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Collision #1
Collision
Book 1 in The Collision Series is an emotional, slow burn, New Adult romance.
After losing both of her parents, Merritt Adams was forced to grow up at a young age. Now a bitter and jaded adult, she’s convinced that the only person she can count on is herself. When she’s injured in a fiery crash, Merritt has to learn how to accept help from her friends. But she isn’t prepared for support from the popular musician she used to go to school with.
Chase Brooks spent the last two years in California aspiring to become a rock star, but his dream is cut short when he receives word about his sick father. He returns home to be with his family, and ends up seeking solace in the one girl who knows what it’s like to lose everything.
Merritt fights her attraction to Chase every step of the way, refusing to let him in. But beneath his cocky charm and good looks, she finds a caring man who’s hurting just as badly as she is. As they grow closer, the wall Merritt built around her heart begins to crumble.
What Merritt doesn’t know is that Chase holds the truth about who saved her from her mangled car the night of the accident – and it could destroy the trust he’s worked so hard for.
Two sad souls could be perfect for each other, but a secret might tear them apart.
After losing both of her parents, Merritt Adams was forced to grow up at a young age. Now a bitter and jaded adult, she’s convinced that the only person she can count on is herself. When she’s injured in a fiery crash, Merritt has to learn how to accept help from her friends. But she isn’t prepared for support from the popular musician she used to go to school with.
Chase Brooks spent the last two years in California aspiring to become a rock star, but his dream is cut short when he receives word about his sick father. He returns home to be with his family, and ends up seeking solace in the one girl who knows what it’s like to lose everything.
Merritt fights her attraction to Chase every step of the way, refusing to let him in. But beneath his cocky charm and good looks, she finds a caring man who’s hurting just as badly as she is. As they grow closer, the wall Merritt built around her heart begins to crumble.
What Merritt doesn’t know is that Chase holds the truth about who saved her from her mangled car the night of the accident – and it could destroy the trust he’s worked so hard for.
Two sad souls could be perfect for each other, but a secret might tear them apart.
232 pages, ebook
First published March 11, 2018
486 people are currently reading
4443 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Granata
19 books2,999 followersKristen Granata is a bestselling romance author known for writing inspirational, emotional stories with realistic characters who struggle through the darkest parts of life and come out stronger on the other side.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2zblG7G
Instagram: https://bit.ly/34LUfge
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3xOqPMm
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3cuvtEg
Kristen openly shares her mental health struggles with depression and anxiety. Her message is a beacon of hope to anyone who is suffering: You are not alone. She delicately weaves this theme into her writing, and demonstrates the ability of love to heal after tragedy.
When she's not teaching or writing, Kristen is reading, tripping over something, indulging in her messy love affair with popcorn, and annoying her wife and step-daughters by incessantly singing along to The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
Kristen was born in Brooklyn, New York. She currently lives in New Jersey with her wife & her two step-daughters.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2zblG7G
Instagram: https://bit.ly/34LUfge
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3xOqPMm
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3cuvtEg
Kristen openly shares her mental health struggles with depression and anxiety. Her message is a beacon of hope to anyone who is suffering: You are not alone. She delicately weaves this theme into her writing, and demonstrates the ability of love to heal after tragedy.
When she's not teaching or writing, Kristen is reading, tripping over something, indulging in her messy love affair with popcorn, and annoying her wife and step-daughters by incessantly singing along to The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
Kristen was born in Brooklyn, New York. She currently lives in New Jersey with her wife & her two step-daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
May 11, 2020
Collision By Kristen Granata (2020/05/04)
Rating 3/5 Stars
TW: suicide, addiction to alcohol.
This is my First Kristen Granata book and I can honestly say I really enjoyed this one. This story follows Merritt Adams whose mother has unexpectedly abandoned her and father has just committed suicide. This then leads her into a downward spiral to her getting drunk and into a car accident. This novel follows the aftermath of Merritt’s accident since she gets rescued from it. She is then left to put her life back together again while she tries to overcome her grief. Shen then is reunited with Chase Brooks, a boy she grew up with. He has just returned home after spending two years in California trying to become a rockstar but nobody knows why he has returned. Essentially this is their love story but it is also so much more than that. What really resonated with me is Kirsten's beautiful writing style. The way this story is told we were truly able to understand how Merritt and Chase were dealing with their grief. Throughout reading this novel there were so many quotes and hidden messages that stuck out to me.
“I’m saying… I can never measure up to the person you are, but I can love you with my whole heart… and I hope that can count for something.”
I liked how there was an equal balance between funny scenes as well as sad scenes. I also loved the family dynamic and the friendships that we got to see. We got to see how Chase's family took Merritt in and really accepted her as one of their own. We also go to see her spend time with her best friend's family as well. One of my favourite quotes from the novel was . . .
“No! You’re not on my side. You don’t get to use sarcasm.”
Overall, if you are someone who is looking to get into romance but is not looking for something that has too much angst than I would definitely recommend that you check out this series. This first book was a great start to this series and I will be continuing on with the series because I really am curious to see how Chase and Merritt’s story ends.
Rating 3/5 Stars
TW: suicide, addiction to alcohol.
This is my First Kristen Granata book and I can honestly say I really enjoyed this one. This story follows Merritt Adams whose mother has unexpectedly abandoned her and father has just committed suicide. This then leads her into a downward spiral to her getting drunk and into a car accident. This novel follows the aftermath of Merritt’s accident since she gets rescued from it. She is then left to put her life back together again while she tries to overcome her grief. Shen then is reunited with Chase Brooks, a boy she grew up with. He has just returned home after spending two years in California trying to become a rockstar but nobody knows why he has returned. Essentially this is their love story but it is also so much more than that. What really resonated with me is Kirsten's beautiful writing style. The way this story is told we were truly able to understand how Merritt and Chase were dealing with their grief. Throughout reading this novel there were so many quotes and hidden messages that stuck out to me.
“I’m saying… I can never measure up to the person you are, but I can love you with my whole heart… and I hope that can count for something.”
I liked how there was an equal balance between funny scenes as well as sad scenes. I also loved the family dynamic and the friendships that we got to see. We got to see how Chase's family took Merritt in and really accepted her as one of their own. We also go to see her spend time with her best friend's family as well. One of my favourite quotes from the novel was . . .
“No! You’re not on my side. You don’t get to use sarcasm.”
Overall, if you are someone who is looking to get into romance but is not looking for something that has too much angst than I would definitely recommend that you check out this series. This first book was a great start to this series and I will be continuing on with the series because I really am curious to see how Chase and Merritt’s story ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
October 6, 2020💝FREE on Amazon today (10/5/18)!💝
Blurb:
Merritt Adams was used to taking care of herself. With her mother's selfish abandonment, and her father's shocking suicide, she is convinced that nobody will ever stick around for long. However, after she is mysteriously rescued from a fiery crash, Merritt needs to learn how to accept help, and love - even when it comes from an unexpected source. Trying to create a new life for herself will be difficult, and so will resisting the charms of someone she swore she would never show interest in. In addition to the buzz surrounding Merritt's tragic headlines, everyone is talking about the charismatic Chase Brooks' return home after spending two years in California aspiring to become a rock star. What people don't know is the real reason why he had to leave his dreams behind. Saddened by his return, Chase is even more saddened to see how broken and alone his childhood classmate, Merritt, is. Two sad souls could be good for each other, couldn't they? Merritt isn't so sure... and after she finds out who pulled her from the mangled car that night, her life will be changed forever.
Blurb:
Merritt Adams was used to taking care of herself. With her mother's selfish abandonment, and her father's shocking suicide, she is convinced that nobody will ever stick around for long. However, after she is mysteriously rescued from a fiery crash, Merritt needs to learn how to accept help, and love - even when it comes from an unexpected source. Trying to create a new life for herself will be difficult, and so will resisting the charms of someone she swore she would never show interest in. In addition to the buzz surrounding Merritt's tragic headlines, everyone is talking about the charismatic Chase Brooks' return home after spending two years in California aspiring to become a rock star. What people don't know is the real reason why he had to leave his dreams behind. Saddened by his return, Chase is even more saddened to see how broken and alone his childhood classmate, Merritt, is. Two sad souls could be good for each other, couldn't they? Merritt isn't so sure... and after she finds out who pulled her from the mangled car that night, her life will be changed forever.
November 21, 2021
Part 1 of a duet - The 2 main characters Chase and Merritt have known each other all their lives but don't really connect until after high school as they both go through tragedy involving their parents. Even though these are college age kids - I would say this reads more contemporary YA in style. It does not have that N/A vibe at all(as I had hoped) it is simply about the 2 being there for each other, going through tough times with death and putting life on hold. While that might make it a nice read and full of a story of real life. For me it lacked a lot of connections and no spark between the couple. Says rockstar romance but that is not a good description in my opinion. It's not really a romance, and he hasn't become a rockstar yet.
I downloaded this box set - a series comprised of 4 books. I don't think it's available as the set anymore. Collision is book 1 and it ends on a cliffhanger and is supposed to pick up in avoidance and finish their story. I wasn't super impressed so I probably will not continue on. But from looking ahead I can say - Chase's brother gets his story in book 3 and T.J from book 2 has his story as book 4. In case i decide to pick these up someday!
I downloaded this box set - a series comprised of 4 books. I don't think it's available as the set anymore. Collision is book 1 and it ends on a cliffhanger and is supposed to pick up in avoidance and finish their story. I wasn't super impressed so I probably will not continue on. But from looking ahead I can say - Chase's brother gets his story in book 3 and T.J from book 2 has his story as book 4. In case i decide to pick these up someday!
September 16, 2019
DO YOU SEE THIS, KRISTEN?! I FINISHED!!
December 5, 2018
If I could rate this more than 5 stars, I freaking would give it a gazillion!!
I read this book for an honest review for the author and HOLY SHIT!!! Kristen Granata is AMAZING! I am sooooo glad I was able to read this book. This entire story was filled with a deep storyline that I couldn't even put the book down for one second. Merritt is an amazing character, and I love how Kristen is able to write an honest example through Merritt.
Merritt is not perfect, she comes with a lot of baggage and issues that not most heroine characters have, and because of that, this book was refreshing, as well as realistic. Kristen wrote in perfect description of how someone in real life actually handles the kind of obstacles that are thrown out to us. Nothing is perfect in life, and this story is the PERFECT story that tells the truth of our unperfected lives.
I haven't ever heard of Kristen's writing before this book, and now that I have, I will make sure to read her future books. I finished reading this book last night, and bought the sequel, Avoidance, right after....and lets just say I finished the second book right now and will write a review after I finish this one. It's that freaking addictive.
If you guys want a good read, read this book. Not only will you be supporting an author who deserves to be well known, but you will also be speechless and in love with this book once you finish.
This was one of my favorite reads, and thank you again Kristen for the free copy! I will be supporting your work from here on out!
I read this book for an honest review for the author and HOLY SHIT!!! Kristen Granata is AMAZING! I am sooooo glad I was able to read this book. This entire story was filled with a deep storyline that I couldn't even put the book down for one second. Merritt is an amazing character, and I love how Kristen is able to write an honest example through Merritt.
Merritt is not perfect, she comes with a lot of baggage and issues that not most heroine characters have, and because of that, this book was refreshing, as well as realistic. Kristen wrote in perfect description of how someone in real life actually handles the kind of obstacles that are thrown out to us. Nothing is perfect in life, and this story is the PERFECT story that tells the truth of our unperfected lives.
I haven't ever heard of Kristen's writing before this book, and now that I have, I will make sure to read her future books. I finished reading this book last night, and bought the sequel, Avoidance, right after....and lets just say I finished the second book right now and will write a review after I finish this one. It's that freaking addictive.
If you guys want a good read, read this book. Not only will you be supporting an author who deserves to be well known, but you will also be speechless and in love with this book once you finish.
This was one of my favorite reads, and thank you again Kristen for the free copy! I will be supporting your work from here on out!
April 11, 2019
I loved this book so much!!! Chase was just perfect & I loved the build up of his relationship with Merritt. Can’t wait to read the second book & also Tanner’s story too. Thank you!
September 4, 2018
This is an outstanding debut novel. The author has crafted a story that is engaging, thought provoking, passionate, and full of friendship and love. The characters are complex, believable, and easy to connect with. There are a few unexpected things and a cliffhanger . The author has certainly left ,e wanting more and I look forward to reading what happens next.
June 25, 2021
4.25 Stars / 2 Steam Fans
CW: Grief, Death, Trauma, Suicidal Thoughts, Abandonment, Cliffhanger
Video review available in Week 21: May 23 – May 29, 2021, full weekly book reviews available on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.
For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
CW: Grief, Death, Trauma, Suicidal Thoughts, Abandonment, Cliffhanger
Video review available in Week 21: May 23 – May 29, 2021, full weekly book reviews available on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.
For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
December 10, 2018
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars
I loved this book! I gave it 4.5 stars because I thought in the beginning it was a slow start and I was confused but as I kept reading the book, it got better and better! I loved the growth of Merritt and how she was able to eventually accept the things that had happened in her life. I liked how Chase did not pull away from Merritt even though he was hurting (understandably so, it is so hard to lose a loved one). I didn't know that this book ended in a cliff hanger or that there was a sequel. I wish goodreads or the author would have said that this was part of a duology.
I loved this book! I gave it 4.5 stars because I thought in the beginning it was a slow start and I was confused but as I kept reading the book, it got better and better! I loved the growth of Merritt and how she was able to eventually accept the things that had happened in her life. I liked how Chase did not pull away from Merritt even though he was hurting (understandably so, it is so hard to lose a loved one). I didn't know that this book ended in a cliff hanger or that there was a sequel. I wish goodreads or the author would have said that this was part of a duology.
December 20, 2018
I like a book that takes the reader through an array of emotions, and this story did not disappoint! There was tragedy, loss and pain mixed with love, friendship, hope and happiness. It pulled me in and kept me engaged with well-developed and relatable characters. I loved Merritt and Chase's journey to love through heart-breaking circumstances, and how Merritt was eventually able to open up and trust. The plot held my interest while the ending left me wanting more. Can't wait to read Avoidance!
July 28, 2019
So Emotional
A sweet, emotional, slow burn, New Adult Romance.
This book had me laughing and wanting to cry from beginning to end.
I highlighted dozens of passages that I either found hilarious or extremely relatable as someone who struggles to manage their grief and depression.
Likeable and witty characters with hilarious dialogue, Twists you won’t see coming, and quick & easy reading.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves New Adult Romance.
A sweet, emotional, slow burn, New Adult Romance.
This book had me laughing and wanting to cry from beginning to end.
I highlighted dozens of passages that I either found hilarious or extremely relatable as someone who struggles to manage their grief and depression.
Likeable and witty characters with hilarious dialogue, Twists you won’t see coming, and quick & easy reading.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves New Adult Romance.
October 16, 2020
3.5 stars!
Review to follow!
Review to follow!
December 26, 2018
I received a free copy from NABC and the author in exchange for an honest review.
Fresh from his return in the big smoke to try and make it in the music industry, Chase Brooks crashes Merritt's hopes of being able to slowly cruise by on autopilot since her dad's suicide and her own car accident. Merritt blames herself for her Dad's death despite all the help she gave him and everything she did to try to make his life easier.
So Chase comes along and tries to make her life easier because she's recovering from the car accident that she was rescued from after she crashed her car while drunk after her father's funeral.
The book basically builds Merritt and Chase's relationship. Where he wants to be with her but she can't understand why. Where she thinks he's trying to learn from her at how to deal with dead father's because his is dying of cancer. But it's as simple as Chase liking Merritt and Merritt liking Chase. And he is the perfect boyfriend to be and the perfect boyfriend eventually. He is constantly by her side and constantly helping her. Doing everything to make her wishes come true, all the while, having his own world fall apart.
The conclusion leads into the second book in the series (AVOIDANCE). As her father killed himself because he never got over his wife leaving him, it comes full circle when Merritt's mother returns and I can just see everything blowing up in the next book (which I haven't read but have every intention of getting to once I get through the last week of 2018.) But in saying that I could possibly be wrong.
I really liked this book because it wasn't just the typical, normal romance. Good things happen, bad things happen, sad things happen, happy things... etcetera. But I mostly liked the characters and the way that Kristen built their relationship. Especially Merritt and Khloe (Chase's four year old sister). I also liked how the book opens with Merritt's life completely off the rails because of her dad and the accident and feeling completely lost and how Chase's is all packaged well together and his slowly starts to fall apart as the book progresses as his dad deteriorates. But I really liked that Merritt was there because Chase had been there for her and how her selflessness showed through to the whole family and not just to Chase.
Fresh from his return in the big smoke to try and make it in the music industry, Chase Brooks crashes Merritt's hopes of being able to slowly cruise by on autopilot since her dad's suicide and her own car accident. Merritt blames herself for her Dad's death despite all the help she gave him and everything she did to try to make his life easier.
So Chase comes along and tries to make her life easier because she's recovering from the car accident that she was rescued from after she crashed her car while drunk after her father's funeral.
The book basically builds Merritt and Chase's relationship. Where he wants to be with her but she can't understand why. Where she thinks he's trying to learn from her at how to deal with dead father's because his is dying of cancer. But it's as simple as Chase liking Merritt and Merritt liking Chase. And he is the perfect boyfriend to be and the perfect boyfriend eventually. He is constantly by her side and constantly helping her. Doing everything to make her wishes come true, all the while, having his own world fall apart.
The conclusion leads into the second book in the series (AVOIDANCE). As her father killed himself because he never got over his wife leaving him, it comes full circle when Merritt's mother returns and I can just see everything blowing up in the next book (which I haven't read but have every intention of getting to once I get through the last week of 2018.) But in saying that I could possibly be wrong.
I really liked this book because it wasn't just the typical, normal romance. Good things happen, bad things happen, sad things happen, happy things... etcetera. But I mostly liked the characters and the way that Kristen built their relationship. Especially Merritt and Khloe (Chase's four year old sister). I also liked how the book opens with Merritt's life completely off the rails because of her dad and the accident and feeling completely lost and how Chase's is all packaged well together and his slowly starts to fall apart as the book progresses as his dad deteriorates. But I really liked that Merritt was there because Chase had been there for her and how her selflessness showed through to the whole family and not just to Chase.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2018
Holy mother trucker! This one got me and made me feel all the feelings. It’s a story about two people finding each other in the best and worst of times. Merritt is sarcastic and untrusting. She’s in pain, physically and mentally as she is recovering from a car accident that occurred after her father committed suicide. Her mother left them both years before. Her only family is her best friend. She’s kind of a heartbreaking hot mess. Until Chase comes back to town, inserting himself into her life whether she wanted it or not. She’s hesitant but he’s persistent and soon a friendship sprouts and grows into something so much more. He gets her to open up, to heal and love while she becomes his rock as he deals with his own pain and tragedy. Every character is so well written and real. The dialogue is perfection. There’s laughter with the sadness—its not all heartbreak, I promise. But it will grip your heart. And that ending … GAH! Already got the second book! One of the best books I’ve read this year.
December 13, 2018
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NABC.
I quite enjoyed this book, it was written at a good pace, and the characters were honest and likeable. It felt like the situations were realistic, and not drawn out just for the sake of it.
Merritt is funny, and sarcastic, and Chase is kind, and endearing. Merritt is coming to terms with having been not so willingly saved from a life threatening car accident after her father's funeral. She had been taking care of him for most of her life, as her mother abandoned them when Merritt was young. Her father never got over it, and having been quite depressed for a long time, finally succumbed to suicide. She didn't intentionally crash her car, but she wasn't exactly excited about having to face a life with no family. Chase offers to drive her to her rehab appointments, and while they have known each other most of their lives, they weren't close friends. They begin to build a real friendship through these trips to and from rehab, and begin spending time together outside of them. Their journey is a good one, with ups and downs, and Chase's little sister is the cutest!!
My only issues with this book were that at times you felt kind of thrown into the middle of the story without all the information/background. And I understand that sometimes that is intentional, and you play catch up as you go along. However it didn't always feel intentional. It wasn't clear: where the book was set, in terms of geography, or time of year, how old the characters were, or what they looked like until well into the book. And while Merritt and Chase's relationship does feel real as it goes on, in the beginning of it felt a little forced. He seemed to just offer to drive her to her appointments out of the blue, and came off as strange.
Despite my issues, I did thoroughly enjoy this book (which ended in a cliffhanger), and I look forward to reading the next installment.
I quite enjoyed this book, it was written at a good pace, and the characters were honest and likeable. It felt like the situations were realistic, and not drawn out just for the sake of it.
Merritt is funny, and sarcastic, and Chase is kind, and endearing. Merritt is coming to terms with having been not so willingly saved from a life threatening car accident after her father's funeral. She had been taking care of him for most of her life, as her mother abandoned them when Merritt was young. Her father never got over it, and having been quite depressed for a long time, finally succumbed to suicide. She didn't intentionally crash her car, but she wasn't exactly excited about having to face a life with no family. Chase offers to drive her to her rehab appointments, and while they have known each other most of their lives, they weren't close friends. They begin to build a real friendship through these trips to and from rehab, and begin spending time together outside of them. Their journey is a good one, with ups and downs, and Chase's little sister is the cutest!!
My only issues with this book were that at times you felt kind of thrown into the middle of the story without all the information/background. And I understand that sometimes that is intentional, and you play catch up as you go along. However it didn't always feel intentional. It wasn't clear: where the book was set, in terms of geography, or time of year, how old the characters were, or what they looked like until well into the book. And while Merritt and Chase's relationship does feel real as it goes on, in the beginning of it felt a little forced. He seemed to just offer to drive her to her appointments out of the blue, and came off as strange.
Despite my issues, I did thoroughly enjoy this book (which ended in a cliffhanger), and I look forward to reading the next installment.
April 29, 2019
Merritt Adams has a hard time recovering after tragedy struck her family. Her father committed suicide after her mom walked out without a second thought. After she wakes up from a coma her best friend Shelly takes her in and she ends up sleeping on her couch as she has nowhere else to go. Their relationship is adorable and Shelly is very protective over Merritt. They call each other 'toad' and 'frog' which I thought was super cute. When Chase Brooks shows interest Merritt has her walls up because she doesn't want to get hurt. He tells her she looks cute in her Cookie Monster PJ's and she responds by saying she hoped her horrifying appearance would turn his stomach and cause him to flee in fear! In her own words, she's 'one cup size and several hundred brain cells shy of being his type.' This is a slow burn, with mountains of emotional baggage that multiplies when Chase's father dies. I loved the characters, and the plot kept me turning the pages! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to anyone who loves romance with a multi-layered plot and lots of heart!
April 1, 2019
I’m a little mad at myself that it took me so long to read this debut novel by Kristen Granata, but I am so happy that I finally did! I find the main character Merit’s maturity in the face of her tragic loss commendable and a part of the book that resonates the strongest with me. Knowing the strength it takes to push forward after the loss of a parent, her journey is refreshingly realistic. Not to mention I feel at one with her sarcasm. It feels like we could be friends because I can truly understand her personality and sense of humor. I loved the flow of the plot and how everything happened for a reason. Swoon worthy Chase was definitely an added bonus. I cannot wait to read Avoidance next!
December 20, 2018
Woahh.......
that...was....INCREDIBLE!!!
But the only thing that I would change is to add scenes where Merritt is away from Chase, or some scenes or sentences to properly show the passage of time. I didn't really like the fact that there were no scenes where Merrit was alone and just thinking about Chase or just life in general. She was ALWAYS with Chase and it gave the impression that there was no life without Chase.....and I didn't really like that.
that...was....INCREDIBLE!!!
But the only thing that I would change is to add scenes where Merritt is away from Chase, or some scenes or sentences to properly show the passage of time. I didn't really like the fact that there were no scenes where Merrit was alone and just thinking about Chase or just life in general. She was ALWAYS with Chase and it gave the impression that there was no life without Chase.....and I didn't really like that.
July 28, 2020
Is Chase the dreamiest kind of book boyfriend? Yes, yes he is. He and Merritt embodied pure, deep love. It was a joy to experience. Chase's family was just as dreamy; the kind of family you wish you were part of. I can't wait to see where their journey goes, and I can't wait to see more of TANNER. I love a series where you get to know side characters on a deeper level!
December 28, 2019
Too good to be believable story. It was a good, light read but a bit Hallmark-y.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2024
The book could’ve been 200 pages shorter and was so predictable.
It’s also so obvious when millennials write books because of how they unnecessarily demean people for the way they choose to dress, look, walk, talk.
And I found it absolutely disgusting how this line got past the editing phase:
“they looked like they got r*pred by a Macy’s counter”….. hello????
Did u just compare r*pe to someone who is wearing makeup??? Have you absolutely lost it??
Even though the book was mildly enjoyable and would’ve been a 2.5 star that was completely unnecessary and disgusting.
It’s also so obvious when millennials write books because of how they unnecessarily demean people for the way they choose to dress, look, walk, talk.
And I found it absolutely disgusting how this line got past the editing phase:
“they looked like they got r*pred by a Macy’s counter”….. hello????
Did u just compare r*pe to someone who is wearing makeup??? Have you absolutely lost it??
Even though the book was mildly enjoyable and would’ve been a 2.5 star that was completely unnecessary and disgusting.
December 14, 2018
Hands down a total 5 star read, I absolutely loved it. Characters that you fell in love with, while wanting to hug, Shake, cry with (Merritt) date (Chase) adopt (Khloe) want as a bezzie (Shelly) but what a cliffhanger! I EED TE NEXT BOOK RIGHT NOW! 5*+
December 11, 2018
Wow. Just wow. This book has left me speechless. I seriously can't believe this is Kristen's debut novel! It is insanely good. The writing, the characters, the emotions.. it's phenomenal!
Merritt Adams has been doing things on her own since her mother left her and her father, her father fell into a deep depression and didn't do things for himself, much less for Merritt so she learned to fend for herself and provide for him. She is used to being on her own. After her mother selfishly just up and left, and then her father's depression which ends up leading to his suicide, Merritt truly is alone and starts to fall into a depression of her own. She has a hard time after her father's death and doesn't take it very well, she ends up being in a deadly crash but she miraculously survives and she isn't sure who to thank for the rescue. She isn't sure she really wants to know who helped her, but she has to try to learn to accept help and love, accept the fact that there are people who care about her and truly want to be in her life as a permanent fixture, not just abandon her like her mother and father both did.
This book really hit me. I was laughing at parts and crying like a baby at others. Just pitiful, puffy eyes and snotty nose crying!! This book is so raw and really it makes you feel like you are part of the character's journey. You are there in the story feeling the heartbreak and loss. It's so captivating I couldn't put it down. I stayed up until 4am reading this book and bawling my eyes out! Then once I finished I just lay there completely stunned! The ending completely threw me for a loop! (NO spoilers here ;)) just know that holy whoa this book is worth reading! I can not wait to read the sequel. This book deserves WAAYY more than 5 stars! It is by far one of the best books I have ever read!
Merritt Adams has been doing things on her own since her mother left her and her father, her father fell into a deep depression and didn't do things for himself, much less for Merritt so she learned to fend for herself and provide for him. She is used to being on her own. After her mother selfishly just up and left, and then her father's depression which ends up leading to his suicide, Merritt truly is alone and starts to fall into a depression of her own. She has a hard time after her father's death and doesn't take it very well, she ends up being in a deadly crash but she miraculously survives and she isn't sure who to thank for the rescue. She isn't sure she really wants to know who helped her, but she has to try to learn to accept help and love, accept the fact that there are people who care about her and truly want to be in her life as a permanent fixture, not just abandon her like her mother and father both did.
This book really hit me. I was laughing at parts and crying like a baby at others. Just pitiful, puffy eyes and snotty nose crying!! This book is so raw and really it makes you feel like you are part of the character's journey. You are there in the story feeling the heartbreak and loss. It's so captivating I couldn't put it down. I stayed up until 4am reading this book and bawling my eyes out! Then once I finished I just lay there completely stunned! The ending completely threw me for a loop! (NO spoilers here ;)) just know that holy whoa this book is worth reading! I can not wait to read the sequel. This book deserves WAAYY more than 5 stars! It is by far one of the best books I have ever read!
January 29, 2020
What a fabulous story. I loved reading it, from beginning to end. I can’t wait to read the second book.
August 10, 2018
It 4:30 in the morning and I just finished Collision. And oh my heart! So forgive me if my emotions are all over. It’s all fresh to me. Kristen Granata has won me over! Completely and totally!! Merritt is a character that some won’t click with instantly. I, thankfully, instantly clicked because we have similar personalities. Merritt has been through a lot in her life. Her mother walked away, her father’s grief and eventual death, and almost losing her own life. Being totally alone at the most pivotal time in a young adults life. I think you’d be a little snarky too.
Merritt’s relationship with her best friends is refreshing, honest and most importantly realistic. Brody and Shelly are great together, evenly balancing out each other and Merritt. Thankfully leaving at least one sane voice out of the three. Yet it is Merritt’s relationship with Chase Brooks and his family that provides Merritt with the growth she needed and the sense of family she longed for.
Granata does a flawless job of weaving her characters into your heart. Slowly and methodically making sure that you had to turn the page to calm your nerves after the newest twist and conflict.
For Collision being her first book I am beyond impressed and I can’t wait to read the sequel (thank heavens Avoidance is already released).
Fair warning Kleenex is needed for reading this book.
November 2, 2018
I interviewed Kristen on my podcast, “A New Dawn,” on iTunes and we discussed the characteristics of depression & anxiety that she intentionally gave Merritt. I found various aspects of this storyline very real indeed.
The story? Heartbreaking and comforting at the same time, when Merritt Adams and Chase meet as frenemies turn lovers. Torn by her mother’s abandonment and grief from her father’s suicide, Merritt Adams couldn’t develop trust required to love anyone else. I found their relationship so real and thus this book difficult to put down. Merritt finally accepted love and found herself reciprocating the attention she received herself to Chase.
How perfect for this love to sprout from depression, grief and loss? The relationships are real and believable and a book I’d recommend to anyone that loves, romance and an excellent story of triumph. Merritt truly comes into her own, full circle and finds three kinds of love. Love of herself, Chase and a new family destined to be with her forever.
Get this book and read it!
The story? Heartbreaking and comforting at the same time, when Merritt Adams and Chase meet as frenemies turn lovers. Torn by her mother’s abandonment and grief from her father’s suicide, Merritt Adams couldn’t develop trust required to love anyone else. I found their relationship so real and thus this book difficult to put down. Merritt finally accepted love and found herself reciprocating the attention she received herself to Chase.
How perfect for this love to sprout from depression, grief and loss? The relationships are real and believable and a book I’d recommend to anyone that loves, romance and an excellent story of triumph. Merritt truly comes into her own, full circle and finds three kinds of love. Love of herself, Chase and a new family destined to be with her forever.
Get this book and read it!
November 26, 2018
Make sure you to leave this book until you are able to dedicate yourself to reading it front to back. I couldn't put it down. Beautifully written; descriptive and even paced. There's such realism attached to this book.
The two main characters are well rounded and are deeper than appearances. The author ensures each character is so well depicted, that you feel like you know them. Merrit is a well guarded character. She protects herself with sarcasm and pushes love away, because of her tragic backstory and her unwillingness to get hurt again. Chase is a genuine nice guy, going through his own situation, with patience and understanding for how Merrit acts when she's trying to protect herself.
I loved the genuine good guy aspect, and that the romance portion wasn't the main conflict of the novel, but rather the resolution. I don't know if it's just what I've been reading lately, but this was a breath of fresh air for me.
The two main characters are well rounded and are deeper than appearances. The author ensures each character is so well depicted, that you feel like you know them. Merrit is a well guarded character. She protects herself with sarcasm and pushes love away, because of her tragic backstory and her unwillingness to get hurt again. Chase is a genuine nice guy, going through his own situation, with patience and understanding for how Merrit acts when she's trying to protect herself.
I loved the genuine good guy aspect, and that the romance portion wasn't the main conflict of the novel, but rather the resolution. I don't know if it's just what I've been reading lately, but this was a breath of fresh air for me.
July 4, 2024
great debut novel
Story:8/10
Spice: 1/5
Spice Hierarchy: Open Door
Narration: 4/5
This duet follows Merrit after she is pulled from her car accident and spend two weeks in a coma. It has reverse grumpy/sunshine, friends to lovers, found family, and mental health rep.
Typically I prefer dual POV but for this duet it worked to have just Merrit’s side. In Collision, Merrit really learns to allow others to be there for her and with her. After losing so much, she finds a family. And who wouldn’t want to be family with Chase Brooks. In Avoidance, I loved Merrit’s willingness to put her health first for awhile. Merrit’s growth through this duet is so well done. Her character development and story arc make her so relatable.
These are Kristen’s first two novels and I am enjoying going back to her backlist. Her ability to write mental health representation is truly unlike any other author.
Story:8/10
Spice: 1/5
Spice Hierarchy: Open Door
Narration: 4/5
This duet follows Merrit after she is pulled from her car accident and spend two weeks in a coma. It has reverse grumpy/sunshine, friends to lovers, found family, and mental health rep.
Typically I prefer dual POV but for this duet it worked to have just Merrit’s side. In Collision, Merrit really learns to allow others to be there for her and with her. After losing so much, she finds a family. And who wouldn’t want to be family with Chase Brooks. In Avoidance, I loved Merrit’s willingness to put her health first for awhile. Merrit’s growth through this duet is so well done. Her character development and story arc make her so relatable.
These are Kristen’s first two novels and I am enjoying going back to her backlist. Her ability to write mental health representation is truly unlike any other author.
August 3, 2019
Sometimes we read a story with characters and storylines that seem unrelatable – on the surface. My advice to you – READ! My life experiences, age, lifestyle all vastly different than Merritt’s or any of the characters in this incredibly well-crafted debut.
Yet, page after beautiful page, I found myself completely invested in their lives. Ms. Granata has written a story for us all – painfully real and sensitive. A touching journey about not just getting through the difficult times life can serve up, but about embracing them, learning from them and truly overcoming them along the way.
I like the cliffhanger ending! More so, I suppose because I’ve arrived at this talented author’s party late in the game and I can read the sequel Avoidance right away!
Yet, page after beautiful page, I found myself completely invested in their lives. Ms. Granata has written a story for us all – painfully real and sensitive. A touching journey about not just getting through the difficult times life can serve up, but about embracing them, learning from them and truly overcoming them along the way.
I like the cliffhanger ending! More so, I suppose because I’ve arrived at this talented author’s party late in the game and I can read the sequel Avoidance right away!
August 21, 2018
Be ready to jump in this story which will take you on a whirlwind of emotions. I was a happy, sad, devastated, cheerful, hopeful and worried. Merritt’s journey of letting go of her troubled past was part of the roller coaster of emotions and Chase’s journey of coming to terms with his future was another. The reader can’t help but cheer for these two. The characters were well developed but continued to evolve with their new experiences. They navigate real life issues which makes the story relatable. It’s a GREAT read! Warning: this story does require tissues!
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