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Cherry Creek #1
When Shadows Follow
Blend in. Stay quiet. Survive.
Fallon Blake is starting her senior year in a new town with the goal of sliding through to graduation unseen. Despite her attempts to lay low, she makes a snap decision to act when the king of Cherry Creek High School, Jesse Callaway, gets jumped at a party.
Now, fearing Fallon needs protection from the mess she threw herself into, Jesse refuses to let her recede back into the shadows. Little does he know, with each lingering glance, or brush of his hand, he is reigniting a fire within Fallon that burns her to the core. Every gentle touch scorches the scars on her fragile heart.
As sparks fly between them, Fallon fights to snuff them out. How can she trust her own judgment when it failed her horrifically before? But when the past catches up with her, Fallon is left with two options. Confide in Jesse... or run.
Will Fallon break the vicious cycle of the past by taking a chance on the future? Or will fear torch any chance she and Jesse could have had?
Fallon Blake is starting her senior year in a new town with the goal of sliding through to graduation unseen. Despite her attempts to lay low, she makes a snap decision to act when the king of Cherry Creek High School, Jesse Callaway, gets jumped at a party.
Now, fearing Fallon needs protection from the mess she threw herself into, Jesse refuses to let her recede back into the shadows. Little does he know, with each lingering glance, or brush of his hand, he is reigniting a fire within Fallon that burns her to the core. Every gentle touch scorches the scars on her fragile heart.
As sparks fly between them, Fallon fights to snuff them out. How can she trust her own judgment when it failed her horrifically before? But when the past catches up with her, Fallon is left with two options. Confide in Jesse... or run.
Will Fallon break the vicious cycle of the past by taking a chance on the future? Or will fear torch any chance she and Jesse could have had?
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2020
About the author
Callie Rae
8 books222 followersCallie Rae writes romantic suspense novels. She lives in southern Louisiana with a daughter, two furry pups, and one fat rabbit named Josie. You can find Callie in her garden pretending her thumb is green. Otherwise, she is mommin' with the best.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
May 6, 2020
3 ❤️❤️🤕⭐️s
I am banging my head against the wall because I didn’t see that this story was NOT a standalone and had a cliffhanger!! 🤕🤕
Nevertheless, it was a YA high school read, emotional and suspenseful and well written.
But it was slow! I believe some chapters could have been left out because the picture was more than clear from most of them.
Regarding the heroine’s past, I found it overdramatic.
I am banging my head against the wall because I didn’t see that this story was NOT a standalone and had a cliffhanger!! 🤕🤕
Nevertheless, it was a YA high school read, emotional and suspenseful and well written.
But it was slow! I believe some chapters could have been left out because the picture was more than clear from most of them.
Regarding the heroine’s past, I found it overdramatic.
March 25, 2020
A great YA/School Romance debut novel!
This is the first book in the Cherry Creek Series and ends with a cliffhanger.
Fallon Blake is a broken girl, a survivor. In her search of a new beginning, she started a new chapter in her senior year. New friends, new goals and a new guy that pamper her senses and emotions. She don't want more complications in her life, but Jesse in not the kind of guy that give up. Jesse Callaway is powerful, popular, dangerous, fearful, an alpha guy with a beautiful heart. The handsome one that every girl die for.
Callie Rae bring us an emotional rollercoaster story with suspense, a hint of humor and a strong words about unity, friendship, family relationship and love. It was a great read and left me wanting more. Carson, Jesse's adoptive brother is my favorite secondary character. I wish he can have his own story. I'll be looking forward to the next book in this series.
This is the first book in the Cherry Creek Series and ends with a cliffhanger.
Fallon Blake is a broken girl, a survivor. In her search of a new beginning, she started a new chapter in her senior year. New friends, new goals and a new guy that pamper her senses and emotions. She don't want more complications in her life, but Jesse in not the kind of guy that give up. Jesse Callaway is powerful, popular, dangerous, fearful, an alpha guy with a beautiful heart. The handsome one that every girl die for.
Callie Rae bring us an emotional rollercoaster story with suspense, a hint of humor and a strong words about unity, friendship, family relationship and love. It was a great read and left me wanting more. Carson, Jesse's adoptive brother is my favorite secondary character. I wish he can have his own story. I'll be looking forward to the next book in this series.
April 13, 2020
Release Date: March 19, 2020
Actual Rating: 4 stars
New Adult | High School Romance | Suspense
Callie Rae has written an exciting novel here and I am so glad I took a chance on a new to me author. This book had everything I wanted: a new adult crowd, a brooding bad boy, and enough suspense to leave me intrigued. I didn’t know this would end in a cliffhanger and while I’m bummed that it did, I am really looking forward to seeing what happens next with Fallon and Jesse. Things just got REALLY dicey!
My first thoughts when reading this one is that it’s similar to Boys of Brayshaw High. Not in a sense that this book copies that plot because it DOESN’T, but because we have a new adult/young adult crossover with a demure heroine, an alpha/protective hero, some suspense, and secondary characters that completely imprint themselves on your heart. I loved these characters to pieces and want to shout it out to all new adult romances lovers ESPECIALLY if you’re a fan of the Brayshaw series by Meagan Brandy. I know there are many readers who look for similar books and this one right here is that.
Another thing I loved about this book is the underlying emotion that flows through the characters. It’s pretty clear early on that they all put on a front, acting as if they don’t have the weight of the world on their shoulders when in reality they DO. It makes perfect sense for their age group (thank you for writing a book that FITS with the age of the characters), and it shows us that deep down we are all facing (or have faced) demons. For Fallon it’s a pretty emotional secret that she’s hiding and the way it twists around the story is incredible. Callie did an amazing job with this! For Jesse it’s something closer to home… It will be interesting to see how his issues play out in the next one! **Crosses fingers that it’s coming SOON.**
All in all, this is an amazing debut and I enjoyed reading it immensely. I read it in a day as it’s just over 200 pages, and I was so invested in the book that I didn’t want to put it down! Obviously, I recommend this one!
Actual Rating: 4 stars
New Adult | High School Romance | Suspense
Callie Rae has written an exciting novel here and I am so glad I took a chance on a new to me author. This book had everything I wanted: a new adult crowd, a brooding bad boy, and enough suspense to leave me intrigued. I didn’t know this would end in a cliffhanger and while I’m bummed that it did, I am really looking forward to seeing what happens next with Fallon and Jesse. Things just got REALLY dicey!
My first thoughts when reading this one is that it’s similar to Boys of Brayshaw High. Not in a sense that this book copies that plot because it DOESN’T, but because we have a new adult/young adult crossover with a demure heroine, an alpha/protective hero, some suspense, and secondary characters that completely imprint themselves on your heart. I loved these characters to pieces and want to shout it out to all new adult romances lovers ESPECIALLY if you’re a fan of the Brayshaw series by Meagan Brandy. I know there are many readers who look for similar books and this one right here is that.
Another thing I loved about this book is the underlying emotion that flows through the characters. It’s pretty clear early on that they all put on a front, acting as if they don’t have the weight of the world on their shoulders when in reality they DO. It makes perfect sense for their age group (thank you for writing a book that FITS with the age of the characters), and it shows us that deep down we are all facing (or have faced) demons. For Fallon it’s a pretty emotional secret that she’s hiding and the way it twists around the story is incredible. Callie did an amazing job with this! For Jesse it’s something closer to home… It will be interesting to see how his issues play out in the next one! **Crosses fingers that it’s coming SOON.**
All in all, this is an amazing debut and I enjoyed reading it immensely. I read it in a day as it’s just over 200 pages, and I was so invested in the book that I didn’t want to put it down! Obviously, I recommend this one!
August 4, 2020
Brilliant page turner! Callie Rae wows big time with her debut and I could not put When Shadows Follow down. This is a beautifully written emotional rollercoaster ride which had me on tenterhooks throughout, as well the suspense and twists present throughout.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I thought it was a brilliant debut and I’m dying know to what happens next in Jesse and Fallon’s story. This ends on a jaw dropping cliffhanger so hopefully we won’t have to wait too long.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I thought it was a brilliant debut and I’m dying know to what happens next in Jesse and Fallon’s story. This ends on a jaw dropping cliffhanger so hopefully we won’t have to wait too long.
March 17, 2020
I loved this one. When I write reviews sometimes I write them while reading the story and then fix it up after, other times I write them as soon as I finish, and then sometime I wait a few days before writing a review. With this one I loved the story so much but wondered if my love for it would fade after so I waited a bit to write the review. This morning was a day I could sleep in but oh no I woke up at 5am with this book on my mind and things I waited to say about. So yeah, this book is a great read, that has stuck with me.
Jesse is a big deal at Cherry Creek High School and in town. He's not one to mess with. He can come across as jerky at times. He has this bad boy swagger but a vulnerable heart which makes him oh so swoon worthy.
Fallon is the new girl. She a tough girl and doesn't like to be told what to do. She has a past that she trying to get a new start from but the past doesn't stay in the past. She has layers and her story was a little heart string pulling.
Fallon and Jesse have a great connection. They have some tension and their relationship that just felt perfect. I loved the side characters, Jade (Jesse's sister) and Cason (Jesse's friend) too.
The ending surprised me. It's a cliffhanger and I hadn't expected that. I can't wait to read the next one.
Jesse is a big deal at Cherry Creek High School and in town. He's not one to mess with. He can come across as jerky at times. He has this bad boy swagger but a vulnerable heart which makes him oh so swoon worthy.
Fallon is the new girl. She a tough girl and doesn't like to be told what to do. She has a past that she trying to get a new start from but the past doesn't stay in the past. She has layers and her story was a little heart string pulling.
Fallon and Jesse have a great connection. They have some tension and their relationship that just felt perfect. I loved the side characters, Jade (Jesse's sister) and Cason (Jesse's friend) too.
The ending surprised me. It's a cliffhanger and I hadn't expected that. I can't wait to read the next one.
Want to read
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December 1, 2020
The writing style of this book is accessible and compelling, though there are some places where pacing suffered. There’s an intense scene towards the middle of the book that was over almost as soon as it had begun That said, I loved the climactic scene towards the end of the book, as the action there was handled a lot better and, of course, gave us the chance to see Jesse in action protecting the girl he cares for.
This is one of those romances where the heroine has a dark secret past that isn’t revealed to the reader until further along into the book. Sometimes this works, sometimes it doesn’t. In this case, it’s so-so. I wasn’t super irritated by the secrecy, but I do think that knowing her past before it was revealed to other characters would have enhanced my enjoyment of the heavy-handed suspense earlier on in the book.
That said, Jesse and Fallon have an interesting dynamic. It doesn't seem like Jesse likes Fallon much when they first meet, which is refreshing with all the “love at first sight” I've been seeing in books in this subgenre. That said, their relationship does seem to move forward quickly in jumps, and it didn’t feel quite as smooth as I was hoping.
While I loved Jesse and Fallon, I wasn’t too attached to the side characters. Jade and Cason, Jesse’s sister and cousin respectively, should have been favourites of mine based on their personalities and just how much they’re featured in the book. But I didn’t care for them that much.
This was a good book, though it didn’t really have anything in it that makes it stand apart from others in the genre.
This is one of those romances where the heroine has a dark secret past that isn’t revealed to the reader until further along into the book. Sometimes this works, sometimes it doesn’t. In this case, it’s so-so. I wasn’t super irritated by the secrecy, but I do think that knowing her past before it was revealed to other characters would have enhanced my enjoyment of the heavy-handed suspense earlier on in the book.
That said, Jesse and Fallon have an interesting dynamic. It doesn't seem like Jesse likes Fallon much when they first meet, which is refreshing with all the “love at first sight” I've been seeing in books in this subgenre. That said, their relationship does seem to move forward quickly in jumps, and it didn’t feel quite as smooth as I was hoping.
While I loved Jesse and Fallon, I wasn’t too attached to the side characters. Jade and Cason, Jesse’s sister and cousin respectively, should have been favourites of mine based on their personalities and just how much they’re featured in the book. But I didn’t care for them that much.
This was a good book, though it didn’t really have anything in it that makes it stand apart from others in the genre.
March 21, 2020
3.5 stars. When we meet Fallon we see that she is a broken girl that is just trying to hide away and finish her time as a high school student and move on with her life. Jesse comes into her life immediately and you know things are about to get super complicated for her. This is a cliffhanger and there are definitely triggers in the book. First of all, I really loved Jesse and his protectiveness over Fallon. He knew as soon as he laid eyes on her that she was going to be his. I love that. Jesse is the typical brooding popular high school guy that every guy wants to be and every girl wants to be with. This is how he is portrayed, but there is so much more to him than that. As the layers start to peel away from both him and Fallon, you see that there is something deeper there. Both of them are drawn to one another. Jesse makes Fallon feel safe and Fallon lets Jesse feel like he can be more than he is. There is tragedy throughout this book and at the end it all comes back around. I will definitely need the next book so that I can make sure this couple gets the HEA they deserve.
March 19, 2020
Guys, this book will leave you wanting more!
Callie Rae has written a beautiful story of a broken heroine and the boy who gives her life again. I loved Jesse and Fallon and how real they felt. I loved how they sizzled through the pages with their chemistry. I loved the dynamic they had and how intune with each other they were.
Callie, here is a list of things, I need you to do:
1-) Write book 2 right now
2-) Write book 2 right now
3-) Write book 2 right now
Do you see a pattern?! Write book 2 right now :-)
Callie Rae has written a beautiful story of a broken heroine and the boy who gives her life again. I loved Jesse and Fallon and how real they felt. I loved how they sizzled through the pages with their chemistry. I loved the dynamic they had and how intune with each other they were.
Callie, here is a list of things, I need you to do:
1-) Write book 2 right now
2-) Write book 2 right now
3-) Write book 2 right now
Do you see a pattern?! Write book 2 right now :-)
April 29, 2020
3.5 stars!
A good debut novel. I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next!
A good debut novel. I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next!
March 12, 2020
RELEASE DATE MARCH 19TH
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2uOzraF
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2SPxZ0W
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/39Lq9Lk
AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/2Va1lZf
EXCERPT:The sound of an old bell echoes all around me as I stare at the school. It could have been built before my grandparents were ever even thought of. Two levels of solid weathered red brick with white columns around the arched main entrance are the only things standing between me and a fresh start—a fresh start that I want to run from.
"Honey, staring at it won't make it go away," my mother says through the passenger window, leaning from the driver's seat of her beat-up faded green minivan that’s about one mile away from expiring. When we bought it, it was the only vehicle in our price range that was bigger than a skateboard.
I glance back at her as her eyebrows knit together. My mother has always been a pretty woman. Her shoulder-length blonde—now slightly grayer—hair frames a proportional face complete with steely blue eyes and a small, pointed nose. She has thin lips, with a few more wrinkles around her mouth and eyes than I care for, knowing I put them there.
"It will be okay, Fallon. We’ll make this work. I promise," she says, trying to look reassuring. She sees the concern etched on my face.
I face the school, closing my eyes while I breathe in slowly. I hold it as I count to five before releasing it into the air along with the build-up of stress in my body.
"I have to go. I'll see you here at four?" I hitch my bag up my shoulder, checking back with my mom.
"I'll be waiting. Have a great first day. I love you," she smiles, then rolls up the window before driving away.
I stare at the school again. My view from the sidewalk has my stomach in knots.
"It has to work out," I say out loud to myself as I force my feet to move forward. "We're out of options."
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Series Info:
When Shadows Follow is the first book in the Cherry Creek series.
July 21, 2021
This novel was great! The storyline was exciting, and it's a good read. However... I did personally have some issues with this book.
I was super excited to read this book after I saw a book quote Reel from Callie advertising the release of the third in the series, "When Shadows Fall". I ordered the book on Amazon and got it in two days (thank you, Prime). I read the whole book in one day. It was definitely one of those books that you get sucked into!
This is where the "however" comes into play. Right off the bat, in the first chapter, there were formatting errors. I don't know if Callie has just never seen a copy of her book after publishing it (which is extremely easy to do through Amazon KDP Publishing) or what, but each paragraph was at a different indentation. It was extremely off-putting, and if I hadn't already committed myself to reading that book, I would've stopped right there.
Another thing is that, throughout the entire story, everyone is being way too dramatic. I get that it's high-schooler teens, but I was shaking my head at how ridiculous everyone was being. The general storyline was great, but I personally think that it should've been written better.
Also, I think that the whole "it's high school" aspect could've been written a little better as well. Callie has these kids acting as though they're in college. I have seen the high-school-teens-in-a-college-disguised-as-a-high-school thing before, and this wasn't the worst that it could've been, but for me (having just graduated from high school recently), it still seemed unrealistic. Trust me, practically no one in high school will be taking Calculus; only the math nerds take that class, and Fallon and Jesse don't seem like math nerds to me. Thankfully, the main setting wasn't the ginormous marble high school.
Finally, the characters seemed underdeveloped. Only the two main characters and Cason really had any sort of hidden side to them, and the main characters really only seemed to have that wall put up in order to create attraction between them in the first place.
A good thing that I will say about the story is that, after I got about halfway through the book, it was really amazing. I loved witnessing (most of) the inner battle of Fallon Blake against herself in the latter half. Not only that, but Jesse is a great guy. I also really love that Fallon was able to find her "safe place" with Jesse -- I understand that feeling completely. The general storyline is a typical YA smutty romance story with the bad-boy-meets-quiet-bad-ass dynamic, but Callie did a really good job of making it unique and making it her own.
Also, the cover and title are AWESOME! I'm totally inspired.
I will keep reading the series because I really liked this book once I got past all of those issues (really only noticeable in the first half). Stay tuned for my review of book 2.
I was super excited to read this book after I saw a book quote Reel from Callie advertising the release of the third in the series, "When Shadows Fall". I ordered the book on Amazon and got it in two days (thank you, Prime). I read the whole book in one day. It was definitely one of those books that you get sucked into!
This is where the "however" comes into play. Right off the bat, in the first chapter, there were formatting errors. I don't know if Callie has just never seen a copy of her book after publishing it (which is extremely easy to do through Amazon KDP Publishing) or what, but each paragraph was at a different indentation. It was extremely off-putting, and if I hadn't already committed myself to reading that book, I would've stopped right there.
Another thing is that, throughout the entire story, everyone is being way too dramatic. I get that it's high-schooler teens, but I was shaking my head at how ridiculous everyone was being. The general storyline was great, but I personally think that it should've been written better.
Also, I think that the whole "it's high school" aspect could've been written a little better as well. Callie has these kids acting as though they're in college. I have seen the high-school-teens-in-a-college-disguised-as-a-high-school thing before, and this wasn't the worst that it could've been, but for me (having just graduated from high school recently), it still seemed unrealistic. Trust me, practically no one in high school will be taking Calculus; only the math nerds take that class, and Fallon and Jesse don't seem like math nerds to me. Thankfully, the main setting wasn't the ginormous marble high school.
Finally, the characters seemed underdeveloped. Only the two main characters and Cason really had any sort of hidden side to them, and the main characters really only seemed to have that wall put up in order to create attraction between them in the first place.
A good thing that I will say about the story is that, after I got about halfway through the book, it was really amazing. I loved witnessing (most of) the inner battle of Fallon Blake against herself in the latter half. Not only that, but Jesse is a great guy. I also really love that Fallon was able to find her "safe place" with Jesse -- I understand that feeling completely. The general storyline is a typical YA smutty romance story with the bad-boy-meets-quiet-bad-ass dynamic, but Callie did a really good job of making it unique and making it her own.
Also, the cover and title are AWESOME! I'm totally inspired.
I will keep reading the series because I really liked this book once I got past all of those issues (really only noticeable in the first half). Stay tuned for my review of book 2.
March 11, 2020
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
This is Callie Rae's debut novel and WOW, I don't even have the words to explain what this book did to me. This book tore me into pieces, put me back together, and then dropped me like a bad habit with the cliffhanger. Yep, that's a warning people so don't say I didn't warn you. Fallon and Jesse are everything!
I won't give anything away because this is a new release, and I am kind of still speechless after the rollercoaster this book put me on, but if you are looking for a romantic suspense that has you second guessing and holding on for dear life because you know you are about to take the ride of your life, then this is for you.
I hate cliffhangers, but when they are done right, they leave me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book to come out. And that is exactly where I am because I NEED that book. I NEED to know what happens. I NEED it so badly but I have to have some kind of patience... that is not a virtue I possess, so wish me luck.
Callie Rae is a genius with the power of her words and will leave you utterly breathless as she takes you for the ride of your life.
Five stars for this romantic suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat, wanting things to work out and grasping for straws when the book ends.
This is Callie Rae's debut novel and WOW, I don't even have the words to explain what this book did to me. This book tore me into pieces, put me back together, and then dropped me like a bad habit with the cliffhanger. Yep, that's a warning people so don't say I didn't warn you. Fallon and Jesse are everything!
I won't give anything away because this is a new release, and I am kind of still speechless after the rollercoaster this book put me on, but if you are looking for a romantic suspense that has you second guessing and holding on for dear life because you know you are about to take the ride of your life, then this is for you.
I hate cliffhangers, but when they are done right, they leave me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book to come out. And that is exactly where I am because I NEED that book. I NEED to know what happens. I NEED it so badly but I have to have some kind of patience... that is not a virtue I possess, so wish me luck.
Callie Rae is a genius with the power of her words and will leave you utterly breathless as she takes you for the ride of your life.
Five stars for this romantic suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat, wanting things to work out and grasping for straws when the book ends.
August 8, 2020
No way!
I went five stars - I know I am normally really stingy with my stars but
Holy crispy crackers!
This isn't a typical bully romance -
There is actually a strong story here that is easy to devour yet still hints at mysterious unknowns and hidden possibilities
Like dear old dad? What's up with the attitude?
Fallon is trying to get a fresh start - evading her emotions might be a better definition but she is still young and I can see where her mom is coming from -
Her nightmare well take time to heal
Right now she needs space and shadows -
She needs to be unseen
But maybe she is confused about what she needs?
Jesse is still a bit of an enigma for me - He is harboring his own burdens- His own skeletons - ones we are yet to be privy too
The on-page chemistry between these two was almost tangible
I found myself enraptured by them
The relationship between them felt natural -
It is a slow build but it burns something fierce
Yes there were some things I was not completely on board with
that is me though I can be really particular
I have all kinds of WTH questions but I think they will be answered in book two
Oh and this ends on a major betrayal twisty cliffy
So... Yeah don't throw your reader because you will need it to see how this plays out
I am on to book two now
I went five stars - I know I am normally really stingy with my stars but
Holy crispy crackers!
This isn't a typical bully romance -
There is actually a strong story here that is easy to devour yet still hints at mysterious unknowns and hidden possibilities
Like dear old dad? What's up with the attitude?
Fallon is trying to get a fresh start - evading her emotions might be a better definition but she is still young and I can see where her mom is coming from -
Her nightmare well take time to heal
Right now she needs space and shadows -
She needs to be unseen
But maybe she is confused about what she needs?
Jesse is still a bit of an enigma for me - He is harboring his own burdens- His own skeletons - ones we are yet to be privy too
The on-page chemistry between these two was almost tangible
I found myself enraptured by them
The relationship between them felt natural -
It is a slow build but it burns something fierce
Yes there were some things I was not completely on board with
that is me though I can be really particular
I have all kinds of WTH questions but I think they will be answered in book two
Oh and this ends on a major betrayal twisty cliffy
So... Yeah don't throw your reader because you will need it to see how this plays out
I am on to book two now
July 29, 2020
What the F*CK did just happen?
I got this book as an ARC in exchange for honest review.
Before I even started reading this book I didn’t think highly of it as it is a trilogy (if I’m correct). But after getting only like 5 pages in, I was captivated by this male character! And that was when I needed to continue. Lame, I know, but I just knew I need to know him and what his deal is...and I wanted for him to end up with the main character.
I didn’t expect this book to draw me in as much as it did. I rarely find books that excite me so much, but when they do I’m all in until there’s no turning back and this book definitely did that to me.
I loved it all about this book! The storyline, the characters, the development, the trouble, the love...just everything!
The way the book ended got me throwing my hands up in the air with frustration and anger! It was amazing. Now I can’t wait to know what happens next.
I got this book as an ARC in exchange for honest review.
Before I even started reading this book I didn’t think highly of it as it is a trilogy (if I’m correct). But after getting only like 5 pages in, I was captivated by this male character! And that was when I needed to continue. Lame, I know, but I just knew I need to know him and what his deal is...and I wanted for him to end up with the main character.
I didn’t expect this book to draw me in as much as it did. I rarely find books that excite me so much, but when they do I’m all in until there’s no turning back and this book definitely did that to me.
I loved it all about this book! The storyline, the characters, the development, the trouble, the love...just everything!
The way the book ended got me throwing my hands up in the air with frustration and anger! It was amazing. Now I can’t wait to know what happens next.
March 20, 2020
This was a fast paced story that entertained and kept me invested from the start. Fallon is the new girl in town who for reasons we don't immediately find out doesn't want to stand out. Jesse is the bad boy who rules the school and the town. When the two cross paths they have an instant dislike for each other. I enjoyed the back and forth between them, you could the tension building. The secondary characters were fun and added to the story but didn't detract from the flow of the book. As Fallon's history is revealed we see her strength of character. Book one ends on a cliffhanger and it's a biggie hopefully the next one won't be long.
March 22, 2020
This was a really addicting, suspenseful at times, mature YA and I loved it more than I thought I would!
•
It checked off all the things I love in a book:
✔️ angsty/sweet/dangerous romance
✔️protective alpha male
✔️a heroine that’s tough as nails
✔️side characters that I adored
•
One of my favorite scenes is when he takes her to the lake and shows a more vulnerable side of him as just a high school boy without the weight of the world constantly on his shoulders.❤️
•
I didn’t realize I was at the end when I reached that crazy cliff hanger! 😵 hopefully we won’t be waiting too long for the second one!!
4/5 ⭐️
Steam: 🔥 🔥
•
It checked off all the things I love in a book:
✔️ angsty/sweet/dangerous romance
✔️protective alpha male
✔️a heroine that’s tough as nails
✔️side characters that I adored
•
One of my favorite scenes is when he takes her to the lake and shows a more vulnerable side of him as just a high school boy without the weight of the world constantly on his shoulders.❤️
•
I didn’t realize I was at the end when I reached that crazy cliff hanger! 😵 hopefully we won’t be waiting too long for the second one!!
4/5 ⭐️
Steam: 🔥 🔥
March 14, 2020
I completely devoured When shadows Follow in one sitting, that’s not something that has happened to me in a while.
Fallon is the new girl at school, she just wants to blend in & hide. What she doesn’t need is to appear on Jesse Callaway radar, the bad boy with eyes that are almost black. They start of not liking each other, but slowly after Fallon comes to Jesse rescue their friendship develops into something more. She is a little hesitant at first, but Jesse never gave up, he always knew she was his, and that Fallon just needed a little encouragement.
This story was sweet, sexy & emotional at times, Fallon has a past that is heartbreaking, and you will definitely be routing for these two. The story does end on a cliffhanger, so I kind of need book two NOW.
Fallon is the new girl at school, she just wants to blend in & hide. What she doesn’t need is to appear on Jesse Callaway radar, the bad boy with eyes that are almost black. They start of not liking each other, but slowly after Fallon comes to Jesse rescue their friendship develops into something more. She is a little hesitant at first, but Jesse never gave up, he always knew she was his, and that Fallon just needed a little encouragement.
This story was sweet, sexy & emotional at times, Fallon has a past that is heartbreaking, and you will definitely be routing for these two. The story does end on a cliffhanger, so I kind of need book two NOW.
March 18, 2020
When Shadows Follow by Callie Rae drew me in straight from the start! The characters were layered and dynamic, and quickly held my attention!
Expect a strong and somewhat broken heroine as well as a brooding magnetic hero, with an intense connection. As a debut release, author Callie Rae employed great pacing, world building, and thorough character development. The plot was not only intriguing, but also has twists you won't see coming! When Shadows Follow is emotional and angsty, with plenty of swoon power! I can't wait to see more from author, Callie Rae! Enjoy xo
Expect a strong and somewhat broken heroine as well as a brooding magnetic hero, with an intense connection. As a debut release, author Callie Rae employed great pacing, world building, and thorough character development. The plot was not only intriguing, but also has twists you won't see coming! When Shadows Follow is emotional and angsty, with plenty of swoon power! I can't wait to see more from author, Callie Rae! Enjoy xo
March 18, 2020
I am totally blown away that this is a debut novel from this author!! Fallon is a tough and stubborn girl who just wants to get away from her past and start over. Jesse is the bad boy and king of the high school who has his sights set on Fallon. No spoilers: this is a definite must read, you will not be disappointed. This is a beautifully written emotional roller coaster ride which had me on tenterhooks throughout, as well as having suspense and twists. I cannot wait to read the 2nd book, and I recommend this story for all. Hats off to this talented author for penning a brilliant masterpiece!
March 20, 2020
Already wanting the next book! Fallon is hiding in the shadows hoping to just skirt by in her new school without making to much noise and just wants to keep her head down and blend in but all is lost when Jesse sets his sights on Fallon. They are both hiding secrets that they don’t want coming to light so they can see past the facade of what everyone else sees and that connects them in a way neither is really comfortable with. Can’t wait to read from this author
August 6, 2020
I went to this book totally blind. Not having a clue what I was about to read. It came highly recommend by my friend.
I just can’t believe this a debut novel. I’m speechless, it was so bloody good. All I can say is I need to dive straight into book 2. I’m dying to know what happens next with these characters.
I just can’t believe this a debut novel. I’m speechless, it was so bloody good. All I can say is I need to dive straight into book 2. I’m dying to know what happens next with these characters.
August 7, 2020
5 FABULOUS STARS!! I love Jesse and Fallon.....these two stole my heart. All my emotion buttons were pushed all the way through this book. Callie Rae has gained a new reader....she is an amazing author. I need the next book.
October 19, 2021
o começo foi horrível mas compensou demais, bom dms cara
August 3, 2020
I'm absolutely blown away. This book was AMAZING.
Angst, drama, deception, danger and one hell of a cliffhanger await you in this book!
Angst, drama, deception, danger and one hell of a cliffhanger await you in this book!
August 17, 2020
What a great read, I loved it from start to finish. Jess and Fallon had me in suspense the whole story trying to figure out how they were connected. Fallon has such a heart melting story I would have never guessed her past life before she moved. I loved how Jess’s heart melted around Fallon and she became family in such a short time. Cason and Jade are also amazing characters, can’t wait to read more. I’m going to be quietly anticipating the next part of the story.
March 19, 2020
“We are no longer fighting our feelings; instead, for this one night, we are living in them.”
I’m always so nervous but yet excited when reading an authors debut novel. To me, it’s make or break. Even if it’s an okay story, I’ll still come back and read more work to see improvement.
Callie blew me out of the water with her DEBUT novel. It’s edgy. It’s sweet. It’s dangerous. It’s angsty. The characters are amazing.. and not just the main characters! The side characters are fantastic and this story wouldn’t be the same without them.
When Shadows Follow was just what I needed. I was on a little bit of an ‘ehhh’ book rotation and this story was EXACTLY what I needed.
“I wasn't ever going to be able to hide my pain from him. My pain is the same as his pain.”
Fallon and Jesse were amazing. They meshed together perfectly. Their chemistry was flowing from the pages. Their broken lives came together to mend each other as one.
I am very intrigued to see where Callie goes next. I am definitely here for all of her words and I am so proud of this story that she has released into the world.
“He wears the weight of the world on his shoulders. And I think you have the power to bring it all tumbling down."
I’m always so nervous but yet excited when reading an authors debut novel. To me, it’s make or break. Even if it’s an okay story, I’ll still come back and read more work to see improvement.
Callie blew me out of the water with her DEBUT novel. It’s edgy. It’s sweet. It’s dangerous. It’s angsty. The characters are amazing.. and not just the main characters! The side characters are fantastic and this story wouldn’t be the same without them.
When Shadows Follow was just what I needed. I was on a little bit of an ‘ehhh’ book rotation and this story was EXACTLY what I needed.
“I wasn't ever going to be able to hide my pain from him. My pain is the same as his pain.”
Fallon and Jesse were amazing. They meshed together perfectly. Their chemistry was flowing from the pages. Their broken lives came together to mend each other as one.
I am very intrigued to see where Callie goes next. I am definitely here for all of her words and I am so proud of this story that she has released into the world.
“He wears the weight of the world on his shoulders. And I think you have the power to bring it all tumbling down."
March 15, 2020
When Shadows Follow by Callie Rae
#Review
#YARomance
#OutMarch19
⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘“I’m only eighteen. I don’t really know what I want to be. I just know right now, at this moment, I want to be a good friend, brother, maybe be worth something to someone.”
“You already are,” I say.
“Are what?” He asks with a tilt of his head.
“All of it. A good friend and brother…” I say as I look down to where I am picking at a string coming loose in a hole of my jeans, “and you’re worth something to someone. To all of us. To me.”’
I may be thirty-four years old but I still live for these kinds of romance stories. Maybe because my own High School experience was decidedly brutal, I like to live vicariously through these types of books and imagine what could have been. Either way, there is just something about the heightened angst, drama, frustrations, falling in love hard and fast and the relationship heartbreaks that draws me in, and that is exactly what happened with When Shadows Follow by new author Callie Rae.
Right from the get go, her writing ensnares you. You have the loner, new-girl heroine, with a biting personality, who alludes to having something of a mysterious past, one that she is not necessarily running from, but she’s definitely trying to forget. She attempts to hide who she truly is behind a high wall of glares and attitude, solitude and sarcasm. And it is precisely because of her ‘no f****s to give’ attitude that she immediately shows up on Jesse ‘king of everything’ Calloway’s radar. Because what bad boy doesn’t love a challenge.
I really loved Jesse’s character. He isn’t who he pretends to be on the outside. Under all the bravado, scowling, smouldering temptation, there is a heart of gold that feels very deeply. The only thing I would have liked, and this is a personal preference, is to have had some chapters from his point of view, to get a better understanding of him. I love stories with dual points of view, but as we see Jesse’s character develop through Fallon’s eyes, we still get a clear picture of who he is as a hero figure. And he is beautiful on the inside, as well as the outside.
Fallon was a bit of a tough nut to crack. I really loved her sarcastic, confident and independent nature. She was bada$$. Though sometimes I felt her reactions and responses were a little immature and didn’t truly fit with her personality. The romance between Jesse and her was really beautiful. It was slow-burning and passionate, sweet and layered. It might have been about physical attraction in the beginning but as the story progresses, it’s actually built on more than that, friendship, understanding, a soul-deep connection.
When the Shadows Fall is a great debut story, if you like YA romances, and I do. Some little things did feel slightly out of place in a YA book and better suited to an older hero and heroine’s storyline but if you’re able to suspend your disbelief in these things, you’re definitely in for a treat. As a debut novel, this is a well written story, full of emotion, drama and an array of interesting characters, both lead and side players. I am certainly intrigued to see where author Callie Rae takes us in book two.
***********************
Are you ready to fall in love with When Shadows Follow by Callie Rae? Don’t miss this coming of age romance with scars, secrets, and a truth that refuses to stay buried #ComingMarch19th. Pre-order today!
PRE-ORDER LINKS
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2uOzraF
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2SPxZ0W
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/39Lq9Lk
AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/2Va1lZf
Blend in. Stay quiet. Survive.
Fallon Blake is starting her senior year in a new town with the goal of sliding through to graduation unseen. Despite her attempts to lay low, she makes a snap decision to act when the king of Cherry Creek High School, Jesse Callaway, gets jumped at a party.
Now, fearing Fallon needs protection from the mess she threw herself into, Jesse refuses to let her recede back into the shadows. Little does he know, with each lingering glance, or brush of his hand, he is reigniting a fire within Fallon that burns her to the core. Every gentle touch scorches the scars on her fragile heart.
As sparks fly between them, Fallon fights to snuff them out. How can she trust her own judgment when it failed her horrifically before? But when the past catches up with her, Fallon is left with two options. Confide in Jesse... or run.
Will Fallon break the vicious cycle of the past by taking a chance on the future? Or will fear torch any chance she and Jesse could have had?
Add to your Goodreads TBR >> http://bit.ly/WSF_CR_GR
#Review
#YARomance
#OutMarch19
⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘“I’m only eighteen. I don’t really know what I want to be. I just know right now, at this moment, I want to be a good friend, brother, maybe be worth something to someone.”
“You already are,” I say.
“Are what?” He asks with a tilt of his head.
“All of it. A good friend and brother…” I say as I look down to where I am picking at a string coming loose in a hole of my jeans, “and you’re worth something to someone. To all of us. To me.”’
I may be thirty-four years old but I still live for these kinds of romance stories. Maybe because my own High School experience was decidedly brutal, I like to live vicariously through these types of books and imagine what could have been. Either way, there is just something about the heightened angst, drama, frustrations, falling in love hard and fast and the relationship heartbreaks that draws me in, and that is exactly what happened with When Shadows Follow by new author Callie Rae.
Right from the get go, her writing ensnares you. You have the loner, new-girl heroine, with a biting personality, who alludes to having something of a mysterious past, one that she is not necessarily running from, but she’s definitely trying to forget. She attempts to hide who she truly is behind a high wall of glares and attitude, solitude and sarcasm. And it is precisely because of her ‘no f****s to give’ attitude that she immediately shows up on Jesse ‘king of everything’ Calloway’s radar. Because what bad boy doesn’t love a challenge.
I really loved Jesse’s character. He isn’t who he pretends to be on the outside. Under all the bravado, scowling, smouldering temptation, there is a heart of gold that feels very deeply. The only thing I would have liked, and this is a personal preference, is to have had some chapters from his point of view, to get a better understanding of him. I love stories with dual points of view, but as we see Jesse’s character develop through Fallon’s eyes, we still get a clear picture of who he is as a hero figure. And he is beautiful on the inside, as well as the outside.
Fallon was a bit of a tough nut to crack. I really loved her sarcastic, confident and independent nature. She was bada$$. Though sometimes I felt her reactions and responses were a little immature and didn’t truly fit with her personality. The romance between Jesse and her was really beautiful. It was slow-burning and passionate, sweet and layered. It might have been about physical attraction in the beginning but as the story progresses, it’s actually built on more than that, friendship, understanding, a soul-deep connection.
When the Shadows Fall is a great debut story, if you like YA romances, and I do. Some little things did feel slightly out of place in a YA book and better suited to an older hero and heroine’s storyline but if you’re able to suspend your disbelief in these things, you’re definitely in for a treat. As a debut novel, this is a well written story, full of emotion, drama and an array of interesting characters, both lead and side players. I am certainly intrigued to see where author Callie Rae takes us in book two.
***********************
Are you ready to fall in love with When Shadows Follow by Callie Rae? Don’t miss this coming of age romance with scars, secrets, and a truth that refuses to stay buried #ComingMarch19th. Pre-order today!
PRE-ORDER LINKS
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2uOzraF
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2SPxZ0W
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/39Lq9Lk
AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/2Va1lZf
Blend in. Stay quiet. Survive.
Fallon Blake is starting her senior year in a new town with the goal of sliding through to graduation unseen. Despite her attempts to lay low, she makes a snap decision to act when the king of Cherry Creek High School, Jesse Callaway, gets jumped at a party.
Now, fearing Fallon needs protection from the mess she threw herself into, Jesse refuses to let her recede back into the shadows. Little does he know, with each lingering glance, or brush of his hand, he is reigniting a fire within Fallon that burns her to the core. Every gentle touch scorches the scars on her fragile heart.
As sparks fly between them, Fallon fights to snuff them out. How can she trust her own judgment when it failed her horrifically before? But when the past catches up with her, Fallon is left with two options. Confide in Jesse... or run.
Will Fallon break the vicious cycle of the past by taking a chance on the future? Or will fear torch any chance she and Jesse could have had?
Add to your Goodreads TBR >> http://bit.ly/WSF_CR_GR
July 20, 2020
This was my first time reading something written by Callie Rae and it definitely will not be the last. I really enjoyed reading When Shadows Follows , the plot was interesting and there is more to the characters than meets the eye.
Fallon just moved to a new town with her mom and on her first day of school she catches eye of the resident bad boy, Jesse. At first, Jesse does not let Fallon get close to him and keeps her at arms length, often acting impolitely and rude. A lot of weight is being put on Jesse's shoulders because of who his family is. His father in particular puts a lot of pressure on him because he wants him to take over family business. Jesse doesn't let anyone get close to him besides his sister Jade and cousin Cason because everyone just wants to use him, one way or another. Fallon eventually starts to wear him down and they cross the line between indifference and affection.
Fallon just wants to keep her head down and stay invisible to the rest of her classmates. She had to pick up the pieces after something bad happening to her and all she wants to do is to stay under the radar. That plans goes to hell when she helps out Jesse and Cason in a fight. From then on she is under Jesse's protection which makes her anything but invisible. I liked that she defied Jesse and didn't let him step all over her, most of the time doing the exact opposite of what she's been told. She is stubborn and able to think for herself, which Jesse finds insanely infuriating. He is used to people doing what he tells them.
The chemistry between Fallon and Jesse burns hot. I love the kind of books where the bad boy is attracted to the new girl but does not know how to deal with that attraction, so he acts like a jerk towards the heroine, but then at the same time is protective of her. This fits When Shadows Follow to a T.
There is a ton of intrigue with Jesse and his friends always fighting a drug-dealing gang and when Fallon's past comes back to bite her, things are going down the hill fast.
Be warned that this book ends on a cliffhanger and the second book is not out yet. But the cliffhanger definitely makes you beg for more!
Fallon just moved to a new town with her mom and on her first day of school she catches eye of the resident bad boy, Jesse. At first, Jesse does not let Fallon get close to him and keeps her at arms length, often acting impolitely and rude. A lot of weight is being put on Jesse's shoulders because of who his family is. His father in particular puts a lot of pressure on him because he wants him to take over family business. Jesse doesn't let anyone get close to him besides his sister Jade and cousin Cason because everyone just wants to use him, one way or another. Fallon eventually starts to wear him down and they cross the line between indifference and affection.
Fallon just wants to keep her head down and stay invisible to the rest of her classmates. She had to pick up the pieces after something bad happening to her and all she wants to do is to stay under the radar. That plans goes to hell when she helps out Jesse and Cason in a fight. From then on she is under Jesse's protection which makes her anything but invisible. I liked that she defied Jesse and didn't let him step all over her, most of the time doing the exact opposite of what she's been told. She is stubborn and able to think for herself, which Jesse finds insanely infuriating. He is used to people doing what he tells them.
The chemistry between Fallon and Jesse burns hot. I love the kind of books where the bad boy is attracted to the new girl but does not know how to deal with that attraction, so he acts like a jerk towards the heroine, but then at the same time is protective of her. This fits When Shadows Follow to a T.
There is a ton of intrigue with Jesse and his friends always fighting a drug-dealing gang and when Fallon's past comes back to bite her, things are going down the hill fast.
Be warned that this book ends on a cliffhanger and the second book is not out yet. But the cliffhanger definitely makes you beg for more!
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