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What If Duet #0.5
If We Leap
He was the troubled kid with a bad reputation who would chase off bullies and bring back things I’d lose out in the woods. I didn’t care what people said about his messed-up family--or him. He was my first and only crush.
A decade later, seeing Cole for the first time in years, I discover he's still fighting the dark shadows of his past. And I'm still the only one defending him in our small town. He’s still dangerously intense. Still able to make my heart race with a single brooding glance.
The only difference?
This living, breathing thing between us is now so much more than a crush.
Note: IF WE LEAP takes place ten years prior to the IF WE FALL & IF WE FLY duet. This is the very start of Josie & Cole's deep, all-consuming love, filled with unimaginable heartache, sacrifice, and redemption.
The reading order of the WHAT IF series is:
IF WE LEAP
IF WE FALL
IF WE FLY
A decade later, seeing Cole for the first time in years, I discover he's still fighting the dark shadows of his past. And I'm still the only one defending him in our small town. He’s still dangerously intense. Still able to make my heart race with a single brooding glance.
The only difference?
This living, breathing thing between us is now so much more than a crush.
Note: IF WE LEAP takes place ten years prior to the IF WE FALL & IF WE FLY duet. This is the very start of Josie & Cole's deep, all-consuming love, filled with unimaginable heartache, sacrifice, and redemption.
The reading order of the WHAT IF series is:
IF WE LEAP
IF WE FALL
IF WE FLY
96 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2018
451 people are currently reading
981 people want to read
About the author
Nina Lane
50 books2,289 followersBorn and raised in California, NEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY bestselling author Nina Lane now lives in Wisconsin where the winters are freezing and the cheese is exceptional. Mom to two teens and a neurotic dog, half her life consists of laundry, Girl Scouts, horses, and football, while the other half is filled with hot, swoony alpha heroes and the women who bring them to their knees.
Nina's a fan of popcorn, print magazines, working out, and checking the weather daily with her meteorologist husband. She holds a PhD in Art History and an MA in Library and Information Studies, but considers writing epic, emotional romances her one true calling in life. Thus, she is grateful and ecstatic to be able to bring the stories in her head to life for all her amazing fans. ♥
Please join my email list for new book alerts & fan extras (zero spam!)
→ www.ninalane.com/subscribe-to-the-new...
Nina's a fan of popcorn, print magazines, working out, and checking the weather daily with her meteorologist husband. She holds a PhD in Art History and an MA in Library and Information Studies, but considers writing epic, emotional romances her one true calling in life. Thus, she is grateful and ecstatic to be able to bring the stories in her head to life for all her amazing fans. ♥
Please join my email list for new book alerts & fan extras (zero spam!)
→ www.ninalane.com/subscribe-to-the-new...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
September 1, 2018
*****4.5 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
Cole Danforth was my first crush, my first lover, my only love. In my girlhood days when I'd dreamed about a lifelong love, he'd been the one who always came to mind. The one I wished for. And in my nineteenth year, I lived with a translucent, shimmering wish come true. Then the wish ruptured, exploding from the inside, firing shards of metal straight through my heart. From the burnt ashes, a new wish formed, misshapen and ugly. I wish I'd never known Cole Danforth.
A steamy and entertaining prequel to the "What If" series, IF WE LEAP takes us to the beginning of an epic love story between Cole Danforth and Josie Mays. They were destined from early childhood to one day become soul mates. Two pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly together. But something went terribly wrong that ripped the couple apart.
IF WE LEAP is a pretty quick read and definitely recommended before diving into book one.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4.5
Heroine: 5
Plot: 4.5
Angst: 3
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2MAEjHa
Apple: https://apple.co/2N2MAR5
Nook: http://bit.ly/2nQIaSr
Google: http://bit.ly/2Lc5jrE
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2nZRqnz
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
Cole Danforth was my first crush, my first lover, my only love. In my girlhood days when I'd dreamed about a lifelong love, he'd been the one who always came to mind. The one I wished for. And in my nineteenth year, I lived with a translucent, shimmering wish come true. Then the wish ruptured, exploding from the inside, firing shards of metal straight through my heart. From the burnt ashes, a new wish formed, misshapen and ugly. I wish I'd never known Cole Danforth.
A steamy and entertaining prequel to the "What If" series, IF WE LEAP takes us to the beginning of an epic love story between Cole Danforth and Josie Mays. They were destined from early childhood to one day become soul mates. Two pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly together. But something went terribly wrong that ripped the couple apart.
IF WE LEAP is a pretty quick read and definitely recommended before diving into book one.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4.5
Heroine: 5
Plot: 4.5
Angst: 3
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2MAEjHa
Apple: https://apple.co/2N2MAR5
Nook: http://bit.ly/2nQIaSr
Google: http://bit.ly/2Lc5jrE
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2nZRqnz
August 26, 2018
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author/Inkslinger PR)
Josie May grew up in Castille, Maine. She's nineteen and is an art major at Ford's College. It's the summer after her freshman year and she attends the local carnival where she runs into her longtime crush Cole Danforth. She hasn't seen him since last summer, and he's even more gorgeous. She's known Cole for over ten years, but had always wanted to know him better. He had a reputation for being quiet & strange, but she'd been fascinated with him since she was a child and he'd come to her rescue when she was bullied. Every time they'd crossed paths as kids he was so kind to her. He still intrigues her and is so beautiful. She wants him desperately and decides to take a chance with him and just go for it.
-Everything inside me responded to him.
-I knew this was it, that whatever my future held in the way of romantic kisses, I would always compare them to this one.
-Cole Danforth was a leap of faith. I didn't know if he'd ever have the same intensity of feelings for me that I did for him, or if anything would come of our future, but I believed in him hard enough to take the chance.
-What if I could be the one to show him how much he deserved to be loved?
Cole is taking classes in marine sciences and working multiple jobs. He keeps to himself and is guarded. He's caught up in his past and struggles to let anyone get close to him. Then Josie pushes her way into his heart and he falls hard.
This short story was amazing!!! I was hooked from the start on Cole. He's hot, broody, and a bit tortured. It's a fabulous first loves romance full of chemistry and swooniness. I can't wait for more. If We Leap is a free prequel to the What If duet. It releases August 23rd. It takes place ten years before book 1, If We Fall.
If We Leap: A free prequel will be out on August 23rd
If We Fall: Book One – Release Day August 30
If We Fly: Book Two – Release Day Sept 13
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2MVcIkl
(ARC provided by author/Inkslinger PR)
Josie May grew up in Castille, Maine. She's nineteen and is an art major at Ford's College. It's the summer after her freshman year and she attends the local carnival where she runs into her longtime crush Cole Danforth. She hasn't seen him since last summer, and he's even more gorgeous. She's known Cole for over ten years, but had always wanted to know him better. He had a reputation for being quiet & strange, but she'd been fascinated with him since she was a child and he'd come to her rescue when she was bullied. Every time they'd crossed paths as kids he was so kind to her. He still intrigues her and is so beautiful. She wants him desperately and decides to take a chance with him and just go for it.
-Everything inside me responded to him.
-I knew this was it, that whatever my future held in the way of romantic kisses, I would always compare them to this one.
-Cole Danforth was a leap of faith. I didn't know if he'd ever have the same intensity of feelings for me that I did for him, or if anything would come of our future, but I believed in him hard enough to take the chance.
-What if I could be the one to show him how much he deserved to be loved?
Cole is taking classes in marine sciences and working multiple jobs. He keeps to himself and is guarded. He's caught up in his past and struggles to let anyone get close to him. Then Josie pushes her way into his heart and he falls hard.
This short story was amazing!!! I was hooked from the start on Cole. He's hot, broody, and a bit tortured. It's a fabulous first loves romance full of chemistry and swooniness. I can't wait for more. If We Leap is a free prequel to the What If duet. It releases August 23rd. It takes place ten years before book 1, If We Fall.
If We Leap: A free prequel will be out on August 23rd
If We Fall: Book One – Release Day August 30
If We Fly: Book Two – Release Day Sept 13
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2MVcIkl
October 17, 2018
4 ⭐'s
A childhood friends to lovers story that is very sweet and endearing. In this novella, we meet Cole and Josie and get to know them in all their awkward and persnickety ways.
The story evolves as they grow and finally get together but of course, not everything can work out.
Likes:
💓Cherry candy.
💓Red and yellow backpacks.
💓Carnival games and Ravens.
💓Carnival rides.
💓Josie's family.
Dislikes:
💔Cole's father.
💔The ending.
~Sigh~ It's a good prequel that sets you up nicely for the next book, If We Fall, which you will definitely want to have ready to go. Be prepared for some heartbreak!
A childhood friends to lovers story that is very sweet and endearing. In this novella, we meet Cole and Josie and get to know them in all their awkward and persnickety ways.
The story evolves as they grow and finally get together but of course, not everything can work out.
Likes:
💓Cherry candy.
💓Red and yellow backpacks.
💓Carnival games and Ravens.
💓Carnival rides.
💓Josie's family.
Dislikes:
💔Cole's father.
💔The ending.
~Sigh~ It's a good prequel that sets you up nicely for the next book, If We Fall, which you will definitely want to have ready to go. Be prepared for some heartbreak!
August 30, 2018
English / Português
4 "I wish I could have you forever" stars
IF WE LEAP was an excellent introduction to the story of Josie and Cole. In my first contact with a story from this author, I fell in love with her writing and how she made it easy and quick to make me fall in love with these characters. With diferent POV, we see glimpses of their past and their relationship in the present. It's very short, less than 100 pages, and with an ending that will leave you wanting the rest of the story right away. I'm very curious. I highly recommend it.
*I received an ARC of this book. Thank you!
------
English / Português
4 "Gostaria de poder ter você para sempre" estrelas
IF WE LEAP foi uma excelente introdução na história de Josie e Cole. Nesse meu primeiro contato com uma história da autora, me apaixonei por sua escrita e como ela tornou fácil e rápido me fazer me apaixonar por esses personagens. Com capítulos alternados, vemos relances do passado deles e de como se relacionam no presente. É bem rapidinho, menos de 100 páginas, e com um final que te deixa querendo logo o resto da história. Tô muito curiosa. Indico demais.
* Recebi um ARC desse livro. Obrigada!
----------------------
* Pick a Book
facebook / instagram / twitter / BookBub
pb.responde@gmail.com
4 "I wish I could have you forever" stars
IF WE LEAP was an excellent introduction to the story of Josie and Cole. In my first contact with a story from this author, I fell in love with her writing and how she made it easy and quick to make me fall in love with these characters. With diferent POV, we see glimpses of their past and their relationship in the present. It's very short, less than 100 pages, and with an ending that will leave you wanting the rest of the story right away. I'm very curious. I highly recommend it.
*I received an ARC of this book. Thank you!
------
English / Português
4 "Gostaria de poder ter você para sempre" estrelas
IF WE LEAP foi uma excelente introdução na história de Josie e Cole. Nesse meu primeiro contato com uma história da autora, me apaixonei por sua escrita e como ela tornou fácil e rápido me fazer me apaixonar por esses personagens. Com capítulos alternados, vemos relances do passado deles e de como se relacionam no presente. É bem rapidinho, menos de 100 páginas, e com um final que te deixa querendo logo o resto da história. Tô muito curiosa. Indico demais.
* Recebi um ARC desse livro. Obrigada!
----------------------
* Pick a Book
facebook / instagram / twitter / BookBub
pb.responde@gmail.com
August 20, 2018
If We Leap gave me just enough of a story and introduction to make me want to read the books in the What If Duet. Josie and Cole have known each other for 10-11 years. Cole isn’t the popular guy and carries a lot of dark stuff in his baggage thanks to his manipulative father. The reason why he keeps him himself. Through it all he’s always had an eye on Josie and her on him. She finally takes the plunge which leads to them taking a leap into a something more. I really enjoyed getting to know them. Both as kids and as adults. They have history and so much chemistry. The ending only made me say no! I need If We Fall NOW!
4 Cherry Red Stars
*If We Leap provided by Inkslinger Pr in exchange for an honest review*
4 Cherry Red Stars
*If We Leap provided by Inkslinger Pr in exchange for an honest review*
December 10, 2018
Series Review
"What the hell happened to you?"
"You happened to me."
Nina Lane is the creator of one of our favourite erotic emotional romance series, The Spiral of Bliss delivering one of our favourite book couples and let's not forget one of our all-time favourite book boyfriends, the divine Professor Dean West, we'll never be able to thank her enough for that man! The Spiral of Bliss series will always remain in our hearts, and so it was with excited expectations that we dove into her new What If series. Eager once again to lose ourselves to Nina Lane's words.
The What If series is one of redemption, second chances and sacrifice, but most of all it's a story of unequivocal love. The soul mate kind born from childhood and it was a love that refused to yield. Not distance, time or tragedy could break the invisible bond that drew Cole and Josie together.
"Cole." She looks up at me, putting her hand on the side of my face. "Don't regret this." I swallow hard. "I could never regret you."
If We Leap is the prequel novella to the duet, and takes us back to those days of innocence between Josie and Cole, giving us an insight into their family life. Josie's full of love and bliss, and Cole's full of sorrow and loneliness, with the following two books taking us back to events that would shape the lives of Josephine May and Cole Danforth.
A devastating tragedy would rip them apart, forcing Cole to leave their tranquil home, hoping his decision would allow Josie to move on, pursue her love of art in San Francisco and turn leave behind the painful memories that would plague her. Ten years later, a project would reunite them, with the bitterness of the past, old wounds and deeply guarded secrets being exposed with painful consequences. Little was Josie to know the sacrifices Cole had made out of love for Josie. What he would endure and become because of those decisions.
"Promise me you'll be okay. Maybe even happy again one day. I can't live without know that. Please."
For the most part we did enjoy this series. The mystery, the questions, the past and present switches all worked very well, however we didn't fully experience the gut wrenching passion, nor the emotional intensity we had hoped their story would incite. There's no doubt Josie and Cole possessed a true soul mate love, and we so wanted to connect with them on that level, and believe us when we say it breaks our hearts to admit that we didn't.
"I'm not the Cole Danforth you used to know." Pain darkens her eyes. "And you have no idea how much that breaks my heart."
For us, the sex needs to enhance the story, and the times we felt the sex in the What If series overwhelmed the emotional aspect of the story, causing us to disconnect emotionally. Whilst we absolutely felt the physical connection, we were left wishing for the feverish intense emotion and the dizzying heights of character and story connection we'd hoped for. Now, please don't be put off by our rating because we know a lot of readers will devour this book and possibly have a differing opinion to us. Reading is indeed subjective and what effectively works for one reader, doesn't necessarily work for another, and we can't convey enough how gutted we are this series didn't give us those lofty emotions we had anticipated.
'What if I had known it would be our last kiss? What if I had known how hard we would fall?'
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"What the hell happened to you?"
"You happened to me."
Nina Lane is the creator of one of our favourite erotic emotional romance series, The Spiral of Bliss delivering one of our favourite book couples and let's not forget one of our all-time favourite book boyfriends, the divine Professor Dean West, we'll never be able to thank her enough for that man! The Spiral of Bliss series will always remain in our hearts, and so it was with excited expectations that we dove into her new What If series. Eager once again to lose ourselves to Nina Lane's words.
The What If series is one of redemption, second chances and sacrifice, but most of all it's a story of unequivocal love. The soul mate kind born from childhood and it was a love that refused to yield. Not distance, time or tragedy could break the invisible bond that drew Cole and Josie together.
"Cole." She looks up at me, putting her hand on the side of my face. "Don't regret this." I swallow hard. "I could never regret you."
If We Leap is the prequel novella to the duet, and takes us back to those days of innocence between Josie and Cole, giving us an insight into their family life. Josie's full of love and bliss, and Cole's full of sorrow and loneliness, with the following two books taking us back to events that would shape the lives of Josephine May and Cole Danforth.
A devastating tragedy would rip them apart, forcing Cole to leave their tranquil home, hoping his decision would allow Josie to move on, pursue her love of art in San Francisco and turn leave behind the painful memories that would plague her. Ten years later, a project would reunite them, with the bitterness of the past, old wounds and deeply guarded secrets being exposed with painful consequences. Little was Josie to know the sacrifices Cole had made out of love for Josie. What he would endure and become because of those decisions.
"Promise me you'll be okay. Maybe even happy again one day. I can't live without know that. Please."
For the most part we did enjoy this series. The mystery, the questions, the past and present switches all worked very well, however we didn't fully experience the gut wrenching passion, nor the emotional intensity we had hoped their story would incite. There's no doubt Josie and Cole possessed a true soul mate love, and we so wanted to connect with them on that level, and believe us when we say it breaks our hearts to admit that we didn't.
"I'm not the Cole Danforth you used to know." Pain darkens her eyes. "And you have no idea how much that breaks my heart."
For us, the sex needs to enhance the story, and the times we felt the sex in the What If series overwhelmed the emotional aspect of the story, causing us to disconnect emotionally. Whilst we absolutely felt the physical connection, we were left wishing for the feverish intense emotion and the dizzying heights of character and story connection we'd hoped for. Now, please don't be put off by our rating because we know a lot of readers will devour this book and possibly have a differing opinion to us. Reading is indeed subjective and what effectively works for one reader, doesn't necessarily work for another, and we can't convey enough how gutted we are this series didn't give us those lofty emotions we had anticipated.
'What if I had known it would be our last kiss? What if I had known how hard we would fall?'
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest
September 1, 2018
This was a GREAT start to a series!!! Reading this makes me super excited to jump into the rest of Cole and Josie's story. To find out what happened to make them break apart after such a heavy and emotional start to their relationship. I loved the way he loved her. I loved the way he cherished her and protected her. I loved watching their relationship flourish and grow with an intensity that showed they were inseparable. Gimme more!!!
Edit: Sadly, the love stopped here with this prequel. While I loved the entrance to a new love story, the first book in the duet took a nose dive for me. Here is my review: http://bit.ly/2ozpuHr
Edit: Sadly, the love stopped here with this prequel. While I loved the entrance to a new love story, the first book in the duet took a nose dive for me. Here is my review: http://bit.ly/2ozpuHr
March 23, 2019
4.5 'My chocolate factory' Stars!
What a fantastic prequel to what it looks it will be an equally fantastic duet! I've wanted to read the What If Duet by Nina Lane for a while now but I never seemed to find the time to do it. I decided today was the day!
I absolutely adore anything this woman writes and, after reading this short presentation of the duet and its main characters, I am already invested in it. I've fallen for Cole and Josie and the start of their love story. I can't wait to start the other two books so I am starting If We Fall right this second! I am sure it will be a roller coaster of emotions and I am ready for it!
What a fantastic prequel to what it looks it will be an equally fantastic duet! I've wanted to read the What If Duet by Nina Lane for a while now but I never seemed to find the time to do it. I decided today was the day!
I absolutely adore anything this woman writes and, after reading this short presentation of the duet and its main characters, I am already invested in it. I've fallen for Cole and Josie and the start of their love story. I can't wait to start the other two books so I am starting If We Fall right this second! I am sure it will be a roller coaster of emotions and I am ready for it!
September 14, 2018
4 💖💖💖🍊🎡🌲 🌊 🌟🌟🌟s❣️
September 16, 2018
Oh what a sweet, beautiful, heartwrenching start!
I'm hooked!
I'm hooked!
Want to read
December 24, 2021💝FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (8/25/2018)!💝
Blurb:
Will he take the leap with me?
Cole Danforth was a troubled kid with a bad reputation. When I was nine years old, he rescued me from bullies trying to steal my Halloween candy. Thus began my decade-long crush on him.
Now, the summer after my freshman year in college, I discover the boy has turned into a gorgeous man who makes me melt. Every part of me wants him — my heart, my mind, my body. But Cole, struggling with the burden of his past, refuses to accept how good we are together.
I believe in us hard enough to take the chance. But will Cole take the leap of faith with me?
This novella prequel takes place ten years before If We Fall, Book One in Nina Lane’s What If duet.
Blurb:
Will he take the leap with me?
Cole Danforth was a troubled kid with a bad reputation. When I was nine years old, he rescued me from bullies trying to steal my Halloween candy. Thus began my decade-long crush on him.
Now, the summer after my freshman year in college, I discover the boy has turned into a gorgeous man who makes me melt. Every part of me wants him — my heart, my mind, my body. But Cole, struggling with the burden of his past, refuses to accept how good we are together.
I believe in us hard enough to take the chance. But will Cole take the leap of faith with me?
This novella prequel takes place ten years before If We Fall, Book One in Nina Lane’s What If duet.
August 22, 2018
Well this was one huge teaser read and sets the scene for this duet.
I don't know how Nina managed to fit so much storyline into a novella but she did a fantastic job of whetting my appetite!
Josie first met Cole when she was 8 years old, he was a few years older than her. She was a free spirited girl who loved walking in the forest and saving animals. She lived in a nice home with a nuclear family and always looked on the bright side of life.
From the day they met, Josie developed a crush on Cole. To her he was a hero. Cole had a very different home life to Josie, in fact it couldn't have been more opposite. For him, going for walks in the forest brought him peace and solace.
Many years later and they are both in college and their paths cross at a local carnival. Cole has grown into a handsome young man and Josie is just as drawn to him now as she was back then.
Cole lives a quiet, almost reclusive life. He works hard to put himself through college and spends the rest of time alone. Seeing Josie brings back happy memories for him and when her persistence in getting him to talk to her wears him down, he realises just how much he has missed her.
As a summer romance blossoms between them Josie could not be happier, maybe this is the beginning of a forever love between them...
'It was like I was parched with thirst, dripping with sweat, burned by the sun. Standing at the edge of a cliff, staring down into a pool of cool, fresh water. How could I resist taking the leap?'
I don't know how Nina managed to fit so much storyline into a novella but she did a fantastic job of whetting my appetite!
Josie first met Cole when she was 8 years old, he was a few years older than her. She was a free spirited girl who loved walking in the forest and saving animals. She lived in a nice home with a nuclear family and always looked on the bright side of life.
From the day they met, Josie developed a crush on Cole. To her he was a hero. Cole had a very different home life to Josie, in fact it couldn't have been more opposite. For him, going for walks in the forest brought him peace and solace.
Many years later and they are both in college and their paths cross at a local carnival. Cole has grown into a handsome young man and Josie is just as drawn to him now as she was back then.
Cole lives a quiet, almost reclusive life. He works hard to put himself through college and spends the rest of time alone. Seeing Josie brings back happy memories for him and when her persistence in getting him to talk to her wears him down, he realises just how much he has missed her.
As a summer romance blossoms between them Josie could not be happier, maybe this is the beginning of a forever love between them...
'It was like I was parched with thirst, dripping with sweat, burned by the sun. Standing at the edge of a cliff, staring down into a pool of cool, fresh water. How could I resist taking the leap?'
August 29, 2018
If We Leap was a little taste that holds the promise of all the goodness coming our way from the brilliant Nina Lane. It was truly a heartfelt read that had all the feels. I adore this author's works, her vivid and descriptive writing style, the worlds she creates and how her characters' experiences lure me into their journey. This short story was no exception, and in a mere 93 pages, my emotions were in the midst of a whirlwind.
Here we meet Josie and Cole, two adorable children from a small town in Maine who grow into teenagers falling in love. Their poignant beginning filled with heartache and joy captivated me from page one, and in the end, left me craving for more. Within this passionate and emotional novella, Lane sets the stage for what I believe will be an epic romance and I cannot wait to dive into her upcoming What If Duet Series.
ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review
Here we meet Josie and Cole, two adorable children from a small town in Maine who grow into teenagers falling in love. Their poignant beginning filled with heartache and joy captivated me from page one, and in the end, left me craving for more. Within this passionate and emotional novella, Lane sets the stage for what I believe will be an epic romance and I cannot wait to dive into her upcoming What If Duet Series.
ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review
August 31, 2018
“I’d never think of you as a fling.”
“Then how about a leap?”
Cole shook his head and laughed. “Oh, you’re a leap all right, Josie Mays. For me, a quantum leap forward.”
I rarely read prequel novellas, but I instantly fell in love with this one. It was so addictive, it pulled me in even before first chapter was over. It pinched at my heart, had my pulse racing, and only made me crave so much more of Cole and Josie. And especially with how that last paragraph left us—I felt like a kid who was given the sweetest and yummiest candy, only to have it yanked and snatched away.
If We Leap introduces us to how Josie Mays and Cole Danforth’s story began ten years ago. How they met and how their connection developed even deeper. This novella gives us a front row seat in witnessing the kind of childhood and history Cole and Josie had, and how it all bloomed into something so profoundly beautiful. You’ll get sucked into the sweet, blissful love that grew between them, and know to brace yourself for the storm that’s yet to come.
If We Fall (book one) | If We Fly (book two)
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August 26, 2018
Nina Lane is an autoclick author for me so when I heard she had a duet coming I could not jump on this story fast enough. The cherry on top was this prequel story. OMG If We Leap was a fantastic introduction to Josie and Cole's history and the draw between them!! I loved getting their before story and was hooked from the very first page. I am now intrigued and so obsessed about this series and can't wait for book one! Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
September 2, 2018
If We Leap is the perfect novella to begin this amazing story of love, life, and unbelievable heartbreak and pain.
Cole and Josie’s past is featured in this quick read, about how their lives intertwined together and how their young love blossomed. But it’s also gives rise to something in their shared past that potentially tears them apart.
An stunningly well written novella that whets your appetite for the continuation of the incredible story of Cole and Josie in If We Fall.
Cole and Josie’s past is featured in this quick read, about how their lives intertwined together and how their young love blossomed. But it’s also gives rise to something in their shared past that potentially tears them apart.
An stunningly well written novella that whets your appetite for the continuation of the incredible story of Cole and Josie in If We Fall.
August 31, 2018
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 Stars! This was a great prequel to an interesting story. I’m intrigued.
September 1, 2018
Great start to this series!! I'm super intrigued as to what happened for it to end like that. I look forward to continuing on this journey with Cole and Josie.
August 27, 2018
4 stars!
This prequel novella to the What If duet introduces us to Josie and Cole, ten years prior to the events of their main story, and forms a great basis for a love story that I am really excited to dive into.
Growing up together in a small coastal town in Maine, Josie was a fun, feisty and idealistic young girl whereas Cole was quiet, broody and misunderstood. His home life was difficult, and over the years he developed a bad reputation that was mostly undeserved. The one light in his life was Josie – a bright and bubbly presence who spent hours with him exploring the woods near their homes and who befriended him when nobody else would.
We meet Josie and Cole when she is 19 and he is 22, and they are both home for the summer. They haven’t seen each other for a few years, but from the moment they lock eyes, their chemistry is evident, and brave and bold Josie makes her move on the boy she has always cared for.
Cole’s life is complex and difficult, and he’s initially not ready to open himself up to Josie, but their connection is undeniable, and they quickly find themselves falling deeply in love…
…. until it all goes wrong.
This is a quick read but gives us a strong background for Josie and Cole’s story, and I’m going straight on to If We Fall so I can find out what happened between them and how they to pull it back together all those years later. And I can’t wait!
4 stars.
This prequel novella to the What If duet introduces us to Josie and Cole, ten years prior to the events of their main story, and forms a great basis for a love story that I am really excited to dive into.
Growing up together in a small coastal town in Maine, Josie was a fun, feisty and idealistic young girl whereas Cole was quiet, broody and misunderstood. His home life was difficult, and over the years he developed a bad reputation that was mostly undeserved. The one light in his life was Josie – a bright and bubbly presence who spent hours with him exploring the woods near their homes and who befriended him when nobody else would.
We meet Josie and Cole when she is 19 and he is 22, and they are both home for the summer. They haven’t seen each other for a few years, but from the moment they lock eyes, their chemistry is evident, and brave and bold Josie makes her move on the boy she has always cared for.
For me, Cole Danforth was a leap of faith. I didn’t know if he’d ever have the same intensity of feelings for me that I did for him, or if anything would come of our future, but I believed in him hard enough to take the chance.
Cole’s life is complex and difficult, and he’s initially not ready to open himself up to Josie, but their connection is undeniable, and they quickly find themselves falling deeply in love…
That girl was my every weakness. My Achilles’ heel, the chink in my armor, my kryptonite. I’d trailed after when I was eleven. Now I was ready to fall to my knees and grovel after her. No matter how many times I told myself to stay away.
…. until it all goes wrong.
This is a quick read but gives us a strong background for Josie and Cole’s story, and I’m going straight on to If We Fall so I can find out what happened between them and how they to pull it back together all those years later. And I can’t wait!
4 stars.
August 25, 2018
If we leap is a short 93-page prequel novella to the what if duet. It introduces us to the two main characters, Cole and Josie. In this book, they are young, in love and their future ahead of them. Heck, if you forget the last paragraph of the book, you would think that they were going to get a happy ending back then. I wonder what happened and changed between them that led to their year-long separation. I think I a have an idea of what might have happened and I can't wait to see if it's true. I believe that it has to do something with the trust found condition. I am just throwing that in the air without revealing anything more since you need to read this short story that will give you a better insight on why Josie and Cole are meant to be. I loved the flashbacks. We see them back when they were just children and even then they had a beautiful relationship and that makes me wonder what could have happened and made them separate their ways in the time between this book and If we fall.
August 28, 2018
An Absolutely amazing start to Cole and Josie's relationship.
It was the sweetest and the most heartwarming story. This small book encompasses an entire world of a relationship development, friendship and a solid foundation for the next books to come..!!!
I highly recommend reading this novella before starting the first book of the series..!!
It was the sweetest and the most heartwarming story. This small book encompasses an entire world of a relationship development, friendship and a solid foundation for the next books to come..!!!
I highly recommend reading this novella before starting the first book of the series..!!
August 26, 2018
I loved the sweetness of young crush and the stirrings of young love between Cole and Josie! This short novella has amped my curiosity over what happened between them!
September 3, 2018
3.5 STARS
September 16, 2018
I am excited for this new series from Nina lane
August 24, 2018
kfforever
Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse at KindleFriendsForever
Lane has laid down a solid foundation for her all-new What If Duet with this delightful prequel. Fans of young adult romance, you are going to love it! Nonetheless, this novella does transpire well before If We Fall coming soon. Wherever you happen to be; on the beach, taking a break at work or in need of a little distraction, I couldn’t recommend one-clicking this freebie more. Overflowing with swoon-worthy romance, you’ll get the chance to meet Josie Mays and Cole Danforth. And their story certainly proves that opposites do attract because gosh, their chemistry simply pulses off the pages. The cover depicts them perfectly and the title, If We Leap is truly is a leap of faith for both of them.
“I’d never think of you as a fling.”
“Then how about a leap?”
“Oh, you’re a leap all right, Josie Mays. For me, a quantum leap forward.”
Josie impressed me. Arty, innocent, wonderfully weird and loving, she hasn’t got a care in the world. Coming from a loving family, she has a fabulous rapport with her older sister and mother who are always there to give sound advice. Saying that Josie’s a bit of a scaredy-cat, but has good reason to pluck up her courage and do something about it. True to her written words, Lane’s gone all out with Josie and Cole’s characters and I just couldn’t help falling for these two lovebirds. I really liked that they’d known each other for years, and even though they hadn’t had the chance to become true friends for reasons to be divulged, Josie’s persuasive ways make Cole realize that taking the next step was possible.
“You were like this little woodland elf I saw every now and then. You always seemed happy, you know?”
Cole’s been Josie’s crush since what seemed like forever. Lane’s masterfully developed flashbacks take the narrative back in time, giving me a vivid picture of how they met and what Cole had had to go through. For a short story, I thought his past unraveled at just the right pace. It didn’t feel in the slightest bit rushed or too slow. He’d never shared his horrendous experiences with anyone. Nonetheless, he trusts Josie and opens up to her. Shocking. Just. Damn Shocking. I got really teary-eyed whilst reading how he’d suffered at the hands of someone who should have loved and supported him. And it gets worse!
“Whether we fly or fall,” I said, “don’t let go.”
“I won’t.”
Fab quirky banter flows nonstop and the dual point of view gave me the opportunity to delve into the protagonists’ thoughts. Just the right amount of angst kept me on my toes but didn't overwhelm and what else can I say except this author never ceases to amaze me. I cannot wait for If We Fall, book one releasing 30th August. Thank you, Nina, for offering your readers this little gem of a read. Bravo!
Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse at KindleFriendsForever
Lane has laid down a solid foundation for her all-new What If Duet with this delightful prequel. Fans of young adult romance, you are going to love it! Nonetheless, this novella does transpire well before If We Fall coming soon. Wherever you happen to be; on the beach, taking a break at work or in need of a little distraction, I couldn’t recommend one-clicking this freebie more. Overflowing with swoon-worthy romance, you’ll get the chance to meet Josie Mays and Cole Danforth. And their story certainly proves that opposites do attract because gosh, their chemistry simply pulses off the pages. The cover depicts them perfectly and the title, If We Leap is truly is a leap of faith for both of them.
“I’d never think of you as a fling.”
“Then how about a leap?”
“Oh, you’re a leap all right, Josie Mays. For me, a quantum leap forward.”
Josie impressed me. Arty, innocent, wonderfully weird and loving, she hasn’t got a care in the world. Coming from a loving family, she has a fabulous rapport with her older sister and mother who are always there to give sound advice. Saying that Josie’s a bit of a scaredy-cat, but has good reason to pluck up her courage and do something about it. True to her written words, Lane’s gone all out with Josie and Cole’s characters and I just couldn’t help falling for these two lovebirds. I really liked that they’d known each other for years, and even though they hadn’t had the chance to become true friends for reasons to be divulged, Josie’s persuasive ways make Cole realize that taking the next step was possible.
“You were like this little woodland elf I saw every now and then. You always seemed happy, you know?”
Cole’s been Josie’s crush since what seemed like forever. Lane’s masterfully developed flashbacks take the narrative back in time, giving me a vivid picture of how they met and what Cole had had to go through. For a short story, I thought his past unraveled at just the right pace. It didn’t feel in the slightest bit rushed or too slow. He’d never shared his horrendous experiences with anyone. Nonetheless, he trusts Josie and opens up to her. Shocking. Just. Damn Shocking. I got really teary-eyed whilst reading how he’d suffered at the hands of someone who should have loved and supported him. And it gets worse!
“Whether we fly or fall,” I said, “don’t let go.”
“I won’t.”
Fab quirky banter flows nonstop and the dual point of view gave me the opportunity to delve into the protagonists’ thoughts. Just the right amount of angst kept me on my toes but didn't overwhelm and what else can I say except this author never ceases to amaze me. I cannot wait for If We Fall, book one releasing 30th August. Thank you, Nina, for offering your readers this little gem of a read. Bravo!
August 21, 2018
4.5 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 18, 2018
Will he take the leap with me?
Cole Danforth was a troubled kid with a bad reputation. When I was nine years old, he rescued me from bullies trying to steal my Halloween candy. Thus began my decade-long crush on him.
Now, the summer after my freshman year in college, I discover the boy has turned into a gorgeous man who makes me melt. Every part of me wants him — my heart, my mind, my body. But Cole, struggling with the burden of his past, refuses to accept how good we are together.
I believe in us hard enough to take the chance. But will Cole take the leap of faith with me?
This novella prequel takes place ten years before If We Fall, Book One in Nina Lane’s What If duet.
••••••••
REVIEW: IF WE LEAP is the prequel novella in Nina Lane’s contemporary, adult WHAT IF Duet focusing on Cole Danforth, and Josie Mays.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Josie and Cole) IF WE LEAP takes place ten years (and more) prior to the events of book one IF WE FALL. The reader is up close and personal as seven-year old Josie Mays meets her would-be rescuer, ten-year old Cole Danforth, a trouble young boy who grows into a broken young man. From first love to heart breaking sorrow IF WE LEAP follows the building relationship and romance of two college age sweethearts whose lives are about to spiral out of control.
IF WE LEAP tells some of the backstory and history between our leading couple, and Cole’s dysfunctional family fall-out as a troubled reputation follows wherever he goes. The premise is revealing and inviting; the romance is passionate and tender; the characters are spirited, edgy and tragic.
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 18, 2018
Will he take the leap with me?
Cole Danforth was a troubled kid with a bad reputation. When I was nine years old, he rescued me from bullies trying to steal my Halloween candy. Thus began my decade-long crush on him.
Now, the summer after my freshman year in college, I discover the boy has turned into a gorgeous man who makes me melt. Every part of me wants him — my heart, my mind, my body. But Cole, struggling with the burden of his past, refuses to accept how good we are together.
I believe in us hard enough to take the chance. But will Cole take the leap of faith with me?
This novella prequel takes place ten years before If We Fall, Book One in Nina Lane’s What If duet.
••••••••
REVIEW: IF WE LEAP is the prequel novella in Nina Lane’s contemporary, adult WHAT IF Duet focusing on Cole Danforth, and Josie Mays.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Josie and Cole) IF WE LEAP takes place ten years (and more) prior to the events of book one IF WE FALL. The reader is up close and personal as seven-year old Josie Mays meets her would-be rescuer, ten-year old Cole Danforth, a trouble young boy who grows into a broken young man. From first love to heart breaking sorrow IF WE LEAP follows the building relationship and romance of two college age sweethearts whose lives are about to spiral out of control.
IF WE LEAP tells some of the backstory and history between our leading couple, and Cole’s dysfunctional family fall-out as a troubled reputation follows wherever he goes. The premise is revealing and inviting; the romance is passionate and tender; the characters are spirited, edgy and tragic.
August 30, 2018
4.5 stars
Great prelude to Cole and Josie's story. Their story started with good times and memories. It had feels and fireworks. They've ran into each other since they were young, ran in different circles but were considered oddballs. Josiei s the happy, kind, full of zest, Cole considered troublesome, mysterious, broody but always nice to Josie But somehow they have things they know each other deeper than others thought. I liked that Josie always saw Cole differently, maybe a her crush made her hero worship even stronger.
But Cole's childhood has been rough and made him keep himself away, now bidding time to escape his hometown of Castille Maine. I like these two together and both underdog's in their own story. I'm very much rooting for them and want them to find a happy ending. I can't wait to see how their story unfolds!
Great prelude to Cole and Josie's story. Their story started with good times and memories. It had feels and fireworks. They've ran into each other since they were young, ran in different circles but were considered oddballs. Josiei s the happy, kind, full of zest, Cole considered troublesome, mysterious, broody but always nice to Josie But somehow they have things they know each other deeper than others thought. I liked that Josie always saw Cole differently, maybe a her crush made her hero worship even stronger.
But Cole's childhood has been rough and made him keep himself away, now bidding time to escape his hometown of Castille Maine. I like these two together and both underdog's in their own story. I'm very much rooting for them and want them to find a happy ending. I can't wait to see how their story unfolds!
September 22, 2018
Omg can't wait for the angst. I'm already suffering. These two idiots. I love them.
I hate the covers (I just don't like people, especially faces on book covers - the new Sugar Rush covers are terrible imo), but the story is promising.
Can't wait for more!
Just please, please, please let them be single in the present, no ex-marriages and especially no kids with other people.
I hate the covers (I just don't like people, especially faces on book covers - the new Sugar Rush covers are terrible imo), but the story is promising.
Can't wait for more!
Just please, please, please let them be single in the present, no ex-marriages and especially no kids with other people.
August 22, 2018
This is a fab, short read that introduces the back story and characters to the What If Duet.
Cole and Josie are 2 brilliantly written characters, both with loveable little quirks and an emotional strength that pulls them together, despite society's prejudices of Cole. Theirs is a true story of young love, love at first sight and opposite attracts.
I really enjoyed seeing how their story began, and thanks to the ending of this jam packed novella, i can not wait to see what happens next. The tension has been built and I've got a feeling its going to be a belter of an epic love story.
Cole and Josie are 2 brilliantly written characters, both with loveable little quirks and an emotional strength that pulls them together, despite society's prejudices of Cole. Theirs is a true story of young love, love at first sight and opposite attracts.
I really enjoyed seeing how their story began, and thanks to the ending of this jam packed novella, i can not wait to see what happens next. The tension has been built and I've got a feeling its going to be a belter of an epic love story.
October 4, 2018
Cole was a loner as a young boy with family problems, he had a bad reputation, Josie was an innocent little girl who saw the good in people and liked to walk through nature and loved art. She made friends with him when she saw him in the woods, even though he seemed reluctant to talk !!!!
10 years later while on a day out with her friends she spots Cole working on a stall and is shocked by how strongly she still feels for him . She gets into a difficult situation and Cole rescues her again as e always did as kids. This is a short introduction to the series and well worth reading.
10 years later while on a day out with her friends she spots Cole working on a stall and is shocked by how strongly she still feels for him . She gets into a difficult situation and Cole rescues her again as e always did as kids. This is a short introduction to the series and well worth reading.
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