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Double Blind Study #3
Deepest Blues
Mike Osborn woke up in a hospital in Germany three years ago. He was breathing. They had saved him.
Double Blind Study has been through every rock and roll cliché ever contrived. When their drummer nearly dies from a drug overdose, everything changes. Life is important again. Living is important again.
No one knows that better than Mike. So why does he feel like even though he's breathing and he's happy, his heart isn't beating the way it should be? Maybe it never did.
When Mike meets Clarke Matthews for the first time, he knows he should stay away from her. He knows too much about her and what she's been through. But for the first time, his heart has found another with a rhythm that matches his own. Every beat explodes a beam of light to illuminate his darkness.
Mike's been living life raw, unplugged. He's close to a reckoning. When it all comes apart, and he's faced with every mistake he's ever made, will the darkness win out? Or will the steady drum of a healthy pulse finally pull him into the light for good?
Double Blind Study has been through every rock and roll cliché ever contrived. When their drummer nearly dies from a drug overdose, everything changes. Life is important again. Living is important again.
No one knows that better than Mike. So why does he feel like even though he's breathing and he's happy, his heart isn't beating the way it should be? Maybe it never did.
When Mike meets Clarke Matthews for the first time, he knows he should stay away from her. He knows too much about her and what she's been through. But for the first time, his heart has found another with a rhythm that matches his own. Every beat explodes a beam of light to illuminate his darkness.
Mike's been living life raw, unplugged. He's close to a reckoning. When it all comes apart, and he's faced with every mistake he's ever made, will the darkness win out? Or will the steady drum of a healthy pulse finally pull him into the light for good?
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2014
18 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Hutchinson
36 books382 followersHeidi Hutchinson writes slow burn rock star romances for contemporary readers who like humor with their hotties. She has both open and closed door series filled with relatable characters and swooney yumminess. Double Blind Study, her go-to series, is closed door and follows a band in emotional turmoil and the women who love them.
When she’s not writing about wild hearted women and hunky heroes, she’s watching Doctor Who or trying to find the perfect gluten free pizza crust for her pizza shaped celiac heart. She lives in the Black Hills with her alarmingly handsome husband, their fearless child, and a rather large (and spoiled) dog.
She’s fueled by messages from her readers and too much coffee.
And a whole lotta love.
Visit her website or social media for upcoming releases!
heidih.net
Email: heidih.writer@gmail.com
IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: In Between the Earth and Sky
Book 2: Love of a Wild Thing (TBD)
Book 4: TBA
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Learn to Fly
Book 2: In Your Honor
Book 3: Tectonic
Book 4: Deepest Blues
Book 5: The Hope That Starts
Book 6: Brand New Sky
Book 7: Into the Night We Shine (Bonus Novella)
Book 8: Born to Resist (Bonus Novella- in progress)
Book 9: Matter of Fact (holiday novella)
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY WORLD CROSSOVER
Things That Shine (written with Bria Quinlan)
SOARING BIRD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Like the Back of My Halo
Book 2: Sushi and Sun Salutations
Book 3: Puppy Love and Peanut Butter
Book 4: Rope a Dope
Book 5: Caught a Vibe (May 2024)
Book 6: TBA
IN COLD MUD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Stubborn Hearts (prequel to DBS book 6 Brand New Sky)
Book 2:
THE DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES is an exciting romance series about rock stars in recovery. The Double Blind Study band has already lived the rock and roll cliché. This is life after. Full of humor, heart, and slow burn romance. Each book can be read alone but it is best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.
THE SOARING BIRD SERIES follows a group of extreme sports enthusiasts as they navigate life and love living on the California coast. Slow burn romantic comedies that can be read individually, but best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.
THE IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES is a slow burn unconventional romance that explores the connections of science and poetry. Occasionally intense moments of personal clarity and heartfelt confessions. Filled with touches of humor and real world obstacles. Cliffhanger free.
IN COLD MUD SERIES is a small series revolving around the politics and relationships of horse racing. Not a romance series. Definitely family drama.
NOTE: All of Heidi Hutchinson’s books take place in the Double Blind Study series. Each series can be read on their own but there are often crossover characters you may recognize.
When she’s not writing about wild hearted women and hunky heroes, she’s watching Doctor Who or trying to find the perfect gluten free pizza crust for her pizza shaped celiac heart. She lives in the Black Hills with her alarmingly handsome husband, their fearless child, and a rather large (and spoiled) dog.
She’s fueled by messages from her readers and too much coffee.
And a whole lotta love.
Visit her website or social media for upcoming releases!
heidih.net
Email: heidih.writer@gmail.com
IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: In Between the Earth and Sky
Book 2: Love of a Wild Thing (TBD)
Book 4: TBA
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Learn to Fly
Book 2: In Your Honor
Book 3: Tectonic
Book 4: Deepest Blues
Book 5: The Hope That Starts
Book 6: Brand New Sky
Book 7: Into the Night We Shine (Bonus Novella)
Book 8: Born to Resist (Bonus Novella- in progress)
Book 9: Matter of Fact (holiday novella)
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY WORLD CROSSOVER
Things That Shine (written with Bria Quinlan)
SOARING BIRD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Like the Back of My Halo
Book 2: Sushi and Sun Salutations
Book 3: Puppy Love and Peanut Butter
Book 4: Rope a Dope
Book 5: Caught a Vibe (May 2024)
Book 6: TBA
IN COLD MUD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Stubborn Hearts (prequel to DBS book 6 Brand New Sky)
Book 2:
THE DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES is an exciting romance series about rock stars in recovery. The Double Blind Study band has already lived the rock and roll cliché. This is life after. Full of humor, heart, and slow burn romance. Each book can be read alone but it is best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.
THE SOARING BIRD SERIES follows a group of extreme sports enthusiasts as they navigate life and love living on the California coast. Slow burn romantic comedies that can be read individually, but best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.
THE IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES is a slow burn unconventional romance that explores the connections of science and poetry. Occasionally intense moments of personal clarity and heartfelt confessions. Filled with touches of humor and real world obstacles. Cliffhanger free.
IN COLD MUD SERIES is a small series revolving around the politics and relationships of horse racing. Not a romance series. Definitely family drama.
NOTE: All of Heidi Hutchinson’s books take place in the Double Blind Study series. Each series can be read on their own but there are often crossover characters you may recognize.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 1, 2018
3.5 stars
"Clarke was an angel, capable of healing wounds that he'd accepted as being unhealable."
Deepest Blues was my Blind Date for April and I was pretty happy to see that I got a book from Heidi. Even though it's the 4th book in the Double Blind Study Series, you can read it as a standalone and you get introduced to some pretty interesting characters that makes you want to read the other books as well.
"Feel what you feel. Do not be ashamed of your heart and all the beats that it has."
You dive right into the world of some troubled souls. One by loss and one by drugs. Clarke and Mike have an undeniably great chemistry and insta-attraction. I love how their way unfolds with the story. And how they grow with the time they spend together.
"And she realized that needing help didn't make you weak, but accepting it definitely made you stronger."
Clarke is an easy to love heroine. She just makes you smile and you want to spend as much time with her as her friends do. She just has this unexplainable magnetism. Even though she lost all her family in a short period of time, she's still content with herself and her life. Sure, she still need to work through things, but no matter what fate threw her way, it made her even stronger.
Mike the troubled rock star who tried to drown his sorrows in drugs and alcohol. Even though he is sober for 3 years now, he still hasn't worked out this problems that got him there. Through Clarke he finds the way back to his self, to the man he wants to be.
"I see all of your colors. I see all of you. And I love you for being that. For being you."
Clarke and Mike's story is as sad as it is romantic. I love the way they are together. They are forgiving, caring, clam, content with themselves. It's like they were waiting for each other their whole life without realizing it.
Deepest Blues is a slow burn rock star romance with easy lovable characters, which could have used a little more suspense. But the tough topics it concerns makes the story the way it is.
I had a really a good time reading this book and I'm really looking forward to read more of this crew!
"Clarke was an angel, capable of healing wounds that he'd accepted as being unhealable."
Deepest Blues was my Blind Date for April and I was pretty happy to see that I got a book from Heidi. Even though it's the 4th book in the Double Blind Study Series, you can read it as a standalone and you get introduced to some pretty interesting characters that makes you want to read the other books as well.
"Feel what you feel. Do not be ashamed of your heart and all the beats that it has."
You dive right into the world of some troubled souls. One by loss and one by drugs. Clarke and Mike have an undeniably great chemistry and insta-attraction. I love how their way unfolds with the story. And how they grow with the time they spend together.
"And she realized that needing help didn't make you weak, but accepting it definitely made you stronger."
Clarke is an easy to love heroine. She just makes you smile and you want to spend as much time with her as her friends do. She just has this unexplainable magnetism. Even though she lost all her family in a short period of time, she's still content with herself and her life. Sure, she still need to work through things, but no matter what fate threw her way, it made her even stronger.
Mike the troubled rock star who tried to drown his sorrows in drugs and alcohol. Even though he is sober for 3 years now, he still hasn't worked out this problems that got him there. Through Clarke he finds the way back to his self, to the man he wants to be.
"I see all of your colors. I see all of you. And I love you for being that. For being you."
Clarke and Mike's story is as sad as it is romantic. I love the way they are together. They are forgiving, caring, clam, content with themselves. It's like they were waiting for each other their whole life without realizing it.
Deepest Blues is a slow burn rock star romance with easy lovable characters, which could have used a little more suspense. But the tough topics it concerns makes the story the way it is.
I had a really a good time reading this book and I'm really looking forward to read more of this crew!
November 2, 2014
Oh my.
Sometimes, I am lucky enough to discover beautiful, breathtaking, butterfly inducing stories. Stories like that deserve big things. People who write books like that deserve big things. This is one of those stories.
Mike is the prologue subject. And he's broken. Then he meets Clarke. And, as I was reading the story of characters I have already come to know, I was cheering for them. Then I had to send Heidi a message saying "Mike's currently on my idiot s**t list. It's not a long one. It's him." And that's the sign of a great story. That the characters and their relationship affected me that much.
Now, I'm not going to lie to you; you may cry. This is, in parts, a coffee shop averse story (unless your face doesn't go red and blotchy when you cry, in which case, crack on!!).
Mike's story touched my heart. And broke it a little. But I loved it.
In summary, a stunning tale of love and discovery. Buy it. Please. I genuinely think it's the best one yet.
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sometimes, I am lucky enough to discover beautiful, breathtaking, butterfly inducing stories. Stories like that deserve big things. People who write books like that deserve big things. This is one of those stories.
Mike is the prologue subject. And he's broken. Then he meets Clarke. And, as I was reading the story of characters I have already come to know, I was cheering for them. Then I had to send Heidi a message saying "Mike's currently on my idiot s**t list. It's not a long one. It's him." And that's the sign of a great story. That the characters and their relationship affected me that much.
Now, I'm not going to lie to you; you may cry. This is, in parts, a coffee shop averse story (unless your face doesn't go red and blotchy when you cry, in which case, crack on!!).
Mike's story touched my heart. And broke it a little. But I loved it.
In summary, a stunning tale of love and discovery. Buy it. Please. I genuinely think it's the best one yet.
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2014
I don't know what it was about Mike and Clarke's story that spoke to me on such an emotional and deeper level than the other stories, but I can tell you it did. I can tell you it did, because I cried. I cried for Mike, I cried for Paul and I cried for Clarke. This book was the same kind of feel as the other books, but yet different in a way. Deepest Blues was so much more about Mike and battling addiction, recovering, loss, guilt and cause/effect. Is it weird to be proud of a character? I found myself while reading this book being proud of Mike and how far he has come. And also kind of proud of the rest of the band for the support system they gave him, never walking away, never leaving him behind. I also found myself proud of MIke, yet disappointed at the same time when it came to Ilsa. Hence the crying. That moment in time, that one time, Sway witnessed it, I read it, I cried. My stomach dropped. It's SO real. It's so something that is a situation anyone can find themselves in, and most of us probably have. It's one of those times in life where you are reading a book, the scene pulls the feels from you and jogs a memory. You relate to the character. You remember those feelings. That's what Heidi did to me throughout this book. It's so much more than the band, and the music, and love. It is about growth and support, and recovery, and STRENGTH. You can't read this book and not see how strong Mike is for the path he chose, granted it took something horrible to get him on this path, but he's there. And he sticks to it. It takes a strong person to realize their faults or addictions, take the necessary steps to fix it, and stay on the up and up. But the same goes for Clarke. Two strong people, suffering a loss, battling internal issues, but taking the right steps to make themselves better before they can ever be better together. Such a beautiful thing. And the way Heidi delivers this story, you can't help but fall in love with Clarke, Mike and Sway too.
Deepest Blues stands out to me in this series to me because it's so different. It's on a different level than the other books in the series. It's the same amazing writing style that Heidi always deliver, and that I am always addicted to, that's no surprise. But this one is just so much deeper. I think you did amazing with this. 5 stars Heidi, 5 stars, no doubt in my mind.
Deepest Blues stands out to me in this series to me because it's so different. It's on a different level than the other books in the series. It's the same amazing writing style that Heidi always deliver, and that I am always addicted to, that's no surprise. But this one is just so much deeper. I think you did amazing with this. 5 stars Heidi, 5 stars, no doubt in my mind.
October 15, 2020
I knew this one would be different and brilliant. I wanted so much from this book and I was disappointed in ways and loved it so much in other ways. The love story was everywhere. I have learned with Heidi's books that the love story is so much more than just the couple. It involves everyone. Do not read these out of order. This series especially has been more of a story of the life of this band and their friends and lovers. You get it all and it is reality with rockstar stuff mixed in, so just enough to take you out of the world and put you in theirs. Mike was probably my favorite character from the first book, the way he saw Lenny and loved her and just loved and accepted all who came to the family. I was disappointed we got so much of the last book in this. Same conversations were repeated, the 2 books should have been one book it would have flowed so much better! I actually came to like Greta more in this one because you gotta see her threw Clarks eyes. Most of this series have been about people learning and growing and becoming better people. Mike learned what most addicts who recover learn you can't do it without God. I read a study that said almost all addicts who go on to really recover find God or spirituality. So there is a bit of religion at the end as Mike does what he does. This is also a bit pg13. This series is lighter on the swearing and drinking then the surfer series. It is a pg13 with talk of suicide, drug and alcohol use and some swear words. This has a couple kisses and sensuality.
April 11, 2024
Clarke, Mike & old movies
Clarke and Mike have some things in common. They both love old movies and the ocean. They also share a lot of friends which becomes family.
Clarke works for Shane running his brand and basically do anything and everything that needs doing. Shane is smitten with Greta which is Clarke's best friend and Harrison's sister. Clarke has had a crush on Mike forever but never really met him. Mike knew of Clarke for awhile from her brother Paul who talked about her none stop.
The two form a loving friendship and Mike is determined to not be involved further until he knows his addiction is under control. Clarke loves spending time with Mike and knows that time will tell where the relationship ends up. But when a blast from the past comes back into Mikes life like a hurricane Clarke feels the future of their could be relationship at a stand still.
I love Clarke she is a hard worker, passionate, fair, strong, loving and honest. Her past losses are so sad you feel her pain and understand why she is kind of a loner even if she has a ton of friends that would take a bullet for her.
Rating: 3 stars
Clarke and Mike have some things in common. They both love old movies and the ocean. They also share a lot of friends which becomes family.
Clarke works for Shane running his brand and basically do anything and everything that needs doing. Shane is smitten with Greta which is Clarke's best friend and Harrison's sister. Clarke has had a crush on Mike forever but never really met him. Mike knew of Clarke for awhile from her brother Paul who talked about her none stop.
The two form a loving friendship and Mike is determined to not be involved further until he knows his addiction is under control. Clarke loves spending time with Mike and knows that time will tell where the relationship ends up. But when a blast from the past comes back into Mikes life like a hurricane Clarke feels the future of their could be relationship at a stand still.
I love Clarke she is a hard worker, passionate, fair, strong, loving and honest. Her past losses are so sad you feel her pain and understand why she is kind of a loner even if she has a ton of friends that would take a bullet for her.
Rating: 3 stars
April 2, 2018
This was a great read. I loved every second of it. I’ve read others in this series and they were all equally as fantastic.
August 28, 2021
I skipped a few of the books in this series for the simple fact that I absolutely NEEDED Mike's story right after reading book one.
Deepest Blues was a beautifully written, slow-burning love story, full of emotional upheaval, struggles, the search for redemption and acceptance and of the unyielding bonds of friendship.
Author Heidi Hutchinson displays a remarkable talent at bringing all the different elements of love to a story, as well as tackling the difficult and realistic hardships and addiction issues with sensitivity and aplomb.
Her characters are all multifaceted, riveting and completely fallible. Whether that's the main protagonists or the side characters. Everyone brings something to the table. Another spectacular, raw, romantic and scintillating experience from this writer.
Deepest Blues was a beautifully written, slow-burning love story, full of emotional upheaval, struggles, the search for redemption and acceptance and of the unyielding bonds of friendship.
Author Heidi Hutchinson displays a remarkable talent at bringing all the different elements of love to a story, as well as tackling the difficult and realistic hardships and addiction issues with sensitivity and aplomb.
Her characters are all multifaceted, riveting and completely fallible. Whether that's the main protagonists or the side characters. Everyone brings something to the table. Another spectacular, raw, romantic and scintillating experience from this writer.
March 10, 2015
I wish I could give this 100 stars!! Mike's story is hardly easy to swallow...knowing he's had such a dark past dealing with pain and addiction. Enter his new friend Clarke and plenty of sweet silences. I found Clarke so reassuring and remarkable as the companion to his story. It's hard not to appreciate what an amazing character she is, considering all she's been through it doesn't cloud her or make her bitter. Mike is probably my favorite character of the band now, but I'm guessing I'll feel that way each time I read another book of Heidi's. I don't know why but I appreciated the darkness of the book as it sensitively and appropriately dealt with addiction. Beautifully done and even better than I had dare hoped the book would be.
May 14, 2015
1 billion stars! Probably a bit much but it was super cute. Clarke is funny and amazing. The spontaneity was great and adorable. Two thumbs up with the billion stars.
September 19, 2015
My new favorite! The story was exceptionally sweet and I love Mike so much!
April 14, 2018
This is the 4th book in the Double Blind Study but the first I have read, I will be looking for the others as this author who I have just found has a brilliant writing style. I was in love with the characters from the first meeting, well most of the time. There was a point when I wanted to strangle Mike...
Mike was the handsome sexy drummer of the band with a rock and roll lifestyle, after a bad drug experience and the loss of a friend, he decided to give up drugs and start his life over with the help of the rest of the band.
Clarke, a beautiful strong young lady, was doing the job she loved in the surf shop and surfing in her spare time, she had friends who overtook her home at times, but no family. Mike was a free spirit and although he had family he felt that his band was more his family than his mum had ever been.
When they met it was as if they were meant to be together but they knew in their hearts that they couldn't be, they had too many memories to work through before anything could happen. Their friendship surpassed anything that they could have imagined, when her heart beat his beat in perfect time, they had a deep friendship. They were content.
The past always has a way off catching up with you and when theirs caught up with them it had very bad results, could they come back from the secrets and the remorse?
Throughout this book I laughed and cried but I enjoyed it thoroughly and can't wait to find more from this creative author. I really need to know the back stories of the rest of the band and look forward to diving into their lives.
Thank you Heidi Hutchinson for a great book.
Mike was the handsome sexy drummer of the band with a rock and roll lifestyle, after a bad drug experience and the loss of a friend, he decided to give up drugs and start his life over with the help of the rest of the band.
Clarke, a beautiful strong young lady, was doing the job she loved in the surf shop and surfing in her spare time, she had friends who overtook her home at times, but no family. Mike was a free spirit and although he had family he felt that his band was more his family than his mum had ever been.
When they met it was as if they were meant to be together but they knew in their hearts that they couldn't be, they had too many memories to work through before anything could happen. Their friendship surpassed anything that they could have imagined, when her heart beat his beat in perfect time, they had a deep friendship. They were content.
The past always has a way off catching up with you and when theirs caught up with them it had very bad results, could they come back from the secrets and the remorse?
Throughout this book I laughed and cried but I enjoyed it thoroughly and can't wait to find more from this creative author. I really need to know the back stories of the rest of the band and look forward to diving into their lives.
Thank you Heidi Hutchinson for a great book.
April 18, 2018
We meet Mike, the recovering drug addict, who is harboring a very guilty secret. In comes Clarke, a wonderful woman who is loving, forgiving and amazing, yet tortured by the awful and untimely events of the death of her family.
Mike and Clarke's story is very slow at first, but it was necessary to be that slow. You need to realize how they mingle into each other's lives. They can live without the other and not be overly obsessed with their love as other books tend to go overboard after the first meeting.
However, when Mike did what he did...I was shocked!! I didn't see this story going in that direction and I wasn't sure where it was going to lead. I literally cried for Clarke. I was heartbroken and didn't even realize how invested I got into these characters. I didn't feel like they were extraordinary characters that I would constantly re-read, however I think they were an honest, realistic couple that I was able to truly feel the pain and raw emotions of THAT scene. Oh wait. There are two scenes that made me cry. Damn Mike was awful.
Poor Clarke.
Why do I want her with him? That's right, he is a recovering alcoholic who needs to be forgiven so he can have a good life. Don't lose sight of his goal.
All in all. It was a pretty good book and I have read another book in the Soaring Bird series and was able to see them again in this book so that was exciting, yet I was also looking for other characters that didn't show up. :(
Read it. Also, read all of Heidi Hutchinson. Maybe read these books in order. I haven't been but it might help with the hundreds (exaggerating slightly) of characters you get introduced to.
April 24, 2018
This is the first book I've read in the DBS series and I was initially confused by who was who and what was going on. There are lots of characters who are in this book but never really explained or introduced. It may have been a 5 star read for me if I had a better understanding of the relationships between everyone.
Having said that...
This book has all the feels. It's a story of overcoming your past and making amends in your present. I was very very angry at the male protagonist for a lot of the book due to his actions, but when it is explained in full - I was able to release my anger and wish him well. Yes - I am aware that this is fiction.
The main characters are written in depth with multiple layers and kept me wanting to know more as I went along. It held my attention from beginning to end and I'm glad I had an opportunity to read this for Quirky Blind Date with a Book.
A side note to family members: It is NOT YOUR FAULT. Please find a support group and talk to others in your situation.
A side note to those suffering from addiction: WE DO RECOVER
Having said that...
This book has all the feels. It's a story of overcoming your past and making amends in your present. I was very very angry at the male protagonist for a lot of the book due to his actions, but when it is explained in full - I was able to release my anger and wish him well. Yes - I am aware that this is fiction.
The main characters are written in depth with multiple layers and kept me wanting to know more as I went along. It held my attention from beginning to end and I'm glad I had an opportunity to read this for Quirky Blind Date with a Book.
A side note to family members: It is NOT YOUR FAULT. Please find a support group and talk to others in your situation.
A side note to those suffering from addiction: WE DO RECOVER
April 13, 2018
Emotional journey....
Well this was certainly a ‘no holds barred’ story when it came to emotional content.... two damaged individuals who seem destined for each other but have too much baggage to commit unequivocally....
This is the fourth in the series and my entry level ; I can honestly say that I did not feel I had missed any vital details by starting at this point, but in truth I do prefer to start a series from the beginning and as a result I felt a little bit cheated...
The writing is great and the characters suitably angsty and believable, if a tad frustrating, at times, with their inability to seize the opportunities placed in front of them without second guessing and reneging....but they are both fighting their own personal demons and there is a strength and steely determination in their attitudes that I loved.
There is no getting away from the fact that this is a sad story of loss, love and addiction; heartbreaking at times.... but there is also humor, warmth and a comradeship, between the fellow band members, that provides light relief and a reminder that even in the darkest moments the love of those closest to you can shine through..... I received a copy of this book through the Quirky Blind Date with a Book
Well this was certainly a ‘no holds barred’ story when it came to emotional content.... two damaged individuals who seem destined for each other but have too much baggage to commit unequivocally....
This is the fourth in the series and my entry level ; I can honestly say that I did not feel I had missed any vital details by starting at this point, but in truth I do prefer to start a series from the beginning and as a result I felt a little bit cheated...
The writing is great and the characters suitably angsty and believable, if a tad frustrating, at times, with their inability to seize the opportunities placed in front of them without second guessing and reneging....but they are both fighting their own personal demons and there is a strength and steely determination in their attitudes that I loved.
There is no getting away from the fact that this is a sad story of loss, love and addiction; heartbreaking at times.... but there is also humor, warmth and a comradeship, between the fellow band members, that provides light relief and a reminder that even in the darkest moments the love of those closest to you can shine through..... I received a copy of this book through the Quirky Blind Date with a Book
April 21, 2018
I’m stuck between a 3.5 and a 4 for this book! It started off really slow for me and I was a bit confused as to who was who and who was related and not related! About a quarter into the book things started along into perspective and by 50% in I was hooked!!
My heart felt so much for both mike and Clarke! Both have lost so much but through it all had still pulled family and support from friends and all those pieces for when they were together!!
I felt so many emotions through this book and I love stories that really make me think and have me from gutted to filling full within a few chapters!
My heart felt so much for both mike and Clarke! Both have lost so much but through it all had still pulled family and support from friends and all those pieces for when they were together!!
I felt so many emotions through this book and I love stories that really make me think and have me from gutted to filling full within a few chapters!
March 2, 2018
This was an interesting read, because there was a lot of overlap with book #3. Seeing the same events from different perspectives was neat. :)
Too much drama and tragic backstories are usually not my thing, so I was a bit skeptical how all the heavy stuff in Mike and Clarke's history would be dealt with. Yes, it was at times painful and heart-wrenching, but there were also enough funny moments and the "awwww"-factor was there, so I didn't mind - and it made for a beautiful story.
NB: Extra kudos for Mike and Clarke being aware of their respective issues, and not only accepting but actively seeking professional help... somehow that made them even more human and more "real" for me. Thank you for that.
Too much drama and tragic backstories are usually not my thing, so I was a bit skeptical how all the heavy stuff in Mike and Clarke's history would be dealt with. Yes, it was at times painful and heart-wrenching, but there were also enough funny moments and the "awwww"-factor was there, so I didn't mind - and it made for a beautiful story.
NB: Extra kudos for Mike and Clarke being aware of their respective issues, and not only accepting but actively seeking professional help... somehow that made them even more human and more "real" for me. Thank you for that.
April 24, 2018
This one has an element of darkness that creeps in and touches your soul. Addiction and it’s impact on those close to you and ones self worth is explored and at times it can be a little confronting. Really well written with characters that are honest and raw.
July 30, 2023
A more angsty, tortured story that reveals Mike's past. The presence of Ilsa, Mike's ex, makes everything messy and triangular.
April 22, 2018
Mike and Clarke had me hooked. Very emotional read. Absolutely loved this story. I voluntarily reviewed a copy via QBDB.
April 19, 2018
Good story. This is the second book I have read by Heidi and I enjoyed it. I haven't read the other three books in this series but I will be adding them to my TBR list.
April 18, 2018
Read this as part of a Quirky Blind Date
I wasn't expecting something this wonderful when i picked it from a small blurb. What a powerful story of healing and hope.
I wasn't expecting something this wonderful when i picked it from a small blurb. What a powerful story of healing and hope.
April 2, 2018
I really enjoyed this story by Heidi Hutchinson. I have not read the previous 3 books in this series and I don't feel like I was lost at all in the story although I have plans to go back and read them all from the beginning. This was the story of Mike, the drummer of the band Double Blind Study and his road to both recovery and finding himself. Clarke has also been through some tragic circumstances in her life and somehow their lives were intertwined before they'd ever met. Does Clarke have the ability to let herself fall and the ability to forgive when secrets are revealed and does Mike have what it takes to stay on his own recovery path. Sweet love story!
October 28, 2014
I could not wait to read this book. I completely fell in love with Mike from Book One. There was just something about him that drew me to him. He was the quiet one. He was the one always watching everything and everyone around him. He was always there when his band brothers needed him and giving his words of wisdom and support.
Mike holds my heart. His story was heartbreaking and beautiful. I love the determination he had to win his battle and make himself whole. Mike and Clarke were just destined to be together.
I love how Heidi writes and creates her characters. No weak females here. Clarke battles with her own issues. She has no family but she’s still strong, intelligent and fierce. All the characters are well developed and they grow on you. You will laugh, snort, cry and giggle. And be prepared to feel all the warm fuzzies because Mike is just that loveable.
I love Heidi’s writing style. She always delivers a true love story. Her stories are always told with such passion and enough drama to keep you consumed from beginning to end. There touching, heartbreaking, relatable and always carry such a great positive message. Mike’s story gives you hope. That although life can sometimes be tough and there are obstacles that require great strength to overcome, however, if you are determined and believe in faith and hope, you can overcome just about anything.
Although each book in this series can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading in order. You get to meet the characters from the beginning and get a feel for each one. Each story is just as wonderful and they just continue to get better and better.
Mike holds my heart. His story was heartbreaking and beautiful. I love the determination he had to win his battle and make himself whole. Mike and Clarke were just destined to be together.
I love how Heidi writes and creates her characters. No weak females here. Clarke battles with her own issues. She has no family but she’s still strong, intelligent and fierce. All the characters are well developed and they grow on you. You will laugh, snort, cry and giggle. And be prepared to feel all the warm fuzzies because Mike is just that loveable.
I love Heidi’s writing style. She always delivers a true love story. Her stories are always told with such passion and enough drama to keep you consumed from beginning to end. There touching, heartbreaking, relatable and always carry such a great positive message. Mike’s story gives you hope. That although life can sometimes be tough and there are obstacles that require great strength to overcome, however, if you are determined and believe in faith and hope, you can overcome just about anything.
Although each book in this series can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading in order. You get to meet the characters from the beginning and get a feel for each one. Each story is just as wonderful and they just continue to get better and better.
January 9, 2015
Once I started reading, I couldn't stop! I read it while I made dinner, loaded the dishwasher, and even when I brushed my teeth! I devoured it in one night.
I knew half way into Learn to Fly that Mike's story would be amazing and deep, but I was unprepared for this level of awesomeness! Throughout the story I felt ridiculously happy, angry, terribly sad, and sometimes all of them at the same time. At one point I gasped and yelled "nooo" out loud like a crazy person and cried a little. I read the epilogue 3 times in a row because Mike and Clarke's happy ending is so beautiful!
Go buy tissues and chocolate and read this book!
I knew half way into Learn to Fly that Mike's story would be amazing and deep, but I was unprepared for this level of awesomeness! Throughout the story I felt ridiculously happy, angry, terribly sad, and sometimes all of them at the same time. At one point I gasped and yelled "nooo" out loud like a crazy person and cried a little. I read the epilogue 3 times in a row because Mike and Clarke's happy ending is so beautiful!
Go buy tissues and chocolate and read this book!
December 26, 2014
mike and Clarke, I really loved and enjoyed this story.
takes place in early in book 3 Tectonic in a different point of view, you see more on Clarke's p.o.v. more into a relationship that starts to form between her and Mike .
mike has a pass he still struggles with and finds that its getting easier to handle. but do to a certain person coming back from the past, with secrets coming to light.
I enjoyed the laughs the drama and the sad parts too. in the end it all comes together.
takes place in early in book 3 Tectonic in a different point of view, you see more on Clarke's p.o.v. more into a relationship that starts to form between her and Mike .
mike has a pass he still struggles with and finds that its getting easier to handle. but do to a certain person coming back from the past, with secrets coming to light.
I enjoyed the laughs the drama and the sad parts too. in the end it all comes together.
September 7, 2015
This book was given to me in exchange for a honest review by United Indie Book Blog
This is book 4 in the series. It is not the greatest book but it gets better. The beginning is basically a retelling of book 3 but from a slightly different perspective. Togethers REALLY Goshen the story focuses on Mike and Clarke. It's full of emotions that will tear you up and let you heal. Still a must own series!
Reviewed by Jenni
This is book 4 in the series. It is not the greatest book but it gets better. The beginning is basically a retelling of book 3 but from a slightly different perspective. Togethers REALLY Goshen the story focuses on Mike and Clarke. It's full of emotions that will tear you up and let you heal. Still a must own series!
Reviewed by Jenni
September 7, 2015
This book was given to me in exchange for a honest review by United Indie Book Blog
This is book 4 in the series. It is not the greatest book but it gets better. The beginning is basically a retelling of book 3 but from a slightly different perspective. Togethers REALLY Goshen the story focuses on Mike and Clarke. It's full of emotions that will tear you up and let you heal. Still a must own series!
This is book 4 in the series. It is not the greatest book but it gets better. The beginning is basically a retelling of book 3 but from a slightly different perspective. Togethers REALLY Goshen the story focuses on Mike and Clarke. It's full of emotions that will tear you up and let you heal. Still a must own series!
October 9, 2020
Yes, it may seem like just another rock star romance but this book is more. It's the story of waking up one day and realizing you're wasting your life away. You're throwing away everything you've worked so hard for. Mike Osborn wakes up in a hospital and realizes his life needs to change. When he meets Clarke he thinks she's the answer to everything. That is until things fall apart.
Will his demons come back or will Clarke be the woman he needs to make wise permanent changes?
Will his demons come back or will Clarke be the woman he needs to make wise permanent changes?
October 4, 2018
Luke & Lenny's story was of a mature love with childish brick walls that made it really funny.. I laughed my heart out!
Blake & Lucy's story of young love and heartbreaks that destroyed lives before rebuilding them was heartbreakinly sweet!
Shane & Greta's story of a blooming love in the middle of aches was a sweet, funny change!
BUT
Mike & Clarke's was something else! I don't know what made me like it this much maybe because I actually cried big fat tears!
Blake & Lucy's story of young love and heartbreaks that destroyed lives before rebuilding them was heartbreakinly sweet!
Shane & Greta's story of a blooming love in the middle of aches was a sweet, funny change!
BUT
Mike & Clarke's was something else! I don't know what made me like it this much maybe because I actually cried big fat tears!
October 30, 2014
Could I love Mike and Clarke anymore? No probably not, this story was great. It was a little hard for me to get into in the beginning but once you learn more of their pasts I really became invested in their characters. This book did not disappoint and the series keeps getting better and better. I can't wait to read Harrison's story next!
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