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Soaring

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On an Alaskan cruise in the dead of winter, Emma and Luke find each other under the aurora borealis, a phenomenon that bonds them in the most unlikely of ways. While Luke teaches Emma what it means to soar, she gives him a reason to stay grounded, but as their journey nears its end memories of a forgotten past surfaces, challenging their future-if a future for them still exists.

84 pages, Paperback

Published April 27, 2016

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176 people want to read

About the author

K.K. Allen

43 books3,058 followers
K.K. Allen is the USA TODAY Bestselling and award-winning contemporary romance author of sweet, sexy, and inspiring stories that evoke emotion at every turn.

K.K.'s debut romance novel, Up in the Treehouse, was named the Best New Adult Book of the Year by RT Book Reviews, an honor beyond belief. And she continues to take reader’s emotions on an epic ride every single time with real, layered, coming of age romance stories that will make you fall in love over and over again.

Born in Hawaii, raised in Washington, and currently residing in Florida, K.K. lives for laughs with her little dude, the great outdoors, watching football, dancing the night away, and her eclectic taste in music.

K.K. also loves connecting with her readers and attends signings when she can! You can find upcoming event dates and other information at: www.kkallen.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Vicky Sp.
1,828 reviews132 followers
February 6, 2021
Recensione per sulla mia pagina Bookstagram
https://www.instagram.com/p/CK9FTJMn5...

Quando sullo schermo comparve la scena finale del film che stava vedendo, Emma si ritrovò a fantasticare sullo stile di vita degli anni Cinquanta, un’epoca in cui maestosi piroscafi come la “SS Alaska” erano il mezzo di trasporto più diffuso per persone e merci.

Ai tempi moderni le crociere sulle navi erano molto cambiate. Quella su cui stava viaggiando ad esempio trasportava all’incirca duemila passeggeri, molto più di quelli che a quei tempi poteva contenere la “SS Alaska”.

Ancora non si capacitava di come i suoi compagni di scuola la invidiassero così tanto: «Non riescono davvero a capire il motivo per cui sono così restia ad andarmene. Già doversi trasferire in Alaska non è una passeggiata. Farlo in pieno inverno, poi, rasenta la follia».

La sua mente tornava come in un loop al cortometraggio che aveva visto prima, ne era rimasta affascinata e non avendo fretta di rientrare in cabina, decise di godersi la traversata dal ponte.

Se ne stava seduta a rimuginare sul viaggio e su cosa si stesse lasciando alle spalle, quando un’improvvisa scia di luce verde, sfocata per via della foschia, inizió a danzare nel cielo.

«Le bande luminose si contraggono e si distendono, drappeggiando la volta celeste in una veste traslucida».

Si accorse anche di un’altra figura, estasiata almeno quanto lei, che ammirava rapito quello spettacolo della natura, con il mento rivolto verso il cielo appoggiato contro le ringhiere.

«Assomiglia a Marlon Brando da giovane, con il giubbotto di pelle addosso ed un berretto da motociclista vintage. Questo ragazzo sembra appena uscito da un servizio fotografico per una rivista degli anni Cinquanta».

Luke era il suo nome. E le spiegò, in modo gentile e dettagliato, cosa fosse quella maestosità di Luci del Nord, altrimenti detta Aurora Boreale, alla quale stavano assistendo. Il suo modo di parlare e le cose che le diceva, e i gesti che compiva, sembravano azioni a lei già note.

Una cosa era certa. Non era la prima volta che incontrava Luke. Ma dove lo aveva già visto? E perché non lo ricordava?

🖋️Si tratta di romanzo dalle sfumature paranormal, che non parla semplicemente di amore, ma di redenzione e perdono, che sono il fulcro della trama.

🖋️Al lettore appare subito evidente che Luke sia a conoscenza di un segreto che non vuole rivelare alla protagonista. Ha saputo insegnare ad Emma, con pazienza e dedizione, il coraggio di affrontare le sue fragilità, aiutandola a fronteggiare la paura, per iniziare finalmente a vivere sul serio.

«Con te sentivo che era tutto possibile».

 🖋️L’autrice è stata molto brava nel delineare lo stato d’animo dei protagonisti, arricchito da brevi ma intense introspezioni. Anche l’ambientazione è molto suggestiva, tanto da riuscire facilmente a visualizzare sia l’aurora boreale che le varie imprese che hanno compiuto.

*Ringrazio la CE per la copia digitale*
Profile Image for Ashleigh Wilson.
169 reviews3 followers
February 11, 2017
This story may be short, but it certainly wasn't lacking! Soaring combines a lot of my favorite elements; the northern lights, overcoming fear, allowing yourself the freedom to live, young love and enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat.
At first I was worried that the story was going to be too philosophical and a bit over my head, but it totally makes sense by the end of the book.
I really really loved everything about this book. There was so much that I didn't even pick up on until the end that I had to go back and reflect on with "aha moments" of insight.
This is definitely a story that makes you think. It's inspiring and beautiful and although short, really enlightening and unique.
Profile Image for Kindle Ninja.
116 reviews9 followers
July 1, 2016
This is quite an interesting short story. I have mixed feelings about it. No doubt, the author can write very well. The setting, the mood, and the actions are described effectively that there's no difficulty in getting the emotions the author wants to convey.

Here's the problem. I find some of the conversations contrived. This is especially evident in the first half of the story. However interesting the topic of conversation is, it just didn't come out naturally. At times it gets overly dramatic; at times philosophical. Then I realise it makes sense once you finish the story.

It's dark and foreboding throughout that it's almost depressing to read. Given the age of the characters, I would've thought that there would be a bit of fun in there. But overall, it's a good story with a good amount of intrigue and a satisfying conclusion.
Profile Image for Dariyah.
23 reviews
September 6, 2016
Interesting and Heartfelt Story!

In this short story by K.K. Allen, Soaring, a girl is embarking on a one way trip aboard an Alaskan Cruise Ship, sailing to their new home. As any normal teen would be, she's apprehensive of the trip. Change. It's always so uncertain.

This sweet story follows the young love of Emma and Luke. The interesting twist was definitely not expected, but I have to say, the tale was expertly woven by Ms. Allen.

If you are a fan of Ms. Allen's works, or even if you haven't been introduced to her writing yet, I encourage you to read it. Who wouldn't love a heart warming love story? As fleeting as a short story may be, it's worth it! I'd read it again, just for the magic...
Profile Image for K.K. Allen.
Author 43 books3,058 followers
April 30, 2016
I'm so excited to be releasing Soaring! It's a haunting and romantic short story about teens who meet on a cruise ship one night under the aurora borealis and share a deep connection. Originally part of the Echoes of Winter Anthology, this Contemporary Fantasy can be read in one sitting. Check it out. I'd love to hear your thoughts in a review =)
Profile Image for Brittany Goodman.
920 reviews127 followers
November 15, 2016
Sweet

This is a sweet story of forever love. The story has a bit of a twist towards the end that I didn't see coming until a hint about 2 or 3 pages before the big reveal. I definitely recommend this story if you enjoy clean, sweet romance with a paranormal twist.
I received this book free from one of the book subscription emails.
Profile Image for Lindsey (Linz Readz).
1,276 reviews45 followers
July 28, 2016
K.K. Allen is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. The fact that she can jam pack so many emotions and a thrilling twist into a short story completely blows me away. K.K.’s writing style is smooth and flows at a pace that makes it easy to read and keep up with the story while still engaging the reader and allowing them to feel…. ALL THE FEELS!

For the most part I can generally get a good feel about where a book is going. With this story I had absolutely no idea until BAM! PLOT TWIST!

Emma and Luke, are two teenage characters that learn all about love, life, and death. Let me be honest though for a really quick second, I was extremely worried about insta-love would affect the story. Especially considering the it was a short story. I am extremely picky when it comes to insta-love. The author has to write it in a way where I can believe the attraction has truly turned into love. I was pleasantly surprised with how the love story evolved between Emma and Luke, within such a short time span.

This is such an exciting, haunting, mysterious, and surprising story. I really wish I could have more of Emma and Luke’s story.

A must read for any suspense romance lover! (Especially because it can easily be read in one sitting!)

Few of My Favorite Quotes
“Sorry. I can’t stop staring at you. You have the most perfect skin and hair… so soft…”
“There’s something about Luke—a trust I feel in his words that I’ve never had with anyone.”
“Whatever you do tomorrow, make it worth it. Until then, I’ll be waiting for you…right here.”
“His questions hit me like a jolt of electricity.”
Profile Image for Julie Gustafson-Monk.
549 reviews
June 2, 2017
A perfect quick read.

K.k Allen never ceases to amaze me with her writing. Soaring was a great read. Some of the best quotes from a book that I have ever read.

This book was really touching and emotional. ❤❤❤
Profile Image for Sue  .
325 reviews28 followers
January 1, 2017
This is a wonderful short story, moving and thought provoking, and such a surprise twist at the end. It’s well written and I really liked the characters, Emma and Luke, although there was some dialogue that just didn’t feel right to me. I loved the setting on a cruise ship voyaging through the Inside Passage to Alaska (having been on one myself) and I loved the descriptions of the northern lights (something I would love to see for myself one day). I especially enjoyed how Emma and Luke both loved life but saw it in different ways through their own passions. The story is about young love, anxiety of change in your life, and fear that something is holding you back from living and enjoying your life, so it’s not just a fantasy romance and is definitely worth a read.
Profile Image for C Exley Books (Cassandra).
730 reviews82 followers
May 22, 2018
I loved this short story! It is very well written!

Soaring, a girl is embarking on a one way trip aboard an Alaskan Cruise Ship, sailing to their new home. As any normal teen would be, she's apprehensive of the trip. Change. It's always so uncertain.

This sweet story follows the young love of Emma and Luke. The interesting twist was definitely not expected. This is definitely a story that makes you think. It's inspiring and beautiful and although short, really enlightening and unique.
Profile Image for Anna.
190 reviews3 followers
May 29, 2016
Wow. What a moving short story! I was genuinely surprised with how many emotions and feels I got when reading this. The story is well-thought out, keeps you guessing, and written very well. I love the beautiful message it sends about true love. This is one I'll read again sometime! It's that good!
Profile Image for Shellee.
54 reviews
July 7, 2016
I loved this short story! It is very well written! Can't wait to read more from K.K. Allen.
Profile Image for Carol Sandford.
827 reviews11 followers
January 4, 2017
Nice tale

I enjoyed this. A bit disappointed when I eventually realized it was fantasy, but by the end I thought it was a beautiful story
Profile Image for Deliaria Davis.
Author 32 books133 followers
April 20, 2017
As always K.K blew it out of the park. Can't wait for more!
Profile Image for Nancy Reads.
921 reviews17 followers
September 6, 2021
SOARING: A Short Story is a Fantasy/Romance that is filled with interesting and even philosophical conversations. The story is rather emotional and the further I read, I even shed tears. As I read toward the end, I was glad I kept notes, as it all suddenly makes sense. She's his anchor. He's her wings. I love reading Alaska Romance books, and that is what drew me to this Short Story!

The story really begins on the cruise ship SS Alaska. On this ship, and under the dark night sky, with the aurora borealis or also called the northern lights putting on quite a show, is where Emma Stratford finds Luke Eaton. Without knowing how or why, she knows he is the love of her life and her soulmate, too! The way he is looking back at her she can tell he feels it, too. They might think they just met, but it doesn't take long until they decide they never want to let each other go. They won't leave each other ever again!

To soar, we must let go of everyone & everything weighing us down. Our souls must be free to move on. Our hearts, strong enough to find elevation above the clouds. Just let go. Soar. A short story, but a lot of story!
Profile Image for Michelle Monroe.
560 reviews51 followers
July 28, 2019
What a haunting and sweet novella. It was quick but left me fulfilled as if it was a full length novel.

***“I want my first kiss to be with someone who cares enough to make it a lasting memory. If you happen to be the one, then I hope you’ll make me remember it. That’s all.”
The way he’s staring at me now brings my heart to a gallop. “Oh, you’ll remember it.” And then his mouth is on mine, pressing and guiding me gently.

I fell in love with Luke, I always have a thing for “bad boys” and Emma apparently thought he looked the part of the rebel bad boy too. He captured my heart just as he did Emma’s.

Their love story was epic. It was tragic, it was true and it lasted through out the ages...it was something that even time itself couldn’t separate. That’s what made it so epic. It was tragic but in the end...true love prevailed. Perfect Novella!
Profile Image for Ronny.
31 reviews
February 20, 2018
I enjoyed this novella. I was excited to read it. I was just introduced to K. K. Allen and her work a few weeks ago at an Author event. I was nervous about reading her. But I don't know why. Reading this novella has left me wanting more of her writing. I'm looking forward to reading my next book by her. The story was phenomenal. It pulled me in and left me happy. Plus it was about one of my dream places to see the Aurora Borealis .
Profile Image for Loretta Rohrer-norris.
184 reviews4 followers
August 17, 2018
Very different, but a perfect short story!

Loved the story premise of lost souls who will not move forssrd in death. Beautiful but andsty when the mrmories come forward and she panics...but KK Allen shows her writing chops by pulljng everything together in the end. Enjoyed the short story greatly!
Profile Image for Jessica Cox.
697 reviews13 followers
July 17, 2019
This was a short Y/A romance that held lots of mystery. Emma and Luke meet while they are both aboard an Alaskan Cruise Ship. They met while looking at the aurora borealis, which does play a huge part in this read. With only a few days these two spend every night getting to know one another and falling for each other. It was a great read that had a fantastic twist.
Profile Image for Kelly.
242 reviews
November 9, 2018
What a wonderful, beautiful short story!!!! I loved every second of it!!!! Makes me want to take a trip to Alaska!!! Thank you for this beautiful story!!! This is the kind of story of love that stays with you forever. It's a love that transcends time! I seriously cant say enough good things about this book!!!
Profile Image for Amber Dawn.
890 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2020
Needs tissues

This is the definition of bittersweet. A wildly romantic tale of young love, soul mates and not being able to let go. Despite being a short story it is filled to the brim with emotion.
Profile Image for C.L. Cannon.
Author 20 books5,808 followers
December 27, 2018
Wow, I was not expecting that ending! As always, K.K. Allen delivers a swoon-worthy romance with heart!
Profile Image for Robert Nacke.
Author 6 books30 followers
April 23, 2021
This is a beautifully written book that had a good plot and character development in it that has you intrigued all through it and though it was a short story it was not lacking a thing. This author is very talented as I have read other of her novels and am not disappointed by this one. I highly recommend this to all.
457 reviews15 followers
July 21, 2021
A hauntingly, beautiful short story with an interesting twist that was totally unexpected. An amazing, quick read that left me satisfied!
426 reviews22 followers
April 2, 2022
This was a short story but very inspiring and worth reading. Emma and Luke meet on an Alaskan Cruise and Emma keeps having strange dreams and she is trying to find the answers with Luke's help.
Profile Image for Anna.
256 reviews3 followers
May 1, 2022
Ok, crying that is not what I was expecting. Loved it.
Profile Image for Sarah.
891 reviews
December 16, 2016
The last two chapters were the best part of this book. It was only then that I actually felt genuine heart in this story and authenticity in the characters.

Before the end I struggled to relate to the protagonist (or to even like her, to be honest) because of her immaturity and contradictory behaviours (one minute she's adamantly against doing something and the very next she's doing it and wants to do it forever). I found the initial chapters describing the romance between the two leads to be rather cheesy and unrealistic as well, but that might just be because the whole "instant teenage love" is not my kinda thing.

All in all, the end redeemed this story for me, but overall it wasn't really my cup of tea.
Profile Image for Laura.
857 reviews211 followers
July 28, 2016
Soaring is K.K. Allen's first published Short Story. It is at it's heart a love story, but also one of forgiveness and redemption. I was pleasantly surprised to find out it had some of my favorite things. Flying, the phenomenon of the aurora borealis and the very real truth that fear holds many of us back from the things that make us feel the most alive. My favorite passage is: "As he climbs into the pilot seat I'm hit with another memory. Luke once told me that in order to soar, we must let go of everyone and everything weighing us down. Our souls must be free to move on. Our hearts, strong enough to find elevation above the clouds."
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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