What do you think?
Rate this book
Breathe #1
Take My Breath Away
Alyssa is at the top of her world. She has just graduated, is heading to the college of her choice, in love with her high school sweetheart and has a picture perfect family life. But when that world is turned upside down, she is left feeling stunned and in desperate need of an escape.
With a little persuasion from her sister, Abby, she takes off for a girl's get away to the lake, hoping for peace, laughter and a chance to clear her head. The last thing she expected was him!
From betrayal to heartache, to relentless love and passion, Take My Breath Away will take you on a journey that will leave you truly gasping for air!
With a little persuasion from her sister, Abby, she takes off for a girl's get away to the lake, hoping for peace, laughter and a chance to clear her head. The last thing she expected was him!
From betrayal to heartache, to relentless love and passion, Take My Breath Away will take you on a journey that will leave you truly gasping for air!
- GenresRomanceContemporary
334 pages, Paperback
First published April 18, 2015
44 people are currently reading
493 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
April 10, 2015
I recieved a copy for an honest review.
I just want to start out saying the cover and the blurb hooked me right away. This is a new author and I just happen to come across the cover one day and boy am I glad I did. I absolutley fell in love with Wendy's writing and all of the characters.
The two main characters Judd and Alyssa meet and it is instant chemistry and attracaction. There time together was so sweet and brings you back to being young again. Although they go through some rough periods along the way their love for each other seems to never be unwaivered! But can things really be that simple? Sometimes when other meddle in the relationship things can not be taken back!
I absolutley loved every character in this book, I am secretly hoping they all get their own books!! I loved all the different bonds and connections, not between Judd and Alyssa, but with Alyssa and her family. There were times in this book where I found myself laughing out loud and other times where I had tears.
I would definitley recommend this story to everyone. I have now become a huge fan of Wendy's work and can not wait for what she has next!!
I just want to start out saying the cover and the blurb hooked me right away. This is a new author and I just happen to come across the cover one day and boy am I glad I did. I absolutley fell in love with Wendy's writing and all of the characters.
The two main characters Judd and Alyssa meet and it is instant chemistry and attracaction. There time together was so sweet and brings you back to being young again. Although they go through some rough periods along the way their love for each other seems to never be unwaivered! But can things really be that simple? Sometimes when other meddle in the relationship things can not be taken back!
I absolutley loved every character in this book, I am secretly hoping they all get their own books!! I loved all the different bonds and connections, not between Judd and Alyssa, but with Alyssa and her family. There were times in this book where I found myself laughing out loud and other times where I had tears.
I would definitley recommend this story to everyone. I have now become a huge fan of Wendy's work and can not wait for what she has next!!
February 11, 2015
Regardless of the number of book reviews, blog posts, or such that I do professionally; I must emphasize the power that this new author has in capturing as well as obtaining the reader’s attention. It is hard to stop reading even when necessary. The twists and turns that seem to be never ending throughout the text will leave you yearning for more books. I am typically not a fan of contemporary romance. I need more of a chase and thrill type of plot. However, this book defeated that perception of mine. I would not necessarily categorize this text as new adult either though. It has a much classier and tasteful approach than the average style of new adult I have previously explored. The best way to explain the genre is contemporary romance with a kick! For those of you that dodge this style, fear not! This book is truly captivating and most certainly different from the initial definition that some of us avoid. The character development is phenomenal. If you are looking for a book with many facets of life explored through a well-developed emotional lens then this text is most certainly the one for you. I particularly enjoyed the elements addressing young love, desire, and illness. The emotional components are hard to ignore and absolutely impossible to not feel within ones soul. I greatly look forward to the publication and success of this book. I assume it will be available for all readers very soon based on its well-constructed plot and development. I am also beyond excited to see what is in store for the remaining books in this series. Add this to your must-read list. You will not regret it!
February 5, 2015
This book is definitely a must-read! It's such a wonderful love story between Alyssa & Judd that keeps you turning the pages! It's also filled with many more characters that you fall in love with & want to learn more about. This author is great at making you feel like you're falling in love for the first time all over again! Very reminiscent of Nicholas Sparks with a little spice! Can't wait to read the whole series!! Put this one on your "to-read" list!! :)
June 3, 2015
Even though I enjoyed this story and thought it was well written there were a few things I really hate in books that made me deduct a few stars.
What I enjoyed:
1. Judd - he was awesome!
2. The drama - loved it! The more drama, the better in my book. If you don't like drama or cheaters, this isn't the book for you.
What I really disliked (and these are personal preferences!):
1. Alyssa. She came across as kind of dumb and really oblivious to what was going on around her.
2. How disgustingly sugar-sweet Alyssa and Judd were together. It was nauseating! All the long looks, tender brushes of fingers on cheeks, sighs and heartfelt declarations of love got old really fast.
3. Giggles! Maybe the editor needs a thesaurus but I counted the word "giggle" 79 (SEVENTY-NINE!!!) times in this book! Seriously, do young adults really giggle that much? Oh wait, Alyssa's mom was a giggler too...
Even with all the things I didn't like I will still read another book by this author.
What I enjoyed:
1. Judd - he was awesome!
2. The drama - loved it! The more drama, the better in my book. If you don't like drama or cheaters, this isn't the book for you.
What I really disliked (and these are personal preferences!):
1. Alyssa. She came across as kind of dumb and really oblivious to what was going on around her.
2. How disgustingly sugar-sweet Alyssa and Judd were together. It was nauseating! All the long looks, tender brushes of fingers on cheeks, sighs and heartfelt declarations of love got old really fast.
3. Giggles! Maybe the editor needs a thesaurus but I counted the word "giggle" 79 (SEVENTY-NINE!!!) times in this book! Seriously, do young adults really giggle that much? Oh wait, Alyssa's mom was a giggler too...
Even with all the things I didn't like I will still read another book by this author.
April 12, 2015
Wow! Amazing book by Wendy L. Wilson! The love stories of all love stories! Girl going through a rough patch, meets her savior, "Judd," and the attraction instant!
April 13, 2015
See this review and more on my blog: The Library Princess
This was a title that has some definite appeal for young adult, women's fiction, and contemporary romance readers as well.
So, here's what happens, briefly:
Alyssa is, seemingly, someone who has a lot going for her at the beginning of this story. She has just graduated from high school and has been in a serious relationship for a while with someone that she thinks is great. When she discovers a horrible deception after attending a party, it seems her world is crashing down. At the same time, she gets some bad news about her father's health, which makes it all seem even worse. Her sister, Abby, convinces her to spend some time with "the girls" at the lake to wind down and distract herself. Immediately, she meets Judd and they fall in love with each other. In the beginning, everything is happy and perfect, but they have to go their separate ways as their time at the lake comes to an end. Knowing that things will continue as they have been, Alyssa is shocked when things don't go as planned.
From this point, Alyssa's goal is to distract herself by settling into college and getting an apartment with her best friend, Bethany (not a favorite character for sure). She is living life as happily as possible when Judd makes a comeback....but in a not-so-great way. Alyssa and Judd try to rekindle their romance, while facing some harsh challenges. Will they be able to make it through the troubles and still end up together? Just how many times can Alyssa take being deceived?
Though I felt that the immediate, new relationship with Judd was a bit unrealistic (that may be my own jaded views on relationships coming into play here), I did really like these characters. I felt that they were well-developed and very real. Alyssa is probably stronger than I would ever be when it comes to being able to ignore a man when he is sending you text after text and call after call! I also enjoyed some of the supporting characters, especially Evan (Judd's best friend) and Abby (Alyssa's sister). Overall, I feel that this was a good plot and a great debut from a new author!
This was a title that has some definite appeal for young adult, women's fiction, and contemporary romance readers as well.
So, here's what happens, briefly:
Alyssa is, seemingly, someone who has a lot going for her at the beginning of this story. She has just graduated from high school and has been in a serious relationship for a while with someone that she thinks is great. When she discovers a horrible deception after attending a party, it seems her world is crashing down. At the same time, she gets some bad news about her father's health, which makes it all seem even worse. Her sister, Abby, convinces her to spend some time with "the girls" at the lake to wind down and distract herself. Immediately, she meets Judd and they fall in love with each other. In the beginning, everything is happy and perfect, but they have to go their separate ways as their time at the lake comes to an end. Knowing that things will continue as they have been, Alyssa is shocked when things don't go as planned.
From this point, Alyssa's goal is to distract herself by settling into college and getting an apartment with her best friend, Bethany (not a favorite character for sure). She is living life as happily as possible when Judd makes a comeback....but in a not-so-great way. Alyssa and Judd try to rekindle their romance, while facing some harsh challenges. Will they be able to make it through the troubles and still end up together? Just how many times can Alyssa take being deceived?
Though I felt that the immediate, new relationship with Judd was a bit unrealistic (that may be my own jaded views on relationships coming into play here), I did really like these characters. I felt that they were well-developed and very real. Alyssa is probably stronger than I would ever be when it comes to being able to ignore a man when he is sending you text after text and call after call! I also enjoyed some of the supporting characters, especially Evan (Judd's best friend) and Abby (Alyssa's sister). Overall, I feel that this was a good plot and a great debut from a new author!
October 30, 2015
I must say....I got a sneak peak at this little gem and wow-wee! You must put this on your To-Read list! Wendy L. Wilson is an up-coming and rising star! Keep a look out for her and her amazing story of love, tragedy, and forgiveness and the power of love.
Alyssa is at the top of her world. Just graduated high school and heading to the college of her choice. Only one night changes everything and she is in need to escape. She joins her sister and her friends at the lake hoping to clear her head and start anew. That is until she meets HIM. In that one breath everything changes again.
This is a book that you read and re-read. It takes you on a journey full of highs and lows, emotional upheavals and keeps you on your toes. You will fall in love from the first page and not want to put it down until the final word.
Alyssa is at the top of her world. Just graduated high school and heading to the college of her choice. Only one night changes everything and she is in need to escape. She joins her sister and her friends at the lake hoping to clear her head and start anew. That is until she meets HIM. In that one breath everything changes again.
This is a book that you read and re-read. It takes you on a journey full of highs and lows, emotional upheavals and keeps you on your toes. You will fall in love from the first page and not want to put it down until the final word.
May 7, 2015
Very good, easy read!!
I was really impressed with the book and the characters. It kept my attention throughout the entire book. I enjoyed the romance and turmoil of their relationship and the love they had for each other and their families. I'm excited to read the next book to see where their journey takes them. I really liked how the book starts from the very beginning of their relationship and how everything came together. Great job and I am excited to continue the series!!
I was really impressed with the book and the characters. It kept my attention throughout the entire book. I enjoyed the romance and turmoil of their relationship and the love they had for each other and their families. I'm excited to read the next book to see where their journey takes them. I really liked how the book starts from the very beginning of their relationship and how everything came together. Great job and I am excited to continue the series!!
May 12, 2015
I decided to read this book purely because the cover was so gorgeous. I did not read any reviews or what the book was about before I started.
Loved this book. This is Wendy's first book and can't wait for more titles from this amazing new author!
Loved this book. This is Wendy's first book and can't wait for more titles from this amazing new author!
April 2, 2015
This genre of book isn't typically my style, but wow! The plot grabs you and the writing is so descriptive. I can't wait for the next book. This book ha it all, and then some.
April 20, 2015
Five stars does not do this book justice. An infinite amount of stars is the rating this book deserves. This book is really an amazing heart felt love story. You should grab a couple boxes of Kleenex because you will definitely need them. You will be so emerged into Alyssa and Judd’s world you won’t want to put the book down.
This story gobbled you up and brought you right into Alyssa’s life. You were with her through her heartaches, breakups, family time, vacations, her falling in love, and even more heartaches. You can really feel Wendy’s heart through the book as you read it. The fact that she spent so much time drawing you into each and every family member’s life so you could get all the emotions and experience right along with them.
When Judd and Alyssa met it was more than chemistry or attraction it was like their souls were on a lifelong hunt and finally found each other after all this time. The book takes you on a journey of some amazing characters who I can’t wait to see unfold in other books.
I feel so lucky to have been able to read this book. I don’t want to go on and give too much away and spoil it for you as this is a journey that everyone needs to experience. This book filled my heart with so much love and heart ache. But it also taught me something about an event I had in my life similar to Alyssa’s.
Thank you again Wendy I look forward to seeing what you have coming in the future.
Received an advance readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed for Marebare's Book Shelf
This story gobbled you up and brought you right into Alyssa’s life. You were with her through her heartaches, breakups, family time, vacations, her falling in love, and even more heartaches. You can really feel Wendy’s heart through the book as you read it. The fact that she spent so much time drawing you into each and every family member’s life so you could get all the emotions and experience right along with them.
When Judd and Alyssa met it was more than chemistry or attraction it was like their souls were on a lifelong hunt and finally found each other after all this time. The book takes you on a journey of some amazing characters who I can’t wait to see unfold in other books.
I feel so lucky to have been able to read this book. I don’t want to go on and give too much away and spoil it for you as this is a journey that everyone needs to experience. This book filled my heart with so much love and heart ache. But it also taught me something about an event I had in my life similar to Alyssa’s.
Thank you again Wendy I look forward to seeing what you have coming in the future.
Received an advance readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed for Marebare's Book Shelf
September 19, 2015
I liked the overall story but the beginning felt way too rushed to me. There was a lot going on in a very short period of time so I didn't really form that attachment to the characters I usually do in books. Instead of relating to Alyssa, I desperately wanted to shake her and tell her to stop giggling at everything going on. The second half of the book slowed down and I ended up really enjoying it.
May 8, 2015
When I started reading this, I thought it was just another cheating and love at first sight type of read. I was wrong, this book grabbed me and escaped into Alyssa and Judd's world. This book will take your breath away on unexpected twists, laughter, cries and lots of passion! It is a stand alone and cannot wait more from this author!
May 10, 2015
Beautiful touching story!
Loved this beautifully written story of Judd and Alyssa! Young love, both with heartache in their past, events threatening to keep them separated....lots of angst, but sweetness and passion. It's a heartwarming story! Great quick read! Looking forward to the next book!
Loved this beautifully written story of Judd and Alyssa! Young love, both with heartache in their past, events threatening to keep them separated....lots of angst, but sweetness and passion. It's a heartwarming story! Great quick read! Looking forward to the next book!
May 6, 2015
Good read
Loved the book! I really enjoyed the characters and their stories. I'm ready to read the second book from Judds point of view but I wish the first one would have just been dual pov..
Loved the book! I really enjoyed the characters and their stories. I'm ready to read the second book from Judds point of view but I wish the first one would have just been dual pov..
May 11, 2015
Great book, can't wait to get Jude's point of view!! This book was an emotional one for me because I know what's like to lose a parent. I loved how the girls were there for their mom. Let me also say I disliked her (ex)friend she was not a nice person.
May 20, 2015
Love and loss
Uber sweetness! You will fall in love, laugh and cry while reading this book. I loved all of the characters in this book and felt all the emotions as they played out. An excellent read!
Uber sweetness! You will fall in love, laugh and cry while reading this book. I loved all of the characters in this book and felt all the emotions as they played out. An excellent read!
May 9, 2015
Breathtaking, compelling, heart wrenching story. I could not put it down.
May 19, 2015
Amazing
I rarely review books, but I was so in love with Take my breath. Judd stole my heart! I can't wait for the next one
I rarely review books, but I was so in love with Take my breath. Judd stole my heart! I can't wait for the next one
May 21, 2015
Loved this book! I don't even know what else to say other than READ IT!
June 8, 2015
Wow
A book full of awesome twists and turns! Absolutely a book that will always be a favorite! Must read for everyone!!!!!!!
A book full of awesome twists and turns! Absolutely a book that will always be a favorite! Must read for everyone!!!!!!!
January 3, 2016
4.5 stars
Read
April 28, 2015one of the best. I really really like the story. I'm hooked! Trista & Abby, pleaseeeeee???!!!!!!!!!
June 15, 2015
I loved it thanks.
May 24, 2018
It took me a little bit to get into this book, I wasn’t sure if it was the story line or the writing style, but I was interested in the characters and wanted to keep reading because I wanted to see what would happen and I am so glad I did.
It was a wonderful story, I cried and smiled and fell in love with Judd and how amazing he was with Alyssa.
I am hooked on this series now, can’t wait to read the other two and only hope there will be a story for all of them.
It was a wonderful story, I cried and smiled and fell in love with Judd and how amazing he was with Alyssa.
I am hooked on this series now, can’t wait to read the other two and only hope there will be a story for all of them.
August 21, 2018
It was good. I liked how packed a page can be with so much emotions. But the ending, where I kind of read the second book's summary; where Judd (will) explain what happened between him and Bethany. I just started doubting him...
But this first book is mostly the girl's perspective on her life... so some insecurities and what not are a bit redundant from other romantic genre books I read.
All in all, I liked it.
But this first book is mostly the girl's perspective on her life... so some insecurities and what not are a bit redundant from other romantic genre books I read.
All in all, I liked it.
July 5, 2015
I was given an eBook by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say, the first few chapters of TMBA had me second guessing my choice to read this book. I had a hard time following the time line - it seems a little choppy. But I pushed through and I am so, SO glad that I did.
TMBA developed into an emotionally charged story of love, loss, betrayal, and finding yourself. Wendy was able to not only make you fall in love with some her characters (and want to tar and feather others), but she was also able to give these characters' story such life that you felt like they were friends of yours. I felt every heartache, every joyful moment, and every shocking revelation.
The language in this book is an interesting mix of goofy/chaste and heartfelt/sexy. Judd and Alyssa fall in love very quickly. Like, super-duper-insta-love. Hard to swallow? Sometimes. But the story doesn't end there. Oh no! Wendy takes them on one of the bumpiest roads I've seen in a while.
I really can't even go into some of my favorite parts because I want you to experience them for yourself. Just know that this book is a sneak-attack of emotion. I was blindsided by it. Now, go one-click!
I have to say, the first few chapters of TMBA had me second guessing my choice to read this book. I had a hard time following the time line - it seems a little choppy. But I pushed through and I am so, SO glad that I did.
TMBA developed into an emotionally charged story of love, loss, betrayal, and finding yourself. Wendy was able to not only make you fall in love with some her characters (and want to tar and feather others), but she was also able to give these characters' story such life that you felt like they were friends of yours. I felt every heartache, every joyful moment, and every shocking revelation.
The language in this book is an interesting mix of goofy/chaste and heartfelt/sexy. Judd and Alyssa fall in love very quickly. Like, super-duper-insta-love. Hard to swallow? Sometimes. But the story doesn't end there. Oh no! Wendy takes them on one of the bumpiest roads I've seen in a while.
I really can't even go into some of my favorite parts because I want you to experience them for yourself. Just know that this book is a sneak-attack of emotion. I was blindsided by it. Now, go one-click!
July 29, 2015
This was a very emotional book in so many ways. The loss of Alyssa's father and what he went through in this book was very heartbreaking but you wrote it in such a awesome way that it made you feel it was happening to you. I cried the times when she sat with her father and then when he passed away. There were times that Alyssa just annoyed me but then I understand that she was only 19. Judd was just WOW - sexy, beautiful inside and out, and oh my I was in love with him since the camp and at times I just didnt think it was fair how Alyssa would treat him and push him away specially when that shit happened with both her dad and then with Bethany. The book was awesome and I cant wait to read Judd's POV. Some things were left hanging like what the hell happened with Tristan? Overall I loved this book.
August 14, 2016
Spunky n Sassy Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Alyssa had her world turned upside down in one night of ultimate betrayal and pain. Her sister Abby, with the help of her parents, convince Alyssa to go away to the lake for some relaxation and fun. Then she meets Judd and sparks fly. Can someone totally unexpected take your breath away?
I really like this story and enjoyed all the characters and can not wait to find out more in future books. Wendy is a great story weaver and she pulls you in. There were moments I wanted to shake Alyssa and Judd but all in all the story was good.
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Alyssa had her world turned upside down in one night of ultimate betrayal and pain. Her sister Abby, with the help of her parents, convince Alyssa to go away to the lake for some relaxation and fun. Then she meets Judd and sparks fly. Can someone totally unexpected take your breath away?
I really like this story and enjoyed all the characters and can not wait to find out more in future books. Wendy is a great story weaver and she pulls you in. There were moments I wanted to shake Alyssa and Judd but all in all the story was good.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews