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Daylight Follows
From USA Today Bestselling Author Michelle Dare comes a friends to lovers story of loss, the true meaning of friendship, and finding love when you least expect it.
Direction and a sense of purpose for her life evaded Daniella Archer. She was in college, but her classes didn’t hold her interest. She had a boyfriend, but never got butterflies when he was near. Her two best friends were her lifelines, the ones who always stood by her. Then tragedy shattered her world and she sunk into a deep depression. She watched helplessly as the rainy sky mimicked her tears and the dark clouds, her mood.
Garrett Ramsey secretly loved Daniella throughout their high school years. When he moved away, he finally put those feelings behind him and moved on with his life, or so he thought. Just seeing Dani again brought all of the feelings he thought were long dead, straight to the surface again. She never saw him as more than a friend, so he didn’t tell her how he truly felt.
Two people, two paths, both missing something significant. Storms swirled all around and the blackness of night seemed to last forever. They dared to hope daylight would follow.
Direction and a sense of purpose for her life evaded Daniella Archer. She was in college, but her classes didn’t hold her interest. She had a boyfriend, but never got butterflies when he was near. Her two best friends were her lifelines, the ones who always stood by her. Then tragedy shattered her world and she sunk into a deep depression. She watched helplessly as the rainy sky mimicked her tears and the dark clouds, her mood.
Garrett Ramsey secretly loved Daniella throughout their high school years. When he moved away, he finally put those feelings behind him and moved on with his life, or so he thought. Just seeing Dani again brought all of the feelings he thought were long dead, straight to the surface again. She never saw him as more than a friend, so he didn’t tell her how he truly felt.
Two people, two paths, both missing something significant. Storms swirled all around and the blackness of night seemed to last forever. They dared to hope daylight would follow.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2016
80 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Dare
81 books1,504 followersMichelle Dare is a USA Today Bestselling Author. Her stories range from sweet to sinful and from paranormal to contemporary. There aren’t enough hours in the day for her to write all the story ideas in her head. When not writing or reading, she’s a wife and mom living in eastern Pennsylvania. One day she hopes to be writing from a beach where she will never have to see snow or be cold again.
https://www.michelledare.com/links
https://www.michelledare.com/links
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
December 17, 2016
***POSSIBLE SPOILERS PRESENT WITHIN REVIEW***
This was a pretty quick read that will have you shedding quite a few tears. An accident that brings heartache to a close circle of friends has everyone reeling with devastation. Daniella Archer is heartbroken when her best friend, Leah, is taken from their lives. She is deeply depressed with her loss. It's only with the help of Garrett, a former high school classmate, that she finds herself safe and protected. Dani just can't cope with the loss of her friend as she finds herself on her way ro see Garrett for consulation. He doesn't ask her unwanted questions. He just accepts her as she is. But, unbeknownst to Dani, Garrett has been in love with her since high school. What these two eventually experience with each other is beautiful and passionate. Garrett is definitely the swoony hero. He doesn't have much, but with his quite demeanor and handsome good-looks, he listens to Dani and encourages her to be herself. No expectations are needed. Dani will never get over the loss of her friend but learns to accept it and realizes she has to live her life. And, that's a powerful message in this book. This author wrote Dani and Garrett's story with tenderness and compassion. It was beautifully told...
This was a pretty quick read that will have you shedding quite a few tears. An accident that brings heartache to a close circle of friends has everyone reeling with devastation. Daniella Archer is heartbroken when her best friend, Leah, is taken from their lives. She is deeply depressed with her loss. It's only with the help of Garrett, a former high school classmate, that she finds herself safe and protected. Dani just can't cope with the loss of her friend as she finds herself on her way ro see Garrett for consulation. He doesn't ask her unwanted questions. He just accepts her as she is. But, unbeknownst to Dani, Garrett has been in love with her since high school. What these two eventually experience with each other is beautiful and passionate. Garrett is definitely the swoony hero. He doesn't have much, but with his quite demeanor and handsome good-looks, he listens to Dani and encourages her to be herself. No expectations are needed. Dani will never get over the loss of her friend but learns to accept it and realizes she has to live her life. And, that's a powerful message in this book. This author wrote Dani and Garrett's story with tenderness and compassion. It was beautifully told...
September 11, 2016
What an amazingly heartfelt read, I absolutely loved Dani and Garrett's story. It was so heartbreakingly raw and real and touched on the issue of depression and grief. Michelle Dare writes from her heart and captivates you with her words. Michelle handles the subject matter so flawlessly that you connect with her characters on a deeper level. Michelle had me sobbing before the end of chapter one and had me hooked for every chapter after, Garrett very quickly became my newest book boyfriend and I will fight anyone of you for him.
I don't want to give the story away so I will just say that this is a book to read and fall in love with as I did!
An absolute must read
I don't want to give the story away so I will just say that this is a book to read and fall in love with as I did!
An absolute must read
February 11, 2017
Amazing novel, I can't believe it took me so long to read.
This novels soul purpose is Dani over coming depression, how she lives with it every day over the loss of losing someone so close to her. This novel hit home for me and its great to see a realistic fiction novel show that there are people out there who suffer through many types of depression. Even though this is fiction the novel has realistic point of views that people go through many things and have to work very hard to overcome many obstacles to get where they can be happy.
Dani, Carson, and Garrett go through so much raw emotions I definitely felt for each character and was happy to read through there lives and get to know them on a deeper level.
You did amazing Michelle. Now for one of things I didn't like, don't worry they aren't so bad because this novel stayed on topic and didn't make me confused and wonder what the heck she's talking about ha! But no, an occurring problem that kept popping up while I was reading was how it was written, I felt like I was reading a list of hers and Garrett's daily activities throughout the chapters like it was a rush to get to the most emotional moments whether it was her sad moments or the very intense moments good or bad between Carson, Dani and Garrett. It bothered me a little but I was definitely able to enjoy the novel on a personal level and how great it came out in the end.
I completely recommend this novel for anyone out there who loves a raw and emotional novel. And can deal with read about depression and tragic loss.
This novels soul purpose is Dani over coming depression, how she lives with it every day over the loss of losing someone so close to her. This novel hit home for me and its great to see a realistic fiction novel show that there are people out there who suffer through many types of depression. Even though this is fiction the novel has realistic point of views that people go through many things and have to work very hard to overcome many obstacles to get where they can be happy.
Dani, Carson, and Garrett go through so much raw emotions I definitely felt for each character and was happy to read through there lives and get to know them on a deeper level.
You did amazing Michelle. Now for one of things I didn't like, don't worry they aren't so bad because this novel stayed on topic and didn't make me confused and wonder what the heck she's talking about ha! But no, an occurring problem that kept popping up while I was reading was how it was written, I felt like I was reading a list of hers and Garrett's daily activities throughout the chapters like it was a rush to get to the most emotional moments whether it was her sad moments or the very intense moments good or bad between Carson, Dani and Garrett. It bothered me a little but I was definitely able to enjoy the novel on a personal level and how great it came out in the end.
I completely recommend this novel for anyone out there who loves a raw and emotional novel. And can deal with read about depression and tragic loss.
September 17, 2016
This story is a must read -- you will find it very touching but heart wrenching too. The main characters are Dani and Garrett and you will do an emotional ride with them as they deal with issues as loss, grief, depression, guilt, and the feeling of loss of control in which they go through a healing process with the aid of strong friendships and love. You will find yourself being suck into the story and lives of the characters from the very beginning and the author, Michelle Dare, has a way of telling story that makes you not want to put it down till you finish
August 20, 2016
Michelle Dare has become one of my go to authors. I truly enjoy the depth of emotion and feeling her characters evoke. Daylight Follows is no different, Daniella and Garrett's story is well crafted and beautifully plotted. The relationships in this book seem natural and evolve in such a way that the reader can actually see the changes in the characters as they occur.
Ms. Dare writes about friendship and its importance in life, whether a best friend or a boyfriend/girlfriend. That connection is very important, especially in Dani's life. When tragedy strikes, Dani's friends rally around her, even one that hasn't been around for several years, Garrett. When he moved away, he only kept in touch with one of his friends but always kept tabs on Dani, the one girl who always owned his heart. He doesn't pressure her to talk or force her to do more than she is capable of. Her other friends have suffocated her with their concern, but Garrett just lets her be on her own terms.
Dani struggles with depression and loss, but somehow makes a connection with Garrett, rather than her boyfriend, who seems to be fighting his own inner demons. As Dani fights against her depression the relationship she is in withers, and she seeks the solace she finds being in Garrett's presence. He doesn't pressure her to talk or force her to do more than she is capable of. He thought he had put his feelings for her behind him, until he saw her struggling. Both characters keep their feelings hidden from nearly everyone, but somehow when they are together things seem brighter. They each struggle with their issues but find that together they may be able to handle all life hands to them.
Ms. Dare writes about friendship and its importance in life, whether a best friend or a boyfriend/girlfriend. That connection is very important, especially in Dani's life. When tragedy strikes, Dani's friends rally around her, even one that hasn't been around for several years, Garrett. When he moved away, he only kept in touch with one of his friends but always kept tabs on Dani, the one girl who always owned his heart. He doesn't pressure her to talk or force her to do more than she is capable of. Her other friends have suffocated her with their concern, but Garrett just lets her be on her own terms.
Dani struggles with depression and loss, but somehow makes a connection with Garrett, rather than her boyfriend, who seems to be fighting his own inner demons. As Dani fights against her depression the relationship she is in withers, and she seeks the solace she finds being in Garrett's presence. He doesn't pressure her to talk or force her to do more than she is capable of. He thought he had put his feelings for her behind him, until he saw her struggling. Both characters keep their feelings hidden from nearly everyone, but somehow when they are together things seem brighter. They each struggle with their issues but find that together they may be able to handle all life hands to them.
September 17, 2016
DISCLAIMER: This is NOT your typical friends to lovers romance. You WILL cry. This book WILL show you what grief and depression feel like. You WILL hug your kindle after reading, hoping that Dani & Garrett feel it.
How do you go on without someone who was essential to your happiness...?
After the untimely death of her best friend, this is something that Dani needs to figure out how to do. And it's not going well at all. She feels as if no-one else understands what she's going through, considering the fact that she was telling Leah about how unhappy she was with life & her relationship with Carson the day of the accident. But all that starts to change when she runs into Garrett again. He's the only person content to let her work through her grief & depression at her own pace, so when life becomes too much - he's the one she runs to.
I've been in love with her forever...
No stranger to grief himself, Garrett understands what Dani's going through - and he wants to help. So what if he's been in love with her for years? She's never seen him that way and he's ok with that. As long as she learns to be happy again, that's all that matters.
But what happens when Dani realizes that Garrett's feelings are far deeper than friendship?
I just have to say that this might just be the best novel that Michelle Dare has written to date. It's not very often that a book makes me cry within the first few chapters, but she's managed to make it happen. I can honestly say that this story touched my heart in ways that I couldn't begin to describe.
How do you go on without someone who was essential to your happiness...?
After the untimely death of her best friend, this is something that Dani needs to figure out how to do. And it's not going well at all. She feels as if no-one else understands what she's going through, considering the fact that she was telling Leah about how unhappy she was with life & her relationship with Carson the day of the accident. But all that starts to change when she runs into Garrett again. He's the only person content to let her work through her grief & depression at her own pace, so when life becomes too much - he's the one she runs to.
I've been in love with her forever...
No stranger to grief himself, Garrett understands what Dani's going through - and he wants to help. So what if he's been in love with her for years? She's never seen him that way and he's ok with that. As long as she learns to be happy again, that's all that matters.
But what happens when Dani realizes that Garrett's feelings are far deeper than friendship?
I just have to say that this might just be the best novel that Michelle Dare has written to date. It's not very often that a book makes me cry within the first few chapters, but she's managed to make it happen. I can honestly say that this story touched my heart in ways that I couldn't begin to describe.
September 15, 2016
Such a beautiful story. It's surrounded with such heartbreak that you can't help but feel all the emotions this book throws your way. It's very intense and it was a perfect read. I took those emotions like a champ and pushed threw it to get to the beautiful ending.
September 17, 2016
This story is another that needed to be told so thank you Michelle Dare. This story touches everyone in some way you either know someone or you are someone and this sheds light on it.
Dani, Leah, Libby, Carson, Kevin and Garrett have been friends since high school. Dani is in a relationship with Carson because it's comfortable and she knows she should move on but she is afraid. She, Leah and Libby have been friends forever and though they have gone in different directions they meet up about once a month to catch up. Today Dani and Leah meet up about halfway between and have lunch and plan to get Libby and meet up again but Leah never makes it home. Leah passes away from a car accident and Dani goes in such a deep depression it seems she can't get out of it and everybody keeps asking her to eat or how she is and she is sick of it.
Garrett moved away but he has never forgotten about Dani because he loved her the first time he saw her and now he is back for Leah's funeral. Dani is unaware of this but she is so depressed she barely functions and Garrett is wishing he could see her smile.
I won't share anymore but you have to read it for yourself and if you have ever felt this way even a tiny bit you will love this story.
I received this story in exchange for an honest review
Dani, Leah, Libby, Carson, Kevin and Garrett have been friends since high school. Dani is in a relationship with Carson because it's comfortable and she knows she should move on but she is afraid. She, Leah and Libby have been friends forever and though they have gone in different directions they meet up about once a month to catch up. Today Dani and Leah meet up about halfway between and have lunch and plan to get Libby and meet up again but Leah never makes it home. Leah passes away from a car accident and Dani goes in such a deep depression it seems she can't get out of it and everybody keeps asking her to eat or how she is and she is sick of it.
Garrett moved away but he has never forgotten about Dani because he loved her the first time he saw her and now he is back for Leah's funeral. Dani is unaware of this but she is so depressed she barely functions and Garrett is wishing he could see her smile.
I won't share anymore but you have to read it for yourself and if you have ever felt this way even a tiny bit you will love this story.
I received this story in exchange for an honest review
September 25, 2016
Daylight Follows tells the story of a young woman - Dani - trying to deal with a horrible tragedy in her life, fighting the power of depression and trying to find her way in life. No one understands what she is going through - not her friends, her parents, her boyfriend - they just keep hovering and trying to "help".... except Garrett. Garrett, a friend from high school who has secretly loved Dani for years, is just there. He just listens IF she wants to talk. He silently provides support just by being there for her.
I'm not going to go into detail around the storyline. I think the beauty in the story is more around the pains and struggles of depression. Is there a romance? Absolutely!!! Is there a 'Happily Ever After"? That depends on what you consider 'Happily Ever After'... Is it a book worth reading? WITHOUT A DOUBT!!! You will cry, you will laugh, you will yell at the characters.... And you will love them.
I have read a number of Michelle Dare's books and have enjoyed just about all of them. Daylight Follows is my favorite of all of her books!!! I highly recommend reading it.
I'm not going to go into detail around the storyline. I think the beauty in the story is more around the pains and struggles of depression. Is there a romance? Absolutely!!! Is there a 'Happily Ever After"? That depends on what you consider 'Happily Ever After'... Is it a book worth reading? WITHOUT A DOUBT!!! You will cry, you will laugh, you will yell at the characters.... And you will love them.
I have read a number of Michelle Dare's books and have enjoyed just about all of them. Daylight Follows is my favorite of all of her books!!! I highly recommend reading it.
December 15, 2016
I have to admit. When I received this book to review I really didn't have much faith in it. Horrible, right? I've been in a book-slump lately. Nothing has grabbed me and I've been jaded.
BUT HOLY HELL THIS BOOK!!
Thank you Michelle Dare for writing this story. Thank you for tackling some hard and very real issues that people face each and every day. Reading about Dani's struggles to move on from tragedy and reading about Garrett's insecurities made it hard to put this books down. The twist later in the book was a shocker but thank you for ending things in the HEA that we all love to finish with.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
BUT HOLY HELL THIS BOOK!!
Thank you Michelle Dare for writing this story. Thank you for tackling some hard and very real issues that people face each and every day. Reading about Dani's struggles to move on from tragedy and reading about Garrett's insecurities made it hard to put this books down. The twist later in the book was a shocker but thank you for ending things in the HEA that we all love to finish with.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
September 18, 2016
They say you should push through the rainy days because, eventually, the sun will shine again.
Dani was going through the motions of life...not really sure if she's happy with her choice of college major, and realizing that the "spark" is missing from her current relationship. However, she's comfortable. But, when a tragedy rocks her world to the core, she is no longer even going through the motions. She is numb and is unsure of how to cope. She realizes, though, that something has got to change.
Garrett has been in love with Dani since high school. He moved away for college, and tried to bury those feelings. However, having to come back to his home town, those feelings resurface yet again. But, Dani is in a relationship and he is willing to just be a shoulder for Dani to cry on.
Dani was going through the motions of life...not really sure if she's happy with her choice of college major, and realizing that the "spark" is missing from her current relationship. However, she's comfortable. But, when a tragedy rocks her world to the core, she is no longer even going through the motions. She is numb and is unsure of how to cope. She realizes, though, that something has got to change.
Garrett has been in love with Dani since high school. He moved away for college, and tried to bury those feelings. However, having to come back to his home town, those feelings resurface yet again. But, Dani is in a relationship and he is willing to just be a shoulder for Dani to cry on.
December 14, 2016
What a moving story. Michelle did a fabulous job of letting you feel the emotions Dani and Garrett are feeling. Through it all she leads them to find happiness and that life does move on after tragedy. This story is powerfully written to capture so many things and having you feel them along the way strikes me in a way no other book has. Definitely a favorite.
July 30, 2023
Got this in exchange for an honest review. And this was the most emotional book I've read in a very long time. At times I had to put it down before I could keep reading. Wow. Am really becoming a fan of this author...tho I prefer something not quite so emotionally evolving...lol.
December 8, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, it was much different from the MC books I normally read. It was a nice read that was emotional and heartfelt. It showed you that you will be OK no matter what happens and how you have to find yourself again!
December 13, 2016
Love, loss, depression and living in the moment in our journey through life.
September 18, 2016
This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
Michelle has written a book which deals with depression and the grief people experience after they lose someone they love. Michelle dealt with the topic with delicacy and a beautiful understanding of people go through once they have been depressed. Michelle also deals with the uncertainty of trying a relationship with a friend and the fear of losing the friend you need. I liked the believable nature of how she told the fears of which a person has.
Dani is a lady who has lost her best friend and doesn't know how to cope. She'd been uncertain about her future in regards to her career, as she was studying a course which didn't inspire her. But how'd you truly know what your passionate for? Her relationship with Carson was also un-inspirational and didn't give her the butterflies you're supposed to get once you've found 'the one'. She had the choice to break up with him or stay and hope that the spark comes. Dani is a wonderful woman who is going through a very rough patch, but she is beautiful, kind and feisty. She is a loyal friend and tries her best not to hurt people so I became quickly attached to her as the book progressed. I wanted her to find the one who sets her heart on fire and has her on a pedestal. I knew that wasn't Carson and I find like him all that much.
Garrett... He is a man that every woman needs. He is devoted, sensitive, loving and a general hottie! He isn't the man you'd expect to read about, but that made me love the story even more. He has always seen as an outcast, within his family or society, but it's never stopped him. It's only clouded his perceptions of what people think of him. I felt sorry for him during book which had me hoping he got the girl. He hadn't been home in years, but a tragedy had him going home and straight into the path of the girl who didn't notice him throughout high school. His compassion and understanding was perfect, although I hated the reasons as to why he knew hoe to handle them. I wanted to give him the biggest hug.
This book was keep you gripped and I found it a perfect book which has everything you need. This book is my favourite by Michelle so far, so it's worth the 5 stars!
Michelle has written a book which deals with depression and the grief people experience after they lose someone they love. Michelle dealt with the topic with delicacy and a beautiful understanding of people go through once they have been depressed. Michelle also deals with the uncertainty of trying a relationship with a friend and the fear of losing the friend you need. I liked the believable nature of how she told the fears of which a person has.
Dani is a lady who has lost her best friend and doesn't know how to cope. She'd been uncertain about her future in regards to her career, as she was studying a course which didn't inspire her. But how'd you truly know what your passionate for? Her relationship with Carson was also un-inspirational and didn't give her the butterflies you're supposed to get once you've found 'the one'. She had the choice to break up with him or stay and hope that the spark comes. Dani is a wonderful woman who is going through a very rough patch, but she is beautiful, kind and feisty. She is a loyal friend and tries her best not to hurt people so I became quickly attached to her as the book progressed. I wanted her to find the one who sets her heart on fire and has her on a pedestal. I knew that wasn't Carson and I find like him all that much.
Garrett... He is a man that every woman needs. He is devoted, sensitive, loving and a general hottie! He isn't the man you'd expect to read about, but that made me love the story even more. He has always seen as an outcast, within his family or society, but it's never stopped him. It's only clouded his perceptions of what people think of him. I felt sorry for him during book which had me hoping he got the girl. He hadn't been home in years, but a tragedy had him going home and straight into the path of the girl who didn't notice him throughout high school. His compassion and understanding was perfect, although I hated the reasons as to why he knew hoe to handle them. I wanted to give him the biggest hug.
This book was keep you gripped and I found it a perfect book which has everything you need. This book is my favourite by Michelle so far, so it's worth the 5 stars!
September 18, 2016
I love everything Michelle writes and this is just another I can add to the list. Dani is living her life day to day. Not living a picture perfect life, but she's happy enough. There are several things in her life she wished were different. She still longs for the butterflies she hopes to find one day with a man. Her boyfrie d is ok, but she has never felt all the sparks she knows are possible with THE one. After a horrible tragedy strikes pretty early on in the book everything she thought she wanted changes. Garrett has always longed for her, but has put his feelings aside and moved on. Both physically leaving town, as well as trying to put his feelings for her aside. Knowing nothing could have happened between them as she isn't even aware of his emotions for her. These two are just perfect for each other and their story is so heartfelt and emotional. When tragedy strikes, and everything is put to question in your life, would you keep on your same mediocre path, or would you find ways to change the small and large things in life to search for your own true happiness? That is what this story is about for both of these characters. The emotions when the two are reunited under such tragic circumstances just adds to the heartbreak you can feel wrapped up between them. I love reading books that truly make me feel every emotion under the sun in just a few hundred pages. Michelle paints such an amazing portrait of each of their life's and it really got me invested from the first two chapters. I was rooting for them to each find their way together and to find their own way of happiness in life in general.
September 17, 2016
Ever wonder how you would deal with a life changing event that forces you to take stock of your life? This is what happens to Danielle Archer and Garrett Ramsey in Daylight Follows. Dani's childhood friend, Leah, dies tragically. The pain of the loss is overwhelming for Danielle. Garrett Ramsey has returned to town to attend Leah's wake and funeral. During their high school years he was the odd man out of the group that included Dani and only Kevin has kept in touch all these years. Since Garrett first met Dani she held a special place in his heart but he stayed in the friend zone. All he wants to do is pay his respects, see Kevin and head back to his life. Three days. What happens when these two see each other? You are going to have to read this story written by the talented Michelle Dare. Daylight Follows deals with a very difficult topic, depression. It tugged at my heartstrings. You see grief, anger and desperation between this group of friends. How do you cherish the memory of someone you lost? Life is what happens when you are making other plans. I can say the lives of these two take a turn that forces them to deal with issues that they avoided and affects the group dynamics. I love Kevin! He is a good friend. Garrett's sister is a hoot. Dani's parents are wonderful.
September 18, 2016
“Life can be beautiful and tragic. Babies come into this world and with them comes joy and then, hope. People leave this world, and with them go pieces of the ones who loved them and were left behind. Pieces we won’t get back.”
What an emotional and beautiful read! You might want to have some tissues available. Daniella is going through the motions of life without really experiencing it. She’s in a relationship with a good guy, yet doesn’t really feel passion. She breezes through her classes but again doesn’t feel passion for her studies. She’s completely unsure of what she really wants, and she appears to be somewhat afraid to really step out of her comfort zone and find out. All this changes when she loses someone very close to her. She’s trapped in darkness and sadness and can’t seem to find a way out of it. No one around her can seem to help her. She pushes everyone around her away…until Garrett. Garrett was friends with Dani in high school but always harbored feelings for her, but he never told her. He comes back to town for the funeral, and he and Dani share a connection. It’s the first time she has felt anything. This is just the beginning of their long journey together.
While this is a love story between Dani and Garrett, it’s also about two people coming out of the darkness into the “daylight,” just as the title suggests. Garrett keeps all his emotions bottled up and has experienced depression. Dani can’t seem to shed the darkness of her depression. No one seems to understand even though they mean well. I could understand their frustrations with her. I was frustrated with her, but through Garrett, I saw that everyone deals with grief and depression very differently. When these two connected, it was truly beautiful!
I am a huge fan of Michelle Dare’s. She has shed light on several mental illness issues such as anxiety and depression in a very sensitive way. She has taken the stigma and opened my eyes to both of them. Each person who experiences depression and anxiety is different, and the issues and treatment are different. This is a beautiful romance filled with second chances, healing, and most of all, hope! Thanks, Michelle Dare, for another wonderful read!
***Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
***Copy provided in exchange for an honest review***
What an emotional and beautiful read! You might want to have some tissues available. Daniella is going through the motions of life without really experiencing it. She’s in a relationship with a good guy, yet doesn’t really feel passion. She breezes through her classes but again doesn’t feel passion for her studies. She’s completely unsure of what she really wants, and she appears to be somewhat afraid to really step out of her comfort zone and find out. All this changes when she loses someone very close to her. She’s trapped in darkness and sadness and can’t seem to find a way out of it. No one around her can seem to help her. She pushes everyone around her away…until Garrett. Garrett was friends with Dani in high school but always harbored feelings for her, but he never told her. He comes back to town for the funeral, and he and Dani share a connection. It’s the first time she has felt anything. This is just the beginning of their long journey together.
While this is a love story between Dani and Garrett, it’s also about two people coming out of the darkness into the “daylight,” just as the title suggests. Garrett keeps all his emotions bottled up and has experienced depression. Dani can’t seem to shed the darkness of her depression. No one seems to understand even though they mean well. I could understand their frustrations with her. I was frustrated with her, but through Garrett, I saw that everyone deals with grief and depression very differently. When these two connected, it was truly beautiful!
I am a huge fan of Michelle Dare’s. She has shed light on several mental illness issues such as anxiety and depression in a very sensitive way. She has taken the stigma and opened my eyes to both of them. Each person who experiences depression and anxiety is different, and the issues and treatment are different. This is a beautiful romance filled with second chances, healing, and most of all, hope! Thanks, Michelle Dare, for another wonderful read!
***Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
***Copy provided in exchange for an honest review***
September 18, 2016
5 Heart-Wrenching Stars
Let me start off by saying-WOW!!! This book tore my heart out and completely gutted me!
Daylight Follows by Michelle Dare is a standalone novel that follows Dani and Garrett and their emotional journey of loss, friendship, and love.
Dani Archer has been doubting everything lately. From what she's majoring in, to Carson, her boyfriend of a few months. When a tragedy strikes, Dani falls into a deep depression. Unable to move forward, she realizes life is too short to just be content. Not wanting to be around anyone, the only person she finds solace with is Garrett. But the problem is-he's been keeping a secret that could destroy their friendship for good. Will Dani be able to move on? Or will she be stuck living a shell of a life?
Garrett Ramsey has always felt out of step. With parents who wanted someone perfect, Garrett learned to fake it all. The only comfort he had was a few friends he met at public school. Once moving away, he's able to try and change the things he hated. When a tragedy strikes back home, he's forced to go back. He's unsure if he's able to go because Dani will be there. And he's been keeping a secret. He's been in love with her since they were teenagers. Will he be able to survive being around her? Or will his secret be revealed? You'll just have to read it to find out!
I LOVED this book. Michelle Dare touches on so many sensitive subjects-death and depression; just to name a few. She writes characters that are extremely realistic and you feel the emotions coming off the pages as you read. This has to be her best work to date. The book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions and you can't help but feel it all the way down to your soul. It truly was a beautiful story filled with so much sadness but also of hope too. I highly recommend this book!
Let me start off by saying-WOW!!! This book tore my heart out and completely gutted me!
Daylight Follows by Michelle Dare is a standalone novel that follows Dani and Garrett and their emotional journey of loss, friendship, and love.
Dani Archer has been doubting everything lately. From what she's majoring in, to Carson, her boyfriend of a few months. When a tragedy strikes, Dani falls into a deep depression. Unable to move forward, she realizes life is too short to just be content. Not wanting to be around anyone, the only person she finds solace with is Garrett. But the problem is-he's been keeping a secret that could destroy their friendship for good. Will Dani be able to move on? Or will she be stuck living a shell of a life?
Garrett Ramsey has always felt out of step. With parents who wanted someone perfect, Garrett learned to fake it all. The only comfort he had was a few friends he met at public school. Once moving away, he's able to try and change the things he hated. When a tragedy strikes back home, he's forced to go back. He's unsure if he's able to go because Dani will be there. And he's been keeping a secret. He's been in love with her since they were teenagers. Will he be able to survive being around her? Or will his secret be revealed? You'll just have to read it to find out!
I LOVED this book. Michelle Dare touches on so many sensitive subjects-death and depression; just to name a few. She writes characters that are extremely realistic and you feel the emotions coming off the pages as you read. This has to be her best work to date. The book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions and you can't help but feel it all the way down to your soul. It truly was a beautiful story filled with so much sadness but also of hope too. I highly recommend this book!
September 14, 2016
Grab your tissues and settle in for an emotional journey. Dani loses someone very close and important to her and causes her to sink into depression. This is her journey to finding herself and her future.
Garrett has been in love with Dani since high school. He had to move away with his family before he could act on his feelings. When he sees Dani again, it awakens his feelings.
I'm a big fan of Michelle Dare's writing. This story will not disappoint. The writing is fantastic and the story flowed seamlessly.
I freaking loved this story. Make sure you have tissues handy.
Garrett has been in love with Dani since high school. He had to move away with his family before he could act on his feelings. When he sees Dani again, it awakens his feelings.
I'm a big fan of Michelle Dare's writing. This story will not disappoint. The writing is fantastic and the story flowed seamlessly.
I freaking loved this story. Make sure you have tissues handy.
September 14, 2016
Danielle Archer hasn’t been blissfully happy in a while. Neither her college courses nor her boyfriend Carson can bring that excitement that she should be feeling. When tragedy strikes and she’s forced to go back home, he world comes crashing down and she falls deep into depression. Can the reunion with a high school friend give her the necessary spark that she needs to light up her life again?
I really enjoyed this book. Garret Ramsey seemed to be the only person who Dani could turn to without feeling suffocated. Everyone wanted to help her and I understand that, but sometimes it takes someone to just be there… no words necessary. I liked how he was able to sense what she was feeling and somehow know what she needed. He was extremely patient with her, yet he pushed her to do things she felt she wasn’t ready for and this forced her to open up to her feelings. I also liked that he didn’t push her where her feelings toward him where concerned.
Dani, what can I say about her? I was feeling the devastation that put her in that state of depression. It is something so difficult to overcome and the way she handled it might not be understood by many, but everyone has to deal with things in their own way. She was a strong character and her actions were very real.
I was a bit confused by Carson’s actions and was feeling like something was missing, but that action he takes at the end clearly showed where he was coming from and that made me forgive him a little.
This story shows us the love of family and friendship at its best. It shows us how deeply anyone can be hit by depression and how being able to have someone to turn to is very important. Dare gives us a sweet and devastating story with fantastic characters and great writing.
I really enjoyed this book. Garret Ramsey seemed to be the only person who Dani could turn to without feeling suffocated. Everyone wanted to help her and I understand that, but sometimes it takes someone to just be there… no words necessary. I liked how he was able to sense what she was feeling and somehow know what she needed. He was extremely patient with her, yet he pushed her to do things she felt she wasn’t ready for and this forced her to open up to her feelings. I also liked that he didn’t push her where her feelings toward him where concerned.
Dani, what can I say about her? I was feeling the devastation that put her in that state of depression. It is something so difficult to overcome and the way she handled it might not be understood by many, but everyone has to deal with things in their own way. She was a strong character and her actions were very real.
I was a bit confused by Carson’s actions and was feeling like something was missing, but that action he takes at the end clearly showed where he was coming from and that made me forgive him a little.
This story shows us the love of family and friendship at its best. It shows us how deeply anyone can be hit by depression and how being able to have someone to turn to is very important. Dare gives us a sweet and devastating story with fantastic characters and great writing.
September 17, 2016
I received a copy of this book exchange for an honest review. This story was emotional with death, loss and depression. How to overcome all the bad been handled to you and know that you have someone in your corner who will be there for you.
September 20, 2016
received this ARC in return for an honest review.
What a truly moving and heartfelt story. Dani, Leah and Libby are best friends. Once they graduate from high school they don't see each other as much as they like but they have a wonderful bond. Then the unthinkable happens and one of them is lost forever. This is Dani's story of how she dealt with the loss of her best friend. This story will definitely have you reaching for your tissues. When we loose someone who is so close to us we all mourn in our own way and sometimes the loss hits us so hard we don't really see an end to the pain we have inside. Dani finds comfort in Garrett who understands somewhat how her depression is effecting her and realizes that she just needs time to work through it and with the help of a professional and friends who are just there she will get through it. Dani needs to find her place in the world now that Leah isn't there and Leah's death just brought all of Dani's feelings of loss to the surface quicker. At the time of Leah's death Dani wasn't feeling stable in any part of her life -relationship, work or school.
Michelle deals with the issue of depression and the many forms it can take in a wonderful way in this story. Garrett, Carson and Dani all have suffered depression in their lives and each dealt with it in a different way. She makes a great point that depression isn't a one size fits all and for those who suffer from depression some times for every step forward you take you take a few more back.
This book will make you cry and bring a smile to your face. It may also bring back memories of someone you may have lost.
What a truly moving and heartfelt story. Dani, Leah and Libby are best friends. Once they graduate from high school they don't see each other as much as they like but they have a wonderful bond. Then the unthinkable happens and one of them is lost forever. This is Dani's story of how she dealt with the loss of her best friend. This story will definitely have you reaching for your tissues. When we loose someone who is so close to us we all mourn in our own way and sometimes the loss hits us so hard we don't really see an end to the pain we have inside. Dani finds comfort in Garrett who understands somewhat how her depression is effecting her and realizes that she just needs time to work through it and with the help of a professional and friends who are just there she will get through it. Dani needs to find her place in the world now that Leah isn't there and Leah's death just brought all of Dani's feelings of loss to the surface quicker. At the time of Leah's death Dani wasn't feeling stable in any part of her life -relationship, work or school.
Michelle deals with the issue of depression and the many forms it can take in a wonderful way in this story. Garrett, Carson and Dani all have suffered depression in their lives and each dealt with it in a different way. She makes a great point that depression isn't a one size fits all and for those who suffer from depression some times for every step forward you take you take a few more back.
This book will make you cry and bring a smile to your face. It may also bring back memories of someone you may have lost.
Read
September 18, 2016Unrequited high school love, second chances and the journey of grief are all explored in this heart warming yet angst filled romance. Dani is feeling unfulfilled with her life, a nagging feeling that she is not on the right path. Her life is safe, her boyfriend comfortable and she feels like something is missing. Then tragedy strikes leaving a gaping hole in her heart. Coming to terms with her loss is a long and difficult journey that sometimes seems too hard to overcome. Dani is lost but can Garrett find her?
Garrett was always on the edges of their group, a quiet dependable friend until he moved away. He loved her from afar and accepted she would never return his feelings until a devastating event brings him back home and to her. Reawakening his buried feelings for Dani can he help her through the darkest of times so she can once again be the light? Dani falls prey to depression and Garrett has his own demons to wrestle but together can they emerge stronger?
Daylight Follows is a well written story of friendship, love and loss. Dani is sucked into the whirlpool of grief and her battle to not drown is handled with sensitivity. The characters are easy to fall for and written with passion and empathy. I really enjoyed this story and is another great read from this author. If you are looking for a story that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside then this is the one for you.
A four star hug in a book read.
Garrett was always on the edges of their group, a quiet dependable friend until he moved away. He loved her from afar and accepted she would never return his feelings until a devastating event brings him back home and to her. Reawakening his buried feelings for Dani can he help her through the darkest of times so she can once again be the light? Dani falls prey to depression and Garrett has his own demons to wrestle but together can they emerge stronger?
Daylight Follows is a well written story of friendship, love and loss. Dani is sucked into the whirlpool of grief and her battle to not drown is handled with sensitivity. The characters are easy to fall for and written with passion and empathy. I really enjoyed this story and is another great read from this author. If you are looking for a story that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside then this is the one for you.
A four star hug in a book read.
September 12, 2016
This was the first book I read by Michelle Dare. I will definitely be reading more.
This book deals with the very real issue of depression and that it can affect anyone at any time.
Dani is dealt with a huge blow that sets in motion a deep depression. Although she knows she wants to get better and move on she is finding it very difficult to do so. All her family & friends want is for her to get better. To Dani this means a lot of talking and nagging. Sometimes it's the quiet moments that mean the most.
Garrett was part of Dani's group of friends in high school and was always the quiet guy. He always had deep feelings for Dani but never acted on them. Now because of a tragic accident he is back in Swiftwood Ridge and directly in the path of Dani. He's discovered that distance doesn't always change feelings.
Dani feels the need to escape and goes to the person that she feels a connection to. Can Garrett help Dani come back into the light or will she let the draw of depression drag her under?
This was such a heartfelt book. I just couldn't put it down. I kept going back to it even when there were other things I needed to be doing. This is so deserving of every emotional, heartfelt star!!!
***Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. My review of this book is my true feelings & honest thoughts of it. ***
This book deals with the very real issue of depression and that it can affect anyone at any time.
Dani is dealt with a huge blow that sets in motion a deep depression. Although she knows she wants to get better and move on she is finding it very difficult to do so. All her family & friends want is for her to get better. To Dani this means a lot of talking and nagging. Sometimes it's the quiet moments that mean the most.
Garrett was part of Dani's group of friends in high school and was always the quiet guy. He always had deep feelings for Dani but never acted on them. Now because of a tragic accident he is back in Swiftwood Ridge and directly in the path of Dani. He's discovered that distance doesn't always change feelings.
Dani feels the need to escape and goes to the person that she feels a connection to. Can Garrett help Dani come back into the light or will she let the draw of depression drag her under?
This was such a heartfelt book. I just couldn't put it down. I kept going back to it even when there were other things I needed to be doing. This is so deserving of every emotional, heartfelt star!!!
***Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. My review of this book is my true feelings & honest thoughts of it. ***
September 17, 2016
This book is one that will emotionally grip you and take you down a rabbit hole that is beautifully written. What Michelle Dare did with this book is nothing short of amazing. It felt real. The emotions. The pain. The heartache. Everything. Also the finding love when you are least expecting it with someone you never thought possible.
The character build was amazing too because you get to go through the motions of the tragic events that took place and feel what both Dani and Garrett go through. As well as the side characters. You get to see how the heartbreak affected everyone in a different way.
I think what I really adored about this book is Garrett. Coming from such a closed off place to where he is now, was a huge growth for him. Garrett is that rare gem. He is one of those guys that is always around in the background but because he isn't vocal, you never look at him in a certain way. I know Garrett is probably already claimed.. but dudes.. I need him.. he is just one of those special BBF you want to tuck away and take care of for ever!
Overall, I think this is one of my favorite works by Michelle Dare. I have been following her for a while and with the emotions that were evoked during this tale, it left me shattered yet whole by the end. Stunningly beautiful and a must read!
The character build was amazing too because you get to go through the motions of the tragic events that took place and feel what both Dani and Garrett go through. As well as the side characters. You get to see how the heartbreak affected everyone in a different way.
I think what I really adored about this book is Garrett. Coming from such a closed off place to where he is now, was a huge growth for him. Garrett is that rare gem. He is one of those guys that is always around in the background but because he isn't vocal, you never look at him in a certain way. I know Garrett is probably already claimed.. but dudes.. I need him.. he is just one of those special BBF you want to tuck away and take care of for ever!
Overall, I think this is one of my favorite works by Michelle Dare. I have been following her for a while and with the emotions that were evoked during this tale, it left me shattered yet whole by the end. Stunningly beautiful and a must read!
September 26, 2016
Well, right off the bat I was shocked, saddened and intrigued. I also was able to relate with Dani on many levels and loved the vulnerability of her character.First of all, Dani finds herself possibly in a relationship and just going through the motions rather than having true feelings for Carson. That is so relatable as we sometimes feel we cannot let others down and must do what they expect of us even if we aren't happy. When Dani - all of her friends really- must face a devastating loss, she just withdraws and becomes depressed. When you lose your person you have no other way to be but depressed. What Dani lacked with a connection with Carson, the connection with Garrett was special, sweet and soul binding.
Garrett had been in love with Dani since they were teenagers. Seeing her broken took something away from Garrett, something he wanted to give back to Dani.
I had a hunch where Carson was concerned and I was right! I think Leah felt the same way- in my book mind I will say she felt the same way Carson did.
Dani working through her grief and depression wasn't something she was able to accomplish overnight and really were compounded by the loss of Leah. Dani really was soul searching before she was thrown into relentless grief. This sweet story of she and Garrett working this out together is well, well worth the read. Great story!
Garrett had been in love with Dani since they were teenagers. Seeing her broken took something away from Garrett, something he wanted to give back to Dani.
I had a hunch where Carson was concerned and I was right! I think Leah felt the same way- in my book mind I will say she felt the same way Carson did.
Dani working through her grief and depression wasn't something she was able to accomplish overnight and really were compounded by the loss of Leah. Dani really was soul searching before she was thrown into relentless grief. This sweet story of she and Garrett working this out together is well, well worth the read. Great story!
December 8, 2016
What a beautifully written story!!! This is my first book by Michelle Dare, but will not be my last. The writing in this book is so good you truly feel everything and, in a way not only are you crying for what the characters are going through, but it makes you think about life altering events you have gone through. The writing is so good that it has you looking at your past tragedies and evaluating your own emotions.
This book handles depression so flawlessly it will make you reevaluate what you think it means to be depressed. And everybody has there own way of coping through misery. What works for one person will not work for the next this book is a prime example.
Dani is inconsolable after her best friends death and even though everyone tries to help they just can't. They don't understand what she needs or how to get her out of torture she's enduring. Enter Garrett who's a good friend of hers from high school who always loved her, but was friend zoned. He thought he was over her until seeing her again.
This book will bring out every emotion you can think of. You will cry, laugh, scream & root for love and life again for Dani!!! This book isn't for the faint of hearts, but will take on a journey like no other!!
I was gifted a copy of this book for a honest review and I can't express the love I have for it!!
This book handles depression so flawlessly it will make you reevaluate what you think it means to be depressed. And everybody has there own way of coping through misery. What works for one person will not work for the next this book is a prime example.
Dani is inconsolable after her best friends death and even though everyone tries to help they just can't. They don't understand what she needs or how to get her out of torture she's enduring. Enter Garrett who's a good friend of hers from high school who always loved her, but was friend zoned. He thought he was over her until seeing her again.
This book will bring out every emotion you can think of. You will cry, laugh, scream & root for love and life again for Dani!!! This book isn't for the faint of hearts, but will take on a journey like no other!!
I was gifted a copy of this book for a honest review and I can't express the love I have for it!!
September 11, 2016
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
This book was about 2 people that had a very emotional journey to get to each other. Dani and Garrett both had there share of sadness and depression in their lives. This sadness brought them back together again. They both fought to over come it and they became stronger because of it. The book was very well written and it had you laughing and crying throughout. Michelle Dare did an amazing job of tacking the subject of depression and the effects that it can have on someone life. She did an even more amazing job of creating 2 exceptional characters and bringing them together. The story was definitely 5 stars. I would highly recommend it.
This book was about 2 people that had a very emotional journey to get to each other. Dani and Garrett both had there share of sadness and depression in their lives. This sadness brought them back together again. They both fought to over come it and they became stronger because of it. The book was very well written and it had you laughing and crying throughout. Michelle Dare did an amazing job of tacking the subject of depression and the effects that it can have on someone life. She did an even more amazing job of creating 2 exceptional characters and bringing them together. The story was definitely 5 stars. I would highly recommend it.
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