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Breaking #2
Breaking Away
Eighteen year old Raquel had just graduated high school and already her life was a mess. When her dad offered her what seemed like the only solution to her problems, she jumped at it.
His conditions were solid. He'd pay for college, she'd stay in his condo in San Diego, and he'd get her the professional help she needed. In return she'd leave behind everything and everyone who ever mattered.
That meant zero contact with her best friend Natalia and, more importantly, No Dante!
Pasts have a way of haunting you, and no matter how far you run from the problems in life, you can't outrun yourself.
She soon finds out that even with college, a job, and new friends, picking up the pieces isn't as simple as she thought it would be.
Raquel was about to learn the hard way that Breaking Away
isn't always as easy as it seems.
**Note: This book contains strong language, mature topics and sexual content.**
His conditions were solid. He'd pay for college, she'd stay in his condo in San Diego, and he'd get her the professional help she needed. In return she'd leave behind everything and everyone who ever mattered.
That meant zero contact with her best friend Natalia and, more importantly, No Dante!
Pasts have a way of haunting you, and no matter how far you run from the problems in life, you can't outrun yourself.
She soon finds out that even with college, a job, and new friends, picking up the pieces isn't as simple as she thought it would be.
Raquel was about to learn the hard way that Breaking Away
isn't always as easy as it seems.
**Note: This book contains strong language, mature topics and sexual content.**
266 pages, Paperback
First published March 12, 2015
About the author
Calista Smith
3 books152 followersCalista is a California girl who relocated to the great state of Texas. She resides there with her beautiful husband and their 3 crazy dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 12, 2015
*I recieved this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion*
OMG! As soon as I finished Breaking Down I was sooo happy to have Breaking Away waiting on me!
Blurb:
Eighteen year old Raquel had just graduated high school and already her life was a mess. When her dad offered her what seemed like the only solution to her problems, she jumped at it.
His conditions were solid. He'd pay for college, she'd stay in his condo in San Diego, and he'd get her the professional help she needed. In return she'd leave behind everything and everyone who ever mattered.
That meant zero contact with her best friend Natalia and, more importantly, No Dante!
Pasts have a way of haunting you, and no matter how far you run from the problems in life, you can't outrun yourself.
She soon finds out that even with college, a job, and new friends, picking up the pieces isn't as simple as she thought it would be.
Raquel was about to learn the hard way that Breaking Away
isn't always as easy as it seems.
In the last book I thought Rocky was a little whiny but she totally turned around for me in this book. Even though Breaking Away takes place 6 months later.. Rocky seems so grown up to me. Shes very troubled.. and my heart broke for her :( I just wanted to hug her! I felt bad for her! Rocky has quickly become one of my favorite characters.
The characters in this book aren't typical "fluff" characters. They are complex, they have their own personalities and they feel relateable!
Nat & Aiden are great supporting characters!! I love them all!
In Breaking Away, Rocky meets Neal who seems to be just what she NEEDS..but then theres also the possiblitly of Dante sometime/somewhere!
Just like the last book ..Breaking Away had my emotions everywhere! As soon as I started the book I couldn't put it down until I was finished!
Although! When I was almost to the end I texted my friend and told him I didn't want to read anymore because I was so close to finishing it and there wasn't enough pages for what I want to happen to happen!
I don't want to say anything without adding spoilers so I'll just end with #TEAMDANTE!
OMG! As soon as I finished Breaking Down I was sooo happy to have Breaking Away waiting on me!
Blurb:
Eighteen year old Raquel had just graduated high school and already her life was a mess. When her dad offered her what seemed like the only solution to her problems, she jumped at it.
His conditions were solid. He'd pay for college, she'd stay in his condo in San Diego, and he'd get her the professional help she needed. In return she'd leave behind everything and everyone who ever mattered.
That meant zero contact with her best friend Natalia and, more importantly, No Dante!
Pasts have a way of haunting you, and no matter how far you run from the problems in life, you can't outrun yourself.
She soon finds out that even with college, a job, and new friends, picking up the pieces isn't as simple as she thought it would be.
Raquel was about to learn the hard way that Breaking Away
isn't always as easy as it seems.
In the last book I thought Rocky was a little whiny but she totally turned around for me in this book. Even though Breaking Away takes place 6 months later.. Rocky seems so grown up to me. Shes very troubled.. and my heart broke for her :( I just wanted to hug her! I felt bad for her! Rocky has quickly become one of my favorite characters.
The characters in this book aren't typical "fluff" characters. They are complex, they have their own personalities and they feel relateable!
Nat & Aiden are great supporting characters!! I love them all!
In Breaking Away, Rocky meets Neal who seems to be just what she NEEDS..but then theres also the possiblitly of Dante sometime/somewhere!
Just like the last book ..Breaking Away had my emotions everywhere! As soon as I started the book I couldn't put it down until I was finished!
Although! When I was almost to the end I texted my friend and told him I didn't want to read anymore because I was so close to finishing it and there wasn't enough pages for what I want to happen to happen!
I don't want to say anything without adding spoilers so I'll just end with #TEAMDANTE!
July 16, 2016
This book had me back and forth! I absolutely loved it! I was so excited when Dante came back into Rockys life and I thought they were actually going somewhere, only to find out he is MARRIED?! I was so mad!!! And now I'm like geez, I love Neal! But at the same time I feel like Neal has some kind of secret or something. Oh I just don't know which way to go! All in all I loved the book though and cannot wait until the 3rd one is released!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2016
This is the second book in this series and Breaking Down needs to be read first.
Raquel Garcia has just left her mom's home in a desperate struggle to begin again after she found herself once again struggling with everything she lost in the last book. She has moved to San Diego to be with her dad who says she needs to begin to see a therapist and get herself back together. But as Raquel distances herself from those that love her she finds herself in new situations and must figure out what her heart really wants.
Neal is a friend who's marriage has just ended and he and Raquel form a tight friendship. As Neal is there for Raquel when she needs an ear to listen and just someone in her corner she begins to reach out to the friends she left behind in order to see if she can put the past behind her.
Dante is still in love with Raquel but their talks still prove to be hurtful and it is evident that Dante is hiding something from Raquel. Will the truth destroy her again or will he finally prove their love has a chance?
"You love him, fine, but you don't define yourself by that"
I enjoyed this book but I still had to remind myself of how young Raquel is as at times I really wanted to smack her upside the head with some of her decisions. I was super frustrated that she would get mad at Dante for holding things back yet she was doing the same thing to him. She is constantly running away from important conversations and is not giving anyone a chance to explain how they feel.
I was super mad at Dante in this book but underneath it all I still know how much he loves her but it really doesn't make me want to forgive him for screwing up so bad. He really needs to get some help with his issues as well as he is pretty messed up as well.
I'm undecided about Neal as he is such a wonderful friend to Raquel but I can't help but feel like he's got some secrets with how often he travels. I guess I am so surprised at how far he was willing to go for Raquel when she viewed him as only a friend. I guess we'll see what the next book has in store for us!
I understand the conflict that Natalie and Aiden are in but I truly think they need to be there for the person that needs them the most and stop holding everyone's secrets in as there is so much hurt in this book from people hiding things.
I'm really interested in seeing where the next book goes as right now I am honestly not sure!
Reviewed for KFA
Raquel Garcia has just left her mom's home in a desperate struggle to begin again after she found herself once again struggling with everything she lost in the last book. She has moved to San Diego to be with her dad who says she needs to begin to see a therapist and get herself back together. But as Raquel distances herself from those that love her she finds herself in new situations and must figure out what her heart really wants.
Neal is a friend who's marriage has just ended and he and Raquel form a tight friendship. As Neal is there for Raquel when she needs an ear to listen and just someone in her corner she begins to reach out to the friends she left behind in order to see if she can put the past behind her.
Dante is still in love with Raquel but their talks still prove to be hurtful and it is evident that Dante is hiding something from Raquel. Will the truth destroy her again or will he finally prove their love has a chance?
"You love him, fine, but you don't define yourself by that"
I enjoyed this book but I still had to remind myself of how young Raquel is as at times I really wanted to smack her upside the head with some of her decisions. I was super frustrated that she would get mad at Dante for holding things back yet she was doing the same thing to him. She is constantly running away from important conversations and is not giving anyone a chance to explain how they feel.
I was super mad at Dante in this book but underneath it all I still know how much he loves her but it really doesn't make me want to forgive him for screwing up so bad. He really needs to get some help with his issues as well as he is pretty messed up as well.
I'm undecided about Neal as he is such a wonderful friend to Raquel but I can't help but feel like he's got some secrets with how often he travels. I guess I am so surprised at how far he was willing to go for Raquel when she viewed him as only a friend. I guess we'll see what the next book has in store for us!
I understand the conflict that Natalie and Aiden are in but I truly think they need to be there for the person that needs them the most and stop holding everyone's secrets in as there is so much hurt in this book from people hiding things.
I'm really interested in seeing where the next book goes as right now I am honestly not sure!
Reviewed for KFA
April 24, 2015
I was given an ARC book for an honest review free of persuasion from the author or anyone else affiliated with this book
WARNING CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS AND ADULT CONTENT
Breaking Away picks right up where Breaking Down left off. If you thought you were done with the emotional roller coaster of a ride, think again. Ms. Smith has thrown the gauntlet down when it comes to the unexpected surprises in this wonderful story of learning how to love again.
"I don't understand how you can say you love someone, and then hurt them this much."
Raquel has been through so much. From the incident at her JR High School that led to her parents divorce, to the her relationship with Dante, to her loss of her pregnancy. It is no wonder that she is doubts herself or falls into complete depression.
Raquel is a runner. She pushes away all of her friends, including her best friend Natalia, and moves in with her dad. It is her way of trying to get away from Dante and all of her problems. However running doesn't end love or memories. She is constantly torn over leaving Dante. She turns to alcohol. This causes problems with her job and school. She continues to try to deal with everything on her own.
Her new friend, Theresa, finally pulls out for a night on the town. Theresa brings her boyfriend Terrell and another guy named Neal. Raquel and Neal hit it off. Neal is going through a divorce and Raquel is dealing with her loss of the pregnancy and relationship with Dante. Neal and Raquel become good friends. One night Neal takes Raquel to a block party at Terrell's apartment complex. Things are going good until she runs into Dante at the party. Will she get back with Dante? Will she survive the heartbreak of seeing Dante with someone else? What about Neal?
This was another great book by Calista! The story-line was wonderful. There are so many layers to the story! I look forward to reading so much more by this author!
WARNING CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS AND ADULT CONTENT
Breaking Away picks right up where Breaking Down left off. If you thought you were done with the emotional roller coaster of a ride, think again. Ms. Smith has thrown the gauntlet down when it comes to the unexpected surprises in this wonderful story of learning how to love again.
"I don't understand how you can say you love someone, and then hurt them this much."
Raquel has been through so much. From the incident at her JR High School that led to her parents divorce, to the her relationship with Dante, to her loss of her pregnancy. It is no wonder that she is doubts herself or falls into complete depression.
Raquel is a runner. She pushes away all of her friends, including her best friend Natalia, and moves in with her dad. It is her way of trying to get away from Dante and all of her problems. However running doesn't end love or memories. She is constantly torn over leaving Dante. She turns to alcohol. This causes problems with her job and school. She continues to try to deal with everything on her own.
Her new friend, Theresa, finally pulls out for a night on the town. Theresa brings her boyfriend Terrell and another guy named Neal. Raquel and Neal hit it off. Neal is going through a divorce and Raquel is dealing with her loss of the pregnancy and relationship with Dante. Neal and Raquel become good friends. One night Neal takes Raquel to a block party at Terrell's apartment complex. Things are going good until she runs into Dante at the party. Will she get back with Dante? Will she survive the heartbreak of seeing Dante with someone else? What about Neal?
This was another great book by Calista! The story-line was wonderful. There are so many layers to the story! I look forward to reading so much more by this author!
March 17, 2015
*** I was lucky to receive this from the author for an honest review****
I give Breaking Away 4 stars****
**Note: This book contains strong language, mature topics and sexual content.**
Rocky and Dante have now graduated from school and are trying to get their lives back on track. Running from her problems, leaving everything behind and moving on with her life. She may have left but that doesn't mean she won't come face to face with her past problems and more.
so I was excited to see what happens with Dante and Raquels story. Excited to see how their relationship grew. See how Raquel dealt with it all. I liked that the story was in a new setting, new surrounding and that there was new characters. I loved how Raquel, as a character grew and we get to witness it.
This second book, really captured the essence of, a coming of age story, how life changes unexpectedly to how you plan. Raquel is dealing with her past, present and future problems, well trying to anyway, it was so realistic I loved that. Dante done what he wanted to, he joined the marines. It was inevitable they were going to meet again. Dante is a hell of a lot more man in this book! He is moody and intense but he is still sweet.
I loved how Raquel's character grew but I still thought she was whiny and honestly a little selfish. I hate how her and Nat's friendship suffered somewhat in this book, yes it's part of growing up, and coming of age, but I love their friendship. Yet again I didn't get her friendship choices.. her and Neal's friendship made me cringe at times. I winced through their scenes. I guess I am just a hopeless romantic and didn't get it and always rooted for her and Dante. I just didn't connect with Raquel I guess But I did enjoy the story, more than I thought I would and I enjoyed Calista's writing and how it grew.
August 16, 2016
And so the journey of Raquel and Dante continue in this second book of the series. Each is trying to deal with the aftermath that occurred at the end of the first book. Raquel thinks by running and putting distance between her and Dante will help her heal and move on, yet he always has a way of catching up to her.
Raquel is in college and in therapy. She has met new friends and possibly a new man, Neal. However, she still has difficulties dealing with her past, and it’s not allowing her to love herself completely or give herself completely to any man. Dante is just as self-destructive as she is. He doesn’t deal well with his past or his broken heart either. These two souls are so broken, and you find yourself wanting so badly for them to get it right. Without giving too much away, Rocky does grow dramatically in this book.
Smith’s writing was good in the first book, and she has a way of drawing you into the story. She has grown tremendously in her writing…it’s even better in this book. I love the way she doesn’t rush Rocky’s story. It will take her time to get to a place where she can function 100%, so the pacing is realistic. And, as I said in the first book, this isn’t the end for Rocky or Dante. Looking forward to the third book!!!
***Read on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha***
***Copy provided in exchange for an honest review***
Raquel is in college and in therapy. She has met new friends and possibly a new man, Neal. However, she still has difficulties dealing with her past, and it’s not allowing her to love herself completely or give herself completely to any man. Dante is just as self-destructive as she is. He doesn’t deal well with his past or his broken heart either. These two souls are so broken, and you find yourself wanting so badly for them to get it right. Without giving too much away, Rocky does grow dramatically in this book.
Smith’s writing was good in the first book, and she has a way of drawing you into the story. She has grown tremendously in her writing…it’s even better in this book. I love the way she doesn’t rush Rocky’s story. It will take her time to get to a place where she can function 100%, so the pacing is realistic. And, as I said in the first book, this isn’t the end for Rocky or Dante. Looking forward to the third book!!!
***Read on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha***
***Copy provided in exchange for an honest review***
May 2, 2015
Breaking Away, Breaking Series, Book Two by Calista Smith had me reading with great anticipation. The smooth realistic writing style kept me enthralled throughout as I turned the pages with enthusiasm. This is a compelling story that both entertained me and had me thinking about it later while I wasn't reading.
I love coming-of-age stories and this one didn't disappoint. Raw, emotional and wildly compelling. There are inspiring messages that are both empowering and uplifting.
Breaking Away moved me and pulled me right in. Instantly I was drawn into this girl's life. My curiosity was sparked from the very beginning through to the very last page. Leaving me with wanting more but pleased to know this is not the last book in the series.
Quote ~
"Dante was a strong, deep sea and I was quickly drowning in all that was him. Neither of us were considering consequences or matters surrounding us. Not the time, distance, unresolved issues, or significant others that lingered from our not so distant past. No. In fact, the rush of emotions engulfing me left me with no time to consider anything at all. Anything but my love for him. By the time we came to our senses, it was too late."
I love coming-of-age stories and this one didn't disappoint. Raw, emotional and wildly compelling. There are inspiring messages that are both empowering and uplifting.
Breaking Away moved me and pulled me right in. Instantly I was drawn into this girl's life. My curiosity was sparked from the very beginning through to the very last page. Leaving me with wanting more but pleased to know this is not the last book in the series.
Quote ~
"Dante was a strong, deep sea and I was quickly drowning in all that was him. Neither of us were considering consequences or matters surrounding us. Not the time, distance, unresolved issues, or significant others that lingered from our not so distant past. No. In fact, the rush of emotions engulfing me left me with no time to consider anything at all. Anything but my love for him. By the time we came to our senses, it was too late."
May 17, 2015
This book picks up 6 months on from book 1, Raquel is now lIvng with her dad, she's in therapy and left everyone behind, these are the conditions her dad has set and you understand why he did it, he wants her to get better. Reconnecting with Natalia brings Dante back into her life and nothing has changed, he is still able to twist her in knots the chemistry between them has never waned but can they overcome the past and be together. I know I will be in the minority but I really grew to hate Date in this book and I've come to to realise that Raquel may think she's weak but she has grown strong in his absence and he is still that immature, destructive selfish boy from high school. A couple of quotes that fit the book for me are " Love shouldn't be this hard. It shouldn't hurt this much" and " You did that because you were over me" I know people aren't sold on Neal but for me he's good for her, he's made her aware that she's worth more, she's worth someone to fight for her something I've never thought Dante did. I hope that in book 3 she's happy either with Neal or on her own for awhile but not with Dante.
April 1, 2015
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for sharing my honest opinion*
Having fallen in love with this series and the way Calista Smith writes in Breaking Down, I was so excited to read Breaking Away. Rocky was put through the wringer in the last book and so now she's taking time away from everyone, even friends, as she gets the help she needs. This story was just as wonderful(and heartwrenching) as the first. Rocky is a bit broken, but at the same time what she has been through has made her so much more mature than in Breaking Down. She is such a wonderfully written character, and I always find myself relating to her - even when I've never experienced the things she's experiencing. I know a lot of other hardcore Breaking series fans are choosing #TeamDante or #TeamNeal but I am 100% #TeamRocky. I love the fact that she really doesn't need the guy(either one) to make her whole again. I don't want to give spoilers of the first book or this one in this review, but all I can say is you're in for a fantastic read!
One more time: #TeamRocky ;)
Having fallen in love with this series and the way Calista Smith writes in Breaking Down, I was so excited to read Breaking Away. Rocky was put through the wringer in the last book and so now she's taking time away from everyone, even friends, as she gets the help she needs. This story was just as wonderful(and heartwrenching) as the first. Rocky is a bit broken, but at the same time what she has been through has made her so much more mature than in Breaking Down. She is such a wonderfully written character, and I always find myself relating to her - even when I've never experienced the things she's experiencing. I know a lot of other hardcore Breaking series fans are choosing #TeamDante or #TeamNeal but I am 100% #TeamRocky. I love the fact that she really doesn't need the guy(either one) to make her whole again. I don't want to give spoilers of the first book or this one in this review, but all I can say is you're in for a fantastic read!
One more time: #TeamRocky ;)
May 2, 2015
I was looking forward to this sequel. Raquel, having endured tough times and sorrow, begins to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. In this second book we see ‘Rocky’ mature, as a character. Her supporting cast are pivotal, with Dante and Neal, vying for her love.
I really don’t want to spoil the story for others, so I will concentrate on why I loved the book. It is well written with heart and soul. The characters are credible, Rocky’s journey is poignant, courageous, and it transcended the pages. I was engrossed from the first chapter until the last, and yet I feel there is still more to come with Rocky, her struggles, and what I hope will be her, eventual triumphs.
If I was asked what I took away from this story, it would probably be the main character’s fight and pluck, when lifting herself out of depression and grief, and face the world again. We could all learn her lesson, for at one time or another we probably all suffer life’s blows.
Well done, Ms Smith. I’ll look forward to reading the next one in this wonderful series.
I really don’t want to spoil the story for others, so I will concentrate on why I loved the book. It is well written with heart and soul. The characters are credible, Rocky’s journey is poignant, courageous, and it transcended the pages. I was engrossed from the first chapter until the last, and yet I feel there is still more to come with Rocky, her struggles, and what I hope will be her, eventual triumphs.
If I was asked what I took away from this story, it would probably be the main character’s fight and pluck, when lifting herself out of depression and grief, and face the world again. We could all learn her lesson, for at one time or another we probably all suffer life’s blows.
Well done, Ms Smith. I’ll look forward to reading the next one in this wonderful series.
February 20, 2015
OMG!!!! I love this author and this book. This book really deserves 10 stars. I read the first book last year and I KNEW I needed book 2. I waited patiently for it to be release. AND it was so good. Rocky and the gang were back and so much happened. This take place 6 months later. My heart breaks for Raquel (Rocky). She went to live with her father to start over, to heal from what happened to her. At Nat and Aiden wedding she runs into Dante. Feelings for one another spark back up and then it happens. Dante has a huge secret that just breaks Rocky even more. Oh and Rocky meets Neal who is going through his own stuff. Rocky and Neal also have chemistry. So much drama goes on in this book and you are just reading each word wondering what Rocky will do next. I was glued to this book and Calista has done a fantastic job. She is a talented and brilliant author and this series is a MUST READ!!!!!
Over all I give this book 5 brilliant stars!!!
Over all I give this book 5 brilliant stars!!!
March 19, 2015
Breaking Away
by Calista Smith
The path of love from the teen years to the twenties is not always a straight path.
I was provided with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Raquel was offered the chance to start over for the second time in her life. Twice she has fled the homes she knew, trying to rebuild a healthy life. This time, she leaves her mother and friends behind to live with her father and attend college. People from her past show up to possibly derail her progress, but she makes new friends along the way.
I struggled with this book somewhat. I think that this is because Raquel struggles to determine what she actually wants and what direction she wants to go with her life. Like with the first book, it was an emotional rollercoaster, and the end does leave you wanting more.
by Calista Smith
The path of love from the teen years to the twenties is not always a straight path.
I was provided with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Raquel was offered the chance to start over for the second time in her life. Twice she has fled the homes she knew, trying to rebuild a healthy life. This time, she leaves her mother and friends behind to live with her father and attend college. People from her past show up to possibly derail her progress, but she makes new friends along the way.
I struggled with this book somewhat. I think that this is because Raquel struggles to determine what she actually wants and what direction she wants to go with her life. Like with the first book, it was an emotional rollercoaster, and the end does leave you wanting more.
February 10, 2015
Ok so I loved this book even more than the first!! I mean, the first was really good. But this one is, like, wow. The first one had so much drama but i felt like it was surface stuff. And with this book it finally goes deeper. The drama feels more important, if that makes sense. I'm not that great at explaining my feelings but I'm just really loving Rocky's journey. It's not an easy one, and, tbh, I didn't love her in the first book, but it's like I'm finally starting to get her and it makes me look at her differently. And, come on...Neal. Just...yeah.
September 16, 2016
This book starts 6 months down the line. Rocky is now living with her dad in San Diego, he is paying for her therapy on the condition that she cuts off all her old ties which of includes Natalia and of course Dante. Rocky has also settled into a new school and meeting friends with the possibility of a new love interest in fellow student Neal.
Rocky may still be in therapy she is still struggling to get over Dante.
Meanwhile Dante is on a one man self destruct mode.
Ypu will have to wait and read it and see if these 2 tortured souls can help each out.....
Rocky may still be in therapy she is still struggling to get over Dante.
Meanwhile Dante is on a one man self destruct mode.
Ypu will have to wait and read it and see if these 2 tortured souls can help each out.....
August 8, 2016
3.5 Stars
I feel about this story about the same as the first book. Raquel still got on my nerves at times and Dante went through his jerk stages. At this point I invested time into both book so I am going to find she the series. Starting book 3.
I feel about this story about the same as the first book. Raquel still got on my nerves at times and Dante went through his jerk stages. At this point I invested time into both book so I am going to find she the series. Starting book 3.
March 20, 2015
I think this book is amazing! I love the relationship between Nat and Rocky and how they know each other so good. Over all, this book is awesome and I can't wait for the third!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews