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Unexpected Lovers #2
Before We Fall
Tasha Dixon-Turner doesn't need anybody to save her.
She’s going to save herself.
The man everybody warned her about marrying turns out to be just as bad as predicted. And then some. She’s determined to claw herself out of her situation without letting anybody in on her bitter secret.
Cole Mason threatens all of that when he witnesses a very public fight between her and her husband and Tasha knows can't risk him revealing the secret she's worked so hard to keep.
She doesn't know what to expect when she confronts Cole to ask him to keep her confidence, but it definitely wasn't him offering to give her the support she's denied herself for so long.
She didn't expect him to offer her a soft place to land.
She didn't expect him... period.
But Tasha has been dancing with the Devil for so long that it’s almost impossible for her to trust the peace she feels when she looks into Cole's eyes.
Will her desperate desire to be her own savior damn her to hell after all?
Before We Fall is the second book in the Unexpected Lovers series following up Xander and Navaya’s journey in Go Deep. The events of Go Deep and Before We Fall partially overlap but Before We Fall is a contained story and there is no need to read Go Deep before delving into it.
She’s going to save herself.
The man everybody warned her about marrying turns out to be just as bad as predicted. And then some. She’s determined to claw herself out of her situation without letting anybody in on her bitter secret.
Cole Mason threatens all of that when he witnesses a very public fight between her and her husband and Tasha knows can't risk him revealing the secret she's worked so hard to keep.
She doesn't know what to expect when she confronts Cole to ask him to keep her confidence, but it definitely wasn't him offering to give her the support she's denied herself for so long.
She didn't expect him to offer her a soft place to land.
She didn't expect him... period.
But Tasha has been dancing with the Devil for so long that it’s almost impossible for her to trust the peace she feels when she looks into Cole's eyes.
Will her desperate desire to be her own savior damn her to hell after all?
Before We Fall is the second book in the Unexpected Lovers series following up Xander and Navaya’s journey in Go Deep. The events of Go Deep and Before We Fall partially overlap but Before We Fall is a contained story and there is no need to read Go Deep before delving into it.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2021
164 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
Rilzy Adams
29 books911 followersRilzy Adams needs only five things to survive: sushi, coffee, Prosecco, cuddles and words (though not in that order).
She's a lawyer by day - writer by 'whenever she can get the free time' and believes that love makes the world go 'round. It is no small wonder, then, that she can't help but pen tales of people falling in love.
She's a lawyer by day - writer by 'whenever she can get the free time' and believes that love makes the world go 'round. It is no small wonder, then, that she can't help but pen tales of people falling in love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
April 26, 2022
Because of the subject matter in this book, I’m choosing to sensor my review. Domestic violence is a touchy subject and, since I've never experienced it, I'm choosing to keep my very strong opinions to myself as they would probably offend and piss some people off. While I liked Before We Fall, I did not like Tasha at all. It wasn't because she was a victim of domestic violence. It was more so because of her actions and lack of common sense. Tasha turned out to be so not what I was expecting. I found it hard to sympathize with her because, she made so many questionable and stupid decisions. I literally shook my head at Tasha throughout this entire book. Thank God for Cole because, if it hadn't been for him, I don't think I would've finished this book. That's how annoyed I was with her. After a very long and arduous journey, I'm glad he and Tasha were able to finally have their HEA. Before We Fall was a good but, frustrating read. Pack your patience because, you're going to need it with this book.
January 9, 2022
I've been sitting on this review for too long now because I wanted to take my time putting into words how much I loved it. Rilzy Adams is a favorite author of mine and I've thoroughly enjoyed every single book of hers that I've read. Though I love her erotic romances because they provide just the right level of steamy and fun escapes I sometimes require, her emotional contemporary romances have a different kind of hold on me. Before We Fall is Rilzy Adams on a whole other level. For me, this is her finest work yet.
A Courageous Heroine Going Through Hell :(
I knew going into Before We Fall that it would wreck my heart because it centers the story of a woman in a sexually and emotionally abusive relationship but Rilzy really did bring ALL the feels. I was left completely battered but hopeful. Your heart will ache as you watch Tasha try to navigate escaping her difficult and abusive marriage. You will also 100% fear for her. At the same time, she's a woman with an abundance of courage that you can't help but be proud of her. Since her marriage, she's had to endure a lot privately. She's led somewhat of a double life because on the one hand her husband has made her life a living hell and at the same time she has to pretend to be the sunshine and vibrant character that she is. It's not easy to stomach the idea that Tasha's life is the reality for so many women in life. It's not easy reading Before We Fall, folks. There are some brutal and raw scenes here. So, I can't imagine this book or this character being easy to write but Rilzy Adams writes the topic with sensitivity and love for the character. It 100% showed.
A Gentle Hero Who Becomes Her Support
Blessedly, Tasha finds a wonderful friend who does find out her secret in Cole. What a swoony hero he was! Cole knows and understands how delicate the situation Tasha is in. He wants to help but he also respects her wishes not to interfere because it could be life-threatening to her. Obviously, it's frustrating to feel like you are a bystander, but I really appreciated with how much care Rilzy Adams wrote his character. Instead, Cole finds small but important ways to help Tasha - by helping her graphic design business, and being the steadfast support that she needs. Later on, he provides an even wider safety net. There's a softness and gentleness to Cole that I really loved and that I thought Tasha deserved from a male figure in her life.
But How Can There Be A Romance?
As you can imagine, theirs is not a romance that is in anyway easy or straightforward. But this is a contemporary romance and it gently bubbles away as Tasha attempts to save herself. Their growing love for each other remains a soft presence throughout the book convincing the reader that the HEA will surely come for these two people who deserved to be with each other. All their tender moments together truly made the book for me.
The Scene That Made Me Cry
I also want to mention the friendship between Tasha and her best friend, Navaya. You can sense how afraid Tasha is to reveal the truth of her situation to her friend all throughout the book and it HURT her to keep it a secret. There were times when I wanted to shake her by the shoulders and beg her to tell her friend, but I also 100% understood where she was coming from. The scene when Navaya does find out is so poignant that I actually shed a few tears. There's nothing more I love than solid female friendships and Tasha and Navaya are two of the best fictional friends I've come across
To Sum Up: This Is A Difficult Book, But An Extraordinary One If You Do Not Find The Topic Triggering
All I have left to say is kudos to Rilzy Adams for being THIS level of gifted. Before We Fall is just the sort of angsty, heartbreaking, but ultimately tender and hopeful romance novels I love. Tasha and Cole will remain in my heart forever.
Content notes: intimate partner violence (on-page), sexual assault (on-page), rape (on-page), stalking, physical assault
Relationship disclosure: Rilzy Adams and I are mutuals on social media.
A Courageous Heroine Going Through Hell :(
I knew going into Before We Fall that it would wreck my heart because it centers the story of a woman in a sexually and emotionally abusive relationship but Rilzy really did bring ALL the feels. I was left completely battered but hopeful. Your heart will ache as you watch Tasha try to navigate escaping her difficult and abusive marriage. You will also 100% fear for her. At the same time, she's a woman with an abundance of courage that you can't help but be proud of her. Since her marriage, she's had to endure a lot privately. She's led somewhat of a double life because on the one hand her husband has made her life a living hell and at the same time she has to pretend to be the sunshine and vibrant character that she is. It's not easy to stomach the idea that Tasha's life is the reality for so many women in life. It's not easy reading Before We Fall, folks. There are some brutal and raw scenes here. So, I can't imagine this book or this character being easy to write but Rilzy Adams writes the topic with sensitivity and love for the character. It 100% showed.
A Gentle Hero Who Becomes Her Support
Blessedly, Tasha finds a wonderful friend who does find out her secret in Cole. What a swoony hero he was! Cole knows and understands how delicate the situation Tasha is in. He wants to help but he also respects her wishes not to interfere because it could be life-threatening to her. Obviously, it's frustrating to feel like you are a bystander, but I really appreciated with how much care Rilzy Adams wrote his character. Instead, Cole finds small but important ways to help Tasha - by helping her graphic design business, and being the steadfast support that she needs. Later on, he provides an even wider safety net. There's a softness and gentleness to Cole that I really loved and that I thought Tasha deserved from a male figure in her life.
But How Can There Be A Romance?
As you can imagine, theirs is not a romance that is in anyway easy or straightforward. But this is a contemporary romance and it gently bubbles away as Tasha attempts to save herself. Their growing love for each other remains a soft presence throughout the book convincing the reader that the HEA will surely come for these two people who deserved to be with each other. All their tender moments together truly made the book for me.
The Scene That Made Me Cry
I also want to mention the friendship between Tasha and her best friend, Navaya. You can sense how afraid Tasha is to reveal the truth of her situation to her friend all throughout the book and it HURT her to keep it a secret. There were times when I wanted to shake her by the shoulders and beg her to tell her friend, but I also 100% understood where she was coming from. The scene when Navaya does find out is so poignant that I actually shed a few tears. There's nothing more I love than solid female friendships and Tasha and Navaya are two of the best fictional friends I've come across
To Sum Up: This Is A Difficult Book, But An Extraordinary One If You Do Not Find The Topic Triggering
All I have left to say is kudos to Rilzy Adams for being THIS level of gifted. Before We Fall is just the sort of angsty, heartbreaking, but ultimately tender and hopeful romance novels I love. Tasha and Cole will remain in my heart forever.
Content notes: intimate partner violence (on-page), sexual assault (on-page), rape (on-page), stalking, physical assault
Relationship disclosure: Rilzy Adams and I are mutuals on social media.
January 25, 2022
Tasha x Cole
This was an incredible story. Though a bit dark, it was sooo good. It was filled with heartbreak, tears, love, and so much passion. It's kind of hard to leave a review cause the content's a bit sensitive. Jeremy isn't a man. He's a coward. It blows my mind to think that people actually go through what Tasha went through IRL. But sweet, sweet Cole. That man exudes kindest, patience, and it was amazing to watch him fall for Tasha. Poor sweet Tasha, I liked her; she's strong AF. I was a bit annoyed with her in the beginning, but I realized it wasn't fair. There is so much more I wish I could say, but I will say this: this was really good, and you should definitely read it.
This was an incredible story. Though a bit dark, it was sooo good. It was filled with heartbreak, tears, love, and so much passion. It's kind of hard to leave a review cause the content's a bit sensitive. Jeremy isn't a man. He's a coward. It blows my mind to think that people actually go through what Tasha went through IRL. But sweet, sweet Cole. That man exudes kindest, patience, and it was amazing to watch him fall for Tasha. Poor sweet Tasha, I liked her; she's strong AF. I was a bit annoyed with her in the beginning, but I realized it wasn't fair. There is so much more I wish I could say, but I will say this: this was really good, and you should definitely read it.
March 8, 2023
Beautifully Written Love Story In The Midst of & After Pain
This was a much anticipated read for me, because of the seeds planted about Tasha and Cole in Go Deep (Book 1 of Unexpected Lovers Series). Tasha is an amazing woman in a horrific situation with a person that claims to love her. In book one, you can discerned that something is wrong and it is severely impacting Tasha—and Cole is aware of some of the details.
Please check the CWs/TWs because this is a heavy read because of the domestic violence/abuse Tasha experiences in her previous relationship.
One of many of my favorite moments/ quotes is when Cole is talking to his mom about Tasha:
“The Road is still a long one.”
“I know, ma. I’ve got my walking shoes on.”
I honestly can not put into words how amazing Cole is, a man, a friend, a lover—he is all of that and the author captured his character in a way that allowed him to make mistakes and still be the man you want the Happily Ever After with.
I highly recommend this book, I have no doubt that I will come back and edit this review after I re-read it because this is now one of my book babies.
This was a much anticipated read for me, because of the seeds planted about Tasha and Cole in Go Deep (Book 1 of Unexpected Lovers Series). Tasha is an amazing woman in a horrific situation with a person that claims to love her. In book one, you can discerned that something is wrong and it is severely impacting Tasha—and Cole is aware of some of the details.
Please check the CWs/TWs because this is a heavy read because of the domestic violence/abuse Tasha experiences in her previous relationship.
One of many of my favorite moments/ quotes is when Cole is talking to his mom about Tasha:
“The Road is still a long one.”
“I know, ma. I’ve got my walking shoes on.”
I honestly can not put into words how amazing Cole is, a man, a friend, a lover—he is all of that and the author captured his character in a way that allowed him to make mistakes and still be the man you want the Happily Ever After with.
I highly recommend this book, I have no doubt that I will come back and edit this review after I re-read it because this is now one of my book babies.
March 31, 2022
“Love did not hurt, oppress, or destroy. Love was beautiful, transformative, and restorative in every fucking way that mattered.”
This was absolutely AMAZING! It was a raw, real story about domestic violence (which made it hard to read at times) but throughout the story we got to see how Tasha grew into this incredibly strong woman after facing the most darkest time in her life.
Cole was a wonderful love interest. He treated Tasha like an absolute queen and helped her realize the love that she deserved! I LOVE COLE SO MUCH!!!
Be aware that this story is filled will a lot of dark scenes but the sweet moments are OH SOOOO SWEET!! THE LOVE COLE AND TASHA SHARE IS SO BEAUTIFUL!! (and the spice was great as well 😉 )!!
I love it when I feel like I learned something after reading a book as well and this quote really spoke to me: “Life changes immensely when we start making ourselves our top priority.”
I will definitely be thinking about this story for a long time! ❤️
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@abbydianastar
This was absolutely AMAZING! It was a raw, real story about domestic violence (which made it hard to read at times) but throughout the story we got to see how Tasha grew into this incredibly strong woman after facing the most darkest time in her life.
Cole was a wonderful love interest. He treated Tasha like an absolute queen and helped her realize the love that she deserved! I LOVE COLE SO MUCH!!!
Be aware that this story is filled will a lot of dark scenes but the sweet moments are OH SOOOO SWEET!! THE LOVE COLE AND TASHA SHARE IS SO BEAUTIFUL!! (and the spice was great as well 😉 )!!
I love it when I feel like I learned something after reading a book as well and this quote really spoke to me: “Life changes immensely when we start making ourselves our top priority.”
I will definitely be thinking about this story for a long time! ❤️
Follow me on TikTok:
@hello.abby.here
Follow me on Instagram:
@abbydianastar
August 12, 2025
3.75 stars! Although this was hard to read at times due to the trigger warnings, it does show how resilient Tasha was and how much of a difference someone can make in your life by consistency and persistency. Cole was truly such a gem and really had such a pure heart with wanting to make sure he always had Tasha’s best interest at heart. He was her true confidant and did not break any promises he made to her although he so desperately wanted to. I love this author writing and storytelling and can’t wait to read more of her books.
October 19, 2021
If I had to choose two words to describe this book, I would choose beautiful and heartbreaking. Two words that are just as conflicting as my feelings while reading this book. Before We Fall is a domestic violence story that blossoms into one of the most beautiful love stories I've ever read. I found myself questioning how the author could take something so cringeworthy and turn it into something so endearing. In this story we are introduced to Natasha and Cole, who are often described as a "friend of a friend" to each other. But one random night, that turned out to be equally as awful as it was random, changed the dynamics of these two characters relationship. "Yet he knew better. Experience had taught him better. It might feel appealing to go ahead and pretend to be some knight in shining armor riding in on his Timberlands, but if his suspicions were right - and his gut told him that they were - he would be creating a bigger problem for Tasha."
Tasha appeared to be a happily married woman, living her life to the fullest. But things are never as they seem when you're on the outside looking in on a domestic violence victim. "So she did everything he asked her to. She flat pressed her hair every day because her natural hair annoyed him. She quit the well -paying graphic design job she'd had when he insisted, he made more than enough money for both of them. She transferred all her savings into their joint savings account because that was what married people did. She slowly distanced herself from anyone who criticized him and anyone he criticized." Tasha was living as a prisoner, and none of her close friends knew the horror she was enduring. No matter how much she placated her husband, Jeremy, it was never enough for him. "'You're the most important person in my life. I don't care what any man thinks he sees when he looks at me. I dressed up to impress you. I wanted you to be proud of the woman on your arm,' she spluttered, hating herself a little bit more as the words she knew would pacify him spilled from her mouth." Until one night, Cole happened to be in the same place as her and her husband, seemingly knowing immediately what kind of situation Tasha was in.
Cole never expected to see Tasha so soon after their chance encounter. Again, she was just a friend of a friend. But her need to silence what he saw sent her fumbling in to his office. No matter how much Cole tried to talk himself out of being involved, he couldn't resist himself. "Cole knew he should be running in the opposite direction. It was the smart thing to do. The only thing Tasha wanted was for him to keep her secret." But Cole's past wouldn't let him walk away from Tasha. "My desire to help stems from my childhood, most definitely. That is why I donate and volunteer to organizations that assist persons in abusive relationships." When Cole's past collides with is future, readers will be on the edge of their seat waiting to see the outcome. "Cole Mason didn't play with people he cared about. He pulled no punches when it came to the people he loved."
This book pulled on so many emotions. Almost every other chapter I wanted to cry. Tears of sorrow, tears of joy, tears thinking of what could be. "Your love is the love I deserve. Your love is the love I choose. Don't ever doubt us again." I couldn't figure out what emotion I wanted to bask in, but I was feeling everything these characters were going through, and that is a sure sign of a well written book. Rilzy Adams was already working her way on to my favorite authors list and this book gave her the push she needed to solidify her spot as one of my one-click authors. If domestic violence is a trigger for you, I would advise you to stay away from this read. If you can handle domestic violence and would like to witness a rainbow after a storm, this is the perfect read for you. Great job Rilzy!!!
These characters originally appear in Go Deep (Unexpected Lovers Book 1). It isn’t required to read Go Deep prior to reading this book, but does make the story more enjoyable. Before We Fall is set to be released November 1, 2021.
Tasha appeared to be a happily married woman, living her life to the fullest. But things are never as they seem when you're on the outside looking in on a domestic violence victim. "So she did everything he asked her to. She flat pressed her hair every day because her natural hair annoyed him. She quit the well -paying graphic design job she'd had when he insisted, he made more than enough money for both of them. She transferred all her savings into their joint savings account because that was what married people did. She slowly distanced herself from anyone who criticized him and anyone he criticized." Tasha was living as a prisoner, and none of her close friends knew the horror she was enduring. No matter how much she placated her husband, Jeremy, it was never enough for him. "'You're the most important person in my life. I don't care what any man thinks he sees when he looks at me. I dressed up to impress you. I wanted you to be proud of the woman on your arm,' she spluttered, hating herself a little bit more as the words she knew would pacify him spilled from her mouth." Until one night, Cole happened to be in the same place as her and her husband, seemingly knowing immediately what kind of situation Tasha was in.
Cole never expected to see Tasha so soon after their chance encounter. Again, she was just a friend of a friend. But her need to silence what he saw sent her fumbling in to his office. No matter how much Cole tried to talk himself out of being involved, he couldn't resist himself. "Cole knew he should be running in the opposite direction. It was the smart thing to do. The only thing Tasha wanted was for him to keep her secret." But Cole's past wouldn't let him walk away from Tasha. "My desire to help stems from my childhood, most definitely. That is why I donate and volunteer to organizations that assist persons in abusive relationships." When Cole's past collides with is future, readers will be on the edge of their seat waiting to see the outcome. "Cole Mason didn't play with people he cared about. He pulled no punches when it came to the people he loved."
This book pulled on so many emotions. Almost every other chapter I wanted to cry. Tears of sorrow, tears of joy, tears thinking of what could be. "Your love is the love I deserve. Your love is the love I choose. Don't ever doubt us again." I couldn't figure out what emotion I wanted to bask in, but I was feeling everything these characters were going through, and that is a sure sign of a well written book. Rilzy Adams was already working her way on to my favorite authors list and this book gave her the push she needed to solidify her spot as one of my one-click authors. If domestic violence is a trigger for you, I would advise you to stay away from this read. If you can handle domestic violence and would like to witness a rainbow after a storm, this is the perfect read for you. Great job Rilzy!!!
These characters originally appear in Go Deep (Unexpected Lovers Book 1). It isn’t required to read Go Deep prior to reading this book, but does make the story more enjoyable. Before We Fall is set to be released November 1, 2021.
October 19, 2021
✨ARC REVIEW: BEFORE WE FALL BY RILZY ADAMS (4.5⭐️, CW: Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault/Rape, attempted murder)
✨Thank you so much @rilzywrites for allowing me to read an early copy of Before We Fall in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
Y’all…I’ve waited a long time to find out what the hell was going on with Tasha from Go Deep. Navaya’s best friend clearly had something of her own going on behind the scenes and it was definitely weighing heavily on her. Well it’s finally time to hear her story.
For years Tasha has been living a double life. On the outside, she’s the happy, fun loving woman in a happy marriage living the dream life. Behind the scenes, her life is in turmoil. What no one knows is that Tasha’s husband is abusive and she’s barely holding her life together. She’s fighting to regain control and leave her marriage before anyone can find out, but there’s one flaw in her plan: Cole. Cole stumbles upon Tasha’s situation one night and it throws him right back into his own traumatic childhood. He can’t help but want to save Tasha, but the woman is stubborn and determined to do this on her own. She’s willing to confide in him as long as he can keep her secret. What neither of them expect though is to fall for one another. Can they make it or are the risks just to great to fall?
✨Y’all Rilzy did her thing with this one. It’s such a sad yet beautiful journey so if you’re expecting this to be a fluffy romance, I’m here to tell you check those expectations at the door. Before We Fall is a book about overcoming trauma, learning to heal, and learning to give yourself the life you deserve, even when you’re not always sure you deserve it. There are definitely some heavy topics discussed here, but the journey is worth it because watching Tasha rise from the ashes of her life and being a part of her story along with Cole was just…whew it was everything. Yes it was frustrating, yes it was difficult and yes it was nerve wracking, but damn if I wasn’t rooting for Tasha the entire time! And not only was I rooting for Tasha, but I was rooting for Cole as well both as individuals and as romantic partners.
Don’t miss this one y’all.
✨Thank you so much @rilzywrites for allowing me to read an early copy of Before We Fall in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
Y’all…I’ve waited a long time to find out what the hell was going on with Tasha from Go Deep. Navaya’s best friend clearly had something of her own going on behind the scenes and it was definitely weighing heavily on her. Well it’s finally time to hear her story.
For years Tasha has been living a double life. On the outside, she’s the happy, fun loving woman in a happy marriage living the dream life. Behind the scenes, her life is in turmoil. What no one knows is that Tasha’s husband is abusive and she’s barely holding her life together. She’s fighting to regain control and leave her marriage before anyone can find out, but there’s one flaw in her plan: Cole. Cole stumbles upon Tasha’s situation one night and it throws him right back into his own traumatic childhood. He can’t help but want to save Tasha, but the woman is stubborn and determined to do this on her own. She’s willing to confide in him as long as he can keep her secret. What neither of them expect though is to fall for one another. Can they make it or are the risks just to great to fall?
✨Y’all Rilzy did her thing with this one. It’s such a sad yet beautiful journey so if you’re expecting this to be a fluffy romance, I’m here to tell you check those expectations at the door. Before We Fall is a book about overcoming trauma, learning to heal, and learning to give yourself the life you deserve, even when you’re not always sure you deserve it. There are definitely some heavy topics discussed here, but the journey is worth it because watching Tasha rise from the ashes of her life and being a part of her story along with Cole was just…whew it was everything. Yes it was frustrating, yes it was difficult and yes it was nerve wracking, but damn if I wasn’t rooting for Tasha the entire time! And not only was I rooting for Tasha, but I was rooting for Cole as well both as individuals and as romantic partners.
Don’t miss this one y’all.
October 21, 2021
**ARC REVIEW**
Before We Fall (Unexpected Lovers #2) by Rilzy Adams is about graphic designer Tasha Dixon-Turner and personal trainer Cole Mason. . If you’ve read Go Deep, then you’ve met Tasha and Cole. One night while Tasha is out on the town with her husband Jeremy, Cole witnesses something concerning with the way Jeremy is acting towards Tasha. Tasha is afraid Cole will say something to their friend group and asks him to keep quiet. Cole has experience with domestic violence as his mother is a survivor of it, so he takes it upon himself to look out for her. His gym becomes her safe haven away from home, Tasha finds a confidant in Cole. Jeremy is the absolute worst, his actions towards Tasha are intolerable, I could feel her pain. Rilzy did an excellent job depicting an abusive marriage, it’s quite graphic. This book had me in my feelings 🥺 Cole is such a cinnamon roll hero, all he wants to do is take care of Tasha. I don’t feel Tasha fell fast, she was already checked out of her marriage and planning her exit strategy. Tasha and Cole have great chemistry, one that they try to contain but it’s always rising to the surface. This is a slow burn but it’s realistic and well worth the wait. I found the romance in the little things Cole and Tasha did for each other, they were pockets of happiness in between Jeremy’s vileness. Cole’s mom Renee is amazing, her voice is vital for the growth of Tasha and Cole. The story was wrapped up sweetly, however I do wish I had the opportunity to spend more time with them as a couple far removed from the trauma.
P.s. Love is found in the midst of tragedy. The cover is light and airy but please do not go into this book with that mindset.
CW~ domestic violence, child abuse, infidelity, sexual assault and parental death
Before We Fall (Unexpected Lovers #2) by Rilzy Adams is about graphic designer Tasha Dixon-Turner and personal trainer Cole Mason. . If you’ve read Go Deep, then you’ve met Tasha and Cole. One night while Tasha is out on the town with her husband Jeremy, Cole witnesses something concerning with the way Jeremy is acting towards Tasha. Tasha is afraid Cole will say something to their friend group and asks him to keep quiet. Cole has experience with domestic violence as his mother is a survivor of it, so he takes it upon himself to look out for her. His gym becomes her safe haven away from home, Tasha finds a confidant in Cole. Jeremy is the absolute worst, his actions towards Tasha are intolerable, I could feel her pain. Rilzy did an excellent job depicting an abusive marriage, it’s quite graphic. This book had me in my feelings 🥺 Cole is such a cinnamon roll hero, all he wants to do is take care of Tasha. I don’t feel Tasha fell fast, she was already checked out of her marriage and planning her exit strategy. Tasha and Cole have great chemistry, one that they try to contain but it’s always rising to the surface. This is a slow burn but it’s realistic and well worth the wait. I found the romance in the little things Cole and Tasha did for each other, they were pockets of happiness in between Jeremy’s vileness. Cole’s mom Renee is amazing, her voice is vital for the growth of Tasha and Cole. The story was wrapped up sweetly, however I do wish I had the opportunity to spend more time with them as a couple far removed from the trauma.
P.s. Love is found in the midst of tragedy. The cover is light and airy but please do not go into this book with that mindset.
CW~ domestic violence, child abuse, infidelity, sexual assault and parental death
February 21, 2023
“He’d forever categorize his feelings for Tasha into two parts: before the fall—and after.”
Before We Fall is part of the Unexpected Lovers series. The timeline of this story does overlap with that of Go Deep, where we got to see a small glimpse of Cole and Tasha’s story since they were both in the same friend group with Xander and Navaya.
CW: domestic violence, child abuse, sexual and physical assault, attempted murder, stalking, cheating, parental death.
This was not an easy read, but I thought it was written well and had realistic expectations/depictions (ex. the third act breakup).
While there is a romance here, it’s definitely a slow burn and I wouldn’t say that it’s the main focus of the story.
It’s romance with an HEA, but it’s also so much more than that. It’s friendship, support, survival, and healing.
Tasha has been in an abusive marriage, where Jeremy full on gaslight and manipulated their marriage to put Tasha in a position to be isolated and heavily dependent on him, while stripping her of her confidence.
It’s not until one night where Cole happens to witness a public confrontation between Jeremy and Tasha, where things start escalating.
Aside from the mutual friends, Cole and Tasha were able to connect and understand each other through similar lived experiences.
Cole was that support and light for Tasha during a dark time.
There were little details I loved like knowing that Cole donates and volunteers to organizations that assist people in abusive relationships, as well as seeing him do Tasha’s hair care routine.
The only thing is that it seemed out of character for Jeremy to leave Tasha unattended for an entire month given the fact that he would often come home from work during lunch hours just to see if she was in fact at home, or heaven forbid her workout ran an hour later than usual.
There were a lot of large time jumps towards the end which silted some of the development but I understood the need for such a sudden third act break up here.
Definitely not an easy read, but they got there in the end. If stories with domestic violence and abusive partners easily trigger you, I would caution you to read this only if you’re in the absolute best headspace for it.
GO DEEP REVIEW: click here
DEEPER REVIEW: click here
Before We Fall is part of the Unexpected Lovers series. The timeline of this story does overlap with that of Go Deep, where we got to see a small glimpse of Cole and Tasha’s story since they were both in the same friend group with Xander and Navaya.
CW: domestic violence, child abuse, sexual and physical assault, attempted murder, stalking, cheating, parental death.
This was not an easy read, but I thought it was written well and had realistic expectations/depictions (ex. the third act breakup).
While there is a romance here, it’s definitely a slow burn and I wouldn’t say that it’s the main focus of the story.
It’s romance with an HEA, but it’s also so much more than that. It’s friendship, support, survival, and healing.
Tasha has been in an abusive marriage, where Jeremy full on gaslight and manipulated their marriage to put Tasha in a position to be isolated and heavily dependent on him, while stripping her of her confidence.
It’s not until one night where Cole happens to witness a public confrontation between Jeremy and Tasha, where things start escalating.
Aside from the mutual friends, Cole and Tasha were able to connect and understand each other through similar lived experiences.
Cole was that support and light for Tasha during a dark time.
There were little details I loved like knowing that Cole donates and volunteers to organizations that assist people in abusive relationships, as well as seeing him do Tasha’s hair care routine.
The only thing is that it seemed out of character for Jeremy to leave Tasha unattended for an entire month given the fact that he would often come home from work during lunch hours just to see if she was in fact at home, or heaven forbid her workout ran an hour later than usual.
There were a lot of large time jumps towards the end which silted some of the development but I understood the need for such a sudden third act break up here.
Definitely not an easy read, but they got there in the end. If stories with domestic violence and abusive partners easily trigger you, I would caution you to read this only if you’re in the absolute best headspace for it.
GO DEEP REVIEW: click here
DEEPER REVIEW: click here
Read
January 9, 2022This book took me a while to read and it was a big surprise because I've only read light, sweet and spicy from Rilzy Adams before.
This book needs a lot of trigger warnings though, regarding really anything related to domestic violence. CWs for abuse, intimidate partner violence and assault, sexual assault, rape, gaslighting and attempted murder.
One reason why this took me so long to read is because Tasha is still in the middle of a really dangerous situation when the book starts. She's isolated, scared and not prepared for Cole to find out a secret she's been keeping so close to her chest out of fear and to retain a little sliver of "normal" with her closest friends.
All things i understand intimately. I did struggle with the romantic developments at times but only because my headspace was sometimes still stuck on the violent parts. The way the intimacy and understanding between the characters came to be and developed was lovely to read though.
In the end this story came together beautifully though, with some really hard scenes, thruths and decisions that left me satisfied with everything in the end.
This book needs a lot of trigger warnings though, regarding really anything related to domestic violence. CWs for abuse, intimidate partner violence and assault, sexual assault, rape, gaslighting and attempted murder.
One reason why this took me so long to read is because Tasha is still in the middle of a really dangerous situation when the book starts. She's isolated, scared and not prepared for Cole to find out a secret she's been keeping so close to her chest out of fear and to retain a little sliver of "normal" with her closest friends.
All things i understand intimately. I did struggle with the romantic developments at times but only because my headspace was sometimes still stuck on the violent parts. The way the intimacy and understanding between the characters came to be and developed was lovely to read though.
In the end this story came together beautifully though, with some really hard scenes, thruths and decisions that left me satisfied with everything in the end.
February 2, 2025
What can I say; Before We Fall is a great story. It completely broke my heart into pieces, slowly rebuilt it, ripped it in half and then made it whole again.
I had put off reading this for quite some time for no particular reason, and recently purchased the paperback. And I’m so glad that I did.
I had put off reading this for quite some time for no particular reason, and recently purchased the paperback. And I’m so glad that I did.
September 3, 2022
5/5
I cant even go into enough detail about how this book changed my life. i’ve never felt so much anxiety and pain for a character like i did for Tasha. Lemme tell you that women is stronggggg and her husband deserves to rot in the pits of hell. I stg this book nearly gave me a heart attack. Cole in this book is the love of my whole life. Such a perfect man UGH. This book had me creating Spotify playlists after it so i could just sit and cry. Do yourself a favour and read the book, okay
I cant even go into enough detail about how this book changed my life. i’ve never felt so much anxiety and pain for a character like i did for Tasha. Lemme tell you that women is stronggggg and her husband deserves to rot in the pits of hell. I stg this book nearly gave me a heart attack. Cole in this book is the love of my whole life. Such a perfect man UGH. This book had me creating Spotify playlists after it so i could just sit and cry. Do yourself a favour and read the book, okay
January 20, 2025
Absolutely incredible and heartbreaking story.
I knew it would be a difficult story to read, mind you I waited almost 5 months to read it after i finished the first book.
I knew Tasha story was going to be emotional and heartbreaking. Anytime it’s related to domestic violence and abuse, I find it hard to read. I can’t even imagine someone going through it but people are really going through this.
Check the triggers before diving into this one.
I was finding it hard not to be mad at Tasha for not walking away from her husband sooner but unless you’re in that person position, we can’t really say anything. So I had to respect her decision and just pray that Cole would come to rescue her. Cole was so patient and kind. 😍
I wish she could confide in her best friend in the beginning. Tasha was just so embarrassed by her situation ,little did she know, there was an entire village to help her get out of this horrible nightmare.
As a strong woman, she had to do things on her own terms. I can respect that truly.
Thank goodness for a real man coming and being that protector she needed.
Oh honey the spice was so spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️. It was a slow burn but such a great book. I really enjoyed this one.
I knew it would be a difficult story to read, mind you I waited almost 5 months to read it after i finished the first book.
I knew Tasha story was going to be emotional and heartbreaking. Anytime it’s related to domestic violence and abuse, I find it hard to read. I can’t even imagine someone going through it but people are really going through this.
Check the triggers before diving into this one.
I was finding it hard not to be mad at Tasha for not walking away from her husband sooner but unless you’re in that person position, we can’t really say anything. So I had to respect her decision and just pray that Cole would come to rescue her. Cole was so patient and kind. 😍
I wish she could confide in her best friend in the beginning. Tasha was just so embarrassed by her situation ,little did she know, there was an entire village to help her get out of this horrible nightmare.
As a strong woman, she had to do things on her own terms. I can respect that truly.
Thank goodness for a real man coming and being that protector she needed.
Oh honey the spice was so spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️. It was a slow burn but such a great book. I really enjoyed this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2021
My God, My God!
I read slow on a regular, so I knew it would take me a few days to read this with all the other things I’ve got going on. But I literally had to take energy BREAKS to get through this read. The emotions were so raw and real, my empathic Cancer ass was all in my feels. I’ve never encountered what either Cole nor Tasha had to deal with. However, I have had family and friends who have. I can’t even fathom how much worse it is for the person going through it, when I feel jarred knowing about it as a bystander. God bless Rilzy for being able to write this book and not skirt around the subject or glorify it for entertainment purposes. I truly believe this book will serve as a catalyst to help someone save themselves or be a soft place for someone else to land.
I read slow on a regular, so I knew it would take me a few days to read this with all the other things I’ve got going on. But I literally had to take energy BREAKS to get through this read. The emotions were so raw and real, my empathic Cancer ass was all in my feels. I’ve never encountered what either Cole nor Tasha had to deal with. However, I have had family and friends who have. I can’t even fathom how much worse it is for the person going through it, when I feel jarred knowing about it as a bystander. God bless Rilzy for being able to write this book and not skirt around the subject or glorify it for entertainment purposes. I truly believe this book will serve as a catalyst to help someone save themselves or be a soft place for someone else to land.
December 26, 2021
Gut wrenching, heartbreaking, difficult would be some of the words I’d use to describe this book. It was also hopeful and beautiful and nuanced. There’s a lot of really hard things in this book from on page abuse and rape (by the FMC’s husband who is NOT the love interest) so I’d skip if any of this is a trigger. As it is, I had to put it down several times and take some time to pull myself together. I loved the 2 mains and had been interested in their story since I met them in the previous book in the series, Go Deep and their romance, while heartbreaking at times, did not disappoint.
CW: domestic violence, child abuse, rape, physical assault, attempted murder, parental death,, stalking, gaslighting, emotional abuse
CW: domestic violence, child abuse, rape, physical assault, attempted murder, parental death,, stalking, gaslighting, emotional abuse
July 19, 2023
Excellent read. Tasha must be one of my favorite FMC so far this year. This story is really proof that we have absolutely no idea what people are dealing with privately, no matter how strong and happy they appear to be. I love how patient and supporting Cole was.
March 18, 2023
one of the softest most beautiful romances I've ever read, but also the most difficult one - giant trigger warnings for an abusive relationship and domestic violence (of course not with the hero)
May 29, 2023
beautiful love story
I really loved this book. The love that Cole had for Tasha was soooo beautiful. When not looking for love, you can sometimes find the most amazing partner.
I really loved this book. The love that Cole had for Tasha was soooo beautiful. When not looking for love, you can sometimes find the most amazing partner.
August 20, 2022
This book was amazing. The portrayal of abuse and over coming it, from both Cole and Tasha was realistic and wonderful. The postive depiction of therapy was great too. Cole is amazing and I love him from infinity to infinity. Tasha is great. I loved this book, if you are thinking about it. Read it.
October 1, 2023
I LOVE COLE
December 1, 2021
A Heavy 4.5 Stars…
This is an immensely different book from the Go Deep, the first book in the Unexpected Lovers series. Where the first book is a lovely, light-hearted, breezy, joyous friends to lovers romance, this second book, which happens in the same timeline as Book 1, is a sensitive, beautifully-written, but incredibly heavy and traumatic story of abuse and domestic violence and love and healing. The books oddly complement each other despite being so different in theme and style and vibe- the characters are beyond amazing! This author knows how to write an emotionally-grown dreamboat hero for a really relatable heroine who’s going through it. And since most of us are often going through various forms of doubting our selves in some way, these characters in this series resonate.
The premise is that Tasha is a fiesty BFF to romance writer Navaya (from book 1), or so Cole (mutual friend to Navaya) believes, until he witnesses Tasha getting treated abusively by her husband in public. Thus begins the uneasy friendship between Cole and Tasha as she fights for her freedom from her toxic relationship, complicated by catching the deepest of feelings for one another.
I have complicated feelings about this book that are overall positive. There are a lot of deep, messy, eminently human things going on in this book. To underline the author’s trigger warning at the beginning, this book features a lot of on-page episodes of various forms of domestic abuse including child abuse as well as a heroine dealing with the aftermath. This book is potentially immensely triggering so anyone with a history or association of abuse should be immensely mindful approaching this. Even really, anyone who’s sensitive should approach this with care. It was often incredibly difficult to read just because of the realness and authenticity with which the author writes the scenes. I had to take a break less than a quarter into reading this just because of how brutal Tasha’s experience was. But yet this is written with nuance and sensitivity, it contains the ever unpopular trope of cheating in romance involving the main characters but it doesn’t feel grey or sketchy. You’re rooting for them and your heart breaks when theirs does and is healed and pieced together along with theirs. I cannot recommend this enough. Is it perfect? No. There are decisions the characters make and sometimes feelings from Cole that are human and problematic but yet you love him the more for it because it’s all out of love for Tasha. This is at minimum a 4.5 star read of almost absolute perfection, if you have the emotional and mental fortitude to go on this difficult but rewarding and absolutely beautiful journey with the characters. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author but delayed so much that it got released before I read it and I ended up buying my own finished copy to read in the end.
This is an immensely different book from the Go Deep, the first book in the Unexpected Lovers series. Where the first book is a lovely, light-hearted, breezy, joyous friends to lovers romance, this second book, which happens in the same timeline as Book 1, is a sensitive, beautifully-written, but incredibly heavy and traumatic story of abuse and domestic violence and love and healing. The books oddly complement each other despite being so different in theme and style and vibe- the characters are beyond amazing! This author knows how to write an emotionally-grown dreamboat hero for a really relatable heroine who’s going through it. And since most of us are often going through various forms of doubting our selves in some way, these characters in this series resonate.
The premise is that Tasha is a fiesty BFF to romance writer Navaya (from book 1), or so Cole (mutual friend to Navaya) believes, until he witnesses Tasha getting treated abusively by her husband in public. Thus begins the uneasy friendship between Cole and Tasha as she fights for her freedom from her toxic relationship, complicated by catching the deepest of feelings for one another.
I have complicated feelings about this book that are overall positive. There are a lot of deep, messy, eminently human things going on in this book. To underline the author’s trigger warning at the beginning, this book features a lot of on-page episodes of various forms of domestic abuse including child abuse as well as a heroine dealing with the aftermath. This book is potentially immensely triggering so anyone with a history or association of abuse should be immensely mindful approaching this. Even really, anyone who’s sensitive should approach this with care. It was often incredibly difficult to read just because of the realness and authenticity with which the author writes the scenes. I had to take a break less than a quarter into reading this just because of how brutal Tasha’s experience was. But yet this is written with nuance and sensitivity, it contains the ever unpopular trope of cheating in romance involving the main characters but it doesn’t feel grey or sketchy. You’re rooting for them and your heart breaks when theirs does and is healed and pieced together along with theirs. I cannot recommend this enough. Is it perfect? No. There are decisions the characters make and sometimes feelings from Cole that are human and problematic but yet you love him the more for it because it’s all out of love for Tasha. This is at minimum a 4.5 star read of almost absolute perfection, if you have the emotional and mental fortitude to go on this difficult but rewarding and absolutely beautiful journey with the characters. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author but delayed so much that it got released before I read it and I ended up buying my own finished copy to read in the end.
November 9, 2021
YouTube
Dear Rilzy Adams, you were right about Cole being the best man and love interest you have written into existence.
This romance story between Tasha and Cole felt inevitable. It´s the story about a woman that´s being emotionally, sexually, financially, and physically abused by her husband and how Cole is witness to her deepest shame and secret. She decides to confront him and beg him not to tell anyone but what she doesn't know is that the universe put that man right where he needed to be. This is an emotionally heavy book with a slow burn type of romance where their road to a relationship is not easy but right from the start, they feel like they belong with each other. It´s not a romance that I'm used to reading as I don't like to deal with plots where someone has to get out of an abusive situation but put Rilzy Adams on the cover and I'm going to read the hell out of that book so it wasn't a surprise when I really enjoyed this book.
The writing style was perfect for this book, it had the usual casual and relaxed tone that makes Adams one of my go-to authors while also giving you beautiful lessons about love and healing. Their relationship was *chef´s kiss* and this is the type of romance you just have to read every once in a while because it just has you smiling goofily for most of it. Seeing how Tasha´s character developed was so satisfying, she was definitely strong as hell and brave to be vulnerable with Cole. She was so cute! From her interests to the way Cole described her I was halfway to falling for her as well! I was so proud of her and just wanted her to continue finding herself.
Cole, the best man ever! This guy was worshipping this woman and protective of her and I loved it. He had his issues as well and I loved how he went to a therapist and was willing to see his faults so he could be there for Tasha. He was always a soft place for her to land but still admitted to a fault when he was overstepping. All the little ways he cared for her were so sweet and ugh. Also, their steamy scenes were written great, and omg this man wanted to unalive her lmao
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and need every romance reader to read it expeditiously!
Dear Rilzy Adams, you were right about Cole being the best man and love interest you have written into existence.
This romance story between Tasha and Cole felt inevitable. It´s the story about a woman that´s being emotionally, sexually, financially, and physically abused by her husband and how Cole is witness to her deepest shame and secret. She decides to confront him and beg him not to tell anyone but what she doesn't know is that the universe put that man right where he needed to be. This is an emotionally heavy book with a slow burn type of romance where their road to a relationship is not easy but right from the start, they feel like they belong with each other. It´s not a romance that I'm used to reading as I don't like to deal with plots where someone has to get out of an abusive situation but put Rilzy Adams on the cover and I'm going to read the hell out of that book so it wasn't a surprise when I really enjoyed this book.
The writing style was perfect for this book, it had the usual casual and relaxed tone that makes Adams one of my go-to authors while also giving you beautiful lessons about love and healing. Their relationship was *chef´s kiss* and this is the type of romance you just have to read every once in a while because it just has you smiling goofily for most of it. Seeing how Tasha´s character developed was so satisfying, she was definitely strong as hell and brave to be vulnerable with Cole. She was so cute! From her interests to the way Cole described her I was halfway to falling for her as well! I was so proud of her and just wanted her to continue finding herself.
Cole, the best man ever! This guy was worshipping this woman and protective of her and I loved it. He had his issues as well and I loved how he went to a therapist and was willing to see his faults so he could be there for Tasha. He was always a soft place for her to land but still admitted to a fault when he was overstepping. All the little ways he cared for her were so sweet and ugh. Also, their steamy scenes were written great, and omg this man wanted to unalive her lmao
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and need every romance reader to read it expeditiously!
April 24, 2022
Slow to Us
I enjoyed Tasha and Cole's story. It's been a while since I read about their friends Xander and Navaya, yet I like how we get another perspective of their growing love in this book as well.
I felt for Tasha. Not in a way of pity; I felt for her struggle and battle to continue being in an abusive marriage, wanting to leave, yet not quite sure how or when to do just that. I'm glad she made it out alive bc her ex husband Jeremy was ready and willing to snuff her life out. He was beyond a monster and I hope he finds the bottom of someone's fist or shoe to take him out.
While I love that Cole was a safe place for Tasha, I can't say I didn't see her ultimately needing to figure out herself, apart from any relationship, coming. I was hoping Cole would push for her to rent a space separate from his home so Tasha could truly deal with all the turmoil being in a 5 year abusive relationship did to her. Although it was painful to read, I'm glad she broke things off with Cole to truly get better and seek a therapist, in her own space, in her own time.
I loved Cole. He was a big teddy bear of a man; he loved and cared for Tasha so sweetly. He was more than her soft place and while I love his want to protect her, I was hoping he'd try to hold off truly giving into his feelings until she was officially divorced. While I understand Tasha had mentally checked out of her marriage years prior, I think her being divorced would've faired better for them both. With all that, I wasn't mad about the path they took. The quick love, the heartbreaking release and the sweet return. So freaking sweet.
I'm hoping there will be updates on these two in other books. This was a rather long one for me, yet I enjoyed it all.
Great read. Highly recommend.
I enjoyed Tasha and Cole's story. It's been a while since I read about their friends Xander and Navaya, yet I like how we get another perspective of their growing love in this book as well.
I felt for Tasha. Not in a way of pity; I felt for her struggle and battle to continue being in an abusive marriage, wanting to leave, yet not quite sure how or when to do just that. I'm glad she made it out alive bc her ex husband Jeremy was ready and willing to snuff her life out. He was beyond a monster and I hope he finds the bottom of someone's fist or shoe to take him out.
While I love that Cole was a safe place for Tasha, I can't say I didn't see her ultimately needing to figure out herself, apart from any relationship, coming. I was hoping Cole would push for her to rent a space separate from his home so Tasha could truly deal with all the turmoil being in a 5 year abusive relationship did to her. Although it was painful to read, I'm glad she broke things off with Cole to truly get better and seek a therapist, in her own space, in her own time.
I loved Cole. He was a big teddy bear of a man; he loved and cared for Tasha so sweetly. He was more than her soft place and while I love his want to protect her, I was hoping he'd try to hold off truly giving into his feelings until she was officially divorced. While I understand Tasha had mentally checked out of her marriage years prior, I think her being divorced would've faired better for them both. With all that, I wasn't mad about the path they took. The quick love, the heartbreaking release and the sweet return. So freaking sweet.
I'm hoping there will be updates on these two in other books. This was a rather long one for me, yet I enjoyed it all.
Great read. Highly recommend.
October 7, 2022
Cara, esse livro me fez pensar muito. Antes de entrar nisso, queria dizer que, como sempre, Rilzy Adams não decepcionou em escrever um casal com bastante química, trazer cenas hot que são bem desenvolvidas e adicionar a carga emocional necessária para que a história não seja apenas duas pessoas transando o tempo todo. Sempre falo que essa autora nunca me decepciona com as histórias que ela publica, e com Before we fall não foi diferente. Agora, voltando para a parte que eu fiquei reflexiva, devo avisar que o enredo envolve a protagonista em situação de violência doméstica e abuso sexual, então cuidado se isso for um tópico sensível para você. Eu, felizmente, nunca passei por uma situação dessas, nem conheço ninguém próximo a mim que tenha passado (pelo menos não que eu saiba) e, entrar na cabeça da Tasha foi fundamental para eu entender o que uma pessoa que é abusada dessa forma pensa e para eu compreender o motivo de essas pessoas serem tão relutantes em procurar ajuda de alguém próximo a elas. Para quem leu a série em ordem, sabe que a gente conhece a Tasha e o Cole em Go Deep, que é uma novela, portanto, uma história mais curta (porém, muito boa, recomendo). Eu adorei o fato que a Rilzy Adams transformou Before we fall em uma história mais longa, porque um enredo como esse precisa ser bem desenvolvido para não se tornar superficial. Fico feliz que, no final, . Arrisco dizer que essa é uma das melhores histórias escritas pela Rilzy Adams e estou adorando conhecer a escrita dessa autora que vem se tornando uma das minhas favoritas.
January 1, 2022
Mt first book of the year is a sweet romance with heavy subject matter. Tasha and Cole were supporting characters in Go Deep. It was hinted that something was going on between then despite Tasha being married to someone else. This book tells the tale of how these two fell in love and all the obstacles in their way.
There are few things that will make cheating on a spouse okay in a romance; being in an abusive relationship is one of them. It was tough reading what Tasha was going through. Her husband was a nightmare and downright cruel and evil. I was happy that the romance between Tasha and Cole was a slow burn. It helped sell that it wasn't just a damsel in distress connection they had. They genuinely had chemistry. And Cole could have been a caricature of a leading man and having the sole purpose of saving Tasha. Instead, he's a fully fleshed out character with his own flaws that actually leads into a realistic third act. It made the HEA all the more sweeter.
There are few things that will make cheating on a spouse okay in a romance; being in an abusive relationship is one of them. It was tough reading what Tasha was going through. Her husband was a nightmare and downright cruel and evil. I was happy that the romance between Tasha and Cole was a slow burn. It helped sell that it wasn't just a damsel in distress connection they had. They genuinely had chemistry. And Cole could have been a caricature of a leading man and having the sole purpose of saving Tasha. Instead, he's a fully fleshed out character with his own flaws that actually leads into a realistic third act. It made the HEA all the more sweeter.
December 13, 2024
I’m not crying, you are 🥹
What a beautiful and heartbreaking book. The storyline was so good and the buildup was even better. I loved how the author’s metaphors were so descriptive that I could almost see the picture she was painting or the message she was trying to convey so clearly. The book was deep, the characters were flawed which makes for the ability to connect with them. Even Jeremy was described so well that I hated him and was SO happy when he finally got his ass beat lol. I’m not sure if the author pulled Tasha’s story from her own life but she made it so real and I really felt so bad for her every step of the way. She made the things that are hard to understand about why women stay with abusive partners, understandable through the way she explained and described every thought and situation. I love that even though the ending was a happily ever after, that there were bumps before they got there and it made it feel all the more real. Sometimes author tie stories up with pretty bows that don’t equate to real life but this one did. I laughed, cried, gasped, smiled, hoped, all the things that make up a good book. Will definitely be reading all of her other books but I’ll heavily be comparing them to this one because it was just that good. Truly a must read!!
What a beautiful and heartbreaking book. The storyline was so good and the buildup was even better. I loved how the author’s metaphors were so descriptive that I could almost see the picture she was painting or the message she was trying to convey so clearly. The book was deep, the characters were flawed which makes for the ability to connect with them. Even Jeremy was described so well that I hated him and was SO happy when he finally got his ass beat lol. I’m not sure if the author pulled Tasha’s story from her own life but she made it so real and I really felt so bad for her every step of the way. She made the things that are hard to understand about why women stay with abusive partners, understandable through the way she explained and described every thought and situation. I love that even though the ending was a happily ever after, that there were bumps before they got there and it made it feel all the more real. Sometimes author tie stories up with pretty bows that don’t equate to real life but this one did. I laughed, cried, gasped, smiled, hoped, all the things that make up a good book. Will definitely be reading all of her other books but I’ll heavily be comparing them to this one because it was just that good. Truly a must read!!
July 23, 2022
Tasha & Cole
There was a lot to unpack in this story. It’s long, spans over a year and a half I think.Tasha has a secret she hasn’t told any one including her best friend Navaya (honestly this is one the part of the book that I didn’t like). Cole accidentally witness Tasha’s secret and she is compelled to make sure he doesn’t tell anyone what he saw. Cole understands more of what Tasha is going though than she realizes but she finds her self seeking him out any way. She has a plan she just needs a little more time to work out. Cole is determined to help her any way he can. She finds a safe space with him and he wants to protect her.
This story is full, it can be read as a standalone but it’s part of a series. The characters go on long journey. There is a lot happening but the story flows freely. The characters are well developed and come full circle.
I recommend this book. The only part I did not like was the part of the story where Tasha consistently made a choice to not tell her best friend what her secret was, even after she made moves and kept putting it off. She sought her support and solace from Cole who kept trying to get her to tell Navaya.
This story has some heavy topics but I think because the story was full circle that it was not too much, you see the right now, the see the aftermath , you see the conclusion.
There was a lot to unpack in this story. It’s long, spans over a year and a half I think.Tasha has a secret she hasn’t told any one including her best friend Navaya (honestly this is one the part of the book that I didn’t like). Cole accidentally witness Tasha’s secret and she is compelled to make sure he doesn’t tell anyone what he saw. Cole understands more of what Tasha is going though than she realizes but she finds her self seeking him out any way. She has a plan she just needs a little more time to work out. Cole is determined to help her any way he can. She finds a safe space with him and he wants to protect her.
This story is full, it can be read as a standalone but it’s part of a series. The characters go on long journey. There is a lot happening but the story flows freely. The characters are well developed and come full circle.
I recommend this book. The only part I did not like was the part of the story where Tasha consistently made a choice to not tell her best friend what her secret was, even after she made moves and kept putting it off. She sought her support and solace from Cole who kept trying to get her to tell Navaya.
This story has some heavy topics but I think because the story was full circle that it was not too much, you see the right now, the see the aftermath , you see the conclusion.
August 31, 2022
It took me a while to read this book due to the content and i had to read short books in between to give me a break from the domestic violence theme, but overall, the book was great. This book really portrayed domestic violence accurately. The only part I found that didn't make sense was when she was getting ready to leave him, she started getting mouthy with him. That would be the last thing you would do in that situation because it could make him catch on that something was up. However, the rest of the book was pretty accurate. The anticipation of when Jeremy was going to come back and raise hell about Tasha leaving had me on the edge of my seat. I knew that the shit was going to hit the fan, but I never expected what happened when Tasha and Navaya were going to get coffee. I Gasped. The last 100 pages was where all the action happened, but the build up to it was so worth it. After reading the unexpected lovers' series I will be checking out more book by Rizly Adams. I love her writing style.
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