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Close To Falling
Close To Falling is a captivating, second chance romance about tragedy, adolescence and unconditional love.
Having witnessed her parent's murder Maddie's once happy existence is turned upside down.
River's father was sentenced to hard time, giving him no other option but to live a life he didn't choose.
With both of them tossed into the same foster home, they develop feelings for one another, but Maddie makes poor choices leading to a daily struggle of addiction and River's never been one to follow the rules. He makes a tough decision to help save the girl he loves, but he may be the reason she falls.
Having witnessed her parent's murder Maddie's once happy existence is turned upside down.
River's father was sentenced to hard time, giving him no other option but to live a life he didn't choose.
With both of them tossed into the same foster home, they develop feelings for one another, but Maddie makes poor choices leading to a daily struggle of addiction and River's never been one to follow the rules. He makes a tough decision to help save the girl he loves, but he may be the reason she falls.
272 pages, Paperback
First published August 15, 2016
74 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Paige P. Horne
16 books513 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Paige P. Horne lives in the small town of Gray Georgia with her husband. The two enjoy traveling every little chance they get (before Covid) and binge-watching their favorite shows.
(Got any recommendations?)
When she isn't creating new characters for her readers to fall in love with, you can find her back porch swinging (not in the Georgia summer though) engrossed in a good book.
Readers have described her stories as captivating and heartbreakingly beautiful.
Paige pens emotional novels about soulmates and broken love.
Her titles include: Close To Falling, Chasing Fireflies, Chasing Ellie, and If I'd Known (based on true events) A four-book Romantic Suspense Series: The Give Me Series and The Bones Trilogy (A Mafia Romance)
For more info on what this author is up to follow her on social media or her website:
www.AuthorPaigePHorne.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaigeP.Horne/
Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/14671...
Instagram: @Authorpaigephorne
Twitter: @PaigePHorn
(Got any recommendations?)
When she isn't creating new characters for her readers to fall in love with, you can find her back porch swinging (not in the Georgia summer though) engrossed in a good book.
Readers have described her stories as captivating and heartbreakingly beautiful.
Paige pens emotional novels about soulmates and broken love.
Her titles include: Close To Falling, Chasing Fireflies, Chasing Ellie, and If I'd Known (based on true events) A four-book Romantic Suspense Series: The Give Me Series and The Bones Trilogy (A Mafia Romance)
For more info on what this author is up to follow her on social media or her website:
www.AuthorPaigePHorne.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaigeP.Horne/
Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/14671...
Instagram: @Authorpaigephorne
Twitter: @PaigePHorn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
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May 12, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/12/2019)! 🎁
April 2, 2018
This author can definitely wield some powerful words. Heartbreakingly beautiful in so many ways. It was kind of like a feeling of going on a journey with 3 strangers that you fall in love with immediately. Each background is different but hauntingly sad all the same. Even in the darkest of times , happiness can be found. Friends and family stick together . This author has quickly become one of my favourites. I get sucked in from the very first page and cannot look away. River and B's story was incredible and unique.
March 25, 2021
Let me tell you how I came across the author that is Paige P Horne. Instagram. I have a bookish account over there and happened to end up following Paige before I knew anything about her books. I’d seen them on there numerous times and about a week ago decided to read one of her books. I chose the Give Me series and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Paige is a writing genius. Her stories are as real as it gets. I’ve not been disappointed once with her books. They are so full of everything good, bad and all the ugly in between.
River and Maddie have my heart. There’s no way to describe this book other than beautiful. Maddie has some demons. River has some too. And together they are going to burn each other without even meaning too. Until they do. What follows is so much heartache and pain. Joy and happiness. Ying and yang. You don’t get the good without the bad. And that’s what Paige does. She gives you all the good and all the bad of life and she gives it with a great big dose of love.
I’m happy to say Paige has become one of my automatic buy authors. I want to absorb every story she writes because she writes perfectly lovable flawed humans and I can’t get enough.
Paige is a writing genius. Her stories are as real as it gets. I’ve not been disappointed once with her books. They are so full of everything good, bad and all the ugly in between.
River and Maddie have my heart. There’s no way to describe this book other than beautiful. Maddie has some demons. River has some too. And together they are going to burn each other without even meaning too. Until they do. What follows is so much heartache and pain. Joy and happiness. Ying and yang. You don’t get the good without the bad. And that’s what Paige does. She gives you all the good and all the bad of life and she gives it with a great big dose of love.
I’m happy to say Paige has become one of my automatic buy authors. I want to absorb every story she writes because she writes perfectly lovable flawed humans and I can’t get enough.
August 14, 2016
I normally stay away from books that deal with addiction since I had a parent who was an addict. Something about this book just made me want to read and I'm so glad I did. This author is new to me and I really enjoyed this story. Maddie B and River (love this name) grew up in the same foster home. They've always had a connection from their younger days. They finally get together and they get dealt a crap hand. River wanted to be the man he thought Maddie needed and want to provide a certain lifestyle by any means necessary. Everything is fine until River gets arrested. Once this happens you see how hard it is for Maddie to cope. Her addiction consumed her and it was so sad seeing her wasting away. Maddie sufferers so many set backs in this story but River was always there for her and never stopped loving her! I loved the love he had for his girl and how he stopped at nothing to make her better. This story shows how addiction doesn't just effect the addict but also their loved ones. My heart broke for Maddie and I just wanted her to get better. I am so happy I found this author and I enjoyed this book very much. Anyone who knows someone who suffers from addiction can definitely relate to this book.
*arc was given for honest review*
For more reviews check me out at: http://www.shellysbookcorner.com
Currently reading
May 15, 2019FREE TODAY!!!!
Here's what you need to know about this book
1. It GOT A NEW COVER
2. It's a story about a second chance romance
3. It's about addiction
4. It's one of my favorites, that I've written
5. River Dawson is hot, so be careful you may fall in love ;)
Here's what you need to know about this book
1. It GOT A NEW COVER
2. It's a story about a second chance romance
3. It's about addiction
4. It's one of my favorites, that I've written
5. River Dawson is hot, so be careful you may fall in love ;)
August 11, 2019
Fallen
Meet Maddie B and River Dawson two kids who found each other in hard difficult times. Their story will knock you to your knees but hopefully you'll get back up to recount their story to someone else. Paige Horne writes what she knows, addictions- be it, cigarettes, alcohol, drugs or sex, it's all there, no sugar coating but sometimes romanticize to bring about the perfect story. Just remember a drug is a drug 💉
Meet Maddie B and River Dawson two kids who found each other in hard difficult times. Their story will knock you to your knees but hopefully you'll get back up to recount their story to someone else. Paige Horne writes what she knows, addictions- be it, cigarettes, alcohol, drugs or sex, it's all there, no sugar coating but sometimes romanticize to bring about the perfect story. Just remember a drug is a drug 💉
August 17, 2017
When tragedy strikes, Maddie B's childhood as she knows it, is over. She struggles with 2 addictions, both of which, have the potential to destroy her. River lets her go to save her, and that continues her spiral down to the absolute bottom. The fight leaves her when River abandons her, and the oblivion the drugs give her, is just too much to ignore. What has she got to fight for?
This story of Maddie and River was at times, so difficult to read, as the issues of addiction are so real, and this could be anyone's story. My heart constantly broke, I held my breath through many parts, as she just kept making bad decision after bad decision, and I was then filled with a sense that all would be ok and they would conquer their demons together. They fought the hard fight, and although it will never end, they will face what they can together.
This book was heartbreaking, yet beautiful, despite being a tearjerker for me. An incredible read that will be in my thoughts always. The strength that Maddie has, and the determination that River shows in not letting her struggle alone, is so stunningly captivating, I will treasure it as one of the best books I have read
This story of Maddie and River was at times, so difficult to read, as the issues of addiction are so real, and this could be anyone's story. My heart constantly broke, I held my breath through many parts, as she just kept making bad decision after bad decision, and I was then filled with a sense that all would be ok and they would conquer their demons together. They fought the hard fight, and although it will never end, they will face what they can together.
This book was heartbreaking, yet beautiful, despite being a tearjerker for me. An incredible read that will be in my thoughts always. The strength that Maddie has, and the determination that River shows in not letting her struggle alone, is so stunningly captivating, I will treasure it as one of the best books I have read
June 15, 2019
Great read
This book will rip your heart out. Then make you fall in love with it. This was an amazing story
This book will rip your heart out. Then make you fall in love with it. This was an amazing story
June 7, 2019
This book hits home for me. Addiction affected me and my family and I could totally relate to River and trying to help Maddie and love her through all her flaws. I enjoyed reading Maddie’s side of the addiction and how she eventually overcame it. This story is not only about love, but the pushing and pulling away of the ones you love because of the drugs. But it’s also about over coming your fears to be with the one you were meant to be with forever. I loved this book and if I could give it 10 stars, I would! ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 3, 2016
What an emotional book My heart went out to Maddie, I know How additive drugs can be as I have a member of my family who has gone through this, this story is well written.
Maddie was nine when her Parents were killed in an armed robbery and she watched the whole thing, then her life was turned upside down being tossed from Foster home to foster home, that is until she is placed with Frankie….
But Bad teenage choices she turns to depend on drugs to cope and numb the pain she feels.
In this foster home she meets River he is a bad boy but he will do anything for her she means well but sometimes it doesn’t always work out the way he wants them too he sees Maddie struggling with the drugs even though she tries to hide it from him… as he is her new addiction
I loved the way River is with her you can tell he loves her so much
He takes a job which end up with him getting sent to prison. and Maddie turns to drugs again. so bad she walks out on everyone.
When something happens that she ends up in rehab.
She gets better although she struggles daily with the addiction.
9 years into the future and Maddie is in a better place. Until River turns back up in her life but can she fight her feelings that have never died between the 2 of them.
"Life is a story," I say thinking out loud, Each person has their own beginning, middle, and end."
Do they get their HEA you will have to read to find out? I really enjoyed this story. And I love Paige writing and can’t wait for more by her.
Maddie was nine when her Parents were killed in an armed robbery and she watched the whole thing, then her life was turned upside down being tossed from Foster home to foster home, that is until she is placed with Frankie….
But Bad teenage choices she turns to depend on drugs to cope and numb the pain she feels.
In this foster home she meets River he is a bad boy but he will do anything for her she means well but sometimes it doesn’t always work out the way he wants them too he sees Maddie struggling with the drugs even though she tries to hide it from him… as he is her new addiction
I loved the way River is with her you can tell he loves her so much
He takes a job which end up with him getting sent to prison. and Maddie turns to drugs again. so bad she walks out on everyone.
When something happens that she ends up in rehab.
She gets better although she struggles daily with the addiction.
9 years into the future and Maddie is in a better place. Until River turns back up in her life but can she fight her feelings that have never died between the 2 of them.
"Life is a story," I say thinking out loud, Each person has their own beginning, middle, and end."
Do they get their HEA you will have to read to find out? I really enjoyed this story. And I love Paige writing and can’t wait for more by her.
August 7, 2017
What a heartbreaking journey of an addict and losing everyone she loves at a young age. I think this book is more reality and that is sad. You kids that party and then the addiction continues.. Bad choices separated Maddie and River for years. She would have a relapse and that broke my heart after all she went through to get clean. This time she has he loved ones to help her. Such a well told story.
June 14, 2017
4.5 Stars
I like that this book shows so truly the ugly side of life and that nothing is as easy as we would like it to be. We constantly have to fight and we should enjoy the good things in life and try to focus on those in hard times to help us get through them.
I liked this book a lot when I started reading. It was intense though it was a bit slow for me. I couldn't really get into the story at first and couldn’t figure out where it was going.
We get thrown into Maddie B’s world where she is constantly seeking the feeling of being numb in order to stop her pain. She wants to forget and doesn’t want to feel anything. We get to know her story about her drug addiction and learn about her feelings for this special bad boy Raven.
I began loving it at 50% when we get to know Raven’s POV in between Maddie’s and I soaked it up like a drug. I loved him a lot more since I got a glimpse into his world. He was a bad boy as a kid and also had some tough times to go through, though he turned out a really good guy. I love that he knew B so well and cared so much about her.
It's a tough story to read about Maddie’s struggles in life. She is a drug addict and struggles to stay off of pills though life isn't always easy and when it gets tough it becomes harder to stay clean. River is another addiction of Maddie she can’t get enough of.
This book kept me on edge because I hoped so bad that Maddie’s story turns out good. There are a few ups and downs and my emotions were thrown around. The epilogue was well chosen to end this story and I absolutely loved it.
The Story:
Maddie's parents got killed when she was still a kid. After a few foster homes, Maddie finally comes to live with Frankie and the kids Landon and Raven. Maddie gets a second chance with this family though she struggles through life.
After a while Maddie and Raven get closer and they fall hard and fast for each other though when Maddie’s best friend Cali offers Maddie a pill, Maddie takes it without questioning. While Cali uses here and there, Maddie gets addicted and can't stop at one drug at a time. When life gets tough for Maddie and Raven she lets herself fall deeper into it.
The pills help her deal with the pain. They numb her. Will she ever get off of them? How could she handle the pain without them? Does she even want to stop using at all?
Thoughts:
I like that this book is so much different than the others I read from this author. I loved them and I knew that this was also going to get to me and will have a special place in my heart.
I liked the characters even though I couldn't really relate to them. I knew people which took drugs but not like Maddie. I can only imagine how hard it must be to get off of drugs and stay away from them.
I enjoyed the story a lot especially because it could have been a real life story. It wasn't like unimaginable stuff happened and it wasn't about pink and glitter. It's about the hard stuff in life and how you handle what's thrown in your way. And it shows so perfectly that you are stronger with friends and family surrounding and supporting you.
I'm a person like Maddie when it comes to the hard stuff though. I want to run away and be alone. I prefer to swallow the pain and tough stuff without talking about it with anyone. I rather keep to myself and suffer alone. It may be the wrong way, but it's my way. So maybe I do relate to some parts of Maddie’s character in this book.
-- I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. --
I like that this book shows so truly the ugly side of life and that nothing is as easy as we would like it to be. We constantly have to fight and we should enjoy the good things in life and try to focus on those in hard times to help us get through them.
I liked this book a lot when I started reading. It was intense though it was a bit slow for me. I couldn't really get into the story at first and couldn’t figure out where it was going.
We get thrown into Maddie B’s world where she is constantly seeking the feeling of being numb in order to stop her pain. She wants to forget and doesn’t want to feel anything. We get to know her story about her drug addiction and learn about her feelings for this special bad boy Raven.
I began loving it at 50% when we get to know Raven’s POV in between Maddie’s and I soaked it up like a drug. I loved him a lot more since I got a glimpse into his world. He was a bad boy as a kid and also had some tough times to go through, though he turned out a really good guy. I love that he knew B so well and cared so much about her.
It's a tough story to read about Maddie’s struggles in life. She is a drug addict and struggles to stay off of pills though life isn't always easy and when it gets tough it becomes harder to stay clean. River is another addiction of Maddie she can’t get enough of.
This book kept me on edge because I hoped so bad that Maddie’s story turns out good. There are a few ups and downs and my emotions were thrown around. The epilogue was well chosen to end this story and I absolutely loved it.
The Story:
Maddie's parents got killed when she was still a kid. After a few foster homes, Maddie finally comes to live with Frankie and the kids Landon and Raven. Maddie gets a second chance with this family though she struggles through life.
After a while Maddie and Raven get closer and they fall hard and fast for each other though when Maddie’s best friend Cali offers Maddie a pill, Maddie takes it without questioning. While Cali uses here and there, Maddie gets addicted and can't stop at one drug at a time. When life gets tough for Maddie and Raven she lets herself fall deeper into it.
The pills help her deal with the pain. They numb her. Will she ever get off of them? How could she handle the pain without them? Does she even want to stop using at all?
Thoughts:
I like that this book is so much different than the others I read from this author. I loved them and I knew that this was also going to get to me and will have a special place in my heart.
I liked the characters even though I couldn't really relate to them. I knew people which took drugs but not like Maddie. I can only imagine how hard it must be to get off of drugs and stay away from them.
I enjoyed the story a lot especially because it could have been a real life story. It wasn't like unimaginable stuff happened and it wasn't about pink and glitter. It's about the hard stuff in life and how you handle what's thrown in your way. And it shows so perfectly that you are stronger with friends and family surrounding and supporting you.
I'm a person like Maddie when it comes to the hard stuff though. I want to run away and be alone. I prefer to swallow the pain and tough stuff without talking about it with anyone. I rather keep to myself and suffer alone. It may be the wrong way, but it's my way. So maybe I do relate to some parts of Maddie’s character in this book.
-- I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. --
November 29, 2017
I really enjoyed this book! It was full of angst, love, friendship, and touched on the struggles of not only the person who is struggling with addiction, but that person’s loved ones as well. I read this book in 2 sittings and was sad when it ended (but in a good way)! I really enjoyed reading about River and Maddie B; 4 stars!
November 26, 2017
This author was a new to me and just hearing her talk about her books had me buying all of them. This story was heart wrenching and perfectly written.
July 14, 2016
15 stars
Maddie, River and Landon for one reason or another have come together under Frankie's roof as kids. Frankie raises these three kids the best he can. And although there is no blood connecting them, they are truly a family. And they start out doing normal small town kid stuff - going to parties, drinking, weed, and a pill here or there. Maddie has one flaw that the other two don't. She becomes an addict, to pills and at the same time she and River discover they have an undeniable connection. River does everything he can to help her overcome her addictions, even acknowledging that he is one of them. This is their journey growing up and consequences of their choices. This book will break your heart. This book is amazing.
I read this book in four hours in one night. I became attached to these characters so so quickly. Ms. Horne's writing style makes it so easy to connect with these characters and the plot. I am an angst queen. I love it. A general problem I see in today's novels is simply angst for angst's sake and it does nothing to push the plot or develop the characters. Angst has to be realistic and believable. And true angst comes from the characters internal struggles, almost to the point where the writer makes the emotions a character. Ms. Horne doesn't have to spell out the emotions for the reader she actually makes you feel them with her characters. A true sign that she has developed the characters from the first page and in my mind this ability separates the good from the best.
I think what a lot of writers fail to accomplish is connecting their readers through emotion instead of events. In this book, there is no doubt that River loves Maddie and is only trying to do his best for her. There is no doubt that Maddie loves River, but there is no doubt that Maddie cannot help her addiction. And that is the way it is in real life. You never know which love story will prevail, the one between the people are the love story between the addict and their poison of choice. This author has you on the edge the entire time. Just like the addict.
I am an avid reader. And I always joke when people ask me what my favorite book is. While I can't name one, there is a small group that I can say touched my core. I can now add Close to Falling to that small group.
Maddie, River and Landon for one reason or another have come together under Frankie's roof as kids. Frankie raises these three kids the best he can. And although there is no blood connecting them, they are truly a family. And they start out doing normal small town kid stuff - going to parties, drinking, weed, and a pill here or there. Maddie has one flaw that the other two don't. She becomes an addict, to pills and at the same time she and River discover they have an undeniable connection. River does everything he can to help her overcome her addictions, even acknowledging that he is one of them. This is their journey growing up and consequences of their choices. This book will break your heart. This book is amazing.
I read this book in four hours in one night. I became attached to these characters so so quickly. Ms. Horne's writing style makes it so easy to connect with these characters and the plot. I am an angst queen. I love it. A general problem I see in today's novels is simply angst for angst's sake and it does nothing to push the plot or develop the characters. Angst has to be realistic and believable. And true angst comes from the characters internal struggles, almost to the point where the writer makes the emotions a character. Ms. Horne doesn't have to spell out the emotions for the reader she actually makes you feel them with her characters. A true sign that she has developed the characters from the first page and in my mind this ability separates the good from the best.
I think what a lot of writers fail to accomplish is connecting their readers through emotion instead of events. In this book, there is no doubt that River loves Maddie and is only trying to do his best for her. There is no doubt that Maddie loves River, but there is no doubt that Maddie cannot help her addiction. And that is the way it is in real life. You never know which love story will prevail, the one between the people are the love story between the addict and their poison of choice. This author has you on the edge the entire time. Just like the addict.
I am an avid reader. And I always joke when people ask me what my favorite book is. While I can't name one, there is a small group that I can say touched my core. I can now add Close to Falling to that small group.
August 1, 2016
4 1/2 stars
Close to Falling is completely different than Paige's previous novels. It departs on a journey that hits you straight in the heart.
"I've got scars so deep, they no longer appear on the surface."
Maddie makes a lot of bad choices. She soon becomes dependent on drugs and the addiction takes over her life. The only thing she's more addicted to is River. The problem is, his reckless actions break him apart from Maddie. She turns to the one constant that helps numb her feelings... drugs.
Years later, Maddie is clean and making something of herself. That's when a ghost from her past makes an appearance... River. Can they make it work this time? Or are they doomed to repeat the past?
"Sometimes, to understand a person's present, we have to go back to their past."
When Paige reached out to me about reading her newest book, I said yes, without even reading the blurb. Her previous novels haven't let me down, so I knew this one wouldn't either.
Close to Falling is different and I love that Paige went down this road. It's raw and ugly at times, but this one is about the journey. It's about reaching rock bottom and clawing your way back up. The topic of drug abuse is always a tough one. To tell it from Maddie's point of view, couldn't have been an easy task. You see lots of books tell it from the POV of a loved one, but not always from the view of the person going through it. Paige didn't cut any corners. She put it all down on the pages... the good and bad. You see the gradual decent that Maddie makes with her life, then how she slowly puts the pieces back together.
Paige P. Horne's writing has grown so much. I loved this one and I can't wait to see what she writes next.
Close to Falling is completely different than Paige's previous novels. It departs on a journey that hits you straight in the heart.
"I've got scars so deep, they no longer appear on the surface."
Maddie makes a lot of bad choices. She soon becomes dependent on drugs and the addiction takes over her life. The only thing she's more addicted to is River. The problem is, his reckless actions break him apart from Maddie. She turns to the one constant that helps numb her feelings... drugs.
Years later, Maddie is clean and making something of herself. That's when a ghost from her past makes an appearance... River. Can they make it work this time? Or are they doomed to repeat the past?
"Sometimes, to understand a person's present, we have to go back to their past."
When Paige reached out to me about reading her newest book, I said yes, without even reading the blurb. Her previous novels haven't let me down, so I knew this one wouldn't either.
Close to Falling is different and I love that Paige went down this road. It's raw and ugly at times, but this one is about the journey. It's about reaching rock bottom and clawing your way back up. The topic of drug abuse is always a tough one. To tell it from Maddie's point of view, couldn't have been an easy task. You see lots of books tell it from the POV of a loved one, but not always from the view of the person going through it. Paige didn't cut any corners. She put it all down on the pages... the good and bad. You see the gradual decent that Maddie makes with her life, then how she slowly puts the pieces back together.
Paige P. Horne's writing has grown so much. I loved this one and I can't wait to see what she writes next.
August 1, 2016
Going into reading this book I wasn't exactly sure how I would feel about it, yet needed to see what this author had going. After finishing it, I am so thrilled I had the opportunity to get a copy from the author for an honest opinion. It was outstanding!
Three children, two boys and one girl from different backgrounds and families are taken in and cared for by Frankie. Things aren't always ease but with Frankie's guidance these three become a family. Yet from start to finish there has been something special between River and Maddie B. We follow their struggles and growing affections through0ut the story. At times I found my stomach in knots and with a feeling of despair. Not all of this book was easy to read. There is a lot of pain in so many ways. Yet, I was entranced. I had such a hard time letting go when I needed to stop and live my life before I could pick up the book to continue.
Maybe I take to much to heart but the author conveyed the emotional turmoil and passion in this story with such conviction you can't help but feeling anxious, weary and drawn in. I was terrified to continue after a certain part of the book, afraid of what the outcome would be. But I continued on and am so thankful I did. It touches base on some rather strong issues and truth be told in todays society they need to be addressed.
The story flowed so smoothly with three very different characters, a man who had a heart that made me smile and the author added in a few secondary characters that will also capture your heart. I don't think there is anything she could have done to make this a more perfect story. I highly recommend it!
Three children, two boys and one girl from different backgrounds and families are taken in and cared for by Frankie. Things aren't always ease but with Frankie's guidance these three become a family. Yet from start to finish there has been something special between River and Maddie B. We follow their struggles and growing affections through0ut the story. At times I found my stomach in knots and with a feeling of despair. Not all of this book was easy to read. There is a lot of pain in so many ways. Yet, I was entranced. I had such a hard time letting go when I needed to stop and live my life before I could pick up the book to continue.
Maybe I take to much to heart but the author conveyed the emotional turmoil and passion in this story with such conviction you can't help but feeling anxious, weary and drawn in. I was terrified to continue after a certain part of the book, afraid of what the outcome would be. But I continued on and am so thankful I did. It touches base on some rather strong issues and truth be told in todays society they need to be addressed.
The story flowed so smoothly with three very different characters, a man who had a heart that made me smile and the author added in a few secondary characters that will also capture your heart. I don't think there is anything she could have done to make this a more perfect story. I highly recommend it!
July 4, 2016
This was an emotional roller coaster. Maddie, River and Landon are siblings. They are all held together by Frankie who has tAken all 3 in because they all have their own story that makes them in foster care. River and Maddie B have their own story. Starts with the jealous protective River story. You know they want eachother and they are great with eachother. They hide it so no one has anything to say about it. They were happy and loved eachother. Now add the drugs. Maddie has a drug problem and River is the only one who has caught on how bad it really is. He tries to help in all ways he can to get her to stop. When he gets a job to get money for them to have a great life it gets harder for him to help her as much. Then when River gets arrested for drug trafficking and goes to prison for 6 years their relationship goes to hell.
Fast forward 9 years and you just see how much their love has still been their for eachother. Maddie is still struggling with her drug problem after there's a death in the family but now River is back to help.
They have just grown up and moved on from the past. They still love each other and want to be with each other but they will try being friends first. You can imagine how well that turned out. Then add in a pregnancy and a miscarriage and the struggles that brings too.
They are a strong couple who fight with eachother all the time but don't want anyone else and that makes them perfect for eachother.
I love River and Maddie. You will too after you read this book.
Fast forward 9 years and you just see how much their love has still been their for eachother. Maddie is still struggling with her drug problem after there's a death in the family but now River is back to help.
They have just grown up and moved on from the past. They still love each other and want to be with each other but they will try being friends first. You can imagine how well that turned out. Then add in a pregnancy and a miscarriage and the struggles that brings too.
They are a strong couple who fight with eachother all the time but don't want anyone else and that makes them perfect for eachother.
I love River and Maddie. You will too after you read this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2016
After undergoing a tragedy that no child should have to endure, Maddie B. is sent into foster care, ultimately ending up in a house with two foster brothers, Landon and River, and a foster dad named Frankie. It is here that she learns the real meaning of family for her new way of life, but as Maddie grows older, she gets sucked into the world of drugs. She becomes more dependent on the drugs and less dependent on her foster family.
Her foster brothers love Maddie, but it's River Dawson that sees more in Maddie. Once the two become closer, River sees the hold Maddie's addiction has on her. Doing what he can to make her better, he takes on a new job, only to have circumstances come between them. You'll have to read the book to know what happens.
Fast forward nine years, and Maddie and River meet up again. The love they once shared is rekindled, and River realizes he can't live without her. Is Maddie's love for River just as strong?
Close to Falling is an emotional ride jam-packed with love and how it is affected when addiction takes over. You'll cheer for Maddie, fall in love with River, and end the book with a sense of exactly how hard addiction is to overcome for those who suffer from it.
Paige's writing style is great, and her character development places you alongside these characters just like you're inside the story with them. With a cast of secondary characters that are supportive and witty, take a chance on Close to Falling. You'll soon discover that you have found a new author to love.
Her foster brothers love Maddie, but it's River Dawson that sees more in Maddie. Once the two become closer, River sees the hold Maddie's addiction has on her. Doing what he can to make her better, he takes on a new job, only to have circumstances come between them. You'll have to read the book to know what happens.
Fast forward nine years, and Maddie and River meet up again. The love they once shared is rekindled, and River realizes he can't live without her. Is Maddie's love for River just as strong?
Close to Falling is an emotional ride jam-packed with love and how it is affected when addiction takes over. You'll cheer for Maddie, fall in love with River, and end the book with a sense of exactly how hard addiction is to overcome for those who suffer from it.
Paige's writing style is great, and her character development places you alongside these characters just like you're inside the story with them. With a cast of secondary characters that are supportive and witty, take a chance on Close to Falling. You'll soon discover that you have found a new author to love.
August 17, 2017
Wow just wow! What a journey these characters go on. They come from troubled past. Trying to cope with what they are dealt. As children you are bound to make mistakes. River and B make plenty. Follow them through their past as they try to make w better future for them self. If you have ever had to deal with addiction or had a loved one with one. This story may be very emotional for you. I loved it and hope to see more of them in the future. Must Read.
Merged review:
Wow just wow! What a journey these characters go on. They come from troubled past. Trying to cope with what they are dealt. As children you are bound to make mistakes. River and B make plenty. Follow them through their past as they try to make w better future for them self. If you have ever had to deal with addiction or had a loved one with one. This story may be very emotional for you. I loved it and hope to see more of them in the future. Must Read.
Merged review:
Wow just wow! What a journey these characters go on. They come from troubled past. Trying to cope with what they are dealt. As children you are bound to make mistakes. River and B make plenty. Follow them through their past as they try to make w better future for them self. If you have ever had to deal with addiction or had a loved one with one. This story may be very emotional for you. I loved it and hope to see more of them in the future. Must Read.
Merged review:
Wow just wow! What a journey these characters go on. They come from troubled past. Trying to cope with what they are dealt. As children you are bound to make mistakes. River and B make plenty. Follow them through their past as they try to make w better future for them self. If you have ever had to deal with addiction or had a loved one with one. This story may be very emotional for you. I loved it and hope to see more of them in the future. Must Read.
Merged review:
Wow just wow! What a journey these characters go on. They come from troubled past. Trying to cope with what they are dealt. As children you are bound to make mistakes. River and B make plenty. Follow them through their past as they try to make w better future for them self. If you have ever had to deal with addiction or had a loved one with one. This story may be very emotional for you. I loved it and hope to see more of them in the future. Must Read.
August 14, 2016
4.5 emotional stars
This was story took me on a mini roller-coaster of different emotions!
The story is about Maddie and River, and begins with an adult Maggie facing the reality of the situation she is in after nearly overdosing. From there we follow her through her recovery and through flashbacks with her therapist, we get to know Maddie as a young adult.
In the flashbacks we also meet River, a young man going through his own issues. Horne writes their relationship in a way which feels so natural, real and relatable. I really liked and empathized with both characters, and was rooting for them throughout the book. Being able to watch their relationship progress and evolve was simply lovely.
This was the first book I've read by Paige P. Horne, and I think it was the perfect introduction to her writing, because after having read River and Maddie's story, I definitely want to check out more of her work.
The story flows smoothly and despite the heavy topics dealt with in the book, this was an easy read for me, and I couldn't put it down once I'd started it. I loved the author's style of writing and how the voices of the character's came across so clearly.
Overall, this was a beautifully told story of young heartbreak, painful addictions, loss, the harsh realities of life and second chances.
This was story took me on a mini roller-coaster of different emotions!
The story is about Maddie and River, and begins with an adult Maggie facing the reality of the situation she is in after nearly overdosing. From there we follow her through her recovery and through flashbacks with her therapist, we get to know Maddie as a young adult.
In the flashbacks we also meet River, a young man going through his own issues. Horne writes their relationship in a way which feels so natural, real and relatable. I really liked and empathized with both characters, and was rooting for them throughout the book. Being able to watch their relationship progress and evolve was simply lovely.
This was the first book I've read by Paige P. Horne, and I think it was the perfect introduction to her writing, because after having read River and Maddie's story, I definitely want to check out more of her work.
The story flows smoothly and despite the heavy topics dealt with in the book, this was an easy read for me, and I couldn't put it down once I'd started it. I loved the author's style of writing and how the voices of the character's came across so clearly.
Overall, this was a beautifully told story of young heartbreak, painful addictions, loss, the harsh realities of life and second chances.
July 28, 2016
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Where do I even begin!!! First let me tell you from the first page to the last, I was hooked. From the start I felt Maddie B's struggle, and pain as she deals with loss, heartache, and addiction. This book took you on an amazing journey from beginning to end, and I absolutely loooovvvved how the story line went.
“You said to understand a person’s present, you have to go back to their past, right?”
“Yes”.
“Well lets, go back then”, I say, exhaling.
And that's exactly what Paige Horne did. We went back to the past to see the events and tragedies that Maddie B went through at such a young age. We saw when she first begin her downward spiral into addiction, and we cheered at the young love between her and River. When Maddie B finally hits rock bottom, we watch her struggle to climb out of her painful, addictive lifestyle. This is one of those books where you just have to read it for yourself.
First time ever reading a book by Paige P. Horne, but lets be clear it definitely will not be my last!!!
Where do I even begin!!! First let me tell you from the first page to the last, I was hooked. From the start I felt Maddie B's struggle, and pain as she deals with loss, heartache, and addiction. This book took you on an amazing journey from beginning to end, and I absolutely loooovvvved how the story line went.
“You said to understand a person’s present, you have to go back to their past, right?”
“Yes”.
“Well lets, go back then”, I say, exhaling.
And that's exactly what Paige Horne did. We went back to the past to see the events and tragedies that Maddie B went through at such a young age. We saw when she first begin her downward spiral into addiction, and we cheered at the young love between her and River. When Maddie B finally hits rock bottom, we watch her struggle to climb out of her painful, addictive lifestyle. This is one of those books where you just have to read it for yourself.
First time ever reading a book by Paige P. Horne, but lets be clear it definitely will not be my last!!!
August 8, 2016
This book was the first I have read by Paige P. Horne won't be the last.
This book deals with addiction, lost, sadness but also is filled with much love.
Maddie B was put foster care after tragic event happened when she was young. She ended live with Frankie. He had two boys lived with him Landon and River. She ended love them as family. But with River was different love. Maddie B had best friend Cali. This how Maddie B got involved in drugs. when she try for first time she got hook. She couldn't stop. Then her relationship with River change. They started dating. River become her other addiction. He sees her struggle with her addiction and tires to her help her. But River has past. Event happened in his young life how he ended in foster care.He want to give Maddie B good life. He decide to make easy money. But something happened when he was doing the job. He ended in prison. He pushes Maddie B away which causes her to depend more on the drugs. Maddie B age of 21 hit her lowest point in her life. She decided she need help. Nine years had past, River and Maddie B path crossed. Will they be able to overcome the events happen between them. Maddie B able to stay clean?
To find out need to get the book. Won't disappoint you. Good Read.
This book deals with addiction, lost, sadness but also is filled with much love.
Maddie B was put foster care after tragic event happened when she was young. She ended live with Frankie. He had two boys lived with him Landon and River. She ended love them as family. But with River was different love. Maddie B had best friend Cali. This how Maddie B got involved in drugs. when she try for first time she got hook. She couldn't stop. Then her relationship with River change. They started dating. River become her other addiction. He sees her struggle with her addiction and tires to her help her. But River has past. Event happened in his young life how he ended in foster care.He want to give Maddie B good life. He decide to make easy money. But something happened when he was doing the job. He ended in prison. He pushes Maddie B away which causes her to depend more on the drugs. Maddie B age of 21 hit her lowest point in her life. She decided she need help. Nine years had past, River and Maddie B path crossed. Will they be able to overcome the events happen between them. Maddie B able to stay clean?
To find out need to get the book. Won't disappoint you. Good Read.
August 16, 2016
** Provided on behalf of the author for an honest review **
** Review provided by Kylie from Bloggers From Down Under **
"Life is a story. Each person has their own beginning, middle and end. Mine began with a happy family, a good life and my dreams within reach. Unfortunately, it shifted dramatically, and I went down a long, dark path, but you know what? I wouldn't have met my boys. I'm very lucky I got two families in this lifetime. My story isn't finished just yet and you can bet your ass I'm going to make sure I have one hell of an ending"
This is Maddie's story, sit down, get comfortable and get ready for the ride of your life. You will not be able to put this little beauty down!!
Never before have I read the story of an addict that touched me like this story did. There was anger, joy and tears as parts of the story rang true and made me realise that family isn't always blood, it's the people who stick by you when you mess up, and who are there when you hit rock bottom. Family are the people around you who make you smile when your world seems dark. I am extremely lucky to have a few people in my life who are my "family".
A highly emotional read that I cannot recommend highly enough.
Please guys you need to read this.
A absolute heart felt 5 star read.
** Review provided by Kylie from Bloggers From Down Under **
"Life is a story. Each person has their own beginning, middle and end. Mine began with a happy family, a good life and my dreams within reach. Unfortunately, it shifted dramatically, and I went down a long, dark path, but you know what? I wouldn't have met my boys. I'm very lucky I got two families in this lifetime. My story isn't finished just yet and you can bet your ass I'm going to make sure I have one hell of an ending"
This is Maddie's story, sit down, get comfortable and get ready for the ride of your life. You will not be able to put this little beauty down!!
Never before have I read the story of an addict that touched me like this story did. There was anger, joy and tears as parts of the story rang true and made me realise that family isn't always blood, it's the people who stick by you when you mess up, and who are there when you hit rock bottom. Family are the people around you who make you smile when your world seems dark. I am extremely lucky to have a few people in my life who are my "family".
A highly emotional read that I cannot recommend highly enough.
Please guys you need to read this.
A absolute heart felt 5 star read.
August 17, 2016
What an beautifully heartbreaking book.
Close to Falling takes us on Maddie's journey of heartache, despair and addiction. You see, Maddie B is a drug addict. She was dealt some crappy cards early in life and found a way of numbing the pain and escaping reality, by using. The only thing she loved more than her next fix, was River – the boy who grew up with her in foster care. Rivers' fight to save the woman he loved was never an easy one. He made mistakes and had to make some difficult choices but you never once questioned how much he loved her.
The writing is raw, cuts you to your core and at the same time flawless. I had to walk away from this book more than once, I became so overwhelmed with emotion. The author doesn’t mollify Maddie’s condition - it’s heartbreaking, at times infuriating! But that’s what makes Paige Horne’s writing so good… Maddie’s fight to finally break free from the chains of her addiction is breathtaking. She eventually wins her battle but knows that she hasn’t won the war… she will be fighting for the rest of her life but that’s OK, because he will always have her back.
I highly recommend this book.
Close to Falling takes us on Maddie's journey of heartache, despair and addiction. You see, Maddie B is a drug addict. She was dealt some crappy cards early in life and found a way of numbing the pain and escaping reality, by using. The only thing she loved more than her next fix, was River – the boy who grew up with her in foster care. Rivers' fight to save the woman he loved was never an easy one. He made mistakes and had to make some difficult choices but you never once questioned how much he loved her.
The writing is raw, cuts you to your core and at the same time flawless. I had to walk away from this book more than once, I became so overwhelmed with emotion. The author doesn’t mollify Maddie’s condition - it’s heartbreaking, at times infuriating! But that’s what makes Paige Horne’s writing so good… Maddie’s fight to finally break free from the chains of her addiction is breathtaking. She eventually wins her battle but knows that she hasn’t won the war… she will be fighting for the rest of her life but that’s OK, because he will always have her back.
I highly recommend this book.
August 16, 2016
***4.5 stars***
Close to Falling ~ Is beautiful yet sorrow tore at my soul. Captivated right from the prologue, I knew I was doomed to have every emotion be exposed from this story. Raw sadness, tragic outcomes, drowning in addiction, feeling deep hopelessness.
I watched from the sidelines while Maddie B Callaway starts her story on the brink of death...
Learning that her story was almost her end, has you grasping onto each page like it is the only air to breathe.
Paige Horne does not hold back the rough backgrounds of three foster kids Maddie, Landon and River coming together and falling apart, as addiction takes hold. She transforms this story in a way that, even when Maddie may be falling now. There was a beginning to where this spiral of hell started.
This is when the true beauty of Close to Falling grabs a hold of you until the end. Hope and beauty is found with every struggle, love fights need, tears ring true while reading this. I recommend everyone to read this book.
Was given ARC for an honest review
P.S. I read it twice within days of each other and still loved every moment.
Close to Falling ~ Is beautiful yet sorrow tore at my soul. Captivated right from the prologue, I knew I was doomed to have every emotion be exposed from this story. Raw sadness, tragic outcomes, drowning in addiction, feeling deep hopelessness.
I watched from the sidelines while Maddie B Callaway starts her story on the brink of death...
Learning that her story was almost her end, has you grasping onto each page like it is the only air to breathe.
Paige Horne does not hold back the rough backgrounds of three foster kids Maddie, Landon and River coming together and falling apart, as addiction takes hold. She transforms this story in a way that, even when Maddie may be falling now. There was a beginning to where this spiral of hell started.
This is when the true beauty of Close to Falling grabs a hold of you until the end. Hope and beauty is found with every struggle, love fights need, tears ring true while reading this. I recommend everyone to read this book.
Was given ARC for an honest review
P.S. I read it twice within days of each other and still loved every moment.
July 29, 2016
4 stars! ARC review!
Wow! This book follows Maddie B's emotional heartbreaking journey as an addict. It was so raw and gritty and at times too hard to read. You get the good, the bad and the ugly of life and the consequences of bad decisions. Flawed characters that make mistake after mistake but redeem themselves.
Maddie B is addicted to two things: drugs and River Dawson. Which one will she choose?
I absolutely FLOVED River<3 he made bad choices too but he did them out of pride and love for Maddie. He loved her no matter what and at the time he had to make a decision that would hurt them both but have a positive outcome. I'm not telling you what! :P Some chapters are told in his POV which I definitely loved. It showed how much he loved Maddie B and how he never gave up on her but only tried his best to help her.
It does have a HEA but be prepared to cry and have your heart broken and mended all in one book!
This was my first book by Paige and it won't be my last! I can't wait for her next book :)
Wow! This book follows Maddie B's emotional heartbreaking journey as an addict. It was so raw and gritty and at times too hard to read. You get the good, the bad and the ugly of life and the consequences of bad decisions. Flawed characters that make mistake after mistake but redeem themselves.
Maddie B is addicted to two things: drugs and River Dawson. Which one will she choose?
I absolutely FLOVED River<3 he made bad choices too but he did them out of pride and love for Maddie. He loved her no matter what and at the time he had to make a decision that would hurt them both but have a positive outcome. I'm not telling you what! :P Some chapters are told in his POV which I definitely loved. It showed how much he loved Maddie B and how he never gave up on her but only tried his best to help her.
It does have a HEA but be prepared to cry and have your heart broken and mended all in one book!
This was my first book by Paige and it won't be my last! I can't wait for her next book :)
July 29, 2016
I am emotionally spent after reading this intense story and I loved it. The author has done an excellent job transporting the reader into Maddie and River's world, where she becomes a drug addict after witnessing a traumatic event in her life and he makes some pretty bad choices in his desire to build a future with her and take care of her. It's so heartbreaking to see her fall and spiral out of control and so inspiring when she gets up again and gets clean.
There are twists and turns throughout the story that had me bawling. It is truly a beautifully written story. I felt every struggle, every obstacle, every defeat, every success and in the end I was happily drained. I definitely recommend this book.
I did, however, want to know what happened to Cali and how Bre came about. Those were 2 things left unanswered for me.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There are twists and turns throughout the story that had me bawling. It is truly a beautifully written story. I felt every struggle, every obstacle, every defeat, every success and in the end I was happily drained. I definitely recommend this book.
I did, however, want to know what happened to Cali and how Bre came about. Those were 2 things left unanswered for me.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2016
This is a really emotional book. Maddie B is put into foster care at 9 years old. She ends up living with and having a little family with her foster father Frankie and foster brothers Landon and River. Maddie is sucked into the world of drugs. River sees her struggling and tries to help her. Maddie and River get closer and start a relationship. River becomes her new addiction but circumstances cause River to end up in prison. River pushes Maddie away which causes her to depend more on the drugs to help her cope. After being separated for nine years, will they be able to overcome their issues and continue their relationship? You will need to read this amazing book to find out. I liked how the author showed you all the emotions a drug addict goes through. I loved River and Maddie together. I really loved this book!
Read
July 11, 2016This book was the first I have read by Paige, but let me tell you it will not be the last!
B and River will take you on an emotional rollercoaster, so be prepared!
This book deals with addiction but also is filled with so much love between all of the characters!
B has her own trials and tribulations that she has to deal with (but who doesn't ) she gave me a different insight to addiction and a more in-depth of how little things to someone who is not an addict struggles on a daily basis.
River like B has his own trials, I'm not going to lie their was a point in the book where I was so mad at him I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to finish reading the book! (I am so glad I did.)
This book, I don't want to give any of it away, so I will close with this. If you like angsty books then I would recommend this one!
B and River will take you on an emotional rollercoaster, so be prepared!
This book deals with addiction but also is filled with so much love between all of the characters!
B has her own trials and tribulations that she has to deal with (but who doesn't ) she gave me a different insight to addiction and a more in-depth of how little things to someone who is not an addict struggles on a daily basis.
River like B has his own trials, I'm not going to lie their was a point in the book where I was so mad at him I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to finish reading the book! (I am so glad I did.)
This book, I don't want to give any of it away, so I will close with this. If you like angsty books then I would recommend this one!
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