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The Promise
‘The Promise’ brings together two people searching for a love that can overcome tragedy. A heartbreakingly romantic novel that challenges us to live – and love - every day as if it were our last.
“Promise me one thing. Promise me you’ll live.”
Claire Fortune arrives in Boston with an old notebook and her best friend’s dying wish – to finish the scribbled bucket list that Hope didn’t have time to complete. Moment by moment, Claire builds a life she never dreamed of – until Theo walks into the coffee-shop one crisp September afternoon, and her careful plans scatter on the winds. Sometimes a chance meeting can change a life forever. Sometimes fate knows exactly what we need.
“Promise me one thing. Promise me you’ll live.”
Claire Fortune arrives in Boston with an old notebook and her best friend’s dying wish – to finish the scribbled bucket list that Hope didn’t have time to complete. Moment by moment, Claire builds a life she never dreamed of – until Theo walks into the coffee-shop one crisp September afternoon, and her careful plans scatter on the winds. Sometimes a chance meeting can change a life forever. Sometimes fate knows exactly what we need.
420 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2016
2078 people are currently reading
1795 people want to read
About the author
Melody Grace
69 books2,637 followersNYT bestselling author of small-town romance. A new chapter in the Sweetbriar Cove series begins with Two Hearts - July 30th!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
October 17, 2016
'The Promise' was my second book by this author and certainly won’t be my last because I really enjoyed her storytelling and her writing style. While the first book I’ve read by her was sweet and sexy, this one was heartbreaking beautiful, but I enjoyed it as much. Reading the blurb, I expected this story to be emotional in some way or another, but I’ve never expected to be so gut-wrenching and so intense. 'The Promise' is a story about love, friendship and so much more that will suck you in and make you feel from the very beginning.
“…no matter how hard we try: the earth kept spinning its slow, lazy arc as we lived and loved and felt our hearts swell and bloom and break. This was all we had. This was our beautiful world. And I was finally ready for the end.”
Claire Fortune spent all her life in a small town outside of San Antonio, but recently she moved in Boston alone. Without any family or friends, just with a notebook that reminds her of her old life, Claire wants to finish a bucket list. Not her bucket list, but her best friend Hope, who unfortunately didn’t have the chance to complete it. Claire promised Hope she will finish her bucket list, that will live for both of them, that will live every day like it’s her last, so she’s determined to do exactly that. She finds an apartment to rent with some other girl, she gets a job, she starts making some friends, enjoying her new life and freedom more than she thought she will. Since the timing is not right in more ways than one, Claire doesn’t look for a boyfriend, but from the moment she lays her eyes on a boy who comes in the coffee shop where she works, she’s smitten and so very interested to know who he is.
“My heart leaps up when I behold/A rainbow in the sky.”
Theo has his own personal issues he needs to deal with. A relationship is the last thing he’s looking for right now, but when he meets Claire he’s taken aback by how beautiful, different and so refreshing she is. Neither of them expects their relationship to evolve from strangers to something more in such a short time or that their lives to change irrevocably, but fate has other plans.
“We were gravity, we were the earth’s true orbit, inexorably drawn together under that midnight sky for just one purpose; the simplest thing in the world.
A kiss.”
'The Promise' was beautifully written, emotional, but also so very sweet. The story’s premise was nothing new, but the execution was quite good and while I found the story line to be a little predictable at times, I enjoyed Claire and Theo’s journey. It was a sad, bitter sweet journey that made me feel, it was raw, though-provoking and made my heart ache.
I liked Claire a lot. Her character was pretty well developed and I felt deeply for as the story unfolded and her “secret” was revealed. My heart broke for this girl who was so brave and had so much strength. I loved her determination, how courageous she was, how much she tried to live every day to the fullest. Overall, she was a great, inspiring character I admired very much. Theo was great as well, but to be honest his character’s development was not as good as Claire’s. Personally I would have wanted the story to be written in dual POV, not only from Claire’s perspective, because I’m sure I would have felt differently. Theo was sweet and caring, patient at times and considerate and pretty awesome for our heroine.
“…suddenly my entire universe had been reduced to a raw, feral need. More of him. All of him. Anything I could take, and give, anything I could feel.”
Despite the fact the dynamic between them changed pretty quickly after they met, their relationship didn’t feel rushed, which I enjoyed. I loved all the sweet and tender moments between them, their friendship, but I wanted a little more honesty between them. I also would have liked the two main characters to be more physical portrayed.
All in all, 'The Promise' was a sweet, emotional read with a great love story and a wonderful message.
October 13, 2016
The first time you fall in love, it changes you forever. No matter how hard you try, that feeling never goes away. ~Nicholas Sparks
Books are like love; we get lost in them. We feel them. We experience them. The Promise by Melody Grace crashed into me unexpectedly, casting me under its spell, where I could do nothing but succumb to this story that shattered my soul and hijacked my heart from beginning to end.
From the beginning, I knew that this was unlike any other Melody Grace book I’ve ever read; it was way better. I knew that this story with its simple title would not be simple at all. The Promise…so much meaning in two little words. So much hope. So much potential. Simple-sounding but significant words.
The Promise took me prisoner from page one, immersing me, as I was intoxicated by the beauty and brilliance of words that rivaled those in a Nicholas Sparks novel. My emotions entangled around me, engulfing every part of me where I felt powerless to stop the feelings that threatened to flow.
A 19-year-old girl, Claire Fortune, promised her dying best friend that she would complete her bestie’s bucket list. A bucket list that would take Claire out of her Texas hometown into unchartered territory, Boston, a big city for a small town girl. A new adventure. A new life.
“I half-expected this new adventure to be a dream that would dissolve with every yawning breath, and when it didn’t, I treasured it all over again.”
This bucket list was so out of the reserved Claire’s comfort zone but one she would see through until completion. A bucket list that altered Claire’s world. A bucket list that meant everything.
Sometimes love comes along when you least expect and changes you forever.
“I wasn’t looking for a man to walk through the door and change my life. I wasn’t that girl at all. But that’s not how this story goes.”
Claire didn’t expect to check off finding a man who would change her life, an item not on her bucket list, but one that was an unexpected surprise.
“I wanted something I’d never wanted before, with a fierce hunger that took the wind from my lungs.”
A gorgeous guy named Theo, a poet with a huge heart, walked into Claire’s life, shifting their worlds forever.
“We were gravity, we were the earth’s orbit, inexorably drawn together.”
Love is built on trust, so delicately woven that once broken, may break the already fragile love. Once lost, love is the greatest hit to the heart of all.
“I thought I knew what it was to love and lose, to feel that wretched agony split your world apart, the jagged edged of an empty forever taunting with every raw, ragged breath…and then I lost Theo too. It was over. It was all my fault.”
I lost myself in The Promise, vanishing into this life-altering story, spellbound, as it seized every part of me: body, heart, and soul. The Promise hit my heart and shattered my soul where my emotions bled for this book. I was melded to every word. I smiled all the smiles. I cried all the tears. I felt all the feels. I FELT EVERYTHING.
Melody Grace poured her heart, blood, sweat, and tears into her most brilliant and best book yet, a perfectly poignant romance that remains for a lifetime like that epic love. The Promise is a story that is so much more than those two simple words. The Promise is taking that leap and living life to the fullest. The Promise is love against the odds. The Promise is happiness, hope, and heartbreak in a book bathed in beautiful words. The Promise is EVERYTHING.
Enjoy the little moments in life, for some day you will look back and realize they were the big things. Every day is a new beginning. A chance to love. A chance to live. A chance to dream. A chance to do! We live through our actions. We live through our memories. Sometimes we live through stories.
I lived and loved through The Promise, a breathtakingly beautiful and broken love story by Melody Grace, where I was wrecked in the worst and best way. I fell in deep and devotional love with The Promise. I gave my soul to this story—as if I had a choice—for it to be sucked in and stolen from me. I gave my heart to The Promise, this tender and touching tale, where it was massacred yet melted. I lost myself in The Promise where I may forever remain.
★★★★★ perfectly poignant ‘full of promise’ stars
Books are like love; we get lost in them. We feel them. We experience them. The Promise by Melody Grace crashed into me unexpectedly, casting me under its spell, where I could do nothing but succumb to this story that shattered my soul and hijacked my heart from beginning to end.
From the beginning, I knew that this was unlike any other Melody Grace book I’ve ever read; it was way better. I knew that this story with its simple title would not be simple at all. The Promise…so much meaning in two little words. So much hope. So much potential. Simple-sounding but significant words.
The Promise took me prisoner from page one, immersing me, as I was intoxicated by the beauty and brilliance of words that rivaled those in a Nicholas Sparks novel. My emotions entangled around me, engulfing every part of me where I felt powerless to stop the feelings that threatened to flow.
A 19-year-old girl, Claire Fortune, promised her dying best friend that she would complete her bestie’s bucket list. A bucket list that would take Claire out of her Texas hometown into unchartered territory, Boston, a big city for a small town girl. A new adventure. A new life.
“I half-expected this new adventure to be a dream that would dissolve with every yawning breath, and when it didn’t, I treasured it all over again.”
This bucket list was so out of the reserved Claire’s comfort zone but one she would see through until completion. A bucket list that altered Claire’s world. A bucket list that meant everything.
Sometimes love comes along when you least expect and changes you forever.
“I wasn’t looking for a man to walk through the door and change my life. I wasn’t that girl at all. But that’s not how this story goes.”
Claire didn’t expect to check off finding a man who would change her life, an item not on her bucket list, but one that was an unexpected surprise.
“I wanted something I’d never wanted before, with a fierce hunger that took the wind from my lungs.”
A gorgeous guy named Theo, a poet with a huge heart, walked into Claire’s life, shifting their worlds forever.
“We were gravity, we were the earth’s orbit, inexorably drawn together.”
Love is built on trust, so delicately woven that once broken, may break the already fragile love. Once lost, love is the greatest hit to the heart of all.
“I thought I knew what it was to love and lose, to feel that wretched agony split your world apart, the jagged edged of an empty forever taunting with every raw, ragged breath…and then I lost Theo too. It was over. It was all my fault.”
I lost myself in The Promise, vanishing into this life-altering story, spellbound, as it seized every part of me: body, heart, and soul. The Promise hit my heart and shattered my soul where my emotions bled for this book. I was melded to every word. I smiled all the smiles. I cried all the tears. I felt all the feels. I FELT EVERYTHING.
Melody Grace poured her heart, blood, sweat, and tears into her most brilliant and best book yet, a perfectly poignant romance that remains for a lifetime like that epic love. The Promise is a story that is so much more than those two simple words. The Promise is taking that leap and living life to the fullest. The Promise is love against the odds. The Promise is happiness, hope, and heartbreak in a book bathed in beautiful words. The Promise is EVERYTHING.
Enjoy the little moments in life, for some day you will look back and realize they were the big things. Every day is a new beginning. A chance to love. A chance to live. A chance to dream. A chance to do! We live through our actions. We live through our memories. Sometimes we live through stories.
I lived and loved through The Promise, a breathtakingly beautiful and broken love story by Melody Grace, where I was wrecked in the worst and best way. I fell in deep and devotional love with The Promise. I gave my soul to this story—as if I had a choice—for it to be sucked in and stolen from me. I gave my heart to The Promise, this tender and touching tale, where it was massacred yet melted. I lost myself in The Promise where I may forever remain.
★★★★★ perfectly poignant ‘full of promise’ stars
October 7, 2016
3.5 stars
The Promise is the first book I've read by Melody Grace and, it's one of those that is hard to review because of spoilers that could easily ruin the reading experience for others. So this will be short and relatively vague for that reason.
What occurs in this story has been done before, and yes that gave it an air of predictability that possibly lessened how I reacted emotionally. Nevertheless it's heart-wrenching, touching and keeps you hoping throughout and, as the story unfolds, you become invested in Claire and Theo as characters and the journey they travel.
"Love, only love, matters in the end."
Melody Grace has brought her reader a story of discovery and sacrifice centralising around the things in life that many of us take for granted and that aspect does make you stop and think a little. And, with a writing style which worked well for me, she's an author I'd read again in the future.
Copy received courtesy of TRSOR & Sassy Savvy Fabulous PR for an honest and unbiased opinion.
The Promise is the first book I've read by Melody Grace and, it's one of those that is hard to review because of spoilers that could easily ruin the reading experience for others. So this will be short and relatively vague for that reason.
What occurs in this story has been done before, and yes that gave it an air of predictability that possibly lessened how I reacted emotionally. Nevertheless it's heart-wrenching, touching and keeps you hoping throughout and, as the story unfolds, you become invested in Claire and Theo as characters and the journey they travel.
"Love, only love, matters in the end."
Melody Grace has brought her reader a story of discovery and sacrifice centralising around the things in life that many of us take for granted and that aspect does make you stop and think a little. And, with a writing style which worked well for me, she's an author I'd read again in the future.
Copy received courtesy of TRSOR & Sassy Savvy Fabulous PR for an honest and unbiased opinion.
i-might-read
October 17, 2016I don't think I could handle the intensity of this book right now. Sounds like an awesome story, just can't handle a sad story right now!
October 16, 2016
Wow! I don’t know how to write this review and it's one of those that is hard to review because of spoilers that can ruin this review for others. So I will do the best I can on my review. A 19-year-old girl, Claire Fortune decided to fulfil her best friend’s bucket list for her since she could no longer and to do that, she headed to Boston and its there she finds a new life, new place, new adventure and a new man. All these are things she has never had before in her life and she finds this is unsettling and confusing but she goes on to live her life and fulfil her best friend’s wishes. The new man is named Theo and he just comes into Claire’s life like a strong wind. He, too, is troubled but they are drawn to each other. I found their chemistry together is fantastic and hot. I couldn’t get enough of their interaction but I knew there was this huge secret that Claire was keeping. The buildup is coming and I was getting antsy as the story slowly continues to build up towards it.
Oh and the angst and heartbreak that is coming. I have to say, I cried buckets. Be prepared. Get tissues. I had to get up and walk away from my kindle a few times. The ending is one that I didn’t expect to happen. But we always cant have what we want and I think I would have liked more of a closure of an ending..which is why my rating is lower than I would normally give for a story like this. The author has a way about her writing and I loved her character building. Its how the ending went –would have liked more of a satisfying ending. Otherwise, good story with fantastic characters.
My rating: 4.0 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Oh and the angst and heartbreak that is coming. I have to say, I cried buckets. Be prepared. Get tissues. I had to get up and walk away from my kindle a few times. The ending is one that I didn’t expect to happen. But we always cant have what we want and I think I would have liked more of a closure of an ending..which is why my rating is lower than I would normally give for a story like this. The author has a way about her writing and I loved her character building. Its how the ending went –would have liked more of a satisfying ending. Otherwise, good story with fantastic characters.
My rating: 4.0 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
October 8, 2016
Not enough stars
Not enough words
God how would I ever review this book . I'm speechless . Now matter what I say It wouldn't do it justice .
This is was such a heartbreaking journey . It tore me apart , and my emotions were strewn all over the place . I had to take so many breaks from it just to absorb its grandeur . It's message and it's utter heartbreaking beauty . This book needs to be lived and there is no other way to read it . The author pushs you to live Every waking moment . Every little detail . Makes work for every revelation and it's like she bled writing this book . I could feel the story from every single POV . My heart physically ached and I went through every single emotion known to mankind .
I was so invested in it . It rattled me in every possible way . Every day I picked it up start reading and then it swallows me up in so many ways . It made me question so many things in life . Made me rethink so many decisions o had made . And above all it made me cherish every single trivial thing in life .
This isn't some story you could forget after finishing the last sentence . Even that last sentence would keep your mind spinning . Granted IT was a very hard read sad and heartbreaking but so uplifting and could impact you in so many ways if you'd give it a chance . And the writing was breathtaking. I'm reeling from this author writing . It's raw, punishing , real , hard and so beautiful it took my breath away . This was my first book by her and she is already up there with the great .
The characters in this book were out of this world too I loved every single one of them . But the one who took my breath away was the heroine . She was the poster child for strength and resilience and power and bravery . The way she owned her destiny . Her heart was the purest and the brightest shade of gold . She was inspiring and courageous . Weak and selfish . Beautiful and brave . And everything in between .
I could go on all day about this book because there are so many things to say . But I will say this . This is the kind of book that is capable of making you feel and relate no matter what your intake on your life is . Im positive be you could something in this story that'll make you feel, think And cherish every single thing you were given in life .
One of the best books I've reads far . It'll surely stay with me forever . The writing is so beautiful I don't know how to move on now .
Everyone should read this book .
Not enough words
God how would I ever review this book . I'm speechless . Now matter what I say It wouldn't do it justice .
This is was such a heartbreaking journey . It tore me apart , and my emotions were strewn all over the place . I had to take so many breaks from it just to absorb its grandeur . It's message and it's utter heartbreaking beauty . This book needs to be lived and there is no other way to read it . The author pushs you to live Every waking moment . Every little detail . Makes work for every revelation and it's like she bled writing this book . I could feel the story from every single POV . My heart physically ached and I went through every single emotion known to mankind .
I was so invested in it . It rattled me in every possible way . Every day I picked it up start reading and then it swallows me up in so many ways . It made me question so many things in life . Made me rethink so many decisions o had made . And above all it made me cherish every single trivial thing in life .
This isn't some story you could forget after finishing the last sentence . Even that last sentence would keep your mind spinning . Granted IT was a very hard read sad and heartbreaking but so uplifting and could impact you in so many ways if you'd give it a chance . And the writing was breathtaking. I'm reeling from this author writing . It's raw, punishing , real , hard and so beautiful it took my breath away . This was my first book by her and she is already up there with the great .
The characters in this book were out of this world too I loved every single one of them . But the one who took my breath away was the heroine . She was the poster child for strength and resilience and power and bravery . The way she owned her destiny . Her heart was the purest and the brightest shade of gold . She was inspiring and courageous . Weak and selfish . Beautiful and brave . And everything in between .
I could go on all day about this book because there are so many things to say . But I will say this . This is the kind of book that is capable of making you feel and relate no matter what your intake on your life is . Im positive be you could something in this story that'll make you feel, think And cherish every single thing you were given in life .
One of the best books I've reads far . It'll surely stay with me forever . The writing is so beautiful I don't know how to move on now .
Everyone should read this book .
Read
October 30, 2016
No rating. DNF @ 62%
September 14, 2016
The first chapters are available as a special Sneak Peek on iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-...
October 18, 2016
“What would you do for love?”
WOW! Just finished this heart-breakingly beautiful book by Melody Grace. This is the first time I read a book from this author and it is definitely not my last.
Solid 4.5 emotional Stars!!!
LOVE LOVE the cover as well.
I normally don’t compare books, but since “The Fault in Our Stars” and “Me Before You” were mentioned in the description I think you sort of know where the story is going. Compared to the above books mentioned, The Promise is not my most favorite but it really came in a close second. The reason is because I may have paid too much attention to details in the plot … for example, when one chooses end of life care, there should not be any ventilator or aggressive treatment like was mentioned. It seems that the person was able to do all the things too effortlessly given how the disease had advanced. I think for these reasons I did not feel as deeply connected to the character’s struggles and pain as I would have liked. Besides these small details, the Promise is beautifully written – it will make your heart break, you head spin, and your world fall apart.
The story is heart wrenching, raw, poignant and so beautiful. It will make you cry so get some tissue ready. You learn that life is precious and to make each day count. The story showcased the strength, courage, sacrifice, and choices the characters have to make for a chance at love and living life with so much adversity. This is not a feel good, light-hearted book by any means guys – this story will make you think, feel and shred some tears. I was especially emotional at the last chapter -- Theo’s POV. I actually love this chapter the most because I really feel connected to Theo. I realize that the entire book is told in Claire’s POV and I wish so much that there was more of what’s on Theo’s mind - his thoughts and feelings thoughout their journey. Theo is such a sweet, caring and loving guy it's too bad that we don’t get to know more of him.
I love the author’s writing though – very graceful and flows effortlessly from beginning to end. I am a sucker for punishment. I love these kinds of books that make your stomach twist and puts your heart in your throat. I was pulled into the story straight away and did not come out until the end. Devoured it in one night.
“Yes, I’d roll the dice on forever, and risk everything for that smile-not just what we’d shared, but for the chance of a thousand more to come.”
Make each day count and Happy reading!
*** SPOILER ALERT COMMENT***
I am puzzled as to whether Theo will have his own book … I would be so ecstatic but maybe it just my wishful thinking?
WOW! Just finished this heart-breakingly beautiful book by Melody Grace. This is the first time I read a book from this author and it is definitely not my last.
Solid 4.5 emotional Stars!!!
LOVE LOVE the cover as well.
I normally don’t compare books, but since “The Fault in Our Stars” and “Me Before You” were mentioned in the description I think you sort of know where the story is going. Compared to the above books mentioned, The Promise is not my most favorite but it really came in a close second. The reason is because I may have paid too much attention to details in the plot … for example, when one chooses end of life care, there should not be any ventilator or aggressive treatment like was mentioned. It seems that the person was able to do all the things too effortlessly given how the disease had advanced. I think for these reasons I did not feel as deeply connected to the character’s struggles and pain as I would have liked. Besides these small details, the Promise is beautifully written – it will make your heart break, you head spin, and your world fall apart.
The story is heart wrenching, raw, poignant and so beautiful. It will make you cry so get some tissue ready. You learn that life is precious and to make each day count. The story showcased the strength, courage, sacrifice, and choices the characters have to make for a chance at love and living life with so much adversity. This is not a feel good, light-hearted book by any means guys – this story will make you think, feel and shred some tears. I was especially emotional at the last chapter -- Theo’s POV. I actually love this chapter the most because I really feel connected to Theo. I realize that the entire book is told in Claire’s POV and I wish so much that there was more of what’s on Theo’s mind - his thoughts and feelings thoughout their journey. Theo is such a sweet, caring and loving guy it's too bad that we don’t get to know more of him.
I love the author’s writing though – very graceful and flows effortlessly from beginning to end. I am a sucker for punishment. I love these kinds of books that make your stomach twist and puts your heart in your throat. I was pulled into the story straight away and did not come out until the end. Devoured it in one night.
“Yes, I’d roll the dice on forever, and risk everything for that smile-not just what we’d shared, but for the chance of a thousand more to come.”
Make each day count and Happy reading!
*** SPOILER ALERT COMMENT***
I am puzzled as to whether Theo will have his own book … I would be so ecstatic but maybe it just my wishful thinking?
October 12, 2016
The Promise was so well written, in so many ways, that it is difficult to say too much without any spoilers. This book is most definitely one that you need to experience first-hand, to fully appreciate the beautiful joy & heartache that is entwined through this whole story.
First off I really want to say, yes there are books similar to this in the market, but then personally, I think you can say that about most books. For me, the differences come in the writing styles, character development & plot progression, & in this story, I loved how Melody took all of the above & made it her own.
Claire. Strong, courageous & determined to live hard no matter the challenges that lay before her. Having lost her best friend Hope to cancer, she keeps tight hold of the bucket list they made before she passed. With a steely determination to see everything crossed out, while at the same time honouring her friends dying wish of living a life for both of them, Claire steps onto a bus & heads to a world unknown. She left against her parents’ wishes & prays they don’t track her down & guilt her into going home. She needs to do this, not just for Hope, but for herself too.
She gets a job, finds a great room to rent & makes friends. Still trying her hardest to overcome her fears of being alone & facing new challenges, she tries every day to embrace her new life. She wasn’t expecting Theo to strut into the coffee shop & take her breath away, she wasn’t prepared for him to steal her heart. She knew better than to fall so hard & fast, to love this man with all that she is & all that she is yet to become, She knows life is cruel. She knows nothing lasts for ever no matter how hard you fight. What she doesn’t know is how can they both survive their love.
Theo. Quiet, troubled, yet loving & caring. A past he hates & a future he is trying to claw his way too. He wants to be a better person, so works hard, dedicating long hours to making that happen. Taking cover in a coffee shop, he finds himself in front of the girl of his dreams. There is something about her that draws him in. She’s the one, he knows it to his core. But how can she like the man he is, how will he be able to hide the past – the things that make him ashamed. He soon realises that running is pointless & that their destiny has already been written in the stars. What he doesn’t know is that fate will also play apart, a part he can’t control, a part that will shatter him.
The story for maybe the first third was a slow burn, I knew it was building to something big – I just wasn’t sure what. Then bam, you reach THAT chapter – THAT paragraph, & your heart is just ripped wide open. From that point onwards your emotions come thick & fast – you can’t breathe, you can’t see for tears & you just know that the rest of the book is going to destroy you.
Melody was graceful in her writing & her development of Claire & Theo’s relationship. It wasn’t easy, it was hard, raw, heart wrenching & sad, so very very sad. Come the end I was so emotionally spent I couldn’t even articulate how moved I was by the profoundness of the message that was so beautifully layered throughout their journey. How we only get one life & that we must fight to the cruel bitter end, to live it to its fullest, each & every day.
“Promise me one thing. Promise me you’ll live”
Most definitely as tissues at the ready read I would gladly recommend.
First off I really want to say, yes there are books similar to this in the market, but then personally, I think you can say that about most books. For me, the differences come in the writing styles, character development & plot progression, & in this story, I loved how Melody took all of the above & made it her own.
Claire. Strong, courageous & determined to live hard no matter the challenges that lay before her. Having lost her best friend Hope to cancer, she keeps tight hold of the bucket list they made before she passed. With a steely determination to see everything crossed out, while at the same time honouring her friends dying wish of living a life for both of them, Claire steps onto a bus & heads to a world unknown. She left against her parents’ wishes & prays they don’t track her down & guilt her into going home. She needs to do this, not just for Hope, but for herself too.
She gets a job, finds a great room to rent & makes friends. Still trying her hardest to overcome her fears of being alone & facing new challenges, she tries every day to embrace her new life. She wasn’t expecting Theo to strut into the coffee shop & take her breath away, she wasn’t prepared for him to steal her heart. She knew better than to fall so hard & fast, to love this man with all that she is & all that she is yet to become, She knows life is cruel. She knows nothing lasts for ever no matter how hard you fight. What she doesn’t know is how can they both survive their love.
Theo. Quiet, troubled, yet loving & caring. A past he hates & a future he is trying to claw his way too. He wants to be a better person, so works hard, dedicating long hours to making that happen. Taking cover in a coffee shop, he finds himself in front of the girl of his dreams. There is something about her that draws him in. She’s the one, he knows it to his core. But how can she like the man he is, how will he be able to hide the past – the things that make him ashamed. He soon realises that running is pointless & that their destiny has already been written in the stars. What he doesn’t know is that fate will also play apart, a part he can’t control, a part that will shatter him.
The story for maybe the first third was a slow burn, I knew it was building to something big – I just wasn’t sure what. Then bam, you reach THAT chapter – THAT paragraph, & your heart is just ripped wide open. From that point onwards your emotions come thick & fast – you can’t breathe, you can’t see for tears & you just know that the rest of the book is going to destroy you.
Melody was graceful in her writing & her development of Claire & Theo’s relationship. It wasn’t easy, it was hard, raw, heart wrenching & sad, so very very sad. Come the end I was so emotionally spent I couldn’t even articulate how moved I was by the profoundness of the message that was so beautifully layered throughout their journey. How we only get one life & that we must fight to the cruel bitter end, to live it to its fullest, each & every day.
“Promise me one thing. Promise me you’ll live”
Most definitely as tissues at the ready read I would gladly recommend.
October 19, 2016
**** 4.5 stars ****
A day and half is how long it took me to read this. It went from too much flowery prose and metaphors as well as over explaining to that peak where my heart broke. The heart isn't meant to take that much emotion, but mine did.
Claire was a small town sheltered girl who one day up and left her family home. She went to cross off things on her best friend, Hope's, bucket list who had passed from cancer a few months prior.
She picked Cambridge and the areas surrounding Harvard for her new adventure. Along the way, she meets Theo, a TA, at Harvard. They connect and fall in love. Yet, that love comes at a price. They experience ups and downs and he helps her cross things off that list - helps her live again.
It's sad and that's all I'm going to say. I won't give much away, but I feel I can give you that much. This book plays the heart like an instrument. Makes you wonder what you would do for love for one more day or one more month with someone. It also makes you look at how you would go honor a memory - something some of us never really do.
The only reason I didn't give it a solid 5, despite it being a good book, was I felt at times it was forced. Like, it was trying too hard to be different and edgy with all the metaphors etc. Still, it's a good book that will evoke some cleansing and thought provoking emotions.
October 17, 2016
3.5 stars
So I want to start by saying that I did enjoy this book. I appreciate the authors writing style and storyline. My only hang up is that I've read so many books similar to this. I don't want to give any spoilers and I do think it's worth a read. I just think it's an easy book to compare to others I've already read. I had a somewhat difficult time relating to these characters until well into the book because the author chose to hold things a secret for quite awhile. So this is definitely good amongst it's fellow genre types. But not my favorite.
I think this book could have benefited from Theo's POV. I never felt like I knew him very well and he was always a little mysterious. We got to know him through Claire's POV but I never got to know Claire through his. I actually don't know what Claire looks like at all now that I think of it. Brown eye or blue? Blonde or brunette? Short or tall? Maybe I missed the subtle passages.
There were a few punctuation or spelling errors which I'm assuming will be corrected with a final read through before releasing. They were few and far between.
I also just wanted to add that I LOVE this cover. I'm so tired of oiled guys with a 6 pack.
****ARC provided for an honest review****
So I want to start by saying that I did enjoy this book. I appreciate the authors writing style and storyline. My only hang up is that I've read so many books similar to this. I don't want to give any spoilers and I do think it's worth a read. I just think it's an easy book to compare to others I've already read. I had a somewhat difficult time relating to these characters until well into the book because the author chose to hold things a secret for quite awhile. So this is definitely good amongst it's fellow genre types. But not my favorite.
I think this book could have benefited from Theo's POV. I never felt like I knew him very well and he was always a little mysterious. We got to know him through Claire's POV but I never got to know Claire through his. I actually don't know what Claire looks like at all now that I think of it. Brown eye or blue? Blonde or brunette? Short or tall? Maybe I missed the subtle passages.
There were a few punctuation or spelling errors which I'm assuming will be corrected with a final read through before releasing. They were few and far between.
I also just wanted to add that I LOVE this cover. I'm so tired of oiled guys with a 6 pack.
****ARC provided for an honest review****
October 21, 2016
This book. I've not felt as much, while reading, for ages. Reading The Promise was more than reading a story. More than feeling the words on a page. It was so much more than 26 little letters can ever hope to be. It is also something that has to be experienced for yourself. All of the unadulterated moments of joy. The shredding pain of lies unraveled. The lightness of hope, thought to be long lost. Melody Grace sent me on a rollercoaster with this book. One I had missed so desperately and had begun to think I had lost the location of. I thank her for helping me find my way back to the depth of emotion that she let me experience.
The Promise was so well written. The prose so artful, so lyrical at times. It was fitting for the characters, whose artistry wound through the pages, filling up their moments and my mind. It was clear from the first perfectly worded sentence that Melody Grace was more than your average author. The words she wrote were so full of life, of passion, it was beyond a privilege to read this book. The Promise, the words she bled onto these pages, is a precious gift she has given her readers. One that should be cherished and held delicately in the safest corner of your hearts.
The Promise was so well written. The prose so artful, so lyrical at times. It was fitting for the characters, whose artistry wound through the pages, filling up their moments and my mind. It was clear from the first perfectly worded sentence that Melody Grace was more than your average author. The words she wrote were so full of life, of passion, it was beyond a privilege to read this book. The Promise, the words she bled onto these pages, is a precious gift she has given her readers. One that should be cherished and held delicately in the safest corner of your hearts.
October 19, 2016
The Promise is my first book by Melody Grace and WOW what a first book it was! I'm still trying to clear my head and stop my tears from what I've read. It's just one of those books that you get so lost in that you look up and it's morning.
I don't want to ruin this for anyone. It's one of those books that you should go into blind. Don't read the blurb. Don't read the reviews. Don't read any teasers. Just jump in feet first and enjoy the beautiful, heart wrenching story of Claire.
You will need tissues. Also if you can have someone to buddy read with you would be great so you can talk about things along the way. The Promise will gut you then put you back together again.
Melody Grace has written one of the most beautiful books of love, heartbreak, passion and what ifs I've ever read. I'll never forget Claire.
Every first time became the last; every moment of pleasure would never be repeated. Every second was a glimpse of life I would never get back, already ashes, scattering in the winter wind.
I don't want to ruin this for anyone. It's one of those books that you should go into blind. Don't read the blurb. Don't read the reviews. Don't read any teasers. Just jump in feet first and enjoy the beautiful, heart wrenching story of Claire.
You will need tissues. Also if you can have someone to buddy read with you would be great so you can talk about things along the way. The Promise will gut you then put you back together again.
Melody Grace has written one of the most beautiful books of love, heartbreak, passion and what ifs I've ever read. I'll never forget Claire.
Every first time became the last; every moment of pleasure would never be repeated. Every second was a glimpse of life I would never get back, already ashes, scattering in the winter wind.
Want to read
October 5, 2016This will be my first book from this author :))
October 24, 2016
This was my first read by Melody Grace and I first need to say what a spectacular talent this author has! Her writing is exceptionally beautiful and poetic. I will no doubt be reading other books by Melody Grace in the future.
This was a wonderful story about living life to the fullest. It had a storyline that could have been similar to a few other I've read, but I loved the different take on the details. I don't want to give anything away, just know that this is a book that will make you think about the big picture and your own life.
I did find myself frustrated at times with Claire's decisions and I wished that her relationship with her parents had been explained a little more in the beginning, because I didn't understand her need to push them away. But overall this was a wonderful read and I highly recommend this one!!
This was a wonderful story about living life to the fullest. It had a storyline that could have been similar to a few other I've read, but I loved the different take on the details. I don't want to give anything away, just know that this is a book that will make you think about the big picture and your own life.
I did find myself frustrated at times with Claire's decisions and I wished that her relationship with her parents had been explained a little more in the beginning, because I didn't understand her need to push them away. But overall this was a wonderful read and I highly recommend this one!!
October 21, 2016
The Promise, is a beautifully written story. Reminding you that life is fragile. That tomorrow is never really promised.
Claire, has run away from her small hometown. But within in this story. There are secrets and they aren’t revealed, basically until the character Is ready to let you know. At first, I didn’t really understand Claire and Theo’s relationship. I really questioned her whole reasoning with him.
This story, does have quite a depressing feel. Maybe how it slowly moves along. And then grasps you at the last second. It did take me a couple tries to get into it, It could've just been my mood.
Overall, this is really a heartbreaking read. Really, about not wanting to let go of life. Not wanting to give up....Lissa
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Claire, has run away from her small hometown. But within in this story. There are secrets and they aren’t revealed, basically until the character Is ready to let you know. At first, I didn’t really understand Claire and Theo’s relationship. I really questioned her whole reasoning with him.
This story, does have quite a depressing feel. Maybe how it slowly moves along. And then grasps you at the last second. It did take me a couple tries to get into it, It could've just been my mood.
Overall, this is really a heartbreaking read. Really, about not wanting to let go of life. Not wanting to give up....Lissa
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
October 16, 2016
Living, a thing we take for granted until we get to the age where regret sets in. Some don't get that luxury, they get the bucket list. Claire wanted to live her life she had a plan.. to live it to the fullest. What she didn't plan on was Theo.
Theo didn't plan on Claire. Loving her light was easy until it became hard, because he knew that chances were he would have to let her go.
This book is beauty, a true labor of love. Melody Grace shows us how love and life should be embraced, cherished and filled with adventure. A romance of the hear and soul, that will fill you and break you only to leave you choked up with warmth and tears.
Live your life to the fullest.. The promise.
Theo didn't plan on Claire. Loving her light was easy until it became hard, because he knew that chances were he would have to let her go.
This book is beauty, a true labor of love. Melody Grace shows us how love and life should be embraced, cherished and filled with adventure. A romance of the hear and soul, that will fill you and break you only to leave you choked up with warmth and tears.
Live your life to the fullest.. The promise.
October 31, 2016
I received this ARC for an honest review.
This was my first book from Melody but it certainly won't be my last. I'm not ashamed to admit I cried, I felt, I lived this book! The raw heartfelt emotion made this story come alive for me, it was a love story, it was an inspirational story one that will stay with me for a long time to come. Everyone NEEDS to read this book... thank you Melody for bringing us the extraordinary life of Claire. I 'Promise' I won't ever forget to live!!
Reviewed by Nat
This was my first book from Melody but it certainly won't be my last. I'm not ashamed to admit I cried, I felt, I lived this book! The raw heartfelt emotion made this story come alive for me, it was a love story, it was an inspirational story one that will stay with me for a long time to come. Everyone NEEDS to read this book... thank you Melody for bringing us the extraordinary life of Claire. I 'Promise' I won't ever forget to live!!
Reviewed by Nat
October 21, 2016
Ok so it is clearly a phenomenal book very well written but ugh!!! I only wish there was a better description of the book before I read it. I usually do not ready books like this......I do not like crying so much through out the book, no, no no! Definitely a love story with twists and turns. Grab your box of Kleenex and a nice snugly blanket and warm up to the fireplace and enjoy the book.
September 22, 2016
Beautiful. Gut wrenching. Heartbreaking. An epic love story that will live on long after you finish this book.
Melody Grace draws in the readers with a tale of love and loss. I won't give anything away, but I will say this: This book will hurt. You will wonder if you'll ever be able to stop crying. But you will. Because the beauty of the story, the meaning of the words you've read, will continue after you finish the last page.
Read it.
Melody Grace draws in the readers with a tale of love and loss. I won't give anything away, but I will say this: This book will hurt. You will wonder if you'll ever be able to stop crying. But you will. Because the beauty of the story, the meaning of the words you've read, will continue after you finish the last page.
Read it.
September 24, 2016
This book has earned a place in my heart. It is a moving, beautifully written story that tells of self discovery, independence, sacrifice and looking at life through a different set of lenses. Claire, a young woman of 19 years, has left the home of her over protective parents and embarks upon a journey that involves a list of experiences her deceased friend, Hope, did not get to have before her death. Claire's decisions involving simple things - like getting a job, living on her own, attending parties- give the reader a wonderful perspective into all the things we take for granted; things that may seem insignificant but they add to the tapestry of our memories. Her plan is thrown a bit off course when she meets Theo, whose presence in her life changes everything. With Theo and Claire's relationship your heart is pulled into the emotional effects of love in its early stages... the feel of that first kiss, the contentment of a warm embrace, that feeling of excitement.
One of the things that I loved about his story is the way Melody Grace portrays the desperation of those, who will be left behind, to cling to every moment. She gives a heart wrenching glimpse into the feelings of those who fight to live. This book has changed my perspective a bit on the things I consider to be "ordinary". If there is one thing about a book that makes it a 5 star read for me it is when this book changes my outlook on something...well this book does just that. I highly recommend it!
One of the things that I loved about his story is the way Melody Grace portrays the desperation of those, who will be left behind, to cling to every moment. She gives a heart wrenching glimpse into the feelings of those who fight to live. This book has changed my perspective a bit on the things I consider to be "ordinary". If there is one thing about a book that makes it a 5 star read for me it is when this book changes my outlook on something...well this book does just that. I highly recommend it!
October 17, 2016
4.5 Stars!
"There are some faces that burn into your memory, and others that change every time you look in their direction. A new slant of light, a passing shadow; they can either rearrange someone into a stranger every time you meet or etch their features even deeper, cared into stone, his was both at once."
"I'd made a bargain with myself, yet here I was hanging back on the edge of a cliff, too scared to let go and jump into the sparkling blue."
"Promise me you'll live. Every day, the way I wanted. Don't ever waste it, not one single breath."
The Promise is well written and incredibly beautiful. This story is heartbreaking and unlike anything I've read by Melody Grace before. The Promise takes you on an incredible journey. This is a story about love, life, taking chances and keeping the promises that you make. The Promise will grab a hold of you and will leave you breathless.
Claire's story isn't an easy one and deals with some incredibly difficult subject matter. I really appreciated the way that Melody Grace tackled it. She didn't beat around the bush and gave you a very raw, a very personal, a very deep story.
The Promise was a refreshing read and I devoured it in just one sitting. This story might be different from the typical Melody Grace reads, that doesn't make it any less special. This book will become a part of your heart and soul. It is unforgettable.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
"There are some faces that burn into your memory, and others that change every time you look in their direction. A new slant of light, a passing shadow; they can either rearrange someone into a stranger every time you meet or etch their features even deeper, cared into stone, his was both at once."
"I'd made a bargain with myself, yet here I was hanging back on the edge of a cliff, too scared to let go and jump into the sparkling blue."
"Promise me you'll live. Every day, the way I wanted. Don't ever waste it, not one single breath."
The Promise is well written and incredibly beautiful. This story is heartbreaking and unlike anything I've read by Melody Grace before. The Promise takes you on an incredible journey. This is a story about love, life, taking chances and keeping the promises that you make. The Promise will grab a hold of you and will leave you breathless.
Claire's story isn't an easy one and deals with some incredibly difficult subject matter. I really appreciated the way that Melody Grace tackled it. She didn't beat around the bush and gave you a very raw, a very personal, a very deep story.
The Promise was a refreshing read and I devoured it in just one sitting. This story might be different from the typical Melody Grace reads, that doesn't make it any less special. This book will become a part of your heart and soul. It is unforgettable.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
October 14, 2016
WOW….this book is right at the top of my list for this year’s reads. I was blown away by everything about it from the writing, such beautiful prose to the characters, everything was perfect.
Melody Grace has a way with words, she paints a picture of many layers and colours with her words, it was magical seeing the places, seasons and people appear in front of me conjured up by her writing.
“…But here, summer died out in a long, blazing victory dance. Sunburst gold and persimmon orange, witch’s scarlet and deep, bronzed ochre. The colors bragged and jostled loudly under cloudless skies, so bright, it almost hurt the eyes.”
I was there I could smell the wood smoke and see the colours! Magical, evocative writing.
The story itself pulled me in and wrapped me and would not let me go. I could not put it down, I stayed in bed till 10.30am one morning because I had to finish….the world could wait, I had to know the ending. And yes I cried, I cried a lot, I cried for the characters and their hopes and losses and their emotions. I cried, but came away with hope….there is always hope. This story hit very close to home for me, I knew a young woman very like Claire in the story, so it was a personal journey I took as I read the words. I felt everything along with her and Theo, the love of her life, all their trials and tribulations, all their love.
I won’t say more, as it is a story that must be read and must be listened to. Do read it, but do have a box of tissues available too.
Melody Grace has a way with words, she paints a picture of many layers and colours with her words, it was magical seeing the places, seasons and people appear in front of me conjured up by her writing.
“…But here, summer died out in a long, blazing victory dance. Sunburst gold and persimmon orange, witch’s scarlet and deep, bronzed ochre. The colors bragged and jostled loudly under cloudless skies, so bright, it almost hurt the eyes.”
I was there I could smell the wood smoke and see the colours! Magical, evocative writing.
The story itself pulled me in and wrapped me and would not let me go. I could not put it down, I stayed in bed till 10.30am one morning because I had to finish….the world could wait, I had to know the ending. And yes I cried, I cried a lot, I cried for the characters and their hopes and losses and their emotions. I cried, but came away with hope….there is always hope. This story hit very close to home for me, I knew a young woman very like Claire in the story, so it was a personal journey I took as I read the words. I felt everything along with her and Theo, the love of her life, all their trials and tribulations, all their love.
I won’t say more, as it is a story that must be read and must be listened to. Do read it, but do have a box of tissues available too.
October 21, 2016
Claire Fortune moves to Boston with an old notebook, and her best friend's dying wish, to finish the bucket list that Hope didn't have time to finish. As Claire builds herself a new life, not knowing a soul, she comes face to face with a boy who changes her plans. There's a powerful connection to Theo, and Claire finds herself falling for him quickly. But Theo harbors some secrets himself. Yep, that's all I have to describe about this book. I cannot write anymore or I'll ruin it. So I'll just carry on with my dramatic girly girl feelings in the next paragraph!
I love Melody Grace's writing, but I have been brought to my knees, and it's hard to write a review down here. Please forgive the fact that this review has been vague, and won't come anywhere close to eloquent. The character development is great, with a colorful cast of secondaries. Melody Grace ripped my heart out with this intense, and emotional read, but I couldn't put it down. (Guess I should have read the small hint at end of blurb before picking the story up.) Her writing style is brilliant, especially with the fact that I can barely see my screen from the leaky eyes that I'm sporting, and the physical exhaustion from all the feels. Anyway, I'm done, (extreme emotional distress could cause random spoilers), and the best thing that I can say is just read the book to understand this review! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
I love Melody Grace's writing, but I have been brought to my knees, and it's hard to write a review down here. Please forgive the fact that this review has been vague, and won't come anywhere close to eloquent. The character development is great, with a colorful cast of secondaries. Melody Grace ripped my heart out with this intense, and emotional read, but I couldn't put it down. (Guess I should have read the small hint at end of blurb before picking the story up.) Her writing style is brilliant, especially with the fact that I can barely see my screen from the leaky eyes that I'm sporting, and the physical exhaustion from all the feels. Anyway, I'm done, (extreme emotional distress could cause random spoilers), and the best thing that I can say is just read the book to understand this review! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
September 27, 2016
*** 4.5 Stars ***
The Promise by Melody Grace was a unique love story, and a take on life. I have read a few of Melody's novels and I was really excited to dive into The Promise.
"Promise me one thing. Promise me you'll live."
The story follows a young women named Claire Fortune. Recently moved to Boston, with a heavy heart. Her one true friend Hope passed away. But before she died she gave Claire her bucket list and told her to finish it. Thus begins an incredible journey.
One day while working at a coffee shop, Claire meets Theo.
Her whole world is turned on its axis.
She falls in love.
But Theo has troubles of his own, can their relationship last?
What about Hopes Bucket list, can she finish it?
Read to find out.
I really enjoyed this book. It was different, and it changes the way you look at things. A love story that makes your heart flutter and brings tears to your eyes. Claire's goes on an adventure of a life time. While going through her friends bucket list she never thought she would fall in love. With Theo he brings out the best in her. Makes her feel safe, whole.
The Promise was an intense emotional roller coaster. A new take on life and finding love in one of the most unlikely places.
**Received an arc in exchange for an honest review.*
The Promise by Melody Grace was a unique love story, and a take on life. I have read a few of Melody's novels and I was really excited to dive into The Promise.
"Promise me one thing. Promise me you'll live."
The story follows a young women named Claire Fortune. Recently moved to Boston, with a heavy heart. Her one true friend Hope passed away. But before she died she gave Claire her bucket list and told her to finish it. Thus begins an incredible journey.
One day while working at a coffee shop, Claire meets Theo.
Her whole world is turned on its axis.
She falls in love.
But Theo has troubles of his own, can their relationship last?
What about Hopes Bucket list, can she finish it?
Read to find out.
I really enjoyed this book. It was different, and it changes the way you look at things. A love story that makes your heart flutter and brings tears to your eyes. Claire's goes on an adventure of a life time. While going through her friends bucket list she never thought she would fall in love. With Theo he brings out the best in her. Makes her feel safe, whole.
The Promise was an intense emotional roller coaster. A new take on life and finding love in one of the most unlikely places.
**Received an arc in exchange for an honest review.*
October 13, 2016
The Promise by Melody Grace is a book about living life on your terms and to the fullest regardless of what other want for you. This book will bring you to tears on more than one occasion so have the tissues ready, you definitely will need them. If you are looking for a gift wrapped happily ever after this is not the book for you.
This story spoke to me I regards to the words that were left unsaid by the author but could be felt by the reader as she turned each page. Claire was trying to complete the bucket list of her best friend Hope who had passed away from cancer. Leaving the only one she knew to move to Boston seemed like th perfect way to live her life on her terms andndo everything that Hope no longer could without being under the watchful eye of her parents.
Claire planned for everything but she didn't plan for Theo and he appears in her world one day and she fights to keep him their, falling for him a little bit each day when she should instead be letting him walk away to live his life. Theo opens up to Claire about his past and his family and wives that Claire has been reciprocating but one day finds out the biggest secret she has hidden from him.
This book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions but it is worth every gasp and tear!
3.5 stars
This story spoke to me I regards to the words that were left unsaid by the author but could be felt by the reader as she turned each page. Claire was trying to complete the bucket list of her best friend Hope who had passed away from cancer. Leaving the only one she knew to move to Boston seemed like th perfect way to live her life on her terms andndo everything that Hope no longer could without being under the watchful eye of her parents.
Claire planned for everything but she didn't plan for Theo and he appears in her world one day and she fights to keep him their, falling for him a little bit each day when she should instead be letting him walk away to live his life. Theo opens up to Claire about his past and his family and wives that Claire has been reciprocating but one day finds out the biggest secret she has hidden from him.
This book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions but it is worth every gasp and tear!
3.5 stars
September 21, 2016
The Promise by Melody Grace was a beautifully written story about love and life. I was excited to read this one because I’ve always been a fan of Melody’s books, plus I love the cover and from what I could tell from the synopsis this was going to be a lot different than any of Melody’s other books. It definitely was.
The Promise follows the story of Claire Fortune, new to Boston with a list of to-do’s from her dying friend, Hope. Claire is embarking on a life changing adventure when she meets Theo, who changes everything for her.
I liked this story a lot, but I did have issues with it too. I felt that some of Claire’s descriptions of her feelings were a little long winded but then in other instances we didn’t get much of a description. Like Theo for example, there wasn’t much of a description of him. I could tell you his hair color and his build sort of but I’m not able to close my eyes and picture him. Putting those things aside I did enjoy the story and it really struck a chord with me, losing those you love will never be easy.
I received this book in exchange for and honest review.
The Promise follows the story of Claire Fortune, new to Boston with a list of to-do’s from her dying friend, Hope. Claire is embarking on a life changing adventure when she meets Theo, who changes everything for her.
I liked this story a lot, but I did have issues with it too. I felt that some of Claire’s descriptions of her feelings were a little long winded but then in other instances we didn’t get much of a description. Like Theo for example, there wasn’t much of a description of him. I could tell you his hair color and his build sort of but I’m not able to close my eyes and picture him. Putting those things aside I did enjoy the story and it really struck a chord with me, losing those you love will never be easy.
I received this book in exchange for and honest review.
November 30, 2016
NO JUST NO!! You never start a relationship with lies, there is no justification for that in my book. I don't care if you're dying nobody gets to be selfish and mess with someone else's heart, that is just wrong!! I not only wanted to strangle Claire but her mother as well.
I will not pretend to know what it's like to be dying or have a child with cancer but I would hope that I would encourage my child to be honest. As a parent we should support our children's choices, as long as they are legal, so I would hope I would support their choice to end treatment to live out their lives as I know that's what I have requested of them.
I depend greatly on reviews so I am deeply disappointed that none that I read gave a head's up.
I was only able to get to 70% and stopped before I threw my iPad at the wall. I was pretty disgusted with mother and child.
I will not pretend to know what it's like to be dying or have a child with cancer but I would hope that I would encourage my child to be honest. As a parent we should support our children's choices, as long as they are legal, so I would hope I would support their choice to end treatment to live out their lives as I know that's what I have requested of them.
I depend greatly on reviews so I am deeply disappointed that none that I read gave a head's up.
I was only able to get to 70% and stopped before I threw my iPad at the wall. I was pretty disgusted with mother and child.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2016
Kindle Copy for Review
Claire Fortune finds herself at nineteen in Boston working at a café and trying to complete her recent dead friend bucket list. A list that her friend never finished and that she promiseto complete. Then one September day in walks a guy named Theo who changes everything for her.
A chance meeting it will quickly turn to love. But Claire has her own secret and how she met her friend. This secret will change everything between them and priorities will change as life is short.
Fate is not always kind but it will leave you with bittersweet memories. Always remember to live each day to the fullest since you never know what tomorrow will bring. It is a touching love story.
Claire Fortune finds herself at nineteen in Boston working at a café and trying to complete her recent dead friend bucket list. A list that her friend never finished and that she promiseto complete. Then one September day in walks a guy named Theo who changes everything for her.
A chance meeting it will quickly turn to love. But Claire has her own secret and how she met her friend. This secret will change everything between them and priorities will change as life is short.
Fate is not always kind but it will leave you with bittersweet memories. Always remember to live each day to the fullest since you never know what tomorrow will bring. It is a touching love story.
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