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The Butterfly Project

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"Where you are is home..."

At age fourteen, Zelda Rossi witnessed the unthinkable, and has spent the last ten years hardening her heart against the guilt and grief. She channels her pain into her art: a dystopian graphic novel where vigilantes travel back in time to stop heinous crimes—like child abduction—before they happen. Zelda pitches her graphic novel to several big-time comic book publishers in New York City, only to have her hopes crash and burn. Circumstances leave her stranded in an unfamiliar city, and in an embarrassing moment of weakness, she meets a guarded young man with a past he’d do anything to change...

Beckett Copeland spent two years in prison for armed robbery, and is now struggling to keep his head above water. A bike messenger by day, he speeds around New York City, riding fast and hard but going nowhere, his criminal record holding him back almost as much as the guilt of his crime.

Zelda and Beckett form a grudging alliance of survival, and in between their stubborn clash of wills, they slowly begin to provide each other with the warmth of forgiveness, healing, and maybe even love. But when Zelda and Beckett come face to face with their pasts, they must choose to hold on to the guilt and regret that bind them, or let go and open their hearts for a shot at happiness.

The Butterfly Project is a novel that reveals the power of forgiveness, and how even the smallest decisions of the heart can—like the flutter of a butterfly’s wings—create currents that strengthen into gale winds, altering the course of a life forever.

#standalone #triggerwarning for sibling loss/child loss

256 pages, ebook

First published February 28, 2017

651 people are currently reading
11755 people want to read

About the author

Emma Scott

37 books8,557 followers
Emma Scott is a USA Today and Wall St. Journal bestselling author whose books have been translated in seven languages and featured in Buzzfeed, Huffington Post, New York Daily News and USA Today’s Happy Ever After. Her first MM romance, Someday, Someday won the Utopia Con Award for LGBTQ Book of the Year. Emma writes emotional, character-driven romances in which art and love intertwine to heal, and in which love always wins. If you enjoy emotionally-charged stories that rip your heart out and put it back together again, with diverse characters and heroes who treat their heroines like gold, you will enjoy her novels.

RECENT RELEASES all available now and FREE with KU

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Someday, Someday M/M romance (Winner! LGBTQ Book of the Year, Utopia Con)

A Five-Minute Life


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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,702 reviews
Profile Image for Christy.
4,540 reviews35.9k followers
February 3, 2022
5 stars

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I have loved every book I’ve read by Emma Scott, but I’ve not read one I’ve loved as much as The Butterfly Project. Beckett and Zelda stole my heart. Not only is this my favorite Emma Scott book to date, it’s my favorite book I’ve read so far this year. Be prepared to feel, to fall in love and to not be able to put this one down!

Zelda Rossi moves from Vegas to NYC to try to make it in the big city. She’s got a graphic novel she’s been working on and she’s trying to get it published. Things aren’t as easy for Zelda as she’d hoped in New York. She has the choice of sticking it out in a city where she knows no one, or packing up and putting her dreams on hold. After meeting Beckett by chance at a restaurant, she decides to stay.

Beckett Copeland works full time as a bike messenger and part time as a bus boy to make ends meet. It’s not easy finding good paying jobs when you have a criminal record. Because of his situation and the past that eats at him every day, Beckett doesn’t get too close to many people, though it’s easy to see right away, he has a heart of gold. When he meets Zelda, he knows there is something special about her. Something he can relate to. Zelda’s past isn’t painless. Though it’s very different than Beckett’s, they are also one of the same in a way.

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It felt like I’d lost something I didn’t know I wanted. And I realized you could get used to anything—even being alone for years—right until the moment you touched something better than what you had.

Beckett and Zelda become roommates out of necessity. If Beckett is going to continue to pay his rent and not be stressed, and if Zelda wants to stay in the city- this is the best choice for them both. They quickly forge a friendship. As they start to break down each others walls, that friendship slowly starts to develop into more.

Zelda and Beckett are both broken in different ways. But they’re also both so very strong. Ask me which one I loved more… I couldn’t choose. Beckett has the best heart of any hero I’ve read in a long time. His kindness, regrets, selflessness and love knows no bounds. I love that he’s always there for Zelda and all of the people in his life he cares for. Zelda has had a hard life and I love her determination and perseverance. She is a fierce and standup heroine. As much as Beckett was there for her when she needed him, she was there for him in return.

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“I want this for you,” he whispered… “I want everything for you.”

As you can see above, I’ve rated The Butterfly Project off the charts with ‘All the stars!’ I don’t rate that way often. I can think of less than a dozen books out of all the books I’ve read that have gotten this rating from me. This book is so special. Zelda and Beckett are so special. And there are so many side characters that are special. Roy, Darlene, even Aunt Lucille. So many will hold a place in your heart.

The story is out of this world phenomenal. It gave me goosebumps and all the feels. It is so much more than a romance. It’s a story of friendship, and it showcases the way guilt can change a person, but also the way forgiveness can change a person. It is powerful, uplifting, profound and flawless. I loved everything about this book. The writing was magical, the characters were uniquely wonderful and the story itself was epic. I highly recommend this one!

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Profile Image for ✦❋Arianna✦❋.
790 reviews2,552 followers
March 16, 2017
Signed paperback giveaway on our blog! www.steamyreads.net


5 Stars!!



“…there’s so much that’s shitty in this world, when you find something that shines against all the dirt and darkness, you gravitate toward it.”


'The Butterfly Project' is gripping, moving and fantastically written. A story about two lost souls who find friendship and love in one another, Emma Scott’s latest release gave me all the feels. I was immersed in these characters’ story from the very beginning and I couldn’t put it down for one minute. Mrs. Scott’s storytelling is truly captivating and, once again, managed to make me forget about the reality and live in Zelda and Beckett’s world for a while. 'The Butterfly Project' is more than a love story. It’s a story about friendship, second chances, finding hope, forgiveness and learning how to move on. It’s a book I would recommend to anyone who wants to read something unique, magical and touching.


“Wasn’t love a kind of chaos theory? One small look, one smile or one word could alter the course of a life forever.”



Zelda moved from Vegas to NYC in hopes of getting her novel published. Her dystopian time-travel graphic novel means everything to her, so when her hopes of publishing get crushed, Zelda is destroyed. She doesn’t want to give up, she simply can’t, not when her new story is related to her past. She doesn’t want to give up her dreams, but living in a city without money, where she doesn’t know anyone, is impossible. She’s thinking about going back to Vegas, but everything is turned upside down in her world when she meets a blonde haired boy named Beckett.


“I recognized the weight of guilt hanging around his neck, because I wore it too.


Beckett tries to survive working two jobs – as a bike messenger and as a bus boy. He wants to forget the fact that he spent two years in prison for armed robbery and that someone died because of him, but unfortunately, he can’t. Every day, Beckett is struggling with guilt, so the fact that he has a criminal record doesn’t mean too much to him.


When he meets Zelda, he doesn’t know what exactly to think about her, but he has this strange desire not only to help her, but to protect her as well. Zelda decides to give NYC one more try, but she desperately needs a place to stay. She comes up with an idea – to live with Beckett for a few months until they get back on their feet. Zelda and Beckett become friends very quickly, but soon their friendship blossom into something more, something pure and real, something that changes both of them.


"I once read that you fell in love like how you fell asleep: slowly at first and then all at once."



'Butterfly Project' is simply wonderful. It’s moving, addictive and its message is phenomenal. I loved the premise, and the execution is stellar. Like I mentioned above, Emma Scott’s storytelling is fantastic, her words so simple, yet so powerful. From beginning until the end, they touched my heart and made me feel. I enjoyed the story-line, the graphic novel aspect and the slow burn relationship between Zelda and Beckett.


Emma Scott’s characters are amazingly portrayed and have so much depth. While, overall, I didn’t connect (too much) with either of them, I felt everything they felt as the story progressed and I loved them individually as much as I loved them together. My heart broke for them and I wanted so badly, and so many times, to take away their suffering. Their pain and guilt are so palpable that you can't help but feel how lost and lonely they both are from the moment they are introduced.


“I must be crazy,” he muttered. “Or you are.” He nodded at the tracks. “This is me. Or…us?”
This is us.


Zelda is a fantastic heroine I loved from the very beginning. She is tortured, yet so strong and brave. Her past is truly touching, and my heart ached for her. Her determination for a successful writer is admirable. I loved her graphic novel and the role it played in her life. I also loved her perseverance, her gentle soul and the way she was with Beckett.


“I was lost in the dark without you, Beckett. You found me. You brought me home.”



Beckett is such a wonderful hero. As much as I enjoyed Zelda’s character, I have to say that I really, really loved Beckett. He is such a tormented, beautiful soul. I absolutely loved his kindness, his consideration and his selflessness, but what I loved the most is the way he cared for and loved Zelda. OMG…he warmed my heart in such a way…I honestly felt his love for her with all my being.


“I want this for you,” he whispered… “I want everything for you.”


The romantic aspect is wonderful and the slow burn relationship between these two characters is so well done. They make sense together from the start and the way they complement each other is terrific. I loved all the sweet and tender moments between them. There are also some very sexy and tender sex scenes, which I adored.


As for the supporting characters, I loved them all, but Roy stole my heart. I love that man. He is amazing. His love, care and support towards Beckett simply astonished me. Such an amazing man!


All in all, 'The Butterfly Project' is a wonderful, heartwarming read and is highly recommended if you are looking for a fantastically written, unique love story with two amazing main characters and a touching message .


“Every day it feels less like something I shouldn’t be allowed to have, and more like something precious I can’t throw away.”





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Profile Image for SueBee★bring me an alpha!★.
2,417 reviews15.4k followers
June 10, 2017





⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2! The Butterfly Project (stand-alone). Two lost souls find healing, friendship, forgivness, hope & love while working on a project!

“A butterfly flutters its wings in Malaysia and the changes in air currents cause a hurricane in Florida. I love that idea. That even one tiny action can create an enormous effect.”

The Butterfly Project (stand-alone) opens up to graphic novelist and tattoo artist Zelda Marie Rossi, Zel in New York city hoping to get a publishing deal for her graphic novel.

She just needs a little bit more time in the city, but with no money her outlook is bleak. A chance encounter with ex-con, bike messenger and busboy Beckett Aaron Copeland, Becks opens the door to possibilities.

Both are on the run from painful pasts, broken and weighed down by mistakes and secrets. Set against the backdrop of bringing Zel’s graphic novel to life confessions are made, fears faced, pasts conquered and love in the air…



Seven words to describe Beckett Aaron Copeland, Becks: Noble, loyal, broken, despondent, hard-headed, nurturing and impulsive.



Seven words to describe Zelda Marie Rossi, Zel: Determined, secretive, private, reflective, lost, non-confrontational and hopeful.

The Butterfly Project, told from dual POVs, is a breathtakingly beautiful, angsty yet hopeful tale about the paralyzing effect of grief and self-loathing and healing power of forgiveness and love. Read it!

***
Hero: ★★★★1/2
Heroine: ★★★★★
Plot: ★★★★1/2
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★1/2
Story ending: ★★★★★
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Angst: | HIGH FOCUS |
Darkness: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Humor: | LOW FOCUS |
Kink: | LOW FOCUS |
Romance: | HIGH FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Suspense: | MEDIUM FOCUS |

346 reviews916 followers
November 27, 2017
*****5 STARS*****

Unfiltered review...https://prettymessreading.wordpress.c...-

I always get nervous when I read new book from one of my favorite authors and The Butterfly Project by Emma Scott was one of those. I hate the idea of having to give a shitty review to my favorite folks. Here’s the thing about me. How I feel about someone plays no part in my reviews. If you suck then you suck. If your great than your great. If your subpar than your subpar.



Thank fuck I’m don’t have to give a shitty review because I FLOVED this book! Seriously!

Beckett, I love you! I really do. I want you to have all of my future book babies.

Zelda, I admire you. Your strength is inspiring. Your ability to love is admiring.

Let’s put Beckett and Zelda together and yassss, perfection! Their problem was their guilt and self-destruction. They were their own worst enemy and their biggest obstacle. They where the classic example of needing to love yourself before you can love someone else.

But what if we could change that?…

What if sometimes, just sometimes, it takes someone seeing that something inside of you first and loving it before you can love yourself? That’s a possibility too, right?

The Butterfly Project showed me a different side of love. A beautiful side of course. It showed me a selfless kind of love. My heart broke for the two of them. Their pain, their fear of loving, of not feeling as though they were worth love killed me. You have these two people with amazing souls who looked in the mirror and only saw this ugly version of themselves, it pained me.



I want to be loved the way Beckett loved Zelda. I just wished that Beckett knew that he deserved to be loved just the same. For a man who hated himself, he sure knew how to love. It was just pure. I can’t think of a better way to put it. Pure. There’s no pretense. Just pure love. I can’t think of a better way to be loved or treated.

I shouldn’t have been surprised. We get little glimpses of Beckett’s soul throughout the entire book. Small bits here and there that create a large picture of the man he is. You have to read the book to know what I’m talking about. He does the most sincere things for so many people all the time and you’re just like,

“OMG! He’s so damn sweet!” So, yeah, being loved by Beckett would be an honor.



Even though he couldn’t offer Zelda the world, he wanted to. Fuck that was beautiful. We all know that I have a thing for alpha males, it is just fucking sexy. I can’t say Beckett wasn’t an alpha male – I can say he was more. He was a hidden alpha. Yeah, I like that too. It’s like the same premise of, a lady in the street but a freak in the bed. He gives you that alpha when you need it and also has that sense of vulnerably. He secretly wears his heart on his sleeve.

Can you tell that I love him yet? Because I do! No lie!


“Do you want this?” he asked, his voice strained with need. “I know it’s fast, but fuck, Zelda. I need you. I need to make you feel good. I want to so bad. Please…”

And as a lover… fuck my life, I want him as my lover. Yassss! I would fucking love it!
“Zelda.” he whispered, as if my name was an answer to a question he’d been asking for a long time. He kissed me, his mouth sweet and deep, and I lay back, taking him with me.

Every touch was soft and slow. He took his time, and by the time he was done he left no doubt in my mind – or on any part of my body – that I was sexy and beautiful and precious to him. – Zelda"


“Yeah, you’re pretty easy on the eyes, Copland. No one’s told you that before?”

His smile slipped, his eyes held mine in their sapphire depths. “No one who mattered.”

Beckett’s humility was one of the most beautiful things about him. Yes, he was physically beautiful but his soul, it was stunning. A compliment coming from Zelda gave Beckett life! It was EVERYTHING!!!!

Even though it was incredibly hard for Zelda to express herself to Beckett, she tried. Bless her little heart. I just wanted to give her a cuddle.

Their demons ran so deep. Too deep. Like real people. This book could be the story of so many people’s live. That is thing about Emma Scott… she gives you the truth.
I looked at this beautiful, smart woman sitting beside me. I did’t deserve a shot of happiness, but she did. – Beckett

There are not many books where I can say the female main character is strong yet beautifully vulnerable. Zelda, she was it. You never doubt her ability to make it own her own but there is a strength in standing by a man who is shouldering your pain with you. That takes just as much courage as standing alone sometimes.

This book is about forgiveness, not just of yourself but of others as well. It’s about second chances and finding yourself, with are without someone.

I am 1,000% recommending this book. I mean why in hell wouldn’t I? 2/28/17 is the day that will change your life. You can get this book too!!!!

TTYL, lovers…

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Profile Image for Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog.
1,260 reviews10.2k followers
March 1, 2017
*****FIVE+++++++++STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}


She’s woven herself into my life, so tightly that if I cut those threads, I’ll unravel. The warmth will seep out, the light will dim until I’m nothing but dark.


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I’ve been dying to read one of Emma Scott’s books for quite some time now and I can say without a doubt that this woman has a truly rare gift for story-telling. I see what all the hype has been about! The Butterfly Project is a tale of two lost and broken souls who are brought to each other by fate, and who end up finding redemption through the love that develops between them. I was completely swept away by this book and felt like in no time at all I had gotten to the end and never once did I feel the need to skim because I wanted to absorb every single word!




Zelda Rossi is an aspiring artist and graphic novelist, who is in NYC trying to sell her series to a publishing company. Nearly every publishing house has turned her down except for one, who advises her to make some changes and to come back in a couple of months with her revised storyline. Zelda’s luck goes from bad to worse when her prized art supplies are stolen out of her room in a dilapidated hostel she was staying at. With this new setback, she has no choice but to get back on the next bus to Las Vegas and to put her dreams of getting her series published on hold. Luckily for her, fate steps in when she ends up meeting Beckett Copeland, a busboy at a restaurant she goes to have dinner at. Zelda suffers from PTSD which stems from a traumatizing childhood experience. It keeps her from being able to go back home to her family since that is where the incident took place and her panic attacks come on strong there. Zelda ends up needing to get some air and while in the alley behind the restaurant she and Beck strike up a conversation.




Beck Copeland has his own issues as well. One moment of poor judgement landed him in jail and with an enormous weight of guilt that he carries with him on a daily basis. But Beckett is an inherently good soul and something about Zelda calls to him. He feels this need to help and protect her. They end up becoming roommates in his tiny studio apartment in Brooklyn since he can barely cover the rent with the two jobs that he has and Zelda doesn’t have enough money to rent her own apartment.




Two strangers quickly become the best of friends and they even end up being the balm to soothe each other’s suffering from their tragic pasts. Zelda is bringing color back into Beck’s life and he is the only one who convinces her that she needs to keep fighting to accomplish her dreams. Beck has a calming effect on Zelda whenever she has an impending panic attack. He’s also become her muse and writing partner on her graphic novel series.



Zelda and Beck start to develop deeper feelings for each other and what was already a stunning story then became one of 2017’s best by far! I didn’t think that I could fall for Beck any harder but, oh yes, my heart was completely stolen by him! I was dying for the romance to spark and it was well worth the wait.



The Butterfly Project is one of those books that will leave you with a feeling of emptiness at the end because it is just so darn perfect that you never want it to be over. I think I may be ruined for all other books because nothing has come close to the perfection of this one. If you’ve never read anything by this amazing author, you need to make it a point to bump her up your TBR! I guarantee you that once you have read one of her stories that she will become an automatic must read for you!



The book is currently available! Make sure you one-click!!



Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2lkj8ZY
Amazon Universal: myBook.to/TheButterflyProject





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Profile Image for ♥︎ Heather ⚔ (New House-Hiatus).
990 reviews4,852 followers
August 28, 2024
༘⋆♡༊ “𝓛𝓮𝓼𝓼𝓮𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓶𝓲𝓼𝓮𝓻𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓹𝓪𝓼𝓽 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓽𝓸 𝓪 𝓫𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓯𝓾𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓮.” ଓ༉‧.⭒ֶָ֢⋆.

˖⁺‧༊·₊˚♡˚₊ “𝓐 𝓫𝓾𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓵𝔂 𝓯𝓵𝓾𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 𝓲𝓽𝓼 𝔀𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 𝓲𝓷 𝓜𝓪𝓵𝓪𝔂𝓼𝓲𝓪 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓷𝓰𝓮𝓼 𝓲𝓷 𝓪𝓲𝓻 𝓬𝓾𝓻𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓼 𝓬𝓪𝓾𝓼𝓮 𝓪 𝓱𝓾𝓻𝓻𝓲𝓬𝓪𝓷𝓮 𝓲𝓷 𝓕𝓵𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓭𝓪. 𝓘 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓲𝓭𝓮𝓪. 𝓣𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓷 𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓽𝓲𝓷𝔂 𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓬𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓮 𝓪𝓷 𝓮𝓷𝓸𝓻𝓶𝓸𝓾𝓼 𝓮𝓯𝓯𝓮𝓬𝓽.” .ೃ࿔*:・

˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ 3 𝓢𝓽𝓪𝓻𝓼 ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ 𓇢𓆸 ❀ The Butterfly Project is a novel that reveals the power of forgiveness, and how even the smallest decisions of the heart can—like the flutter of a butterfly’s wings—create currents that strengthen into gale winds, altering the course of a life forever. ;ଓ ✩࿐⋆*


ೃ⁀➷ ★ ₊ ˚ꕤ 𝓠𝓾𝓲𝓬𝓴 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ;༊𓂃 ࣪˖ ⋆.˚ ʚїɞ ⋆


Zelda Rossi is an aspiring graphic novelist, who gives up everything and flies all the way from Las Vegas to New York just to pursue her American Dream as a successful novelist by signing a contract with one of the biggest publishers. Unfortunately, the odds are apparently not in her favor that day and thus, she’s rejected by all of the publishers she submitted her works to.

What’s worse, her rented room was robbed when she’s out so she loses all her precious art supplies. Devastated, she stumbles upon an Italian restaurant which reminds her of her own family— along with a heartbreaking incident— and then she met an equally frustrated yet attractive busboy, Beckett Copeland.

Beckett may seem to be a super nice guy who offers his poor neighbor leftovers from the restaurant he works for, hands some bills to the homeless people on the streets and walks a stranger girl, a.k.a. Zelda, home even though the directions are totally opposite.

What we don't know about him is that he has a criminal record that he highly regrets.


ೃ⁀➷ ★ ₊ ˚ꕤ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ;༊𓂃 ࣪˖ ⋆.˚ ʚїɞ ⋆


Ehh... Alright, so maybe I just have a cold black heart? Idk. This is the 4th book from Emma Scott that I've read and while it was generally enjoyable, I felt that it was lacking in other areas. Especially in comparison to her other works that I've read.

I feel like you definitely have to suspend your disbelief with this one. Who just moves in with a rando guy in- according to the book 'a sketchy neighborhood'? Like, what? Could have turned thriller real quick lol.

The characters are all very genuine, wholesome, likeable. Forgiveness and kindness is the general take away of the story, which is nice.

I just felt like nothing much happened... which made the pacing feel so slow. I am obviously toxic because I wanted more drama.

Also, I listened to the audiobook while working and the narration is so cringe. I couldn't take the portrayal of a New York accent.


ೃ⁀➷ ★ ₊ ˚ꕤ 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓟𝓪𝓼𝓼𝓪𝓰𝓮𝓼 ;༊𓂃 ࣪˖ ⋆.˚ ʚїɞ ⋆


“I once read that you fell in love like how you fell asleep: slowly at first and then all at once.”

“Wasn’t love a kind of chaos theory? One small look, one smile or one word could alter the course of a life forever.”

“All the risk and reward is great but it doesn’t mean shit unless you feel in your heart you’re doing the right thing.”

“There’s so much that’s shitty in this world, when you find something that shines against all the dirt and darkness, you gravitate toward it.”

“It felt like I’d lost something I didn’t know I wanted. And I realized you could get used to anything—even being alone for years—right until the moment you touched something better than what you had.”
ॱ⋅.˳˳.⋅˙ॱᐧ.˳˳.⋅ઇଓ
Profile Image for Alex is The Romance Fox.
1,461 reviews1,243 followers
March 17, 2017
'The Butterfly Project' by Emma Scott really took me by surprise. I have read other books by this author, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3... and https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2... which I loved........so I wanted to read this one.......despite so many conflicting reviews about this book .

I am so glad I did!! It was more than just good...it was.....
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An unique, powerful and emotional story of love, friendship, redemption, heartache, family, forgiveness, salvation, pain, kindness and humanity.
“Every day it feels less like something I shouldn’t be allowed to have, and more like something precious I can’t throw away.”
A beautifully written, inspirational, captivating, gut-wrenching, heart-warming and moving story about two broken people who find love and the power to heal each other.
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“…there’s so much that’s shitty in this world, when you find something that shines against all the dirt and darkness, you gravitate toward it.”
The two main characters, Zelda and Beckett are beautifully written. Both flawed and with tragic pasts and both trying to do something good and better with their lives.

The secondary characters were so well integrated into the story - each playing a special part in the lives of Zelda and Beckett. Quirky, endearing and unforgettable.

Loved the New York City setting and the fact that we are given a glimpse to the not so glamorous side of a city that can either make or break you.

I love the author's writing style and her beautiful prose and voice.
“Lessening the misery of the past will lead to a brighter future.”
This is a book that will stay with me for a long time - not only for all of the above but the message it left for me...........that even when things are dark and feel hopeless in your life, there is always a light somewhere and all you need to do is believe that it is possible.
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Profile Image for EmBibliophile.
675 reviews2,031 followers
December 10, 2022
Re-read #2 (12/9/2022) 5 stars

The ❄️winter vibes❄️ in this book?? Is everything!! I love those characters so much! I feel like this book was kinda aesthetic in its own way in addition to being so emotional. This is a book that screams winter for me!!

————————————————

5 stars




"But wasn’t love a kind of chaos theory? One small look, one smile or one word could alter the course of a life forever. Beckett and I were living proof.”

If I’m working a seven hours shift, starting from 8 in the morning, without even getting paid, would that justify sneaking every now and then to read a chapter or two? Specially if it such an amazing book??

"I recognized the weight of guilt hanging around his neck, because I wore it too.”

Zelda Rossi moves into new York in an attempt to try her luck in the big city. She’s a graphic novelist who dreams of getting her graphic novel published. But things haven’t been easy. Just when she was about to give up and deciding that the city wasn’t kind to her, she met Beckett. Beckett is a felon.... and so much more! He’s struggling as well, so he and Zelda became roommates out of necessity.

"Every day it feels less like something I shouldn’t be allowed to have, and more like something precious I can’t throw away.”

This is a story of two struggling broken souls. Both carrying a heavy weight. They both start letting each other in, and maybe they will be able to let go of the guilt and give life a chance. I loved Zelda so much. She’s a strong heroine. I loved watching her fall, then stand up again. Her character development was so awesome. Beckett did warm my heart! He’s so broken, kind, and selfless. I felt like I need to give him a hug! And that scene in the end? I might have teared up a little.

"Lessening the misery of the past will lead to a brighter future.”

This book was so freakin good. Such a beautiful hopeful story about grief and guilt. About healing and forgiveness. I loved all the side characters and how effective their roles were. Roy, Darlene, and so many more. Everyone in the book was so special. This book was so warm and cozy. Beckett and Zelda’s story was skillfully written which made it even more beautiful. It was such a perfect winter book to read in the summer for those who -as well as me- long for winter days.

It felt like I’d lost something I didn’t know I wanted. And I realized you could get used to anything—even being alone for years—right until the moment you touched something better than what you had.

Song recommendation:

Don’t stop believin by journey
I’ll be home for Christmas by Frank Sinatra
Make it to me by Sam Smith
Profile Image for Jennifer Kyle.
2,610 reviews5,400 followers
November 13, 2021
4.5 STARS

”Wasn’t love a kind of chaos theory? One small look, one smile or one word could alter the course of a life forever.”

description

Emma Scott delivers a story of two tormented souls finding friendship and love in one another.

”I recognized the weight of guilt that hung around his neck, because I wore it too.”

The story is skillfully written while their fall into love is all done to perfection. The two main characters Zelda and Beckett harbor guilt from their past and hold onto their individual pain. Zelda is a graphic novelist who has no backup plan and money when her story is rejected and she’s robbed. She asks busboy/messenger Beckett if she can share in his bills till she gets on her feet and these two souls slowly make a home together.

“You are my home. Where you are is home.”

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Beckett’s walls slowly come down and the love and support of one another falls into Zelda’s graphic novel project. Their bond and the ways in which they are there for each other are what solid relationships are built upon. It’s also what guides them both into living a happy life in the end.

”There is a power in forgiveness… and magic in even the smallest of kindness”

description
Profile Image for Bibi.
1,287 reviews133 followers
February 23, 2017
ARC by Netgalley **5+** stars.

Oh, Emma.... you're such an overachiever. Amazing book.


Full review to come.


Profile Image for Chelsea Humphrey.
1,487 reviews83k followers
June 17, 2017
This was so cute! I read this in less than 24 hours (it's only around 275 pages with larger font and shorter chapters) and it was such a fresh break from all the heavy doom and gloom I typically read. While wholly predictable, it was just what I needed at the moment. I didn't have to concentrate on something complex and ever-changing and was able to appreciate this story for what it is- a delectable treat with a happy ending. Highly recommended for those who like their romance mostly happy and upbeat with a side of dueling redemptive stories. I'll be rating this in donuts because what better way to appreciate my light and fluffies? 😍🎉👍🏼📚☕️

🍩🍩🍩🍩

Thanks to my sissy Irina for sending me this one! 😘
Profile Image for KAS.
317 reviews3,116 followers
March 2, 2017
5+ Mesmerizing Stars!!!

Have. Mercy. Ms. Scott. A theme park needs to name a roller coaster in your honor!

I have learned before I begin to read an Emma Scott novel, to buckle up and prepare my heart for an exhilarating ride. And this ride was utter perfection and so satisfying.

I love when a book makes me FEEL every emotion possible. Joy, anger, laughter, crying, elation, heartbreak, fulfillment. And when I find myself gasping for a breath, I know I am a goner. It is what you can expect from this author's phenomenal writing skills and She. Delivers. Every. Single. Time.

This storyline is so magical and extraordinary, I did not want it to end. It is a love story like no other, and Zelda and Beckett will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Sakes alive, have I mentioned Beckett? Yes indeed, there is definitely an exquisite bottle being made so I can place his gorgeous self inside and sit him front and center on my lovely "book boyfriend" shelf. Oh my, he is going to shine brightly!

I was dazzled by the beauty and patient nature of these characters who are so lovable and endearing. So damaged, yet so strong. So vulnerable, yet have so much grit and determination. There is a rare quality about them I will never forget. Even the supporting cast of characters are memorable. Roy, you truly are one of a kind ;)

Here is a taste of of Zelda and Beckett's stunning story ......

Guilt is a heavy burden to carry around, and Zelda and Beckett have it wrapped around their necks to the point nearing strangulation. They seek forgiveness from those they have wronged, but refuse to forgive themselves.

Zelda Rossi, a graphic artist who draws comic books, arrives in NYC with her portfolio in hand containing the storyboard entitled "Mother, May I?" She is trying to get work with one of the graphic novel publishers. Three Publishers, three interviews, and unfortunately, three rejections. They explain to her her story has "no heart." Only problem is, the story is not supposed to have heart. It is a story about vengeance, about rage, about justice. It is Zelda's apology.

Feeling totally defeated by the three rejections, Zelda heads out into the big city to grab a bite to eat and walks into an Italian restaurant where she meets the breathtaking, blue-eyed blonde busboy, who will rock her world forever.

Beckett Copeland, said busboy, has a past which constantly haunts him. He is a convicted felon who served two years in prison and is now on parole for armed robbery. A robbery that went horribly wrong. A robbery for which Beckett carries a weight so heavy, he can barely stand to look at himself in the mirror. Fortunately for him, he is about to meet his saving grace when he goes to the back alley of the restaurant and spots a captivating woman looking a bit lost.

"Do you ever wonder, Zelda, if you're allowed to be happy?"

Tears sprang to my eyes. "Yes," I whispered. "All the time. Every minute."

"All I can think about is you and how you've taken my shitty life and made every single bit of it better."

Are you searching for a unique storyline, which is insanely well written? Are you craving an amazing love story? Are you yearning for a read which makes you FEEL? Look no further as this one has it all.

You might be asking, why is the title of this book "The Butterfly Project?" Well, that is another beautiful story of it's own, which you can read all about while discovering why this book is so highly rated and recommended by all who have had the absolute pleasure of experiencing. Enjoy!

*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Giorgia Reads.
1,331 reviews2,238 followers
September 20, 2021
4 stars

16/09/21
I think my heart is dead and my feelings can’t be touched cause I know this was a good, even great book -heartfelt, poignant and hopeful - but I still got bored in places where I should have cried or something..

It deserves 4 stars for sure despite my inability to feel human emotions for the time being

20/09/21

So I still don't know what to add to this review. I would probably recommend this to people asking for a genuine, heartfelt, sweet but sad story. I definitely liked it well enough but it's not the kind of thing to make me cry and wrap me up in a fog of emotionality. I think everyone has their triggers so to speak when it comes to what makes their heart hurt. Apparently mine needs something more than this or something totally different.

The one part where I almost let a tear slip was at the very end page where we had a picture of 2 little girls looking happy holding their balloons. It touched me because I felt like I could finally picture Zelda and her sister who was taken way too soon from the world.

Profile Image for Dana Ilie.
405 reviews392 followers
May 2, 2018
The Butterfly Project was simply all around goodness. The writing was engaging, pacing was good and I really enjoyed the dual 1st person POV. There are a couple of topics that come up that may be triggers for some, but are handled with respect and are not used gratuitously. The secondary characters are all well written. So, if you are looking for a slow building, character driven romance with characters that you’ll fall in love with almost instantly then this is a definite must read!
Profile Image for Maditales.
625 reviews33k followers
September 20, 2022
2.5 stars
Sooooooo how do I start...

The story intrigued me from the beginning and I was really excited to see where this would take us.
Darlene had not only a traumatic past but also a pretty detailed story. I loved that she wanted to write comics and the art work we got from between different chapters was really nice buuuuuuuttttt even though she had this detailed story about herself the book still felt boring when she talked. I do not know what it was about her but I just wanted to get over with this book.

Beckett also had a very interesting life and I liked his story and his different relationships with the different types of people in his life. I really liked his friends and the side characters but again even though he had all this he was boring.
Maybe it was just the scenes in the apartment but I was bored.

So little happened in this entire book until the last idk 20 percent in their life I was utterly confused on what even happened before. I think it was about biking? and tunafish?

Idk maybe I was tired but I felt like nothing happened in the beginning
Profile Image for Warda.
1,310 reviews23.1k followers
March 30, 2019
The last painting... I was on the verge of sobbing.

Such a heartfelt story about two broken people coming together. Love is what it is about. In its every form.
Profile Image for Hulya Kara Yuksel.
1,095 reviews1,306 followers
April 13, 2017
“You are my home. Where you are is home.”

Ahhh Beckett, you stole my heart. I'm absolutely in love with this story and I highly recommend it. Please, please read it asap! <3


*ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.



Profile Image for Chantal ❤️.
1,361 reviews912 followers
tried-and-failed
March 3, 2017
DNF @ 56% but I skipped to the end!

So after some spoilers from Mindy (thank you my dear), I skipped to the end.
They did get a nice ending but it was more closure on their internal struggles I was interested in.

The ending itself was a simple HFN With a possibility of more sometime in the future.

But their survivors guilt was what interested me most. Since they didn't really work for me as a couple, I was more interested in how it all worked out with their own personal demons.
It worked out amazingly and yes I did cry!

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That being said, I still won't rate this book. I didn't read the whole thing but I read about 80% of it now.
Without spoiling it for everyone I enjoyed their personal struggle and their quest for closure more than the romance in this book.
I know, I'm shocking myself with this statement as well.

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This is just how I saw it.
The rest of this review....

_______________Still stands_________________

Unfortunately, I'm struggling too much with this one and I'm calling it.
This wasn't an easy decision but it's the right one for me.
I'm crying too much and I'm not feeling their connection as much as their pain!
Their regret was only thing I could feel.
And that to me is not a good thing!

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I kept going over and over it in my head today as I read. I couldn't understand why I wasn't invested in their story?
My conclusion was that I found myself unable to relate to these characters.
And the very very slow burn here was more of a flickering for me.

description

Sorry, but I can't read anymore.
This story is just not resonating with me. And I've wasted enough time trying to enjoy a book I should just be enjoying.

description

So I tried and failed!
Others please enjoy.
Again, these are just my thoughts.
Take it or leave it!
It's up to you!
Profile Image for Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth.
796 reviews918 followers
April 10, 2017
✬✬✬ 5 CREATIVITY STARS ✬✬✬


Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books




LOVE LETTER TO AN AUTHOR


Dear Mrs. S,

your creations are like Kintsukuroi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, making it sturdier and more gorgeous than before. This is what you do with your characters - you take two broken people, tell their story and when you are done they are stronger and more beautiful for it.







This time you give us Zelda, who I fell in love with in "All In" because she was such a good friend to Theo, and Beckett, whose kind heart made me weep because the guilt he feels is so misplaced.

Zelda is a brave and resilient one, she takes a good thing where she can find it and she definitely has found one in Beckett. She sees him, his beauty, his heart, his light. They are buried under a massive pile of guilt but you make Zelda wise enough to teach him to forgive himself and unfold his own potential.

...our pain was of the same fabric, even if the patterns were different, but he was helping me.


At the same time Beckett, who hasn't allowed himself to live for a long time, helps Zelda to find her own peace of mind and closure. These two are the heart pieces of the story, their love grows at a low simmer until it escalates into a sensual and all consuming explosion.

Beckett’s lust and want were vibrant splashes of the most brilliant color, while the gentle intensity in his eyes revealed what was in his heart—written in solid ink across mine, and indelible.



I loved that Zelda followed her gut feeling and didn't take the easy way out. You made her strong with a sharp wit and intelligence. I adored Beck for always having her back and growing into the young man he was supposed to be before he made one stupid mistake. A mistake he would regret for a long time to come. But like Zelda, he is brave and takes the high road.

These two feel deeply and their road to healing and happiness isn't an easy one. They keep each other at a distance at first, neither of them thinks they deserve love but when they finally find it, it's hard earned and well deserved.

Our eyes held, and I could see what I wanted reflected in his deep blue gaze. What both of us wanted, and what we thought we shouldn’t have, with our promise to stay friends hanging in between.


I am utterly in love with Zelda and Beckett. Not only did they make me cry a little bit, they also made me laugh because you equipped these characters with a fabulous sense of humor which made their heartbreaking struggles a little bit easier to bear.


“Fine,” he snapped back after a silence, and climbed onto the air mattress. His feet stuck out unless he pulled them in, and he tried to conceal this with the blue blanket.
“I told you,” I said. “You’re too tall.”
He pulled the blue blanket over his head. “Your prejudice against tall people is duly noted.”



Beck and Zelda feel as real as my neighbors. They could easily live next door. As could all the other characters in this story. Roy and Mary are my favorite because they give Beckett their unconditional love. Darlene I love because I can feel that with the right person she can become the bubbly young woman she used to be. You set the stage for all of Zelda's and Beckett's friends.

Dear Mrs. S, your words are magic to me, your prose is wonderful, gorgeous. You are a master of evoking deep emotions and I worship the ground you walk on. Thank you for enriching my life by gifting your art to all of us.


Love,
your faithful reader Astrid

PS. Can we have a story about Darlene, pretty please?
PPS. And Nigel and Wes, too.





“Do you remember what I told you on Christmas night?”
“I told you I would,” she said.
“You said the apartment felt like home because I made it that way. With lights, and the plant and the rug.”
“That’s what I said. But I was wrong.”
“You were?”
“Yeah, baby, I was. You didn’t make it home, Zelda. You are my home. Where you are is home.”





Profile Image for Claire.
2,324 reviews738 followers
February 28, 2017
5 - "Let's just be you and me, and no one else..." Stars!

ITs LIVE!
Amazon US - http://a.co/9iaB0pt
Amazon UK - http://amzn.eu/8mH8mM6



One thing I always know when I start a book by Emma Scott is that I am going to be in for an enjoyable, albeit likely and emotional read. And The Butterfly Effect was certainly that. Once again we are given a love story, but not quite as we know it. This is something the author excels at for me, in delivering a couple that although appear down-to-earth on the surface, are wholly unique once you get to know them individually, and as a couple.



There is a loose connection to the Full Tilt series in the fact that Zelda used to work in Theo’s Vegas Tattoo Studio, although her story with Beckett plays out on New York City, a place she has travelled to with the aim of getting her graphic novel published. Things don’t go according to plan, and after the worst couple of days spent in the Big Apple, the only kindness she has experienced is from a bus-boy in the Italian restaurant where she stops for food.



This is a couple that have completely different pasts and upbringings, but find out as they get to know each other on a deeper level that they are both holding onto a lot of grief and guilt in their hearts for things that in their heads they know were not really their fault. I think that the other thing that stood out for me is that they were both lonely people as well, and that lessened the more they opened up to each other.



Once again I laughed, cried and experienced every emotion in-between while reading this book, and as expected I picked it up and didn’t put it down until I had finished it. I love this author, I love her books, and I cannot wait to see what else she has in store for her readers in 2017.

"I never want to be anywhere else."

ARC generously provided by the author, and it was, as it always is, my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.

**This review will also appear on Straight Shootin' Book Reviews - https://straightshootinbookreviews.com/
Profile Image for Megan✦❋Steamy Reads Blog❋✦.
293 reviews490 followers
March 17, 2017
*****5 Stars*****

“A butterfly flutters its wings in Malaysia and the changes in air currents cause a hurricane in Florida. I love that idea. That even one tiny action can create an enormous effect.”

description

Wow! “The Butterfly Project” by Emma Scott was absolutely phenomenal, so much so that I worry no review I attempt to write will do this book the justice it deserves. I admit that I am a big fan of Emma Scott as I always love her beautifully articulated words and how she has the ability to draw me in and feel absolutely every emotion. “The Butterfly Project” is definitely my favourite Emma Scott book to date and it is also my favourite book of 2017 thus far. I anticipate it will be pretty hard to top, such is the love I feel for this amazing story.

Zelda Rossi has recently moved to New York from Vegas in the hopes of having her graphic novel published. After a less than successful meeting with a publisher, who informs Zelda that her novel needed more heart, she contemplates packing it in and moving back to Vegas. But before she has a chance to seriously consider this, she has a chance encounter with a bus boy at an Italian restaurant and her life is forever changed.

Beckett Copeland works two jobs in order to make a living; one as a bike messenger in NYC and the second as a bus boy at an Italian restaurant. Beckett doesn’t have many choices when it comes to earning a living, due to a major life altering mistake he made a few years ago. Beckett is utterly riddled with guilt and he won’t allow himself to be happy as he feels he is the last person to deserve any. Beckett is such a kind, sweet and beautiful soul who will do anything from giving the last of his money to someone in need, to bringing food to a lonely elderly neighbour. He is struggling to make rent when Zelda makes him an offer he can’t refuse.

description

Zelda comes to Beckett with an offer to become roommates, which will help them both. Beckett will be able to pay his rent and Zelda needs a place to live and work on her novel, now that she has decided to stay in New York. Both Zelda and Beckett are no strangers to tragedy, which has ultimately shaped both their lives and caused much pain, heartache and guilt. They soon develop a beautiful friendship where they comfort, support and help each other overcome their guilt.

The friendship soon morphs into something more and it was a beautiful journey to be a part of. Two tortured souls healing each other through the act of kindness and love.

“As tight as he held me, and wherever we touched became proof to one another that we were not alone.”

I cannot stress enough how sensational this story really was. Both Zelda and Beckett absolutely stole my heart from start to finish. This story is about love, loss, family and above all else forgiveness. This story really showcased the power of forgiveness and the immense courage it takes to learn to forgive yourself when you can’t possibly see past the guilt you feel. One small or large action whether it be for good or bad, can forever change the course of your life. I could not recommend this story highly enough.
Profile Image for Christie«SHBBblogger».
988 reviews1,303 followers
April 1, 2017



Title: The Butterfly Project
Series: Companion to the Full Tilt series
Author: Emma Scott
Release date: February 28, 2017
Cliffhanger: No
HEA



After reading the Full Tilt series, I couldn't wait to read Zelda's story. She was one of Theo's tattoo artists at his studio and a graphic novelist. I thought long and hard, and for the life of me, I couldn't come up with another book that has a heroine like her. Point one for Emma right off the bat. That's one of the things I love most about her books. She always imagines fresh stories that give me new and exciting things to read about. With so many authors out there who just capitalize on what's in or "hot" at the moment, this is incredibly refreshing.

Zelda has just left Las Vegas for New York City to chase her dreams. Unfortunately the city isn't as accommodating as she had hoped. She's had nothing but bad luck since she arrived, and publishers are coldly slamming the door in her face. She briefly considers running back to Vegas with her tail tucked between her legs, but Zelda is made of sterner stuff than that. Her novel is more than just a dream for success. It's a tribute to the sister that haunts her, and her family that she feels like she is responsible for breaking. But more than that, it's her way of re-writing history. The heroine she creates exacts vengeance that she wishes she could have had.

With every finished drawing, with every decision Kira made, I felt closer to touching something I hadn’t thought possible. Not peace, maybe. But a reckoning.

I loved how her novel was more than just a fun element to the story. It drew a parallel to her past, and it helped her evolve and learn to let go of the guilt and sorrow. It was cathartic. Forgiveness was something that she couldn't grasp in the beginning of the book. She was too torn apart and wounded, and it was controlling her ability to be truly happy. She never would have expected the busboy in the little Italian restaurant she stepped into one night to change everything.

Beckett was an AMAZING hero. I adored every little broken piece of him. He was like a knight in dented armor-always trying to help and protect everyone around him, but unable to see his own worth. Like Zelda, he was dealing with a past that he couldn't forgive himself for. I think that's what made them fit so naturally. When they connected, you could see them both wanting more, but neither knew how to reach for it. Or for that matter, if they even deserved to be searching for happiness.

I recognized the weight of guilt hanging around his neck, because I wore it too.

Beckett and Zelda become roommates in order to share living costs. She is not the only one struggling to survive. He was virtually penniless and on the verge of selling some of his treasured vinyl collection for rent. Neither is too excited about sharing a space with a stranger, but very quickly a friendship grew and attraction blossomed. I loved their tiny little apartment, rickety heater and all. There was something charming about how they made their happy memories there. And they charged it with so much sexual tension and angst, it made my heart flutter.

This, I thought, my thoughts echoing hers. Her. Her and no one else, ever again.

These two characters were stunning, they carried such a powerful impact. And seeing their love grow and flourish was absolutely enchanting to watch. Emma Scott knows how to write characters with beautiful souls that you want to wrap your arms around and hold tight. You will dream, cry, and learn with them. When everything tied together in the end and came full circle, I (once again) cried and felt so happy to have been along for the ride.

I kissed her there in the rain forest instead of surrounded by the winter cement of New York, and I felt as if I was free to go anywhere. I can love her anywhere…

The Butterfly Project took my breath away. It was a love story, with more depth than your average romance. Both Zelda and Beckett had to learn to love themselves first, to accept what they couldn't change and realize that the smallest acts of kindness can have an immeasurable impact. These two will gift you with an eloquent message of hope and love, delivered in Emma's typical poignant writing style. There were so many highlights of quotes that I loved, a true sign that she did these characters proud. If you haven't read this book yet, you need to correct that error immediately. Every time I pick up Emma's books, it feels like a homecoming. And The Butterfly Project was no exception.

*This is a complete standalone, but with characters connected to Full Tilt and All In.

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Profile Image for Jenny••Steamy Reads Blog••.
987 reviews1,970 followers
April 16, 2017
I absolutely love this author!!! Love her stories, I love her writing, and good god I absolutely adore her male characters. Seriously she makes the best heroes ever. I think Theo will forever be my favorite, but Beckett Copeland sure the hell comes so close to taking over. He is male perfection, he is boyfriend perfection.... Yummmmmy and lord is he the kindest most considerate man!!!
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Zelda, Zelda, Zelda..... how I love you too!!! You're story, wow, I would have never guessed you had such intense backing when you were introduced in All In. Your character is strong, determined, and oh so deserving to be free.
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The connection, the immediate trust, the intense comfort, and the level of safety these two have with each other from the start is amazing. The way this author sucks you into their story and locks you in for that ever slowwwwww building burn. I loved this story, not as much as the precious books I've read by her, but definitely one I throughly enjoyed!!!!
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Profile Image for Sophia Triad.
2,241 reviews3,764 followers
June 22, 2017
It took me ages to finish this book and the reason for this is that it deals partly with a huge fear of mine.
As a mother of two very young children, my personal fear every time they leave the house is that somebody will take them away from me for whatever sick reason.
Every time of the day and wherever they go and whoever they are with, I am scared.

So, when the main female character has to deal with the trauma of the loss of her sister when she was a teenager, when she constantly blames herself for losing her, when her parents mourn for one child while they try not to blame the other child and in the end they lose both; it is like that I am living my worst fear again and again.

Nevertheless, this is a beautiful love story about two broken but talented young people who are trying to find their path in pitiless New York.

Each of them is broken for different reasons:
Zelda Rossi tries to overcome a trauma from an incident that happened when she was 14 years old and it was obviously not her mistake but she cannot stop blaming herself.
Beckett Copeland tries to overcome the guilt for a stupid mistake that he did as an adult and now it may cost him any opportunities he may have in his future life.

I have to admit that I cried my eyes out thoughout the book – even during the happy moments. It was somewhat cathartic, but it was certainly not the best choice for a Sunday afternoon.
Thank God there is a happy ending.

I suppose the moral of the story is closely related to the title of the book and the Butterfly effect that graphic artist Zelda tries to incorporate in her dystopian comic book.
What Zelda does not realize is that her future life is also the result of the Butterfly effect.
Maybe if she did not have the experience of that horrible situation as a teenager, she would have never gone to New York, she would have never met Beckett and she would have never created ‘Mother, may I?’.
Profile Image for Dee Montoya.
943 reviews597 followers
March 2, 2017
6+++++ ~Second Chance~ Stars *******

I can't never go wrong with an Emma Scott novel. I have been suffering from a very intense book hangover, but leave it to The Butterfly Project to pull me right out of my book funk after only reading a couple of pages. This novel felt like eighty nine thousand words fluttering around my soul, making their way into my heart, and making it soar. An uplifting story about second chances that will give you all the feels, and then some...

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Zelda Rossi is a very talented artist. She's finally found the courage to leave her job and her friends in Vegas behind to pursue her dream to move to New York city, and try to sell her graphic novel to a publishing house. After only a few days in the city, her experience hasn't been the greatest, she got robbed and rejected a few publishers, but there's a tiny glimmer of hope inside all the disappointment , and after meeting Beckett Copeland she's decided to try again and don't give up on her dream, at least not without a fight.

Beckett Copeland didn't have the best childhood growing up. Poor and without parents, he was raised by his grandfather, who later on got very sick, and Beckett got desperate into trying to provide for him. One night Beckett made a terrible mistake that now following him, doesn't matter what he does, the shadow of his transgression is always present, and leaving him with very few choices out of life.

Beckett and Zelda become roommates in a effort to help one another. Every night they talk and they get to know each other more, turning Beckett's once cold and sterile apartment into a warm home, where memories and second chances will bloom. Bringing both Zelda and Beckett out of the darkness and into the light.


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Just when they thought they didn't deserved happiness, even when they believed with everything inside them that their past mistakes had forever ruin their lives, love comes in changing everything for Zelda and Beckett. The feelings that thread the pages of this book were beautiful and overwhelming. It will swallow you whole and leave you smiling, or perhaps with a few tears running down your cheeks.

Why do I always love reading an Emma Scott book? Because her stories always mean something important, they have great power, they somehow renew my faith in humanity, renew the faith on myself, they stay with me and always make me happy. Her books are a treasure, a beautiful gem that will shine bright in the shelves of your library.

I will remember this book forever and will forever remember that everyone deserves a second chance...


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Profile Image for NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books}.
1,554 reviews82 followers
March 11, 2017
***5 emotional "Mother May I???" stars***



“Lessening the misery of the past will lead to a brighter future.”

This is my third book by Mrs. Scott and for once again, she made me fall in love with the story but mostly with her wonderful characters....

Honestly, I could read only her books for the rest of my life!!!
She knows how to built a beautiful story with imperfect persons who are unbelievably perfect with all their flaws and their big hearts!!!
And she is managing to touch a deep part of my soul Every.Single.Time!!!


“Wasn’t love a kind of chaos theory? One small look, one smile or one word could alter the course of a life forever. Beckett and I were living proof.”

We had took a small glimpse of Zelda in the "Full Tilt" duet but don't you worry, it's a standalone book!!!
Zelda left Las Vegas and her job in the tattoo shop, for chasing her luck in the big city, New York. She is a graphic novelist and she went in NY with the hopes to sell her story "Mother may I?",

but unfortunately, she only got rejection with a tiny ray of hope if she will change a little bit her story...
By chance, she met Beckett and from that moment both of their lives changed, since they got into a crazy arrangement!!!

“I must be crazy,” he muttered. “Or you are.” He nodded at the tracks. “This is me. Or…us?”
This is us.
I went with Beckett Copeland to Brooklyn.


No, I won't tell you more about the hows and whys they ended up in this arrangement, you should find it out by yourselves...

But as you can understand, from the first moment Zelda and Beckett started to feel something more about the other, but unfortunately both of them had a big load upon their shoulders and too many guilts of past events...
Will they manage to heel each other and to be together???
Or everything will fall apart???



"I made a huge fucking mistake. It’s not easy to come back from that." {Beckett}

"I recognized the weight of guilt that hung around his neck, because I wore it too." {Zelda}

“Do you ever wonder, Zelda, if you’re allowed to be happy?”
Tears sprang to my eyes. “Yes,” I whispered. “All the time. Every minute.”


I loved very much both Zelda and Beckett...
I loved the pace that Mrs. Scott kept in their story...

I adored the way that they came closer to each other ....
and i loved how they help each other to fight their demons...
I liked very much how both our heroes received their redemption... It was so fitting!!!

“I have nothing to offer you, Zelda.”
“That’s not true.”
“I’m a felon. That’s going to follow me around for the rest of my life...”
“I told you I don’t care... I don’t care about any of it.”
“I do,” Beckett said. “I care... I fucked up my future,” he said finally. “The last thing I want to do is fuck up yours.”


Zelda was so sweet and kind...

Her imagination was incredible and she seemed like an awesome artist (since i couldn't see it with my own eyes!!!). She wanted to succeed so badly in her graphic novel, but not for herself, but for someone else that she was loving very deeply. She thought she owned to that person justice for what happened to it!!!
Unfortunately, Zelda was carrying too much guilt inside of her and that was making her to not fully enjoying her life...
But Beckett changed that for her...


"I realized you could get used to anything—even being alone for years—right until the moment you touched something better than what you had."

"I felt Beckett lying three feet from me but trapped in a past he couldn’t change. I was too—our pain was of the same fabric, even if the patterns were different, but he was helping me."

Beckett, from the other hand, was still paying for a mistake that he did three years before... a deadly mistake and he couldn't get over it!!! He thought that he wasn't deserving anything good in his life and that was so damn unfair...

Beckett was such a nice guy!!! Seriously, guys!!! He was a rare person...
He was so generous, so kind, so thoughtful!!! He was so selfless and it was such a pity that he thought the worst of him...
But Zelda's presence made him realize that he needed something more, something that only she could give him...


“I wear the words like chains around my neck. Felon. Criminal. Prisoner. I‘m all those things, and remain them, even after time served. A freed prisoner with a life sentence.
Now I have a woman in my life who’s turned everything that was cold and gray into warmth and color. She’s inked new words onto my heart.
Us. Together...”


Also, in this book, we had awesome secondary characters...

Roy was the most unbelievable guy and his wife was so sweet... I liked how much he was helping Beckett.
I also liked very much Darlene... She was so crazy and with her own fucked up life, but she was adorable!!!
Beckett's friends were also very good!!!
And Mrs J.!!! God, i loved her for what she did in the end...


"There is a power in forgiveness… and magic in even the smallest of kindness."

God!!! I can't wait for Mrs. Scott's next story!!!

I'm sure that it will be also a wonderful story, as she only knows how to write!!!

***ARC generously provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
Profile Image for warhawke.
1,548 reviews2,234 followers
February 25, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:




Zelda Rossi moved to New York City to forget her past and start anew. As a graphic novel artist, she used her art as therapy. But a rejection pushed her to the edge and desperation led her to ask from the kindness of a stranger.

Beckett Copeland made a mistake and still paying for it not only with his future but also his conscience. His guilt was choking his freedom until she breathed a new life into him. Both of them carried burdens of their past and must learn to unload them before they could move on.



There are an abundance of romance books out there and over time, they all started to blend together. But when I pick up an Emma Scott's book, I knew there'd be something extra that set it apart and that's what this one has.

"I made a huge fucking mistake. It’s not easy to come back from that.”


I fell in love with Beckett pretty much immediately. His heart made up for any flaws he had. He was the epitome of how a good human being could also made mistakes, but one mistake should not define their whole life.

I recognized the weight of guilt hanging around his neck, because I wore it too.


Behind Zelda's spunky hard shell, there's a myriad of regret and insecurities bubbling inside her and threatening to cave in. With all that she was still capable of putting others first.



I like the book premise of chaos theory - something small and insignificant could make a huge impact. A small act of kindness could change someone's course in life. And in this book, it didn't just affect the main characters but also the people around them.

“Some days the work feels like punishment. Every time Kira kills someone, it’s not relief. It just ties her more tightly to her loss.”


I absolutely love the incorporation of comic page at the start if each parts. I also like how the story in the comic played a part in the characters' decision making.

“In forty-one letters over three years, you never asked me for forgiveness. Why?”
“It didn’t feel right,” I said, the words scraping my throat. “I don’t know that I deserve that.”


The Butterfly Project is a story revolved around the theme of forgiveness and how one can find peace in learning to give and accept. It would appeal to readers who like stories that touch the goodness in human beings


❖ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ❖. . . (F)BR With Loyda . . . ❖ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ❖




For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

Profile Image for ~♡AB♡~.
986 reviews682 followers
March 9, 2017
★★★★★ 5 Stars ★★★★★



So many stars!! One of my top reads of the year, possibly ever!

My first read by Emma Scott, this really blew my socks off and I can without a doubt say that this book is one that I will recommend for a long time to come.

From the very first chapter I was hooked, the writing pulled me in and the characters were completely loveable and believable.

Two broken people, who find hope and happiness in each other, this story was one of forgiveness and overcoming guilt and shame in different forms.

Zelda Rossi has been living with guilt since she was a child, and when she arrives in New York City determined to sell her comic book ideas to a publisher she vows not to let her sister down and fail.

Beckett Copeland is an ex-con, and the shame of his past stops him from pursuing happiness. When he meets a beautiful woman who begs for his help, his strong need to redeem himself by helping others overpowers him, and he invites her to stay with him in his tiny apartment in Brooklyn.

"I once read that you fell in love like how you fell asleep: slowly at first and then all at once."

So many feelings in this book, I adored how they became friends, and I absolutely devoured their slow burn towards love. It was a special story and one that I will cherish forever.

A very powerful and beautiful read. I loved it completely.

The Butterfly Project is a standalone contemporary romance, told from dual POV

Images featured in this review were created by me using stock images either purchased from deposit photo or from free stock sites.

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Profile Image for ✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ .
2,332 reviews1,341 followers
October 29, 2020
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Zelda is a 24-year-old artist. She just finished her graphic novel and is now in New York - all hopeful for the future - to sell the book to publishers. But nobody wants it. It's lacking heart, they say! But she put all of her into that story!
She's supposed to work on it and come back again. But she's almost out of money and has no place to stay.

Enter Beckett.
He's also almost out of money; he can't afford next month's rent without a little miracle. And suddenly there's this girl at the italian restaurant where he's bussing tables. She's looking just as lost in life as he feels.

Long story short, they click, and Zelda moves in to Beckett's tiny studio apartment for a month or two, just long enough to find a job and finish her book.

But lack of money is not the only thing they have in common.
There's all that guilt.
Both feel horribly guilty for things that happened in their past. And they can't keep on living their life with all this guilt inside. They can't just keep on existing with no hope! Something has to happen!

WHAT WILL HAPPEN WITH ZELDA & BECKETT?
WILL THERE BE A HAPPILY EVER AFTER???
BUY THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺

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This book was amazing.

It was different. Beautifully written. So moving, sad, hopeless, but still so very hopeful.
I just loved it.

We have those two broken and lonely people with their whole lives ahead of them... but with just no hope or dreams for their future. There's just this guilt they're trying to get rid off. But they don't really want to rid themselves of the guilt. They need it to survive. Because without their guilt there would be nothing. But you can't live life like that. They need to find forgiveness ...

And once they meet, things are changing.
Feelings start to develop. Feelings they feel too guilty to feel. But of course the reader knows or at least hopes, that they will learn to live with what happened and open up their hearts...

It was such a beautiful story with amazing characters. A story with so many emotions and feelings and so much hope and hopelessness and pain and happiness. Just perfect!

But please make sure to invest in a canoe or something like that. You might need it to float out of your house after you're done crying for & with Zelda & Beckett! ☺☺☺

Something I thought was a tiny little bit weird. They're both 24. But from the very beginning I had the feeling that they should've been / could've been between 3 and 6 years younger. They have this extremely young air about them. I guess it was written like this on purpose, because they both missed so much growing up because of the things that happened. I just had the feeling that they're not acting and sounding like 24 year olds. And they're nowhere near that place in life where people their age are supposed to be. Again, all due to their pasts, but still. I wanted them to be 19 or 21 maybe. ☺ BUT, being 24 is totally ok, it doesn't lessen the amazingness of the story at all!!!

Amazing story. Amazing characters. Amazing locations. Lots of feelings, excitement, fun, sadness, pain, hope ... and of course some sexiness too! ☺

THE BUTTERFLY PROJECT was such an amazingly beautiful lovestory! Please run to your nearest amazon for your own Beckett, because this one is MINE! MIIIIINNNEEEEE!!☺

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