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Off the Map #3
Inside Out
Lia Riley's Off the Map series comes to a stunning conclusion.
Love is their best adventure yet . . . Talia Stolfi is deeply in love with the brooding Aussie surfer who stole her heart-but their infrequent letters only get her so far. While she fulfills her dream of being in the Peace Corps, a dangerous condition jeopardizes her life . . . and threatens to shatter her heart. After nearly losing Talia forever, Bran Lockhart sailed to the stormy seas at the ends of the earth. Deep down, he knows that all roads worth traveling lead back to the beautiful California girl with the sunny smile. There's no denying that he belongs with her, but to have her by his side means Bran must dare to do something he's never done before: hope. Everything they've fought for has come down to this moment. Can Talia and Bran discover the courage to claim their future and learn that sometimes, in order to earn true love, you need to venture off the map?
ebook
First published December 2, 2014
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About the author
Lia Riley
19 books1,028 followersLia Riley is a contemporary romance author. USA Today describes her as "refreshing" and RT Book Reviews calls her books "sizzling and heartfelt." She loves the beach, fresh flowers, foggy redwood forests and a perfect pour over coffee. She is 25% sarcastic, 54% optimistic, and 122% bad at math (good thing she writes happy endings for a living). She and her family live mostly in Northern California.
Visit her at www.liariley.com to learn more.
Visit her at www.liariley.com to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
April 9, 2018
I think this one is my favorite in the series!! It's the final in a trilogy about Bran and Talia, and it was such a fun, quick read. This one especially focuses on Talia's OCD and discusses being in a relationship with someone who has anxiety and mental illness, so I thought it was really touching to see them work through those issues and grow together. It's very rare in NA.
My only complaint about this book is the complaint that spans throughout the series, which is that I wish the writing style were a liiiiittle less corny. The characters trying to be witty every other line got a bit exhausting and unrealistic more often than it actually made me laugh. However, I began underlining parts of this book that I liked and found there were quite a lot, so the good moments made up for the bad.
If you're looking for a quick series to go through with a healthy romance and new/interesting content that isn't a regurgitation of every other NA book on the market, I would highly recommend these!
My only complaint about this book is the complaint that spans throughout the series, which is that I wish the writing style were a liiiiittle less corny. The characters trying to be witty every other line got a bit exhausting and unrealistic more often than it actually made me laugh. However, I began underlining parts of this book that I liked and found there were quite a lot, so the good moments made up for the bad.
If you're looking for a quick series to go through with a healthy romance and new/interesting content that isn't a regurgitation of every other NA book on the market, I would highly recommend these!
July 29, 2015
4 Supernova Stars
Inside Out is the third book in the Off the Map series. This concludes Bran and Talia’s story. Carry Me Home, is the next book and it is Tanner’s (Talia’s ex-boyfriend) story.
Every time I start and finish these Off the Map books, I feel like I just ran a marathon. Bran and Talia sure have issues. Inside Out is a bit different from the previous two books. For one, it’s less angsty and two, everything they do it’s to better the relationship.
Talia is currently in Africa working for the Peace Corps. She is suddenly severely sick and is rushed to the hospital. Bran cuts his trip short to be with Talia. Talia needs to recover from her illness and Talia and Bran agree to go to the states on a three month visa.
Even though Talia and Bran are serious, they still haven’t defined the relationship. Both of them don’t know what will be next after the three months, but for now, they stay at Talia’s dad’s place.
Talia continues to work on her issues. She still has OCD and slight paranoia of getting sick. Talia’s dad isn’t too fond of Bran. She also deals with her dad shacking up with his girlfriend. Talia’s dad and girlfriend are about to have a baby and this surprises Talia. Her dad is going to have a baby in his forties. Talia starts to pull back because of the stress.
Talia fickle me in the beginning because I really wanted her to stop focusing on her issues and just let Bran help her. It doesn’t last long though.
Sometimes I think to myself, what else can happen to this poor girl? It’s kind of awkward that she is staying at her dad’s house with her boyfriend, but it’s better than being separated. I feel for Bran, he has to sleep in another room. There’s plenty of steam even though Talia isn’t as easily accessible to Bran.
Bran has his own issues too. Something happened on his trip and he’s trying to get over it. He doesn’t tell Talia. Bran also has to deal with his father’s pressure and trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. I liked Bran more in this book. I found him more level –headed and willing to work with Talia towards the relationship than against it.
I would describe Inside Out as the book of closure. Both Talia and Bran work towards healing past hurts. Talia confronts her mother and Bran confronts his past. It’s a bit heavy, but it moves the book in a positive direction.
Plenty goes on in the book and like I said, it wraps the couple’s story nicely. If you are a fan of Bran and Talia’s story, you will not be disappointed.
AN ARC was provided
Upside Down REVIEW | AMAZON
Sideswiped REVIEW | AMAZON
Inside Out AMAZON
Inside Out is the third book in the Off the Map series. This concludes Bran and Talia’s story. Carry Me Home, is the next book and it is Tanner’s (Talia’s ex-boyfriend) story.
Every time I start and finish these Off the Map books, I feel like I just ran a marathon. Bran and Talia sure have issues. Inside Out is a bit different from the previous two books. For one, it’s less angsty and two, everything they do it’s to better the relationship.
Talia is currently in Africa working for the Peace Corps. She is suddenly severely sick and is rushed to the hospital. Bran cuts his trip short to be with Talia. Talia needs to recover from her illness and Talia and Bran agree to go to the states on a three month visa.
Even though Talia and Bran are serious, they still haven’t defined the relationship. Both of them don’t know what will be next after the three months, but for now, they stay at Talia’s dad’s place.
Talia continues to work on her issues. She still has OCD and slight paranoia of getting sick. Talia’s dad isn’t too fond of Bran. She also deals with her dad shacking up with his girlfriend. Talia’s dad and girlfriend are about to have a baby and this surprises Talia. Her dad is going to have a baby in his forties. Talia starts to pull back because of the stress.
Talia fickle me in the beginning because I really wanted her to stop focusing on her issues and just let Bran help her. It doesn’t last long though.
“I’ve seen Bran at his worst, know his best, and somehow reconcile the two.”
“He’s broody, unpredictable, and twists my brain like a pretzel, but my love for him isn’t a word, it’s an involuntary, instinctive act, like breathing.”
“I’m not a breakable, weak girl. I’m a woman who wants her man, in every way he can give it.”
Sometimes I think to myself, what else can happen to this poor girl? It’s kind of awkward that she is staying at her dad’s house with her boyfriend, but it’s better than being separated. I feel for Bran, he has to sleep in another room. There’s plenty of steam even though Talia isn’t as easily accessible to Bran.
Bran has his own issues too. Something happened on his trip and he’s trying to get over it. He doesn’t tell Talia. Bran also has to deal with his father’s pressure and trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. I liked Bran more in this book. I found him more level –headed and willing to work with Talia towards the relationship than against it.
“Show me the way back to you”
“Here’s the deal. We face our fears, you and me. Whenever there is something we are nervous about, we must confront it. Support each other. Face the darkness.”
I would describe Inside Out as the book of closure. Both Talia and Bran work towards healing past hurts. Talia confronts her mother and Bran confronts his past. It’s a bit heavy, but it moves the book in a positive direction.
Plenty goes on in the book and like I said, it wraps the couple’s story nicely. If you are a fan of Bran and Talia’s story, you will not be disappointed.
AN ARC was provided
Upside Down REVIEW | AMAZON
Sideswiped REVIEW | AMAZON
Inside Out AMAZON
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December 10, 2015
Thank you so much for following Talia and Bran's journey to the final book! INSIDE OUT is NOT intended as a stand alone so it's highly recommended you read UPSIDE DOWN and SIDESWIPED first. Stay current with all the haps by signing up to the Lia Riley Newsletter: http://liariley.us7.list-manage.com/s... or joining my FaceBook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ourso.... For extra fun, check out the OFF THE MAP Tumblr page: http://offthemapliariley.tumblr.com.
November 24, 2014
**Inside Out generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
5 Love is an Adventure Stars
I’ve been a fan of Lia Riley’s Off the Map series from the very beginning. Fortunate enough to be approved for these books on NetGalley, following Bran and Talia through their relationship without borders has been nothing short of an adventure. Each book increasingly exceeded expectations creating change and maturity not only in the characters and plot but in this author’s excellent writing as well.
Inside Out picks up a little after where Sideswiped left us hanging. As a reader, I was immediately immersed in the story from the get go – it felt different than the first two books somehow. The intensity of the beginning of Inside Out picked up right away, the danger of each Bran and Talia’s situations, the immanence of their love yet not knowing where it was leading us all strung together by engaging writing that felt more polished and succinct. Inside Out reads from both Bran and Talia’s points of view – we’ve been given both of their minds since the beginning, a choice I still relish in. The banter between the two provides instant comedic relief in each harrowing situation making the writing that much more clever and witty. Lia Riley’s words easily lace together a fluid plot taking the reader from one simple transition to the next highlighting the effect of maturity and growth on these easy to love characters whom you’ll find hard resisting their charm and rather rooting for the success of their relationship as they discover who they are both together and apart. That distinction has been a hard lesson learned for Bran and Talia but here once they make the commitment to discover themselves through each other the trust and admiration shines making their journey that much more fun.
I’ve learned to these characters along the way just as they learned to love each other in healthy, meaningful ways. Through great writing, a truly fun dialogue and even more exciting adventure of a plot this author reminded me of the trust and respect one must hold for their own life in order to trust and respect for another. She made me believe in these characters in Inside Out in a way I hadn’t before.
If you’re a fan of adventure seeking plots, extremely fun dialogue, and a well-written new adult love story about discovery and faith even in hardships. Inside Out and the whole Off the Map series is definitely for you.
March 15, 2015
“Saying I missed you doesn’t come close. I require you.”
I’ve put off reading Inside Out for the longest time. I can give you a thousand reasons about tour and ARC review obligations but they wouldn’t be completely true. I’ve read filler books in between and I had plenty of chances to read Inside Out.
My one and only reason for not reading Inside Out? I was scared.
Scared to death about letting Talia and Bran go. Scared to death about Lia Riley not being able to deliver an ending I’d be content with. Scared because these characters were almost home to me and Lia Riley is undoubtedly one of my favorite authors.
But I finally decided to take the plunge. And while I still stand by every fear that I had before reading this book, I can also happily say that Inside Out was just exactly what I’d hoped it would be and Lia Riley still stands as one of my favorite authors.
Sideswiped ended with Bran going out to work with Sea Alliance whereas Talia joined the Peace Corps in South Africa. And just four months later, what she contracts isn’t just stomach flu. It’s worse. It’s deadlier.
Inside Out is by far the most aptly named book in the series. All the book names have their merits, no doubt, but this book was literally the point in Talia and Bran’s story where they both had to stoop and bend and crouch and turn their lives inside out for each other.
I loved Talia in this book. I’ve loved her throughout, actually, but in Inside Out she’s outgrown who she used to be by far. She’s strong and determined yes, she’s also insecure and sick, but she’s Natalia Stolfi and throughout this series, she’s proved that all Stolfis overcome whatever life throws at them. As a third person looking at her life from the outside, I think Talia owned this book. It was all her and her growth and her love for Bran that I’m sure was tangible to him.
But that’s not to say that Bran was far behind when it came to growth as a person. This is the same boy we’re talking about who called himself the tin man, a man without a heart. The same boy who wouldn’t support Talia when she wanted to pursue her dreams overseas. And the very same man who sticks by his woman, even though she pushes him away.
Together, Talia and Bran struggled through a lot of circumstances other couples wouldn’t face. For starters, Talia’s OCD. Bran’s shitty non-relationship with his family. Talia’s shitty non-relationship with her mother. Her sister’s death and the ensuing guilt. His one mistake at Sea Alliance that almost cost a woman her life.
But not once, not even once, did they run. They faced their problems head on and together, which is precisely why they’ll probably always be one of my favorite couples in New Adult history.
Another thing I loved? The other characters that were an equally huge part of the story. Scott Stolfi. Jessie. Wyatt. Z. Chester. Loved them all <3
Saying goodbye isn’t easy, I realize that. And to a book series? Hell no. It makes everyone sad and kind of bummed out. And I already ranted on Twitter a lot the day that I finished Inside Out. So I’m mostly over being sad. Instead I’m being hopeful that the next series Lia Riley writes brings us readers as much, if not more, joy than Off The map bought.
Here’s to you two, Talia and Bran. You made it, guys.
*I was provided a free ecopy of this book in exchange of an honest review. This did not in any way, however, influence the content of this review.*
December 2, 2014
Initial reaction: I want to hug these books close and cry because they're over. Off the Map is one of my new favourite series, and Lia Riley is one of my new favourite writers. And Bran is one of my new favourite book boyfriends. *rawr*
Review:
My heart is a bit broken right now. Why? Not because this book was anything short of perfection, but because it’s over. This series is over. *weeps in a corner* I loved all three Off the Map books, and finishing this series felt like saying goodbye to friends…friends whose heads you happen to be inside and watch have sex on a regular basis. Wait, that sounds creepy…but if you’ve read these books, you’ll likely know exactly what I’m talking about. And you’ll likely join me in bowing down to Lia Riley’s greatness for writing such fearless, funny, frustrating, and freaking amazing books. These are without a doubt three of my favourite books of 2014, and among my favourite New Adult books, period.
As much as I loved Upside Down, I was wary when I found out this wasn’t a series of companion novels, but a series about the same couple. I adored Talia and Bran and thought they were great together, but I wondered if I’d get tired of them or if something would happen that would make me dislike them or ultimately not want them together. After reading and loving Sideswiped, I realized I could happily read about this couple forever. And by the time I read Inside Out, I knew this needed to be a series. One or two books wouldn’t have been enough. We needed time to watch Talia’s and Bran’s personal stories as well as their love story unfold so it would be believable, to really feel the depth of their love. And I did feel it, on every single page. I rooted for them from beginning to end, laughed and cried with them, and fell so hard for them. I loved watching their growth, individually and together.
Besides being a beautiful love story, Inside Out is also as ridiculously sexy as the first two books. Lia Riley knows how to write sexytime scenes that leave you needing a cold shower. It doesn’t hurt that Bran is unbelievably hot and you can easily hear his deep, accented voice in your ear, and…*goes for that cold shower* This book is also laugh out loud funny. Lines like “Sweet Jesus on a tricycle”, “My mind hesitates, but my body is straight up HELLS TO THE YEAH, HI-HO SILVER”, and “Jiminy Fucking Christmas”, just to name a few, had me in hysterics. Give me a book that not only makes me swoon and fan myself and sigh happily, but also laugh like crazy, too? SOLD.
Something I mentioned in my reviews of the first two books, and that holds up in this last book is that I love that Riley doesn’t hold back. These characters leap off the page - they’re far from perfect, but they’re so real, which is part of why I love them. Everything about these characters and their stories feels so authentic, from the self-discovery, to the super hot sex, to the fights and obstacles and hardships. Their flaws make them perfectly imperfect, and also make Lia Riley one of my writing heroes. It’s one of my new goals in life to write brave books like the Off the Map series that just lay everything out there and are brutally honest, even when it’s hard and messy and hurts like hell…or potentially awkward like buying (and using) your first vibrator, getting vajazzled, or masturbating in front of your significant other…(all things I loved, by the way, because they were so honest and I’d never seen anything like that in books before, hence Lia Riley being my writing hero).
Inside Out turned me inside out in the best ways possible. It was the perfect ending to an absolutely fantastic series. I can’t wait to see what Lia Riley writes next.
Review:
My heart is a bit broken right now. Why? Not because this book was anything short of perfection, but because it’s over. This series is over. *weeps in a corner* I loved all three Off the Map books, and finishing this series felt like saying goodbye to friends…friends whose heads you happen to be inside and watch have sex on a regular basis. Wait, that sounds creepy…but if you’ve read these books, you’ll likely know exactly what I’m talking about. And you’ll likely join me in bowing down to Lia Riley’s greatness for writing such fearless, funny, frustrating, and freaking amazing books. These are without a doubt three of my favourite books of 2014, and among my favourite New Adult books, period.
As much as I loved Upside Down, I was wary when I found out this wasn’t a series of companion novels, but a series about the same couple. I adored Talia and Bran and thought they were great together, but I wondered if I’d get tired of them or if something would happen that would make me dislike them or ultimately not want them together. After reading and loving Sideswiped, I realized I could happily read about this couple forever. And by the time I read Inside Out, I knew this needed to be a series. One or two books wouldn’t have been enough. We needed time to watch Talia’s and Bran’s personal stories as well as their love story unfold so it would be believable, to really feel the depth of their love. And I did feel it, on every single page. I rooted for them from beginning to end, laughed and cried with them, and fell so hard for them. I loved watching their growth, individually and together.
Besides being a beautiful love story, Inside Out is also as ridiculously sexy as the first two books. Lia Riley knows how to write sexytime scenes that leave you needing a cold shower. It doesn’t hurt that Bran is unbelievably hot and you can easily hear his deep, accented voice in your ear, and…*goes for that cold shower* This book is also laugh out loud funny. Lines like “Sweet Jesus on a tricycle”, “My mind hesitates, but my body is straight up HELLS TO THE YEAH, HI-HO SILVER”, and “Jiminy Fucking Christmas”, just to name a few, had me in hysterics. Give me a book that not only makes me swoon and fan myself and sigh happily, but also laugh like crazy, too? SOLD.
Something I mentioned in my reviews of the first two books, and that holds up in this last book is that I love that Riley doesn’t hold back. These characters leap off the page - they’re far from perfect, but they’re so real, which is part of why I love them. Everything about these characters and their stories feels so authentic, from the self-discovery, to the super hot sex, to the fights and obstacles and hardships. Their flaws make them perfectly imperfect, and also make Lia Riley one of my writing heroes. It’s one of my new goals in life to write brave books like the Off the Map series that just lay everything out there and are brutally honest, even when it’s hard and messy and hurts like hell…or potentially awkward like buying (and using) your first vibrator, getting vajazzled, or masturbating in front of your significant other…(all things I loved, by the way, because they were so honest and I’d never seen anything like that in books before, hence Lia Riley being my writing hero).
Inside Out turned me inside out in the best ways possible. It was the perfect ending to an absolutely fantastic series. I can’t wait to see what Lia Riley writes next.
December 5, 2015
Inside Out picks up right where Sideswiped left off. Talia has gone to Africa and joined the Peace Corps. She is still struggling, trying to define who she is. Bran on the other-hand, has gone to Antarctica. While Bran and Talia are separated, it gives Bran the time to realize that he's messed up and doesn't want to live a life without Talia. Now, it's time for him to make things right. Unfortunately while the two of them are separated, Talia contracts a very serious illness. Things weren't going well for Bran on the boat in Antarctica either. Some quick thinking on his part, helped him save someones life and he quickly gained hero status. Bran was not at all happy with this fame. Once he gets word of Talia's condition, he drops everything, to be by her side. As Talia gets better, there will still be many hurdles that Bran and Talia will have to handle. Talia and Bran have always been able to get through the hard stuff as long as they did it together. Will their love be strong enough to get past all the hard stuff this time around???
After reading Sideswiped, I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. Boy, was I not disappointed. The writing is smart and the story-line is absolutely captivating. I couldn't get enough of this book and I am so sad that Bran and Talia's story is over.
"You'll never believe such beauty exists-not really-unless you have the guts to brave life, go off the map, and find your own way there"
Bran and Talia have come so far since the first book. They've both finally realized that you can't run away from your problems. That you have to face them, no matter how scary or what the outcome. And I loved how they never tried to change one another. They always accepted who they were and in the end that made them so much stronger.
"I'm a prism, refracting his light. His features spin through a kaleidoscope of emotions starting at brutal need and ending with an unexpected vulnerability"
Bran and Talia were real, flawed, and had issues. Again, I am in awe of the way the author handled the issue with Talia's OCD and how it changed and shaped her life. Also, she did an amazing job with Bran's issues with love and being loved and how he chose to overcome them. In the end, it was their love that proved to be stronger than either one of them ever thought possible.
Inside Out was a quick and easy read for me. The dual pov's were a wonderful part of the story. It was great being inside both Bran and Talia's head. I loved every second of this story. From the characters, to the drama, the angst, the romance, the sexy and swoony times: I loved it all. And thank you, thank you Lia Riley, for giving us such an amazing ending.
You know, I could sit here all day and try to tell you all the things that I loved about this story, this series. But in the end, this is one of those, that I think you really need to read and see for yourself why I love it so much.....
*An ARC copy of this book was provided to me, in exchange for an honest review*
*Quotes provided via ARC and may slightly differ from the completed copy*
You can also see my review here at: http://www.onceuponabookblog.com/blog...
After reading Sideswiped, I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. Boy, was I not disappointed. The writing is smart and the story-line is absolutely captivating. I couldn't get enough of this book and I am so sad that Bran and Talia's story is over.
"You'll never believe such beauty exists-not really-unless you have the guts to brave life, go off the map, and find your own way there"
Bran and Talia have come so far since the first book. They've both finally realized that you can't run away from your problems. That you have to face them, no matter how scary or what the outcome. And I loved how they never tried to change one another. They always accepted who they were and in the end that made them so much stronger.
"I'm a prism, refracting his light. His features spin through a kaleidoscope of emotions starting at brutal need and ending with an unexpected vulnerability"
Bran and Talia were real, flawed, and had issues. Again, I am in awe of the way the author handled the issue with Talia's OCD and how it changed and shaped her life. Also, she did an amazing job with Bran's issues with love and being loved and how he chose to overcome them. In the end, it was their love that proved to be stronger than either one of them ever thought possible.
Inside Out was a quick and easy read for me. The dual pov's were a wonderful part of the story. It was great being inside both Bran and Talia's head. I loved every second of this story. From the characters, to the drama, the angst, the romance, the sexy and swoony times: I loved it all. And thank you, thank you Lia Riley, for giving us such an amazing ending.
You know, I could sit here all day and try to tell you all the things that I loved about this story, this series. But in the end, this is one of those, that I think you really need to read and see for yourself why I love it so much.....
*An ARC copy of this book was provided to me, in exchange for an honest review*
*Quotes provided via ARC and may slightly differ from the completed copy*
You can also see my review here at: http://www.onceuponabookblog.com/blog...
July 28, 2015
Thanks to Grand Central Publishing via Netgalley for the free review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Did I like this book?
As you might have gathered by now, I am a huge fan of this series, so it feels needless to say that yes, I did like this book. In fact, I adored this book! I thought that "Inside Out" was the perfect culmination to the series, making me feel all the warm and fuzzies for this couple.
"Inside Out" opens with Talia working in Malawi as a Peace Corps volunteer. Almost immediately it is apparent that she is struggling - she questions if this career path was a mistake, and if so, how can she give up on it when she's wanted it so long and given up so much to get this opportunity? Bran is in Antarctica, following his own dream, and communication is very sporadic. How can they possibly make this relationship work?
Bran and Talia are not the type to give up without a fight, though! One thing I love about these two is that when one is hitting rock bottom, the other is fully committed to helping them sort their junk and get their head on straight. This happens fairly often throughout the series, but while in the first two books Talia and Bran had their share of arguments and misunderstandings, in "Inside Out" they seem to have already outgrown some of the more petty stuff they'd encountered in the beginning of their relationship. They're no longer jealous (much) when the other receives unsolicited attention from an ex or a stranger. Their problems stem more from Talia's disorder or deciding where to live and work. It's pretty amazing to read, actually - just like a real life couple, but hotter!
Will you like this book?
Damn straight! If you've followed Talia and Bran throughout this series so far, I don't see any reason why you won't love "Inside Out". And if you're a New Adult aficionado and you haven't tried this series yet, I can't say it enough - go read it now! It's definitely got the Roxy stamp of approval!
Will I read more by this author?
The answer to that would be an unequivocal "yes"!!! I see that Riley's next series is a Contemporary Romance with a small town feel - looks fabulous, and I can't wait to get my grabby hands on it!
Did I like this book?
As you might have gathered by now, I am a huge fan of this series, so it feels needless to say that yes, I did like this book. In fact, I adored this book! I thought that "Inside Out" was the perfect culmination to the series, making me feel all the warm and fuzzies for this couple.
"Inside Out" opens with Talia working in Malawi as a Peace Corps volunteer. Almost immediately it is apparent that she is struggling - she questions if this career path was a mistake, and if so, how can she give up on it when she's wanted it so long and given up so much to get this opportunity? Bran is in Antarctica, following his own dream, and communication is very sporadic. How can they possibly make this relationship work?
Bran and Talia are not the type to give up without a fight, though! One thing I love about these two is that when one is hitting rock bottom, the other is fully committed to helping them sort their junk and get their head on straight. This happens fairly often throughout the series, but while in the first two books Talia and Bran had their share of arguments and misunderstandings, in "Inside Out" they seem to have already outgrown some of the more petty stuff they'd encountered in the beginning of their relationship. They're no longer jealous (much) when the other receives unsolicited attention from an ex or a stranger. Their problems stem more from Talia's disorder or deciding where to live and work. It's pretty amazing to read, actually - just like a real life couple, but hotter!
Will you like this book?
Damn straight! If you've followed Talia and Bran throughout this series so far, I don't see any reason why you won't love "Inside Out". And if you're a New Adult aficionado and you haven't tried this series yet, I can't say it enough - go read it now! It's definitely got the Roxy stamp of approval!
Will I read more by this author?
The answer to that would be an unequivocal "yes"!!! I see that Riley's next series is a Contemporary Romance with a small town feel - looks fabulous, and I can't wait to get my grabby hands on it!
November 24, 2014
I know I say this with every Lia Riley book, but I think this is really her best one yet! Bran did some major growing up in this book (yay, Bran!!) and Talia went through some really tough times. Seeing the relationship between Bran and Talia's dad really grow throughout the novel was something really special. I also loved all the side characters (I hear we get to see a few of them in her novellas coming out next year. EEP!) especially a very special furry friend, Chester the Chinchilla, who was hilarious. But what I really loved was to see this couple work together to really earn their HEA. Riley's writing is enthralling and I really can't wait to read her next books!!!
December 13, 2014
Five stars.
-----
Alas, the best trilogy I have read this year comes to a close. I am so glad that I stuck it through beside Talia and Bran as they navigated their way off the map (ha, get it? 'Cause it's the name of the series. I'll go now.) into uncharted waters to figure themselves out and if they can make it in a world that seems to want nothing more than for them to be apart. This final book* is just the ending that this couple deserves. And yes, I am aware that they're fictional, but Riley writes with such conviction that I can't help but to feel like they are really in my life somehow.
*This is supposed to be the last book in a trilogy. However, I sincerely hope this is not the end of mymentally rooting Bran enjoyment of this couple's relationship.
As mentioned, this is book three of the Off the Map series. While Riley does a good job of sprinkling in each character's back story, I'd definitely read books one and two before giving this one a go. It'll help you get more attached to this story.
Like both its predecessors, Inside Out made me feel ALL of the things! It was happy and then it was really dark and then it got kinda scary but then it was happy and then CRYING. I'm pretty sure that I got weird looks on my train as I read this book and reacted to it but, there you go. It's well paced and dramatic without being melodramatic, which I think is an important difference. All of the characters are well written and distinct, and even if you don't like them they're developed, so you have a good reason to dislike them. I also continued to appreciate how Talia's OCD was explored and explained and tested in their relationship. My girlfriend has OCD and I have to say that as the "Bran" of our couple (I think that makes me the sexy one. I win.), it's startlingly accurate. You want to help and you're afraid to watch them tear themselves up but there's f*ck all you can do about it. It's awful, and that essence is well captured.
Bran continues to prove that he's amazing and sexy and so damn Aussie and I agree with Talia, he's a damn super hero and let's get him a cape. He may just be my new favorite fictional man. I never thought a certain "Mad Dog" would be replaced but, here we are.
My one complaint about this book (which obviously didn't bother me too much since it's still a perfect rating) is that the happy ending seemed a bit rushed. I have absolutely no problem with happy endings, but it seemed a bit off pace with the rest of the book.
Thanks so much to Lia Riley for putting up with my spam of tweets in her direction and for Grand Central/Forever & Netgalley for providing me with this trilogy in exchange for my honest opinions. You've made a true Lia Riley fan out of me and I will sit here and wait most impatiently for these books to be in print, which they tell me will happen in Summer 2015.
I recommend this book, and the trilogy as a whole, to anyone who loves sexy Australian man candy, New Adult romance, happy ever afters, and true love. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
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Alas, the best trilogy I have read this year comes to a close. I am so glad that I stuck it through beside Talia and Bran as they navigated their way off the map (ha, get it? 'Cause it's the name of the series. I'll go now.) into uncharted waters to figure themselves out and if they can make it in a world that seems to want nothing more than for them to be apart. This final book* is just the ending that this couple deserves. And yes, I am aware that they're fictional, but Riley writes with such conviction that I can't help but to feel like they are really in my life somehow.
*This is supposed to be the last book in a trilogy. However, I sincerely hope this is not the end of my
As mentioned, this is book three of the Off the Map series. While Riley does a good job of sprinkling in each character's back story, I'd definitely read books one and two before giving this one a go. It'll help you get more attached to this story.
Like both its predecessors, Inside Out made me feel ALL of the things! It was happy and then it was really dark and then it got kinda scary but then it was happy and then CRYING. I'm pretty sure that I got weird looks on my train as I read this book and reacted to it but, there you go. It's well paced and dramatic without being melodramatic, which I think is an important difference. All of the characters are well written and distinct, and even if you don't like them they're developed, so you have a good reason to dislike them. I also continued to appreciate how Talia's OCD was explored and explained and tested in their relationship. My girlfriend has OCD and I have to say that as the "Bran" of our couple (I think that makes me the sexy one. I win.), it's startlingly accurate. You want to help and you're afraid to watch them tear themselves up but there's f*ck all you can do about it. It's awful, and that essence is well captured.
Bran continues to prove that he's amazing and sexy and so damn Aussie and I agree with Talia, he's a damn super hero and let's get him a cape. He may just be my new favorite fictional man. I never thought a certain "Mad Dog" would be replaced but, here we are.
My one complaint about this book (which obviously didn't bother me too much since it's still a perfect rating) is that the happy ending seemed a bit rushed. I have absolutely no problem with happy endings, but it seemed a bit off pace with the rest of the book.
Thanks so much to Lia Riley for putting up with my spam of tweets in her direction and for Grand Central/Forever & Netgalley for providing me with this trilogy in exchange for my honest opinions. You've made a true Lia Riley fan out of me and I will sit here and wait most impatiently for these books to be in print, which they tell me will happen in Summer 2015.
I recommend this book, and the trilogy as a whole, to anyone who loves sexy Australian man candy, New Adult romance, happy ever afters, and true love. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
December 7, 2014
Inside Out is the final installment of Lia Riley’s Off The Map series. I have been a HUGE fan of Lia’s since her first book. I fell completely in love with Bran and Talia. Their love is something that us romantics dream about and hope to find one day.
"Saying I missed you doesn't come close. I require you."
The book starts off with Bran and Talia separated but still together. When Talia contracts Malaria while with the Peace Corps and subsequently has a health crisis on her hands, Bran rushes to her side. Once she has recuperated, they set off back to America to start what is their next journey into finding not just themselves but their next step as a couple.
"Sometimes it's in the unexpected where the magic happens."
Back at home Talia reverts back into her old self – lots of anxiety and OCD. This is part of why this series is so dear to my heart. I have such a kinship with Talia and it personally makes me feel not alone in my own issues even though Talia is fictional.
At the same time, Bran is trying to navigate what his next venture should be as he has no money and had to borrow money from his family-the last thing he would ever want to do. He knows that Talia moved to Australia to support him now it’s time for him to do the same thing for her.
Together Bran and Talia fight their fears and realize they are stronger together and they can do anything when it’s the two of them fighting the world (in a non-superhero sort of way).
"Sometimes happiness doesn't require any words. Sometimes happiness just is."
Of all books in the series, this one was definitely my favorite. You can tell the tremendous growth both went through to ultimately find themselves and set off on the right path. Talia’s family dynamic also lent some great laughs to this book.
Also, I’m not sure how this is possible, but my God, Bran just says the right things at the exact right time. He’s the Bran I fell in love with in Upside Down. He was confident, sexy as all get out, and just, well there are no words at the moment. Talia is inspiration to me in so many ways. She’s a fighter, she conquers the fuck out of her fears and at the same time puts herself out there. Hopefully one day, I’ll get there.
"I supernova you."
This is an incredible series that I highly recommend. It will make you swoon, want to become more adventurous (well to some…I’m not an outdoor gal), and just fall in love with romantic characters. I love Lia’s writing, she has a true talent to make you swoon yet laugh at the same time. She is definitely a one-click author for me.
"Saying I missed you doesn't come close. I require you."
The book starts off with Bran and Talia separated but still together. When Talia contracts Malaria while with the Peace Corps and subsequently has a health crisis on her hands, Bran rushes to her side. Once she has recuperated, they set off back to America to start what is their next journey into finding not just themselves but their next step as a couple.
"Sometimes it's in the unexpected where the magic happens."
Back at home Talia reverts back into her old self – lots of anxiety and OCD. This is part of why this series is so dear to my heart. I have such a kinship with Talia and it personally makes me feel not alone in my own issues even though Talia is fictional.
At the same time, Bran is trying to navigate what his next venture should be as he has no money and had to borrow money from his family-the last thing he would ever want to do. He knows that Talia moved to Australia to support him now it’s time for him to do the same thing for her.
Together Bran and Talia fight their fears and realize they are stronger together and they can do anything when it’s the two of them fighting the world (in a non-superhero sort of way).
"Sometimes happiness doesn't require any words. Sometimes happiness just is."
Of all books in the series, this one was definitely my favorite. You can tell the tremendous growth both went through to ultimately find themselves and set off on the right path. Talia’s family dynamic also lent some great laughs to this book.
Also, I’m not sure how this is possible, but my God, Bran just says the right things at the exact right time. He’s the Bran I fell in love with in Upside Down. He was confident, sexy as all get out, and just, well there are no words at the moment. Talia is inspiration to me in so many ways. She’s a fighter, she conquers the fuck out of her fears and at the same time puts herself out there. Hopefully one day, I’ll get there.
"I supernova you."
This is an incredible series that I highly recommend. It will make you swoon, want to become more adventurous (well to some…I’m not an outdoor gal), and just fall in love with romantic characters. I love Lia’s writing, she has a true talent to make you swoon yet laugh at the same time. She is definitely a one-click author for me.
November 24, 2014
beautiful, motivational
Following directly on from Sideswiped, Inside Out continues the emotional journey for Bran and Talia reeling the reader into the story with every word.
The cliffhanger at the end of Sideswiped left my heart in my mouth, the plot progresses quickly within Inside Out dealing with the aftermath for both main characters.
The thing that really stands out within this trilogy is the character development; both Talia and Bran develop in respect of their interactions with other people as well as each other. Not only that the development of their self-awareness, via their relationship was quite simply awe inspiring. They were able to understand themselves better while strengthening their bond. It was truly moving to travel this path with them.
Getting inside Talia’s head provided fascinating insight into OCD re-enforcing the seriousness of this mental illness; it was emotionally wrenching to witness Talia’s daily struggle with herself. Even with the distorted view she has of herself, Talia always puts other people first, making her distorted view of herself more heartbreaking.
Lia Riley realistically portrays the intense pressure young adults experience in today’s society to commit to a career path from a young age. How can young people be expected to know what they want to do for the rest of their lives when they haven’t had the opportunity to fully explore/develop their own identities.
The idea that identities constantly change, shifting and metamorphosing due to the incidents (both happy and sad) was ingeniously woven into the narrative.
Both Talia and Bran have come such a long way since Upside Down. The development of their relationship and the support they give each other in order to overcome any barrier they face (literally and metaphorically) has been a pleasure to witness. The adage ‘you don’t know unless you try’ has never been truer :) I would love to see Bran and Talia again 10 years in the future ♥
Following directly on from Sideswiped, Inside Out continues the emotional journey for Bran and Talia reeling the reader into the story with every word.
The cliffhanger at the end of Sideswiped left my heart in my mouth, the plot progresses quickly within Inside Out dealing with the aftermath for both main characters.
The thing that really stands out within this trilogy is the character development; both Talia and Bran develop in respect of their interactions with other people as well as each other. Not only that the development of their self-awareness, via their relationship was quite simply awe inspiring. They were able to understand themselves better while strengthening their bond. It was truly moving to travel this path with them.
Getting inside Talia’s head provided fascinating insight into OCD re-enforcing the seriousness of this mental illness; it was emotionally wrenching to witness Talia’s daily struggle with herself. Even with the distorted view she has of herself, Talia always puts other people first, making her distorted view of herself more heartbreaking.
Lia Riley realistically portrays the intense pressure young adults experience in today’s society to commit to a career path from a young age. How can young people be expected to know what they want to do for the rest of their lives when they haven’t had the opportunity to fully explore/develop their own identities.
The idea that identities constantly change, shifting and metamorphosing due to the incidents (both happy and sad) was ingeniously woven into the narrative.
Both Talia and Bran have come such a long way since Upside Down. The development of their relationship and the support they give each other in order to overcome any barrier they face (literally and metaphorically) has been a pleasure to witness. The adage ‘you don’t know unless you try’ has never been truer :) I would love to see Bran and Talia again 10 years in the future ♥
December 2, 2014
Um, say it isn't so!! The Off The Map series is over? I'm not cool with the because I LOVE BRAN AND TALIA. I guess I'll just have to re-read these books over and over until I get my fill...
Despite the challenges that they've faced, Bran and Talia are determined to prove every one (including themselves) wrong. They've reached a compromise to make their long distance love work, but when life throws even more at them, will their love be enough to keep them together?
How do these books keep getting better?? I've read series before where I've started to tire of the main characters, or where the story seems to stagnate, but not the Off The Map books. No, this series is better at book three than it was at book one - and I ADORED Upside Down.
Bran and Talia are perfectly imperfect, and that makes them real and really enjoyable. I love their quick banter, their back-and-forth playfulness, and although there were some heavy moments in Inside Out, it never lost that lightness.
This book deals with internal torment, what it's like when your mid (and your body) betray you and leave you feeling weak and useless, and it's so genuine and so true, it was (almost) hard for me to read and (definitely) hard for me to walk away from. I want to be friends with Talia, so I can comfort her. Support her. And maybe steal her sexy Aussie boyfriend.
Bran is just amazing. He's patient with Talia, he's sweet, loving and understanding - but it's all hidden under his gruff, grumpy exterior and Lia Riley manages to make even that seem desirable.
Inside Out is so well written, it just flows off the page. It's easy to get lost in this book and in these characters, and I'm absolutely going to miss them. Maybe one day Ms. Riley will spoil us with a little more Bran and Talia, but until then I'll make do. And say thank you, for this wonderful trilogy.
Inside Out is the third and final book in the Off The Map series. No cliffhanger.
~ Beth, 5 stars
Despite the challenges that they've faced, Bran and Talia are determined to prove every one (including themselves) wrong. They've reached a compromise to make their long distance love work, but when life throws even more at them, will their love be enough to keep them together?
How do these books keep getting better?? I've read series before where I've started to tire of the main characters, or where the story seems to stagnate, but not the Off The Map books. No, this series is better at book three than it was at book one - and I ADORED Upside Down.
Bran and Talia are perfectly imperfect, and that makes them real and really enjoyable. I love their quick banter, their back-and-forth playfulness, and although there were some heavy moments in Inside Out, it never lost that lightness.
This book deals with internal torment, what it's like when your mid (and your body) betray you and leave you feeling weak and useless, and it's so genuine and so true, it was (almost) hard for me to read and (definitely) hard for me to walk away from. I want to be friends with Talia, so I can comfort her. Support her. And maybe steal her sexy Aussie boyfriend.
Bran is just amazing. He's patient with Talia, he's sweet, loving and understanding - but it's all hidden under his gruff, grumpy exterior and Lia Riley manages to make even that seem desirable.
Inside Out is so well written, it just flows off the page. It's easy to get lost in this book and in these characters, and I'm absolutely going to miss them. Maybe one day Ms. Riley will spoil us with a little more Bran and Talia, but until then I'll make do. And say thank you, for this wonderful trilogy.
Inside Out is the third and final book in the Off The Map series. No cliffhanger.
~ Beth, 5 stars
March 23, 2015
Talia wants to prove to everyone around her and to herself that she's tough and that she's a grown up woman who can handle herself. When something goes terribly wrong Bran is the first person to be by her side. Talia has to move back in with her father, but Bran won't leave her and he stays. They have another big struggle ahead of them and Bran and Talia have to be strong together, otherwise their relationship isn't going to work. Will they be able to overcome another issue or will this be too much?
Talia had big plans, she was sure the love between her and Bran would survive, so she took a big step and with that a great risk. She didn't ever count on being so helpless and she shuts herself off from everyone around her. Bran has to give it his all to get through to her. Will he be able to do that? The relationship has to develop and there are more things Talia and Bran have to work out if they want to have a chance together. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen to them in the final part of their journey together.
Inside Out is a strong finale of the trilogy. I liked this book very much, just like the other two. Bran and Talia are both more mature, but they also still have a lot to learn. What happens to them is serious and severe. I admire that aspect of the book as it makes the story more real. Lia Riley has a lot of great advice for her readers. I learned quite a bit from Bran and Talia to be honest, I loved that. The Off the Map trilogy is strong, sexy, serious, complex, intense and filled with love and care. I highly recommend this fabulous trilogy.
Talia had big plans, she was sure the love between her and Bran would survive, so she took a big step and with that a great risk. She didn't ever count on being so helpless and she shuts herself off from everyone around her. Bran has to give it his all to get through to her. Will he be able to do that? The relationship has to develop and there are more things Talia and Bran have to work out if they want to have a chance together. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen to them in the final part of their journey together.
Inside Out is a strong finale of the trilogy. I liked this book very much, just like the other two. Bran and Talia are both more mature, but they also still have a lot to learn. What happens to them is serious and severe. I admire that aspect of the book as it makes the story more real. Lia Riley has a lot of great advice for her readers. I learned quite a bit from Bran and Talia to be honest, I loved that. The Off the Map trilogy is strong, sexy, serious, complex, intense and filled with love and care. I highly recommend this fabulous trilogy.
September 26, 2015
Talia thinks her life is about to end while serving the Peace Corps, and her heart is about to break into a million pieces knowing she will not be seeing this hottie Aussie lad who recently captured and damaged her heart.
Bran.
Bran who was across the miles and icebergs. Bran who was at the Arctic defending the marine life and Mother Nature.
But love seems to always find its way to one's heart. Talia once again finds herself looking into Bran's eyes, crying, falling, hoping and loving. They need to come up with a definite decision, but they also need to be strong with their choice, because along with this decision, their future is also at stake.
My whole life I've fought love.
Fuck it.
Some battles deserve to be lost.
I love Talia more than my next breath.
And I hurt her worse than any enemy I had.
I can't do that anymore. Not again.
The stunning story about love, loss, pain, suffering, acceptance and moving on has come to an end. Talia and Bran deserve everything they have achieved in the end, and I couldn't agree more with Lia Riley. This is indeed a stunning conclusion. Wouldn't have it any other way.
Bran.
Bran who was across the miles and icebergs. Bran who was at the Arctic defending the marine life and Mother Nature.
But love seems to always find its way to one's heart. Talia once again finds herself looking into Bran's eyes, crying, falling, hoping and loving. They need to come up with a definite decision, but they also need to be strong with their choice, because along with this decision, their future is also at stake.
My whole life I've fought love.
Fuck it.
Some battles deserve to be lost.
I love Talia more than my next breath.
And I hurt her worse than any enemy I had.
I can't do that anymore. Not again.
The stunning story about love, loss, pain, suffering, acceptance and moving on has come to an end. Talia and Bran deserve everything they have achieved in the end, and I couldn't agree more with Lia Riley. This is indeed a stunning conclusion. Wouldn't have it any other way.
December 27, 2014
What a perfect ending to Talia and Bran's story! Both of these characters have grown so much since Upside Down, and I love that they grew individually as well as together as a couple.
Lia Riley's writing is intelligent, funny, and so full of heart. One minute I'm laughing out loud (Chester...omg Chester), and the next my heart is about to explode out of my chest(starting with the opening few chapters). And sexy. Holy wow, Bran and Talia.
Fantastic series. Exceptional, unique New Adult voice. I can't wait for the follow-up novellas.
Lia Riley's writing is intelligent, funny, and so full of heart. One minute I'm laughing out loud (Chester...omg Chester), and the next my heart is about to explode out of my chest(starting with the opening few chapters). And sexy. Holy wow, Bran and Talia.
Fantastic series. Exceptional, unique New Adult voice. I can't wait for the follow-up novellas.
November 16, 2014
I am so relieved I had an ARC of this to read as soon as I finished Sideswiped, or it's possible I would have lost my mind waiting.
In my review for Sideswiped I mention that I generally prefer standalone romances, but for this series, I'm glad we got the whole big picture. Life isn't easy, and we sure as crap all know that love isn't easy, and I think sometimes we all need to see that there's a journey to get there. You don't just see the cute person and life happily ever after.
In any case. I loved this trilogy, and I'm psyched there are novellas incoming.
In my review for Sideswiped I mention that I generally prefer standalone romances, but for this series, I'm glad we got the whole big picture. Life isn't easy, and we sure as crap all know that love isn't easy, and I think sometimes we all need to see that there's a journey to get there. You don't just see the cute person and life happily ever after.
In any case. I loved this trilogy, and I'm psyched there are novellas incoming.
Want to read
October 6, 2014NEEDDDDDDDDD! NEED NEED NEEDDDDDDDDD! SO bloody BAD!!!! OMGOSH I'm freaking out to find out what happens next!!!
September 9, 2015
Read my full review HERE at Into the Hall of Books.
Inside Out is the third and final book in the Lia Riley's Off The Map Series . I've inhaled this entire series, novellas and all, in just a few days, approaching this final installment with both excitement and nervousness. This entire series follows the same couple, Talia and Bran, so I've been watching their adventures (and misadventures) throughout the first two books. The previous book ended on a slightly-cliffhangery-but-very-good note, so I couldn't imagine what would be ahead for these two, particularly after everything they went through in the first two books.
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Inside Out begins with a load of excitement. Talia and Bran are separated, in a long-distance romance; she is working for the Peace Corps when she becomes gravely ill. Unconscious for a few days, Talia is taken to a hospital and then given leave from the Corps. Bran arrives at her side as soon as he possibly can, as his time with the Sea Alliance has also been cut short for reasons beyond his control. The couple decides to return to California while Talia rebuilds her strength, and they'll re-align their futures.
When they get back to America, sure the two have some great time together. The banter that I've loved is still present and the two still have their charm and sense of humor. Talia still has the OCD issue, though, and she is recovering from a grave illness - so there's that. They both also still have little issues nagging them that they've carried around the world, individually and as a couple. Stuff begins to pop up, one thing at a time, that the two have to navigate together - not all bad, but even good things can be very stressful and trying on relationships. I had to put the book down a time or two because I was like now this! are you kidding me! more than once.
Even so, even with the high stakes and issues, Inside Out never felt too dramatic or cheesy to me - and thank goodness, because it would have broken my heart after enjoying the story so much. I loved seeing resolution or progression with some of the things that kept surfacing for Talia and Bran - for example, issues with Talia's mom. It feels great that these two can shake off some of the weight that they've been carrying! I also love the way that Talia and Bran seem more equipped to talk through and plan for their future; they seem to understand that they will be moving ahead as a one if they remain together as a couple, and they begin to better plan accordingly. This was SO GREAT to see, because I think that they both felt like this was a struggle for them in the past.
I feel like I'm talking about these two like they are real people.
Regarding working through their past romantic histories: there is no love triangle here. These two have been committed to one another throughout this series and continue to be. What I meant here is that these two are confronting issues from their own pasts, resolving them, and laying them down forever.
While I omigosh-loved the Australian setting that was present in the beginning of the series, I have to say that I fell hard for some of the California setting in this book. I miss Australia, but if it had to be replaced with something, California isn't a bad replacement! There is one scene that I especially loved involving a rocky state park and some of the usual craziness that followed these two. I held my breath throughout the scene, but then practically squeaked with happiness at the end of it.
So, yeah, I'm a little sad that my first time reading this series is coming to an end. There are two novellas accompanying, as extras. Talia's best friends Beth and Sunny get a chance to tell their stories. I've read those too. In fact, I stopped reading Inside Out at around the halfway-point because I didn't want it to be over - then I read both novellas - then finished this one. I've enjoyed my time with Talia and Bran, and I've found myself a fan of Lia Riley's storytelling. I'll be moving onto her other romances, hoping they are just as fun as this one. I recommend Inside Out by Lia Riley and the entire Off The Map Series to readers that enjoy New Adult Contemporary Romance, true series, romances without love triangles, and HEAs.
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Audiobook Notes: The audiobook format of Inside Out by Lia Riley is published by Hachette Audio and is 7 hours and 45 minutes, Unabridged. It is narrated by Brittany Uomoleale and Tim Wright. I've completely enjoyed listening to this entire series on audiobook, narrated by these same readers, and I'm a little sad that there isn't another book for me to listen to! I recommend this entire series on audiobook for first listens or for first reads, and I'm so glad that I purchased these audiobooks so I can re-listen in the future whenever I want a fun romance with an HEA!
Inside Out is the third and final book in the Lia Riley's Off The Map Series . I've inhaled this entire series, novellas and all, in just a few days, approaching this final installment with both excitement and nervousness. This entire series follows the same couple, Talia and Bran, so I've been watching their adventures (and misadventures) throughout the first two books. The previous book ended on a slightly-cliffhangery-but-very-good note, so I couldn't imagine what would be ahead for these two, particularly after everything they went through in the first two books.
----
Inside Out begins with a load of excitement. Talia and Bran are separated, in a long-distance romance; she is working for the Peace Corps when she becomes gravely ill. Unconscious for a few days, Talia is taken to a hospital and then given leave from the Corps. Bran arrives at her side as soon as he possibly can, as his time with the Sea Alliance has also been cut short for reasons beyond his control. The couple decides to return to California while Talia rebuilds her strength, and they'll re-align their futures.
When they get back to America, sure the two have some great time together. The banter that I've loved is still present and the two still have their charm and sense of humor. Talia still has the OCD issue, though, and she is recovering from a grave illness - so there's that. They both also still have little issues nagging them that they've carried around the world, individually and as a couple. Stuff begins to pop up, one thing at a time, that the two have to navigate together - not all bad, but even good things can be very stressful and trying on relationships. I had to put the book down a time or two because I was like now this! are you kidding me! more than once.
Even so, even with the high stakes and issues, Inside Out never felt too dramatic or cheesy to me - and thank goodness, because it would have broken my heart after enjoying the story so much. I loved seeing resolution or progression with some of the things that kept surfacing for Talia and Bran - for example, issues with Talia's mom. It feels great that these two can shake off some of the weight that they've been carrying! I also love the way that Talia and Bran seem more equipped to talk through and plan for their future; they seem to understand that they will be moving ahead as a one if they remain together as a couple, and they begin to better plan accordingly. This was SO GREAT to see, because I think that they both felt like this was a struggle for them in the past.
I feel like I'm talking about these two like they are real people.
Regarding working through their past romantic histories: there is no love triangle here. These two have been committed to one another throughout this series and continue to be. What I meant here is that these two are confronting issues from their own pasts, resolving them, and laying them down forever.
While I omigosh-loved the Australian setting that was present in the beginning of the series, I have to say that I fell hard for some of the California setting in this book. I miss Australia, but if it had to be replaced with something, California isn't a bad replacement! There is one scene that I especially loved involving a rocky state park and some of the usual craziness that followed these two. I held my breath throughout the scene, but then practically squeaked with happiness at the end of it.
So, yeah, I'm a little sad that my first time reading this series is coming to an end. There are two novellas accompanying, as extras. Talia's best friends Beth and Sunny get a chance to tell their stories. I've read those too. In fact, I stopped reading Inside Out at around the halfway-point because I didn't want it to be over - then I read both novellas - then finished this one. I've enjoyed my time with Talia and Bran, and I've found myself a fan of Lia Riley's storytelling. I'll be moving onto her other romances, hoping they are just as fun as this one. I recommend Inside Out by Lia Riley and the entire Off The Map Series to readers that enjoy New Adult Contemporary Romance, true series, romances without love triangles, and HEAs.
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Audiobook Notes: The audiobook format of Inside Out by Lia Riley is published by Hachette Audio and is 7 hours and 45 minutes, Unabridged. It is narrated by Brittany Uomoleale and Tim Wright. I've completely enjoyed listening to this entire series on audiobook, narrated by these same readers, and I'm a little sad that there isn't another book for me to listen to! I recommend this entire series on audiobook for first listens or for first reads, and I'm so glad that I purchased these audiobooks so I can re-listen in the future whenever I want a fun romance with an HEA!
July 10, 2015
Oh, the perfect series is perfect. I loved every single page of this, but now I'm heartbroken that the series is over. Full review soon!
This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.
5 glorious and deep loving stars You guys. You. Guys. YOU GUYS. I love this series something fierce. What an epic love story. The anguish and heartache both Bran and Talia go through was so real, so touching, so moving…and I was so invested. I honestly feel so upset that it’s over. I loved their journey and the way it all worked out, even it parts were so gut wrenchingly sad, it was worth every heart clench.
First, let’s discuss the cover because all I see is Bran’s gun. Yes, go ahead and scroll back up to look at the title, I’ll be here after you gaze at it. Ok, you’re back. RAWR. right? I’d bite that too in a car *snicker*. Did I really type that? I sure did! But really, it’s so pretty and sweet and yet sexy and strong and omg, I just love it (the cover people, not *just* the bicep!). It’s perfect.
Now let’s talk about the story. Bran and Talia haven’t had it easy, and it seemed like even they didn’t believe they deserved the kind of love they thought they were feeling. But they do deserve it, and once they both realized they were worthy…well let’s just say amazing things happened: angels were singing, birds were chirping, and I had big clappy hands while I tweeted the author to tell her how much I love Bran and Talia together.
This is definitely a character driven story, which is a good thing because Talia and Bran are what made this book and this series so special. Strong, but with flaws that seemed to almost eat them alive. Talia was a mess, but what made me love her so much was that she knew she was a mess…yet she desperately tried to work through it. Bran was strong, but he still had plenty of his own demons as well. This my friends, is the stuff that great books are made of, it’s what I loved. I could not get enough of watching them build up little by little…it was amazing and my heart swelled each time there was a step in the right direction.
The romance is divine. I don’t know how Ms. Riley wrote 3 whole books yet kept it fresh, smexy, and hot every single time. You’d think it would have gotten old, but there was always something that either made my heart flutter or break out into a sweat to fan myself. I could list my favorite scenes….but I won’t because I’m a spoiler phobe like that. ;) Just trust me, the chemistry was just as hot as book 1, but this time it was so deep, and I felt the intensity behind all of it. *swooooooon*
Lastly, I want to talk about the ending. It was perfect and just right…and I was glowing as I read it. The road to happiness wasn’t easy, and I think the reason it touched me so deeply was because I got to be a part of Bran and Talia’s relationship for 3 whole books. I got to see the highs and the lows, which is what made it gritty and oh-so-real. There was no quick fix, even though they loved each other, they still had to really work through…and then and keep working at overcoming the past to find a future. The uphill battle was huge, but they got there. (This would be the part where my heart was singing as I hugged my kindle). The author has a gift for story telling, for bringing the reader totally into the lives of these characters, and I feel lucky that I got to be a experience it too. I can’t wait to see what Lia Riley does next!
This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.
5 glorious and deep loving stars You guys. You. Guys. YOU GUYS. I love this series something fierce. What an epic love story. The anguish and heartache both Bran and Talia go through was so real, so touching, so moving…and I was so invested. I honestly feel so upset that it’s over. I loved their journey and the way it all worked out, even it parts were so gut wrenchingly sad, it was worth every heart clench.
First, let’s discuss the cover because all I see is Bran’s gun. Yes, go ahead and scroll back up to look at the title, I’ll be here after you gaze at it. Ok, you’re back. RAWR. right? I’d bite that too in a car *snicker*. Did I really type that? I sure did! But really, it’s so pretty and sweet and yet sexy and strong and omg, I just love it (the cover people, not *just* the bicep!). It’s perfect.
Now let’s talk about the story. Bran and Talia haven’t had it easy, and it seemed like even they didn’t believe they deserved the kind of love they thought they were feeling. But they do deserve it, and once they both realized they were worthy…well let’s just say amazing things happened: angels were singing, birds were chirping, and I had big clappy hands while I tweeted the author to tell her how much I love Bran and Talia together.
This is definitely a character driven story, which is a good thing because Talia and Bran are what made this book and this series so special. Strong, but with flaws that seemed to almost eat them alive. Talia was a mess, but what made me love her so much was that she knew she was a mess…yet she desperately tried to work through it. Bran was strong, but he still had plenty of his own demons as well. This my friends, is the stuff that great books are made of, it’s what I loved. I could not get enough of watching them build up little by little…it was amazing and my heart swelled each time there was a step in the right direction.
The romance is divine. I don’t know how Ms. Riley wrote 3 whole books yet kept it fresh, smexy, and hot every single time. You’d think it would have gotten old, but there was always something that either made my heart flutter or break out into a sweat to fan myself. I could list my favorite scenes….but I won’t because I’m a spoiler phobe like that. ;) Just trust me, the chemistry was just as hot as book 1, but this time it was so deep, and I felt the intensity behind all of it. *swooooooon*
Lastly, I want to talk about the ending. It was perfect and just right…and I was glowing as I read it. The road to happiness wasn’t easy, and I think the reason it touched me so deeply was because I got to be a part of Bran and Talia’s relationship for 3 whole books. I got to see the highs and the lows, which is what made it gritty and oh-so-real. There was no quick fix, even though they loved each other, they still had to really work through…and then and keep working at overcoming the past to find a future. The uphill battle was huge, but they got there. (This would be the part where my heart was singing as I hugged my kindle). The author has a gift for story telling, for bringing the reader totally into the lives of these characters, and I feel lucky that I got to be a experience it too. I can’t wait to see what Lia Riley does next!
May 23, 2015
Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics
Review copy kindly provided by publisher via Net Galley in exchange for a honest review
Lia Riley was one of the breakout authors for me last year and I had been wanting to read this book for a while ever since the second book left where it did on a cliffhanger . Despite that, I never got the motivation or the urge to drop everything and read the third book when I got a review copy. Maybe it was because I was under the pump with other commitments at the time and by time I had some free time this book was at the back of my mind. Maybe it was because I thought we may have a certain situation with Talia and I didn’t want to fall in to that particular cliché.
It was a pity as I love this author and so recently I decided to read the final chapter in Bran and Talia’s story, Inside Out. Picking up where Sideswept left off, it immediately came flooding back to me when I read the first word. The connection, and the relationship these two have and how they have played with our emotions across continents as they had their highs and lows making this relationship work .
Once again Inside Out is perfectly named , like the rest of the series however this one took it to a next level. With that hint from the last book, the book opens to a familiar situation yet but there is a marked difference that soon swept them up and cause them to re-evaluate everything again. It may sound the same old again but this time they are older and wiser and able to realise that they need to take a step back and go down to the basics if they ever going to get a happily ever after forever.
Despite not wanting this series to end once I was back in this world I could fully appreciated how much the author has done to give us a satisfying ending with these two and with a few twists and turns that you won’t see coming.
Bran and Talia aren’t the same people we met all those months ago and I love how this book highlighted this and how much not only they have come so far but her father and how they move forward with their lives. Together they have faced a lot but this book seemed to take the cake. As whilst Talia’s OCD and Bran’s problems with parents were significant issues in their relationships. This book is about them and whilst Talia’s dad plays a big role in this story . I love how the author tied up most things together and bought things full circle with this book .
With so much investment into this series over the last few months , I was expecting an ending that would satisfy my need for happily ever afters when it comes to reading new adults. With so much high and lows with this series, the end was slightly let down due to my own fault. I had put Bran and Talia on a pedestal I was expecting a more of an explosion rather than a typical ending that was more fitting of the reality of this world. They are a simply a pair of young adults that are facing their issues head on across a few continents, breath taking settings. What made it magical was the author , her prose and storytelling which took it to the next level for me.
4.5 couples
P.S. Keep an eye out for the paperbacks , they are coming out starting with the first book next month with book two and three the following months.
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
Review copy kindly provided by publisher via Net Galley in exchange for a honest review
Lia Riley was one of the breakout authors for me last year and I had been wanting to read this book for a while ever since the second book left where it did on a cliffhanger . Despite that, I never got the motivation or the urge to drop everything and read the third book when I got a review copy. Maybe it was because I was under the pump with other commitments at the time and by time I had some free time this book was at the back of my mind. Maybe it was because I thought we may have a certain situation with Talia and I didn’t want to fall in to that particular cliché.
It was a pity as I love this author and so recently I decided to read the final chapter in Bran and Talia’s story, Inside Out. Picking up where Sideswept left off, it immediately came flooding back to me when I read the first word. The connection, and the relationship these two have and how they have played with our emotions across continents as they had their highs and lows making this relationship work .
Once again Inside Out is perfectly named , like the rest of the series however this one took it to a next level. With that hint from the last book, the book opens to a familiar situation yet but there is a marked difference that soon swept them up and cause them to re-evaluate everything again. It may sound the same old again but this time they are older and wiser and able to realise that they need to take a step back and go down to the basics if they ever going to get a happily ever after forever.
Despite not wanting this series to end once I was back in this world I could fully appreciated how much the author has done to give us a satisfying ending with these two and with a few twists and turns that you won’t see coming.
Bran and Talia aren’t the same people we met all those months ago and I love how this book highlighted this and how much not only they have come so far but her father and how they move forward with their lives. Together they have faced a lot but this book seemed to take the cake. As whilst Talia’s OCD and Bran’s problems with parents were significant issues in their relationships. This book is about them and whilst Talia’s dad plays a big role in this story . I love how the author tied up most things together and bought things full circle with this book .
With so much investment into this series over the last few months , I was expecting an ending that would satisfy my need for happily ever afters when it comes to reading new adults. With so much high and lows with this series, the end was slightly let down due to my own fault. I had put Bran and Talia on a pedestal I was expecting a more of an explosion rather than a typical ending that was more fitting of the reality of this world. They are a simply a pair of young adults that are facing their issues head on across a few continents, breath taking settings. What made it magical was the author , her prose and storytelling which took it to the next level for me.
4.5 couples
P.S. Keep an eye out for the paperbacks , they are coming out starting with the first book next month with book two and three the following months.
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
December 1, 2014
Inside Out is the perfect ending to Talia & Bran's epic romantic adventure. You'll laugh, cry and snort giggle all the way to the very end!
REVIEW:
The story:
As sad as I am that Talia & Bran's story is over, I couldn't have asked for a better ending - if was perfect.
We pick up the story exactly where we were left hanging, at the end of Sideswiped. Both Talia & Bran are off doing their own thing, trying to find their own futures before they can find their way back to each other. But things don't run so smoothly for either of them. Bran's dealing a lot of self blame, regarding an incident that occurred of the ship in the Antarctic. While Talia contracts a severe illness in Africa with the Peace Corp, causing her to feel like she's failed. On top of that she's struggling to deal with her OCD. Both characters had to work through their issues, but that just made the ending so much more rewarding.
The characters:
Talia grows up a lot in this book. She doesn't want her life defined by other people, and finally starts to make some decisions about her future. She finds some independence, and even after some major setbacks and battling self doubt, she starts to create a future of her own choosing. I loved seeing how determined and strong she's become since we first met her.
Bran is still as stubborn as ever, but in a good way. I was so happy to see he never truly gave up on Talia. He had to fight hard to keep Talia from pulling away, and his dedication to her made me happy sigh more than once. He's hot, funny, caring, passionate and has lickable biceps - what more could you ask for?!
The romance:
I ship Bran & Talia so hard. They haven't made things easy for each other, and have had to work extremely hard to keep their relationship together, but that's so true of real life. When it comes down to it they are always there for each other, and they never give up of their future together. Even when Talia pulled away and he had to *cough* entertain himself *giggle* he never gave up.
The Writing:
I loved Lia's writing in the first two novels, but I think this is her best book yet. She's really found a unique 'voice' that expresses so much emotion and humour. And it's that humour that is one of my favourite parts of her writing, I found myself crying with laughter sometimes. The dialogue is sharp and snappy, with hilarious banter between all the characters.
"I’m resting my hand, it’s tired.”
I lift my head. “On my ass?”
“As good a place as any.”
Plus I have officially declared Lia "Queen Empress of Self Pleasure Scenes" because of the epic hotness that occurs at 21% and 74%. And let's not forget Chester the self abusing Chinchilla - freakin hilarious!
FINAL WORD:
Inside Out is the perfect ending to Talia & Bran's epic romantic adventure. You'll laugh, cry and snort giggle all the way to the very end.
CONTENT:
Sexuality: medium-strong / several sex scenes
Violence: mild
Language: medium / some f words
Drugs & alcohol: mild
More reviews at The Reading Realm
REVIEW:
The story:
As sad as I am that Talia & Bran's story is over, I couldn't have asked for a better ending - if was perfect.
We pick up the story exactly where we were left hanging, at the end of Sideswiped. Both Talia & Bran are off doing their own thing, trying to find their own futures before they can find their way back to each other. But things don't run so smoothly for either of them. Bran's dealing a lot of self blame, regarding an incident that occurred of the ship in the Antarctic. While Talia contracts a severe illness in Africa with the Peace Corp, causing her to feel like she's failed. On top of that she's struggling to deal with her OCD. Both characters had to work through their issues, but that just made the ending so much more rewarding.
The characters:
Talia grows up a lot in this book. She doesn't want her life defined by other people, and finally starts to make some decisions about her future. She finds some independence, and even after some major setbacks and battling self doubt, she starts to create a future of her own choosing. I loved seeing how determined and strong she's become since we first met her.
Bran is still as stubborn as ever, but in a good way. I was so happy to see he never truly gave up on Talia. He had to fight hard to keep Talia from pulling away, and his dedication to her made me happy sigh more than once. He's hot, funny, caring, passionate and has lickable biceps - what more could you ask for?!
The romance:
I ship Bran & Talia so hard. They haven't made things easy for each other, and have had to work extremely hard to keep their relationship together, but that's so true of real life. When it comes down to it they are always there for each other, and they never give up of their future together. Even when Talia pulled away and he had to *cough* entertain himself *giggle* he never gave up.
The Writing:
I loved Lia's writing in the first two novels, but I think this is her best book yet. She's really found a unique 'voice' that expresses so much emotion and humour. And it's that humour that is one of my favourite parts of her writing, I found myself crying with laughter sometimes. The dialogue is sharp and snappy, with hilarious banter between all the characters.
"I’m resting my hand, it’s tired.”
I lift my head. “On my ass?”
“As good a place as any.”
Plus I have officially declared Lia "Queen Empress of Self Pleasure Scenes" because of the epic hotness that occurs at 21% and 74%. And let's not forget Chester the self abusing Chinchilla - freakin hilarious!
FINAL WORD:
Inside Out is the perfect ending to Talia & Bran's epic romantic adventure. You'll laugh, cry and snort giggle all the way to the very end.
CONTENT:
Sexuality: medium-strong / several sex scenes
Violence: mild
Language: medium / some f words
Drugs & alcohol: mild
More reviews at The Reading Realm
December 9, 2014
Check out this review and more including the first two books in the Off the Map series at my blog!
“Within us is the way forward. We each possess half of the compass and must join together to find the right direction.”
I have to start off by saying that I have completely become a fan of Lia Riley! She is such a clever, witty and also deep writer. Throughout the entire off the map series I have fallen for her writing and the characters she has created. I feel like I have a relationship with Bran and Talia and that we would be friends in real life because I know them so well :)
Inside Out starts off a bit slower compared to the first two books in the story. When we leave Bran and Talia in Side Swiped they are apart from one another and their relationship is in tatters. They are still apart at the beginning of of Inside Out and when they are reunited it is under dire circumstances and they slowly try to find one another again. This may sound frustrating, but it wasn’t it was … well beautiful.
“Show me the way back to you.” He buries his face in my neck… “I’ll do whatever it takes, go off the map.”
Riley captured a real life struggle between a couple, it wasn’t all bunnies, rainbows and HEA’s. This book was about a legit couple with real problems trying to work them out and make it together and I loved absolutely every second!
In this book (as in the first two) lovable Talia is trying to deal with her OCD. This includes rituals, panic attacks and depression. While my favorite Aussie (swoon!) Bran is trying to deal with demons from his past and his coping mechanism of being cold and unfeeling. These two work hard to become better people for each other and the way that Riley wrote this just made me stand up and cheer for them… literally!
“Let’s clear this up right now once and for all. Every atom, every last on in my heart is yours. When I’m with you, it’s the only time I’m not practicing at being alive.”
At first I was unsure why Lia Riley made this a three book series, I couldn’t figure out why she would part them and bring them back together twice. After reading Inside Out, I get it, she just had a different vision for these two. Taking them and parting them and making them find themselves. It was perfect and beautiful.
Once again Lia Riley surprised me with her wit and cleverness. I was LOLing at Talia and Bran and their banter. Their chemistry was also off the charts for me!
Bran: “as you wish.” Talia: ” Are you my Westley? I always wanted a Westley.” Bran: “What’s a Westley?” Talia: Even YOU have seen The Princess Bride.” Bran: “No.” Talia: “Inconceivable.”
Can you hear me giggling?? If you’ve seen The Princess Bride you get it!
Trust me when I say that Lia Riley and the Off the Map series is totally worth reading!! So if you haven’t yet… go out, get your copy and start it!
“Within us is the way forward. We each possess half of the compass and must join together to find the right direction.”
I have to start off by saying that I have completely become a fan of Lia Riley! She is such a clever, witty and also deep writer. Throughout the entire off the map series I have fallen for her writing and the characters she has created. I feel like I have a relationship with Bran and Talia and that we would be friends in real life because I know them so well :)
Inside Out starts off a bit slower compared to the first two books in the story. When we leave Bran and Talia in Side Swiped they are apart from one another and their relationship is in tatters. They are still apart at the beginning of of Inside Out and when they are reunited it is under dire circumstances and they slowly try to find one another again. This may sound frustrating, but it wasn’t it was … well beautiful.
“Show me the way back to you.” He buries his face in my neck… “I’ll do whatever it takes, go off the map.”
Riley captured a real life struggle between a couple, it wasn’t all bunnies, rainbows and HEA’s. This book was about a legit couple with real problems trying to work them out and make it together and I loved absolutely every second!
In this book (as in the first two) lovable Talia is trying to deal with her OCD. This includes rituals, panic attacks and depression. While my favorite Aussie (swoon!) Bran is trying to deal with demons from his past and his coping mechanism of being cold and unfeeling. These two work hard to become better people for each other and the way that Riley wrote this just made me stand up and cheer for them… literally!
“Let’s clear this up right now once and for all. Every atom, every last on in my heart is yours. When I’m with you, it’s the only time I’m not practicing at being alive.”
At first I was unsure why Lia Riley made this a three book series, I couldn’t figure out why she would part them and bring them back together twice. After reading Inside Out, I get it, she just had a different vision for these two. Taking them and parting them and making them find themselves. It was perfect and beautiful.
Once again Lia Riley surprised me with her wit and cleverness. I was LOLing at Talia and Bran and their banter. Their chemistry was also off the charts for me!
Bran: “as you wish.” Talia: ” Are you my Westley? I always wanted a Westley.” Bran: “What’s a Westley?” Talia: Even YOU have seen The Princess Bride.” Bran: “No.” Talia: “Inconceivable.”
Can you hear me giggling?? If you’ve seen The Princess Bride you get it!
Trust me when I say that Lia Riley and the Off the Map series is totally worth reading!! So if you haven’t yet… go out, get your copy and start it!
July 26, 2015
Okay, so here's the deal people, I was very fucking scared of reading this book, because honestly? I felt like there was still so much up in the air at the end of the second book, not plot wise but like "character growth" wise, I felt like both Talia and Bran needed a good smack in the head because seriously?! Those two were frustrating and I honestly didn't imagine an scenario were their story got a happy ending that didn't feel rushed or unreal, but somehow and don't even ask me how because I have no words to describe it, but Lia Riley managed to make these two beautifully flawed characters grow and learn more and apply other things they learned in the past books and make their relationship seem so real but in a perfect way.
People will have a lot of definitions for love, there a millions of Pinterest boards dedicated to just that, but personally, my favourite definition is the one Lia gives us with Talia and Bran, they are a couple who had all the odds against them from the beginning but they wanted to be together, they believed their love was worth it and they fought for it, but it wasn't a fairytale kind of fight, they both had to fight battles against themselves themselves and they had their ups and their downs but neither of them ever stopped fighting, they learned to love, trust, support, respect and (when necessary) push each other. That's what I want to believe love is, not being irrationally jealous, or possessive of the person you love, but recognising that they are they own person, believing and trusting that person will do their best not to hurt you. Supporting their each other's dreams, compromising sometimes and not having to ask the other person for nothing in return because you know they will give you something gladly.
Overall, this books was wonderful, it was my favourite from the trilogy and I can't express how much I'm going to miss reading about Talia and Bran, these two have a very special place in my heart and I don't think I'll ever be able to find another couple like them, everything about their books, from the setting, to the relationship, to the writing was unique and magical and it just made me feel like what I imagine hiking in Tasmania would feel like (that's officially in my bucket list)
I'm going to miss this trilogy terribly but the one thing I'm not gonna miss is the amount of hours of sleep I lost and waking up with puffy eyes in the morning because I spent the night crying over these books. But at the end of the day, I wouldn't change the experience or this books for the world.
P.S: my new life goal is to backpack through Australia and if I die trying we can all blame Lia Riley and this trilogy
People will have a lot of definitions for love, there a millions of Pinterest boards dedicated to just that, but personally, my favourite definition is the one Lia gives us with Talia and Bran, they are a couple who had all the odds against them from the beginning but they wanted to be together, they believed their love was worth it and they fought for it, but it wasn't a fairytale kind of fight, they both had to fight battles against themselves themselves and they had their ups and their downs but neither of them ever stopped fighting, they learned to love, trust, support, respect and (when necessary) push each other. That's what I want to believe love is, not being irrationally jealous, or possessive of the person you love, but recognising that they are they own person, believing and trusting that person will do their best not to hurt you. Supporting their each other's dreams, compromising sometimes and not having to ask the other person for nothing in return because you know they will give you something gladly.
Overall, this books was wonderful, it was my favourite from the trilogy and I can't express how much I'm going to miss reading about Talia and Bran, these two have a very special place in my heart and I don't think I'll ever be able to find another couple like them, everything about their books, from the setting, to the relationship, to the writing was unique and magical and it just made me feel like what I imagine hiking in Tasmania would feel like (that's officially in my bucket list)
I'm going to miss this trilogy terribly but the one thing I'm not gonna miss is the amount of hours of sleep I lost and waking up with puffy eyes in the morning because I spent the night crying over these books. But at the end of the day, I wouldn't change the experience or this books for the world.
P.S: my new life goal is to backpack through Australia and if I die trying we can all blame Lia Riley and this trilogy
December 2, 2014
Check out more of my reviews on my blog http://gemmareadstoomuchforittomenorm...
Inside Out is book #3 in the Off The Map series; I’ve read and loved the first two books in the series. So as you can imagine I was like a kid at Christmas when I was gifted a copy of Inside Out in exchange for an honest review.
In case you want a recap here are my reviews for the Book #1 Upside Down and book #2 Sideswiped.
After the end of Sideswiped I was genuinely unsure how the story would continue, would they be together? Would it be a bitter battle only to have them reunite right at the last minute???
What I got with the third book was not at all what I expected and I’m so very glad that sometimes a story continues in way that you didn’t anticipate.
This series has always been a somewhat unconventional romance, what Talia and Bran feel for each other is not your typical love at first sight love story. Instead what we as the readers encounter with this couple is a real all consuming passion for another person.
This story reminds us that to be truly in love with someone, you have to love everything about them faults and all.
Inside Out is a sneaky little grower of a story, it creeps into your soul and warms your heart quite literally from the Inside Out (how apt lol). I didn’t expect to feel this way about this book, In fact id go as far as to say I was completely unprepared for how moving and soul searching this was.
The way Talia and Bran feel about each other is what we should all aspire to, yes they have a shit load of issues and baggage but in this book I didn’t see the problems, I simply didn’t care!!
At the start of this book Talia’s OCD and blatantly obvious mental health issues stand front and centre. Yet my main recollection of this harrowing insight into spiralling depression and inertia is how Bran quietly stands by her as a tower of strength and reminder that his love and devotion is strong enough for both of them.
This book is quietly powerful and at the end of it I’m moved, I’m close to tears and I’m slightly jealous.
Inside Out doesn’t have your typical happily ever after, there’s no definite sign that everything’s going to be ok. But the strength of hope that pours out of the last chapter has managed to convince me that as cliché as it sounds Love Conquers All.
Simply put this is a beautiful story 5 stars!!!
Inside Out is book #3 in the Off The Map series; I’ve read and loved the first two books in the series. So as you can imagine I was like a kid at Christmas when I was gifted a copy of Inside Out in exchange for an honest review.
In case you want a recap here are my reviews for the Book #1 Upside Down and book #2 Sideswiped.
After the end of Sideswiped I was genuinely unsure how the story would continue, would they be together? Would it be a bitter battle only to have them reunite right at the last minute???
What I got with the third book was not at all what I expected and I’m so very glad that sometimes a story continues in way that you didn’t anticipate.
This series has always been a somewhat unconventional romance, what Talia and Bran feel for each other is not your typical love at first sight love story. Instead what we as the readers encounter with this couple is a real all consuming passion for another person.
This story reminds us that to be truly in love with someone, you have to love everything about them faults and all.
Inside Out is a sneaky little grower of a story, it creeps into your soul and warms your heart quite literally from the Inside Out (how apt lol). I didn’t expect to feel this way about this book, In fact id go as far as to say I was completely unprepared for how moving and soul searching this was.
The way Talia and Bran feel about each other is what we should all aspire to, yes they have a shit load of issues and baggage but in this book I didn’t see the problems, I simply didn’t care!!
At the start of this book Talia’s OCD and blatantly obvious mental health issues stand front and centre. Yet my main recollection of this harrowing insight into spiralling depression and inertia is how Bran quietly stands by her as a tower of strength and reminder that his love and devotion is strong enough for both of them.
This book is quietly powerful and at the end of it I’m moved, I’m close to tears and I’m slightly jealous.
Inside Out doesn’t have your typical happily ever after, there’s no definite sign that everything’s going to be ok. But the strength of hope that pours out of the last chapter has managed to convince me that as cliché as it sounds Love Conquers All.
Simply put this is a beautiful story 5 stars!!!
December 3, 2014
** MEGAN'S 3 STAR REVIEW **
And here we have Bran and Tailia’s conclusion. I was pretty happy to get to read Inside Out early. I was desperate to see how their story would play out. I loved their first book and even more loved what they became in the first novel.
*If you haven’t read any of this series please stop reading this review and click Upside Down & Sideswiped first*
When we left this cute couple last they parted to follow their dreams. Whether it was a planned path or a much wanted path we see it wasn’t as peachy as they imagined. Now back together, so to speak, Talia is under deep struggle as she realizes her path wasn’t what she thought it would be or what she thought she wanted. She struggles with her OCD and her choices, just wanting things to stop being so difficult and different.
“Your heart is big because you understand hurt. Who else would have ever believe in me? Trusted that I could get out of my own way and be the guy you deserve?”
“I don’t want to understand hurt, Bran. I’d give a limb to stop thinking. But there’s not way to escape my mind.”
Sometimes the want of a dream isn’t the path you truly should be on. Sometimes those unexpected finds are the new path. But you never know until you follow the course. Right? This is much the case for both characters. Those lifelong dreams have changed when one person enters your life.
“Talia, I love you. No matter how hard you fall, I’ll be there to catch you in the end. You’ve fought for me and deserve no less in return.”
We see both Bran and Talia work together and become a solid couple.
Bran tries his hardest to be the support she needs but doesn’t want. This is hard to watch. Someone he loves and wants to be their everything is struggling. He, himself has not been in the right mind frame with his dealings but he really comes through for Talia. I love his outpouring support for her. I also like that even though she fought it, it wasn’t an entire book with her being a brat.
All in all, it was nice to see how this couple ended up. Their first book will always be a favorite, but sadly I just became ok with the storyline and didn’t end up loving their conclusion book.
And here we have Bran and Tailia’s conclusion. I was pretty happy to get to read Inside Out early. I was desperate to see how their story would play out. I loved their first book and even more loved what they became in the first novel.
*If you haven’t read any of this series please stop reading this review and click Upside Down & Sideswiped first*
When we left this cute couple last they parted to follow their dreams. Whether it was a planned path or a much wanted path we see it wasn’t as peachy as they imagined. Now back together, so to speak, Talia is under deep struggle as she realizes her path wasn’t what she thought it would be or what she thought she wanted. She struggles with her OCD and her choices, just wanting things to stop being so difficult and different.
“Your heart is big because you understand hurt. Who else would have ever believe in me? Trusted that I could get out of my own way and be the guy you deserve?”
“I don’t want to understand hurt, Bran. I’d give a limb to stop thinking. But there’s not way to escape my mind.”
Sometimes the want of a dream isn’t the path you truly should be on. Sometimes those unexpected finds are the new path. But you never know until you follow the course. Right? This is much the case for both characters. Those lifelong dreams have changed when one person enters your life.
“Talia, I love you. No matter how hard you fall, I’ll be there to catch you in the end. You’ve fought for me and deserve no less in return.”
We see both Bran and Talia work together and become a solid couple.
Bran tries his hardest to be the support she needs but doesn’t want. This is hard to watch. Someone he loves and wants to be their everything is struggling. He, himself has not been in the right mind frame with his dealings but he really comes through for Talia. I love his outpouring support for her. I also like that even though she fought it, it wasn’t an entire book with her being a brat.
All in all, it was nice to see how this couple ended up. Their first book will always be a favorite, but sadly I just became ok with the storyline and didn’t end up loving their conclusion book.
March 11, 2017
Review originally posted at www.fictitiousdelicious.com on 12/01/14:
Oh, Bran. Oh, Talia. These two have worked so hard for their happily ever after and it was with a contented sigh that I closed this final book in the Off the Map series.
I spent the first 20% or so of this story thinking that maybe Riley was going to break the rules of writing romance and break my heart in the end. Talia is in a dark, dark place, you guys. It's heartbreaking watching her suffer through her self-described failure in the Peace Corps. She's spiraled down into a place that not even the strength she obtains from Bran's love can pull her out of. It's depressing and feels authentic. So authentic, in fact, that the empathy I felt towards Talia drowned out my fist shaking inner critic that was damning the fact she ever left for the Peace Corps. As it turns out, it had to happen this way for Talia.
Riley does something during this dark time, though, that made me so happy! She threw in a hefty dose of comedic relief by introducing a secondary character named Chester. Chester is Bran's new roommate in California. He's also a full-time, self-loving chinchilla that put a smile on my face at a time when the storyline was bringing me down. Perfect!
Speaking of self-loving? HELLO, SHOWER SCENE. I love you. Oh, and HELLO, CAR RIDE. I love you, too. But that shower scene---uffda! And the bicep biting. YES. The sexy times in this book are muy sexy. The chinchilla isn't the only one getting the lovin'.
In the end, Bran and Talia DO get their happily ever after and it is pure perfection. They individually deal with personal issues that were hindering their growth as a couple and are able to commit to a relationship as healthy individuals. Hardly anything makes me happier than this in a romance novel. Well, shower scenes of the Bran variety make me pretty freaking happy, too, but healthy individuals are also cool.
One last thing--the happily ever after isn't just about Bran and Talia. There is resolution in other broken relationships including one that I wasn't expecting and was over the moon (or under the boardwalk?) about. :)
Oh, Bran. Oh, Talia. These two have worked so hard for their happily ever after and it was with a contented sigh that I closed this final book in the Off the Map series.
I spent the first 20% or so of this story thinking that maybe Riley was going to break the rules of writing romance and break my heart in the end. Talia is in a dark, dark place, you guys. It's heartbreaking watching her suffer through her self-described failure in the Peace Corps. She's spiraled down into a place that not even the strength she obtains from Bran's love can pull her out of. It's depressing and feels authentic. So authentic, in fact, that the empathy I felt towards Talia drowned out my fist shaking inner critic that was damning the fact she ever left for the Peace Corps. As it turns out, it had to happen this way for Talia.
Riley does something during this dark time, though, that made me so happy! She threw in a hefty dose of comedic relief by introducing a secondary character named Chester. Chester is Bran's new roommate in California. He's also a full-time, self-loving chinchilla that put a smile on my face at a time when the storyline was bringing me down. Perfect!
Speaking of self-loving? HELLO, SHOWER SCENE. I love you. Oh, and HELLO, CAR RIDE. I love you, too. But that shower scene---uffda! And the bicep biting. YES. The sexy times in this book are muy sexy. The chinchilla isn't the only one getting the lovin'.
In the end, Bran and Talia DO get their happily ever after and it is pure perfection. They individually deal with personal issues that were hindering their growth as a couple and are able to commit to a relationship as healthy individuals. Hardly anything makes me happier than this in a romance novel. Well, shower scenes of the Bran variety make me pretty freaking happy, too, but healthy individuals are also cool.
One last thing--the happily ever after isn't just about Bran and Talia. There is resolution in other broken relationships including one that I wasn't expecting and was over the moon (or under the boardwalk?) about. :)
December 3, 2014
It was an honor to read and watch Talia and Bran's relationship since the start. I have come to love this series so much and to finally reach the end, it is always hard. I feel so happy inside and my insides are burning for their love.
It deserves 1039480404049493288329302/ out of 5 stars.
----- Review can also be found here: https://hopelessbooklovers.wordpress....
My love for this series has gone to another level after this book. INSIDE OUT really wraps all of it into a big white tortilla and makes it alright. I seriously don’t know where to start with this review, I want to say so much about everyone and everything that happened here but it will take so much time.
Bran and Talia’s journey comes to an end with this book. It was so fascinating to watch them grow, because yes, there is a lot of character development in the Off The Map series – like you don’t even know you’ll have to read it. But I always enjoy a good development and this series has it. Lia Riley put together two imperfect persons that make a whole when they are together. I just have this big big love for Bran and Talia. They have become one of my favorite fictional couples and the reason is because of how well written they are.
The writing in this book – and in this series – is out of your mind; it’s funny, relatable, zero boring, heart-wrenching and super super fluffy. I absolutely love everything about IT; there is nothing NOTHING in Inside Out that made it feel like “ehh.” I will always love Lia’s writing, so compelling and wonderland-ish. I seriously, every time I read one of her books, I end up highlighting every little quote inside. I want to put every quote in a shirt and wear them forever because people should read these books. She’s one of the best, guys.
****Also CHESTER THE CHINCHILLA.**** He’s mine. I still want him, Lia. I need his happy ending as well.
Thank you, Lia. Thank you for writing these amazing, complex, fantastic, funny, imperfect characters. Bran and Talia will always be in my heart.
It deserves 1039480404049493288329302/ out of 5 stars.
----- Review can also be found here: https://hopelessbooklovers.wordpress....
My love for this series has gone to another level after this book. INSIDE OUT really wraps all of it into a big white tortilla and makes it alright. I seriously don’t know where to start with this review, I want to say so much about everyone and everything that happened here but it will take so much time.
Bran and Talia’s journey comes to an end with this book. It was so fascinating to watch them grow, because yes, there is a lot of character development in the Off The Map series – like you don’t even know you’ll have to read it. But I always enjoy a good development and this series has it. Lia Riley put together two imperfect persons that make a whole when they are together. I just have this big big love for Bran and Talia. They have become one of my favorite fictional couples and the reason is because of how well written they are.
The writing in this book – and in this series – is out of your mind; it’s funny, relatable, zero boring, heart-wrenching and super super fluffy. I absolutely love everything about IT; there is nothing NOTHING in Inside Out that made it feel like “ehh.” I will always love Lia’s writing, so compelling and wonderland-ish. I seriously, every time I read one of her books, I end up highlighting every little quote inside. I want to put every quote in a shirt and wear them forever because people should read these books. She’s one of the best, guys.
****Also CHESTER THE CHINCHILLA.**** He’s mine. I still want him, Lia. I need his happy ending as well.
Thank you, Lia. Thank you for writing these amazing, complex, fantastic, funny, imperfect characters. Bran and Talia will always be in my heart.
December 15, 2014
What I've loved about these books is that Bran and Talia have faults--real, honest to goodness faults that the reader can identify with. And it's in this installment that we get to the nitty-gritty of them and watch as Bran and Talia battle their own demons to make it through as individuals and as a couple.
I've followed this couple from the very beginning--I've wanted to throttle them for being stubborn about their attraction for one another, comfort them for having to make tough decision and smack some sense into them when they somehow lost their way. By book 2 I had starting thinking that I was emotionally invested in their relationship and this story made it abundantly clear that I was.
Once again, Lia Riley managed to bring forth emotions, light moments and realistic obstacles to the page. I enjoyed their easy camaraderie, their meltdowns and their chemistry. I liked that their story wasn't wrapped up in a pretty bow, but still was infused with joy and hope of better things to come. Even in the darkest of times, the author didn't fail to keep that spark of humor and the expectancy that Bran and Talia would find their way. Better yet, I loved that I got to see them grow as a couple while still allowing themselves the chance to grow as individuals. Bran and Talia's journey hasn't been easy but to me it has been worthwhile.
From the very beginning, Lia Riley grabbed me and didn't let go. I cried with Talia as she confronted her current situation, was emotionally drained right along with Bran when he faced the uncertainty of their relationship. I laughed with them and at them. I was right in there with every up and every down and when it all came to be I was grinning like the fool I am.
It's sad to have reached the end of their journey, but I am glad to see them moving forward together. All in all, a fantastic conclusion to Bran and Talia's story.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
I've followed this couple from the very beginning--I've wanted to throttle them for being stubborn about their attraction for one another, comfort them for having to make tough decision and smack some sense into them when they somehow lost their way. By book 2 I had starting thinking that I was emotionally invested in their relationship and this story made it abundantly clear that I was.
Once again, Lia Riley managed to bring forth emotions, light moments and realistic obstacles to the page. I enjoyed their easy camaraderie, their meltdowns and their chemistry. I liked that their story wasn't wrapped up in a pretty bow, but still was infused with joy and hope of better things to come. Even in the darkest of times, the author didn't fail to keep that spark of humor and the expectancy that Bran and Talia would find their way. Better yet, I loved that I got to see them grow as a couple while still allowing themselves the chance to grow as individuals. Bran and Talia's journey hasn't been easy but to me it has been worthwhile.
From the very beginning, Lia Riley grabbed me and didn't let go. I cried with Talia as she confronted her current situation, was emotionally drained right along with Bran when he faced the uncertainty of their relationship. I laughed with them and at them. I was right in there with every up and every down and when it all came to be I was grinning like the fool I am.
It's sad to have reached the end of their journey, but I am glad to see them moving forward together. All in all, a fantastic conclusion to Bran and Talia's story.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
December 4, 2014
Talia and Bran. Bran and Talia.
The conclusion to your story was not what I expected…because it was so much better than what I had hoped for! Lia Riley, you have outdone yourself with these two. When I began the first book in this series, Upside Down, I had no idea what I was in for – it being Lia’s debut novel, but I am so glad to have discovered Lia and her work because she is an INCREDIBLE writer, a phenomenal person, and she has managed to create what felt like some of the realest characters out there.
I am so sad to see this series end. I can’t fathom having no more quirky Talia or brooding Bran, but the conclusion to their story was more than I had hoped for. Lia’s writing just gets better and better each time (which almost seems like an impossible feat since it’s amazing from the start) but somehow she does it.
Talia and Bran’s story of self-discovery, love, and struggle will be one that I will never forget and I’m sure you won’t forget it either. Lia has created two characters who are not very similar, but together make the perfect match. The relationship between the two of them is one that is extremely down to earth and just felt real. Talia and Bran don’t feel like fictional characters but like two oh so fabulous people I want to befriend ASAP, who share an incredible connection, have amazing witty conversations, and a steamy, sexy as hell relationship. <3
So don’t miss out on these two and their amazing story. I can not wait for whatever Lia has in store for us next because I will most definitely be all over that like white on rice!
WARNING: The Off The Map series may make you want to drop everything you are doing and go to Australia and search like a mad-woman for a guy in a koala suit…or maybe that’s just me? ;)
The conclusion to your story was not what I expected…because it was so much better than what I had hoped for! Lia Riley, you have outdone yourself with these two. When I began the first book in this series, Upside Down, I had no idea what I was in for – it being Lia’s debut novel, but I am so glad to have discovered Lia and her work because she is an INCREDIBLE writer, a phenomenal person, and she has managed to create what felt like some of the realest characters out there.
I am so sad to see this series end. I can’t fathom having no more quirky Talia or brooding Bran, but the conclusion to their story was more than I had hoped for. Lia’s writing just gets better and better each time (which almost seems like an impossible feat since it’s amazing from the start) but somehow she does it.
Talia and Bran’s story of self-discovery, love, and struggle will be one that I will never forget and I’m sure you won’t forget it either. Lia has created two characters who are not very similar, but together make the perfect match. The relationship between the two of them is one that is extremely down to earth and just felt real. Talia and Bran don’t feel like fictional characters but like two oh so fabulous people I want to befriend ASAP, who share an incredible connection, have amazing witty conversations, and a steamy, sexy as hell relationship. <3
So don’t miss out on these two and their amazing story. I can not wait for whatever Lia has in store for us next because I will most definitely be all over that like white on rice!
WARNING: The Off The Map series may make you want to drop everything you are doing and go to Australia and search like a mad-woman for a guy in a koala suit…or maybe that’s just me? ;)
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