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Needing To Fall
Have you ever sunk inside yourself to a place of darkness so deep you couldn’t see the light? Had no hope? Felt completely alone in a world filled with so many people?
I have. I’ve lived it, breathed it.
Why?
Because life hated me.
It disliked me from the moment of conception, despised me when I was born, loathed me when I bounced from each foster home, and kicked me in the gut when I watched the one thing that meant everything to me leave.
For years, I drifted, unable to find my footing, never knowing what the word stable meant. Then a single moment in time rocked me to my core, changing me and making that solid ground I so desperately craved crumble at my feet, causing me to fall farther than I’d ever imagined.
The darkness of the swirling tornado that is depression captured me, pulling me down to its depths, drowning me, suffocating me, owning me.
A depth so deep, I didn’t think I’d survive and didn’t care if I did. I only wanted peace. I wanted the pain to disappear. I wanted to be … free.
Needing to fall into the cyclone of darkness was the only way I could find the light.
**Warning: This book covers many tough issues—including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and abuse. It is a very highly charged, emotional read. You have been warned.**
**Please note: depression, PSTD, and other issues covered in this book take different lengths of time to combat—some take a lifetime. In this book, time is skewed and sped up to flow with the story line.**
I have. I’ve lived it, breathed it.
Why?
Because life hated me.
It disliked me from the moment of conception, despised me when I was born, loathed me when I bounced from each foster home, and kicked me in the gut when I watched the one thing that meant everything to me leave.
For years, I drifted, unable to find my footing, never knowing what the word stable meant. Then a single moment in time rocked me to my core, changing me and making that solid ground I so desperately craved crumble at my feet, causing me to fall farther than I’d ever imagined.
The darkness of the swirling tornado that is depression captured me, pulling me down to its depths, drowning me, suffocating me, owning me.
A depth so deep, I didn’t think I’d survive and didn’t care if I did. I only wanted peace. I wanted the pain to disappear. I wanted to be … free.
Needing to fall into the cyclone of darkness was the only way I could find the light.
**Warning: This book covers many tough issues—including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and abuse. It is a very highly charged, emotional read. You have been warned.**
**Please note: depression, PSTD, and other issues covered in this book take different lengths of time to combat—some take a lifetime. In this book, time is skewed and sped up to flow with the story line.**
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2016
118 people are currently reading
1485 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Michele
77 books3,469 followersRyan Michele is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of over 40 romantic suspense novels and is best known for her Ravage MC series.
She found her passion bringing fictional characters to life, being in an imaginative world where anything is possible.
Her knack for the unexpected twists and turns will have you on the edge of your seat with each page.
She is best known for her alpha, bad boy bikers and strong, independent heroines who refuse to back down.
When she’s not writing, you can find her on her swing, watching the water ripple in the pond and plotting her next book.
Newsletter--> https://bit.ly/3tfTNDS
FB Reader Group--> https://bit.ly/35AP4UT
All Books--> https://authorryanmichele.com/info
She found her passion bringing fictional characters to life, being in an imaginative world where anything is possible.
Her knack for the unexpected twists and turns will have you on the edge of your seat with each page.
She is best known for her alpha, bad boy bikers and strong, independent heroines who refuse to back down.
When she’s not writing, you can find her on her swing, watching the water ripple in the pond and plotting her next book.
Newsletter--> https://bit.ly/3tfTNDS
FB Reader Group--> https://bit.ly/35AP4UT
All Books--> https://authorryanmichele.com/info
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
lost-interested
December 15, 2019DNF @ 28%
February 14, 2016
4.5 knowledge is power stars
"Happiness was giving your heart to someone you know would protect it with every breath they took."
Wow. This one was emotional and dark book...and of course, I LOVED IT!
First, I have to give props to the author- the subject matter, although very dark, was handled beautifully. Depression is a very misunderstood disease and those who have never experienced it, could never imagine the true effect that this disease has on a person and the people around them. Reign, the heroine, hits rock bottom and you see her completely drown in her emotional agony. Suffering from severe PTSD and depression, she sees no light at the end of the tunnel and tries to end it all. It's in recovery that she meets her hero, Lynx.
I LOVED Lynx. He was such an amazing book hero and I loved how he was with Reign.
And Reign...omg...I felt for that girl. Her story had me in tears and I love books that can pull such emotion from me!
This was such an amazing book and I highly recommend this book!
"Happiness was giving your heart to someone you know would protect it with every breath they took."
Wow. This one was emotional and dark book...and of course, I LOVED IT!
First, I have to give props to the author- the subject matter, although very dark, was handled beautifully. Depression is a very misunderstood disease and those who have never experienced it, could never imagine the true effect that this disease has on a person and the people around them. Reign, the heroine, hits rock bottom and you see her completely drown in her emotional agony. Suffering from severe PTSD and depression, she sees no light at the end of the tunnel and tries to end it all. It's in recovery that she meets her hero, Lynx.
I LOVED Lynx. He was such an amazing book hero and I loved how he was with Reign.
And Reign...omg...I felt for that girl. Her story had me in tears and I love books that can pull such emotion from me!
This was such an amazing book and I highly recommend this book!
April 27, 2022
Wow, what a beautiful and tear-jerking read! Reign’s story is not for the faint of heart, and her journey to wellness is painful and realistic. The entire book is told from Reign’s point of view. She meets Lynx while an impatient at the hospital. She meets him while she’s at her lowest, and he helps her to raise herself back up. I loved that while he was supportive, really, it was ultimately she who healed herself. He just gave her something more tangible and immediate to live for. While I loved this book, I think I would have loved it a little more if we’d seen a little bit into Lynx’s own struggles. He has PTSD from being in the army, and we get to experience a little bit of the fallout from his issues, but I would have liked to see their relationship and support go both ways a little more.
All in all, a fabulous read, and I highly recommend it! But - definitely heed the trigger warnings! This book gets dark.
All in all, a fabulous read, and I highly recommend it! But - definitely heed the trigger warnings! This book gets dark.
May 19, 2016
Published: 2016
:: 5 Pretty Little Stars ::
Dark, emotional, intense, and beautifully told- Needing to Fall takes readers on a tough journey that will open their minds and hearts to some very serious issues. The author gives us a sensitive but honest look at the after effects of severe abuse and PTSD in this novel while also rolling in a beautiful love story that will make everyone’s heart melt. This is one of those books that must be read this year. I fell in love with it from the minute I picked up the book and became instantly hooked on Reign and Lynx’s story even though some of it was hard to get through due to the amount of emotions that it emits. Before reading this book, make sure you take a good long look at the warning that accompanies it because this book DOES cover some very tough issues that will break your heart. This is especially true because these tough issues come out in an extremely vivid way in the characters. Don’t forget to also bring your tissues because YOU WILL CRY.
This story is about surviving the unthinkable. It’s about finding love in the midst of chaos and heartbreak. But even more, it’s the story of two people who once thought that life was no longer worth living until they found something worth living for. Reign is a young woman who comes from a severely damaged past. After her mother gives her up for completely selfish reasons, Reign is placed in foster care where she has to live with unimaginable abuse. The only person she has to lean on is Drew. But when Drew passes, she finds herself all alone in a dark and scary world. Fast forward some time and Reign is placed in a psychiatric hospital after she tries to kill herself. It is there that she meets Lynx, another person who suffers as well. But his suffering is a little different than Reigns… But not so different that tears them apart. You see, the two are able to find in a unlikely confidants in one another due to the pain they have endured in their short lifetimes. But it’s up to them to see if they can survive in a world where there is darkness and pain….
This dark and emotional read is sure to take you on a painful journey. But if you read it all the way through you will see that after darkness comes light. You just have to be willing to get there and survive the pain first… Overall, this is a beautifully written story that handles some very tough issues but the author is successfully able to do this in a sensitive way. I felt each and every emotion from the characters in this book which allowed me to feel and intense and deep connection with them. The plot is thick with emotion yet beautiful when we see the two find themselves. Finally, the ending will make you weep with joy. If you haven’t read this one yet YOU NEED TO. It’s probably one of the best of the year!
:: 5 Pretty Little Stars ::
Dark, emotional, intense, and beautifully told- Needing to Fall takes readers on a tough journey that will open their minds and hearts to some very serious issues. The author gives us a sensitive but honest look at the after effects of severe abuse and PTSD in this novel while also rolling in a beautiful love story that will make everyone’s heart melt. This is one of those books that must be read this year. I fell in love with it from the minute I picked up the book and became instantly hooked on Reign and Lynx’s story even though some of it was hard to get through due to the amount of emotions that it emits. Before reading this book, make sure you take a good long look at the warning that accompanies it because this book DOES cover some very tough issues that will break your heart. This is especially true because these tough issues come out in an extremely vivid way in the characters. Don’t forget to also bring your tissues because YOU WILL CRY.
This story is about surviving the unthinkable. It’s about finding love in the midst of chaos and heartbreak. But even more, it’s the story of two people who once thought that life was no longer worth living until they found something worth living for. Reign is a young woman who comes from a severely damaged past. After her mother gives her up for completely selfish reasons, Reign is placed in foster care where she has to live with unimaginable abuse. The only person she has to lean on is Drew. But when Drew passes, she finds herself all alone in a dark and scary world. Fast forward some time and Reign is placed in a psychiatric hospital after she tries to kill herself. It is there that she meets Lynx, another person who suffers as well. But his suffering is a little different than Reigns… But not so different that tears them apart. You see, the two are able to find in a unlikely confidants in one another due to the pain they have endured in their short lifetimes. But it’s up to them to see if they can survive in a world where there is darkness and pain….
This dark and emotional read is sure to take you on a painful journey. But if you read it all the way through you will see that after darkness comes light. You just have to be willing to get there and survive the pain first… Overall, this is a beautifully written story that handles some very tough issues but the author is successfully able to do this in a sensitive way. I felt each and every emotion from the characters in this book which allowed me to feel and intense and deep connection with them. The plot is thick with emotion yet beautiful when we see the two find themselves. Finally, the ending will make you weep with joy. If you haven’t read this one yet YOU NEED TO. It’s probably one of the best of the year!
January 30, 2016
I've read quite a few of this authors previous books and loved them. I absolutely adored this story and it's my favourite of this authors to date.
My heart was in pieces reading Reign and Lynx stories. They have been through so much heartache that I needed them to find happiness.
This is a raw and emotional story with great twists and turns. It's not an easy quick read. I felt it was emotional and heart breaking. The author did a great job of writing about some difficult topics.
Highly recommend this story. Don't forget the tissues!!
My heart was in pieces reading Reign and Lynx stories. They have been through so much heartache that I needed them to find happiness.
This is a raw and emotional story with great twists and turns. It's not an easy quick read. I felt it was emotional and heart breaking. The author did a great job of writing about some difficult topics.
Highly recommend this story. Don't forget the tissues!!
Read
January 9, 2016Amazon: http://amzn.to/1HR3Ogd
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Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/PqOkgqNdrEM
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Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/PqOkgqNdrEM
January 20, 2016
Needing To Fall was touching, emotional, and very, very deep. As a person who has suffered with depression for most of my life, I understood Reign due to my own battles. This is a beautiful story, full of twists and turns that, as a reader, I couldn't anticipate.
July 18, 2020
Needed to read.
I've had this book on my "to-read" shelf for a while. I fell in love with the cover and bought it a long time ago.
I'm a pretty happy person so the book didn't speak to me as much as it probably does to those suffering with depression but I'm still glad I checked it out. I appreciate the authors honestly about her struggle and the effort she put into this book. Well done.
I've had this book on my "to-read" shelf for a while. I fell in love with the cover and bought it a long time ago.
I'm a pretty happy person so the book didn't speak to me as much as it probably does to those suffering with depression but I'm still glad I checked it out. I appreciate the authors honestly about her struggle and the effort she put into this book. Well done.
July 28, 2017
Is currently free to read on kindle unlimited.
Had never heard of this book but this was such a dark and emotional story about two people dealing with really dark pasts. I liked how they portrayed the depression and ptsd and that there is no magical fix and that they had to get themselves better but help each other along the way. I just think the mental illness was portrayed well but do be reminded of you suffer with depression ptsd or sucidal thoughts this book could be a trigger. I loved how strong both characters were but how human they were portrayed I like how the author put these issues out there that so many people suffer from and did it in a realistic way.
Had never heard of this book but this was such a dark and emotional story about two people dealing with really dark pasts. I liked how they portrayed the depression and ptsd and that there is no magical fix and that they had to get themselves better but help each other along the way. I just think the mental illness was portrayed well but do be reminded of you suffer with depression ptsd or sucidal thoughts this book could be a trigger. I loved how strong both characters were but how human they were portrayed I like how the author put these issues out there that so many people suffer from and did it in a realistic way.
October 21, 2016
If you've read Ryan Michele before you probably think you know what you're going to get with Needing to Fall. You. Are. Wrong.
Needing to Fall is the most emotionally taxing and inspirational novel from Ryan Michele to date. I was in tears by Chapter 2 and was left breathless by The End.
Reign... oh my goodness what do you say about a character that makes you want to climb into the pages to hold them? She is the manifestation of the depths the human psyche can plummet. I died for this woman.
"The deepest recesses of my soul came to the surface, and I couldn't push them back."
"I'm in a big, black void of thick, sticky tar."
There were plenty of times I had to take a break, only to grab my kindle moments later because I just HAD to know what she would do. This character pulled me in from the first word and refused to let go. And I don't mean until the end. Nope, she still has a hold of a piece of my soul.
During her journey of self-discovery, Reign meets Lynx. This dude. THIS DUDE! Holy heck I cannot get over him. A man with his own issues, he reaches out to help pull a woman he barely knows from falling over the edge. his logic, his ability to anchor, his depth... I swear there are times that the only reason I could get through chapters was because of him. I lived through Reign's eyes and without him, we both would have drown.
One more character I want to touch on. If we could each have a friend (and be a friend) like Andi, the world would be a better place.
Now, sometimes things were a little, um, convenient? No, that's not right. Easy? No, not that either. Reprieve. Yes. There are moments that Ryan gives us a (much needed) reprieve by allowing goodness to pour through. Thank goodness for that, or I would still be a blubbering mess.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Needing to Fall is the most emotionally taxing and inspirational novel from Ryan Michele to date. I was in tears by Chapter 2 and was left breathless by The End.
Reign... oh my goodness what do you say about a character that makes you want to climb into the pages to hold them? She is the manifestation of the depths the human psyche can plummet. I died for this woman.
"The deepest recesses of my soul came to the surface, and I couldn't push them back."
"I'm in a big, black void of thick, sticky tar."
There were plenty of times I had to take a break, only to grab my kindle moments later because I just HAD to know what she would do. This character pulled me in from the first word and refused to let go. And I don't mean until the end. Nope, she still has a hold of a piece of my soul.
During her journey of self-discovery, Reign meets Lynx. This dude. THIS DUDE! Holy heck I cannot get over him. A man with his own issues, he reaches out to help pull a woman he barely knows from falling over the edge. his logic, his ability to anchor, his depth... I swear there are times that the only reason I could get through chapters was because of him. I lived through Reign's eyes and without him, we both would have drown.
One more character I want to touch on. If we could each have a friend (and be a friend) like Andi, the world would be a better place.
Now, sometimes things were a little, um, convenient? No, that's not right. Easy? No, not that either. Reprieve. Yes. There are moments that Ryan gives us a (much needed) reprieve by allowing goodness to pour through. Thank goodness for that, or I would still be a blubbering mess.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2016
Storyline: 4.5
Angst: 1
Tissue: 3
Value: 4
Panty Scorching: 3
Over All Rating: 4.5
Kindle eARC
Reviewed by Lindsey
I don't even know how to put into words what I just finished reading. Ryan Michelle just completely knocked the breath out of me with this beautiful book. It was simply amazing and heartfelt.
I have never been a big fan of books with emotions that pull the heart strings. I'm super emotional anyway so I tend to stay away. But with this book I had to read it. There was no not reading it. Reign is a fucking bad ass chick! Seriously this girl hits rock bottom more than once and gets herself up and keeping going. I am in wonder of her. To take that many kicks and have to fight your way out.... kick ass, I tell ya! Lynx... sweet baby Jesus that man. Every woman needs a Lynx. He's so freaking open and honest and it makes you fall for him even more. No wonder Reign fell. With a man like that she had to. There would be no stopping it. He's just as damaged as she is and he's a fighter as well. They are completely perfect together.
Ryan took a very serious very REAL issue and brought light to it in a way to give HOPE! There's hope for everyone no matter what the situation. That's what I took from this book. It was an amazing read from beginning to end and so completely different from what she's written before. I loved it hard!
Angst: 1
Tissue: 3
Value: 4
Panty Scorching: 3
Over All Rating: 4.5
Kindle eARC
Reviewed by Lindsey
I don't even know how to put into words what I just finished reading. Ryan Michelle just completely knocked the breath out of me with this beautiful book. It was simply amazing and heartfelt.
I have never been a big fan of books with emotions that pull the heart strings. I'm super emotional anyway so I tend to stay away. But with this book I had to read it. There was no not reading it. Reign is a fucking bad ass chick! Seriously this girl hits rock bottom more than once and gets herself up and keeping going. I am in wonder of her. To take that many kicks and have to fight your way out.... kick ass, I tell ya! Lynx... sweet baby Jesus that man. Every woman needs a Lynx. He's so freaking open and honest and it makes you fall for him even more. No wonder Reign fell. With a man like that she had to. There would be no stopping it. He's just as damaged as she is and he's a fighter as well. They are completely perfect together.
Ryan took a very serious very REAL issue and brought light to it in a way to give HOPE! There's hope for everyone no matter what the situation. That's what I took from this book. It was an amazing read from beginning to end and so completely different from what she's written before. I loved it hard!
January 19, 2016
an emotional read. I have to let my thoughts settle before writing my review.
This book dealt with some heavy topics giving you an in-depth look at what a struggle it is to live with depression and PTSD. Reign is struggling to keep living when the pull to end it all is so strong. She meets someone who changes her life for the better and the lease expected of places. The connection they share is instant but not really in an insta-love way, though at times it felt the relationship was moving faster. I would have loved to have Lynx POV but overall a deeply emotional and at times dark read. i don't want to give spoilers so you just need to read and find out the heartache this book brings.
Given an ARC for honest review.
This book dealt with some heavy topics giving you an in-depth look at what a struggle it is to live with depression and PTSD. Reign is struggling to keep living when the pull to end it all is so strong. She meets someone who changes her life for the better and the lease expected of places. The connection they share is instant but not really in an insta-love way, though at times it felt the relationship was moving faster. I would have loved to have Lynx POV but overall a deeply emotional and at times dark read. i don't want to give spoilers so you just need to read and find out the heartache this book brings.
Given an ARC for honest review.
October 19, 2016
Needing to Fall is completely different from Ryan Michele's other titles-- my favorite of hers yet. Packed full of emotion, this novel took me by surprise and left me questioning so much. Not about the story, but about life in general, how people find the courage to move on and love again after traumatic, earth shattering events. It's somewhat dark and the emotional pain the characters deal with was like a weight on my chest. I felt every single thing, something I crave in my reads. Well done!
March 29, 2018
What an amazing read. <3
For all that Reign had been through, and all that Lynx had been through... I admire both their strength in life... Reading their journeys ... it was sad yet it turned beautiful.
And Lynx, what a true man he was. <3
For all that Reign had been through, and all that Lynx had been through... I admire both their strength in life... Reading their journeys ... it was sad yet it turned beautiful.
And Lynx, what a true man he was. <3
January 27, 2016
4.5 stars
October 10, 2020
I like it and I am glad that they have found how to cope with their illnesses,
April 25, 2024
I recommend "Needing To Fall" to a very specific audience. This book will leave your heart throbbing in many ways. It touches different parts of depression and spiraling down to the ends of earth. With Reigns story (main character) it opens her past in snippets while she tries to uncover it herself. Just when you think you know it all, the book throws in another challenge. Although "Needing To Fall" goes back and forth with plots and times, the author makes it very easy to follow. For anyone that has had hardships with relationships, this book may be very sensitive. If you are not ready to face hard topics head on, I would hold off on this one for now. If you are a reader that loves stories twisted with pain and love I would highly suggest you give it a chance.
Essay review-
“Needing To Fall” is a heart-aching novel written by Ryan Michele. The story starts strong in the scene of the main character, Reign’s, biggest life-changing moment. The story is based on when she has grown older, yet she’s still the same depressed, anxious, and PTSD-filled girl as she was before. She’s spent a lot of her life simply worrying. She’s afraid that her past abusers, both being fathers, are going to find her and use their strength against her will forever again. She doesn’t go a second without taking a second look if she locked every door in her apartment. Reign was lucky enough to have found a new friend who was constantly there for her. She fell into a deep manic episode after finding shocking information. She was taken to the hospital after a suicide attempt, and that’s where she met Lynx. He always had his own problems, but he put them aside to help Reign get back on her feet. Overall this book did an amazing job with the theme and characterization. The theme was so strong it made me want to keep reading page after page. It makes the reader crave for more. The characterization made me feel really in the story, like I knew everyone personally. It helped me learn how to sympathize for others very well.
The theme is very truthful and motivating. It sheds tears but makes you never want to take your eyes off of the text. Ryan Michele created this story touching alot of hard topics including depression, death, grief, and suicide. These are not things we want to hear about, but the author presents them in such a graceful way. Its plot goes through the deep, real struggles in these topics with vivid detail. It uses strong and overwhelming beautiful sentences like “Needing to fall into the cyclone of darkness was the only way I could find the light” making the reader crave more. The extremely beautiful and strong wording helps the theme fall together and get the point across in an amusingly powerful way.
Another strong aspect of the book was the characterization given throughout the book. My favorite character ended up being Lynx because of his most loving and heroic demeanor. Lynx saved Reign as soon as he appeared in the story. They met at a mental health hospital and got put into counseling together, as their psychiatrist thought they had a lot in common. Lynx helped her get past a lot of trauma after finding her once she got released soon after him. He held her with the gentlest of hands, she’d never had physical touch like that. He would often say things like “You are here because you survived” which would completely ease all of her worries. Lynx was constantly fighting Reign’s demons so she didn't have to. He went as far as killing to keep his newly loved one safe. The way Reign was presented by the author was as a very fragile and weak girl. She had so much going on and struggles kept coming her way one after another. I just wanted to reach into the book and give her a giant hug. I’ve never sympathized with a character more than in this book. All things considered, the characterization was a very strong point in this storyline.
Overall “Needing To Fall” is a very truthful and healing book. Although it covers topics that have a lot of stigma in our society, this book makes you want to talk. It doesn’t glamorize PTSD or abuse, it just lets you know that you are not alone and it is not your fault. The main characters seemed to push to make that known and emphasized that seeking help is okay. I loved each page from start to finish and would do it over and over again. Since then, I have been searching for a book that keeps me as engaged as this book did. If you want a book that makes you ache for more, “Needing To Fall” is the perfect read. It keeps you on your toes through the whole story.
Essay review-
“Needing To Fall” is a heart-aching novel written by Ryan Michele. The story starts strong in the scene of the main character, Reign’s, biggest life-changing moment. The story is based on when she has grown older, yet she’s still the same depressed, anxious, and PTSD-filled girl as she was before. She’s spent a lot of her life simply worrying. She’s afraid that her past abusers, both being fathers, are going to find her and use their strength against her will forever again. She doesn’t go a second without taking a second look if she locked every door in her apartment. Reign was lucky enough to have found a new friend who was constantly there for her. She fell into a deep manic episode after finding shocking information. She was taken to the hospital after a suicide attempt, and that’s where she met Lynx. He always had his own problems, but he put them aside to help Reign get back on her feet. Overall this book did an amazing job with the theme and characterization. The theme was so strong it made me want to keep reading page after page. It makes the reader crave for more. The characterization made me feel really in the story, like I knew everyone personally. It helped me learn how to sympathize for others very well.
The theme is very truthful and motivating. It sheds tears but makes you never want to take your eyes off of the text. Ryan Michele created this story touching alot of hard topics including depression, death, grief, and suicide. These are not things we want to hear about, but the author presents them in such a graceful way. Its plot goes through the deep, real struggles in these topics with vivid detail. It uses strong and overwhelming beautiful sentences like “Needing to fall into the cyclone of darkness was the only way I could find the light” making the reader crave more. The extremely beautiful and strong wording helps the theme fall together and get the point across in an amusingly powerful way.
Another strong aspect of the book was the characterization given throughout the book. My favorite character ended up being Lynx because of his most loving and heroic demeanor. Lynx saved Reign as soon as he appeared in the story. They met at a mental health hospital and got put into counseling together, as their psychiatrist thought they had a lot in common. Lynx helped her get past a lot of trauma after finding her once she got released soon after him. He held her with the gentlest of hands, she’d never had physical touch like that. He would often say things like “You are here because you survived” which would completely ease all of her worries. Lynx was constantly fighting Reign’s demons so she didn't have to. He went as far as killing to keep his newly loved one safe. The way Reign was presented by the author was as a very fragile and weak girl. She had so much going on and struggles kept coming her way one after another. I just wanted to reach into the book and give her a giant hug. I’ve never sympathized with a character more than in this book. All things considered, the characterization was a very strong point in this storyline.
Overall “Needing To Fall” is a very truthful and healing book. Although it covers topics that have a lot of stigma in our society, this book makes you want to talk. It doesn’t glamorize PTSD or abuse, it just lets you know that you are not alone and it is not your fault. The main characters seemed to push to make that known and emphasized that seeking help is okay. I loved each page from start to finish and would do it over and over again. Since then, I have been searching for a book that keeps me as engaged as this book did. If you want a book that makes you ache for more, “Needing To Fall” is the perfect read. It keeps you on your toes through the whole story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2016
4 stars
Review by Jen Skewes
When I first read the blurb for this one I knew it was a book I needed to read. Just a warning it does contain some tough topics such as abuse, depression, PTSD and anxiety. For some people this may be a little too dark for them but this is the exact type of book that catches my interest and that I love. And Ryan Michele did not disappoint. She did an amazing job and handled the tough subject matter in a very delicate way. From the moment that I read the prologue I was glued to my Ipad and did not want to let go. I was completely sucked in, my heart beating fast and needing to know what happens from there.
Reign has been through hell and back. Growing up in foster homes and being treated in a way that no one should be treated. You get a taste of what she had been through from the prologue alone and it will break your heart. It is a few years later and Reign has finally escaped hell and is living on her own. But I am not really sure you can call it living. The nightmares, the fears and insecurities all because of her past still haunt her every day. But it is when she finds out some very shocking news about the one boy she loved that completely causes her to spiral into a very dark, dark world. When her best friend finds her in a very bad way she has her committed to a mental hospital. Reign is furious but has no choice to go. This is the beginning of her journey to recovery, to finding herself, to believing in herself and to getting better.
When Reign first meets Lynx she is not sure what to make of him. He too has his own past and demons to fight. But this is not his first experience in this place and the reasons why he is put with Reign is very understandable. During their time together they build this bond of friendship, if you will. He becomes someone that Reign can trust and lean on for comfort and safety. But at some point their time ends and Reign must go back to the real world and start the next part of her journey. Will Lynx keep his promise and be there with her every step of the way?
This is really a beautiful and emotional book. This is a book about healing, friendship and yes also love and romance. Reign must be able to face it all head on in order to be able move past it all. And I just loved the strength that she shows in doing this is. And trust me everything that she had to face would be enough to turn anyone away and want to just run and hide. But she knew that she needed to finally come to turns with it all, to be able to get the closure she needed in order to live a meaningful life, one that does not include the pain of her past. I felt for this girl so much and wanted to see her live a wonderful life and be happy. I wanted to see her have a family and the love that she deserved from the people around her.
Lynx was such an amazing hero. It was as if fate had intervened and sent him to Reign because he was the positivity that she needed in her life. He was everything. He was kind, sweet, understanding and very patient with her. He understood her so well and just wanted to be there with her.
In the process they both found a love that I don’t think either one of them expected. And that is what is so great about this story. They were both broken in their own way and for their own reasons. But while Lynx had been on his way to healing, Reign had just started that process. But together they began to slowly heal and with Lync by her side she put her demons in the past where she belonged. The ending was just perfect. I think my only issue was at times it seemed to drag just a bit but overall what an absolutely beautiful story.
Review by Jen Skewes
When I first read the blurb for this one I knew it was a book I needed to read. Just a warning it does contain some tough topics such as abuse, depression, PTSD and anxiety. For some people this may be a little too dark for them but this is the exact type of book that catches my interest and that I love. And Ryan Michele did not disappoint. She did an amazing job and handled the tough subject matter in a very delicate way. From the moment that I read the prologue I was glued to my Ipad and did not want to let go. I was completely sucked in, my heart beating fast and needing to know what happens from there.
Reign has been through hell and back. Growing up in foster homes and being treated in a way that no one should be treated. You get a taste of what she had been through from the prologue alone and it will break your heart. It is a few years later and Reign has finally escaped hell and is living on her own. But I am not really sure you can call it living. The nightmares, the fears and insecurities all because of her past still haunt her every day. But it is when she finds out some very shocking news about the one boy she loved that completely causes her to spiral into a very dark, dark world. When her best friend finds her in a very bad way she has her committed to a mental hospital. Reign is furious but has no choice to go. This is the beginning of her journey to recovery, to finding herself, to believing in herself and to getting better.
When Reign first meets Lynx she is not sure what to make of him. He too has his own past and demons to fight. But this is not his first experience in this place and the reasons why he is put with Reign is very understandable. During their time together they build this bond of friendship, if you will. He becomes someone that Reign can trust and lean on for comfort and safety. But at some point their time ends and Reign must go back to the real world and start the next part of her journey. Will Lynx keep his promise and be there with her every step of the way?
This is really a beautiful and emotional book. This is a book about healing, friendship and yes also love and romance. Reign must be able to face it all head on in order to be able move past it all. And I just loved the strength that she shows in doing this is. And trust me everything that she had to face would be enough to turn anyone away and want to just run and hide. But she knew that she needed to finally come to turns with it all, to be able to get the closure she needed in order to live a meaningful life, one that does not include the pain of her past. I felt for this girl so much and wanted to see her live a wonderful life and be happy. I wanted to see her have a family and the love that she deserved from the people around her.
Lynx was such an amazing hero. It was as if fate had intervened and sent him to Reign because he was the positivity that she needed in her life. He was everything. He was kind, sweet, understanding and very patient with her. He understood her so well and just wanted to be there with her.
In the process they both found a love that I don’t think either one of them expected. And that is what is so great about this story. They were both broken in their own way and for their own reasons. But while Lynx had been on his way to healing, Reign had just started that process. But together they began to slowly heal and with Lync by her side she put her demons in the past where she belonged. The ending was just perfect. I think my only issue was at times it seemed to drag just a bit but overall what an absolutely beautiful story.
January 13, 2016
Ryan Michele has literally topped every single book I have read in the last year with Needing to Fall. This emotional charged journey to the past through the present for these characters will leave you stunned and emotionally broken. Michele takes on an even tougher subject with this marvelous standalone novel. PTSD isn’t uncommon anymore and is not just diagnosed in our country’s brave warriors. Yes, there is a soldier with PTSD in this book, but there’s also a suffering young woman who nearly makes a fatal decision as well.
Needing to Fall is a beautiful look at how to indescribable broken people can help re-build each other’s life. Reign and Lynx were hands down the best written characters I have ever had the privilege of reading. I’ve honestly sat back for three days and tried to summarize my feelings about this book, and truth be told, there isn’t a single string of words that I could eloquently put together to even come close to how I feel about this book. It’s as if my heart shattered with Reign’s past and was mended back together with barbed wire coated in sadness. The darkness of this story enveloped me to the point that I felt every single shred of pain alongside of Reign. I cried when she cried and I loved when she loved.
It’s been a very long time since I’ve truly said how much a book changed my perspective on the lives being lead around us. After turning the last page, my mind wondered to how many people may be facing similar situations as fictional Reign and Lynx. How many woman or men in my community faced horrific nightmares of past misgivings or terrors? I think in the end not only did I fall in love with a book and its characters, but I realized just how badly those who suffer from PTSD need a friend. So readers and bloggers out there that may be reading this, if you need help, please seek it. If you see someone struggling, lend a hand or even smile as something who looks as if the world is about to eat them alive because you don’t know when someone so smile will save a life.
January 26, 2016
Oh my...... I'm not sure if I can come up with adequate words for this book..... This book is such an emotional rollercoaster, I'm not sure how many times I had to set down my kindle and take a breather. Before I chucked my kindle across the room from the emotions running through me.
Sure I've read dark books, books dealing with touchy subjects, books dealing with depression, books dealing with PTSD. If it's out there I've probably read it. I knew from the beginning this book to read and wasn't actually sure if I wanted to. I almost passed at the opportunity to review this book, but at the last moment decided to do it.
Where oh where do I start with Reign? I'm not sure I really know. Reign did something to me and I'm not sure if I can put it in words. Her character was so broken and lost, that I was literally heartbroken for her. I've never been pulled so much by a female character. My heart broke for her, I cried for her, I rooted for her, and I hoped for her. Maybe it's the mother in me, but even though I knew she was just a character, I just wanted to wrap my arms around her and hug her.
I loved Lynx. Even though he was is own kind of messed up and broken character. He was exactly what Reign needed. And he probably saved the both of them at the right time. He was just so understanding, sweet and caring.
This book was probably one of the hardest books that I have ever read. It was powerful, dark, heartbreaking, touching. I felt like I really connected with this book because I've been there, been down that dark road. But not as far as these characters. It was kind of a reminder that no matter how bad or hard things are. There's someone somewhere that has it worse.
If I could give this book 10 out of 10 stars I would. But unfortunately I can't so I'll just give it 5 out of 5 stars and definitely recommend it.
***I received an arc of this book from the author for my honest review***
Sure I've read dark books, books dealing with touchy subjects, books dealing with depression, books dealing with PTSD. If it's out there I've probably read it. I knew from the beginning this book to read and wasn't actually sure if I wanted to. I almost passed at the opportunity to review this book, but at the last moment decided to do it.
Where oh where do I start with Reign? I'm not sure I really know. Reign did something to me and I'm not sure if I can put it in words. Her character was so broken and lost, that I was literally heartbroken for her. I've never been pulled so much by a female character. My heart broke for her, I cried for her, I rooted for her, and I hoped for her. Maybe it's the mother in me, but even though I knew she was just a character, I just wanted to wrap my arms around her and hug her.
I loved Lynx. Even though he was is own kind of messed up and broken character. He was exactly what Reign needed. And he probably saved the both of them at the right time. He was just so understanding, sweet and caring.
This book was probably one of the hardest books that I have ever read. It was powerful, dark, heartbreaking, touching. I felt like I really connected with this book because I've been there, been down that dark road. But not as far as these characters. It was kind of a reminder that no matter how bad or hard things are. There's someone somewhere that has it worse.
If I could give this book 10 out of 10 stars I would. But unfortunately I can't so I'll just give it 5 out of 5 stars and definitely recommend it.
***I received an arc of this book from the author for my honest review***
January 23, 2016
So many emotions from this story.
There were difficult subjects addressed in Needing To Fall. Throughout the story, you felt for the characters. On some level you can connect with these characters and others, you could never imagine their burden.
I enjoyed the fact that while the characters suffered incredible trauma, they still had some semblance of strength and felt that there was a small window of hope. The attraction between the two characters was definitely there and their journey throughout the book flowed well and fit the story.
The thing that had me invested in the story from start to finish were the emotions. They weren't forced or superficial and I wasn't pulled so far down into the dark that the story became too heavy.
The secondary characters added a good balance to the story, offering warmth, strength, humour, and and ordinary vibe that countered the darkness and haunting of PTSD, depression, and grief.
I felt Ryan Michele did a good job of giving the reader realistic insight into PTSD and depression. I am impressed with the fact that she did not use gratuitous sex to bring us out of the dark like so many books have done and that she didn't give us some miracle fix where everything was rainbows and unicorns in an instant.
I would definitely recommend this read.
D 4/5
There were difficult subjects addressed in Needing To Fall. Throughout the story, you felt for the characters. On some level you can connect with these characters and others, you could never imagine their burden.
I enjoyed the fact that while the characters suffered incredible trauma, they still had some semblance of strength and felt that there was a small window of hope. The attraction between the two characters was definitely there and their journey throughout the book flowed well and fit the story.
The thing that had me invested in the story from start to finish were the emotions. They weren't forced or superficial and I wasn't pulled so far down into the dark that the story became too heavy.
The secondary characters added a good balance to the story, offering warmth, strength, humour, and and ordinary vibe that countered the darkness and haunting of PTSD, depression, and grief.
I felt Ryan Michele did a good job of giving the reader realistic insight into PTSD and depression. I am impressed with the fact that she did not use gratuitous sex to bring us out of the dark like so many books have done and that she didn't give us some miracle fix where everything was rainbows and unicorns in an instant.
I would definitely recommend this read.
D 4/5
January 10, 2016
My Review of Needing To Fall by Ryan Michele
My Rating 5 Heartfelt Stars
First off, I would like to commend Ryan for writing such and intense and highly accurate account of Depression and PTSD and the long term effects they have on people. Bravo!
As I started reading through the darkness of this story, I found that Reign’s story is a journey. A journey of hope and friendship finding yourself and finding the strength’s that are hidden within.
Needing to fall is just that; you have to hit the bottom to raise yourself to the top.
Reign’s story is harsh, dark and highly intense with a shot of HOPE. Reign is such a strong character, and she struggles with the darkness that always lingers within her mind. The twists and turns of her heartbreaking story is nothing short of a work of art in the form of words.
What a beautiful story that makes your heart hurt you feel for these very believable characters.
I loved the courage shown within the pages of this story, the love and determination that continued to keep me on the edge of my seat throughout the book.
Oh, and it was great to get a glimpse of our men on their steel horse’s “Loved that moment!”
*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
**Reviewed for Hellmouth’s Bookblog & Review**
My Rating 5 Heartfelt Stars
First off, I would like to commend Ryan for writing such and intense and highly accurate account of Depression and PTSD and the long term effects they have on people. Bravo!
As I started reading through the darkness of this story, I found that Reign’s story is a journey. A journey of hope and friendship finding yourself and finding the strength’s that are hidden within.
Needing to fall is just that; you have to hit the bottom to raise yourself to the top.
Reign’s story is harsh, dark and highly intense with a shot of HOPE. Reign is such a strong character, and she struggles with the darkness that always lingers within her mind. The twists and turns of her heartbreaking story is nothing short of a work of art in the form of words.
What a beautiful story that makes your heart hurt you feel for these very believable characters.
I loved the courage shown within the pages of this story, the love and determination that continued to keep me on the edge of my seat throughout the book.
Oh, and it was great to get a glimpse of our men on their steel horse’s “Loved that moment!”
*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
**Reviewed for Hellmouth’s Bookblog & Review**
January 20, 2016
ARC review
Reign is not your average girl. She's seen the dark side of life. Surrounded by abuse, neglect, pain, and horrors, there is only one bright light in her life. When that is snuffed out, she falls so deep into the darkness that she's not sure she wants to come out of it.
Enter Lynx, tall, intimidating, cocky, and damaged Lynx. He has his own demons, his own nightmares, but from the moment he squares off with Reign, Lynx sees - for the first time in a long long journey of dark - his light.
"You, Reign, are my light. You make my world right. You are my everything."
Lynx will give Reign back pieces of her that she never thought she could glue back together.
Knowledge is Power
Follow Reign on a twisted and dark path that leads to her destruction & Lynx is leading the way. But, sometimes, you need to fall in order to live again.
This book took me on a journey. The journey is sad, devastating, infuriating, and beautiful. Ryan gave me laughter, hope, and tears. She also made me a snotty mess on an airplane, but I won't hold that against her since Needing to Fall touched me in an amazing way.
OH... and big thank you to Ms. Michele for the MC cameos. I love those boys.
Reign is not your average girl. She's seen the dark side of life. Surrounded by abuse, neglect, pain, and horrors, there is only one bright light in her life. When that is snuffed out, she falls so deep into the darkness that she's not sure she wants to come out of it.
Enter Lynx, tall, intimidating, cocky, and damaged Lynx. He has his own demons, his own nightmares, but from the moment he squares off with Reign, Lynx sees - for the first time in a long long journey of dark - his light.
"You, Reign, are my light. You make my world right. You are my everything."
Lynx will give Reign back pieces of her that she never thought she could glue back together.
Knowledge is Power
Follow Reign on a twisted and dark path that leads to her destruction & Lynx is leading the way. But, sometimes, you need to fall in order to live again.
This book took me on a journey. The journey is sad, devastating, infuriating, and beautiful. Ryan gave me laughter, hope, and tears. She also made me a snotty mess on an airplane, but I won't hold that against her since Needing to Fall touched me in an amazing way.
OH... and big thank you to Ms. Michele for the MC cameos. I love those boys.
March 27, 2016
Happiness was giving your heart to someone you knew would protect it with every breath they took.
PTSD and Depression, are two illnesses that can sometimes go hand in hand. Just like Reign , a woman who was dealt a shitty hand from day one. Raised by a mother and father who wanted nothing to do with her.... Being throw back and forth in the messed up world of foster care.... Where she was abused mentally and physically... But her light was a boy named Drew.... Drew who didn't see past seventeen..... Why? I won't spoil it for you, she runs away and is pushed to do things that she might not be proud of but isn't ashamed.... And that right there made me respect the shit out her.... Selling your body, may not be the way to go for many... But it's easy to say and judge when you haven't been in the persons shoes.......
She meets Lynx at a treatment center..... A war veteran... Who has PTSD.... She was there because .... She wanted to end her life......
Reign and Lynx
PTSD and Depression, are two illnesses that can sometimes go hand in hand. Just like Reign , a woman who was dealt a shitty hand from day one. Raised by a mother and father who wanted nothing to do with her.... Being throw back and forth in the messed up world of foster care.... Where she was abused mentally and physically... But her light was a boy named Drew.... Drew who didn't see past seventeen..... Why? I won't spoil it for you, she runs away and is pushed to do things that she might not be proud of but isn't ashamed.... And that right there made me respect the shit out her.... Selling your body, may not be the way to go for many... But it's easy to say and judge when you haven't been in the persons shoes.......
She meets Lynx at a treatment center..... A war veteran... Who has PTSD.... She was there because .... She wanted to end her life......
Reign and Lynx
January 26, 2016
What do you say when a book has left you speechless. When you have been on one of the biggest emotional roller coasters you can imagine with a book. That is where I m at right now. I literally don't know what to say and I mean that in the best possible way.
This book and it's characters ( Reign and Lynx) are unlike any others I have ever encountered. This book is something completely different from what Ryan has given us in the past and it was absolute perfection and the most imperfect way! This story is so intense and raw and emotional that it is going to make you question and think about so much in life. I truly was floored by the way Ryan was able to bring some realistic and honest emotions and thoughts to life in this book.
I truly am left stunned and changed by this book! You absolutely have to read this!!! This unconventional love story with stay with me forever!!
This book and it's characters ( Reign and Lynx) are unlike any others I have ever encountered. This book is something completely different from what Ryan has given us in the past and it was absolute perfection and the most imperfect way! This story is so intense and raw and emotional that it is going to make you question and think about so much in life. I truly was floored by the way Ryan was able to bring some realistic and honest emotions and thoughts to life in this book.
I truly am left stunned and changed by this book! You absolutely have to read this!!! This unconventional love story with stay with me forever!!
January 26, 2016
I received Needing To Fall as an ARC. I just want to tell you that it was the greatest book I have ever read. My father and my daughter are both bipolar and I suffer with severe depression and anxiety. I felt like this book really informed people. No doubt, it's gonna help the people who read it.
Reign is a damaged foster child who cannot escape her past.
Lynx is a damaged war veteran who has PTSD.
When they are throw together, can Reign overcome the hell she is in? Can Lynx be her savior? Can she be his? Sometimes you meet people under bad circumstances and they become your light! Sometimes, you just Need to Fall! Then you pick yourself up and make life better.
This book contains tons of dark matter, however, it explains that everything can be overcome. Everyone hits rock bottom, everyone falls. This story explains that it's ok.
Reign is a damaged foster child who cannot escape her past.
Lynx is a damaged war veteran who has PTSD.
When they are throw together, can Reign overcome the hell she is in? Can Lynx be her savior? Can she be his? Sometimes you meet people under bad circumstances and they become your light! Sometimes, you just Need to Fall! Then you pick yourself up and make life better.
This book contains tons of dark matter, however, it explains that everything can be overcome. Everyone hits rock bottom, everyone falls. This story explains that it's ok.
December 28, 2015
Absolutely loved this book! It was incredibly sad, but there was just enough humor that I wasn't crying throughout the book. I just cried a few times. lol! The ending was really special...and made me cry. Happy tears, though. :)
The whole book felt like a journey. It was special, and sad, and happy, and gripping, and there were shocks and surprises, and growth, and failure, and life just happened.
Definitely the best Michele has ever written! She really took her writing to a whole new level with this book. :D
The whole book felt like a journey. It was special, and sad, and happy, and gripping, and there were shocks and surprises, and growth, and failure, and life just happened.
Definitely the best Michele has ever written! She really took her writing to a whole new level with this book. :D
January 11, 2016
Needing to Fall is by far the best book that I have read by Ryan Michele. this book is extremely deep and deals with the difficult subject of PTSD. But Ryan went one step further and did not deal with just one type of PTSD, but two. I live in a home with a soldier with PTSD and never thought an author could accurately portray life with a PTSD patient, until I read this book. All I can say is that I am amazed at how well this story is written. I suggest everyone read this book. It is an emotional roller coaster that is worth the ride.
January 25, 2016
Love!
Among my favorites by Ryan. This book really pulled my heart strings. I was emotional. I cried. I laughed. I felt Reign's pain. This book made me feel it all. I just couldn't put it down.
I love Reign and Lynxs. They went through so much. From the sadness to the happiness, it was all so gripping.
This is definitely Ryan Michele's best book so far. I truly enjoyed this book, and I am so excited to see what she comes up with next.
Among my favorites by Ryan. This book really pulled my heart strings. I was emotional. I cried. I laughed. I felt Reign's pain. This book made me feel it all. I just couldn't put it down.
I love Reign and Lynxs. They went through so much. From the sadness to the happiness, it was all so gripping.
This is definitely Ryan Michele's best book so far. I truly enjoyed this book, and I am so excited to see what she comes up with next.
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