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Once, it seemed my life was perfect. I had everything I thought I wanted. Then in one fell swoop, it all came crashing down. Suddenly, I don't have a fiancé or an apartment. If none of that was real, I'll have to figure out who I am and what I want all over again. Thank goodness I have my friends by my side.

Matt Greenstone was always one of them, a buddy who could make me smile when I frowned. But out of nowhere, there's a new feeling growing with him. A feeling that's thrilling and terrifying all at once. Something unmistakable is happening between us, and my freshly wounded heart can’t help but worry about the fall. I’ve been down this road before, but Matt just might be different.

He makes me laugh.
He makes me smile.
He makes my heart beat faster every time I see him.
He could be my new beginning...
If I can remember to just breathe.

178 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 28, 2019

63 people are currently reading
338 people want to read

About the author

Hollis Wynn

11 books309 followers

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5 stars
69 (48%)
4 stars
41 (29%)
3 stars
18 (12%)
2 stars
10 (7%)
1 star
3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Tish.
1,541 reviews6 followers
October 6, 2019
Breathe is the first book by this author that I've read but it definitely won't be my last. I loved Matt & Amber, their connection was so strong and beautiful. This book broke my heart and then slowly worked at putting it back together again.
Profile Image for Life on Readpeat.
1,506 reviews105 followers
October 5, 2019
* Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot *

description

Breathe is the second book in Hollis Wynn's Love Complicated series and it was breathtakingly beautiful. This author will break your heart into a million tiny pieces and leave you struggling to breathe (pun totally intended). Throughout all the angsty moments, the pieces of your shattered heart will slowly be put back together again. Trust me, the author won't leave you hanging with a mess of feelings, but you will certainly catch all the feels!

Amber and Matt's was a phenomenally written and heartwarming love story that will have you swooning. Every part of me knew that these two souls were destined to be and their connection was strong and unbreakable. Their journey will make you laugh, cry, and scream in frustration as you inhale all the words. It was the perfect blend of emotions and I absolutely loved every bittersweet moment they shared.

Hollis Wynn's story was everything and I am so glad she gave Amber and Matt's story the voice it deserved! I cannot freaking wait to see what her next book has to hold and I have no doubt it's going to another incredible story!
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,267 reviews220 followers
August 21, 2020
4.5 star review of Breathe (Love’s Complicated #2 by Hollis Wynn

Having just read the first book in this series, I decided to dive straight in to Breathe. This is Amber and Matt’s friends to lover story which I found entertaining to read.

I love when friends become lovers, the relationship id built on love and friendship. The connection between them is deep although they never seem to be on the same page. Can friends truly fall in love? I loved Matt, he is totally swoon worthy and a man I would be happy to have in my life. My heart broke for Amber at times and I desperately wanted her to find the happiness she truly deserved.


Breathe had my emotions all over the place. There were times that I laughed, times when I was brought to tears and times when I sighed. Ms.Hollis pulled me apart and then put me back together again.
Profile Image for Ginelle Blanch.
937 reviews26 followers
October 2, 2019
Good second book of a series. I really liked Matt and Amber together. Both were strong and supportive. But, very human and not without flaws which made them more believable.

This book does deal with some very real issues and may hit home with many readers.

I like that the characters from the first book were still present but, not a huge focal point for this book. I like the friendships between the characters.

But, the story was a bit predictable and descriptive of things that were pretty mundane.

Overall, enjoyable and I really liked the fact that it was light in the sex department, it always feels refreshing to me and lets my imagination fill in the blanks.
Profile Image for Shirin Rasheed.
2,862 reviews40 followers
August 27, 2020
I Really Loved Amber and Matt’s love story. It was just amazing. A little bit of spice and sweet.

I Recommend it to all Readers. One click and read it now.
Profile Image for Becca.
2,003 reviews26 followers
September 29, 2019
Amber has been burned but that doesn't stop Matt from going after the woman he feels this connection too. He's patient. He's sexy. He's romantic. He puts Amber up on a pedestal - puts her first. Something that Amber is not used to. Amber feels the connection too. The only thing is her mind and her hurt are having a hard time moving forward.

I loved every minute of this book (well - not so much chapter one... you'll see). Matt and Amber's story was sweet and romantic and SEXY is so many ways.

Hollis did an amazing job of painting a pure picture of unconditional love from all angles. How family can be your rock and how when you never expect it, love can drop right at your feet.
30 reviews4 followers
October 2, 2019
Matt and Amber are simply amazing. Their connection is loud, strong and seemingly unbreakable. But, and there is always a but, one of them fights it while the other one will do anything to keep it. Who will win this war of hearts?

This is Ms. Wynn's second novel and I loved this book. She ran my emotions all over the place. I walked away from the book a couple of times to regroup. For me, that's a sure sign I'm falling in love. It's all there; love, hate, heat, sexy, tears, smiles and so much more. This is a must read book!!

I'm enjoying watching Ms. Wynn grow as an author and I am so grateful to have found her books. Love, love, love this book!!
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance & Mystery Reviews).
3,450 reviews6 followers
August 18, 2020
Amber has been burnt by love in the most painful way, and it's left her hesitant to even consider going nearing it again. The man she thought was her forever walked away and left her heart in a million pieces. So she has decided that she needs a little time to herself, no dating, hook-ups, or love for a long, long time... what she really needs is time to let her head and her heart just breathe.

During the collapse of her relationship she had the shoulder of her best friend Matt to lean on, he was there from the first day ready and willing to listen, console, and try to make her forget. But what she didn't know is that he was a little happier about the break-up than he should have been, because that meant it might finally be time for him to tell her his true feelings. He has wanted to be the man to hold her heart for a long time now, and he has just been biding his time for a chance to earn it... but the true question is will she let him in?

Breathe is a heart-breaking tale of a woman who lost her forever, and the man who came into her life to give her a new one. Watching these two fall for one another was good on the heart at times and also rough here and there too. It was evident that they were meant for one another, but Matt knew he had to find the perfect balance between friend and hopeful suitor. He didn't want to rush her into anything, but he also knew this was his perfect shot at trying to steal her heart. He was patient, picked his moments, and managed to fix her heart all while stealing it. (And mine too!) From beginning to end this one had my emotions a mess, one minute I was sad and feeling raw and then next smiling and hopeful. Breathe was the perfect literary escape, it's characters drew me in, and it's words had me completely captivated... to the point that I devoured it all in one sitting! Highly recommend!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Carey S..
619 reviews9 followers
August 31, 2020
4.5 Stars
As the book starts, Amber is having a bad day. She walks into the home she shares with her fiancé to find a strange woman showering in her bathroom. Apparently, her fiancé has a mistress on the side, and he has given her an exact copy of Amber’s engagement ring. Can you spell sleaze?? Amber decides to leave her cheating scumbag to the mistress, and she packs up everything she owns and walks away. This is a smart woman.

She’s leery of dating again, but 6 months later, she’s kind of ready. Throw in a few scheming friends and she ends up hanging out at a singles event with Matt, who is good friends with Carrigan, from the story-Bent, by this same author. Matt is a firefighter, and he’s been attracted to Amber for a while, but knew she wasn’t ready. He’s been biding his time.

This story moves quickly. The reader gets caught up in Amber’s story readily, and is easily drawn into her orbit of close friends. She has a loving and accepting family, and she gets the support she needs when she needs it. This book pulls you in and takes you on a journey from heartache to healing to HEA. It may even leave you with a smile on your face! Good job, Ms. Wynn!
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
6,713 reviews141 followers
August 26, 2020
4.5 Stars for Breathe ( Love’s Complicated #2)
I couldn’t wait to jump into book 2 of this series and I wasn’t disappointed, this quick read was everything I expected and more. This is Amber and Matt’s story and their friends to lovers romance captivated from the first page to the last line.
Fate seems intent on keeping this couple apart, an attraction and a deep connection doesn’t always mean it’s time for love and this couple certainly need to negotiate a few bumps along the way before they can move on from friendship to lovers. Friends to lovers means crossing a line and will Matt and Amber be prepared to risk their friendship to take a chance on love working out for them......
An emotional roller coaster that will have you smiling, swooning, laughing and at times crying, this book touched me on so many levels and I highly recommend this gem of a read.

Profile Image for Jenifer Briggs.
1,537 reviews193 followers
August 27, 2020
This was my first time reading this author, but it definitely won't be my last. This book HURT. My poor heart almost couldn't take all of the angst, pain, and anguish that our two main characters go through, but it was so beautifully written that I just couldn't put down my kindle. I can't recommend this book enough!

You just know that Amber and Matt are destined to be together, no matter what hardships they face, and boy the obstacles in their way are intense, but so worth it! The connection they have is absolutely undeniable. There's so much angst, yes, but there's happy and funny times too that are blended together so eloquently! Seriously, just go read this book!!

**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Profile Image for Kerri Lightle.
1,010 reviews18 followers
September 9, 2020
Ok we got to meet matt and Amber in bent but this is fully their story.

Amber was burnt by an ex and had her life turned upside down till the night of new years when sparks fly between her and Matt. If you read bent you would see this. And I think it's important you read this one in order so you get the feel for the characters.

Now it continues on like boy meets girl but there's a twist maybe two to keep you drawn to the book. I will say I hope there's more to this series and we get to see a few other characters that we meet in the books get to help this group of friends evolve.
Profile Image for Sandie Chraponski.
1,811 reviews19 followers
August 15, 2020
When Amber’s life came crashing down around her she has all but given up on love, then in walked Matt.

This is a beautifully written story about a women working through her past to secure her future with a man who loves her.

There’s a little drama and fade to black scenes which don’t take away from the emotion of the story, but if you are looking for descriptive sexy scenes then this book isn’t for you. I loved this story and am glad I read it.
Profile Image for marshas_world_of_books.
547 reviews12 followers
August 27, 2020
This is another excellent read from Hollis Wynn! Again, it was over before I knew what happened. The book started with a massive blind siding moment for Amber. I actually had to sit my Kindle down and take a few minute to process it. From there things only looked up for Amber. She quickly feel into Matt and it was perfect. Matt is the sweet, loving, caring kind of guy that just melts your heart. I absolutely loved this book!
Profile Image for Michelle.
539 reviews6 followers
September 1, 2020
Breathe is book 2 in this series and for me it was way more enjoyable and more my kind of story than book 1.

Amber and Matt won me over, they were both strong characters and suited each other perfectly.
The story focuses on Amber, who goes through heartbreak but begins to heal when she meets Matt, it’s quite bittersweet and will definitely take your emotions on one crazy rollercoaster.

It’s sweet, sexy and heartwarming.
Profile Image for Isabel Debono.
931 reviews14 followers
August 27, 2023
I loved Matt and Amber.
Loved hearing Ambers back story and had been hoping these two would get together ever since reading Bent.
These two were both so relatable which made me love the story more. It was believable.
Such a wonderful read.

I was given a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review
Profile Image for Stacy Curtice.
231 reviews1 follower
Read
August 27, 2020
Amber and Matt are perfect. I loved this second book and loved seeing the story of the supporting characters from the first book. You can read this without reading Bent but, I would recommend reading them in order.
Profile Image for Mari (Mystics & Metaphysics Book Blog).
7,751 reviews170 followers
August 27, 2020
I couldn't breathe at times while reading, but I think that was the author's intention. Amber and Matt have a bittersweet story in this book and it will take you on a journey of emotions. I cried, I screamed, I laughed, and I blushed. It's sweet, sexy and full of heart.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
611 reviews17 followers
August 27, 2020
Very pleasant!

Breathe is a sweet romance that is sure to keep you turning pages!

I was completely hooked right from the start. This story flowed so easily, I found myself completely immersed. Hollis Wynn gives us a super pleasant, heart melting read for her debut novel. Delightful!

Profile Image for Maura.
2,189 reviews6 followers
January 18, 2025
BREATHE is book 2 of a series and I read it as a stand-alone. The writing is extremely detailed and the character building was complete. I did not like the FMC's reaction to several different situations and I totally judged her. Overall it was a decent read.
Profile Image for Megan.
24 reviews
May 16, 2020
This book was a nice break from the real world.

Hollis made me feel all the emotions throughout the book.

I can’t wait to see if she comes up with more in this series.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews186 followers
October 5, 2019
Breathe is only Hollis Wynn's second book, and since I would've never guessed that fact on my own, it gives me no option other than a 5 star review, as she had me sucked completely in the whole time. It's the story of Matt & Amber, two people with a powerful connection that won't be realized quickly, since they're best friends. First of all, Amber was broken by a man who she was led into believing loved her, but obviously didn't, so her self-esteemed was shattered, as well as her trust in herself and/or men in general, so she simply needed to Breathe for a cool minute. Yummy fireman, Matt, is Amber's best friend, and harbors secret feelings for her, but it's too soon after what she's healing from. Seriously though, they have chemistry in spades, like shot sparks in every direction, kind of chemistry. Matt is always there for her, and she couldn't ask for a better man with a huge heart to be in her life. This whole situation makes it a slow burn story with a HUGE push & pull which had me ready to shake everyone involved, though I loved both of them. The reason for the frustration is they are simply perfect for each other, and I wish that I could have jump through my kindle to kick them out of their friend zone for real. So, does my wish of them getting together come true?! You'll have to one click this amazing story to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for EducatedBookFreak.
642 reviews
October 8, 2019
Wow. What a quick, amazing, sexy read that leaves you feeling so good after!!! This author had me with her first novel, but this one floored me. She’s an author that doesn’t include all the steaminess, but leaves it so you can use your imagination.

I loved Amber’s story - while heartbreaking, you get the sweet, friends to lovers story. All the aspects of it are soothing to your soul and leave you begging for more. Visiting the characters from the first book were refreshing as well. This was a well-written, heartwarming tale of second chances and seeing what is right in front you. You might have to survive a few ups and downs, but we find what we’ve always been looking for, even if it was right under our noses the whole time.

Amber and Matt have known each other for a while. Their stories are intertwined with close friends. You get to watch their relationship go through many stages, and you get to see them grow stronger and closer. I need a Matt in my life. Totally swoon worthy!! This is one you need to read for yourself! You won’t regret it!!!
Profile Image for Amanda McCalip.
655 reviews2 followers
October 9, 2019
Breathe is the second book in Hollis Wynn's Love Complicated series and it was an absolutely incredible read. I read this book during an extremely hard point in my life and it's what held me together during a very emotional time, for that reason alone it is a book I highly suggest getting your hands on. I love a romance with a good amount of angst and Hollis does such an amazing job with it. It's always just enough without going overboard and she keeps me drawn in from start to finish. It is truly hard to believe that this is only her second book.

Amber and Matt have such an amazing love story. Full of emotion, full of charm, and so wholesome. You could tell from the beginning that these two characters were supposed to be together. The connection was there.

This was an absolutely incredible read and I truly can't say that enough. If you haven't read anything by Hollis Wynn, I suggest jumping on the bandwagon because it is one worth being on!

Job well done!
Profile Image for Stacie Christensen.
767 reviews23 followers
September 27, 2019
The clock strikes midnight and the fireworks across the lake are nothing compared to the fire I feel standing next to this man.

Something unmistakable is happening between us, and my freshly wounded heart can’t help but worry about the fall.

I’ve been down this road before. The Prince isn’t always charming in my story, but Matt seems different.

He makes me laugh.
He makes me smile.
He makes my heart beat fast.

Here’s to new beginnings... Just breathe.

Loved Matt and Amber's story! Heartwarming, and flawlessly written. I loved how awesome Chris and Kevin were so supportive with Amber. I loved every page of this book. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Candy76.
705 reviews25 followers
October 6, 2019
Really enjoyed this contemporary romance.
Amber has been broken by a man she thought loved her, but didn't. Matt is a sexy fireman friend who's interested in Amber but takes his time letting her know. Can these two make a "love connection"? Amber is a strong, caring and loving woman. Matt is a caring, strong and loving man.
Hollis did a great job bringing Amber's story to page. You understand why Amber is the way she is completely. You can feel the love throughout the story of all the characters involved. It's real easy to follow along and you root for Amber and Matt as you see where it leads.
***ARC provided in return for honest review, read for Sweet and Spicy Reads***
Profile Image for Summerlynn83_reads.
767 reviews8 followers
January 1, 2020
I just knew from the first few pages that Amber’s story was going to break my heart and it did. However as the story progressed both Amber and my heart was mended. After the way Amber was burned it’s no surprise she needed to “Breathe.” I loved the relationship that Amber had with her family, they were there to hold her up when she was in pieces but also there to give a push when she was too scared to make decisions and/or take action along the way. I also enjoyed the slow fall Amber and Matt made along the way as Amber learned to trust herself and others. Such an emotional but heartwarming story.
Profile Image for JoAnna Edger.
392 reviews
October 2, 2019
Amber and Matt are everything that you want in a couple! They start off unexpectedly because amber is still closed off from the life before Matt, but once the walls are down and they begin to blossom they take you to new heights. I loved every single word of this book, the chemistry these two have for each other is like no other! All around page turner and fantastic read! Watching Hollis grow as an author is an honor and a privilege! Keep writing because we will keep reading!

5 stars without a doubt! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Michelle.
393 reviews3 followers
September 26, 2019
I don't have the words to say how much I loved Breathe, it was amazing....awesome and all that!! We meet Matt and Amber in Bent, and I loved me some Matt, what's not to love...he's a FIREFIGHTER...enough said!! Matt and Amber have some kickass chemistry, but Amber has had her heart obliterated...will she be able to work her way through that hurt and let Matt in? Guess you'll just have to read Breathe and find out!! Hollis Wynn is very quickly becoming a favorite, and I'm sure you'll feel the same way....so can not wait to see what she has for us next!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews