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In This Life
Alternate Cover Edition for ISBN: 9781519303950
Secrets ruin lives, and lies protect those secrets…
Wanting to escape her life in New York City before starting medical school in the fall, Anna Dillon convinces her best friend Dante to travel with her to Thailand on a medical mission. While volunteering in a coastal village recently ravaged by a tsunami, Anna meets Jude Grayson. They share an instant attraction that leads to a brief, passionate affair. When she has to rush home for a family emergency, he promises to stay in touch.
But Jude never calls, and Anna tries desperately to forget him.
Five years pass, and Anna finally moves on with Dante after giving up hope that Jude will ever return—until they come face to face again in a chance encounter. Reeling, Anna discovers the life-altering secret of why Jude never contacted her—and why they can’t be together. But the passion that ignited between them on an exotic beach years ago never died, making it impossible to stay away from each other.
And Dante? Anna discovers that the friend she grew to love—and trust—has a secret of his own.
Secrets ruin lives, and lies protect those secrets…
Wanting to escape her life in New York City before starting medical school in the fall, Anna Dillon convinces her best friend Dante to travel with her to Thailand on a medical mission. While volunteering in a coastal village recently ravaged by a tsunami, Anna meets Jude Grayson. They share an instant attraction that leads to a brief, passionate affair. When she has to rush home for a family emergency, he promises to stay in touch.
But Jude never calls, and Anna tries desperately to forget him.
Five years pass, and Anna finally moves on with Dante after giving up hope that Jude will ever return—until they come face to face again in a chance encounter. Reeling, Anna discovers the life-altering secret of why Jude never contacted her—and why they can’t be together. But the passion that ignited between them on an exotic beach years ago never died, making it impossible to stay away from each other.
And Dante? Anna discovers that the friend she grew to love—and trust—has a secret of his own.
345 pages, Paperback
First published January 22, 2016
91 people are currently reading
1616 people want to read
About the author
Christine Brae
7 books946 followersChristine Brae, is a full time career woman who thought she could write a book about her life and then run away as far as possible from it. She never imagined that her words would touch the hearts of so many women with the same story to tell. Christine is the author of six (6) books and the recipient of literary awards.
Christine Brae also publishes under her real name, Anna Gomez. Her latest project, Moments Like This, is the first in a series of five books, co-authored and co-produced for film and tv, with actor, Kristoffer Polaha.
She is represented by Italia Gandolfo of Gandolfo Helin Literary Management.
Christine Brae also publishes under her real name, Anna Gomez. Her latest project, Moments Like This, is the first in a series of five books, co-authored and co-produced for film and tv, with actor, Kristoffer Polaha.
She is represented by Italia Gandolfo of Gandolfo Helin Literary Management.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
January 23, 2016
2.75 ~ 3 ”It was ten days” Stars
”It’s the story of a girl who loved two men in her life. It wasn’t a love triangle; she wasn’t confused nor was she apologetic. She set out to prove to the world that there are different kinds of love that can only be experienced once in a lifetime. She became living proof that sometimes, you have to lose faith in order to truly believe.”
This is my first time reading this author. While I did enjoy her writing, it’s strong and powerful, it also ventures into the over dramatic a lot of the time as well. The heroine throws temper tantrums and for me was way over the top to truly embrace. The story line possess an assortment of soap opera situations that moved the plot forward but made it eye rolling over the top for me.
The story takes our heroine to Thailand with her best friend, Dante to serve at an orphanage for children affected by the deadly tidal wave. Anna Dillion falls very hard for a man named Jude during her stay and that she still remembers and can’t let go of those ten days with him.
“We’re both lost. How can we be found? How can we both find purpose?”
Five years later and our heroine is struggling to make a big step in her marriage with (undisclosed character).
”Best to invest in the one who loves me back.”
Jude does in fact resurface in Anna’s life with the answers of why he left with and ready to expose all of his feelings for her. I should mention that this is a love triangle to me and I really didn’t love the way events go to conclude the situation. The story takes many twists and turns and though I didn’t love the course of over the top events or the heroine there was definitely beauty in the writing.
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
”It’s the story of a girl who loved two men in her life. It wasn’t a love triangle; she wasn’t confused nor was she apologetic. She set out to prove to the world that there are different kinds of love that can only be experienced once in a lifetime. She became living proof that sometimes, you have to lose faith in order to truly believe.”
This is my first time reading this author. While I did enjoy her writing, it’s strong and powerful, it also ventures into the over dramatic a lot of the time as well. The heroine throws temper tantrums and for me was way over the top to truly embrace. The story line possess an assortment of soap opera situations that moved the plot forward but made it eye rolling over the top for me.
The story takes our heroine to Thailand with her best friend, Dante to serve at an orphanage for children affected by the deadly tidal wave. Anna Dillion falls very hard for a man named Jude during her stay and that she still remembers and can’t let go of those ten days with him.
“We’re both lost. How can we be found? How can we both find purpose?”
Five years later and our heroine is struggling to make a big step in her marriage with (undisclosed character).
”Best to invest in the one who loves me back.”
Jude does in fact resurface in Anna’s life with the answers of why he left with and ready to expose all of his feelings for her. I should mention that this is a love triangle to me and I really didn’t love the way events go to conclude the situation. The story takes many twists and turns and though I didn’t love the course of over the top events or the heroine there was definitely beauty in the writing.
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
February 19, 2017
In this Life is the first book by Christine Brae I’ve read and although I enjoyed her writing style, this book didn’t quite work for me. All those little things that drive me mad in books… this one had them all it seemed. Anna is one of those characters I couldn’t relate to and quite frankly couldn’t stand. I did like Jude and Dante, but I felt as though she didn’t deserve either.
The story itself was probably a 2 for me, but I’ll round up my rating to a 2.5-3 because I enjoyed the authors writing. I’ll most likely try another book by her in the future to see if it works for me. This one just did not.
April 2, 2016
EDIT:
What a disappointment. I knew there was something fishy when people are suddenly reacting badly to a review I wrote 3 weeks later. I forgot to add that this book was gifted to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Well, I didn't know that my honesty will be a big deal. Now I have one more reason to add why I hated this book.
I originally said that I'd love to try more books from this author, that I won't be closing my door because I love the writing style.I'am taking that back. This will be the first and the last book. Because I'am going to close my door forever. I was being fair, but I was still called out. *smh Well, we can never please everyone after all.
Original Review:
Oh Dear. This was messy.
The only strong point of this book I believe was the writing style. It has a hint of melancholy that creeps right into you. Not to mention those twist and turns(only on the first half) that amused me. However, the characters were so cheesy and dramatic that even the only thing I actually liked in this book lost its appeal on me.
Then there's Jude. This two really suit each other because while Anna was a drama queen, Jude was the drama king. What a perfect couple. Jude is a possessive asshole and a selfish bastard who always tries to be on a safe side. He's willing to give up on something only if he can get something in return- aka Anna's love.
Really I could spend the whole day ranting about this book, but I thought it wasn't needed. I believe that this book can be enjoyed by people who have the same belief and standpoint with the author, it just so happen that we have different beliefs in life when it comes to Love and Fate. I'm more on the realism side than the romanticism one you see.
If you love overly drama and cheesy books, you might actually love and enjoy this book. This is my first Christine Brae book and was really looking forward to it, too bad this book just wasn't for me. But I'm sure that this isn't going to be my last Christine Brae book, I'd love to try and read more from this author in the future, not going to close my door.
What a disappointment. I knew there was something fishy when people are suddenly reacting badly to a review I wrote 3 weeks later. I forgot to add that this book was gifted to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Well, I didn't know that my honesty will be a big deal. Now I have one more reason to add why I hated this book.
I originally said that I'd love to try more books from this author, that I won't be closing my door because I love the writing style.I'am taking that back. This will be the first and the last book. Because I'am going to close my door forever. I was being fair, but I was still called out. *smh Well, we can never please everyone after all.
Original Review:
Oh Dear. This was messy.
The only strong point of this book I believe was the writing style. It has a hint of melancholy that creeps right into you. Not to mention those twist and turns(only on the first half) that amused me. However, the characters were so cheesy and dramatic that even the only thing I actually liked in this book lost its appeal on me.
"It is a story of a girl who loved two men in her life. It wasn't a love triangle; she wasn't confused nor was she apologetic."In other words, this girl, our heroine is a selfish bitch. She doesn't want to loose both her first love whom she met 5 years ago and fell in love with in the span of 10 days and her best friend who helped her throughout the hardships of her life, the one who stayed when her first love didn't. It is not an easy choice, I know that much. But there if there's anything I learned in this life(I mean, literally, not this book LOL. I just have this overwhelming need to emphasize that.), is that there is no easy choice, so this girl should just suck it up and learn how to let go of the other person because you can't fucking love both 2 men at once in the same level. It's unfair and selfish and cruel.
"I wasn't ashamed to declare with confidence that it was possible to love two people at the same time. They were ensconced in two very different compartments of my heart-the smiles they elicited, the feelings they caused- they were distinctive to each one and divergent to both."I really really want to understand and really thought this over. After all I have never really been in love in my life, but no matter how much I think about this, I just can't agree with it. Either, you love someone as a friend or a family or love him as a man, romantically. Because there is no way in hell it's alright to fuck with both of them because you "both" love them. And oh, by the way that quote was a shit, because this is definitely a love triangle for me, unless I've been wrong about the meaning of love triangle all this time.
Then there's Jude. This two really suit each other because while Anna was a drama queen, Jude was the drama king. What a perfect couple. Jude is a possessive asshole and a selfish bastard who always tries to be on a safe side. He's willing to give up on something only if he can get something in return- aka Anna's love.
"I certainly didn't think that this was the right time and place to remind her that if I had my way and if she loved me, I would give it all up."Bullshit. If you can't give up on something because of your own reasons, be man enough to at least give up something because it didn't deserve the half attention you were giving it and no one, and nothing deserves to be a second choice, thrown and put aside when you realized that this wasn't what you really wanted all this time.
"This book is a testament to that time, that darkness and the hope that was never realized. It is a lesson learned-that fate is fate and what's meant to be will be. "I'm sorry but that one was a total bullshit too. This book meant to teach us about fate.. I do not agree. I think this book is more of how you have to stand up on the choices you made. No matter how bad or good they are. That sometimes, along the way, you'll get to hurt people and even yourself but you still stand up and continue to live because life really does go on. Fate does not have anything to do with that! Just stop make it seem sound better or more appealing than it really is.
Really I could spend the whole day ranting about this book, but I thought it wasn't needed. I believe that this book can be enjoyed by people who have the same belief and standpoint with the author, it just so happen that we have different beliefs in life when it comes to Love and Fate. I'm more on the realism side than the romanticism one you see.
If you love overly drama and cheesy books, you might actually love and enjoy this book. This is my first Christine Brae book and was really looking forward to it, too bad this book just wasn't for me. But I'm sure that this isn't going to be my last Christine Brae book, I'd love to try and read more from this author in the future, not going to close my door.
November 5, 2016
In this life, I hope you can take time and read In This Life by Christine Brae. It’s emotional. It’s real.
One of the simple joys that I have when I read all the works of an author is being able to witness the growth taking shape when it comes to their writing style. Just like her previous works, Christine Brae’s prose for In This Life is that of poetic and beautifully weaved truths. But this time around, her words packed a lot more punch which resulted for the emotions of her characters to freely flow to us, her readers. Brae’s thoughts and words is the perfect match to flawlessly execute such a plot line as with In This Life. It’s a story that truly requires a certain bravery and sincerity to radiate through the words and pages of the book for readers to fully feel and grasp its vital points. Aside from those, I do think that one of Brae’s strengths lies on how her words leave marks, make people think and reflect about their personal lives. In This Life may be about Anna’s self-discovery journey but a bonus to this is having our own self-discovery journey while reading the book and beyond that.
“Don’t you ever just want to forget who you’re supposed to be and just be who you really are?”
Just when I thought I was immune to Christine Brae’s shocking twists and I go, read this one. Actually, the first few chapters were a breeze to read through. I was immediately captivated by Anna and Dante’s friendship and Anna and Jude’s blossoming feelings towards each other.
But then the story took a very surprising turn and pretty much started the emotional avalanche inside of me.
Jaw drops.
I did not expect the plot line for In This Life to turn out this way. I don’t know what I was actually thinking and expecting but certainly not this one. A string of curse words flew out of my mouth upon realizing the weight of the situation. It’s insane. I was so confused and torn with everything that’s happening in the story. From that point, I knew that these characters were going to ruin me.
They did.
“Do you think we were meant to meet, to spend time together, despite the fact that in the end, we have to go our separate ways?”
What I love the most about Anna, Jude and Dante is the fact that they were flawed characters. They weren’t perfect at all, just like us. It seems like they were instruments used to showcase the weaknesses and strengths of human beings in trying times wherein our faith and passion is put to the test. All three of them were at a life-altering crossroad – torn between what their minds think is right for them and on the other hand, what their hearts truly want. Is Jude going to continue pursuing his life-plans or for once and for all, stray from it? Is Anna going to stay committed or is she going to follow her heart? What about Dante? Now that he’s given the chance, is he going to right the single thing that he’s done wrong or is he going to continue his life just the way it is? In This Life was a tough read because you know that one or the other needs to give way for a real chance at happiness to shine through. Well, that’s life and we make the most out of it no matter what the consequences of our actions are.
The confrontations and deepest conversations of these characters were definitely my favorite parts of the book. Those were the parts where we see them stripped down to core, bearing their hearts and souls out. In some scenes I felt like being slapped in the face, sucker punched in the gut and my heart being ripped out of my system. The last 20% of the book affected me so much. It gutted me. I ended up being such an emotional mess. I wasn’t prepared for THAT particular thing to happen. I just wasn’t. The next thing I know there’s another highly emotional, touching and enlightening scene about to unravel right before my very eyes. I remembered reading that part at 2 am-ish and tears just can’t stop leaking out of my eyes. Every single emotion seemed to be swirling inside of me. Too much.
There’s a lot of tears and sniffing going around this part. That being said, reading the ending brought happy-sad tears to my eyes. It may be bittersweet, but that ending fully satisfied my reading cravings and I actually expected for a heart-warming scene to close the story of Anna, Jude and Dante. I’m thoroughly impressed with how Brae handled the story, wrapped everything up and for her plot to come full circle.
What are you waiting for? Go head over to Amazon (B&N and iBooks) and purchase In This Life for a very great deal of $0.99! Sweet!
“Remember that the mind is a powerful thing. You can convince yourself of anything. But at the end of the day, it’s your heart that you have to contend with. It doesn’t bend as easily as your mind.”
This review is also up on my blog, Fandomly Bookish.
One of the simple joys that I have when I read all the works of an author is being able to witness the growth taking shape when it comes to their writing style. Just like her previous works, Christine Brae’s prose for In This Life is that of poetic and beautifully weaved truths. But this time around, her words packed a lot more punch which resulted for the emotions of her characters to freely flow to us, her readers. Brae’s thoughts and words is the perfect match to flawlessly execute such a plot line as with In This Life. It’s a story that truly requires a certain bravery and sincerity to radiate through the words and pages of the book for readers to fully feel and grasp its vital points. Aside from those, I do think that one of Brae’s strengths lies on how her words leave marks, make people think and reflect about their personal lives. In This Life may be about Anna’s self-discovery journey but a bonus to this is having our own self-discovery journey while reading the book and beyond that.
“Don’t you ever just want to forget who you’re supposed to be and just be who you really are?”
Just when I thought I was immune to Christine Brae’s shocking twists and I go, read this one. Actually, the first few chapters were a breeze to read through. I was immediately captivated by Anna and Dante’s friendship and Anna and Jude’s blossoming feelings towards each other.
But then the story took a very surprising turn and pretty much started the emotional avalanche inside of me.
Jaw drops.
I did not expect the plot line for In This Life to turn out this way. I don’t know what I was actually thinking and expecting but certainly not this one. A string of curse words flew out of my mouth upon realizing the weight of the situation. It’s insane. I was so confused and torn with everything that’s happening in the story. From that point, I knew that these characters were going to ruin me.
They did.
“Do you think we were meant to meet, to spend time together, despite the fact that in the end, we have to go our separate ways?”
What I love the most about Anna, Jude and Dante is the fact that they were flawed characters. They weren’t perfect at all, just like us. It seems like they were instruments used to showcase the weaknesses and strengths of human beings in trying times wherein our faith and passion is put to the test. All three of them were at a life-altering crossroad – torn between what their minds think is right for them and on the other hand, what their hearts truly want. Is Jude going to continue pursuing his life-plans or for once and for all, stray from it? Is Anna going to stay committed or is she going to follow her heart? What about Dante? Now that he’s given the chance, is he going to right the single thing that he’s done wrong or is he going to continue his life just the way it is? In This Life was a tough read because you know that one or the other needs to give way for a real chance at happiness to shine through. Well, that’s life and we make the most out of it no matter what the consequences of our actions are.
The confrontations and deepest conversations of these characters were definitely my favorite parts of the book. Those were the parts where we see them stripped down to core, bearing their hearts and souls out. In some scenes I felt like being slapped in the face, sucker punched in the gut and my heart being ripped out of my system. The last 20% of the book affected me so much. It gutted me. I ended up being such an emotional mess. I wasn’t prepared for THAT particular thing to happen. I just wasn’t. The next thing I know there’s another highly emotional, touching and enlightening scene about to unravel right before my very eyes. I remembered reading that part at 2 am-ish and tears just can’t stop leaking out of my eyes. Every single emotion seemed to be swirling inside of me. Too much.
There’s a lot of tears and sniffing going around this part. That being said, reading the ending brought happy-sad tears to my eyes. It may be bittersweet, but that ending fully satisfied my reading cravings and I actually expected for a heart-warming scene to close the story of Anna, Jude and Dante. I’m thoroughly impressed with how Brae handled the story, wrapped everything up and for her plot to come full circle.
What are you waiting for? Go head over to Amazon (B&N and iBooks) and purchase In This Life for a very great deal of $0.99! Sweet!
“Remember that the mind is a powerful thing. You can convince yourself of anything. But at the end of the day, it’s your heart that you have to contend with. It doesn’t bend as easily as your mind.”
This review is also up on my blog, Fandomly Bookish.
December 19, 2015
Review by Lisa Kane
He's a force that pulls me towards him, a cliffhanger in a story in need of an ending.
I'm not sure how to write this review. There are major plot twists which would ruin the story if I posted spoilers, but those twists are the cause of my stomach plummets and this reader lives for those moments.
Anna Dillon and her best friend Dante Leola are in Thailand doing missionary work. Anna is a med student and Dante-well he would follow her to hell if she wanted him to. Anna is running from the problems in her life.
For all the partners we'd had, we each came first for the other, through breakups and make-ups and one night stands, our friendship was a constant.
Her mom has thrown her family for a loop and Anna -and well, Anna needs to leave all that behind right now.
Anna meets Jude Grayson and is instantly connected to him. But it isn't just his outward appearance, although that makes him pretty swoon worthy.
He was Adonis personified-piercing dark eyes outlined with a kaleidoscope of colors and swirling with secrets, nose perfectly sloped and proportioned, defined cheekbones over an angular jaw lined with glorious stubble, impeccably groomed and shaped. His hair fell in slightly untamed curls above his ears. And those lips. Full, plump, luscious. They could swallow me whole.
There is an innate goodness in him. He teaches religion to the children there-helping to guide them but also taking into consideration their own circumstances. He is no slave to church doctrine. He personalizes his teaches to his students real life situations.
Jude and Anna jump into a passionate romance, but both think that this is time out of time. Anna senses from what Jude has said that he has commitments back home and his life is there. Anna is no stranger to physical encounters but what she feels for him-it confuses her because she needs to focus on finishing school and her career. She tells herself over and over that this is temporary regardless of how real this feels to her.
In spite of the obvious feelings that Anna and Jude share, their ten days is coming to an end. Anna gets devastating news and has to return home early. But she and Jude spend one more night together and promise to get back in touch. Anna threw her phone into the ocean in anger over some family drama but Jude has Dante's number and promises to call. But Anna never hears from Jude. Dante lets her know that there hasn't been any word. Anna has to force herself to move on. Their time together was short, but she gave her heart to Jude and she doesn't really want it back.
Fast forward five years later. Dante and Anna are now much more than friends. Anna knew she had to go on with her life, but she still feels something's missing.
In these five years, I had experienced two deaths. The death of my mother was clean cut, more defined. No matter what, there was no hope of ever seeing her again. The death of my feelings for Jude were more difficult and just as painful.
Dante is crazy about Anna and wants to start a family. But Anna has a million excuses for why it's too soon.
The problem was that sometimes our happiness was at someone else's detriment. We were burglars in the night, stealing someone else's laughter for our own and replacing it with tears.
In the most unexpected place Anna sees Jude again. If her heart was broken before, her soul is now shattered. She has so many questions and so much anger and feelings long suppressed are bubbling to the surface. It seems Dante, Jude and Anna all have secrets that they have kept from each other. Secrets always have a way of getting exposed, and the hurt they cause is far hurtful than the truth would ever have been.
I could have loved you, I wanted to tell him. I could have given up my entire life for you, followed you anywhere in the world.
If only you had chosen me.
But humans are flawed and we make mistakes with the greatest of intentions. All three of these characters are inherently good. They want the best for each other, they do not act out of malicious intentions and most of all Jude and Dante both love Anna and she loves both of them.
"It means that I love you most in my life. That you are my greatest love. That my love for you is real and true, and it comes from the bottom of my heart."
This is a beautiful story about fate. In spite of the route we have mapped out for ourselves, there are other factors at play, those that really determine how our lives play out. We can fight fate, we can dig our heels in and tell ourselves that we are in control of our lives but at the end of the day, we can't deny that sometimes fate points us in another direction. That road is where we are meant to be, even if we have to have our hearts broken in the process.
She became living proof that sometimes, you have to lose faith in order to truly believe. That you may never find a Jude or Dante, but through adversity and tears, you will always end up finding you.
He's a force that pulls me towards him, a cliffhanger in a story in need of an ending.
I'm not sure how to write this review. There are major plot twists which would ruin the story if I posted spoilers, but those twists are the cause of my stomach plummets and this reader lives for those moments.
Anna Dillon and her best friend Dante Leola are in Thailand doing missionary work. Anna is a med student and Dante-well he would follow her to hell if she wanted him to. Anna is running from the problems in her life.
For all the partners we'd had, we each came first for the other, through breakups and make-ups and one night stands, our friendship was a constant.
Her mom has thrown her family for a loop and Anna -and well, Anna needs to leave all that behind right now.
Anna meets Jude Grayson and is instantly connected to him. But it isn't just his outward appearance, although that makes him pretty swoon worthy.
He was Adonis personified-piercing dark eyes outlined with a kaleidoscope of colors and swirling with secrets, nose perfectly sloped and proportioned, defined cheekbones over an angular jaw lined with glorious stubble, impeccably groomed and shaped. His hair fell in slightly untamed curls above his ears. And those lips. Full, plump, luscious. They could swallow me whole.
There is an innate goodness in him. He teaches religion to the children there-helping to guide them but also taking into consideration their own circumstances. He is no slave to church doctrine. He personalizes his teaches to his students real life situations.
Jude and Anna jump into a passionate romance, but both think that this is time out of time. Anna senses from what Jude has said that he has commitments back home and his life is there. Anna is no stranger to physical encounters but what she feels for him-it confuses her because she needs to focus on finishing school and her career. She tells herself over and over that this is temporary regardless of how real this feels to her.
In spite of the obvious feelings that Anna and Jude share, their ten days is coming to an end. Anna gets devastating news and has to return home early. But she and Jude spend one more night together and promise to get back in touch. Anna threw her phone into the ocean in anger over some family drama but Jude has Dante's number and promises to call. But Anna never hears from Jude. Dante lets her know that there hasn't been any word. Anna has to force herself to move on. Their time together was short, but she gave her heart to Jude and she doesn't really want it back.
Fast forward five years later. Dante and Anna are now much more than friends. Anna knew she had to go on with her life, but she still feels something's missing.
In these five years, I had experienced two deaths. The death of my mother was clean cut, more defined. No matter what, there was no hope of ever seeing her again. The death of my feelings for Jude were more difficult and just as painful.
Dante is crazy about Anna and wants to start a family. But Anna has a million excuses for why it's too soon.
The problem was that sometimes our happiness was at someone else's detriment. We were burglars in the night, stealing someone else's laughter for our own and replacing it with tears.
In the most unexpected place Anna sees Jude again. If her heart was broken before, her soul is now shattered. She has so many questions and so much anger and feelings long suppressed are bubbling to the surface. It seems Dante, Jude and Anna all have secrets that they have kept from each other. Secrets always have a way of getting exposed, and the hurt they cause is far hurtful than the truth would ever have been.
I could have loved you, I wanted to tell him. I could have given up my entire life for you, followed you anywhere in the world.
If only you had chosen me.
But humans are flawed and we make mistakes with the greatest of intentions. All three of these characters are inherently good. They want the best for each other, they do not act out of malicious intentions and most of all Jude and Dante both love Anna and she loves both of them.
"It means that I love you most in my life. That you are my greatest love. That my love for you is real and true, and it comes from the bottom of my heart."
This is a beautiful story about fate. In spite of the route we have mapped out for ourselves, there are other factors at play, those that really determine how our lives play out. We can fight fate, we can dig our heels in and tell ourselves that we are in control of our lives but at the end of the day, we can't deny that sometimes fate points us in another direction. That road is where we are meant to be, even if we have to have our hearts broken in the process.
She became living proof that sometimes, you have to lose faith in order to truly believe. That you may never find a Jude or Dante, but through adversity and tears, you will always end up finding you.
January 23, 2016
UPDATED FULL REVIEW 01/22/16
This review can also be found at The Nocturnal Fey
My heart is still knotted tightly minutes after marking this as "read".
I was broken, shattered, but I became whole again.
I was driven into a wild roller-coaster ride of emotions -- uncertain, confused, hurt, and overwhelmed with affections.
My friend, Rafael from The Royal Polar Bear Reads invited me to join the In This Life Blog Tour. He's been going on and about the author and keeps telling me that I should read her works. I didn't expect that much because I was always too afraid to expect more when it comes to "loved" and "highly recommended" authors and books, because I often get disappointed. But that was not the case here. I was just thankful that I FINALLY gave Brae's work a shot.
In This Life was a beautifully crafted, raw, and emotionally stunning story by Christine Brae. It's all about fate and faith, sacrifices, letting go, overcoming tragedies in life, and finding one's self. This is my first Brae book, and I was captivated by her poetic writing style. I personally had a love-hate and bitter-sweet moments with this book and the characters. I get so emotionally affected that I sometimes forget that I was just reading a story and not inside of it.
The characters were too real to the point of getting pissed, agitated, hurt (and all other kinds of emotions) on their behalf. I came to the point of hating Anna for doing drastic and sudden decisions, for hurting people around her, and for not thinking clear, BUT I GET IT. I understand her. Dante and Jude, the other two main characters of the story, played their roles in the best way possible.
Dante, the best-friend, the underdog, the person you will surely fall for and the one who will get your sympathy until the end. I cried with him, I joined him on his sadness and griefs, I fell in love with his personality and undying love. I reveled in his passionate affection towards Anna until the end and it was just beautiful.
Jude, the lover, the confused and self-discovering man, and the person who will play with your feelings. After the first part of the book, I became loyal to Dante and was determined for Anna and his ship to sail that I forgot about the existence of Jude. BUT when he's in the picture, he was screaming "I'll ruin your ship!" and everything went chaos. He has something about him that even if he's too confusing, you'll still love him at the same time.
I don't know how in the world did Christine Brae made it work for these characters to be likable and hateful at the same time, but it worked! The plot twists also made me pause for few minutes, let the information fully sink into my brain processor, and think, before I recovered and went back to reading again.
There was the most hurtful part where I literally dropped my phone (thank goodness not on the floor), and cried. And there were the saddest (and hurtful at the same time) parts where I cried, ached, got shattered into million pieces of shards, became wounded and broken --- too afraid to never be whole again.
But in the end, I was granted with a great satisfaction, and I was left with a piercing and remarkable story to tell.
In This Life is a highly recommended new adult contemporary romance that I will surely reread in the future. I wish to tell so much more, but a single blog post is not enough. Congratulations Christine Brae for writing such a masterpiece!
This review can also be found at The Nocturnal Fey
My heart is still knotted tightly minutes after marking this as "read".
I was broken, shattered, but I became whole again.
I was driven into a wild roller-coaster ride of emotions -- uncertain, confused, hurt, and overwhelmed with affections.
My friend, Rafael from The Royal Polar Bear Reads invited me to join the In This Life Blog Tour. He's been going on and about the author and keeps telling me that I should read her works. I didn't expect that much because I was always too afraid to expect more when it comes to "loved" and "highly recommended" authors and books, because I often get disappointed. But that was not the case here. I was just thankful that I FINALLY gave Brae's work a shot.
In This Life was a beautifully crafted, raw, and emotionally stunning story by Christine Brae. It's all about fate and faith, sacrifices, letting go, overcoming tragedies in life, and finding one's self. This is my first Brae book, and I was captivated by her poetic writing style. I personally had a love-hate and bitter-sweet moments with this book and the characters. I get so emotionally affected that I sometimes forget that I was just reading a story and not inside of it.
The characters were too real to the point of getting pissed, agitated, hurt (and all other kinds of emotions) on their behalf. I came to the point of hating Anna for doing drastic and sudden decisions, for hurting people around her, and for not thinking clear, BUT I GET IT. I understand her. Dante and Jude, the other two main characters of the story, played their roles in the best way possible.
Dante, the best-friend, the underdog, the person you will surely fall for and the one who will get your sympathy until the end. I cried with him, I joined him on his sadness and griefs, I fell in love with his personality and undying love. I reveled in his passionate affection towards Anna until the end and it was just beautiful.
Jude, the lover, the confused and self-discovering man, and the person who will play with your feelings. After the first part of the book, I became loyal to Dante and was determined for Anna and his ship to sail that I forgot about the existence of Jude. BUT when he's in the picture, he was screaming "I'll ruin your ship!" and everything went chaos. He has something about him that even if he's too confusing, you'll still love him at the same time.
I don't know how in the world did Christine Brae made it work for these characters to be likable and hateful at the same time, but it worked! The plot twists also made me pause for few minutes, let the information fully sink into my brain processor, and think, before I recovered and went back to reading again.
There was the most hurtful part where I literally dropped my phone (thank goodness not on the floor), and cried. And there were the saddest (and hurtful at the same time) parts where I cried, ached, got shattered into million pieces of shards, became wounded and broken --- too afraid to never be whole again.
But in the end, I was granted with a great satisfaction, and I was left with a piercing and remarkable story to tell.
In This Life is a highly recommended new adult contemporary romance that I will surely reread in the future. I wish to tell so much more, but a single blog post is not enough. Congratulations Christine Brae for writing such a masterpiece!
March 26, 2016
"Don't you ever just want to forget who you're supposed to be and just be who you really are?"
All of my kept feelings; Pain, Anger, and Regret, it all came out reading this book, In This Life by Christine Brae.
There's so much growth that can be seen and felt if you've been reading and following the works of the author and In This Life have surpassed my expectations towards her works.
I'm having a love/hate kind of relationship with this book because I cant deny the fact how good this story went, how each of the characters have their own personality that some of us readers could relate, how the emotions invested in the story hits you and leaves you soul naked.
I've read this for 5-6hours tops starting at 1 in the morning I think. In the middle of the darkness of my room, I never felt more seen, exposed and all out. That's how it felt reading In This Life for me.
Some might hate it, some might like it but I really bet that those who will love this book will be even more.
This book deserves to be recommended to everyone, to people who's going through a lot in life, to know that God has a plan for everything, even to those who already has everything, for them to keep leveled and be thankful for everything that they have and never take them for granted.
I am congratulating, Christine Brae for another success. You have created another life, just like how you created the lives of Isabel and Alex and the rest.
To you, this book is for you, this book is for us, this book is for everyone. A must recommend to all and I cant wait to get my hands on the physical copy and reread it. I love this book and I hope everyone loves it as well.
All of my kept feelings; Pain, Anger, and Regret, it all came out reading this book, In This Life by Christine Brae.
There's so much growth that can be seen and felt if you've been reading and following the works of the author and In This Life have surpassed my expectations towards her works.
I'm having a love/hate kind of relationship with this book because I cant deny the fact how good this story went, how each of the characters have their own personality that some of us readers could relate, how the emotions invested in the story hits you and leaves you soul naked.
I've read this for 5-6hours tops starting at 1 in the morning I think. In the middle of the darkness of my room, I never felt more seen, exposed and all out. That's how it felt reading In This Life for me.
Some might hate it, some might like it but I really bet that those who will love this book will be even more.
This book deserves to be recommended to everyone, to people who's going through a lot in life, to know that God has a plan for everything, even to those who already has everything, for them to keep leveled and be thankful for everything that they have and never take them for granted.
I am congratulating, Christine Brae for another success. You have created another life, just like how you created the lives of Isabel and Alex and the rest.
To you, this book is for you, this book is for us, this book is for everyone. A must recommend to all and I cant wait to get my hands on the physical copy and reread it. I love this book and I hope everyone loves it as well.
May 18, 2016
Oh dear, this was depressing. And cheesy. And frustrating.
I'm so sad right now. The blurb sounded awesome and I love the cover, and I was so looking forward to reading this book, but in the end, it just didn't really work for me.
Here's why:
- The heroine... I found her terribly annoying. She was a drama queen and made choices I couldn't condone and understand, and I didn't have a lot of respect for her.
- I didn't find Jude particularly interesting, if anything, he came across rather boring and bland. I didn't see the appeal.
- The romance between Anna and Jude. It was awfully cheesy and felt unrealistic to me.
Now, people who have read some of my previous reviews may know that I'm not a fan of insta-love, but most of the time, I can more or less ignore it when it's done well. Not in this case, though. Here, we get the love at first sight, fated soul mate kind of insta-love, and I hated it. They didn't even spend two weeks together in Thailand, and for the following five years, Anna wasn't able to get over him .
- Too much drama. It seemed so contrived at times - you know, adding more and more misfortunes only for drama's sake.
What I did like:
- The writing was beautiful and engaging. It was the storyline that couldn't hold my attention.
- Dante was a wonderful character, and I fell a little for him.
- Even though I wasn't really invested in the story, it made me very emotional and I even bawled like a baby at one point.
It took me a while to finish this book as I had to put it down several times, and still I couldn't help but skim some scenes. This just wasn't my cuppa.
Final rating: 2-2.5 stars
Trigger warning:
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2016
This book...oh my goodness... Lets just say, I am so glad I had gone to Costco this week and stocked up on Tissues! The writing here is exceptional, the real feelings you get while reading is beyond amazing. This was my first book to read by Christine Brae and it wont be my last.
Have you ever read a book and when you finish it, you come out hoping that you are a better person now that you finished the book? That's exactly how I feel... I have learned there are two very different kinds of Love <3 It's choosing which love you want to go with that completes you. Finding the answers, listening to the signs and finding yourself.
What a hell of an emotional ride this book was...each and every page! One beautiful girl and two awesome guys...who both love her. Jump on this rollercoaster ride and read this fantastic book, you will feel so much better once you do!
Have you ever read a book and when you finish it, you come out hoping that you are a better person now that you finished the book? That's exactly how I feel... I have learned there are two very different kinds of Love <3 It's choosing which love you want to go with that completes you. Finding the answers, listening to the signs and finding yourself.
What a hell of an emotional ride this book was...each and every page! One beautiful girl and two awesome guys...who both love her. Jump on this rollercoaster ride and read this fantastic book, you will feel so much better once you do!
May 15, 2020
I'm not a big crier when it comes to books, but this book had me big time ugly crying. Christine Brae needs more love and recognition for this amazing work of art. Her words have touched my soul and will stay with me. My heart is still beating funny. Read this book. And Hollywood, make it a movie...a good one. ❤️
Re-read: Still absolute perfection. I'll always hold this story close to my heart.
Re-read: Still absolute perfection. I'll always hold this story close to my heart.
January 20, 2016
I've read all of Ms. Brae's books to this date. Without a question of a doubt, this is my favorite. In fact, I'd give this book 6 stars if I could. I not only read this once, I read it twice. I enjoyed it the second time even more than the first.
You know those books that just stick with you? You're not always sure why, but they do? That's In This Life for me. I loved Anna from the beginning.
"The characters in your life story, they come and they go. But every so often, there are those who are cast, whose roles despite fleeting and brief, become the essence of your story."
I mean, who can't relate to that?? Anna does what most of us have done at one point in our lives. She runs away from her problems, which in the long run, just makes said problems worse. On so many levels. I cried, Lord did I cry...
"There is sacredness in tears, someone once said. What I learned that day was that without pain there could be no deliverance; without sin, no salvation. That in this life, it is only through sadness that one could truly experience joy. And although you are shaped by experience, you are ultimately defined by your destiny."
Despite all my tears, I laughed. A lot. While the overall tone of this book is not funny, there were some real laugh out loud moments. Isn't that what life is all about afterall? Laughing through the rain?
I would recommend this book to anyone who has had something that changed them. Whether it be something big or something so small that you may have missed it.
"...every day, I swore it was getting easier and easier. Teeny tiny triumphs in the one thousand, eight hundred and twenty-five days since he'd been gone."
The woman that Anna becomes, the journey that she goes on, the many, many experiences that mold her life, all of these things have happened to all of us on some level. Ms. Brae does a marvelous job weaving Anna (and Jude, and Dante, and...and..) into our hearts.
You know those books that just stick with you? You're not always sure why, but they do? That's In This Life for me. I loved Anna from the beginning.
"The characters in your life story, they come and they go. But every so often, there are those who are cast, whose roles despite fleeting and brief, become the essence of your story."
I mean, who can't relate to that?? Anna does what most of us have done at one point in our lives. She runs away from her problems, which in the long run, just makes said problems worse. On so many levels. I cried, Lord did I cry...
"There is sacredness in tears, someone once said. What I learned that day was that without pain there could be no deliverance; without sin, no salvation. That in this life, it is only through sadness that one could truly experience joy. And although you are shaped by experience, you are ultimately defined by your destiny."
Despite all my tears, I laughed. A lot. While the overall tone of this book is not funny, there were some real laugh out loud moments. Isn't that what life is all about afterall? Laughing through the rain?
I would recommend this book to anyone who has had something that changed them. Whether it be something big or something so small that you may have missed it.
"...every day, I swore it was getting easier and easier. Teeny tiny triumphs in the one thousand, eight hundred and twenty-five days since he'd been gone."
The woman that Anna becomes, the journey that she goes on, the many, many experiences that mold her life, all of these things have happened to all of us on some level. Ms. Brae does a marvelous job weaving Anna (and Jude, and Dante, and...and..) into our hearts.
January 7, 2016
An absolutely stunning story from Christine Brae. I have read all of her books and IN THIS LIFE hands down is her best work. The story is raw and down to an organic level that the characters are forced to study what drives their love for someone and whether or not it is enough to propel them forward to have a future with them.
In her fourth novel, you can read through the pages and see how much Brae's writing has evolved and matured. She left nothing of herself hidden between the lines. I couldn't imagine how she was able to bare it all in this story after I felt stripped and wounded when I finally came to the final page. And I was just a reader. In This Life roots itself deep into your soul, your heart and your mind. Love is never logical or easy. I was given such an emotional hangover yet with more clarity and understanding as a woman who wants love,but needs to love.
IN THIS LIFE isn't one of those books with tattooed, rock star hotties but with it is filled with emotional twists, characters who are multifaceted and layered with so many versions of love and emotion. Jude Grayson is an unassuming yet strong book boyfriend. I fell head over heels for him within the first paragraph of being introduced to him. He's kind, in his strength came his weakness.
Overall, all the characters had the best of intentions, no ill will which made them all likeable and brought you deep into the story. They all fit extremely well within the entire scope of the story.
Christine Brae brought us a poignant, introspective story of love and the many layers of love. I highly recommend this story.
D 5/5 beautiful stars.
In her fourth novel, you can read through the pages and see how much Brae's writing has evolved and matured. She left nothing of herself hidden between the lines. I couldn't imagine how she was able to bare it all in this story after I felt stripped and wounded when I finally came to the final page. And I was just a reader. In This Life roots itself deep into your soul, your heart and your mind. Love is never logical or easy. I was given such an emotional hangover yet with more clarity and understanding as a woman who wants love,but needs to love.
IN THIS LIFE isn't one of those books with tattooed, rock star hotties but with it is filled with emotional twists, characters who are multifaceted and layered with so many versions of love and emotion. Jude Grayson is an unassuming yet strong book boyfriend. I fell head over heels for him within the first paragraph of being introduced to him. He's kind, in his strength came his weakness.
Overall, all the characters had the best of intentions, no ill will which made them all likeable and brought you deep into the story. They all fit extremely well within the entire scope of the story.
Christine Brae brought us a poignant, introspective story of love and the many layers of love. I highly recommend this story.
D 5/5 beautiful stars.
January 7, 2016
Emotional, beautiful, and captivating. In This Life isn’t just a story. It’s a journey of self discovery. It’s about finding love, making sacrifices, losing faith, and overcoming tragedy with twists and turns I never saw coming. Christine Brae’s writing is poetic and so moving that at times I wasn’t just reading the words on the page. I was living them.
5 Emotional Stars!
5 Emotional Stars!
February 15, 2016
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1okJ4oS
A page-turning story filled with friendship, love, passion, loss, fate, acceptance, sacrifice, faith and spirituality. I have to say that “In This Life” is now probably my new favorite Christine Brae book. I absolutely fell in love with this story and am so happy that I one-clicked it and especially that I made the time to read it now.
It is such a beautifully written love story filled with emotional/touching moments…… that yes, made me cry! Even when I thought that I knew where the story was going…. I was often proved wrong with many plot twists.
While this storyline and the personality of the characters were perfect for me, I do see there are some differing opinions in reviews that I have seen. BUT, one thing that is said again and again regardless of opinions is praise for the author’s writing style…. Powerful, eloquent, poetic…. And I cannot agree more with them all. Like I have said before, everyone wants and needs something different from their books and has their own opinions. Just like in life, we are not going to like all the same people and have the same friends. Books should not be expected to be held to the same standard…. If anything, a character’s imperfections add to a book for me, as it makes it more realistic.
Whether you have read any of Christine Brae’s books before or this author is new to you, I highly recommend this story and author.
A page-turning story filled with friendship, love, passion, loss, fate, acceptance, sacrifice, faith and spirituality. I have to say that “In This Life” is now probably my new favorite Christine Brae book. I absolutely fell in love with this story and am so happy that I one-clicked it and especially that I made the time to read it now.
It is such a beautifully written love story filled with emotional/touching moments…… that yes, made me cry! Even when I thought that I knew where the story was going…. I was often proved wrong with many plot twists.
While this storyline and the personality of the characters were perfect for me, I do see there are some differing opinions in reviews that I have seen. BUT, one thing that is said again and again regardless of opinions is praise for the author’s writing style…. Powerful, eloquent, poetic…. And I cannot agree more with them all. Like I have said before, everyone wants and needs something different from their books and has their own opinions. Just like in life, we are not going to like all the same people and have the same friends. Books should not be expected to be held to the same standard…. If anything, a character’s imperfections add to a book for me, as it makes it more realistic.
Whether you have read any of Christine Brae’s books before or this author is new to you, I highly recommend this story and author.
January 24, 2016
This is now my first top read of 2016. I am familiar with the author's previous books, I've read them all but I think this is her best work so far. I must admit I never really cried when reading books maybe I've shed a tear or two but this book broke my record. Anna, Dante and Jude's story made me cry. I liked the fact that some parts of the story has given us readers a deeper insight into Jude's beliefs, his convictions and also his doubts. I've always liked Christine's writing style but somehow this one is even better than her previous ones. Well the fact that she managed to squeeze some tears out of me is a feat in itself. I won't go into more details to avoid spoilers. This is one heck of a book: full of angst, faith, loyalty, friendship. I highly recommend it.
January 20, 2016
I know its early in the year, but I definitely see In This Life as being in my top reads for the year. It visually and emotionally stunning. What happens when fate plays with your life? Can you fall in love with someone after only 10 days? What about loving those in your life, who play with your fate? Can you still love and forgive them.
The characters are vivid and emotionally charged, making you feel as if you are in their world with them. The locations, from the beaches of Thailand to the streets of New York, play just as much into the story as the characters themselves. I adored this book.
5 Breathtaking Stars.
The characters are vivid and emotionally charged, making you feel as if you are in their world with them. The locations, from the beaches of Thailand to the streets of New York, play just as much into the story as the characters themselves. I adored this book.
5 Breathtaking Stars.
December 12, 2015
Review to follow! But, I can assure New Adult readers that this one's pretty great!
January 21, 2016
Kismet. Destiny. Fate. How do you know if you are on the path fate has planned for you? What if there is something far greater, far more powerful, just waiting to step in? This is a theme author Christine Brae explores in her new standalone novel titled In this Life, where we are able to experience the richness of Anna Dillon’s story.
Brae introduces us to Anna at a time in her life that is filled with sadness and strife, when she flees the drama of her home life for something much different in a small fishing village of Thailand. All Anna really wants is to forget the emotional pain, so she convinces her best friend, Dante Leola, to volunteer with her on a medical mission at an orphanage. It’s on the tsunami-ravaged beaches of Thailand, where Anna and Dante meet Jude Grayson, and all three of their lives become inextricably tied together.
In This Life is a contemporary romance and contemporary women’s literature rolled into one, a journey about friendship, loyalty and love which will captivate and hold your attention until the very last page has been turned. Brae’s words are full of wisdom, both heartbreaking and joyful, both healing and redemptive. It’s an epic adventure of two souls, destined to be together, even as life sees the two of them heading in different directions.
Each of the three primary characters has endearing qualities, which is probably why In This Life became a very emotional read for me. Anna is easy for me to relate to. She experiences growth as a character because of the difficulties that she faces in her life. But In This Life is not only about Anna. This story also concerns the two men who are on this journey with her – Dante and Jude. Anna has feelings that are unique to each man, and Brae’s writing made certain that I was able to experience her feelings and emotions.
Christine Brae’s writing is the very best feature of In This Life. In This Life is Brae’s fourth full-length novel. I’m being completely honest in my assessment when I say that I have never witnessed a more dramatic improvement in writing. Brae’s writing is no longer the writing of an author who is just getting her feet wet. It’s matured, become more polished and descriptive, visceral and full of wisdom. Brae’s descriptive writing was exceptional, assisting me with visualizing scenes in my head.
I would recommend In This Life based on the writing alone, but this story about finding your destiny is what makes this novel special. In This Life is a solid 5-star novel, and I’m adding it to my list of 2016 favorites!
Brae introduces us to Anna at a time in her life that is filled with sadness and strife, when she flees the drama of her home life for something much different in a small fishing village of Thailand. All Anna really wants is to forget the emotional pain, so she convinces her best friend, Dante Leola, to volunteer with her on a medical mission at an orphanage. It’s on the tsunami-ravaged beaches of Thailand, where Anna and Dante meet Jude Grayson, and all three of their lives become inextricably tied together.
In This Life is a contemporary romance and contemporary women’s literature rolled into one, a journey about friendship, loyalty and love which will captivate and hold your attention until the very last page has been turned. Brae’s words are full of wisdom, both heartbreaking and joyful, both healing and redemptive. It’s an epic adventure of two souls, destined to be together, even as life sees the two of them heading in different directions.
Each of the three primary characters has endearing qualities, which is probably why In This Life became a very emotional read for me. Anna is easy for me to relate to. She experiences growth as a character because of the difficulties that she faces in her life. But In This Life is not only about Anna. This story also concerns the two men who are on this journey with her – Dante and Jude. Anna has feelings that are unique to each man, and Brae’s writing made certain that I was able to experience her feelings and emotions.
Christine Brae’s writing is the very best feature of In This Life. In This Life is Brae’s fourth full-length novel. I’m being completely honest in my assessment when I say that I have never witnessed a more dramatic improvement in writing. Brae’s writing is no longer the writing of an author who is just getting her feet wet. It’s matured, become more polished and descriptive, visceral and full of wisdom. Brae’s descriptive writing was exceptional, assisting me with visualizing scenes in my head.
I would recommend In This Life based on the writing alone, but this story about finding your destiny is what makes this novel special. In This Life is a solid 5-star novel, and I’m adding it to my list of 2016 favorites!
January 26, 2016
I had the opportunity to read this book before it was officially released. Like her previous books, In This Life blew me away! It is poignant, it will keep your mind reeling for days and even the thought of it will make you emotional all over again. Reread the official/ published version on release day and again I can't stop shedding more tears. While I love her first three books, ITL is my favorite and is my top read for 2016. This is her best book to date! You wrote another masterpiece Christine Brae. Giving you a raving 5 star review!
January 21, 2016
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Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse Nuttall
Five Glorious Stars
A newbie to this author’s works, my curiosity was aroused and going into this read completely blind was certainly an experience for me. I also had a feeling that this was going to be one very special read after turning the first page, and I wasn’t disappointed. Lacking in a prologue and banter in the first chapter is irrelevant since the setting captures the reader’s attention immediately. Reading on, not only does the blurb kick in between all the characters, but I was also enthralled by the style of writing. Natural surroundings are so artfully described that I was transported to a country I have never been to. I was there dipping my feet in the crystalline waters while observing the sea life; walking on the sands and lapping up the sun. The story’s protagonists’ development is articulate, their personal situations not without moments making me want to scream out loud at them. Delicate issues are touched with sensitivity and gripping to the point of frustration which brings into effect, an unputdownable read. One thing I must mention is the first half and one of the reasons I like going into a book with absolutely no idea where it’s going to take me. I was desperate for Jude’s point of view and wondered if or when his feeling would be divulged. So my surprise was tenfold when it came.
“What you said about fate. I really believe that we have the power to change it.”
Anna Dillon. “Deary me Anna! You were in the right place but at the wrong time. I know you had to get away; find yourself, learn to forgive someone so dear to you. But later on, you would fool your own heart and make a decision changing the course of the future.” Understanding her stance was of importance as the circumstances she was in were to say, complicated. She has faith, is proud and a hard-working young woman. When she falls fast and hard, little did she know about this man cloaked in secrets, or why he disappeared of the face of the earth. Later the truth would be disclosed tormenting her soul even more than it already was. And the man she should have given her heart to unconditionally, suffered so much that I cried for him. Then again, nothing is fair in the ways of love and regardless of a troubled conscience, eventually she does what she has to do.
“We’re both lost. How can we be found? How can we both find purpose?”
The Will of God. Moral ethics. Abiding by the rules of his calling, Jude Grayson never questioned his choice of work. Until the last thing he expected happens. His benevolence has no boundaries, his empathy outshone his good-looks. His very persona would be put to the test though. He also makes some harsh decisions which would reflect on all concerned. And I could have jumped into my Kindle and gladly strangled him. So much hurt was caused because of him being torn between his vocation and his true feeling for the one and only woman who dazzled the pants of him. (Pun intended!) If only he and Dante had been honest with her… The mysterious power such as is destiny plays a hand they will all have to come to terms with regardless of the outcome.
“I will quarrel with the heavens and fight with destiny to be with you.”
Dante and Anna have a very special relationship going way back. How could I possibly not adore this drop-dead gorgeous guy whose concern for his bestie was always foremost. I have to confess I was on his team. Loved his sense of humour, the daft name he calls her, his passion! I really don’t want to let on as to what will happen to these three beautiful people because it’s a must read. But I will say this. My emotions ran riot when one twist in the plot was revealed and another literally floored me. Gushing tears, I prayed for them. Then there were fan grabbing moments. Never fear, scorching hot Dante and Jude will push the room temperature up. Keep this in mind ‘cause you’re going to need something to move the thick air around!
"Open your eyes, Blue. Watch me give myself to you."
What a great storyteller Ms Brae is. I particularly enjoyed the little hints she kept dropping only to discover that it wasn’t actually what you thought it would be. A true guessing game! There was just the right amount of angst, just right amount of sexiness and just the right amount of scenes pulling on your heartstrings. There wasn’t one main or secondary characters who I disliked or didn’t connect to. Reading this book in one-sitting which is by no means short, tells you how much I loved this book. I am so glad I found you Ms Brae.Bravo!
“With freedom of choice comes the freedom to sin.”
Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse Nuttall
Five Glorious Stars
A newbie to this author’s works, my curiosity was aroused and going into this read completely blind was certainly an experience for me. I also had a feeling that this was going to be one very special read after turning the first page, and I wasn’t disappointed. Lacking in a prologue and banter in the first chapter is irrelevant since the setting captures the reader’s attention immediately. Reading on, not only does the blurb kick in between all the characters, but I was also enthralled by the style of writing. Natural surroundings are so artfully described that I was transported to a country I have never been to. I was there dipping my feet in the crystalline waters while observing the sea life; walking on the sands and lapping up the sun. The story’s protagonists’ development is articulate, their personal situations not without moments making me want to scream out loud at them. Delicate issues are touched with sensitivity and gripping to the point of frustration which brings into effect, an unputdownable read. One thing I must mention is the first half and one of the reasons I like going into a book with absolutely no idea where it’s going to take me. I was desperate for Jude’s point of view and wondered if or when his feeling would be divulged. So my surprise was tenfold when it came.
“What you said about fate. I really believe that we have the power to change it.”
Anna Dillon. “Deary me Anna! You were in the right place but at the wrong time. I know you had to get away; find yourself, learn to forgive someone so dear to you. But later on, you would fool your own heart and make a decision changing the course of the future.” Understanding her stance was of importance as the circumstances she was in were to say, complicated. She has faith, is proud and a hard-working young woman. When she falls fast and hard, little did she know about this man cloaked in secrets, or why he disappeared of the face of the earth. Later the truth would be disclosed tormenting her soul even more than it already was. And the man she should have given her heart to unconditionally, suffered so much that I cried for him. Then again, nothing is fair in the ways of love and regardless of a troubled conscience, eventually she does what she has to do.
“We’re both lost. How can we be found? How can we both find purpose?”
The Will of God. Moral ethics. Abiding by the rules of his calling, Jude Grayson never questioned his choice of work. Until the last thing he expected happens. His benevolence has no boundaries, his empathy outshone his good-looks. His very persona would be put to the test though. He also makes some harsh decisions which would reflect on all concerned. And I could have jumped into my Kindle and gladly strangled him. So much hurt was caused because of him being torn between his vocation and his true feeling for the one and only woman who dazzled the pants of him. (Pun intended!) If only he and Dante had been honest with her… The mysterious power such as is destiny plays a hand they will all have to come to terms with regardless of the outcome.
“I will quarrel with the heavens and fight with destiny to be with you.”
Dante and Anna have a very special relationship going way back. How could I possibly not adore this drop-dead gorgeous guy whose concern for his bestie was always foremost. I have to confess I was on his team. Loved his sense of humour, the daft name he calls her, his passion! I really don’t want to let on as to what will happen to these three beautiful people because it’s a must read. But I will say this. My emotions ran riot when one twist in the plot was revealed and another literally floored me. Gushing tears, I prayed for them. Then there were fan grabbing moments. Never fear, scorching hot Dante and Jude will push the room temperature up. Keep this in mind ‘cause you’re going to need something to move the thick air around!
"Open your eyes, Blue. Watch me give myself to you."
What a great storyteller Ms Brae is. I particularly enjoyed the little hints she kept dropping only to discover that it wasn’t actually what you thought it would be. A true guessing game! There was just the right amount of angst, just right amount of sexiness and just the right amount of scenes pulling on your heartstrings. There wasn’t one main or secondary characters who I disliked or didn’t connect to. Reading this book in one-sitting which is by no means short, tells you how much I loved this book. I am so glad I found you Ms Brae.Bravo!
“With freedom of choice comes the freedom to sin.”
January 13, 2016
I can only list a few emotions I felt when I read this book:
-happiness
-sadness
-love
-pain
-lost
-envy
-pity
-love
-jealousy
-desire
-gentleness
-selfishness
-selflessness
-anger
-frustration
-kindness
-hurt
-heartbreak
Few, right? Haha. But among the emotions I mentioned above, the best emotion I felt while reading In this life is PEACE. This book made me a blubbering mess. In the end, it was like I was a part of the story...i felt almost everything they felt (specially Dante's) I love Dante since the beginning of the story. How he's always got Anna's back. He was her rock and anchor. He stayed with her through thick and thin.
And then there's Jude. I can't place my emotions for him at first. He was a stranger in Anna's life and then suddenly, after 10 days they spent together, Anna can't get over him for five years. I think that was one heck of an attraction if you're hung up on a person that long. But then, when they saw each other again after five years, he proved to Anna that what they felt 5 years ago is more than an attraction. Their reunion only confirms what they felt during their stay in Thailand in 10 days is love.
Christine Brae did an incredible job writing this book. It's really difficult to make a story without any antagonist. I love selfless love stories. It gives me hope and lightens my heart. In this life is a very memorable story that will warm your heart.
-happiness
-sadness
-love
-pain
-lost
-envy
-pity
-love
-jealousy
-desire
-gentleness
-selfishness
-selflessness
-anger
-frustration
-kindness
-hurt
-heartbreak
Few, right? Haha. But among the emotions I mentioned above, the best emotion I felt while reading In this life is PEACE. This book made me a blubbering mess. In the end, it was like I was a part of the story...i felt almost everything they felt (specially Dante's) I love Dante since the beginning of the story. How he's always got Anna's back. He was her rock and anchor. He stayed with her through thick and thin.
And then there's Jude. I can't place my emotions for him at first. He was a stranger in Anna's life and then suddenly, after 10 days they spent together, Anna can't get over him for five years. I think that was one heck of an attraction if you're hung up on a person that long. But then, when they saw each other again after five years, he proved to Anna that what they felt 5 years ago is more than an attraction. Their reunion only confirms what they felt during their stay in Thailand in 10 days is love.
Christine Brae did an incredible job writing this book. It's really difficult to make a story without any antagonist. I love selfless love stories. It gives me hope and lightens my heart. In this life is a very memorable story that will warm your heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2016
Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Christine Brae is a new author for me. I heard so many great things about her books and so I was eager to read my first book of hers.
In This Life is one of those reads that either you love it or hate it. I, for one am in the middle. I didn’t love it or hate it. It was just not my kind cup of tea. While Ms. Brae is a terrific storyteller and writer, I felt the angst was a little too much for me. I did not love or connect with the heroine at all and so that really killed it for me.
While I didn’t love this book, it still won’t detract me from reading other works from this author.
Christine Brae is a new author for me. I heard so many great things about her books and so I was eager to read my first book of hers.
In This Life is one of those reads that either you love it or hate it. I, for one am in the middle. I didn’t love it or hate it. It was just not my kind cup of tea. While Ms. Brae is a terrific storyteller and writer, I felt the angst was a little too much for me. I did not love or connect with the heroine at all and so that really killed it for me.
While I didn’t love this book, it still won’t detract me from reading other works from this author.
January 24, 2016
4.50 stars.
Raw and heartfelt, very realistic and very reflective of people's lives. Talks about God's will and how for certain it will be done, as well as the fact that even though your whole life has been planned ahead of you, you'll just "go with the flow" once fate steps in. Beautifully written and gripping.
Full review in my blog @ bookciology.wordpress.com.
Raw and heartfelt, very realistic and very reflective of people's lives. Talks about God's will and how for certain it will be done, as well as the fact that even though your whole life has been planned ahead of you, you'll just "go with the flow" once fate steps in. Beautifully written and gripping.
Full review in my blog @ bookciology.wordpress.com.
July 18, 2015
-sigh- I LOVE THIS BOOK SOOOOOOOO SOOOOOO MUCH!!!!
Christine has outdone herself with this book. I CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU ALL TO READ IN THIS LIFE! <3
Christine has outdone herself with this book. I CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU ALL TO READ IN THIS LIFE! <3
June 20, 2016
I can see that I am in a totally different category with my rating then most but I honestly loved this book!
I am giving this book 5 stars for many reasons.
1) it was different then the same old shit.
2) this was a new to me author and I was quite impressed.
3) this book had my feelings all over the place. I cried, laughed and was pissed off at the characters more often then not.
4) I couldn't put it down.
5) it ended they way I wanted it to! ;)
Even though the writing style was a little hard for me to get used to at first and I couldn't figure out where the story was headed until about the 1/2 way point....I really enjoyed this book. I was upset with the characters most of the book and some of the things they did were very unrealistic to me. But as the book went on I understood why the author wrote this way and why the characters behaved the way they did.
I was so happy with the ending. I was crying uncontrollable tears one minute and then the next I was as happy as a kid in a candy store!
I will definitely be reading more from this author!
I am giving this book 5 stars for many reasons.
1) it was different then the same old shit.
2) this was a new to me author and I was quite impressed.
3) this book had my feelings all over the place. I cried, laughed and was pissed off at the characters more often then not.
4) I couldn't put it down.
5) it ended they way I wanted it to! ;)
Even though the writing style was a little hard for me to get used to at first and I couldn't figure out where the story was headed until about the 1/2 way point....I really enjoyed this book. I was upset with the characters most of the book and some of the things they did were very unrealistic to me. But as the book went on I understood why the author wrote this way and why the characters behaved the way they did.
I was so happy with the ending. I was crying uncontrollable tears one minute and then the next I was as happy as a kid in a candy store!
I will definitely be reading more from this author!
January 24, 2016
Christine's writing keeps getting better and better. I absolutely fell in love with this story. I started this book and didn't want to put it down. I love those books that just suck you into their world and all you can do is hang on for the ride. She has a writing style that is like no others. I found myself wanting to highlight every sentence because the words were so perfectly chosen.
"There was nothing really wrong about wanting to be happy. The problem was that sometimes our happiness was at someone else's detriment. We are burglars in the night, stealing someone else's laughter for our own and replacing it with tears."
"Secrets ruin lives. And lies are born simply to protect them."
This beautiful story is about forgiveness, love, second chances and never allowing your heart to give up on the one it truly belongs to. I'm pretty sure I felt every emotion in this book. (At one point, I was ready to throw my kindle but I'm glad I didn't. Lol) Everything came together beautifully in the end. This story is one of those that will always stay with me.
Please do yourself a favor and read this book. You won't regret it.
"There was nothing really wrong about wanting to be happy. The problem was that sometimes our happiness was at someone else's detriment. We are burglars in the night, stealing someone else's laughter for our own and replacing it with tears."
"Secrets ruin lives. And lies are born simply to protect them."
This beautiful story is about forgiveness, love, second chances and never allowing your heart to give up on the one it truly belongs to. I'm pretty sure I felt every emotion in this book. (At one point, I was ready to throw my kindle but I'm glad I didn't. Lol) Everything came together beautifully in the end. This story is one of those that will always stay with me.
Please do yourself a favor and read this book. You won't regret it.
January 18, 2016
Anna was inspired by someone who was strong yet fallible, by someone who did crazy things for love, Jude was inspired by someone who met the love of his life at the wrong time and place, and Dante was inspired by someone who loves enough to let go.
-Christine Brae
Release on 01.22.2016
Don't ever miss it.
I warned you.
-Christine Brae
Release on 01.22.2016
Don't ever miss it.
I warned you.
can-never-read
February 2, 2016Too many of my pet peeves ( including cheating IMO and dead MC) to even consider it...
Self note:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Self note:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2016
In This Life by Christine Brae
3 stars!!
This was my first read by Christine Brae and I do love a new to me author. I fell in love with the synopsis of this one and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
I have to say that Christine Brae’s writing style is fantastic, it is eloquent, raw and mature and I was soon totally engrossed in the story that was panning out in front of me. However, as you must all know by now, I am an emotional reader, I have to believe in the characters, feel them and for me, I didn’t get this with Anna and Jude, however I had it in spades with Dante. This book was emotional or at least should have been for me and yet because I didn’t feel them, it lost its impact and I just wish that I could have related to them better.
This book starts off with Anna and her best friend, Dante, taking a mission trip to Thailand. Anna was a doctor and treating the families that were victims to a Tsunami seemed a good idea when she was trying to get away from her life in New York. Dante had been her best friend since school and where Anna went, he went too.
Anna had a heart of gold and treasured her friendship with Dante, they really were inseparable. He was her rock and they had been through a lot together. Dante was hilarious at times and a bit of a ladies’ man, but his unwavering support to Anna was truly beautiful. We all need a best friend like Dante. Dante made this book for me.
While in Thailand, Anna meets Jude, who is also American and they spend ten blissful days together. Intellectual and deep conversations were the basis of their friendship and they really clicked. However, when Anna has to suddenly go home, her time with Jude is cut short. With promises to keep in contact Anna leaves but it seems so does Jude…five years later she still hasn’t heard from him and yet still yearns for the one that got away. Now she is married and working at the hospital, the last thing she expects is to cross paths with Jude once again. Feelings that she once thought were buried are soon brought to the surface.
And for me, this is where it all got a bit over the top. There was a lot going on, a lot of twists and turns, a few I saw coming and a few I didn’t but sometimes less is more and this was one of those cases for me. Unfortunately, the change in Anna really annoyed me, I tried to see her side of things but I couldn’t and her actions just continued to irk. As far as the men involved were concerned, I did feel for them, my heart went out to them. But the hot and cold that Anna blew would have been confusing for anyone. Yes, this is a love triangle but no cheating, sometimes secrets that are kept for the best can have a catastrophic results and that was definitely the case here.
Although I didn’t love this book, I did like it and kept page turning and that is testament to Christine Brae’s writing. Although Anna was not my favourite person in the world I still wanted to know what happened, how her life panned out and those of the men involved. Despite a few eye-rolls, it was an addictive read.
www.theromancecover.com
3 stars!!
“When you lose your soul to a kiss…it’s irretrievable.”
This was my first read by Christine Brae and I do love a new to me author. I fell in love with the synopsis of this one and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
I have to say that Christine Brae’s writing style is fantastic, it is eloquent, raw and mature and I was soon totally engrossed in the story that was panning out in front of me. However, as you must all know by now, I am an emotional reader, I have to believe in the characters, feel them and for me, I didn’t get this with Anna and Jude, however I had it in spades with Dante. This book was emotional or at least should have been for me and yet because I didn’t feel them, it lost its impact and I just wish that I could have related to them better.
“It was a promise kiss, a goodbye kiss, a kiss that signified the end but also the beginning.”
This book starts off with Anna and her best friend, Dante, taking a mission trip to Thailand. Anna was a doctor and treating the families that were victims to a Tsunami seemed a good idea when she was trying to get away from her life in New York. Dante had been her best friend since school and where Anna went, he went too.
Anna had a heart of gold and treasured her friendship with Dante, they really were inseparable. He was her rock and they had been through a lot together. Dante was hilarious at times and a bit of a ladies’ man, but his unwavering support to Anna was truly beautiful. We all need a best friend like Dante. Dante made this book for me.
“You’re in love with a ghost, and you need to exorcise it from your soul.”
While in Thailand, Anna meets Jude, who is also American and they spend ten blissful days together. Intellectual and deep conversations were the basis of their friendship and they really clicked. However, when Anna has to suddenly go home, her time with Jude is cut short. With promises to keep in contact Anna leaves but it seems so does Jude…five years later she still hasn’t heard from him and yet still yearns for the one that got away. Now she is married and working at the hospital, the last thing she expects is to cross paths with Jude once again. Feelings that she once thought were buried are soon brought to the surface.
“The line went dead. It didn’t go silent, it didn’t go blank. It separated him from me for good, it killed us, devastated him, set me free. Our line, our connection, our love, gone. Just like that.”
And for me, this is where it all got a bit over the top. There was a lot going on, a lot of twists and turns, a few I saw coming and a few I didn’t but sometimes less is more and this was one of those cases for me. Unfortunately, the change in Anna really annoyed me, I tried to see her side of things but I couldn’t and her actions just continued to irk. As far as the men involved were concerned, I did feel for them, my heart went out to them. But the hot and cold that Anna blew would have been confusing for anyone. Yes, this is a love triangle but no cheating, sometimes secrets that are kept for the best can have a catastrophic results and that was definitely the case here.
“She was mine and I was hers, not in the next life, nor in the future life, but here and now. In this life.”
Although I didn’t love this book, I did like it and kept page turning and that is testament to Christine Brae’s writing. Although Anna was not my favourite person in the world I still wanted to know what happened, how her life panned out and those of the men involved. Despite a few eye-rolls, it was an addictive read.
“This is where it ended. This is where I died.”
www.theromancecover.com
January 31, 2016
I've tried to come up with words to describe this book, but I can't....
Just read it. I promise it is a soul searching book. The characters and their story will linger with you.
I know you may think that this is a love triangle, but it really isn't.
I'm proud of Christine and of the growth I have seen over her books. Looking forward to what she'll be writing about next.
Just read it. I promise it is a soul searching book. The characters and their story will linger with you.
I know you may think that this is a love triangle, but it really isn't.
I'm proud of Christine and of the growth I have seen over her books. Looking forward to what she'll be writing about next.
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