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Riverview #2
A Healing Spirit
A freak ski accident brings nineteen-year old Mia Kinney within minutes of death. Hurt and scared, Mia is calmed by the southern drawl and clear green eyes of her rescuer.
Twenty-one year old Dylan Blackburn is one of the first Ski Patrol members on the scene. As his patient is airlifted to the local trauma center, he can’t shake her from his thoughts.
As Mia fights for her life, Dylan, is haunted by the blond hair beauty, and knows he needs to make sure she’s going to be okay.
With a troubled past Dylan has vowed never to completely open himself up to another girl, but Mia continues to knock down every wall he’s constructed. When his past arrives at his front door and threatens once again someone that he loves, will Dylan be able to save Mia yet again? Or will he be too late this time?
A story of love, friendship, and the determination to turn a horrible experience into something worthwhile.
"A Healing Spirit" is book 2 of the Riverview Series, however each is a standalone story.
Twenty-one year old Dylan Blackburn is one of the first Ski Patrol members on the scene. As his patient is airlifted to the local trauma center, he can’t shake her from his thoughts.
As Mia fights for her life, Dylan, is haunted by the blond hair beauty, and knows he needs to make sure she’s going to be okay.
With a troubled past Dylan has vowed never to completely open himself up to another girl, but Mia continues to knock down every wall he’s constructed. When his past arrives at his front door and threatens once again someone that he loves, will Dylan be able to save Mia yet again? Or will he be too late this time?
A story of love, friendship, and the determination to turn a horrible experience into something worthwhile.
"A Healing Spirit" is book 2 of the Riverview Series, however each is a standalone story.
288 pages, Paperback
First published August 16, 2015
8 people are currently reading
705 people want to read
About the author
Melissa A. Hanson
4 books79 followersMelissa A. Hanson lives in Southern California with her husband and two sons. Growing up in Southern California, inspiration for the city of “Riverview” is based on her hometown, Redlands.
Melissa's journey to writing began with a passion in reading that started in sixth grade. In high school she started writing, but writing took a back seat when she decided to pursue a career in architecture. Almost twenty years later, her first novel was written.
“A Healing Heart” was her first completed novel, and is book 1 of the Riverview Series.
It is Bailey and Collin's story.
“A Healing Spirit", is book 2 of the Riverview Series.
It is Mia and Dylan's story.
"A Healing Touch" book 3 of the Riverview Series.
It is Natasha and Troy's story
Each book is a stand-alone novel.
While Melissa spends most days designing buildings, she still loves reading and creating stories.
Melissa's journey to writing began with a passion in reading that started in sixth grade. In high school she started writing, but writing took a back seat when she decided to pursue a career in architecture. Almost twenty years later, her first novel was written.
“A Healing Heart” was her first completed novel, and is book 1 of the Riverview Series.
It is Bailey and Collin's story.
“A Healing Spirit", is book 2 of the Riverview Series.
It is Mia and Dylan's story.
"A Healing Touch" book 3 of the Riverview Series.
It is Natasha and Troy's story
Each book is a stand-alone novel.
While Melissa spends most days designing buildings, she still loves reading and creating stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
January 26, 2016
Melissa what have you done with me?
MIGHT CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!
So this book tells Mia's story. One of Bailey's best friend. The book starts on a winter day right before Thanksgiving, where Mia and all her friends go on a ski trip.
As I was expecting, there was an accident with Mia, and she meets green eyed Southern boy (oh god, already in love), Dylan.
They have a connection instantly. This is the second book in the Riverview series, as in A Healing Heart, there is a little love triangle going on, but it is nowhere near as hateful as Savannah (lol, im sorry)
There is also a lot of suspense towards the end of the book, when someone unwanted comes back to haunt Dylan's mom and Mia.
What i loved about this book:
1) How the accident is actually portrayed on the book. Different from A Healing Heart, the accident takes place on the first few chapters, rather than the prologue. So as a reader, i really enjoyed seeing and knowing how Mia felt when she had the accident, and while she was recovering.
2) The pace of the story. It is not completely fast, but its not slow either. I didn't get lost, and I could keep up at a reasonable pace (which is kind of hard for me since i get distracted hahaha)
3) Dylan. Once again, Melissa A. Hanson, has made me FALL IN ABSOLUTE love for the main character (The guy). I'd really give anything to have a Dylan in my life.
4) there is one special quote, that just stuck with me. "Sometimes there is no explanation, it just is" and it was just like.. Sometimes thinks in life happen, and there is a reason why. If Mia hadn't had the accident, she wouldn't have met Dylan. Sometimes you don't even expect to find the love of your life, but you just do. Or sometimes you just need to wait, because if its meant to happen, it will.
And i have personal note for Melissa: THE MEDICAL TERMS?!!!!!HOW?!!! Just loved it omg.
If I could give it more than 5 stars, you bet I would.
MIGHT CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!
So this book tells Mia's story. One of Bailey's best friend. The book starts on a winter day right before Thanksgiving, where Mia and all her friends go on a ski trip.
As I was expecting, there was an accident with Mia, and she meets green eyed Southern boy (oh god, already in love), Dylan.
They have a connection instantly. This is the second book in the Riverview series, as in A Healing Heart, there is a little love triangle going on, but it is nowhere near as hateful as Savannah (lol, im sorry)
There is also a lot of suspense towards the end of the book, when someone unwanted comes back to haunt Dylan's mom and Mia.
What i loved about this book:
1) How the accident is actually portrayed on the book. Different from A Healing Heart, the accident takes place on the first few chapters, rather than the prologue. So as a reader, i really enjoyed seeing and knowing how Mia felt when she had the accident, and while she was recovering.
2) The pace of the story. It is not completely fast, but its not slow either. I didn't get lost, and I could keep up at a reasonable pace (which is kind of hard for me since i get distracted hahaha)
3) Dylan. Once again, Melissa A. Hanson, has made me FALL IN ABSOLUTE love for the main character (The guy). I'd really give anything to have a Dylan in my life.
4) there is one special quote, that just stuck with me. "Sometimes there is no explanation, it just is" and it was just like.. Sometimes thinks in life happen, and there is a reason why. If Mia hadn't had the accident, she wouldn't have met Dylan. Sometimes you don't even expect to find the love of your life, but you just do. Or sometimes you just need to wait, because if its meant to happen, it will.
And i have personal note for Melissa: THE MEDICAL TERMS?!!!!!HOW?!!! Just loved it omg.
If I could give it more than 5 stars, you bet I would.
January 31, 2016
Ugh, absolutely loved this one too! It's fairly late for me to be up... That's how badly I had to finish reading. The last 100 pages or so keep you on your toes wanting more and I knew I wouldn't go to bed not knowing what was going to happen next. Usually I can go to sleep and continue the following day, nope.. Not with this one!! How I've managed to stay up this late is beyond me... But this story was just as amazing! I have no doubt the next book(s) will be just as amazing! I fell hard for Dylan (who wouldn't!? He has a southern accent-- one of the things I like most). ;) Mia was just awesome. Words cannot describe how amazing of a person she was. Ugh, this book. Just too good. Suspense was ON POINT. I seriously could not put this book down. It is crazy just how quickly things can turn for the worst. I've never really had the urge to go snowboarding, I'm already not coordinated on just bare land... I cannot tell you how many times I've hurt myself.. Trying to snowboard would be scary. But reading this definitely made me more nervous for sure. I'll have more thoughts on my full review.
January 2, 2016
Mia has a wonderful outlook on life. She is a fighter and doesn't stop believing in what she sees as a worthy cause. She is about to find herself in the middle of a very near and dear to her heart kind of cause. One day while skiing with her friends, Mia suddenly falls off of a ski lift. One minute she is sitting in the chair with two of her best friends and the next minute, she falls thirty feet and is lying on the ground in a ball.
After she falls, two guys from ski patrol come to her rescue. Dylan and Corey just happened to be sitting in the ski patrol hut and hear a thump. It is Mia and right away they go into EMT mode and try to help her. Once they have her loaded onto a helicopter she is whisked away to the local hospital. As time goes by and Mia has a few surgeries she is touch and go. Dylan can't help but feel a strong pull to go and be with Mia. Once she is stable and out of the woods, the two become friends and spend every free minute together.
Dylan comes from an abusive childhood but he isn't ready to share the details of that with Mia. He chooses to keep it inside and buried deep in his mind. His past will come back to haunt him and put the ones he loves most, in danger. Trust me, you aren't going to be able to stop turning the pages late into the night until you find out what happens to Dylan and Mia. A HEALING SPIRIT has it all, friendship, suspense, humor, and romance. I can't wait to read more of this Riverview Series. I finished reading with tears in my eyes and a huge lump in my throat.
December 2, 2015
This is the second book in this Riverview series. I read and reviewed the first book not too long ago. As a reviewer, I don't always love the books I am reviewing. That goes without saying. But, I do believe that when I read a first book by an author, and don't really love it, I should give them another chance. Sometimes authors get better as they go, sometimes I get better as I go. :) Either way, I believe in second chances. I didn't really love the first book in this series but I had already signed on to review this one and like I said before, I thought I would give the author another chance.
Unfortunately, all the reasons I didn't really enjoy the first book were amplified in this book. This book is told in first person from multiple points of view. It drove me nuts. Especially in the beginning when it jumped from person to person. By the end of the book there was really only 3 alternating voices going on which was a relief, but I still would have appreciated it more if there weren't so many voices. The problem, especially in the beginning was that I didn't feel any connection to any of the characters. I didn't feel like I needed those alternating points of view to convey the information or emotion. It was just distracting.
My other problem was the swearing and profanity. The first book had a few mild instances, this book had a few more, some not so mild. Not a fan of that. The first book mentioned the couple not being ready for sexual relations quite yet, this book did the same but took things just a little bit farther.
I will say that by the end of the book I really did like the main characters, Mia and Dylan. Mia has a fantastic attitude toward life and it's always refreshing to have characters that sends out positive vibes. This book also tackles the very tough subject of domestic violence and I thought the author did a great job of capturing the emotions of abuse. I also liked the fact that this story was based on a real life event. I enjoyed reading about that in the back of the book.
I think now that I have a pretty good idea of how this author writes and I just don't think it's a good fit for me personally.
Unfortunately, all the reasons I didn't really enjoy the first book were amplified in this book. This book is told in first person from multiple points of view. It drove me nuts. Especially in the beginning when it jumped from person to person. By the end of the book there was really only 3 alternating voices going on which was a relief, but I still would have appreciated it more if there weren't so many voices. The problem, especially in the beginning was that I didn't feel any connection to any of the characters. I didn't feel like I needed those alternating points of view to convey the information or emotion. It was just distracting.
My other problem was the swearing and profanity. The first book had a few mild instances, this book had a few more, some not so mild. Not a fan of that. The first book mentioned the couple not being ready for sexual relations quite yet, this book did the same but took things just a little bit farther.
I will say that by the end of the book I really did like the main characters, Mia and Dylan. Mia has a fantastic attitude toward life and it's always refreshing to have characters that sends out positive vibes. This book also tackles the very tough subject of domestic violence and I thought the author did a great job of capturing the emotions of abuse. I also liked the fact that this story was based on a real life event. I enjoyed reading about that in the back of the book.
I think now that I have a pretty good idea of how this author writes and I just don't think it's a good fit for me personally.
September 7, 2015
Reviewed on Kathryn Cooper Writes
Just look at the cover picture! You know you’ll love this book! I read Melissa A. Hanson’s first book a few years ago. This is the 2nd in the series, but it’s from a different character. So you don’t have to read book 1, but you should because it was always a great read! Characters from the first book are in this book too.
I loved reading Mia’s story. She was a tough chicka. I think many of us become super tough when put in terrible situations. I don’t want to give things away, but she had a major injury and a hero. Dylan was the hero that worked where she was injured. I love how the story goes beyond her injury and hospital days. You really get a chance to watch their new relationship. IT WAS SO CUTE!!! squeal I loved so many of their scenes together!
It’s not just a romance story. It has injuries and scary action moments. The story goes into family abuse, not Mia’s family. It’s so sad but very real.
A Healing Spirit by Melissa A. Hanson is a must read for any of you YA or NA contemporary romance fiction lovers!
Content Ratings: content details found at kathryncooperwrites.com
Sexual: moderate
Language: mild
Violence: mild
I received this book from the author Melissa A. Hanson. I am not paid for my reviews. My reviews are solely my opinion.
Just look at the cover picture! You know you’ll love this book! I read Melissa A. Hanson’s first book a few years ago. This is the 2nd in the series, but it’s from a different character. So you don’t have to read book 1, but you should because it was always a great read! Characters from the first book are in this book too.
I loved reading Mia’s story. She was a tough chicka. I think many of us become super tough when put in terrible situations. I don’t want to give things away, but she had a major injury and a hero. Dylan was the hero that worked where she was injured. I love how the story goes beyond her injury and hospital days. You really get a chance to watch their new relationship. IT WAS SO CUTE!!! squeal I loved so many of their scenes together!
It’s not just a romance story. It has injuries and scary action moments. The story goes into family abuse, not Mia’s family. It’s so sad but very real.
A Healing Spirit by Melissa A. Hanson is a must read for any of you YA or NA contemporary romance fiction lovers!
Content Ratings: content details found at kathryncooperwrites.com
Sexual: moderate
Language: mild
Violence: mild
I received this book from the author Melissa A. Hanson. I am not paid for my reviews. My reviews are solely my opinion.
January 1, 2016
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Where to start.This is a very uplifting story. The two main characters Mia and Dylan are so interesting. Mia has to fight so much in this book that to see her always positive and upbeat is amazing. Dylan starts to relax and be more upbeat due to his love for Mia.
The story has many point of views. We have the two main characters Mia and Dylan, Bailey one of Mia's BFFs and one who understands what both Mia and Dylan are going through, Mia's mom who we see what a mom goes through when your child is in danger, Randy in a way who is evil to the core and Quinn who I truly truly feel bad for. Quinn is a great guy and I hope we get a story for him and that he gets a happy ending. Each POV helps us understand different ways everyone is seeing Mia's fight after falling from a ski lift and how dylan and Mia come together.
Dylan is the ski patrol guy who helped save Mia. From the beginning he was entranced by her strength and even in her struggle to fight the pain her vitality. He was drawn to her and as he slowly got to know her he fell in love. The love story progressed over time as they got to know each other. Dylan has a painful past and tries to keep this hidden because others have hurt him when they knew. But Mia is different, she is loving, kind and loyal. She likes Dylan for him and doesn't care what is in the past only the present and future. For this dylan slowly breaks down the barriers around her heart and lets her in. when danger comes to their door in the picture of his Dad, he does tell Mia everything and she is supportive and loving. She shows character and strength.
Mia is a strong, vibrant stubborn young woman who experiences incredible battles in this book. She is fighting for her life and learning her purpose while falling in love. We see a upbeat positive outlook girl go through incredible adversity and come out with a smile and great attitude. this is what draws dylan to her. She also though has the calm voice of Dylan as he rescued her to help keep her from becoming afraid and upset.
Quinn poor guy. He doesn't realize his feelings for Mia until he almost loses her. This causes him to want more but Mia isn't feeling it. They almost lose a valuable friendship due to feeling but what they realize is that friendship is more important than losing each other forever. This story depicts the journey these two go on in discovering what they are for each other.
This is a sweet story about two people who meet under sad conditions. One is in danger and the other helps save her. This leads to Mia and Dylan exploring something and this is the book of that exploration. It is about Mia finding her purpose and discovering who dylan is and falling in love with him. It is about Dylan letting go of the pain of his past and letting someone in. About how he saved Mia and got to know her. How he fell in love with her. This is their story. One that is filled with adversity and kindness. Of love and determination.
December 31, 2016
This is the second book in the Riverview series and it can be read as a stand-alone. I did not read book one, and I must confess, this is my first time reading Melissa Hanson's work. Based on the title I was expecting an emotional read, and it did not disappoint. A Healing Spirit is a story of unconditional love that will engage all your emotions and leave you craving for more.I enjoyed reading about all the characters. The character development was good. Their portrayal made it easy for me to understand their thoughts, feelings, and actions. The story was told from several points of views, which some readers may find confusing. However, I enjoy it when I am able to see the story unfold through the character's eyes. I liked how the main characters, Dylan, and Mia related to each other. Their dialogue was intense and amusing at times. It was evident that they had a connection from the moment they laid eyes on each other, even though the circumstances under which they met was sad and frightening. Despite their connection, Dylan's past was proving to be a deterrent. He feared that if he were to reveal things about his past, Mia would not want to be with him. However, he need not worry as she was not judgemental. Mia is sweet, understanding, loyal, outgoing and stubborn. It was these traits that aided in breaking down the barriers that Dylan had built up through the years. I liked that she wanted to use her accident to help raise awareness about the safety issues surrounding chair lifts. In doing this, she found her purpose. Dylan and Mia were perfect for each other. He is compassionate, understanding and loyal. He was the complete opposite of the thing he feared most, that of becoming like his father.The story is solid and easy to follow. I was hooked from the start, and I could not wait to see how it would unfold. There were moments when I was on the edge of my seat. The story touched on the sensitive issue of spousal abuse. I may not have first-hand experience with abuse, but based on the stories I have heard it is my belief that the author handled this aspect of the story quite well.A Healing Spirit had several themes which readers will be able to identify with. It is a story about finding love under the saddest of circumstances. It depicts how one can use a painful experience to bring hope to others. It shows that letting go of the pain from our past will lead to healing and allow us to find happiness.If you are looking for a romance that is not only sweet and clean but will engage your emotions then look no further. A Healing Spirit will provide you with all that and more.I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2015
This book was hard for me to get into. There were so many characters who had the story told from their point of view. Sometimes the points of view overlapped when it didn't seem necessary.
That being said, I did like that the story focused on some issues that may affect young people. One of Mia's best friends wants more to their relationship than friendship. She handled the situation sensitively and let him know he was important to her.
Mia takes a fall from a ski lift chair. Her recovery is not easy. I liked that her friends and family surrounded her and helped her through a very tough time. The compassion shown through the community was admirable and left me with a feeling of hope for the future. I know it was a fictional book, but parts of it were taken from a real life tragedy that the author describes in the back of the book.
Dylan (Mia's love interest) is struggling emotionally after mental, verbal, and physical abuse from his childhood. He has issues that are real for many people. I loved the support and acceptance that Mia gave him. He is lucky to have someone like her. I believe that it showed the power of compassion and empathy in helping another deal with traumatic situations.
The only real problem that I had with the book was the writing style. The book contains swearing, kissing, and violence.
That being said, I did like that the story focused on some issues that may affect young people. One of Mia's best friends wants more to their relationship than friendship. She handled the situation sensitively and let him know he was important to her.
Mia takes a fall from a ski lift chair. Her recovery is not easy. I liked that her friends and family surrounded her and helped her through a very tough time. The compassion shown through the community was admirable and left me with a feeling of hope for the future. I know it was a fictional book, but parts of it were taken from a real life tragedy that the author describes in the back of the book.
Dylan (Mia's love interest) is struggling emotionally after mental, verbal, and physical abuse from his childhood. He has issues that are real for many people. I loved the support and acceptance that Mia gave him. He is lucky to have someone like her. I believe that it showed the power of compassion and empathy in helping another deal with traumatic situations.
The only real problem that I had with the book was the writing style. The book contains swearing, kissing, and violence.
February 11, 2016
*COPY PROVIDED BY AUTHOR FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.*
I am not lucky with this author/series, am I?
Once more I am not lucky. I didn't feel it. It was just off.
I loved Mia's book a little bit more. She was a bright character. Full of enthusiasm and always positive. She focused on the good things and wanted to be better. I loved how she stood by Dylan and didn't leave him.
"Things happen for reasons. We just don't always know why. Follow your instincts, honey. Listen to your heart."~
I felt the connection more between Dylan and Mia. They were good together and I loved how they avoided complications.
There was a little bit of exaggeration too.
I loved how Quinn let them go and just started to feel happy. This showed us that from the start the relation between Quinn and Mia wasn't meant to be. It wasn't strong from the start.
The book was good. The writing and the author's way didn't attract me much though -ugh I always hate that-.
I believe Mia didn't need healing, she had a perfect spirit. Dylan proved how Mia made him strong and helped him to overcome his past and heal his spirit.
I am not lucky with this author/series, am I?
Once more I am not lucky. I didn't feel it. It was just off.
I loved Mia's book a little bit more. She was a bright character. Full of enthusiasm and always positive. She focused on the good things and wanted to be better. I loved how she stood by Dylan and didn't leave him.
"Things happen for reasons. We just don't always know why. Follow your instincts, honey. Listen to your heart."~
I felt the connection more between Dylan and Mia. They were good together and I loved how they avoided complications.
There was a little bit of exaggeration too.
I loved how Quinn let them go and just started to feel happy. This showed us that from the start the relation between Quinn and Mia wasn't meant to be. It wasn't strong from the start.
The book was good. The writing and the author's way didn't attract me much though -ugh I always hate that-.
I believe Mia didn't need healing, she had a perfect spirit. Dylan proved how Mia made him strong and helped him to overcome his past and heal his spirit.
January 2, 2016
This book ended up giving me an extremely warm and fuzzy feeling in my hest *enters a sighing emoji
"I’m lucky to have you, and I’m not letting you go. I am here for you. No matter what. "
It really brought me chills regarding how in love Dylan and Mia were.It let me to have fantasies about how it will be like to fall in love with someone that loves you so much and is willing to accept every single part of you.
But I have to admit, I have second thoughts whether this kind of love is real. There is a fine line between gratitude towards your rescuer and true love at first sight. Even though the author could clearly define between this two and lead the love between Dylan and Mia in the right direction, can this be real in today's reality? However I guess that's the joy of a book, they can bring you into the fantasies in utopia and let you forget about the cruelty's in today's world.
Anyways, my takeaways:
I really admire the strength in Mia's character. "Most people would be crying by now, but not you. You just shrug it off and keep moving." Her resilience and determination awed me and I guess that's why I could accept why Dylan could be in love with her. Even though "She is a strong girl." is repeated quite a few times in the book, but the author didn't fail to prove this point to me - instead of just writing it for the sake of it.
She taught me how to hold the sh!t that the world gives to you- no matter how bad it is, and show a smile for everybody that loves you, because everybody has spent a lot of effort caring for you, and the least you can do is to fight for them as well.
She taught me how to stay positive. "If you’re always negative and angry, looking for the bad, then the only person you’re really hurting is yourself." This is so true, even though it's hard to comply with. Having an optimistic mind can bring us joy in times of darkness. It pushes us forward and to get on with life - because after all isn't life full of ups and downs? So good will always occur after the bad, we just have to have the strength to get through the dim.
And lastly, she taught me " We have to live each day to the fullest." Indeed, we don't know what can happen next in life. We have to treasure every current moment, for who knows, the next may be the end of the journey. We can no longer be dependent on our plans for the future, as plans can be destroyed by things unexpected. We have to cherish the present and live life, not just survive.
"I’m lucky to have you, and I’m not letting you go. I am here for you. No matter what. "
It really brought me chills regarding how in love Dylan and Mia were.It let me to have fantasies about how it will be like to fall in love with someone that loves you so much and is willing to accept every single part of you.
But I have to admit, I have second thoughts whether this kind of love is real. There is a fine line between gratitude towards your rescuer and true love at first sight. Even though the author could clearly define between this two and lead the love between Dylan and Mia in the right direction, can this be real in today's reality? However I guess that's the joy of a book, they can bring you into the fantasies in utopia and let you forget about the cruelty's in today's world.
Anyways, my takeaways:
I really admire the strength in Mia's character. "Most people would be crying by now, but not you. You just shrug it off and keep moving." Her resilience and determination awed me and I guess that's why I could accept why Dylan could be in love with her. Even though "She is a strong girl." is repeated quite a few times in the book, but the author didn't fail to prove this point to me - instead of just writing it for the sake of it.
She taught me how to hold the sh!t that the world gives to you- no matter how bad it is, and show a smile for everybody that loves you, because everybody has spent a lot of effort caring for you, and the least you can do is to fight for them as well.
She taught me how to stay positive. "If you’re always negative and angry, looking for the bad, then the only person you’re really hurting is yourself." This is so true, even though it's hard to comply with. Having an optimistic mind can bring us joy in times of darkness. It pushes us forward and to get on with life - because after all isn't life full of ups and downs? So good will always occur after the bad, we just have to have the strength to get through the dim.
And lastly, she taught me " We have to live each day to the fullest." Indeed, we don't know what can happen next in life. We have to treasure every current moment, for who knows, the next may be the end of the journey. We can no longer be dependent on our plans for the future, as plans can be destroyed by things unexpected. We have to cherish the present and live life, not just survive.
January 1, 2016
I don't generally like to review a novel that's not first in a series without having read books before it. But A Healing Spirit by Melissa A. Hanson, book 2 in the Riverview series, is a standalone novel so I didn't have to worry about not being caught up with the story.
The long and short of it is this: Mia is seriously injured and has to be hospitalized and undergoes a few surgeries to try and fix all of her broken bits. Dylan is a member of the Ski Patrol and, along with his friend, saves Mia's life. Mia fights to come back from her accident but she can't get Dylan out of her head. It was his voice that sort of grounded her after her accident, kept her from giving in to the pain, so to speak. And Dylan can't get her out of his head. They kind of fall for each other but Dylan has a past he doesn't want Mia to know about.
I liked the story. It was very sweet. Dylan is a pretty stand up guy and Mia isn't some frail little girl who is begging to be rescued. Her friends are fantastic, even if one of them fancies himself more than a friend. What I liked about that was that it never really became a love triangle. Like a decent person, he realized Mia didn't feel the same way about him and he let her go. What a breath of fresh air.
Dylan is a wonderful, chivalrous, knight in shining armor without being completely egotistical about it. And instead of curling up in a ball and letting what happened to Mia overcome her, she's determined to try and use her experience to make a difference in the lives and safety of other people. I don't see that combo a lot in the stories I read. It made this story different and new.
Their families (well, part of Dylan's at least) are wonderful and accepting and friendly. There are no boyfriend/girlfriend/hateful family conflicts like I see a lot. Our main characters are pretty likeable so, in turn, everyone likes them. Yes, Dylan holds back a part of his life that inevitably puts a few lives in danger (the part of his life, not that he holds it back....) but he does everything he can to make it right, and Mia doesn't hold it against him.
The story seems extremely real. Not like it's a story. More like it's a narrative of things that are really happening. Completely believable. It even switches perspective quite a bit so we get to see inside a lot of the characters, rather than just the main 2. Everyone plays a part in the story so everyone gets a chance to tell part of the story. I was worried that switching back and forth and all over would get confusing, but it didn't. And it's loosely based on a true story.
I would definitely recommend this book to just about anyone. It's romantic, but not heavy. It's sweet but intense at times. And it's a pretty quick read because you get sucked in to the story from the word go. So check it out!
The long and short of it is this: Mia is seriously injured and has to be hospitalized and undergoes a few surgeries to try and fix all of her broken bits. Dylan is a member of the Ski Patrol and, along with his friend, saves Mia's life. Mia fights to come back from her accident but she can't get Dylan out of her head. It was his voice that sort of grounded her after her accident, kept her from giving in to the pain, so to speak. And Dylan can't get her out of his head. They kind of fall for each other but Dylan has a past he doesn't want Mia to know about.
I liked the story. It was very sweet. Dylan is a pretty stand up guy and Mia isn't some frail little girl who is begging to be rescued. Her friends are fantastic, even if one of them fancies himself more than a friend. What I liked about that was that it never really became a love triangle. Like a decent person, he realized Mia didn't feel the same way about him and he let her go. What a breath of fresh air.
Dylan is a wonderful, chivalrous, knight in shining armor without being completely egotistical about it. And instead of curling up in a ball and letting what happened to Mia overcome her, she's determined to try and use her experience to make a difference in the lives and safety of other people. I don't see that combo a lot in the stories I read. It made this story different and new.
Their families (well, part of Dylan's at least) are wonderful and accepting and friendly. There are no boyfriend/girlfriend/hateful family conflicts like I see a lot. Our main characters are pretty likeable so, in turn, everyone likes them. Yes, Dylan holds back a part of his life that inevitably puts a few lives in danger (the part of his life, not that he holds it back....) but he does everything he can to make it right, and Mia doesn't hold it against him.
The story seems extremely real. Not like it's a story. More like it's a narrative of things that are really happening. Completely believable. It even switches perspective quite a bit so we get to see inside a lot of the characters, rather than just the main 2. Everyone plays a part in the story so everyone gets a chance to tell part of the story. I was worried that switching back and forth and all over would get confusing, but it didn't. And it's loosely based on a true story.
I would definitely recommend this book to just about anyone. It's romantic, but not heavy. It's sweet but intense at times. And it's a pretty quick read because you get sucked in to the story from the word go. So check it out!
December 8, 2015
A Healing Spirit is full of the perfect ingredients - love, friendship, family, and drama!
I was completely intrigued reading the first half of this story. It was easy to fall in love with the characters, especially our main one Mia, she was very likable from the beginning. My favorite part was reading about Mia's recovery because I couldn't predict anything that was happening. I never knew if she was going to end up making it or not. It felt very real, and at one point I felt my eyes get blurry from unshed tears! The author did a great job at building the setting and these characters into something readers would root for.
As the story progressed though - it sort of lost me.
I think my main problem was the relationship between Mia and her rescuer Dylan. Don't get me wrong there are times where I enjoy the instant love connection between characters, and honestly at first I liked them together. It was sweet and fun to read. Then the dialogue became hard to read. Their interactions felt a bit forced and I didn't understand why they had to constantly tell each other how much they meant to one another, or about fate, etc. - I got it the first time. Plus, I just felt bad for Mia's friend who also had feelings for her. I think the story could have been told without the whole love triangle attempt, because his perspective didn't help progress the story in any way.
Melissa Hanson is a great writer though, despite the faults I found in the story. I enjoyed the characters and the realistic world building was equally as great. These factors definitely helped me to like this book. I also appreciated the different POVs - there are some cases where I don't like this, but it worked for this book. This book is based off of a true story, and I loved the epilogue from Hanson. It helped me appreciate the story more.
Overall, I liked this book. I wanted a little more, maybe less dialogue and more build up between the characters in order for the romance to feel realistic. There was a good amount of thrilling drama and romance to the story to make it enjoyable though.
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking for a light read and who enjoys contemporary stories!
I was completely intrigued reading the first half of this story. It was easy to fall in love with the characters, especially our main one Mia, she was very likable from the beginning. My favorite part was reading about Mia's recovery because I couldn't predict anything that was happening. I never knew if she was going to end up making it or not. It felt very real, and at one point I felt my eyes get blurry from unshed tears! The author did a great job at building the setting and these characters into something readers would root for.
As the story progressed though - it sort of lost me.
I think my main problem was the relationship between Mia and her rescuer Dylan. Don't get me wrong there are times where I enjoy the instant love connection between characters, and honestly at first I liked them together. It was sweet and fun to read. Then the dialogue became hard to read. Their interactions felt a bit forced and I didn't understand why they had to constantly tell each other how much they meant to one another, or about fate, etc. - I got it the first time. Plus, I just felt bad for Mia's friend who also had feelings for her. I think the story could have been told without the whole love triangle attempt, because his perspective didn't help progress the story in any way.
Melissa Hanson is a great writer though, despite the faults I found in the story. I enjoyed the characters and the realistic world building was equally as great. These factors definitely helped me to like this book. I also appreciated the different POVs - there are some cases where I don't like this, but it worked for this book. This book is based off of a true story, and I loved the epilogue from Hanson. It helped me appreciate the story more.
Overall, I liked this book. I wanted a little more, maybe less dialogue and more build up between the characters in order for the romance to feel realistic. There was a good amount of thrilling drama and romance to the story to make it enjoyable though.
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking for a light read and who enjoys contemporary stories!
December 31, 2015
(2.5 Stars) I found it interesting that the author takes a real-life event, as explained at the end of the book, and turns it into a novel. There were moments that I was drawn into the story, but there were also moments that fell a little flat for me.
Mia is a black diamond, nineteen year old, snowboarder and in a freak accident, she falls from the lift and is injured. Almost half of the book revolves around that incident and the hospital stay afterward. My biggest issue with the book is there are way too many voices, as the story is told from five different points of view, especially in the first half. I thought it was interesting and the medical portion was well researched, but too confusing, and could have been just as effective with one or two voices. Mia is brave, strong, and a real fighter.
Dylan, the ski patrolman who rescued Mia, plays an interesting role in her recovery and life after the accident. His story controls a good portion of the remainder of the book and while interesting, some parts felt unbelievable to me. For example, how could a girl who endured what Mia did, along with three separate surgeries, be in top physical form and ready for romance within a month? I liked Dylan's character and he has a lot of potential to be great.
This book is entertaining--there was just something missing to completely link the characters and situations together in a smooth way. It seemed at times to be promoting better ski lift equipment and then would jump to a friend who suddenly feels stronger, reciprocated feelings for Mia, then jumping to an unexpectedly jealous boyfriend. I struggled to feel an emotional connection to any of the characters, but enjoyed the story on the surface.
Content: moderate violence (abuse, injuries, etc); mild-moderate swearing; moderate romantic elements (kissing, some innuendo, touching breasts twice--once under clothes, once over).
*I received a copy from ebooksforreview.com in exchange for an honest review, that is 100% my own*
Mia is a black diamond, nineteen year old, snowboarder and in a freak accident, she falls from the lift and is injured. Almost half of the book revolves around that incident and the hospital stay afterward. My biggest issue with the book is there are way too many voices, as the story is told from five different points of view, especially in the first half. I thought it was interesting and the medical portion was well researched, but too confusing, and could have been just as effective with one or two voices. Mia is brave, strong, and a real fighter.
Dylan, the ski patrolman who rescued Mia, plays an interesting role in her recovery and life after the accident. His story controls a good portion of the remainder of the book and while interesting, some parts felt unbelievable to me. For example, how could a girl who endured what Mia did, along with three separate surgeries, be in top physical form and ready for romance within a month? I liked Dylan's character and he has a lot of potential to be great.
This book is entertaining--there was just something missing to completely link the characters and situations together in a smooth way. It seemed at times to be promoting better ski lift equipment and then would jump to a friend who suddenly feels stronger, reciprocated feelings for Mia, then jumping to an unexpectedly jealous boyfriend. I struggled to feel an emotional connection to any of the characters, but enjoyed the story on the surface.
Content: moderate violence (abuse, injuries, etc); mild-moderate swearing; moderate romantic elements (kissing, some innuendo, touching breasts twice--once under clothes, once over).
*I received a copy from ebooksforreview.com in exchange for an honest review, that is 100% my own*
October 18, 2015
Mia is a college student who gets into a serious accident while skiing and is "saved" by many ski patrol members and doctors, but most importantly by Dylan. He is swoon-worthy character and cares for Mia simply after first sight at the accident. He spends countless trips and hours going to visit her at the hospital with barely knowing the girl, and he is protective and faithful to the women in his life that he loves (women being his mom and Mia).
It's hard to describe a lot of what I enjoyed about this novel without giving spoilers, which I hate to do, so suffice it to say, Dylan's character was by far my favorite. I appreciated his confidence, bravery, selflessness, romance and protective nature.
I was impressed by seeing Ms. Hanson's progression of the characters from the first novel (A Healing Heart) in the Riverview Series to this second novel (A Healing Spirit). While both stories can stand alone, I enjoyed seeing this second novel focusing on a different friend and progression in time (Mia during college) from the first novel (Bailey during high school). I also noticed that my review of the first novel included some simplistic moments in writing-style, but those same moments didn't seem present in this second novel. I had an appreciation for the writer's growth, and the characters growth, as a result.
The dynamics of the friendships as they morph and change over time-particularly between Mia and Quinn-are realistic in circles of friends and had a natural turn, just as in the first novel.
This storyline touches on issues of domestic violence. Although I'm fortunate to not have any experience with those tragedies, I felt like the author did a good job of trying to replicate that type of fear and anxiety with the memories and emotions associated with those issues.
Romance: clean
**Please note: I have received this book for free from the We ♥ YA Books! group and the author in exchange for a honest review.**
It's hard to describe a lot of what I enjoyed about this novel without giving spoilers, which I hate to do, so suffice it to say, Dylan's character was by far my favorite. I appreciated his confidence, bravery, selflessness, romance and protective nature.
I was impressed by seeing Ms. Hanson's progression of the characters from the first novel (A Healing Heart) in the Riverview Series to this second novel (A Healing Spirit). While both stories can stand alone, I enjoyed seeing this second novel focusing on a different friend and progression in time (Mia during college) from the first novel (Bailey during high school). I also noticed that my review of the first novel included some simplistic moments in writing-style, but those same moments didn't seem present in this second novel. I had an appreciation for the writer's growth, and the characters growth, as a result.
The dynamics of the friendships as they morph and change over time-particularly between Mia and Quinn-are realistic in circles of friends and had a natural turn, just as in the first novel.
This storyline touches on issues of domestic violence. Although I'm fortunate to not have any experience with those tragedies, I felt like the author did a good job of trying to replicate that type of fear and anxiety with the memories and emotions associated with those issues.
Romance: clean
**Please note: I have received this book for free from the We ♥ YA Books! group and the author in exchange for a honest review.**
November 21, 2015
This story was really sweet. I did not read book one in this series. It is definitely a standalone story. Mia is a 19 yo who is going to community college and trying to figure out what to do with herself. All her friends have gone off to college, so when they are back in town for the holiday, she wants to do something fun and hang out with them. The story opens and you just know something bad is going to happen. The accident happens early on in the book, during which time, Dylan, who works on ski patrol, is her first responder. His voice alone helps to keep Mia conscious and talking. He stays with her all the way to the site where she is airlifted. Dylan feels an instant connection with her and drives to the hospital to see her and find out how she is doing.
Dylan was a sweet character with a tough life growing up. I loved how he kept checking up on her even when she didn't know it. Her family even gets to know him early on as the person that helped their daughter first when she was injured. Dylan and Mia then continue to see each other after she heads home and he continues to be strong for her and support her during her recovery. Both his mom and her family love that the two of them are together and know that they were meant to meet, even under tragic circumstances.
Of course, no story would be complete without Dylan's horrible past catching up with him. This time Mia is able to help him. She sticks by his side and helps him to understand that in no way was any of what transpires his fault. She helps him to overcome his past and put all the bad stuff to rest so they can both move on.
The story is definitely one I would recommend to others if you like sweet romance, no steamy stuff. I did receive a copy of the book for an honest review and I thank the author for this opportunity!
Dylan was a sweet character with a tough life growing up. I loved how he kept checking up on her even when she didn't know it. Her family even gets to know him early on as the person that helped their daughter first when she was injured. Dylan and Mia then continue to see each other after she heads home and he continues to be strong for her and support her during her recovery. Both his mom and her family love that the two of them are together and know that they were meant to meet, even under tragic circumstances.
Of course, no story would be complete without Dylan's horrible past catching up with him. This time Mia is able to help him. She sticks by his side and helps him to understand that in no way was any of what transpires his fault. She helps him to overcome his past and put all the bad stuff to rest so they can both move on.
The story is definitely one I would recommend to others if you like sweet romance, no steamy stuff. I did receive a copy of the book for an honest review and I thank the author for this opportunity!
November 3, 2015
A healing spirit is the second book in the riverview series. I haven't read the first book. While I guessed there was a prior story to this one, it wasn't necessary to read the first story. I appreciate that this was one complete story. Mia and Dylan meet through a disastrous accident at a ski resort. It was interesting to find out that this is based on actual events and made me think about practicing safe skiing and the importance of donating blood in general. This girl goes through many different trials, with sufficient time to recuperate of course, with a positive and fighter attitude. While the H/h found each other quickly, they took the time to get to know each other and it seemed that a realistic amount of time happened before declaring themselves. For the characters to heal from their various sources of pain they needed support from each other, family, friends, and professionals. Even though one may find the one, they still need community with others. In the beginning I was a bit jarred at the changes to multiple perspectives and had to look up who the character was, but I feel that those were necessary to fully tell the story. A sweet shorter novel, that I gave 3 1/2 stars which I rounded up to four for my review.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book should have a warning that it contains triggers for survivors of domestic violence. That being said, I found this to be a good book. Although it is part of a series it is great as a standalone novel. Mia is excited to be spending some time with her friends on the ski slopes snowboarding. Mia drives her friends up the mountain in an uneventful drive. Once on the chair lift, Mia is involved in a horrible accident. Dylan is the first ski patrol on the scene. As Dylan helps to stabilize Mia for the trip down the mountain, there is just something about her that he can’t forget. He feels compelled to follow-up to see how she is doing. He meets her friends and family and they are very thankful to him for helping to save Mia’s life. As her health continues to improve, so does the relationship between Mia and Dylan.
But there is a part of Dylan that he won’t share with Mia. By the time he decides to share his story of domestic violence, it is too late. Mia and Dylan’s mom have already been kidnapped by Dylan’s dad. The police and the ski patrol go out in a storm to find them.
This is a good suspenseful novel with strong characters. It is written from different character’s perspective so it does get confusing sometimes. But overall a good read.
This book should have a warning that it contains triggers for survivors of domestic violence. That being said, I found this to be a good book. Although it is part of a series it is great as a standalone novel. Mia is excited to be spending some time with her friends on the ski slopes snowboarding. Mia drives her friends up the mountain in an uneventful drive. Once on the chair lift, Mia is involved in a horrible accident. Dylan is the first ski patrol on the scene. As Dylan helps to stabilize Mia for the trip down the mountain, there is just something about her that he can’t forget. He feels compelled to follow-up to see how she is doing. He meets her friends and family and they are very thankful to him for helping to save Mia’s life. As her health continues to improve, so does the relationship between Mia and Dylan.
But there is a part of Dylan that he won’t share with Mia. By the time he decides to share his story of domestic violence, it is too late. Mia and Dylan’s mom have already been kidnapped by Dylan’s dad. The police and the ski patrol go out in a storm to find them.
This is a good suspenseful novel with strong characters. It is written from different character’s perspective so it does get confusing sometimes. But overall a good read.
November 25, 2015
The story starts out in Riverview about an hour from the mountains and ski resorts. Mia, our heroine, and her friends are excited to go up to the ski resort for a day of snow boarding and companionship before everyone returned to school. Natasha, Bailey, Collin and Quinn and Mia got into the ski lift and then part way up the lift stopped and Mia shifted forward too far and fell. From here the story is about Mia's recovery and about Dylan, a member of the ski resort's rescue team, and Mia coming to grips with life as it had been dealt to each of them separately, and together.
The Author did an amazing job of building Mia's family and friends and the environment at home and at the ski resort. Dylan was added in and I was hooked. . line and sinker. As the story progresses through Mia's ordeal and recovery and then Mia and Dylan's budding relationship we get a closer look at Mia's friends and Dylan's family background. I read this book in one afternoon. I couldn't put it down.
Young and old alike will enjoy this book. Be prepared for some tense situations and some very happy eye leakage by the end of this book.
I received this books from the author thru Triple A blog in exchange for an honest review.
The Author did an amazing job of building Mia's family and friends and the environment at home and at the ski resort. Dylan was added in and I was hooked. . line and sinker. As the story progresses through Mia's ordeal and recovery and then Mia and Dylan's budding relationship we get a closer look at Mia's friends and Dylan's family background. I read this book in one afternoon. I couldn't put it down.
Young and old alike will enjoy this book. Be prepared for some tense situations and some very happy eye leakage by the end of this book.
I received this books from the author thru Triple A blog in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2015
A Healing Spirit
( Riverview Series Book 2)
Melissa A. Hanson
Y/A
4.5 Stars
Five friends all home from college decide to go skiing. All are having a great time until an unexpected freak accident happens. While Mia fights for her life the other wait. Natasha,Quinn, Collin and Baily, along with her parents and brother sit and wait for some good news from the doctors. Dylan one of the search and rescue responders at the ski area is another that keeps visiting with the family and checking on her. He comes into the story with his own hidden past that will come wreak havoc on Mia and her family, Dylan and his mom.
Great story a bit predictable at times, other than that I give it 4.5 Stars.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Lisa from Alpha Book Club
( Riverview Series Book 2)
Melissa A. Hanson
Y/A
4.5 Stars
Five friends all home from college decide to go skiing. All are having a great time until an unexpected freak accident happens. While Mia fights for her life the other wait. Natasha,Quinn, Collin and Baily, along with her parents and brother sit and wait for some good news from the doctors. Dylan one of the search and rescue responders at the ski area is another that keeps visiting with the family and checking on her. He comes into the story with his own hidden past that will come wreak havoc on Mia and her family, Dylan and his mom.
Great story a bit predictable at times, other than that I give it 4.5 Stars.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Lisa from Alpha Book Club
November 7, 2015
**I received this book in exchange for my fair and honest review, but this in no way affects my thoughts or opinion on this book**
Loved this book just as much as the first book in the series. Again, another easy read. Although, it is nice to know the background from the first book, it would not be necessary to read the first one in order to get this story. This book starts off with a terrible accident that brings the 2 main characters (Mia and Dylan) together. Mia and Dylan are able to help each other to get past the tragedies in their lives. I loved Dylan's character - such a strong young man who would do anything to protect the people he loves. I loved how even though the story started out with Dylan helping Mia, that in the end, they both ended up helping each other. Cute romance, and I would recommend this book for sure!
Loved this book just as much as the first book in the series. Again, another easy read. Although, it is nice to know the background from the first book, it would not be necessary to read the first one in order to get this story. This book starts off with a terrible accident that brings the 2 main characters (Mia and Dylan) together. Mia and Dylan are able to help each other to get past the tragedies in their lives. I loved Dylan's character - such a strong young man who would do anything to protect the people he loves. I loved how even though the story started out with Dylan helping Mia, that in the end, they both ended up helping each other. Cute romance, and I would recommend this book for sure!
November 8, 2015
To me, this is a book that shows what true love looks like. It shows how if you are truly in love with someone, you are willing to do anything for them. You are willing to sacrifice your own life for the one that you love. If you love someone you also are willing to help them with their dreams. I love the love story in this book about Mia and her journey to find true love and heal from a horrible accident. I also love that she takes her accident and wants to use it to help try to prevent the same thing from happening again. This is a clean romance and one that you will fall in love with if you give it a read! I noticed after I got it that it was book 2 in a series. I had no problem following the story or other characters so it is a stand alone book.
I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2022
3.5 stars. I enjoyed this second book in this series about a group of friends in a small community. This story had many of the characters from the first book. As with the first book, it switched first-person perspectives frequently between various characters. There was a little inconsistency in this sometimes (i.e. there were several times when "he" or "her" would be used when it should be "me" or "my" based on the current perspective). This story dealt with a freak skiing accident and subsequent recovery, as well as some danger/violence from one of the character's pasts (domestic abuse). I enjoyed the romance, although it was almost too much on the "you are my soulmate" scale (similar to the first book). But overall, a cute and sweet story!
I received a free e-book copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free e-book copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2015
Mia Kinney is snowboarding with her friends when she falls 30 feet from a ski lift. She lands near the ski patrol hut and they get her quickly down to medical help. Dylan, a member of the ski patrol, is the first one on the scene. He calmly talks to Mia the whole way. He can't get Mia out of his head so he goes to the hospital to see how she is doing. Once Mia is recovering, she is able to visit with Dylan and the two discover a mutual attraction. Quinn a friend of Mia's also discovers that he feels more than friendship for Mia. Dylan's abusive father is let out of prison and is bent of getting revenge. Can Mia and Dylan discover a love to last a lifetime through all the obstacles in their way? This book is well written and has well developed characters.
December 14, 2015
This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my views or opinions in any way.
A Healing Spirit is the second book in the “A Healing Heart” series by Melissa A Hanson. I have not read the first book, it was not necessary to read prior. Mia and Dylan meet during a horrible accident at a ski resort. Mia goes through many obstacles on her way to recovery demonstrating her strong spirit. Dylan has his own issues that he has to deal with.
It is the type of storyline that anyone will enjoy. This was a very easy read with great characters with a sweet heartwarming story-line. The story is told in various points of view. NO CLIFFHANGERS!
I enjoyed the Author’s Note at the end of the story providing additional information about ski lifts.
A Healing Spirit is the second book in the “A Healing Heart” series by Melissa A Hanson. I have not read the first book, it was not necessary to read prior. Mia and Dylan meet during a horrible accident at a ski resort. Mia goes through many obstacles on her way to recovery demonstrating her strong spirit. Dylan has his own issues that he has to deal with.
It is the type of storyline that anyone will enjoy. This was a very easy read with great characters with a sweet heartwarming story-line. The story is told in various points of view. NO CLIFFHANGERS!
I enjoyed the Author’s Note at the end of the story providing additional information about ski lifts.
July 17, 2020
I love this book more than 'A healing heart', maybe because I love Mia more than Bailey. If I am being honest, I loved to see Mia's recovery, but the romance part of this book seems slightly unrealistic. I am sure teenage me would've absolutely loved it, but adult me had an uncomfortable time adjusting to it, but once I boarded on that ship, it sailed fairly smoothly. I really appreciate Mia and Dylan's growth as characters, I love how well researched this book is, and I am so glad I got to read this inspiring tale of healing, strength, and friendship.
January 23, 2016
THIS BOOK WAS GIVEN TO ME BY THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. THIS DOES NOT AFFECT MY VIEWS OR OPINIONS IN ANY WAY.
A Healing Spirit is the second book in the "Riverview" series by Melissa A. Hanson. It focuses this time on a 19 year old girl named Mia Kinney. She is in her first year of college, and is thankful for getting to see all her friends again during Thanksgiving break. They all decide to go skiing at a nearby resort. Mia gets hurt by falling off a chairlift, and the first one to rescue her is a twenty-one year old named Dylan. He helps her to the ambulance, but then he finds himself unable to forget about her. She is stuck in a coma, and Dylan visits her a few times. When Mia wakes up, things aren't easy. She suffered a fall from about thirty feet up, so she had broke a few bones. Another problem is that two boys have confessed their love for her. Both Dylan and her friends brother Quinn have feelings for her. But just when her romance with Dylan starts to bloom, she falls into a mess that has to do with his family. Read the book to find out more.
I really liked the characters in this book. Mia was a kind and brave person, and I could kind of relate to her in some places. Dylan was sweet and perfect for Mia. He did have his dark spots, like every good character. They just brought out the story even more. Mia's parents are unique, with her mom being kind of a worrier. Mia's friends were supportive, but Quinn is pushy and will do anything to be with Mia.
The plot kept me guessing. It was so much better than the first book, because it took more surprise turns. It was just a romance filled with MANY injuries until the end of the book. But then it turned into a murder mystery. That part was especially well written, and actually scared me. The turn was sudden and was perfect to keep you wanting to read more. There were also a lot of hospital visits and sicknesses that kept the plot from being too slow. I've noticed that Melissa A. Hanson uses injuries and sicknesses as a main part of the story, and I think this is neat. There is a lot of rising action in this book.
The writing style was creative as well. It was told in alternating views, mainly from Mia's and Dylan's point of view. Occasionally, Quinn and Gretchen (Mia's mom) add their point of view, just to change things up. There also were a lot of creative and descriptive phrases in this book. Overall, the writing style is great.
In conclusion, this is a great book with some hidden life lessons and a very interesting story.
A Healing Spirit is the second book in the "Riverview" series by Melissa A. Hanson. It focuses this time on a 19 year old girl named Mia Kinney. She is in her first year of college, and is thankful for getting to see all her friends again during Thanksgiving break. They all decide to go skiing at a nearby resort. Mia gets hurt by falling off a chairlift, and the first one to rescue her is a twenty-one year old named Dylan. He helps her to the ambulance, but then he finds himself unable to forget about her. She is stuck in a coma, and Dylan visits her a few times. When Mia wakes up, things aren't easy. She suffered a fall from about thirty feet up, so she had broke a few bones. Another problem is that two boys have confessed their love for her. Both Dylan and her friends brother Quinn have feelings for her. But just when her romance with Dylan starts to bloom, she falls into a mess that has to do with his family. Read the book to find out more.
I really liked the characters in this book. Mia was a kind and brave person, and I could kind of relate to her in some places. Dylan was sweet and perfect for Mia. He did have his dark spots, like every good character. They just brought out the story even more. Mia's parents are unique, with her mom being kind of a worrier. Mia's friends were supportive, but Quinn is pushy and will do anything to be with Mia.
The plot kept me guessing. It was so much better than the first book, because it took more surprise turns. It was just a romance filled with MANY injuries until the end of the book. But then it turned into a murder mystery. That part was especially well written, and actually scared me. The turn was sudden and was perfect to keep you wanting to read more. There were also a lot of hospital visits and sicknesses that kept the plot from being too slow. I've noticed that Melissa A. Hanson uses injuries and sicknesses as a main part of the story, and I think this is neat. There is a lot of rising action in this book.
The writing style was creative as well. It was told in alternating views, mainly from Mia's and Dylan's point of view. Occasionally, Quinn and Gretchen (Mia's mom) add their point of view, just to change things up. There also were a lot of creative and descriptive phrases in this book. Overall, the writing style is great.
In conclusion, this is a great book with some hidden life lessons and a very interesting story.
November 29, 2015
All I got to say is WOW! This book is so incredibly well written, a book that I will so totally tell people to read, and it makes me want to hug Mrs. Hanson for giving us another well thought out book. Not only that but this book was also inspired by Keely Proctor who sounds like an amazing kid from the articles I have read online. This book definitely deserves five butterflies. A Healing Spirit by Melissa Hanson grips on about three things that I think is pretty important for us to know about. Much like it’s first counterpart A Healing Heart.
A Healing Spirit takes us into the world of Mia, Quinn, and Dylan. The things that A Healing Spirit grips on is mostly ski accidents since this book first takes place during November and then ends in March or April. Ski accidents take place a whole lot more than what people think especially in chairlifts. Mia, much like Keely, is all about trying to get it with where people can see more about these risks that they are taking on chairlifts than with what they think.
The second thing that this book grips on is domestic violence. This is more publically known than the ski accidents, well unless you live somewhere near a ski resort, and more something that television shows would rather introduce than a ski accident if it takes place near a mountain. Heading off topic though back to domestic violence. The second main character, Dylan, dealt with domestic violence and probably a whole lot of other people have as well. Not a whole lot of people would like to talk about it but sometimes talking about it helps. This is also a really big thing that not a whole lot of people actually really know a whole lot about but it’s becoming a bit more well-known than a ski accident.
The third and last thing that this book grips on is romance. Yeah I know this book is a young adult romance book but it’s a pretty good one. Especially since with how Dylan and Mia met which turned into romance. There is quite a lot. Like Mia and Dylan’s relationship along with one other that doesn’t end up happening but I don’t want to tell you since I would spoil it and yeah that’s all there is about the romance part I think.
A Healing Spirit by Melissa A. Hanson is such a wonderful book that I think everyone will love to read and tell other people about it. Surely it might make you cry in some parts but what type of romance book doesn’t?
Anyways until the next time enjoy this book review brought to you by
Baroness’ Book Trove.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE AUTHOR AND PUBLISHER ASKED ME TO READ AND GIVE AN HONEST REVIEW FOR THIS BOOK!
A Healing Spirit takes us into the world of Mia, Quinn, and Dylan. The things that A Healing Spirit grips on is mostly ski accidents since this book first takes place during November and then ends in March or April. Ski accidents take place a whole lot more than what people think especially in chairlifts. Mia, much like Keely, is all about trying to get it with where people can see more about these risks that they are taking on chairlifts than with what they think.
The second thing that this book grips on is domestic violence. This is more publically known than the ski accidents, well unless you live somewhere near a ski resort, and more something that television shows would rather introduce than a ski accident if it takes place near a mountain. Heading off topic though back to domestic violence. The second main character, Dylan, dealt with domestic violence and probably a whole lot of other people have as well. Not a whole lot of people would like to talk about it but sometimes talking about it helps. This is also a really big thing that not a whole lot of people actually really know a whole lot about but it’s becoming a bit more well-known than a ski accident.
The third and last thing that this book grips on is romance. Yeah I know this book is a young adult romance book but it’s a pretty good one. Especially since with how Dylan and Mia met which turned into romance. There is quite a lot. Like Mia and Dylan’s relationship along with one other that doesn’t end up happening but I don’t want to tell you since I would spoil it and yeah that’s all there is about the romance part I think.
A Healing Spirit by Melissa A. Hanson is such a wonderful book that I think everyone will love to read and tell other people about it. Surely it might make you cry in some parts but what type of romance book doesn’t?
Anyways until the next time enjoy this book review brought to you by
Baroness’ Book Trove.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE AUTHOR AND PUBLISHER ASKED ME TO READ AND GIVE AN HONEST REVIEW FOR THIS BOOK!
October 12, 2015
Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
A. Hanson. Mia couldn’t wait to get out on the slopes with her friends this morning. It was the day before Thanksgiving, and she had missed Bailey and Natasha who went away to college. Mia still wasn’t sure about her future career plans and decided to go to community college at home instead. After all, Riverview was a pretty nice place to live with the desert, ocean and the mountains all nearby. But everyone was home from college now for the holidays, and there was an early snow, so the five friends were taking advantage of the situation to get some early season snowboarding in. They were on the lift for one last morning run before taking a break for lunch when Mia began to feel as though she were slipping off the chairlift seat. Moments later, she fell thirty feet to the snowdrifts below. Fortunately, she fell right near the ski patrol’s hut, and they rushed out when they heard her hit the ground. No bones were broken, but internal injuries left her in terrible pain and in critical condition. One of the ski patrollers stayed with her as she lay strapped to the backboard, and he held her hand while the ambulance drove to a place where the emergency helicopter could land. And his green eyes kept her mesmerized, despite her pain.
Melissa A. Hanson’s young adult romantic suspense novel, A Healing Spirit, Riverview Series, Book 2, is an enthralling and uplifting story. The author notes at the end of the book that her story was influenced by the real-life accident of a young woman. The story is told through the perspectives of Mia, Dylan, Quinn and Mia’s other friends, and this device works marvelously to make the story multi-dimensional and more fully involve the reader in the story. A Healing Spirit is also an accomplished coming of age story that charts the lives of the two young protagonists and their stories. Mia is a splendid, strong and determined young woman who finds her purpose through her accident. Hanson’s writing style is fluid and easy to get lost in. Her romantic plot has elements of suspense woven throughout it that keep the action taut and compelling. A Healing Spirit, Riverview Series, Book 2 is highly recommended.
A. Hanson. Mia couldn’t wait to get out on the slopes with her friends this morning. It was the day before Thanksgiving, and she had missed Bailey and Natasha who went away to college. Mia still wasn’t sure about her future career plans and decided to go to community college at home instead. After all, Riverview was a pretty nice place to live with the desert, ocean and the mountains all nearby. But everyone was home from college now for the holidays, and there was an early snow, so the five friends were taking advantage of the situation to get some early season snowboarding in. They were on the lift for one last morning run before taking a break for lunch when Mia began to feel as though she were slipping off the chairlift seat. Moments later, she fell thirty feet to the snowdrifts below. Fortunately, she fell right near the ski patrol’s hut, and they rushed out when they heard her hit the ground. No bones were broken, but internal injuries left her in terrible pain and in critical condition. One of the ski patrollers stayed with her as she lay strapped to the backboard, and he held her hand while the ambulance drove to a place where the emergency helicopter could land. And his green eyes kept her mesmerized, despite her pain.
Melissa A. Hanson’s young adult romantic suspense novel, A Healing Spirit, Riverview Series, Book 2, is an enthralling and uplifting story. The author notes at the end of the book that her story was influenced by the real-life accident of a young woman. The story is told through the perspectives of Mia, Dylan, Quinn and Mia’s other friends, and this device works marvelously to make the story multi-dimensional and more fully involve the reader in the story. A Healing Spirit is also an accomplished coming of age story that charts the lives of the two young protagonists and their stories. Mia is a splendid, strong and determined young woman who finds her purpose through her accident. Hanson’s writing style is fluid and easy to get lost in. Her romantic plot has elements of suspense woven throughout it that keep the action taut and compelling. A Healing Spirit, Riverview Series, Book 2 is highly recommended.
April 3, 2016
Full Review can be found at http://thegraduatedbookworm.blogspot.ca
Let me start off by saying a huge thank you to Melissa for sending me a copy of this book for review! I do have to say it was much better than the first (not that the first wasn't good!) and that I found so much more going on that made it a great read!
MAN OH MAN there is no time to take a breath or to prepare yourself for what is about to happen! The story jumps right in, and you automatically get a sense of panic wondering what is going to happen to Mia when a freak accident leaves her immobile and fighting for her life.
OMG Okay can we take a moment to talk about this weird little love triangle/line/square kind of thing going on? Like of course Mia is drawn to the man who saved her life, but now in comes someone who she has known forever, giving her signals that he is totally wanting more than being "friend zoned" and to make matters worse, the guys totally don't like one another...Talk about DRAMA!!
Throughout the novel, I honestly just couldn't put it down (even when I had to!) It was such a great read with all the FEELS going on, as well as the amount of drama and suspense! I never thought that there would be so much going on in such a short read, but you bet your bottom it was jam packed!
Overall I really loved this book! There were so many feels, and there was definitely a lot of heartache and pain going on, but Mia totally held her own. Even though she almost lost her life, and has had a non stop of pain and heartbreak inside and out, she constantly remained upbeat and always looking at the positives rather than believing her life was "over" and that she had nothing to live for. I think that was one of the main reasons why this book was much better!
Let me start off by saying a huge thank you to Melissa for sending me a copy of this book for review! I do have to say it was much better than the first (not that the first wasn't good!) and that I found so much more going on that made it a great read!
MAN OH MAN there is no time to take a breath or to prepare yourself for what is about to happen! The story jumps right in, and you automatically get a sense of panic wondering what is going to happen to Mia when a freak accident leaves her immobile and fighting for her life.
OMG Okay can we take a moment to talk about this weird little love triangle/line/square kind of thing going on? Like of course Mia is drawn to the man who saved her life, but now in comes someone who she has known forever, giving her signals that he is totally wanting more than being "friend zoned" and to make matters worse, the guys totally don't like one another...Talk about DRAMA!!
Throughout the novel, I honestly just couldn't put it down (even when I had to!) It was such a great read with all the FEELS going on, as well as the amount of drama and suspense! I never thought that there would be so much going on in such a short read, but you bet your bottom it was jam packed!
Overall I really loved this book! There were so many feels, and there was definitely a lot of heartache and pain going on, but Mia totally held her own. Even though she almost lost her life, and has had a non stop of pain and heartbreak inside and out, she constantly remained upbeat and always looking at the positives rather than believing her life was "over" and that she had nothing to live for. I think that was one of the main reasons why this book was much better!
October 4, 2015
I enjoyed A Healing Spirit, book 2 in the Riverview series just as much as I did book 1, A Healing Heart. I was so excited to journey back to this world that I reread book 1 again before I started book 2. I am so glad I did. The characters and story were so fresh in my mind and I loved that I could just continue on with the story and learn more about one of the character's lives. But ... you definitely don't have to read one to enjoy the other.
Melissa's stories start off with an intense scene that just makes the reader want to continue. Mia has a terrible accident and you just have to keep reading to make sure everything is going to be okay. Dylan is the Ski Patrol member who helps Mia through her trauma and he can't seem to get her out of his mind. He feels an instant connection to her.
'You know what I always say ... things happen for reasons. We just don't always know why. Follow your instincts, honey. Listen to your heart.'
As Mia and Dylan get close, Mia can feel that Dylan has something in his past that he can't get over. She just wants to help him but he won't talk about it.
'Whatever happened to him had hurt him deeply, and I might never know what the cause for that pain had been.'
Then the past rears its ugly head and their lives become pretty intense. Let me tell you, you will not want to put the book down when you get to this part!
Melissa has written a very enjoyable, entertaining, sweet story with enough drama going on that was a non-stop read for me. Thanks Melissa, for another wonderful trip to Riverview. I hope there will be more!
'Her spirit had been infectious, as it weaved into my heart.'
Melissa's stories start off with an intense scene that just makes the reader want to continue. Mia has a terrible accident and you just have to keep reading to make sure everything is going to be okay. Dylan is the Ski Patrol member who helps Mia through her trauma and he can't seem to get her out of his mind. He feels an instant connection to her.
'You know what I always say ... things happen for reasons. We just don't always know why. Follow your instincts, honey. Listen to your heart.'
As Mia and Dylan get close, Mia can feel that Dylan has something in his past that he can't get over. She just wants to help him but he won't talk about it.
'Whatever happened to him had hurt him deeply, and I might never know what the cause for that pain had been.'
Then the past rears its ugly head and their lives become pretty intense. Let me tell you, you will not want to put the book down when you get to this part!
Melissa has written a very enjoyable, entertaining, sweet story with enough drama going on that was a non-stop read for me. Thanks Melissa, for another wonderful trip to Riverview. I hope there will be more!
'Her spirit had been infectious, as it weaved into my heart.'
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