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Perception #1
Saving Noah
On paper, Noah Taylor appears to have the perfect life: good looks, a gifted voice, and a multi-platinum record deal in the works.
In reality, expectations exceed actualities, and disappointments are constant.
Everyone he’s ever cared about has left him, so what happens when he attracts a girl who sees through the shield others can’t? He fights the pull; he tells himself no—but sometimes fate can’t wake you from one nightmare without first trapping you in another.
With love on his side, can Noah survive the next devastating event in his life? Or will he discover no amount of dreaming will help him escape his reality?
You will laugh and you will cry, but the story of Noah Taylor will stay with you forever.
Saving Noah is a heart-clutching, ugly-cry rockstar romance that will break your heart before slowly piecing it back together. It's a standalone with no cliffhangers and a guaranteed HEA! Tissues are recommended.
Author Warning: This book will make you ugly cry. It has steamy scenes. This title was previously published as two books, Perception of Life & Reality of Life. It has been extensively rewritten, re-edited, and has a swanky new cover.
In reality, expectations exceed actualities, and disappointments are constant.
Everyone he’s ever cared about has left him, so what happens when he attracts a girl who sees through the shield others can’t? He fights the pull; he tells himself no—but sometimes fate can’t wake you from one nightmare without first trapping you in another.
With love on his side, can Noah survive the next devastating event in his life? Or will he discover no amount of dreaming will help him escape his reality?
You will laugh and you will cry, but the story of Noah Taylor will stay with you forever.
Saving Noah is a heart-clutching, ugly-cry rockstar romance that will break your heart before slowly piecing it back together. It's a standalone with no cliffhangers and a guaranteed HEA! Tissues are recommended.
Author Warning: This book will make you ugly cry. It has steamy scenes. This title was previously published as two books, Perception of Life & Reality of Life. It has been extensively rewritten, re-edited, and has a swanky new cover.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2019
2192 people are currently reading
3227 people want to read
About the author
Shandi Boyes
110 books2,158 followersShandi Boyes is a USA Today Bestselling Author who was an avid reader for many years before she discovered the love of writing in February 2016. Her first penned novel 'Perception of Life’ is a new adult rockstar romance that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat until the very last word.
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
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June 8, 2020I tried!! I really did!!!
But the plot had such a slow pace and development that I couldn’t read anymore. Dnf @ 42%
But the plot had such a slow pace and development that I couldn’t read anymore. Dnf @ 42%
April 15, 2020
This book was a little slow for me to get started in but it definitely hooked me. I UGLY cried and was so upset when he was grieving the loss of Emily but then I was pissed that it was all from his coma. I wish it wouldn’t have been portrayed that way. I thought it was true so I grieved with him and my heart broke! I was happy for the ending and that she really didn’t die. Noah and Emily were precious. I wish that we were able to know more about him I felt like there were a lot of gaps. But overall good read! Very emotional! And I think they could have had several books just with the two of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
January 14, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/25/2020)! 🎁
November 14, 2019
I was not expecting all these emotions! You will fall in love with Noah and up and down life. When Noah meets Emily, he is a struggling musician on the brink of stardom. He is barely 21 but life has dealt him some serious blows. Emily is just about to turn 18 and has also had some things in her past that will twist your heart.. Together, through twists, turns and sorrow. Get ready cry, get angry, and get a HEA. The journey is real and at times inspiring. It touches on a lot of relevant issues.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 10, 2020
I ugly cried so hard. Then I cheered so loud! This book was amazing
December 12, 2019
Couldn’t finish this
DNF at 18%. I’m always game for a angsty rockstar love story. But from the very beginning I didn’t feel like this would be the story for me. A whole lot of nothing takes place in the first 10 chapters, well obviously stuff happens, but it wasn’t exciting. For me. Also, for a story to reach out and grab me instantly I have to care about the main characters or at least one of them. Both Emily and Noah are written so bland and lacked any personality. And they didn’t even have any chemistry. Emily had more chemistry with the random guy she was grinding on the dance floor with in order to make Noah jealous than she had with Noah in any of their scenes together. I have to either really like the characters or at least hate/love them in order to get sucked into a story. And that was not happening here. This was my first Shandi Boyle story, so I’m not sure if this is her usual writing style or if maybe rockstar romances aren’t her usual. All the high praise and five stars sold me to give this a go. I couldn’t even find a care to skim through and see what happens to them and what they’re struggles were. Perhaps I totally missed out on one of the greatest love stories of this generation, but I felt bored.
DNF at 18%. I’m always game for a angsty rockstar love story. But from the very beginning I didn’t feel like this would be the story for me. A whole lot of nothing takes place in the first 10 chapters, well obviously stuff happens, but it wasn’t exciting. For me. Also, for a story to reach out and grab me instantly I have to care about the main characters or at least one of them. Both Emily and Noah are written so bland and lacked any personality. And they didn’t even have any chemistry. Emily had more chemistry with the random guy she was grinding on the dance floor with in order to make Noah jealous than she had with Noah in any of their scenes together. I have to either really like the characters or at least hate/love them in order to get sucked into a story. And that was not happening here. This was my first Shandi Boyle story, so I’m not sure if this is her usual writing style or if maybe rockstar romances aren’t her usual. All the high praise and five stars sold me to give this a go. I couldn’t even find a care to skim through and see what happens to them and what they’re struggles were. Perhaps I totally missed out on one of the greatest love stories of this generation, but I felt bored.
June 25, 2020
I don't remember where I read the comment at I think it might of been Amazon but I remember reading about the heavy sobbing and the twists and turns. and OMG I don't think I have ever read more truer words! I loved this book. My heart was torn out of my chest when Emily died which would of killed their baby as well. I almost stopped reading the book actually! I forgot about the comment I read about the twists and turns. But as I kept reading the butterflies in my stomach were more than I have ever felt reading a book! The story does a 360 and turns out that Emily and baby are fine but Noah is not! More butterflies in my stomach! I was getting so up set thinking how could you kill off the main characters in the story. Then when he had the accident after coming out of rehab! Frig woman! Were you trying to kill us! It didn't even matter that I had read all the other books before this one it tore me the hell apart! But I am a sucker for punishment and finished the book of course which I was so glad I did! I knew you wouldn't let us down! I was beyond thrilled when Noah and Emily got there happily ever after! I will say you stopped my heart more than once during this ride! Thank you for being you and keep giving us all you have given!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2024
Woahhhh!!! My first book by Shandi Boyes and it did NOT disappoint!!!! Loved the romance 🌶️🌶️ and I felt ALL the emotions with this book!! If you’re looking for love-look no further because Saving Noah is it!!! Everyone deserves to be loved like that in their lifetime!!!
October 27, 2021
Have you ever read a book you didn’t like but you enjoyed reading anyway?
That’s what this book was for me. I didn’t care about this book at all but I laughed through so much that I would almost read the others. And no I was not laughing because it was supposed to be funny.
The book is too long, there are too many descriptions, and the writing read juvenile. Some time I literally cringed so hard I laughed.
The only good thing about this book is that it was able to elicit some emotion from me. I did tear up and that’s why it got one star.
That’s what this book was for me. I didn’t care about this book at all but I laughed through so much that I would almost read the others. And no I was not laughing because it was supposed to be funny.
The book is too long, there are too many descriptions, and the writing read juvenile. Some time I literally cringed so hard I laughed.
The only good thing about this book is that it was able to elicit some emotion from me. I did tear up and that’s why it got one star.
November 27, 2019
Ok so this book was both great and totally annoying. You think she is ripping your heart out for way longer than I prefer. Be wary or just skip a bunch of chapters at the end🤔 then start reading again.
dnf
February 5, 2025DNF @10% because it pissed me off.
I haven't noticed the word bimbo thus far but it is heavily implied: "Barbie dolls with large chests, pretty faces, and air for brains".
The disdain the hero had for Meg, whose only crime was to have big boobs and be flirty in a nightclub (where people go to flirt ffs) is not cool. He even had an erection - was she supposed to see that and be like "oh OK, he's obviously not into my flirting"?
The heroine slut-shamed her own sister. Her words are loaded: "even at my age she dressed more seductively". So... Lola isn't just a slut, she was a teenage slut. That's what you're implying, isn't it?
But not our heroine. Our hero labels her "uncorrupted" after exchanging a grand total of nine sentences with her, three of which were their names, two of which were directions to the bathroom, and one of which was the word no. Some of this, of course, is that she wasn't wearing makeup as her skin is just naturally "radiant and fresh". Because she's all pure and perfect and notlikeothergirlstm.
The heroine said she "made a bitch of (her)self" when she commented on some random guy hanging out in her hallway, laughing at her family portrait. She also suggested twice that as things were annoying her, she must have been due her period. Girl! You are allowed to have an opinion without it being hormone driven!
The stunt in the cars pissed me off too. An unskilled driver being at the wheel is by the by. Even if it was a fucking Nascar driver at the wheel, you're still behaving extremely recklessly, on a public street, potentially risking lives, all in the interest of your friend getting an easy blow job from a scared/grateful woman. What the fuck?! Someone could have died!
The grammar is fine but the phrasing and word choice is odd. Some parts don't make sense - how does Noah get Emily's number for example? Not necessarily a big deal but still - ill thought out.
I haven't noticed the word bimbo thus far but it is heavily implied: "Barbie dolls with large chests, pretty faces, and air for brains".
The disdain the hero had for Meg, whose only crime was to have big boobs and be flirty in a nightclub (where people go to flirt ffs) is not cool. He even had an erection - was she supposed to see that and be like "oh OK, he's obviously not into my flirting"?
The heroine slut-shamed her own sister. Her words are loaded: "even at my age she dressed more seductively". So... Lola isn't just a slut, she was a teenage slut. That's what you're implying, isn't it?
But not our heroine. Our hero labels her "uncorrupted" after exchanging a grand total of nine sentences with her, three of which were their names, two of which were directions to the bathroom, and one of which was the word no. Some of this, of course, is that she wasn't wearing makeup as her skin is just naturally "radiant and fresh". Because she's all pure and perfect and notlikeothergirlstm.
The heroine said she "made a bitch of (her)self" when she commented on some random guy hanging out in her hallway, laughing at her family portrait. She also suggested twice that as things were annoying her, she must have been due her period. Girl! You are allowed to have an opinion without it being hormone driven!
The stunt in the cars pissed me off too. An unskilled driver being at the wheel is by the by. Even if it was a fucking Nascar driver at the wheel, you're still behaving extremely recklessly, on a public street, potentially risking lives, all in the interest of your friend getting an easy blow job from a scared/grateful woman. What the fuck?! Someone could have died!
The grammar is fine but the phrasing and word choice is odd. Some parts don't make sense - how does Noah get Emily's number for example? Not necessarily a big deal but still - ill thought out.
January 19, 2025
WOW
This book was beautifully written and had me sobbing like a baby throughout most of it. I’m pretty sure I not only need blood pressure meds but also therapy after this one. This book captivated me and had me so attached to the characters within the book I felt like I was living inside their heads. I never knew what was coming next and I couldn’t put it down amazing read
This book was beautifully written and had me sobbing like a baby throughout most of it. I’m pretty sure I not only need blood pressure meds but also therapy after this one. This book captivated me and had me so attached to the characters within the book I felt like I was living inside their heads. I never knew what was coming next and I couldn’t put it down amazing read
July 12, 2024
I'm gonna stay by saying I DNF at about 25%. It was painstakingly slow going, and I just couldn't anymore. I only managed to make it as far as finding out what happened to Noah's younger brother and dad. I'm giving it 2☆ because it's not badly written, it just isn't for me.
March 18, 2022
This was recommended by a friend and I loved it! Plenty of plot twists kept me guessing and a sweet HEA had me smiling
Read
January 16, 2024DNF unfortunately...I tried. It was just way too slow paced honestly.
December 30, 2023
A book that sticks with you for life !
Never I have I screamed at a book for answers before
Never have I ever cried so hard at a book
Never have I ever not guessed how a book will end
It’s said HEA but I just could not see how it could be !
I’m so happy I read this , it’s a book that sticks with you for life and turns your life around
It’s the book you you make life changes for
It’s the book you fall in love with and can’t bare not to own a copy of
It’s the book of all books
I’m so glad I read this on the last day of 2023 as it’s changed my 2024 already
Downloading the next book now and Shandi Boyes moved to the top of list of favourite Authors
I read a lot of books and love nearly everyone
But there have only ever been 2 books that stay with me but now that turned to 3
I’m so glad this book made it’s way into my life
Never I have I screamed at a book for answers before
Never have I ever cried so hard at a book
Never have I ever not guessed how a book will end
It’s said HEA but I just could not see how it could be !
I’m so happy I read this , it’s a book that sticks with you for life and turns your life around
It’s the book you you make life changes for
It’s the book you fall in love with and can’t bare not to own a copy of
It’s the book of all books
I’m so glad I read this on the last day of 2023 as it’s changed my 2024 already
Downloading the next book now and Shandi Boyes moved to the top of list of favourite Authors
I read a lot of books and love nearly everyone
But there have only ever been 2 books that stay with me but now that turned to 3
I’m so glad this book made it’s way into my life
February 24, 2025
Book Info: Saving Noah by Shandi Boyes is book 1 of the Perception Series but can be read as a standalone. No cliffhangers. 456 page rockstar/medical, ugly-cry romance. 5 star, 2.5 peppers and HEA! 18+
Review: Prepare yourself, dear reader, for a heart-wrenching symphony of emotions! Saving Noah is like a power ballad that hits you right in the feels—so hard that even Adele would be impressed. 🎤💔
Noah and Emily, our star-crossed duo, are like two chords that finally find harmony in a chaotic rock anthem. Noah, the brooding lead singer with a past as tumultuous as a mosh pit, and Emily, the girl who’s been burned by love more times than a marshmallow at a campfire. 🎶🔥
Their journey? A wild ride—think rollercoaster meets rock concert. 🎢🤘 From the first note to the last encore, this book had me clinging to its pages like a groupie to a backstage pass. I couldn’t put it down, and trust me, I’ve got the paper cuts to prove it. 📚🩹
Shandi Boyes, the maestro behind this emotional symphony, conducts their crescendo from rags to riches. It’s like watching a garage band transform into stadium rockers, complete with leather jackets and epic guitar solos. 🎸🌟
And the chemistry between Noah and Emily? Hotter than a Marshall amp cranked up to 11. 🔥🎵 Their trust issues collide like cymbals, but they’re determined to hit the high notes together. 🥁🎶
Now, let’s talk about those tear ducts. Buckle up, my friends, because this emotional rollercoaster doesn’t come with safety belts. You’ll need tissues—lots of them. 🤧💦
Favorite quotes? Oh, I’ve got 'em:
“Never let fear decide your fate. It’s inevitable no matter how much it scares you.” 🌠 This gem hits harder than a power chord. Fear might be backstage, but destiny’s headlining the show.
“Not my beautiful Emily. I can’t live without her! I won’t live without her!” 🌹 Noah’s love declaration? Sweeter than a guitar solo at sunset. 🌅🎸
So, my fellow bookworms, grab your air guitars and dive into Saving Noah. It’s a rockin’ romance that’ll leave you humming, swaying, and maybe even shedding a tear or two. 🎶🤘
Remember, life’s a mixtape—sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes head-banging. But hey, at least we’ve got the soundtrack. 🎵📼
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (Five out of five stars)
P.S. If you don’t read this book, you’re missing out. Seriously, run—don’t walk—to snag your copy. 🏃♀️📖🎶
Review: Prepare yourself, dear reader, for a heart-wrenching symphony of emotions! Saving Noah is like a power ballad that hits you right in the feels—so hard that even Adele would be impressed. 🎤💔
Noah and Emily, our star-crossed duo, are like two chords that finally find harmony in a chaotic rock anthem. Noah, the brooding lead singer with a past as tumultuous as a mosh pit, and Emily, the girl who’s been burned by love more times than a marshmallow at a campfire. 🎶🔥
Their journey? A wild ride—think rollercoaster meets rock concert. 🎢🤘 From the first note to the last encore, this book had me clinging to its pages like a groupie to a backstage pass. I couldn’t put it down, and trust me, I’ve got the paper cuts to prove it. 📚🩹
Shandi Boyes, the maestro behind this emotional symphony, conducts their crescendo from rags to riches. It’s like watching a garage band transform into stadium rockers, complete with leather jackets and epic guitar solos. 🎸🌟
And the chemistry between Noah and Emily? Hotter than a Marshall amp cranked up to 11. 🔥🎵 Their trust issues collide like cymbals, but they’re determined to hit the high notes together. 🥁🎶
Now, let’s talk about those tear ducts. Buckle up, my friends, because this emotional rollercoaster doesn’t come with safety belts. You’ll need tissues—lots of them. 🤧💦
Favorite quotes? Oh, I’ve got 'em:
“Never let fear decide your fate. It’s inevitable no matter how much it scares you.” 🌠 This gem hits harder than a power chord. Fear might be backstage, but destiny’s headlining the show.
“Not my beautiful Emily. I can’t live without her! I won’t live without her!” 🌹 Noah’s love declaration? Sweeter than a guitar solo at sunset. 🌅🎸
So, my fellow bookworms, grab your air guitars and dive into Saving Noah. It’s a rockin’ romance that’ll leave you humming, swaying, and maybe even shedding a tear or two. 🎶🤘
Remember, life’s a mixtape—sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes head-banging. But hey, at least we’ve got the soundtrack. 🎵📼
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (Five out of five stars)
P.S. If you don’t read this book, you’re missing out. Seriously, run—don’t walk—to snag your copy. 🏃♀️📖🎶
November 14, 2019
This is the first book in the Perception series. I read and enjoyed the Russian Mob Chronicles series by this author so I automatically picked up this series. Meet Noah Taylor, he appears to be one of the lucky ones in life who have it all. He has the good looks, the talent of a great voice and a big record deal in progress. Hiwever, as we all know outside appearances are not always what they appear to be. People can wear masks for themselves or for others. What happens when you meet someone that sees past your mask? Noah meets her and this is the story of how Noah removes his mask, mends his inside and brings his inside and outside closer together. Now, I am not going to sugar coat it, when the blurb states this book will tear your heart apart before it begins to put it back together, this is no joke readers. Best be prepared. This is a well written story that takes you on Noah's journey. The characters were great and the storyline, as heart wrenching as it is, it does become better and easier. Oh, I can't leave out the steamy bits. I am looking forward to more in this series. Enjoy!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2022
2.5 stars
This was a hard one for me, the first half I thought was a little childish and felt like it was missing something. I almost dnf the book but I had to find out why it was rated so high. Then the twist came, out of no where with no explanation, just happened and how was never mentioned… I sobbed and thought how is this a hea if I’m 70% and this just happened… and then it turned out to be a coma dream …. WHAT!!! That actually made me so mad!
I don’t get the high ratings to be honest
This was a hard one for me, the first half I thought was a little childish and felt like it was missing something. I almost dnf the book but I had to find out why it was rated so high. Then the twist came, out of no where with no explanation, just happened and how was never mentioned… I sobbed and thought how is this a hea if I’m 70% and this just happened… and then it turned out to be a coma dream …. WHAT!!! That actually made me so mad!
I don’t get the high ratings to be honest
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2022
dnf
Couldn't finish it and what I did read, I skimmed through.
They were like madly in love 40 pages in. How their feelings were told was overwhelming. It was way too much, way too fast.
I thought that the fmc and the random dude she danced with, to make mmc jealous, had more chemistry together.
Couldn't finish it and what I did read, I skimmed through.
They were like madly in love 40 pages in. How their feelings were told was overwhelming. It was way too much, way too fast.
I thought that the fmc and the random dude she danced with, to make mmc jealous, had more chemistry together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2022
Dnf for me. It shocks me how many women are suggesting so many horribly written books . It’s like did we read the same thing? Why aren’t your standards higher? I couldn’t do another page of noah having intensely stupid emotions and Emily giggling. Like just make it stop. So I did .
February 11, 2025
I literally, unfortunately DNF’ed this. I could not connect to any character and it was so excruciatingly slow.
It’s a rockstar romance, and by the same author who wrote Enigma. Isaac and Izzy are a 5 star read EASILY for me, so not connecting or liking this was a bummer.
It’s a rockstar romance, and by the same author who wrote Enigma. Isaac and Izzy are a 5 star read EASILY for me, so not connecting or liking this was a bummer.
June 8, 2022
couldn’t finish main character was cringe and i just couldn’t feel a connection between them
February 6, 2025
Didn’t finish after page 30. It was hard even getting that far. The writing/storytelling felt amateur. Like it really needed an editor. It didn’t flow and connect correctly and I kept getting confused on where the characters were some of the time and why exactly. Or how they got there. Like after meeting Emily, Noah is suddenly texting Emily. But there is zero mention of how he even got her number. It just felt disjointed.
When Emily and Noah first meet it was so over the top. It had every romance novel cliche but amplified in the worst way. Authors need to learn subtlety. They don’t have to be so obvious about everything and so in our faces. Us readers are smart. We don’t need the author screaming her intentions at us.
In this story, the second Noah meets Emily he is basically beside himself with how hot she is. And of course he has to tell us how different she is (eye roll), how hot it is that she isn’t wearing any makeup like most girls do (double eye roll, because of course this is the most obvious thing an author could say to show how “different” she is), she’s the first girl to spark an interest in him (oh brother!), and she’s not someone you’d have a fling with. It’s just all so unoriginal. Then, because it’s dual pov, we hear about this exact same interaction, only from Emily’s pov. And guess what?! In a shocking twist that nobody saw coming, she feels exactly like him haha. She thinks he is the hottest guy she’s ever seen, describes all of his perfect features, etc. so now it’s repetitive. Why do I want to read the same things over and over. It’s not that interesting when both characters think the exact same thing about eachother at the exact same time in the exact same way.
Also, what in the world was that whole thing where Noah regularly does this prank with Jacob to trick the girl that Jacob is with into being sexual with him. The “prank” is for Noah and a friend to wait in their car for Jacob and his girl to drive by, then they follow after them pretending to be thugs and going after them in order to scare the girl and make Jacob look like a hero when he gets away from them. Like…?? Did a guy write this book? In what universe is this something a woman would write for the main guy character to do? I’m supposed to like Noah? Because him getting his rocks off by scaring and tricking innocent women into doing his best friend? Gross! His words were something like, ‘Jacob will at least get a blow job out of this.’ Wow. But what’s weird is during this particular time, Jacob had brought his date plus her sister. And was teaching his date to drive. So when this prank happened, it kinda went wrong because she was the one driving, not Jacob. And she almost wrecked because of it. But why would Jacob have her drive when he knew this prank was happening? Even if they were late getting there or whatever, you don’t risk it. Plus why bring Emily along if Jacob is expecting sex after? And then this whole thing causes Noah and Jacob to get into a huge fight but I have no clue why. I think Jacob was mad because it was dangerous, obviously. But wasn’t he expecting it? But then why would Noah be mad? It wasn’t clear to me. I was so confused by this entire thing. I was kind of skimming by this point so maybe I missed some details but this whole situation was giving me a huge ick so I was not invested. Noah is weird. Jacob is weird. Trying that hard just to get a girl to hero worship you is weird. Just no. To all of it.
When Emily and Noah first meet it was so over the top. It had every romance novel cliche but amplified in the worst way. Authors need to learn subtlety. They don’t have to be so obvious about everything and so in our faces. Us readers are smart. We don’t need the author screaming her intentions at us.
In this story, the second Noah meets Emily he is basically beside himself with how hot she is. And of course he has to tell us how different she is (eye roll), how hot it is that she isn’t wearing any makeup like most girls do (double eye roll, because of course this is the most obvious thing an author could say to show how “different” she is), she’s the first girl to spark an interest in him (oh brother!), and she’s not someone you’d have a fling with. It’s just all so unoriginal. Then, because it’s dual pov, we hear about this exact same interaction, only from Emily’s pov. And guess what?! In a shocking twist that nobody saw coming, she feels exactly like him haha. She thinks he is the hottest guy she’s ever seen, describes all of his perfect features, etc. so now it’s repetitive. Why do I want to read the same things over and over. It’s not that interesting when both characters think the exact same thing about eachother at the exact same time in the exact same way.
Also, what in the world was that whole thing where Noah regularly does this prank with Jacob to trick the girl that Jacob is with into being sexual with him. The “prank” is for Noah and a friend to wait in their car for Jacob and his girl to drive by, then they follow after them pretending to be thugs and going after them in order to scare the girl and make Jacob look like a hero when he gets away from them. Like…?? Did a guy write this book? In what universe is this something a woman would write for the main guy character to do? I’m supposed to like Noah? Because him getting his rocks off by scaring and tricking innocent women into doing his best friend? Gross! His words were something like, ‘Jacob will at least get a blow job out of this.’ Wow. But what’s weird is during this particular time, Jacob had brought his date plus her sister. And was teaching his date to drive. So when this prank happened, it kinda went wrong because she was the one driving, not Jacob. And she almost wrecked because of it. But why would Jacob have her drive when he knew this prank was happening? Even if they were late getting there or whatever, you don’t risk it. Plus why bring Emily along if Jacob is expecting sex after? And then this whole thing causes Noah and Jacob to get into a huge fight but I have no clue why. I think Jacob was mad because it was dangerous, obviously. But wasn’t he expecting it? But then why would Noah be mad? It wasn’t clear to me. I was so confused by this entire thing. I was kind of skimming by this point so maybe I missed some details but this whole situation was giving me a huge ick so I was not invested. Noah is weird. Jacob is weird. Trying that hard just to get a girl to hero worship you is weird. Just no. To all of it.
January 30, 2020
Surrender me
I found this author while reading her Russian mobster (Nikolai) story. I decided to try out something different and- my lord. She did not disappoint. I'd seen other reviews and decided to give it a go and I'm so happy I did. It was worth every second.
Noah and Emily are everything. Noah is a bit older but is still irrevocably drawn to Em. Emily strikes me as very mature for her age (shes a bit shy of 18 when they first meet). This story isnt like anything you've read before.
There are a few 'expected' pieces to the story. Hes in a rock band and has suffered some of the worst things possible. Shes his sun. The light to his dark and man, you really feel that when it gets dark.
Em isnt a pushover. They forge this amazing relationship and are so wrapped up in each other that its just incredible to watch unfold. She doesnt put up with any crap and stays so supportive of him during times I dont think most women would. This book isnt all sunshine and beautiful rainbows though. Oh no. Miss Boyes is able to create this beautiful little bubble and then just when you're really loving it- burst it in a way that shatters your heart but when it's all said and done - you still thank her for creating it.
So this is me. Thanking her and urging you to read it. Noah and Emily are everything. I cant wait to read the others. <3
I found this author while reading her Russian mobster (Nikolai) story. I decided to try out something different and- my lord. She did not disappoint. I'd seen other reviews and decided to give it a go and I'm so happy I did. It was worth every second.
Noah and Emily are everything. Noah is a bit older but is still irrevocably drawn to Em. Emily strikes me as very mature for her age (shes a bit shy of 18 when they first meet). This story isnt like anything you've read before.
There are a few 'expected' pieces to the story. Hes in a rock band and has suffered some of the worst things possible. Shes his sun. The light to his dark and man, you really feel that when it gets dark.
Em isnt a pushover. They forge this amazing relationship and are so wrapped up in each other that its just incredible to watch unfold. She doesnt put up with any crap and stays so supportive of him during times I dont think most women would. This book isnt all sunshine and beautiful rainbows though. Oh no. Miss Boyes is able to create this beautiful little bubble and then just when you're really loving it- burst it in a way that shatters your heart but when it's all said and done - you still thank her for creating it.
So this is me. Thanking her and urging you to read it. Noah and Emily are everything. I cant wait to read the others. <3
April 16, 2024
Oh. My. God! This book was quite the emotional rollercoaster. I read reviews mentioning the ugly-crying, and oh my, they were right!
The beginning of this book was a little hard to get into. The chapters felt disjointed, which kept jarring me out of the story. The first half of the book, did seem to move slowly, as well, but I totally understand why, as it all helped to build up just how much they mean to each other.
Then, about 2/3 of the way through, I very nearly stopped reading. This is where the ugly crying started, and I was devastated along with the characters. I kept reading, though, wondering how on earth this book could be considered as having a HEA. The options my mind went to were so off-base, and nothing that I could think of would work.
I stuck it out through the book, though, and I am very glad that I did. I came through everything as changed as the main characters, and I could not recommend this book enough.
This is the first book by this author that I have read, and I am very much looking forward to reading more. This is a book I may read again, however it may end up being like those movies that once you know what will happen, it loses its impact. There's only one way to know, so I might be picking this up again in the future, if I'm feeling up for some emotional upheaval.
The beginning of this book was a little hard to get into. The chapters felt disjointed, which kept jarring me out of the story. The first half of the book, did seem to move slowly, as well, but I totally understand why, as it all helped to build up just how much they mean to each other.
Then, about 2/3 of the way through, I very nearly stopped reading. This is where the ugly crying started, and I was devastated along with the characters. I kept reading, though, wondering how on earth this book could be considered as having a HEA. The options my mind went to were so off-base, and nothing that I could think of would work.
I stuck it out through the book, though, and I am very glad that I did. I came through everything as changed as the main characters, and I could not recommend this book enough.
This is the first book by this author that I have read, and I am very much looking forward to reading more. This is a book I may read again, however it may end up being like those movies that once you know what will happen, it loses its impact. There's only one way to know, so I might be picking this up again in the future, if I'm feeling up for some emotional upheaval.
November 14, 2019
ABSOLUTELY ASTOUNDING!!!
Crash and burn! Shandi totally rocked this fantastic storyline and spinning plot with on point realism. She pulls all the emotions you feel and intensifies them through you, front and center, with what feels like gale force winds steadily battering against our heart and soul. Man, twixt and twined and put through the wringer with a plethora of events that bring this bad boy roaring to life flawlessly. Satisfying is an understatement, this little jewel is as riveting as it is captivating. All the drama, fear, intrigue and uncertainty, along with distress, turmoil, heart breaking, gut ripping block buster that hooks you from the start and reels you in for the duration. Yeah, it doesn't get any better than this. The chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing a growing bond and amplifying affections that catapult this jewel to life flawlessly. The characters are authentic and realistic with on point personalities and depth that blew this baby wide open and exposed in all it's glory. The scenes are so colorfully described it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Remarkable job Shandi, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Crash and burn! Shandi totally rocked this fantastic storyline and spinning plot with on point realism. She pulls all the emotions you feel and intensifies them through you, front and center, with what feels like gale force winds steadily battering against our heart and soul. Man, twixt and twined and put through the wringer with a plethora of events that bring this bad boy roaring to life flawlessly. Satisfying is an understatement, this little jewel is as riveting as it is captivating. All the drama, fear, intrigue and uncertainty, along with distress, turmoil, heart breaking, gut ripping block buster that hooks you from the start and reels you in for the duration. Yeah, it doesn't get any better than this. The chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing a growing bond and amplifying affections that catapult this jewel to life flawlessly. The characters are authentic and realistic with on point personalities and depth that blew this baby wide open and exposed in all it's glory. The scenes are so colorfully described it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Remarkable job Shandi, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
August 6, 2022
This is one of those books to avoid reading before you go to sleep, there came a point in this book where I absolutely had to know what would happen and how it would finish so much so that I put off sleeping.
Noah and Emily’s story captured my heart and attention. When they got together, I was really enjoying it. Whist there was some alluding to heavier story lines I thought it was a very sweet romance. Just two people, meeting and now dating and being together and I could see the HEA in sight. In fact, I was starting to wonder why it was described as an ugly-cry romance. And then it hit me.
When I hit that moment where everything changed it made me so mad, I was angry that this far into the book something like this would happen and with it looking like no answers were going to be given I considered skipping to the end. But I’m so glad I didn’t. When this book hit the heart-clutching part of the plot I cried a few times, but the heart ache was so worth it. I rushed through the book just hoping that HEA I envisioned was still within my grasp and by the end of the book we were given a HEA worthy of Noah and Emily.
This book was enjoyable, despite how gut-wrenching it was, and I will be reading the rest of the series at some point.
Noah and Emily’s story captured my heart and attention. When they got together, I was really enjoying it. Whist there was some alluding to heavier story lines I thought it was a very sweet romance. Just two people, meeting and now dating and being together and I could see the HEA in sight. In fact, I was starting to wonder why it was described as an ugly-cry romance. And then it hit me.
When I hit that moment where everything changed it made me so mad, I was angry that this far into the book something like this would happen and with it looking like no answers were going to be given I considered skipping to the end. But I’m so glad I didn’t. When this book hit the heart-clutching part of the plot I cried a few times, but the heart ache was so worth it. I rushed through the book just hoping that HEA I envisioned was still within my grasp and by the end of the book we were given a HEA worthy of Noah and Emily.
This book was enjoyable, despite how gut-wrenching it was, and I will be reading the rest of the series at some point.
September 1, 2021
Saving Noah starts off slow, even though time is speeding by. It almost reads like a novella. But it has the sweetest and calmest touch her and die moment I have ever read, and I fell head over heels! No one warned me that my heart was going to be ripped out of my chest reading this! This is the story of a musician on the brink of stardom, who falls in love, and experiences love and loss and HOLY PLOT TWIST BATMAN! If you aren’t ready for your heart to be ripped out and stomped on the ground...find something fluffier. If you love the heartbreak that Colleen Hoover offers, this is a great read for you!
My Favorite Quotes:
•’Never let fear decide your fate. It’s inevitable no matter how much it scares you.’
•”So I’ll ask you again, Emily, what do you want from me?” “I want you, Noah. I want you.”
•”We’re adoring. Worshiping. Loving.”
•”Leg up, Beautiful. Let me see you.”
Make the playlist the author provides. It’s worth it!
9/10 Instalove
9/10 Tearjerker
My Favorite Quotes:
•’Never let fear decide your fate. It’s inevitable no matter how much it scares you.’
•”So I’ll ask you again, Emily, what do you want from me?” “I want you, Noah. I want you.”
•”We’re adoring. Worshiping. Loving.”
•”Leg up, Beautiful. Let me see you.”
Make the playlist the author provides. It’s worth it!
9/10 Instalove
9/10 Tearjerker
July 20, 2023
If you want a book that can give you angst and potentially make you cry, then Saving Noah may do it for you. Noah and Emily's love story was so sweet with just enough spice. Actually, they reminded me a little of Noah and Ari from 'Say You Swear' with just how devoted they were to each other.
Noah is an inspiring musician. He oozes rock and roll sex appeal. When Emily meets him she is instantly attracted as is he, but nothing happens for a while. I will say because of this, it was a bit harder to get into. Very slow paced, but also I realize it is setting you up to get emotionally involved with the characters. Which I did.
By the time I hit the 60% mark, I was hooked. I could not put it down. I was emotionally invested and because of things that happen, was crying and felt like my heart was in my throat. (It has been a bit since I have cried in a book). There were some twist and turns but my heart absolutely bled for Noah.
This was my first book by this author and I don't think it will be my last, especially if she writes more that will make me cry lol.
Noah is an inspiring musician. He oozes rock and roll sex appeal. When Emily meets him she is instantly attracted as is he, but nothing happens for a while. I will say because of this, it was a bit harder to get into. Very slow paced, but also I realize it is setting you up to get emotionally involved with the characters. Which I did.
By the time I hit the 60% mark, I was hooked. I could not put it down. I was emotionally invested and because of things that happen, was crying and felt like my heart was in my throat. (It has been a bit since I have cried in a book). There were some twist and turns but my heart absolutely bled for Noah.
This was my first book by this author and I don't think it will be my last, especially if she writes more that will make me cry lol.
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