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Impossible Choices
Romancing the Stone meets The Mountain Between Us in an enemies to lovers, grumpy sunshine romantic adventure set in the mountains of Nepal.
After losing his fiancée in a tragedy he can neither forgive nor forget, Luke Caldwell has spent years turning grief into vengeance. Now the hunter has become the hunted, forced to lie low in Nepal while the mountains punish him for surviving.
Dr. Marie Taylor is a talented biochemist who loves her work, despises the institute that pays her salary, and has purged her life of complications, namely people.
But her carefully structured world is shaken when she receives a distress signal from a colleague who vanished into the remote Himalayas of Nepal, taking with him the solution to a clandestine project.
Traveling to Nepal, Marie is forced to hire the only pilot reckless enough to attempt the Luke Caldwell, a man with murder in his eyes and a past he has no intention of sharing.
When their plane goes down, Luke and Marie must fight to stay alive in a perilously beautiful wilderness and face ruthless forces who will stop at nothing to seize the project.
Survival means trusting each other. For a man who’s sworn off love and a woman who doesn’t believe in it, trust may be the most impossible choice of all.
After losing his fiancée in a tragedy he can neither forgive nor forget, Luke Caldwell has spent years turning grief into vengeance. Now the hunter has become the hunted, forced to lie low in Nepal while the mountains punish him for surviving.
Dr. Marie Taylor is a talented biochemist who loves her work, despises the institute that pays her salary, and has purged her life of complications, namely people.
But her carefully structured world is shaken when she receives a distress signal from a colleague who vanished into the remote Himalayas of Nepal, taking with him the solution to a clandestine project.
Traveling to Nepal, Marie is forced to hire the only pilot reckless enough to attempt the Luke Caldwell, a man with murder in his eyes and a past he has no intention of sharing.
When their plane goes down, Luke and Marie must fight to stay alive in a perilously beautiful wilderness and face ruthless forces who will stop at nothing to seize the project.
Survival means trusting each other. For a man who’s sworn off love and a woman who doesn’t believe in it, trust may be the most impossible choice of all.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2026
About the author
Lara Martin
6 books71 followersLara Martin writes books about imperfect people living messy lives, falling in love, and fighting for their happily-ever-after. She’s lived in South Africa and Australia, and now calls a cozy village in England her home. She's a mom to two kids, an animal lover, and her champion of a husband is always the first reader of her novels.
She likes her book heroes with humor, muscles, stubble, and a wild side. When she’s not writing, she can be found haunting local coffee shops in search of the next story to make your heart race.
https://www.instagram.com/laramartina...
She likes her book heroes with humor, muscles, stubble, and a wild side. When she’s not writing, she can be found haunting local coffee shops in search of the next story to make your heart race.
https://www.instagram.com/laramartina...
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 30, 2026
4⭐
Genre ~ action and adventure romance
Setting ~ Nepal
Publication date ~ June 25, 2026
Est Page Count ~ 374 (67 chapters +e)
POV ~ dual 1st, but mostly told by the FMC with a few chapters from the MMC
Featuring ~ death, survival, violence, capture, torture, references to suicide
Introduction from the author:
To every woman who has ever longed for her own romantic adventure. It might not come while traipsing through the mountains, but it can arrive as a chance encounter on a city street, a lingering glance across a meeting room, or a stranger accidentally bumping into you at a bar. The adventure is falling in love.
Marie is a scientist that gets more than she bargained for when she heads through the mountains of Nepal searching for her beloved friend and coworker, Alex.
She hires Luke to fly her deep into the mountains where she hopes to find Alex. But when the plane goes down they find themselves trekking through the wilderness for a few weeks.
In the last few weeks, I've lost count of the slopes we've climbed, the ridges we've crossed, and the ravines we've skirted. In a landscape like this, it's impossible to forget how small and fragile our lives really are.
I'm certainly not interested in ever being lost and trying to survive, but I thought Lara did a great job of making it feel realistic. Those parts felt a little long and slow moving to me, but well written nonetheless.
Marie and Luke butt heads constantly, giving us enemies vibes and tension up the yang. All side characters were pretty awful, but that's to be expected based on the plot.
Overall, yes, there's a touch of romance, but the main focus is an adventurous journey, survival and staying true to your beliefs even when your life is on the line. It's perfectly titled, as well.
Genre ~ action and adventure romance
Setting ~ Nepal
Publication date ~ June 25, 2026
Est Page Count ~ 374 (67 chapters +e)
POV ~ dual 1st, but mostly told by the FMC with a few chapters from the MMC
Featuring ~ death, survival, violence, capture, torture, references to suicide
Introduction from the author:
To every woman who has ever longed for her own romantic adventure. It might not come while traipsing through the mountains, but it can arrive as a chance encounter on a city street, a lingering glance across a meeting room, or a stranger accidentally bumping into you at a bar. The adventure is falling in love.
Marie is a scientist that gets more than she bargained for when she heads through the mountains of Nepal searching for her beloved friend and coworker, Alex.
She hires Luke to fly her deep into the mountains where she hopes to find Alex. But when the plane goes down they find themselves trekking through the wilderness for a few weeks.
In the last few weeks, I've lost count of the slopes we've climbed, the ridges we've crossed, and the ravines we've skirted. In a landscape like this, it's impossible to forget how small and fragile our lives really are.
I'm certainly not interested in ever being lost and trying to survive, but I thought Lara did a great job of making it feel realistic. Those parts felt a little long and slow moving to me, but well written nonetheless.
Marie and Luke butt heads constantly, giving us enemies vibes and tension up the yang. All side characters were pretty awful, but that's to be expected based on the plot.
Overall, yes, there's a touch of romance, but the main focus is an adventurous journey, survival and staying true to your beliefs even when your life is on the line. It's perfectly titled, as well.
June 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Closed door thriller adventure romance
- Dual POV
- Mystery super science project and missing best friend
- MMC with secret, sordid past
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- the quips and comebacks
- The flirty teasing
- Marie and her MASSIVE attitude
- Luke and how he’s such a good man
- A deeply protective man 😏
- The sleeping bag
- 👏🏻👏🏻 the epilogue
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow. Jaw on the floor. Honestly throughout the book I had notes. But by the end of the book, NO NOTES. While reading I was so skeptical at how this could have a satisfying ending, and I’ve never been more glad to be wrong.
This was an intense, high stakes thriller that absolutely blew my mind. Multiple times. My jaw was on the floor. So many shocked gifs. There are wild plot twists and so much goes wrong. I honestly thought hope was lost so. many. times. However, Lara brought it all back together and we get such a sweet HEA.
I was invested in the characters even though they were rough around the edges and very human. They were not cookie cutter and had real problems like lack of self-control, rage problems, betrayal, unprocessed grief, and lots more. They made bad choices and often made situations worse by speaking before thinking. But I found myself rooting for them and clapping for their character development.
This is a closed door adventure, thriller romance. There is no kissing or cursing, but there is minimal detailed violence, death, torture, and accidents.
**Thank you so much to Lara for letting me read this gifted ARC. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
Songs:
Someone you once had by ROSIE
ilym by John K (ft ROSIE)
Superficial love by Ruth B
Stay by Rihanna (ft Mikky Ekko)
- Closed door thriller adventure romance
- Dual POV
- Mystery super science project and missing best friend
- MMC with secret, sordid past
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- the quips and comebacks
- The flirty teasing
- Marie and her MASSIVE attitude
- Luke and how he’s such a good man
- A deeply protective man 😏
- The sleeping bag
- 👏🏻👏🏻 the epilogue
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow. Jaw on the floor. Honestly throughout the book I had notes. But by the end of the book, NO NOTES. While reading I was so skeptical at how this could have a satisfying ending, and I’ve never been more glad to be wrong.
This was an intense, high stakes thriller that absolutely blew my mind. Multiple times. My jaw was on the floor. So many shocked gifs. There are wild plot twists and so much goes wrong. I honestly thought hope was lost so. many. times. However, Lara brought it all back together and we get such a sweet HEA.
I was invested in the characters even though they were rough around the edges and very human. They were not cookie cutter and had real problems like lack of self-control, rage problems, betrayal, unprocessed grief, and lots more. They made bad choices and often made situations worse by speaking before thinking. But I found myself rooting for them and clapping for their character development.
This is a closed door adventure, thriller romance. There is no kissing or cursing, but there is minimal detailed violence, death, torture, and accidents.
**Thank you so much to Lara for letting me read this gifted ARC. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
Songs:
Someone you once had by ROSIE
ilym by John K (ft ROSIE)
Superficial love by Ruth B
Stay by Rihanna (ft Mikky Ekko)
June 24, 2026
5 Stars.
🏔️The vibes:
- Adventure romance
- Plane crash
- Survival story
- Banter/tension
- Closed door (makeouts)
🏔️ My thoughts:
Lara’s books always keep me on my toes. I never see what's coming. This book gave me that feeling. The writing style flows so well and the setting during the outdoors portion was so well done. This story has a little bit of everything: action, adventure, romance, and a bit of a mysterious element.
🏔️ I liked the characters a lot. Marie was a little bit prickly, but I still really liked her vibe. I loved Luke so much. He reminded me of the Punisher with some of his backstory and the way that he views justice. Their dynamic together was full of chemistry and banter. Even when they were fighting like cats and dogs, the tension was so there.
🏔️ I like the side characters and the purpose they served in the story. I loved the action elements and the suspense of feeling unsure where the story was going (but also being able to follow along with the twist and turns).
🏔️ I just felt so excited the entire time reading this book and found myself mind blown at every chapter. I had such a good time and definitely recommend this book. Also- this needs to be a movie immediately because I feel like it would translate to screen PERFECTLY.
Note / spice content: closed door (makeouts); check CW if you have concerns.
Release date: June 26, 2026
Thank you so much to Lara Martin for the gifted copy. I received this eARC from the author, but this honest review is voluntary.
🏔️The vibes:
- Adventure romance
- Plane crash
- Survival story
- Banter/tension
- Closed door (makeouts)
🏔️ My thoughts:
Lara’s books always keep me on my toes. I never see what's coming. This book gave me that feeling. The writing style flows so well and the setting during the outdoors portion was so well done. This story has a little bit of everything: action, adventure, romance, and a bit of a mysterious element.
🏔️ I liked the characters a lot. Marie was a little bit prickly, but I still really liked her vibe. I loved Luke so much. He reminded me of the Punisher with some of his backstory and the way that he views justice. Their dynamic together was full of chemistry and banter. Even when they were fighting like cats and dogs, the tension was so there.
🏔️ I like the side characters and the purpose they served in the story. I loved the action elements and the suspense of feeling unsure where the story was going (but also being able to follow along with the twist and turns).
🏔️ I just felt so excited the entire time reading this book and found myself mind blown at every chapter. I had such a good time and definitely recommend this book. Also- this needs to be a movie immediately because I feel like it would translate to screen PERFECTLY.
Note / spice content: closed door (makeouts); check CW if you have concerns.
Release date: June 26, 2026
Thank you so much to Lara Martin for the gifted copy. I received this eARC from the author, but this honest review is voluntary.
July 6, 2026
If you aren’t reading Lara Martin books yet, what are you doing💜 This newest release was EVERYTHING and more 🤍 I couldn’t put it down and these two have absolutely consumed my every thought 😭 UGH it was so good 💜 The romance ❤️🔥 the suspense 🫣 and the mystery 🧪 were all so captivating— one of her best for sure!
Marie. This girl has a MOUTH on her and cannot keep it shut 😂 I absolutely loved how solid her characterization was 💖 She had me laughing so hard 😂 and then sobbing a minute later 😭 Underneath her tough exterior though, she was hurting deeply 🥀 I loved watching her slowly regain her confidence 🥹 she is such a well-written strong FMC who feels human and relatable versus made of stone.
Luke. Just like Marie, Luke is GOING THROUGH IT 😭 my heart broke over his tragic backstory and the ghosts that haunt him 💔 He fought fire with fire 🔥 and y’all this man knows how to hit where it hurts 🙈 so many times I verbally went OUCH over their banter 😂 I loved watching Luke open up to the idea of love, and being loved, again ❤️🩹
These two had more chemistry in their pinkie toes than most people do in their whole life ❤️🔥 I swear sparks were FLYING the entire book ✨ AND THE ENDING 🤯🤯🤯 Guys don’t even get me started on how insane that was. There were a few moments I was convinced there was no possible way for anything to work out 😭 AND SOMEHOW IT DID which speaks to the genius that Lara Martin is- an evil genius 😭
Seriously, read this book ‼️
⚠️ CW: VIOLENCE, I’m not going to go into detail because it will spoil, but this is a very intense thriller with lots of violence and messy decisions, DM me for specifics 🫶 Mention of cancer. ⚠️
Marie. This girl has a MOUTH on her and cannot keep it shut 😂 I absolutely loved how solid her characterization was 💖 She had me laughing so hard 😂 and then sobbing a minute later 😭 Underneath her tough exterior though, she was hurting deeply 🥀 I loved watching her slowly regain her confidence 🥹 she is such a well-written strong FMC who feels human and relatable versus made of stone.
Luke. Just like Marie, Luke is GOING THROUGH IT 😭 my heart broke over his tragic backstory and the ghosts that haunt him 💔 He fought fire with fire 🔥 and y’all this man knows how to hit where it hurts 🙈 so many times I verbally went OUCH over their banter 😂 I loved watching Luke open up to the idea of love, and being loved, again ❤️🩹
These two had more chemistry in their pinkie toes than most people do in their whole life ❤️🔥 I swear sparks were FLYING the entire book ✨ AND THE ENDING 🤯🤯🤯 Guys don’t even get me started on how insane that was. There were a few moments I was convinced there was no possible way for anything to work out 😭 AND SOMEHOW IT DID which speaks to the genius that Lara Martin is- an evil genius 😭
Seriously, read this book ‼️
⚠️ CW: VIOLENCE, I’m not going to go into detail because it will spoil, but this is a very intense thriller with lots of violence and messy decisions, DM me for specifics 🫶 Mention of cancer. ⚠️
June 16, 2026
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for a honest review & I loved it!!
Lara Martin has outdone herself again. There has yet to be a book that she has written that I haven’t enjoyed.
A plane crash in the mountains of Nepal and the journey to survival. Marie is searching for a lost colleague who has dedicated his life to a top secret science discovery. She and 3 strangers stumble upon secrets, danger, and other troubles along the way. This is a fast-paced story that you’ll have a hard time putting down!
I think Impossible Choices will go down as one of my top 3 favorites written by Lara. I loved the mix of adventure, mystery, suspense, romance, etc. all tied up into one storyline. There are a variety of characters you’ll meet along the way, some you’ll love, some will drive you crazy. Lara has a beautiful way a writing that just takes you right into the book. Mark this on your TBR, it will release on June 25th!
•Dual POV
•closed door romance
•suspense, mystery
•grumpy x sunshine
•feisty & fierce fmc
•broody & protective mmc
Lara Martin has outdone herself again. There has yet to be a book that she has written that I haven’t enjoyed.
A plane crash in the mountains of Nepal and the journey to survival. Marie is searching for a lost colleague who has dedicated his life to a top secret science discovery. She and 3 strangers stumble upon secrets, danger, and other troubles along the way. This is a fast-paced story that you’ll have a hard time putting down!
I think Impossible Choices will go down as one of my top 3 favorites written by Lara. I loved the mix of adventure, mystery, suspense, romance, etc. all tied up into one storyline. There are a variety of characters you’ll meet along the way, some you’ll love, some will drive you crazy. Lara has a beautiful way a writing that just takes you right into the book. Mark this on your TBR, it will release on June 25th!
•Dual POV
•closed door romance
•suspense, mystery
•grumpy x sunshine
•feisty & fierce fmc
•broody & protective mmc
July 7, 2026
4.5 star rating
Impossible Choices is author Lara Martin’s 6th book. I am amazed how long I have been part of her ARC team.
This story has it all…mystery, love, suspense and drama. I enjoyed the beginning that immediately drew me into the story. Told in a dual POV between Luke and Marie, enemies to lovers who journey on a romantic adventure set in the mountains of Nepal. I loved the banter between the two characters and enemies to lovers is a favorite trope of mine. I highly recommend this genre mashup novel perfect for the beach or pool side!
Thank you to indie author Lara Martin for the gifted digital ARC. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book. All opinions are my own.
Impossible Choices is author Lara Martin’s 6th book. I am amazed how long I have been part of her ARC team.
This story has it all…mystery, love, suspense and drama. I enjoyed the beginning that immediately drew me into the story. Told in a dual POV between Luke and Marie, enemies to lovers who journey on a romantic adventure set in the mountains of Nepal. I loved the banter between the two characters and enemies to lovers is a favorite trope of mine. I highly recommend this genre mashup novel perfect for the beach or pool side!
Thank you to indie author Lara Martin for the gifted digital ARC. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book. All opinions are my own.
June 29, 2026
4.5 stars! This book really surprised me. Lara has really upped the stakes in her current book-in the best way possible. This book had so much emotion! I ate it up. There was adventure, secrets, and definitely some romance! This was romantic suspense that also felt like a thriller! Everything was so well done-from the plot to the characters to the setting- I can tell Lara did so much research to make it authentic. In the beginning I was hesitant with Marie and Luke-their brash and tough exterior put me off just a bit-but as the story went on they evolved and I began to enjoy them and their stories! Add this to your summer list if you like emotional romantic suspense books! You won’t regret it!
-enemies to lovers
-survival/plane crash
-mercenary/scientist
-dual pov
Closed door
-enemies to lovers
-survival/plane crash
-mercenary/scientist
-dual pov
Closed door
June 23, 2026
4.5 stars.
Luke Caldwell lost his fiancée in a tragedy, and he has spent the last eleven years turning his grief into vengeance. The hunter has become the hunted, and he has been forced to lie low in Nepal. Dr. Marie Taylor is a talented biochemist who lives a very structured life with a boss she hates and an institute she despises as her employer. When she receives a distress signal from a colleague who vanished in the remote Himalayas, taking with him the solution to a clandestine project, she is faced with traveling to Nepal and hiring a pilot to get her to her destination. Marie hires Luke to fly her but when their plane goes down, they must fight to stay alive in the perilous wilderness with enemies seeking to seize her colleague’s project.
I’ve read each book that Lara has published to date, and I can confidently say that each one is unique and her writing style steadily improves. IMPOSSIBLE CHOICES may be my new favourite of hers though!
It’s set, for the most part, in the wilderness of Nepal after a cargo plane crashes. Marie and Luke are the main characters, both have their baggage and are definitely a little rough around the edges. Marie is a redhead with a feisty attitude while Luke has a dubious past and is more of a do first, ask questions later type of guy. Their ‘meet cute’ is hardly what anyone in their right mind would call a meet cute but it is really an electric scene that sets the stage for the dynamic these two will share. Their banter and quips are perfect.
IMPOSSIBLE CHOICES is a romantic adventure that I’d also say is a slow burn romance. The characters are real, raw, and so unforgivably human. You can’t help but champion them both via each of their POVs. Their flaws are front and center, but little by little, their softer sides are revealed as Luke and Marie’s connection develops. The romance is closed door.
Now for the plot – IMPOSSIBLE CHOICES is so twisty and kept me guessing as each twist plays out. I was sat trying to figure out how all the pieces would fit together for any type of satisfying resolution. Each reveal brought more questions than answers, with tensions and stakes rising as the pages flipped. That said, Lara pulls each piece together with finesse.
If you haven’t read any of Lara’s books yet, here’s your sign to pick one up. This one is perfect for those who enjoy romantic suspense with a side of adventure!
I would like to thank the author, Lara Martin, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
Luke Caldwell lost his fiancée in a tragedy, and he has spent the last eleven years turning his grief into vengeance. The hunter has become the hunted, and he has been forced to lie low in Nepal. Dr. Marie Taylor is a talented biochemist who lives a very structured life with a boss she hates and an institute she despises as her employer. When she receives a distress signal from a colleague who vanished in the remote Himalayas, taking with him the solution to a clandestine project, she is faced with traveling to Nepal and hiring a pilot to get her to her destination. Marie hires Luke to fly her but when their plane goes down, they must fight to stay alive in the perilous wilderness with enemies seeking to seize her colleague’s project.
I’ve read each book that Lara has published to date, and I can confidently say that each one is unique and her writing style steadily improves. IMPOSSIBLE CHOICES may be my new favourite of hers though!
It’s set, for the most part, in the wilderness of Nepal after a cargo plane crashes. Marie and Luke are the main characters, both have their baggage and are definitely a little rough around the edges. Marie is a redhead with a feisty attitude while Luke has a dubious past and is more of a do first, ask questions later type of guy. Their ‘meet cute’ is hardly what anyone in their right mind would call a meet cute but it is really an electric scene that sets the stage for the dynamic these two will share. Their banter and quips are perfect.
IMPOSSIBLE CHOICES is a romantic adventure that I’d also say is a slow burn romance. The characters are real, raw, and so unforgivably human. You can’t help but champion them both via each of their POVs. Their flaws are front and center, but little by little, their softer sides are revealed as Luke and Marie’s connection develops. The romance is closed door.
Now for the plot – IMPOSSIBLE CHOICES is so twisty and kept me guessing as each twist plays out. I was sat trying to figure out how all the pieces would fit together for any type of satisfying resolution. Each reveal brought more questions than answers, with tensions and stakes rising as the pages flipped. That said, Lara pulls each piece together with finesse.
If you haven’t read any of Lara’s books yet, here’s your sign to pick one up. This one is perfect for those who enjoy romantic suspense with a side of adventure!
I would like to thank the author, Lara Martin, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
July 1, 2026
Marie travels into the mountains of Nepal to find her missing friend, but when her plane crashes, she and her pilot, Luke, are forced to fight for survival together.
The survival elements felt realistic, even if they dragged a little at times, and the enemies-to-lovers tension between Marie and Luke kept things interesting. While there’s a hint of romance, this story is really about adventure, resilience, and staying true to your beliefs when everything is on the line. A fitting title for an unforgettable journey.
The survival elements felt realistic, even if they dragged a little at times, and the enemies-to-lovers tension between Marie and Luke kept things interesting. While there’s a hint of romance, this story is really about adventure, resilience, and staying true to your beliefs when everything is on the line. A fitting title for an unforgettable journey.
July 8, 2026
Whhhhaaattt!!! I loved this book so much. This was a I don’t want to stop reading and do adult responsibilities situations. Action, adventure, burn notice style main character (to anyone who has seen this show, if not just ignore this part 😆) , suspense, bickering, plane crash, women in STEM… just all the things!
This was such a fun adventure and would definitely recommend to anyone who likes a action filled romance.
This was such a fun adventure and would definitely recommend to anyone who likes a action filled romance.
July 2, 2026
Wow, this book was a ride and so good! By the time I got to the end, the beginning events seemed so long ago! There was outdoor survival after a plane crash, enemies but attraction, a mercenary and a scientist, sciencey related suspense and I loved the romance! And the epilogue 😍. And bonus epilogue 😍
Content: closed door
Content: closed door
July 2, 2026
I enjoyed the fast paced plot, the mystery, the tension and the banter!!
June 29, 2026
First of all, I have to say that I really loved the dedication at the beginning of the book.
Secondly, a huuuge thank you to @hannuhreads for convincing me to read this one, and to @laramartin for adding me to her ARC team last minute. I needed to read this book and it hit just right.
At first I had some trouble with liking Marie (our FMC). I felt like maybe she was a bit bitter, lonely but not realizing it, someone who doesn’t know how to let loose or be herself around others, or how to trust. Maybe the only way she knew how to handle people was to respond the way she did. To protect herself.
Luke’s character (our MMC) was definitely a favorite for me. He was unpredictable and for a time I wasn’t sure what to think of him, just that I liked him. Normally I don’t love the gruff, over-the-top growly almost meanish kind of guy but for Luke it worked. Also, Marie needed to meet someone like him because of her own personality. Someone who could go toe-to-toe with her and not back down.
Most of the book is set in Nepal and goodness, I thought the writer must have lived there for a time to be able to describe the way of living in such a clear realistic way. Found out she has never been but researched it for a year. I was floored.
The river-crossing scene was one of my favorites.
There was one moment I literally gasped out loud in the coffee shop I was sitting in at the time. And another I felt like I was holding my breath as I read, thinking “there’s no way this just happened…”
This book definitely kept me on the edge of my seat, quite literally, and there were some unexpected twists for sure. And it didn’t feel like an insta-love kind of story which I appreciated.
This is a survival, plane crash kind of story and it was amazing.
CW: some language (not much), d3ath, violence,
Note: closed door- some making out several times
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 25, 2026
Alright guys this was a ride! Buckle up before you read this. There were so many layers to this story and I loved every minute of it. I devoured this so quickly.
This is a suspenseful story that has romance, betrayal, and a fascinating scientific element.
Marie was a hard character but she had so much growth! I struggled with her at first but then learned she needed some grace and I grew to love her. She definitely has a strength and grew so much throughout the story. She shocked me by the end in the best way.
Luke..oh my stars. I loved his character. he had some issues but he was so quick to apologize and also quick to forgive. So many swoony moments with this man. He and Marie had a crazy amount of tension and chemistry.
This story had me feeling feelings even for the side characters. This is my first book by this author and it will not be the last.
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
CW: mild language, v**lence, k**ling, closed door (make-outs only)
This is a suspenseful story that has romance, betrayal, and a fascinating scientific element.
Marie was a hard character but she had so much growth! I struggled with her at first but then learned she needed some grace and I grew to love her. She definitely has a strength and grew so much throughout the story. She shocked me by the end in the best way.
Luke..oh my stars. I loved his character. he had some issues but he was so quick to apologize and also quick to forgive. So many swoony moments with this man. He and Marie had a crazy amount of tension and chemistry.
This story had me feeling feelings even for the side characters. This is my first book by this author and it will not be the last.
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
CW: mild language, v**lence, k**ling, closed door (make-outs only)
Review of advance copy received from Author
My favorite by this author so far!
4,5 stars
》What to expect:
• Dual POV
• Romantic adventure
• Survival story
• Plane crash
• Enemies to lovers
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• Impossible love
• One sleeping bag
• Emotional
• Set in Nepal
• Closed door
》WHAT I LIKED:
♡Writing: As always, Lara Martin writes in a clear and straightforward way, pausing only for the details that truly matter. This story had powerful emotional scenes, and they were conveyed in a remarkable way. I felt as if I were right there with the characters, and it was easy to step into their shoes.
♡Plot: The stakes were high from the very beginning and only seemed to intensify as the story unfolded. The plot kept moving forward with every page, never stalling, which added even more excitement and richness to the narrative.
The gradual and realistic transition from enemies to lovers felt authentic and well-paced. Most of the scenes were either fast-paced or carried significant weight for the story, and I loved that.
♡ Romance: Luke and Marie, the two main characters, had distinctive personalities, and their banter, especially when they hated each other, was great.
Most chapters were written from Marie’s POV, but the few from Luke’s perspective added depth to their dynamic and heightened the tension in their romance.
There were many emotionally heartbreaking scenes between them, particularly in the second half of the book. I wanted so badly for them to end up together, yet I feared they wouldn’t make it.
I also really enjoyed Luke’s complex, hard-to-read personality!
♡ The story was set in Nepal, and the descriptive details of the setting made me feel as if I were truly there.
☆ Overall, this was a story full of adventure, romance, and suspense, and I highly recommend it!
4,5 stars
》What to expect:
• Dual POV
• Romantic adventure
• Survival story
• Plane crash
• Enemies to lovers
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• Impossible love
• One sleeping bag
• Emotional
• Set in Nepal
• Closed door
》WHAT I LIKED:
♡Writing: As always, Lara Martin writes in a clear and straightforward way, pausing only for the details that truly matter. This story had powerful emotional scenes, and they were conveyed in a remarkable way. I felt as if I were right there with the characters, and it was easy to step into their shoes.
♡Plot: The stakes were high from the very beginning and only seemed to intensify as the story unfolded. The plot kept moving forward with every page, never stalling, which added even more excitement and richness to the narrative.
The gradual and realistic transition from enemies to lovers felt authentic and well-paced. Most of the scenes were either fast-paced or carried significant weight for the story, and I loved that.
♡ Romance: Luke and Marie, the two main characters, had distinctive personalities, and their banter, especially when they hated each other, was great.
Most chapters were written from Marie’s POV, but the few from Luke’s perspective added depth to their dynamic and heightened the tension in their romance.
There were many emotionally heartbreaking scenes between them, particularly in the second half of the book. I wanted so badly for them to end up together, yet I feared they wouldn’t make it.
I also really enjoyed Luke’s complex, hard-to-read personality!
♡ The story was set in Nepal, and the descriptive details of the setting made me feel as if I were truly there.
☆ Overall, this was a story full of adventure, romance, and suspense, and I highly recommend it!
June 11, 2026
🌟 REVIEW 🌟
TITLE: Impossible Choices
AUTHOR: Lara Martin
5 / 5 ⭐️
🩷 DISCLAIMER:
Received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
💭 THOUGHTS:
Lara absolutely knocked it out of the park with this book!
This was my first experience with a romantic adventure story and I ate it up. It’s not a mix of genres I’ve really come across much, but I love trying new things and I’ve now unlocked a new genre of interest.
Our FMC, Dr Marie Taylor, was headstrong, feisty and undeniably loveable. The banter with our mysterious and broody MMC, Luke Caldwell, was extremely entertaining and the right amount of push and pull for a grumpy x sunshine story.
The mystery elements to this novel had it teetering on the edge of a full blown thriller and could very easily be enjoyed by thriller fans because of this. At times it could be difficult to determine who could be trusted or not or who was being honest and who was hiding something potentially big. It kept the page turning for me!
The pacing of the story was perfect. There was never a lull in plot, keeping the reader engaged from the first word to the last. At times I just couldn’t put it down, which can be confirmed by my sister giggling at me while I walked around the house doing various tasks with my Kindle in hand.
Reading Impossible Choices genuinely felt like watching a movie and I could totally see this playing out on a screen. This is definitely one of my favourites from Lara Martin and I suggest you guys mark your calendars for the release on June 25th!
✏️ If you’ve read this book, let me know what your thoughts were in the comments.
TITLE: Impossible Choices
AUTHOR: Lara Martin
5 / 5 ⭐️
🩷 DISCLAIMER:
Received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
💭 THOUGHTS:
Lara absolutely knocked it out of the park with this book!
This was my first experience with a romantic adventure story and I ate it up. It’s not a mix of genres I’ve really come across much, but I love trying new things and I’ve now unlocked a new genre of interest.
Our FMC, Dr Marie Taylor, was headstrong, feisty and undeniably loveable. The banter with our mysterious and broody MMC, Luke Caldwell, was extremely entertaining and the right amount of push and pull for a grumpy x sunshine story.
The mystery elements to this novel had it teetering on the edge of a full blown thriller and could very easily be enjoyed by thriller fans because of this. At times it could be difficult to determine who could be trusted or not or who was being honest and who was hiding something potentially big. It kept the page turning for me!
The pacing of the story was perfect. There was never a lull in plot, keeping the reader engaged from the first word to the last. At times I just couldn’t put it down, which can be confirmed by my sister giggling at me while I walked around the house doing various tasks with my Kindle in hand.
Reading Impossible Choices genuinely felt like watching a movie and I could totally see this playing out on a screen. This is definitely one of my favourites from Lara Martin and I suggest you guys mark your calendars for the release on June 25th!
✏️ If you’ve read this book, let me know what your thoughts were in the comments.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I guess ‘nothing is impossible’ for Lara! After reading her sweet romances, this one was an adrenaline filled ride. You will have a good time if you are into books / movies that are action packed, with life threatening situations in the wild, like a plane crash to life altering science experiments - this book had it all!
Marie is a scientist, a bit reserved almost bitter, but she’s also a very smart, who is facing challenges in her male dominated workplace. One fine day she is thrust into an adventure into the treacherous mountains of Nepal, involving a top secret government experiment . Only one local pilot is capable of taking an under the radar flight for her - Luke! But, he comes with is own sets of challenges. A mysterious past, bit on the grumpy side, never backs down from a verbal exchange with Marie, and to her utter inconvenience, comes packing with all the hotness of a contract assassin.
From the moment these two meet, it’s a wild ride. Their trek through the forests and mountains was the highlight for me, every moment of their struggle felt real on page, with each adversity that Luke and Marie face everyday out there, they grew closer. The shift from verbal sparring to unspoken understanding between them is something so beautiful. In terms of spice, though it is a closed door romance, the kisses and making out is hot enough!
The side characters are equally well written, each character feels real and unique, especially Gordon and Jake, the other companions on this expedition. When Marie finally finds her friend, Alex and what unfolds there, was something so moving. All those emotions Marie went through, and how Luke responded - I think Lara did such great job.
For me the highlights of the book were: the plane crash scene, the river crossing scene (omg), Alex’s secret and the moral implications of that discovery.
By the third act, both Marie and Luke have to make some Impossible Choices! Luke’s choice almost made me gasp.. The writing and pacing is so good, it almost reads like a movie screenplay.
Totally recommend!
Follow for more on My Booksta
Marie is a scientist, a bit reserved almost bitter, but she’s also a very smart, who is facing challenges in her male dominated workplace. One fine day she is thrust into an adventure into the treacherous mountains of Nepal, involving a top secret government experiment . Only one local pilot is capable of taking an under the radar flight for her - Luke! But, he comes with is own sets of challenges. A mysterious past, bit on the grumpy side, never backs down from a verbal exchange with Marie, and to her utter inconvenience, comes packing with all the hotness of a contract assassin.
From the moment these two meet, it’s a wild ride. Their trek through the forests and mountains was the highlight for me, every moment of their struggle felt real on page, with each adversity that Luke and Marie face everyday out there, they grew closer. The shift from verbal sparring to unspoken understanding between them is something so beautiful. In terms of spice, though it is a closed door romance, the kisses and making out is hot enough!
The side characters are equally well written, each character feels real and unique, especially Gordon and Jake, the other companions on this expedition. When Marie finally finds her friend, Alex and what unfolds there, was something so moving. All those emotions Marie went through, and how Luke responded - I think Lara did such great job.
For me the highlights of the book were: the plane crash scene, the river crossing scene (omg), Alex’s secret and the moral implications of that discovery.
By the third act, both Marie and Luke have to make some Impossible Choices! Luke’s choice almost made me gasp.. The writing and pacing is so good, it almost reads like a movie screenplay.
Totally recommend!
Follow for more on My Booksta
Review of advance copy received from Author
Impossible Choices is an action adventure movie come to life. We loved the wild ride it took us on and all the twists and turns kept us on our toes.
When Marie’s friend Alex goes missing, she learns he was involved in a mysterious science project for a government agency. And that’s just the beginning. The adventure was immersive and exciting and Lara Martin did a great job at bringing it all to life.
While Impossible Choices is full of action, there’s also romance woven throughout it. Marie is feisty and smart. Luke is broody and protective. Together they had a push and pull, some flirty teasing and lots of sexual tension. We loved their eventual happy ending (especially the epilogue) and everything that lead to it (even the heartbreak).
Many thanks to @laramartinauthor for the e-ARC in exchange for our honest review. Impossible Choices comes out this Thursday, June 25th!
Read if you like:
▪️Romantic adventure
▪️Enemies to lovers
▪️Survival story
▪️Mercenary x Scientist
When Marie’s friend Alex goes missing, she learns he was involved in a mysterious science project for a government agency. And that’s just the beginning. The adventure was immersive and exciting and Lara Martin did a great job at bringing it all to life.
While Impossible Choices is full of action, there’s also romance woven throughout it. Marie is feisty and smart. Luke is broody and protective. Together they had a push and pull, some flirty teasing and lots of sexual tension. We loved their eventual happy ending (especially the epilogue) and everything that lead to it (even the heartbreak).
Many thanks to @laramartinauthor for the e-ARC in exchange for our honest review. Impossible Choices comes out this Thursday, June 25th!
Read if you like:
▪️Romantic adventure
▪️Enemies to lovers
▪️Survival story
▪️Mercenary x Scientist
Review of advance copy received from Author
I couldn't put down this book! Lara Martin's new book is just incredible. It has the suspense, enemies to lovers, science elements, grumpy/sunshine, and mystery vibes!
Dr. Marie Taylor is a biochemist and her best friend that she works with has gone missing in Nepal. He's been working on a secret project that Marie knows nothing about. Marie travels to Nepal and hires the only pilot capable of flying in the mountains, Luke Caldwell. With a sketchy past involving killing people, Marie is terrified but has to put her trust in Luke to find her best friend. When their plane goes down, Luke saves the day by landing in the mountains. Marie is stuck with him and the team and relies on them for survival while trying to find her friend.
If you want a mystery/romance to read at the beach or on vacation, add Impossible Choices to your tbr and grab it June 25! And check out Lara's other books as well! She's one of my favorite authors. Thank you, @laramartinauthor tor the arc!
Dr. Marie Taylor is a biochemist and her best friend that she works with has gone missing in Nepal. He's been working on a secret project that Marie knows nothing about. Marie travels to Nepal and hires the only pilot capable of flying in the mountains, Luke Caldwell. With a sketchy past involving killing people, Marie is terrified but has to put her trust in Luke to find her best friend. When their plane goes down, Luke saves the day by landing in the mountains. Marie is stuck with him and the team and relies on them for survival while trying to find her friend.
If you want a mystery/romance to read at the beach or on vacation, add Impossible Choices to your tbr and grab it June 25! And check out Lara's other books as well! She's one of my favorite authors. Thank you, @laramartinauthor tor the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Impossible Choices by Lara Martin
4.75/5🌶️
🚪*make outs
3/3🦋
•My Thoughts•
Reading this book was the best spontaneous decision I’ve made in a while! The story was SUCH a wild ride and I think I was in a perpetual state of *gasp* for the entire second half of the book. The whole set up was absolutely fascinating with a plane crash in the mountains of Nepal and the survival journey of the passengers - the drama and suspense only increase from there with a science discovery gone wrong and danger! And AND through out all of that, there’s a simmering romance that develops and had me rooting so hard for the characters’ thick emotional walls to come down. Loved the intrigue and the scenarios - this book is aptly named and I highly recommend.
Thank you to Lara Martin for the early copy. All thoughts and opinions in my own.
4.75/5🌶️
🚪*make outs
3/3🦋
•My Thoughts•
Reading this book was the best spontaneous decision I’ve made in a while! The story was SUCH a wild ride and I think I was in a perpetual state of *gasp* for the entire second half of the book. The whole set up was absolutely fascinating with a plane crash in the mountains of Nepal and the survival journey of the passengers - the drama and suspense only increase from there with a science discovery gone wrong and danger! And AND through out all of that, there’s a simmering romance that develops and had me rooting so hard for the characters’ thick emotional walls to come down. Loved the intrigue and the scenarios - this book is aptly named and I highly recommend.
Thank you to Lara Martin for the early copy. All thoughts and opinions in my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my, what a fantastic ride this book was! Once I really got into it, I could not stop reading. I ignored all of my responsibilities after my kids went to bed one night and read for nearly three hours straight.
Marie is a scientist whose friend and fellow scientist goes missing in Nepal. She is enlisted to help find him and his sensitive research, and Luke, the grumpy, mercenary pilot, is enlisted to fly her there. When their plane crashes, they, along with the other members of their small flight, are forced to navigate the wilderness of Nepal, facing various perils, both physical and emotional.
Just when I thought this book would resolve one way, it surprised me and kept me hooked in such a good way. The dialogue was excellent, the banter on point. If you like being kept on the edge of your seat, romantic tension, and survival in the wild, then pick up this book.
Now, enjoy some of the yaps and gushing that I sent to @hannuhreads while reading this:
When Luke finger combs Marie's hair! And offers her the pool bath first! 🫠🥰 They're so prickly with each other and then unexpectedly tender. I LOVE IT!
But who sabotaged the plane?? Is Gordon really on Marie's side? What did Jake and Gordon talk about before they crossed the bridge? And now she has to CHOOSE WHO TO SHARE A SLEEPING BAG WITH?! 🤯🫠🫠🫠
"I have to make her want to go." No sir! Do not push her away! Don't be mean to her 😭
NO JAKE 😡
Oh no, Jake...
AAAAHHHHHH! HE CAN'T [DO THAT]! I have to go to bed, but I can't stop reading!
[redacted] for spoilers.
What you'll find in this book:
*scientist & mercenary
*hate to lovers
*romantic adventure
*thriller/suspense
*banter
*stranded in the wilderness
*only one sleeping bag
*forced proximity
Content warning: gun usage, kidnapping, on-page death, violence
Romance level: 3.5/7 (passionate kisses, some innuendo)
I received an advance review copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Marie is a scientist whose friend and fellow scientist goes missing in Nepal. She is enlisted to help find him and his sensitive research, and Luke, the grumpy, mercenary pilot, is enlisted to fly her there. When their plane crashes, they, along with the other members of their small flight, are forced to navigate the wilderness of Nepal, facing various perils, both physical and emotional.
Just when I thought this book would resolve one way, it surprised me and kept me hooked in such a good way. The dialogue was excellent, the banter on point. If you like being kept on the edge of your seat, romantic tension, and survival in the wild, then pick up this book.
Now, enjoy some of the yaps and gushing that I sent to @hannuhreads while reading this:
When Luke finger combs Marie's hair! And offers her the pool bath first! 🫠🥰 They're so prickly with each other and then unexpectedly tender. I LOVE IT!
But who sabotaged the plane?? Is Gordon really on Marie's side? What did Jake and Gordon talk about before they crossed the bridge? And now she has to CHOOSE WHO TO SHARE A SLEEPING BAG WITH?! 🤯🫠🫠🫠
"I have to make her want to go." No sir! Do not push her away! Don't be mean to her 😭
NO JAKE 😡
Oh no, Jake...
AAAAHHHHHH! HE CAN'T [DO THAT]! I have to go to bed, but I can't stop reading!
[redacted] for spoilers.
What you'll find in this book:
*scientist & mercenary
*hate to lovers
*romantic adventure
*thriller/suspense
*banter
*stranded in the wilderness
*only one sleeping bag
*forced proximity
Content warning: gun usage, kidnapping, on-page death, violence
Romance level: 3.5/7 (passionate kisses, some innuendo)
I received an advance review copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lara Martin's books are the best. I get so excited when I hear she has a new book coming out!
Dr Marie receives a cryptic message from her friend and fellow scientist that leads her into the mountains of Nepal. While there, she meets pilot Luke who is leading the way to keep the group safe after the plane has to make an emergency landing.
If you love a good genre mashup, I can't rave enough about this one! There was action, mystery, torture, grief, romance and thrills aplenty in this book. I was on the edge of my seat in the second half of the book as the story ramped up and I had to keep reading just to find out what would happen. This was another five star book for me by Lara Martin! If you haven't read her books yet, I can't emphasize enough how much you are missing out.
Dr Marie receives a cryptic message from her friend and fellow scientist that leads her into the mountains of Nepal. While there, she meets pilot Luke who is leading the way to keep the group safe after the plane has to make an emergency landing.
If you love a good genre mashup, I can't rave enough about this one! There was action, mystery, torture, grief, romance and thrills aplenty in this book. I was on the edge of my seat in the second half of the book as the story ramped up and I had to keep reading just to find out what would happen. This was another five star book for me by Lara Martin! If you haven't read her books yet, I can't emphasize enough how much you are missing out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I haven’t forgotten how to be a lady. I’ve just stopped wasting it on men like you.”
Impossible Choices was such a wild ride that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. You never knew what was coming next and I was never really sure how it would turn out, but the romance lover that I am adored the ending. I loved the mix of mystery, suspense, romance, and adventure intertwined throughout. Nepal was such a unique setting for me and was described so well during their time in the wilderness that I felt like I was right there with them experiencing it all. While this is dual POV, most chapters are in Marie’s POV but the chapters in Luke’s POV sprinkled in definitely added to their dynamic and the tension between them. This would make such a great movie!
“There’s nothing casual about what I feel for you. You’ve become more important to me than I ever meant to let happen.”
Read if you enjoy:
✈️ Romantic suspense
✈️ Enemies to lovers
✈️ Grumpy sunshine
✈️ Forced proximity
✈️ Slow burn
✈️ Only one sleeping bag
Impossible Choices was such a wild ride that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. You never knew what was coming next and I was never really sure how it would turn out, but the romance lover that I am adored the ending. I loved the mix of mystery, suspense, romance, and adventure intertwined throughout. Nepal was such a unique setting for me and was described so well during their time in the wilderness that I felt like I was right there with them experiencing it all. While this is dual POV, most chapters are in Marie’s POV but the chapters in Luke’s POV sprinkled in definitely added to their dynamic and the tension between them. This would make such a great movie!
“There’s nothing casual about what I feel for you. You’ve become more important to me than I ever meant to let happen.”
Read if you enjoy:
✈️ Romantic suspense
✈️ Enemies to lovers
✈️ Grumpy sunshine
✈️ Forced proximity
✈️ Slow burn
✈️ Only one sleeping bag
Review of advance copy received from Author
I discovered Lara Martin a few months ago, and to say I’m hooked on her prose is an euphemism. the moment I read the synopsis for Impossible Choices, I knew I had to pick it up. a survival romance with a plane crash à la Lost with a soupçon of suspense, and a mystery distilled throughout the story? ABSOLUTELY!
this book delivered on every front. the romance kept me invested, the survival aspect and the suspense had me constantly questioning what was really going on. there were several twists I genuinely didn’t see coming, which made the story even more addictive.
fast-paced, entertaining, and impossible to put down!this was exactly the kind of romance I love to read. definitely recommend it if you enjoy a side of adventure and mystery with your closed-door romance.
many thanks to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
this book delivered on every front. the romance kept me invested, the survival aspect and the suspense had me constantly questioning what was really going on. there were several twists I genuinely didn’t see coming, which made the story even more addictive.
fast-paced, entertaining, and impossible to put down!this was exactly the kind of romance I love to read. definitely recommend it if you enjoy a side of adventure and mystery with your closed-door romance.
many thanks to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 28, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
The wilderness survival / forced proximity aspects of this were my favorite parts.
The wilderness survival / forced proximity aspects of this were my favorite parts.
June 28, 2026
Rating: 3.5/5
July 1, 2026
spoilers
He loved Christine more and Marie was a replacement… only together because of their circumstances. I never felt like he truly loved her.
He loved Christine more and Marie was a replacement… only together because of their circumstances. I never felt like he truly loved her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really need more people to read Lara's books!! So, if you're reading this, please check out her books. 🥰 I recommend pub order due to some interconnection, but they are all standalone.
Her writing is so freaking fantastic and I am blown away everytime. Though all of her books are top tier, and I am craving her suspense romance something fierce.
Stranded enemies + one sleeping bag = unexpected connection, overcoming grief, swoontastic tension, kissing only perfection.
Songs stuck in my head while reading and after:
I Didn't Know by Sofia Carson
Beautiful Disaster(live) by Kelly Clarkson
Her writing is so freaking fantastic and I am blown away everytime. Though all of her books are top tier, and I am craving her suspense romance something fierce.
Stranded enemies + one sleeping bag = unexpected connection, overcoming grief, swoontastic tension, kissing only perfection.
Songs stuck in my head while reading and after:
I Didn't Know by Sofia Carson
Beautiful Disaster(live) by Kelly Clarkson
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