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Learning to Breathe
Coming soon!
Like the ocean, life is a beautiful force. One that can tear you limb from limb or lavish you in perfect moments.
Michelle Hathaway has it all: a view of the Eiffel Tower from her loft in Paris, a successful career as a fashion photographer, ownership in an up-and-coming art gallery, and jet-setting days filled with excitement. But, even with all that luxury, her life feels aimless.
Over the years, Michelle drifted on the tide of a long distance, on-again off-again relationship with Micah Roberts, a hot bass player in a popular rock band. When he finally asks her to move to Los Angeles to be with him, she risks everything, taking the leap into a new life.
Drowning in the wake of her decisions, she struggles just to breathe as destiny threatens to take everything. As unexpected events devastate her, will Michelle surface from the depths of despair?
Like the ocean, life is a beautiful force. One that can tear you limb from limb or lavish you in perfect moments.
Michelle Hathaway has it all: a view of the Eiffel Tower from her loft in Paris, a successful career as a fashion photographer, ownership in an up-and-coming art gallery, and jet-setting days filled with excitement. But, even with all that luxury, her life feels aimless.
Over the years, Michelle drifted on the tide of a long distance, on-again off-again relationship with Micah Roberts, a hot bass player in a popular rock band. When he finally asks her to move to Los Angeles to be with him, she risks everything, taking the leap into a new life.
Drowning in the wake of her decisions, she struggles just to breathe as destiny threatens to take everything. As unexpected events devastate her, will Michelle surface from the depths of despair?
- GenresContemporary Romance
275 pages, Kindle Edition
2 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Marisa Oldham
14 books273 followersMarisa Oldham is an Amazon bestselling author of the popular The Falling Series - The Falling of Love, The Falling of Grace, and The Falling of Hope. A passionate writer with immense depth, Marisa published a highly emotional spinoff of the series, Learning to Breathe, that connected her readers with her by sharing her personal experiences in a fictional manner. In a short story collection, After We Fell, that follows Learning to Breathe, Marisa continued to dive into the trials and tribulations of her characters’ lives with Falling in Paris, Falling Apart, and Falling Forever. Marisa has also contributed to anthologies and has many works in progress.
Marisa lives in a small town in Tennessee with her sister Carraine and her adorable Yorkshire
Terrier mix, Winnie. Outside of writing, Marisa enjoys photography, travel, reality TV, horror
movies, and crafting. One of Marisa’s favorite aspects of being a writer is connecting with her
readers. You may reach Marisa via social media or email.
Marisa lives in a small town in Tennessee with her sister Carraine and her adorable Yorkshire
Terrier mix, Winnie. Outside of writing, Marisa enjoys photography, travel, reality TV, horror
movies, and crafting. One of Marisa’s favorite aspects of being a writer is connecting with her
readers. You may reach Marisa via social media or email.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
June 4, 2016
This was a great book - although it made me sob! Glad I read the Falling series before this one - would love more on all the characters.
March 25, 2016
I was privileged to beta read this book. This book is a stand alone but i would suggest reading The Falling Series first.
Michelle is a strong independent woman , who finds a rocky road to love with Micah. Before you start thinking, "typical romance"... STOP... and keep reading....
I have never read a book, that felt it was as much mine as it was the authors. This book has pieces that will parallel your life, and probably affect you in a way no other book has...or ever will. Life hands each and every one of us, happiness, hard times and loss. I have NEVER cried more while reading a book, and no, not because it was a typical romance, but because it was a journey through Michelle and Micah's life, and a journey through my life as well. Every piece of this book, every word.. has a meaning, a purpose and although it was one of the hardest reads in my life emotionally, it was the most wonderful one, as well.
This is a story of life, and how we handle all the great moments, as well as the not so great moments. It's a story that will be ingrained in your heart and soul forever. I could not help but to feel an emotional connection to this author after I read this book, like she was with me through the journey,every step of the way. It was as though she was watching my life, and decided to write a book about it. I cant thank you enough Marisa, for pushing through and writing this book, not only for you, but for all of us too. This will be classified as my top read of 2016 , as I already know, there will not be a book that will touch me ever, as much as this book did.
Michelle is a strong independent woman , who finds a rocky road to love with Micah. Before you start thinking, "typical romance"... STOP... and keep reading....
I have never read a book, that felt it was as much mine as it was the authors. This book has pieces that will parallel your life, and probably affect you in a way no other book has...or ever will. Life hands each and every one of us, happiness, hard times and loss. I have NEVER cried more while reading a book, and no, not because it was a typical romance, but because it was a journey through Michelle and Micah's life, and a journey through my life as well. Every piece of this book, every word.. has a meaning, a purpose and although it was one of the hardest reads in my life emotionally, it was the most wonderful one, as well.
This is a story of life, and how we handle all the great moments, as well as the not so great moments. It's a story that will be ingrained in your heart and soul forever. I could not help but to feel an emotional connection to this author after I read this book, like she was with me through the journey,every step of the way. It was as though she was watching my life, and decided to write a book about it. I cant thank you enough Marisa, for pushing through and writing this book, not only for you, but for all of us too. This will be classified as my top read of 2016 , as I already know, there will not be a book that will touch me ever, as much as this book did.
February 9, 2016
**Book provided by author for beta reading.**
Learning to Breathe is the perfect title for this book.
Michelle was one of my favorite characters in The Falling Series, so I was excited to read her and Micah's story.
I have never cried so much while reading a book. This story touched me in a very deep and emotional way.
I felt the characters pain deep down. This book shattered me and put me back together again. There was a point where I had to stop reading because it took me back to some stuff that happened in my life.
Marisa put her heart into this book. It felt as if she was writing from personal experience.
This entire book was beautiful. from the hot as hell sexy times to the sad times, it was all just so beautiful.
So thank you Marisa for writing something that not only touched me, but also helped me with my own life.
I loved getting to see characters from The Falling Series. To see what all was going on in their lives was awesome!
I hope this book will touch everyone in some way. It's hard to sum up this book in one review, so please read it for yourself.
Learning to Breathe is the perfect title for this book.
Michelle was one of my favorite characters in The Falling Series, so I was excited to read her and Micah's story.
I have never cried so much while reading a book. This story touched me in a very deep and emotional way.
I felt the characters pain deep down. This book shattered me and put me back together again. There was a point where I had to stop reading because it took me back to some stuff that happened in my life.
Marisa put her heart into this book. It felt as if she was writing from personal experience.
This entire book was beautiful. from the hot as hell sexy times to the sad times, it was all just so beautiful.
So thank you Marisa for writing something that not only touched me, but also helped me with my own life.
I loved getting to see characters from The Falling Series. To see what all was going on in their lives was awesome!
I hope this book will touch everyone in some way. It's hard to sum up this book in one review, so please read it for yourself.
August 10, 2017
This book took me awhile to read not any fault of the author but more of the reader due to the subject matter. But it was so beautifully written that though it made laugh and cry, I really enjoyed it. I would recommend it as a great read that you will enjoy as you travel the journey of the lives of Michelle a photographer and Micah a rockstar in a band, and the love they have for each other. But be warned there will be times you will cry. Still check it out for a satisfying and entertaining read.
July 19, 2017
I have been waiting to read this book for a while now. So when I got the chance to beta read this I jumped to the chance. So this is my fair and honest review for Learning to Breathe by Marisa Oldham.
We first met Michelle and Micha in The Falling Series. I was excited to learn they were getting their own story. I went into this story knowing what was going to happen, and let me tell you... it scared the living shit out of me. Learning to Breathe completely obliterated me in every way possible. I have never read a book where I was seriously bawling my eyes out like I did with this story. That may or may not be a good thing to hear. But for me, I hardly ever cry on books. So when I do, it's big. Now, I don't want to scare you away. This story has some major sexy time scenes in it. Scenes that made me blush just a little.
Michelle is a very strong woman. I really enjoyed seeing who she has become over the course of The falling Series and Learning to Breathe. I also, enjoyed seeing some old favorite characters make appearances in Learning to Breathe.
Marisa put her broken heart into the pages of this story. The story is so personal to not only the author, but to me as well. What Michelle and Micha go through is so heartbreaking.
This story is a stand alone. However, I do recommend reading The Falling Series first.
We first met Michelle and Micha in The Falling Series. I was excited to learn they were getting their own story. I went into this story knowing what was going to happen, and let me tell you... it scared the living shit out of me. Learning to Breathe completely obliterated me in every way possible. I have never read a book where I was seriously bawling my eyes out like I did with this story. That may or may not be a good thing to hear. But for me, I hardly ever cry on books. So when I do, it's big. Now, I don't want to scare you away. This story has some major sexy time scenes in it. Scenes that made me blush just a little.
Michelle is a very strong woman. I really enjoyed seeing who she has become over the course of The falling Series and Learning to Breathe. I also, enjoyed seeing some old favorite characters make appearances in Learning to Breathe.
Marisa put her broken heart into the pages of this story. The story is so personal to not only the author, but to me as well. What Michelle and Micha go through is so heartbreaking.
This story is a stand alone. However, I do recommend reading The Falling Series first.
May 4, 2016
WOW!!!! Marisa Oldman has done it again. This book goes straight to the heart. Right away I had my box of tissue with me.
After I read The Falling Series and found out that Marisa was going to write a story about Grace's sister I was so excited.
Missy is such a great character. She is spunky, out-spoken, and just down right "The Cool Girl" . Her boyfriend Micah is her boyfriend for years, one and off.
Their story will make you laugh out loud, smile, get angry and make your heart ache.
This book spoke volumes to me personally. Marisa's writing simply amazes me. I have not read any books that have made me so emotionally involved will reading. Marisa brings you INTO their lives. Especially since Grace, Ian, and Jaden are still in the book. It felt as if I was one of the family.
Learning to Breathe made me analyze my own life. Marisa Oldman is a writer that gives her writing her all, you can feel it. Her words jump off the book and dive into your soul.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! ❤️. My hope is that everyone that picks up this wonderful book will feel a welcome into the lives of Missy and Micah!!!
After I read The Falling Series and found out that Marisa was going to write a story about Grace's sister I was so excited.
Missy is such a great character. She is spunky, out-spoken, and just down right "The Cool Girl" . Her boyfriend Micah is her boyfriend for years, one and off.
Their story will make you laugh out loud, smile, get angry and make your heart ache.
This book spoke volumes to me personally. Marisa's writing simply amazes me. I have not read any books that have made me so emotionally involved will reading. Marisa brings you INTO their lives. Especially since Grace, Ian, and Jaden are still in the book. It felt as if I was one of the family.
Learning to Breathe made me analyze my own life. Marisa Oldman is a writer that gives her writing her all, you can feel it. Her words jump off the book and dive into your soul.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! ❤️. My hope is that everyone that picks up this wonderful book will feel a welcome into the lives of Missy and Micah!!!
August 6, 2017
What I love about this author is her ability to make the reader feel. I loved her falling series and those books gave me all the feels. It seems that she gets better with each book she writes. (Or each book of hers I read)
I can't even review this book and do it justice so I will say only a few things. First, if you want a book that's going to make you feel all the emotions that a book should, then this book is for you. There is a lot that goes on, but the author's writing style is beautiful.
Second, if you have read any of this author's books then I'm sure you know how she writes, so why wouldn't you want to read this book.
Third. Micah and Michelle are now my favorite couple from this author. They are truly amazing together and I love how they work through everything. It wasn't always easy for them, but to me, that's what makes the book so amazing. They work for their love.
Overall; no review will do the book justice so, just read the book. It's great and the author has a talent. She writes all these different emotions with such conviction that you can't help but love it. 5 stars #2OCCJD
I can't even review this book and do it justice so I will say only a few things. First, if you want a book that's going to make you feel all the emotions that a book should, then this book is for you. There is a lot that goes on, but the author's writing style is beautiful.
Second, if you have read any of this author's books then I'm sure you know how she writes, so why wouldn't you want to read this book.
Third. Micah and Michelle are now my favorite couple from this author. They are truly amazing together and I love how they work through everything. It wasn't always easy for them, but to me, that's what makes the book so amazing. They work for their love.
Overall; no review will do the book justice so, just read the book. It's great and the author has a talent. She writes all these different emotions with such conviction that you can't help but love it. 5 stars #2OCCJD
March 25, 2016
***Beta Read***
I was so excited that I didn't have to say goodbye to these characters just yet. I loved that we finally got Michelle's story. The words that come to mind when thinking about this book are beautiful, heart wrenching, and filled with so much love. You can tell this story was written from a place of personal heartbreak of the author's. Michelle and Micah's story give you those swoon worthy moments that make you fall in love all over again. It also gives you those hot and sexy bits that we all secretly love, or not so secretly for some lol. This story will make you laugh it will make you cry. Your heart will swell with love and then you will feel it shatter into pieces. I don't know what else to say about this book other then it's an absolute must read!
I was so excited that I didn't have to say goodbye to these characters just yet. I loved that we finally got Michelle's story. The words that come to mind when thinking about this book are beautiful, heart wrenching, and filled with so much love. You can tell this story was written from a place of personal heartbreak of the author's. Michelle and Micah's story give you those swoon worthy moments that make you fall in love all over again. It also gives you those hot and sexy bits that we all secretly love, or not so secretly for some lol. This story will make you laugh it will make you cry. Your heart will swell with love and then you will feel it shatter into pieces. I don't know what else to say about this book other then it's an absolute must read!
May 3, 2016
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
Marisa, just keeps getting better with each book you read. The love between these characters is beyond amazing. Michelle's story takes you on a title-wave of emotions, you go from happy to crying your eyes out. I was honored to get a chance to read this book. It's just so good. I recommend it to all my friends.
Marisa, just keeps getting better with each book you read. The love between these characters is beyond amazing. Michelle's story takes you on a title-wave of emotions, you go from happy to crying your eyes out. I was honored to get a chance to read this book. It's just so good. I recommend it to all my friends.
May 25, 2021
AMAZING BOOK
I really ugly cried through much of this book. This is one of two books I've read where a main character dies. Even though it happens in this story, there is a very happy ending with a lot of beautifully written pages in between. I really loved this book.
Highly recommended by me!
I really ugly cried through much of this book. This is one of two books I've read where a main character dies. Even though it happens in this story, there is a very happy ending with a lot of beautifully written pages in between. I really loved this book.
Highly recommended by me!
May 3, 2018
Unbelievable writing!
This story is so full of love, loss and pain. Balanced beautifully by the hope and love that is found.
But have the tissues handy, you'll need them as it's a very emotional journey.
I would love to give this story more than 5 stars.
This story is so full of love, loss and pain. Balanced beautifully by the hope and love that is found.
But have the tissues handy, you'll need them as it's a very emotional journey.
I would love to give this story more than 5 stars.
February 15, 2016
Learning to Breathe
This book is one amazing journey for your soul….
We know both Michelle (Missy) and Micah from The Falling series but never have been able to get to know them like we have in this book.
Michelle is a head strong independent woman who has a Gallery with her sister Grace and is also a very talented photographer who is head over heels in love with Micah.
Micah is guitarist for a very popular rock band comprising of best friends Jaden and Ian. He is the typical Bad Boy who falls for Michelle.
This book is so much more than just a romance novel taking you on a journey of their life, this book takes you on a journey of love, hope, total devastation and everything else you face when you find out a loved one is faced with the crushing news they have Cancer.
This book was the most heart wrenching book I have ever read and probably will ever read. It touched me on so many different levels I can’t even begin to describe them. With knowing someone who has been diagnosed with Cancer within my family I couldn’t believe how accurate this book was, it was so beautifully written but at the same time never once “prettying it up” for the reader. It was raw feelings that gripped me and had me crying to the point where my heart felt like it was breaking. It’s not often that a book has that much POWER within the words.
I cannot recommend this book loudly enough to everyone. It is the most powerful book I have read yet, and I am so thankful to have read it. Cancer is a terrible disease, to have to come to terms with, comfort those who are enduring it and everyone affected by it. Ut this book is so much more than that, it has moments of true torture, light-hearted moments that you laugh out loud to and moments that scream LOVE! <3 <3
This book is one amazing journey for your soul….
We know both Michelle (Missy) and Micah from The Falling series but never have been able to get to know them like we have in this book.
Michelle is a head strong independent woman who has a Gallery with her sister Grace and is also a very talented photographer who is head over heels in love with Micah.
Micah is guitarist for a very popular rock band comprising of best friends Jaden and Ian. He is the typical Bad Boy who falls for Michelle.
This book is so much more than just a romance novel taking you on a journey of their life, this book takes you on a journey of love, hope, total devastation and everything else you face when you find out a loved one is faced with the crushing news they have Cancer.
This book was the most heart wrenching book I have ever read and probably will ever read. It touched me on so many different levels I can’t even begin to describe them. With knowing someone who has been diagnosed with Cancer within my family I couldn’t believe how accurate this book was, it was so beautifully written but at the same time never once “prettying it up” for the reader. It was raw feelings that gripped me and had me crying to the point where my heart felt like it was breaking. It’s not often that a book has that much POWER within the words.
I cannot recommend this book loudly enough to everyone. It is the most powerful book I have read yet, and I am so thankful to have read it. Cancer is a terrible disease, to have to come to terms with, comfort those who are enduring it and everyone affected by it. Ut this book is so much more than that, it has moments of true torture, light-hearted moments that you laugh out loud to and moments that scream LOVE! <3 <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2016
Well let me tell you this book really got to me. It’s a story that will make you laugh, smile, love, and cry. What an emotional roller coaster.
The story of Micah a hot bass player in a band and Michelle (Missy) a successful photographer and their long dating history. They first meet when she is 16 and she knew there was something about this man. Several years later they see each other again and the attraction is still there. They had their first kiss was amazing…
Missy lived in Paris and Micah in Los Angeles they had an on again off again relationship for years. Micha is finally ready to settle down and wants Missy to move in with him in LA. She is so scared but for some reason she said yes. Struggling with decisions will it work? Will he break up with her again? Can she trust in his love this time? So many doubts and feelings he is fighting to get through.
Life has a way of changing the destiny one had hopes and dreams for. Their lives change in a big way. I honestly could go on and on but I am afraid I would tell you the entire story.
I fell in love with Micah what a special man and Missy wow what a women. I felt like these characters along with a few others were my best friends. The way this book is written you really get to know these people and their friends and family. You feel like you are right there with them.
I cried but also their is so much love an joy in this story. This is the first book of Marisa Oldham’s that if have read what an amazing story It is so well written and just sucks you right it. You will not want to put it down.
I was gifted this book for an honest review. I gladly give this book 5 Stars
The story of Micah a hot bass player in a band and Michelle (Missy) a successful photographer and their long dating history. They first meet when she is 16 and she knew there was something about this man. Several years later they see each other again and the attraction is still there. They had their first kiss was amazing…
Missy lived in Paris and Micah in Los Angeles they had an on again off again relationship for years. Micha is finally ready to settle down and wants Missy to move in with him in LA. She is so scared but for some reason she said yes. Struggling with decisions will it work? Will he break up with her again? Can she trust in his love this time? So many doubts and feelings he is fighting to get through.
Life has a way of changing the destiny one had hopes and dreams for. Their lives change in a big way. I honestly could go on and on but I am afraid I would tell you the entire story.
I fell in love with Micah what a special man and Missy wow what a women. I felt like these characters along with a few others were my best friends. The way this book is written you really get to know these people and their friends and family. You feel like you are right there with them.
I cried but also their is so much love an joy in this story. This is the first book of Marisa Oldham’s that if have read what an amazing story It is so well written and just sucks you right it. You will not want to put it down.
I was gifted this book for an honest review. I gladly give this book 5 Stars
February 8, 2016
I had the wonderful opportunity to be able to Beta read for Learning to Breathe by Marisa Oldham. After reading this book, I was at a complete loss for words. The emotions and the feels you get by reading this book will leave you a blubbering mess. This is embarrassing but I must share. I cried. I cried like a baby. The tears and sobbing would not stop. I went through many, many tissues, and by the end my eyes were swollen and red. I was a mess!! This book seriously ripped my heart out and stomped on it. It ripped me to shreds.
This is the story of Michelle Hathaway and her journey to heal, rebuild, and find herself as destiny threatens to take everything she knows and cared for away.
This is the story of finding yourself, knowing you are not alone, and finding out what matters the most in life.
I seriously can not verbally give the appraise needed for this book. It is so beyond words. I will recommend this book to anyone and everyone once it is released. If I could give this book more than five stars, I would in a heartbeat. This is a must read book. The characters in Learning to Breathe are so real. You will feel like you are in the story. You will feel the connection with the characters. You will feel. The emotions. YOU WILL FEEL.
Bravo to Marisa Oldham!!!!
This is the story of Michelle Hathaway and her journey to heal, rebuild, and find herself as destiny threatens to take everything she knows and cared for away.
This is the story of finding yourself, knowing you are not alone, and finding out what matters the most in life.
I seriously can not verbally give the appraise needed for this book. It is so beyond words. I will recommend this book to anyone and everyone once it is released. If I could give this book more than five stars, I would in a heartbeat. This is a must read book. The characters in Learning to Breathe are so real. You will feel like you are in the story. You will feel the connection with the characters. You will feel. The emotions. YOU WILL FEEL.
Bravo to Marisa Oldham!!!!
May 10, 2016
Meet Michelle a strong independent photographer/gallery owner living in Paris. Her world is a pretty great place, business is good and she's about to move to LA with the love of her life; hot, sexy musician Micah.
Things are going great for the pair until shocking news tips their world upside down.
I don't want to give anymore away to this story as I feel it will spoil the experience. I have never read anything by this author before but this certainly won't be my last.
I wasn't sure what I expected going into this book and all I can say is wow. This book made me ugly cry for the first time in a very long time. I started to cry about half way through and didn't stop till the end. This book really hit home for me, as I have personally experienced some of the themes within the story. Whilst reading I definitely got the feeling that although the author was writing from a personal experience herself, it's like she was writing mine as well; reminding us that it's okay to not be okay sometimes.
A book really has to touch me deeply to get 5 stars and this is definitely deserving of that title.
This book is based on the falling series by the same author but can be read as a standalone and I'll definitely be looking up this series to read the back story of these characters.
B2B Natalie
Things are going great for the pair until shocking news tips their world upside down.
I don't want to give anymore away to this story as I feel it will spoil the experience. I have never read anything by this author before but this certainly won't be my last.
I wasn't sure what I expected going into this book and all I can say is wow. This book made me ugly cry for the first time in a very long time. I started to cry about half way through and didn't stop till the end. This book really hit home for me, as I have personally experienced some of the themes within the story. Whilst reading I definitely got the feeling that although the author was writing from a personal experience herself, it's like she was writing mine as well; reminding us that it's okay to not be okay sometimes.
A book really has to touch me deeply to get 5 stars and this is definitely deserving of that title.
This book is based on the falling series by the same author but can be read as a standalone and I'll definitely be looking up this series to read the back story of these characters.
B2B Natalie
April 23, 2016
Learning To Breathe. I was lucky enough to receive this by the amazing author as an arc. And I was not let down. If anything it just increased my love for this series and just the impact it had on me. So heartbreaking and absolutely beautiful.
Michelle and Micah. Two of the most stubborn people I have come across. Nine years of ups and downs and they finally moving in together and living the live they deserve. As always life is a cow and has to wreck the plans you've been waiting so patiently for. We are introduced to pain and grief and learning how to breathe after going through a tragic loss. The title was perfect for this book. Learning to Breathe.
This story is about learning to live again even when you think life is over. That the pain is too much to endure. But plans change and fate has one hell of a way to alter life and make it worth living again. Learning to Breathe is about being thankful for the love you've been lucky enough to receive. About having your loved ones right by your side whenever you need them the most. It's a story about living again, to the fullest and appreciating all that you've gone through to bring you back to your happy place.
5 stars, Marisa. If I could give more then I would in a heartbeat. Beautiful job. Absolutely amazing.
Michelle and Micah. Two of the most stubborn people I have come across. Nine years of ups and downs and they finally moving in together and living the live they deserve. As always life is a cow and has to wreck the plans you've been waiting so patiently for. We are introduced to pain and grief and learning how to breathe after going through a tragic loss. The title was perfect for this book. Learning to Breathe.
This story is about learning to live again even when you think life is over. That the pain is too much to endure. But plans change and fate has one hell of a way to alter life and make it worth living again. Learning to Breathe is about being thankful for the love you've been lucky enough to receive. About having your loved ones right by your side whenever you need them the most. It's a story about living again, to the fullest and appreciating all that you've gone through to bring you back to your happy place.
5 stars, Marisa. If I could give more then I would in a heartbeat. Beautiful job. Absolutely amazing.
September 23, 2017
Outstanding! I don't know where to begin when reviewing this amazing novel. Michelle's journey is so heart-breaking, beautiful, and raw that it simply left me gasping for breath several times. This is a gorgeous novel, beautifully written, and absolutely captivating from the beginning. Now, they being said, this is so ordinary second chance romance. Michelle's story encompasses the tumultuous story of the love of her life, Micah, and all that they endure throughout their relationship. When Michelle experiences tremendous loss, you can tell that author Marisa Oldham I'd writing from personal experience. The characters in this book are so life-like and richly written! I read a copy of this book for an honest review, and I must say that as much as I cried and yelled as I read this book, I was just as filled with hope and happiness!
June 19, 2016
Heartbreaking...and Restoring...
Marisa has ripped my heart out again! This is such a heartfelt story of true never-ending love. This was a taming the bad boy kinda story. Micah became the man Michelle wanted and needed until...
Michelle's heartbreak and grief had me crying so hard I could barely see the print to keep reading, but I couldn't put the book down.
Just a few months ago I experienced a lot of the emotions Michelle did when my husband almost died...these are real and very profound feelings and I truly appreciate a writer that can capture that in words.
This book, as all of Marisa's books, does not disappoint...they are all worth more than I paid for them.
Marisa has ripped my heart out again! This is such a heartfelt story of true never-ending love. This was a taming the bad boy kinda story. Micah became the man Michelle wanted and needed until...
Michelle's heartbreak and grief had me crying so hard I could barely see the print to keep reading, but I couldn't put the book down.
Just a few months ago I experienced a lot of the emotions Michelle did when my husband almost died...these are real and very profound feelings and I truly appreciate a writer that can capture that in words.
This book, as all of Marisa's books, does not disappoint...they are all worth more than I paid for them.
June 3, 2016
I had the privilege to read this book prior to release. Lately, I had been in a bit of a slump when it came to contemporary romance novels. However, Learning to Breathe is so far removed from anything I could have expected. I laughed, I cried, and I loved right alongside Michelle. The heart and soul that went into this novel were unlike anything I have experienced before. I don't want to give much away because you need to experience each part of Michelle's journey for yourself. I highly recommend this book.
June 3, 2016
Oh my goodness!!! This book was frickin' AMAZING! Marisa Oldham has made me speechless once again, which shouldn't surprise me anymore. She's an amazing writer and this is definitely my favorite to date. Marisa makes you feel every stinking emotion you have. This book will rip your heart out and put it back together in other instances. Needless to say I balled like a baby almost every other page, but so worth it! Definitely a five-star read in my book! Can't wait to read more books by this awesome author!
June 6, 2017
Michelle goes through an emotional journey losing everything and learning that she can love again and that it’s ok to rely on people to help her through her bad times in her life.
Slowly Michelle realises that if she ever wants to have her own happiness that she should stop putting up walls and let people in.
With the help of her friends and family though all her ups and downs they help her learn to breathe and live and love life again. An amazing story following The Falling Series.
Slowly Michelle realises that if she ever wants to have her own happiness that she should stop putting up walls and let people in.
With the help of her friends and family though all her ups and downs they help her learn to breathe and live and love life again. An amazing story following The Falling Series.
July 9, 2016
Reading the book felt that the author wrote from heart and/or personal experiences. The book has so many “feelies” throughout that you will have a hard time putting it down. It is a standalone and can be read without reading the other books in the series. This book has some high star reviews for a reason, you won’t be disappointed with it.
September 9, 2017
When I first read the blurb, I was not interested in read the book but I gave it a try and I have to say I really loved the book. It's true that you can't judge a book by its cover or blurb. I'm really glad I gave the book a try and will definitively read more from this author.
October 5, 2017
Love is one of the biggest hopes and fears in a woman's life. Oldham’s story lays out a relationship that goes through a lot of hardships, some that a young couple should never have to experience so early. This story is tragic, yet heartfelt and hopeful. Oldham engages the reader by sharing the lives of these characters, captivating them with their emotions, thoughts, and even dreams for the future.
Michelle and Micah have been in a long distance relationship for what feels like forever. It is an on-again, off-again type situation, but Micah doesn't seem to want the long-term commitment. When he does asks her to move in with him, she has a very hard decision to make. Does he really mean it this time? Will he get tired of her? She'll lose everything that she's ever worked for if she moves back to the United States and he figures out that this is really not what he wants? But, when she looks into his eyes, she sees the love and she feels that just maybe he is being truthful to himself and to her. He wants to try to make the relationship work and that should be good enough for her to risk everything. Love is worth taking risks, right? Only, when they are finally able to call Micah's bachelor pad their home and everything seems to be growing stronger, a devastating diagnosis takes the relationship to an impossible level. An unbearable and unimaginable level that would take the breathe away from anyone, leaving a feeling lifelessness or complete numbness. Can they fight together through something that they have absolutely no control over?
The author does a superb job with character development and credibility. As this story unfolds, so many factors come to play into these character’s lives. It is not difficult to sympathize with Michelle and Micah in stories such as this because the story is so genuine. The events that take place can really happen to someone; these instances do happen and it tests faith, relationships, strength, and life itself. With such emotional conflict, taking the high road and doing some of the things that these characters do, all for love, is deeply heartfelt and riveting—Oldham has a compelling novel that will leave readers with hope and determination to read until the very end. If you are a reader of contemporary romance and women's fiction, you may want to pick this up—but, fair warning…this is another book that may not be easy to put down and definitely will be difficult to read due to emotional content.
A copy of this book was provided to Turning Another Page by the author, but this in no way affects our honest opinion of the book or the review that has been written. We provide a five-star rating for Learning to Breathe by Marisa Oldham.
Michelle and Micah have been in a long distance relationship for what feels like forever. It is an on-again, off-again type situation, but Micah doesn't seem to want the long-term commitment. When he does asks her to move in with him, she has a very hard decision to make. Does he really mean it this time? Will he get tired of her? She'll lose everything that she's ever worked for if she moves back to the United States and he figures out that this is really not what he wants? But, when she looks into his eyes, she sees the love and she feels that just maybe he is being truthful to himself and to her. He wants to try to make the relationship work and that should be good enough for her to risk everything. Love is worth taking risks, right? Only, when they are finally able to call Micah's bachelor pad their home and everything seems to be growing stronger, a devastating diagnosis takes the relationship to an impossible level. An unbearable and unimaginable level that would take the breathe away from anyone, leaving a feeling lifelessness or complete numbness. Can they fight together through something that they have absolutely no control over?
The author does a superb job with character development and credibility. As this story unfolds, so many factors come to play into these character’s lives. It is not difficult to sympathize with Michelle and Micah in stories such as this because the story is so genuine. The events that take place can really happen to someone; these instances do happen and it tests faith, relationships, strength, and life itself. With such emotional conflict, taking the high road and doing some of the things that these characters do, all for love, is deeply heartfelt and riveting—Oldham has a compelling novel that will leave readers with hope and determination to read until the very end. If you are a reader of contemporary romance and women's fiction, you may want to pick this up—but, fair warning…this is another book that may not be easy to put down and definitely will be difficult to read due to emotional content.
A copy of this book was provided to Turning Another Page by the author, but this in no way affects our honest opinion of the book or the review that has been written. We provide a five-star rating for Learning to Breathe by Marisa Oldham.
October 15, 2017
Michelle Hathaway is a successful photographer and gallery owner living in Paris and has been asked by her rock star boyfriend, Micah Roberts, to move to the States to be with him.
Michelle happily agrees but soon realizes that their relationship isn't the same as it once was and all they seem to do is fight and have sex. Yet in an instant everything changes and soon Marissa finds herself struggling to get through everything with the help of a few key people - her sister Grace and her husband, her brother James and Micah's best friend, Jaden.
Will Michelle be able to get through everything and give herself a chance to breathe and not feel guilty for the decisions she makes?
This is the first book I have read from this author and therefore I didn't know the characters ahead of time. I wish I had read the Falling Series first just to know more about the relationship of Michelle and Micah beyond what this book tells you.
This story brought me tears which doesn't seem to happen much these days and even though I could sense what was coming it was just so sad to see how Michelle was coping with everything. She had moved her whole life to Santa Monica and everything was slipping away from her.
Michelle and Micah had been together for awhile but once they moved in together it was a whole different ballgame. They fought about paintings and other minuscule things that really didn't seem important in the end. Yet the two had a love that was intense and Michelle hung onto it with all that she had.
I loved her relationship with Grace and Ian and how much they helped and supported her through everything. They had such an incredible bond and anyone would be lucky to have that kind of support. Grace helped Michelle through the twists and turns that the book gave her.
I wish I knew more about Jaden as it was apparent that he dated Grace in the past but I don't know much else about how long he has been around Micah and Michelle. He was there for Michelle as much as she allowed and was torn into two every time she pushed him away.
I loved Michelle having the opportunity for time to herself thanks to Grace and Ian which gave her time to reflect on everything and figure out what she wanted.
Such a great book but having your Kleenex handy!
Michelle happily agrees but soon realizes that their relationship isn't the same as it once was and all they seem to do is fight and have sex. Yet in an instant everything changes and soon Marissa finds herself struggling to get through everything with the help of a few key people - her sister Grace and her husband, her brother James and Micah's best friend, Jaden.
Will Michelle be able to get through everything and give herself a chance to breathe and not feel guilty for the decisions she makes?
This is the first book I have read from this author and therefore I didn't know the characters ahead of time. I wish I had read the Falling Series first just to know more about the relationship of Michelle and Micah beyond what this book tells you.
This story brought me tears which doesn't seem to happen much these days and even though I could sense what was coming it was just so sad to see how Michelle was coping with everything. She had moved her whole life to Santa Monica and everything was slipping away from her.
Michelle and Micah had been together for awhile but once they moved in together it was a whole different ballgame. They fought about paintings and other minuscule things that really didn't seem important in the end. Yet the two had a love that was intense and Michelle hung onto it with all that she had.
I loved her relationship with Grace and Ian and how much they helped and supported her through everything. They had such an incredible bond and anyone would be lucky to have that kind of support. Grace helped Michelle through the twists and turns that the book gave her.
I wish I knew more about Jaden as it was apparent that he dated Grace in the past but I don't know much else about how long he has been around Micah and Michelle. He was there for Michelle as much as she allowed and was torn into two every time she pushed him away.
I loved Michelle having the opportunity for time to herself thanks to Grace and Ian which gave her time to reflect on everything and figure out what she wanted.
Such a great book but having your Kleenex handy!
June 26, 2017
Learning to Breathe is a deeply emotional book, one that tugs at the emotions and draws the reader into the story. The relationship between Micah and all the characters in the book is evident and when tragedy strikes, everyone is affected, although Michelle has the most difficult time. There was tenderness and sensitivity in dealing with a cruel topic and the group of close friends who make up this community of people are drawn together in adversity. Although this book is a standalone, it does appear that it would be beneficial to read previous books in this series, as references are made to events of which the reader has no knowledge. I personally found the tense in which the book was written to be disconcerting. It's the first time I have read a story written in present tense and I found it uncomfortable reading. Nevertheless, I found that the story jerked at my heartstrings and that I was mopping my eyes repeatedly in the middle section of the book. This is a well worthwhile read and leaves one with a feeling of hope. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
September 18, 2017
This a very intense love story. A book about life, love and lost and how you have to carry on with your life, even when it hurts too much. But with love, family and friends surrounding you, you'll be able to face live again. Michelle is coming back to the States to live with her long lasting love, Micah. But she needs to break the walls that surround her heart in order to build her life with him. When suddenly they have to face a very difficult situation that will Michelle that it's worth taking the chance to love someon fully in order to really enjoy live even if it means to suffer deeply in your soul. She stars a journey that will let her to be happy again and enjoy live. This book will help people through the tough moment of losing someone you love and how difficult mourn always is.
I received a free copy of this book by AXP authors but I voluntarily review it and I really enjoyed reading it.
I received a free copy of this book by AXP authors but I voluntarily review it and I really enjoyed reading it.
February 8, 2020
This books takes you on an emotional journey and hits you hard, right where it hurts. It’s well written and nothing ever feels rushed, it is very well paced. Micah and Michelle go through an emotional and heartbreaking journey together. Each challenge seems harder than the last and when all seems lost, Michelle learns that is okay to lean on your family and friends for support. They help get her through these rough times even when she’s not sure of what she needs. Which is one of my favorite things about this plot, how her family and friends are always there for her and even giving her time and space alone when she needs it. Slowly Michelle began to learn how to continue on with life though all her highs and lows. This is such a great written book about grief and really makes you connects with each character especially the main ones. Overall I really enjoyed this book and look forward to read more books by this author
October 13, 2017
Learning to Breathe was such an emotional read for me. This was the first book I've read by the author and will not be my last. I started this book but had to stop several times because I was ugly crying. The story was so well written and instantly hooked me. The story is one of second chances and overcoming grief. The characters of Michelle, Micah, Baden,Man, and Grace are so intertwined and so full of love. Michelle and Micah's journey broke my heart and at one point I had to stop reading and get a grip on my emotions. I loved how Michelle learned to love again with Jaden. The book was so true to life and the author needs to be commended for her writing of this book. The book does contain sexual situations but the story would not work without them. This was truly an amazing book and how could it not be a 5 star read. I definitely recommend this book.
November 18, 2020
Have your tissues ready.
In Learning To Breathe you go on Mitchell's journey of love, grief, and power to move forward. I absolutely enjoyed the banter between Michelle and Micah, and I ugly cried though their journey with pancreatic cancer. I'm glad Michelle had Jaden with her as they both supported each other through the kid of Micah and the news that she was pregnant with Micah's baby.
I have personally experienced many types of grief in my life whether it was my family or close friends the loss of someone close to you never goes away but you have to find your own way of getting through it. Taking it one day at a time helps ease the hurt, being able to talk to someone you trust and remembering the good times you spent with the one you love and lost is what for me through it all. Thank you Marisa for reminding me we are never alone.
In Learning To Breathe you go on Mitchell's journey of love, grief, and power to move forward. I absolutely enjoyed the banter between Michelle and Micah, and I ugly cried though their journey with pancreatic cancer. I'm glad Michelle had Jaden with her as they both supported each other through the kid of Micah and the news that she was pregnant with Micah's baby.
I have personally experienced many types of grief in my life whether it was my family or close friends the loss of someone close to you never goes away but you have to find your own way of getting through it. Taking it one day at a time helps ease the hurt, being able to talk to someone you trust and remembering the good times you spent with the one you love and lost is what for me through it all. Thank you Marisa for reminding me we are never alone.
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