MY REVIEW:
I fell in love with Kara Isaac’s debut novel “Close to You” and have eagerly awaited her second. I am pleased to say that I was not at all disappointed. If anything, Isaac’s writing is even stronger and her characters more developed. in “Can’t Help Falling”.
I did not find quite as many laugh-out-loud moments in “Can’t Help Falling” but there were definitely some of those moments sprinkled throughout its pages. And who could resist a Narnia loving heroine and hero? Emelia and Peter were a fun couple who definitely grew on me as the story progressed. I absolutely loved the Narnia related moments and bits of whimsy that were worked deftly into this oh so serious romance. I also enjoyed catching up with Alison and Jackson from “Close to You” who played prominent supporting roles in this novel. Then there was Peter’s brother Victor who was perfectly horrible through most of the story. I personally hope he will be featured in a future story of his own. I just love finding characters I dislike in one book featured in another one where they become a changed person. Victor has such potential so my fingers are crossed!
“Can’t Help Falling” is a beautiful story of forgiveness and redemption in which several characters blame themselves for the bad choices of one person that led to her own death. That same guilt was the source of multiple misunderstandings that nearly destroyed relationships. You will need to read the book to learn how it all works out but I think you will enjoy the entire process.
I can’t recommend Kara’s two novels enough. They were both wonderful and kept me flipping those pages quickly. She is a new author who is worth taking a chance on.
A free copy of this book was provided for review by the author through her publisher. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A funny, heartfelt romance about how an antique shop, a wardrobe, and a mysterious tea cup bring two C.S. Lewis fans together in a snowy and picturesque Oxford, England.
Emelia Mason has spent her career finding the dirt on the rich and famous. But deep down past this fearless tabloid-reporter façade, there’s a nerdy Narnia-obsessed girl who still can’t resist climbing into wardrobes to check for the magical land on the other side. When a story she writes produces tragic results, she flees to Oxford, England—home to C.S. Lewis—to try and make amends for the damage she has caused.
Peter Carlisle was on his way to become one of Great Britain’s best rowers—until he injured his shoulder and lost his chance at glory. He’s determined to fight his way back to the top even if it means risking permanent disability to do so. It’s the only way he can find his way past failing the one person who never stopped believing in his Olympic dream.
When Peter and Emelia cross paths on her first night in Oxford, the attraction is instant and they find common ground in their shared love of Narnia. But can the lessons from a fantasyland be enough to hold them together when secrets of the real world threaten to tear them apart? Cobblestone streets, an aristocratic estate, and an antique shop with curious a wardrobe bring the world of Narnia to life in Kara Isaac’s inspiring and romantic story about second chances.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kara Isaac is an award-winning writer who lives in Wellington, New Zealand, where her career highlights include working in tourism as Private Secretary for the Prime Minister. She loves great books almost as much as she loves her husband and two children.
Visit Kara on her WEBSITE and on FACEBOOK.
