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Parting Chances
Haley Cavanaugh’s heart is broken.
Shattered into a million pieces, and that’s just how she’d like it to stay.
She doesn’t believe she deserves happiness. She doesn’t understand how to move on while her life is falling apart and her reality is destroyed.
Enter Eli Park.
Eli is someone Haley thought she knew, but who turned out to be so much more than she remembered. He sees through her pain and refuses to be pushed away, even when she lashes out.
Eli’s patience is both frustrating and surprising. Haley was so sure she wanted to go on feeling nothing, but Eli stirs emotions she can’t deny.
Will Haley allow Eli to help her through this horrific time so she can find herself again? Or will she lose the only person who can help heal her heart?
Shattered into a million pieces, and that’s just how she’d like it to stay.
She doesn’t believe she deserves happiness. She doesn’t understand how to move on while her life is falling apart and her reality is destroyed.
Enter Eli Park.
Eli is someone Haley thought she knew, but who turned out to be so much more than she remembered. He sees through her pain and refuses to be pushed away, even when she lashes out.
Eli’s patience is both frustrating and surprising. Haley was so sure she wanted to go on feeling nothing, but Eli stirs emotions she can’t deny.
Will Haley allow Eli to help her through this horrific time so she can find herself again? Or will she lose the only person who can help heal her heart?
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2014
11 people are currently reading
1150 people want to read
About the author
Caylie Marcoe
6 books166 followersBorn and raised in the frozen tundra of Wisconsin, Caylie fell in love with reading at a young age. With her lively imagination, she created numerous stories in her head throughout her childhood and teenage years.
Her first novel, Choose Us, released in April 2014 and became an Amazon Bestseller.
When she isn't slaving away at the keyboard, Caylie is an avid reader, and lover of coffee... copious amounts of coffee. She also has an unhealthy addiction to coffee mugs, chapstick, water bottles, football, and tv shows--binge watching is her favorite.
She chases her two kids around the house all day, and has a husband who is her complete opposite, which makes for a lively household. And she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Check out my FB page for teasers from upcoming books!!
https://www.facebook.com/CaylieMarcoe...
Her first novel, Choose Us, released in April 2014 and became an Amazon Bestseller.
When she isn't slaving away at the keyboard, Caylie is an avid reader, and lover of coffee... copious amounts of coffee. She also has an unhealthy addiction to coffee mugs, chapstick, water bottles, football, and tv shows--binge watching is her favorite.
She chases her two kids around the house all day, and has a husband who is her complete opposite, which makes for a lively household. And she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Check out my FB page for teasers from upcoming books!!
https://www.facebook.com/CaylieMarcoe...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 30, 2015
4.5
The whole time I was reading, I was mentally writing my review in my head. I had phrases that were perfect and I wanted to use. But now, as I sit here having finished the book and attempt to write a review, I don’t know what to say.
I love Caylie Marcoe’s writing. I love Choose Us and as soon as I saw she had another book coming, I put it on my TBR list. I didn’t even need to know what it was about because Caylie Marcoe is always a must read.
I loved Haley & Eli’s story. I had a hard time putting it down. But at the same time, I had a hard time picking it back up when I had to put it down. Don’t take that to mean that it’s forgettable or in any way bad. I was just avoiding the inevitable. This book is sad. Heart wrenchingly sad; it’s going to make you ball your eyes out, soak your pillow and go through a whole box of tissues. And the worst (best?) part is that you know it’s coming. From page one, you are warned. (Actually probably the blurb too but like I said, I love the author’s writing so I’m not sure I completely read the blurb. I saw her name and jumped on this.) But those warnings in the book didn’t deter me. There were some moments of sadness throughout the story. But it wasn’t all consuming. Then a reminder of what’s still in store would come and I’d have to walk away and take a breather. The further I got into the book, the more I dreaded picking it back up because I hate crying my eyes out and had already developed the occasional tear leak.
But the story kept pulling me right back in. I had to know what was going to happen between Haley and Eli. Would they make it? Would Haley realize she needed him? Sure enough, I got to the point where I couldn’t put it down because I was so far into it and the author had me in tears. The author pulls you in with friends to lovers story and then sucker punches you with the emotion of other events that leaves you a blubbering mess.
Eli was such a great guy. He was always willing to be what Haley needed from him. I can’t think of another book hero that was that patient. He had his moments of frustration with her, which were totally understandable, but he never gave up. He would do anything for her. There was one point, after the inevitable happened, that Haley pushed him away. I was literally screaming at her for being an idiot. I was really hoping, that after everything they’d been through, when that moment came, she would let him be there for her. Unfortunately, she did the opposite, and that really frustrated me because at a time like that, she needed his support.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Haley’s brother. I would really love a book for him to see how he and his girlfriend came together and got their HEA.
I really do love Caylie Marcoe’s writing. She always brings her stories to life. I can’t wait for the next one!
The whole time I was reading, I was mentally writing my review in my head. I had phrases that were perfect and I wanted to use. But now, as I sit here having finished the book and attempt to write a review, I don’t know what to say.
I love Caylie Marcoe’s writing. I love Choose Us and as soon as I saw she had another book coming, I put it on my TBR list. I didn’t even need to know what it was about because Caylie Marcoe is always a must read.
I loved Haley & Eli’s story. I had a hard time putting it down. But at the same time, I had a hard time picking it back up when I had to put it down. Don’t take that to mean that it’s forgettable or in any way bad. I was just avoiding the inevitable. This book is sad. Heart wrenchingly sad; it’s going to make you ball your eyes out, soak your pillow and go through a whole box of tissues. And the worst (best?) part is that you know it’s coming. From page one, you are warned. (Actually probably the blurb too but like I said, I love the author’s writing so I’m not sure I completely read the blurb. I saw her name and jumped on this.) But those warnings in the book didn’t deter me. There were some moments of sadness throughout the story. But it wasn’t all consuming. Then a reminder of what’s still in store would come and I’d have to walk away and take a breather. The further I got into the book, the more I dreaded picking it back up because I hate crying my eyes out and had already developed the occasional tear leak.
But the story kept pulling me right back in. I had to know what was going to happen between Haley and Eli. Would they make it? Would Haley realize she needed him? Sure enough, I got to the point where I couldn’t put it down because I was so far into it and the author had me in tears. The author pulls you in with friends to lovers story and then sucker punches you with the emotion of other events that leaves you a blubbering mess.
Eli was such a great guy. He was always willing to be what Haley needed from him. I can’t think of another book hero that was that patient. He had his moments of frustration with her, which were totally understandable, but he never gave up. He would do anything for her. There was one point, after the inevitable happened, that Haley pushed him away. I was literally screaming at her for being an idiot. I was really hoping, that after everything they’d been through, when that moment came, she would let him be there for her. Unfortunately, she did the opposite, and that really frustrated me because at a time like that, she needed his support.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Haley’s brother. I would really love a book for him to see how he and his girlfriend came together and got their HEA.
I really do love Caylie Marcoe’s writing. She always brings her stories to life. I can’t wait for the next one!
March 9, 2015
2.75 stars ★ ★ ★ ☆
Thank you Mom, for everything.
This simple phrase and the author's thank yous define this whole book. I gave this book three stars because I don't think it deserves 2 stars, but if GD had half stars I would have used those. This book is amazing and annoying... with a perfect ending.
You may ask how can a book be both amazing and annoying. I know... I really am having a hard time rating it.
This book is about a college girl, Haley, who is going through a bad time. Her mother is seriously ill. She is dying. Cancer. A word that makes your body shiver and your heart ache.
Haley moves out, following her parents wishes, and back to college. Here she shares a house with her best friend, Kyler. The friendship between the two is really heartwarming and it just makes you smile. Kyler is not Haley's only bestfriend, there is another person she grew up with, Noah, he is also Kyler's boyfriend since ... forever. Their trio is really awesome. Half star is for them!
Noah doesn't live with the two but shares a house with his old geeky roommate, Eli. Haley and Eli used to hang out during their freshman year, but Haley never saw beyond his geekiness and was too head over feet for another boy to even consider Eli as something more. Well when she does meet Eli again things are completely different. She feels attracted to him right away and can't stand stay away from him and at the same time can't stand the idea of beying happy with HIM. Here the part gets really annoying!!!
I do understand at first why she thinks the way she does and want's to stay away from him in order to concentrate on her mother illness... but after a while it gets kind of irritating. It's clear that there aren't any walls to keep up so why be stubborn and annoying about it? You're not a 15 year old.
You want him. You don't want him. You think you have the right to be jealous. Treat him like shit. Than want him... and so on... SIGH!
She acted all the time like a fool, like a childish girl, thinking all these stupid things that not even Bella in Twilight would have come up with.
Eli instead was adorable, sweet, shy, flirty and great. Another half star goes to Eli.
The love part just made me sigh all the time, I couldn't stand it, it was boring, girlish, childish and so on. On the other hand I absolutely loved every single scene with her mother. It made me appreciate every single moment spent with my mother. I can't even imagine what it would be like to lose my mother now or later in my life, and this book just touched the right spot, it made me smile and cry. With a perfect ending it really touched my heart. All the remaining stars go to the mother/daughter relationship! Okay read... I think this book could have been perfect if the love relationship had been better described.
August 15, 2015
Rating: 2.5
Let me start this way: it's not a bad story, it isn't! The writing-style isn't cringe-worthy and the MC is... not so bad. The story line is decent; though I wouldn't actually say this is a plot-driven story (there isn't much plot to speak of), but a late teens crisis tangled with family drama.
I could have gotten past about Eli being the most patient and perfect human on Earth, really, I could; just I could have got past Haley's whining (I mean, she got valid reasons!). But I couldn't get past the unnecessary back-and-forth between Eli and Haley. No. Yes, you like each other a lot, it is obvious you both want more, he even tells you as much. You decline, acting all scared of getting your heartbroken and though for making such a decision. I. Get. That. But why the hello-jelly would you (yes, Mc Haley, I'm pointing at you) become a crying drama-queen after barely half the book? Why get wasted and make a fool out of yourself like the stereotypical heartbroken teenager? The character that Caylie Marcoe began building since the beginning of the book came crumbling to pieces; because, truly, she began acting out of character and crying all over (if I may express my opinion).
Other than that, the story has its sweet moments and it tried to approach the scenario of dealing with a parent with advanced cancer and the whole family-tension/drama that comes with it. It wasn't bad, it wasn't exceptional, it was... okay :) Eli was truly a sweetheart (too much, to be honest, hehe).
Let me start this way: it's not a bad story, it isn't! The writing-style isn't cringe-worthy and the MC is... not so bad. The story line is decent; though I wouldn't actually say this is a plot-driven story (there isn't much plot to speak of), but a late teens crisis tangled with family drama.
I could have gotten past about Eli being the most patient and perfect human on Earth, really, I could; just I could have got past Haley's whining (I mean, she got valid reasons!). But I couldn't get past the unnecessary back-and-forth between Eli and Haley. No. Yes, you like each other a lot, it is obvious you both want more, he even tells you as much. You decline, acting all scared of getting your heartbroken and though for making such a decision. I. Get. That. But why the hello-jelly would you (yes, Mc Haley, I'm pointing at you) become a crying drama-queen after barely half the book? Why get wasted and make a fool out of yourself like the stereotypical heartbroken teenager? The character that Caylie Marcoe began building since the beginning of the book came crumbling to pieces; because, truly, she began acting out of character and crying all over (if I may express my opinion).
Other than that, the story has its sweet moments and it tried to approach the scenario of dealing with a parent with advanced cancer and the whole family-tension/drama that comes with it. It wasn't bad, it wasn't exceptional, it was... okay :) Eli was truly a sweetheart (too much, to be honest, hehe).
April 30, 2016
3.5 stars.
Haley Cavanaugh and her older brother Caleb got the worst new ever: Their mother’s cancer has returned and has metastasized all over her body. So she is not a good place when a longtime admirer Eli Park confesses his feelings for her. Haley likes Eli but doesn’t want to start a relationship right now. Is it fair to ask someone to wait for you when you have no idea when (or if) you will be ready for something more than friendship?
This characters actions in this story felt more like high school than college. It was that high school level of communications in relationships. I am going to give Haley a pass because I understood where she was coming from. She was queen of mixed messages and that made me like Eli even more. He navigated those rocky waves like seasoned sailor but I didn’t understand why Haley felt she couldn’t be there for her mom and family, and still have a relationship with Eli.
I actually liked the family dynamics, the relationship between Cavanaugh’s more than the Haley/Eli relationship. They seemed to be a tight knit family but I assuming going through the first round of cancer with the mom made them all closer. The writing was okay, although I would have liked a little more depth to the characters. For instance, Eli was too perfect, and I would have liked Haley to evolve a little more.
It’s a nice story about loss and moving forward.
Special thanks to the author for the audiobook given in exchange for an honest review
Haley Cavanaugh and her older brother Caleb got the worst new ever: Their mother’s cancer has returned and has metastasized all over her body. So she is not a good place when a longtime admirer Eli Park confesses his feelings for her. Haley likes Eli but doesn’t want to start a relationship right now. Is it fair to ask someone to wait for you when you have no idea when (or if) you will be ready for something more than friendship?
This characters actions in this story felt more like high school than college. It was that high school level of communications in relationships. I am going to give Haley a pass because I understood where she was coming from. She was queen of mixed messages and that made me like Eli even more. He navigated those rocky waves like seasoned sailor but I didn’t understand why Haley felt she couldn’t be there for her mom and family, and still have a relationship with Eli.
I actually liked the family dynamics, the relationship between Cavanaugh’s more than the Haley/Eli relationship. They seemed to be a tight knit family but I assuming going through the first round of cancer with the mom made them all closer. The writing was okay, although I would have liked a little more depth to the characters. For instance, Eli was too perfect, and I would have liked Haley to evolve a little more.
It’s a nice story about loss and moving forward.
Special thanks to the author for the audiobook given in exchange for an honest review
November 9, 2014
When I opened this book my intention was to read a few chapters and then quickly go to bed. Little did I know Caylie had other ideas for my evening. A little more than 3 hours later, with tears streaming down my face, I had completed Parting Chances. The book was heart-wrenchingly wonderful and I simply could not put it down! Caylie has beautifully and delicately written a book that will tug at your heartstrings and show you the true meaning of love and acceptance. The impact it had on me was huge. I laughed out loud, I cried, and I loved every single word. I can’t recommend this one enough.
July 26, 2015
4 stars - Received a copy from the author!!
Personal confession: I lost my father to cancer when I was 14 years old. So this influenced my enjoyment of this story in MAJOR ways that may not be shared by others. How?? In good ways -- this book was so epically authentic about what it's like to experience the death of a parent, particularly a loss to cancer. Ms. Marcoe NAILED this. Seriously. It tore my heart out reliving the agony, but I also appreciated the honesty of Haley's experience. The moments when Haley just lays with her Mom in bed broke my heart the most. I remember those moments so vividly. Knowing where it was going, just being in the same room with my Dad, laying down, listening to old records....it hurts, but it's all you've got.
On the other side -- while I never doubted that Haley's reactions were realistic, I also wanted to smack her so hard so many times, b/c I would NEVER do some of the things that she did. Mostly this is in reference to the funeral and Kyler and Noah. I can see how it happened and made sense to her, but I guess I wish that it hadn't made sense to her. None of this will make sense until you read it.
Haley in general drove me a little nuts. We had a love/hate relationship. But I kind of think that's an expected reaction. It was just hard to relate to her sometimes, so that's probably why this book wasn't 5 stars for me.
Eli, on the other hand, was book boyfriend gold. He was so sweet, but generally not a pushover, that I kind of wanted him for myself. :)
So....basically this is a beautiful story of loss, mixed with a little bit of goofiness and great characters and a swoon-worthy boy. Prepare the kleenex folks...but it's worth it.
Personal confession: I lost my father to cancer when I was 14 years old. So this influenced my enjoyment of this story in MAJOR ways that may not be shared by others. How?? In good ways -- this book was so epically authentic about what it's like to experience the death of a parent, particularly a loss to cancer. Ms. Marcoe NAILED this. Seriously. It tore my heart out reliving the agony, but I also appreciated the honesty of Haley's experience. The moments when Haley just lays with her Mom in bed broke my heart the most. I remember those moments so vividly. Knowing where it was going, just being in the same room with my Dad, laying down, listening to old records....it hurts, but it's all you've got.
On the other side -- while I never doubted that Haley's reactions were realistic, I also wanted to smack her so hard so many times, b/c I would NEVER do some of the things that she did. Mostly this is in reference to the funeral and Kyler and Noah. I can see how it happened and made sense to her, but I guess I wish that it hadn't made sense to her. None of this will make sense until you read it.
Haley in general drove me a little nuts. We had a love/hate relationship. But I kind of think that's an expected reaction. It was just hard to relate to her sometimes, so that's probably why this book wasn't 5 stars for me.
Eli, on the other hand, was book boyfriend gold. He was so sweet, but generally not a pushover, that I kind of wanted him for myself. :)
So....basically this is a beautiful story of loss, mixed with a little bit of goofiness and great characters and a swoon-worthy boy. Prepare the kleenex folks...but it's worth it.
January 20, 2024
When I picked up this book, I knew it was going to be a good one. I had thoroughly enjoyed Caylie Marcoe's debut novel "Choose us" and I completely enjoyed this novel as well. I read it in one sitting, a true sign of a good book!
I loved getting to know the main character, Haley, as well as the supporting characters who really made this book, and Haley's life more complete. I felt really enthralled with the story and the realness of it.
We all live and lose in different ways and we all experience doubts and make mistakes, and this book really covered that, in a very real way. I really could relate to this book (because of those things) and I feel that any one could read this book and enjoy it because of those things!
If you are thinking about getting this book, I would say definitely don't hesitate to get it! It will be a very satisfying read for you!
I loved getting to know the main character, Haley, as well as the supporting characters who really made this book, and Haley's life more complete. I felt really enthralled with the story and the realness of it.
We all live and lose in different ways and we all experience doubts and make mistakes, and this book really covered that, in a very real way. I really could relate to this book (because of those things) and I feel that any one could read this book and enjoy it because of those things!
If you are thinking about getting this book, I would say definitely don't hesitate to get it! It will be a very satisfying read for you!
November 6, 2014
~Reviewed by Wendy~
Loved the story of each character. Eli is your wholesome boy next door. He takes care of his mom but is close with his dad. He loves his friends and he loves hard and it's forever. Haley is a girl who loves to love but afraid to but is more afraid to let someone love her. Together these two characters are awesome. I was an emotional wreck reading this story. I felt so sorry for Haley and what she went through with her family but wanted to shake sense into her at the same time. First book from this sue and it won't be the last.
***ARC provided for an honest review***
Loved the story of each character. Eli is your wholesome boy next door. He takes care of his mom but is close with his dad. He loves his friends and he loves hard and it's forever. Haley is a girl who loves to love but afraid to but is more afraid to let someone love her. Together these two characters are awesome. I was an emotional wreck reading this story. I felt so sorry for Haley and what she went through with her family but wanted to shake sense into her at the same time. First book from this sue and it won't be the last.
***ARC provided for an honest review***
November 13, 2014
This book destroyed me in the best possible way. It made me cry but it also made me laugh. It's a journey through life's hardest times but proves that there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. Caylie does a fantastic job at putting us in the character's shoes and feeling every emotion they are feeling. I can't wait for Fighting Chance 2!
November 25, 2014
Wow...just wow. It's hard to put into words how I feel about this book. I just finished and it's all so fresh I can still feel the love and pain. I'm pretty sure my heart broke in several chapters and I need to pick up the pieces. Another great work Caylie. I loved every word and look forward to your next work of art!
October 16, 2014
5 Wonder Woman Stars
Review closer to release day :)
Review closer to release day :)
March 20, 2016
Sorry, but I am having trouble writing this review through my tears. Oh, Caylie Marcoe, you made me ugly cry -- more than once. This was a really beautiful story of a girl, Haley, who is struggling with the happiness she feels when with a boy, Eli, and the sadness she believes she should feel due to her mother's illness.
Eli. Now there is another book boyfriend who has ruined me. He just knows what to say, how to act, when to act. He is patient and kind -- he gives the kind of love you read about in 1 Corinthians. And he loves Haley, has loved Haley since the first day they met. Swoon. Their interactions are adorable and I loved watching their relationship evolve. Haley, though, I kind of wanted to smack her -- often. I tried to sympathize with her, and I tried to understand her situation, but it was Eli, how could she do these things to Eli. Frustrating!
The chapters where Haley's family were center stage were some of the most beautiful parts of the story. Yes, these parts wrecked me, but they also allowed me to glimpse the precious love between her parents, and their love for her and her brother.
Not only did Haley have a wonderful family, her two best friends were pretty awesome too. All in all, Haley was one lucky girl.
This book sort of had it all for me. It was funny, sad, sweet, and a very enjoyable read.
Eli. Now there is another book boyfriend who has ruined me. He just knows what to say, how to act, when to act. He is patient and kind -- he gives the kind of love you read about in 1 Corinthians. And he loves Haley, has loved Haley since the first day they met. Swoon. Their interactions are adorable and I loved watching their relationship evolve. Haley, though, I kind of wanted to smack her -- often. I tried to sympathize with her, and I tried to understand her situation, but it was Eli, how could she do these things to Eli. Frustrating!
The chapters where Haley's family were center stage were some of the most beautiful parts of the story. Yes, these parts wrecked me, but they also allowed me to glimpse the precious love between her parents, and their love for her and her brother.
Not only did Haley have a wonderful family, her two best friends were pretty awesome too. All in all, Haley was one lucky girl.
This book sort of had it all for me. It was funny, sad, sweet, and a very enjoyable read.
November 14, 2014
When you're 5 pages through a book and you're already bawling your eyes out, you know you're in for a good one.
That's exatly what this book is.
In the first chapter I found myself crying like a damn baby and thinking what I would do in a situation like that. It totally freaked me out.
Then I was in the car with my dad, and I had to stop reading because he would probably think I was nuts for starting to cry randomly.
So the big, big thing for me in this book is Eli. That man, my friends, could win an award for the most patient and sweet book guy ever. I'm pretty sure, this guy is gonna win some book award or something. He is seriously amazing. I'm like in love.
The only "down", and it's not exactly a down was Haley. Somehow me and her didn't click really well as the book went along. In the beggining I was really into her but then I just found myself questioning some of her actions and wanting to smack her. I can understand how her feelings made sense to her, but they just didn't made sense to me.
So this is the only reason this book is not a solid 5 to me. It's definitely worth it.
That's exatly what this book is.
In the first chapter I found myself crying like a damn baby and thinking what I would do in a situation like that. It totally freaked me out.
Then I was in the car with my dad, and I had to stop reading because he would probably think I was nuts for starting to cry randomly.
So the big, big thing for me in this book is Eli. That man, my friends, could win an award for the most patient and sweet book guy ever. I'm pretty sure, this guy is gonna win some book award or something. He is seriously amazing. I'm like in love.
The only "down", and it's not exactly a down was Haley. Somehow me and her didn't click really well as the book went along. In the beggining I was really into her but then I just found myself questioning some of her actions and wanting to smack her. I can understand how her feelings made sense to her, but they just didn't made sense to me.
So this is the only reason this book is not a solid 5 to me. It's definitely worth it.
January 21, 2015
Heart wrenching and beautiful!
So I sat down to begin this book because one, I loved this authors other books, and two, I had a hour to begin. Well, lets just say a few hours later I had to stop so I was able to function at work the next day. I slept a bit and woke up before my alarm to finish before work. I had to stop a few times because I could not see through me tears.
With that being said, it is not a story that just has some sad parts, it is a story that goes above and beyond. I fell in love with ALL the characters. The author painted such a vivid picture of the characters and the story. It had me griped the entire time.
Haley is in her senior year of college when she finds out her mother's cancer has returned. She tries to continue school with the help of her two best friends. Haley is reintroduced to an old friend she has not seen in a couple of years. Enter Eli, he is no longer scrawny and geeky looking, he has grown into a man. Haley fights her feelings for him as her mother cancer gets worse. Is the heart allowed to love and break at the same time?
So I sat down to begin this book because one, I loved this authors other books, and two, I had a hour to begin. Well, lets just say a few hours later I had to stop so I was able to function at work the next day. I slept a bit and woke up before my alarm to finish before work. I had to stop a few times because I could not see through me tears.
With that being said, it is not a story that just has some sad parts, it is a story that goes above and beyond. I fell in love with ALL the characters. The author painted such a vivid picture of the characters and the story. It had me griped the entire time.
Haley is in her senior year of college when she finds out her mother's cancer has returned. She tries to continue school with the help of her two best friends. Haley is reintroduced to an old friend she has not seen in a couple of years. Enter Eli, he is no longer scrawny and geeky looking, he has grown into a man. Haley fights her feelings for him as her mother cancer gets worse. Is the heart allowed to love and break at the same time?
November 19, 2014
If you don’t already know it I love Caylie Marcoe. Her first book “Choose Us” was new, original and so much fun to read. But with her second book “Parting Chances” author Caylie Marcoe has taken her writing and her readers to an all new level of book fabulousness.
I just couldn’t stop crying with this one. You know that kind where you keep patting yourself on the chest and shaking your head. Heart-wrenching and tender moments. Feelings I and so many others can relate to. And that is what always makes me fall for a good book. “THE REAL MOMENTS” The moments we have lived and relive in these characters. Caylie can always get a laugh and some tears out of me but this time I really feel like she has upped her game. In the sense that I had to up my tissue count. LOL!! I was just thrilled when I finished Haley’s and Eli’s story I just wanted to run up and hug Caylie for making my entire day.
Now that’s a good book!!!
I just couldn’t stop crying with this one. You know that kind where you keep patting yourself on the chest and shaking your head. Heart-wrenching and tender moments. Feelings I and so many others can relate to. And that is what always makes me fall for a good book. “THE REAL MOMENTS” The moments we have lived and relive in these characters. Caylie can always get a laugh and some tears out of me but this time I really feel like she has upped her game. In the sense that I had to up my tissue count. LOL!! I was just thrilled when I finished Haley’s and Eli’s story I just wanted to run up and hug Caylie for making my entire day.
Now that’s a good book!!!
November 13, 2014
This is the second book I have read by Caylie, and she is seriously one of my most favorite authors. Her characters are well defined and are real. I usually read a TON of paranormal type stuff, so her books are always a good break from that. This one though...oh this one had me bawling like a baby, and reminded me a lot of the Lurlene McDaniel's books I always read as a kid.
Let's talk about Haley...girl has a LOT on her plate. She's moved in with her best friend, Kyler, and quickly becomes a part of a foursome involving Kyler, Kyler's boyfriend, herself, and Eli.
Oh Eli...how he has grown...
Only Haley doesn't immediately recognize this hunky guy who used to be such a nerd. A nerd who has been totally in love with Haley for like...ever.
This book is heartwrenching and beautiful. I don't usually go for the books I know will make me cry, but this is so worth the read. I highly recommend it!
Let's talk about Haley...girl has a LOT on her plate. She's moved in with her best friend, Kyler, and quickly becomes a part of a foursome involving Kyler, Kyler's boyfriend, herself, and Eli.
Oh Eli...how he has grown...
Only Haley doesn't immediately recognize this hunky guy who used to be such a nerd. A nerd who has been totally in love with Haley for like...ever.
This book is heartwrenching and beautiful. I don't usually go for the books I know will make me cry, but this is so worth the read. I highly recommend it!
November 20, 2014
* I received this book in exchange for an honest review
How do I begin to write a review for a book that touched me so deeply, and made me feel so strongly about these characters and the situations they are in....when I told Caylie I loved her book but it left me an emotional wreck, she said she meant to warn me! I love her and her book..and would have read it no matter what. Just so you know, what she already knew...about 3 months ago I lost my Dad to cancer, so this book touched me in a way no other has.
The characters are real, their emotions are real..I enjoyed every aspect of it...even the ones (and there were a lot) that made me cry. It's not just all tears though, there was fun, laughter...love. It is very well rounded in what it has to offer. Caylie did a wonderful job writing these tough scenes, making you feel right along with the characters.
I fully recommend this book..and her first book Choose Us!
How do I begin to write a review for a book that touched me so deeply, and made me feel so strongly about these characters and the situations they are in....when I told Caylie I loved her book but it left me an emotional wreck, she said she meant to warn me! I love her and her book..and would have read it no matter what. Just so you know, what she already knew...about 3 months ago I lost my Dad to cancer, so this book touched me in a way no other has.
The characters are real, their emotions are real..I enjoyed every aspect of it...even the ones (and there were a lot) that made me cry. It's not just all tears though, there was fun, laughter...love. It is very well rounded in what it has to offer. Caylie did a wonderful job writing these tough scenes, making you feel right along with the characters.
I fully recommend this book..and her first book Choose Us!
December 21, 2014
Oh... the feels in the book. I didn't just tear up, I sobbed, I ugly cried. Caylie Marcoe's writing is powerful and places you right there with Hayley as she goes through losing her mother and trying to protect her heart from Eli. I know some reviews do not like that Eli hangs on, and waits for Hayley while she breaks his heart more than once. To those people, I say, I understand, but sometimes love makes you stupid, makes you do things you think you would never do, makes you give people more chances than others may think they deserve. And love can be what saves us all. I think I'm still recovering from reading this book, not sure how long that will take me, but I can't wait to read more about Kyler and Noah in the next one. I just hope I don't cry as much!
May 8, 2015
Actual rating - 3.5
I felt sorry for Haley in this. It must be awful to know your mother isn't going to be around much longer, and it would be so hard to watch her get weaker with every visit.
There was a few times where I felt a bit bored while reading this, but most of the time it was an okay read.
I felt sorry for Haley in this. It must be awful to know your mother isn't going to be around much longer, and it would be so hard to watch her get weaker with every visit.
There was a few times where I felt a bit bored while reading this, but most of the time it was an okay read.
October 21, 2015
I loved Haley & Eli’s story. I had a hard time putting it down. At the same time, I had a hard time picking it back up when I had to put it down. This book is sad. Heart wrenchingly sad; it’s going to make you ball your eyes out, soak your pillow and go through a whole box of tissues. There were some moments of sadness throughout the story.
January 23, 2015
Note: This ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Parting Chances is the first book in the Fighting Chance series by author Caylie Marcoe and is a new adult (NA) romance about a college senior dealing with the cancer diagnosis of her mother while trying to continue living her life. She wants to focus on her family and on school but the re-appearance of a guy she met in freshman year has her off-kilter. Is she ready to take a chance on falling in love with someone who seems to be the perfect guy for her or are her walls too formidable for even true love to overcome?
Haley Cavanaugh has a lot on her plate--she's in her last year of college, she's about to move into an apartment with her best friend Kyler, she's dealing with the break-up of her relationship with her ex-boyfriend, and she's just learned that her mother's cancer has returned and is no longer responding to treatment. The last thing she needs is to be distracted by a guy who's gone from geeky to hottie in the span of three years. The more time she spends with him, the more she risks falling hard for him.
Eli Park first met Haley in their freshman year and he's pretty sure that he barely remembers him other than having been her best friend Noah's roommate and a scrawny nerd. He left after that year and has now returned, no longer scrawny but still a touch nerdy and sharing a house with Noah. He's had a crush on Haley ever since they crossed paths but he never got his shot with her, what with her not noticing him and then proceeding to date another guy. Now, he wants her to finally take a chance on him.
Haley makes it clear to Eli that she isn't ready to be part of a serious relationship, what with everything going on with her family. Eli respects her wishes and doesn't push her, but he does tell her that he's willing to wait. What began as an awkward re-introduction has blossomed into a great friendship between the two but Eli wants more and so does Haley, except she refuses to break down her walls even for him. She constantly pushes him away and proceeds to tell him to move on with someone else.
When Haley sees Eli with another girl, she realizes how wrong she was to let him go. They come to an agreement and acknowledge that there's definitely something more going on between the two of them. Just as Haley's ready to take their relationship to the next level, she receives news that devastates her and makes her lash out at the one person who's provided her the support she needs. Is she destined to live her life totally alone, having pushed away those whose love and care she refuses to rely on?
Haley was a frustrating character and it has to do with what I perceived as her often immature and selfish behavior. There were times that she and Kyler reminded me more of teenagers in high school rather than college seniors. She didn't want to be in a relationship with Eli but went nutty the minute she saw him with someone else. She had a tendency of over-reacting and over dramatizing everything. Still, she did grow on me towards the latter half of the book, even though I still wanted to smack some sense into her.
While this is a love story, Parting Chances is also about family. Haley's relationship with her parents and her brother may seem overly idealized but the reality that they would all soon lose Haley's mother could have either shattered or strengthened them. There were a few moments that I found myself tearing up because of what the family was going through and how Eli was simply this source of quiet strength and support for Haley. This was a pleasure to read and I'm happily giving it four stars. ♥
Parting Chances is the first book in the Fighting Chance series by author Caylie Marcoe and is a new adult (NA) romance about a college senior dealing with the cancer diagnosis of her mother while trying to continue living her life. She wants to focus on her family and on school but the re-appearance of a guy she met in freshman year has her off-kilter. Is she ready to take a chance on falling in love with someone who seems to be the perfect guy for her or are her walls too formidable for even true love to overcome?
Haley Cavanaugh has a lot on her plate--she's in her last year of college, she's about to move into an apartment with her best friend Kyler, she's dealing with the break-up of her relationship with her ex-boyfriend, and she's just learned that her mother's cancer has returned and is no longer responding to treatment. The last thing she needs is to be distracted by a guy who's gone from geeky to hottie in the span of three years. The more time she spends with him, the more she risks falling hard for him.
Eli Park first met Haley in their freshman year and he's pretty sure that he barely remembers him other than having been her best friend Noah's roommate and a scrawny nerd. He left after that year and has now returned, no longer scrawny but still a touch nerdy and sharing a house with Noah. He's had a crush on Haley ever since they crossed paths but he never got his shot with her, what with her not noticing him and then proceeding to date another guy. Now, he wants her to finally take a chance on him.
Haley makes it clear to Eli that she isn't ready to be part of a serious relationship, what with everything going on with her family. Eli respects her wishes and doesn't push her, but he does tell her that he's willing to wait. What began as an awkward re-introduction has blossomed into a great friendship between the two but Eli wants more and so does Haley, except she refuses to break down her walls even for him. She constantly pushes him away and proceeds to tell him to move on with someone else.
When Haley sees Eli with another girl, she realizes how wrong she was to let him go. They come to an agreement and acknowledge that there's definitely something more going on between the two of them. Just as Haley's ready to take their relationship to the next level, she receives news that devastates her and makes her lash out at the one person who's provided her the support she needs. Is she destined to live her life totally alone, having pushed away those whose love and care she refuses to rely on?
Haley was a frustrating character and it has to do with what I perceived as her often immature and selfish behavior. There were times that she and Kyler reminded me more of teenagers in high school rather than college seniors. She didn't want to be in a relationship with Eli but went nutty the minute she saw him with someone else. She had a tendency of over-reacting and over dramatizing everything. Still, she did grow on me towards the latter half of the book, even though I still wanted to smack some sense into her.
While this is a love story, Parting Chances is also about family. Haley's relationship with her parents and her brother may seem overly idealized but the reality that they would all soon lose Haley's mother could have either shattered or strengthened them. There were a few moments that I found myself tearing up because of what the family was going through and how Eli was simply this source of quiet strength and support for Haley. This was a pleasure to read and I'm happily giving it four stars. ♥
January 22, 2015
This review can also be found on: http://bbf-book-boyfriends.blogspot.de
I was really honored to have received a copy to read this wonderful book. I truly truly loved it. The style of writing was easy to get into and Caylie manages to suck you into the story as well. She creates a feeling within you where you're absolutely devastated at what Haley has to go through, and yet desperately wnat her to see the good in life, no matter what it throws her way.
Seeing how Haley has to go family issues that are anything but easy to deal with, it's hard for her to let her heart connect with another person. She has tucked that away, not wanting anyone else to break it into even more pieces than it's already starting to. Not even her best friend Kyler can pull her out of her no-guy-life.
Until Eli enters her life. Oh my, Eli is just amazing, I have to say. The patience he shows Haley is something I believe we would all want in the guy of our dreams. I mean, no matter how often Haley throws him out or tells him off, he never wavers. He tries to respect her wishes, even if it gets harder and harder each day.
One of my favorite scenes by far was the drunken party scene! I won't say more than that, just know that you should never drink when your heart is broken!! Not a good idea at all!!
Eli and Haley's relationship/friendship is a beautiful thing to watch, because the trust they slowly build up is just so palable, and I loved reading about this!!!
I have to acknowledge the side characters as well, because the other part of the story had me tearing up more than once. To see how Haley's family interacts with each other, how her friends are always there for her, especially when she least expects is, it just astonishing and heart-warming. I loved seeing those scenes and knowing that friendships like that cannot break , no matter what!!
The end simply made me cry....yes, it made me cry because it didn't only break Haley's heart into pieces, but mine as well. And as weird as it sounds, but it was a beautiful cry. Caylie wrapped up the story so rightly that you can't help but feel happy in the end.
So, so wrap it up, I only have to say that Caylie will be an author I will definitely read more about, because this book has me wanting more!!!
I was really honored to have received a copy to read this wonderful book. I truly truly loved it. The style of writing was easy to get into and Caylie manages to suck you into the story as well. She creates a feeling within you where you're absolutely devastated at what Haley has to go through, and yet desperately wnat her to see the good in life, no matter what it throws her way.
Seeing how Haley has to go family issues that are anything but easy to deal with, it's hard for her to let her heart connect with another person. She has tucked that away, not wanting anyone else to break it into even more pieces than it's already starting to. Not even her best friend Kyler can pull her out of her no-guy-life.
Until Eli enters her life. Oh my, Eli is just amazing, I have to say. The patience he shows Haley is something I believe we would all want in the guy of our dreams. I mean, no matter how often Haley throws him out or tells him off, he never wavers. He tries to respect her wishes, even if it gets harder and harder each day.
One of my favorite scenes by far was the drunken party scene! I won't say more than that, just know that you should never drink when your heart is broken!! Not a good idea at all!!
Eli and Haley's relationship/friendship is a beautiful thing to watch, because the trust they slowly build up is just so palable, and I loved reading about this!!!
I have to acknowledge the side characters as well, because the other part of the story had me tearing up more than once. To see how Haley's family interacts with each other, how her friends are always there for her, especially when she least expects is, it just astonishing and heart-warming. I loved seeing those scenes and knowing that friendships like that cannot break , no matter what!!
The end simply made me cry....yes, it made me cry because it didn't only break Haley's heart into pieces, but mine as well. And as weird as it sounds, but it was a beautiful cry. Caylie wrapped up the story so rightly that you can't help but feel happy in the end.
So, so wrap it up, I only have to say that Caylie will be an author I will definitely read more about, because this book has me wanting more!!!
February 1, 2015
What an emotional read. If you got through this book without shedding a tear, you're a robot. If you haven't read this book yet? Make sure you have a box of Kleenex handy. This book reminded me of the books I used to read by Lurlene McDaniel...full of terminal illnesses, death, dying, sad stuff. The only catch is that this intertwines a much deeper love story than Lurlene's books normally did. For that reason, I loved Parting Chances. It did more of what I liked with a bit less of the sad stuff!
That being said, I found that this book was all about Haley which is the only reason I didn't give it a full five stars. I felt that Eli was a bit underdeveloped. We get the sense that he's an awesome guy who's set on waiting for Haley until she's good and ready for a relationship. He puts up with a lot of crap from her and has the patience of a saint...but beyond that, we really know nothing about him. And I wish we did! There's not a big story around his character, he's just there and awesome, so it seems. On the otherhand, Haley is fully developed and there's so much about her character and how she's growing as a person and dealing with her mother's situation.
Great book, though, I definitely enjoyed it. It is totally and heart-wrenchingly a page turner even know you sort of know how it's going to end. I definitely recommending this to anyone who loves a tear-jerker!
That being said, I found that this book was all about Haley which is the only reason I didn't give it a full five stars. I felt that Eli was a bit underdeveloped. We get the sense that he's an awesome guy who's set on waiting for Haley until she's good and ready for a relationship. He puts up with a lot of crap from her and has the patience of a saint...but beyond that, we really know nothing about him. And I wish we did! There's not a big story around his character, he's just there and awesome, so it seems. On the otherhand, Haley is fully developed and there's so much about her character and how she's growing as a person and dealing with her mother's situation.
Great book, though, I definitely enjoyed it. It is totally and heart-wrenchingly a page turner even know you sort of know how it's going to end. I definitely recommending this to anyone who loves a tear-jerker!
February 25, 2015
When I started this book I was planning on reading a couple chapters then finishing chores and homework. Little did I know that this book would draw me and and not let me stop reading. I read for about 3 hours straight before I finished the book and I have to say, it was totally worth it.
I honestly loved this book so much it's not even funny. I knew from the beginning that I was going to love it and couldn't have been happier. I was really getting into the book and by the end I had a tear stained face, and not many books do that to me!
The story kept getting better and better and never had a dull moment. I was really worried about the ending because I heard that a second book in the Fighting Chances series is coming out soon. I was scared that the book was going to end on a cliffhanger and leave me wanting more right then and there. Luckily, this book wraps up the beautiful story of Eli and Hayley and the second book is about their friends, Kyler and Noah.
After reading this book I can say for a fact that I will be reading more of Caylie's books. Not only is she an amazing writer but she is also so sweet and I'm so happy I had the pleasure of talking to her.
Now all I have to do is find someone who can pick up the pieces of my heart seeing that reading this shattered it! :)
I honestly loved this book so much it's not even funny. I knew from the beginning that I was going to love it and couldn't have been happier. I was really getting into the book and by the end I had a tear stained face, and not many books do that to me!
The story kept getting better and better and never had a dull moment. I was really worried about the ending because I heard that a second book in the Fighting Chances series is coming out soon. I was scared that the book was going to end on a cliffhanger and leave me wanting more right then and there. Luckily, this book wraps up the beautiful story of Eli and Hayley and the second book is about their friends, Kyler and Noah.
After reading this book I can say for a fact that I will be reading more of Caylie's books. Not only is she an amazing writer but she is also so sweet and I'm so happy I had the pleasure of talking to her.
Now all I have to do is find someone who can pick up the pieces of my heart seeing that reading this shattered it! :)
January 26, 2016
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4 Stars for the book
3 Stars for the narration.
I received this audio book in exchange for an honest reveiw.
This book will always hold a special place in my heart because it is the first book I read that ever made me cry. Not just little tears either, but big crocodile tears most would call the ‘ugly cry’. So it was really hard when I listened to the book and found myself disconnected from the MC. We share a common past; my mom also died of cancer so I totally got her character.
The audio book was overshadowed by the narrator’s high-pitched voice. She surprisingly nailed the male voices but I found myself having a hard time liking the MC because her voice was so whiny. I have read this book before I listened to the audio which is how I do it, like a compare and contrast of reading and listening. The differences were very big in my head. Hayley seemed to be a bit childish in her behavior when I listened to it but in the book I never noticed, I am not sure if it was intentional or not but I just couldn’t get in to her character this time around.
Great book, not so great narration.
4 Stars for the book
3 Stars for the narration.
I received this audio book in exchange for an honest reveiw.
This book will always hold a special place in my heart because it is the first book I read that ever made me cry. Not just little tears either, but big crocodile tears most would call the ‘ugly cry’. So it was really hard when I listened to the book and found myself disconnected from the MC. We share a common past; my mom also died of cancer so I totally got her character.
The audio book was overshadowed by the narrator’s high-pitched voice. She surprisingly nailed the male voices but I found myself having a hard time liking the MC because her voice was so whiny. I have read this book before I listened to the audio which is how I do it, like a compare and contrast of reading and listening. The differences were very big in my head. Hayley seemed to be a bit childish in her behavior when I listened to it but in the book I never noticed, I am not sure if it was intentional or not but I just couldn’t get in to her character this time around.
Great book, not so great narration.
August 18, 2017
If Haley Cavanaugh were real, I feel as though we would be amazing friends. She is stubborn and loyal, impatient and kind. She is everything I want to be and more. This book struck me on an emotional level that I haven't felt in a book for a very long time. I knew that no matter what this book would result in tears, but it wasn't until I began reading it that I realized I shouldn't. I have gone through what Haley has dealt with before and once again I am dealing with the pain cancer brings. While it may not have been my mother who has passed, both of my papas have remained in my thoughts throughout the entirety of the novel. Caylie Marcoe knew exactly what she was doing when she wrote this, and my heart goes out to her for her mother as well as Haley's. I cannot wait to read her other stories, and I look forward to the happiness and the heart-wrenching moments in the books to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2015
This book was an emotional roller-coaster to me. I laughed, smiled and cried at different times throughout this book. It was almost like parts of me was in this book and my heart was experiencing everything she was. I have stopped and rewritten this review twice, because you need to experience the emotions of what is going on with Haley as the story unfolds. How does what is happening around her shape, make or break her? Can a heart that Haley is not sure even feel whole be open to dating or more?
I would highly recommend this book to anyone. The plot and character development is great and well supported. I cannot wait to read more from this author. She is creative and knows how to grip your heart.
November 16, 2014
This book was beautiful. I loved Eli and Haley and really enjoyed reading about the struggles they went through while Haley was dealing with her Mom's cancer. There were times that I was really mad at Haley because of some of the choices she made, but I realized it was because I cared about her so much. This story is written in a way that makes you care for and love the characters, and you are rooting for them the entire time.
I will warn though, I needed a box of tissues to get through this. I laughed, I cried, I got mad, but mostly I cried. Despite the blooming love there are some very raw tender moments. I had a roller coaster of emotions.
I will warn though, I needed a box of tissues to get through this. I laughed, I cried, I got mad, but mostly I cried. Despite the blooming love there are some very raw tender moments. I had a roller coaster of emotions.
November 28, 2015
"This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast.
In 1968 I was 10 years old when my mother died.I never got to say good-bye.
In 2004 my 14 year old daughter died.
There were so many things that mothers and daughters should do together, that never happened.
This book follows Haley as her family dynamics change, and she grows up and is supposed to move on. We hope she will allow herself happiness, that she feels she does not deserve.
Our high school librarian asked me to recommend good books for the library to purchase. I loved the audiobook so much I sent her the info for a print edition.
In 1968 I was 10 years old when my mother died.I never got to say good-bye.
In 2004 my 14 year old daughter died.
There were so many things that mothers and daughters should do together, that never happened.
This book follows Haley as her family dynamics change, and she grows up and is supposed to move on. We hope she will allow herself happiness, that she feels she does not deserve.
Our high school librarian asked me to recommend good books for the library to purchase. I loved the audiobook so much I sent her the info for a print edition.
November 21, 2014
This was a great story! It made me giddy reading it and heck it even made me cry- seriously! I started thinking I was just going to read a chapter here and there- nope! It just kept you longing for more! I read it all! I can't wait for the next book in the series! Ms. Marcoe I can't wait to read more of your work! Check this lady out!
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