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Colorado High Country #3
Falling Hard
A war widow alone…
Ellie Meeks promised her pilot husband that if anything happened to him, she would live her life to the fullest. Three years later, she is still alone, raising the twins he never met. She has no interest in dating or meeting men—until one snowy night when a stranger helps her get her sick kids safely home. That stranger turns out to be a former Army Ranger and a member of the elite Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team. He’s also tall, rugged… and irresistibly sexy.
All it takes is one kiss…
Jesse Moretti came to Colorado to get Iraq out of his head, using the adrenaline of extreme sports and high-risk mountain rescues to keep his mind off the past. But getting involved with Ellie might be the riskiest thing he’s ever done. It’s not just their explosive chemistry. There’s something about Ellie that gets inside him, opening him to feelings he’s tried hard to ignore.
When passion ignites…
Ellie feels alive in Jesse’s arms and happier than she ever thought she’d feel again. But their relationship comes at a price for him, and soon Ellie sees that she must help Jesse fight the demons of his past to protect the love of a lifetime—and save the heart of a hero.
Ellie Meeks promised her pilot husband that if anything happened to him, she would live her life to the fullest. Three years later, she is still alone, raising the twins he never met. She has no interest in dating or meeting men—until one snowy night when a stranger helps her get her sick kids safely home. That stranger turns out to be a former Army Ranger and a member of the elite Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team. He’s also tall, rugged… and irresistibly sexy.
All it takes is one kiss…
Jesse Moretti came to Colorado to get Iraq out of his head, using the adrenaline of extreme sports and high-risk mountain rescues to keep his mind off the past. But getting involved with Ellie might be the riskiest thing he’s ever done. It’s not just their explosive chemistry. There’s something about Ellie that gets inside him, opening him to feelings he’s tried hard to ignore.
When passion ignites…
Ellie feels alive in Jesse’s arms and happier than she ever thought she’d feel again. But their relationship comes at a price for him, and soon Ellie sees that she must help Jesse fight the demons of his past to protect the love of a lifetime—and save the heart of a hero.
262 pages, Paperback
First published February 21, 2017
284 people are currently reading
848 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Clare
56 books4,315 followersUSA Today best-selling author Pamela Clare began her writing career as a columnist and investigative reporter and eventually became the first woman editor-in-chief of two different newspapers. Along the way, she and her team won numerous state and national honors, including the First Amendment Award and the National Journalism Award for Public Service. In 2011, she was honored by the Colorado Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists with their Keeper of the Flame Lifetime Achievement Award for her work. A single mother with two grown sons and two cats, she writes historical romance and contemporary romantic suspense within view of Colorado’s beautiful Rocky Mountains. She is a two-time RITA finalist (Surrender, Defiant) and a three-time Daphne du Maurier finalist (I-Team series). She loves history, having studied archaeology in college, and has traveled extensively, living for almost three years in Denmark, which feels like home to her. She attributes her love of historical romance with the years she spent visiting ruins and castles in Europe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
March 23, 2017
4 Stars!!
It’s been so long since I’ve read a book by this author…way too long, years actually, so I kind of forgot how wonderful her writing is. Pamela Clare’s storytelling is simply fantastic, really engaging and her stories always captivate me from the very beginning. 'Falling Hard' is a story about loss, second chances and finding love, a heartwarming story filled with sweetness, but also sexiness that gave me all the feels.
Ellie Meeks’ life changed completely when her pilot husband was killed while serving in Iraq. Back then she was four months pregnant with twins, so obviously, Ellie was more than devastated. Forced by circumstances to raise her twins alone, after her husband dies, Ellie moved back to Scarlet Springs from Kentucky to be close to her parents and her sister. She is a nurse and she loves her job, but her priority is caring for her two children. For three years, the twins have been the only thing Ellie cared about, so she didn’t have time for a romantic relationship with a man. She still doesn’t have – the time or interest, but when she meets her sexy neighbor, Ellie realizes that she’s not as dead inside as she thought, even if she still mourns the loss of her husband. Ellie meets Jesse Moretti one snowy night when she really needs some help with her car. He comes to her rescue driving her and her kids home. Jesses turns out to be Ellie’s neighbor, who moved in town two years ago.
Jesse Moretti is a volunteer member of the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team and a full-time ski patroller at a local resort. He came to Colorado to forget about Iraq and to forget about his tormented childhood. He has also some PSTD issues, issues that make him believe he’s too damaged to be in any kind of relationship. He’s intrigued by Ellie, but he’s not relationships material. Or so he thinks. Besides, Ellie is off limits for so many reasons. However, he can’t deny the palpable chemistry between them.
I really enjoyed this one! Ellie and Jesse’s story is sweet, with just a few heartbreaking moments, so pretty light overall and without any unnecessary drama, which I appreciated. The story-line is gripping, so I was immersed in these characters’ story from the start.
The two main characters are interesting to read about, endearing and even relatable. I liked Ellie a lot. She’s a strong, kind, compassionate woman, a caring, dedicated nurse and a wonderful mother. I absolutely loved the way she is with her twins, Daisy and Daniel. Those scenes are simply adorable. Jesse is a wonderful hero. He’s sexy as sin and he also has such a big heart. He’s caring, sweet, considerate and so protective. Even if he’s a little damaged, he’s perfect for our heroine. The way he is with Ellie and her twins is truly heartwarming.
I enjoyed the slow burn relationship between these two characters. Their relationship is genuine and progressed naturally. I loved the way their interacted with each other, the way they came to know and trust each other and all the sweet, adorable scenes between them. The steam aspect is fantastically developed here. The sexy scenes between the two main characters are off the charts hot, detailed and so well written. I really have to mention the fantasy scene – dayum, so HOT. I liked all the supporting characters, which are engaging and well-portrayed and I’m looking forward to read the previous two books in the series…hopefully, in the near future.
If you are looking for a light, sweet and sexy contemporary romance, look no further and pick Pamala Clare’s new book.
Find me on:
It’s been so long since I’ve read a book by this author…way too long, years actually, so I kind of forgot how wonderful her writing is. Pamela Clare’s storytelling is simply fantastic, really engaging and her stories always captivate me from the very beginning. 'Falling Hard' is a story about loss, second chances and finding love, a heartwarming story filled with sweetness, but also sexiness that gave me all the feels.
Ellie Meeks’ life changed completely when her pilot husband was killed while serving in Iraq. Back then she was four months pregnant with twins, so obviously, Ellie was more than devastated. Forced by circumstances to raise her twins alone, after her husband dies, Ellie moved back to Scarlet Springs from Kentucky to be close to her parents and her sister. She is a nurse and she loves her job, but her priority is caring for her two children. For three years, the twins have been the only thing Ellie cared about, so she didn’t have time for a romantic relationship with a man. She still doesn’t have – the time or interest, but when she meets her sexy neighbor, Ellie realizes that she’s not as dead inside as she thought, even if she still mourns the loss of her husband. Ellie meets Jesse Moretti one snowy night when she really needs some help with her car. He comes to her rescue driving her and her kids home. Jesses turns out to be Ellie’s neighbor, who moved in town two years ago.
Jesse Moretti is a volunteer member of the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team and a full-time ski patroller at a local resort. He came to Colorado to forget about Iraq and to forget about his tormented childhood. He has also some PSTD issues, issues that make him believe he’s too damaged to be in any kind of relationship. He’s intrigued by Ellie, but he’s not relationships material. Or so he thinks. Besides, Ellie is off limits for so many reasons. However, he can’t deny the palpable chemistry between them.
I really enjoyed this one! Ellie and Jesse’s story is sweet, with just a few heartbreaking moments, so pretty light overall and without any unnecessary drama, which I appreciated. The story-line is gripping, so I was immersed in these characters’ story from the start.
The two main characters are interesting to read about, endearing and even relatable. I liked Ellie a lot. She’s a strong, kind, compassionate woman, a caring, dedicated nurse and a wonderful mother. I absolutely loved the way she is with her twins, Daisy and Daniel. Those scenes are simply adorable. Jesse is a wonderful hero. He’s sexy as sin and he also has such a big heart. He’s caring, sweet, considerate and so protective. Even if he’s a little damaged, he’s perfect for our heroine. The way he is with Ellie and her twins is truly heartwarming.
I enjoyed the slow burn relationship between these two characters. Their relationship is genuine and progressed naturally. I loved the way their interacted with each other, the way they came to know and trust each other and all the sweet, adorable scenes between them. The steam aspect is fantastically developed here. The sexy scenes between the two main characters are off the charts hot, detailed and so well written. I really have to mention the fantasy scene – dayum, so HOT. I liked all the supporting characters, which are engaging and well-portrayed and I’m looking forward to read the previous two books in the series…hopefully, in the near future.
If you are looking for a light, sweet and sexy contemporary romance, look no further and pick Pamala Clare’s new book.
Find me on:
March 2, 2017
5 Moving on Stars
Spoilers
OMG my feels! Pamela Clare did it again. I loved Falling Hard. Every single minute of it. Colorado High Country the series has been a total hit for me. I have loved every single book in this series. And while Eric and Victoria are my favorite couple of the series, Jesse and Ellie come in a very close second. This book had everything you could want in a romance. Sexy abs...Check. Sexy fantasy role playing.... Check. Adorable 3 year old twins..... Double Check!
Ellie had a rough past. Her husband died in Iraq when she was 4 months pregnant with their twins. Ellie did her best to raise her babies as a single mom but she hadn't really moved on from losing her beloved husband until she met Jesse. What I really liked was that Ellie loved both her dead husband and Jesse. Sometimes when I read widow books the widow either didn't really love their dead spouse or they loved them so much that the dead spouse is like a ghost that haunts the new relationship making me feel like the new person was second place. In Falling Hard I never felt like Jesse was second but I still felt like Ellie had a real love with her dead husband. A respectable love and then she moved on with an equally strong love for Jesse. It was a nice balance.
Jesse was so sexy and yummy and God I loved him! Former Army Ranger, Rocky mountain search and rescue team member, toddler whisperer, and just all around sexy beast Jesse had it all. I loved the way he was with the twins. I loved how protective he was. He was so heroic always trying to save everyone. Jesse had a rough life and some scars but they just added to his depth and gave him that sexy damage bad boy edge. There was nothing about Jesse I would change!
Jesse and Ellie had an instant strong connection, lots of lust, but their love had a nice build to it. I loved that even though in the start of their relationship he felt a little jealous of Dan(Ellie's dead husband) he never let it show. He didn't act petty or try to replace Dan. Ellie never made me feel like Jesse was second place in her life or the twins. Although I did wish she would have taken off her wedding ring a little sooner. This book brought out a lot of emotions. I could feel Ellie's pain from the lost of her first love. The struggle she had to raise the twins when their dad never even got to meet them. I could feel the guilt Jesse felt when he couldn't save someone. His fear that his baggage would hurt Ellie and the twins. His love for her and the twins. Everything felt raw, real and just jumped off the pages making me tear up a few times. I also really enjoyed getting to catch up with the beloved couples from the past books. Seeing Lexi and Taylor are starting a family, know how strong Vic and Eric's love still is. Overall I loved this book. I love this series and I love me some Pamela Clare. I can't wait to see who's book is next. I am hoping for Chaska Belcourt's book!!!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
Spoilers
OMG my feels! Pamela Clare did it again. I loved Falling Hard. Every single minute of it. Colorado High Country the series has been a total hit for me. I have loved every single book in this series. And while Eric and Victoria are my favorite couple of the series, Jesse and Ellie come in a very close second. This book had everything you could want in a romance. Sexy abs...Check. Sexy fantasy role playing.... Check. Adorable 3 year old twins..... Double Check!
Ellie had a rough past. Her husband died in Iraq when she was 4 months pregnant with their twins. Ellie did her best to raise her babies as a single mom but she hadn't really moved on from losing her beloved husband until she met Jesse. What I really liked was that Ellie loved both her dead husband and Jesse. Sometimes when I read widow books the widow either didn't really love their dead spouse or they loved them so much that the dead spouse is like a ghost that haunts the new relationship making me feel like the new person was second place. In Falling Hard I never felt like Jesse was second but I still felt like Ellie had a real love with her dead husband. A respectable love and then she moved on with an equally strong love for Jesse. It was a nice balance.
Jesse was so sexy and yummy and God I loved him! Former Army Ranger, Rocky mountain search and rescue team member, toddler whisperer, and just all around sexy beast Jesse had it all. I loved the way he was with the twins. I loved how protective he was. He was so heroic always trying to save everyone. Jesse had a rough life and some scars but they just added to his depth and gave him that sexy damage bad boy edge. There was nothing about Jesse I would change!
Jesse and Ellie had an instant strong connection, lots of lust, but their love had a nice build to it. I loved that even though in the start of their relationship he felt a little jealous of Dan(Ellie's dead husband) he never let it show. He didn't act petty or try to replace Dan. Ellie never made me feel like Jesse was second place in her life or the twins. Although I did wish she would have taken off her wedding ring a little sooner. This book brought out a lot of emotions. I could feel Ellie's pain from the lost of her first love. The struggle she had to raise the twins when their dad never even got to meet them. I could feel the guilt Jesse felt when he couldn't save someone. His fear that his baggage would hurt Ellie and the twins. His love for her and the twins. Everything felt raw, real and just jumped off the pages making me tear up a few times. I also really enjoyed getting to catch up with the beloved couples from the past books. Seeing Lexi and Taylor are starting a family, know how strong Vic and Eric's love still is. Overall I loved this book. I love this series and I love me some Pamela Clare. I can't wait to see who's book is next. I am hoping for Chaska Belcourt's book!!!
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
March 15, 2017
OH MY GOD, THIS BOOK!
I can't really put into words how beautiful it was. This is one of the most memorable books I've ever read! I cried buckets of tears reading the epilogue and now I feel as though I have no tears left inside of me.
Pamela Clare is a go-to author for me, and once again, she comes up with an enthralling plot and endearing characters. The book grabbed me right off the bat and took me on an emotional ride. I loved everything about this book and enjoyed every single page from start to finish.
This book tells the beautiful love story of two wounded souls who found solace and comfort in each other's company, and they finally discovered a reason to hope, love, and be happy again. Together, they made each other whole again!
I loved both Jesse and Ellie. They had been through a lot but still could hold their lives together and stay strong. Ellie was a lovable and strong character. It wasn’t easy being a single mother of twins and sometimes it was hard to balance the demands of both her career and her kids. Still, she had so much compassion for people and cared for them. The thing I admired most about her was how dearly she loved her twins and that she put them as her first priority.
Jesse was amazing! He was a good man with a very beautiful heart. Instead of feeling completely defeated or drowning in his misery, he chose to pour all his energy and his spare time into helping people and saving lives. He’s exactly my kind of hero!
“When I look at you, I see a man who has served his country, who helps his neighbors and volunteers in his free time to save lives. In my book, you’re a hero. You’ve gathered some scars along the way. That happens to everyone, but it especially happens to heroes.”
I loved the romance between them. It was so romantic, so sweet, yet so hot at the same time. The author always knows how to write steamy and sensual scenes that I could hardly think of anything hotter. The level of their passion was off the charts.
There were many emotional and heartbreaking scenes that had me teary eyed, especially in the epilogue, as I previously mentioned. I couldn't help but burst into tears, and even when I finished reading the last word, I still couldn't stop crying. Oh, my heart! Just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes again.
“Rest in peace, Crash. I’ll take it from here.”
*sobs*
Reading this book made me smile, laugh, swoon, cry, and even bite my nails at times—exactly what I want from my reads. This story filled my heart with so much love and joy. Oh, I can't praise this novel highly enough!
All in all, this was a wonderful story. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! Highly recommended to all fans of contemporary romance.
Can't wait to read more in this series!
I can't really put into words how beautiful it was. This is one of the most memorable books I've ever read! I cried buckets of tears reading the epilogue and now I feel as though I have no tears left inside of me.
Pamela Clare is a go-to author for me, and once again, she comes up with an enthralling plot and endearing characters. The book grabbed me right off the bat and took me on an emotional ride. I loved everything about this book and enjoyed every single page from start to finish.
This book tells the beautiful love story of two wounded souls who found solace and comfort in each other's company, and they finally discovered a reason to hope, love, and be happy again. Together, they made each other whole again!
I loved both Jesse and Ellie. They had been through a lot but still could hold their lives together and stay strong. Ellie was a lovable and strong character. It wasn’t easy being a single mother of twins and sometimes it was hard to balance the demands of both her career and her kids. Still, she had so much compassion for people and cared for them. The thing I admired most about her was how dearly she loved her twins and that she put them as her first priority.
Jesse was amazing! He was a good man with a very beautiful heart. Instead of feeling completely defeated or drowning in his misery, he chose to pour all his energy and his spare time into helping people and saving lives. He’s exactly my kind of hero!
“When I look at you, I see a man who has served his country, who helps his neighbors and volunteers in his free time to save lives. In my book, you’re a hero. You’ve gathered some scars along the way. That happens to everyone, but it especially happens to heroes.”
I loved the romance between them. It was so romantic, so sweet, yet so hot at the same time. The author always knows how to write steamy and sensual scenes that I could hardly think of anything hotter. The level of their passion was off the charts.
There were many emotional and heartbreaking scenes that had me teary eyed, especially in the epilogue, as I previously mentioned. I couldn't help but burst into tears, and even when I finished reading the last word, I still couldn't stop crying. Oh, my heart! Just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes again.
“Rest in peace, Crash. I’ll take it from here.”
*sobs*
Reading this book made me smile, laugh, swoon, cry, and even bite my nails at times—exactly what I want from my reads. This story filled my heart with so much love and joy. Oh, I can't praise this novel highly enough!
All in all, this was a wonderful story. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! Highly recommended to all fans of contemporary romance.
Can't wait to read more in this series!
March 15, 2017
A deeply felt and amazing addition to Pamela Clare’s collection.
Sometimes keeping promises is nearly impossible. It’s been three years since her husband died in combat but Ellie Meeks isn’t interested in moving on. She spends her time working and taking care of the twins her husband never got to meet. But when the good Samaritan that helps her out in the middle of a storm turns out to be her very sexy neighbor, he reignites her desire to live to the fullest.
Ex-army Ranger Jesse Moretti wanted to escape the horrors of war by putting all his efforts into helping people through the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team, the Ski Patrol and extreme sports. But it’s hard to do when the woman he finds himself attracted to is connected to the past he’s trying to put behind. Can he overcome his guilt and fears in order to embrace the love and happiness Ellie has to offer?
I got completely swept away with this book. The longing, the heartache, the OMG thrilling moments Pamela Clare is well versed in giving us, and the inevitable surrender between these two characters that deserve to be happy together. Falling Hard has it all, as we visit the small town of Scarlet Spring where everybody knows everyone and the sense of community is heartwarming.
Even though they have been neighbors for a couple of years, Jesse and Ellie’s lives cross by chance on a stormy night when Ellie needs a hero. Theirs is a slow burn story in which they need to overcome guilt in order to embrace a happy future because Ellie loved and lost and couldn’t fathom looking for, much less engaging in, any kind of romantic relationship until the sexy adrenaline junkie who devotes his life to helping others keeps helping out. Before long Ellie and Jessie are incapable of ignoring their growing attraction and emotions, but getting over the past is not as easy as it sounds.
I loved Ellie’s twins almost as much as Jesse did. My ovaries exploded witnessing this tough as nails man fall for them as much as for their mother. He was a perfect hero, with some dings and dents that made me feel for him, but also with a huge, giving heart.
I also loved all the supporting characters –from past heroes and heroines to the guys and gals from the Team and even Bear– that gave the story an added and welcome layer of goodness.
It’s impossible not to love a book that brings out all the feels. There are so many things to talk about this story, from small details to all the big emotions that gave it so much depth. Needless to say, I smiled and swooned, cried and tried to slow my heart from the sexy hotness and excitement. Pamela Clare has a wonderful way of delivering a story that grabs me from the start and has me entranced throughout.
Falling Hard is book #3 in the Colorado High series by Pamela Clare. It is a standalone contemporary romance. Told from both points of view with a happy ending.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2n8EMDQ
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Sometimes keeping promises is nearly impossible. It’s been three years since her husband died in combat but Ellie Meeks isn’t interested in moving on. She spends her time working and taking care of the twins her husband never got to meet. But when the good Samaritan that helps her out in the middle of a storm turns out to be her very sexy neighbor, he reignites her desire to live to the fullest.
Ex-army Ranger Jesse Moretti wanted to escape the horrors of war by putting all his efforts into helping people through the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team, the Ski Patrol and extreme sports. But it’s hard to do when the woman he finds himself attracted to is connected to the past he’s trying to put behind. Can he overcome his guilt and fears in order to embrace the love and happiness Ellie has to offer?
“It takes courage to face your emotions. It takes even more courage to get help.”
I got completely swept away with this book. The longing, the heartache, the OMG thrilling moments Pamela Clare is well versed in giving us, and the inevitable surrender between these two characters that deserve to be happy together. Falling Hard has it all, as we visit the small town of Scarlet Spring where everybody knows everyone and the sense of community is heartwarming.
“The only way to find out where this would go was to keep moving forward. It was like climbing. You kept going up and up, not knowing where your next handhold would be until you got there.”
Even though they have been neighbors for a couple of years, Jesse and Ellie’s lives cross by chance on a stormy night when Ellie needs a hero. Theirs is a slow burn story in which they need to overcome guilt in order to embrace a happy future because Ellie loved and lost and couldn’t fathom looking for, much less engaging in, any kind of romantic relationship until the sexy adrenaline junkie who devotes his life to helping others keeps helping out. Before long Ellie and Jessie are incapable of ignoring their growing attraction and emotions, but getting over the past is not as easy as it sounds.
I loved Ellie’s twins almost as much as Jesse did. My ovaries exploded witnessing this tough as nails man fall for them as much as for their mother. He was a perfect hero, with some dings and dents that made me feel for him, but also with a huge, giving heart.
“You are a miracle, Ellie. You’ve pulled me back from the brink in more ways that you know.”
I also loved all the supporting characters –from past heroes and heroines to the guys and gals from the Team and even Bear– that gave the story an added and welcome layer of goodness.
He’d sent a photo, this one of the breathtaking view of the Indian Peaks Wilderness –Navajo, Apache, and Shoshoni Peaks gleaming under a bright blue sky. A message followed.
TODAY’S VIEW FROM THE OFFICE.”
It’s impossible not to love a book that brings out all the feels. There are so many things to talk about this story, from small details to all the big emotions that gave it so much depth. Needless to say, I smiled and swooned, cried and tried to slow my heart from the sexy hotness and excitement. Pamela Clare has a wonderful way of delivering a story that grabs me from the start and has me entranced throughout.
Falling Hard is book #3 in the Colorado High series by Pamela Clare. It is a standalone contemporary romance. Told from both points of view with a happy ending.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2n8EMDQ
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
February 26, 2017
This book....
Is why I fell in love with Pamela Clare's writing in the first place.
1) The characters were likable...hell loveable.
Ellie is a single mom who's husband was killed in combat while she was pregnant with their twins.
Ellie's been managing to hold it together for the last 3 years on her own, but she hasn't been able to move forward in her life.
Jesse is a former Army Ranger suffering from PTSD and has escaped to the mountains to cope with his suffering and to try and start over.
2) The situations the characters are in at the beginning of the story because of events in life beyond their control, and how they deal with them.
Even though the characters have been broken, there is a strength to them that allows them to endure, persevere, and become whole again.
3) Pamela Clare writes some of the best sensual, erotic, passionate love scenes I've ever read.
In this book, she's outdone herself.
The passion and chemistry between Ellie and Jesse was off the charts HOT.
4) The storyline.
This story was heartbreaking to read. What Ellie had gone through, and what Jesse was still going through was an emotional roller-coaster ride to read, but oh so worth it.
This is a story about forgiveness, redemption, and learning to move forward in life after a traumatic loss.
5) And finally, the Epilogue.
This was one of the best Epilogues I read in a long time.
Just... WOW!
I absolutely adored this story.
It's one of my favorite reads of 2017.
Is why I fell in love with Pamela Clare's writing in the first place.
1) The characters were likable...hell loveable.
Ellie is a single mom who's husband was killed in combat while she was pregnant with their twins.
Ellie's been managing to hold it together for the last 3 years on her own, but she hasn't been able to move forward in her life.
Jesse is a former Army Ranger suffering from PTSD and has escaped to the mountains to cope with his suffering and to try and start over.
2) The situations the characters are in at the beginning of the story because of events in life beyond their control, and how they deal with them.
Even though the characters have been broken, there is a strength to them that allows them to endure, persevere, and become whole again.
3) Pamela Clare writes some of the best sensual, erotic, passionate love scenes I've ever read.
In this book, she's outdone herself.
The passion and chemistry between Ellie and Jesse was off the charts HOT.
4) The storyline.
This story was heartbreaking to read. What Ellie had gone through, and what Jesse was still going through was an emotional roller-coaster ride to read, but oh so worth it.
This is a story about forgiveness, redemption, and learning to move forward in life after a traumatic loss.
5) And finally, the Epilogue.
This was one of the best Epilogues I read in a long time.
Just... WOW!
I absolutely adored this story.
It's one of my favorite reads of 2017.
August 2, 2021
I have cried my eyes out. I literally have no eyes now.
Review to come.
---
Full review at last.
But first ...
I do love a small town romance series. Well, I love a good one, and this is a gooood one.
Falling Hard is the third installment in the independently published Colorado High Country series by Pamela Clare. It's contemporary romance and centers around the lives, loves and various exploits of the rescue services in an area which caters to skiers, snowboarders, rock climbers, hikers, whitewater rafters ... you get the gist. It's Colorado. Extreme would be the state's middle name if it ... you know ... had more than one name.
Jesse Morreti is a former Army Ranger who moved to the area to deal with the aftermath of his experiences in Iraq. Ellie Meeks is the widow of an elite, Army helicopter pilot who died in action before he'd had the chance to meet his own kids. The mother of twins, Ellie's been alone for three years and sees no pressing need to change that.
Until she meets Jesse. And breaking the seal on her lack of love life couldn't happen with a nicer guy. Sure, he's got all kinds of issues, but so does she. They're good for each other even as they trigger buried hurts. It's a beautiful process these two go through to find each other and move forward together.
Pamela Clare makes the most of the setting. There's a lot of action in these stories with suspense and danger abounding. These are stories of men and women who dig into avalanches and dive into rapids in an attempt to save lives. The area where they live is rife with mishaps and they're called out regularly. Clare does a great job with these scenes and doesn't lose the reader in the mix of jargon and specifics. It's not too hard to understand exactly what's going on.
The chemistry between Ellie and Jesse was really nice. They hit it off instantly and developed a nice rapport right away. They understood each other's problems enough to be a help to one another even as the sexual and romantic tension continued to simmer.
There are several scenes that are very moving and deserve a good ugly cry. There's also humor and hope, which is -- in my opinion -- absolutely necessary for any romance, but especially those that deal with tragic issues as this one does.
Pamela Clare knows her stuff. She knows the subject matter and she's adept at writing a good, fulfilling romance story. And, as always, independently published books and book series get a boost from me. An even bigger boost when they have fewer typos than a pro published book. Score!
Highly recommended. Can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend the whole series as well.
Review to come.
---
Full review at last.
But first ...
I do love a small town romance series. Well, I love a good one, and this is a gooood one.
Falling Hard is the third installment in the independently published Colorado High Country series by Pamela Clare. It's contemporary romance and centers around the lives, loves and various exploits of the rescue services in an area which caters to skiers, snowboarders, rock climbers, hikers, whitewater rafters ... you get the gist. It's Colorado. Extreme would be the state's middle name if it ... you know ... had more than one name.
Jesse Morreti is a former Army Ranger who moved to the area to deal with the aftermath of his experiences in Iraq. Ellie Meeks is the widow of an elite, Army helicopter pilot who died in action before he'd had the chance to meet his own kids. The mother of twins, Ellie's been alone for three years and sees no pressing need to change that.
Until she meets Jesse. And breaking the seal on her lack of love life couldn't happen with a nicer guy. Sure, he's got all kinds of issues, but so does she. They're good for each other even as they trigger buried hurts. It's a beautiful process these two go through to find each other and move forward together.
Pamela Clare makes the most of the setting. There's a lot of action in these stories with suspense and danger abounding. These are stories of men and women who dig into avalanches and dive into rapids in an attempt to save lives. The area where they live is rife with mishaps and they're called out regularly. Clare does a great job with these scenes and doesn't lose the reader in the mix of jargon and specifics. It's not too hard to understand exactly what's going on.
The chemistry between Ellie and Jesse was really nice. They hit it off instantly and developed a nice rapport right away. They understood each other's problems enough to be a help to one another even as the sexual and romantic tension continued to simmer.
There are several scenes that are very moving and deserve a good ugly cry. There's also humor and hope, which is -- in my opinion -- absolutely necessary for any romance, but especially those that deal with tragic issues as this one does.
Pamela Clare knows her stuff. She knows the subject matter and she's adept at writing a good, fulfilling romance story. And, as always, independently published books and book series get a boost from me. An even bigger boost when they have fewer typos than a pro published book. Score!
Highly recommended. Can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend the whole series as well.
March 12, 2017
I haven't read any Pamela Clare before now because I don't really enjoy romantic suspense. I don't know, that feeling of anxiety in suspenseful stories is just too much for me to handle! When I saw that this series was contemporary romance, I knew this was my shot to try this author.
Falling Hard is a book that any M/F contemporary lover will like. It has some excitement and minor suspense like a romantic suspense, but it is mostly just a story about two people who've been through lots of emotional hurdles, finding love again.
Jesse Moretti is the kind of romance hero that explains why people read romance: You just HAVE to love him. He is brawny, a little broken, and sexy as hell. I fell hard for Jesse along with Ellie, and I was rooting for them full force from the start.
This is a mostly slow burn romance, and I liked that it took its time. Sure, there were a few miscommunications that irked me, but mostly I just liked watching Jesse and Ellie fall in love. It was a pleasure to read from start to finish, and it was just really good romance.
Calling all Pamela Clare lovers and all contemporary romance lovers, this one is for you.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Falling Hard is a book that any M/F contemporary lover will like. It has some excitement and minor suspense like a romantic suspense, but it is mostly just a story about two people who've been through lots of emotional hurdles, finding love again.
Jesse Moretti is the kind of romance hero that explains why people read romance: You just HAVE to love him. He is brawny, a little broken, and sexy as hell. I fell hard for Jesse along with Ellie, and I was rooting for them full force from the start.
This is a mostly slow burn romance, and I liked that it took its time. Sure, there were a few miscommunications that irked me, but mostly I just liked watching Jesse and Ellie fall in love. It was a pleasure to read from start to finish, and it was just really good romance.
Calling all Pamela Clare lovers and all contemporary romance lovers, this one is for you.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
July 7, 2017
PRE READ
Marathon reading this lovely woman's Colorado series.
3 books. Ms Clare and I will be inseparable.
POST READ
Rating interpretation:
5 Stars - if ALL my expectations and criteria are met.
NO Stars - Goodreads stars are not enough as the story blew me out of the water..in a good way.
Ms Clare had definitely sprinkled crack on to the pages of this book. And on to Jesse Moretti.
Jesse Moretti. Mmmmmm.
Just look at the cover of the book.
That body.
That stubble.
That sleeve tat.
Words escape me.
So..
A beautifully written instalment where it showcases two battered souls met, helped each other, healed each other and have fallen for each other.
If you have read the other two stories: Barely Breathing and Slow Burn, you would know Jesse Moretti. He just had small appearances and I didn't care for him until this book.
Jesse Moretti is a volunteer member of the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team and a full-time ski patroller at Scarlet Mountain Resort. He was an ex army ranger. Lived for adrenaline rushes that he get from his dangerous jobs using explosives and climbing.
He wasn't a local but came and stay in Colorado to forget his past. Past experiences in Iraq and his unpleasant childhood.
He suffers from PTSD, an issue that he constantly fought which led him to believe that he's too damaged to be involved with a woman. Because all these, he focused himself in helping and rescuing others obsessing on the ones that he couldn't.
Ellie Meeks is a beautiful war widow where her pilot husband was killed whilst serving in Iraq and she was 4 months pregnant with their twins.
Circumstances made her moved back to Scarlet Springs where family and friends would be close by.
She's a nurse and like Jesse, helping others makes her happy. But her priority and sole focus was on her twins and keeping a roof over their heads. After her husband, she believed that she was unable to love again until fate intervened. Until a snow storm and a car that wouldn't start happened.
I loved this book. I loved the characters.
I loved our hero, Jesse Moretti. He’s very sexy, and has a big heart. Very sweet and so protective too but broken.
My heart is yours to take...
I loved their story. Their relationship is genuine and developed naturally.
They struggled, gave in to their attraction, hesitated and finally moved on and settled down. It was very heartwarming to read.
This book slayed me. Fucking slayed me.
Ms Clare owns me without a doubt. And can twist me around her little finger.
Rating this 5 Moretti-totally-hijacked-my-system Stars
Marathon reading this lovely woman's Colorado series.
3 books. Ms Clare and I will be inseparable.
POST READ
Rating interpretation:
5 Stars - if ALL my expectations and criteria are met.
NO Stars - Goodreads stars are not enough as the story blew me out of the water..in a good way.
Ms Clare had definitely sprinkled crack on to the pages of this book. And on to Jesse Moretti.
Jesse Moretti. Mmmmmm.
Just look at the cover of the book.
That body.
That stubble.
That sleeve tat.
Words escape me.
So..
A beautifully written instalment where it showcases two battered souls met, helped each other, healed each other and have fallen for each other.
If you have read the other two stories: Barely Breathing and Slow Burn, you would know Jesse Moretti. He just had small appearances and I didn't care for him until this book.
Jesse Moretti is a volunteer member of the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team and a full-time ski patroller at Scarlet Mountain Resort. He was an ex army ranger. Lived for adrenaline rushes that he get from his dangerous jobs using explosives and climbing.
He wasn't a local but came and stay in Colorado to forget his past. Past experiences in Iraq and his unpleasant childhood.
He suffers from PTSD, an issue that he constantly fought which led him to believe that he's too damaged to be involved with a woman. Because all these, he focused himself in helping and rescuing others obsessing on the ones that he couldn't.
Ellie Meeks is a beautiful war widow where her pilot husband was killed whilst serving in Iraq and she was 4 months pregnant with their twins.
Circumstances made her moved back to Scarlet Springs where family and friends would be close by.
She's a nurse and like Jesse, helping others makes her happy. But her priority and sole focus was on her twins and keeping a roof over their heads. After her husband, she believed that she was unable to love again until fate intervened. Until a snow storm and a car that wouldn't start happened.
I loved this book. I loved the characters.
I loved our hero, Jesse Moretti. He’s very sexy, and has a big heart. Very sweet and so protective too but broken.
My heart is yours to take...
I loved their story. Their relationship is genuine and developed naturally.
They struggled, gave in to their attraction, hesitated and finally moved on and settled down. It was very heartwarming to read.
This book slayed me. Fucking slayed me.
Ms Clare owns me without a doubt. And can twist me around her little finger.
Rating this 5 Moretti-totally-hijacked-my-system Stars
March 22, 2017
RN Ellie Meeks is a widow with 2-year twins (almost 3) who were born after her husband died in Iraq. It's been almost four years now and though her mind tells her she's ready her heart isn't ready to let go of husband Dan. Enter neighbor Jesse Moretti, a former Army Ranger now a volunteer member of the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team who works for the Ski Resort as a patroller. He definitely claims her head and starts chipping away at her heart.
I really liked this story primarily because of the main characters, Ellie and Jesse. There's so much to admire about both of them and together, they were even more likable. Their burgeoning relationship was honest (to a degree), mature and pretty wonderful. Jesse's propensity for rescue served the relationship well as he recognized the boundaries while he did the honorable thing. I loved how they helped each other push through their individual issues.
One of the strong points of the series is the incredible sense of community that permeates everything in each story. It was even more resounding here and added so much to my enjoyment. Ellie and Jesse had a lovely relationship and, of course, the twins added adorable relief. I really don't want this series to end.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
I really liked this story primarily because of the main characters, Ellie and Jesse. There's so much to admire about both of them and together, they were even more likable. Their burgeoning relationship was honest (to a degree), mature and pretty wonderful. Jesse's propensity for rescue served the relationship well as he recognized the boundaries while he did the honorable thing. I loved how they helped each other push through their individual issues.
One of the strong points of the series is the incredible sense of community that permeates everything in each story. It was even more resounding here and added so much to my enjoyment. Ellie and Jesse had a lovely relationship and, of course, the twins added adorable relief. I really don't want this series to end.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
March 31, 2017
2.5 Meh...
Everyone loved this book so much, I almost feel bad for not liking it more...
It was a forgettable read, really didn't find it all that special. It wasn't bad or anything, it was just kind of... meh.
Everyone loved this book so much, I almost feel bad for not liking it more...
It was a forgettable read, really didn't find it all that special. It wasn't bad or anything, it was just kind of... meh.
March 3, 2017
5 - "When you’re ready... I’ll be here." Stars!
We return to the Colorado High Country Series, with the third book; Falling Hard. This is happy-go-lucky Jesse Moretti’s story, and I fell... Hard.
Oh my wow! I am absolutely in love with this series; every book the author has released has been an absolute treat. But I have to say this one is my favorite so far, there was just so much to love about the story that Pamela gave Jesse.
It was his duty to have her back, not get her onto her back...
Ellie Meeks returned Scarlet Springs a widow with twins on the way, it’s taken her a couple of years to reach a happy equilibrium where she even feels she can entertain the idea of looking for adult company again, around caring for her kids. Jesse is more than a little interested and after helping her out when she has car trouble, their tentative friendship blooms.
"I don’t want to be the thing you regret in the morning..."
The one thing that stood out about this story for me is the fact that Jesse is so much more than the character we have been given in the previous two books, the author literally grabbed my heart from the first revelation about him and kept squeezing with each following one that landed, I’m not afraid to admit there were a few tears shed on more than a couple of occasions with the reading of his story.
"When I’m with you, all the bullshit falls away, and the answers to all the questions become simple."
Ellie and her toddler twins Daisy and Daniel were an absolute joy to get to know as well, and bearing in mind as a woman she represented everything Jesse normally steered clear of in relation to his casual bed partners, I loved how the relationship developed between them in-spite of it, and casual got left behind for consumed, because they both were, with each other.
"You certainly know how to bring the heat."
I am loving this series, I cannot get enough of this authors writing, and I cannot wait to see who will have their story told next, there are so many characters that I want to get to know better, and I hope the author has stories in mind for all of them.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
We return to the Colorado High Country Series, with the third book; Falling Hard. This is happy-go-lucky Jesse Moretti’s story, and I fell... Hard.
Oh my wow! I am absolutely in love with this series; every book the author has released has been an absolute treat. But I have to say this one is my favorite so far, there was just so much to love about the story that Pamela gave Jesse.
It was his duty to have her back, not get her onto her back...
Ellie Meeks returned Scarlet Springs a widow with twins on the way, it’s taken her a couple of years to reach a happy equilibrium where she even feels she can entertain the idea of looking for adult company again, around caring for her kids. Jesse is more than a little interested and after helping her out when she has car trouble, their tentative friendship blooms.
"I don’t want to be the thing you regret in the morning..."
The one thing that stood out about this story for me is the fact that Jesse is so much more than the character we have been given in the previous two books, the author literally grabbed my heart from the first revelation about him and kept squeezing with each following one that landed, I’m not afraid to admit there were a few tears shed on more than a couple of occasions with the reading of his story.
"When I’m with you, all the bullshit falls away, and the answers to all the questions become simple."
Ellie and her toddler twins Daisy and Daniel were an absolute joy to get to know as well, and bearing in mind as a woman she represented everything Jesse normally steered clear of in relation to his casual bed partners, I loved how the relationship developed between them in-spite of it, and casual got left behind for consumed, because they both were, with each other.
"You certainly know how to bring the heat."
I am loving this series, I cannot get enough of this authors writing, and I cannot wait to see who will have their story told next, there are so many characters that I want to get to know better, and I hope the author has stories in mind for all of them.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
own-need-to-read
February 19, 2017Yay! It's on Amazon, early!! Falling Hard: A Colorado High Country Novel http://amzn.to/2lb01TG
March 20, 2017
I absolutely love Pamela Clare! She is such a great writer. She is my favorite Romantic Suspense author and even writing straight contemporary with no suspense, she shines. She keeps the reader engaged throughout the entire story. She doesn't throw in drama for the sake of drama. Her characters have depth and bring the story to life.
This book was no exception. Both Jesse and Ellie have shadows in their pasts but it doesn't keep them from growing closer to each other. They had such sweet moments and romantic moments, sexy moments and sad moments.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and looking forward to the next release in this series.
Oh and I love seeing Jack and Janet with their little girl!!! So excited to see the Weston's!!!
This book was no exception. Both Jesse and Ellie have shadows in their pasts but it doesn't keep them from growing closer to each other. They had such sweet moments and romantic moments, sexy moments and sad moments.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and looking forward to the next release in this series.
Oh and I love seeing Jack and Janet with their little girl!!! So excited to see the Weston's!!!
March 24, 2017
My favorite genre is romantic suspense - heavy on the suspense. But in between having the MCs deal with serial killers and dead bodies, I like a little sweet romance. In contemporary romance I like solid character development, a good plot and witty dialogue. What I try to avoid is tell with no show, pages of teenage angst and detailed sex.
I have only read one other book by Pamela Clare and this was going to be the author's second chance. I was initially intrigued with the book's synopsis. Two people who survived their own personal tragedies finding each other. Sounded very good and the first part of the book had me interested and pulled into the story. And then my interest began to wane and I kept choosing other books over this one.
I did push to finish, but I have to say that I didn't really enjoy it. There was too much tell and not enough show. At one point there was a school bus accident with young kids and all the action happened off page. We don't read about the rescue which could have provided a really good scenario to showcase the EMTs. However, it's just a set up for Jesse to babysit Ellie's kids. Which is fine, if slightly boring. Another scene occurs with an explosive accident and again, the accident happens off page and we start after the action. We get a list of Ellie taking Jesse's vitals and writing them down. Again, boring. And Ellies's breakdown at the hospital seemed OTT and not the actions of a professional and mature nurse in the emergency room. And later, Ellie has another OTT reaction to Jesse's knowing her late husband. It felt contrived to create an issue between the two lead characters. Towards the end, Jesse gets to make an heroic rescue and although I saw it coming, this was really good and the story line picked up.
There's a lot of mental processing that seemed more like horny teenagers than adults who are trying to move past tragedies. I read for the story and the characters, so I skipped all the sex scenes which looked to be graphic. Not my thing, but I know a lot of readers really want this. I also thought there was also a lot of filler that didn't seem necessary to the story line. Some people may have thought the condom scene at the grocery store funny; whereas I thought it was overplayed and it felt juvenile. So at every turn once the characters and story line were introduced, I seemed to be disappointed. But I will note that I also seem to be in the minority in this opinion.
Thanks to Net Galley for an ARC of this book.
I have only read one other book by Pamela Clare and this was going to be the author's second chance. I was initially intrigued with the book's synopsis. Two people who survived their own personal tragedies finding each other. Sounded very good and the first part of the book had me interested and pulled into the story. And then my interest began to wane and I kept choosing other books over this one.
I did push to finish, but I have to say that I didn't really enjoy it. There was too much tell and not enough show. At one point there was a school bus accident with young kids and all the action happened off page. We don't read about the rescue which could have provided a really good scenario to showcase the EMTs. However, it's just a set up for Jesse to babysit Ellie's kids. Which is fine, if slightly boring. Another scene occurs with an explosive accident and again, the accident happens off page and we start after the action. We get a list of Ellie taking Jesse's vitals and writing them down. Again, boring. And Ellies's breakdown at the hospital seemed OTT and not the actions of a professional and mature nurse in the emergency room. And later, Ellie has another OTT reaction to Jesse's knowing her late husband. It felt contrived to create an issue between the two lead characters. Towards the end, Jesse gets to make an heroic rescue and although I saw it coming, this was really good and the story line picked up.
There's a lot of mental processing that seemed more like horny teenagers than adults who are trying to move past tragedies. I read for the story and the characters, so I skipped all the sex scenes which looked to be graphic. Not my thing, but I know a lot of readers really want this. I also thought there was also a lot of filler that didn't seem necessary to the story line. Some people may have thought the condom scene at the grocery store funny; whereas I thought it was overplayed and it felt juvenile. So at every turn once the characters and story line were introduced, I seemed to be disappointed. But I will note that I also seem to be in the minority in this opinion.
Thanks to Net Galley for an ARC of this book.
June 19, 2017
Good story. What I liked was it had great characters and side characters. I liked the small town atmosphere that gave this story more feelings. The writing was mature, the story was fast paced and I love the book cover. The book description pulled me in. I like the idea of a former Army Ranger coming to the rescue of a single mom who has lost her husband to the military. For the most part, that met my expectations.
What I didn’t like was I felt there was a little too much emphasis on the dead spouse. This is one of those things that a little bit can go a long way and too much can distract from the new love interest.
My other issue was Jesse’s thoughts vs action waged a bit of war in my head. In action, he was great. He stepped up constantly, always rushing in to help anyone and everyone. His time with Ellie’s kids was very cute and what I would want to see in a Hero pursuing a relationship with a single mom. However, he thought a little too much about not being good at relationships and not wanting one. At one point he was telling himself he didn’t want to be a dad. I understand hesitation starting something with a single mom but again, a little bit can go a long way.
I definitely liked the book more than I had issues with it and would read more from this author. ARC provided by Netgalley.
What I didn’t like was I felt there was a little too much emphasis on the dead spouse. This is one of those things that a little bit can go a long way and too much can distract from the new love interest.
My other issue was Jesse’s thoughts vs action waged a bit of war in my head. In action, he was great. He stepped up constantly, always rushing in to help anyone and everyone. His time with Ellie’s kids was very cute and what I would want to see in a Hero pursuing a relationship with a single mom. However, he thought a little too much about not being good at relationships and not wanting one. At one point he was telling himself he didn’t want to be a dad. I understand hesitation starting something with a single mom but again, a little bit can go a long way.
I definitely liked the book more than I had issues with it and would read more from this author. ARC provided by Netgalley.
March 28, 2017
3.5 stars
This is my first book by this author. She didn't disappoint. 3.5 stars does not mean I didn't like it. In this case, I did like the book, but I'm not sure if I should have requested it. I dont do well with dead lovers/spouses. I heard so many great things about this book though, I wanted to give it a chance.
A sweet and sexy romance. I loved the story and character development. While the dead spouse still bothered me (note to self: no more!), I think the story was strong enough that I was able to overlook (85% of the time) that issue.
A talented writer. Will look forward to reading more from her.
*ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first book by this author. She didn't disappoint. 3.5 stars does not mean I didn't like it. In this case, I did like the book, but I'm not sure if I should have requested it. I dont do well with dead lovers/spouses. I heard so many great things about this book though, I wanted to give it a chance.
A sweet and sexy romance. I loved the story and character development. While the dead spouse still bothered me (note to self: no more!), I think the story was strong enough that I was able to overlook (85% of the time) that issue.
A talented writer. Will look forward to reading more from her.
*ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2018
ARC received for review
Another great book in this series. Jesse and Ellie have had a lot of hard times. Together they overcome all the obstacles in their past. Loved her twins Daniel and Daisy. Loved seeing all the peeps from the Team. That epilogue...make sure you have a box of Kleenex handy...
Another great book in this series. Jesse and Ellie have had a lot of hard times. Together they overcome all the obstacles in their past. Loved her twins Daniel and Daisy. Loved seeing all the peeps from the Team. That epilogue...make sure you have a box of Kleenex handy...
June 3, 2017
En el mismo tono de los primeros dos de la serie, entretenido, dulce, sin grandes conflictos en la trama, la pareja se enamora un poco rápido pero es totalmente creíble, los niños una dulzura que sacan una sonrisa.
March 1, 2017
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
WARNING!! Kleenex needed. Be sure you have a box handy because you are sure gonna need it. This book touches every emotion and then wrings you out. The writing is nothing less that awesome and you can't help but fall in love with Elle, Jesse, Daniel and Daisy. Especially Daisy. She had me reliving my worst nightmares as a child, as a parent and as a grandparent. Thank God for Guardian Angels. But, this isn't Daisy's story alone. It is the story of a tormented man and a wounded woman who find each other and heal the broken parts with love and support from a wonderful community.
Jesse is a former Ranger from Louisiana who has found a home in Silver Springs, CO. He is a member of the rescue Team, a ski patroller and a demolitions expert. He is also carrying a lot of weight from his failed attempt to rescue a little girl in the last book and from his past. Really heavy load.
Elle is a nurse who lost her husband in combat while pregnant with twins Daniel and Daisy. She works hard and raising twin almost three year olds is a job of its' own. No time for a social life, even if she wanted one, until she meets Jesse. Hot off the charts, kind and a hero, he lights a fire in Elle she thought was out forever.
Both Jesse and Elle have places in their souls that need to be healed and they each have a lot to deal with in order to be able to come to a place where they can freely love each other.
5-I don't even like Romance-Stars
WARNING!! Kleenex needed. Be sure you have a box handy because you are sure gonna need it. This book touches every emotion and then wrings you out. The writing is nothing less that awesome and you can't help but fall in love with Elle, Jesse, Daniel and Daisy. Especially Daisy. She had me reliving my worst nightmares as a child, as a parent and as a grandparent. Thank God for Guardian Angels. But, this isn't Daisy's story alone. It is the story of a tormented man and a wounded woman who find each other and heal the broken parts with love and support from a wonderful community.
Jesse is a former Ranger from Louisiana who has found a home in Silver Springs, CO. He is a member of the rescue Team, a ski patroller and a demolitions expert. He is also carrying a lot of weight from his failed attempt to rescue a little girl in the last book and from his past. Really heavy load.
Elle is a nurse who lost her husband in combat while pregnant with twins Daniel and Daisy. She works hard and raising twin almost three year olds is a job of its' own. No time for a social life, even if she wanted one, until she meets Jesse. Hot off the charts, kind and a hero, he lights a fire in Elle she thought was out forever.
Both Jesse and Elle have places in their souls that need to be healed and they each have a lot to deal with in order to be able to come to a place where they can freely love each other.
5-I don't even like Romance-Stars
November 10, 2024
When one of the MCs is working in the medical field, it always gets an extra praise from me. I love those type of books and yet no one writes about nurse or doctor H/h enough.
Anyway, this was really impressive. I couldn't put it down and made me forget about reading my presentation I'm scheduled to present the following day. I suck. But it just proved how engrossing and addicting this book was.
I just wish we got to see more adorable interactions between the twins and Jesse.
(This is still subjected to change bc I can't even open my eyelids the right way now.)
Anyway, this was really impressive. I couldn't put it down and made me forget about reading my presentation I'm scheduled to present the following day. I suck. But it just proved how engrossing and addicting this book was.
I just wish we got to see more adorable interactions between the twins and Jesse.
(This is still subjected to change bc I can't even open my eyelids the right way now.)
March 11, 2018
Here are some of my thoughts:
• The book starts off somewhat slow.
• The romance is sweet. There are great developments here.
• I like how comforting and compassionate Ellie is. Same for Jesse times ten. They both have a drive to help people.
• Jesse’s story is more complex than I originally thought it was going to be. I really felt for his character. I like how we got to see him work through his feelings and past with Ellie and with his therapist. I also felt for Ellie about losing her husband 4 years ago and having to be a single parent.
• Great family theme. Ellie’s parents are so supportive. Claire, her sister, is one of my favorite characters because she has been there for Ellie through all of the rough patches and good moments. She’s hilarious and caring.
• This is so very sweet, especially with the kids. I like that Clare puts just enough focus on them (I find it weird when authors use the single parent but barely talk about the children that so defines the parent)
• I surprisingly like the first 2 books better than this one. I would think this one would be more my speed, but I just really enjoyed the lighter tone in the former two. I do, however, still like the depth of this book. It can get emotional at times, especially with sensitive topics such as war, death/grief, PTSD, abusive parent, suicidal thoughts, etc.
Overall, I’m giving this 3 solid stars.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
• The book starts off somewhat slow.
• The romance is sweet. There are great developments here.
• I like how comforting and compassionate Ellie is. Same for Jesse times ten. They both have a drive to help people.
• Jesse’s story is more complex than I originally thought it was going to be. I really felt for his character. I like how we got to see him work through his feelings and past with Ellie and with his therapist. I also felt for Ellie about losing her husband 4 years ago and having to be a single parent.
• Great family theme. Ellie’s parents are so supportive. Claire, her sister, is one of my favorite characters because she has been there for Ellie through all of the rough patches and good moments. She’s hilarious and caring.
• This is so very sweet, especially with the kids. I like that Clare puts just enough focus on them (I find it weird when authors use the single parent but barely talk about the children that so defines the parent)
• I surprisingly like the first 2 books better than this one. I would think this one would be more my speed, but I just really enjoyed the lighter tone in the former two. I do, however, still like the depth of this book. It can get emotional at times, especially with sensitive topics such as war, death/grief, PTSD, abusive parent, suicidal thoughts, etc.
Overall, I’m giving this 3 solid stars.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
March 28, 2017
5 Amazing Tear-jerking Stars
Falling Hard
Wow! That was one amazing rip my heart out reads. Such an emotional story.
A Gold Star wife alone…
Ellie Meeks promised her pilot husband that if he was killed in combat, she would live her life to the fullest. Three years later, she is still alone, raising the twins he never met. She has no interest in dating or meeting men—until one snowy night when a stranger helps her get her sick kids safely home. That stranger turns out to be a former Army Ranger and a member of the elite Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team. He’s also tall, rugged… and irresistibly sexy.
All it takes is one kiss…
Jesse Moretti came to Colorado to get Iraq out of his head, using the adrenaline of extreme sports and high-risk mountain rescues to keep his mind off the past. But getting involved with Ellie might be the riskiest thing he’s ever done. It’s not just their explosive chemistry. There’s something about Ellie that gets inside him, opening him to feelings he’s tried hard to ignore.
When passion ignites…
Ellie feels alive in Jesse’s arms and happier than she ever thought she’d feel again. But their relationship comes at a price for him, and soon Ellie sees that she must help Jesse fight the demons of his past to protect the love of a lifetime—and save the heart of a hero.
Pamela Clare completely sucked me in and made me feel so much while reading this book. I fell in love with all the characters in this one. She did an incredible job writing this book. I felt like I knew Jesse and Ellie after reading this. I felt all their emotions while reading.
Such an awesome read. I am definitely adding Pamela Clare to my list of authors to read. I'm also gonna look into reading her other series.
This is Book 3 of The Colorado High Country series. It can be read as a standalone or in order.
I would totally recommend this book for everyone to add to their reading lists.
Thanks NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Falling Hard
Wow! That was one amazing rip my heart out reads. Such an emotional story.
A Gold Star wife alone…
Ellie Meeks promised her pilot husband that if he was killed in combat, she would live her life to the fullest. Three years later, she is still alone, raising the twins he never met. She has no interest in dating or meeting men—until one snowy night when a stranger helps her get her sick kids safely home. That stranger turns out to be a former Army Ranger and a member of the elite Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team. He’s also tall, rugged… and irresistibly sexy.
All it takes is one kiss…
Jesse Moretti came to Colorado to get Iraq out of his head, using the adrenaline of extreme sports and high-risk mountain rescues to keep his mind off the past. But getting involved with Ellie might be the riskiest thing he’s ever done. It’s not just their explosive chemistry. There’s something about Ellie that gets inside him, opening him to feelings he’s tried hard to ignore.
When passion ignites…
Ellie feels alive in Jesse’s arms and happier than she ever thought she’d feel again. But their relationship comes at a price for him, and soon Ellie sees that she must help Jesse fight the demons of his past to protect the love of a lifetime—and save the heart of a hero.
Pamela Clare completely sucked me in and made me feel so much while reading this book. I fell in love with all the characters in this one. She did an incredible job writing this book. I felt like I knew Jesse and Ellie after reading this. I felt all their emotions while reading.
Such an awesome read. I am definitely adding Pamela Clare to my list of authors to read. I'm also gonna look into reading her other series.
This is Book 3 of The Colorado High Country series. It can be read as a standalone or in order.
I would totally recommend this book for everyone to add to their reading lists.
Thanks NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
May 21, 2019
Pamela Clare is one of, if not, my favorite romantic suspense authors. Yes, I know this wasn't rom-susp but it was still a great read.
Ellie Meeks is a Gold Star widow of twins. Her husband, Dan, a helicopter pilot was KIA. He knew his job was dangerous and told her to live her life if he died. She hasn't been. 3 yrs later, she is raising Daniel and Daisy, pretty much alone. Luckily she has some help in the form of her parents, her sister and husband, and the small town she loves.
Jesse Moretti is a former Army Ranger, has lived in the small town for 3 yrs but isnt very sociable. He IS a high achiever, a member of the elite Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team, he thrives on adrenaline, saving people. He also has been helping the neighbor he couldn't associate with due to his demons, one, Ellie Meeks.
Car trouble will throw the two together and slowly lead to more and more interactions, until both are lusting for the other. When things are going good, life will throw road blocks in their way. Like explosions, ice lakes, and a secret that brings the past into the present.
This might not have been true romantic suspense but it felt like it, I was riveted to the pages, the characters, the plot. Sooooooo good.
Ellie Meeks is a Gold Star widow of twins. Her husband, Dan, a helicopter pilot was KIA. He knew his job was dangerous and told her to live her life if he died. She hasn't been. 3 yrs later, she is raising Daniel and Daisy, pretty much alone. Luckily she has some help in the form of her parents, her sister and husband, and the small town she loves.
Jesse Moretti is a former Army Ranger, has lived in the small town for 3 yrs but isnt very sociable. He IS a high achiever, a member of the elite Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team, he thrives on adrenaline, saving people. He also has been helping the neighbor he couldn't associate with due to his demons, one, Ellie Meeks.
Car trouble will throw the two together and slowly lead to more and more interactions, until both are lusting for the other. When things are going good, life will throw road blocks in their way. Like explosions, ice lakes, and a secret that brings the past into the present.
This might not have been true romantic suspense but it felt like it, I was riveted to the pages, the characters, the plot. Sooooooo good.
February 22, 2017
Falling Hard by Pamela Clare is the third story in her Colorado High Country series. Set with the beautiful Rocky Mountains as a backdrop to emotional and sexy romances, the series looks at the lives and loves of the local search and rescue team.
Ellie Meeks knew the risks of marrying an Army Ranger but still mourns the loss of her husband Dan, father to 3-year-old twins Daisy and Daniel that he never got a chance to meet. Her days are filled caring for the twins as a single mom, and working part-time as a nurse, fortunate to have help from her parents and her sister but with no thought of entering into another relationship. When her neighbor Jesse Moretti helps her out of a jam, her long-dormant libido takes notice. He’s lived quietly on the property next to hers for two years but until now, they’d never formally met.
Jesse is a former army veteran, now a volunteer member of the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team and a full-time ski patroller at a local resort. He’s single but wary of entering into a relationship, his PTSD issues making him believe he’s damaged goods. After their first meeting, a friendship develops, one that doesn’t hide the attraction burgeoning between them. They both know that falling in love is a calculated risk – will it be one worth taking?
I really enjoyed this story! The author is clearly knowledgeable about the area making the various locales feel authentic. Because of both Jesse and Ellie’s jobs, there is a fair amount of emotional intensity and drama with rescue scenes, medical emergencies and flashbacks. At the same time, the development of the romance between them, heightened by the emotions involved, also moves at a fast pace. From the start they trust each other, leading to some steamy love scenes and deep conversations.
Ellie’s twins are key secondary characters, as is the relationship that Jesse develops with them. He’s nervous around them at first, having had no experience with kids but learns the ropes quickly. All the characters in this story are multifaceted and feel very real. Experiences in Jesse’s past that he had tried to bury come out when he is with Ellie, and get to the point where they can’t be ignored. Ellie’s grief for her dead husband is still tangible and there are some guilt issues she needs to overcome. As well, there are certain revelations that come up that need to be addressed before they can get their happy ending. Drama, action, sex, family, friends, and romance – all play their part in this entertaining read.
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
This review also appears at https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
Ellie Meeks knew the risks of marrying an Army Ranger but still mourns the loss of her husband Dan, father to 3-year-old twins Daisy and Daniel that he never got a chance to meet. Her days are filled caring for the twins as a single mom, and working part-time as a nurse, fortunate to have help from her parents and her sister but with no thought of entering into another relationship. When her neighbor Jesse Moretti helps her out of a jam, her long-dormant libido takes notice. He’s lived quietly on the property next to hers for two years but until now, they’d never formally met.
Jesse is a former army veteran, now a volunteer member of the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team and a full-time ski patroller at a local resort. He’s single but wary of entering into a relationship, his PTSD issues making him believe he’s damaged goods. After their first meeting, a friendship develops, one that doesn’t hide the attraction burgeoning between them. They both know that falling in love is a calculated risk – will it be one worth taking?
I really enjoyed this story! The author is clearly knowledgeable about the area making the various locales feel authentic. Because of both Jesse and Ellie’s jobs, there is a fair amount of emotional intensity and drama with rescue scenes, medical emergencies and flashbacks. At the same time, the development of the romance between them, heightened by the emotions involved, also moves at a fast pace. From the start they trust each other, leading to some steamy love scenes and deep conversations.
Ellie’s twins are key secondary characters, as is the relationship that Jesse develops with them. He’s nervous around them at first, having had no experience with kids but learns the ropes quickly. All the characters in this story are multifaceted and feel very real. Experiences in Jesse’s past that he had tried to bury come out when he is with Ellie, and get to the point where they can’t be ignored. Ellie’s grief for her dead husband is still tangible and there are some guilt issues she needs to overcome. As well, there are certain revelations that come up that need to be addressed before they can get their happy ending. Drama, action, sex, family, friends, and romance – all play their part in this entertaining read.
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
This review also appears at https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
February 26, 2017
I think this may be my favorite read of the series so far. Clare has definitely hit her stride with this book. Well written, entertaining, and poignant. It read like a love story between real people in the real world. As always, Clare has done meticulous research into a Gold Star family, and the lingering effects of PTSD. While I miss the suspense of the I-Team, this series is giving the reader some lovely romances.
I did not care for the cover, however. The ubiquitous headless chest cover is long past the expiration date in my opinion; and simply did not fit the story at all. How about something to do with Search and Rescue, since that is what the book and series is about...
I did not care for the cover, however. The ubiquitous headless chest cover is long past the expiration date in my opinion; and simply did not fit the story at all. How about something to do with Search and Rescue, since that is what the book and series is about...
October 6, 2021
4.5 stars
I really enjoy Pamela Clare’s writing style. She’s able to capture the sweet and sadness within her storylines but also gives the reader hope when her characters face adversity.
This is evident in her series Colorado High Country. Falling Hard is the 3rd in the series but I was able to enjoy the storyline and the characters without reading the first two.
Jessie and Ellie are both a little broken. Ellie lost her husband in combat while she was pregnant. She had to curb her emotions to care for her babies and continue living. Jessie was a combat hero but has scars from what occurred to him in battle. He’s still very much an adrenaline junky but knows there is more to life. The pair meet when they needed each other most but neither realize just how close their connection is. They learn to rely on each other through the pain and are able to find happiness and comfort in each other’s arms. There was plenty of drama to keep the story flowing but I also felt it was getting a bit redundant at times. Due to the nature of this book there are parts of their story that were quite emotional, but the author does a good job bringing the light back to these two.
I enjoyed the overall story and looking forward to reading the books I skipped to get to Ellie and Jessie’s story.
I really enjoy Pamela Clare’s writing style. She’s able to capture the sweet and sadness within her storylines but also gives the reader hope when her characters face adversity.
This is evident in her series Colorado High Country. Falling Hard is the 3rd in the series but I was able to enjoy the storyline and the characters without reading the first two.
Jessie and Ellie are both a little broken. Ellie lost her husband in combat while she was pregnant. She had to curb her emotions to care for her babies and continue living. Jessie was a combat hero but has scars from what occurred to him in battle. He’s still very much an adrenaline junky but knows there is more to life. The pair meet when they needed each other most but neither realize just how close their connection is. They learn to rely on each other through the pain and are able to find happiness and comfort in each other’s arms. There was plenty of drama to keep the story flowing but I also felt it was getting a bit redundant at times. Due to the nature of this book there are parts of their story that were quite emotional, but the author does a good job bringing the light back to these two.
I enjoyed the overall story and looking forward to reading the books I skipped to get to Ellie and Jessie’s story.
March 4, 2017
3.5;5/ 4 stars; A-
This was a sweet romance with a few insights into the aftermath of military service, both for those who return from war and those who were on the home front. I really enjoy this author.
This was a sweet romance with a few insights into the aftermath of military service, both for those who return from war and those who were on the home front. I really enjoy this author.
February 20, 2017
❤️ 4.5 stars ❤️
Seriously, where does Pamela Clare stock these amazing and gorgeous men? Show me the way pls :) I'm in love with this tortured, beautiful soul who goes by Jesse Moretti *"Whatta man" plays in the background*
In Falling Hard, you meet Ellie Meeks, a widow with 2 1/2 year old twins, Daniel & Daisy. Ellie and Jesse are neighbours but never quite met yet until Jesse steps in to help Ellie when her twins were suffering from a fever. And I believe the rest is history.
Ellie is a war widow along with being a nurse and does her best to do her job while being the best mother to her twins. My heart immediately went out for her from the 1st chapter and already began to feel proud how far she came after a huge loss. She's an amazing and wonderful mother to her children who by the way, are the cutest things ever!
Now on to Jesse Moretti *cue to swooning* this ex army ranger turned member of Rocky Mountain search & rescue team came from a hard life - that is quite an understatement. He thrives for adrenaline and all things extreme in order to block out the trauma of the war. He never thinks twice when risking himself to save others - in short, no less than a hero. However, Jesse still suffers from nightmares and believes to be damaged goods until Ellie enters his life along with the adorable twins and makes him think otherwise. Loving Jesse was very easy for me because despite what he believes of himself, his actions speaks for itself of how great of a person he is and my heart broke for him when you learn just how much he suffered long before the war.
Ellie couldn't have been more perfect for Jesse... I love seeing how their bond strengthen in such short time and how the twins created such a big space in his heart. I loved those scenes the most!❤️
This is a Pamela Clare book, so of course on the side of sweet, you get a whole load of steam with it (like daaamn). Also it was great seeing familiar faces, especially the West family and their ranch❤️
All in all; Falling Hard delivers a beautiful snd heartwarming story about letting go of the pain and believe in yourself that you deserve no less than happiness.
Seriously, where does Pamela Clare stock these amazing and gorgeous men? Show me the way pls :) I'm in love with this tortured, beautiful soul who goes by Jesse Moretti *"Whatta man" plays in the background*
In Falling Hard, you meet Ellie Meeks, a widow with 2 1/2 year old twins, Daniel & Daisy. Ellie and Jesse are neighbours but never quite met yet until Jesse steps in to help Ellie when her twins were suffering from a fever. And I believe the rest is history.
Ellie is a war widow along with being a nurse and does her best to do her job while being the best mother to her twins. My heart immediately went out for her from the 1st chapter and already began to feel proud how far she came after a huge loss. She's an amazing and wonderful mother to her children who by the way, are the cutest things ever!
Now on to Jesse Moretti *cue to swooning* this ex army ranger turned member of Rocky Mountain search & rescue team came from a hard life - that is quite an understatement. He thrives for adrenaline and all things extreme in order to block out the trauma of the war. He never thinks twice when risking himself to save others - in short, no less than a hero. However, Jesse still suffers from nightmares and believes to be damaged goods until Ellie enters his life along with the adorable twins and makes him think otherwise. Loving Jesse was very easy for me because despite what he believes of himself, his actions speaks for itself of how great of a person he is and my heart broke for him when you learn just how much he suffered long before the war.
Ellie couldn't have been more perfect for Jesse... I love seeing how their bond strengthen in such short time and how the twins created such a big space in his heart. I loved those scenes the most!❤️
This is a Pamela Clare book, so of course on the side of sweet, you get a whole load of steam with it (like daaamn). Also it was great seeing familiar faces, especially the West family and their ranch❤️
All in all; Falling Hard delivers a beautiful snd heartwarming story about letting go of the pain and believe in yourself that you deserve no less than happiness.
April 24, 2017
The third book in Pamela Clare's Contemporary Romance series, Colorado High Country. Ellie Meeks is a widow raising toddler twins, Daniel and Daisy. One snowy night finds her stranded, half sick with the twins (also sick), and enter our hero. Jesse Moretti, a former Army Ranger, turns out to be their neighbor. Neither is ready for commitment but they can't seem to ignore the chemistry.
Ellie's family thinks she needs to get out and live a little. But Ellie is busy with her nursing job and raising the twins. She has no time for complications. And Jesse Moretti is definitely a complication. Jesse discovers that he knew Ellie's deceased husband and knows he needs to stay away but he, too, can't ignore the attraction. Plus Jesse is having some issues with nightmares. He certainly doesn't want to expose anyone to his problems.
I loved the characters and the story itself. Pamela Clare is one of those writers that simply can't write a bad book. Highly recommended series!
Ellie's family thinks she needs to get out and live a little. But Ellie is busy with her nursing job and raising the twins. She has no time for complications. And Jesse Moretti is definitely a complication. Jesse discovers that he knew Ellie's deceased husband and knows he needs to stay away but he, too, can't ignore the attraction. Plus Jesse is having some issues with nightmares. He certainly doesn't want to expose anyone to his problems.
I loved the characters and the story itself. Pamela Clare is one of those writers that simply can't write a bad book. Highly recommended series!
May 29, 2017
I expect nothing less than fabulous when I read a Pamela Clare book and I am never let down! This story was so emotional! Ellie was wonderful and really had her priorities in order, except herself - she left that piece out of the puzzle. Jesse? Jesse was sigh-worthy! I loved how he refused to let his past or his issues or his preconceived plans for his life interfere with what his heart was telling him he wanted. They really worked together and to be together and I loved it. The ending, so perfect! And a perfect read for Memorial Day weekend too!
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