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The Hardest Fall
The first time you meet someone, you make eye contact. You smile, say hello. Should be simple, if you’re anyone but me. The first time I met Dylan Reed, I found myself making eye contact with a different part of his body. You see, I’m very good at being shy, not to mention extremely well-versed in rambling nonsense and, unfortunately, rather highly skilled at making a fool of myself in front of a guy I’m attracted to.
At the time, I knew nothing about him and thought none of what I said would matter since I’d never speak to him again. Turns out, I was very wrong. He was the star wide receiver of the football team, one of the few players expected to make it into the NFL, and I ended up seeing him all over campus.
I might have also propositioned him, run away from him, attacked him with a cooking utensil…and…uh, maybe I shouldn’t tell you all of it. It’s pretty normal stuff, things you’d expect…from me. Eventually, the time came when I couldn’t hide anymore—not that he’d have let me even if I tried.
Before now, he never knew I was secretly watching him. Now that we see each other every day, he knows when I have a hard time looking away. It doesn’t help that I’m not the most subtle person in the world either.
He smiles at me and tells me he finds me fascinating because of my quirks. I can’t even tell him that I think my heart beats differently whenever he’s around.
He thinks we’re going to be best friends. I think I have a big thing for him, and the more I get to know him, the more I don’t care that I’m not allowed to be his friend, let alone fall for him.
The thing is, that’s exactly what I’m doing—what we’re doing, I think.
Falling.
Hard.
At the time, I knew nothing about him and thought none of what I said would matter since I’d never speak to him again. Turns out, I was very wrong. He was the star wide receiver of the football team, one of the few players expected to make it into the NFL, and I ended up seeing him all over campus.
I might have also propositioned him, run away from him, attacked him with a cooking utensil…and…uh, maybe I shouldn’t tell you all of it. It’s pretty normal stuff, things you’d expect…from me. Eventually, the time came when I couldn’t hide anymore—not that he’d have let me even if I tried.
Before now, he never knew I was secretly watching him. Now that we see each other every day, he knows when I have a hard time looking away. It doesn’t help that I’m not the most subtle person in the world either.
He smiles at me and tells me he finds me fascinating because of my quirks. I can’t even tell him that I think my heart beats differently whenever he’s around.
He thinks we’re going to be best friends. I think I have a big thing for him, and the more I get to know him, the more I don’t care that I’m not allowed to be his friend, let alone fall for him.
The thing is, that’s exactly what I’m doing—what we’re doing, I think.
Falling.
Hard.
Audible Audio
First published April 16, 2018
About the author
Ella Maise
17 books10.6k followersWriting has become my world and I can’t imagine myself doing anything other than giving life to new characters and new stories. You know how some things simply makes your heart burst with happiness? A really good book, a puppy, hugging someone you’ve been missing like crazy? That’s what writing does to me. And all the hard work, all the sleepless nights, all the anxiety…everything is worth it at the end. And I'm hoping that reading my books will leave you with that same happy feeling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,887 reviews
April 20, 2018
➳A slow-burn college romance in which the word “masterpiece” is not enough to describe such creative ways of making a reader swoon over both characters in which fate has separated, & brought together for a final story plot...
➳When it comes down to slow-burn, angsty romance— this girl is not the biggest fan of them. Now, there are a few times where there are exceptions that I encounter upon and end up absolutely devouring said novel and just fall to my knees with adoration. Ella Maise is that author— that author who has made me do a double take as to what I was reading and how addicted I become to the page on every turn. Not only is this new release of hers an emotional romance that captivates you to keep reading, but the mystery, the comedic side of it all, and also the swoon worthy factor that becomes of Dylan Reed keeps my hands itching for much more and makes my heart flutter at every sweet little thing he says to Zoe, even after life’s obstacles and fate separated them twice making their third encounter as their lucky charm of a number. Third time is the charm anyways, am I right?
➳Two college students, trying to live life to the fullest but also encounter what the true struggles of life come with. Either parents or past relationships, Zoe and Dylan learn how to confide in each other. First as unexpected roommates, then are friends who want nothing more than to be more than just friends. Through Dylan’s eyes, his adoration for Zoe is beyond adorable that I just want to hug him so hard so he knows how much of a swoon and drool worthy of a person he is:
➳This new romance by the fabulous Ella not only touches the ideal categories of a romance story, but it also enhances on the topics of rape, the struggles of college life, and family problems. Through every turn of the beginning of the novel, I was curious as to wanting to know what the big mystery of Zoe’s is. Once you end up finding out, your eyes just pop out with the biggest climax I have read in such a long time. I found this rather refreshing for a romance novel since I don’t really read plot twists such as this one. I’m glad though that Ella provided it, making this novel even more intriguing to the eye of the reader.
➳When it comes down to the chemistry between Dylan and Zoe, words really cannot say how soothing and heart fluttering everything there is to their relationship. Both express such tenderness to the reader, making you crave more of their passion and love towards each other;
➳Overall, I am beyond satisfied to say that this new novel blew my mind away. Everything I was expecting was thrown out the window, creating a new love for this story filled with so much creativity and proper action that no one should miss out on. I am beyond blessed to have Ella as a friend— not many can say they are friends with authors and I still blush over the fact she actually talks to me— and also as someone who truly knows how to bring the best of everything there is in a romance. Thank you Ella for letting me read your baby, and letting everyone else in to take part of this new journey of yours. Love you always babe!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2qEjqPh
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2H73lf7
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2qDs0O8
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2J49pRY
➳ARC kindly provided by Ella, in exchange for an honest review...
➳Follow Me On:
Blog ♕ Instagram ♕ Facebook ♕ Twitter
➳When it comes down to slow-burn, angsty romance— this girl is not the biggest fan of them. Now, there are a few times where there are exceptions that I encounter upon and end up absolutely devouring said novel and just fall to my knees with adoration. Ella Maise is that author— that author who has made me do a double take as to what I was reading and how addicted I become to the page on every turn. Not only is this new release of hers an emotional romance that captivates you to keep reading, but the mystery, the comedic side of it all, and also the swoon worthy factor that becomes of Dylan Reed keeps my hands itching for much more and makes my heart flutter at every sweet little thing he says to Zoe, even after life’s obstacles and fate separated them twice making their third encounter as their lucky charm of a number. Third time is the charm anyways, am I right?
➳Two college students, trying to live life to the fullest but also encounter what the true struggles of life come with. Either parents or past relationships, Zoe and Dylan learn how to confide in each other. First as unexpected roommates, then are friends who want nothing more than to be more than just friends. Through Dylan’s eyes, his adoration for Zoe is beyond adorable that I just want to hug him so hard so he knows how much of a swoon and drool worthy of a person he is:
“She was so shy, but it only mad her more attractive and interesting in my eyes…
➳This new romance by the fabulous Ella not only touches the ideal categories of a romance story, but it also enhances on the topics of rape, the struggles of college life, and family problems. Through every turn of the beginning of the novel, I was curious as to wanting to know what the big mystery of Zoe’s is. Once you end up finding out, your eyes just pop out with the biggest climax I have read in such a long time. I found this rather refreshing for a romance novel since I don’t really read plot twists such as this one. I’m glad though that Ella provided it, making this novel even more intriguing to the eye of the reader.
➳When it comes down to the chemistry between Dylan and Zoe, words really cannot say how soothing and heart fluttering everything there is to their relationship. Both express such tenderness to the reader, making you crave more of their passion and love towards each other;
“My heart beats differently for you. It feels different somehow. I know this probably doesn’t make sense, but… it beats louder, wilder when I see you…”
➳Overall, I am beyond satisfied to say that this new novel blew my mind away. Everything I was expecting was thrown out the window, creating a new love for this story filled with so much creativity and proper action that no one should miss out on. I am beyond blessed to have Ella as a friend— not many can say they are friends with authors and I still blush over the fact she actually talks to me— and also as someone who truly knows how to bring the best of everything there is in a romance. Thank you Ella for letting me read your baby, and letting everyone else in to take part of this new journey of yours. Love you always babe!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2qEjqPh
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2H73lf7
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2qDs0O8
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2J49pRY
➳ARC kindly provided by Ella, in exchange for an honest review...
➳Follow Me On:
Blog ♕ Instagram ♕ Facebook ♕ Twitter
March 23, 2022
🤎Isn't it lovely when the guy you got dared to kiss, was butt naked when you meet him for the first time, become your roommate whom you thought was a thief ends up becoming the love of your life?
5 "FlAsH" stars!!!
“My heart beats differently for you. It feels different somehow. I know this probably doesn’t make sense, but…it beats louder, wilder when I see you.”
Dylan, the college heartthrob, the nice guy, the leading athlete. No matter how many girls he's been with, nobody turned his head like the certain young woman who barged into his locker room while he was showering, demanding a kiss so she could win a dare. But at the time he was committed to another woman, and being a loyal guy, no matter how much he found this painfully shy girl with an adorable ramble attractive, couldn't he kiss her. The second time he found her, she disappeared within a matter of seconds. The third time tho, he learnt that the adorable girl who has been messing up with his mind was his roommate and was committed to another guy. But their connection cannot be ignored and now Dylan is hell bent to making this girl his no matter how fucked up they are together.
Zoe, the smart geek, the shy girl, a girl with a dark past. She's been paying for her mom's sins for a long time, losing people she loved on the process. Now she's head over heels for her roommate whom seem to care about little things about her. But the man from her past forbids her to be with him and she realizes that being with him could end his future. How in the world could she unlove someone who mean so much to her?
"I wish I could capture this moment. You looking the way you do..."
Let's be honest girlfriends, this book is the reason why my faith in college romances and slow burns grows day by day.
College romances never did good to me until this!! But, this book said it right when they said, third time is a charm!
This is not a mere romance where the guy see a girl across the hall, and a week later they fall in to bed together. No there was character development, relationship built up, finding true purposes in life, and overcoming obstacles, and then finally a lot smut which was all too beautiful to read.
Love love love, Ella's heroines, and man arent they funny as hell! Zoe is so adorable and yet strong which makes her even more likeable! Her character development was amazing!
Dylan is from another world to be honest!!! IM SWOONING!! I mean,
🤎💫Don't we all like to have handsome athletic boyfriend, who will find your mindless ramble adorable, have an obsession over burgers like you do, who'd do 200 pushups in the morning at your living room making you horny, buys you plenty of pizza, fight over candy like 5 year olds, save you from earthquakes, hates when you have other guy best friends than him? Adorable right?💫🤎
“Do you believe in love at first sight?”
“Not really,” she panted.
“I didn’t either, but then why would my eyes look for you in a crowd when I didn’t even know your name? Why would my pulse jump whenever I saw someone I thought was you?”
I love how Dylan was her best friend before she was her boyfriend cuz in a relationship your partner should be both a companion and a best friend. Loved how even tho they fuck up each other, how they apologize and discuss and solve the matters. One yummy healthy relationship coming right up! I love how they go through real struggles and try to overcome them together! Watching them fall in love is the best of best! Amazing story, great chemistry, beautiful characters!!
A beautiful slow burn romance that will burn you in the best way possible!!
Tropes
-Athlete/School Geek
-Friends to Lovers
- Teddy Bear/Sunshine
Note: No cheating, HEA guaranteed!!
July 16, 2018
4.25 stars!!!
The Hardest Fall was my first book by Ella Maise, and I have to say, I'm impressed! I'll definitely be checking out more of this author's work! I have been craving a good NA read lately, and this one really hit the spot for me.
Dylan and Zoe have the funniest and quite possibly the most awkward first meeting. They are college students and after that meet, it's a while before they run into each other again. When they do, it's apparent that neither one has forgotten the other. They've both left quite the impression.
Dylan Reed is one of the stars of the collegiate football team. This is his senior year, and he's expected to be drafted into the NFL. Football is his priority right now. It has to be. Zoe Clarke has other priorities and secrets to boot. These two find themselves as roommates. They can't help but to become friends, and from their friendship builds so much more. It's obvious that they both want each other, but with Zoe's secrets and Dylan's football life, it's not easy for them to start something.
Zoe's story broke my heart at times. I really felt for her. I had guessed most of Zoe's secret pretty early on, and couldn't wait to see what direction the author took the book. Dylan was ah-mazing! Seriously I loved that boy! He was a sweet and swoony guy and all around great hero.
For those readers (like me) who love NA books, college romances, sports romances, and emotional reads with humor thrown in, this is the perfect book for you! I listened to the audio book and I thought the narrators (Lidia Dornet & Alexander Cenese) did a fantastic job. An all around great read.
The Hardest Fall was my first book by Ella Maise, and I have to say, I'm impressed! I'll definitely be checking out more of this author's work! I have been craving a good NA read lately, and this one really hit the spot for me.
Dylan and Zoe have the funniest and quite possibly the most awkward first meeting. They are college students and after that meet, it's a while before they run into each other again. When they do, it's apparent that neither one has forgotten the other. They've both left quite the impression.
Dylan Reed is one of the stars of the collegiate football team. This is his senior year, and he's expected to be drafted into the NFL. Football is his priority right now. It has to be. Zoe Clarke has other priorities and secrets to boot. These two find themselves as roommates. They can't help but to become friends, and from their friendship builds so much more. It's obvious that they both want each other, but with Zoe's secrets and Dylan's football life, it's not easy for them to start something.
Zoe's story broke my heart at times. I really felt for her. I had guessed most of Zoe's secret pretty early on, and couldn't wait to see what direction the author took the book. Dylan was ah-mazing! Seriously I loved that boy! He was a sweet and swoony guy and all around great hero.
For those readers (like me) who love NA books, college romances, sports romances, and emotional reads with humor thrown in, this is the perfect book for you! I listened to the audio book and I thought the narrators (Lidia Dornet & Alexander Cenese) did a fantastic job. An all around great read.
“My heart beats differently for you. It feels different somehow. I know this probably doesn’t make sense, but…it beats louder, wilder when I see you.”
Read
May 22, 2019🏈🔥The Hardest Fall is NOW LIVE!🔥🏈
"Why would my eyes look for you in a crowd when I didn't even know your name?"
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2qEjqPh
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2H73lf7
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2qDs0O8
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2J49pRY
"Why would my eyes look for you in a crowd when I didn't even know your name?"
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2qEjqPh
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2H73lf7
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2qDs0O8
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2J49pRY
April 28, 2018
3.75 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a cute friend's to lovers story. It definitely is what I would consider "slow burn", and while I'm never really a fan of that type of story, I didn't mind it that much. That being said -- there still were some parts that felt slow for me. It also felt on the longer side, and it was @ 423 pages on my kindle app. I think some of those slower parts could've been edited out to make it flow a little better. I appreciated how the H was a star athlete but not a manwhore! I liked both of the mcs and was actually happy with the ending. So, overall it was an enjoyable read 😊
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Zoe and Dylan's story. They have a few embarrassing encounters over the years, and they are shocked to find themselves as new roommates. They form a friendship of sorts and both develop stronger feelings for one another even against their efforts to just be friends. There are some sweet moments, some sexy times, some big secrets revealed, and some drama with friends and family...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Zoe and Dylan's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good for the most part. It did feel slow in some parts, but I never got to the point that I wanted to skim.
Instalove: No, they are friends that turn into more.
H rating: 4 stars. Dylan. I liked him. I appreciated how he wasn't a manwhore and how he cared about the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Zoe. I liked her. She was quirky, awkward, and sweet.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. This is definitely a "slow burn" as they don't even kiss until around 73%.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Kind of
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a cute epilogue with what I would call a HEA ending .
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Overall Opinion: This was a cute friend's to lovers story. It definitely is what I would consider "slow burn", and while I'm never really a fan of that type of story, I didn't mind it that much. That being said -- there still were some parts that felt slow for me. It also felt on the longer side, and it was @ 423 pages on my kindle app. I think some of those slower parts could've been edited out to make it flow a little better. I appreciated how the H was a star athlete but not a manwhore! I liked both of the mcs and was actually happy with the ending. So, overall it was an enjoyable read 😊
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Zoe and Dylan's story. They have a few embarrassing encounters over the years, and they are shocked to find themselves as new roommates. They form a friendship of sorts and both develop stronger feelings for one another even against their efforts to just be friends. There are some sweet moments, some sexy times, some big secrets revealed, and some drama with friends and family...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Zoe and Dylan's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good for the most part. It did feel slow in some parts, but I never got to the point that I wanted to skim.
Instalove: No, they are friends that turn into more.
H rating: 4 stars. Dylan. I liked him. I appreciated how he wasn't a manwhore and how he cared about the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Zoe. I liked her. She was quirky, awkward, and sweet.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. This is definitely a "slow burn" as they don't even kiss until around 73%.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Kind of
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a cute epilogue with what I would call a HEA ending .
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Read
May 16, 2018dnf @ 11%... heroine annoyed me
surprisingly, i have a lot to say for a book i didn't read very much of. but i'll keep it short.
girl walks in on dude peeing and can't stop commenting on his penis. i think it was supposed to be cute that she was 'flustered' but she didn't ever leave???? like you walked into a bathroom, see something you're not supposed to and then you leave. you don't stand there gawking regardless of if the guy is laughing it off. weird vibe.
and then the whole scene where this dude's gf cheats on him with 2 of his roommates. i'm not saying there aren't bad/shitty people in this world but CMON. an elicit threesome where she wears YOUR football jersey??? nah.
surprisingly, i have a lot to say for a book i didn't read very much of. but i'll keep it short.
girl walks in on dude peeing and can't stop commenting on his penis. i think it was supposed to be cute that she was 'flustered' but she didn't ever leave???? like you walked into a bathroom, see something you're not supposed to and then you leave. you don't stand there gawking regardless of if the guy is laughing it off. weird vibe.
and then the whole scene where this dude's gf cheats on him with 2 of his roommates. i'm not saying there aren't bad/shitty people in this world but CMON. an elicit threesome where she wears YOUR football jersey??? nah.
May 26, 2022
let me start off by saying I love Ella Maise 🫣 ‘to hate adam connor’ and ‘marriage for one’ remain superior!!! but this didn’t hit for me. the idea was fabulous, but the execution.. not so much. I was bored the entire time to be honest. & Zoe’s constant nervous chatter was cute at first but ended up annoying me by the end. I do love me a good friends to lovers tho!
April 24, 2018
MY REVIEW can also be found on my blog:
KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
‘THE HARDEST FALL’: Is a standalone full length, sports romance novel by new to me Author Ella Maise. ‘Spoken in Dual Perspectives’
In this we meet, shy, klutzy, kooky, quirky over talkative College Freshman Zoe Clarke.
And Dylan Reed the IT boy around campus. A football player who had a big chance of going pro. He’s gorgeous, laid back and finds himself drawn towards Zoe like no other female before.
The very first initial meeting between these two will be one never to be repeated again, hilarious, unique, and set the story up perfectly for these two characters.
The first time Zoe Clarke saw me my hand was wrapped around my dick.
The second meeting a year later didn't exactly go to plan either, locking eyes with Dylan on campus like a deer caught in the headlights she tries to make her escape only to rush into a group carrying a model building which didn't survive her fumbling escape to get away.
Though they do have their ups and downs when it all comes to that thing called TIMING. Timing for these two was everything. A few bumps and hurdles in the road but in the end they got it right..
Their third meeting yet again one year later like the other two wherever Zoe is involved also had hilarious consequences, but this time involving a towel.
A slow burn, slow swoon, sugary sweet, college romance that had me from the start. Full of angst, twists and turns but in the end these two characters unexpectedly crept into my heart, the amount of times I gigged were countless, definitely an author I'll be reading again in the future.
My heart beats differently for you, it feels different somehow. I know this probably doesn't make sense, but...it beats louder, wilder when I see you.
April 22, 2018
Review at Of Pens and Pages.
This is the strangest thing, but I think you're going to be my best friend, Zoe Clarke."
Oh Ella, how I've missed your words! If you know me, you know I'm a sucker for the slow-burn. I'm pleased to announce that I got that with this book, and I got it in spades. The Hardest Fall is a sweet, slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance that hit me in all the right places. There's a touch of mystery and angst added into the mix that makes this fun romance even more addicting.
I was hooked from the first sentence (seriously!!!). From the moment Zoe Clarke and Dylan reed met, I knew I was going in for a ride. From strangers to accidental roommates, from friends to best friends to so much more. You can tell how much Dylan adores Zoe, and how much Zoe cares for him. I just want to wrap them in a blanket and protect them from the world.
There were a lot of funny scenes—I can't even tell you how much I laughed— and even more of that swoon-worthy goodness, but there were more serious points in this book that tackled family issues and toxic relationships. There's that mystery surrounding Zoe, as well
What I loved the most about this book is how Dylan and Zoe's romance progressed. They were there for each other and leaned on each other the way only the best of friends do. They were falling in love right before my eyes, and I relished that gradual but consistent build-up from friendship to more. The attraction has always been there, but so was respect and adoration. It made me so happy!
Fellow introverts and friends who are awkward around strangers will relate to Zoe. When faced with strangers, especially strangers who intimidate her, Zoe rambles and says and does things she'd most likely regret. I wanted to stand beside her and whisper, "You can do it.". But once the walls have been torn down, her light shines through. She's a kind, funny, and sweet girl with a pure heart.
Dylan. Oh Dylan. What a sweet boy. He's a dedicated athlete with a laser-sharp focus on his career, a great love for his family, and a strong and dependable personality. There can be no doubt of his feelings for Zoe. I have to admit I wanted to shake Dylan a few moments in the story, but could understand why he did what he did, thought what he thought, given the circumstances. If I were in his position, I would have jumped to the same conclusion.
The Hardest Fall is not just a romance between two people you know are meant to be together. It's about friendship, family, and growing up.
This book made me laugh, giggle, curse in anger, and ache with heartbreak and sadness, and most importantly, it made me crave for pizza in the middle of the night! Prepare yourself for a lot of pizza talk, my friends. Maybe order a box or two and devour it while you read. That way when you're done with it, your stomach is as full as your heart.
Tropes: College, Friends to Lovers, Roommates, Sports—American Football
POV: First Person, Dual POV
Standalone: Yes
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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April 25, 2018
“On and off the field, you’re my hardest fall. No one has ever compared, and no one ever will.”
I truly loved The Hardest Fall. This story included some of my favorite things to read; sports romance, angst and the slow burn which is to the point of perfection, not annoyance. I devoured every beautifully and carefully crafted word Ella Maise produced. The only downer for me reading this was that it ended.
There are a few words that come to mind when thinking back to Dylan and Zoe’s first encounter; awkward, embarrassing and hilarious come to mind first. Dylan is using the bathroom at a party with a fellow teammate (weird, I know right!), when a girl comes barging in and stops in shock, like a deer in headlights, when she sees Dylan relieving his bladder.
Not the ideal first encounter, but I just loved Zoe during this weird and embarrassing exchange. She was shy, awkward and so cute. The more she tried to explain herself, the more of a hole she dug for herself and the quicker she spoke as a way of explaining the weird situation she had found herself in with Dylan. You just have to read this exchange to really appreciate how amazing it was written.
The Hardest Fall is about fate, when the first or second time may not be the right time, or due to circumstances beyond your control, you have to have faith that the universe will bring you back to your one true love eventually.
“My heart had missed beating like this, for him, only for him”
The intense chemistry and adoration both Dylan and Zoe showcased literally melted my heart. I love reading a romance story where I am so sucked into the characters and their relationship that I feel every emotion, every beautifully spoken word, every want and every crave.
This story was not all ray of sunshine and rainbows however, Ella really touches on some tough topics to conquer in regards to college life, family and other personal struggles. I’m not going to go into certain scenes or situations as this novel just needs to be read, devoured and enjoyed with no spoilers.
If you are looking for your next story to be exquisitely written with characters you can’t help but fall in love with, and want surprises with each turn of the page, then look no further as The Hardest Fall is what you have been searching for. Recommended for all who enjoy their angsty, slow burn sports romances and I have no doubt you will enjoy the ride that is Zoe and Dylan.
May 13, 2018
At 74% in, I'm done. The author manipulation is just too much and I can't stand it any longer. I like the characters. They're sweet and watching them come together was engaging. But Ella Maise seems addicted to manipulating things for drama and that's a fast turn-off for me.
I pushed through my concerns from the 20%-40% range. That's when she was manipulating Zoe's perspective to imply something not true. There were two possibilities and each would have had profoundly different manifestation in her internal monologue so Maise had to work very hard indeed to not only keep both possible but to make it seem like it was the icky one. I had midway as a mark in my head for how long I'd tolerate the nonsense and was a bit relieved when we got overt clarification at 40%.
But that still left a mark. So even though I was enjoying the story from there until the last straw, I still had a wary eye out. And then, (very light spoilers but I'm tagging it in case someone is very sensitive) There is so very much wrong with this that I can't even. First, and most damning, is that this is the first time she has engaged this technique (of foreshadowing through a character presenting information that hasn't happened yet). We've been third-person present through the entire book and now she breaks that pattern? Just to be a jerk, apparently. But second (back to mild spoilers), . And the truly awful thing about the second option (the one that's most likely, IMO) is that to do it, Maise had to manipulate things by having Dylan deliberately stop Zoe from confessing all for no good reason whatsoever. They were in a good place. She wanted, needed to share. And he stopped her saying it'd be good enough later. I hate when authors do this just to drag out drama. I hate it even more at this point in the emotional arc.
So yeah, I'm done. Maise was on notice from the stupidity in the first half. I feel insulted that she'd manipulate things further at this point. I'm crushed because I really liked the characters. But nothing will save a story when I feel like the author can't be trusted.
I pushed through my concerns from the 20%-40% range. That's when she was manipulating Zoe's perspective to imply something not true. There were two possibilities and each would have had profoundly different manifestation in her internal monologue so Maise had to work very hard indeed to not only keep both possible but to make it seem like it was the icky one. I had midway as a mark in my head for how long I'd tolerate the nonsense and was a bit relieved when we got overt clarification at 40%.
But that still left a mark. So even though I was enjoying the story from there until the last straw, I still had a wary eye out. And then, (very light spoilers but I'm tagging it in case someone is very sensitive) There is so very much wrong with this that I can't even. First, and most damning, is that this is the first time she has engaged this technique (of foreshadowing through a character presenting information that hasn't happened yet). We've been third-person present through the entire book and now she breaks that pattern? Just to be a jerk, apparently. But second (back to mild spoilers), . And the truly awful thing about the second option (the one that's most likely, IMO) is that to do it, Maise had to manipulate things by having Dylan deliberately stop Zoe from confessing all for no good reason whatsoever. They were in a good place. She wanted, needed to share. And he stopped her saying it'd be good enough later. I hate when authors do this just to drag out drama. I hate it even more at this point in the emotional arc.
So yeah, I'm done. Maise was on notice from the stupidity in the first half. I feel insulted that she'd manipulate things further at this point. I'm crushed because I really liked the characters. But nothing will save a story when I feel like the author can't be trusted.
April 18, 2018
5 Cute Stars
Such an amazing book,I devour it in one sitting!I'm in love with the story and the characters rocked this story!The Hardest Fall was a cute and fun read!I was smiling most of the time with these two!
Zoe and Dylan were adorable!I loved every minute of these two together!The way they first met was funny and then the second and third time!I found their story refreshing!Dylan is a swoon worthy hero and I loved Zoe,she is shy,funny and cute!They have an amazing chemistry!Their romance is slow burn, with angst and intense moments!
I can't believe this is my first book from this author!!I'm definitely going to read more books by her!I love the writing and the story was perfect!
Such an amazing book,I devour it in one sitting!I'm in love with the story and the characters rocked this story!The Hardest Fall was a cute and fun read!I was smiling most of the time with these two!
Zoe and Dylan were adorable!I loved every minute of these two together!The way they first met was funny and then the second and third time!I found their story refreshing!Dylan is a swoon worthy hero and I loved Zoe,she is shy,funny and cute!They have an amazing chemistry!Their romance is slow burn, with angst and intense moments!
I can't believe this is my first book from this author!!I'm definitely going to read more books by her!I love the writing and the story was perfect!
January 8, 2020
3.75 ‘Flash’ stars
“This is the strangest thing, but I think you’re going to be my best friend, Zoe Clarke.”
A sugary sweet book. A little bit cliche’ and stupid at times, but a really cute read as well.
“This is the strangest thing, but I think you’re going to be my best friend, Zoe Clarke.”
A sugary sweet book. A little bit cliche’ and stupid at times, but a really cute read as well.
October 27, 2021
3.75 stars ⭐️
this book was a little predictable and cliché but fun nonetheless and pls the second hand embarrassment i felt for the h whenever she rambled💀💀💀 rtc (maybe).
this book was a little predictable and cliché but fun nonetheless and pls the second hand embarrassment i felt for the h whenever she rambled💀💀💀 rtc (maybe).
January 2, 2022
Great take on the new adult sports romance!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Romance: 💙💚🖤❤️💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎
Character development: ☺️🤬🥵😘
The heroine: Zoe - a shy college student. Zoe is awkward, uncoordinated and timid. She makes a fool out of herself more often than not, especially around men. She wants to be a professional photographer after college.
The Hero(s): Dylan Reed - a wide receiver for the college football team. Dylan was expected to be drafted into the NFL. He has charisma & confidence and wants to be a pro football player after college.
The Story: Zoe and Dylan meet a few times during their college years and each time, Zoe acted like a bit of a spaz. However, they end up sharing an apartment their last year and spend time talking and getting to know each other.
Zoe tells Dylan she has a boyfriend and Dylan just dumped his girlfriend after finding her with some of his teammates. Zoe has something going on with Mark, the football coach and that is how she got the apartment, Dylan also got the apartment through the coach, who tells Dylan not to mention it to his teammate Chris, who is the coaches son.
I liked this book. There were pretty standard tropes (college sports hero and the nerdy girl, mysterious background and secrets) and I kept thinking I had read this one before though I hadn’t. I knew exactly what was going to happen when Dylan catches his girlfriend and I knew what was going on in the relationship between Zoe and the Coach as well. So I am not sure if the book just had parts that were reminiscent of other books or if I had somehow read it before and it got deleted from my read books.
This one was great in audiobook format. Lidia Dornet read Zoe’s chapters and did a great job. The part of Dylan was read by Alexander Cendese and I love his deep voice. Though I don’t really like his “female” voice when he reads lines that Zoe says. But that doesn’t detract from the enjoyment.
These two characters become friends before they get involved. It is nice seeing the relationship develop. They talk a lot and spend quite a bit of time together. I also liked the supporting characters, especially Dylan’s football friends.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Romance: 💙💚🖤❤️💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎
Character development: ☺️🤬🥵😘
The heroine: Zoe - a shy college student. Zoe is awkward, uncoordinated and timid. She makes a fool out of herself more often than not, especially around men. She wants to be a professional photographer after college.
The Hero(s): Dylan Reed - a wide receiver for the college football team. Dylan was expected to be drafted into the NFL. He has charisma & confidence and wants to be a pro football player after college.
The Story: Zoe and Dylan meet a few times during their college years and each time, Zoe acted like a bit of a spaz. However, they end up sharing an apartment their last year and spend time talking and getting to know each other.
Zoe tells Dylan she has a boyfriend and Dylan just dumped his girlfriend after finding her with some of his teammates. Zoe has something going on with Mark, the football coach and that is how she got the apartment, Dylan also got the apartment through the coach, who tells Dylan not to mention it to his teammate Chris, who is the coaches son.
I liked this book. There were pretty standard tropes (college sports hero and the nerdy girl, mysterious background and secrets) and I kept thinking I had read this one before though I hadn’t. I knew exactly what was going to happen when Dylan catches his girlfriend and I knew what was going on in the relationship between Zoe and the Coach as well. So I am not sure if the book just had parts that were reminiscent of other books or if I had somehow read it before and it got deleted from my read books.
This one was great in audiobook format. Lidia Dornet read Zoe’s chapters and did a great job. The part of Dylan was read by Alexander Cendese and I love his deep voice. Though I don’t really like his “female” voice when he reads lines that Zoe says. But that doesn’t detract from the enjoyment.
These two characters become friends before they get involved. It is nice seeing the relationship develop. They talk a lot and spend quite a bit of time together. I also liked the supporting characters, especially Dylan’s football friends.
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October 27, 2021
It took Dylan and Zoe three years to finally be together, and when I say this I mean, same room and place and to finally have a conversation that was long over due.
They met at a frat party and 3 years later, they're roommates. Zoe and Dylan were destined to be together, my heart when Dylan claimed her as a best friend from the beginning.
“I tucked my hands in my front pockets. “This is the strangest thing, but I think you’re going to be my best friend, Zoe Clarke.”
Also, I love Zoe but man she rambles a lot, part of her quirky, shy personality.
“She lifted her shoulder and gave me a half shrug. “Food makes me happy, pizza especially.”
Who doesn’t love pizza?
The friendship between JP, Chris, and Dylan reminded me of the Off Campus football characters. Plus they're football players, what not to love?
It was kind of a slow burn, they didn’t have their first kiss till later, say, half way mark.
“How could you not come after me?” I croaked.
“I’m an idiot. What’s your excuse?”
I smiled and let my forehead drop to her shoulder.
“You’ve called me an idiot a few times tonight, so I’m guessing I’m your other half, just as big of an idiot, if not bigger.”
“Then we’re perfect for each other, huh?”
The most simple apology on ✨miscommunication ✨my favorite idiots 🥰
“I love you too, Flash. On and off the field, you’re my hardest fall. No one has ever compared, and no one ever will. It was always going to be you for me.”
HOW CUTE! He calls her flash because when he saw her again the second time on campus, she ran like a Flash 🤣
At Mark: disgusting man. I should also add her mom was at fault too.
In conclusion, I finished this book with a big fat smile on my face. There was happy and beautiful epilogue at the end.
April 20, 2018
I fucking LOVED it. I LOVED LOVED LOVED LOVEDDDDD it. Gah. Going to try to come up with a review soon, but holy slow burn, totally the most delicious torture. Dylan and Zoe killed me in the BEST way. And man, the sweetness. DEAD OVER THEM.
January 19, 2022
4,5 Sterne
Wow das war eins der besten New Adult Bücher, die ich in letzter Zeit gelesen habe. Ich habe zwar auch ein zwei Kritikpunkte, aber das Buch ist trotzdem ein Highlight für mich gewesen. Einfach eine meisterhafte Slow Burn Sports/College Lovestory mit zwei grandiosen Protagonisten!
Zu Beginn machen wir mehrere Zeitsprünge, was mich zuerst hat zweifeln lassen, auch weil Slow Burn eigentlich nicht mein bevorzugtes Trope ist. Aber die Geschichte beginnt einfach schon witzig und lebt auch im weiteren Verlauf so sehr von diesem grandiosen Humor, der genau meinen Geschmack getroffen hat.
Die Kapitel werden abwechselnd aus Zoes und Dylans Sicht erzählt, wobei ich vor allem Dylans POV mochte. Aber auch Zoe ist einem als Leser von Anfang an sympathisch. Ich konnte mich so gut mit ihr identifizieren. Und die Chemie zwischen den beiden? Holla die Waldfee! Komplett realistisch und prickelnd und bewegend zugleich!
Kommen wir nun zu meinen Kritikpunkten: zum einen hätte es für mich zum Beispiel das Drama zum Ende des Buches gar nicht gebraucht, damit die Geschichte grandios ist. Das hat sie mir eher ein wenig verdorben, weil es so unnötig war und gar nicht zum vorigen Verhalten von Zoe und Dylan gepasst hat.
Mein zweiter Kritikpunkt gilt nicht per se dem Buch, sondern eher der Autorin/dem Verlag. Es gibt hier einen Handlungsstrang, der sehr triggernd für viele Leser*innen sein kann. Daher hätte ich hier eine Triggerwarnung wirklich zu schätzen gewusst!
Abgesehen davon war "The Hardest Fall" wirklich ein Highlight für mich und gehört zu den wenigen New Adult Romanen, die ich irgendwann noch einmal lesen möchte, einfach um nocheinmal diese Chemie und diese Kribbeln zu spüren und über Zoe und Dylan zu lachen. Gerne mehr von der Autorin, denn auch der Schreibstil war wirklich wirklich gut!
Wow das war eins der besten New Adult Bücher, die ich in letzter Zeit gelesen habe. Ich habe zwar auch ein zwei Kritikpunkte, aber das Buch ist trotzdem ein Highlight für mich gewesen. Einfach eine meisterhafte Slow Burn Sports/College Lovestory mit zwei grandiosen Protagonisten!
Zu Beginn machen wir mehrere Zeitsprünge, was mich zuerst hat zweifeln lassen, auch weil Slow Burn eigentlich nicht mein bevorzugtes Trope ist. Aber die Geschichte beginnt einfach schon witzig und lebt auch im weiteren Verlauf so sehr von diesem grandiosen Humor, der genau meinen Geschmack getroffen hat.
Die Kapitel werden abwechselnd aus Zoes und Dylans Sicht erzählt, wobei ich vor allem Dylans POV mochte. Aber auch Zoe ist einem als Leser von Anfang an sympathisch. Ich konnte mich so gut mit ihr identifizieren. Und die Chemie zwischen den beiden? Holla die Waldfee! Komplett realistisch und prickelnd und bewegend zugleich!
Kommen wir nun zu meinen Kritikpunkten: zum einen hätte es für mich zum Beispiel das Drama zum Ende des Buches gar nicht gebraucht, damit die Geschichte grandios ist. Das hat sie mir eher ein wenig verdorben, weil es so unnötig war und gar nicht zum vorigen Verhalten von Zoe und Dylan gepasst hat.
Mein zweiter Kritikpunkt gilt nicht per se dem Buch, sondern eher der Autorin/dem Verlag. Es gibt hier einen Handlungsstrang, der sehr triggernd für viele Leser*innen sein kann. Daher hätte ich hier eine Triggerwarnung wirklich zu schätzen gewusst!
Abgesehen davon war "The Hardest Fall" wirklich ein Highlight für mich und gehört zu den wenigen New Adult Romanen, die ich irgendwann noch einmal lesen möchte, einfach um nocheinmal diese Chemie und diese Kribbeln zu spüren und über Zoe und Dylan zu lachen. Gerne mehr von der Autorin, denn auch der Schreibstil war wirklich wirklich gut!
April 19, 2018
*4.5 stars*
Loved this book!
Dylan and Zoe are perfect for each other. I really liked that they were friends before lovers. Their sexual tension was off the charts and I really enjoyed the slow burn. When they finally get together it was so hot!
I loved Dylan. He’s such a great guy and loves Zoe unconditionally. He embraces her quirks and accepts her just as she is. Zoe is amazing too. She’s shy but so fun! I truly loved them as a couple.
This was a great friends to lovers sports romance. I swooned, laughed and overall had a great time reading it. This was my first book by this author but it sure won’t be my last. Highly recommend it!
Loved this book!
Dylan and Zoe are perfect for each other. I really liked that they were friends before lovers. Their sexual tension was off the charts and I really enjoyed the slow burn. When they finally get together it was so hot!
I loved Dylan. He’s such a great guy and loves Zoe unconditionally. He embraces her quirks and accepts her just as she is. Zoe is amazing too. She’s shy but so fun! I truly loved them as a couple.
This was a great friends to lovers sports romance. I swooned, laughed and overall had a great time reading it. This was my first book by this author but it sure won’t be my last. Highly recommend it!
June 10, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Not bad, but a bit boring*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
The book centers around Zoe ‘Flash’ Clarke (21), who is an art major focused in photography (she also take photos to make extra money) and Dylan Reed, who in his final year of College, one of the hotshots from the football team, the star wide receiver who was apparently one of the few players expected to make it into the NFL, and that made him pretty popular around campus. Zoe walked in on Dylan taking a piss in her freshman year. She asked him if they could kiss because of a bet put on Zoe. Unfortunately, Dylan said he had a girlfriend and Zoe practically ran out. That was the first time they met.
The first time I’d parted ways with him, I’d done so with tears running down my face from the humiliation and shame. This time…this time I had all the smiles in the world.
Though it’s a big campus, but not big enough for Zoe to avoid him forever. A year later is the second time they meet and Zoe has a boyfriend. Third time they meet, another year later, both are single at the same time. Dylan was expected to be drafted in the top twenty, so that's his focus, but he had no idea that a third time was a charm. Overall, the book was cute; it definitely had me smiling, and it also had me teary at some point. However, not much happened and it was pretty predictable.
“I’ll catch you when you land, Flash. Just don’t take too much time, because I’m already there, impatiently waiting for you.”
Other characters:
I've put these in a spoilers tag simply because it's a long list; contains spoilers
“Cat person or dog person?”
“Dog person. Cats…they kind of scare me, not the kittens or the cuddly ones, but I don’t like how some of them focus on you like they’re plotting ways to kill you. You know what I mean? It’s not all of them, but still. I’m a dog person all the way. You?”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (New Adult) Contemorary Romance.
Series: - Standalone.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Dylan Reed.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably not.
Rating - 3.5/3 stars.
September 3, 2018
★★★★★ 5 Stars ★★★★★
My guilty pleasure as a woman in her forties, is college sports romance. Add slow burn to the mix and I will devour this trope like there's no tomorrow.
This was my first novel by Ella Maise, and I am extremely excited to read her future works if this is anything to go by, the writing was phenomenal! I was gripped, I became so attached to these characters and their struggles. I literally couldn't keep the smile off my face whilst reading this.
Dylan is the star of the Football team who's main priority is his future career and the upcoming draft. He absolutely cannot have any distractions so it's quite unfortunate that Zoe is introduced as his new roommate. She is going through a lot of emotional turmoil, but she can't help but hope for a future where she can be a normal college girl doing normal things. When they become the best of friends, Zoe feels safe with Dylan and they form a great relationship, despite her secrets and issues.
Whilst this story starts off as fun and sweet, it transitions into something quite serious and moving.
A perfect sports romance in my humble opinion.
The Hardest Fall is a standalone contemporary romance, told from first person dual POV.
My guilty pleasure as a woman in her forties, is college sports romance. Add slow burn to the mix and I will devour this trope like there's no tomorrow.
This was my first novel by Ella Maise, and I am extremely excited to read her future works if this is anything to go by, the writing was phenomenal! I was gripped, I became so attached to these characters and their struggles. I literally couldn't keep the smile off my face whilst reading this.
Dylan is the star of the Football team who's main priority is his future career and the upcoming draft. He absolutely cannot have any distractions so it's quite unfortunate that Zoe is introduced as his new roommate. She is going through a lot of emotional turmoil, but she can't help but hope for a future where she can be a normal college girl doing normal things. When they become the best of friends, Zoe feels safe with Dylan and they form a great relationship, despite her secrets and issues.
Whilst this story starts off as fun and sweet, it transitions into something quite serious and moving.
A perfect sports romance in my humble opinion.
The Hardest Fall is a standalone contemporary romance, told from first person dual POV.
April 19, 2018
I finished this book about three days ago, and I want to go back and start it again. Right now. Is that normal?
We all read romance because of the hero, am I right ladies? Alright, well, most of the time, that is. There's story. The imagination. And you're darn tootin I read for the hero too. The hero in The Hardest Fall... *SWOON*! Like swoon until I melt, sort of swoon. Dylan was just amazing, and the perfect match for Zoe. Not only was he sweet, and sensible, but he had a good head on his shoulders. He knew what was important in life, from having a hard work ethic, to dedication, to loyalty, and these shone through in everything he did.
Zoe was an interesting heroine to read. I feel like some people may be a little turned off by her at the beginning, but she mellows significantly so I beg you to persevere. Ultimately, she's shy and tends to ramble, but it's cute. She's fun, and quirky, and knows what she wants out of life and from those around her. She's unapologetic in who she is, and owns up to her actions. And her huge love of pizza.
The hook in this novel worked extremely well. First chapter was done, and I couldn't even dream of putting this book down! Then the fact that they have not only one, but two missed connections? I needed to see how this was going to play out. Super smart move by the author too. In just a few short chapters, she built depth, desire, longing, and anticipation between this couple. I couldn't wait to see when and how it would all come about!
This book is a far cry from their average "football star falls for the nerdy girl" type of trope. It was fresh and unique. Zoe had quirks, but she was also strong willed and independent. Dylan, yes, is a star player on the team, but he's also sweet, and genuine. He protected his relationship and friendship with Zoe, letting it blossom. He was a hard worker, and didn't care what others thought of him or his choices. Even before the romantic elements, I loved the friendship between these two.
I'm a huge fan of slow burn romances these days, and I think this is probably one of my favourites. Other than Mariana Zapata, I've had a hard time finding a good slow burn that I'm actually invested in, but not anymore! I apparently need to check out Ella Maise and her previous work. So why do I love slow burn do you ask? It feels more genuine to me. The characters getting to know each other, exploring their chemistry, the (as its name suggests) burn that grows between them. I love the small moments, the stolen glances and the accidental touches. Everything between this couple was subtle as it grew, and I appreciated that a whole lot. They started as friends, but even based on how they first met each other, you know there's no way they can stay just friends. Even small things that happened between them like say, a minor misunderstanding or miscommunication, and the characters show you exactly what they're feeling and how their relationship has grown based on their reactions to the situation. Watching their relationship build was definitely the highlight of my week (does this make me sound pathetic? LOL) and I keep going back to it even after I've finished the last page. This is the type of book I'll want to reread over and over again.
I'm sad that it's time to let here two go, but I won't let me get far. The Hardest Fall is my favourite read of 2018, and I can't wait to go back and read some of Ella's past stories! This author caught my attention and is going to be on my radar for a long time. Can't wait for the next one!
*An ARC was received in exchange for n honest review.
We all read romance because of the hero, am I right ladies? Alright, well, most of the time, that is. There's story. The imagination. And you're darn tootin I read for the hero too. The hero in The Hardest Fall... *SWOON*! Like swoon until I melt, sort of swoon. Dylan was just amazing, and the perfect match for Zoe. Not only was he sweet, and sensible, but he had a good head on his shoulders. He knew what was important in life, from having a hard work ethic, to dedication, to loyalty, and these shone through in everything he did.
Zoe was an interesting heroine to read. I feel like some people may be a little turned off by her at the beginning, but she mellows significantly so I beg you to persevere. Ultimately, she's shy and tends to ramble, but it's cute. She's fun, and quirky, and knows what she wants out of life and from those around her. She's unapologetic in who she is, and owns up to her actions. And her huge love of pizza.
The hook in this novel worked extremely well. First chapter was done, and I couldn't even dream of putting this book down! Then the fact that they have not only one, but two missed connections? I needed to see how this was going to play out. Super smart move by the author too. In just a few short chapters, she built depth, desire, longing, and anticipation between this couple. I couldn't wait to see when and how it would all come about!
This book is a far cry from their average "football star falls for the nerdy girl" type of trope. It was fresh and unique. Zoe had quirks, but she was also strong willed and independent. Dylan, yes, is a star player on the team, but he's also sweet, and genuine. He protected his relationship and friendship with Zoe, letting it blossom. He was a hard worker, and didn't care what others thought of him or his choices. Even before the romantic elements, I loved the friendship between these two.
I'm a huge fan of slow burn romances these days, and I think this is probably one of my favourites. Other than Mariana Zapata, I've had a hard time finding a good slow burn that I'm actually invested in, but not anymore! I apparently need to check out Ella Maise and her previous work. So why do I love slow burn do you ask? It feels more genuine to me. The characters getting to know each other, exploring their chemistry, the (as its name suggests) burn that grows between them. I love the small moments, the stolen glances and the accidental touches. Everything between this couple was subtle as it grew, and I appreciated that a whole lot. They started as friends, but even based on how they first met each other, you know there's no way they can stay just friends. Even small things that happened between them like say, a minor misunderstanding or miscommunication, and the characters show you exactly what they're feeling and how their relationship has grown based on their reactions to the situation. Watching their relationship build was definitely the highlight of my week (does this make me sound pathetic? LOL) and I keep going back to it even after I've finished the last page. This is the type of book I'll want to reread over and over again.
I'm sad that it's time to let here two go, but I won't let me get far. The Hardest Fall is my favourite read of 2018, and I can't wait to go back and read some of Ella's past stories! This author caught my attention and is going to be on my radar for a long time. Can't wait for the next one!
*An ARC was received in exchange for n honest review.
May 5, 2023
Do you know sometimes you have those hit-or-miss authors? Where once in a while they write books so good that it makes you squeal into your pillow or hold back your tears?? And then you binge-read them and stumble upon a book so bad you need to physically pull yourself through it??? Then you stop reading them for a while although you have like 3 more books you bought when you were on that binge-read fest. But one day while cleaning your cupboard, you find a book of theirs and think "Maybe I'll give it another chance"? Then surprisingly, the author does well and you end up liking her all over again and you pull out the rest of her books to read. I don't know about you but that is exactly what happened to me.
Ella Maite captured my heart from Marriage to One. I've read it three times already and if someone tells me if I want to reread it tomorrow, I will. In all honesty, I really love that book. But after the mess that was Jason Thorne, I gave up on her. Thorne made me almost (if possible) reach through the book and strangle him. Actually, I wanted to strangle Olive for being a stupid idiot more than him. Well, they are not the subject of the review here but Zoe and Dylan. Generally as a rule I stay away from college romance. It seems so immature now. Which is funny because five years ago I would have said the same for YA and I would say NA is my favourite genre. So I was somewhat unsure if I would like a college romance but nonetheless, nostalgia hit me and I wanted to read an Ella Maise book. I have to thank my lucky stars for that wave of nostalgia hitting me because boy I am glad that I picked this book.
It follows your typical recipe for the NA-football-quiet girl trope but something about Ms Maise's writing really hits your heart. There were not many twists and turns and it was your typical fall-in-love-alpha male mannerism popping-out story. We have the gorgeous but completely clueless girl who manages to catch the attention of the biggest football player on campus and he gets intrigued by her. Your typical college romance right? But what made me actually like this one was the way they fell in love. We don't get the instant love in this but we see them gradually falling for each other. I would be lying if I say lust does not play a part in romance and sometimes it's the looks that catch our attention. So I really like how this story did not try to hide it but rather explained it in a way that sounded more realistic than trying to sugarcoat it. The misunderstanding was expected and for the first time, I am actually siding with both sides and not throwing the blame for miscommunication. If I was in either one of their shoes, I would have done the same. I am glad it wasn't dragged out and the reconciliation was not done in an overly-cringe manner. It was a perfect ending for the book.
Although in the beginning, I did say that this book might change my mind about Ella Raise once again, I am not running to read the rest of her books. I am not planning on jinxing it and also I have two books in my mind that I want to read next. Still I am glad I picked this one out of the rest of the Ella Maise books that I had in my cupboard. With that, off to the next adventure I am.
Ella Maite captured my heart from Marriage to One. I've read it three times already and if someone tells me if I want to reread it tomorrow, I will. In all honesty, I really love that book. But after the mess that was Jason Thorne, I gave up on her. Thorne made me almost (if possible) reach through the book and strangle him. Actually, I wanted to strangle Olive for being a stupid idiot more than him. Well, they are not the subject of the review here but Zoe and Dylan. Generally as a rule I stay away from college romance. It seems so immature now. Which is funny because five years ago I would have said the same for YA and I would say NA is my favourite genre. So I was somewhat unsure if I would like a college romance but nonetheless, nostalgia hit me and I wanted to read an Ella Maise book. I have to thank my lucky stars for that wave of nostalgia hitting me because boy I am glad that I picked this book.
It follows your typical recipe for the NA-football-quiet girl trope but something about Ms Maise's writing really hits your heart. There were not many twists and turns and it was your typical fall-in-love-alpha male mannerism popping-out story. We have the gorgeous but completely clueless girl who manages to catch the attention of the biggest football player on campus and he gets intrigued by her. Your typical college romance right? But what made me actually like this one was the way they fell in love. We don't get the instant love in this but we see them gradually falling for each other. I would be lying if I say lust does not play a part in romance and sometimes it's the looks that catch our attention. So I really like how this story did not try to hide it but rather explained it in a way that sounded more realistic than trying to sugarcoat it. The misunderstanding was expected and for the first time, I am actually siding with both sides and not throwing the blame for miscommunication. If I was in either one of their shoes, I would have done the same. I am glad it wasn't dragged out and the reconciliation was not done in an overly-cringe manner. It was a perfect ending for the book.
Although in the beginning, I did say that this book might change my mind about Ella Raise once again, I am not running to read the rest of her books. I am not planning on jinxing it and also I have two books in my mind that I want to read next. Still I am glad I picked this one out of the rest of the Ella Maise books that I had in my cupboard. With that, off to the next adventure I am.
April 15, 2018
I discovered Ella Maise this month and devoured To Love Jason Thorn and To Hate Adam Conner in just two days. I was obsessed with her writing style and gave both books a 5 star.
Fortunately for me, I didnt have to wait the almost two years that everyone else did for a new release from this author. Phewww! I was kicking myself for taking this long to discover her but now im just grateful.
After devouring those two books I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of The Hardest Fall and I literally freaked TF out. I was anxiously awaiting the release and then BAM! It was sitting pretty on my kindle. With this book being a NA Sports Romance (My Fave) I was overjoyed and predicted that The Hardest Fall would top TLJT and THAC for me.
It started off strong. I was hooked in immedietely from the very first sentence. I couldnt wipe the stupid grin off my face as I read it. Dylan was drool worthy and Zoe.... bless her heart. She was as awkward as I am in IRL and I was so dang embarrased for her half of the time.
But something happened about 10% in that threw my game off and left me confused AF. It just didnt make sense and left me angry! I wont lie, I was tempted to put the book down and be done with it cause how could the author do that to me?! I was told to push through it, that it would all work itself out in the end.
Im so happy I was told that and I now recommend the same to you guys. DONT GIVE UP! No matter what!
There was so much drama happening between these pages and HOLY PLOT TWIST BATMAN!! Ella got me good! That lil devil 😫 I really loved the chemistry between Dylan and Zoe, I just wished there were more scenes with them to gobble up. For a slow burn romance I was left wanting more. The drama was fun and all but I felt like it overshadowed the relationship between the two main characters. Between the drama and their busy schedules, they barely saw eachother and it broke my damn heart, cause like I said I wanted more. I predicted this would be my absolute fave by Ella Maise and although I did really enjoy it, enough to give it a 4 star it just didnt compare to TLJT and THAC for me.
Im so freaking excited she is back in the writing game and I cant wait to see what she comes up with next. My finger is already itching for that one click so please Hurry up with another book, kai thankssss xo
Fortunately for me, I didnt have to wait the almost two years that everyone else did for a new release from this author. Phewww! I was kicking myself for taking this long to discover her but now im just grateful.
After devouring those two books I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of The Hardest Fall and I literally freaked TF out. I was anxiously awaiting the release and then BAM! It was sitting pretty on my kindle. With this book being a NA Sports Romance (My Fave) I was overjoyed and predicted that The Hardest Fall would top TLJT and THAC for me.
It started off strong. I was hooked in immedietely from the very first sentence. I couldnt wipe the stupid grin off my face as I read it. Dylan was drool worthy and Zoe.... bless her heart. She was as awkward as I am in IRL and I was so dang embarrased for her half of the time.
But something happened about 10% in that threw my game off and left me confused AF. It just didnt make sense and left me angry! I wont lie, I was tempted to put the book down and be done with it cause how could the author do that to me?! I was told to push through it, that it would all work itself out in the end.
Im so happy I was told that and I now recommend the same to you guys. DONT GIVE UP! No matter what!
There was so much drama happening between these pages and HOLY PLOT TWIST BATMAN!! Ella got me good! That lil devil 😫 I really loved the chemistry between Dylan and Zoe, I just wished there were more scenes with them to gobble up. For a slow burn romance I was left wanting more. The drama was fun and all but I felt like it overshadowed the relationship between the two main characters. Between the drama and their busy schedules, they barely saw eachother and it broke my damn heart, cause like I said I wanted more. I predicted this would be my absolute fave by Ella Maise and although I did really enjoy it, enough to give it a 4 star it just didnt compare to TLJT and THAC for me.
Im so freaking excited she is back in the writing game and I cant wait to see what she comes up with next. My finger is already itching for that one click so please Hurry up with another book, kai thankssss xo
March 11, 2023
These two 🖤🥺
April 24, 2018
Dylan and Zoe are a testament to there being a right time for everything. Though their attraction has always been there, it wasn’t the right time until it was.
This cute story was the perfect return for Ella Maise after an absence from the writing scene. It’s a slow burn, which I don’t always enjoy, but this additional time was definitely worth the build up of the relationship.
Individually, I really liked how Dylan was structured. He had a good balance between sweet and sexy with maturity. Zoe was not my favorite heroine, unfortunately. The babbling droned on a little too long for my tastes at times. She was funny, though. Her total awkwardness also made her endearing. All in all an enjoyable read.
Safety: There were others in between their interactions. No others after they get together. No rape or abuse.
Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
This cute story was the perfect return for Ella Maise after an absence from the writing scene. It’s a slow burn, which I don’t always enjoy, but this additional time was definitely worth the build up of the relationship.
Individually, I really liked how Dylan was structured. He had a good balance between sweet and sexy with maturity. Zoe was not my favorite heroine, unfortunately. The babbling droned on a little too long for my tastes at times. She was funny, though. Her total awkwardness also made her endearing. All in all an enjoyable read.
Safety: There were others in between their interactions. No others after they get together. No rape or abuse.
Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
Read
September 3, 2021Well well, if it isn’t the consequences of my own actions…
I set myself up with this one.
At 30% I went to see people’s ratings and I read a big ass spoiler in the preview of their review 😀😀
I continued reading thinking it wasn’t that big of a deal, but the book revolved around that spoiler 😀😀
I would have rated it 2 stars, but it’s unfair since it was my own fault I ruined the experience🥲
I set myself up with this one.
At 30% I went to see people’s ratings and I read a big ass spoiler in the preview of their review 😀😀
I continued reading thinking it wasn’t that big of a deal, but the book revolved around that spoiler 😀😀
I would have rated it 2 stars, but it’s unfair since it was my own fault I ruined the experience🥲
July 23, 2020
🌟4.5 'M&M' stars🌟
“On and off the field, you're my hardest fall, Zoe. No one ever compared. No one ever will.”
The Hardest Fall was my second book by Ella Maise after Marriage For One. I loved that book so very much just like this one. Ella Maise had me hooked from the very beginning and had me completing this book in one sitting.
Me the entire time I was reading this book:
And when someone dare interrupt me:
...
Plot:
Zoe and Dylan have an awkward first meeting which leaves Zoe in tears and Dylan wondering about the awkward and blabbering stranger. Both of the times they met the timing wasn't right, but well..
“This is the strangest thing, but I think you’re going to be my best friend, Zoe Clarke.”
The third time they meet isn't any better and is just as awkward and embarrassing as the first two times. Dylan is the wide-receiver on the football time and Zoe is a photographer. Certain events lead them to end up as roommates and they now don't have a choice, but to become (best) friends. Both of them like each other and wanna be more than friends
but Zoe has a lot of things going on and, she has certain priorities and secrets and plans that do not involve Dylan but she can't help but fall for him.
“I’ll catch you when you land, Flash. Just don’t take too much time, because I’m already there, impatiently waiting for you.”
These two made the cutest couple and my heart broke for Zoe, especially toward the end when Mark comes to her place, and says the meanest stuff, after Zoe tells him about telling Dylan. (Don't ask, read this book now!) I loved how the author had given us details about the first two times the MC's met and the character development of both of them. The way they transformed from awkward strangers to (best) friends and so much more was beautiful to witness.
This book made me swoon, cry and laugh out loud. I loved this book so very much and I'm glad I decided to check it out (after ignoring it twice before I know, I know, blasphemy) Anyways if, like me, you enjoy a good, swoon-worthy, NA sports romance, this book is highly recommended!
March 2, 2023
FEMALE RAGE GOT ME GOOD IN THIS ONE 🔥🔥🔥🔥
The "quirkiness" of the heroine didn't really bother me, although at times she seemed either mentally challenged or psychotic. No, that still didn't got to me.
But what really, REALLY pissed me off was the fact that an author, who CLEARLY knows how to write and managed to create this chemistry, tension, banter between the characters; who used the language to convey a beautiful love story STILL chose to break them up due to miscommunication 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬 The set up for this break up went on for chapters, because all they had to do, was to have ONE FUCKING CONVERSATION, but every. single. time. something. stopped. her! Do you know how frustrating it is to shout at the character to JUST OPEN HER MOUTH and say one fucking sentence?
If this would be a meh kind of book, this thing wouldn't bother me so much, but THIS story was great and easily a 5-star read, IF NOT FOR THE STUPID BEHAVIOUR OF THE HEROINE THAT LED TO MISCOMMUNICATION AND BREAK UP. I'm pissed and don't know if I should give it a 4 star rating or be petty and give it a 3😈
The "quirkiness" of the heroine didn't really bother me, although at times she seemed either mentally challenged or psychotic. No, that still didn't got to me.
But what really, REALLY pissed me off was the fact that an author, who CLEARLY knows how to write and managed to create this chemistry, tension, banter between the characters; who used the language to convey a beautiful love story STILL chose to break them up due to miscommunication 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬 The set up for this break up went on for chapters, because all they had to do, was to have ONE FUCKING CONVERSATION, but every. single. time. something. stopped. her! Do you know how frustrating it is to shout at the character to JUST OPEN HER MOUTH and say one fucking sentence?
If this would be a meh kind of book, this thing wouldn't bother me so much, but THIS story was great and easily a 5-star read, IF NOT FOR THE STUPID BEHAVIOUR OF THE HEROINE THAT LED TO MISCOMMUNICATION AND BREAK UP. I'm pissed and don't know if I should give it a 4 star rating or be petty and give it a 3😈
January 8, 2024
4.5 stars
it was an unexpected "Hardest Fall" for me. i could not put the book down, stop laughing, smiling, or make my heart beat slower, it was truly amazing.
i absolutely loved the characters. i loved the craziness and quirks. i loved the banter and everything in between. Dylan Reed is perfection!!! and Zoe Clarke is perfect for him. i saw that some people didn't like Zoe, but i happen to like awkward, zany characters so i was all for her.
i reread this right after i finished reading it the first time, that's to tell you how captivating this read was. it's a must have in your shelf!
it was an unexpected "Hardest Fall" for me. i could not put the book down, stop laughing, smiling, or make my heart beat slower, it was truly amazing.
i absolutely loved the characters. i loved the craziness and quirks. i loved the banter and everything in between. Dylan Reed is perfection!!! and Zoe Clarke is perfect for him. i saw that some people didn't like Zoe, but i happen to like awkward, zany characters so i was all for her.
i reread this right after i finished reading it the first time, that's to tell you how captivating this read was. it's a must have in your shelf!
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