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Beautiful You #1
All for You
“I will breathe for you.”
Some people’s bodies are built to run marathons. Others to lift and labour. And some are made so graceful their footsteps are barely heard.
My body was built to be a vessel. It was always built for you.
Maybelline Connors knows stars are not always as faultless as they appear. She knows life is not permanently concreted into its foundations, and love can last a lifetime … even when a lifetime is shorter than one hoped.
May has only one thing left to fight for: her baby. And when the man you love’s heart is breaking, it can be hard to find the beauty in those stars you once adored.
With life there is love … and with love there will always be life.
Some people’s bodies are built to run marathons. Others to lift and labour. And some are made so graceful their footsteps are barely heard.
My body was built to be a vessel. It was always built for you.
Maybelline Connors knows stars are not always as faultless as they appear. She knows life is not permanently concreted into its foundations, and love can last a lifetime … even when a lifetime is shorter than one hoped.
May has only one thing left to fight for: her baby. And when the man you love’s heart is breaking, it can be hard to find the beauty in those stars you once adored.
With life there is love … and with love there will always be life.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2017
103 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
About the author
Belle Brooks
25 books564 followersBelle Brooks is the International bestselling author of seven novels and multiple novellas. She lives out in the country of Queensland with her incredibly tolerant and crazy family. She writes contemporary romance, romantic comedy and contemporary women's fiction ranging from young adult to adult audiences. She also writes crime and psychological thrillers.
MISS NOT TOGETHER, Belle's next full-length novel, is set to release February 10th, 2019. It is now available for preorder.
MISTER UNO, Belle's next short story, is set to release January 25th, 2019. It is now available for preorder.
For more information and for a schedule of events, please visit bellebrooksauthor.com.
To contact Belle, please email bellebrooksauthor@gmail.com
MISS NOT TOGETHER, Belle's next full-length novel, is set to release February 10th, 2019. It is now available for preorder.
MISTER UNO, Belle's next short story, is set to release January 25th, 2019. It is now available for preorder.
For more information and for a schedule of events, please visit bellebrooksauthor.com.
To contact Belle, please email bellebrooksauthor@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
July 28, 2019
I am kind of speechless about Always You by Belle Brooks even after days I am not sure what to say about this book that would not give away anything on this story.
I could voice my thoughts on how this reminds me of two books I read by accident - but mentioning the titles would result in 90% of all people knowing facts about this story as both books have been made into movies lately and many people know them.
Even bringing up another author to compare would give away to much so – no – you will be going into this book as blind as I did. With only one fair warning that I did not get. And that is : “Have tissues ready” – that’s it.
The story is written wonderful with great characters. As for the plot … the decisions that the leads make are very personal and private so to discuss if they are right or wrong is not something that can be done by a reviewer.
I feel it is one of the rare cases that you will have to go with the story even If I do not fully agree on everything. Which is also the reason why I could only give 4 instead of 5 stars even if I had enough tears to “cry me a river” while reading.
So yeah – great story – well written but with an emotional warning sign from my side because of a very tough subject.
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July 28, 2019
Sometimes when you read a book, you get a couple of pages in and you stop, put it down and just stare at the wall thinking, "Oh please no. She can't do that. She just can't."
This book was that for me.
I got a couple of chapters in and had to stop. I didn't want to know the answer. I couldn't. I knew, that if I turned the page and what I thought was going to happen, did in fact happen, I knew this book would break my heart.
It didn't break my heart - it shattered it. Into a million tiny fragments.
For me, All For You wasn't really about what was happening to May, but what was happening to those who loved her. Her husband Willard, her best friend Gem, even her crafty mother. It was the relationship with her father though that reduced me to a blubbering mess. There's something special about the relationship between a girl and her Daddy and Brooks did an amazing job of bringing that right to the front. After I finished reading, put the book down, wiped away the tears (cleaned up the required chocolate wrappers) all I wanted to do was grab hold of my own Dad and tell him I loved him
Brooks is evil. This book is designed to make you feel everything all at once, reconsider what's going on in your own life and how that can change at the drop of a hat. All For You has a "Bucket list" and after reading this book, once you recover, you'll be convinced you need one to because you never know what tomorrow may bring.
I would whole heartedly recommend this #UGLYCRY book
This book was that for me.
I got a couple of chapters in and had to stop. I didn't want to know the answer. I couldn't. I knew, that if I turned the page and what I thought was going to happen, did in fact happen, I knew this book would break my heart.
It didn't break my heart - it shattered it. Into a million tiny fragments.
For me, All For You wasn't really about what was happening to May, but what was happening to those who loved her. Her husband Willard, her best friend Gem, even her crafty mother. It was the relationship with her father though that reduced me to a blubbering mess. There's something special about the relationship between a girl and her Daddy and Brooks did an amazing job of bringing that right to the front. After I finished reading, put the book down, wiped away the tears (cleaned up the required chocolate wrappers) all I wanted to do was grab hold of my own Dad and tell him I loved him
Brooks is evil. This book is designed to make you feel everything all at once, reconsider what's going on in your own life and how that can change at the drop of a hat. All For You has a "Bucket list" and after reading this book, once you recover, you'll be convinced you need one to because you never know what tomorrow may bring.
I would whole heartedly recommend this #UGLYCRY book
September 28, 2018
I received this beauty as a "Super Secret Book Blind Date" from the Facebook group "Quirky Blind Date With A Book". So I could say I received an ARC but I did not know who wrote it, what it's name was and what it's about. I dove in totally clueless which was a weird but great experience especially with such a wonderful book.
As I've never read a book of Belle Brooks before, I wasn't able to figure it out, so I did some online research after finishing this book. I am quite amazed how Belle's character come so easily alive in my imagination and how softly she pushed my emotional buttons through the whole book. I'm looking forward reading more from Belle!
"A mother's love is never lost because it beats with the heart of her child"
Always you was my first ugly cry this year and I didn't expect one so soon. This story is heartbreaking and breathtakingly beautiful! It was so easy to love May and Will, to feel deeply with and for them. Although the topic is not an easy one, the book captured me between being entertained and making me cry my eyes out.
"Always and forever, no matter the weather"
There are so many things I loved about this story and it's characters, I guess I won't be able to write about all of them. But let me try to mention three of them:
1. Each character mentioned in this book will grow to you, even if they are only mentioned briefly.
2. It's amazing how Will and May grow together with each day. How they try to handle things and being there for each other. You feel like you can touch the love which those two share.
3. How family and friends stick together, how they deal with the whole situation and do everything they can to make all things happen.
""It was always you" There would have never been another choice I would have made."
One more thing: The blurb doesn't do justice - Honestly I am not sure if I would have read this book, if I only discovered it here on goodreads. But I am more than happy that I read it and if you are a little like me and wouldn't read it because of the description, here my recommendation: GO FOR IT - you won't regret it! Promise! But keep your tissues ready :)
""Will you still love me tomorrow?" "and everyday after, every single day.""
As I've never read a book of Belle Brooks before, I wasn't able to figure it out, so I did some online research after finishing this book. I am quite amazed how Belle's character come so easily alive in my imagination and how softly she pushed my emotional buttons through the whole book. I'm looking forward reading more from Belle!
"A mother's love is never lost because it beats with the heart of her child"
Always you was my first ugly cry this year and I didn't expect one so soon. This story is heartbreaking and breathtakingly beautiful! It was so easy to love May and Will, to feel deeply with and for them. Although the topic is not an easy one, the book captured me between being entertained and making me cry my eyes out.
"Always and forever, no matter the weather"
There are so many things I loved about this story and it's characters, I guess I won't be able to write about all of them. But let me try to mention three of them:
1. Each character mentioned in this book will grow to you, even if they are only mentioned briefly.
2. It's amazing how Will and May grow together with each day. How they try to handle things and being there for each other. You feel like you can touch the love which those two share.
3. How family and friends stick together, how they deal with the whole situation and do everything they can to make all things happen.
""It was always you" There would have never been another choice I would have made."
One more thing: The blurb doesn't do justice - Honestly I am not sure if I would have read this book, if I only discovered it here on goodreads. But I am more than happy that I read it and if you are a little like me and wouldn't read it because of the description, here my recommendation: GO FOR IT - you won't regret it! Promise! But keep your tissues ready :)
""Will you still love me tomorrow?" "and everyday after, every single day.""
January 16, 2017
It's taken me a week to write this review and I don't think I can do this book justice. The story absolutely shattered me. For anyone who has lost a family member or loved one to Cancer this story will be a trigger for you. It was an emotional ugly cry that I needed -- just not on public transport.
I received this book as a mystery book from 'Quirky Blind Date with a Book', no cover, no author and no blurb. If I had any idea, then who knows if I'd be brave enough to read it..my loss as I'm sure glad I did.
I'm not telling you the story as I don't want to spoil it. Just know this is my book of the year, a story that embedded itself deep into my heart. Such a fantastic introduction to an author for me, all I knew was by the story that she was Aussie and I was so proud (like a mum proud lol) Google helped me find this author and I can't wait to follow her journey of future books.
I received this book as a mystery book from 'Quirky Blind Date with a Book', no cover, no author and no blurb. If I had any idea, then who knows if I'd be brave enough to read it..my loss as I'm sure glad I did.
I'm not telling you the story as I don't want to spoil it. Just know this is my book of the year, a story that embedded itself deep into my heart. Such a fantastic introduction to an author for me, all I knew was by the story that she was Aussie and I was so proud (like a mum proud lol) Google helped me find this author and I can't wait to follow her journey of future books.
June 21, 2018
This deserves more than 5 stars.
Absolutely beautifully written. Wonderful characters.
Normal people living normal lives. Until they aren't. Then you see what family and friends are all about.
I don't want to spoil this story and give spoilers, but you will need tissues, and lots of them.
MUST READ BOOK!
Absolutely beautifully written. Wonderful characters.
Normal people living normal lives. Until they aren't. Then you see what family and friends are all about.
I don't want to spoil this story and give spoilers, but you will need tissues, and lots of them.
MUST READ BOOK!
February 3, 2017
TJ gave this one 5 stars...it gave her a book hangover, big time! Go to Scandalicious Book Reviews to see her full, spoiler free, review:
http://bit.ly/2l0DyFN
http://bit.ly/2l0DyFN
February 25, 2017
I dont know what to say.
This book left me in pieces.. I cried my eyes out for most of the book.
I really dont know what else to say... But if you feel like crying.. This is the book to read..
This book left me in pieces.. I cried my eyes out for most of the book.
I really dont know what else to say... But if you feel like crying.. This is the book to read..
February 7, 2017
☆☆☆☆☆
~Lynzi~
My heart is left weeping. My soul is left crushed. My eyes are left teary and swollen.
'“It was always you.” There would have never been another choice I would have made.'
'A mother’s love is never lost because it beats with the heart of her child.'
'In life there is love and in love there will always be life. I know this now to be the truth.'
This one is easily explained. It's a story that portrays one of life's most simplest things, a mother's love for her child. A mother willing to do the most selfless thing, give her life for her child. But this story also go beyond that. It's about a love that started young and grew to know amazing heights.
I was so touched by Maybelline and Willard's love. They have an amazingly beautiful love story. Even though some of it is pretty devastating, their love overcame so much. Going through one of life's toughest situations, they continue to hold on to their love, which is inspiring.
This book touched me so much. It takes a lot to make me cry, and this book did. I definitely wasnt excepting this book to be like this. But I loved ever second of it. So beautifully written. So amazingly done.
~Lynzi~
My heart is left weeping. My soul is left crushed. My eyes are left teary and swollen.
'“It was always you.” There would have never been another choice I would have made.'
'A mother’s love is never lost because it beats with the heart of her child.'
'In life there is love and in love there will always be life. I know this now to be the truth.'
This one is easily explained. It's a story that portrays one of life's most simplest things, a mother's love for her child. A mother willing to do the most selfless thing, give her life for her child. But this story also go beyond that. It's about a love that started young and grew to know amazing heights.
I was so touched by Maybelline and Willard's love. They have an amazingly beautiful love story. Even though some of it is pretty devastating, their love overcame so much. Going through one of life's toughest situations, they continue to hold on to their love, which is inspiring.
This book touched me so much. It takes a lot to make me cry, and this book did. I definitely wasnt excepting this book to be like this. But I loved ever second of it. So beautifully written. So amazingly done.
February 14, 2017
I probably should have read something a little more lighthearted after finishing A Thousand Boy Kisses but after receiving this as a gift from the author and seeing ALL the amazing reviews I had to make it my next read.
What an amazing story! A real punch to the feels....all of them!! I lived the Fuck-It Bucket List right along side them with the way this story was written. Belle Brooks seriously captured every emotion May and Will experienced and you felt it.
What an amazing story! A real punch to the feels....all of them!! I lived the Fuck-It Bucket List right along side them with the way this story was written. Belle Brooks seriously captured every emotion May and Will experienced and you felt it.
March 21, 2017
WOW...
THIS. BOOK. BROKE. MY. HEART!!
I didn't think I would make it through this book. I cried and cried and cried and ..... T.T
This was one of the most beautiful and most heartbreaking love stories I have ever read...
This book is so beautiful, so sad and just damn it. T.T
I highly recommend this book with all my heart. Be prepared to ugly cry. Possibly more than once. But know that it is absolutely worth every single tear...
THIS. BOOK. BROKE. MY. HEART!!
I didn't think I would make it through this book. I cried and cried and cried and ..... T.T
This was one of the most beautiful and most heartbreaking love stories I have ever read...
This book is so beautiful, so sad and just damn it. T.T
I highly recommend this book with all my heart. Be prepared to ugly cry. Possibly more than once. But know that it is absolutely worth every single tear...
July 3, 2017
This book is beautifully written. The relationship between May and Willard is heartbreaking and beautiful and normal. Always You is an understated book, not overly dramatic and I really enjoyed that aspect of it. I know this is a short and vague review, but spoilers suck and I don't want to give anything away. It's truly a book you ought to read. This is my first Belle Brooks read and it will not be the last. 5 stars.
August 1, 2019
I am an absolute mess! I've had tears running down my cheeks through nearly the whole book! But, what a book!!
Belle Brooks has captured the depth and rawness that is cancer. Cancer.... f*ck cancer!
May's journey is one that will stay with me long after I turned that last page. It was so real, raw and heartbreakingly beautiful.
I don't think anything I say could do this story justice, you just need to read it yourself!
Warning - Will make you a complete sobbing mess, so be prepared... tissues at the ready.
Belle Brooks has captured the depth and rawness that is cancer. Cancer.... f*ck cancer!
May's journey is one that will stay with me long after I turned that last page. It was so real, raw and heartbreakingly beautiful.
I don't think anything I say could do this story justice, you just need to read it yourself!
Warning - Will make you a complete sobbing mess, so be prepared... tissues at the ready.
March 23, 2017
wow what can i say belle brooks shattered me with this wonderful heartwarming, heart breaking and emotional story.
i fell in love with Maybelline (may) and Willard (will).
this is a very well written story.
if i could give it 10 stars i would. Definitely reccomend reading this book to everyone if you dont mind a few tears.
great work by the author.
i fell in love with Maybelline (may) and Willard (will).
this is a very well written story.
if i could give it 10 stars i would. Definitely reccomend reading this book to everyone if you dont mind a few tears.
great work by the author.
May 5, 2018
Wow!! This book is so well written that you feel like you are there every step of the way. If only everyone in the world could experience a love as great as May and Will, we would be set for life!! This book truly had me ugly crying a bunch of times but in the end, left me a feeling of peace. This is definitely a must read for everyone!!!
October 25, 2018
This story is heartbreaking but at the same time it heals the heart too..
it's a story of love, of life, of reality, of hope, of will, of determination, of heartbreak.
Very Well written. I hope there's a book 2 to this series. although the end was satisfying, I would love to see how the future was was shaped.
it's a story of love, of life, of reality, of hope, of will, of determination, of heartbreak.
Very Well written. I hope there's a book 2 to this series. although the end was satisfying, I would love to see how the future was was shaped.
May 26, 2020
❤💔 All for You 💔❤
What can I say about this book that would do it justice
It killed me in a good way
I bawled and smiled
Laughted and cried
And than I ugly cried so hard
This book brought out so much feelings there needs to be more than 5 stars for books like this
I Loved IT so much ❤❤❤❤❤
What can I say about this book that would do it justice
It killed me in a good way
I bawled and smiled
Laughted and cried
And than I ugly cried so hard
This book brought out so much feelings there needs to be more than 5 stars for books like this
I Loved IT so much ❤❤❤❤❤
February 5, 2017
I'm still reeling from this book!
This book has touched me so deeply.
Heart-warming, sad, and almost surreal. This book is worth every word written, and I hope you all have chance to read it.
This book has touched me so deeply.
Heart-warming, sad, and almost surreal. This book is worth every word written, and I hope you all have chance to read it.
June 7, 2017
Won a copy in a contest. Writing a voluntary review
This book is heart felt and emotional. Yet shows what it means to truly love someone and the sacrifices of love. Definitely need to read with box of Kleenex.
This book is heart felt and emotional. Yet shows what it means to truly love someone and the sacrifices of love. Definitely need to read with box of Kleenex.
June 28, 2019
Crushed my heart❤amazing Love story of May and Will
February 26, 2017
Absolutely beautiful! I refuse to give anything away because you need to go into this completely blind. All I have to say is: OMG, that one thing happened immediately followed by the other thing and then a bunch of stuff happens and then omg the end.
March 21, 2017
This is such a hard book for me to rate - The writing was excellent and the story of a young married couple, childhood sweethearts, facing the challenges of a diagnosis of cancer was poignant and heart-breaking. It's clear that the author did a lot of research and I'm sure shed many tears herself as she wrote it. It reminded me in parts of A Thousand Boy Kisses by Tillie Cole. For all of those reasons I take my hat off to Brooks. On the other hand it wasn't easy reading, which I'm sure was her intention, but as the book went on I actually found it quite depressing - yes I cried, numerous times, because I'm human and it's an emotive subject, but there wasn't enough light relief to cut through the depressing and gritty reality of what cancer can do to not just the diagnosed, but all their loved ones who suffer by proxy. I'd have loved more of the couples story as to how they met and fell in love to form a visceral connection to them from the start, other than the feeling of sadness at the unfolding plot. Much like ATBK by Cole, I can't say it was a book I particularly enjoyed by the end, or that I will ever read again as I personally took no happiness from it at all. BUT all said and done, minus that much needed relief that I felt was lacking, it was a really well written book. If Brooks has written other books that have the balance I prefer where an author can still rip your heart out but leave you with a joyous feeling by putting it back together by the end, I'll happily try another of her works - but if this relentless angst is her preferred format then they're not suited to my personal reading style.
This was a 3.75 for me - I didn't love it, but it was so well written, and because it made me feel, even if it wasn't happiness, it doesn't deserve a lower rating. I can see that I'm in the minority with the feelings I was left with when I finished it -
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
This was a 3.75 for me - I didn't love it, but it was so well written, and because it made me feel, even if it wasn't happiness, it doesn't deserve a lower rating. I can see that I'm in the minority with the feelings I was left with when I finished it -
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
February 26, 2017
I am seriously blown away. I received this book as a "mystery book". No idea of the cover, author, or title until I finished. I'm SO glad I took the risk and went in blind because this book cut me deep! There's nothing I love more than a good ugly cry book with all the feels. It's so raw and real because it could happen to anyone.
May and Will are happy in their lives. They love each other more than words can say. The only thing missing is the baby they've been trying so hard for.
"Love never leaves a person, Willard. I'll never leave you because I'll be everywhere you are carried in your heart."
As soon as the story takes off, you can just feel the bad coming, the doom is like a black cloud hanging overhead and you get this feeling for May in the pit of your stomach. The writing is so good and so real I felt like I was experiencing what May felt. Through all the diagnosing and the sickness. Her anger and love. Emotions are high and they just pour off the pages through the entire story.
"Closing my eyes, I beg for relief from the intense feeling of suffocation creeping up my throat."
It'a not easy to read, it's painful and it hurts. The love between May and Will is beautiful and so inspiring. Always You is a moving story about love, loss, life, family, and acceptance.
"Goodbyes are always hard. I just want the opportunity to say them."
My rating: 5/5 Stars
*Many thanks to Belle Brooks and Quirky Blind Date With a Book for allowing me to read this book.
May and Will are happy in their lives. They love each other more than words can say. The only thing missing is the baby they've been trying so hard for.
"Love never leaves a person, Willard. I'll never leave you because I'll be everywhere you are carried in your heart."
As soon as the story takes off, you can just feel the bad coming, the doom is like a black cloud hanging overhead and you get this feeling for May in the pit of your stomach. The writing is so good and so real I felt like I was experiencing what May felt. Through all the diagnosing and the sickness. Her anger and love. Emotions are high and they just pour off the pages through the entire story.
"Closing my eyes, I beg for relief from the intense feeling of suffocation creeping up my throat."
It'a not easy to read, it's painful and it hurts. The love between May and Will is beautiful and so inspiring. Always You is a moving story about love, loss, life, family, and acceptance.
"Goodbyes are always hard. I just want the opportunity to say them."
My rating: 5/5 Stars
*Many thanks to Belle Brooks and Quirky Blind Date With a Book for allowing me to read this book.
July 28, 2019
I first read this story on Valentine's Day of 2017, it was my first book by Brooks and it destroyed me. The author has now edited and added more emotion, heart and content, and left me even more destroyed.
My original review still stands (see below)
I'm not sure how to review this book. I'm a ball of feelings right now.
I think this is my first book by Belle Brooks and it was earth shattering. My heart hurts in a way I never thought possible and not in a bad way (clearly, I rated this 5 stars for a reason).
I've so much to say, but, the words... they, they just fail me. This story has touched my soul. I will never forget this book.
May had everything she could ask for, a loving husband and family, an amazing best friend but of course, bad things happen to good people.
May was a truly inspiring character. The way she faced her troubles with grace and bravery even when she was scared sheetless.
Sitting here, writing this and I'm still crying.
The story, the characters, she (the author) has brought it all to reality, Belle Brooks, she's an artist. I don't know about anyone else but this story wasn't just words written on a page. They were the magic people look for Every time they crack open a book.
This book is worthy of more than just five stars.
To add to this original review, I can appreciate the attention to detail and research Brooks showed throughout this story. The growth the characters went through, the vivid imagery it was impeccable.
#fuckCancer (I'm flipping the bird)
My original review still stands (see below)
I'm not sure how to review this book. I'm a ball of feelings right now.
I think this is my first book by Belle Brooks and it was earth shattering. My heart hurts in a way I never thought possible and not in a bad way (clearly, I rated this 5 stars for a reason).
I've so much to say, but, the words... they, they just fail me. This story has touched my soul. I will never forget this book.
May had everything she could ask for, a loving husband and family, an amazing best friend but of course, bad things happen to good people.
May was a truly inspiring character. The way she faced her troubles with grace and bravery even when she was scared sheetless.
Sitting here, writing this and I'm still crying.
The story, the characters, she (the author) has brought it all to reality, Belle Brooks, she's an artist. I don't know about anyone else but this story wasn't just words written on a page. They were the magic people look for Every time they crack open a book.
This book is worthy of more than just five stars.
To add to this original review, I can appreciate the attention to detail and research Brooks showed throughout this story. The growth the characters went through, the vivid imagery it was impeccable.
#fuckCancer (I'm flipping the bird)
February 10, 2017
** Provided on behalf of the author for an honest review **
** Review by Gayle from Bloggers From Down Under **
Belle Brooks….Always You….
This is the first time that I’ve read any novels from this author and I have to say after reading this I’m completely broken and my heart is hurting. It completely moved me to my very core. It captured my heart from the beginning and it didn’t let go. I’m still trying to mentally and emotionally process it all it consumed my soul that much. I have no words. I’m lost. I’m just broken.
And as much as I’m feeling the hurt and anguish of it, I absolutely loved every minute of it.
I will not be giving anything away in my review of Always You, because this novel needs to be read without spoilers because that’s the respect it deserves.
All I will say is this….
Always You is about strength and determination.
It’s about being selfish and selfless all at the same time.
It’s about sacrificing yourself for others.
It’s about facing the inevitable with a fighting spirit.
It’s about giving life.
It’s about leaving the ones you love behind.
It’s about taking a minute to enjoy the small things.
It’s about living.
It’s about death.
It’s about unconditional love.
A read that will stay with me always.
I will never forget May and Will.
Their story will be forever ingrained in my heart.
5 heartbreaking but beautifully breathtaking stars.
** Review by Gayle from Bloggers From Down Under **
Belle Brooks….Always You….
This is the first time that I’ve read any novels from this author and I have to say after reading this I’m completely broken and my heart is hurting. It completely moved me to my very core. It captured my heart from the beginning and it didn’t let go. I’m still trying to mentally and emotionally process it all it consumed my soul that much. I have no words. I’m lost. I’m just broken.
And as much as I’m feeling the hurt and anguish of it, I absolutely loved every minute of it.
I will not be giving anything away in my review of Always You, because this novel needs to be read without spoilers because that’s the respect it deserves.
All I will say is this….
Always You is about strength and determination.
It’s about being selfish and selfless all at the same time.
It’s about sacrificing yourself for others.
It’s about facing the inevitable with a fighting spirit.
It’s about giving life.
It’s about leaving the ones you love behind.
It’s about taking a minute to enjoy the small things.
It’s about living.
It’s about death.
It’s about unconditional love.
A read that will stay with me always.
I will never forget May and Will.
Their story will be forever ingrained in my heart.
5 heartbreaking but beautifully breathtaking stars.
February 4, 2017
It's not so often that you come across a book that will completely swallow you whole. Always You did just that. It is emotional to the highest level possible, it is heartbreakingly beautiful and I can't even give this book the review it deserves because their just are no words.
May is so strong and she is so selfless with the choices she makes. Will is just the sweetest person and he loves May with everything he has that you literally feel everything so hard for him. Each character was so special and played such an important role in their lives. I loved how much support and love they got from their family, that was so important and needed for this story. So, I ugly cried. A lot. Like real fat ugly tears. This is one of the first books that have ever made me ugly cry the way I did. I had to put it down for a minute just to process everything.
Always You is well worth every single tear you have, This book truly something special. May and Will's story is everything and more. It is just to beautiful not to read.
I will read anything by Belle. I love her writing so much, I love how everything just flows and how well written all of her books are. <3 <3
May is so strong and she is so selfless with the choices she makes. Will is just the sweetest person and he loves May with everything he has that you literally feel everything so hard for him. Each character was so special and played such an important role in their lives. I loved how much support and love they got from their family, that was so important and needed for this story. So, I ugly cried. A lot. Like real fat ugly tears. This is one of the first books that have ever made me ugly cry the way I did. I had to put it down for a minute just to process everything.
Always You is well worth every single tear you have, This book truly something special. May and Will's story is everything and more. It is just to beautiful not to read.
I will read anything by Belle. I love her writing so much, I love how everything just flows and how well written all of her books are. <3 <3
June 13, 2019
Sometimes when you read a book, you get a couple of pages in and you stop, put it down and just stare at the wall thinking, "Oh please no. She can't do that. She just can't."
This book was that for me.
I got a couple of chapters in and had to stop. I didn't want to know the answer. I couldn't. I knew, that if I turned the page and what I thought was going to happen, did in fact happen, I knew this book would break my heart.
It didn't break my heart - it shattered it. Into a million tiny fragments.
For me, Always You wasn't really about what was happening to May, but what was happening to those who loved her. Her husband Willard, her best friend Gem, even her crafty mother. It was the relationship with her father though that reduced me to a blubbering mess. There's something special about the relationship between a girl and her Daddy and Brooks did an amazing job of bringing that right to the front. After I finished reading, put the book down, wiped away the tears (cleaned up the required chocolate wrappers) all I wanted to do was grab hold of my own Dad and tell him I loved him
Brooks is evil. This book is designed to make you feel everything all at once, reconsider what's going on in your own life and how that can change at the drop of a hat. Always You has a "Bucket list" and after reading this book, once you recover, you'll be convinced you need one to because you never know what tomorrow may bring.
I would whole heartedly recommend this #UGLYCRY book
This book was that for me.
I got a couple of chapters in and had to stop. I didn't want to know the answer. I couldn't. I knew, that if I turned the page and what I thought was going to happen, did in fact happen, I knew this book would break my heart.
It didn't break my heart - it shattered it. Into a million tiny fragments.
For me, Always You wasn't really about what was happening to May, but what was happening to those who loved her. Her husband Willard, her best friend Gem, even her crafty mother. It was the relationship with her father though that reduced me to a blubbering mess. There's something special about the relationship between a girl and her Daddy and Brooks did an amazing job of bringing that right to the front. After I finished reading, put the book down, wiped away the tears (cleaned up the required chocolate wrappers) all I wanted to do was grab hold of my own Dad and tell him I loved him
Brooks is evil. This book is designed to make you feel everything all at once, reconsider what's going on in your own life and how that can change at the drop of a hat. Always You has a "Bucket list" and after reading this book, once you recover, you'll be convinced you need one to because you never know what tomorrow may bring.
I would whole heartedly recommend this #UGLYCRY book
July 31, 2019
OMG this book is a masterclass in writing about ordinary people who become extraordinary because of the challenges they have to face in their lives.This is the heart wrenching story of May a beautiful, strong woman and the love of her life Will, and the journey they embark on when the walls of their perfect world begin to tumble.
Told from May’s perspective (almost exclusively) the story is set in the present but neatly interspersed with childhood memories and future musings. The author not only knows how to write a great story but also how to find a subtle balance in the ebb and flow of the reader's emotions. The story is filled with wonderfully written characters...even minor incidental ones are sympathetically written and woven lovingly into a beautiful tapestry of loss, sorrow, hope, humour, and above all else, love. The author expertly portrays the richness of love between family and friends, and between two people who have the greatest fortune to find their true soulmate as children and then get to grow up and experience all their firsts and fulfil all their dreams together.
Reader beware: prepare for some sobbing and some great big ugly crying but also for the warmth of emotion that comes with reading about the comfort and joy of family, friendship and a true love that can conquer almost anything.... a 5 star emotional journey which is worth every tear and every smile. I received an advanced copy of this book from the author.
Told from May’s perspective (almost exclusively) the story is set in the present but neatly interspersed with childhood memories and future musings. The author not only knows how to write a great story but also how to find a subtle balance in the ebb and flow of the reader's emotions. The story is filled with wonderfully written characters...even minor incidental ones are sympathetically written and woven lovingly into a beautiful tapestry of loss, sorrow, hope, humour, and above all else, love. The author expertly portrays the richness of love between family and friends, and between two people who have the greatest fortune to find their true soulmate as children and then get to grow up and experience all their firsts and fulfil all their dreams together.
Reader beware: prepare for some sobbing and some great big ugly crying but also for the warmth of emotion that comes with reading about the comfort and joy of family, friendship and a true love that can conquer almost anything.... a 5 star emotional journey which is worth every tear and every smile. I received an advanced copy of this book from the author.
February 7, 2017
Always You is A powerful , deep read about love, loss and sacrifices. A crafted story of loss , love, family, friendships and a moving and dam heartbreaking read that was un-put-down-able.
Belle wove her magic , ripped our hearts out but filled it with hope , love and Willow.
Your going to cry , maybe even ugly cry but your still going to love it !!!
The last few chapters were the longest and hardest to read they had me teary eyed and silently
Crying inside and out with this bitter sweet love story .
With a strong delivered plot and solid built characters, Always you will leave you remembering Will and May's love story and sacrifice.
An undying love , the power of true love and selflessness .
Belle delivers us a raw and beautiful love , not a story of happily ever afters, or where they ride off into the sunset ..
BUT - A love as deep as one can go, an eternal love, a love that breathes even when the last breathe is taken , but - not only love for each other but what a love so deep can create and bring forth. Memories, smiles, forever within another lifetime - another life.
"""" Always you will leave you with feelings that can't be unfelt . Tears that won't be forgotten and a love story you'll never forget .
Moving , unputdownable and heart- breakingly beautiful . """
Belle wove her magic , ripped our hearts out but filled it with hope , love and Willow.
Your going to cry , maybe even ugly cry but your still going to love it !!!
The last few chapters were the longest and hardest to read they had me teary eyed and silently
Crying inside and out with this bitter sweet love story .
With a strong delivered plot and solid built characters, Always you will leave you remembering Will and May's love story and sacrifice.
An undying love , the power of true love and selflessness .
Belle delivers us a raw and beautiful love , not a story of happily ever afters, or where they ride off into the sunset ..
BUT - A love as deep as one can go, an eternal love, a love that breathes even when the last breathe is taken , but - not only love for each other but what a love so deep can create and bring forth. Memories, smiles, forever within another lifetime - another life.
"""" Always you will leave you with feelings that can't be unfelt . Tears that won't be forgotten and a love story you'll never forget .
Moving , unputdownable and heart- breakingly beautiful . """
July 28, 2019
Maybelline “May” Connors the never-ending dreamer is one of the most beautiful characters in the new release Always You. She sees the world as half full and then adds her own sparkle, making sure everyone smiles. She fell in love with Willard as a child and they grew into their adulthood, hand in hand, and betrothed to one another. There is nothing more sacred to either of them than their love and commitment. But sometimes love requires more strength and understanding to come full circle. May recognizes the importance of the job laid before her and the delicate task she must perform in order to guide Willard to the light of the power of their love.
Belle Brooks writes one of the most powerful love stories through a most unwelcoming muse. May and Will demonstrate the true magnificence of what deep seated love means and how important it is to cherish each moment. Brooks has an extraordinary talent when writing the emotions of her characters, and Always You is no exception. Her ability to dissect love, life, and sacrifice and raise it to a whole new level only solidifies her boldness as a versatile author. Always You is a powerful moving read, and should be added to the ‘have been read list’ without any reservations.
Belle Brooks writes one of the most powerful love stories through a most unwelcoming muse. May and Will demonstrate the true magnificence of what deep seated love means and how important it is to cherish each moment. Brooks has an extraordinary talent when writing the emotions of her characters, and Always You is no exception. Her ability to dissect love, life, and sacrifice and raise it to a whole new level only solidifies her boldness as a versatile author. Always You is a powerful moving read, and should be added to the ‘have been read list’ without any reservations.
February 10, 2017
Now and again, a reader will come across a book which changes your life or, to be more accurate, changes the way you look at life. Always You is one of those rare books.
Always You is a book of feelings and I’m not exaggerating when I write that this book made me feel a multitude of feelings. I cried many times when I read this book––in fact, it was my first ugly cry book–– but I also smiled. Have you ever wanted to reach in and hug a character in a book? I wanted to do this while reading Always You.
Do you know the song “Memories” from the musical Cats? I haven’t thought of it for a very long time, but it often played through my mind as I read this beautiful book. It was May’s memories that made me smile. However, May not only made me smile, her courage and selflessness made me love her.
Yes, I ended Always You in tears, but they were sad/happy tears. I didn’t want this book to end. I want to know what happens next in these characters’ lives. I hope there is a sequel.
Why can't I give it more than 5 stars because it's worth so many more.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives Book Blog
Always You is a book of feelings and I’m not exaggerating when I write that this book made me feel a multitude of feelings. I cried many times when I read this book––in fact, it was my first ugly cry book–– but I also smiled. Have you ever wanted to reach in and hug a character in a book? I wanted to do this while reading Always You.
Do you know the song “Memories” from the musical Cats? I haven’t thought of it for a very long time, but it often played through my mind as I read this beautiful book. It was May’s memories that made me smile. However, May not only made me smile, her courage and selflessness made me love her.
Yes, I ended Always You in tears, but they were sad/happy tears. I didn’t want this book to end. I want to know what happens next in these characters’ lives. I hope there is a sequel.
Why can't I give it more than 5 stars because it's worth so many more.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives Book Blog
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