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Take A Moment
Meet Alex. She has a wonderful fiancé, a job she thrives in, and a best friend she’s known since childhood. Life’s not perfect, but it’s pretty fantastic. Until a shock diagnosis suddenly throws everything off course.
But Alex has never been one to back down from a fight. Now single and unemployed, she packs up and moves from her Glasgow hometown to vibrant Birmingham for a fresh start. In a new job, in a new city, she’s learning all over again what’s important in life.
Friendship, fun and even romance lie just around the corner – but can Alex get out of her own way and learn to just take a moment, and live?
A stunning, uplifting romance for fans of Mhairi McFarlane and Jo Watson.
But Alex has never been one to back down from a fight. Now single and unemployed, she packs up and moves from her Glasgow hometown to vibrant Birmingham for a fresh start. In a new job, in a new city, she’s learning all over again what’s important in life.
Friendship, fun and even romance lie just around the corner – but can Alex get out of her own way and learn to just take a moment, and live?
A stunning, uplifting romance for fans of Mhairi McFarlane and Jo Watson.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2021
39 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
Nina Kaye
17 books73 followersNina Kaye is a contemporary romance author who writes warm, witty and uplifting reads with a deeper edge.
Nina started writing her first novel when she was seventeen (and locked in her room, supposedly studying for her future). It was a short-lived experience that ended as soon as Nina’s exams did, but the dream of writing never left her.
Nina lives in Edinburgh with her husband and much adored side-kick, James. In addition to writing, Nina enjoys swimming, gin and karaoke (preferably all enjoyed together in a sunny, seaside destination).
Nina started writing her first novel when she was seventeen (and locked in her room, supposedly studying for her future). It was a short-lived experience that ended as soon as Nina’s exams did, but the dream of writing never left her.
Nina lives in Edinburgh with her husband and much adored side-kick, James. In addition to writing, Nina enjoys swimming, gin and karaoke (preferably all enjoyed together in a sunny, seaside destination).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
May 31, 2022
I appreciate what this story was trying to achieve, but it was far too long, the characters were flat and the story was dull. While I didn’t expect the entire book to be about the main character’s diagnosis, there was so little time spent on it. She spends the whole book denying it, and hating everybody in her life who wants to help/understand it. But alas, Prince Charming comes into the picture and, of course, he can do no wrong and is as exciting as a brick.
What really bugged me is the lack of resolution. “Lex” learns little to nothing about MS, pushes away the “overbearing” people in her life and welcomes the new people who do the exact same thing. The last chapter was really just fluff that I glossed over. They force her to rejoin the band, after she insists she doesn’t want to, and then we are supposed to pretend like Lex hadn’t spent the whole novel pissed off at her family and ex for doing the same thing to her earlier in the book.
This story was unique and had an opportunity to shed some more light on MS, but it was just a stubborn and hollow story that lacked any insight into its meat and bones.
What really bugged me is the lack of resolution. “Lex” learns little to nothing about MS, pushes away the “overbearing” people in her life and welcomes the new people who do the exact same thing. The last chapter was really just fluff that I glossed over. They force her to rejoin the band, after she insists she doesn’t want to, and then we are supposed to pretend like Lex hadn’t spent the whole novel pissed off at her family and ex for doing the same thing to her earlier in the book.
This story was unique and had an opportunity to shed some more light on MS, but it was just a stubborn and hollow story that lacked any insight into its meat and bones.
December 26, 2021
A fabulous book that focuses on the changes and the challenges of dealing with an MS diagnosis. It’s a journey of learning for both the protagonist and the reader.
September 9, 2021
Alex seems to be having the time of her life. Engaged to her childhood sweetheart Dom, flying high as an IT Project Manager, and planning her dream wedding in her beloved Glasgow. Then a fall at work leads to a shocking diagnosis and things start to fall apart.
Alex's changed circumstances might be life-altering, but it's the effect it has on her friends and family that is the most devastating. Over night it seems as though everyone is treating her like an invalid. Her mother and sister take over the wedding planning, and overrule all Alex's decisions. Dom treats her as though she doesn't know her own mind and she's been given a non-urgent make-work project to manage at work instead of the exciting project she was managing before the diagnosis. Even her best friend Sasha is treating her like an imbecile.
Determined that a medical diagnosis won't force her to be an invalid, and after a devastating argument with Dom, Alex decides to move to Birmingham, away from her the well-meaning, but suffocating, embrace of her friends and family. A new home, a new job, an employer who respects and accommodates her medical issues. The only fly in the ointment is one of her co-workers, Danielle, who unsuccessfully applied for the job that Alex won.
Romance, office politics, and karaoke, what's not to love?
This was a charming, yet insightful, romance and love letter to the overlooked city of Birmingham. It shone an honest light onto the limitations that such a diagnosis imposes, but also confirms that it doesn't stop you from living a good, exciting, and interesting life. I read that the author Nina Kaye has had a similar diagnosis and I think that is what makes this such an honest novel.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Alex's changed circumstances might be life-altering, but it's the effect it has on her friends and family that is the most devastating. Over night it seems as though everyone is treating her like an invalid. Her mother and sister take over the wedding planning, and overrule all Alex's decisions. Dom treats her as though she doesn't know her own mind and she's been given a non-urgent make-work project to manage at work instead of the exciting project she was managing before the diagnosis. Even her best friend Sasha is treating her like an imbecile.
Determined that a medical diagnosis won't force her to be an invalid, and after a devastating argument with Dom, Alex decides to move to Birmingham, away from her the well-meaning, but suffocating, embrace of her friends and family. A new home, a new job, an employer who respects and accommodates her medical issues. The only fly in the ointment is one of her co-workers, Danielle, who unsuccessfully applied for the job that Alex won.
Romance, office politics, and karaoke, what's not to love?
This was a charming, yet insightful, romance and love letter to the overlooked city of Birmingham. It shone an honest light onto the limitations that such a diagnosis imposes, but also confirms that it doesn't stop you from living a good, exciting, and interesting life. I read that the author Nina Kaye has had a similar diagnosis and I think that is what makes this such an honest novel.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
August 21, 2021
I loved this book! Much more than just a romcom, this is a heartfelt, thought provoking but easy to read story. It's a timely reminder that life can change, and with it your priorities. But there's still enough romance, light hearted moments and hope to make this a lovely, uplifting, feel good read.
I enjoyed Nina's first book, The Gin Lover's Guide to Dating, so I had high hopes for this one and it didn't disappoint. Nina's writing is going from strength to strength, and I look forward to reading more from her in future.
I enjoyed Nina's first book, The Gin Lover's Guide to Dating, so I had high hopes for this one and it didn't disappoint. Nina's writing is going from strength to strength, and I look forward to reading more from her in future.
August 30, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. There are times when you read something that not only resonates deeply but also opens up a whole new world to you and this is that book. Alex's diagnosis is lifechanging - subject matter that is handled deftly by Nina Kaye - and I couldn't help admire her tenacity and hopefulness. The storyline rings true with beautifully written characters, both heartbreaking and heartbuilding scenes and a strong theme of hope and new beginnings.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
September 25, 2021
I liked the main character, Alex, though she does have the propensity to decide what others think, thus changing her own course of action without letting others decide. This is her story of living with a life changing condition (MS) and it changes relationships . This book documents that very well. In places it feels a little too happy ever after, but on the whole the nitty gritty of coming to terms with such a change in ones life is well documented.
The main characters fairly well described though others are little more two dimensional and conversations are realistic. The first few chapters were a little boring, though it was worth perservering
Thank you to Net galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
The main characters fairly well described though others are little more two dimensional and conversations are realistic. The first few chapters were a little boring, though it was worth perservering
Thank you to Net galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 26, 2022
This book had so much potential, and I did enjoy the general plot, but I really hated the writing style and felt the way the author described things was way too over complicated. I liked Alex as a character, but her assumptions on how people would react, rather than giving them a chance really frustrated me. I also wasn’t too keen on the ending being wrapped in a pretty bow, as so many of us with chronic illnesses don’t get that kind of happy ending. It kind of felt like a first or second draft of a book if I’m completely honest. But I did think it could have been amazing and I really appreciated the story!!
September 13, 2021
If there’s one thing that I like doing it’s discovering new authors. Nina Kaye is certainly a new author for me. I read the synopsis for ‘Take A Moment’ and it certainly sounded like the sort of read that I would enjoy. Well I was spot on because I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Take A Moment’ but more about that in a bit.
I loved the character of Alex and I warmed to her from the very start. She is a lovely young lass who seems to have the perfect life – a fiancé, lovely friends and a job that she loves. She works too hard but apart from that her life is tootling along perfectly fine. Until something happens that makes her stand still and take stock. Alex has the rug pulled out from underneath her in more ways than one. She receives a diagnosis, which floors her for a while and she notices that her nearest and dearest are changing in the way they see her, talk to her and treat her. To a degree I identified with her as I feel the same. I haven’t got the condition that Alex has but I suffered a life changing injury and the way in which people treated me definitely changed. I just kept wanting to jump inside the book to give Alex a huge hug and to remind others that Alex hasn’t changed in her personality and she has a condition but it doesn’t have to change her life. Alex hits rock bottom in a way and ends up leaving her old life behind and she goes to start afresh elsewhere. Alex’s illness forces her to reassess her life and she learns to appreciate things that she took for granted before she was diagnosed. I kept everything crossed hat Alex’s new life would bring her the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into this story. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first chapter, I knew that I was going to seriously enjoy this story and then some. The more of the book that I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. I would definitely say that reading ‘Take A Moment’ became addictive and I found that I just couldn’t put the book down for any length of time. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have ben because it travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. It didn’t take me long to finish this book and I had mixed feelings about finishing this book. I don’t mean that in a negative sense or that I was disappointed with the way in which the story ended but I was enjoying the author’s writing style, the characters and the storylines so much that I just didn’t want the book to end.
‘Take A Moment’ is superbly written. I love Nina’s easy going writing style. In fact reading this book seemed more like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. Nina certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one heck of a story. I loved the way in which Nina makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. I found that I enjoyed the book so much that I kept trying to interact with the characters as if they could hear me.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Take A Moment’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Nina’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I loved the character of Alex and I warmed to her from the very start. She is a lovely young lass who seems to have the perfect life – a fiancé, lovely friends and a job that she loves. She works too hard but apart from that her life is tootling along perfectly fine. Until something happens that makes her stand still and take stock. Alex has the rug pulled out from underneath her in more ways than one. She receives a diagnosis, which floors her for a while and she notices that her nearest and dearest are changing in the way they see her, talk to her and treat her. To a degree I identified with her as I feel the same. I haven’t got the condition that Alex has but I suffered a life changing injury and the way in which people treated me definitely changed. I just kept wanting to jump inside the book to give Alex a huge hug and to remind others that Alex hasn’t changed in her personality and she has a condition but it doesn’t have to change her life. Alex hits rock bottom in a way and ends up leaving her old life behind and she goes to start afresh elsewhere. Alex’s illness forces her to reassess her life and she learns to appreciate things that she took for granted before she was diagnosed. I kept everything crossed hat Alex’s new life would bring her the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into this story. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first chapter, I knew that I was going to seriously enjoy this story and then some. The more of the book that I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. I would definitely say that reading ‘Take A Moment’ became addictive and I found that I just couldn’t put the book down for any length of time. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have ben because it travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. It didn’t take me long to finish this book and I had mixed feelings about finishing this book. I don’t mean that in a negative sense or that I was disappointed with the way in which the story ended but I was enjoying the author’s writing style, the characters and the storylines so much that I just didn’t want the book to end.
‘Take A Moment’ is superbly written. I love Nina’s easy going writing style. In fact reading this book seemed more like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. Nina certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one heck of a story. I loved the way in which Nina makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. I found that I enjoyed the book so much that I kept trying to interact with the characters as if they could hear me.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Take A Moment’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Nina’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
October 3, 2021
WHAT IF your world as you knew it was torn asunder but from the inside out. WHAT IF you weren't capable of doing all the things you did before, had the dread of physical and/or mental changes hanging over your head, and no control, at least for certain, over when or how it would affect you? It's a hard line to walk from the outside looking in, let alone being the one in the situation. Revealed to readers at book's end, the general story gist, the seed with which it started, came from the author's real life, and her own unwanted challenges she had to face. Learning a bit more about the health condition featured certainly gives this book a deeper connection for readers with just as much uncertainty about the future. I mean, you never know when something can come along and disturb your perfect little world. Is it better to live in fear of what MIGHT be? Or is it better to live every day to the best of our abilities, come what may?
I really enjoyed the real life connection, and honestly believe it aided in making Alex's challenges that much easier to understand. You saw her diagnosis, and ever changing condition through the eyes of someone that has been there, and it made it much more REAL. The sad part about that though is that as much as the understanding was more concrete, the smiles that more genuine...so was the heartache. From lovers to friends, coworkers to family, she gets spurned time and again...and sometimes DOES the spurning herself to avoid the unexpected heartache. It took a few very special people to come into her life in order for her to see that shutting them all down and playing hardheaded wasn't getting her any brownie points; it was simply removing the support system she could have had in place to help with the tough times. It wasn't a sign of weakness, but of acceptance, and when her house of carefully stacked cards came tumbling down, it definitely meant the difference between being lost among the many, or found among the few.
A great story for Contemporary Romance fans, infused with humor and heart. It tackles some big issues between the diagnosis, treatment of those patients both medically and personally, diversity, racism, and a few dozen or so more unexpected gems, but it also reminds us that life was meant to be lived and if we need to adjust at times to do so, then that is our prerogative.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
I really enjoyed the real life connection, and honestly believe it aided in making Alex's challenges that much easier to understand. You saw her diagnosis, and ever changing condition through the eyes of someone that has been there, and it made it much more REAL. The sad part about that though is that as much as the understanding was more concrete, the smiles that more genuine...so was the heartache. From lovers to friends, coworkers to family, she gets spurned time and again...and sometimes DOES the spurning herself to avoid the unexpected heartache. It took a few very special people to come into her life in order for her to see that shutting them all down and playing hardheaded wasn't getting her any brownie points; it was simply removing the support system she could have had in place to help with the tough times. It wasn't a sign of weakness, but of acceptance, and when her house of carefully stacked cards came tumbling down, it definitely meant the difference between being lost among the many, or found among the few.
A great story for Contemporary Romance fans, infused with humor and heart. It tackles some big issues between the diagnosis, treatment of those patients both medically and personally, diversity, racism, and a few dozen or so more unexpected gems, but it also reminds us that life was meant to be lived and if we need to adjust at times to do so, then that is our prerogative.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
September 21, 2021
Uplifting, thought-provoking and warm-hearted, prepare to be charmed by Nina Kaye’s latest novel, Take a Moment.
Alex is a woman who has a life most people would envy. With a successful career, a wonderful fiancé and a best friend who has been by her side since childhood, Alex’s life is as close to perfect as it is possible to get. However, Alex’s charmed life comes to a screeching halt when she receives a shocking diagnosis that forces her to reevaluate her entire life and throws everything off course. However, Alex is not about to back down from this fight or to surrender her future so easily, so deciding that she cannot wallow in self-pity, she decides to pack her bags, leave Glasgow behind and head to Birmingham for a brand-new start.
Having walked away from everything that is familiar to her, Alex is determined to thrive in her new surroundings. In a new city, she finds a new job and quickly begins putting down roots unencumbered by her past. But will she end up falling into old habits again? Everything in Birmingham might be new, but will it still be the same old Alex? Or will she draw a line under the past and learn to take a moment and start living instead of merely existing?
Love and friendship could be around the corner for Alex – but only if she has the courage to take a leap of faith and a chance on herself.
Nina Kaye’s Take A Moment is a fun, emotional and captivating read with a heroine who is smart, courageous and who keeps going even when the odds are stacked against her. Take a Moment is a fantastic read full of laughter, heart and moments that inspire as Alex rises above all the obstacles in her way in her pursuit for happiness and fulfillment.
Nina Kaye’s Take a Moment is a delightful and absorbing romantic read guaranteed to make readers smile.
Alex is a woman who has a life most people would envy. With a successful career, a wonderful fiancé and a best friend who has been by her side since childhood, Alex’s life is as close to perfect as it is possible to get. However, Alex’s charmed life comes to a screeching halt when she receives a shocking diagnosis that forces her to reevaluate her entire life and throws everything off course. However, Alex is not about to back down from this fight or to surrender her future so easily, so deciding that she cannot wallow in self-pity, she decides to pack her bags, leave Glasgow behind and head to Birmingham for a brand-new start.
Having walked away from everything that is familiar to her, Alex is determined to thrive in her new surroundings. In a new city, she finds a new job and quickly begins putting down roots unencumbered by her past. But will she end up falling into old habits again? Everything in Birmingham might be new, but will it still be the same old Alex? Or will she draw a line under the past and learn to take a moment and start living instead of merely existing?
Love and friendship could be around the corner for Alex – but only if she has the courage to take a leap of faith and a chance on herself.
Nina Kaye’s Take A Moment is a fun, emotional and captivating read with a heroine who is smart, courageous and who keeps going even when the odds are stacked against her. Take a Moment is a fantastic read full of laughter, heart and moments that inspire as Alex rises above all the obstacles in her way in her pursuit for happiness and fulfillment.
Nina Kaye’s Take a Moment is a delightful and absorbing romantic read guaranteed to make readers smile.
September 14, 2022
Oh, what a great book!
Alex's life is running smoothly, with a career that is going great and a wedding in a matter of weeks. Everything is wonderful until she gets the rug pulled from under her feet when she collapses at work.
A diagnosis of MS sets her in a tailspin.
Who wants to be diagnosed with one of those 'invisible' diseases?
Alex finds her life turned upside down as she recovers from her initial diagnosis. Everyone has her wrapped in cotton wool, and no one thinks she can live her old life easily or safely.
After finding no positive support from her mother and sister, and a break-up with her fiance she decides to up sticks and moves from Scotland to Birmingham, much to the distress of her family.
Can you live alone once diagnosed with one of these degenerative diseases?
This book was so bittersweet, in many ways, from the way the romance side played out to the way family, ones and work begin to treat a person with a diagnosis for something like ME.
I applaud Alex for continuing to live her life, even with her barriers. Sure, she was stubborn in places, but lessons were learned, and she had a good bunch of people around her, too.
Sacha her best friend was brilliant with her problems but developed through the story herself. And when I talk about love interests, there wasn't just one!
Most of all, I loved Emmanuel, her new boss, at her new job. An understanding woman who took the equality and diversity rules of their company and ensured that Alex was given a fair and rightful chance to perform her role, and when push came to shove, she was there for Alex when it counted.
And to answer my above question, you most certainly can live alone and live a full life, as long as you have your support network!
Alex's life is running smoothly, with a career that is going great and a wedding in a matter of weeks. Everything is wonderful until she gets the rug pulled from under her feet when she collapses at work.
A diagnosis of MS sets her in a tailspin.
Who wants to be diagnosed with one of those 'invisible' diseases?
Alex finds her life turned upside down as she recovers from her initial diagnosis. Everyone has her wrapped in cotton wool, and no one thinks she can live her old life easily or safely.
After finding no positive support from her mother and sister, and a break-up with her fiance she decides to up sticks and moves from Scotland to Birmingham, much to the distress of her family.
Can you live alone once diagnosed with one of these degenerative diseases?
This book was so bittersweet, in many ways, from the way the romance side played out to the way family, ones and work begin to treat a person with a diagnosis for something like ME.
I applaud Alex for continuing to live her life, even with her barriers. Sure, she was stubborn in places, but lessons were learned, and she had a good bunch of people around her, too.
Sacha her best friend was brilliant with her problems but developed through the story herself. And when I talk about love interests, there wasn't just one!
Most of all, I loved Emmanuel, her new boss, at her new job. An understanding woman who took the equality and diversity rules of their company and ensured that Alex was given a fair and rightful chance to perform her role, and when push came to shove, she was there for Alex when it counted.
And to answer my above question, you most certainly can live alone and live a full life, as long as you have your support network!
August 22, 2021
Aww this book was very cute and it tackled a type of storyline I wasn't used to. Although the storyline was obvious, it was sweet, engaging and fun.
I wanted to say that the book lacked detail with the character description (which I still believe) but I also fell in love with so many characters, Matt, Sash and Sammy in particular. To fall in love with characters that you don't think you know enough about is a pretty amazing achievement to the writer. The characters were so obvious and honest that although I think they could have been elaborated on, they are perfect and enough.
I found this book endearing and infuriating.. all the while finding it interesting and thought provoking. What would I do if I found out I had MS? I have a husband and two kids so my story isn't the same but it wasn't hard to remember back to when I was dating my husband and wonder how would he react. Is he a Dom? Would he do better??
I absolutely fell in love with Emmanuel and the new work colleagues. They seem lovely, supportive and part of a wonderful work place group that reminds me of great work places I have worked in the past.
Overall I LOVED this book. For me it was a page turner, the story, although predictable, was so fun and exactly what I needed during a stage 4 lockdown in Australia. It kept me occupied for a few days and I will love the author for that. x
I wanted to say that the book lacked detail with the character description (which I still believe) but I also fell in love with so many characters, Matt, Sash and Sammy in particular. To fall in love with characters that you don't think you know enough about is a pretty amazing achievement to the writer. The characters were so obvious and honest that although I think they could have been elaborated on, they are perfect and enough.
I found this book endearing and infuriating.. all the while finding it interesting and thought provoking. What would I do if I found out I had MS? I have a husband and two kids so my story isn't the same but it wasn't hard to remember back to when I was dating my husband and wonder how would he react. Is he a Dom? Would he do better??
I absolutely fell in love with Emmanuel and the new work colleagues. They seem lovely, supportive and part of a wonderful work place group that reminds me of great work places I have worked in the past.
Overall I LOVED this book. For me it was a page turner, the story, although predictable, was so fun and exactly what I needed during a stage 4 lockdown in Australia. It kept me occupied for a few days and I will love the author for that. x
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2021
I have found this one harder to review as the battles that Alex faced mirror very closely to health battles I have encountered and I found that sometimes the words jumping from the pages took me back to that stage of freshly diagnosed. However to read a story with the subject being so well understood and represented on the pages gave me hope that perception is starting to change and that people are starting to understand invisible illnesses better, in that one day they are invisible and the next day you can't even make it out of bed unassisted.
Alex was a strong and independent character throughout and her grit and determination to succeed despite how much life had changed just made me love this character even more. I flew through this book once I had started and kept hiding away so I could keep reading as I wanted to know if Alex's determination was enough to see her succeed as she went against the wishes of her family and left her support network behind as she moved on in her life.
A highly recommended read that I loved from beginning to end, there are highs and lows throughout the story and I found this emotional and heartwarming.
Alex was a strong and independent character throughout and her grit and determination to succeed despite how much life had changed just made me love this character even more. I flew through this book once I had started and kept hiding away so I could keep reading as I wanted to know if Alex's determination was enough to see her succeed as she went against the wishes of her family and left her support network behind as she moved on in her life.
A highly recommended read that I loved from beginning to end, there are highs and lows throughout the story and I found this emotional and heartwarming.
August 21, 2021
This is so much more than a delightful rom com. Alex has a fall and a shock diagnosis follows and forces her to change her lifestyle. Lots of adjustments and re-building life ensues.. as well as an adorable Mr.
Long term conditions/diagnosis are rarely in books enough so this awareness is always good to see. Its also been handled sensitively and thoughtfully. I also like the way the workplace was brought into the conversation- a definite example of what and what not to do with an employee. Also good to see a project manager/career driven women at the heart of the book- very relatable.
Emmanuel stole my heart as a perfect boss/best friend and everything else in between.
Some superb supporting characters that build Alex's world around her too.
Packed with music, fun, 'chance' meetings, liveliness, positive female characters (bar one boo Danielle).
Rich, lively, heart-warming.
Long term conditions/diagnosis are rarely in books enough so this awareness is always good to see. Its also been handled sensitively and thoughtfully. I also like the way the workplace was brought into the conversation- a definite example of what and what not to do with an employee. Also good to see a project manager/career driven women at the heart of the book- very relatable.
Emmanuel stole my heart as a perfect boss/best friend and everything else in between.
Some superb supporting characters that build Alex's world around her too.
Packed with music, fun, 'chance' meetings, liveliness, positive female characters (bar one boo Danielle).
Rich, lively, heart-warming.
July 10, 2023
At first I wondered if I was going to like it. In the end I loved it. My two biggest reasons for wondering. The first did not like Dom before the diagnosis after it when he crawls back in. I liked train guy aka Matt from the off. The second all the annoying characters were from Glasgow I love Glasgow and find it underappericated as a city. I prefer the writers descriptions of Edinburgh in the other book.
Now to Alex who is a force to be reckoned with. She grows on you so much through the story. In part down to her move to Birmingham. I preferred the descriptions of Birmingham and the lovely people she met. They might treat her differently sometimes because of her illness but in the best possible way often without her realising.
Sasha grew on me with the help of Sammy and the band mates.
Then there is Matt if not the best part of this story. He is the king to Alex's queen.
Now to Alex who is a force to be reckoned with. She grows on you so much through the story. In part down to her move to Birmingham. I preferred the descriptions of Birmingham and the lovely people she met. They might treat her differently sometimes because of her illness but in the best possible way often without her realising.
Sasha grew on me with the help of Sammy and the band mates.
Then there is Matt if not the best part of this story. He is the king to Alex's queen.
December 17, 2024
This is a really cute read. There is not any smut, so if you love cute romances, this is for you! It really highlights people with disabilities and the struggles they go through in life. It focuses on inner turmoil and outer due to how people treat them. I love to be inclusive with my reading & this might be the first book I’ve chosen specifically because it dealt with disabilities. I want to support more authors that struggle with that whether physically or mentally. Understanding what people go through leads to more compassion. The main characters are cute. There is a lot of growth & HEA.
August 21, 2021
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
A very realistic journey into a serious condition, written with honesty and hope and showing incredible resilience, “Take a Moment”, by Nina Kaye (Canelo), is also about romance and love happening unexpectedly, when the most radical life changes are occurring.
The heroine, Alex, is a strong, career driven woman, who takes a surprising path when she receives a “shock diagnosis”. Moving for a new city and leaving behind an ex-fiancée, a patronizing, insufferable family, but also a very loving, supportive friend and a stable job is very brave and shows the heroine’s resilience.
As the story unfolds, the fears, vulnerability and insecurities facing this new reality are also portrayed as Alex navigates her new life and new self in Birmingham, even exploring a very interesting artistic facet that strengthens her personality.
The story is more about Alex’s journey than her romantic life, but I liked how a new love interest emerges and that the author didn’t diabolize the former one.
Matt is such a gorgeous hero, those expressive brown eyes, humor and kindness are an irresistible package.
I felt that perhaps sometimes he was too perfect or had the most perfect responses and I needed more development from his character.
I felt the same with Emmanuel, I’m not sure such a supportive, understanding boss would be found in the real world.
Alex’s take-charge attitude, independence and determination to have a normal life are admirable, let’s just say I’m sure I wouldn’t be that brave.
But the story has a great depiction of a newly diagnosed person with this neurological illness and the author deserves kudos for that.
There were other aspects I really liked: the setting – Glasgow and Birmingham – and the fact NHS provides a strong support system to Alex’s medical issues.
A very realistic journey into a serious condition, written with honesty and hope and showing incredible resilience, “Take a Moment”, by Nina Kaye (Canelo), is also about romance and love happening unexpectedly, when the most radical life changes are occurring.
The heroine, Alex, is a strong, career driven woman, who takes a surprising path when she receives a “shock diagnosis”. Moving for a new city and leaving behind an ex-fiancée, a patronizing, insufferable family, but also a very loving, supportive friend and a stable job is very brave and shows the heroine’s resilience.
As the story unfolds, the fears, vulnerability and insecurities facing this new reality are also portrayed as Alex navigates her new life and new self in Birmingham, even exploring a very interesting artistic facet that strengthens her personality.
The story is more about Alex’s journey than her romantic life, but I liked how a new love interest emerges and that the author didn’t diabolize the former one.
Matt is such a gorgeous hero, those expressive brown eyes, humor and kindness are an irresistible package.
I felt that perhaps sometimes he was too perfect or had the most perfect responses and I needed more development from his character.
I felt the same with Emmanuel, I’m not sure such a supportive, understanding boss would be found in the real world.
Alex’s take-charge attitude, independence and determination to have a normal life are admirable, let’s just say I’m sure I wouldn’t be that brave.
But the story has a great depiction of a newly diagnosed person with this neurological illness and the author deserves kudos for that.
There were other aspects I really liked: the setting – Glasgow and Birmingham – and the fact NHS provides a strong support system to Alex’s medical issues.
August 20, 2021
A sudden diagnosis unravels Alex's life plan, but worse it changes the way her friends, family, colleagues and fiance treat her. Deciding to move from Glasgow to Birmingham, gives her a chance for an exciting new start and things start to look up.
i really liked the author's engaging, quirky writing style, which compelled me to read 'Take a moment' in a day. The characters were well written. I felt invested in Alex's journey and felt Sasha, Emmanuel and Matt were well painted also. The side story of Danielle and her priviliged status in the office was an interesting thread, as was the story about Sasha's mum.
There was just enough medical knowledge without it becoming filled with complicated jargon. I also liked the vivid description of Birmingham. The fact that it was written from a first person persepctive really brought the story to life.
My only criticism would be some elements didn't seem plausible. How likely would it be to meet the same man on different train journeys and then randomly in a bar?
Thanks indeed to Netgalley and Canelo for this very enjoyable read
i really liked the author's engaging, quirky writing style, which compelled me to read 'Take a moment' in a day. The characters were well written. I felt invested in Alex's journey and felt Sasha, Emmanuel and Matt were well painted also. The side story of Danielle and her priviliged status in the office was an interesting thread, as was the story about Sasha's mum.
There was just enough medical knowledge without it becoming filled with complicated jargon. I also liked the vivid description of Birmingham. The fact that it was written from a first person persepctive really brought the story to life.
My only criticism would be some elements didn't seem plausible. How likely would it be to meet the same man on different train journeys and then randomly in a bar?
Thanks indeed to Netgalley and Canelo for this very enjoyable read
September 16, 2021
Alex has it all. Perfect fiancé, successful career, active social life. But when she's diagnosed with a debilitating chronic illness, things seem to fall apart; until she picks herself up and starts a new life.
For me this book was more about how Alex masters her diagnose and the problems this brings to her personal, social and professional life. The romance was a cute add-on.
--
Representation note:
Nina Kaye did a good job in representing the illness that Alex was diagnosed with, even though I thought that some problems were exaggerated; but not everyone with this diagnosis has the same problems. As someone who was diagnosed with the same illness I could relate to the inner turmoil the MC went through.
For me this book was more about how Alex masters her diagnose and the problems this brings to her personal, social and professional life. The romance was a cute add-on.
--
Representation note:
Nina Kaye did a good job in representing the illness that Alex was diagnosed with, even though I thought that some problems were exaggerated; but not everyone with this diagnosis has the same problems. As someone who was diagnosed with the same illness I could relate to the inner turmoil the MC went through.
August 21, 2021
I found take a moment to be quite a slow burner of a read but I’m glad I persevered with it!
Office politics,relationships,relocation and a diagnosis of MS all feature heavily in this book.
Romance, music, friendship and pushing your own boundaries are central to the main character Alex after her new diagnosis and the subsequent relationship breakdown,so armed with bravado she moves away to start a whole new life within the constraints of her illness and in doing so discovers what she is capable of, meets new people and enjoy a job that values her as a person.
Thank you net galley for this early read.
Office politics,relationships,relocation and a diagnosis of MS all feature heavily in this book.
Romance, music, friendship and pushing your own boundaries are central to the main character Alex after her new diagnosis and the subsequent relationship breakdown,so armed with bravado she moves away to start a whole new life within the constraints of her illness and in doing so discovers what she is capable of, meets new people and enjoy a job that values her as a person.
Thank you net galley for this early read.
September 3, 2021
Take A Moment is a sweet reminder to slow down in today’s very busy world. Alex is a focused young woman who is successful in her new career and planning her dream wedding. When she starts to feel tired she brushes it off as wedding stress and stays focused on her goals. Then something happens that forces her to slow down.
Alex’s life is turned upside down. I admire her strength, both physical and mental. She goes on a journey and finds out what is really important to her but it takes her slowing down to realize it.
Alex’s life is turned upside down. I admire her strength, both physical and mental. She goes on a journey and finds out what is really important to her but it takes her slowing down to realize it.
September 6, 2021
Take A Moment is a gorgeous story about one woman’s life changing diagnosis and her determination to not let it define her. There is romance and friendship and humor, but underneath is a powerful tale of how MS can turn life on its head. At the beginning of the book we see Alex, our MC, at the top of her game, planning her dream wedding. Then we get to see her navigate through her life after being diagnosed, adjust and rebuild once she realizes her old life no longer fits. It isn’t always easy, which makes for an authentic and heartfelt read. Bravo to the author for writing this.
December 1, 2021
I really loved this book. It gets right to the point it wants to make and it ended happily, which is always appreciated.
It’s a heartfelt romance with lovely, supportive and funny characters. Mainly supportive! I adore Matt and Sasha, even Emmanuel was such a great boss!
I wasn’t aware the author based it on her own experience. I wasn’t ready for that, but it explains a lot. 🥺
_____
The story starts with everything going wrong! It was terrifying how fast her whole life flipped, but that’s the reality of it!
At some points I was frustrated with her for not accepting the support Dom and her mom were showing, but by the end I understood her pov! No one wants to be suffocated like that.
I did feel for Dom, but she’s right, he is not right for her. Matt in the other hand is perfect!! He is supportive in the way she needs.
The end warmed my heart, the gig, the family reunion and agreeing to move in together! It all came together nicely. ❤️
____
Some favourite parts:
•Matt telling her family off for the way they treated her is absolutely my favourite! I wish I can do that. xD
•Sasha standing up to her mom (the faker) and taking back her life. I’m glad she ends up with Sammy!
•When the girls went clubbing to try and stalk Matt. I was so excited they ran into him 😂
•BOTH train scenes. I love the awkwardness of Matt and his jokes
•Their first date ❤️ and when he picked her up while hiking
•Matts whole reaction after finding out about her MS. She should’ve told him sooner and not assume his reaction. Would’ve saved her a lot of hurt
•I love that the author skipped the miscommunication trope when Alex was seeing both Dom and Matt. That could’ve been unnecessary drama and I’m glad we didn’t go there
____
Recommend for people who need to understand this kind of situation. No spice, so can be recommended for younger people too.
It’s a heartfelt romance with lovely, supportive and funny characters. Mainly supportive! I adore Matt and Sasha, even Emmanuel was such a great boss!
I wasn’t aware the author based it on her own experience. I wasn’t ready for that, but it explains a lot. 🥺
_____
The story starts with everything going wrong! It was terrifying how fast her whole life flipped, but that’s the reality of it!
At some points I was frustrated with her for not accepting the support Dom and her mom were showing, but by the end I understood her pov! No one wants to be suffocated like that.
I did feel for Dom, but she’s right, he is not right for her. Matt in the other hand is perfect!! He is supportive in the way she needs.
The end warmed my heart, the gig, the family reunion and agreeing to move in together! It all came together nicely. ❤️
____
Some favourite parts:
•Matt telling her family off for the way they treated her is absolutely my favourite! I wish I can do that. xD
•Sasha standing up to her mom (the faker) and taking back her life. I’m glad she ends up with Sammy!
•When the girls went clubbing to try and stalk Matt. I was so excited they ran into him 😂
•BOTH train scenes. I love the awkwardness of Matt and his jokes
•Their first date ❤️ and when he picked her up while hiking
•Matts whole reaction after finding out about her MS. She should’ve told him sooner and not assume his reaction. Would’ve saved her a lot of hurt
•I love that the author skipped the miscommunication trope when Alex was seeing both Dom and Matt. That could’ve been unnecessary drama and I’m glad we didn’t go there
____
Recommend for people who need to understand this kind of situation. No spice, so can be recommended for younger people too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2021
Alex is looking forward to marrying the man she loves, her career is on the rise and life is good. Then fate deals her a difficult hand, which makes her question everything and everyone. In turn she sees sides of her family and loved ones she is completely unprepared for and she feels she has to do something drastic to take back control of her life.
I thought this was an interesting way to shine a light on our reactions to certain illnesses and/or disabilities, especially if we are the ones looking in from the outside. This is exactly how discrimination forms, builds and becomes a wave, which ultimately makes the person being discriminated against become even more isolated.
I guess the real core of the story, aside from the rebuilding and coming to terms with a debilitating illness, and finding both friends and loved ones who are there for them regardless - is how much the reactions of the world around them influences their wellbeing, mental health and health in general.
It's a heartfelt read, one I think many will be able to connect with and perhaps even see a side of the story they were unaware of. Good intentions sometimes hide the truth of the matter.
*I received a courtesy copy*
I thought this was an interesting way to shine a light on our reactions to certain illnesses and/or disabilities, especially if we are the ones looking in from the outside. This is exactly how discrimination forms, builds and becomes a wave, which ultimately makes the person being discriminated against become even more isolated.
I guess the real core of the story, aside from the rebuilding and coming to terms with a debilitating illness, and finding both friends and loved ones who are there for them regardless - is how much the reactions of the world around them influences their wellbeing, mental health and health in general.
It's a heartfelt read, one I think many will be able to connect with and perhaps even see a side of the story they were unaware of. Good intentions sometimes hide the truth of the matter.
*I received a courtesy copy*
August 26, 2022
Alex meets Matt on a train back to Glasgow and she happens to meet him again in Birmingham all because her life changes because of a MS diagnosis.
Alex deals with a diagnosis of MS badly but who wouldn't when they seemingly have the perfect life than one day it comes tumbling down because of a unseen diagnosis because you fall over at work. Her family are overbearing and so is her fiancee, Dom, he seemingly wants to save her.
Obviously things go south for her relationship because Dom's an idiot. Moving to Birmingham is the ideal way for a fresh start..
I found it motivation and almost inspiring to see someone wanting to strive for a life they love while maintaining balance. To be a strong woman doesn't mean you have no help. The fact author has a similar diagnosis makes this book way more personal.
Dom However did make me cringe when he came back declaring his love and proposing again because he's realised Alex was her the best woman for him ..thank God for Matt and some common sense or she'd have gone back to unsupportive man.
Matt is just the ultimate supportive partner and seeing that represented can never be a bad thing. Teaches people good traits.
✨Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this copy✨
Alex deals with a diagnosis of MS badly but who wouldn't when they seemingly have the perfect life than one day it comes tumbling down because of a unseen diagnosis because you fall over at work. Her family are overbearing and so is her fiancee, Dom, he seemingly wants to save her.
Obviously things go south for her relationship because Dom's an idiot. Moving to Birmingham is the ideal way for a fresh start..
I found it motivation and almost inspiring to see someone wanting to strive for a life they love while maintaining balance. To be a strong woman doesn't mean you have no help. The fact author has a similar diagnosis makes this book way more personal.
Dom However did make me cringe when he came back declaring his love and proposing again because he's realised Alex was her the best woman for him ..thank God for Matt and some common sense or she'd have gone back to unsupportive man.
Matt is just the ultimate supportive partner and seeing that represented can never be a bad thing. Teaches people good traits.
✨Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this copy✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2024
I honestly thought this book would never end. "Take a Moment" drags on with a story that’s more frustrating than enjoyable. The humor the author tries to inject falls flat and feels forced—there’s nothing charming or funny about it, just awkward moments that had me cringing.
The main character’s complete inability to deal with her diagnosis was infuriating. She simply has to cut back on her lifestyle and take it easy, yet she keeps piling on more and more tasks. For instance, she can’t even manage a flight of stairs, but decides to go on a hike anyway. It’s maddening, and it doesn’t make the character feel more relatable—just stubborn and reckless.
Then there’s the protagonist’s and her new boss's over-the-top, Pollyanna-ish attitude. It’s grating at best.
At the end of the day, "Take a Moment" feels like a missed opportunity to for readers to learn more about MS and the writing comes across more like a college assignment than a compelling story. It’s frustrating, tedious, and just not worth the time.
The main character’s complete inability to deal with her diagnosis was infuriating. She simply has to cut back on her lifestyle and take it easy, yet she keeps piling on more and more tasks. For instance, she can’t even manage a flight of stairs, but decides to go on a hike anyway. It’s maddening, and it doesn’t make the character feel more relatable—just stubborn and reckless.
Then there’s the protagonist’s and her new boss's over-the-top, Pollyanna-ish attitude. It’s grating at best.
At the end of the day, "Take a Moment" feels like a missed opportunity to for readers to learn more about MS and the writing comes across more like a college assignment than a compelling story. It’s frustrating, tedious, and just not worth the time.
January 18, 2022
Pleasantly surprised by this book!
I struggled with the first few chapters as they failed to grab me, I also got slightly put off by Alex and Dom’s pet names for each other “lover” and “kitten” they really grated on me for some reason, I’m pleased to say I managed to stick with it!
I felt I enjoyed it more after Alex moves to Birmingham, although I didn’t “click” with her very much. I did enjoy her romance with Matt for a second I thought she might go back to Dom and was ready to throw the book out of the window! 😅
I’m ashamed to say I didn’t know much about MS before reading this book and I thought the subject was handled really well and certainly educated me as the reader.
Overall pleasant read and worth persevering after the first few chapters. Quick read too!
I struggled with the first few chapters as they failed to grab me, I also got slightly put off by Alex and Dom’s pet names for each other “lover” and “kitten” they really grated on me for some reason, I’m pleased to say I managed to stick with it!
I felt I enjoyed it more after Alex moves to Birmingham, although I didn’t “click” with her very much. I did enjoy her romance with Matt for a second I thought she might go back to Dom and was ready to throw the book out of the window! 😅
I’m ashamed to say I didn’t know much about MS before reading this book and I thought the subject was handled really well and certainly educated me as the reader.
Overall pleasant read and worth persevering after the first few chapters. Quick read too!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2022
From the start to the end this book was such an easy read and so beautifully written.
I expected this book just to be a cliché romance novel and it was so much more. Lex is diagnosed with MS and it takes you on a journey with her. From her highs to her rock bottom and you feel as though you are with her every step of the way.
The friendship she has with Sasha and Emmanuel is truly beautiful, that stick with her and support her through thick and thin.
Who need Dom when you’ve got a Prince Charming who goes by the name of Matt?
Just to top it off, Nina Kaye was diagnosed with FND which although is not the same as MS it is a neurological disease and overlaps in many ways to MS. This book is inspiring and I would recommend anyone and everyone to read it. Amazing.
February 25, 2022
I was looking for good book to read and read a couple could not get into them. Then I came across Take a moment and I was so happy I could not put it down. I got straight into the book straight the way. The story is about Alex that has everything, successful and engaged to Dom but something happens to Alex that is very serious and changes her life forever and she has to learn to adapt and take life more slowly. Alex lives in Glasgow but makes a change and moves to Birmingham. This is a powerful story and I was really routing for Alex. This is a great story . Thank you netgalley for letting me read this book.
July 8, 2023
This was beautiful and left me reeling. I feel like the author handled the character and her emotions about her chronic illness quite deftly. I see a lot of readers judging the character ! while I would argue her emotions are completely valid and I could see a lot of people reacting exactly this way. Showing up with a horde of supportive secondary characters I also find quite totuching , as the author would like to illustrate what is like if we did build a wolrd where such accomodations are reality and not just wishful thinking. I want to read a lot more stories like this.
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