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Paper Planes #3
Chasing Cars and the Lessons We Learned
On June 18, 1992, Flight 397 crashed off the coast of Long Island. After Amber Pratt lost her parents, her life turned into a downward spiral. So, she did what any twenty-one-year-old would do; she quit her life to backpack across Europe. Olle Holström was supposed to be a fling in the wilds of Finland. A detour. That is all it should have been. It was so much more.
- GenresRomanceYoung Adult
318 pages, Paperback
Published May 16, 2017
15 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Mindy Hayes
31 books383 followersMindy is the youngest of six children and grew up in San Diego, California. After graduating from Brigham Young University-Idaho, she discovered her passion for reading and writing. Mindy lives in Summerville, South Carolina with her husband and daughter.
She is the author of the Faylinn novels and the Willowhaven series; as well as the standalones, Stain and The Day That Saved Us. Mindy is also the co-author of the Paper Planes series and the Backroads Duet, which was co-written with Michele G. Miller as Mindy Michele.
www.mindyhayes.com
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She is the author of the Faylinn novels and the Willowhaven series; as well as the standalones, Stain and The Day That Saved Us. Mindy is also the co-author of the Paper Planes series and the Backroads Duet, which was co-written with Michele G. Miller as Mindy Michele.
www.mindyhayes.com
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/authorhaymind
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON:
https://www.amazon.com/Mindy-Hayes/e/...
FOLLOW ME ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/hayes.mindy
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 5, 2017
“I need you to be a jerk so saying goodbye won’t be so difficult.” I lean into his palm, seeking his touch.
“I am sorry. I can only be who I am.”
**
Bear with me, this may take me a minute because this whole book had me on a ride that tossed me every which way with the emotions. But it was one of those rides you don't mind being on or tossed about while on. At one point I was ready to up and move to Finland just so I could experience half the things Amber did. It all felt so real and the book felt so alive.
I didn't think I would really care for Amber’s story. I didn't care much for her in the other 2 stories and to be honest, had it taken place in the US instead of abroad I probably wouldn’t have enjoyed it quite as much. But being in Finland, with a hot Finnish man, I quickly altered my precious way of thinking and began to open my mind up to her and her way of thinking. I realized I didn't know her very well and should have gave her the benefit of the doubt. It didn't take long into the story for a likeness to grow and I found myself soon after loving this girl and her character. She wasn't a bad person; just someone that made bad choices when she was younger. Haven't we all? I know I have, and really, this girl and myself were very, eerily similar in our teenage years. Yeah, I can admit that. And I turned out ok.
Then enters Olle.
Saving Amber.
Always saving Amber.
He is a fantastic man. A true blue, one of a kind guy. The kind that you better hang on to with all of your strength, because they don't make them like that anymore. And for someone that is living in the solitude wilds of Finland, he sure knows how to romance a lady. And a reader. He is still on my mind the morning after finishing this wonderful book. Swoon. Sigh. Swoon.
The last third of the book I stayed in a perpetual state of tears it seems. My heart is still recovering. My mind is still reeling. My feels are still churning. All from a gut wrenching twist these lovely ladies decided to throw in. One I never saw coming. Sure, it may have flitted through my head at one tiny blip in time, but I thought surely no. They wouldn't do that...would they? Mercy, this book shook me up!
In the end, I am still sitting here in awe of the beauty of this story and the brilliance of these authors. They told a tale that I would gladly hear over and over again. And gave me a romance that stirred my soul. I am shelving this one as one of this year’s most amazing reads and my favorite of the series. 5 Stars!!
“I am sorry. I can only be who I am.”
**
Bear with me, this may take me a minute because this whole book had me on a ride that tossed me every which way with the emotions. But it was one of those rides you don't mind being on or tossed about while on. At one point I was ready to up and move to Finland just so I could experience half the things Amber did. It all felt so real and the book felt so alive.
I didn't think I would really care for Amber’s story. I didn't care much for her in the other 2 stories and to be honest, had it taken place in the US instead of abroad I probably wouldn’t have enjoyed it quite as much. But being in Finland, with a hot Finnish man, I quickly altered my precious way of thinking and began to open my mind up to her and her way of thinking. I realized I didn't know her very well and should have gave her the benefit of the doubt. It didn't take long into the story for a likeness to grow and I found myself soon after loving this girl and her character. She wasn't a bad person; just someone that made bad choices when she was younger. Haven't we all? I know I have, and really, this girl and myself were very, eerily similar in our teenage years. Yeah, I can admit that. And I turned out ok.
Then enters Olle.
Saving Amber.
Always saving Amber.
He is a fantastic man. A true blue, one of a kind guy. The kind that you better hang on to with all of your strength, because they don't make them like that anymore. And for someone that is living in the solitude wilds of Finland, he sure knows how to romance a lady. And a reader. He is still on my mind the morning after finishing this wonderful book. Swoon. Sigh. Swoon.
The last third of the book I stayed in a perpetual state of tears it seems. My heart is still recovering. My mind is still reeling. My feels are still churning. All from a gut wrenching twist these lovely ladies decided to throw in. One I never saw coming. Sure, it may have flitted through my head at one tiny blip in time, but I thought surely no. They wouldn't do that...would they? Mercy, this book shook me up!
In the end, I am still sitting here in awe of the beauty of this story and the brilliance of these authors. They told a tale that I would gladly hear over and over again. And gave me a romance that stirred my soul. I am shelving this one as one of this year’s most amazing reads and my favorite of the series. 5 Stars!!
July 19, 2017
I went through every emotion with this one. I laughed. I cried. And I loved. Loved the beauty, character and culture of Finland. Loved Amber and her fearlessness, her sass and humor. Loved Olle and his bearded face and long hair. Loved his patience, his gentle nature, his smile and laugh. I loved the way he loved Amber. I loved their story. I loved this series. Well done, Mindy and Michelle. This book is Kulta...pure Gold!
June 20, 2017
I LOVED this book ❤️ had me crying and reading for hours straight because I could not put it down!!!
May 15, 2017
A chance encounter. An unexpected romance. A headstrong American beauty and a stubborn, gorgeous Finnish man. Amber and Olle's story is an emotional journey filled with raw emotion, unshakeable devotion and unfaltering love. The road to self discovery, forgiveness and healing are interwoven in this beautiful story of two souls connecting on many varying levels. The characters were honest and vulnerable and the bond between the two runs deep. I enjoyed getting lost in this captivating tale that will tug at your heart and leave you wanting more.
May 6, 2017
I got an advanced copy of this book-- I am a HUGE fan of the Paper Planes series. If you haven't read Brett and Ruby's story or Cole and Sam's...DO IT. If not, you will still undoubtedly love Amber and Olle, but the character progression of Amber throughout all 3 is something special. I think it makes you love her even more. Plus, the other books will give you good insight into inside jokes and memories between the characters. Anyway, back to Chasing Cars. I readily admit this book runs a close race to being my favorite in the series. I think it's because I am a sucker for character redemption and for me, Amber has been redeemed times x100. I'm not a fancy writer, but I can tell you that I laughed and cried my way through the book. (I might've read it in like 8 hours, don't judge me) It makes you feel. All of the other books do too, don't get me wrong. But if you are just looking at Amber's story and not the series as a whole, Amber REALLY makes you feel. She's raw, she's sassy and she's not afraid to tell you what kind of person she has been in the past. People can put themselves in her shoes. She lets you see into her soul...and like Meredith Grey, it's a little dark and twisted. She doesn't think very highly of herself and she kind of wallows in her past.
Flash forward to meeting Olle. This man-- he is a good one. He is sure to be a top book boyfriend for a ton of girls, even if they're not into the long hair, man bun, and mountain man type. Something about him makes you just want to trust him and let him fix all your problems. Incredibly so, he is able to break down walls with Amber and let us see the truly amazing character she is. He's no stranger to heart break either and his story makes you love the person he is even more. I have always been full of wanderlust but man, this book will make a girl want to book a back packing trip around Europe ASAP. Finland has never been on my radar, but maybe I'll pull a Ruby and start researching it. I also love that I never saw the twist coming in the book. It was probably the last thing I would have thought of happening. (I love when that happens) I also love love love that we get to see this entire family together-- all three books worth. It somehow makes this book complete. Read it. loved it. Hats off to Mindy and Michelle for creating another story that I wanted to get lost in.
Flash forward to meeting Olle. This man-- he is a good one. He is sure to be a top book boyfriend for a ton of girls, even if they're not into the long hair, man bun, and mountain man type. Something about him makes you just want to trust him and let him fix all your problems. Incredibly so, he is able to break down walls with Amber and let us see the truly amazing character she is. He's no stranger to heart break either and his story makes you love the person he is even more. I have always been full of wanderlust but man, this book will make a girl want to book a back packing trip around Europe ASAP. Finland has never been on my radar, but maybe I'll pull a Ruby and start researching it. I also love that I never saw the twist coming in the book. It was probably the last thing I would have thought of happening. (I love when that happens) I also love love love that we get to see this entire family together-- all three books worth. It somehow makes this book complete. Read it. loved it. Hats off to Mindy and Michelle for creating another story that I wanted to get lost in.
May 10, 2017
The writing duo of Mindy and Michele are two of my favorites. I've said before, but it bears mentioning again, their writing style is seamless. You cannot tell who wrote which character unless they tell you. I've been a fan of this series since the very beginning and it only gets better each book. Chasing Cars is my favorite of the three which I think is unusual. I'm sure it has nothing to do with Olle the hot Finnish hero. Nope, nothing at all. Never thought about visiting Finland before this book either. It made me consider it, but I hate cold and isolation so........nope! Hot bearded men or not - it's not gonna happen, but you can transport yourself for cheap through this book and it's worth every penny! At the time of posting this review it's only .99!
I loved seeing the country through Amber's eyes as a tourist as well as Olle's as a native. Their love story is one for the ages and I loved the twist, I loved seeing all the characters from the other books make a reappearance, and I love the idea that there is more after the last page.
I loved seeing the country through Amber's eyes as a tourist as well as Olle's as a native. Their love story is one for the ages and I loved the twist, I loved seeing all the characters from the other books make a reappearance, and I love the idea that there is more after the last page.
May 25, 2017
Oh my goodness, where do I start? I LOVE THIS BOOK!! There are not enough stars for this one! I read the first two in the series and loved them. I wasn't crazy about Amber's character in the first two, but I really enjoyed getting to know her in this book. There are so many things I liked about this book, I can't pick my favorite. Olle is now one of my all-time favorite book characters! Many times this story could have taken a turn, but his integrity was solid throughout the story and that is SO RARE!!! Thanks ladies for a fantastic book series, I'm very sad that it's ending but glad I got to read them.
May 25, 2017
This book was amazing. Just as well as the other two. It was great to get to know Amber since we only saw bits and pieces of her in the previous books. Olle is wonderful. He's handsome, sweet and so lovable. It's amazing how we get to fall in love with this couple throughout the entire book, nothing rushed. I felt like I was in Finland.
These stories are amazing. No unnecesary drama, just real life events. Awesome characters with great personality. I loved seeing Brett, Ruby, Cole and Sam. They're a great family. And honestly I was dragging in the end cause I didn't want it to finish.
These stories are amazing. No unnecesary drama, just real life events. Awesome characters with great personality. I loved seeing Brett, Ruby, Cole and Sam. They're a great family. And honestly I was dragging in the end cause I didn't want it to finish.
May 16, 2017
This is it people...book three in this amazing series by two wonder authors.
And it was pure adventure for the any reader. The love that is shown in all three books still moves me and made me jealous of how strong the Pratt family and those that are connected to them are. Family is always key and each of the books shows one of the three siblings learning to love themselves...and others.
Chasing Cars and the Lessons We Learned is Amber's story as she is backpacking across Europe after dropping out of school. When things go bad in the middle of no where Olle Holström finds himself unable to leave Amber with no help. Hello Olle! You amazing bearded man. You amazingly hot, bearded man.
Amber and Olle only need to survive the weekend together till it is time for Amber to move on from Finland, but even a few days have them inching closer to each other. They can't walk away and the two play a game with the clock. As the days go on, Amber shows that she feels broken and not good enough while Olle realizes that life is too short and precious to spend it alone.
But they are playing a game with the clock and time stops for no one.
A sweet love story that reminds us that we are all flawed, but you should never settle for good enough. You are worth it.
And it was pure adventure for the any reader. The love that is shown in all three books still moves me and made me jealous of how strong the Pratt family and those that are connected to them are. Family is always key and each of the books shows one of the three siblings learning to love themselves...and others.
Chasing Cars and the Lessons We Learned is Amber's story as she is backpacking across Europe after dropping out of school. When things go bad in the middle of no where Olle Holström finds himself unable to leave Amber with no help. Hello Olle! You amazing bearded man. You amazingly hot, bearded man.
Amber and Olle only need to survive the weekend together till it is time for Amber to move on from Finland, but even a few days have them inching closer to each other. They can't walk away and the two play a game with the clock. As the days go on, Amber shows that she feels broken and not good enough while Olle realizes that life is too short and precious to spend it alone.
But they are playing a game with the clock and time stops for no one.
A sweet love story that reminds us that we are all flawed, but you should never settle for good enough. You are worth it.
December 28, 2020
What determines someone's worth? Is it how they see themselves? Or is it how others see them?
I absolutely loved the story of Amber and Olle. I connected with the characters in deeply profound ways through each of their points of view. I loved how it enveloped me in the Finnish culture, in their trials and in their love affair. Theirs is a beautiful romance with heat, passion, tenderness and depth. It made me laugh out loud, cry endless tears, and left me feeling hopeful for the future.
I absolutely loved the story of Amber and Olle. I connected with the characters in deeply profound ways through each of their points of view. I loved how it enveloped me in the Finnish culture, in their trials and in their love affair. Theirs is a beautiful romance with heat, passion, tenderness and depth. It made me laugh out loud, cry endless tears, and left me feeling hopeful for the future.
May 18, 2017
LOVED this book and now I'm dying to go to Finland! This is, without question, my favorite book of the series. If you liked Paper Planes you will lose your mind over Chasing Cars. Amber's journey and growth was incredible to see and Olle. Holy crap Olle. SO much to swoon over!! You need this dude in your life. Trust me.
May 21, 2017
Not even sure what to say about this book! While I will always love Brett and Ruby... I just might love Olle and Amber more. Michelle and Mindy have once again taken claim to my heart with this one! I had tears in my eyes as well as my heart! 5 beautiful stars!!
May 23, 2017
I loved it!!!
From the three books I think I enjoyed this one the best!!! I never imagined what would happen and I simply love Olle!!
Don't miss these books! They are full of life!!!
From the three books I think I enjoyed this one the best!!! I never imagined what would happen and I simply love Olle!!
Don't miss these books! They are full of life!!!
July 23, 2017
Superb, magnificent, and glorious all come to mind when I think of Chasing Cars and the Lessons We Learned. I am partial to Brett and Ruby from Paper Planes and Other Things We Lost, the first book in this series, but I think Olle and Amber stole my heart. This is definitely the most emotional book for me out of the series. Luckily I had my sunglasses on when I was reading on the beach or everyone would have been wondering why I was crying over my Kindle. The pain and angst throughout this sensational read are broken up with lighthearted sassy banter between Amber and her sexy bearded Finnish mountain man that will make you giggle.
May 29, 2017
I think this was my favorite paper planes novel so far. I mean, what girl doesn't dream of backpacking Europe and falling in love with a good looking dude with a hot accent? It was fun to learn about Finland, some of their culture and customs. I burned through this book so fast. I loved it.
September 18, 2019
This book was the perfect conclusion. I loved the story of Amber and Ollie. They had a beautiful adventure while falling in love.
August 24, 2022
I cannot properly put into words how great this book was. I am pretty sure I fell head over heels for Olle by 12%.
Where does one find a guy like him? Someone who is respectful and shows you your worth? And the patience that man has? I need one of those.
There were several instances where I laughed out loud at Amber and Olle's exchanges. Or just Amber.
Although not your typical sex filled NA book it was a fantastic read. I wouldn't have complained if it had been sex filled though. Pretty sure they would have had phenomenal sex. Just sayin.
It didn't need it. It was perfect just the way it was written. I love this book. Love.
Where does one find a guy like him? Someone who is respectful and shows you your worth? And the patience that man has? I need one of those.
There were several instances where I laughed out loud at Amber and Olle's exchanges. Or just Amber.
Although not your typical sex filled NA book it was a fantastic read. I wouldn't have complained if it had been sex filled though. Pretty sure they would have had phenomenal sex. Just sayin.
It didn't need it. It was perfect just the way it was written. I love this book. Love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2017
Chasing Cars was the perfect ending to this trilogy. My soul kept asking for the story of Amber and I was not disappointed. The chemistry between Amber and Olle is undeniable. I love this mountain man.
In the previous books we only truly caught glimpses of Amber and everything she was going through. In this book we are front and center to just everything this poor girl is feeling. Olle was exactly what she needed, exactly when she needed it.
Mindy and Michele love to play with my emotions. And by play with my emotions, I mean they like to set them on fire, just to extinguish the flames real real slow. I love every second of it.
In the previous books we only truly caught glimpses of Amber and everything she was going through. In this book we are front and center to just everything this poor girl is feeling. Olle was exactly what she needed, exactly when she needed it.
Mindy and Michele love to play with my emotions. And by play with my emotions, I mean they like to set them on fire, just to extinguish the flames real real slow. I love every second of it.
August 18, 2019
5 Stars
This is definitely my favorite book of the series. I love Olle and Amber so much! Their story and journey together is beautiful.
This is definitely my favorite book of the series. I love Olle and Amber so much! Their story and journey together is beautiful.
May 7, 2017
ARC reviewer.
This book. This series. This is one that the movie line, "You had me at hello," completely applies. This book, much like the series it is part of, grabbed my attention on page one and would not let go. I enjoyed the perspectives provided for both main characters. I laughed. I cried. I cannot wait to go back and reread the entire series.
This book. This series. This is one that the movie line, "You had me at hello," completely applies. This book, much like the series it is part of, grabbed my attention on page one and would not let go. I enjoyed the perspectives provided for both main characters. I laughed. I cried. I cannot wait to go back and reread the entire series.
May 13, 2017
HOLY CRAP! This book was amazing!! I completely fell in love with all of the characters, the story, the location, the troubles, the EVERYTHING! Mindy and Michele did such a good job, I think my heart will explode from all the emotions that have built up inside from reading a few pages into the lives of these people. You NEED this book in your life. NEED it!
May 7, 2017
I LOVED Chasing Cars and the Lessons we learned! This book had me feeling so many emotions the entire time. All the characters are so well written and I fell in love with them all. I would recommend this book to my friends!
November 23, 2017
I’m the odd one out... I didn’t find this interesting. The inner thoughts and dialogue had my eyes rolling. DNF.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews