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Lessons in Gravity
All eyes are on Josh Knox…
Fearless. Guarded. Cut-to-perfection. Daredevil rock climber. The best in the world.
This time he’s poised to scale Yosemite’s notoriously treacherous Sorcerer Spire, with Walkabout Media & Productions filming every move.
April Stephens’s dream to be a documentary filmmaker rests on her acing her internship with Walkabout, and that means getting the abrasive Josh to give her more than one-word answers in his interviews.
The problem is, with every step forward professionally, she and Josh are also taking a step forward personally, and after watching her stunt pilot father die in a fiery crash, a guy who risks his life for a living is the last person she should be falling for. Especially because in one month her internship will have them dangling three thousand feet in the air from the side of the Sorcerer. She’ll be filming. He’ll be climbing without a rope.
Fearless. Guarded. Cut-to-perfection. Daredevil rock climber. The best in the world.
This time he’s poised to scale Yosemite’s notoriously treacherous Sorcerer Spire, with Walkabout Media & Productions filming every move.
April Stephens’s dream to be a documentary filmmaker rests on her acing her internship with Walkabout, and that means getting the abrasive Josh to give her more than one-word answers in his interviews.
The problem is, with every step forward professionally, she and Josh are also taking a step forward personally, and after watching her stunt pilot father die in a fiery crash, a guy who risks his life for a living is the last person she should be falling for. Especially because in one month her internship will have them dangling three thousand feet in the air from the side of the Sorcerer. She’ll be filming. He’ll be climbing without a rope.
Unknown Binding
Published October 24, 2016
18 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Megan Westfield
3 books129 followersMegan Westfield has dabbled in many hobbies and pastimes over the years, ranging from playing the cello to cake decorating (i.e., icing-eating) to a dozen different outdoor adventure sports. Eventually, she discovered the only way to do it all was though writing—her first and strongest passion. She writes new adult fiction because she loves exploring the powerful and formative years between high school and the quarter-life crisis. As a reader, her favorite books are those with a truly unique, real-world setting, and, of course, a love story.
Megan grew up in Washington state, attended college in Oregon, and lived in Virginia, California, and Rhode Island during her five years as a navy officer. She is now a permanent resident of San Diego where she and her husband count family beach time with their two young kids as an adventure sport. Megan was formerly the editor of a small weekly newspaper in Southern California and is represented by Melissa Edwards of Stonesong Priest Literary Agency.
Megan grew up in Washington state, attended college in Oregon, and lived in Virginia, California, and Rhode Island during her five years as a navy officer. She is now a permanent resident of San Diego where she and her husband count family beach time with their two young kids as an adventure sport. Megan was formerly the editor of a small weekly newspaper in Southern California and is represented by Melissa Edwards of Stonesong Priest Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 20, 2018
April is almost done with college. She just needs to successfully finish an internship. She will be part of a filming crew, making a documentary about rock climbers. Josh is one of those rock climbers and he will try something really dangerous. Josh is everything April hates about a man. She already someone important because of a dangerous profession and she doesn’t want to lose another person she loves. Josh and April spend some time together and they slowly fall in love with each other.
Josh is lonely, talented, strong and closed off. Rock climbing means everything to Josh and he has given up a lot for it. He travels around the world for it. He’s famous within that world. Josh is amazing at climbing and he’s fearless, so he does some dangerous climbs. Josh likes April from the moment he sees her, but he tries to keep his distant. He waits until the right moment to tell her about his feelings. He loves being with her.
April is loving, kind and passionate. She adjusts quickly at the park and into the crew. She hopes that it will get her job after her internship and fulfill one of her big dreams. April still hasn’t moved on after a tragic loss. She still misses him and she has been avoiding things ever since. Josh may be different than a man April wants, but her feelings are too strong.
I wished I loved Lessons in Gravity. I did love the beautiful cover and the setting. I just didn’t connect with April or Josh. I don’t feel that I really know Josh and I also got frustrated with April’s thoughts sometimes. April knows what Josh does and she still falls in love with him, but near the end she hates him for what he does. I hate when that happens. I did like the story enough to keep reading until the end and I never skimmed.
-- My honest review is based on a copy provided by the author. --
Josh is lonely, talented, strong and closed off. Rock climbing means everything to Josh and he has given up a lot for it. He travels around the world for it. He’s famous within that world. Josh is amazing at climbing and he’s fearless, so he does some dangerous climbs. Josh likes April from the moment he sees her, but he tries to keep his distant. He waits until the right moment to tell her about his feelings. He loves being with her.
April is loving, kind and passionate. She adjusts quickly at the park and into the crew. She hopes that it will get her job after her internship and fulfill one of her big dreams. April still hasn’t moved on after a tragic loss. She still misses him and she has been avoiding things ever since. Josh may be different than a man April wants, but her feelings are too strong.
I wished I loved Lessons in Gravity. I did love the beautiful cover and the setting. I just didn’t connect with April or Josh. I don’t feel that I really know Josh and I also got frustrated with April’s thoughts sometimes. April knows what Josh does and she still falls in love with him, but near the end she hates him for what he does. I hate when that happens. I did like the story enough to keep reading until the end and I never skimmed.
-- My honest review is based on a copy provided by the author. --
October 25, 2016
4.5 stars
When it comes to a daredevil I am like a bee round a honeypot and Lessons in Gravity brings us fearless rock climber, Josh Knox.
This is a superb debut from Megan Westfield and she delivers a character driven story which gathers pace as the storyline progresses. The blurb is what sold this to me so there's no need for me to repeat the plot, but what I will say is that Josh and April were great characters who have been through some tough times in their lives that has left them with a vulnerable side. April brings out the very best in Josh; around her he lets his barriers down and proves that what you see isn't always what you get, however for April, irrespective of her strong feelings for Josh, her insecurities and fears are heightened the deeper she falls.
"...she would never—not ever—fall for a guy who risked his life for a living."
This is a fairly slow-burn romance, which is fitting of the couple and their circumstances and it is pretty much closed-door in terms of intimacy, so if you're looking for a sex-fuelled NA read, then this isn't that. But what it lacks in passion, it makes up for in emotion and story detail, and Josh and April do bring intimacy in terms of their developing feelings and vulnerabilities, and when an author can hold a lengthy romance together without it, then that to me is testament to their skill.
With a great cast of secondary characters each adding value and depth, by the time I had flicked the final page I was ready to scale the rock-faces of Yosemite which, for someone who is only capable of climbing the stairs, is impressive. Megan Westfield is definitely an author I'll be reading again in the future.
Copy received courtesy of Entamgled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
When it comes to a daredevil I am like a bee round a honeypot and Lessons in Gravity brings us fearless rock climber, Josh Knox.
This is a superb debut from Megan Westfield and she delivers a character driven story which gathers pace as the storyline progresses. The blurb is what sold this to me so there's no need for me to repeat the plot, but what I will say is that Josh and April were great characters who have been through some tough times in their lives that has left them with a vulnerable side. April brings out the very best in Josh; around her he lets his barriers down and proves that what you see isn't always what you get, however for April, irrespective of her strong feelings for Josh, her insecurities and fears are heightened the deeper she falls.
"...she would never—not ever—fall for a guy who risked his life for a living."
This is a fairly slow-burn romance, which is fitting of the couple and their circumstances and it is pretty much closed-door in terms of intimacy, so if you're looking for a sex-fuelled NA read, then this isn't that. But what it lacks in passion, it makes up for in emotion and story detail, and Josh and April do bring intimacy in terms of their developing feelings and vulnerabilities, and when an author can hold a lengthy romance together without it, then that to me is testament to their skill.
With a great cast of secondary characters each adding value and depth, by the time I had flicked the final page I was ready to scale the rock-faces of Yosemite which, for someone who is only capable of climbing the stairs, is impressive. Megan Westfield is definitely an author I'll be reading again in the future.
Copy received courtesy of Entamgled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
October 28, 2016
This is such a unique and emotionally charged story. Lessons in Gravity is so much more than a romance. The author did a fantastic job with the rock climbing aspects. It's clear she has experience in this sport. There were so many adrenaline-filled, edge-of-your-seat moments that had my palms sweating and heart racing. And the scenic descriptions were magnificent. I could clearly picture the valley and rock faces in my mind. Someday, I would love to visit Yosemite!
I instantly fell in love with Josh and April. It was clear from the moment their eyes met that they had a soul deep connection. It was like she could see what was behind his facade when no one else could. I guess only someone with as much pain in their past as April could truly see what lies beneath the surface. I loved the back stories of these characters and how their pasts affected their current emotional state. Once Josh's story was revealed, I couldn't help but root for him and their relationship.
April lived in constant turmoil. She was still struggling with witnessing her father's crash and her PTSD. Then she meets Josh, this fearless climber who wants to free solo and attempt climbs that have never been done. How would she ever be able to put the past behind her while spending her internship watching the man she was falling for do these crazy climbs? Could she learn to love someone so deeply that she could overcome those fears to be with him? Was loving Josh and having him for even one more day worth all the pain she might feel down the road? Or would it be better to walk away for good? She also had to consider her job; crew and talent don't fraternize. April had way more to lose than just her heart and her sanity.
I think this is one of the first times that I've actually enjoyed the single point of view. I loved all of the unknowns around Josh. Why was he so rigid and closed off? What was behind the kaleidoscope of emotions that played in his eyes? I was just as confused and frustrated as April. She was trying to get her life on track and finish film school. This was her opportunity to make a name for herself, and he seemed hell bent on ruining it for her. But was his public persona really about her or was he just scared? Would April ever be able to bring out the friendly Josh on camera that she sees when he's with his friends?
I loved going on this journey with April and experiencing the wonder of this new found love and adventure. Megan Westfield wrote a fabulous book. I'm so honored that I had the opportunity to read an advance copy of Lessons in Gravity. This was an exceptionally written debut novel, and I look forward to living her other adventures.
I instantly fell in love with Josh and April. It was clear from the moment their eyes met that they had a soul deep connection. It was like she could see what was behind his facade when no one else could. I guess only someone with as much pain in their past as April could truly see what lies beneath the surface. I loved the back stories of these characters and how their pasts affected their current emotional state. Once Josh's story was revealed, I couldn't help but root for him and their relationship.
April lived in constant turmoil. She was still struggling with witnessing her father's crash and her PTSD. Then she meets Josh, this fearless climber who wants to free solo and attempt climbs that have never been done. How would she ever be able to put the past behind her while spending her internship watching the man she was falling for do these crazy climbs? Could she learn to love someone so deeply that she could overcome those fears to be with him? Was loving Josh and having him for even one more day worth all the pain she might feel down the road? Or would it be better to walk away for good? She also had to consider her job; crew and talent don't fraternize. April had way more to lose than just her heart and her sanity.
I think this is one of the first times that I've actually enjoyed the single point of view. I loved all of the unknowns around Josh. Why was he so rigid and closed off? What was behind the kaleidoscope of emotions that played in his eyes? I was just as confused and frustrated as April. She was trying to get her life on track and finish film school. This was her opportunity to make a name for herself, and he seemed hell bent on ruining it for her. But was his public persona really about her or was he just scared? Would April ever be able to bring out the friendly Josh on camera that she sees when he's with his friends?
I loved going on this journey with April and experiencing the wonder of this new found love and adventure. Megan Westfield wrote a fabulous book. I'm so honored that I had the opportunity to read an advance copy of Lessons in Gravity. This was an exceptionally written debut novel, and I look forward to living her other adventures.
January 27, 2018
Lessons in Gravity by Megan Westfield is a unique and intense romance that happens during a summer internship with an outdoor adventure film company.
April Stephens has always avoided risk, after watching her adventurous stunt pilot father die in a fiery crash. But the chance to work with a well known documentary filmmaker is too good to pass up, even if it means she’ll have to face some of her fears in order to capture the death defying rock climbing scenes up the side of Yosemite’s famed Sorcerer’s Spire.
Josh Knox is the man of the hour, the one who she’s going to profile on his journey to the top. He’s a close mouthed individual, making the one on one interviews she’s supposed to conduct with him a challenge, since he doesn’t seem the least bit interested in being on camera. But as the barriers he’s built up to protect himself come down, April and Josh find themselves unable to deny their attraction. Josh is exactly the kind of guy April swore to never get involved with after losing her dad. Is their fledgling relationship doomed to fail just as it’s getting off the ground?
I really enjoyed this story! The setting is well described in beautiful Yosemite, as is the reality of camping out in the bush. The rock climbing scenes are intense and dramatic, with enough detail to make them come vividly to life without being too technical for the reader unfamiliar with the skills and equipment involved. Knowing that Josh plans to free climb to the top of the Spire puts a layer of tension through the story that makes it hard to put down.
Josh and April’s relationship develops slowly. While we know a lot about April’s past and her feelings, Josh is a bit of an enigma. The story is told all from April’s point of view so we only learn about Josh what he shares with her, including that he’s estranged from his family and this is part of why he climbs seemingly without fear of any consequences that could happen. When they do get together they share some sweet and sexy scenes. But underneath it all is the reality that Josh’s plans could get him killed.
The second half of the story is intense and action packed as April must conquer her fears of climbing in order to capture the perfect shots, while dealing with the reality that Josh’s climbing is not just a hobby but an essential part of who he is. We get a happy ending for the couple as they work through their fears to find the compromise that will keep them together after the summer is over. I highly recommend this exciting and unique romance!
This review appears at Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-les...
A copy of this story was provided for review.
April Stephens has always avoided risk, after watching her adventurous stunt pilot father die in a fiery crash. But the chance to work with a well known documentary filmmaker is too good to pass up, even if it means she’ll have to face some of her fears in order to capture the death defying rock climbing scenes up the side of Yosemite’s famed Sorcerer’s Spire.
Josh Knox is the man of the hour, the one who she’s going to profile on his journey to the top. He’s a close mouthed individual, making the one on one interviews she’s supposed to conduct with him a challenge, since he doesn’t seem the least bit interested in being on camera. But as the barriers he’s built up to protect himself come down, April and Josh find themselves unable to deny their attraction. Josh is exactly the kind of guy April swore to never get involved with after losing her dad. Is their fledgling relationship doomed to fail just as it’s getting off the ground?
I really enjoyed this story! The setting is well described in beautiful Yosemite, as is the reality of camping out in the bush. The rock climbing scenes are intense and dramatic, with enough detail to make them come vividly to life without being too technical for the reader unfamiliar with the skills and equipment involved. Knowing that Josh plans to free climb to the top of the Spire puts a layer of tension through the story that makes it hard to put down.
Josh and April’s relationship develops slowly. While we know a lot about April’s past and her feelings, Josh is a bit of an enigma. The story is told all from April’s point of view so we only learn about Josh what he shares with her, including that he’s estranged from his family and this is part of why he climbs seemingly without fear of any consequences that could happen. When they do get together they share some sweet and sexy scenes. But underneath it all is the reality that Josh’s plans could get him killed.
The second half of the story is intense and action packed as April must conquer her fears of climbing in order to capture the perfect shots, while dealing with the reality that Josh’s climbing is not just a hobby but an essential part of who he is. We get a happy ending for the couple as they work through their fears to find the compromise that will keep them together after the summer is over. I highly recommend this exciting and unique romance!
This review appears at Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-les...
A copy of this story was provided for review.
December 20, 2016
April has found a dream internship. She'll film climbers on the Sorcerer Spire in Yosemite. This means she has to camp for several months. April is not used to sleeping in a tent and not having a good shower whenever she wants. She's nervous at first, but she soon discovers that climbing can be fun and this is a big step in the right direction for her career. Josh is one of the climbers April has to interview. He's daring and reckless and he wants to climb the mountain without a rope, which is the finale they're all working towards.
April's father was killed in a plane crash and April watched it happen. Ever since she'd been determined never to love a man who risks his life on a daily basis. She can't help but falling for Josh though. There's another problem, she isn't allowed to date him. It's in her contract and April can get fired if she does. There are so many risks and dangers, but Josh's attractiveness and charm keep drawing her in. Is April ready to close her eyes and take that leap to do what she wants the most or will she play it safe forever?
Lessons in Gravity is a wonderful romantic story. I immediately loved April. She's been through a lot, but she doesn't let anything knock her down and she fights for her future. She's on her way to be a successful documentary maker and she's using all of her talents and skills to get there. I loved to read about her work and the way she approaches Josh is sweet and caring. Josh is vulnerable. He's a kind and soulful guy, but initially he's inflexible and stiff to deal with. He's endearing and I loved the way Megan Westfield describes the incredible attraction between her main characters. She intertwines it with a deep emotional connection, which is a beautiful combination.
I loved that Megan Westfield has written a story about climbing. She perfectly phrases the suspense, the nerves, the exhilarating feeling the success brings, the camaraderie and the seriousness of the work everybody's doing. I loved learning from Lessons in Gravity and enjoyed every sentence about rock climbing. The fabulous love story makes the experience complete and definitely worthwhile. I loved the wide range of emotions Megan Westfield manages to capture. The setting is fantastic as well and I liked the way it's being combined with the behind the scenes information of the documentary and the achievements of the climbers. I admired how each movement has purpose. Lessons in Gravity is a meaningful and breathtaking story.
April's father was killed in a plane crash and April watched it happen. Ever since she'd been determined never to love a man who risks his life on a daily basis. She can't help but falling for Josh though. There's another problem, she isn't allowed to date him. It's in her contract and April can get fired if she does. There are so many risks and dangers, but Josh's attractiveness and charm keep drawing her in. Is April ready to close her eyes and take that leap to do what she wants the most or will she play it safe forever?
Lessons in Gravity is a wonderful romantic story. I immediately loved April. She's been through a lot, but she doesn't let anything knock her down and she fights for her future. She's on her way to be a successful documentary maker and she's using all of her talents and skills to get there. I loved to read about her work and the way she approaches Josh is sweet and caring. Josh is vulnerable. He's a kind and soulful guy, but initially he's inflexible and stiff to deal with. He's endearing and I loved the way Megan Westfield describes the incredible attraction between her main characters. She intertwines it with a deep emotional connection, which is a beautiful combination.
I loved that Megan Westfield has written a story about climbing. She perfectly phrases the suspense, the nerves, the exhilarating feeling the success brings, the camaraderie and the seriousness of the work everybody's doing. I loved learning from Lessons in Gravity and enjoyed every sentence about rock climbing. The fabulous love story makes the experience complete and definitely worthwhile. I loved the wide range of emotions Megan Westfield manages to capture. The setting is fantastic as well and I liked the way it's being combined with the behind the scenes information of the documentary and the achievements of the climbers. I admired how each movement has purpose. Lessons in Gravity is a meaningful and breathtaking story.
October 16, 2016
If you are looking for an adult romance to really sink your teeth into, keep searching. What you will find here is an unusual plot line with likeable characters who have unique backgrounds. Unfortunately, the "blah" romantic relationship between the two main characters builds slowly with no real substance to speak of. Points though for the beautiful descriptions of the scenery and the adventures and perils of rock climbing.
This was my first book by Megan Westfield. She writes beautifully. But for me, this book needed much more tension between the characters. The budding romance between Josh and April lacked spice and vigor, passion and fire. I finally started feeling those emotions in the last few chapters.
An overview:
There is the 'talent' and there is the 'crew,' and never shall the two 'hook up.' Josh is a professional rock climber, who puts his life at risk day in and day out. April is hired to capture every death defying move Josh makes climbing rock walls of granite. The beautiful and treacherous Yosemite National Forest is their home for six weeks where they will live in tents and cars, and will spend countless hours together filming a documentary. What starts out as a disastrous working relationship turns into attraction for one another. April knows she is playing with fire getting involved with a risk taker, and could very well be fired for messing around with the one of the stars of the film.
Three years prior, April witnessed her father's demise as his plane plummeted to earth. She still relives the nightmare everyday of her life. Her father was always a daredevil and performed stunts at air shows. The last thing she wants to do is fall for a guy who is fearless and takes whatever risk necessary just for the thrill of it. So where does she find herself but in the middle of the Yosemite National Forest hired as an intern to film a documentary about rock climbing, surrounded by 'give it all you got' climbers who will be showing off their skills trying to reach the top of El Capitan. Her job is to interview said climbers before and after conquering cliff walls twice the height of skyscrapers.
Josh is one of the climbing enthusiasts and is also the main attraction of the documentary as he will be climbing without a partner and without a rope. Josh starred in many documentaries over the years and always refused to cooperate when being interviewed. He shares nothing personal about himself, gives one word answers and is hiding something about his past. April's job is to get him to talk about his profession and his experiences climbing mountains all over the world. Her career depends on getting Josh to open up.
*I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
October 10, 2016
*This was given to me through NetGalley for an honest review*
This was such a cute romance novel. It's a clean one too, which I did not expect at all. The main theme is about fear and how it can hold you back from love and from life. It's such a great message. Very rarely do I see a book with a good message but I think this is one of those few.
April lost her father only a few months ago and it's left her with PTSD. She becomes intern on a documentary about rock climbing. about rock climbing. Her job is the interviews and that is where is really starts. She slowly gets to know John Knox. They both struggle through their own fears and their growing love, through all the dangerous rocking climbing.
It's a sweet love story that is well written and cute. The plot is simple and well executed. This is my first time reading this author and now I must go see if they have anything else out so I can read it.
This was such a cute romance novel. It's a clean one too, which I did not expect at all. The main theme is about fear and how it can hold you back from love and from life. It's such a great message. Very rarely do I see a book with a good message but I think this is one of those few.
April lost her father only a few months ago and it's left her with PTSD. She becomes intern on a documentary about rock climbing. about rock climbing. Her job is the interviews and that is where is really starts. She slowly gets to know John Knox. They both struggle through their own fears and their growing love, through all the dangerous rocking climbing.
It's a sweet love story that is well written and cute. The plot is simple and well executed. This is my first time reading this author and now I must go see if they have anything else out so I can read it.
October 17, 2016
4.5 Stars
Wow, this is one adventurous story. I loved it! Story was quite interesting and so were all the characters. It was an adventurous book. Josh is a daredevil and April is a worrier. They're an unlikely couple. It was a slow read for me, I took in everything, enjoyed learning about the characters, rock climbing and film making. It was quite fun for me.
April is an intern. It is important for her to succeed at her new job or else she won't be able to get her diploma. If that means dealing with aloof and rude Josh then so be it. She is determined to make it work not matter how rudely Josh behaves. It's her job to interview him and make this project a success.
Josh is a rock climber. He doesn't like talking into camera. It makes him nervous but he can see that April is determined to make him talk. It's difficult for people to understand what drives him. He is fearless and rock climbing is a lot more than just a sport for him.
Together they make a perfect couple. They're both dedicated to their work, loyal, and the chemistry between them is exceptional. But in many ways they are incompatible. It won't be easy for them to deal with their differences and still be together. In any case this will be one adventure no one will easily forget.
Wow, this is one adventurous story. I loved it! Story was quite interesting and so were all the characters. It was an adventurous book. Josh is a daredevil and April is a worrier. They're an unlikely couple. It was a slow read for me, I took in everything, enjoyed learning about the characters, rock climbing and film making. It was quite fun for me.
April is an intern. It is important for her to succeed at her new job or else she won't be able to get her diploma. If that means dealing with aloof and rude Josh then so be it. She is determined to make it work not matter how rudely Josh behaves. It's her job to interview him and make this project a success.
Josh is a rock climber. He doesn't like talking into camera. It makes him nervous but he can see that April is determined to make him talk. It's difficult for people to understand what drives him. He is fearless and rock climbing is a lot more than just a sport for him.
Together they make a perfect couple. They're both dedicated to their work, loyal, and the chemistry between them is exceptional. But in many ways they are incompatible. It won't be easy for them to deal with their differences and still be together. In any case this will be one adventure no one will easily forget.
January 6, 2019
Lessons In Gravity was very "meh" for me. I didn't love it, I didn't necessarily hate it. I loved the idea, but not the execution. There was no real substance to the romance between April and Josh, and their pasts didn't endear me to them as much as the author hoped. I did love the descriptions of Yosemite, though. I used to go stay there as a little girl and had fun re-visiting now. That's really the only reason I stayed with the book.
March 21, 2017
Really loved reading this!
March 8, 2018
I fell absolutely in love with the picture the author painted from this beautiful landscape.
I was lucky enough to be able to not only imagine what the author was talking about but to experience it as well. Sleeping in the Yosemite national park (and some other parks during our holiday) was one of the most amazing experiences in my life so far.
Even though I have no knowledge of climbing except from seeing Tom Cruise do it on Mission impossible I truely enjoyed reading about this lifestyle very much.
So I can not comment on the accuracy of any of the climbing related events – except for what commons sense tells me – and judging from that – what I read felt good and believable. The relationship between April and Josh is an interesting one.
As is its development but the most amazing thing really is the complete setting the author created.
So real and believable.
As for the plotline – what I felt was interesting is that as a reader it is quite obvious from the beginning WHAT the main issue - The “Elephant in the Room” - will be about.
But still (and it is no spoiler because every novel works this way) WHEN the story actually crosses the line and meets the Elephant I was shocked. Yeah even though I knew it from the first second I was shocked.
And this is an interesting thing to accomplish for an author.
Adding to that the fact that there were really some tear running silently along my cheeks at one point – this book really deserved its 5 stars.
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November 7, 2016
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A sweet romance and a grand adventure.
A wild child at heart, professional rock climber Josh is far more reckless than April, a documentary maker who is cautious at her core. Perfectly paced and brilliantly descriptive, this is a great love story that is perfect for anyone looking to move into the New Adult genre.
A sweet romance and a grand adventure.
A wild child at heart, professional rock climber Josh is far more reckless than April, a documentary maker who is cautious at her core. Perfectly paced and brilliantly descriptive, this is a great love story that is perfect for anyone looking to move into the New Adult genre.
April 11, 2018
First of all I have to say how gorgeous I find this cover to be! It is definitely an eye catcher.
April is not a risk taker, in fact she steers clear from anything to do with death defying acts. Her father was an adventurous stunt pilot who risked his life for his job every day and eventually those risks caught up to him. So not only does she stay away from anything risky she also stays away from men who make it their life. While not being able to pass up the opportunity to work with a well known documentary filmmaker, she meets Josh Knox.
Josh is the main event, he is being filmed for his climbing abilities and his amazing death defying climbs. He is everything that April has sworn not to fall for. She is however in charge of doing interviews, which is rather difficult with how closed off Josh is. But when they become closer and his barriers are broken down, they find it hard to deny the attraction they have for one another. Will April be able to get past what he does for a living or is their relationship due to fail from the start?
“Even if he survived the Sorcerer, there would always be another Sorcerer, bigger and more dangerous than the last. It was just a matter of time until he died the kind of gruesome death that was the very reason people had paralyzing phobias of heights.”
April is not a risk taker, in fact she steers clear from anything to do with death defying acts. Her father was an adventurous stunt pilot who risked his life for his job every day and eventually those risks caught up to him. So not only does she stay away from anything risky she also stays away from men who make it their life. While not being able to pass up the opportunity to work with a well known documentary filmmaker, she meets Josh Knox.
Josh is the main event, he is being filmed for his climbing abilities and his amazing death defying climbs. He is everything that April has sworn not to fall for. She is however in charge of doing interviews, which is rather difficult with how closed off Josh is. But when they become closer and his barriers are broken down, they find it hard to deny the attraction they have for one another. Will April be able to get past what he does for a living or is their relationship due to fail from the start?
“Even if he survived the Sorcerer, there would always be another Sorcerer, bigger and more dangerous than the last. It was just a matter of time until he died the kind of gruesome death that was the very reason people had paralyzing phobias of heights.”
June 15, 2019
Really wanted to love this for the unusual setting and occupations, but the romance was underdeveloped and I was not a fan of the way the heroine treated the hero.
October 23, 2016
I used to be a book reviewer, so I guess it’s only fitting that I do the same for my own book. ☺ My favorite part of a book review is speculating on who might enjoy the book, so let’s start with that.
In Lessons in Gravity, I tried to write the type of book I love to read (a book that has an irresistible premise or fascinating setting, contains a love story, and forces me to stay up all night against my will). Specifically with love stories, I most connect with books that are not overly explicit. Also, while love-at-first-sight stories are always fun, I really wanted something slower to develop for Josh and April. He’s a jerk at the beginning—he’s got to let down his guard for her to get to know him before she can have feelings for him.
If you like some of the following aspects of books, you might enjoy Lessons in Gravity:
- Beta heroes (this would be Jacob in Twilight or Peeta in Hunger Games)
- Athletes and sports romances
- Strong heroines
- Enemies-to-lovers plotline
- Slow-burn romances that are on the “sweet” end of the sweet-to-erotic heat level spectrum
- An element of danger in the romance, much like in romantic suspense and thrillers
- “Second coming of age” books (i.e., new adult genre, generally about characters ages 18-26)
Additionally, I think this would be a great book for women who have visited Yosemite National Park and want to a way to spend more time there after the visit is over (especially those who watched the climbers up on the big walls and are fascinated by that). Or women who are planning a trip there soon. Lucky!
A book review typically has a short synopsis, and I have to say, it’s really hard to write such a short summary of your own project that is 300+ pages long. This is what I came up with a long time ago for the purposes of pitching the manuscript:
--
Landing an internship with Walkabout Films should be a dream come true for film school senior April Stephens. She’s always admired Walkabout’s documentaries and a recommendation from their award-winning director will be the key to getting her first job in the competitive film industry. The problem is, Walkabout’s next film is about rock climbing and April has no stomach for risk. That’s because three years ago, she watched a stunt pilot—her father—die in a horrific air show crash.
Despite her apprehensions, April is determined to make the internship work. In the enchanting beauty of Yosemite National Park, she learns rare cinematography techniques and finds a new family in her tight knit crew. She’s even grown close to the gorgeous, sensitive Josh Knox, a professional rock climber and star of their film. But the tenuous balance between her feelings for Josh and the reawakened trauma from the crash can’t last forever. In one month, April and Josh will meet on the side of Yosemite’s most treacherous spire. She will have a camera. He won’t be using a rope.
--
If you’re looking for more info about the book, like what my inspirations were and pictures of the technical gear used in the book, be sure to check out the behind-the-scenes page for Lessons in Gravity over on my website.
In Lessons in Gravity, I tried to write the type of book I love to read (a book that has an irresistible premise or fascinating setting, contains a love story, and forces me to stay up all night against my will). Specifically with love stories, I most connect with books that are not overly explicit. Also, while love-at-first-sight stories are always fun, I really wanted something slower to develop for Josh and April. He’s a jerk at the beginning—he’s got to let down his guard for her to get to know him before she can have feelings for him.
If you like some of the following aspects of books, you might enjoy Lessons in Gravity:
- Beta heroes (this would be Jacob in Twilight or Peeta in Hunger Games)
- Athletes and sports romances
- Strong heroines
- Enemies-to-lovers plotline
- Slow-burn romances that are on the “sweet” end of the sweet-to-erotic heat level spectrum
- An element of danger in the romance, much like in romantic suspense and thrillers
- “Second coming of age” books (i.e., new adult genre, generally about characters ages 18-26)
Additionally, I think this would be a great book for women who have visited Yosemite National Park and want to a way to spend more time there after the visit is over (especially those who watched the climbers up on the big walls and are fascinated by that). Or women who are planning a trip there soon. Lucky!
A book review typically has a short synopsis, and I have to say, it’s really hard to write such a short summary of your own project that is 300+ pages long. This is what I came up with a long time ago for the purposes of pitching the manuscript:
--
Landing an internship with Walkabout Films should be a dream come true for film school senior April Stephens. She’s always admired Walkabout’s documentaries and a recommendation from their award-winning director will be the key to getting her first job in the competitive film industry. The problem is, Walkabout’s next film is about rock climbing and April has no stomach for risk. That’s because three years ago, she watched a stunt pilot—her father—die in a horrific air show crash.
Despite her apprehensions, April is determined to make the internship work. In the enchanting beauty of Yosemite National Park, she learns rare cinematography techniques and finds a new family in her tight knit crew. She’s even grown close to the gorgeous, sensitive Josh Knox, a professional rock climber and star of their film. But the tenuous balance between her feelings for Josh and the reawakened trauma from the crash can’t last forever. In one month, April and Josh will meet on the side of Yosemite’s most treacherous spire. She will have a camera. He won’t be using a rope.
--
If you’re looking for more info about the book, like what my inspirations were and pictures of the technical gear used in the book, be sure to check out the behind-the-scenes page for Lessons in Gravity over on my website.
October 20, 2016
For a girl who has never rocked climbed or filmed a documentary before, I now feel like a rock climbing and documentary expert after reading this book! The author did a great job at describing the rock climbing and the film making process. The information was weaved naturally through the story, and I never felt bogged down with information. I could clearly picture what was happening, and I understood the reasoning behind everything. The scenery was also described beautifully. I honestly felt like I was out in the wilderness right with the characters!
April was a good main character for this story. She was someone who would do anything to accomplish her dreams, and I really admired that about her. It was easy to connect with April and hope that she succeeded in achieving the goals she set for herself. I thought the author developed her character well throughout this story. I liked learning more and more about her as the book progressed.
Josh was the male lead character, and dang, he sounded very attractive. It took a while for me to connect with him on the same level that I connected with April on. Josh came off as cold and uncaring for a while, and it was hard for me to warm up to him. I wanted to learn more about him, but he wasn't offering anything up. That made it hard for me to understand what was really going on in his head for a large portion of this book. I think it would have been very interesting to have read from him POV so the reader could have understood him a little bit more.
I thought Josh and April made a good couple because personalities worked well together. Due to that, I thought they were going have a very passionate and romantic romance, but it was kind of dull. There just wasn't a "spark" between them. This lead to the story feeling a bit slow in the middle of the book.
Overall, I thought this was an interesting and fun read. The author did a great job at describing the beautiful scenery, the rock climbing, and the making of the documentary. I just wish there would have been more passion in the romance to spice the story up. However, I am looking forward to trying out more books by this author in the future.
3 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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April was a good main character for this story. She was someone who would do anything to accomplish her dreams, and I really admired that about her. It was easy to connect with April and hope that she succeeded in achieving the goals she set for herself. I thought the author developed her character well throughout this story. I liked learning more and more about her as the book progressed.
Josh was the male lead character, and dang, he sounded very attractive. It took a while for me to connect with him on the same level that I connected with April on. Josh came off as cold and uncaring for a while, and it was hard for me to warm up to him. I wanted to learn more about him, but he wasn't offering anything up. That made it hard for me to understand what was really going on in his head for a large portion of this book. I think it would have been very interesting to have read from him POV so the reader could have understood him a little bit more.
I thought Josh and April made a good couple because personalities worked well together. Due to that, I thought they were going have a very passionate and romantic romance, but it was kind of dull. There just wasn't a "spark" between them. This lead to the story feeling a bit slow in the middle of the book.
Overall, I thought this was an interesting and fun read. The author did a great job at describing the beautiful scenery, the rock climbing, and the making of the documentary. I just wish there would have been more passion in the romance to spice the story up. However, I am looking forward to trying out more books by this author in the future.
3 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
October 29, 2016
Heartbreaking intricate love story
April's dream is to be a documentary filmmaker, she's lucky enough to have an internship with Walkabout Media & Productions to make that dream come true. However her chore is to get Josh Knox the infamous rock climber who prefers to free solo instead of climbing with the safety of a rope, to open up and give more than one worded clipped answers during an interview. Would she be able to break through his interview pretentiousness? Is it him or is it her? If it's him, why is he like this, is the camera an instant switch for "Jerk Josh"?(*direct book quote) April is able to crack his exterior but falls for him in the process. After what happened to her father, how will she be able to handle his choices? Will she be able to do the added job Danny's asked of her?
Josh climbs rocks without a care in the world, or so it seems, what's really going on within and around him? No one else has gotten him to open up like this ever, now it's time to be filmed climbing Sorcerer Spire with its sharp twisting tower, without a rope. *Sorcerer rose from the valley floor to the sky in an uninterrupted swoop. But unlike El Capitan and the other formations, the rock of the Sorcerer was nearly black.(*direct book quote). *“Is it normal to climb ropeless?” she asked. Madigan laughed. “No. It’s not normal. Only the crazies and the insanely good do it. When you climb without a rope, it’s one wrong move and you’re toast.” “Technically, he’ll be free BASEing. Climbing with a parachute in a backpack. It could save him if he falls from high enough, if he pulls the cord fast enough.” (*direct book quote).
What happens between Josh & April? How does his Sorcerer climb go? You'll have to read LESSONS IN GRAVITY to find out, but man will it be worth the time it takes for you to read it! It's an EXTREMELY EXHILARATING and emotionally filled story that'll have you laughing, crying, smiling, and falling throughout. This is my first, but definitely not my last Megan Westfield story; what e debut novel! I received an ARC via IndieSage through NetGalley in exchange for a blog tour review. Due to sexual situations, this book is recommended for readers 16 and older.
FAVORITE PASSAGES
-“If you’re not falling, it means you’re not taking risks.”
-We’re not alone in this—always remember that.
-“You are more resilient than you think.”
-When you operate through avoidance, you let your fears control you
-What good is life if you’re not living it?
April's dream is to be a documentary filmmaker, she's lucky enough to have an internship with Walkabout Media & Productions to make that dream come true. However her chore is to get Josh Knox the infamous rock climber who prefers to free solo instead of climbing with the safety of a rope, to open up and give more than one worded clipped answers during an interview. Would she be able to break through his interview pretentiousness? Is it him or is it her? If it's him, why is he like this, is the camera an instant switch for "Jerk Josh"?(*direct book quote) April is able to crack his exterior but falls for him in the process. After what happened to her father, how will she be able to handle his choices? Will she be able to do the added job Danny's asked of her?
Josh climbs rocks without a care in the world, or so it seems, what's really going on within and around him? No one else has gotten him to open up like this ever, now it's time to be filmed climbing Sorcerer Spire with its sharp twisting tower, without a rope. *Sorcerer rose from the valley floor to the sky in an uninterrupted swoop. But unlike El Capitan and the other formations, the rock of the Sorcerer was nearly black.(*direct book quote). *“Is it normal to climb ropeless?” she asked. Madigan laughed. “No. It’s not normal. Only the crazies and the insanely good do it. When you climb without a rope, it’s one wrong move and you’re toast.” “Technically, he’ll be free BASEing. Climbing with a parachute in a backpack. It could save him if he falls from high enough, if he pulls the cord fast enough.” (*direct book quote).
What happens between Josh & April? How does his Sorcerer climb go? You'll have to read LESSONS IN GRAVITY to find out, but man will it be worth the time it takes for you to read it! It's an EXTREMELY EXHILARATING and emotionally filled story that'll have you laughing, crying, smiling, and falling throughout. This is my first, but definitely not my last Megan Westfield story; what e debut novel! I received an ARC via IndieSage through NetGalley in exchange for a blog tour review. Due to sexual situations, this book is recommended for readers 16 and older.
FAVORITE PASSAGES
-“If you’re not falling, it means you’re not taking risks.”
-We’re not alone in this—always remember that.
-“You are more resilient than you think.”
-When you operate through avoidance, you let your fears control you
-What good is life if you’re not living it?
May 1, 2024
*4.5 Rounded Up
More reviews like this on my blog: Musings of Madjy
How gorgeous is this cover?!
From the first page, I got sucked into this wonderful world of rock climbing, documentary filmmaking, and the beauty of Yosemite National Park. I liked both April and Josh immediately, though I definitely wondered exactly what Josh's deal was. He didn't hide that adorable vulnerability very well, so I just knew that I would love him.
April is a just-about-graduated filmmaker who wants to make documentaries for a living and was given the opportunity to intern with a renowned documentary filmmaker in Yosemite National Park. She is pushing herself outside of her comfort zone, especially after a tragic stunt plane accident changed her life forever (and left her with some baggage) a few years before. Josh is the Muhammad Ali of rock climbing and notoriously difficult and terse during interviews... and is the center of the documentary. It's basically April's job to get him to open up... And I'd say that she does. ;)
This was a really sweet romance, though not lacking in sizzle. It's New Adult, but the heat level is pretty tame, just above a Young Adult romance level (lots of hot kisses and embraces!). I think that this worked really well with this story and absolutely adored the way that their relationship was built up. It all felt very genuine (which is pretty big for me, personally).
As much as I loved this (and I did!), I do have to say that I felt that it dragged a bit at about 75% in. The part in particular I'm referring to is definitely necessary and significant, but I feel like it was maybe thrice as long as it needed to be (or maybe I was just impatient?).
You can definitely tell that Megan Westfield did her research for this one, too, making the passions of her characters come to life for those of us who may not be as familiar with them. I don't climb, nor have I visited Yosemite (yet!), but had no problem following along and picturing everything as it was happening. Megan's writing style is immersive and everything flows really well!
I would be remiss if I didn't also mention the supporting characters here - Madigan and Theo, in particular, were just awesome! I can't say that I would mind reading their stories. ;)
More reviews like this on my blog: Musings of Madjy
How gorgeous is this cover?!
From the first page, I got sucked into this wonderful world of rock climbing, documentary filmmaking, and the beauty of Yosemite National Park. I liked both April and Josh immediately, though I definitely wondered exactly what Josh's deal was. He didn't hide that adorable vulnerability very well, so I just knew that I would love him.
April is a just-about-graduated filmmaker who wants to make documentaries for a living and was given the opportunity to intern with a renowned documentary filmmaker in Yosemite National Park. She is pushing herself outside of her comfort zone, especially after a tragic stunt plane accident changed her life forever (and left her with some baggage) a few years before. Josh is the Muhammad Ali of rock climbing and notoriously difficult and terse during interviews... and is the center of the documentary. It's basically April's job to get him to open up... And I'd say that she does. ;)
This was a really sweet romance, though not lacking in sizzle. It's New Adult, but the heat level is pretty tame, just above a Young Adult romance level (lots of hot kisses and embraces!). I think that this worked really well with this story and absolutely adored the way that their relationship was built up. It all felt very genuine (which is pretty big for me, personally).
As much as I loved this (and I did!), I do have to say that I felt that it dragged a bit at about 75% in. The part in particular I'm referring to is definitely necessary and significant, but I feel like it was maybe thrice as long as it needed to be (or maybe I was just impatient?).
You can definitely tell that Megan Westfield did her research for this one, too, making the passions of her characters come to life for those of us who may not be as familiar with them. I don't climb, nor have I visited Yosemite (yet!), but had no problem following along and picturing everything as it was happening. Megan's writing style is immersive and everything flows really well!
I would be remiss if I didn't also mention the supporting characters here - Madigan and Theo, in particular, were just awesome! I can't say that I would mind reading their stories. ;)
October 20, 2016
Review originally posted on:
www.thebookishloner.com
My Thoughts
*This book was provided to me by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I LOVED this book!! For one it dealt with a topic that I had no prior knowledge of and had never read about in any other book… rock climbing! Seriously, as I was reading along I felt such regret that I had never looked into rock climbing as a hobby. Ok, ok, maybe that has to do with being in the midwest where there are hardly ANY rocks to climb, but still, I should have looked into it!
Lessons In Gravity is a gentle, albeit tense, love story. It’s about two people falling for each other despite their brains and fears telling them not to. There are a couple of scenes where things get a little physical but I definitely would consider it more clean than dirty and I didn’t mind! The interactions between April and Josh were enough, even without sex. We get to see them connect and grow, both individually and as a unit. I really loved the story as a whole, plus the little life lessons we get with it. While I had to put the book down more than I wanted, it was super easy to pick it back up and jump right back into the story.
..We’re not alone in this— always remember that. Fear of losing your loved ones is something everyone faces. And no one is exempt from that fear coming true.
I would recommend this to romance readers who like a quality story without the sex scenes. It’s an easy but heartfelt read that you could probably complete on a rainy afternoon. Lessons In Gravity looks to be Megan Westfield’s debut novel. Ireally hope she continues writing because I can’t wait to read her next story!
www.thebookishloner.com
My Thoughts
*This book was provided to me by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I LOVED this book!! For one it dealt with a topic that I had no prior knowledge of and had never read about in any other book… rock climbing! Seriously, as I was reading along I felt such regret that I had never looked into rock climbing as a hobby. Ok, ok, maybe that has to do with being in the midwest where there are hardly ANY rocks to climb, but still, I should have looked into it!
Lessons In Gravity is a gentle, albeit tense, love story. It’s about two people falling for each other despite their brains and fears telling them not to. There are a couple of scenes where things get a little physical but I definitely would consider it more clean than dirty and I didn’t mind! The interactions between April and Josh were enough, even without sex. We get to see them connect and grow, both individually and as a unit. I really loved the story as a whole, plus the little life lessons we get with it. While I had to put the book down more than I wanted, it was super easy to pick it back up and jump right back into the story.
..We’re not alone in this— always remember that. Fear of losing your loved ones is something everyone faces. And no one is exempt from that fear coming true.
I would recommend this to romance readers who like a quality story without the sex scenes. It’s an easy but heartfelt read that you could probably complete on a rainy afternoon. Lessons In Gravity looks to be Megan Westfield’s debut novel. Ireally hope she continues writing because I can’t wait to read her next story!
October 17, 2016
I basically devoured this book. It's the story of April, an intern on a rock climbing documentary, and Josh, the star of both the film and the rock climbing world at large. April recently lost her father and has PTSD from witnessing his traumatic death, and Josh is rude and extremely difficult to interview. Well, at least at first.
The love story here is sweet, but fairly slow to develop (though once it does, it takes off at a sprint). In the end, the book is about more than just the specific romance; it's about how to love even when you're terrified. I felt I was hit over the head with this a little harder than necessary, but it didn't ruin the book for me.
The cast of characters is fun, the descriptions of the scenery are lovely, and I even learned a bit about rock climbing. It's a fast, breezy read about beautiful people falling in love, with wrapped-up angst and a gorgeous setting.
3 1/2 stars
*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
The love story here is sweet, but fairly slow to develop (though once it does, it takes off at a sprint). In the end, the book is about more than just the specific romance; it's about how to love even when you're terrified. I felt I was hit over the head with this a little harder than necessary, but it didn't ruin the book for me.
The cast of characters is fun, the descriptions of the scenery are lovely, and I even learned a bit about rock climbing. It's a fast, breezy read about beautiful people falling in love, with wrapped-up angst and a gorgeous setting.
3 1/2 stars
*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
October 22, 2016
Megan Westfield's use of rocky mountains, dangerous cliffs and turbulent emotions were essential to the plot line of Lessons in Gravity. Josh and April use their careers as shields. Both are running away from hard to face issues. The problem is no matter how fast they run and how far they escape, troubles still persist. For April facing her fears is a big step but she has yet to come to terms with the painful memories that dog her every waking moment. Lessons in Gravity puts the emotion front and center. April and Josh's journey is like pulling of a scab. It burns, it lingers but eventually it heals.
October 28, 2016
This is such an amazing story. The author was able to make us feel the excitement, the thrill, the adventure of climbing Yosemite that it makes me want to experience that myself. This story also made me feel the pain and sorrow of losing someone you love. But it also made me feel alive! The energy coursing through me from the pages of this book, it's exhilarating, it's exciting, it's an experience!
October 19, 2016
This was a sweet read for me. I liked the concept of the book. How April and Josh were both able to overcome their fears and find the meaning of love while doing so. It had me in tears a couple of places, laughter in others and the desire to learn how to rock climb like a rockstar.
April Stephens knows what it feels like to have watched someone she looked up too and loved die doing what he loved. But she needs to continue living. She wants to live her dream of becoming a documentary filmmaker. So when she gets the internship filming, she jumps to the chance. So what if it means living in a tent for a few months. The experience and chance to be a part of something so great is just what she needs.
Josh is the rockclimber. He is known by all that are into rockclimbing. He is the one to watch and learn how to be amazing on the rocks. So he has to allow this filmcrew follow and document his climbs. No big deal. Until he lays his eyes on the beauty that is April. She does something to him inside that he thought had died long ago. He is not very friendly. He likes to keep to himself. But the is something about April that wants him to allow her to get close. But at what cost?
April tries to do her job. Josh is not the easiest to interview. His one word answers and not caring attitude will not do on camera. She needs him to play the part so that she can graduate and land a good job. April continues to try to do her best, finally she sees a side of Josh that no one else is permitted to see. He is just beautiful. He is so much more than the guy that climbs a rock and lives in his truck.
As the attraction between April and Josh heats up, they learn that sometimes you have to let go of the past to see the future even if it means jumping and not knowing where you will land. They both must learn to trust the other with their secrets. But once it is all said, will April be able to love Josh unconditional, knowing that he risk his live everyday? Can Josh allow someone into his heart knowing that everyone he has loved has turned their back on him? Can love find its way between these two's heart or will it end up lost in the rocks?
April Stephens knows what it feels like to have watched someone she looked up too and loved die doing what he loved. But she needs to continue living. She wants to live her dream of becoming a documentary filmmaker. So when she gets the internship filming, she jumps to the chance. So what if it means living in a tent for a few months. The experience and chance to be a part of something so great is just what she needs.
Josh is the rockclimber. He is known by all that are into rockclimbing. He is the one to watch and learn how to be amazing on the rocks. So he has to allow this filmcrew follow and document his climbs. No big deal. Until he lays his eyes on the beauty that is April. She does something to him inside that he thought had died long ago. He is not very friendly. He likes to keep to himself. But the is something about April that wants him to allow her to get close. But at what cost?
April tries to do her job. Josh is not the easiest to interview. His one word answers and not caring attitude will not do on camera. She needs him to play the part so that she can graduate and land a good job. April continues to try to do her best, finally she sees a side of Josh that no one else is permitted to see. He is just beautiful. He is so much more than the guy that climbs a rock and lives in his truck.
As the attraction between April and Josh heats up, they learn that sometimes you have to let go of the past to see the future even if it means jumping and not knowing where you will land. They both must learn to trust the other with their secrets. But once it is all said, will April be able to love Josh unconditional, knowing that he risk his live everyday? Can Josh allow someone into his heart knowing that everyone he has loved has turned their back on him? Can love find its way between these two's heart or will it end up lost in the rocks?
March 3, 2017
*This is a first-pages review by CM McCoy for North of Normal Book Reviews *
Shivers and urgency!
Opening this romance with a full-bladdered, tent-camping chill was brilliant. There’s this subtle humor juxtaposed with a heartbreaking burden of grief AND a good old-fashioned, morning-cold-of-tent-camping slap in the face. I love this main character already. With her, I’m shivering. I’m already on the edge of my seat. And most importantly, I’m hooked. Bring on the romance!
Megan Westfield has obviously been camping with a flat ground pad and describes the discomfort and bone-chill perfectly. More perfect is the her set-up of this MC for an epic romance, which is hidden in the white space: her heart is still hurting from her father’s death, she doesn’t really want to be here–in a tent, freezing her butt off –BUT right about now, she’d love some body heat, if you know what I mean ;-)
Even though I like the voice and the background info in her early-version first page, I can tell it was her “engine-cranking” (you know–all the writing an author has to do before they get down to telling the story.) All of that backstory will be woven into the narrative, and this novel starts the way a novel should–with shivers and a sense of urgency.
Shivers and urgency!
Opening this romance with a full-bladdered, tent-camping chill was brilliant. There’s this subtle humor juxtaposed with a heartbreaking burden of grief AND a good old-fashioned, morning-cold-of-tent-camping slap in the face. I love this main character already. With her, I’m shivering. I’m already on the edge of my seat. And most importantly, I’m hooked. Bring on the romance!
Megan Westfield has obviously been camping with a flat ground pad and describes the discomfort and bone-chill perfectly. More perfect is the her set-up of this MC for an epic romance, which is hidden in the white space: her heart is still hurting from her father’s death, she doesn’t really want to be here–in a tent, freezing her butt off –BUT right about now, she’d love some body heat, if you know what I mean ;-)
Even though I like the voice and the background info in her early-version first page, I can tell it was her “engine-cranking” (you know–all the writing an author has to do before they get down to telling the story.) All of that backstory will be woven into the narrative, and this novel starts the way a novel should–with shivers and a sense of urgency.
October 12, 2016
I can honestly say I haven't read any romances with climbing involved. Sure I've read books with some of the more adventurous sports, like snowboarding, motor biking, etc but never anything with rock climbing. I think the reason why this book appealed to me so much is two fold, one I kind of have this idea in my head that rock climbers are somewhat fearless and I want to be more like that, and two I am planning a move to Montana and let's face it there is probably some awesome rock climbing out that way so I want to learn before I move.
One thing I appreciated about this book was that even though climbing was the back drop for the entire book, the author did a great job at getting me understand enough of it to get what was going on, but didn't overload me to the point where I got confused (seeing as how I have no experience). The author also did a really good job at describing the scene, I could picture the meadow where they met for interviews, the area where they did the final climb, and the little lake they would take a frozen dip in when they finished a climb. I love when I can see it in my head.
Josh and April as characters were both pretty interesting. You get a much better feel for April early on in the book, it is her POV after all. But she really interesting and complex, her dad was a stunt pilot who died in a stunt gone wrong, so you would think she would have a natural aversion to daredevils, but she is really willing to do whatever she needs to in order to pursue her dreams of being a documentary film maker. I liked how dedicated she was, how emotionally she was involved not just in Josh, but also her work. She was just easy to like and root for.
Josh was harder to get to know. At first he comes of as a guy who is the rock star of the climbing world, and also has the groupies to show for that status. But he also seems to be more than a little reserved, especially when it comes to being in front of the camera and answering questions for April. But as the story goes on you really get much more of a sense of Josh, he may come off like he doesn't care about anything, but he's very serious about his job as a climber, and he also carries some heartache along with him that really influences the way that he lives his life. I do wish I got to be in his head, just a little bit, but overall I really liked him. I also think he was just the right person for April to really deal with the things in her life that she hadn't been up until then. They really suited each other well.
Overall, I really liked this book. I thought it was really just like a breath of fresh air. It's not often I get to read about a topic that I haven't read before, I tend to stick to the same stuff, so it's always refreshing to step outside the norm. I can't wait to try out climbing now, and this book is a very easy recommendation to give.
October 28, 2016
April has always dreamed of being a documentary filmmaker and is currently interning with Walkabout in order to finish her degree. She still struggles with the death of her stunt pilot father three years ago, and in fact has nightmares about it as she witnessed the horrible crash that took his life. She's vowed to never get involved with a man that lives his life the same as her Dad did, adventurous, adrenaline based, and dangerous. A vow that changes when she meets Josh.
Josh embodies all that a climber is. He loves the thrill, the freedom, the rush that comes from doing it and has since he was little. He's not one to share personal information, preferring to keep his interviews concise and as unobtrusive as possible, therefore he usually doesn't come off well. A fact that doesn't bode well for April as she learns Josh is the star of their documentary and it seems as if he can't stand to be around her, making their interactions during interviews as uncomfortable as possible.
Josh, having suffered his own type of loss, is trying to keep an emotional distance from April. He's been intrigued from the moment he spotted her, but his feelings for her scare him. He can free climb with no fear at all, yet knowing she has the power to hurt him is a different matter.
April feels the connection between her and Josh, but is reluctant to get involved with someone who willingly puts their life on the line, knowing how easily she can lose him. She can't go through that pain again. However, she's constantly drawn to Josh and when she sees the real Josh, the one that many don't see, and the version of him that's just for her, she can't help but start falling for him.
As their relationship deepens, April knows she's in danger of losing not only her heart, but also her job as its against the rules for a crew member to be with the "talent." There's also the fact that she's terrified of his upcoming climb, and then one of her worst fears comes true.
Can Josh and April work through this? Will she be by his side during his recovery and after? Or will she decide she can't take the risk and leave him, dealing him another blow like the one he's already suffered and still feels the pain of? Will April realize she loves him, unconditionally, and give their relationship, their future, a chance? Will Josh understand why she acted as she did and be able to forgive her? Will they get their HEA?
One-click now to follow the journey of two people both hurt in the past and still struggling with the emotional impact it's had on them as they discover a love that could conquer all, taking them to the heights of something rare and beautiful. I will say that this story moves at a slower pace and is solely from April's point of view. I really wish we could've seen things from Josh's as well because I feel it definitely would've added to their building relationship. I'm hopeful that other stories are to follow allowing us the chance to watch both Madigan and Theo find love too. Plus, we can see Josh and April again.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Josh embodies all that a climber is. He loves the thrill, the freedom, the rush that comes from doing it and has since he was little. He's not one to share personal information, preferring to keep his interviews concise and as unobtrusive as possible, therefore he usually doesn't come off well. A fact that doesn't bode well for April as she learns Josh is the star of their documentary and it seems as if he can't stand to be around her, making their interactions during interviews as uncomfortable as possible.
Josh, having suffered his own type of loss, is trying to keep an emotional distance from April. He's been intrigued from the moment he spotted her, but his feelings for her scare him. He can free climb with no fear at all, yet knowing she has the power to hurt him is a different matter.
April feels the connection between her and Josh, but is reluctant to get involved with someone who willingly puts their life on the line, knowing how easily she can lose him. She can't go through that pain again. However, she's constantly drawn to Josh and when she sees the real Josh, the one that many don't see, and the version of him that's just for her, she can't help but start falling for him.
As their relationship deepens, April knows she's in danger of losing not only her heart, but also her job as its against the rules for a crew member to be with the "talent." There's also the fact that she's terrified of his upcoming climb, and then one of her worst fears comes true.
Can Josh and April work through this? Will she be by his side during his recovery and after? Or will she decide she can't take the risk and leave him, dealing him another blow like the one he's already suffered and still feels the pain of? Will April realize she loves him, unconditionally, and give their relationship, their future, a chance? Will Josh understand why she acted as she did and be able to forgive her? Will they get their HEA?
One-click now to follow the journey of two people both hurt in the past and still struggling with the emotional impact it's had on them as they discover a love that could conquer all, taking them to the heights of something rare and beautiful. I will say that this story moves at a slower pace and is solely from April's point of view. I really wish we could've seen things from Josh's as well because I feel it definitely would've added to their building relationship. I'm hopeful that other stories are to follow allowing us the chance to watch both Madigan and Theo find love too. Plus, we can see Josh and April again.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
October 25, 2016
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**
Lessons in Gravity is such a magical read. I really, really loved this one. In fact, I think it is one of my favorite reads of the year. Lessons in Gravity is a new adult contemporary romance between a famous rock climber ready to take on his biggest climb ever and a documentary filmmaker hopeful determined to be a success at her internship. I loved the setup of this story, and the only reason my review is not 7 paragraphs long is because there is a big spoiler in this story, and I am unaware of how to write about some of the details without broaching the subject and I am also unaware of how to not get overly gushy with everything I write. So I am going to keep this one brief, and give you the takeaway right now- you need to read this book.
I love Josh and April. But mostly Josh. Ok, that is not entirely fair because April is an excellent character. She is spunky and determined and I completely admire that about her. But it is darn hard to compete with Josh in my eyes. Even when he is being difficult and surely he is yummy. I couldn't get enough of him. In fact, the only thing better than Josh was Josh and April together.
Another thing I loved about Lessons in Gravity was the tone of excitement and adventure in the story. it made everything feel adrenaline filled, even the romance. Especially the romance. Reading this book made my heart race. And that is always a good thing. I can't say enough about how much I loved Lessons in Gravity. I think this is a must read book of 2016. Megan Westfield will excite you, thrill you and surprise you with Lessons in Gravity. Reviews won't do this one justice, you need to read it for yourself to see how magical it is.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Lessons in Gravity is such a magical read. I really, really loved this one. In fact, I think it is one of my favorite reads of the year. Lessons in Gravity is a new adult contemporary romance between a famous rock climber ready to take on his biggest climb ever and a documentary filmmaker hopeful determined to be a success at her internship. I loved the setup of this story, and the only reason my review is not 7 paragraphs long is because there is a big spoiler in this story, and I am unaware of how to write about some of the details without broaching the subject and I am also unaware of how to not get overly gushy with everything I write. So I am going to keep this one brief, and give you the takeaway right now- you need to read this book.
I love Josh and April. But mostly Josh. Ok, that is not entirely fair because April is an excellent character. She is spunky and determined and I completely admire that about her. But it is darn hard to compete with Josh in my eyes. Even when he is being difficult and surely he is yummy. I couldn't get enough of him. In fact, the only thing better than Josh was Josh and April together.
Another thing I loved about Lessons in Gravity was the tone of excitement and adventure in the story. it made everything feel adrenaline filled, even the romance. Especially the romance. Reading this book made my heart race. And that is always a good thing. I can't say enough about how much I loved Lessons in Gravity. I think this is a must read book of 2016. Megan Westfield will excite you, thrill you and surprise you with Lessons in Gravity. Reviews won't do this one justice, you need to read it for yourself to see how magical it is.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
October 27, 2017
4.5/5
I loved this book! April and Josh were amazing leads, and I loved reading their story. It’s definitely a slow burn romance, which I fully appreciate. The only reason I don’t give this 5 is because it did drag on a bit toward the end.
Overall, this is a great new adult read for fans of Cora Carmack.
I loved this book! April and Josh were amazing leads, and I loved reading their story. It’s definitely a slow burn romance, which I fully appreciate. The only reason I don’t give this 5 is because it did drag on a bit toward the end.
Overall, this is a great new adult read for fans of Cora Carmack.
November 3, 2016
This was a sweet book. It had a brilliant little romance to it, but it wasn’t overpowering, so you didn’t feel as though the whole book was just about their building romance. I like that. I know it isn’t for everyone and trust me I am a fan of Bam There’s Your Sex novels, but I also love ones where there is depth, personality and a real story.
This was a little bit of a funny one for me. I adored the fact that there was a main character, who happened to be a daredevil style climber, as I and my hubby are both climbers. It did mean that I had to take some of it with a pinch of salt, but all movies and books are that way. That aside, I found it fun to get to know the character Westfield had created. She did well to really get in the mind of a climber and it was fun to laugh, thinking about times we found ourselves in similar places.
I liked the leading lady as well. As photographers, I could connect with her and her need to make it big and really get out there. We spent years photographing extreme sports and there is nothing like the rush of being part of it, but I can imagine it must be a little scary to those who don’t partake in adrenaline sports, so it was brilliant to read about her.
The pace matched the book a lot. We were thrown into a whirlwind of excitement, between her rushing to get her job on Yosemite and the adrenaline of climbing, I found it very catchy and exciting. I thought this made the slower speed of the relationship advances even better, as it countered the pace of the rest of the book.
Overall a good little read. I would recommend it to those looking for a light love read, especially if you want to see in the mind a of fearless and exciting lead man.
** I received this book for free and voluntarily provided my honest and unbiased opinion.
This was a little bit of a funny one for me. I adored the fact that there was a main character, who happened to be a daredevil style climber, as I and my hubby are both climbers. It did mean that I had to take some of it with a pinch of salt, but all movies and books are that way. That aside, I found it fun to get to know the character Westfield had created. She did well to really get in the mind of a climber and it was fun to laugh, thinking about times we found ourselves in similar places.
I liked the leading lady as well. As photographers, I could connect with her and her need to make it big and really get out there. We spent years photographing extreme sports and there is nothing like the rush of being part of it, but I can imagine it must be a little scary to those who don’t partake in adrenaline sports, so it was brilliant to read about her.
The pace matched the book a lot. We were thrown into a whirlwind of excitement, between her rushing to get her job on Yosemite and the adrenaline of climbing, I found it very catchy and exciting. I thought this made the slower speed of the relationship advances even better, as it countered the pace of the rest of the book.
Overall a good little read. I would recommend it to those looking for a light love read, especially if you want to see in the mind a of fearless and exciting lead man.
** I received this book for free and voluntarily provided my honest and unbiased opinion.
October 24, 2016
Unique romance set-up using a rock-climbing theme but also deals with some sensitive issues.
Lessons in Gravity was my first book by Megan Westfield so I had no idea what to expect but I overall enjoyed this book. Lessons in Gravity is a clean type of contemporary romance that had plenty of emotion mixed into this unique setup based around rock climbing.
April and Josh had a sweet connection as their relationship evolved, although it builds at a relatively slow going pace. Both characters were likeable and the two complimented each other perfectly as they opened up to each other and grew closer, something that as a reader you could really feel the emotion. There was plenty of tension and drama mixed in with the budding romance that has to be gone through before they can get a HEA.
Lessons in Gravity was executed with good writing and had a unique plot that keeps you interested enough, despite the slow pace of the relationship development of the characters. In terms of the rock climbing details, I can’t comment on the accuracy as I have no knowledge of the area but seemed ok to a novice like me and I could follow along no problem. The author captured good descriptions of their location and environment where you could easily envision what was playing out in the scene. Also, some of the emotional issues raised were handled well with sensitivity. Lessons in Gravity can be read as a standalone with a HEA.
Overall, I enjoyed this book for something different.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Entangled Publishing via NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Lessons in Gravity was my first book by Megan Westfield so I had no idea what to expect but I overall enjoyed this book. Lessons in Gravity is a clean type of contemporary romance that had plenty of emotion mixed into this unique setup based around rock climbing.
April and Josh had a sweet connection as their relationship evolved, although it builds at a relatively slow going pace. Both characters were likeable and the two complimented each other perfectly as they opened up to each other and grew closer, something that as a reader you could really feel the emotion. There was plenty of tension and drama mixed in with the budding romance that has to be gone through before they can get a HEA.
Lessons in Gravity was executed with good writing and had a unique plot that keeps you interested enough, despite the slow pace of the relationship development of the characters. In terms of the rock climbing details, I can’t comment on the accuracy as I have no knowledge of the area but seemed ok to a novice like me and I could follow along no problem. The author captured good descriptions of their location and environment where you could easily envision what was playing out in the scene. Also, some of the emotional issues raised were handled well with sensitivity. Lessons in Gravity can be read as a standalone with a HEA.
Overall, I enjoyed this book for something different.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Entangled Publishing via NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
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