What do you think?
Rate this book
A Heartbeat Away from You
After a daredevil play on the baseball field leads to a four-minute long cardiac arrest, seventeen-year-old Ali Benton is lucky to be alive. Now she wants to make the most of her second chance—and she’s not going to let a pesky little pacemaker, or her helicopter dad, slow her down.
Between chairing multiple school clubs and working two jobs to help his single mother pay the bills, Max Delaney has got every second of every day planned. His childhood nemesis, Ali, doesn’t figure into any of them. But when her overprotective father offers him cash to keep an eye on her and steer her away from baseball, his plans change.
Ali can’t figure out why Max, the condescending know-it-all, is sticking to her side like Krazy Glue, and Max can barely tolerate headstrong Ali. But opposites attract, and before long, fighting turns to kissing. Even as sparks fly, the secrets they’ve been keeping threaten to tear them apart. When Max learns Ali’s been putting herself in harm’s way and playing ball in secret, he struggles with how to tell her father. If he tattles, he’ll lose her trust. If he doesn’t, he may lose her heart…in more ways than one.
Between chairing multiple school clubs and working two jobs to help his single mother pay the bills, Max Delaney has got every second of every day planned. His childhood nemesis, Ali, doesn’t figure into any of them. But when her overprotective father offers him cash to keep an eye on her and steer her away from baseball, his plans change.
Ali can’t figure out why Max, the condescending know-it-all, is sticking to her side like Krazy Glue, and Max can barely tolerate headstrong Ali. But opposites attract, and before long, fighting turns to kissing. Even as sparks fly, the secrets they’ve been keeping threaten to tear them apart. When Max learns Ali’s been putting herself in harm’s way and playing ball in secret, he struggles with how to tell her father. If he tattles, he’ll lose her trust. If he doesn’t, he may lose her heart…in more ways than one.
- GenresYoung AdultContemporary
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 16, 2022
1 person is currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Ann M. Miller
3 books273 followersAnn M. Miller writes young adult fiction about first loves and complex family dynamics. She is the author of the magical realism duology Captured in Paint and Illusions in Paint, as well as the YA romance A Heartbeat Away from You, which Publishers Weekly called “a stirring summery read.”
The youngest of six children, Ann grew up in Nova Scotia, Canada, where the local bookmobile fed her addiction to Nancy Drew mysteries, Sweet Valley High books, and Stephen King horror. After graduating from the University of King’s College, she moved to Newfoundland, an island that makes up for its unforgiving climate with beautiful coastlines and majestic icebergs.
When not reading and writing, Ann can be found spending time with her husband and son or binge-watching her favorite TV shows while curled up with the four-legged members of her family.
The youngest of six children, Ann grew up in Nova Scotia, Canada, where the local bookmobile fed her addiction to Nancy Drew mysteries, Sweet Valley High books, and Stephen King horror. After graduating from the University of King’s College, she moved to Newfoundland, an island that makes up for its unforgiving climate with beautiful coastlines and majestic icebergs.
When not reading and writing, Ann can be found spending time with her husband and son or binge-watching her favorite TV shows while curled up with the four-legged members of her family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 10, 2022
Another gorgeous read from Ann Miller! An enemies-turned-lovers YA sports romance, this book will give you all the feels. Feisty and athletic Ali has her heart set on continuing with her passion of playing baseball, despite her recent heart operation and resulting pacemaker. However, her overly protective father has a different future planned for her, and enlists the help of Ali's childhood nemesis to steer her away from sports. His plan works initially and Ali finds herself drawn to a new love - Max Delaney. But even Max's best efforts aren't enough to convince Ali to give up baseball altogether. The two of them end up in a tangle of lies and complex emotions that may put both of their lives and futures in jeopardy.
Ann masterfully crafts lovable characters and an engaging storyline, incorporating authentic details of baseball and what it would be like to live with a heart condition. You will be rooting for Ali and Max from page one. If you're wanting a fun and swoon-worthy YA romance with a hearty helping of sports and drama, A Heartbeat Away From You will not disappoint. Such a perfect summer read!
Ann masterfully crafts lovable characters and an engaging storyline, incorporating authentic details of baseball and what it would be like to live with a heart condition. You will be rooting for Ali and Max from page one. If you're wanting a fun and swoon-worthy YA romance with a hearty helping of sports and drama, A Heartbeat Away From You will not disappoint. Such a perfect summer read!
August 17, 2022
Ali feels like a prisoner. Her last play on the baseball field nearly killed her, thanks to what was diagnosed as bradycardia. She was clinically dead for four minutes, something that scared her divorced parents silly. Despite having a titanium chest shield and a pacemaker, plus being cleared to play baseball again, another disappointment awaits her. Her mom, who she lives with near Toronto, accepts the chance of a lifetime, joining a team on an archaeological dig in Egypt. That means Ali must move to the small town in British Columbia where her father is the high school principal.
Unfortunately, he's acting like a cross between a helicopter parent and a dictator, refusing to consider her playing sports and insisting she eat 'healthy' and join some safer high school activities like clubs. He goes one step further, hiring next door neighbor Max who's also a high school senior, to keep her on the straight and narrow. Ali remembers the peevish, nerdy version of Max, but the older edition is hot, as in buffed and impossible to ignore. When their attraction begins to overshadow his promise to her father, things get very interesting. There's a dandy climax near the ending that feels just right. It's a terrific YA read.
Unfortunately, he's acting like a cross between a helicopter parent and a dictator, refusing to consider her playing sports and insisting she eat 'healthy' and join some safer high school activities like clubs. He goes one step further, hiring next door neighbor Max who's also a high school senior, to keep her on the straight and narrow. Ali remembers the peevish, nerdy version of Max, but the older edition is hot, as in buffed and impossible to ignore. When their attraction begins to overshadow his promise to her father, things get very interesting. There's a dandy climax near the ending that feels just right. It's a terrific YA read.
August 21, 2022
I found A Heartbeat Away From Love By Katie Mcgarry on netgalley. The cover caught my eye and when I read the Blurb it sounded amazing, and omg this book blew me away. It was a breathtaking and phenomenal read and I didn't want it to ever end.
𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙄 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪."
This was the first book I read by Kate Mcgarry and I will certainly be reading more of her books. I loved the writing style, it was so easy flowing. The story had me on an emotional rollercoaster. I totally connected with Ali Benton as, one of the main characters, she has a pacemaker at 17 and it's a life changing situation,her snarky and bubbly attitude and stubborn determination to achieve what she wants to do and not let what she has slow her down. I understand the frustration Ali goes through and, with myself I have a life changing rare blood disorder that I got when I was 20 and now awaiting a transplant. I hate anyone slowing me down and I don't like people pitying me either. I want them to see me as myself and not someone who's breakable. Ali was an incredible character and we sure would have been the best of friends and no doubt got into a lot of trouble together haha. Now Max Delaney omg Max, I loved him so much. He is so charming, a very hot nerd and loyal, though Ali is his childhood nemesis, but as Ali's dad is so over- protection, he makes a secret agreement with Max to keep an eye on Ali, and make sure she stays away from baseball which is her life. But the more time Ali and Max spend together they find there feeling for each other is more than they thought, But now Max is left in a awkward situation, losing Ali trust or protecting and losing heart in more ways than one.
"𝙎𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝘽-𝙩𝙮𝙥𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨? 𝙨𝙤 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙚 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙯𝙯𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙪𝙩."
The feels and emotions in this book had my heart melting and full of tears, this was the sweetest and most passionate read. I loved every single minute of it. I was literally glued to the first page to the end. I was on the edge of my seat on some of the chapters. What I loved about this read was that it had both Ali and Max pov’s, so we got both of their life’s inside both of their heads and I loved that it made it more exciting and made me an emotional wreck of happiness. The ending was perfection and I can't recommend this stunning read enough, trust me this is one read you do not want to miss.
𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙄 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪."
This was the first book I read by Kate Mcgarry and I will certainly be reading more of her books. I loved the writing style, it was so easy flowing. The story had me on an emotional rollercoaster. I totally connected with Ali Benton as, one of the main characters, she has a pacemaker at 17 and it's a life changing situation,her snarky and bubbly attitude and stubborn determination to achieve what she wants to do and not let what she has slow her down. I understand the frustration Ali goes through and, with myself I have a life changing rare blood disorder that I got when I was 20 and now awaiting a transplant. I hate anyone slowing me down and I don't like people pitying me either. I want them to see me as myself and not someone who's breakable. Ali was an incredible character and we sure would have been the best of friends and no doubt got into a lot of trouble together haha. Now Max Delaney omg Max, I loved him so much. He is so charming, a very hot nerd and loyal, though Ali is his childhood nemesis, but as Ali's dad is so over- protection, he makes a secret agreement with Max to keep an eye on Ali, and make sure she stays away from baseball which is her life. But the more time Ali and Max spend together they find there feeling for each other is more than they thought, But now Max is left in a awkward situation, losing Ali trust or protecting and losing heart in more ways than one.
"𝙎𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝘽-𝙩𝙮𝙥𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨? 𝙨𝙤 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙚 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙯𝙯𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙪𝙩."
The feels and emotions in this book had my heart melting and full of tears, this was the sweetest and most passionate read. I loved every single minute of it. I was literally glued to the first page to the end. I was on the edge of my seat on some of the chapters. What I loved about this read was that it had both Ali and Max pov’s, so we got both of their life’s inside both of their heads and I loved that it made it more exciting and made me an emotional wreck of happiness. The ending was perfection and I can't recommend this stunning read enough, trust me this is one read you do not want to miss.
August 24, 2022
A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller is a quick & lovely young adult coming of age story & sports romance involving two teenagers experiencing extremely difficult times & life changes. It’s an opposites attract eventually between the obsessed sports girl meets the nerdy astronomy loving boy next door. It’s dual POV so you get to hear & understand both sides of the story, which I always enjoy.
The baseball girl, Ali, recently went through a traumatic medical event & her father no longer wants her one great love that is the strenuous sport baseball to be her thing. Then, there is Max, who is grieving the lost of his beloved father, managing with his meticulously planned schedule & overtaking more responsibility than a teenager should have trying to help his mom keep their house & finances afloat.
The characters both make mistakes, but there’s definite character growth, which I always appreciate. There was the mention of bullying & not nice nicknames from their younger years, but they mature & it’s a great reminder of the power of words, both good & bad.
Sometimes the conversations felt a tad dramatic in that they reminded me of teen shows on the CW. I love CW shows & have seen a majority of them, so I don’t think that’s a bad thing! Near the ending, obviously something major happens & the characters react in some dramatic ways but once again as they are teenagers dealing with difficult situation, It can work I think.
The mention of one of my favorite bands, Mariana’s Trench, was a pleasant surprise! I never knew anyone else that knew & loved them, so that made me very happy!
I was also restricted from playing a sport I loved as much as the main character as a teenager & so I could empathize so much with this story. Also, now that I am an adult, I can also empathize with the father’s side of the story amid his fear of losing his daughter.
I am always ecstatic when there is any sort of chronic illness or disability as I am grateful for the representation, so thank you to the author for writing this!
Massive thanks to the author, NetGalley & Sword & Silk Books for giving me the opportunity to read an arc in exchange for an honest review:
Trigger warnings: This book mentions &/or contains medical emergency, death of a parent, bullying & underage drinking.
The baseball girl, Ali, recently went through a traumatic medical event & her father no longer wants her one great love that is the strenuous sport baseball to be her thing. Then, there is Max, who is grieving the lost of his beloved father, managing with his meticulously planned schedule & overtaking more responsibility than a teenager should have trying to help his mom keep their house & finances afloat.
The characters both make mistakes, but there’s definite character growth, which I always appreciate. There was the mention of bullying & not nice nicknames from their younger years, but they mature & it’s a great reminder of the power of words, both good & bad.
Sometimes the conversations felt a tad dramatic in that they reminded me of teen shows on the CW. I love CW shows & have seen a majority of them, so I don’t think that’s a bad thing! Near the ending, obviously something major happens & the characters react in some dramatic ways but once again as they are teenagers dealing with difficult situation, It can work I think.
The mention of one of my favorite bands, Mariana’s Trench, was a pleasant surprise! I never knew anyone else that knew & loved them, so that made me very happy!
I was also restricted from playing a sport I loved as much as the main character as a teenager & so I could empathize so much with this story. Also, now that I am an adult, I can also empathize with the father’s side of the story amid his fear of losing his daughter.
I am always ecstatic when there is any sort of chronic illness or disability as I am grateful for the representation, so thank you to the author for writing this!
Massive thanks to the author, NetGalley & Sword & Silk Books for giving me the opportunity to read an arc in exchange for an honest review:
Trigger warnings: This book mentions &/or contains medical emergency, death of a parent, bullying & underage drinking.
August 20, 2022
The YA Sport romance with enemies/lover trope. I'm going to say it's very lovely with a teens story. This book has a lot things to offer as it has an intriguing plot.
It's about Ali, a typical sport girl who has a heart disease that loves baseball and Max a typical smart nerd. I like how Ali here has a strong ground character even she has a heart problem but that doesn't lower her morale meanwhile Max is a shy and soft so the couple is really match to each other.
There wasn't too much drama but I love the develop of this story. it starts as everyone act childish to finally realize all they mistake and become more mature understanding. I also like how parents here very present and we get to see everyone POV.
The only downside for me is the book is somehow kinda bland. I'm not sure if because how calm the story is supposed to or I just don't into the book. It has a great pacing but it just I do sometimes get bored specially for some dialogue
Overall this book I will totally still recommend but I would suggest to read it when you are calmer and want to read something light.
It's about Ali, a typical sport girl who has a heart disease that loves baseball and Max a typical smart nerd. I like how Ali here has a strong ground character even she has a heart problem but that doesn't lower her morale meanwhile Max is a shy and soft so the couple is really match to each other.
There wasn't too much drama but I love the develop of this story. it starts as everyone act childish to finally realize all they mistake and become more mature understanding. I also like how parents here very present and we get to see everyone POV.
The only downside for me is the book is somehow kinda bland. I'm not sure if because how calm the story is supposed to or I just don't into the book. It has a great pacing but it just I do sometimes get bored specially for some dialogue
Overall this book I will totally still recommend but I would suggest to read it when you are calmer and want to read something light.
September 2, 2022
3.75
If you are a fan of enemies to lovers, childhood friends/enemies, strong protagonists, sports romance, or insta love then this just may be the perfect book for you! This book follows Ali a strong-willed girl with some heart problems and a passion for baseball and her hot, nerdy next-door neighbor max, who at one point was one of her best friends but still holds a grudge from six years ago.
.
I loved this book for a few different reasons. I loved the sports romance and how present both parents were in this novel without being incredibly overbearing. I loved how much Ali grew as a character, in the beginning, she did have some selfish behaviors which is normal but was slightly annoying to read, but she grew o much as a character becoming more compassionate and kind. I also loved the dual POV and how engaging both POVS were.
.
Overall this was such a fun and quick read I easily completed it in one day.
If you are a fan of enemies to lovers, childhood friends/enemies, strong protagonists, sports romance, or insta love then this just may be the perfect book for you! This book follows Ali a strong-willed girl with some heart problems and a passion for baseball and her hot, nerdy next-door neighbor max, who at one point was one of her best friends but still holds a grudge from six years ago.
.
I loved this book for a few different reasons. I loved the sports romance and how present both parents were in this novel without being incredibly overbearing. I loved how much Ali grew as a character, in the beginning, she did have some selfish behaviors which is normal but was slightly annoying to read, but she grew o much as a character becoming more compassionate and kind. I also loved the dual POV and how engaging both POVS were.
.
Overall this was such a fun and quick read I easily completed it in one day.
August 23, 2022
4.5 stars
Ali and Max are so adorable together. Granted, the beginning of the book felt kinda insta-lovey and the transition from enemies to friends was a little faster than I had wanted, but the rest of the book and the romance definitely made it up for it!
I also enjoyed the disability rep! Even though Ali has bradycardia (so sorry if this is a spoiler), she is still so strong, passionate, and determined, and I love her for it.
Oh, and Max is absolutely the sweetest person. He's so protective and caring to both Ali and his mom. Plus, he's an astronomy nerd? I love him so much.
This is such a short book review because my mind is only thinking about the fact that "We'll Be the Stars" by Sabrina Carpenter, "universe" by thuy, and "Sparks Fly" by Taylor Swift are so perfect for this book.
Ali and Max are so adorable together. Granted, the beginning of the book felt kinda insta-lovey and the transition from enemies to friends was a little faster than I had wanted, but the rest of the book and the romance definitely made it up for it!
I also enjoyed the disability rep! Even though Ali has bradycardia (so sorry if this is a spoiler), she is still so strong, passionate, and determined, and I love her for it.
Oh, and Max is absolutely the sweetest person. He's so protective and caring to both Ali and his mom. Plus, he's an astronomy nerd? I love him so much.
This is such a short book review because my mind is only thinking about the fact that "We'll Be the Stars" by Sabrina Carpenter, "universe" by thuy, and "Sparks Fly" by Taylor Swift are so perfect for this book.
August 10, 2022
Pub Date: 08/16/22
CW: death of a parent, cancer, depression, obsessions, hospitals
Like always, a big thanks to NetGalley and Sword and Silk for approving me for an eARC. Much appreciated.
I had to read this book kinda quickly to get my review out before it’s birthday, which was my fault for requesting the book so late and not paying attention to the pub date. But oh my gosh I had absolutely no problem getting it done before its birthday.
This review is gonna be short and sweet because I literally have no words.
YALL. OMG OMG. THIS BOOK I SWEAR. IT WAS SOOOOOOOOOO FRICKIN GOOD.
Ali and Max’s enemies to friends to lovers pipeline was *chef’s kiss* and their characters were both so relatable.
I SPED through this book, finishing it at three in the morning and eek it was so good.
The title fits the story perfectly, the story played out perfectly. I literally have nothing bad to say about this book.
Please for all that’s good and holy read this book on its birthday.
CW: death of a parent, cancer, depression, obsessions, hospitals
Like always, a big thanks to NetGalley and Sword and Silk for approving me for an eARC. Much appreciated.
I had to read this book kinda quickly to get my review out before it’s birthday, which was my fault for requesting the book so late and not paying attention to the pub date. But oh my gosh I had absolutely no problem getting it done before its birthday.
This review is gonna be short and sweet because I literally have no words.
YALL. OMG OMG. THIS BOOK I SWEAR. IT WAS SOOOOOOOOOO FRICKIN GOOD.
Ali and Max’s enemies to friends to lovers pipeline was *chef’s kiss* and their characters were both so relatable.
I SPED through this book, finishing it at three in the morning and eek it was so good.
The title fits the story perfectly, the story played out perfectly. I literally have nothing bad to say about this book.
Please for all that’s good and holy read this book on its birthday.
August 23, 2022
I knew when I saw this book that I was going to love it. Firstly the cover - it is beautiful and captures the book so well.
Next, the plot itself. I love plots where someone was or is ill, and it's them figuring out life and how to continue living! Thrown in a bit of teenage romance and its so cute!!!
I loved the characters. I didnt clock that he was a nerd, not that it matters, and I actually really liked the dad. What I did feel here was that the characters did not have enough depth to them, they needed a bit more! More layers, more obstacles, more depth.
However, I still enjoyed it and read it pretty quickly!
Next, the plot itself. I love plots where someone was or is ill, and it's them figuring out life and how to continue living! Thrown in a bit of teenage romance and its so cute!!!
I loved the characters. I didnt clock that he was a nerd, not that it matters, and I actually really liked the dad. What I did feel here was that the characters did not have enough depth to them, they needed a bit more! More layers, more obstacles, more depth.
However, I still enjoyed it and read it pretty quickly!
November 4, 2022
I picked this up hoping for a delightfully sweet read, and I was not disappointed in the slightest! I adored Ali and Max, getting to know them both and getting to see their love story develop. It was a quick read, but that was more not wanting to stop and miss a thing. I loved the chronic illness rep, and the twists and turns through the story. The couple were delightful and it was just overwhelmingly adorable. Very much recommended to all who love contemporary romance!
January 11, 2023
A sweet YA sports romance with relatable characters, lively dialogue, and page-turning emotional conflict. I really enjoyed the split first-person narrative style in this book - alternating between the two protagonists, Ali and Max. It deepened my understanding of the characters and made me more attached to both of them and eager to keep reading. I also loved how strong and determined the main female character, Ali, is, and how sensitive Max is. And, as an absolute bonus, we get both baseball and astronomy to read about - this is a book that sends a fly ball to the stars and hits a home run! Highly recommended.
August 13, 2022
Okay so this was super cute. A little cliche, but cute.
This is an enemies to lovers YA rom-com. The roles are switched up, usually the girl is the nerd and the guy struggles with school and plays sports, but in this novel it’s Ali who is super into baseball, doesn’t care much about school or grades, and Max is the nerd turned super hot next door neighbor.
The dad is overprotective, mom is nonexistent through most of the novel (they’re divorced - mom is traveling for work, so Ali goes to live with her dad), we have the supportive best friends, the lies, the crushes, all the expected things happen. The cute romantic moments.
While the descriptions sometimes get a little repetitive, and the dialogue is sometimes too formal and stiff, and the typical rom-com stereotypes are there, this book is written well and was fun to read.
Sometimes you’re in the mood to read a YA rom-com that’s super cute and they could 100% easily make a Netflix movie out of with an amazing soundtrack and we’d know exactly what to expect and love it anyway.
This book was a quick read, and super cute. I highly recommend if you’re looking for something lighthearted!
This one comes out August 16! 📚
This is an enemies to lovers YA rom-com. The roles are switched up, usually the girl is the nerd and the guy struggles with school and plays sports, but in this novel it’s Ali who is super into baseball, doesn’t care much about school or grades, and Max is the nerd turned super hot next door neighbor.
The dad is overprotective, mom is nonexistent through most of the novel (they’re divorced - mom is traveling for work, so Ali goes to live with her dad), we have the supportive best friends, the lies, the crushes, all the expected things happen. The cute romantic moments.
While the descriptions sometimes get a little repetitive, and the dialogue is sometimes too formal and stiff, and the typical rom-com stereotypes are there, this book is written well and was fun to read.
Sometimes you’re in the mood to read a YA rom-com that’s super cute and they could 100% easily make a Netflix movie out of with an amazing soundtrack and we’d know exactly what to expect and love it anyway.
This book was a quick read, and super cute. I highly recommend if you’re looking for something lighthearted!
This one comes out August 16! 📚
August 14, 2022
Ali and Max are complete opposites. While Max is dedicated to his academic studies and obsessive about organizing every aspect of his life, Ali prefers a more spontaneous "live in the moment" lifestyle. Now they are both dealing with grief after Max loses his father to cancer and Ali is forced to give up baseball following a cardiac arrest and having a pacemaker implanted. Forced together by Ali's father, the two neighbors eventually are able to forgive each other for the way they acted in the past. The last thing they expected was to develop feelings for each other. I really enjoyed this young adult novel despite the fact that I am far beyond my own young adult years. Thanks to NetGalley and Sword & Silk Books for the advance copy to read and review.
August 2, 2022
This YA sports romance about enemies-turned-lovers will give you all the feelings. Despite her recent heart surgery and pacemaker, feisty and athletic Ali is determined to pursue her hobby of playing baseball. Not even her family or new love - Max Delaney efforts, are enough to persuade Ali to retire from baseball. The two of them become entangled in complicated emotions that threatens both of their lives and futures.
A well-crafted narrative with charming characters and an intriguing plot, integrating genuine baseball specifics and what it would be like to live with a heart condition. From the first page, you'll be pulling for Ali and Max.
A well-crafted narrative with charming characters and an intriguing plot, integrating genuine baseball specifics and what it would be like to live with a heart condition. From the first page, you'll be pulling for Ali and Max.
August 1, 2022
This YA sports romance is a page-turner, with strong, interesting characters and a charming small-town setting. A great, swoony summer read!
July 27, 2022
A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller checked all my boxes for a great young adult, enemies to sweethearts romance. Anyone who enjoys stories with strong and determined female leads, handsome geeky neighbours who mow lawns without their shirts on, baseball and astronomy will love this story. A great summer read!
August 7, 2022
I love this story from frenemies to friends etc
It was a comfortable read when I was having a bad day, I would pick it up and joy and sometimes laughter from the character.
It was a comfortable read when I was having a bad day, I would pick it up and joy and sometimes laughter from the character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
THIS IS PARTIAL REVIEW TO BE COMPLETED AT A LATER DATE
This one is difficult to rate. There were some things that had been done well. But also quite a few things that needed another round of beta readers/editing.
This was a pretty standard YA romance. Alternating POVs, a 'falling out' you could see from about 5,000 miles away and a copletely unrealistic ending. It's all the common tropes, but it just didn't work. The enemies to lovers fell apart as soon as they saw each other and felt attraction. From there it was all backpedaling to make up a reason why they couldn't like each other, despite their obvous attraction to each other.
There wasn't enough backstory to what was going on or why. Ali's mom is randomly going to Egypt and Ali is getting shipped off to her hometown. I guess that's okay, but Mom is pretty much non-existant for the entire story. More or less the same thing happened with Max's mom. She has to work a lot and was never home. Absent parents galore. Even Ali's dad is conveniently at work most of the time.
Speaking of Ali's dad, while he was well intentioned, he came across way too uptight about everything. His entire personality boiled down to 'I'm in charge so do what I say' which made him unlikeable, basically because he never showed emotion, which would have helped to justify his feelings. Ali's frustration came through clearly, but because Dad was so stubborn about it it was difficult to feel sympathy for either one of them. Dad bascially said over and over again that playing baseball was too dangerous, and it was too late when he showed that he was scared he would lose Ali.
Ali and Max both had personality changes when we saw their actions from the other's POV. Ali is head-strong, confident and determined (her thought process and actions show this) but when we get a scene from Max's POV she's shy, nervous and seems intimidated.
There were so many scenes that only existed to push the plot forward. And I don't mean that they were key moments. They were literally only happening because the books seems uncertain howt o get from point A to point B without having a Thing happen that seems strange, out of place, or ill-timed.
When Max overhears Ali and her dad fighting the dialogue between Ali and her dad felt extremely forced. The scene was clearly written to give Max the information he needed, not to convey how a real conversation between Ali and Dad would have played out.
I think the biggest problem was the 'enemies' to lovers aspect of the story. We never really got an insight into why they were enemies in the first place, outside of one story from childhood (or maybe middle school) where they were both mean to eachother. Ali seemed like more of a brat, but they both seemed to have some weird hang up from long ago that hardly mattered anymore. I wish it would have been something bigger, or with more weight, or hurtful. Not just some public name calling. There was also very little resistance to getting over the enemies part of the story. Basically they just started hanging out together and all was forgiven, despite never really addressing their misunderstandings they had about each other.
This was a book where there needed to be more words added. An emotional scene between Ali and Dad where they both show they are vulnerable instead of both of the being hardheaded. A scene or two where Max and Ali had to work together for something school related and we could see more of the enemies part of their relationship.
There were some plot points that got dropped. I'm thinking specifically of the whole 'jealous girl' angle that was strongly hinted at with the girl in astronomy club (I can't remember her name). I expected something to come up at some point but it never did. There was also a lot left unresolved with Max. It seemed like he didn't have any ambitions or goals. He had an intense obsession with astronomy, but we never really knew what he wanted to do with life. Ali had the same problem, aside from wanting to play baseball, she really had no life goals.
The story was easy to read.
THIS IS PARTIAL REVIEW TO BE COMPLETED AT A LATER DATE
This one is difficult to rate. There were some things that had been done well. But also quite a few things that needed another round of beta readers/editing.
This was a pretty standard YA romance. Alternating POVs, a 'falling out' you could see from about 5,000 miles away and a copletely unrealistic ending. It's all the common tropes, but it just didn't work. The enemies to lovers fell apart as soon as they saw each other and felt attraction. From there it was all backpedaling to make up a reason why they couldn't like each other, despite their obvous attraction to each other.
There wasn't enough backstory to what was going on or why. Ali's mom is randomly going to Egypt and Ali is getting shipped off to her hometown. I guess that's okay, but Mom is pretty much non-existant for the entire story. More or less the same thing happened with Max's mom. She has to work a lot and was never home. Absent parents galore. Even Ali's dad is conveniently at work most of the time.
Speaking of Ali's dad, while he was well intentioned, he came across way too uptight about everything. His entire personality boiled down to 'I'm in charge so do what I say' which made him unlikeable, basically because he never showed emotion, which would have helped to justify his feelings. Ali's frustration came through clearly, but because Dad was so stubborn about it it was difficult to feel sympathy for either one of them. Dad bascially said over and over again that playing baseball was too dangerous, and it was too late when he showed that he was scared he would lose Ali.
Ali and Max both had personality changes when we saw their actions from the other's POV. Ali is head-strong, confident and determined (her thought process and actions show this) but when we get a scene from Max's POV she's shy, nervous and seems intimidated.
There were so many scenes that only existed to push the plot forward. And I don't mean that they were key moments. They were literally only happening because the books seems uncertain howt o get from point A to point B without having a Thing happen that seems strange, out of place, or ill-timed.
When Max overhears Ali and her dad fighting the dialogue between Ali and her dad felt extremely forced. The scene was clearly written to give Max the information he needed, not to convey how a real conversation between Ali and Dad would have played out.
I think the biggest problem was the 'enemies' to lovers aspect of the story. We never really got an insight into why they were enemies in the first place, outside of one story from childhood (or maybe middle school) where they were both mean to eachother. Ali seemed like more of a brat, but they both seemed to have some weird hang up from long ago that hardly mattered anymore. I wish it would have been something bigger, or with more weight, or hurtful. Not just some public name calling. There was also very little resistance to getting over the enemies part of the story. Basically they just started hanging out together and all was forgiven, despite never really addressing their misunderstandings they had about each other.
This was a book where there needed to be more words added. An emotional scene between Ali and Dad where they both show they are vulnerable instead of both of the being hardheaded. A scene or two where Max and Ali had to work together for something school related and we could see more of the enemies part of their relationship.
There were some plot points that got dropped. I'm thinking specifically of the whole 'jealous girl' angle that was strongly hinted at with the girl in astronomy club (I can't remember her name). I expected something to come up at some point but it never did. There was also a lot left unresolved with Max. It seemed like he didn't have any ambitions or goals. He had an intense obsession with astronomy, but we never really knew what he wanted to do with life. Ali had the same problem, aside from wanting to play baseball, she really had no life goals.
The story was easy to read.
September 13, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller has two teenagers finding their way together despite who they are to each other.
Will Ali play baseball again? Or will her pacemaker be the end of her love for the game?
Alicia Benton
Alicia "Ali" Benton is a seventeen-year-old girl with a pacemaker in her heart. Six months earlier, they found out that Ali has bradycardia and that she needs a pacemaker. Ali lived with her mom in Toronto before moving back to her hometown to live with her father. She and her father have a lot of issues to talk through, but they don't. Ali has a lot happening to her, but not all is bad.
Overall, Ali is a very stubborn teenage girl who, like many teenagers, once she has her mind set on doing something, she is going to do it. Throughout the story, though, Ali has grown from a tenacious teenage girl to a girl who realizes that she needs to be careful and conscious about how she is living her life. Like talking to her dad about what happened on the day that not only changed her life but how it affected her dad as well. I like Alicia even though she is stubborn. But she realizes her mistakes and wants to fix them.
Max Delaney
Max Delaney has changed so much from the last time Ali saw him five years ago. For Max, the way he solves his problems is to have a schedule that has everything he needs to do planned out for the day or the week or anything. I honestly don't see the problem with that since I love having a good plan and schedule to go about my day. Max tries to help his mom out as best as possible even though he is still a teenager and should be enjoying his free time instead of worrying about bills or anything else his mom needs help handling.
The one thing I disliked about Max is that he agreed to watch over Alicia for money, but I also got where he was coming from. Well, sort of. Max, much like Ali, changes throughout the book as well. They both changed each other, which is a good thing. I love these two together and believe they complement each other. You know the whole opposites attract scenario.
Five Stars
A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller is a fantastic read, and I enjoyed every moment. Ms. Miller has done another fabulous job of making me fall for her characters and worry about them. Ali and Max pulled me into their world with their unique voices.
I am giving five stars to A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller and recommending it to anyone that likes young adult sports romance in their lives.
I hope you enjoyed this review of A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Will Ali play baseball again? Or will her pacemaker be the end of her love for the game?
Alicia Benton
Alicia "Ali" Benton is a seventeen-year-old girl with a pacemaker in her heart. Six months earlier, they found out that Ali has bradycardia and that she needs a pacemaker. Ali lived with her mom in Toronto before moving back to her hometown to live with her father. She and her father have a lot of issues to talk through, but they don't. Ali has a lot happening to her, but not all is bad.
Overall, Ali is a very stubborn teenage girl who, like many teenagers, once she has her mind set on doing something, she is going to do it. Throughout the story, though, Ali has grown from a tenacious teenage girl to a girl who realizes that she needs to be careful and conscious about how she is living her life. Like talking to her dad about what happened on the day that not only changed her life but how it affected her dad as well. I like Alicia even though she is stubborn. But she realizes her mistakes and wants to fix them.
Max Delaney Max Delaney has changed so much from the last time Ali saw him five years ago. For Max, the way he solves his problems is to have a schedule that has everything he needs to do planned out for the day or the week or anything. I honestly don't see the problem with that since I love having a good plan and schedule to go about my day. Max tries to help his mom out as best as possible even though he is still a teenager and should be enjoying his free time instead of worrying about bills or anything else his mom needs help handling.
The one thing I disliked about Max is that he agreed to watch over Alicia for money, but I also got where he was coming from. Well, sort of. Max, much like Ali, changes throughout the book as well. They both changed each other, which is a good thing. I love these two together and believe they complement each other. You know the whole opposites attract scenario.
Five Stars
A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller is a fantastic read, and I enjoyed every moment. Ms. Miller has done another fabulous job of making me fall for her characters and worry about them. Ali and Max pulled me into their world with their unique voices.
I am giving five stars to A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller and recommending it to anyone that likes young adult sports romance in their lives.
I hope you enjoyed this review of A Heartbeat Away From You by Ann M. Miller.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
August 21, 2022
I found A Heartbeat Away From Love By Katie Mcgarry on netgalley. The cover caught my eye and when I read the Blurb it sounded amazing, and omg this book blew me away. It was a breathtaking and phenomenal read and I didn't want it to ever end.
𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙄 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪."
This was the first book I read by Kate Mcgarry and I will certainly be reading more of her books. I loved the writing style, it was so easy flowing. The story had me on an emotional rollercoaster. I totally connected with Ali Benton as, one of the main characters, she has a pacemaker at 17 and it's a life changing situation,her snarky and bubbly attitude and stubborn determination to achieve what she wants to do and not let what she has slow her down. I understand the frustration Ali goes through and, with myself I have a life changing rare blood disorder that I got when I was 20 and now awaiting a transplant. I hate anyone slowing me down and I don't like people pitying me either. I want them to see me as myself and not someone who's breakable. Ali was an incredible character and we sure would have been the best of friends and no doubt got into a lot of trouble together haha. Now Max Delaney omg Max, I loved him so much. He is so charming, a very hot nerd and loyal, though Ali is his childhood nemesis, but as Ali's dad is so over- protection, he makes a secret agreement with Max to keep an eye on Ali, and make sure she stays away from baseball which is her life. But the more time Ali and Max spend together they find there feeling for each other is more than they thought, But now Max is left in a awkward situation, losing Ali trust or protecting and losing heart in more ways than one.
"𝙎𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝘽-𝙩𝙮𝙥𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨? 𝙨𝙤 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙚 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙯𝙯𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙪𝙩."
The feels and emotions in this book had my heart melting and full of tears, this was the sweetest and most passionate read. I loved every single minute of it. I was literally glued to the first page to the end. I was on the edge of my seat on some of the chapters. What I loved about this read was that it had both Ali and Max pov’s, so we got both of their life’s inside both of their heads and I loved that it made it more exciting and made me an emotional wreck of happiness. The ending was perfection and I can't recommend this stunning read enough, trust me this is one read you do not want to miss.
𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙄 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪."
This was the first book I read by Kate Mcgarry and I will certainly be reading more of her books. I loved the writing style, it was so easy flowing. The story had me on an emotional rollercoaster. I totally connected with Ali Benton as, one of the main characters, she has a pacemaker at 17 and it's a life changing situation,her snarky and bubbly attitude and stubborn determination to achieve what she wants to do and not let what she has slow her down. I understand the frustration Ali goes through and, with myself I have a life changing rare blood disorder that I got when I was 20 and now awaiting a transplant. I hate anyone slowing me down and I don't like people pitying me either. I want them to see me as myself and not someone who's breakable. Ali was an incredible character and we sure would have been the best of friends and no doubt got into a lot of trouble together haha. Now Max Delaney omg Max, I loved him so much. He is so charming, a very hot nerd and loyal, though Ali is his childhood nemesis, but as Ali's dad is so over- protection, he makes a secret agreement with Max to keep an eye on Ali, and make sure she stays away from baseball which is her life. But the more time Ali and Max spend together they find there feeling for each other is more than they thought, But now Max is left in a awkward situation, losing Ali trust or protecting and losing heart in more ways than one.
"𝙎𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝘽-𝙩𝙮𝙥𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨? 𝙨𝙤 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙚 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙯𝙯𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙪𝙩."
The feels and emotions in this book had my heart melting and full of tears, this was the sweetest and most passionate read. I loved every single minute of it. I was literally glued to the first page to the end. I was on the edge of my seat on some of the chapters. What I loved about this read was that it had both Ali and Max pov’s, so we got both of their life’s inside both of their heads and I loved that it made it more exciting and made me an emotional wreck of happiness. The ending was perfection and I can't recommend this stunning read enough, trust me this is one read you do not want to miss.
August 15, 2022
Thank you to the publisher for providing me a digital ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.5 stars
A Heartbeat Away From You is a YA sports romance with dual pov from Max and Ali. It follows Ali through the struggles of having a heart condition paired with an overprotective father who is trying to do everything he can to keep her safe. Even if, by doing so, he is harming his relationship with her by banning her from playing baseball among other things. It also follows Max who has just recently lost his father and who is doing everything he can to avoid him and his mother from having to sell their house.
This book has the perfect mix of going over more heavier topics and romance. Allowing the reading experience to flow as it should. The writing style also contributes the the easy flow of the book. It makes it effortless to read which complements the story so much more and makes the overall enjoyment of the book that much bigger.
Now to the little nit-picky things that didn't appeal to me so much. Near the beginning of the book, Ali came across as extremely entitled. When Ali and Max were younger, Max got bullied and was called 'metal mouth' for two years. All because of Ali, who was the one who called him that first. In retaliation, when Max and Ali were in the same group for a project, when Ali made a simple mistake, Max made a comment about her being 'stupid' but everyone in the class heard and made fun of her for two days. Now, when Max was telling her how he'd been bullied for years her first response was to deny it and then it was to say "you still shouldn't have called me stupid." Like babe, what? You don't get to have it both ways.
That was the main thing that really bothered be about this book but it got better as I continued reading.
Overall, this book was good but not my favourite. I think it would be quite a good read if you're in a reading slump though because it is quite short and is fast paced so you can finish it quite quickly (and that's from someone who's a slow reader). So do with that information what you will.
Rating: 3.5 stars
A Heartbeat Away From You is a YA sports romance with dual pov from Max and Ali. It follows Ali through the struggles of having a heart condition paired with an overprotective father who is trying to do everything he can to keep her safe. Even if, by doing so, he is harming his relationship with her by banning her from playing baseball among other things. It also follows Max who has just recently lost his father and who is doing everything he can to avoid him and his mother from having to sell their house.
This book has the perfect mix of going over more heavier topics and romance. Allowing the reading experience to flow as it should. The writing style also contributes the the easy flow of the book. It makes it effortless to read which complements the story so much more and makes the overall enjoyment of the book that much bigger.
Now to the little nit-picky things that didn't appeal to me so much. Near the beginning of the book, Ali came across as extremely entitled. When Ali and Max were younger, Max got bullied and was called 'metal mouth' for two years. All because of Ali, who was the one who called him that first. In retaliation, when Max and Ali were in the same group for a project, when Ali made a simple mistake, Max made a comment about her being 'stupid' but everyone in the class heard and made fun of her for two days. Now, when Max was telling her how he'd been bullied for years her first response was to deny it and then it was to say "you still shouldn't have called me stupid." Like babe, what? You don't get to have it both ways.
That was the main thing that really bothered be about this book but it got better as I continued reading.
Overall, this book was good but not my favourite. I think it would be quite a good read if you're in a reading slump though because it is quite short and is fast paced so you can finish it quite quickly (and that's from someone who's a slow reader). So do with that information what you will.
September 16, 2022
"So what if it's like B-type stars? So in-
tense it's bound to fizzle out."
I found this line shaking me to the core because it's both beautiful and cursed at the same time–so I highlighted this particular line for the review.
After reading so many new adult romances and the grown-up problems, I feel so refreshed when I read this one. It's a pretty light and heartwarming YA book of teenagers story that tackles heavy issues, such as heart disease issue and losing someone because of death issue in an honest and beautiful way. It's so easy to follow and getting immersed to this book for me that I can't put it down.
I like the premise of childhood arch nemesis turns friends turned lovers, I love how the characters being written, apart when Ali being so stubborn–though I can understand why she did that. I can found myself in Max (for being uptight and restless) and Ali (for her strong determination after something) that I can relate to. I love how before they're own up their past mistake to each other before their relationship goes further, how they take care of each other and getting influenced by each other. I enjoyed their growth as a person and as a couple, though I was really anxious because they still hide something from each other – and that's why this is so well written, I ached for them both! The dual POVs also really great and fair on telling their stories, what happened in their own lives, problems, interests, their thoughts–really helpful to getting know them better! Both their obsession over baseball and astronomy and some trivial facts mentioned geeking me out!
And obviously when the plot hits the climax, it makes me want to cry because all the things they did and said to each other explicit and implicitly are so pure and meaningful.
Overall, this is an easy book to read, well-suited book to read in fall! Would recommend it to those who love The Fault in Our Star, Five Feet Apart, Me Before You.
TW: heart disease, heart-attack, one dead parent, cancer mentioned.
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the e-ARC!
tense it's bound to fizzle out."
I found this line shaking me to the core because it's both beautiful and cursed at the same time–so I highlighted this particular line for the review.
After reading so many new adult romances and the grown-up problems, I feel so refreshed when I read this one. It's a pretty light and heartwarming YA book of teenagers story that tackles heavy issues, such as heart disease issue and losing someone because of death issue in an honest and beautiful way. It's so easy to follow and getting immersed to this book for me that I can't put it down.
I like the premise of childhood arch nemesis turns friends turned lovers, I love how the characters being written, apart when Ali being so stubborn–though I can understand why she did that. I can found myself in Max (for being uptight and restless) and Ali (for her strong determination after something) that I can relate to. I love how before they're own up their past mistake to each other before their relationship goes further, how they take care of each other and getting influenced by each other. I enjoyed their growth as a person and as a couple, though I was really anxious because they still hide something from each other – and that's why this is so well written, I ached for them both! The dual POVs also really great and fair on telling their stories, what happened in their own lives, problems, interests, their thoughts–really helpful to getting know them better! Both their obsession over baseball and astronomy and some trivial facts mentioned geeking me out!
And obviously when the plot hits the climax, it makes me want to cry because all the things they did and said to each other explicit and implicitly are so pure and meaningful.
Overall, this is an easy book to read, well-suited book to read in fall! Would recommend it to those who love The Fault in Our Star, Five Feet Apart, Me Before You.
TW: heart disease, heart-attack, one dead parent, cancer mentioned.
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the e-ARC!
September 16, 2022
"So what if it's like B-type stars? So in-
tense it's bound to fizzle out."
I found this line shaking me to the core because it's both beautiful and cursed at the same time–so I highlighted this particular line for the review.
After reading so many new adult romances and the grown-up problems, I feel so refreshed when I read this one. It's a pretty light and heartwarming YA book of teenagers story that tackles heavy issues, such as heart disease issue and losing someone because of death issue in an honest and beautiful way. It's so easy to follow and getting immersed to this book for me that I can't put it down.
I like the premise of childhood arch nemesis turns friends turned lovers, I love how the characters being written, apart when Ali being so stubborn–though I can understand why she did that. I can found myself in Max (for being uptight and restless) and Ali (for her strong determination after something) that I can relate to. I love how before they're own up their past mistake to each other before their relationship goes further, how they take care of each other and getting influenced by each other. I enjoyed their growth as a person and as a couple, though I was really anxious because they still hide something from each other – and that's why this is so well written, I ached for them both! The dual POVs also really great and fair on telling their stories, what happened in their own lives, problems, interests, their thoughts–really helpful to getting know them better! Both their obsession over baseball and astronomy and some trivial facts mentioned geeking me out!
And obviously when the plot hits the climax, it makes me want to cry because all the things they did and said to each other explicit and implicitly are so pure and meaningful.
Overall, this is an easy book to read, well-suited book to read in fall! Would recommend it to those who love The Fault in Our Star, Five Feet Apart, Me Before You.
TW: heart disease, heart-attack, one dead parent, cancer mentioned.
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the e-ARC!
tense it's bound to fizzle out."
I found this line shaking me to the core because it's both beautiful and cursed at the same time–so I highlighted this particular line for the review.
After reading so many new adult romances and the grown-up problems, I feel so refreshed when I read this one. It's a pretty light and heartwarming YA book of teenagers story that tackles heavy issues, such as heart disease issue and losing someone because of death issue in an honest and beautiful way. It's so easy to follow and getting immersed to this book for me that I can't put it down.
I like the premise of childhood arch nemesis turns friends turned lovers, I love how the characters being written, apart when Ali being so stubborn–though I can understand why she did that. I can found myself in Max (for being uptight and restless) and Ali (for her strong determination after something) that I can relate to. I love how before they're own up their past mistake to each other before their relationship goes further, how they take care of each other and getting influenced by each other. I enjoyed their growth as a person and as a couple, though I was really anxious because they still hide something from each other – and that's why this is so well written, I ached for them both! The dual POVs also really great and fair on telling their stories, what happened in their own lives, problems, interests, their thoughts–really helpful to getting know them better! Both their obsession over baseball and astronomy and some trivial facts mentioned geeking me out!
And obviously when the plot hits the climax, it makes me want to cry because all the things they did and said to each other explicit and implicitly are so pure and meaningful.
Overall, this is an easy book to read, well-suited book to read in fall! Would recommend it to those who love The Fault in Our Star, Five Feet Apart, Me Before You.
TW: heart disease, heart-attack, one dead parent, cancer mentioned.
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the e-ARC!
August 5, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Sword and Silk Books for sending this copy over to me! This was my first time reading anything by Ann Miller and I enjoyed it. I loved reading about Ali and Max’s enemies to frenemies to lovers relationship. I am all about Max, he’s smart, goal-oriented, loves his mom and according to Ali and all her friends, very easy on the eyes. Whats not to love about Max? Oh, he sometimes comes off as a bit egotistical and anal retentive. But I mean, once he takes down that guard, he’s very likable. Ali on the other hand… it was hard for me to like her. There’s strong-willed and then there’s just bad attitude. Ali comes off as someone who does not have a filter, had a ton of energy, impulsive, oblivious and/or doesn’t concern herself with consequences, and her world basically centers around herself. Now, yes, she did have a major accident that impacted her life smack dab in the throws of her teenage years. But is that an excuse for being a brat? Her character just kind of came off that way. I know she saw it as a second chance at life but I think to some of the people around her and the the readers, she came off as a brat. However, she does seem to come around/mature towards the end of the book. I enjoyed the ending, her father being proud of her, Max being her biggest fan, and Ali achieving the dreams she always wanted to achieve. At the end of the day, this book wasn’t a home run for me but it wasn’t a strike either!
August 20, 2022
The YA Sport romance with enemies/lover trope. I'm going to say it's very lovely with a teens story. This book has a lot things to offer as it has an intriguing plot.
It's about Ali, a typical sport girl who has a heart disease that loves baseball and Max a typical smart nerd. I like how Ali here has a strong ground character even she has a heart problem but that doesn't lower her morale meanwhile Max is a shy and soft so the couple is really match to each other.
There wasn't too much drama but I love the develop of this story. it starts as everyone act childish to finally realize all they mistake and become more mature understanding. I also like how parents here very present and we get to see everyone POV.
The only downside for me is the book is somehow kinda bland. I'm not sure if because how calm the story is supposed to or I just don't into the book. It has a great pacing but it just I do sometimes get bored specially for some dialogue
Overall this book I will totally still recommend but I would suggest to read it when you are calmer and want to read something light.
It's about Ali, a typical sport girl who has a heart disease that loves baseball and Max a typical smart nerd. I like how Ali here has a strong ground character even she has a heart problem but that doesn't lower her morale meanwhile Max is a shy and soft so the couple is really match to each other.
There wasn't too much drama but I love the develop of this story. it starts as everyone act childish to finally realize all they mistake and become more mature understanding. I also like how parents here very present and we get to see everyone POV.
The only downside for me is the book is somehow kinda bland. I'm not sure if because how calm the story is supposed to or I just don't into the book. It has a great pacing but it just I do sometimes get bored specially for some dialogue
Overall this book I will totally still recommend but I would suggest to read it when you are calmer and want to read something light.
September 16, 2022
I don't know where to start but I particularly could not put the book down.. Argh.
First, I have to say that this book has a very startling cover. I enjoyed it a lot, and I Loved it, I adored it,
Not to exaggerate anything but I'm so in love with how was the story going and the characters development. Of course, I love how was the relationship going between Alicia and Max, they are such a cute couple and I admired both!
Sometimes, I don't know who I think is right, Alicia's dad was too strict with her but there are no reasons He has but for her sake.
I like how the author is competent to illustrate and narrate the story of each of the two characters so that I can know the real circumstance of the two characters and of course I enjoyed this book.
This is my first experience with the Author Ann M. Miller and it won't be the last, I'm looking for other books by her work.
Read if you like:
• YA Sports Romance
• Clean romance (Not very clean, though, there are some scenes more than kissing)
• Childhood Enemies to Lovers
• Highschool drama
• Strong Female Protagonist
• Sexy Nerd Guy
First, I have to say that this book has a very startling cover. I enjoyed it a lot, and I Loved it, I adored it,
Not to exaggerate anything but I'm so in love with how was the story going and the characters development. Of course, I love how was the relationship going between Alicia and Max, they are such a cute couple and I admired both!
Sometimes, I don't know who I think is right, Alicia's dad was too strict with her but there are no reasons He has but for her sake.
I like how the author is competent to illustrate and narrate the story of each of the two characters so that I can know the real circumstance of the two characters and of course I enjoyed this book.
This is my first experience with the Author Ann M. Miller and it won't be the last, I'm looking for other books by her work.
Read if you like:
• YA Sports Romance
• Clean romance (Not very clean, though, there are some scenes more than kissing)
• Childhood Enemies to Lovers
• Highschool drama
• Strong Female Protagonist
• Sexy Nerd Guy
September 16, 2022
I don't know where to start but I particularly could not put the book down.. Argh.
First, I have to say that this book has a very startling cover. I enjoyed it a lot, and I Loved it, I adored it,
Not to exaggerate anything but I'm so in love with how was the story going and the characters development. Of course, I love how was the relationship going between Alicia and Max, they are such a cute couple and I admired both!
Sometimes, I don't know who I think is right, Alicia's dad was too strict with her but there are no reasons He has but for her sake.
I like how the author is competent to illustrate and narrate the story of each of the two characters so that I can know the real circumstance of the two characters and of course I enjoyed this book.
This is my first experience with the Author Ann M. Miller and it won't be the last, I'm looking for other books by her work.
Read if you like:
• YA Sports Romance
• Clean romance (Not very clean, though, there are some scenes more than kissing)
• Childhood Enemies to Lovers
• Highschool drama
• Strong Female Protagonist
• Sexy Nerd Guy
First, I have to say that this book has a very startling cover. I enjoyed it a lot, and I Loved it, I adored it,
Not to exaggerate anything but I'm so in love with how was the story going and the characters development. Of course, I love how was the relationship going between Alicia and Max, they are such a cute couple and I admired both!
Sometimes, I don't know who I think is right, Alicia's dad was too strict with her but there are no reasons He has but for her sake.
I like how the author is competent to illustrate and narrate the story of each of the two characters so that I can know the real circumstance of the two characters and of course I enjoyed this book.
This is my first experience with the Author Ann M. Miller and it won't be the last, I'm looking for other books by her work.
Read if you like:
• YA Sports Romance
• Clean romance (Not very clean, though, there are some scenes more than kissing)
• Childhood Enemies to Lovers
• Highschool drama
• Strong Female Protagonist
• Sexy Nerd Guy
August 16, 2022
All the teenage feels! Ali started out a bit on the irritated-with-her-situation side... and then...
She bumped into Max. A childhood know-it-all nemesis-next-door, he suddenly seems very interested in hanging around. Ali can't figure out why, but then she starts to actually, maybe, like him. Ew. His angst about why he HAS to hang around eats at him, and the push and pull is both fun and nerve-wracking. Love of baseball is encouraged but not required to fall in love with this book and after chapter one, I couldn't put it down.
The way the story embeds you inside each character is masterful and I ended up deeply entrenched within each's POV. Loved the banter and found the whole book extremely relatable.
Also, the author has a knack for teaching me something new with every book she writes. With my love of stars and low heart rate, I now know much more about conjunctions and bradycardia! LOL Keep 'em coming, please!
She bumped into Max. A childhood know-it-all nemesis-next-door, he suddenly seems very interested in hanging around. Ali can't figure out why, but then she starts to actually, maybe, like him. Ew. His angst about why he HAS to hang around eats at him, and the push and pull is both fun and nerve-wracking. Love of baseball is encouraged but not required to fall in love with this book and after chapter one, I couldn't put it down.
The way the story embeds you inside each character is masterful and I ended up deeply entrenched within each's POV. Loved the banter and found the whole book extremely relatable.
Also, the author has a knack for teaching me something new with every book she writes. With my love of stars and low heart rate, I now know much more about conjunctions and bradycardia! LOL Keep 'em coming, please!
February 22, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley, Ann M. Miller, and Sword and Silk Books for a digital ARC of A Heartbeat Away From You.
This books caught my eye right from the start! The female main character is a young girl named Ali, who has dedicated her life to sports, but has a scary moment on the baseball field leading to a heart condition. Her overprotective father makes a decision that affects Ali and her next door neighbor/arch nemesis, Max. The romance is a cute, sweet romance between childhood enemies to lovers that will make your heart melt with happiness and sometimes sadness. The characters have great development along with the plot, and you will enjoy the ending.
This books caught my eye right from the start! The female main character is a young girl named Ali, who has dedicated her life to sports, but has a scary moment on the baseball field leading to a heart condition. Her overprotective father makes a decision that affects Ali and her next door neighbor/arch nemesis, Max. The romance is a cute, sweet romance between childhood enemies to lovers that will make your heart melt with happiness and sometimes sadness. The characters have great development along with the plot, and you will enjoy the ending.
November 23, 2022
3.5🌟
If you like a good YA story then pick this up. A Heartbeat Away From You follows Ali and Max once friends turned enemies. Ali is forced to move back home with her dad after a life changing injury where she runs into her old enemy Max. The pair start off how they left things but soon develop a friendship and start to open up to each other. This was a really sweet but quite sad story. Some of the storylines really did get me in the feels. I found this book very easy to read and I wanted to know how it would pan out so didn't want to put it down. An enjoyable story.
If you like a good YA story then pick this up. A Heartbeat Away From You follows Ali and Max once friends turned enemies. Ali is forced to move back home with her dad after a life changing injury where she runs into her old enemy Max. The pair start off how they left things but soon develop a friendship and start to open up to each other. This was a really sweet but quite sad story. Some of the storylines really did get me in the feels. I found this book very easy to read and I wanted to know how it would pan out so didn't want to put it down. An enjoyable story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews