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Seasons of Love #1
Whiteout
Noah Landers wakes up one day with a headache and no memory of where--or who--he is. Jason, the man taking care of him, tries to fill in some of the blanks: they're in a cabin in Colorado on vacation, and Noah slipped on ice and hit his head. But even with amnesia, Noah knows Jason is leaving out something important.
Jason O'Reilly is sexy as hell, treats Noah like he's precious, and seems determined to make this the romantic getaway they'd apparently dreamed of together. But Noah's more concerned that he's trapped alone with Jason in the middle of a blizzard while his slowly-returning memories bring hints of secrets and betrayal.
Noah's not sure what's the truth and what's a lie. But as he learns who he is--and who Jason is to him--Noah's he's forced to reevaluate everything he believes about himself, about loyalty . . . and about love.
Second Edition -- Originally published 2017 by Riptide Publishing.
Jason O'Reilly is sexy as hell, treats Noah like he's precious, and seems determined to make this the romantic getaway they'd apparently dreamed of together. But Noah's more concerned that he's trapped alone with Jason in the middle of a blizzard while his slowly-returning memories bring hints of secrets and betrayal.
Noah's not sure what's the truth and what's a lie. But as he learns who he is--and who Jason is to him--Noah's he's forced to reevaluate everything he believes about himself, about loyalty . . . and about love.
Second Edition -- Originally published 2017 by Riptide Publishing.
ebook
First published January 23, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
January 16, 2023
I enjoyed this book so much.
It had a great plot, wonderful characters and so many feelings.
The mystery part of the book was brilliant. It drew me into the story from the very first page and I couldn't put it down. So well-written.
Even the second part of the book kept me turning pages, but for other reasons.
A very unique and refreshing read. One of my favourites this year.
******
Re-read 1/2019
Re-read 1/2021: Even though the mystery is no longer a mystery, I still love this book so much.
Re-read 1/2023: This story still manages to keep me fully invested and on the edge of my seat, even though I know exactly what's coming next and how it ends.
It had a great plot, wonderful characters and so many feelings.
The mystery part of the book was brilliant. It drew me into the story from the very first page and I couldn't put it down. So well-written.
Even the second part of the book kept me turning pages, but for other reasons.
A very unique and refreshing read. One of my favourites this year.
******
Re-read 1/2019
Re-read 1/2021: Even though the mystery is no longer a mystery, I still love this book so much.
Re-read 1/2023: This story still manages to keep me fully invested and on the edge of my seat, even though I know exactly what's coming next and how it ends.
March 13, 2017
*3.5 stars*
The plot for this one seemed straight out of the romance trope handbook. I mean, another amnesia story? I have a weakness for them, of course, but I've read a TON of amnesia romance, especially in M/M. But newbie author, Elyse Springer, surprised me a bit with some twists and turns, which kept me on my toes.
I'm always wary with newbie authors. Sometimes I get some real gems, but other times I get burned, and I get burned BADLY. After reading thousands of romances, and nearly a thousand just in the M/M genre, I have little patience for bad books. I think Elyse Springer has some real potential up her sleeve. She didn't blow my mind with this book, but she proved herself to be a competent and interesting author.
The plot ended up being a little OTT; stranded, amnesia, and then a whole mess of drama and issues. I'm not usually a fan of convoluted plots, but there was something about this story that charmed me. I was predictably a little confused at the beginning, but once I cottoned on to the storyline, I was excited and along for the ride.
No spoilers here, but this isn't your typical amnesia book. Sure, it isn't going to make a favorites list for me, but I think this is a very worthwhile read and a great intro to a new author.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
The plot for this one seemed straight out of the romance trope handbook. I mean, another amnesia story? I have a weakness for them, of course, but I've read a TON of amnesia romance, especially in M/M. But newbie author, Elyse Springer, surprised me a bit with some twists and turns, which kept me on my toes.
I'm always wary with newbie authors. Sometimes I get some real gems, but other times I get burned, and I get burned BADLY. After reading thousands of romances, and nearly a thousand just in the M/M genre, I have little patience for bad books. I think Elyse Springer has some real potential up her sleeve. She didn't blow my mind with this book, but she proved herself to be a competent and interesting author.
The plot ended up being a little OTT; stranded, amnesia, and then a whole mess of drama and issues. I'm not usually a fan of convoluted plots, but there was something about this story that charmed me. I was predictably a little confused at the beginning, but once I cottoned on to the storyline, I was excited and along for the ride.
No spoilers here, but this isn't your typical amnesia book. Sure, it isn't going to make a favorites list for me, but I think this is a very worthwhile read and a great intro to a new author.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
February 7, 2017
4 HEARTS--
Before reading
: Amnesia and a stranded trope?
*cackles wildly*
Want!
After reading : Damn, no matter how hard I try, I just can't escape the Santa jizz. ;P
Debut novel by Elyse Springer, Whiteout has more to offer than just Jizzmas (thankfully). I went in expecting a lot of snow, a guy with amnesia possibly regaining his memory, some romance and more snow.
And we do get that.
But it's more than just a standard amnesia trope. (Gah, do I enjoy the amnesia trope)
Noah Landers wakes up not remembering who his is after hitting his head while on his Christmas Colorado vacation. His older lover, Jason O'Reilly, attends to injured and memory lost Noah's every need as best as he can while they are stuck in their vacation cabin. Following medical orders from a doctor on the phone, Jason lets Noah work through his thoughts and see if his retrograde amnesia will sort itself out as Noah heals.
The thing is, something is off to Noah. In the back of his consciousness, something is ringing false. Who can he trust while he is stuck in the woods, and has rely on a man he feels a connection to but isn't sure if he can trust.
Springer creates a mystery, slowly piecing along the puzzle of Noah Landers. Can we trust Jason with the crumbs of info Noah gets out of him? Can we trust Noah? With all these questions, the lovers have a shared chemistry that can't be faked. The author doesn't have her men jump directly into the sack for the couple of days of being stranded. The sexual tension builds as well as the intrigue.
Whiteout is separated in two parts, Part 1 set in a small Colorado cabin - 60% and Part 2 is back in NYC. Part 1 is the entire mystery of Noah, which I solved somewhere around 25% of the story. But I couldn't stop from reading to see their individual reactions. Even with the sugar and Jizzmas feels that Jason slathered in that cabin. I know there are Christmas tradition people out there, but I was leery along with Noah with some of the demonstrations.
Expect sweet romance that got to be borderline sugar coma for parts of Part 1.
And when it ends, well that's when the true work begins for Noah. (You can kinda guess how part 1 closes out)
Part 2 was well matched for part 1, despite being slightly shorter in length. It made me appreciate and adore the schoompy sugar of part 1. No more mystery. Now we get to read the men in their habitat. Kudos to the author writing a great portrayal of NYC (including Brooklyn). It definitely read like winter in NYC.
What I didn't except was the love affair with Broadway.
That passion along with the hurt/comfort aspect, second chances and learning who the real Noah is with him for the second time around was exciting to read. The author had a great balance with main and secondary characters (glad to see Noah's friends will lead in the other three books in the series) They were really great friends. And flashbacks go either way for me when I read a flashback heavy romance. Springer did a great job with using them without the main plot getting lost.
This was definitely plot heavy without making the story too angsty to read. With solid characters, realistic angst (part 2) and reading how a certain someone redeems himself...how could I not be hooked. I don't have much issues with Whiteout, the editing, pacing were great. The sugar was a tad heavy but after reflecting back, it's just the kind of guy Jason is. The revenge angle...personally I could have done without it but it's necessary for the plot.
When you read the novel, you'll see. ;)
Great couple, great characters and a sweet plot with droplets of hurt/comfort to break it up.
Recommended for fans of second chances with a side helping of amnesia.
I'll be reading more from this author for sure.
A copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
*cackles wildly*
Want!
After reading : Damn, no matter how hard I try, I just can't escape the Santa jizz. ;P
Debut novel by Elyse Springer, Whiteout has more to offer than just Jizzmas (thankfully). I went in expecting a lot of snow, a guy with amnesia possibly regaining his memory, some romance and more snow.
And we do get that.
But it's more than just a standard amnesia trope. (Gah, do I enjoy the amnesia trope)
Noah Landers wakes up not remembering who his is after hitting his head while on his Christmas Colorado vacation. His older lover, Jason O'Reilly, attends to injured and memory lost Noah's every need as best as he can while they are stuck in their vacation cabin. Following medical orders from a doctor on the phone, Jason lets Noah work through his thoughts and see if his retrograde amnesia will sort itself out as Noah heals.
The thing is, something is off to Noah. In the back of his consciousness, something is ringing false. Who can he trust while he is stuck in the woods, and has rely on a man he feels a connection to but isn't sure if he can trust.
Springer creates a mystery, slowly piecing along the puzzle of Noah Landers. Can we trust Jason with the crumbs of info Noah gets out of him? Can we trust Noah? With all these questions, the lovers have a shared chemistry that can't be faked. The author doesn't have her men jump directly into the sack for the couple of days of being stranded. The sexual tension builds as well as the intrigue.
Whiteout is separated in two parts, Part 1 set in a small Colorado cabin - 60% and Part 2 is back in NYC. Part 1 is the entire mystery of Noah, which I solved somewhere around 25% of the story. But I couldn't stop from reading to see their individual reactions. Even with the sugar and Jizzmas feels that Jason slathered in that cabin. I know there are Christmas tradition people out there, but I was leery along with Noah with some of the demonstrations.
Expect sweet romance that got to be borderline sugar coma for parts of Part 1.
And when it ends, well that's when the true work begins for Noah. (You can kinda guess how part 1 closes out)
Part 2 was well matched for part 1, despite being slightly shorter in length. It made me appreciate and adore the schoompy sugar of part 1. No more mystery. Now we get to read the men in their habitat. Kudos to the author writing a great portrayal of NYC (including Brooklyn). It definitely read like winter in NYC.
What I didn't except was the love affair with Broadway.
That passion along with the hurt/comfort aspect, second chances and learning who the real Noah is with him for the second time around was exciting to read. The author had a great balance with main and secondary characters (glad to see Noah's friends will lead in the other three books in the series) They were really great friends. And flashbacks go either way for me when I read a flashback heavy romance. Springer did a great job with using them without the main plot getting lost.
This was definitely plot heavy without making the story too angsty to read. With solid characters, realistic angst (part 2) and reading how a certain someone redeems himself...how could I not be hooked. I don't have much issues with Whiteout, the editing, pacing were great. The sugar was a tad heavy but after reflecting back, it's just the kind of guy Jason is. The revenge angle...personally I could have done without it but it's necessary for the plot.
When you read the novel, you'll see. ;)
Great couple, great characters and a sweet plot with droplets of hurt/comfort to break it up.
Recommended for fans of second chances with a side helping of amnesia.
I'll be reading more from this author for sure.
A copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
December 7, 2016
Reading the first and second parts of this novel is like reading two separate stories.
The first part takes place in a cabin a few days before Christmas with a blizzard raging outside. Noah wakes up with no recollection of who or where he is. But a handsome man is taking care of him, and Noah implicitly knows to trust Jason.
Then doubt starts creeping in. Why does Jason look so guilty when talking about the fall that led to Noah's concussion and retrograde amnesia? Is Jason really talking to a doctor on the phone?
Memories come trickling back, slowly at first, and Noah remembers Jason's love, his tenderness. But he also remembers Jason's anger. He remembers his father, his mother crying; he remembers hours spent at the library doing his research.
Most importantly, he remembers that one of them is a liar, and no cozy cabin will fix that.
Part two begins in New York City in early-January. There was a before; this is AFTER.
Noah, an actor who's lost all passion for his art, begins to slowly come to terms with the past and look toward the future. He makes peace with his father's death. He makes a new friend who gives him a lucky hat. He goes to an audition and gets the part. And he starts working on a scrapbook of memories. The scrapbook is a means to an end; it's important. Noah is determined to follow his heart.
I don't want to say too much more about the plot, because there's a twist in this book that creates an aura of mystery and suspense. There are quite a few flashbacks, but they're short and help flesh out Noah and Jason's relationship.
The story is told from Noah's POV, so Jason remained a bit of an enigma. I had a couple niggles regarding the way his character was handled (MILD SPOILERS in tag):
I think I enjoyed the first part of the story more than the second, but I did like that Noah had to find himself before he could find Jason again.
The steam level was fairly low, which was too bad, but the couple included scenes were passionate and sensual. I also loved the ending, which was sweet without being cheesy. All the hearts for that!
I'm kind of bummed the next two books in this series are F/F (about Sara and Abigail, both of whom we meet in this book), because that's really not a romance genre I get into, but the fourth book is M/M and features Tony, another secondary character we meet in Whiteout, whom I really liked. I'm waiting for Tony's story!
The first part takes place in a cabin a few days before Christmas with a blizzard raging outside. Noah wakes up with no recollection of who or where he is. But a handsome man is taking care of him, and Noah implicitly knows to trust Jason.
Then doubt starts creeping in. Why does Jason look so guilty when talking about the fall that led to Noah's concussion and retrograde amnesia? Is Jason really talking to a doctor on the phone?
Memories come trickling back, slowly at first, and Noah remembers Jason's love, his tenderness. But he also remembers Jason's anger. He remembers his father, his mother crying; he remembers hours spent at the library doing his research.
Most importantly, he remembers that one of them is a liar, and no cozy cabin will fix that.
Part two begins in New York City in early-January. There was a before; this is AFTER.
Noah, an actor who's lost all passion for his art, begins to slowly come to terms with the past and look toward the future. He makes peace with his father's death. He makes a new friend who gives him a lucky hat. He goes to an audition and gets the part. And he starts working on a scrapbook of memories. The scrapbook is a means to an end; it's important. Noah is determined to follow his heart.
I don't want to say too much more about the plot, because there's a twist in this book that creates an aura of mystery and suspense. There are quite a few flashbacks, but they're short and help flesh out Noah and Jason's relationship.
The story is told from Noah's POV, so Jason remained a bit of an enigma. I had a couple niggles regarding the way his character was handled (MILD SPOILERS in tag):
I think I enjoyed the first part of the story more than the second, but I did like that Noah had to find himself before he could find Jason again.
The steam level was fairly low, which was too bad, but the couple included scenes were passionate and sensual. I also loved the ending, which was sweet without being cheesy. All the hearts for that!
I'm kind of bummed the next two books in this series are F/F (about Sara and Abigail, both of whom we meet in this book), because that's really not a romance genre I get into, but the fourth book is M/M and features Tony, another secondary character we meet in Whiteout, whom I really liked. I'm waiting for Tony's story!
December 28, 2018
~4.5 stars~
This book was quite a pleasant surprise. It's an amnesia book.......but it's not your typical one.
Noah wakes up in a cabin in Colorado with a man named Jason, whom he instinctually feels safe with....a connection. But he knows little else. He can't remember anything after a serious bump to the head. He doesn't even remember who he, himself, is.
Despite the fact that Jason is clearly upset by his injury and loss of memories, the things Jason is telling him don't quite feel true. Which makes an amnesiac panic just a bit, right?
Because they're in the middle of a blizzard, Noah can't be seen in a hospital, but Jason's been calling the nearest ER's doctor for guidance. Dr. Whitcombe says Noah should regain his memories over the next one to seven days.......so that's good, right?
Only, as the memories start trickling in, they don't make sense. They don't all coincide with what Jason is telling him.
The first half of the book is Noah getting his memories back a little at a time, and his growing panic over why those memories aren't all connecting.....to his other memories and/or to what Jason is telling him. I enjoyed this part of the book for the mini mystery that it was. I was able to guess how that part was gonna play out, but still had some surprises along the way.
Part 2 of the book takes place in NYC in the near future after the setting in the cabin. Without spoiling things, the second half of the book was a great punch in the feelz. I got some leaky eyes, not gonna lie. Even though our MCs weren't together for some of it, it was a beautiful exploration of an MC realizing what he wants in life and going after it. Even if he gets kicked down while doing it. (And the stumbling was heart-wrenching, but so so so worth it for this girl who loves some relationship angst).
I know I'm being vague, but going any further would spoil the fun, and you should go into this without knowing details about the outcome of Noah getting his memories or Part 2. Just trust on this. It'll be worth it.
4.5 stars rounded down because of the lack of development of Noah's feelings over looking like the dead lover and because I honestly don't know if I forgive one of the MCs all the way for what he did in the past.
I definitely recommend this one. It's not your typical amnesia story, and watching the results unfold was truly entertaining.
This book was quite a pleasant surprise. It's an amnesia book.......but it's not your typical one.
Noah wakes up in a cabin in Colorado with a man named Jason, whom he instinctually feels safe with....a connection. But he knows little else. He can't remember anything after a serious bump to the head. He doesn't even remember who he, himself, is.
Despite the fact that Jason is clearly upset by his injury and loss of memories, the things Jason is telling him don't quite feel true. Which makes an amnesiac panic just a bit, right?
Because they're in the middle of a blizzard, Noah can't be seen in a hospital, but Jason's been calling the nearest ER's doctor for guidance. Dr. Whitcombe says Noah should regain his memories over the next one to seven days.......so that's good, right?
Only, as the memories start trickling in, they don't make sense. They don't all coincide with what Jason is telling him.
The first half of the book is Noah getting his memories back a little at a time, and his growing panic over why those memories aren't all connecting.....to his other memories and/or to what Jason is telling him. I enjoyed this part of the book for the mini mystery that it was. I was able to guess how that part was gonna play out, but still had some surprises along the way.
Part 2 of the book takes place in NYC in the near future after the setting in the cabin. Without spoiling things, the second half of the book was a great punch in the feelz. I got some leaky eyes, not gonna lie. Even though our MCs weren't together for some of it, it was a beautiful exploration of an MC realizing what he wants in life and going after it. Even if he gets kicked down while doing it. (And the stumbling was heart-wrenching, but so so so worth it for this girl who loves some relationship angst).
I know I'm being vague, but going any further would spoil the fun, and you should go into this without knowing details about the outcome of Noah getting his memories or Part 2. Just trust on this. It'll be worth it.
4.5 stars rounded down because of the lack of development of Noah's feelings over looking like the dead lover and because I honestly don't know if I forgive one of the MCs all the way for what he did in the past.
I definitely recommend this one. It's not your typical amnesia story, and watching the results unfold was truly entertaining.
September 22, 2024
✰ 3.75 stars ✰
“You’ve always known me. I was never able to hide the most important parts of myself from you.”
When Noah Landers woke up in that cabin in a whiteout, he had no recollection of who he was or how he ended up here. Suffering a slight case of amnesia, after a nasty fall, all he has is the love and care of the one sexy-as-hell man who is his companion in the cabin, Jason O'Reilly - someone he can't help but feel is hiding something from him. As their time confined to their lodging continues as the blizzard rages outside, Noah cannot deny how very affectionate and caring Jason is - how reassuring and comforting his presence is - a calming balm that makes him believe that this is a man I can trust my heart to. 🫂🫶🏻 But, as tentative memories start to burst forward in the crevices of Noah's memory - Noah starts to doubt the sincerity of their relationship - ones that make him question, who really is the one with the secrets here - and who really is the one who should really be trusted? 😔
“I didn’t know my own name, but I knew you cared for me. My heart knew you, even if my mind didn’t. In the end, you said that you didn’t know who I was. But you did.”
This was really lovely. 🌺 I don't know what it was about it that made it flow so smoothly and pull me in. Maybe because it was a mystery as to who Jason was to Noah that kept me going - the thrill of suspenseful anticipation of where the lies and the truths would converge. 'Can I even trust my own memories? There were too many questions.' Maybe it was the soft and gentle way their romance blossomed in that cabin that showed how deeply they felt for each other. Maybe it was the eventual reveal that turned the tables so shockingly so that I didn't quite know what to expect would happen next. 😥
But, the author showed that love truly has to be earned and deserved. 'I did fall in love with him.' That when the mistakes are made, it is up to each other to prove and fight for forgiveness and a shot at happiness again. What both of them had to overcome to get to that final stage of happiness was worth seeing, because it gave a steady growth to Noah's character. 'Someday. That implied a future and a chance. “Will you let me try to earn your forgiveness?' 💔💔 Once he emerged from that cabin - with all his memories restored... Yes, cutting myself off to say, that moment when he recalled how he ended up here - so well-done. The minute it hit, I was just - woah! And it worked! It worked and Jason's reaction and everything that transpired afterwards made Noah grow on me as a person, too. He made his mistakes and he was willing to work hard to make amends - even if it meant groveling and allowing Jason a reprieve from his presence, so he could prove that he was his - 'something tangible. Something sincere.' 👍🏻👍🏻
“I walked out earlier because I was afraid of being hurt. I didn’t want to risk my heart, because what if it was just another act?
But I didn’t realize until that moment, watching you falling apart when you thought you were alone, that you had put yourself at risk by doing this, even knowing that I could break your heart.”
There is also love - love in rediscovering it, too. Love that manifests in the memories Noah and Jason shared together - tender kisses and heartfelt hugs and gentle caresses that made me kinda melt at how consuming it was - the chance to reclaim those feelings again. For it is a second-chance romance - in more ways than one - one that is taking advantage of through deception and lies - 'do you remember when . . .' - and you don't know who to root for. 😟 And it hurt more, because they were both good people - who unintentionally hurt each other. Jason has suffered a deep loss - someone who is very close and dear to him. To meet Noah how he did, when he did, why he did - I felt his reaction was valid and deserving, especially with how much Noah meant to him. 'You’re the happiness and comfort and warmth in my life. I hope you remember that soon.' His love was taken for granted - his kind and compassionate heart felt betrayed and hurt, and I liked how the author steadily revealed all the hidden parts of their past. 🫂🫂
Noah working his way back to his heart, made me feel their love so much more. 💞 It is Noah's story, through and through, and how he had to earn his way back through his heart - his forgiveness and his trust. A path of self-discovery in attempting to rectify his past actions and also to live with the decisions he's made. How Noah recognized how much he cared for him - even when he knew that he didn't know who he was - to remind him of what they had together - it was heartbreaking, and yet at the same time, heartwarming, in seeing the two of them on the path of healing. 😢 'Romance isn’t about the big gestures,” he said. “It’s about the little moments. The connection. The intimacy.' It's that question, isn't it? Does the heart remember more or the mind? Where do the feelings of love really come from and what is it about the person that makes us feel so much is what is supposed to matter? When one doubts what is real and what is not, how do we decide if what we believed is worth fighting for? It sounds a lot more profound than I'm describing it, but I am trying to keep it intentionally vague, so as to not take away the actual outcome. 🥲
“You were there for me when I didn’t have any, so now I’m giving you mine in the hopes that you’ll see me for who I really am.”
I don't know what it was about it, but reading this felt so soothing. Even when everything fell apart - it made sense why it did. And the build-up to the final resolution was like a soft warmth that just felt so romantic. Hard to believe, but it was a solid conflict that resolved in a credible way that I cared enough to see their happiness. 💮 The supporting cast that was introduced along the way, never seemed to overtake the plot in any way - rather, they guided Noah in the right path. 'The heart doesn’t heal overnight. Just don’t let the pain consume you.' 🤧 Encouraged him to make amends for his actions and push him to see the untapped potential that he had within him. I don't know if I will consider reading their own stories, maybe one of theirs, but I liked them. They weren't duplicitous or hurtful or even spiteful - just good guys who were willing to help Noah learn from his mistakes, step forward in a clearer direction, and win the man of his dreams' heart back. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Would it have helped to have Jason's POV, too? Hmmm... I don't think so; because, at the forefront was Noah's realization of what his life was before he lost his memory, to the ability to accept that part of him and work to be the kind of person that deserved Jason's love. 'Same body. Same mouth, same hands. This was never a lie.' 🥺 It was a character-driven story that felt the pull of showing the person you love how the love you have for them was always there - always real - never-changing, never-forgetting. And I was happy and satisfied with the ending; shocking, I know! It was beautifully built-up, believable and hard-earned and for the two of them to return to the place where their memories were first shattered - well, rather, reawakened, makes it all the more a wholesome win for me. 🤍🤍
“You’ve always known me. I was never able to hide the most important parts of myself from you.”
When Noah Landers woke up in that cabin in a whiteout, he had no recollection of who he was or how he ended up here. Suffering a slight case of amnesia, after a nasty fall, all he has is the love and care of the one sexy-as-hell man who is his companion in the cabin, Jason O'Reilly - someone he can't help but feel is hiding something from him. As their time confined to their lodging continues as the blizzard rages outside, Noah cannot deny how very affectionate and caring Jason is - how reassuring and comforting his presence is - a calming balm that makes him believe that this is a man I can trust my heart to. 🫂🫶🏻 But, as tentative memories start to burst forward in the crevices of Noah's memory - Noah starts to doubt the sincerity of their relationship - ones that make him question, who really is the one with the secrets here - and who really is the one who should really be trusted? 😔
“I didn’t know my own name, but I knew you cared for me. My heart knew you, even if my mind didn’t. In the end, you said that you didn’t know who I was. But you did.”
This was really lovely. 🌺 I don't know what it was about it that made it flow so smoothly and pull me in. Maybe because it was a mystery as to who Jason was to Noah that kept me going - the thrill of suspenseful anticipation of where the lies and the truths would converge. 'Can I even trust my own memories? There were too many questions.' Maybe it was the soft and gentle way their romance blossomed in that cabin that showed how deeply they felt for each other. Maybe it was the eventual reveal that turned the tables so shockingly so that I didn't quite know what to expect would happen next. 😥
But, the author showed that love truly has to be earned and deserved. 'I did fall in love with him.' That when the mistakes are made, it is up to each other to prove and fight for forgiveness and a shot at happiness again. What both of them had to overcome to get to that final stage of happiness was worth seeing, because it gave a steady growth to Noah's character. 'Someday. That implied a future and a chance. “Will you let me try to earn your forgiveness?' 💔💔 Once he emerged from that cabin - with all his memories restored... Yes, cutting myself off to say, that moment when he recalled how he ended up here - so well-done. The minute it hit, I was just - woah! And it worked! It worked and Jason's reaction and everything that transpired afterwards made Noah grow on me as a person, too. He made his mistakes and he was willing to work hard to make amends - even if it meant groveling and allowing Jason a reprieve from his presence, so he could prove that he was his - 'something tangible. Something sincere.' 👍🏻👍🏻
“I walked out earlier because I was afraid of being hurt. I didn’t want to risk my heart, because what if it was just another act?
But I didn’t realize until that moment, watching you falling apart when you thought you were alone, that you had put yourself at risk by doing this, even knowing that I could break your heart.”
There is also love - love in rediscovering it, too. Love that manifests in the memories Noah and Jason shared together - tender kisses and heartfelt hugs and gentle caresses that made me kinda melt at how consuming it was - the chance to reclaim those feelings again. For it is a second-chance romance - in more ways than one - one that is taking advantage of through deception and lies - 'do you remember when . . .' - and you don't know who to root for. 😟 And it hurt more, because they were both good people - who unintentionally hurt each other. Jason has suffered a deep loss - someone who is very close and dear to him. To meet Noah how he did, when he did, why he did - I felt his reaction was valid and deserving, especially with how much Noah meant to him. 'You’re the happiness and comfort and warmth in my life. I hope you remember that soon.' His love was taken for granted - his kind and compassionate heart felt betrayed and hurt, and I liked how the author steadily revealed all the hidden parts of their past. 🫂🫂
Noah working his way back to his heart, made me feel their love so much more. 💞 It is Noah's story, through and through, and how he had to earn his way back through his heart - his forgiveness and his trust. A path of self-discovery in attempting to rectify his past actions and also to live with the decisions he's made. How Noah recognized how much he cared for him - even when he knew that he didn't know who he was - to remind him of what they had together - it was heartbreaking, and yet at the same time, heartwarming, in seeing the two of them on the path of healing. 😢 'Romance isn’t about the big gestures,” he said. “It’s about the little moments. The connection. The intimacy.' It's that question, isn't it? Does the heart remember more or the mind? Where do the feelings of love really come from and what is it about the person that makes us feel so much is what is supposed to matter? When one doubts what is real and what is not, how do we decide if what we believed is worth fighting for? It sounds a lot more profound than I'm describing it, but I am trying to keep it intentionally vague, so as to not take away the actual outcome. 🥲
“You were there for me when I didn’t have any, so now I’m giving you mine in the hopes that you’ll see me for who I really am.”
I don't know what it was about it, but reading this felt so soothing. Even when everything fell apart - it made sense why it did. And the build-up to the final resolution was like a soft warmth that just felt so romantic. Hard to believe, but it was a solid conflict that resolved in a credible way that I cared enough to see their happiness. 💮 The supporting cast that was introduced along the way, never seemed to overtake the plot in any way - rather, they guided Noah in the right path. 'The heart doesn’t heal overnight. Just don’t let the pain consume you.' 🤧 Encouraged him to make amends for his actions and push him to see the untapped potential that he had within him. I don't know if I will consider reading their own stories, maybe one of theirs, but I liked them. They weren't duplicitous or hurtful or even spiteful - just good guys who were willing to help Noah learn from his mistakes, step forward in a clearer direction, and win the man of his dreams' heart back. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Would it have helped to have Jason's POV, too? Hmmm... I don't think so; because, at the forefront was Noah's realization of what his life was before he lost his memory, to the ability to accept that part of him and work to be the kind of person that deserved Jason's love. 'Same body. Same mouth, same hands. This was never a lie.' 🥺 It was a character-driven story that felt the pull of showing the person you love how the love you have for them was always there - always real - never-changing, never-forgetting. And I was happy and satisfied with the ending; shocking, I know! It was beautifully built-up, believable and hard-earned and for the two of them to return to the place where their memories were first shattered - well, rather, reawakened, makes it all the more a wholesome win for me. 🤍🤍
March 4, 2021
3.5-3.75 Stars
Noah (29 years old) wakes up in a cabin with his head hurting and without knowing where he is, who he is, or even who is with him in that cabin. There is only static… but he has this feeling that the more his companion speaks, the more he knows something isn’t right…
Told in single POV, 3rd person, it’s the first installment in the "Seasons of Love" series and can be read as a standalone. It was my first read by this author and was enjoyable. The story started off really good but then there was part two when the MCs were separated and then what I needed the most was Jason’s (41 years old) POV. I wanted to know what he was doing and how he coped with the situation (from his own perspective). It’s a bit angsty, a second chance story with an interesting twist, and contains flashbacks. Overall, I liked it and hope you enjoy it as well!
Noah (29 years old) wakes up in a cabin with his head hurting and without knowing where he is, who he is, or even who is with him in that cabin. There is only static… but he has this feeling that the more his companion speaks, the more he knows something isn’t right…
Told in single POV, 3rd person, it’s the first installment in the "Seasons of Love" series and can be read as a standalone. It was my first read by this author and was enjoyable. The story started off really good but then there was part two when the MCs were separated and then what I needed the most was Jason’s (41 years old) POV. I wanted to know what he was doing and how he coped with the situation (from his own perspective). It’s a bit angsty, a second chance story with an interesting twist, and contains flashbacks. Overall, I liked it and hope you enjoy it as well!
March 6, 2017
This is the best romance book I've read in a very long time.
I was completely swept away by Noah and Jason's story. The first 40% or so read like a psych thriller. The mystery, the suspicion, the clues...oh my word, I was a nervous wreck. Where was this story going?
Then, bam! the surprise and all of a sudden I was reading something completely different but no less enthralling.
The last half of the book had me holding my breath for a different reason. I hurt, I ached for the loss and the mess that couldn't be cleaned up. My eyes teared up. Oh, I hate that. But, it was that emotional. Then it wrapped up and I was thinking this was a fantastic book.
Yet, there was more!!! The cherry on top. Heck, it was whipped cream, nuts and a cherry on top with that epilogue that left me feeling all gooye and sweet.
I just want to read it all over again because how can the next one possibly measure up?
Review ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
Release date 1/23/2017 - don't miss out
I was completely swept away by Noah and Jason's story. The first 40% or so read like a psych thriller. The mystery, the suspicion, the clues...oh my word, I was a nervous wreck. Where was this story going?
Then, bam! the surprise and all of a sudden I was reading something completely different but no less enthralling.
The last half of the book had me holding my breath for a different reason. I hurt, I ached for the loss and the mess that couldn't be cleaned up. My eyes teared up. Oh, I hate that. But, it was that emotional. Then it wrapped up and I was thinking this was a fantastic book.
Yet, there was more!!! The cherry on top. Heck, it was whipped cream, nuts and a cherry on top with that epilogue that left me feeling all gooye and sweet.
I just want to read it all over again because how can the next one possibly measure up?
Review ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
Release date 1/23/2017 - don't miss out
May 2, 2021
This was an enjoyable read. Not too heavy, not too light, the initial set-up and the “mystery” kept my interest even after I figured out what was going on, which happened earlier than it was revealed in the book—there were two clues that put together made it pretty obvious to me, but I would still advice to go into this one blind if you can.
I liked that both MCs were realistically flawed, maybe even a little too much flawed, and the story arc was one I could easily get behind. There were a couple of minor inconsistencies in the MCs’ behavior/thoughts, but I could overlook those without much effort. What I found less convincing were the secondary characters.
I could’ve also done with less repetitiveness, especially in the second part of the book, and the happened a little abruptly, but overall the story flew easily and I enjoyed it.
I liked that both MCs were realistically flawed, maybe even a little too much flawed, and the story arc was one I could easily get behind. There were a couple of minor inconsistencies in the MCs’ behavior/thoughts, but I could overlook those without much effort. What I found less convincing were the secondary characters.
I could’ve also done with less repetitiveness, especially in the second part of the book, and the happened a little abruptly, but overall the story flew easily and I enjoyed it.
September 12, 2017
Todos sabéis lo fan que soy del rollo amnesia, pero uf, a mitad he tenido que dejarlo porque no he conseguido empatizar ni con los protagonistas ni tampoco con el modo en que está narrado.
Por dos veces lo he intentado, sin lograrlo, así que no pierdo más mi valioso (aunque sea del 3er mundo) tiempo.
Dudo mucho que tras este fiasco vuelva a leer nada de esta serie, tengo en el kindle fics con este trope mucho mejor llevado. En una palabra: DECEPCIÓN.
Por dos veces lo he intentado, sin lograrlo, así que no pierdo más mi valioso (aunque sea del 3er mundo) tiempo.
Dudo mucho que tras este fiasco vuelva a leer nada de esta serie, tengo en el kindle fics con este trope mucho mejor llevado. En una palabra: DECEPCIÓN.
April 21, 2017
A very interesting new take on the amnesia theme, I wasn't expecting the twist that happened and it was very satisfying.
My only complain is that the MC's are separated for a big chunk of the book and I get why but it dimished my enjoment.
My only complain is that the MC's are separated for a big chunk of the book and I get why but it dimished my enjoment.
January 18, 2021
Noah wakes up in a Colorado cabin, with a head injury. He doesn’t know who he is or whether his partner John is who he claims to be. It’s clear John cares for Noah very much, providing some much needed tlc. However, John is reluctant to provide many details and what he does reveal, alongside certain discoveries, leaves Noah conflicted. Something isn’t quite right but despite his doubts, he can’t ignore the attraction he feels.
I was fully engaged with this mystery, never quite knowing whether John was genuine, or if Noah himself didn’t have something to hide. Over time, these two get closer and even though I did work out one piece of the puzzle early on, I was shocked at what came to light. The subsequent fallout once all of Noah’s memories returned left me gutted.
The remainder of the story takes place back in New York and had a different feel and pace. I can’t say I enjoyed it as much as the first half but mainly this was down to feeling that one mans quest for atonement was doomed to fail, no matter how much I wanted him to succeed.
Nonetheless, ever the romantic, I was so happy with that ending. It was worth the very long wait. I liked that the author didn’t sweep everything under the carpet. It wouldn’t be easy but you’re left with NO doubt that they will make it work.
Despite a few niggles, I really enjoyed it.
February 23, 2017
Late night "I-can't-sleep-and-it's-on-my-Kindle" read.
A combination of insomnia and quick writing style lead to me finishing this in a handful of hours.
The amnesia trope is just that-- a trope. It's something we've all read before and probably have seen in fanfic's of our OTP (whether we want to admit it or not).
Here, Elyse Springer started a book with a very tropey and cliche premise, and managed to make it her own. This was filled with surprising twists and went a completely different direction than I was expecting.
The second half is very different from the smoop of the first half, and I enjoyed a romance that focused on the characters developing outside of each other. And it addressed the "stalkerish" tendencies of many romances and successfully avoided repeating any offenses.
Overall very enjoyable, even if the first half might rot-your teeth (it's so sweet). I wish the characters had been a little expanded upon, and Jason seemed a little too perfect, but still enjoyable.
I received an ARC of this through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author and Riptide publishing for the opportunity!
A combination of insomnia and quick writing style lead to me finishing this in a handful of hours.
The amnesia trope is just that-- a trope. It's something we've all read before and probably have seen in fanfic's of our OTP (whether we want to admit it or not).
Here, Elyse Springer started a book with a very tropey and cliche premise, and managed to make it her own. This was filled with surprising twists and went a completely different direction than I was expecting.
The second half is very different from the smoop of the first half, and I enjoyed a romance that focused on the characters developing outside of each other. And it addressed the "stalkerish" tendencies of many romances and successfully avoided repeating any offenses.
Overall very enjoyable, even if the first half might rot-your teeth (it's so sweet). I wish the characters had been a little expanded upon, and Jason seemed a little too perfect, but still enjoyable.
I received an ARC of this through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author and Riptide publishing for the opportunity!
February 9, 2017
I don't think that in our RL we very often have to deal with amnesia, but it seems to be a very popular topic in books, especially in romance books. I personally don't LIKE the stories where a couple has to prove to themselves that their INITIAL choice, the choice they made BEFORE whatever caused whosever's memory loss, was the right one. We love people not because they are sexy and have a good body, beautiful eyes or cute dimples, but because they are part of our memories and, thus, of our lives. What remains if all these memories are gone? But I don't plan to be that philosophical. Shortly: I can enjoy a novel with a light amnesia. And here we have a nice LIGHT amnesia case.
Whiteout starts very slow. Noah Landers wakes up in a cabin of Colorado, in the middle of nowhere, with a headache, without knowing who he is and what's going on, and a very attractive stranger by his bed calls him baby. His name is Jason O’Reilly, and he is his partner, as he tells Noah later. They are here to celebrate their first Christmas together, and Noah slipped while shoveling snow and hit his head badly. That explains his memory loss.
And here is our starting point:
A heavy snowstorm that makes impossible for a doctor to come, and for Jason to bring Noah in the hospital.
As I began to get bored with Jason's feeding and nursing Noah and his care treatments, Noah's memories started to come back, bit by bit. And from this point the story became MORE interesting and intriguing. The moment I thought I knew where it would go, it made suddenly an unexpected twist and went in a totally different from my presumption direction. And from this point its development increased the pace.
It is a nice love story, or better to say, a nice love tale. It kept my attention FROM this twist up to the very end. I have to commend the author for it. I'm also sure that this book/series will find a lot of fans.
My personal problems that prevent me from rating it higher:
The writing. I find it not good enough for giving this novel more stars.
All in all: An interesting amnesia version, a sweet love tale, with a touching HEA, for all readers whose favorite genre is a Contemporary MM Romance.
***Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
September 12, 2017
2.5 stars
Hmmm ... this book has potential when at one point I treated it as a mystery, you know? Especially in the beginning when Noah wakes up with no memory about himself and this man calls Jason who says that Noah is his partner. So who is Noah really? Is Jason lying to him? Is the relationship real? And so on...
But then as the 'mystery' unravels as Noah remembering bits of himself and the relationship, and then we get all the answers, well, that's when the romance falls out of the window for me.
Guess the main problem for me is that I'm not convinced of their relationship, and I feel like I miss the build-up because of Noah's amnesia *shrugs*
I think I've only read few romance with amnesia theme, and I can only mention two books with amnesia trope that I truly ever really love ... Josh Lanyon's The White Knight and Sandra Marton's The Second Mrs Adams (Harlequin MF that I think I read back in the 90's).
I am not sure if I want to read the next book. I mean, I have started to read and the next one features asexual character. However, I feel weary approaching romance featuring ace because as an ace myself, it's double disappointing if I can't connect with the character. Even if I know that Ms. Springer is an ace herself. So let's just see...
Part of my involvement in Joyfully Jay Reading Challenge Month 2017 Week 2: New To Me Author Week
Hmmm ... this book has potential when at one point I treated it as a mystery, you know? Especially in the beginning when Noah wakes up with no memory about himself and this man calls Jason who says that Noah is his partner. So who is Noah really? Is Jason lying to him? Is the relationship real? And so on...
But then as the 'mystery' unravels as Noah remembering bits of himself and the relationship, and then we get all the answers, well, that's when the romance falls out of the window for me.
Guess the main problem for me is that I'm not convinced of their relationship, and I feel like I miss the build-up because of Noah's amnesia *shrugs*
I think I've only read few romance with amnesia theme, and I can only mention two books with amnesia trope that I truly ever really love ... Josh Lanyon's The White Knight and Sandra Marton's The Second Mrs Adams (Harlequin MF that I think I read back in the 90's).
I am not sure if I want to read the next book. I mean, I have started to read and the next one features asexual character. However, I feel weary approaching romance featuring ace because as an ace myself, it's double disappointing if I can't connect with the character. Even if I know that Ms. Springer is an ace herself. So let's just see...
Part of my involvement in Joyfully Jay Reading Challenge Month 2017 Week 2: New To Me Author Week
February 5, 2017
4.5 stars.
My first book by this author (and her debut novel, to boot) was a complete success. ICYMI, when I finished the book and posted my final update, these were my words:
Noah wakes up in a remote cabin in Colorado during a blizzard right around Christmas time, with no recollection of who he is or what he's doing there, and furthermore, no idea who the gentle, handsome man taking care of him is. The handsome man introduces himself as Jason and makes Noah feel safe. He only tells Noah that he slipped in the snow and hit his head, which explains the headache and bumps on his head as well as the amnesia.
Jason dotes on Noah during his recovery, but refuses to tell him much more than his name, claiming that he's been in touch with an ER doctor, who advised him not to plant any ideas in Noah's mind, and to let Noah remember on his own. Which should perhaps take a few days.
At first Noah seems okay with this, but then doubts set in, primarily after observing Jason hide what's being discussed during the phone calls with the doctor, and also because Noah catches Jason on more than one occasion looking super guilty.
As the memories come back slowly, Noah remembers Jason being loving and kind toward him, but also gets snippets of Jason acting in anger. And snippets of his mother and father, a tragic death, manic research in a library, and a best friend who doesn't call him Noah.
Eventually, it all comes flooding back, and I had one of the most massive surprises in my book-reading career. I seriously sat there with my mouth wide open, in complete shock as to what had just happened on page. Note the FUBAR comment above.
At this point, the book's 2nd part begins, and we find ourselves in NYC. I won't tell you much more than this because I don't want to spoil the experience, and I won't tell you how it ends either. Just remember, this is a romance.
Told entirely from Noah's POV, we don't get but glimpses of what makes Jason tick through Noah's eyes, but the author included enough of Jason on page to make me care about him just the same. I did have one small niggle, which I can't explain here, because it would be a spoiler, just suffice it to say that there has been some major loss in Jason's life, and how it was handled here was a bit too unrealistic for my taste. I suppose grief can manifest itself in a variety of forms, and everyone deals with grief differently, but Jason's characterization didn't quite gel with how his grief was handled here.
And yet, I absolutely loved this book. It has complex characters, a complex plotline, superb character growth, and the author made the characters work for what they ultimately achieve. Noah looks deeply inside himself and realizes what he's done, what he's lost, and what he wants - and then goes after what he wants as best as he knows how. He has help along the way, but the humility he displays, not only at his guilt and failures, but also his triumphs was extraordinary.
This is the first book in a 4-part series, with each book covering a season. I'm not yet sure how connected these books will be, but I will tell you that this book can be read as a standalone.
Definitely recommended!!
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not promised in return. **
My first book by this author (and her debut novel, to boot) was a complete success. ICYMI, when I finished the book and posted my final update, these were my words:
Wow. Also, WOW. I absolutely loved this. Complex characters, complex relationship, a FUBAR, and then... WOW. Y'all, get this as soon as you can.
Noah wakes up in a remote cabin in Colorado during a blizzard right around Christmas time, with no recollection of who he is or what he's doing there, and furthermore, no idea who the gentle, handsome man taking care of him is. The handsome man introduces himself as Jason and makes Noah feel safe. He only tells Noah that he slipped in the snow and hit his head, which explains the headache and bumps on his head as well as the amnesia.
Jason dotes on Noah during his recovery, but refuses to tell him much more than his name, claiming that he's been in touch with an ER doctor, who advised him not to plant any ideas in Noah's mind, and to let Noah remember on his own. Which should perhaps take a few days.
At first Noah seems okay with this, but then doubts set in, primarily after observing Jason hide what's being discussed during the phone calls with the doctor, and also because Noah catches Jason on more than one occasion looking super guilty.
As the memories come back slowly, Noah remembers Jason being loving and kind toward him, but also gets snippets of Jason acting in anger. And snippets of his mother and father, a tragic death, manic research in a library, and a best friend who doesn't call him Noah.
Eventually, it all comes flooding back, and I had one of the most massive surprises in my book-reading career. I seriously sat there with my mouth wide open, in complete shock as to what had just happened on page. Note the FUBAR comment above.
At this point, the book's 2nd part begins, and we find ourselves in NYC. I won't tell you much more than this because I don't want to spoil the experience, and I won't tell you how it ends either. Just remember, this is a romance.
Told entirely from Noah's POV, we don't get but glimpses of what makes Jason tick through Noah's eyes, but the author included enough of Jason on page to make me care about him just the same. I did have one small niggle, which I can't explain here, because it would be a spoiler, just suffice it to say that there has been some major loss in Jason's life, and how it was handled here was a bit too unrealistic for my taste. I suppose grief can manifest itself in a variety of forms, and everyone deals with grief differently, but Jason's characterization didn't quite gel with how his grief was handled here.
And yet, I absolutely loved this book. It has complex characters, a complex plotline, superb character growth, and the author made the characters work for what they ultimately achieve. Noah looks deeply inside himself and realizes what he's done, what he's lost, and what he wants - and then goes after what he wants as best as he knows how. He has help along the way, but the humility he displays, not only at his guilt and failures, but also his triumphs was extraordinary.
This is the first book in a 4-part series, with each book covering a season. I'm not yet sure how connected these books will be, but I will tell you that this book can be read as a standalone.
Definitely recommended!!
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not promised in return. **
December 27, 2016
I was provided a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
OMG!!!! I loved this book!! The feelz!!!!!!! It takes a lot to get me to actually shed tears for a book (it happens, yes). And I cried for these men. My poor heart! I highly recommend this story. It has angst, amnesia, partner-death and a surprising twist I didn't expect.
And because of that twist I can't reveal too much about the plot. I can tell you that these men met under unusual circumstances 6 months ago and during Christmas at a cabin in Colorado, Noah gets amnesia in a freak accident and can't remember who he is or who Jason is. He knows something is wrong, but he doesn't know what. He knows he is attracted to Jason, and senses Jason cares for him deeply. When the truth is revealed, this is where I cried. Ahh, the pain, so sad. I was up until 3 am reading this book and didn't finish because I HAD to get up in the morning. But I made a point to carve out as much time during the day to finish it.
I rate this at least 4.5 stars rounded up to 5. This was a good read and made me feel real emotions. Highly recommend. I wish the next 2 books weren't F/F (that's not my genre), but I look forward to reading book 4 that is M/M. Sigh, it's a long wait, but I feel it will be worth it. :)
OMG!!!! I loved this book!! The feelz!!!!!!! It takes a lot to get me to actually shed tears for a book (it happens, yes). And I cried for these men. My poor heart! I highly recommend this story. It has angst, amnesia, partner-death and a surprising twist I didn't expect.
And because of that twist I can't reveal too much about the plot. I can tell you that these men met under unusual circumstances 6 months ago and during Christmas at a cabin in Colorado, Noah gets amnesia in a freak accident and can't remember who he is or who Jason is. He knows something is wrong, but he doesn't know what. He knows he is attracted to Jason, and senses Jason cares for him deeply. When the truth is revealed, this is where I cried. Ahh, the pain, so sad. I was up until 3 am reading this book and didn't finish because I HAD to get up in the morning. But I made a point to carve out as much time during the day to finish it.
I rate this at least 4.5 stars rounded up to 5. This was a good read and made me feel real emotions. Highly recommend. I wish the next 2 books weren't F/F (that's not my genre), but I look forward to reading book 4 that is M/M. Sigh, it's a long wait, but I feel it will be worth it. :)
January 15, 2021
What a rollercoaster this was, I'm still processing but I'm ready for my review! So, this book was written in two parts and I have different opinions of both of them, hence I'll divide this considering that:
Part I:
The beginning of the book starts with Noah waking up from a fall with a concussion and not remembering who he is, his name or where he is, he doesn't remember absolutely NOTHING, he is just aware of some concepts but everything else is a whiteout.
This situation makes for a very mysterious start, we have no idea if Jason is a good person or not and we have no idea if even Noah is a good person or not. We KNOW NOTHING! Of course, he recovers his memory rather quickly given that his issue wasn't that serious and we get the whole picture and what a picture it was, at the 40% mark everything clicked and shit hit the fan and I was friking out and couldn't believe what I was reading, like WTF! BUT my latin heart was content with the drama, wich didn't drag btw it was really well written. We got the revelation, the consequences were immediate and then boom! Second part!
Part II:
Part I was difficult to connect to because Noah, the only POV we had, was disconnected to the world with the "I have no memory thing", it was normal and spected. The second part was the opposite, I knew everything and I was totally invested even though I think that the reason for what you know who did what he did, was really childish and cruel, but still grief is a hard thing and people do crazy stuff.
ANYWAYS! I was cheering for them to find their happiness and usually when an writer does the "this character needs to know/find himself so the relationship can work" trope, in my experience it's done badly, but this author nailed it! I respected the hell out of the dude when he finished loving himself and when I got my HEA I was swooning!
I still would have liked more interactions with the rest of the characters when they got their HEA but, I respect the author's decision and since this is a series I suppose they will come out again in the other books. Still a lovely read, very well written and very well thought. Smart. 🧐❤
Part I:
The beginning of the book starts with Noah waking up from a fall with a concussion and not remembering who he is, his name or where he is, he doesn't remember absolutely NOTHING, he is just aware of some concepts but everything else is a whiteout.
This situation makes for a very mysterious start, we have no idea if Jason is a good person or not and we have no idea if even Noah is a good person or not. We KNOW NOTHING! Of course, he recovers his memory rather quickly given that his issue wasn't that serious and we get the whole picture and what a picture it was, at the 40% mark everything clicked and shit hit the fan and I was friking out and couldn't believe what I was reading, like WTF! BUT my latin heart was content with the drama, wich didn't drag btw it was really well written. We got the revelation, the consequences were immediate and then boom! Second part!
Part II:
Part I was difficult to connect to because Noah, the only POV we had, was disconnected to the world with the "I have no memory thing", it was normal and spected. The second part was the opposite, I knew everything and I was totally invested even though I think that the reason for what you know who did what he did, was really childish and cruel, but still grief is a hard thing and people do crazy stuff.
ANYWAYS! I was cheering for them to find their happiness and usually when an writer does the "this character needs to know/find himself so the relationship can work" trope, in my experience it's done badly, but this author nailed it! I respected the hell out of the dude when he finished loving himself and when I got my HEA I was swooning!
I still would have liked more interactions with the rest of the characters when they got their HEA but, I respect the author's decision and since this is a series I suppose they will come out again in the other books. Still a lovely read, very well written and very well thought. Smart. 🧐❤
February 7, 2017
3.75 Snowflakes
It's hard to review a book when you have a fond affection for it's author.... well, normally. This time around, I'm not having that problem. I just want everyone to pick up this book and read it. Why?
First of all, I love a good amnesia/memory loss story. When characters have to find their way back to where they were? Sign me up. In Whiteout, we've got that, but they're not only trying to get back to where they were, they need to get to a better place. I love the fight of it. The struggle and how, when written well, the story of that struggle pulls me in and takes me somewhere amazing.
Second, it's just really a good story. It's told in two parts... the now, where Noah has to try and remember. The second, where Noah remembers and has to make it not only right, but better. If I'm honest, I did love the first half more than the second half, but I think that's because I really just needed to get to that HEA and I was/am very impatient. There is also very little of Jason in the second half and I missed him.
The other thing I love about this book was the OMG moment. Is there another word for that? Probably, but I don't care. Through most of the first half, there is something that you just can't figure out. When you think you're starting to get it, the anticipation builds. When it is revealed? It really was an OMG moment and I LOVED that.
Just give this a shot. It's a great first novel from Ms. Springer, and I'm not just saying that because I really do think she's a pretty amazing person.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
It's hard to review a book when you have a fond affection for it's author.... well, normally. This time around, I'm not having that problem. I just want everyone to pick up this book and read it. Why?
First of all, I love a good amnesia/memory loss story. When characters have to find their way back to where they were? Sign me up. In Whiteout, we've got that, but they're not only trying to get back to where they were, they need to get to a better place. I love the fight of it. The struggle and how, when written well, the story of that struggle pulls me in and takes me somewhere amazing.
Second, it's just really a good story. It's told in two parts... the now, where Noah has to try and remember. The second, where Noah remembers and has to make it not only right, but better. If I'm honest, I did love the first half more than the second half, but I think that's because I really just needed to get to that HEA and I was/am very impatient. There is also very little of Jason in the second half and I missed him.
The other thing I love about this book was the OMG moment. Is there another word for that? Probably, but I don't care. Through most of the first half, there is something that you just can't figure out. When you think you're starting to get it, the anticipation builds. When it is revealed? It really was an OMG moment and I LOVED that.
Just give this a shot. It's a great first novel from Ms. Springer, and I'm not just saying that because I really do think she's a pretty amazing person.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
June 16, 2021
Read for the June prompt in the 2021 TBR Challenge - Book with a one-word title.
My One Word Title read is very much a book of two halves, one of which I enjoyed considerably more than the other. The first half of Whiteout revolves around an amnesia plot, and the second around the resulting fallout; the first half is tense and terrific, but the second loses momentum and the principals are separated for most of it. I understand why, but having your leads apart for almost half a book isn’t a great idea in a romance.
When the book opens, Noah Landers is waking up with one helluva headache – and no idea of where –or who – he is. There’s a man speaking to him – a man who clearly knows him and has been taking care of him – who explains that they’re a couple, they’re holidaying at a cabin in the Colorado mountains for Christmas, and that Noah slipped on the ice and hit his head. Noah doesn’t recognise the man – Jason O’Reilly – although he does recognise that Jason is uneasy and holding something back - and that although he doesn’t know who he is, the name Noah feels… wrong somehow. Jason explains that because of the remoteness of the cabin and the bad weather conditions, it hasn’t been possible to get Noah to a hospital, but he’s speaking with a doctor regularly on the phone, and their advice about the amnesia has been not to tell Noah too much about himself and to let his memories return in their own time.
Over the next few days, Jason shows himself to be a kind and compassionate person; he’s clearly terribly upset at what happened to Noah and does everything he possibly can to ensure his comfort and aid his recovery. He’s very affectionate and loving, too, wearing his feelings for Noah on his sleeve and taking every opportunity to touch him – a hand at his elbow or his back, a touch to his face – but as random memories start to trickle back, Noah starts to see small things about the other man’s behaviour that don’t quite make sense. He begins to doubt what Jason is telling him about the doctor, and when Noah finds his cellphone buried under a pile of clothes in a drawer and listens to the messages that call him by a different name, he starts to think that something is very, very wrong.
We only get Noah’s PoV in this book, and the author uses the limited perspective brilliantly, creating a strong sense of menace and uncertainty and conveying Noah’s palpable fear and growing paranoia in a way that cleverly plays with our expectations. Unfortunately, however, the single PoV isn’t so effective in the second half – which it’s difficult to talk about without revealing too much, but here goes.
Jason and Noah leave Colorado separately, and the story follows Noah as he returns to his life and career in NYC. But he can’t forget Jason or what happened between them, and this part of the story focuses on Noah’s desire to win Jason back as well as on his personal growth as he learns to properly examine his motivations for his actions and then works out what he wants and how to go for it. For the most part, I continued to be fully invested in the story; Noah’s longing for Jason is palpable and permeates the pages, although I can’t deny that some of my raison d’être for reading so quickly was because I was eager to reach the reconciliation! There are definitely some emotional moments here as Noah is knocked back and perseveres, but this part of the story would perhaps have worked better had it included Jason’s PoV. He’s not all that well fleshed out even when he’s a presence on the page; we know he’s handsome, rich and successful and that his long-term partner died and he was devastated. It’s clear that this relationship has a bearing on the one he forms with Noah, but it only gets some brief mentions and is never really addressed. And other than his professions of love for Noah, we know nothing further about his feelings. I can’t help feeling that a different king of structure – maybe interspersing the story of how Noah pursues Jason with flashbacks telling the story of how they got to that point – might have been a better way to maintain a consistent level of tension and interest.
So… while I would still recommend Whiteout, my final grade is a compromise. The first half is 5 star-worthy while the second is… not. It isn’t horrible by any means, but I can’t deny it was something of an anti-climax coming after such a fantastic beginning.
My One Word Title read is very much a book of two halves, one of which I enjoyed considerably more than the other. The first half of Whiteout revolves around an amnesia plot, and the second around the resulting fallout; the first half is tense and terrific, but the second loses momentum and the principals are separated for most of it. I understand why, but having your leads apart for almost half a book isn’t a great idea in a romance.
When the book opens, Noah Landers is waking up with one helluva headache – and no idea of where –or who – he is. There’s a man speaking to him – a man who clearly knows him and has been taking care of him – who explains that they’re a couple, they’re holidaying at a cabin in the Colorado mountains for Christmas, and that Noah slipped on the ice and hit his head. Noah doesn’t recognise the man – Jason O’Reilly – although he does recognise that Jason is uneasy and holding something back - and that although he doesn’t know who he is, the name Noah feels… wrong somehow. Jason explains that because of the remoteness of the cabin and the bad weather conditions, it hasn’t been possible to get Noah to a hospital, but he’s speaking with a doctor regularly on the phone, and their advice about the amnesia has been not to tell Noah too much about himself and to let his memories return in their own time.
Over the next few days, Jason shows himself to be a kind and compassionate person; he’s clearly terribly upset at what happened to Noah and does everything he possibly can to ensure his comfort and aid his recovery. He’s very affectionate and loving, too, wearing his feelings for Noah on his sleeve and taking every opportunity to touch him – a hand at his elbow or his back, a touch to his face – but as random memories start to trickle back, Noah starts to see small things about the other man’s behaviour that don’t quite make sense. He begins to doubt what Jason is telling him about the doctor, and when Noah finds his cellphone buried under a pile of clothes in a drawer and listens to the messages that call him by a different name, he starts to think that something is very, very wrong.
We only get Noah’s PoV in this book, and the author uses the limited perspective brilliantly, creating a strong sense of menace and uncertainty and conveying Noah’s palpable fear and growing paranoia in a way that cleverly plays with our expectations. Unfortunately, however, the single PoV isn’t so effective in the second half – which it’s difficult to talk about without revealing too much, but here goes.
Jason and Noah leave Colorado separately, and the story follows Noah as he returns to his life and career in NYC. But he can’t forget Jason or what happened between them, and this part of the story focuses on Noah’s desire to win Jason back as well as on his personal growth as he learns to properly examine his motivations for his actions and then works out what he wants and how to go for it. For the most part, I continued to be fully invested in the story; Noah’s longing for Jason is palpable and permeates the pages, although I can’t deny that some of my raison d’être for reading so quickly was because I was eager to reach the reconciliation! There are definitely some emotional moments here as Noah is knocked back and perseveres, but this part of the story would perhaps have worked better had it included Jason’s PoV. He’s not all that well fleshed out even when he’s a presence on the page; we know he’s handsome, rich and successful and that his long-term partner died and he was devastated. It’s clear that this relationship has a bearing on the one he forms with Noah, but it only gets some brief mentions and is never really addressed. And other than his professions of love for Noah, we know nothing further about his feelings. I can’t help feeling that a different king of structure – maybe interspersing the story of how Noah pursues Jason with flashbacks telling the story of how they got to that point – might have been a better way to maintain a consistent level of tension and interest.
So… while I would still recommend Whiteout, my final grade is a compromise. The first half is 5 star-worthy while the second is… not. It isn’t horrible by any means, but I can’t deny it was something of an anti-climax coming after such a fantastic beginning.
May 22, 2023
This book started off really well but it fell a bit flat for me after about 40%. I figured out the ‘mystery’ very early and I’m not sure if that affected my reading experience. I was also getting a bit of whiplash from the ‘is Jase physically abusive or not?’ confusion plus Sara’s texts and the whole ‘caught in Central Park’ thing.
It didn’t help that I was sick when reading this so I was maybe not into it as much as I otherwise would have been.
It didn’t help that I was sick when reading this so I was maybe not into it as much as I otherwise would have been.
June 13, 2025
Książka składa się z dwóch części - w pierwszej głównym tropem jest amnezja i tajemnica, druga jest obyczajówką z zacięciem na odnalezienie siebie i odzyskaniem tego, co się straciło.
I jak pierwsza część, pomimo tego, że po kilku wskazówkach domyśliłam się w miarę wcześnie, co się wydarzyło i co się okaże, kiedy główny bohater odzyska pamięć, była naprawdę dobra i dobrze mi się ją czytało, tak druga część po prostu mnie znudziła 🫤
I jak pierwsza część, pomimo tego, że po kilku wskazówkach domyśliłam się w miarę wcześnie, co się wydarzyło i co się okaże, kiedy główny bohater odzyska pamięć, była naprawdę dobra i dobrze mi się ją czytało, tak druga część po prostu mnie znudziła 🫤
Read
December 14, 2016Great read, definitely recommended.
It's divided into two parts, the "Before" and "After". And especially the "After" had me glued to the page. Couldn't put it down until I had read the last page. More please!! ;)
Full review to come soon.
It's divided into two parts, the "Before" and "After". And especially the "After" had me glued to the page. Couldn't put it down until I had read the last page. More please!! ;)
Full review to come soon.
October 20, 2022
4 stars for part one.
2 stars for part two. Needless
Nathan info dump.
2 stars for part two. Needless
Nathan info dump.
January 13, 2017
4 stars – Whiteout is the debut novel from Elyse Springer, so I guess it’s a little fitting that the main trope of the novel, a character with amnesia, is also something that I’ve not read before—something that came as a bit of a surprise to some of my fellow smutbook-loving friends. But the amnesia story isn’t the only thing this story is about. The result is a well-crafted and smoothly composed story that had me wanting things to work out for the story’s couple.
First, a note: This book is a little difficult to review because everything we learn about the characters in the first 60% of the novel forms the backbone of the plot, so in my effort to keep this review free from spoilers, I apologize for being intentionally vague.
The story begins with Noah Landers waking up with no memory of his life, not even his identity, and it is told entirely from his point of view. The man taking care of him, Jason O’Reilly, tells him they are trapped in a cabin in the Colorado Rockies because of a blizzard and that Noah sustained a head injury while shoveling. It’s clear to Noah that they must be a couple, but his gut tells him it’s not that simple. The little he remembers conflicts with the things Jason has told him, so when more of his memories trickle back, the secrets they reveal only heighten his suspicions until suddenly everything about who they are—and who they are to each other—becomes clear, and his gut was right: nothing about what they are is simple. At this point, the novel changes gears completely and becomes a story of trying to fix the problems caused by everything that happened in the first part.
As much as I enjoyed the story in Whiteout, the biggest question I had after reading it is whether or not I think it was a romance. I’m a big sucker for the firsts found in the typical romance: the first meeting, the first looks, the first kisses and touches, and so on. Because Noah and Jason are already a couple at the start of the novel, none of these firsts are present in the novel except as bits and pieces of memories as Noah remembers. The only one of the big things that does appear within the story is Noah’s realization that he is in love with Jason. While this is a big one, thinking of this as a romance leaves me with a feeling of being robbed a little. It’s also worth noting that while there are a few sex scenes in the story, the focus of their relationship is not their physical attraction, again because they have been a couple for six months prior to the start of the story.
All this being said, it’s hard for me to use these complaints as any sort of justification for rating Whiteout differently, because there’s really no way the story could have been set up in the more traditional romance style without ruining the story the author tells. Keep that in mind as you approach this novel. There are still plenty of emotions and feels to be found, especially toward the end, but from a romantic standpoint, it’s more about the second chance than anything else.
Fans of the musical Rent will be happy to find that not only is the name of the series, Seasons of Love, a nod to it, but the author also ties bits and pieces of it into the storyline as well. Speaking of the series, the four books, conveniently enough, will be released one each season during 2017. Books 2 and 3 are F/F pairings before returning to M/M for book 4. Based on the blurbs of these books, Whiteout introduces one member of each of the coming pairings, so this is a good place to start if you would like these introductions, provided that reading romances on both sides of the fence appeals to you.
Even putting aside the fact that this is a debut novel, Elyse Springer weaves an interesting and well-written tale in Whiteout about a character who is complex enough to be realistic and who has a plight worthy of the reader’s sympathy. It's a book that I would recommend to romance readers who are okay with reading romances that fall outside the normal progression the genre typically follows. While I will likely skip the next two books in the series—I’m a gay man who reads an occasional M/F romance, but F/F is just a little too far outside my comfort zone—I do look forward to the final book, as well as reading something else of this author’s in the future.
The author and/or publisher generously provided me a complimentary copy of Whiteout in exchange for this fair and honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
First, a note: This book is a little difficult to review because everything we learn about the characters in the first 60% of the novel forms the backbone of the plot, so in my effort to keep this review free from spoilers, I apologize for being intentionally vague.
The story begins with Noah Landers waking up with no memory of his life, not even his identity, and it is told entirely from his point of view. The man taking care of him, Jason O’Reilly, tells him they are trapped in a cabin in the Colorado Rockies because of a blizzard and that Noah sustained a head injury while shoveling. It’s clear to Noah that they must be a couple, but his gut tells him it’s not that simple. The little he remembers conflicts with the things Jason has told him, so when more of his memories trickle back, the secrets they reveal only heighten his suspicions until suddenly everything about who they are—and who they are to each other—becomes clear, and his gut was right: nothing about what they are is simple. At this point, the novel changes gears completely and becomes a story of trying to fix the problems caused by everything that happened in the first part.
As much as I enjoyed the story in Whiteout, the biggest question I had after reading it is whether or not I think it was a romance. I’m a big sucker for the firsts found in the typical romance: the first meeting, the first looks, the first kisses and touches, and so on. Because Noah and Jason are already a couple at the start of the novel, none of these firsts are present in the novel except as bits and pieces of memories as Noah remembers. The only one of the big things that does appear within the story is Noah’s realization that he is in love with Jason. While this is a big one, thinking of this as a romance leaves me with a feeling of being robbed a little. It’s also worth noting that while there are a few sex scenes in the story, the focus of their relationship is not their physical attraction, again because they have been a couple for six months prior to the start of the story.
All this being said, it’s hard for me to use these complaints as any sort of justification for rating Whiteout differently, because there’s really no way the story could have been set up in the more traditional romance style without ruining the story the author tells. Keep that in mind as you approach this novel. There are still plenty of emotions and feels to be found, especially toward the end, but from a romantic standpoint, it’s more about the second chance than anything else.
Fans of the musical Rent will be happy to find that not only is the name of the series, Seasons of Love, a nod to it, but the author also ties bits and pieces of it into the storyline as well. Speaking of the series, the four books, conveniently enough, will be released one each season during 2017. Books 2 and 3 are F/F pairings before returning to M/M for book 4. Based on the blurbs of these books, Whiteout introduces one member of each of the coming pairings, so this is a good place to start if you would like these introductions, provided that reading romances on both sides of the fence appeals to you.
Even putting aside the fact that this is a debut novel, Elyse Springer weaves an interesting and well-written tale in Whiteout about a character who is complex enough to be realistic and who has a plight worthy of the reader’s sympathy. It's a book that I would recommend to romance readers who are okay with reading romances that fall outside the normal progression the genre typically follows. While I will likely skip the next two books in the series—I’m a gay man who reads an occasional M/F romance, but F/F is just a little too far outside my comfort zone—I do look forward to the final book, as well as reading something else of this author’s in the future.
The author and/or publisher generously provided me a complimentary copy of Whiteout in exchange for this fair and honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
June 18, 2017
I received an arc from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for a review
I was kind of expecting this to be like the Vow but gay, I actually enjoy the amnesia trope if it's at the start of the book. But I really didn't like this. The book felt like it didn't know what it wanted to be. At a point it felt like it could've been a thriller but then it turned back into a romance. It was predictable at times and it just felt ridiculous. It was pretty boring at times and I just skimmed until the end.
I was kind of expecting this to be like the Vow but gay, I actually enjoy the amnesia trope if it's at the start of the book. But I really didn't like this. The book felt like it didn't know what it wanted to be. At a point it felt like it could've been a thriller but then it turned back into a romance. It was predictable at times and it just felt ridiculous. It was pretty boring at times and I just skimmed until the end.
April 13, 2017
Nope. Jason should've ran far and fast. Even *if* Jason had done what Nathan thought he had, what Nathan did was unacceptable. Sara was a horrible friend, but since Nathan's her BFF there wasn't hope for her not to be a garbage person. Birds of a feather and all that. I just can't stop thinking Jason deserves better. (I am curious about Tony's book)
February 5, 2017
3.5!
I kinda have mixed emotions about this one. I really, really enjoyed parts of the story while other parts felt a bit rushed or stretched my imagination a little too much.
I thought Noah's reactions on first regaining consciousness were understandable given the snippets of information he was remembering. When he did remember what was really happening, the time-frame involved felt a little unrealistic.
Noah's determination to sort himself out and win Jason back was very well done IMHO but the ending felt a little rushed for me. Will look out for more by this author though.
*Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I kinda have mixed emotions about this one. I really, really enjoyed parts of the story while other parts felt a bit rushed or stretched my imagination a little too much.
I thought Noah's reactions on first regaining consciousness were understandable given the snippets of information he was remembering. When he did remember what was really happening, the time-frame involved felt a little unrealistic.
Noah's determination to sort himself out and win Jason back was very well done IMHO but the ending felt a little rushed for me. Will look out for more by this author though.
*Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
February 7, 2017
Noah wakes up from a fall and can’t remember his own name and who is the person with whom he is sharing a cabin on Christmas time in the middle of a blizzard. He seems to be Jason, his boyfriend but is this the truth? Are Noah and Jason their true names?
Whiteout is the first book in the Season of Love series by Elyse Springer and the author debut novel. A lovely debut book, well written, engaging and with loveable characters. I’m so happy I found a new author I truly enjoyed.
In Whiteout we see Noah slowly get his memories back, flashback after flashback. We see him doubt Jason and their love, but he can’t deny (and it’s clear for the reader too) the attraction and chemistry between them. We see him finally remember everything and be brave and honest with himself and Jason. The book is divided into two parts, in the first one the plot is focused on the MCs, being in a cabin in the middle of nowhere there is really no space for secondary characters. And there, I started to understand where the story was going but I was very curious to see how the author would develop the novel. I have to say I loved this book very much, although it didn’t surprise me in the plot, it surprised me in the development, especially in the second part. I loved how determined Nathan was at showing Jason who he really was and how powerful his love was. I liked the secondary characters I met later and I can’t wait to read their own stories.
I can say Whiteout was a success to me and I’m very interested in reading the coming books even if not all of them will be mm stories. Highly recommend it.
The cover art by Natasha Snow is well done, I like the artist style and all the covers in this series are well done and fitting.
Whiteout is the first book in the Season of Love series by Elyse Springer and the author debut novel. A lovely debut book, well written, engaging and with loveable characters. I’m so happy I found a new author I truly enjoyed.
In Whiteout we see Noah slowly get his memories back, flashback after flashback. We see him doubt Jason and their love, but he can’t deny (and it’s clear for the reader too) the attraction and chemistry between them. We see him finally remember everything and be brave and honest with himself and Jason. The book is divided into two parts, in the first one the plot is focused on the MCs, being in a cabin in the middle of nowhere there is really no space for secondary characters. And there, I started to understand where the story was going but I was very curious to see how the author would develop the novel. I have to say I loved this book very much, although it didn’t surprise me in the plot, it surprised me in the development, especially in the second part. I loved how determined Nathan was at showing Jason who he really was and how powerful his love was. I liked the secondary characters I met later and I can’t wait to read their own stories.
I can say Whiteout was a success to me and I’m very interested in reading the coming books even if not all of them will be mm stories. Highly recommend it.
The cover art by Natasha Snow is well done, I like the artist style and all the covers in this series are well done and fitting.
February 9, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
So I grabbed Whiteout right away as soon as I saw the amnesia theme, as that is pretty much crack to me (see my list of Favorite Amnesia Stories if you are also a fan). And I think Springer does a fabulous job with this element of the story. The book is broken down into two parts, the first focusing on the amnesia storyline. We are aware right away of this internal conflict in Noah between the emotional pull he has toward Jason and the memories and gut feelings he is having that make him question Jason’s veracity. Slowly bits of information come out, through Noah’s memories or conversations the guys have, that make it clear that all is not as it seems. This information is doled out at just the right time, giving us enough to raise our suspicions along with Noah and to question everything that is going on. The pacing here is great and it all comes to a head about halfway through the book as we finally learn the truth about the situation.
I will note that at times I found Noah’s behavior frustrating here as he seems to be letting his heart rule in places where his head should be taking over. There are some key things that happen that should make him seriously concerned about what is going on and greatly distrust Jason. Yet Noah lets his heart (along with his lust) guide him in many cases, ignoring the glaring warning signs that should be making him stay far away. I realize that this behavior works for the story, but it had me screaming through my Kindle at times that no matter how hot Jason is, you don’t sleep with a guy you think is lying about such crucial things.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
So I grabbed Whiteout right away as soon as I saw the amnesia theme, as that is pretty much crack to me (see my list of Favorite Amnesia Stories if you are also a fan). And I think Springer does a fabulous job with this element of the story. The book is broken down into two parts, the first focusing on the amnesia storyline. We are aware right away of this internal conflict in Noah between the emotional pull he has toward Jason and the memories and gut feelings he is having that make him question Jason’s veracity. Slowly bits of information come out, through Noah’s memories or conversations the guys have, that make it clear that all is not as it seems. This information is doled out at just the right time, giving us enough to raise our suspicions along with Noah and to question everything that is going on. The pacing here is great and it all comes to a head about halfway through the book as we finally learn the truth about the situation.
I will note that at times I found Noah’s behavior frustrating here as he seems to be letting his heart rule in places where his head should be taking over. There are some key things that happen that should make him seriously concerned about what is going on and greatly distrust Jason. Yet Noah lets his heart (along with his lust) guide him in many cases, ignoring the glaring warning signs that should be making him stay far away. I realize that this behavior works for the story, but it had me screaming through my Kindle at times that no matter how hot Jason is, you don’t sleep with a guy you think is lying about such crucial things.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
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