Chasing Winter

The Four Seasons #4

by Alora Kate

From Chase and Winter's POV
Rated R. Not suitable for readers under 18 due to sexual content, language, violence.

Everyone has secrets but some are worse than others are. Some people are ashamed of their secrets. Some people are terrified of how others will react to their secrets. Chase and Winter both have secrets. They both have demons and a past that haunts them. This is the final book in The Four Seasons series and we finally get to meet Winter and Chase. How will they deal when they learn about each other’s pasts? Will Chase still continue to chase Winter?

109 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 20, 2015

About the author

"I hear voices in my head and I love that its totally okay." - Alora Kate

Alora Kate is a multi-genre author who likes to be bold and original; stepping outside of the box and bringing her readers fresh characters from all parts of life. She’s a mother, college student, photographer, and graphic designer. She resides in northern MN with her son, where she plans to stay for a long time despite the cold winters.

www.alorakate.com

Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralorak...

The Quote she reads everyday ......

“GIRL, write YOUR book dammit.
Who cares what people think?
If writers in the past cared what other people thought we'd still be glossing over 'inappropriate' kissing scenes.
Break the fucking rules.
Push yourself to the edge.
Show the world what YOU can do.
This is YOUR book. YOUR blood and guts.
AND, don't you EVER, EVER, write one single line for SOMEONE ELSE.”
― Madeline Sheehan

Reviews

[Sinamen Reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chasing Winter is the final book in the Four Seasons series, and I will say that Alora Kate saved the best for last. Chase and Wintered are tortured souls with secrets. Chase learned how to keep his demons at bay while Winter still trying to find peace with hers. This novella is their journey.



WHAT I LIKED
I absolutely loved Chased. He never gave up on Winter. In her he sees a kindred spirit and wants to help her overcome her past even though Winter keeps denying that there is a problem. But in true alpha-male fashion Chase keeps chipping away until she reveals her secret. I also loved the friends-to-lover feel of the story.

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
I can’t say that I found fault with the story. Winter was a little co-dependent, but she was also very self-aware. Alora Kate gives the reader well-developed characters and a fully developed plot in 100 pages of text.

WOULD I RECOMMEND
I would 100 times over recommend reading the Four Seasons series as each book follows a different couple on their road to a happily ever after. Each story can stand alone, but the characters are so connected that you must read them in order, to better understand the couple in the next book. Alora Kate’s writing is simply AMAZING. She gives her readers a novella that feels like a 200-page book. No one can go wrong in reading this series!



ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review



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[✨Cassie ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

* ARC REVIEW *
The Four Season's series is one of my favorites. Chasing Winter is hands down my favorite out of all the novellas. Alora Kate writes amazingly, and you absolutely fall in love with her character's, rooting them on.

Winter has kept a secret from everyone. No one knows what she is hiding. She's kept it to her self, buried in the pains of the past, so she won't bring the pain to her family. She's broken, isolated and fighting her own very scary demons.

Chase knows about pain, he's been to hell and back. He has wanted Winter since the first time he saw her, but getting her to let her guard down isn't easy. It like climbing Mount Everest. The night he found her in his hallway, is the night Winter realized that he is her security blanket. He helps her, eases her night terrors.... terrors of the past.

Can Winter ever let Chase in. Can she open up and let him in on this horrible secret she's been carrying around. Will she let him carry some of the burden? They can save each other.

Chase is one of those characters that is amazing. If only every guy could be like him. He doesn't give up and won't. He'll find away to have Winter let him in... no matter what. My heart broke and hurt for Winter. I couldn't even imagine the pain she was going through. I loved seeing her finally being able to open up and let Chase in.

Alora Kate gives us everything we want in a book. The epilogue, freaking loved it. Like I said, my favorite out of all the books. It's powerful.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy if this book in exchange for an honest review.
I fell in love with this series from the very start of the first book From Summer and Fall and with each book it just got better and better. We met new characters to fall in love with and some to really dislike. This last book Chasing Winter was the perfect ending to this series. I am sad to see it end and hope that maybe we'll get lucky and there will be a book that ties into this series in the future that will give us a glimpse of how everyone is. It's funny how you become so easily attached to the characters and just need to know more. I have to say I've loved all the main characters of each story but Winter and Chase are my favorite couple, they fit together perfectly. I will not give away any of the story but will say it's definitely not to be missed.

Merged review:

This has been an amazing series and I'm sooo sad to see it end but this is the perfect ending to this series. I have to say I believe this one is my favorite and really hope that somewhere down the line Alora Kate writes a book that ties into this series and gives us a glimpse at all of these charters lives. I have truely enjoyed reading every one of the books and loved every character. Alora Kate was able to write a series that pulled you in until you were so invested in the characters lives you just had to know what happens next. You really count ask for a better series.
I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Kim Sutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Chasing Winter from the author!

What an amazing end to such a brilliant series! This is bitter sweet, I'm so sad that this series is finished, but it cannot have ended more perfectly!

This is Winter and Chases story and I have been waiting so long to find out the story behind Winter! I love Winter she's such a brave woman and Chase is just as brave. These two are made for each other! Chase knows something has happened in the past to Winter to make her the shell of a person she is. He won't stop till he knows what her story is and shows her that he loves her and will always be there for her! Love it!

This story is so emotional, I had a feeling it would be and I definitely shed a lot of tears whilst reading! Loved every minute of it, I just couldn't stop reading till I'd finished! What an amazing end to the series! If you haven't read this series yet go one click them all now you won't be disappointed! Don't miss out on experiencing this book it's epic!

[Undeniably Addicted to Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

RATING: 5 STARS

This story. Man, this story gutted me. This has got to be one of the most heartfelt portions to these novellas. I loved the whole series, but this one left me in such a good place.

Winter's story. Winter's battle, Chase's battle. Chase is head over heels for Winter. Winter has chosen to turn a blind eye to anyone's advances. She is comfortable in her life, alone. Until Chase finds her one night sitting in the hallway of their building, a complete wreck. Together, they share, they learn and experience. Together, they can fight anything. Right?

I cannot say enough for this series as a whole. It touches on a lot of different 'taboo' topics in society. And it's done in a mature and responsible manner. Chasing Winter was no different. I encourage you to pick up this series as a whole and dive right in! All 5 parts can be read in a day, easily. Making for one sassy beach read.

Keri

(Copy provided in exchange for an honest review.)

[Dana Busenbark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the Four Seasons series. In this book, we learn about who Winter is and why she is so shy. We learn about her one time of trying to be like her sister Spring and what happens because of a couple of real jerks. The ending was not at all what I was expecting, but it was neat to check in with Summer, Tristan, Hannah and Fall again and to get an update on Spring and Chance as well as Jen and Detective Bain. This was a really nice conclusion to the series. If you have not read the other books before this one, you really should read them in order. Trust me!

RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Brilliant End to A Great Series
This is the fifth and final book in The Four Seasons series, and while it is sad to see it end, it is really an amazing way to end the series. This and all of the books in the series are fully packed, fairly short reads that leave you feeling as if you've just finished an epic novel. It was nice to find out how the rest of the gang is doing in this final installment, and even better was Winter's story. I won't leave any spoilers but you will definitely want to check this one out, the whole series in fact. I can't recommend this book and series enough. I can't wait to see where the author takes us next. I was generously given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[wendy Shelton(obsessedbybooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

* * ARC given on behalf of obsessed by books for an honest review * *

This the last book in the four Seasons series and I hate to see it end.
We finally get to read about Chase and Winter.
Winter has experience trama, a secret that's she kept to only herself, but it's caused her to shut down, to not allow people in no matter how much she feels for them and one of them being Chase.
Chase has some demons of his own, so he knows all about holding in, but can he ever break down Winters walls, so he can love her the way he's wanted to since he first saw her. I love Chase and Winter, their story broke me, I really hope to see more about this whole family.

[Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading all the books in this series, I'd say this one is my favorite. Chance has been waiting for Winter a long time, but she would never give in to him. She had a secret that kept her from being with him and living life at all. We learn of this secret and we see how Chance handles it. Another great read... a must read for those who love the Seasons and Alora Kate!

[Shani · Rating 5 out of 5]

First let me tell you what I always look for in a description of a book. I look for any “caution” or “ratings” that the author has felt necessary to list. Why? Because I live with many issues that can be triggered easily. A few months back I read a book that had no warning at all. The blurb hinted towards some more “negative” moments. However, I was not prepared for the depth of the beyond “negative” moments. It actually is what stopped me from reading anything more from that author. I couldn’t give them the benefit of the doubt for many reasons. Therefor, I look for disclaimers first. Any author who takes the time to write the disclaimer has even more of my respect. Alora has done that in every book I’ve read of hers. Even if it’s something small. So before you choose to read ANY book, check the disclaimers in the blurb first. Thank you Alora for adding that to your description on Amazon as well as in your book itself. I wish more people would take that time to do that!

Now, on to the good stuff!

This is the final book in the series and follows the final sibling, Winter. Winter is the polar opposite of her twin, Spring. Spring was always the more outspoken one, easily went with the flow and the one people wanted to hang with. She was much more spunky and feisty as well. Winter never had a deep connection with her twin like Chase and Chance did. She always studied hard, had her nose in a book and did what was expected of her. She never had the desire to be like her twin. Their lack of “twin connection” wasn’t something she dwelled on. She was her own person and didn’t want to be compared to anyone. Even though, you can tell she was. I felt for her in so many ways with just that. It’s easy for people to compare you to a sibling or other family member and ask stupid questions or treat you differently. I understood a lot about Winter before I really got into the book more.

In this book, Alora also focuses on Chase whom is Chance’s twin brother. Ironically, Chance is in love with Winters sister, Spring. (Can I just insert here how clever the names of these books are? ) Chase has also been the odd one out his whole life. But for him it was in different ways. Winter had a family that loved her fiercely, even with their differences. Chase only had his brother Chance, and no matter how close you are to someone, life happens. He’s worked hard to be better than what someone expected him to be. He fought hard to shatter the judgements passed on to him. For all that someone might see him as, he’s very complex. I loved him from the get go and felt like he was the perfect match for Winter in just the first few chapters. He has a quiet strength about him. I don’t mean in the physical sense, but in the heart he feels is so damaged. To be completely cheesy, he has a beautiful soul. Heck, they both do! I was so drawn to Chase because of it.

Winter moved into one of the apartments that were above the tattoo shop that Chance and Chase owned. Chase was fascinated by the beautiful young woman who has reached out to him in different ways but denies it. He can see a part of himself in her and the soul she feels is shattered. For the first time in his life, he wants something more. He wants to give himself to Winter and help her to heal from whatever monsters she lives with. He knows in that soft part of his heart that she would heal him too. How can he get through to her? How can he make her understand that nothing she tells him will make him walk away. That she isn’t broken? He has feelings so deep for her but worries he’ll scare her off if he pushes too hard. Instead, he does what he knows will help. He’s just there for her. If she needs him, he wants her to know his door is literally open. He also does little things for her, bring her lunch or go out of his way to say hello. He gets that she’s hurting and he figures even if it’s a little bit, it might make her smile.

Winter has suffered one of the worst traumas a person can go through. Of course, she’s kept it to herself all of these years. As victims so often do, she blames herself and doesn’t talk, doesn’t share her burden. How can she when she knows that the ones who love her will try to take damage away and feel guilty? She thinks she’s saving them all In reality, it only hurts everyone. Her internal pain is horrific and heartbreaking. Why can’t she just leave Chase alone and he her? What is it about him that draws her enough to feel safe? In the most absurd ways she feel safe and even a bit calm around a man who can scares some people and carries scars of his own.

Chase never had it easy. As a child he was dealt an unfair hand and was never set up for success. Instead he was beaten down literally, and figuratively. If it hadn’t been for his brother and his love, he probably wouldn’t have made it this far into this life. He endured because he didn’t have a choice. He couldn’t give up or let the abuser that haunted them win. He was determined to move on from that and at some point live with his own demons. His past is as scarred as his body and his heart. What is it about Winter that speaks to his broken down heart? Why does he feel so protective over her and feel nurtured by her obvious need of him?

Together, they work towards finding the truth about them both. They fight for what they haven’t always had. Peace in their lives. Their journey will come with a whole lot of heartache but also some healing. They find themselves sharing and letting others in. Once the truth is out totally, can they move on?

Creative adoration (positives): Alora tackles some pretty heavy things with this book. Ironically they are things that happen in everyday life but are ignored. Or not spoken about. She took on the task of exposing some of it and made it make sense and healing.

Creative indifference (negatives): I’m not sure I would call it a negative as much as a mixed reaction. Again, these are some seriously heavy topics. Keep an open mind when it comes to this book. It can cause some triggers. It’s different for each person.

Creative appraisal (overall): This story is hands down, the best out of all of the others in this series. It’s eye opening, heartfelt and tragic. Alora has the unique quality that any successful author has. The ability to bring out emotions in a reader. She so did that for me and I found myself understand more about my own past and how I’ve lived with stuff. There is a unique connection between the reader and the story itself. I love this book, and it pulls a lot out of you. Be prepared for that, but be open to what the story project's overall, healing. Love, healing and peace.

My star rating: 5 out of 5

[Michelle Ferrari-Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

So sad to see this series come to an end. An amazing set of stories as seen by four siblings and their significant others.

Winter is the younger of the twins and is the least sociable of all the children. No one knows what has happened to her and they never force her to reveal her secret.

Chase has been trying to get Winter to talk to him. He knows she has a secret and can see the pain and distrust in her eyes. He cares deeply for her and keeps trying to break down her walls to let him in. He finally decides to tell her his secret. He was severely abused by his mother, and aside from his twin, no one knows.

In this story Alora Kate touches upon abuse and the many faces it carries. Compassion and outrage are two of the emotions that will encompass you as you read along.

Will Chase break down the walls of protection that Winter hides behind? Will she ever tell her family?

This story is by far the most heart wrenching. Alora Kate has included many forms of hurt that people face daily within the covers of her books. I hope in the future she writes another story to catch us up with all the characters' lives and what they have accomplished.

[Patricia Blevins · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Chase and Winter is such an emotional one. It is so hard knowing the secrets that they both carried around for years without anyone else finding out. They way these two finally get all the pain and emotional no from one another and how so comes to a head with a little justice. Then when you catch up in the epilogue and find out what happens with the rest of the gang is so heartwarming. This was such a great book and was wrote with a lot of thought.

Merged review:

So Emotional

The story of Chase and Winter is such an emotional one. It is so hard knowing the secrets that they both carried around for years without anyone else finding out. They way these two finally get all the pain and emotional no from one another and how so comes to a head with a little justice. Then when you catch up in the epilogue and find out what happens with the rest of the gang is so heartwarming. This was such a great book and was wrote with a lot of thought.

[Alora Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the FINAL book in the series! YAY!