What do you think?
Rate this book
Touching Down
The whole world might be in love with him. But all he’s ever loved is her.
Grant Turner’s name is synonymous with football. The fans and media can’t get enough of the player known as The Invincible Man, a nickname he earned while growing up in one of the toughest neighborhoods in the country and the nickname he’s kept by being one of the best players in professional football today. No one can take him down. He’s unstoppable.
But even a suit of armor has its weak point, and Grant’s has always been Ryan Hale.
They were a couple of kids when they fell in love, and just when it looked like the happy ending neither expected was within reach, Ryan disappeared. No explanations. No good-byes.
Grant coped by throwing himself into the game for seven years, and he’s finally moved on. Or so he thinks.
When she walks back into his life, all of those feelings come crashing back, despite the warnings in his head that tell him she’ll leave him again. Grant can withstand the league’s toughest defensive line, but he’s always been weak where she’s concerned.
No man can take Grant Turner down.
But one woman certainly can.
One woman will.
Grant Turner’s name is synonymous with football. The fans and media can’t get enough of the player known as The Invincible Man, a nickname he earned while growing up in one of the toughest neighborhoods in the country and the nickname he’s kept by being one of the best players in professional football today. No one can take him down. He’s unstoppable.
But even a suit of armor has its weak point, and Grant’s has always been Ryan Hale.
They were a couple of kids when they fell in love, and just when it looked like the happy ending neither expected was within reach, Ryan disappeared. No explanations. No good-byes.
Grant coped by throwing himself into the game for seven years, and he’s finally moved on. Or so he thinks.
When she walks back into his life, all of those feelings come crashing back, despite the warnings in his head that tell him she’ll leave him again. Grant can withstand the league’s toughest defensive line, but he’s always been weak where she’s concerned.
No man can take Grant Turner down.
But one woman certainly can.
One woman will.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2016
About the author
Nicole Williams
52 books9,623 followersNicole is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY bestselling author who got her humble start dictating books to her parents at the age of three and her big break nearly three decades later when she signed her first publishing deal. She grew up an avid reader and writer who majored in Economics because a Creative Writing degree was lofty and impractical, not to mention a pipe dream. Irony, you wily fiend.
When she isn’t embroiled in a book, she spends her time playing wife and mom to her two favorite people in the world, and referee to their three rescue pets/wildlings. Nicole lives in the Evergreen State on the quieter side, ideal for an admitted recluse who enjoys the diversity of outdoor endeavors the Great Northwest offers.
Nicole loves hearing from her readers. You can connect with her on:
Facebook: Author Nicole Williams
Instagram: author_nicole_williams
Twitter: nwilliamsbooks
When she isn’t embroiled in a book, she spends her time playing wife and mom to her two favorite people in the world, and referee to their three rescue pets/wildlings. Nicole lives in the Evergreen State on the quieter side, ideal for an admitted recluse who enjoys the diversity of outdoor endeavors the Great Northwest offers.
Nicole loves hearing from her readers. You can connect with her on:
Facebook: Author Nicole Williams
Instagram: author_nicole_williams
Twitter: nwilliamsbooks
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews
October 13, 2016
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
”I fell for you forever ago and there’s nothing you’ve done since that moment that has changed that. There’s nothing you could do to change that. When a person falls, they don’t just get up, dust themselves off, and keep going. If they fell right, if they fell good and hard the first time, there’s no getting up from that fall because they landed right where they were supposed to.”
I fell in love with Nicole Williams’ writing back when I first read her CRASH series and she created the most beautiful book boyfriend named Jude Ryder. She just knows how to create Heroes that makes women swoon hard. Heroes that even though a bit broken, can rise from their adversities and have the ability to love a woman like no other---to love with their whole heart and soul. She has just created another character that I won’t soon forget and who had me wishing that I could dive into the pages of the book and live out my HEA with him. Get ready to swoon, cry, and fall in love with your new book boyfriend…Grant Turner. If you love a good dose of angst and second chance romances, you are going to eat this one up!!
Ryan Hale finds herself back in her old hometown, paying her last respects to a woman who provided her shelter and a safe haven when she was a young girl. She grew up in a poor community called The Clink. Most of the children who lived there had less than stellar family lives and trying to survive day by day often felt like an impossible task. At nine-years-old, Ryan is rescued by a boy who would become her personal Hero and eventually the greatest love of her life. Ryan’s safety became Grant’s personal responsibility and there wasn’t a day that went by that he ever failed or resented carrying that weight on his shoulders. Later in their teenage years, the two fall in love but during his freshman year in college, Ryan disappears from his life without any explanation or even a goodbye.
Seven years later, Ryan comes back into Grant’s life but it isn’t the hearts and flowers reunion that deep down Ryan would have wanted. There’s a lot of heartbreak and pain that she left behind when she disappeared. But she’s come back under serious circumstances and only Grant can help her. Grant has become a HUGE NFL star. He’s the tight end for the NY STORM and is beloved by millions. But his success has never gotten to his head. He knows where he came from and does whatever he can to give back to the community. He’s also never forgotten the girl who broke his heart. She’s the only one he’s ever given it to and he’s not willing to take it back from her either.
This story is both heartbreaking and uplifting all at the same time. I cried many tears and rooted for this couple to make it through to their HEA!! I found myself falling deeper for Grant with every page I continued to read.
Get ready to be taken on an emotional journey with a nice dose of steam added as well. If you are a fan of Nicole Williams, you are going to love this one, and if you haven’t read any of her books, you’re surely to fall in love with this author’s writing!!
TOUCHING DOWN is currently available!
Amazon US : http://amzn.to/2dc2IjF
Amazon UK : http://amzn.to/2dVZheE
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2dDfyai
Amazon AU : http://amzn.to/2dTuLD5
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
”I fell for you forever ago and there’s nothing you’ve done since that moment that has changed that. There’s nothing you could do to change that. When a person falls, they don’t just get up, dust themselves off, and keep going. If they fell right, if they fell good and hard the first time, there’s no getting up from that fall because they landed right where they were supposed to.”
I fell in love with Nicole Williams’ writing back when I first read her CRASH series and she created the most beautiful book boyfriend named Jude Ryder. She just knows how to create Heroes that makes women swoon hard. Heroes that even though a bit broken, can rise from their adversities and have the ability to love a woman like no other---to love with their whole heart and soul. She has just created another character that I won’t soon forget and who had me wishing that I could dive into the pages of the book and live out my HEA with him. Get ready to swoon, cry, and fall in love with your new book boyfriend…Grant Turner. If you love a good dose of angst and second chance romances, you are going to eat this one up!!
Ryan Hale finds herself back in her old hometown, paying her last respects to a woman who provided her shelter and a safe haven when she was a young girl. She grew up in a poor community called The Clink. Most of the children who lived there had less than stellar family lives and trying to survive day by day often felt like an impossible task. At nine-years-old, Ryan is rescued by a boy who would become her personal Hero and eventually the greatest love of her life. Ryan’s safety became Grant’s personal responsibility and there wasn’t a day that went by that he ever failed or resented carrying that weight on his shoulders. Later in their teenage years, the two fall in love but during his freshman year in college, Ryan disappears from his life without any explanation or even a goodbye.
Seven years later, Ryan comes back into Grant’s life but it isn’t the hearts and flowers reunion that deep down Ryan would have wanted. There’s a lot of heartbreak and pain that she left behind when she disappeared. But she’s come back under serious circumstances and only Grant can help her. Grant has become a HUGE NFL star. He’s the tight end for the NY STORM and is beloved by millions. But his success has never gotten to his head. He knows where he came from and does whatever he can to give back to the community. He’s also never forgotten the girl who broke his heart. She’s the only one he’s ever given it to and he’s not willing to take it back from her either.
This story is both heartbreaking and uplifting all at the same time. I cried many tears and rooted for this couple to make it through to their HEA!! I found myself falling deeper for Grant with every page I continued to read.
Get ready to be taken on an emotional journey with a nice dose of steam added as well. If you are a fan of Nicole Williams, you are going to love this one, and if you haven’t read any of her books, you’re surely to fall in love with this author’s writing!!
TOUCHING DOWN is currently available!
Amazon US : http://amzn.to/2dc2IjF
Amazon UK : http://amzn.to/2dVZheE
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2dDfyai
Amazon AU : http://amzn.to/2dTuLD5
July 31, 2017
2 Stars
** Just a warning -- my spoiler tags in this review are for pretty BIG SPOILERS, so please click at your own risk ;) **
Overall Opinion: I am honestly surprised I stuck with this one tbh. I was bored and easily distracted a lot of the time, which is sad because I think it could've been so much better! It has a good premise, and it has an interesting twist that I wasn't expecting at all...but sadly it just failed IMO. This gets a little ranty, so I apologize in advance...
. I suppose for those that are ok with the fluffy story about second chances, professional football players, and super loyal mcs...this might be just fine for you! It just didn't work for me ;)
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'll keep this brief, so hopefully I don't give too much away. This is Ryan and Grant's story. Ryan reluctantly returns to her hometown for the funeral of the woman that helped her survive her bad childhood. She knows that she will probably see Grant, because the woman helped him as well and they are connected through her. They don't have the best reunion. Even though they have a strong history, they didn't have the best ending -- but Ryan gets Grant to agree to talk, and she drops some big bombs on him and seeks his help. They have some huge obstacles to get through, but their feelings are as strong as ever for each other and they work through them to get their HEA.
POV: This was told in Ryan's POV. I do think the story would've benefited from hearing some of Grant's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not so great. I found it boring and slow at times, and I skimmed a good bit through the last 1/3ish.
Instalove: No, they already had strong feelings for each other when the story starts. We don't get any development of feelings to experience, as they are just building on old feelings.
H rating: 3 stars. Grant. I appreciated how he stepped up to the plate with his new heavy realities, but otherwise I didn't really connect with him.
h rating: 3 stars. Ryan. I felt bad for her situation, but again -- I didn't really connect with her either.
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I personally didn't cry, and I think that was mainly because I hadn't connected with either character or their connection -- BUT this does cover some heavy topics, so I can see where some others might get more emotional.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Low. I didn't find the scenes to be sexy, but I'm not sure if that was the author's goal either.
Descriptive sex: Kind of. There were some descriptive details, but also a kind of fade-to-black type also. It was a little choppy feeling, and I definitely didn't find it sexy. I also skimmed some scenes later on in the book, because I wanted it to move along.
Safe sex: Yes.
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a jump ahead epilogue and what I would (hesitantly) call a HEA. . I had a ton of unanswered questions that didn't get addressed. It kind of felt like the author was more focused on (maybe?) setting up a story for another book than giving closure about the big stuff in this one.
How I got it: I got it on loan through booklending.com (thank goodness!)
Safety: I'd say that this should be either Safe or Safe with exception depending on personal preferences.
** Just a warning -- my spoiler tags in this review are for pretty BIG SPOILERS, so please click at your own risk ;) **
Overall Opinion: I am honestly surprised I stuck with this one tbh. I was bored and easily distracted a lot of the time, which is sad because I think it could've been so much better! It has a good premise, and it has an interesting twist that I wasn't expecting at all...but sadly it just failed IMO. This gets a little ranty, so I apologize in advance...
. I suppose for those that are ok with the fluffy story about second chances, professional football players, and super loyal mcs...this might be just fine for you! It just didn't work for me ;)
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'll keep this brief, so hopefully I don't give too much away. This is Ryan and Grant's story. Ryan reluctantly returns to her hometown for the funeral of the woman that helped her survive her bad childhood. She knows that she will probably see Grant, because the woman helped him as well and they are connected through her. They don't have the best reunion. Even though they have a strong history, they didn't have the best ending -- but Ryan gets Grant to agree to talk, and she drops some big bombs on him and seeks his help. They have some huge obstacles to get through, but their feelings are as strong as ever for each other and they work through them to get their HEA.
POV: This was told in Ryan's POV. I do think the story would've benefited from hearing some of Grant's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not so great. I found it boring and slow at times, and I skimmed a good bit through the last 1/3ish.
Instalove: No, they already had strong feelings for each other when the story starts. We don't get any development of feelings to experience, as they are just building on old feelings.
H rating: 3 stars. Grant. I appreciated how he stepped up to the plate with his new heavy realities, but otherwise I didn't really connect with him.
h rating: 3 stars. Ryan. I felt bad for her situation, but again -- I didn't really connect with her either.
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I personally didn't cry, and I think that was mainly because I hadn't connected with either character or their connection -- BUT this does cover some heavy topics, so I can see where some others might get more emotional.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Low. I didn't find the scenes to be sexy, but I'm not sure if that was the author's goal either.
Descriptive sex: Kind of. There were some descriptive details, but also a kind of fade-to-black type also. It was a little choppy feeling, and I definitely didn't find it sexy. I also skimmed some scenes later on in the book, because I wanted it to move along.
Safe sex: Yes.
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a jump ahead epilogue and what I would (hesitantly) call a HEA. . I had a ton of unanswered questions that didn't get addressed. It kind of felt like the author was more focused on (maybe?) setting up a story for another book than giving closure about the big stuff in this one.
How I got it: I got it on loan through booklending.com (thank goodness!)
Safety: I'd say that this should be either Safe or Safe with exception depending on personal preferences.
October 13, 2016
4 'Living' Stars!
I was extremely excited when Nicole announced another Sports Romance. I've been waiting for this novel then, especially after loving Nicole's previous release: Stealing Home.
I have to say this was pretty different from that one. Touching Down is focused on football but it's not that what makes it so engaging, it's all the mysteries around the heroine. When we discover not only one but two secrets, I was breathless. I was not expecting that at all! What a twist!
I feel like this was more dramatic than Stealing Home and also more centered on what is happening with Ryan and her past/present/future with Grant. I missed having more romantic and sexy scenes but I also loved it because it so familiar and emotional. And Grant is so swoon worthy, yum! Definitely enjoyed this one, I will be waiting to see what is next with this author, for sure!
I was extremely excited when Nicole announced another Sports Romance. I've been waiting for this novel then, especially after loving Nicole's previous release: Stealing Home.
I have to say this was pretty different from that one. Touching Down is focused on football but it's not that what makes it so engaging, it's all the mysteries around the heroine. When we discover not only one but two secrets, I was breathless. I was not expecting that at all! What a twist!
I feel like this was more dramatic than Stealing Home and also more centered on what is happening with Ryan and her past/present/future with Grant. I missed having more romantic and sexy scenes but I also loved it because it so familiar and emotional. And Grant is so swoon worthy, yum! Definitely enjoyed this one, I will be waiting to see what is next with this author, for sure!
October 3, 2016
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
October 11, 2016
This story, stole my heart...
➳Hero rating: 4.5
➳Heroine rating: 4.5
➳Sexual tension rating: 4.5
➳Sex scenes rating: 5.0
➳Sex scenes frequency: 4.0
➳Plot rating: 5.0
➳Dialogue rating: 5.0
➳Storytelling rating: 4.5
➳Story ending rating: 4.5
➳Hero rating: 4.5
➳Heroine rating: 4.5
➳Sexual tension rating: 4.5
➳Sex scenes rating: 5.0
➳Sex scenes frequency: 4.0
➳Plot rating: 5.0
➳Dialogue rating: 5.0
➳Storytelling rating: 4.5
➳Story ending rating: 4.5
August 13, 2024
So first let me say that this was kind of depressing, i definitely didnt have the feelings i want while reading a romance until the very end of the book which was too late for me.
The writing was good and it was low angst which i usually enjoy. I love second chance romance (if they are safe of course), but the years they didnt see each other in this one was too long for me, wish it would be less than 7 years.
Heroine... Meh. Still dont know how i feel about her. She did something unforgivable (at least in my eyes) to hero and her reasoning wasnt enough.
And he forgave way too easily. I wish she would grovel, a lot, hell, even a little would be better than just sorry. She just said she knew it wasnt the best desicion and that she was young (17) and her heroical reason ala "I didnt want to destroy your career" was....ugh. Hated her in that moment. And the worst is that she wouldnt even come back and tell him if she wasnt sick.
Also want to add that i felt like the illness was there just to make the readers like the heroine somehow after her previous actions.
Grant...
he made the book for me.
I loved that he wasnt handsome in the usual way, definitely not some pretty face we are used to in so many romance books - it just gets old. He is some romance unicorn. Faithfull from the very start which was when they met at the age 9 and 13, possesive, hard-working, loving, the things he did for Ryan... And the things he said..
“I’d rather have one day with you than an eternity with anyone else.”
“ I’ve been close to you for the past fourteen years of my life, even when I never saw your face for half of those years. I’ve been in love with you those same fourteen years, and I will die still being in love with you, Ryan Hale.”
“You are half my soul … The best part of it.”
"I want you, Ryan Hale. Your heart, your soul, your body, and your very existence. I want this life and your next. I want it all."
I know right?!
He was probably the only reason why i kept reading.
Ending was also unexpected, i was reading and than boom, epilogue? Ehm what? How did i get to ending?
Yes the epilogue was good and all but it just didnt fit. Im suddenly 12 years later and thinking that the only reason for this, is that author didnt know how to resolve everything, so she just ended it.
Safety:
The writing was good and it was low angst which i usually enjoy. I love second chance romance (if they are safe of course), but the years they didnt see each other in this one was too long for me, wish it would be less than 7 years.
Heroine... Meh. Still dont know how i feel about her. She did something unforgivable (at least in my eyes) to hero and her reasoning wasnt enough.
And he forgave way too easily. I wish she would grovel, a lot, hell, even a little would be better than just sorry. She just said she knew it wasnt the best desicion and that she was young (17) and her heroical reason ala "I didnt want to destroy your career" was....ugh. Hated her in that moment. And the worst is that she wouldnt even come back and tell him if she wasnt sick.
Also want to add that i felt like the illness was there just to make the readers like the heroine somehow after her previous actions.
Grant...
he made the book for me.
I loved that he wasnt handsome in the usual way, definitely not some pretty face we are used to in so many romance books - it just gets old. He is some romance unicorn. Faithfull from the very start which was when they met at the age 9 and 13, possesive, hard-working, loving, the things he did for Ryan... And the things he said..
“I’d rather have one day with you than an eternity with anyone else.”
“ I’ve been close to you for the past fourteen years of my life, even when I never saw your face for half of those years. I’ve been in love with you those same fourteen years, and I will die still being in love with you, Ryan Hale.”
“You are half my soul … The best part of it.”
"I want you, Ryan Hale. Your heart, your soul, your body, and your very existence. I want this life and your next. I want it all."
I know right?!
He was probably the only reason why i kept reading.
Ending was also unexpected, i was reading and than boom, epilogue? Ehm what? How did i get to ending?
Yes the epilogue was good and all but it just didnt fit. Im suddenly 12 years later and thinking that the only reason for this, is that author didnt know how to resolve everything, so she just ended it.
Safety:
November 26, 2016
Not a typical sports romance, about people who have second chance at love, and are trying to take advantage of every second of it, despite the fact that life throws them curveballs.
About the plot: Ryan and Grant fell in love as they were still kids. They both lived in a dangerous area and supported each other for years. And then one day she left town without a word.
After seven years, Ryan returns to honor the memory of a woman who really helped her in life. She also wants to finish up old matters.
Grant Turner has everything, he is the star of football and is worshiped by fans. There is only one thing, that he doesn't have, a woman he loved and who broke his heart, Ryan Hale. When he thought he is over her. She is back and wants to talk to him about things that will change his life forever.
My thoughts: It is a touching second chance story. You will not find here a lot of sports or sexy scenes. It's more focused on emotions and trying to cope with the problems of the past and the present. A bit rollercoaster with sweet hero. Life gives them a second chance, and he will do anything to take advantage of it.
For some it may be beautiful and surprising reading. I have some reserve because I have that feeling that I read a similar book. That's why it didn't surprise or touch me much. But I looking forward to read another Nicole Williams books, because it definitely has a big potential.
***
ARC kindly provided for an honest review. Thank you!
“I’d rather have one day with you than an eternity with anyone else.”
About the plot: Ryan and Grant fell in love as they were still kids. They both lived in a dangerous area and supported each other for years. And then one day she left town without a word.
After seven years, Ryan returns to honor the memory of a woman who really helped her in life. She also wants to finish up old matters.
Grant Turner has everything, he is the star of football and is worshiped by fans. There is only one thing, that he doesn't have, a woman he loved and who broke his heart, Ryan Hale. When he thought he is over her. She is back and wants to talk to him about things that will change his life forever.
“Grant had been my safe place in a world of darkness. As outlandish as it was, he still felt like one of those safe places.”
My thoughts: It is a touching second chance story. You will not find here a lot of sports or sexy scenes. It's more focused on emotions and trying to cope with the problems of the past and the present. A bit rollercoaster with sweet hero. Life gives them a second chance, and he will do anything to take advantage of it.
“I’m still a piece of shit. Just a piece of shit who loves the shit out of you.”
For some it may be beautiful and surprising reading. I have some reserve because I have that feeling that I read a similar book. That's why it didn't surprise or touch me much. But I looking forward to read another Nicole Williams books, because it definitely has a big potential.
***
ARC kindly provided for an honest review. Thank you!
January 12, 2017
4 Second Chance Stars
Grant and Ryan were completely in love once, until the day Ryan took off with no explanation leaving Grant with a broken heart dedicating himself only to football until becoming the football star he is today. Seven years after, both of them are back in their hometown for the funeral of the only woman who helped during their difficult childhood and this time Ryan is willing to tell him why she ran away seven years ago. Grant he’s not easily throwing off his game, but when the only girl he’s ever loved tells him her secret, their world will certainly going for a big turn.
It’s no secret that I have a soft spot for second chance romances, but I have to admit that second chance romances with thrown into the mix are one of my favourites guilty pleasures. So this book storyline was right up my alley and Nicole Williams definitely didn’t disappoint. A great hero, good heroine and a fast progress with some very interesting twists and no lack of steamy moments, this was definitely a really good reading. I know this is fiction, and I’m a girl who loves her HEA and long epilogues, but even for me the way this book wrapped up felt a little fantastic, although the HEA lover in me it’s not complaining at all. If you’re a Nicole Williams fan or a second chance romance fan, you should definitely read this book.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: Grant was definitely an outstanding hero. Sweet, loyal, willing to do his best and not to let his anger have the best of him… even when he would be understandable. I loved how caring and possessive he was of Ryan, even after she left without a word for seven years. Ryan was a good heroine too, after you realize why she’s done it and why she’s coming back it’s easy to relate to her and like her.
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Grant and Ryan were completely in love once, until the day Ryan took off with no explanation leaving Grant with a broken heart dedicating himself only to football until becoming the football star he is today. Seven years after, both of them are back in their hometown for the funeral of the only woman who helped during their difficult childhood and this time Ryan is willing to tell him why she ran away seven years ago. Grant he’s not easily throwing off his game, but when the only girl he’s ever loved tells him her secret, their world will certainly going for a big turn.
It’s no secret that I have a soft spot for second chance romances, but I have to admit that second chance romances with thrown into the mix are one of my favourites guilty pleasures. So this book storyline was right up my alley and Nicole Williams definitely didn’t disappoint. A great hero, good heroine and a fast progress with some very interesting twists and no lack of steamy moments, this was definitely a really good reading. I know this is fiction, and I’m a girl who loves her HEA and long epilogues, but even for me the way this book wrapped up felt a little fantastic, although the HEA lover in me it’s not complaining at all. If you’re a Nicole Williams fan or a second chance romance fan, you should definitely read this book.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: Grant was definitely an outstanding hero. Sweet, loyal, willing to do his best and not to let his anger have the best of him… even when he would be understandable. I loved how caring and possessive he was of Ryan, even after she left without a word for seven years. Ryan was a good heroine too, after you realize why she’s done it and why she’s coming back it’s easy to relate to her and like her.
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
October 4, 2016
3.5~4 stars
Touching Down is just what a romantic novel should be…Lovely characters, great writing, a little angst but mostly a story about two people getting their second chance at love.
This is the story of two best friends Grant and Ryan who grew up together poor in a harsh environment and loved each other not only as friends but fell into real love with each other throughout their journey together. When Ryan suddenly and without any explanation disappeared, the other was left broken with the missing friendship and love.
Fast forward seven years, Ryan comes back to him asking for his help. From then on, the story becomes more and more intense and the urge to keep turning the pages gets more intense too.
The storyline was not overly original but not bad. I liked the slow burn and I liked both Grant and Ryan but something was holding me back. I didn't know enough about them to completely buy into it. The story had tons of drama between the characters but I found it hard to feel the chemistry between them. The writing flows smoothly and simply; you don't need to think too much with this one.
Love is not always easy, and often times it is painful. I am not one who likes to give too much of a story away but I will say accepting life as it is is an art in itself and to flow with it takes a lot of courage…that was the key to healing, moving beyond the hurt and making this relationship work.
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 3.5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 3.5/5 | Writing Style 5/5 | Steam 3/5 | Romance 5/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 1/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 5/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 3/5 | Pacing Moderate | Action 3/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
Touching Down is just what a romantic novel should be…Lovely characters, great writing, a little angst but mostly a story about two people getting their second chance at love.
This is the story of two best friends Grant and Ryan who grew up together poor in a harsh environment and loved each other not only as friends but fell into real love with each other throughout their journey together. When Ryan suddenly and without any explanation disappeared, the other was left broken with the missing friendship and love.
Fast forward seven years, Ryan comes back to him asking for his help. From then on, the story becomes more and more intense and the urge to keep turning the pages gets more intense too.
The storyline was not overly original but not bad. I liked the slow burn and I liked both Grant and Ryan but something was holding me back. I didn't know enough about them to completely buy into it. The story had tons of drama between the characters but I found it hard to feel the chemistry between them. The writing flows smoothly and simply; you don't need to think too much with this one.
Love is not always easy, and often times it is painful. I am not one who likes to give too much of a story away but I will say accepting life as it is is an art in itself and to flow with it takes a lot of courage…that was the key to healing, moving beyond the hurt and making this relationship work.
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 3.5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 3.5/5 | Writing Style 5/5 | Steam 3/5 | Romance 5/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 1/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 5/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 3/5 | Pacing Moderate | Action 3/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
October 15, 2016
I. Loved. This. I was a little skeptical at first just because of some of the reviews but i am so happy I gave this a chance! Okay first let's discuss Ryan, at first I didn't care for her that much.. mainly because I kinda felt like if she hadn't become sick she might not have ever told Grant about his child. I will say by the end of the book I did end up liking her but not near as much as the hero. Okay now let's talk about Grant! He made this book, he was absolutely amazing. The way he loved both Ryan and Charlie was beautiful, he would say the sweetest things and I would actually tear up a bit! I thought Grant and Ryan were beautiful together you can definitely feel there love for one another, even after what Ryan had done I truly believed she loved him with all her heart. This book definitely had its sad moments, but it wasn't OTT sad. It was steamy and it was also 100% safe. They were separated 7 years and neither were with other people. Now that is amazing. Great book, honestly when I first started reading I was just feeling out the h seeing how I would like her and the next thing I know I'm half way thru so it definitely sucked me and I just could stop. I also loved the epilogue very much!
October 3, 2016
TITLE: Touching Down
AUTHOR: Nicole Williams
GENRE: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
CHAPTERS: 26 | Epilogue
RELEASE DATE: 09th October, 2016
MY RATING: 3.5 STARS
TOUCHING DOWN: This is Ryan Hale's story and is told in her entire POV.
I am such a sucker when it comes to a second chance romance, add in that the characters were childhood friends reconnecting after many years apart and I'm in my happy zone and this book is no different.
We're first introduced to Ryan when excruciating circumstances sees her coming back to her home town to attend a funeral of the one adult (Aunt May) who provided her with a safe haven in the Clink she left behind seven years ago, along with the one boy who stole her heart and still owns it. A childhood spent living in the Clink the term used to describe the most dangerous neighbourhood which many don't venture into.
Coming back gives her the one chance she needed to say goodbye to the departed but also to make peace with Grant the boy she walked away from seven years ago.
Grant Turner wasn't the same boy struggling on the streets of the Clink. His name was known by millions, his life a true Cinderella story. The troubled boy from the Clink became the man whose name was synonymous with professional football.
Grant and Ryan's introduction first occurred when a burly teenaged boy Grant saved Ryan a nine year old girl from a man after her drug addicted mother was left comatose after scoring and left alone with the man that pumped the drugs into her mother's veins. His intentions were to get Ryan alone.
The whole world might be in love with him. But all he’s ever loved is her.
Going into this I didn't expect it to be as sad as it is, part of me is hoping for the best but the other part knows what the outcome is going to be.
This is going to be a no frills review only because either way I look at writing up this review would reveal a few twists and turns that will wreck your reading experience.
I'm probably part of the minority here, I liked the concept of the story, a second chance romance is one of my highly sort after one clickers, BUT two flags arose for me (and this is only my opinion) when it came to Ryan coming back home, to me they were selfish reasons, she didn't keep one secret from Grant but two, my heart went out to him, and I just wanted to feel more anger/rage/despair from him than what I got. He just forgave so easily..
I think if he gave me those emotions it would've made for a more realistic story, but I would still definitely recommend this book to others that are like minded like myself that enjoy the second chance romance genre.
Read
October 17, 2016I really liked that they were each other's first for everything & that both were celibate during separation.
Loved their love/faithfulness <3
I just found it a lil depressing to read about the heroine's disease.
I did not hate the heroine but i also did not love her. She left & did not tell the Hero that she was pregnant because she was only 17 and H was 21 so it would be considered statutory rape. This could have ruined H's career so she left but i still think the H had the right to know.
The hero was great, i liked seeing how he loved and supported the heroine :D
book bf material i tell you, did i say book? huh no, real life bf/soulmate material lol!
It does have a happy ending :)
Epilogue was sweet :)
Idk how to rate it tbh, i guess it was an okay read for me. Glad i gave it a try.
Loved their love/faithfulness <3
I just found it a lil depressing to read about the heroine's disease.
I did not hate the heroine but i also did not love her. She left & did not tell the Hero that she was pregnant because she was only 17 and H was 21 so it would be considered statutory rape. This could have ruined H's career so she left but i still think the H had the right to know.
The hero was great, i liked seeing how he loved and supported the heroine :D
book bf material i tell you, did i say book? huh no, real life bf/soulmate material lol!
It does have a happy ending :)
Epilogue was sweet :)
Idk how to rate it tbh, i guess it was an okay read for me. Glad i gave it a try.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2016
3.5
This was an emotional read, it was good but I had some issues.
1. The writing/ story seem to be missing something or lacking in some area I can't pinpoint.
2. Very bothered by the pregnancy secret and length of time. Also how quickly the hero was okay with it.
3. Had an issue with the illness, how it was revealed and the resolved, didn't make real sense or seem believable for some reason.
4. Jump towards the end was somewhat confusing and abrupt.
Loved. Loved. Loved that they were their first and only. Soul mates!! And loved the epilogue!!!!
This was an emotional read, it was good but I had some issues.
1. The writing/ story seem to be missing something or lacking in some area I can't pinpoint.
2. Very bothered by the pregnancy secret and length of time. Also how quickly the hero was okay with it.
3. Had an issue with the illness, how it was revealed and the resolved, didn't make real sense or seem believable for some reason.
4. Jump towards the end was somewhat confusing and abrupt.
Loved. Loved. Loved that they were their first and only. Soul mates!! And loved the epilogue!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2016
4 emotional and romantic second-chance stars
Wow, Nicole Williams surprised me with this one! I went in not knowing much but expecting a sports romance book, but what she delivers is a beautifully written, deeply emotional and dramatic story with a heartfelt and swoony second-chance romance. It captured my heart from the very first page, and I absolutely loved it!
Ryan Hale is returning to the town she left 7 years ago. She ran away at only 17 years old, and hasn’t been in contact with anybody from her early life since that time. She is back to pay her respects to the woman who provided a safe haven to her and numerous other kids who grew up in her dangerous neighbourhood, and she’s back to see the boy she loved for her whole life and left behind, Grant Turner.
Grant and Ryan were each other's whole worlds. They clung to each other in their dismal circumstances and after Ryan left, Grant survived his broken heart and went on on to become one of the most successful and celebrated football stars in the country. He never forgot the girl who stole his heart when they met as children, but he is still hurt and incredibly angry at her desertion.
Ryan and Grant’s reunion is an emotional one. You can see that they both still care very deeply for each other, but there is a lot of pain there. Ryan’s reason for leaving was actually an understandable one, and I could sympathise with what she went through, but it’s her reason for returning that drives the story and whoa, my heart! I sort of guessed what was going on, but it still hits you with an emotional punch, and I couldn’t put my kindle down as all was revealed.
And as all of the drama unfolds, Grant decides that he’s not prepared to let Ryan go for a second time and he puts his heart on the line, determined to fight for the girl that has always owned his heart.
OMG, Grant! The man is pure, swoony perfection! Seriously, his only possible fault is that he's too forgiving (I would have been angry at Ryan just a little bit longer), so he's clearly a better person than I am. He’s strong, sweet, possessive and protective with a wonderfully dry sense of humour. He loves with his whole heart and he’s not afraid to put his feelings out there, and the way he holds nothing back from Ryan, pouring his heart out to her, had me melting into a puddle of goo on the floor!
*swooooooon!*
But as much as these two love each other, there is so much standing in their way. They have a lot they need to work through, and watching them stand strong while dealing with it all was absolutely beautiful! And it's not all a drama-fest - there are lots of gorgeously sweet and funny moments, a nice amount of hotness and lots that made me smile. But it's the romance that drives the story, and... wow.
I lost myself in this story. It gripped hold of me from the very beginning and I read with a pounding heart, and my emotions in full swing all the way through. I honestly didn’t know how it was all going to work out, but I loved every moment watching it all happen, and I felt everything right along with Ryan and Grant. I was completely swept up in their romance - sweet, sexy, passionate and functional, these two are wonderful together - and I loved their love story.
Nicole Williams has written a beautifully romantic, emotional story. Don’t go looking for spoilers, just dive in and let in unfold and lose yourself in these characters and their second chance at true love.
Beautiful. 4 stars.
ARC generously provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, Nicole Williams surprised me with this one! I went in not knowing much but expecting a sports romance book, but what she delivers is a beautifully written, deeply emotional and dramatic story with a heartfelt and swoony second-chance romance. It captured my heart from the very first page, and I absolutely loved it!
“How do you go and fall in love with someone new when you left your heart with someone else?”
Ryan Hale is returning to the town she left 7 years ago. She ran away at only 17 years old, and hasn’t been in contact with anybody from her early life since that time. She is back to pay her respects to the woman who provided a safe haven to her and numerous other kids who grew up in her dangerous neighbourhood, and she’s back to see the boy she loved for her whole life and left behind, Grant Turner.
Grant and Ryan were each other's whole worlds. They clung to each other in their dismal circumstances and after Ryan left, Grant survived his broken heart and went on on to become one of the most successful and celebrated football stars in the country. He never forgot the girl who stole his heart when they met as children, but he is still hurt and incredibly angry at her desertion.
I’d assumed he’d buried what had happened between us in some unmarked grave and forgotten about it and me years ago. I’d come prepared to remind him of who I was and then bridge the reason why I was back, but I had not come prepared to take on a scorned lover. I’d come equipped to explain myself, not to defend myself, but from the look on his face just now, I’d have to do both.
Ryan and Grant’s reunion is an emotional one. You can see that they both still care very deeply for each other, but there is a lot of pain there. Ryan’s reason for leaving was actually an understandable one, and I could sympathise with what she went through, but it’s her reason for returning that drives the story and whoa, my heart! I sort of guessed what was going on, but it still hits you with an emotional punch, and I couldn’t put my kindle down as all was revealed.
And as all of the drama unfolds, Grant decides that he’s not prepared to let Ryan go for a second time and he puts his heart on the line, determined to fight for the girl that has always owned his heart.
“I fell for you forever ago and there’s nothing you’ve done since that moment that has changed that. There’s nothing you could do to change that. When a person falls, they don’t just get up, dust themselves off, and keep going. If they fell right, if they fell good and hard the first time, there’s no getting up from that fall because they landed right where they were supposed to be.”
OMG, Grant! The man is pure, swoony perfection! Seriously, his only possible fault is that he's too forgiving (I would have been angry at Ryan just a little bit longer), so he's clearly a better person than I am. He’s strong, sweet, possessive and protective with a wonderfully dry sense of humour. He loves with his whole heart and he’s not afraid to put his feelings out there, and the way he holds nothing back from Ryan, pouring his heart out to her, had me melting into a puddle of goo on the floor!
“You changed me forever the moment you said those three words to me, and it’s because of those words I’m the man I am today, standing in front of you. I’m who I am because you loved me.”
His body was growing tenser with each word, his eyes spilling over with emotion. I didn’t think he blinked once.
“I’ve been close to you for the past fourteen years of my life, even when I never saw your face for half of those years. I’ve been in love with you those same fourteen years, and I will die still being in love with you, Ryan Hale … So don’t treat me like my love’s some kind of light switch I can switch on or off depending on my mood. Because my love’s like the goddamned sun. It never goes out.”
*swooooooon!*
But as much as these two love each other, there is so much standing in their way. They have a lot they need to work through, and watching them stand strong while dealing with it all was absolutely beautiful! And it's not all a drama-fest - there are lots of gorgeously sweet and funny moments, a nice amount of hotness and lots that made me smile. But it's the romance that drives the story, and... wow.
“I’d rather have one day with you than an eternity with anyone else.”
I lost myself in this story. It gripped hold of me from the very beginning and I read with a pounding heart, and my emotions in full swing all the way through. I honestly didn’t know how it was all going to work out, but I loved every moment watching it all happen, and I felt everything right along with Ryan and Grant. I was completely swept up in their romance - sweet, sexy, passionate and functional, these two are wonderful together - and I loved their love story.
Nicole Williams has written a beautifully romantic, emotional story. Don’t go looking for spoilers, just dive in and let in unfold and lose yourself in these characters and their second chance at true love.
“You are half my soul … The best part of it.”
Beautiful. 4 stars.
ARC generously provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2016
4 „Hold on and don't let go. Ever.“ stars
This story…
“I've been in love with you those same fourteen years, and I will die still being in love with you, Ryan Hale.
"Because my love's like goddamned sun. It never goes out."
A neverending love story, of Grant Turner and Ryan Hale, two strung out youngsters who lived through the horror of their birth place and lousy backgrounds, who protected each other by giving to one another the only thing that was lacking in their lives – LOVE. One decision will change that and separate them for 7 years. They will be reunited over a reason that would re-arrange their lives and alter the perspective of everything they have known and taken for granted so far. That decision 7 years ago, was , in a way, Ryan's sacrifice for the man she loved, and it might have been wrong and right at the same time, but the misfortune in a form of a disease you can't escape from, brought them back another chance at love, at life to fight for…no matter the time limit they were set upon.
The destiny's end of the road may have been written in advance BUT the journey they took on that road was theirs alone to be re-written.
Their story is an emotional journey through past mistakes, sacrifices, redemption and second chances…it's a reminder of those moments that you take for granted, but when in fact, everything that counts can be taken away from you, in the blink of an eye, in that one moment you realize that time is not QUANTITY but QUALITY and you need to grasp it, grab it, fight for it and breathe it before it slips away…and make it count in terms of forever!
“I love you so damn much, Ryan. I'd die for you.
A million way, a million times. I'd die for you.“
„And I'd live for you. A million way, a million times, I'd live for you.“
Nicole Williams delivered just one insightful aspect of „what if“…she left it open for us to consider the aftermath and yet again, even if the bitter-sweet notion of an ending still looms above me, and all of us, for that matter, I am more consumed by the notion of HOPE that the time spent by living to the fullest is the kind of „forever“ I want for myself and my loved ones.
therefore my fav quote:
“I'd rather have one day with you than an eternity with anyone else.
For more info and reviews visit
October 10, 2016
I’m so overloaded with all the sweetness ‘Touching Down’ had to offer! A story that made me feel all gooey and gave me warm fuzzies all over. I’m a sucker for feel-good romances and Nicole Williams made my weekend with this beautiful, thought provoking story of second chance, devotion, healing and tremendous amount of romance *sigh*.
I was hooked from Ryan and Grant’s very first encounter, and from there I was pretty much a goner. The characters, their struggle and their relationship has a strange pull that makes it VERY ADDICTING!
Ryan Hale and Grant Turner had a troubled life growing up in one of the toughest neighbourhoods in the country, but they always had each other to lean on and survive. They have been inseparable from the moment Grant saved her and he’d been her hero ever since. Their whole life revolved around each other- loving, caring and dreaming of better life, one far away from the hell hole they were raised. All that changes when Ryan disappears without a word, not even a goodbye to Grant who had been a safe haven her whole life, turning his world upside down in that process.
Over the years, Grant becomes the most celebrated name in the professional football. He has it all - luxury of life he couldn’t have, fans who adore him but all that fame could never fill the void left by the love of his life, whom he couldn’t get out of his mind.
After seven long years, they find themselves face to face under a familiar roof. Ryan swore she would never return to this place or be in close proximity as Grant but she couldn’t bury her secret much longer. A secret she harboured for so long but the harsh reality made her seek him out now.
One thing guaranteed with Nicole Williams book is that you are definitely going to find some soulful-emotional moments and heartfelt romance. One could argue that the story lacks originality and it being unrealistic but with Nicole’s books you always look forward to most passionate and enduring characters EVER and that won me over! With her flawless writing and engrossing storyline, she will make you cry, hope, giggle, swoon and fall in love with the characters for sure.
My favourite lines:
“I’d rather have one day with you than an eternity with anyone else.”What are you waiting for?
“You are half my soul … The best part of it.”
“We didn’t get to choose when we were born into this world or when we’d leave it, but we did get to choose how we’d live the time in between…”
“…live as though you were dying, dream as if you’ll have forever.”
Go get your sugar fix now *winks*
*ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review*
October 10, 2016
I thought Touching Down was a very cute read. I found myself smiling the whole book.
Grant and Ryan were childhood sweethearts. You know right off the bat that they had a rough childhood and something happened that caused Ryan to flee.
Usually second chances are not my thing. However I found myself drawn to the reasons that Ryan left Grant and her hometown. She comes back for the same reason and Grant is not very happy with her.
Grant is a NFL superstar who is at the prime of his career and the last thing he needs is more complications. However his weakness has alway been Ryan and this time is no different.
Like I said this was a sweet story. No over the top angst and it had a few hot moments.
Grant and Ryan were childhood sweethearts. You know right off the bat that they had a rough childhood and something happened that caused Ryan to flee.
Usually second chances are not my thing. However I found myself drawn to the reasons that Ryan left Grant and her hometown. She comes back for the same reason and Grant is not very happy with her.
Grant is a NFL superstar who is at the prime of his career and the last thing he needs is more complications. However his weakness has alway been Ryan and this time is no different.
Like I said this was a sweet story. No over the top angst and it had a few hot moments.
October 15, 2016
4 stars
Awesome book and totally safe for my girls!
Awesome book and totally safe for my girls!
October 27, 2016
Grant and Ryan were both enjoyable characters but I didn't feel like there was anything spectacular about their story. They had some problems but most of them were quick and easy fixes and their one main issue ended up being brushed aside with a far-fetched stop-gap. And I’m sure I’m in the minority here, but I was really looking forward to the pain that was going to come at the end of the book.
Their story is sweet, check it out if you're looking for something sweet, and a bit sentimental.
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book
You changed me forever the moment you said those three words to me, and it’s because of those words I’m the man I am today, standing in front of you. I’m who I am because you loved me.Grant and Ryan grew up in the bad part of town and were childhood sweethearts, they were it for each other until one day Ryan up and left without explanation. Seven years later she’s back in town and she’s definitely brought some baggage that needs unpacking. A lot of what was going on with Ryan was predictable imo but I was surprised by the big problem she reveals, I had suspected something else (legit spoiler —> ). I’ve got a pretty basic understanding of Ryan’s problem, and part of that understanding is its endgame, which was bittersweet for many reasons.
The scars of our past were carved all over our bodies. But I knew the future we'd create together would heal them all, even the ones that ran deep.Ok, I need to actually talk about it (don’t read if you want to read the book
Grant and I were meant to be together … Trying to deny that was like trying to deny a person’s thirst for water. It was in my very makeup - he was in my very makeup. I’d love Grant until my last breath, and I knew he’d love me until his last.Anyway, Grant was a great guy, he worked hard to get where he was in life but he never forgot where he came from and he tried to help kids that were like him. He was resistant to Ryan when she first returned, she’d burned him in a major way, but he’s not totally unreceptive to her, she's still that girl he fell in love with when they were kids. I would have liked to spend some time with Grant and Ryan when they first fell in love because I didn't really get a good feel for their connection, it was already established so it wasn't as obvious for me.
Their story is sweet, check it out if you're looking for something sweet, and a bit sentimental.
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book
October 12, 2016
I went to great lengths to write a detailed review and unfortunately GR ate it...and I stupidly didn't do it in word first. So here goes round 2.
4.5
Ryan Hale is back home, to The Clink, after 7 years. Her reasons for leaving were secret then and her reason for returning is secret now, but she's ready to share those secrets now. She knew Grant Turner, former love turned famous football player, would be angry with her, but nothing prepared her for his detachment. Grant Turner loved her then, he loves her now, but he's channeled all his energy into football, he doesn't have time to unearth past pains. When the secrets come to light they may tear the two farther apart or bring them closer than they could have ever expect.
When a person falls, they don’t just get up, dust themselves off, and keep going. If they fell right, if they fell good and hard the first time, there’s no getting up from that fall because they landed right where they were supposed to.
I don't know if my allergies were acting up or if Nicole Williams just wrote another touching sports romance, because I was in tears more than I wasn't. Told from dual POV, Touching Down is a second chance story packed with emotions, from angst to love. Ryan is a tough girl, young in age but wise beyond her years. She's been through a lot, hardened to the world, but she's still the little girl she left behind years ago and it made my heart ache for her. I couldn't always understand her motives, but I could feel for her and wanted to just see her happy. Grant is book boyfriend perfection, with his handsome rugged looks, his heart of gold, his possessive passion, and most of all his outlook on life as a boy rather than as a famous guy. Neither has ever forgotten the past, never let it go, and I love how Nicole Williams made their past such a huge part of their story. I love second chance romances that really allow you to see the past, experience the present, and envision the future. It made my heart break, especially as the secrets spilled from Nicole, but it made my heart soar too as I watched the couple handle it.
The scars of our past were carved all over our bodies. But I knew the future we'd create together would heal them all, even the ones that ran deep.
If you're looking for a realistic second chance romance about acceptance, Nicole William's Touching Down is the book to pick up. I felt like I experienced every emotion alongside the characters and it happens to feature what might be one of my favorite epilogues ever. It's not your typical sports romance, but it is a beautiful one that won't leave your mind easily.
4.5
Ryan Hale is back home, to The Clink, after 7 years. Her reasons for leaving were secret then and her reason for returning is secret now, but she's ready to share those secrets now. She knew Grant Turner, former love turned famous football player, would be angry with her, but nothing prepared her for his detachment. Grant Turner loved her then, he loves her now, but he's channeled all his energy into football, he doesn't have time to unearth past pains. When the secrets come to light they may tear the two farther apart or bring them closer than they could have ever expect.
When a person falls, they don’t just get up, dust themselves off, and keep going. If they fell right, if they fell good and hard the first time, there’s no getting up from that fall because they landed right where they were supposed to.
I don't know if my allergies were acting up or if Nicole Williams just wrote another touching sports romance, because I was in tears more than I wasn't. Told from dual POV, Touching Down is a second chance story packed with emotions, from angst to love. Ryan is a tough girl, young in age but wise beyond her years. She's been through a lot, hardened to the world, but she's still the little girl she left behind years ago and it made my heart ache for her. I couldn't always understand her motives, but I could feel for her and wanted to just see her happy. Grant is book boyfriend perfection, with his handsome rugged looks, his heart of gold, his possessive passion, and most of all his outlook on life as a boy rather than as a famous guy. Neither has ever forgotten the past, never let it go, and I love how Nicole Williams made their past such a huge part of their story. I love second chance romances that really allow you to see the past, experience the present, and envision the future. It made my heart break, especially as the secrets spilled from Nicole, but it made my heart soar too as I watched the couple handle it.
The scars of our past were carved all over our bodies. But I knew the future we'd create together would heal them all, even the ones that ran deep.
If you're looking for a realistic second chance romance about acceptance, Nicole William's Touching Down is the book to pick up. I felt like I experienced every emotion alongside the characters and it happens to feature what might be one of my favorite epilogues ever. It's not your typical sports romance, but it is a beautiful one that won't leave your mind easily.
October 14, 2016
I liked it but didn't love it. It is probably just a "me" thing. There were things about this story that I loved. I loved how true they were in their love for each other. I loved that that the H didn't hold a grudge forever against the h for what she did (even though she deserved said grudge). I loved his determination even though life had knocked him down time and again.
Then there were the things I didn't love so much. Mostly that was the h. I know in her 17 year old brain she felt like she was making the best decision for everyone involved BUT (and that's a big BUT), she let it go on for 7 years even though it wouldn't have mattered anymore. On top of that she only decided to come clean because she felt she didn't have a choice anymore. I don't know that she really would have otherwise. I think the author tried to make her seem selfless in her actions but she came across as selfish and unrepentant. I just didn't care for her or about her and that never really changed for me.
I did like the H and felt he deserved way better than her. He was truly selfless, protective, and generous beyond what she deserved. So my stars are for him alone. I will read more by this author in the future though because I did enjoy the writing as well.
Then there were the things I didn't love so much. Mostly that was the h. I know in her 17 year old brain she felt like she was making the best decision for everyone involved BUT (and that's a big BUT), she let it go on for 7 years even though it wouldn't have mattered anymore. On top of that she only decided to come clean because she felt she didn't have a choice anymore. I don't know that she really would have otherwise. I think the author tried to make her seem selfless in her actions but she came across as selfish and unrepentant. I just didn't care for her or about her and that never really changed for me.
I did like the H and felt he deserved way better than her. He was truly selfless, protective, and generous beyond what she deserved. So my stars are for him alone. I will read more by this author in the future though because I did enjoy the writing as well.
October 11, 2016
You can never ever go wrong with Nicole Williams.
I highly recommend it!
I highly recommend it!
April 21, 2017
After reading Tortured and Collared by this author I was expecting something on that level but this book left me pretty disappointed. h leaves the H and disappears and he never questions that, never goes looking for answers. I'm not convinced! H remains alone and celibate for 7 years but never once goes looking for her and then when h comes back in his life they begin as if nothing had happened. This book could have been so much more...so much better!
October 10, 2016
4.5+ stars....SPOILER FREE REVIEW
This is not a fluffy football romance. It is full of surprises, reality, harsh truths, and heartbreak. But also has love, laughter, and family. This book grabbed me from the first page. It had me full of tension and emotion, totally invested, and needing to hope. I had no idea where this story would take me when I opened the book, but it took some unexpected turns.
Ryan Hale is returning home to face her past. And she has a lot of explaining to do and has been holding onto some secrets. Grant Turner is the man she left behind seven years ago and the one she has to answer to now.
Ryan is a strong, loving woman that has survived so much, but is facing some difficult challenges. Grant never got over the girl he lost. These two seemed to belong together, but had issues stacked against them. I totally fell for Grant. He is the most devoted, swoon-worthy hero. I wanted to hug him as my heart broke for him. I adored his heart, perseverance, devotion, and need to fight against all odds. He inspires Ryan to have faith and believe.
This is a beautiful heartfelt story of second chances, soul mates, forgiveness, hope, and living life to the fullest. It was told in Ryan's point of view in the present. It was sweet, emotional, unpredictable, and inspiring. I was captivated til the end and went through a gamut of emotions. It was a surprisingly poignant story that happens to be about a pro football player, but it is really about so much more. I was not sure as the story went along if it was going to make me cry with happiness or despair. I was so glad to see an epilogue, that I might have squeeed outloud. I just had to know how everything was going to turn out.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
This is not a fluffy football romance. It is full of surprises, reality, harsh truths, and heartbreak. But also has love, laughter, and family. This book grabbed me from the first page. It had me full of tension and emotion, totally invested, and needing to hope. I had no idea where this story would take me when I opened the book, but it took some unexpected turns.
Ryan Hale is returning home to face her past. And she has a lot of explaining to do and has been holding onto some secrets. Grant Turner is the man she left behind seven years ago and the one she has to answer to now.
Ryan is a strong, loving woman that has survived so much, but is facing some difficult challenges. Grant never got over the girl he lost. These two seemed to belong together, but had issues stacked against them. I totally fell for Grant. He is the most devoted, swoon-worthy hero. I wanted to hug him as my heart broke for him. I adored his heart, perseverance, devotion, and need to fight against all odds. He inspires Ryan to have faith and believe.
This is a beautiful heartfelt story of second chances, soul mates, forgiveness, hope, and living life to the fullest. It was told in Ryan's point of view in the present. It was sweet, emotional, unpredictable, and inspiring. I was captivated til the end and went through a gamut of emotions. It was a surprisingly poignant story that happens to be about a pro football player, but it is really about so much more. I was not sure as the story went along if it was going to make me cry with happiness or despair. I was so glad to see an epilogue, that I might have squeeed outloud. I just had to know how everything was going to turn out.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
September 30, 2016
Review by Lisa Kane
The scars of our past were carved all over our bodies. But I knew the future we'd create together would heal them all, even the ones that ran deep.
I loved this book, like seriously loved it! I am a sucker for a great second chance at romance-I loved when the couple are childhood friends and then something happens, they are separated and then thrown back in each other's lives.
The story is told entirely from Ryan Hale's POV. It's been years since she left her life behind- a childhood of living in the Clink. A name they used to describe an area so dangerous and run down that few enter it that don't live there. Her mother was a crack whore willing to put her daughter's life at risk if it means she could score another dose. That's how she met Grant Turner. He saved her when she was just a kid and he was a few years older. Saved her from being raped by one of the dead beats her mother let into their lives. Grant has the scars to show for saving her. But out of the blue, when Ryan was 17 and Grant was a senior in college, just one the verge of getting drafted into the NFL, she ran. She cut all ties and left Grant behind, never knowing why she left him.
Some scars weren't meant to heal. Some were meant to be felt for the rest of our lives. Some scars defined us too much to ever be erased.
The only thing that could bring Ryan back to her hometown is the funeral of Aunt May. This woman provided a safe haven for the kids who lived in the Clink. She gave them a safe place to come to and support and love. But Ryan knows that going back will mean facing Grant again.
We'd all paid a price for reaching adulthood. For some of us, the cost had been our innocence. For others, it was our soul. My price for being here today was both. And more.
Grant's reaction to seeing Ryan after seven long years is just what you think it will be-he is still full of anger and he won't let it dictate his life.
"I sure as shit wouldn't leave someone I used to love in the same condition." As he said it, his tone changed. It took on that sharp, removed pitch I'd heard for the first time earlier tonight.
The words "used to" hit me. Hard. Not because I hadn't accepted years ago that Grant used to love me, but because it was the first time I'd heard him say it. The first time he'd confirmed it.
It stung like a son of a bitch.
He is one of the highest paid players in the league, he is followed everywhere by the press and fans and his life right now could not be more different than it was when he lived in the Clink. He may act like he is over Ryan but once she is back in his life, he is so far from over her that I don't think he could ever convince himself otherwise.
I can't tell anymore about the story. There are a couple of major twists that would completely spoil the plot if I went any further. Grant could not be more adorable if he tried. He is genuinely a good guy and his love for Ryan has never wavered. In spite of her leaving him, especially when he finds out why-this guy is putty in her hands. Would I have left the same way Ryan did? Not sure-but I would have gotten in touch with him a lot sooner.
If I could do it all again, I wasn't sure if I'd make the same decision or a different one. Neither choice would have been an easy one.
But Ryan has her reasons and they are valid ones. Will Grant be able to forgive her? Will Grant finally have Ryan back or will he lose her again?
"You are half of my soul, Ryan Hale. The best part of it. Don't leave me ever again."
His head fell into the wall beside mine as I tightened around him.
"You are within me, so you can't expect me to live without you."
The scars of our past were carved all over our bodies. But I knew the future we'd create together would heal them all, even the ones that ran deep.
I loved this book, like seriously loved it! I am a sucker for a great second chance at romance-I loved when the couple are childhood friends and then something happens, they are separated and then thrown back in each other's lives.
The story is told entirely from Ryan Hale's POV. It's been years since she left her life behind- a childhood of living in the Clink. A name they used to describe an area so dangerous and run down that few enter it that don't live there. Her mother was a crack whore willing to put her daughter's life at risk if it means she could score another dose. That's how she met Grant Turner. He saved her when she was just a kid and he was a few years older. Saved her from being raped by one of the dead beats her mother let into their lives. Grant has the scars to show for saving her. But out of the blue, when Ryan was 17 and Grant was a senior in college, just one the verge of getting drafted into the NFL, she ran. She cut all ties and left Grant behind, never knowing why she left him.
Some scars weren't meant to heal. Some were meant to be felt for the rest of our lives. Some scars defined us too much to ever be erased.
The only thing that could bring Ryan back to her hometown is the funeral of Aunt May. This woman provided a safe haven for the kids who lived in the Clink. She gave them a safe place to come to and support and love. But Ryan knows that going back will mean facing Grant again.
We'd all paid a price for reaching adulthood. For some of us, the cost had been our innocence. For others, it was our soul. My price for being here today was both. And more.
Grant's reaction to seeing Ryan after seven long years is just what you think it will be-he is still full of anger and he won't let it dictate his life.
"I sure as shit wouldn't leave someone I used to love in the same condition." As he said it, his tone changed. It took on that sharp, removed pitch I'd heard for the first time earlier tonight.
The words "used to" hit me. Hard. Not because I hadn't accepted years ago that Grant used to love me, but because it was the first time I'd heard him say it. The first time he'd confirmed it.
It stung like a son of a bitch.
He is one of the highest paid players in the league, he is followed everywhere by the press and fans and his life right now could not be more different than it was when he lived in the Clink. He may act like he is over Ryan but once she is back in his life, he is so far from over her that I don't think he could ever convince himself otherwise.
I can't tell anymore about the story. There are a couple of major twists that would completely spoil the plot if I went any further. Grant could not be more adorable if he tried. He is genuinely a good guy and his love for Ryan has never wavered. In spite of her leaving him, especially when he finds out why-this guy is putty in her hands. Would I have left the same way Ryan did? Not sure-but I would have gotten in touch with him a lot sooner.
If I could do it all again, I wasn't sure if I'd make the same decision or a different one. Neither choice would have been an easy one.
But Ryan has her reasons and they are valid ones. Will Grant be able to forgive her? Will Grant finally have Ryan back or will he lose her again?
"You are half of my soul, Ryan Hale. The best part of it. Don't leave me ever again."
His head fell into the wall beside mine as I tightened around him.
"You are within me, so you can't expect me to live without you."
October 13, 2016
3.5 stars!
I LOVE second chance romance and Nicole Williams gave us Touching Down, a book that is well written, emotional, and unforgettable. Get ready to add another book boyfriend to your list with Grant Turner!
Childhood friends who become more is one of my absolute favorites. Ryan Hale and Grant Turner were young when they fell in love. Things were going great for them with Grant looking toward his future as a pro football player when everything changed course and Ryan left without an explanation.
Fast forward seven years and they are thrown into each other's lives again when the person who served as a mother figure to them, a safe haven in their impoverished community, died and they are attending her funeral. To feel the emotions when they run into each other for the first time was so emotional because when you see your first love, your first everything and know in your heart that feelings (though) buried are still there - despite the anger, you just want them to talk, to get it all out there, to hopefully get back together <3
I apologize for being vague here as I don't want to spoil the story for you but secrets are revealed - some surprising, some that I figured out on my own. I will say that Grant really stole the show for me. He could not be more heart melting *le sigh*
Touching Down is about second chances, how things can change in an instant and to enjoy every moment in life with no regrets, how sometimes you have to let go of the pain and anger of the past because there are more important things in life. Readers who love Ms. Williams beautifully crafted stories that touch your heart should pick this one up and get ready with tissues because it's a tear jerker you will not ever forget.
I LOVE second chance romance and Nicole Williams gave us Touching Down, a book that is well written, emotional, and unforgettable. Get ready to add another book boyfriend to your list with Grant Turner!
Childhood friends who become more is one of my absolute favorites. Ryan Hale and Grant Turner were young when they fell in love. Things were going great for them with Grant looking toward his future as a pro football player when everything changed course and Ryan left without an explanation.
Fast forward seven years and they are thrown into each other's lives again when the person who served as a mother figure to them, a safe haven in their impoverished community, died and they are attending her funeral. To feel the emotions when they run into each other for the first time was so emotional because when you see your first love, your first everything and know in your heart that feelings (though) buried are still there - despite the anger, you just want them to talk, to get it all out there, to hopefully get back together <3
I apologize for being vague here as I don't want to spoil the story for you but secrets are revealed - some surprising, some that I figured out on my own. I will say that Grant really stole the show for me. He could not be more heart melting *le sigh*
Touching Down is about second chances, how things can change in an instant and to enjoy every moment in life with no regrets, how sometimes you have to let go of the pain and anger of the past because there are more important things in life. Readers who love Ms. Williams beautifully crafted stories that touch your heart should pick this one up and get ready with tissues because it's a tear jerker you will not ever forget.
October 25, 2016
This. This is the Nicole Williams I know and love. I started it last night more as a sedative than anything else, but it kept me up until 4 in the morning, because there was no way I would able to fall asleep not knowing how it ended.
I loved the characters. I loved their story. I loved everything about this story. Everything made sense.
I loved the characters. I loved their story. I loved everything about this story. Everything made sense.
July 20, 2017
A sweet, predictable read! Review to come!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
October 10, 2016
ARC was provided by author.
October 12, 2016
“I’d rather have one day with you than an eternity with anyone else.”
Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews