She thought about him all the time and kept in touch with him. She lied by omission to her husband about who the guy was and then took off with him, only telling her husband once she was on the plane and about to leave the country. Who does that? Shannon was selfish, a liar, and an emotional cheater. She spent a lot of time reminiscing about the past when she and Max had a craptastic relationship, which is apparently what she got off on. Max seemed to think he was some irresistible player and Shannon obviously agreed. So they both adored him. I couldn’t figure that out, either, since he acted like an ass, but again, this seemed to be the kind of relationship she preferred.

So Max showed up now that Shannon was hella sick, becomes the good time guy, wanting to give her what she wants, unlike her poor husband who works like crazy to be able to pay for the hospital, doctors, home care, treatments, etc. Max is the good guy swooping in to give poor, Shannon what she wants, while John is just the poor sap that loves her and is there day in and day out caring for her.

The ending was schmaltzy and unrealistic and, frankly, undeserved. This was my first read of 2021 so at least it can only go up from here.
Profile Image for JadeReads.
313 reviews30 followers
September 11, 2020
Emotional cheating alert , this book make me fucking uncomfortable I felt so sorry for her husband who loved her so much . Ughhh
Profile Image for Keri Loves Books.
1,247 reviews204 followers
August 29, 2020
A love story that will leave a lasting impression. This one is going to hurt a little, but it’s worth the pain.

They fell in love, but he wasn’t her forever. That would come later. They would remain a part of each other’s lives as friends. He would fulfill his promise so that she could get her dream come true.

Shannon’s life has never been easy. Abandoned by their mother, she raised her sister. She worked hard to provide and that’s how she met Max. He was a bartender at her job. He was the playboy every girl wanted to get with, but he pursured her. They lasted until life tore them apart.

Her forever would appear on a rainy night, while she stood next to her broken down car, on the side of the road. John would be the man that would do everything to protect her. Her life was happy until she she became sick. Now her happily ever after has an end date.

This story was heart wrenching. Shannon is coming to terms with leaving her loved ones behind, while they all struggle with letting her go. She’s fighting for her life, even though her disease is robbing her more every day. Her hope is gone, so she’s trying to live as much as she can until she can’t. John wants to hold on and never let go, while Max wants to give her a life worth living.

A story you won’t forget. This was an emotional journey with a collision between the past and the present.
Profile Image for Lilith  *EUPHORIA_READS_*.
565 reviews197 followers
September 10, 2020
THE REVIEW FOR THE BOOK UNTIL THE LAST BREATH BY SHANORA WILLIAMS.



*ARC PROVIDED IN EXCHANGE FOR HONEST OPINION*
GENRE:CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE.
AUTHOR:SHANORA WILLIAMS.
TYPE: STANDALONE.
POV:SINGLE POV...FIRST PERSON...
MY RATING: 5 STARS.


Shannon has been living her life to the best with her newly wedded husband John when a fatal disease disrupts her whole life. When medical science loses her hope, Only a miracle can save her.
Accepting her fate, she tries to live her whole life in the few last moments she has remaining. But after her husband tries to smother her with all his love and protection, she has no way but to turn to her past love who still has a place in her heart. An impromptu trip to Paris, her dream destination puts her life in a new track and put forward a choice of a lifetime in front of her. Will, She has to choose between two men, one who loves her so much but still hurts her or one who she has already
agreed to love for the rest of her life?

I dive into this book without reading the Blurb and that's how you should do it...This is one of the book to go blindly in..Believe me!!

I. LOVE. THIS. BOOK... This standalone has successfully won my heart over. The characters here all just manage to burrow themself in our hearts. The love...heartbreaks...all the tragedies...basically life happens which seriously just made this book so enthralling and magical.
Read this book and seriously your belief in love and miracle will get replenished.
Reading this book is going to hurt...you are going to cry with relief...with heartbreak...
I am suprised even though with such an unexpected ending... I felt a kind of relief and satisfaction.
I love that there was a re run between the past and the present..the flashbackes really gave a more detailed personality to the characters which just breaks your heart in the most delicious way.

The book is written with so perfection that you can emphatize the suffering and the love ozing out from the pages. This is one of the books that you don't just read but experience it and let it come you to the fullest.

Don't wait around...go have this amazing magical experience of your life...I guarantee you won't regret it.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,872 reviews6,703 followers
June 21, 2022
Get ready for ALL THE TEARS! But also ALL the gratitude for health, joy, and love. We just can't be thankful enough, can we? This is literally all I can say without certainly giving away a spoiler on accident. Just know, this book is great and it will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. There are so many intense subjects discussed which makes it a perfect pick for a buddy read or book club selection. Recommend!

Note: When I first began reading this book, I wasn’t entirely sure it was for me. I don’t like cheating and I don’t care for love triangles either… BUT there is no reason to fear because neither of these are in this book even though the beginning kinda sorta gives that impression in my opinion. JUST KEEP READING! (and go grab some kleenex)
Profile Image for Abstract ♥ Books.
1,281 reviews1,766 followers
September 8, 2020




ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS

line

Web-Photo-EditorAlways and forever,” he whispered.
“Until the last breath,” I murmured."


Ok.
Let me gather those tissues for you , because if you decide to read this book (you will , because it is absolutely perfect) , then you are going to need them. The tears… omg!! I was absolutely sobbing by the end of this book! After reading the blurb of the story, I thought this was going to play in a certain way , but let me warn you, this author has some great surprises for you in this book!!



This book had me Intrigued right from the start , and I also had many people talking about how amazing it is , so the hype of this book was pretty high for me. I was absolutely hooked right from the start to the very end! Shanora Williams has created a masterpiece , I am telling you guys! All the people who would love a healthy cry during a book , should definitely read this one!

Web-Photo-EditorI am going to go deeper—explain to you exactly how I ended up falling for Max. Judging by the story so far, a person can probably assume that I love him more than my husband . Well, that person would be incorrect. I love my husband with every fiber of my being. But my love for Max is…different. It’s a raw kind of love— a love a woman will never, ever forget, no matter how bad some of it may have been.


Max , John and Shannon have a love story that has woven itself into my heart. This is not a love triangle , nor is it a MFM book. It is something totally different. For Shannon , Max is the guy whom she loved in the past. He is the one who made every moment of them being together worth it. The one who taught her the importance of life. And then broke her heart. John is the Man she definitely loves more than Max. He is her husband , and the man who brought light back to her life. That is until fate messed it all up. Shannon discovered that she has a life threatening disease , and has only a few months left to live.



When she is living her last months , she decides to meet Max again as there are things they both need to talk about. The story switches constantly between the past and the future , telling us about how their relationship progressed. The ending is something that none of you will be prepared for!! The ending completely destroyed me and I can't see myself recovering from that anytime in the near future. I thought the ending would be completely different, and then Shanora hit me with that awesome plot twist and all I want to say to her right now is , Way to go Girl!!

This book is the whole package for me! It made me so happy but also devastatingly sad at the same time too! A definite recommendation to all the contemporary romance lovers who are addicts for tons of angst in their books! This book is going to be one of your definite top reads!



My-Post-3
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Bookbub | My Blog
Profile Image for Book Maniac Forever.
1,144 reviews388 followers
September 10, 2020

⭐️ 5 "Live Your Dreams" Stars ⭐️
Until the Last Breath by Shanora Williams is one of those novels that can’t be explain, but need to be experienced. This story is so beautiful, yet heartbreaking. Sad, yet hopeful. It was my second time reading this book that was previously title Infinity and I still got the same overflow of feels from this new improved version!

I’m a reader that gets easily overpowered by the emotions of my reads. Until the Last Breath had my throat so raw from the agony delivered into the pages of this story. It’s not an easy read by any means, because the feelings are so tangible that they affected me deeply. I was left a crying mess even this second time around reading it, when I knew the outcome.

UTLB might appear as a love triangle, but it’s so much more complex. This book shows that there’s different kind of love, different persons that will cross our path through our life and leave an unforgettable mark. It shows that our feelings can transform over time into something different, but still stay so strong. Shannon’s journey navigates between past and present to help us understand her dynamic with Max and John, and how it helped forged the courageous woman she is now.

Shanora Williams never misses the chance to completely obliterate my mind and heart with her novels. Until the Last Breath is unlike anything she’s written before, but still achieved to utterly captivate me from start to finish with an unforgettable storyline dripping with feels!

** ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review **
Profile Image for Weronika -  Little Steamy Reads.
627 reviews112 followers
August 28, 2020
„I’m a firm believer that everyone who comes into your life is there for a reason.”


It's no secret that I love Shanora Williams' books. There is not a single story in her collection that I didn’t like, but Until The Last Breath is so unlike anything this author has written. This book is so unique, so heartbreaking and touching. It's one of these stories you don't just read- you experience it with your whole being and let it consume you. I finished it 2 days ago and I still can't control the rush of emotions that filled my heart.


Shannon's emotional journey is a balancing act between the past and the present. It’s a path full of love but also suffering. It’s a story about forgiveness and sacrifice, and it’s also the perfect message that you have to take life by the proverbial balls and make every day count. Shannon’s story was as sorrowful as it was moving. It beautifully shows that every person we meet in life is there for a reason and we need to cherish every moment with them we are given. I will not go into details of the storyline, because I really think that to fully feel the impact of this story, you have to go in blind. However, let me admire the strength of the heroine, who was incredibly courageous despite her fear. Who loved strongly and unconditionally. Who, despite the disappointments, found the strength to forgive. I’m so in awe with Shannon’s character!


This story is by no means a love triangle. This book shows the different types of love and its imprint on life. Shanora Williams brilliantly showed each side of this feeling - both the beautiful and the painful. This book is full of gut-wrenching moments, but also sweet and tender ones that literally make you bawl your eyes out. It's poignant, captivating and IMPORTANT. Until The Last Breath will stay with me forever.
Profile Image for Chelé-----4 The Love of Books .
1,030 reviews56 followers
September 1, 2020
MY HEART IS IN MY THROAT!

SHANORA!! Why did you do me like this! Okay, let me at least try to pull myself together long enough to write this review. **takes deep breath**  but also **snot bubbles pop out of left nostril**

I feel like this is such a departure from Shanora's other stories and it really shows her gifts as a phenomenal writer because I couldn't put it down! Shannon and Max's story is so compelling and had me in its grips. John and Shannon's love seemed to move mountains and be the stuff love stories are written about.

Don't get me wrong, there's no cheating here but it is an education on the human heart, the way it works and loves and forgives and endures, it had me yearning for more, it made me think and feel for each character, it is stupendously crafted and unforgettable!


Heartbreakingly beautiful, Until the Last Breath is equal parts tragedy, magic, hopeful and touching, a must read!
Profile Image for Samuela.
396 reviews24 followers
September 11, 2020
FULL REVIEW: https://tralebracciadiunlibro.blogspo...

Until the last Breath è il titolo dell'ultimo romanzo di Shanora Williams, autrice molto apprezzata nel panorama romance d'oltre oceano, un nome che molte lettrici sperano possa arrivare anche nelle nostre librerie.
Se mi seguite da un po' saprete già che seguo le sue pubblicazioni sempre con molto entusiasmo, perchè le sue storie hanno sempre quel quid in più che le contraddistingue dalle altre; del resto ci sarà un motivo se è considerata la regina del forbidden/dark romance, non credete?
Questa volta però la Williams esce fuori dagli schemi e si allontana quasi completamente dalla sua comfort-zone, scegliendo di raccontare non una semplice storia d'amore, ma una storia di vita vera, fatta di abbandoni e dolore; una storia di redenzione e rinascita.

Ma facciamo un piccolo passo indietro: la vita di Shannon Hales non è mai stata facile; da quando la madre è andata via di casa, abbandonando lei e la sorella, ha dovuto lavorare duramente per prendersi cura di entrambe. É proprio durante un turno nel bar dove lavora che conosce Max Grant. Max è il classico ragazzaccio; l'emblema del bad-boy bello e dannato che non deve chiedere mai, e Shannon sa perfettamente che lasciarsi coinvolgere in una relazione con lui può solo portarle guai, ma Max è uno che se vuole qualcosa se la prende, e lui la vuole, con ogni fibra del suo corpo. Max è l'uomo che ha sempre sognato di avere al suo fianco, con il quale costruire la famiglia che ha sempre desiderato. Quello tra loro è un amore travolgente, passionale, uno di quelli che capitano una volta sola nella vita, ma improvvisamente qualcosa cambia, rovinando tutto. Quelle stesse braccia che fino a poco tempo prima la stringevano, saranno le stesse che la scaraventeranno al suolo, e le spezzeranno il cuore in un milione di piccoli pezze; per Shannon sarà l'ennesimo colpo, non sarà facile per lei fidarsi di un uomo dopo quello che le ha fatto Max. Ma l'amore arriva sempre senza chiedere il permesso, e sarà così anche per lei; in una notte di tempesta un angelo di nome John entrerà nella sua vita e da quel giorno niente sarà più lo stesso. John è l'esatto opposto di Max: è un uomo dolce, sensibile e altruista; le restituirà la fiducia che aveva perso e le insegnerà nuovamente ad amare. Ma per quanto Shannon aneli il lieto fine, la vita sembra quasi si diverta a strapparglielo via: un momento prima le fa toccare le stelle e quello dopo le toglie vie ogni speranza di raggiungerlo. Si troverà a dover affrontare la più dolorosa delle battaglie, e come se non bastasse sia lei che John dovranno fare i conti con gli inevitabili cambiamenti che questa comporta. Come se non bastasse, il passato tornerà a bussare alla sua porta. Dovrà decidere se aprirla o chiuderla per sempre. Ma come può lasciare andare quel passato che non è mai riuscita a dimenticare, come può far finta che quel sentimento segretamente custodito per anni non esista?

"I love my husband with every fiber of my being. But my love for Max is…different. It’s a raw kind of love—a love a woman will never, ever forget, no matter how bad some of it may have been."


Come ho già anticipato all'inizio di questa recensione, la Williams questa volta ha deciso di mettersi alla prova, e dopo aver divorato e adorato ogni singola pagina di questo romanzo, posso affermare con assoluta certezza che è riuscita a centrare l'obbiettivo.
Non è stata una lettura facile, lo confesso, soprattutto in questo particolare momento della mia vita, ma alla fine ne è valsa ogni lacrima versata.
In Until the last Breath l'autrice apre una finestra nella vita di una donna che sta attraversando il periodo più buio della sua vita, durante il quale deve affrontare la battaglia più dura, una guerra che potrebbe costarle la cosa più preziosa al mondo: la vita.
Shannon è una donna straordinaria, che ha dovuto affrontare mille diversità, ma nonostante tutto non si è mai data per vinta, nemmeno quando la malattia si è presentata alla sua porta, ma nonostante questo non sarà facile accettare quella nuova realtà. Ha la fortuna di avere accanto un uomo che la ama più di ogni altra cosa al mondo, un uomo che camminerebbe sui carboni ardenti se solo glielo chiedesse, un uomo che darebbe la sua stessa vita per salvarla, ma questo non è sufficiente. Quell'eccessiva apprensione e quelle continue attenzioni non fanno altro che farla sentire peggio, un uccello in gabbia con le ali tarpate; ama John ma è convinta che non dovrebbe sprecare il suo tempo accanto ad una moglie morente, dovrebbe cogliere l'attimo e vivere la sua vita al meglio, così come dovrebbe fare lei. Vuole lasciare un segno nella vita delle persone che le sono state accanto e vivere al meglio ogni attimo.

Tra passato e presente ripercorrerete le tappe cruciali della vita di Shannon, John e Max, e scoprire qual è stato il ruolo di quest'ultimo in questa storia meravigliosa.
Durante la lettura mi sono chiesta diverse volte se sia possibile amare due uomini contemporaneamente; stupidamente credevo fosse impossibile, ma dopo un'attenta analisi credo che si possa. Shannon li ama entrambi, ma in modo differente. Confesso che anche io li ho amati entrambi, non sono riuscita a tenere le parti di uno piuttosto che l'altro. La Williams ha messo in contrapposizione due uomini fisicamente diversi, con due personalità diverse e due modi di amare completamente opposti, e li ha resi irresistibili entrambi. Sia Max che John hanno lasciato un segno indelebile nella mia anima e ne custodirò il ricordo.
Potrei continuare a parlarvi di questa storia e dei suoi protagonisti per ore, ma sono costretta a fermarmi.
Non lasciatevi scappare questa storia.

P:S Complimenti Shanora YOU DID IT AGAIN !
YOU ROCK BABY!
Profile Image for MJLovestoRead.
2,271 reviews58 followers
August 23, 2020
I first read this book as Infinity and never was I more excited that Shanora Williams decided to republish it as Until the Last Breath. And I'm here to say that it is even better than I remembered. A different kind of love story, Shannon Hales shows us her life with her beloved husband John in the present as she reminisces about her past with Max. A woman who is literally biding her time as her illness robs her lungs of the ability to breathe. But Shannon is not here to garner pity nor is she full of dread at the thought of leaving this world for good. Instead Williams paints a poignant portrait of a woman who is lucky to have had two men as devoted as John and Max are and the way their lives will undoubtedly be tied together forever.

I still have chills after reading the epilogue not once but twice. And yet I also have a very warm sense of satisfaction the way Williams tied up this story and all the loose ends that plagued every single character in this book. It's not the traditional kind of romance read most are used to but yet you can't deny that love in many forms literally drips from each and every page. Whether it's the love of a sister, husband or best friend, it still fills the heart and keeps Shannon afloat in more ways than one.

There are many sweet scenes that are filled with the right amount of mirth as Shannon navigates through her newfound fate. I was in awe of her strength and her calm at having to accept what her life would be like going forward, oft-times consoling those closest to her as her disease ravaged her lungs. But she is a bit of a wild spirit and many of her decisions were decidedly headstrong but definitely deserved and I cheered Shannon on as she continued to live according to her own rules.

But Williams also shows the darker side and Shannon's tears were never for naught nor were they too much. This book clearly shows the volatility of an illness and all the emotions that go along with it, each understandable and even at times a bit surprising.

I'm beyond glad to have gotten the chance to read this gem again. Although it's not the traditional kind of love story most might be used to, it is gloriously full of the adoration and passion for not only life but for those who mean the most to us. And, honestly, you can't get much better than that.

A huge 5+ stars!
Profile Image for Marta Bo.
974 reviews16 followers
August 30, 2020
Rain outside my window.... Rain inside my soul. It is raining people... It is raining so. damn. hard. I just can't even You guys...

I don't even know what to write now. Until Last Breath should be named Until Last Tear Will Fall Down. I'm drowning. I'm falling. I want to catch my breath again. I fall in love with Shakes. I'm obsessed with Max.... and Johnny oh Johnny I wanna hug You the hardest I can.

Until Last Breath is perfect, just in a way like Shanora Williams only could created the book.
The story is a little different but also very refreshing.... Just feel warned - Until Last Breath will change the meaning of "emotional baggage"... just have a courage to find out HOW.

Shanora Williams is toying with emotions like the best poker player, but... She does it in a beautiful way. You'll let Her for that very, very willingly. She is a Queen of Angst, right??

Shakes, John and Max are teaching us by Mrs. Williams words - BE BRAVE. DO NOT DOUBT. Every people we met in life, every event we are going thru have always it's own meaning - we just need to belive in faith, love and family.

5 MILLION STARS READ. Just one click when You got the chance.
Profile Image for Virginia.
746 reviews44 followers
September 11, 2020
Until the Last Breath made me cry. And I never cry over books. Not only is it beautifully written, it’s a beautiful story. These characters made me FEEL. The story is emotional and took my breath away. Grab some tissues and get ready to dive into this book you won’t forget.

An arc was provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Naomi.
295 reviews
January 20, 2023
“They say people come into our lives for a reason. Some don’t believe that saying, but I do.”

Just when I had accepted how the book would end I was blown away by the actual ending! Cheesy at times but a real emotional roller coaster.
Profile Image for Luciluvsbooksandbags.
52 reviews28 followers
January 21, 2025
Although the synopsis says at the end -no cheating there is some Emotional cheating and I was a bit uncomfortable reading this. (Some lines were definitely crossed in my opinion)Because of that element I didn’t feel the sadness I probably should have.
Profile Image for Chay Charita Reads.
582 reviews13 followers
September 9, 2020
Beautifully heartbreaking story uniquely written by one of my favorite authors!
I’m still reeling from the emotions that I experienced with this book.

Everyone comes into our loves for a reason. Some leave pain and heartbreak others bring grace and undeniable peace and love. This story was so meaningful and poignant leaving an indelible mark on my life.

After finishing this story I was left introspective (as I usually am) after reading a story by Shanora Williams. But this story was different in that suffering, sacrifice and forgiveness were at the core at a time I could feel the pain and somewhat relate. The courage and love displayed by Shannon gave me something special that will stay with me for a long time to come.
Profile Image for Stephanie Hamer.
30 reviews1 follower
August 3, 2025
I listened to the audiobook version of this - and I came SOOOOO close to stopping it about a million times because the narrator is constantly swallowing or drinking??? DROVE ME INSANE! The narration would have been SOOOO good if this would’ve been edited out. I can’t believe with all the technology available, they weren’t able to do that. Sigh.

I’m guessing my irritation with the narrator had a lot to do with me rolling my eyes the majority of this book … she can’t go to Vegas with her husband but as soon as he leaves, she’s on a flight to Paris with her ex? Yeah….. no.

2.5 rounded to 3. And that’s being generous. I’m still aggravated!!!!
656 reviews4 followers
September 11, 2020
Disappointed

I so did not like this girl,hi know she was dying from an incurable disease.... I know she had a hard life....but to be so unfair to someone who plugged her from despair and give her a better life albeit it was a very unfortunate situation with the disease.... She kept being obsessed with Max who treated her as one of his bed warmers....made her get rid of her unborn child... Left her in shambles and broken.... Here comes John...who gives her everything... Pieces her back together and all I read about is Max....Max...Max....even after he almost got her killed with his reckless behavior.... Twice.... I feel that John should have left her dumb a$$...
Profile Image for LaToya (Readingbythebayou).
894 reviews47 followers
September 11, 2020
This book was intense. I felt a myriad of emotions while reading this beautiful story. This isn't what I normally expect from this author but she delivered a flawless emotional, heartbreaking story with all the feels. From the beginning I was a nervous wrecked dreading the end and what would happen. I don't want to give any spoilers so I'm gonna say I loved this book and all of the characters. A heart wrenching beautifully written story.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,878 reviews213 followers
September 11, 2020




Amazon

Shannon had a shitty childhood. She supposed she may have been waiting for life to get better. Then she met gorgeous Max at one of her jobs. In fact, he saved that job and soon after they fell fast and hard. Alas, they weren't meant to be. Because Max was not her soulmate. No, that title goes to her now beloved husband, John. It's John who pieces her back together, is there for her at her worst, and who will be there long after she's gone, which, won't be long now according to her doctors. Yep, she's terminal, and she's accepted it. Now she just has to get her beloved to accept it.



But what if her past collides with her future? What if Max and John come face to face? What does Shannon tell John? What if Max wants back in her life? Now, when she's at her lowest point? Does she allow the light he always brings, to make her life bright again? Even while her husband watches and worries?



Let me tell you people...have a box or three of tissues at the ready before reading this one - trust me, you will need them! Shanora has never skimped on the angst before, but here it's a different type, a more cry your eyes out while gulping for air kind of angst. And I loved every last word of this story of three people. No, there's no cheating. There's not a triangle or anything forbidden like some of Shanora's previous (beloved of mine) writing, just three people and the journey they take. The beautiful, painful, incredibly heartwrenching journey.



ARC via author for an honest review.
Ebook also purchased via Amazon.


Review & Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Profile Image for The MasqueReader .
537 reviews71 followers
September 8, 2020
Extraordinary! Heart-wrenching! Inspirational!

WOW!! Max!! Shannon!! John!! My heart!!! Shanora Williams just completely obliterated every preconceived notion that I had about this book and left me in complete awe of these characters, their journey and the lessons that they could teach each of us about life.

Some people like stories that are light and don’t dive too deep into our minds and hearts, I am the opposite...I need the ones that tells a story of how someone not just fell in love but I need all the life trials that comes along with those great loves. Shanora gives us this in Until The Last Breath! In life, there is pain and sickness & then there’s love so strong that it can ultimately heal anything.

I loved EVERY SINGLE THING about this book! The characters and the journey they all take with each other. The way that each one loves Shannon completely! Shannon possesses the strength we all hope to have if we are ever put in her shoes. A strength that is so difficult to find during those difficult moments in life. To have not just one but two men who love her and do everything they can to protect and give her what she needs. This book is an emotional journey that is both heartbreaking yet inspirational all at the same time.

**Please know that this book does NOT contain cheating! I do NOT do spoilers but I do want to point this out since that tends to be a dealbreaker for some.
Profile Image for Laura Lee.
957 reviews174 followers
August 30, 2020
I went into this book without reading the Blurb, reviews or comments...this is how you should also dive into this beautiful, tearful story.

Page turning experience that at times I was asking myself, do I want to turn the page? I'm so happy I did. This story took me on an unforgettable journey.

Just when a person has given in to the cards that were dealt, doesn't mean its time to fold. As with what this author gave us in this story. You've got to know when to hold them, know when to fold them, know when its safe to walk away.

Pick this one up and enjoy the journey!
Profile Image for Sheena.
124 reviews2 followers
September 2, 2025
I am not sure how this book rated so high. I give it a 2.5 ⭐️. I did not think it was realistic at all. I also think while the book says it is no cheating, I beg to differ. Emotionally cheating is just as bad as sex. Shannon clearly never got over her ex and the fact that her husband just accepted all of this is amazing. I also did NOT like that the book kept making reference to the title of the book throughout the book.

I also listened to this on audio and did not like the acting done as the person was reading it.

Profile Image for Shiva Shayegh.
201 reviews2 followers
August 26, 2020
Oh, no one is ready for this one. I wasn’t ready for it. I received an ARC and from the first page I was sucked into it. At the first chapter I knew Shanora was going to put us through the ringer.. and did she ever. Shannon’s story is raw, tragic and absolutely painful. But all those raw, tragic and painful moments, create a beautiful story you don’t want to miss out on. This book will reside in your heart, soul and memory for years to come.
Profile Image for Myen.
587 reviews
September 10, 2020
Phhhffmmm, I am such a blabbering mess right now! Talking about your true love and beautiful stories.
Shannon Shakers, she know what is going to happen.. The title had spoken with such a heavy plot and painful. The love stories were so heartbreaking and unselfish. The things you do for the ones you love. My goodness, I cried so much..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.