What do you think?
Rate this book
Beyond the Roses
To the outside world, my life is perfect.
I’m young and rich, and some may even say I’m beautiful. But I would give anything to be somebody else because after being extraordinary all my life, all I wish for is…silence.
My name is Lola Van Allen, and there’s no easy way to say it, but…I’m dying.
When my doctors reveal all hope is lost, I decide to spend the time I have left sharing my experience at Strawberry Fields, a summer camp for terminally ill children. No matter my fate, I yearn to make a difference.
Things are quiet and slow-moving until I meet him.
Dr. Roman Archibald.
From the moment our lives entwine, he pushes me until breaking point. But for someone who has nothing left to lose, I push back twice as hard. Roman challenges me in ways I never imagined, revealing things aren’t always what they seem.
This is my story…and how I got a second chance at life.
I’m young and rich, and some may even say I’m beautiful. But I would give anything to be somebody else because after being extraordinary all my life, all I wish for is…silence.
My name is Lola Van Allen, and there’s no easy way to say it, but…I’m dying.
When my doctors reveal all hope is lost, I decide to spend the time I have left sharing my experience at Strawberry Fields, a summer camp for terminally ill children. No matter my fate, I yearn to make a difference.
Things are quiet and slow-moving until I meet him.
Dr. Roman Archibald.
From the moment our lives entwine, he pushes me until breaking point. But for someone who has nothing left to lose, I push back twice as hard. Roman challenges me in ways I never imagined, revealing things aren’t always what they seem.
This is my story…and how I got a second chance at life.
242 pages, Paperback
First published November 11, 2020
About the author
Monica James
45 books2,714 followersMonica James spent her youth devouring the works of Anne Rice, William Shakespeare, and Emily Dickinson.
When she is not writing, Monica is busy running her own business, but she always finds a balance between the two. She enjoys writing honest, heartfelt, and turbulent stories, hoping to leave an imprint on her readers. She draws her inspiration from life.
She is a bestselling author in the U.S., Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, and the U.K.
Monica James resides in Melbourne, Australia, with her wonderful family, and menagerie of animals. She is slightly obsessed with cats, chucks, and lip gloss, and secretly wishes she was a ninja on the weekends.
http://www.facebook.com/authormonicaj...
Twitter: @monicajames81
http://monicajamesbooks.blogspot.com.au/
When she is not writing, Monica is busy running her own business, but she always finds a balance between the two. She enjoys writing honest, heartfelt, and turbulent stories, hoping to leave an imprint on her readers. She draws her inspiration from life.
She is a bestselling author in the U.S., Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, and the U.K.
Monica James resides in Melbourne, Australia, with her wonderful family, and menagerie of animals. She is slightly obsessed with cats, chucks, and lip gloss, and secretly wishes she was a ninja on the weekends.
http://www.facebook.com/authormonicaj...
Twitter: @monicajames81
http://monicajamesbooks.blogspot.com.au/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews
January 29, 2022
Fake deep dialogues and monologues felt forced. I had a distant feeling they were supposed to make a reader cry ( I didn't) and I didn't appreciate the effort to squeeze tears out of my heatless self with a blender. It takes more than pompous speeches that point out the obvious to elicit a strong emotion from me.
Make it more subtle next time. The book reminds me of sitcoms with a laugh track. This book is a dramatic show with a tear track.
SPOILERS FOR THE ENDING
The heroine dies, the hero falls in love with another woman and lives his HEA with her.
He dies an old man and meets the heroine in heaven (hopefully in his youthful shape).
Sometimes sad endings leave an everlasting impression, and I don't mind them as a rule: if a book doesn't draw out any emotion, reading it is the time wasted for me. This book is a testament to what I've said.
Make it more subtle next time. The book reminds me of sitcoms with a laugh track. This book is a dramatic show with a tear track.
SPOILERS FOR THE ENDING
The heroine dies, the hero falls in love with another woman and lives his HEA with her.
He dies an old man and meets the heroine in heaven (hopefully in his youthful shape).
Sometimes sad endings leave an everlasting impression, and I don't mind them as a rule: if a book doesn't draw out any emotion, reading it is the time wasted for me. This book is a testament to what I've said.
November 4, 2020
I knew this story was going to be trouble for me. I saw it, I felt it, and I ignored the warning signs anyway because deep down, I’m a glutton for punishment. I had this pre conceive notion that I was going to be left unscathed when I read the final words from this book because nothing and I mean NOTHING phases me in stories anymore and guess what happened??? I was a goner for these characters!! I fell in love when I shouldn’t have, I got my heart broken into a million tiny pieces and with all of that, I still had this crazy idea that I was going to be ok. I still held on to hope even though it was dwindling as the chapters were winding down and my god, I STILL gritted my teeth and braced for impact because this book?? This book is going to leave a mark on your heart whether you want it to or not.
Beyond The Roses is not your ordinary deep emotional sad story about loss and trying to find yourself when your world is practically in the midst of chaos and despair. This story was about sacrifice, putting yourself out there and knowing that not all of you will come back in one piece. It’s about finding the type of love that so many of us wishes that not only we can find, but hold onto because you know it’s rare. This story is about seeing what true happiness looks like between characters that love each other unconditionally but most of all, this story is about hope.
I’ve come to the conclusion that no matter what I write in this review, it will never do this story justice. I will admit that I did have a rough time in the beginning with trying to figure out how I felt about some of the characters and I had no idea which direction it was going to go in but once I got passed that, everything took off for me. The connection, the emotions, having hope, staring denial right in it’s face and wanting to go to war, to finally having joy and feeling the love, is the reason why this book was not only different for me but truly special.
I loved that this author did something different and she was not afraid to go there when it came to her characters. I respected her for it and just when you thought that this was it, she manages to throw you one heck of a gut wrenching twist that will have you curled up in a ball like a baby for days just sobbing!! If you’ve never read anything from this author, then you really need to get to it!
Please be advised that this book is not everyone. It is highly emotional, alcohol worthy inducing, and a sob fest. You’ve been warned.
November 11, 2020
Five-heartbreaking-Stars
I wanna start my review by telling you that i'm sorry.
I'm sorry because i know i won't be able to explain the beauty of this book, because i'm just too overwhelmed by all those emotions.
This story is beautifully heartbreaking.
Two days after reading it i'm still here sobbing.
Gosh even writing this review make me cry!!!
Lola & Roman' love is so powerful, deep, and intense: it's the kind of love you find in fairy tales...
But this is not a fairy tales, and sometimes the happy ending you wished for it's different from the one you get.
"𝑳𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒊𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆,
𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔, 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔."
Reads like "Beyond The Roses" make you think, they put everything in perspective: we easily forget life is a gift we should cherish.
We should make every seconds worthwhile.
That's what Lola and Roman taught me.
And i really hope you gonna give this book a chance and read it 🖤🖤🖤
#MustRead
I wanna start my review by telling you that i'm sorry.
I'm sorry because i know i won't be able to explain the beauty of this book, because i'm just too overwhelmed by all those emotions.
This story is beautifully heartbreaking.
Two days after reading it i'm still here sobbing.
Gosh even writing this review make me cry!!!
Lola & Roman' love is so powerful, deep, and intense: it's the kind of love you find in fairy tales...
But this is not a fairy tales, and sometimes the happy ending you wished for it's different from the one you get.
"𝑳𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒊𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆,
𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔, 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔."
Reads like "Beyond The Roses" make you think, they put everything in perspective: we easily forget life is a gift we should cherish.
We should make every seconds worthwhile.
That's what Lola and Roman taught me.
And i really hope you gonna give this book a chance and read it 🖤🖤🖤
#MustRead
August 17, 2021
3.5
This is definitely a serious book that revolves around our main character living with an inoperable tumor that is probably going to kill her. She lost her best friend before this book starts and is working at a camp for sick kids. She starts to fall for the doctor at the camp, but he has secrets of his own. This books really heavy and deals with a lot of heavy topics and conversations. You definitely have to be prepared for that. I'm much more used to Monica's dark romances, so this one felt very slow and not a lot actually happened because it focused more on the development of the characters and their relationship rather than the plot. While that's not my favorite kind of book, I still enjoyed this emotional romance.
This is definitely a serious book that revolves around our main character living with an inoperable tumor that is probably going to kill her. She lost her best friend before this book starts and is working at a camp for sick kids. She starts to fall for the doctor at the camp, but he has secrets of his own. This books really heavy and deals with a lot of heavy topics and conversations. You definitely have to be prepared for that. I'm much more used to Monica's dark romances, so this one felt very slow and not a lot actually happened because it focused more on the development of the characters and their relationship rather than the plot. While that's not my favorite kind of book, I still enjoyed this emotional romance.
December 11, 2022
I don’t even know how to describe this book, but I guess it’s like a medical romance? The hero is a doctor and a heroine is terminally ill... and no, this book does not end in a happily ever after. But despite that, I somehow ended up enjoying myself! Maybe because I knew going in that there wasn’t going to be an HEA, so I prepared myself for it.
Lola and Roman's romance is so sweet, despite how sad and depressing things get. Lola comes from a very wealthy family, but she’s been sick pretty much all her life. She decides to spend her last few moments at Strawberry Fields, which is a summer camp for other terminally ill children. She volunteers there because she knows what they’re going through. Lola and Roman meet there and they form an instant connection. I really enjoyed how Lola just went all out when it came to Roman because she knows she doesn't have long, so she wants to live the rest of her life to the fullest and she knows she has something with Roman. Roman is incredibly sweet and supportive of Lola and he’s the one who pushes her to try to do some trials to hopefully save her.
I'm honestly surprised by how this book worked for me. It's the type of read that you need to be in the right mindset for, and I guess I was in the right mood for sad and emotional. But if you don't like not having HEAs in your romance, I would avoid this!
Lola and Roman's romance is so sweet, despite how sad and depressing things get. Lola comes from a very wealthy family, but she’s been sick pretty much all her life. She decides to spend her last few moments at Strawberry Fields, which is a summer camp for other terminally ill children. She volunteers there because she knows what they’re going through. Lola and Roman meet there and they form an instant connection. I really enjoyed how Lola just went all out when it came to Roman because she knows she doesn't have long, so she wants to live the rest of her life to the fullest and she knows she has something with Roman. Roman is incredibly sweet and supportive of Lola and he’s the one who pushes her to try to do some trials to hopefully save her.
I'm honestly surprised by how this book worked for me. It's the type of read that you need to be in the right mindset for, and I guess I was in the right mood for sad and emotional. But if you don't like not having HEAs in your romance, I would avoid this!
November 4, 2020
"Life isn't measured in time, but rather moments, memories."
This is one of those books I just want to hold close to my heart and never let go.
Two people.
Two paths.
Meant to meet.
Meant to survive.
Emotionally powerful.
Soul touching.
Heartbreakingly beautiful.
This book will change your perspective, will show you an unpredictable aspect of life and the uncontrollable power of love.
"Lead with your heart...and you'll find me. Always."
November 8, 2020
Beyond the Roses is a new full-length stand-alone novel by Monica James that is packed with all of the feels. When I read the blurb for this I was very intrigued because it sounded so different than what I was used to from her. What I would soon learn though was that I was utterly unprepared for the torrent of feelings this novel would evoke in me and how greatly this story would affect me. Get ready to fall in love and be completely wrecked in the best possible way!
Lola Van Allen is young, beautiful and wealthy. But none of that matters because her days on earth are numbered. Plain and simple - she's dying. She's done chemo and experimental drug trials, but nothing has worked. With all hope lost, she decides to spend her final days doing something that matters, and Strawberry Fields is just the place for that. It's a summer camp for terminally ill kids, and she hopes to somehow make a difference in their lives. And it's here that she meets Dr. Roman Archibald. He pushes her to try again, to fight and not give up hope. But the good doctor is harboring a secret of his own. It's a whammy, and one that will forever change both of their lives.
Beyond the Roses was a heartbreakingly beautiful story about love, loss and healing that rocked me to my core. It was heart-wrenchingly real, raw and at times, difficult to read. It's one I'll remember for some time to come and one that has definitely made a lasting impression. This epic and all-consuming love story was a good reminder of why I love reading romance. All of the stars for Lola, Roman and Beyond the Roses!
Lola Van Allen is young, beautiful and wealthy. But none of that matters because her days on earth are numbered. Plain and simple - she's dying. She's done chemo and experimental drug trials, but nothing has worked. With all hope lost, she decides to spend her final days doing something that matters, and Strawberry Fields is just the place for that. It's a summer camp for terminally ill kids, and she hopes to somehow make a difference in their lives. And it's here that she meets Dr. Roman Archibald. He pushes her to try again, to fight and not give up hope. But the good doctor is harboring a secret of his own. It's a whammy, and one that will forever change both of their lives.
Beyond the Roses was a heartbreakingly beautiful story about love, loss and healing that rocked me to my core. It was heart-wrenchingly real, raw and at times, difficult to read. It's one I'll remember for some time to come and one that has definitely made a lasting impression. This epic and all-consuming love story was a good reminder of why I love reading romance. All of the stars for Lola, Roman and Beyond the Roses!
November 10, 2020
⭐️ 5+ "Lead With Your Heart" Stars ⭐️
I literally just finished my read of Beyond the Roses and... I'm not okay! My heart is hurting so badly, but at the same time I'm filled with happy feelings. I'm a complete mess of contradicting feelings! Monica James without a doubt in my mind signed with this novel her best contemporary romance to date!
I feel like this review should be short and sweet, because there's not a lot I want to unveil about the plot. Just from the blurb, it's clear what you're in for with this novel. I was expecting to get my heart shattered by Lola's tragic situation, but was also agreably suprised by the hope shining through the pages of this story. Her romance with Dr. Roman Archibald is truly magnificent! In their moments of despondency, they find solace and bliss into each other. I'm speechless from their gorgeous relationship that got to me deeply with their unfortunate ending getting closer.
Beyond the Roses drained me completely! After this read, my throat is so raw and my eyes burn from all the crying! This book is assuredly a top read for me in 2020! All the stars to this epic journey!
** ARC received in exchange for an honest review **
February 4, 2022
★★★𝑅𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤★★★
(𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.)
𝑅𝐴𝑇𝐼𝑁𝐺:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝑳𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒊𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔, 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔.
If i could ha given this book a thousand stars, i would.
I could have never imagined reading a book that would break me but make me whole at the same time. This book did exactly that.
There are book you read and forget, and there are books you read and never forget. this book falls in the second category.
This book was one of the most beautiful, heartbreaking, tear jerking books I've ever read. I love Monica James, she is one of my favorite authors and i loved every book I've read by her, but this book surpassed all my expectations. To say i was touched would be an understatement, i honestly can't ever find to word to express what I'm feeling right now.
Art comes in different shapes and sizes. Drawing, sculpting, singing, painting and writing. This book here is a peace of art, and I'm happy because i had the opportunity to read it.
What really touched me is the fact that THERE IS a Georgia and a Sadie and a Lola AND a Roman somewhere in this world and my heart breaks for each and everyone of them.
𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔, 𝒘𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒊𝒕𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉.
Thank you Monica for this beautiful piece art, this book made me different in more ways than i can say and I'm certain that anyone who'll read it will feel the same.
(𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.)
𝑅𝐴𝑇𝐼𝑁𝐺:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝑳𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒊𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔, 𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔.
If i could ha given this book a thousand stars, i would.
I could have never imagined reading a book that would break me but make me whole at the same time. This book did exactly that.
There are book you read and forget, and there are books you read and never forget. this book falls in the second category.
This book was one of the most beautiful, heartbreaking, tear jerking books I've ever read. I love Monica James, she is one of my favorite authors and i loved every book I've read by her, but this book surpassed all my expectations. To say i was touched would be an understatement, i honestly can't ever find to word to express what I'm feeling right now.
Art comes in different shapes and sizes. Drawing, sculpting, singing, painting and writing. This book here is a peace of art, and I'm happy because i had the opportunity to read it.
What really touched me is the fact that THERE IS a Georgia and a Sadie and a Lola AND a Roman somewhere in this world and my heart breaks for each and everyone of them.
𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔, 𝒘𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒊𝒕𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉.
Thank you Monica for this beautiful piece art, this book made me different in more ways than i can say and I'm certain that anyone who'll read it will feel the same.
April 29, 2022
I am sad to say, Beyond the Roses does not shed tears for me. The premesis is promising. A sick heroine meets a charming, charismatis hero.
Their love story is... lukewarm.
I usually a big fan of Miss James. Several of her dark romance are my favorite. I was curious about Beyond the Roses. A contemporary romance.
And now I feel bit let down from my own expectation.
3 stars
Their love story is... lukewarm.
I usually a big fan of Miss James. Several of her dark romance are my favorite. I was curious about Beyond the Roses. A contemporary romance.
And now I feel bit let down from my own expectation.
3 stars
November 5, 2020
Oh man! I don’t think I have any tears left. I knew what I got myself into reading the blurb but nothing prepared me for this much pain and heartbreak. This is what I love about Monica James. She writes story that forever leave an imprint in your heart. Life isn’t fair even in fiction. I threw fits, I cried, I bargained, and I prayed for something that was inevitable. If Lola and Roman’s story taught me anything it’s that cherish the ones you love. Life is precious and none of us is promised tomorrow. My only reprieve is believing that where ever life takes us, we will be united with each other again on the other side of the rainbow 🌈 Live and Love hard. I can’t thanks Monica James enough for this incredibly touching story. What an emotional journey she took us on but I promise it will all be worth it. The epilogue could not be more perfect!
This is THE book of 2020 and it deserved all the stars ⭐️ and sunflowers 🌻
This is THE book of 2020 and it deserved all the stars ⭐️ and sunflowers 🌻
November 16, 2020
I must be dead inside because there is no other explanation as to why this did nothing for me.
Monica James is an exponential writer, there is no denying that but this release… I just wasn’t able to connect with anything. The emotionally driven storyline that touches base on realistic issues that anyone can relate to nor the characters that I didn’t particularly care for. And that is fine because as a reader, you’re not expected to love everything an author dishes out.
Nonetheless, this was different from MJ’s previous works I have read in the past and despite this not being a winner—it won’t defer me from reading more from this author in the future.
November 5, 2020
My heart is heavy. Drowning in so many emotions that rational words escape me. Beyond the Roses moved me so deeply- I can’t remember a book that has ever emotionally shattered me in the way that this one did. This is a story that will stay with you, that will capture you so entirely that you somehow can’t imagine a world where you haven’t read it. This is a story that changes you.
I know what you are thinking. Why would you willingly read a book where you know you are going to cry- that you know is going to hurt? And that is one thing I can promise you- this book hurts. It is beautiful, deeply profound- but bittersweet. I shed my first tear only 5% in, and I have shed many more since, aching ugly crying- some out of joy, some out of sadness, more even just writing this review. Even so, you need to read this book. Some books, some journeys are worth the tears. Tears that cleanse the soul- tears that inspire you to see anew, tears that help you breathe fresh air, tears that change you. And this story? This story is worth every tear.
What happens when you only start to live once you are already dying? When you aren’t sure what is more scary- living or dying? That is the journey of our amazing heroine, Lola, who finds herself determined to live the last days of her life supporting terminally children at Strawberry Fields. She’s tired of fighting, tired of feeling lost and alone. She’s lost a chance at the life she thought she’d once have, and what she has left will slowly decompose, so instead she wants to be useful. Be among people who understand what it is like to be living on borrowed time. Only she finds something there she never expected courtesy of the magnanimous Dr. Roman Archibald - her will to live.
This Monica’s best writing ever. Emotionally resonant, thought provoking, profound and symbolic. The prose is almost poetic- more than words, it is feelings. And these characters? They will never leave you. Lola’s heart is just so tender and loving. I felt every ounce of her pain, of her joy, of her fear and hope. She’s vulnerably strong, selfless and demanding, resolute and brave. Her courage, her compassion, her drive I am holding close in my heart. And Roman- he’s the definition of stoic sacrifice, of gentleness and quiet strength. Their love is the kind of unconditional love I may never find- a bond beautiful and pure, unbreakable and restorative. A connection so vividly created I’m somehow tethered to it, to them.
Lola and Roman’s love story is powerful, moving, both heartbreaking and uplifting, but what has touched me the most is what their love story proves. What their love- this story- has to say about living. Monica is reminding us just how rare, how impactful true love can be. How love is a MIRACLE. Because to find love- to feel it, to give it- that is truly LIVING. And that is the kind of living worth fighting for- even if the battle seems insurmountable. Sometimes that love doesn’t look how we think it will, though- it doesn’t fit our idealized archetype of swoony romance. But that doesn’t make it any less precious, any less real, any less worthy. And Lola and Roman’s story is as beautiful as they come, the kind of story that squeezes the heart and alters the mind. A Love worth fighting for. Unconventional, well yes, but precious, real, and WORTH IT. But Monica gives one more truth- not only is love about living, but love is also about hope. And, no matter how dark, how scared or lost you are, there is always hope. But life isn’t always easy, or neat, it can be unfair and bittersweet- so while hope always comes, it doesn’t always manifest in the way you think. You don’t always find it where you think. This story, despite the plethora of emotions, above all else is really a story of HOPE. Of healing. Hope can heal, but it often doesn’t in the way you expected, or planned.
Beyond the Roses is the kind of book that reminds you how powerful words can be- how they can consume your entire being until you are breathing them as your own. How words inspire such powerful emotions that you feel transformed by reading them. There are books that you remember because you loved them and then there are books that crawl so deeply inside of your heart and mind that they somehow become part of your DNA, become part of the fabric of you. And, Beyond the Roses is part of me now- I am altered. I am full of love and hope- even if my heart is still fragile.
Because my heart is still heavy, it is bereft- but it also beats. It beats for these characters, for a love so special and tender that I cannot stop breathing it. I cannot stop feeling it. Roman and Lola’s story is heartfelt, emotional, raw, and shattering- but it is a miracle. Finding love, finding hope?? That is a gift, that is living. And Lola and Roman? Oh, they live. They live so beautifully. They live in a way that touched my soul- live in a way that gives me hope, that inspires me to live better. And now they live forever in my heart- a heart with each beat feels them, a heart swelling with love and hope. All because they truly lived.
The best stories are the ones you didn’t even know your needed- my heart and soul needed this story, and I think yours will too.
I know what you are thinking. Why would you willingly read a book where you know you are going to cry- that you know is going to hurt? And that is one thing I can promise you- this book hurts. It is beautiful, deeply profound- but bittersweet. I shed my first tear only 5% in, and I have shed many more since, aching ugly crying- some out of joy, some out of sadness, more even just writing this review. Even so, you need to read this book. Some books, some journeys are worth the tears. Tears that cleanse the soul- tears that inspire you to see anew, tears that help you breathe fresh air, tears that change you. And this story? This story is worth every tear.
What happens when you only start to live once you are already dying? When you aren’t sure what is more scary- living or dying? That is the journey of our amazing heroine, Lola, who finds herself determined to live the last days of her life supporting terminally children at Strawberry Fields. She’s tired of fighting, tired of feeling lost and alone. She’s lost a chance at the life she thought she’d once have, and what she has left will slowly decompose, so instead she wants to be useful. Be among people who understand what it is like to be living on borrowed time. Only she finds something there she never expected courtesy of the magnanimous Dr. Roman Archibald - her will to live.
This Monica’s best writing ever. Emotionally resonant, thought provoking, profound and symbolic. The prose is almost poetic- more than words, it is feelings. And these characters? They will never leave you. Lola’s heart is just so tender and loving. I felt every ounce of her pain, of her joy, of her fear and hope. She’s vulnerably strong, selfless and demanding, resolute and brave. Her courage, her compassion, her drive I am holding close in my heart. And Roman- he’s the definition of stoic sacrifice, of gentleness and quiet strength. Their love is the kind of unconditional love I may never find- a bond beautiful and pure, unbreakable and restorative. A connection so vividly created I’m somehow tethered to it, to them.
Lola and Roman’s love story is powerful, moving, both heartbreaking and uplifting, but what has touched me the most is what their love story proves. What their love- this story- has to say about living. Monica is reminding us just how rare, how impactful true love can be. How love is a MIRACLE. Because to find love- to feel it, to give it- that is truly LIVING. And that is the kind of living worth fighting for- even if the battle seems insurmountable. Sometimes that love doesn’t look how we think it will, though- it doesn’t fit our idealized archetype of swoony romance. But that doesn’t make it any less precious, any less real, any less worthy. And Lola and Roman’s story is as beautiful as they come, the kind of story that squeezes the heart and alters the mind. A Love worth fighting for. Unconventional, well yes, but precious, real, and WORTH IT. But Monica gives one more truth- not only is love about living, but love is also about hope. And, no matter how dark, how scared or lost you are, there is always hope. But life isn’t always easy, or neat, it can be unfair and bittersweet- so while hope always comes, it doesn’t always manifest in the way you think. You don’t always find it where you think. This story, despite the plethora of emotions, above all else is really a story of HOPE. Of healing. Hope can heal, but it often doesn’t in the way you expected, or planned.
Beyond the Roses is the kind of book that reminds you how powerful words can be- how they can consume your entire being until you are breathing them as your own. How words inspire such powerful emotions that you feel transformed by reading them. There are books that you remember because you loved them and then there are books that crawl so deeply inside of your heart and mind that they somehow become part of your DNA, become part of the fabric of you. And, Beyond the Roses is part of me now- I am altered. I am full of love and hope- even if my heart is still fragile.
Because my heart is still heavy, it is bereft- but it also beats. It beats for these characters, for a love so special and tender that I cannot stop breathing it. I cannot stop feeling it. Roman and Lola’s story is heartfelt, emotional, raw, and shattering- but it is a miracle. Finding love, finding hope?? That is a gift, that is living. And Lola and Roman? Oh, they live. They live so beautifully. They live in a way that touched my soul- live in a way that gives me hope, that inspires me to live better. And now they live forever in my heart- a heart with each beat feels them, a heart swelling with love and hope. All because they truly lived.
The best stories are the ones you didn’t even know your needed- my heart and soul needed this story, and I think yours will too.
November 1, 2020
Beyond The Roses by Monica James has torn me apart and I don't know what to do with all the pieces of my heart. This story is UNDOUBTEDLY my most favourite Monica James story and one of my top 2020 read. This is just beautiful and incredible writing. This story gutted me in the best way possible and also filled my heart with overwhelming inspiring and hopeful feels. YOU ARE NOT READY FOR THIS EMOTIONAL STORM. Be ready to be wrecked and consumed and fall in love.
Lola Van Allen is dying. Her days are numbered and she is adamant not to spend her last days under medicine induced haze and fighting side effects. ( Can you feel me tearing up all over again?) So she has decided to volunteer at Strawberry Field, a sanctuary of kids who are suffering from terminal illness. She wants to make a difference. And here she meets Dr. Roman Archibald. The amazing man who pushes her to try again. But the fate had some other plans for them as Roman has a secret of his own and Lola's fight is so far from over.
I cried a lot during this story. It's hard not to. The author didn't hold back while bringing out the pain, the loss, the desperation, the hopelessness and every shocking riveting gut wrenching feeling. And there was no escape. That was incredibly powerful writing. I felt every single feel with full effect right inside my heart. Lola, I love you and I want to hug you and tell you how special you are. This woman is just amazing. Her strength. Her compassion. Her stubbornness. Her ability to love with everything and beyond limits. Her eagerness to fight for her love. Her vulnerability and the will to face her fears and beat them.Her selflessness. She is beyond perfect. Sweet girl, you have my heart.
Dr. Roman Archibald. Are you for real? I cannot think any word other than perfection for you. He had such a difficult life of losing his loved ones and his own life is scarred enough. But he relentlessly tries to save everyone. Beyond his own grief, fear and pain. He inspires everyone to be better and helps them beyond his limits. My heart just breaks for him. He gave Lola her second life by supporting her, pushing her, loving her and everything. Their connection is something otherworldly. A bond between two broken and irreparably damaged people. Their love is so beautiful and awe inspiring. The chemistry was sweet and aching and all consuming. My heart is overwhelmed. It was a difficult, messy and raw love story. And it was one of those memorable ones. I cried. I cursed. I smiled. I prayed. The ending was perfect and fitting. And I didn't stop crying till the end.
I wanted to wrap Roman and Lola in a protective blanket and protect their hearts. I am not ready to say goodbye to them. Beyond the Roses by Monica James was such a stunning and heartchingly beautiful story. I will probably never recover from this book hangover.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Lola Van Allen is dying. Her days are numbered and she is adamant not to spend her last days under medicine induced haze and fighting side effects. ( Can you feel me tearing up all over again?) So she has decided to volunteer at Strawberry Field, a sanctuary of kids who are suffering from terminal illness. She wants to make a difference. And here she meets Dr. Roman Archibald. The amazing man who pushes her to try again. But the fate had some other plans for them as Roman has a secret of his own and Lola's fight is so far from over.
I cried a lot during this story. It's hard not to. The author didn't hold back while bringing out the pain, the loss, the desperation, the hopelessness and every shocking riveting gut wrenching feeling. And there was no escape. That was incredibly powerful writing. I felt every single feel with full effect right inside my heart. Lola, I love you and I want to hug you and tell you how special you are. This woman is just amazing. Her strength. Her compassion. Her stubbornness. Her ability to love with everything and beyond limits. Her eagerness to fight for her love. Her vulnerability and the will to face her fears and beat them.Her selflessness. She is beyond perfect. Sweet girl, you have my heart.
Dr. Roman Archibald. Are you for real? I cannot think any word other than perfection for you. He had such a difficult life of losing his loved ones and his own life is scarred enough. But he relentlessly tries to save everyone. Beyond his own grief, fear and pain. He inspires everyone to be better and helps them beyond his limits. My heart just breaks for him. He gave Lola her second life by supporting her, pushing her, loving her and everything. Their connection is something otherworldly. A bond between two broken and irreparably damaged people. Their love is so beautiful and awe inspiring. The chemistry was sweet and aching and all consuming. My heart is overwhelmed. It was a difficult, messy and raw love story. And it was one of those memorable ones. I cried. I cursed. I smiled. I prayed. The ending was perfect and fitting. And I didn't stop crying till the end.
I wanted to wrap Roman and Lola in a protective blanket and protect their hearts. I am not ready to say goodbye to them. Beyond the Roses by Monica James was such a stunning and heartchingly beautiful story. I will probably never recover from this book hangover.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
November 16, 2020
This book emotionally wrecked me I’ve never read a book that hurt so bad to read I almost couldn’t finish I literally felt EVERYTHING but I pushed on took breaks when needed and I’m so glad that I did . Monica James is a phenomenal writer and this story proves it she is hands down one of my most favorite authors in this industry I haven’t read a book by her yet that I haven’t loved I’m used to her darker stories so when I heard she was writing this gut wrenching story I just had to experience this tragic journey myself and I was not disappointed . This is definitely the most emotionally compelling spellbinding romance story I’ve read this year ! Lola and Romans love story is so powerful intense and tragic their love is the type of love you only see in fairytales . I really have no words that will ever do this book justice this review is all over the place and I’m sorry for that but this book completely wrecked me . This story is a must read and definitely gets my five stars!
** I voluntarily reviewed an advanced complimentary copy of this book **
** I voluntarily reviewed an advanced complimentary copy of this book **
November 2, 2020
I think this is Monica’s best.
This beautiful, emotional and quite frankly inspirational ride is one I will not forget anytime soon.
Thank you to the author for this beautiful story that not only broke my heart but pierced it back together at the same time. This book made me feel just like Chasing the butterflies did, like I was watching a movie and I just didn’t want it to end.
Lola, she is one brave and beautiful character and believe it or not you’ll learn a thing or two from her. I sure did.
Our hero, he deserves the world and I will never find the words to express how much I loved his character.
So beautifully written, I am still in awe.
I’ll add more to this review once the book is live.
5 beautiful stars 🌹
This beautiful, emotional and quite frankly inspirational ride is one I will not forget anytime soon.
Thank you to the author for this beautiful story that not only broke my heart but pierced it back together at the same time. This book made me feel just like Chasing the butterflies did, like I was watching a movie and I just didn’t want it to end.
Lola, she is one brave and beautiful character and believe it or not you’ll learn a thing or two from her. I sure did.
Our hero, he deserves the world and I will never find the words to express how much I loved his character.
So beautifully written, I am still in awe.
I’ll add more to this review once the book is live.
5 beautiful stars 🌹
December 29, 2020
Monica James’ latest read Beyond The Roses was a beautifully tragic work of art radiating with emotion. A heroine struggling to hold onto everything she holds dear, and a hero who will stop at nothing to save the one he loves. The sorrow, love, joy and sacrifice that laced each page brought us to tears. It also served as a reminder that life and love are not always perfect, but they are worth every moment. If you enjoy heartbreaking love stories, then this is the book for you!
www.marvelusreads.com
www.marvelusreads.com
![Profile Image for Lori [semi-hiatus].](https://cdn.statically.io/img/i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1652024485i/125758944._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
Read
December 4, 2020hated the ending, still processing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2020
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
“Beyond the Roses” is a standalone novel by the best-selling author Monica james. Told in dual perspectives , this book completely wrecked me!
Okkkkk… I need some time to swim out of the puddle of tears this author has managed to drown me in, I mean , I have no words! This Book was so beautifully written that I felt every emotion the characters felt in this book. The scenes and emotions won;t just stop playing in my head! I really don’t know how to move on from such an amazing book and I don’t think I will be able to move on either!
I absolutely love that Monica tried something different from the usual genre she writes and what is much more astonishing is how amazingly she nailed it! Lola and Roman are gonna stay in my heart forever and just give this book a chance , there is no way that you will be disappointed!
Beyond the Roses is a conventional take of two people finding love amidst chaos and the difficulties of life. It handles delicate topics like Human health and despair. The book is beautifully written and a definite top read of mine. There is nothing better than a book that wraps itself around your soul and doesn’t let go. “Beyond The Roses” is one of that type! This book had a realistic aspect to it and there may even be a few people that would relate to it! Like I said before, It might contain a few triggers for some people so please proceed with caution. But if you have no triggers and want to go on an amazing emotional ride that will leave you begging for more , then by all means one click this book! It is not something to be missed by all contemporary romance lovers!
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Bookbub | My Blog
December 23, 2020
Can I give this book a million stars...pretty please?!...
Because it goddamn truly deserves it.
Alright...I am still crying from all the feels this book gave me...this one, here, is a masterpiece of a book made to bring out even the raw hidden pain out of a person.
Lola was the character we can all relate to for an extent but her levels of difficulties in life surpass us...To know your days are numbers yet still having to smile, live for others takes a guts to do...I just can't...😪😪🤧.
This is by far my most favorite book by Author James and even top read of 2020...
I was pretty warn by my friends that I should be ready to cry a river while reading this book and I took that granted and 2 chapters in...I was gone.
There were some heartwarming moments too with Lola and Dr Roman....he really did pushed her to be better ..to try again..to never give up...is that man for real? How I wish to meet this fictional person and just hug him...both of them..
Their love was selfless and extraordinary...and the ending😭😭...this book is so precious that I don't wanna ruin anything by giving out spoilers accidentally...I Recommend you to go in blind like I did and...put tissue BOXES near you...some wine will do you good too.
Because it goddamn truly deserves it.
Alright...I am still crying from all the feels this book gave me...this one, here, is a masterpiece of a book made to bring out even the raw hidden pain out of a person.
Lola was the character we can all relate to for an extent but her levels of difficulties in life surpass us...To know your days are numbers yet still having to smile, live for others takes a guts to do...I just can't...😪😪🤧.
This is by far my most favorite book by Author James and even top read of 2020...
I was pretty warn by my friends that I should be ready to cry a river while reading this book and I took that granted and 2 chapters in...I was gone.
There were some heartwarming moments too with Lola and Dr Roman....he really did pushed her to be better ..to try again..to never give up...is that man for real? How I wish to meet this fictional person and just hug him...both of them..
Their love was selfless and extraordinary...and the ending😭😭...this book is so precious that I don't wanna ruin anything by giving out spoilers accidentally...I Recommend you to go in blind like I did and...put tissue BOXES near you...some wine will do you good too.
November 1, 2020
This book is so different from Alek's book.
It's nothing like it.
It was bittersweet, emotional and angsty I spent hours crying over the suffering the characters went through.
This book isn't just fiction it's our reality, the reality we try to forget but it reminds us that there is no running away from it.
I loved how strong and brave was Lola, she thought Ramon was saving her but in the end she was the one saving him.
This book shows how selfless someone can be with the person they really love. It shows how life can be so cruel to people in the least expected.
This book was so so different and it was inspiring too.
Ramon and Lola found each other in a moment where they needed each other.
I couldn't put down this book and I stayed up late turning the pages and crying.
This book was a Masterpiece.
It's nothing like it.
It was bittersweet, emotional and angsty I spent hours crying over the suffering the characters went through.
This book isn't just fiction it's our reality, the reality we try to forget but it reminds us that there is no running away from it.
I loved how strong and brave was Lola, she thought Ramon was saving her but in the end she was the one saving him.
This book shows how selfless someone can be with the person they really love. It shows how life can be so cruel to people in the least expected.
This book was so so different and it was inspiring too.
Ramon and Lola found each other in a moment where they needed each other.
I couldn't put down this book and I stayed up late turning the pages and crying.
This book was a Masterpiece.
November 18, 2020
A bundle of emotions that shook me to the core -- two beautiful characters that kept me teary-eyed through most of this book. One of those poignant love stories that breaks your heart with its power to both destroy and heal. Beautiful and meaningful passages of dialogue.
So, why just four stars? Insta-love very seldom works for me. And the subject matter called for more time between Roman and Lola to make what evolved between them seem more real and believable. And the ending felt a bit overdone and one-sided -- especially with the addition of Ivy added to the story.
So, why just four stars? Insta-love very seldom works for me. And the subject matter called for more time between Roman and Lola to make what evolved between them seem more real and believable. And the ending felt a bit overdone and one-sided -- especially with the addition of Ivy added to the story.
November 4, 2020
““𝑨𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚?”“𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕?” 𝑴𝒚 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒔 𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒖𝒏𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒖𝒑. 𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒎𝒊𝒓𝒌𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒂𝒛𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉. “𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆.” ”— 𝑩𝒆𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒔, 𝑴𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒂 𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔.
If I could give this a million stars, I would.
Monica sealed the cracks in my soul without even knowing, dealt with sensitive subjects with understanding.
It shattered me and bulit me back again.
‘Beyond The Roses’ is so powerful.
So damn poweful.
Roman and Lola, God knows why, they were the spark and the fire...fated.
I don't think anything can prepare you for this book...they go straight for your heart and you give it up willingly.
I was cut open and left bleeding until her words healed me.
And what a healing it was...
I don't wait to spoil the book, so all I want to say is, you've got to read this book — not just because it's a Monica James novel, but because these pages will bring out all the raw, hidden pains and set them free
This one is intense, painful yet uplifting, having characters with indeniable chemistry and a connection like never before.
There's no way you won't fall in love.
Hand over your heart.
You won't regret it.
Sunflowers, roses, sunflowers...I'll never forget this book. It is my favourite book by her, no doubt. ( Sorry Saint & Alek 😂)
(𝘏𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳.)
If I could give this a million stars, I would.
Monica sealed the cracks in my soul without even knowing, dealt with sensitive subjects with understanding.
It shattered me and bulit me back again.
‘Beyond The Roses’ is so powerful.
So damn poweful.
Roman and Lola, God knows why, they were the spark and the fire...fated.
I don't think anything can prepare you for this book...they go straight for your heart and you give it up willingly.
I was cut open and left bleeding until her words healed me.
And what a healing it was...
I don't wait to spoil the book, so all I want to say is, you've got to read this book — not just because it's a Monica James novel, but because these pages will bring out all the raw, hidden pains and set them free
This one is intense, painful yet uplifting, having characters with indeniable chemistry and a connection like never before.
There's no way you won't fall in love.
Hand over your heart.
You won't regret it.
Sunflowers, roses, sunflowers...I'll never forget this book. It is my favourite book by her, no doubt. ( Sorry Saint & Alek 😂)
(𝘏𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳.)
November 10, 2020
Oh my poor little heart, A MUST READ! Check out my review & teaser on my Blog -> CLICK HERE
May 11, 2021
“Whatever happens, remember I love your more than life itself”.
“Lead with your heart...and you’ll find me. Always”.
5/5⭐️
1/3🔥
From time to time I’ll read something that reminds me why I love to read romance so much. This was one of those books. Straight away I need to start by saying this is hands down THE most beautiful book I have ever read, and while Lola and Romans story is heartbreaking, it delivers such an important message. Their story is a reminder to take nothing in life for granted, and to live everyday with gratitude that we are here. I loved these characters so so much, Lola and Roman were both so strong despite everything life threw their way. Their love story truly was an epic one and I can only hope that you give it a chance, so you can experience this beautiful story and feel the impact that it has had on me🌸
“Lead with your heart...and you’ll find me. Always”.
5/5⭐️
1/3🔥
From time to time I’ll read something that reminds me why I love to read romance so much. This was one of those books. Straight away I need to start by saying this is hands down THE most beautiful book I have ever read, and while Lola and Romans story is heartbreaking, it delivers such an important message. Their story is a reminder to take nothing in life for granted, and to live everyday with gratitude that we are here. I loved these characters so so much, Lola and Roman were both so strong despite everything life threw their way. Their love story truly was an epic one and I can only hope that you give it a chance, so you can experience this beautiful story and feel the impact that it has had on me🌸
November 11, 2020
Monica James does it again. This time with a tear jerker. This one is worth the read. Once I started reading - I couldn’t stop until the end.
Lola is by far one of my favorite female characters ever . She’s strong and fearless. I wish to be just like her.
It took me forever to actually form words after reading this book - Just a warning - you will need tissues, so please have them handy.
Lola is by far one of my favorite female characters ever . She’s strong and fearless. I wish to be just like her.
It took me forever to actually form words after reading this book - Just a warning - you will need tissues, so please have them handy.
November 2, 2020
Beyond the Roses will make you cherish the ones you love in your life & not take for granted everyday that passes to live your life everyday like it is your last.
Always make Memories, tell them you love them, cherish those memories & never forget <3
I am emotionally in a beautiful book hanger because of Monica James
Beyond the Roses is a magnificent book that must be read!
This book will emotionally tear your heart into pieces with the amount of love that pours off the pages.
I haven't read such a book in a long time that is just so heartfelt and consuming when it comes to love. It had me in such awe of how Author Monica James written words touch your soul.
Roman & Lola stole my heart. Their story had me questioning myself in what would I do if I had to choose my fate in life. Their situations were very raw and real. You felt their love, their pain, their suffering and I just kept wanting to hold and hug them which each chapter I read.
This book is one that once you start, you will not be able to stop because you will NEED to know what will happen Beyond the Roses as the title says.
Get your box of tissues ready because there is no way you will not cry reading this amazing love story.
5 🍒🍒🍒🍒🍒popped! Top 2020 Must Read!
***ARC provided by author for an honest review***
Always make Memories, tell them you love them, cherish those memories & never forget <3
I am emotionally in a beautiful book hanger because of Monica James
Beyond the Roses is a magnificent book that must be read!
This book will emotionally tear your heart into pieces with the amount of love that pours off the pages.
I haven't read such a book in a long time that is just so heartfelt and consuming when it comes to love. It had me in such awe of how Author Monica James written words touch your soul.
Roman & Lola stole my heart. Their story had me questioning myself in what would I do if I had to choose my fate in life. Their situations were very raw and real. You felt their love, their pain, their suffering and I just kept wanting to hold and hug them which each chapter I read.
This book is one that once you start, you will not be able to stop because you will NEED to know what will happen Beyond the Roses as the title says.
Get your box of tissues ready because there is no way you will not cry reading this amazing love story.
5 🍒🍒🍒🍒🍒popped! Top 2020 Must Read!
***ARC provided by author for an honest review***
June 5, 2022
Desde el prólogo sabía lo que iba a llorar con esta historia 🥹.
Tenía muy pendiente este libro y por fin me di el tiempo de leerlo, pero no pensé que el leerlo junto con el de Alice me iba a dejar sin lágrimas 😭.
Primero que nada tremendo plow twist lo de June y Roman, siendo sincera me esperaba muchas cosas menos eso, no sé si era obvio o que pero no le puse mucha atención y me sorprendió por que si le da mucha importancia a la trama principal del libro y wow 😭.
El final es inesperado y el epílogo me hizo llorar a mareees, ya tenía tiempo que un libro no me dejaba así , sin duda inolvidable historia 🥹💙✨.
A pesar de que le doy 4 estrellas por que me imaginaba un final distinto me parece un libro precioso y verdadero.
Tenía muy pendiente este libro y por fin me di el tiempo de leerlo, pero no pensé que el leerlo junto con el de Alice me iba a dejar sin lágrimas 😭.
Primero que nada tremendo plow twist lo de June y Roman, siendo sincera me esperaba muchas cosas menos eso, no sé si era obvio o que pero no le puse mucha atención y me sorprendió por que si le da mucha importancia a la trama principal del libro y wow 😭.
El final es inesperado y el epílogo me hizo llorar a mareees, ya tenía tiempo que un libro no me dejaba así , sin duda inolvidable historia 🥹💙✨.
A pesar de que le doy 4 estrellas por que me imaginaba un final distinto me parece un libro precioso y verdadero.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2020
If you have never read Monica James, here is the perfect book you can start with. Actually, no. You MUST read this. No matter what. This was her BEST book. Although I do love her dark romance, this was NOT a dark book. And for me to say I loved this more than her dirty and dark books says so much about this story.
You need a good cry? READ THIS ✔
You looking to be inspired? READ THIS ✔
You wanting your heart ripped out of your chest and your soul sucked out of your body and go blind from all of the tears shed? READ THIS ✔
This book consumed me right in from the very first paragraph. I just wanted to learn more about all the characters. And I did love them all. Georgia, Sadie, Zoe, Roman, June, Lola. They were each special in their own way. It was like I was watching a movie and I never EVER wanted it to end.
This book gave me hope. And that is something I havent had alot of this year.
But this book broke me in so many ways too. So many times. If I am being honest, miss Monica James, if you are reading this review, this book broke my heart exactly 5 times. I can feel the cracks in my heart as I write this. It hurts. Mommy help me.
"I won't accept a world where you don't exist." --Wahhhh.
God. I loved Roman. He was just everything. Mysterious. Sweet. Caring. Gentle. Kind. Strong. I want him to be mine. I had hearts in my eyes watching him and Lola slowly grow together. As friends and then more.
And oh man, I ABSOLUTELY adored Lola's strength and growth in this book. She completely astounded me. One of my favorite heroines. I have so much more I want to say but I want to keep all the good parts to myself and let you find out on your own. Such an amazing, inspiring, jaw dropping incredible story that everyone really needs to read. 5 stars is not even enough!
You need a good cry? READ THIS ✔
You looking to be inspired? READ THIS ✔
You wanting your heart ripped out of your chest and your soul sucked out of your body and go blind from all of the tears shed? READ THIS ✔
This book consumed me right in from the very first paragraph. I just wanted to learn more about all the characters. And I did love them all. Georgia, Sadie, Zoe, Roman, June, Lola. They were each special in their own way. It was like I was watching a movie and I never EVER wanted it to end.
This book gave me hope. And that is something I havent had alot of this year.
But this book broke me in so many ways too. So many times. If I am being honest, miss Monica James, if you are reading this review, this book broke my heart exactly 5 times. I can feel the cracks in my heart as I write this. It hurts. Mommy help me.
"I won't accept a world where you don't exist." --Wahhhh.
God. I loved Roman. He was just everything. Mysterious. Sweet. Caring. Gentle. Kind. Strong. I want him to be mine. I had hearts in my eyes watching him and Lola slowly grow together. As friends and then more.
And oh man, I ABSOLUTELY adored Lola's strength and growth in this book. She completely astounded me. One of my favorite heroines. I have so much more I want to say but I want to keep all the good parts to myself and let you find out on your own. Such an amazing, inspiring, jaw dropping incredible story that everyone really needs to read. 5 stars is not even enough!
November 4, 2020
After reading this, I was not okay. I was emotionally wrecked. Even after a couple of days after reading Beyond the Roses, I still am crying while writing this review. This is by far one of the most emotional books I have read. I barely started reading it and I was already sniffling.
This is one of those books where I know, no matter what I write, I will not do this book justice. This is hands down a 2020 most memorable read and will stick with me for a very long time.
It's a book about inner peace, finding people that are your family regardless if they share your blood or not, learning to love, and living in the moment. It's about fighting, regardless of the outcome, and reconciliation because you never know what tomorrow brings.
I'm not a fan of emotional reads. In fact, if I know it's going to wreck me, I will put it off or not even read it. I prefer being blindsided rather than knowing when it comes to emotional reads.
Having said that, I love Monica James's writing, her creativity. She has the way of keeping me in suspense no matter the type of story she writes.
Even though this book had me bawling my eyes out, I couldn't put it down - even when I couldn't see the words because the tears just kept falling. She just sucked me in and held me through this entire journey.
Monica James did an outstanding job of putting all the feels into this story.
This is one of those books that just need to be read! I normally say not to read the spoilers but I don't think even they will change how you will feel while reading this and after. It's just THAT GOOD!
This is one of those books where I know, no matter what I write, I will not do this book justice. This is hands down a 2020 most memorable read and will stick with me for a very long time.
It's a book about inner peace, finding people that are your family regardless if they share your blood or not, learning to love, and living in the moment. It's about fighting, regardless of the outcome, and reconciliation because you never know what tomorrow brings.
I'm not a fan of emotional reads. In fact, if I know it's going to wreck me, I will put it off or not even read it. I prefer being blindsided rather than knowing when it comes to emotional reads.
Having said that, I love Monica James's writing, her creativity. She has the way of keeping me in suspense no matter the type of story she writes.
Even though this book had me bawling my eyes out, I couldn't put it down - even when I couldn't see the words because the tears just kept falling. She just sucked me in and held me through this entire journey.
Monica James did an outstanding job of putting all the feels into this story.
This is one of those books that just need to be read! I normally say not to read the spoilers but I don't think even they will change how you will feel while reading this and after. It's just THAT GOOD!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews