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Walls #1
Within These Walls
An inspirational romance that will send you on an emotional rollercoaster! From USA Today Bestselling author J.L. Berg, comes a breathtaking story that shows us how love truly can conquer all…even the most damaged of hearts.Within these walls, he became my solace, my sanctuary and my strength.I am not strong. I am just a survivor of circumstance.Isn’t that what we all do? Survive?Each of us has our own set of circumstances to muddle through. Mine are just more…complicated. Born with a severe heart defect, I’ve seen the inside of a hospital room more than my own bedroom.I was drowning, a prisoner to the illness that owned me, until he appeared. He thinks he’s blocked out the world with his tattoos and hard exterior, but I see the real Jude, the one he so desperately wants to forget.But is he the answer to my prayers or will he break my already damaged heart forever?My name is Lailah Buchanan, and this is our story of hope, redemption and sacrificing it all for the one you love.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2014
1,214 people are currently reading
7,750 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Berg
32books2,255followersJ.L. Berg is the USA Today bestselling author of the Ready series, the Walls duet and the Lost & Found series. She is a California native living in the beautiful state of historic Virginia. Married to her high school sweetheart, they have two beautiful girls that drive them batty on a daily basis. When she's not writing, you will find her cuddled up, watching a movie with her family, obsessing over minions or devouring anything chocolate! J.L. Berg is represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, LLC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 822 reviews
August 23, 2014
::: FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED :::
What a sweet romance!
I loved the sound of this when I first heard about it and just had to give it a try. I thought it might be a bit of an emotional roller coaster to be honest, but it was more of a low-angst, "make-you-smile" kind of love story about a girl with a damaged heart and a guy who'd lost it all finding love and healing with each other.
Lailah was born with a heart defect and had spent most of her life in the hospital dreaming about a life outside it's walls. She was a survivor though and lucky to be alive given her condition.
Jude was emotionally broken on the inside. After losing the woman he loved in a tragic accident, he began to work in the hospital she'd died in, the memories and guilt of his loss so strong that he couldn't let go. He covered himself with tattoos and kept to himself, keeping his true identity a secret from the whole world.
But when he saw Lailah, something inside his heart came back to life. For the first time in three years, he felt something more than just emptiness and he decided to make it his mission to try and bring happiness into her life. And, that is how their story began...
I don't want to tell you guys any more of the story, but I'll just say that the way they actually meet is just SO incredibly cute!! There is a lot of swoon and sweetness in this story as they become friends first and then more. They were two broken hearts slowly mending each other but the scary thing was that she was living on borrowed time. She needed a transplant to live so throughout it all, their future was ever uncertain.
I want to reassure you that this story won't devastate you. No ugly tears! There are definitely some more emotional parts but they're not going to rip your heart out. Oh, and it's also a standalone so you get the whole story in one sitting! If you're looking for a sweet love story to get lost in, try this one!
Rating: 4 stars. Standalone New Adult romance.
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What a sweet romance!
I loved the sound of this when I first heard about it and just had to give it a try. I thought it might be a bit of an emotional roller coaster to be honest, but it was more of a low-angst, "make-you-smile" kind of love story about a girl with a damaged heart and a guy who'd lost it all finding love and healing with each other.
Lailah was born with a heart defect and had spent most of her life in the hospital dreaming about a life outside it's walls. She was a survivor though and lucky to be alive given her condition.
Jude was emotionally broken on the inside. After losing the woman he loved in a tragic accident, he began to work in the hospital she'd died in, the memories and guilt of his loss so strong that he couldn't let go. He covered himself with tattoos and kept to himself, keeping his true identity a secret from the whole world.
But when he saw Lailah, something inside his heart came back to life. For the first time in three years, he felt something more than just emptiness and he decided to make it his mission to try and bring happiness into her life. And, that is how their story began...
"He was like a Greek god covered in tattoos -- and scrubs. Or at least that's what the nurses were describing him as.
Having spent the majority of my life in a hospital bed, I knew I was a little innocent when it came to the male species, but I understood 'hot' when it smacked me in the face - or walked by my door and the little I'd seen was definitely droolworthy."
I don't want to tell you guys any more of the story, but I'll just say that the way they actually meet is just SO incredibly cute!! There is a lot of swoon and sweetness in this story as they become friends first and then more. They were two broken hearts slowly mending each other but the scary thing was that she was living on borrowed time. She needed a transplant to live so throughout it all, their future was ever uncertain.
"Asking someone to step into my world would be like asking him to sign away his own life to take care of mine. I could never do that. Love wasn't an option for me."
I want to reassure you that this story won't devastate you. No ugly tears! There are definitely some more emotional parts but they're not going to rip your heart out. Oh, and it's also a standalone so you get the whole story in one sitting! If you're looking for a sweet love story to get lost in, try this one!
Rating: 4 stars. Standalone New Adult romance.
_______________________________________
For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
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December 24, 2014
3.5 stars!
This was such a sweet story! While I didn’t totally love it, both main characters were adorkable, the message behind the story was uplifting, and the romance was heartwarming. After reading this book and this author’s Ready series, I notice that all of her books make me fall in love with the idea of love. There are clichés and her stories are definitely sugary sweet, but ultimately, it’s just impossible for me to not enjoy her books on a certain level. For me, her books are the perfect ‘feel-good� romances that are bound to put a smile on my face and leave me with warm, fuzzy feelings. This book was no different.
The heroine Lailah Buchanan was born with a heart defect, and her entire life has been uprooted by her condition. She’s spent most of her time lying within the walls of a hospital. Now at 22, she’s finally looking forward to being discharged and living life like she’s always intended to.
“My life has been nothing but surgeries, procedures, and living from one test result to the next. I’ll gladly trade all that for a little normalcy. Give me a terrible prom and a hot, sticky day at Disneyland. Let me fall in love even if it means I’ll get hurt in the end. At least then, I’d know that I’m living.�
But unfortunately, things don’t go the way she planned and once again, she’s stuck inside her white-walled prison.
The hero Jude Cavanaugh is a nurse aide who harbors immense guilt after his fiancé died. Working as a nurse aide in the same hospital where Lailah resides, he’s a complete loner who gave up his lavish lifestyle in a twisted hope that walking the same halls where his fiancé once was would bring him closer to her. He believes he doesn’t deserve forgiveness and working as a CNA is his atonement.
“Healing required the desire to do so. I didn’t want to heal, and I certainly didn’t want to move on.�
I don’t want to spoil exactly how, but the way Lailah and Jude meet is SO cute and completely melted my heart, like awww-worthy.
Though the romance didn’t develop until later on, there is an underlying mutual attraction and I still felt that it was more insta-love, especially considering the number of years Jude shouldered his guilt and refused to move on from his ex-fiancé he fell for Lailah pretty fast. But because I really did love both of these characters who are just completely charming, I didn’t mind too much that they got together quick.
There’s a part of this book I have to mention. Lailah had this list, a Someday list of things she wanted to accomplish but couldn’t because of her poor health and whenever Jude would help her finish one of those goals, it completely melted my heart. Just the dedication and conviction behind Lailah’s desire to complete each goal and Jude’s determination to help her achieve them all made my heart feel so full. It also served as a step towards their relationship development as well so in light of that, the insta-love at the beginning really didn’t bother me too much.
Though I could have easily given this book 4 stars or more, the fact remains that the last 20% of the book was slightly disappointing and I flat-out disliked the decisions these characters made.
“Two broken hearts � we would destroy each other before we even had a chance to begin.�
Throughout it all, I felt like this conflict was unnecessary because as quickly as it was introduced, it was resolved just as fast and didn’t offer any significant plot development, only served to make this last portion of the book too sugary and rushed. But taking the book as a whole, this story was a solid romance read that is bound to warm any romantic’s heart.
Within These Walls is a NA contemporary romance that is NOT tragic. Though it’s written as a standalone, there is an upcoming book titled Beyond These Walls that continues this couple’s story and there’ll also be a spinoff book for Jude’s brother who is introduced in this book. Personally, I can’t wait for that one! It’s bound to be darker to match his character...
This was such a sweet story! While I didn’t totally love it, both main characters were adorkable, the message behind the story was uplifting, and the romance was heartwarming. After reading this book and this author’s Ready series, I notice that all of her books make me fall in love with the idea of love. There are clichés and her stories are definitely sugary sweet, but ultimately, it’s just impossible for me to not enjoy her books on a certain level. For me, her books are the perfect ‘feel-good� romances that are bound to put a smile on my face and leave me with warm, fuzzy feelings. This book was no different.
The heroine Lailah Buchanan was born with a heart defect, and her entire life has been uprooted by her condition. She’s spent most of her time lying within the walls of a hospital. Now at 22, she’s finally looking forward to being discharged and living life like she’s always intended to.
“My life has been nothing but surgeries, procedures, and living from one test result to the next. I’ll gladly trade all that for a little normalcy. Give me a terrible prom and a hot, sticky day at Disneyland. Let me fall in love even if it means I’ll get hurt in the end. At least then, I’d know that I’m living.�
But unfortunately, things don’t go the way she planned and once again, she’s stuck inside her white-walled prison.
The hero Jude Cavanaugh is a nurse aide who harbors immense guilt after his fiancé died. Working as a nurse aide in the same hospital where Lailah resides, he’s a complete loner who gave up his lavish lifestyle in a twisted hope that walking the same halls where his fiancé once was would bring him closer to her. He believes he doesn’t deserve forgiveness and working as a CNA is his atonement.
“Healing required the desire to do so. I didn’t want to heal, and I certainly didn’t want to move on.�
I don’t want to spoil exactly how, but the way Lailah and Jude meet is SO cute and completely melted my heart, like awww-worthy.
Though the romance didn’t develop until later on, there is an underlying mutual attraction and I still felt that it was more insta-love, especially considering the number of years Jude shouldered his guilt and refused to move on from his ex-fiancé he fell for Lailah pretty fast. But because I really did love both of these characters who are just completely charming, I didn’t mind too much that they got together quick.
There’s a part of this book I have to mention. Lailah had this list, a Someday list of things she wanted to accomplish but couldn’t because of her poor health and whenever Jude would help her finish one of those goals, it completely melted my heart. Just the dedication and conviction behind Lailah’s desire to complete each goal and Jude’s determination to help her achieve them all made my heart feel so full. It also served as a step towards their relationship development as well so in light of that, the insta-love at the beginning really didn’t bother me too much.
Though I could have easily given this book 4 stars or more, the fact remains that the last 20% of the book was slightly disappointing and I flat-out disliked the decisions these characters made.
“Two broken hearts � we would destroy each other before we even had a chance to begin.�
Throughout it all, I felt like this conflict was unnecessary because as quickly as it was introduced, it was resolved just as fast and didn’t offer any significant plot development, only served to make this last portion of the book too sugary and rushed. But taking the book as a whole, this story was a solid romance read that is bound to warm any romantic’s heart.
Within These Walls is a NA contemporary romance that is NOT tragic. Though it’s written as a standalone, there is an upcoming book titled Beyond These Walls that continues this couple’s story and there’ll also be a spinoff book for Jude’s brother who is introduced in this book. Personally, I can’t wait for that one! It’s bound to be darker to match his character...
August 15, 2014
An uniquely situated romance told within the walls of a hospital. Lailah was born with a severe heart defect and for the last 22 years of her life she has seen the inside of a hospital room more than her own bedroom. Treated with 'kid gloves' her mother has protected her from the world. All the sheltering has made Lailah shy and somewhat innocent.
Jude is a broken man trying to find solace within the walls of the hospital. A tragic moment has left him a ghost of himself. Going through the motions as a CNA is how he survives each day.
Lailah keeps a journal with all the things she'd like to do *if* she ever was well enough to leave the hospital. Jude discovers her Someday wish list and works his way into her life as her CNA. He really becomes *swoon-worthy* each time he crosses off an item on her list.
WITHIN THESE WALLS is a sweet story about two broken hearts struggle to be complete.
RELEASE DATE: 8/18/2014
Pre-order | order:
Standalone
**Complimentary copy courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Jude is a broken man trying to find solace within the walls of the hospital. A tragic moment has left him a ghost of himself. Going through the motions as a CNA is how he survives each day.
Lailah keeps a journal with all the things she'd like to do *if* she ever was well enough to leave the hospital. Jude discovers her Someday wish list and works his way into her life as her CNA. He really becomes *swoon-worthy* each time he crosses off an item on her list.
"When you were living your life on borrowed time, every second you had to spend watching the days pass through a hospital room window was one moment less you had to be doing something meaningful."WOW! I love that quote. It's one of those quotes that makes you stop and think about what you're doing with your life.
WITHIN THESE WALLS is a sweet story about two broken hearts struggle to be complete.
RELEASE DATE: 8/18/2014
Pre-order | order:
Standalone
**Complimentary copy courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
January 8, 2015
3.5 stars!
"The truth is, you are far from normal. You are light-years away from the word. You are exceptional. The word normal would be an insult to your very nature."
Another sweet new adult romance! I decided to read this book after seeing multiple friends giving 4 star ratings so I gave it a chance. While it's not the most original book around, and I predicted the majority of the plot, this was still an incredibly fun read.
Lailah Buchanan has a congenital heart disease, her heart is too large for her body. Lailah has spent a lifetime in hospitals and longs for a more normal life outside the constricting medical walls. Jude is a CNA, he took the job at the hospital after a tragic accident three years ago in which his fiance was killed. Jude is a shadow of his formal self and lives day to day. Upon being switched to the cardiac wing, Jude meets Lailah and the two become fast friends. Over time, the two begin to develop stronger feelings.
It's funny that I enjoyed this book so much, I actually can't wrap my mind around it. It has a bunch of aspects in it that I don't normally like.
-predictability--> check
-instalove--> check
-cheesiness (but not a lot)--> check
-recycled plot--> check
...and yet, this was so good! All of these aspects were easy to ignore, the book as a whole being delightful. I honestly think this is a testament to J. L. Berg as an author, because I fell in love with both Jude and Lailah and was rooting for them as a couple the entire book! This is very much a feel good romance for those of you out there looking for a lighter book to brighten up your day.
Lailah as a main character was perfect; she had been dealt a shit hand in life, and yet she still wanted to live it to it's fullest. Things that we all take for granted everyday, like the ability to walk through sand or go to a school dance, these are all things that Lailah strived for because her condition took away these small pleasures from her. And Jude was the perfect man to help her find a way to live her life.
Fans of sweet romantic new adult reads, this is the book for you! Everyone else, give it a try!
"The truth is, you are far from normal. You are light-years away from the word. You are exceptional. The word normal would be an insult to your very nature."
Another sweet new adult romance! I decided to read this book after seeing multiple friends giving 4 star ratings so I gave it a chance. While it's not the most original book around, and I predicted the majority of the plot, this was still an incredibly fun read.
Lailah Buchanan has a congenital heart disease, her heart is too large for her body. Lailah has spent a lifetime in hospitals and longs for a more normal life outside the constricting medical walls. Jude is a CNA, he took the job at the hospital after a tragic accident three years ago in which his fiance was killed. Jude is a shadow of his formal self and lives day to day. Upon being switched to the cardiac wing, Jude meets Lailah and the two become fast friends. Over time, the two begin to develop stronger feelings.
It's funny that I enjoyed this book so much, I actually can't wrap my mind around it. It has a bunch of aspects in it that I don't normally like.
-predictability--> check
-instalove--> check
-cheesiness (but not a lot)--> check
-recycled plot--> check
...and yet, this was so good! All of these aspects were easy to ignore, the book as a whole being delightful. I honestly think this is a testament to J. L. Berg as an author, because I fell in love with both Jude and Lailah and was rooting for them as a couple the entire book! This is very much a feel good romance for those of you out there looking for a lighter book to brighten up your day.
Lailah as a main character was perfect; she had been dealt a shit hand in life, and yet she still wanted to live it to it's fullest. Things that we all take for granted everyday, like the ability to walk through sand or go to a school dance, these are all things that Lailah strived for because her condition took away these small pleasures from her. And Jude was the perfect man to help her find a way to live her life.
Fans of sweet romantic new adult reads, this is the book for you! Everyone else, give it a try!
September 27, 2022
4 stars
Within These Walls is a book about Lailah and Jude and their romance that primarily takes place in a hospital. It was a unique concept, Lailah is in the cardiac unit as she was born with a heart issue and at 22 it's followed her throughout her life. Jude is a CNA and gets transferred to the cardiac unit. I liked learning about Jude's backstory and seeing his growth. Lailah was fantastic as well. This story was sweet and emotional, and though I wanted more of an ending for this couple, I see there is a second book about them so I won't hold it against it ;)
“Two broken hearts—we would destroy each other before we even had a chance to begin.�
Within These Walls is a book about Lailah and Jude and their romance that primarily takes place in a hospital. It was a unique concept, Lailah is in the cardiac unit as she was born with a heart issue and at 22 it's followed her throughout her life. Jude is a CNA and gets transferred to the cardiac unit. I liked learning about Jude's backstory and seeing his growth. Lailah was fantastic as well. This story was sweet and emotional, and though I wanted more of an ending for this couple, I see there is a second book about them so I won't hold it against it ;)
Audio book source: Audible Plus
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Felicity Munroe & Gabriel Vaughan
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 10h 14m
December 18, 2018
💝heartbreaking💝
September 4, 2014
4 PUDDING STARS! ★★★★
"Two broken hearts - we would destroy each other before we even had a chance to begin."
Well if you're a hopeless romantic like me and enjoy a sweet heart-melting read, then this book will be right up your alley :)
Within These Walls is the story of 22-year old Lailah Buchanan, who was born with an enlarged heart and all her life, she has been in and out of the hospital; often craving for normalcy and dreaming of life outside the hospital's walls.
25-year old Jude Cavanaugh has been roaming the halls of the same hospital ever since a tragic accident stole the love of his life 3 years ago. Alone and completely broken inside, he left everything behind to stay close to the last place he lost his first love, including working as a CNA at the hospital.
Their paths crossed one day when Jude was transferred from the ER to the cardiology department and first meets Lailah. Watching her from afar indulging in the simple pleasures of life, an unknown feeling sparks alive & for the first time in 3 years, he begins to feel something more than the emptiness in his heart.
Determined to give Lailah the happiness & the life she craved for, their relationship blossomed from friends to even more as Jude vowed to help Lailah cross out as many things as he can on her "someday" list.
Well I truly enjoyed this read as it kinda reminded me of , which BTW was one of the first few romance books I've picked up back when I was 15 (and I LOVED IT). It probably also played a part in making me a hopeless romantic *le sigh*
That aside, Within This Walls has got me grinning like a fool, caused some occasional giggling and of course, it had me teary-eyed every now and then. Their first encounter was adorable & just watching Jude fulfilling Lailah's bucket list had got me all:
Needless to say, my heart melted into a puddle and my feels were all over the place ♥♥�
But why not 5-stars?
Well yeah, even a hopeless romantic like me has some standards (don't judge me!) and while I really do love all the sweetness in this book, it still kinda bordered on insta-love for me. I found myself struggling a little to believe that Jude could have fall in love so soon with Lailah. I mean, he technically spent 3 whole years harbouring on all that guilt and sadness and well...I guessed I would have loved it better if the internal struggle/conflict that Jude had was made more prominent.
But that's just probably me being a pickybitch woman D:
Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this one ♥♥. A really beautiful heart-warming read that teaches you to appreciate life & to cherish every single moment. It brings you on an emotional journey as you watch two broken-hearted souls find love in each other when they thought loving was impossible.
Being my first read from J.L. Berg, I truly enjoyed her writing and definitely looking forward to read more from her.
"Two broken hearts - we would destroy each other before we even had a chance to begin."
Well if you're a hopeless romantic like me and enjoy a sweet heart-melting read, then this book will be right up your alley :)
Within These Walls is the story of 22-year old Lailah Buchanan, who was born with an enlarged heart and all her life, she has been in and out of the hospital; often craving for normalcy and dreaming of life outside the hospital's walls.
25-year old Jude Cavanaugh has been roaming the halls of the same hospital ever since a tragic accident stole the love of his life 3 years ago. Alone and completely broken inside, he left everything behind to stay close to the last place he lost his first love, including working as a CNA at the hospital.
Their paths crossed one day when Jude was transferred from the ER to the cardiology department and first meets Lailah. Watching her from afar indulging in the simple pleasures of life, an unknown feeling sparks alive & for the first time in 3 years, he begins to feel something more than the emptiness in his heart.
Determined to give Lailah the happiness & the life she craved for, their relationship blossomed from friends to even more as Jude vowed to help Lailah cross out as many things as he can on her "someday" list.
Well I truly enjoyed this read as it kinda reminded me of , which BTW was one of the first few romance books I've picked up back when I was 15 (and I LOVED IT). It probably also played a part in making me a hopeless romantic *le sigh*
That aside, Within This Walls has got me grinning like a fool, caused some occasional giggling and of course, it had me teary-eyed every now and then. Their first encounter was adorable & just watching Jude fulfilling Lailah's bucket list had got me all:
"Every time you share another wish or dream from it is like unravelling another layer of you. It helps me to get to know the woman I've fallen - come to care about so much".
Needless to say, my heart melted into a puddle and my feels were all over the place ♥♥�
But why not 5-stars?
Well yeah, even a hopeless romantic like me has some standards (don't judge me!) and while I really do love all the sweetness in this book, it still kinda bordered on insta-love for me. I found myself struggling a little to believe that Jude could have fall in love so soon with Lailah. I mean, he technically spent 3 whole years harbouring on all that guilt and sadness and well...I guessed I would have loved it better if the internal struggle/conflict that Jude had was made more prominent.
But that's just probably me being a picky
Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this one ♥♥. A really beautiful heart-warming read that teaches you to appreciate life & to cherish every single moment. It brings you on an emotional journey as you watch two broken-hearted souls find love in each other when they thought loving was impossible.
Being my first read from J.L. Berg, I truly enjoyed her writing and definitely looking forward to read more from her.
May 8, 2019
*** FREE ***
4.5 stars...
"There was nothing careful about falling in love."
I really enjoyed this novel. It started a little slow but once Jude and Lailah met, it captivated me until the end. One thing I didn't like was how quickly Jude fell in love. . But I loved how Lailah fell in love and the way she admitted it. Once they settled into a rhythm, their story was beautiful. I loved all their pudding meetings and completing Lailah's list. And for once, an "angel" reference was not cheesy :)
"Every angel has wings, Lailah."
4.5 stars...
"There was nothing careful about falling in love."
I really enjoyed this novel. It started a little slow but once Jude and Lailah met, it captivated me until the end. One thing I didn't like was how quickly Jude fell in love. . But I loved how Lailah fell in love and the way she admitted it. Once they settled into a rhythm, their story was beautiful. I loved all their pudding meetings and completing Lailah's list. And for once, an "angel" reference was not cheesy :)
"Every angel has wings, Lailah."
August 22, 2014
4-4.5 STARS
Since this was not my first read by this author, I knew this book, like her others books it will be sweet and emotional. And it was! I can say for sure this is the best book by this author. This story is beautiful, romantic, sweet, heartwarming and heartbreaking at times. Within This Walls says the story of two people who learn to live, love and most of all hope, two people who learn to live life fully every single second of every single day, two people who learn to cherish every single moment.
For Lailah(22), who was born with a heart defect, the hospital is like a second home. Controlled all her life by this defect, Lailah knows her heart will stop someday if she doesn’t get a transplant. Schooled all her life only at home, Lailah crave for human interaction with someone her age. She just wants to be normal. Supported and loved by her mother, her cardiologist Dr. Marcus and her nurse, Grace, Lailah appreciates her life and the fact that she is still alive. She is a fighter, she wants to live and she wants to hope.
Jude (25) is a broken man, struggle to fight and forget his past and memories. Within the walls of “Memorial Hospital� he’s trying to find peace. He works as a CAN, being a loner, without friends and working extra shifts only to occupy his time. His tragic past left him numb, he doesn’t know how to function anymore, he’s like a ghost within the walls of the hospital. He is still grieving after three years...
He doesn’t want to feel anything, he doesn’t want to heal and he doesn’t want to move on. Until Lailah..
From the moment Jude meets Lailah, he is curious about her, he feels confused and intrigued by her from the very first moment. They start to talk almost every day and they become friends. With Lailah, Jude learns how to smile and laugh again, how to live and love and how to hope. Lailah is drown by Jude from the beginning, he makes her feel real and whole. She starts to think of him more than a friend, but she thinks her life it’s too stressful to share with someone else. At first she is convinced that love is not an option for her, but in the end her love for him is too strong to give up on them.
When Jude realize his past and Lailah’s past are connected he is determined to make Lailah’s future better, he is determined to give her everything.
I was completely enraptured in this story from the beginning. Extremely well written, this story melted my heart. Lailah and Jude’s love story was a beautiful one. For sure, Mrs Berg knows how to create fantastic characters and emotions.
With a unique setting and an intriguing storyline, this story will captivate you more and more with every chapter.
Both main characters are real, complex and very well developed through the entire story. I felt for both Lailah and Jude. Lailah is definitely a fighter. Most of the book I admired her a lot. She wants to live, she wants to fight, she wants to know what love is. One time particularly I want to slap her
I fall in love with Jude through the entire story. If at the beginning he is a little ( or more than a little ) selfish and annoyed me once,or twice, after some time he really grow on me. He really makes Lailah’s life better in every single way and I really loved him for that. He tries to give her what she missed � her past, support and love - her present and a new life � her future. He gives her everything! He is caring, loving, supportive, he is everything Lailah needs.
Lailah and Jude's relationship progressed naturally and beautifully and like the entire story was real. Everything was real in this book - emotions, characters, situations.
The supportive characters are great too � loving and caring each one of them play a role in Lailah and Jude’s story.
Overall, I can say only this � I really recommend this book!
"Hope was an emotion that could give the smallest man the strength to move mountains."
Since this was not my first read by this author, I knew this book, like her others books it will be sweet and emotional. And it was! I can say for sure this is the best book by this author. This story is beautiful, romantic, sweet, heartwarming and heartbreaking at times. Within This Walls says the story of two people who learn to live, love and most of all hope, two people who learn to live life fully every single second of every single day, two people who learn to cherish every single moment.
For Lailah(22), who was born with a heart defect, the hospital is like a second home. Controlled all her life by this defect, Lailah knows her heart will stop someday if she doesn’t get a transplant. Schooled all her life only at home, Lailah crave for human interaction with someone her age. She just wants to be normal. Supported and loved by her mother, her cardiologist Dr. Marcus and her nurse, Grace, Lailah appreciates her life and the fact that she is still alive. She is a fighter, she wants to live and she wants to hope.
Like a white knight, he saved me from a life of gray and showed me a world of color.
Jude (25) is a broken man, struggle to fight and forget his past and memories. Within the walls of “Memorial Hospital� he’s trying to find peace. He works as a CAN, being a loner, without friends and working extra shifts only to occupy his time. His tragic past left him numb, he doesn’t know how to function anymore, he’s like a ghost within the walls of the hospital. He is still grieving after three years...
“…every part of our life is a journey, isn’t it?(�)My life was anything but a journey. It was a dead-on.�
He doesn’t want to feel anything, he doesn’t want to heal and he doesn’t want to move on. Until Lailah..
� Lailah was the sun, and I was dazzled by her soothing, pure presence.�
From the moment Jude meets Lailah, he is curious about her, he feels confused and intrigued by her from the very first moment. They start to talk almost every day and they become friends. With Lailah, Jude learns how to smile and laugh again, how to live and love and how to hope. Lailah is drown by Jude from the beginning, he makes her feel real and whole. She starts to think of him more than a friend, but she thinks her life it’s too stressful to share with someone else. At first she is convinced that love is not an option for her, but in the end her love for him is too strong to give up on them.
When Jude realize his past and Lailah’s past are connected he is determined to make Lailah’s future better, he is determined to give her everything.
I was completely enraptured in this story from the beginning. Extremely well written, this story melted my heart. Lailah and Jude’s love story was a beautiful one. For sure, Mrs Berg knows how to create fantastic characters and emotions.
With a unique setting and an intriguing storyline, this story will captivate you more and more with every chapter.
Both main characters are real, complex and very well developed through the entire story. I felt for both Lailah and Jude. Lailah is definitely a fighter. Most of the book I admired her a lot. She wants to live, she wants to fight, she wants to know what love is. One time particularly I want to slap her
I fall in love with Jude through the entire story. If at the beginning he is a little ( or more than a little ) selfish and annoyed me once,or twice, after some time he really grow on me. He really makes Lailah’s life better in every single way and I really loved him for that. He tries to give her what she missed � her past, support and love - her present and a new life � her future. He gives her everything! He is caring, loving, supportive, he is everything Lailah needs.
Lailah and Jude's relationship progressed naturally and beautifully and like the entire story was real. Everything was real in this book - emotions, characters, situations.
The supportive characters are great too � loving and caring each one of them play a role in Lailah and Jude’s story.
Overall, I can say only this � I really recommend this book!
"Life is precious. It’s there one minute and gone the next. It shouldn’t be wasted."
November 16, 2019
I picked up this from Audible Escape book after hearing Averie from Averie Loves Books talking about it on her youtube channel. This story about a woman falling in lvoe with a nurse at the hospital she's contastnly a patient at sounded emotional and I couldn't wait to read it!
When this book started, I absolutely loved watching two broken people slowly learn to trust each other and open their hearts up. I loved the setting of a hospital and how Lailah started to experience life thanks to Jude and he learned to live again thanks to her. I will say, I knew that Jude's secret had to come out some time and I was super nervous how Lailah was going to react. Was she going to be annoying? Was it going to ruin everything? Thankfully, I appreciated where the book went after that and I was happy it wasn't used as a point of conflict to drive the couple apart.
While I loved watching Jude and Lailah fall in love, I did think things turned a bit too insta-lovey and moved quite quickly about three quarters of the way through the book. And Lailah kind of just abandoned her mother for a man, when it's literally been her and her mom for the first 22 years of her life. The way she just dropped her mom didn't sit well with me. They didn't really know each other all that well and Lailah was all-in with her first ever boyfriend. I wish there was a bit more build up and trust when their relationship moved outside of the hospital.
Overall, this was a super cute and emotional romance. I really enjoyed how this was in the hospital and had a sort of taboo feeling since it was patient and an STNA. I also loved listening to this and couldn't put it down!
When this book started, I absolutely loved watching two broken people slowly learn to trust each other and open their hearts up. I loved the setting of a hospital and how Lailah started to experience life thanks to Jude and he learned to live again thanks to her. I will say, I knew that Jude's secret had to come out some time and I was super nervous how Lailah was going to react. Was she going to be annoying? Was it going to ruin everything? Thankfully, I appreciated where the book went after that and I was happy it wasn't used as a point of conflict to drive the couple apart.
While I loved watching Jude and Lailah fall in love, I did think things turned a bit too insta-lovey and moved quite quickly about three quarters of the way through the book. And Lailah kind of just abandoned her mother for a man, when it's literally been her and her mom for the first 22 years of her life. The way she just dropped her mom didn't sit well with me. They didn't really know each other all that well and Lailah was all-in with her first ever boyfriend. I wish there was a bit more build up and trust when their relationship moved outside of the hospital.
Overall, this was a super cute and emotional romance. I really enjoyed how this was in the hospital and had a sort of taboo feeling since it was patient and an STNA. I also loved listening to this and couldn't put it down!
April 23, 2018
Me ha gustado mucho la historia, me ha parecido muy bonita, pero me han fallado varías cosas, que la hacían poco creíble. Tampoco me ha acabado de convencer la manera de escribir de la autora, lo que ha hecho que no consiguiera meterme de pleno en la historia, pero si que estuvieras enganchada, pues, como he dicho, la trama es preciosa. Es una lectura sencilla, pero bastante predecible.
January 27, 2022
I have a high expectation for Miss Berg. After all Within These Walls touching a very sensitive topic. Death and terminal illness. After I read it, I feel a tad disappointed.
Such a good topic but it ruins by a clunky writing.
I want to see more drama. More twist and more angst. All I got is mediocre. Mediocre in chemistry between Jude and Layla.
I still give it 3 stars for picking up such sensitive topic.
3 stars
Such a good topic but it ruins by a clunky writing.
I want to see more drama. More twist and more angst. All I got is mediocre. Mediocre in chemistry between Jude and Layla.
I still give it 3 stars for picking up such sensitive topic.
3 stars
January 20, 2015
4.5 ANGELIC STARS
Jude & Lailah �
Now this was an adorable read! The storyline was incredible and I loved the plot. If I wanted any nurse or any guy spending time with me in the hospital with me I would GLADLY pick Jude. He is a selfless character and to make me love him more (didn't think possible) he goes off and starts making Lailah's come true! It made me extremely emotional at points and was breaking my heart (but it would be fixed any time Jude came along). This book would have gotten the 5 STARS HOWEVER their love was beautiful and all but it happened so fast. I was hoping it would build up not happensuddenly. Nevertheless, it was a pretty awesome read and I would recommend if your looking for a tear jerking - heart warming book.
- Sleepless, Readmore.
Jude & Lailah �
twobrokenhearts
we would destroy each other
before we even had achanceto begin..."
Now this was an adorable read! The storyline was incredible and I loved the plot. If I wanted any nurse or any guy spending time with me in the hospital with me I would GLADLY pick Jude. He is a selfless character and to make me love him more (didn't think possible) he goes off and starts making Lailah's come true! It made me extremely emotional at points and was breaking my heart (but it would be fixed any time Jude came along). This book would have gotten the 5 STARS HOWEVER their love was beautiful and all but it happened so fast. I was hoping it would build up not happen
"...he was like a Greek god covered
in tattoos and scrubs.
Or atleastthat's what
the nurses were describing him as.
- Sleepless, Readmore.
November 11, 2014
WITHIN THESE WALLS, he became my solace, my sanctuary, and my strength.
Within these walls, I gave myself to a man who said he would always fight for me and love me until the end of time.
Within these walls, I gave my less than perfect heart to the man I loved.
And then...he walked away.
Lailah was born with the heart defect. Most of her life she was in and out of hospital, never had normal life, and never lived until she met Jude a nursing assistant in the same hospital as her. Jude was locked up in his own misery; he was a broken man wandering in hospital where he lost his reason to live. Jude soon realises it’s because of his selfishness three years ago that Lailah is still in hospital with no transplant, since then he dedicates his life in making hers better, to redeem himself.
Jude spends more time with Lailah during his shift, he makes her happy in any possible way including her desire to have normal life by fulfilling her “someday list�
What started as friendship soon blossom’s into love, but will Jude be able to let go of his past and open his heart for Lailah? Or will time stand in Lailah’s way before she even gets a chance to live?
I adore Lailah for staying strong even when there was no hope, she never saw her life as a disappointed rather she felt it as a gift and wanted to enjoy it until she has time. “fire in her spirit and beauty in her soul� that’s how Jude sees her not as weak fragile heart patient who is counting her days! Jude� - yet another name in my BB list. Humble, charming and loving.
is simple, subtle and heart warming love story of two broken beautiful soul. This is kind of story that makes you appreciate little things in life-to live, to be happy you just need someone to share these small things!
She was the solace I hadn't realized I was searching for. She gave me strength and peace and a reason to watch sun rise again.
Within these walls, I gave myself to a man who said he would always fight for me and love me until the end of time.
Within these walls, I gave my less than perfect heart to the man I loved.
And then...he walked away.
Lailah was born with the heart defect. Most of her life she was in and out of hospital, never had normal life, and never lived until she met Jude a nursing assistant in the same hospital as her. Jude was locked up in his own misery; he was a broken man wandering in hospital where he lost his reason to live. Jude soon realises it’s because of his selfishness three years ago that Lailah is still in hospital with no transplant, since then he dedicates his life in making hers better, to redeem himself.
Jude spends more time with Lailah during his shift, he makes her happy in any possible way including her desire to have normal life by fulfilling her “someday list�
What started as friendship soon blossom’s into love, but will Jude be able to let go of his past and open his heart for Lailah? Or will time stand in Lailah’s way before she even gets a chance to live?
I adore Lailah for staying strong even when there was no hope, she never saw her life as a disappointed rather she felt it as a gift and wanted to enjoy it until she has time. “fire in her spirit and beauty in her soul� that’s how Jude sees her not as weak fragile heart patient who is counting her days! Jude� - yet another name in my BB list. Humble, charming and loving.
is simple, subtle and heart warming love story of two broken beautiful soul. This is kind of story that makes you appreciate little things in life-to live, to be happy you just need someone to share these small things!
She was the solace I hadn't realized I was searching for. She gave me strength and peace and a reason to watch sun rise again.
September 2, 2014
3.5 Stars. This was a really sweet story, super swoony with a little steam. Jude works at the hospital as a nurses assistant and it's when he gets transferred to the cardiology Ward that he gets to meet Lailah.
Since the death of his fiance 3 years prior, Jude has felt alone and bereft and works all the hours he can in the place that he lost his first love. When he sees Lailah, finding pleasure in the simple things in life, he finds that he is wanting to do anything he can to put that smile on her face. When he discovers she has a bucket list, he vows to cross as many things off it as he can, even though she can't leave the hospital grounds.
He knows he can't have her, he's too emotionally raw and can't let the past go, but he finds himself feeling things he never thought he'd feel ever again.
It was good, I enjoyed it and will be reading more from JL Berg.
February 2, 2019
There may be some spoilers so please read with caution. I did not finish the book so I do not know how it all came together or ended.
Warning possible spoilers below...
My opinion is a personal preference when it come to stories. Honestly, it has nothing to do with the writing. I thought how the writing flowed, etc. was very good. However, my problem was the hero's pining for his dead fiance.
First, the accident that Megan died in was her fault. The hero, Jude, was supposed to drive that night, but he talked Megan into driving. Megan was a big girl - a grown woman - it was her choice to get behind the wheel. No one put a gun to her head. She is the one that fell asleep at the wheel. I am not sure if she was drinking that night or not so I am not sure if that was an issue. Nonetheless, she fell asleep at the wheel and caused an accident that ended in her dying. Jude feels guilt over the accident and the death of his Megan. He can't leave the hospital that Megan died at and so he takes a job as a nurse's assistant. He always wants to feel close to Megan. Blah. The pining is what killed it for me. I was at 35% and Jude is still pining over Megan. "My Megan, my Megan, my Megan" there is only so much I can take of hearing that.
The heroine was an amazing character, but she already had enough in her life. I do not think she needed someone's leftovers which is what Jude felt to me. Lailah would always come second to Jude. This guy was never going to get over "the love of his life" who he put on a pedestal. There was even a part where he described how "hot" Megan was. UGH. I don't need to hear about how hot or gorgeous he thought another woman was. I have read many other books with pining, but while one of the character's is pining, the author allows me to see (early on) how the pining will end (i.e. the MC notices that the person they are pining for was not so perfect or that things were not really how they thought they were or that the heroine is more special that the person they thought they loved was or the pining is mentioned for a chapter or two not 10 chapters!!!) Jude would leave Lailah's room and pine over "my Megan". How could Lailah compete with the perfect and dead Megan?!?!?
This is my opinion. You may love it. I am not telling you not to read it. ou may read it and think I was exaggerating the pining. Like I said this is how I perceived the story and it just did not work for me. The narrators on the audio book were doing an amazing job. This may work for you, but I saw nothing but disappointment in Jude's behavior and his pining.
Warning possible spoilers below...
My opinion is a personal preference when it come to stories. Honestly, it has nothing to do with the writing. I thought how the writing flowed, etc. was very good. However, my problem was the hero's pining for his dead fiance.
First, the accident that Megan died in was her fault. The hero, Jude, was supposed to drive that night, but he talked Megan into driving. Megan was a big girl - a grown woman - it was her choice to get behind the wheel. No one put a gun to her head. She is the one that fell asleep at the wheel. I am not sure if she was drinking that night or not so I am not sure if that was an issue. Nonetheless, she fell asleep at the wheel and caused an accident that ended in her dying. Jude feels guilt over the accident and the death of his Megan. He can't leave the hospital that Megan died at and so he takes a job as a nurse's assistant. He always wants to feel close to Megan. Blah. The pining is what killed it for me. I was at 35% and Jude is still pining over Megan. "My Megan, my Megan, my Megan" there is only so much I can take of hearing that.
The heroine was an amazing character, but she already had enough in her life. I do not think she needed someone's leftovers which is what Jude felt to me. Lailah would always come second to Jude. This guy was never going to get over "the love of his life" who he put on a pedestal. There was even a part where he described how "hot" Megan was. UGH. I don't need to hear about how hot or gorgeous he thought another woman was. I have read many other books with pining, but while one of the character's is pining, the author allows me to see (early on) how the pining will end (i.e. the MC notices that the person they are pining for was not so perfect or that things were not really how they thought they were or that the heroine is more special that the person they thought they loved was or the pining is mentioned for a chapter or two not 10 chapters!!!) Jude would leave Lailah's room and pine over "my Megan". How could Lailah compete with the perfect and dead Megan?!?!?
This is my opinion. You may love it. I am not telling you not to read it. ou may read it and think I was exaggerating the pining. Like I said this is how I perceived the story and it just did not work for me. The narrators on the audio book were doing an amazing job. This may work for you, but I saw nothing but disappointment in Jude's behavior and his pining.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2015
4 1/2 ANGEL Stars
I LOVED this book!!! It was sweet, and angsty and had a little funny thrown in. I fell in love from the PROLOGUE!
I always try to write my reviews immediately after I finish reading so that the emotions are fresh and the memories are "still there". But I have been so busy this week, that I haven't been able to sit down and write one. No problem. The smile is still on my face, and in my heart.
Lailah is a 22 year old, who was born with an enlarged heart. This made normal activities, such as breathing, 10 times harder for her. Not only was the defect controlling her life, it was slowly killing her. She had spent more time in the hospital than out, and Memorial Hospital had become her home away from home. She kept people away because she fears being a burden to anyone else.
Jude was a 25 year old lost boy. He had been wandering the halls of said hospital for years until finishing his CNA and getting a job there. His tragic past kept him at the hospital, searching, hoping for some kind of connection. He keeps people away because he's drowning in grief and is a loner who has built a fortress of thick, impenetrable walls around himself.
Jude's feelings for Lailah confused him. And, while he was unsure of what was going on inside, he knew he didn't want to let go of that feeling.
He brought normal to her life as well, by helping mark off items on her list.
This is a story of hope, redemption and sacrificing it all for the one you love. How far would you go? What would you do for the person who brought you back from the living dead? How far would you go to help the person you loved?
"Every angel has wings, Lailah.
I LOVED this book!!! It was sweet, and angsty and had a little funny thrown in. I fell in love from the PROLOGUE!
'Like a white knight, he saved me from a life of gray and showed me a world of color.'
I always try to write my reviews immediately after I finish reading so that the emotions are fresh and the memories are "still there". But I have been so busy this week, that I haven't been able to sit down and write one. No problem. The smile is still on my face, and in my heart.
Lailah is a 22 year old, who was born with an enlarged heart. This made normal activities, such as breathing, 10 times harder for her. Not only was the defect controlling her life, it was slowly killing her. She had spent more time in the hospital than out, and Memorial Hospital had become her home away from home. She kept people away because she fears being a burden to anyone else.
'Asking someone to step into my world would be like asking him to sign away his own life to take care of mine. I could never do that. Love wasn't an option for me.'
Jude was a 25 year old lost boy. He had been wandering the halls of said hospital for years until finishing his CNA and getting a job there. His tragic past kept him at the hospital, searching, hoping for some kind of connection. He keeps people away because he's drowning in grief and is a loner who has built a fortress of thick, impenetrable walls around himself.
Jude's feelings for Lailah confused him. And, while he was unsure of what was going on inside, he knew he didn't want to let go of that feeling.
'It was as if I'd been underground for years, locked away in a dungeon of my own making and unable to break free. After meeting Laila, I felt as if my chains had melted away, and I had finally crawled up to the surface to catch my first blinding glimpse of the sun."
He brought normal to her life as well, by helping mark off items on her list.
"What number is it going to be today?"
"Twenty five"
"It's been crossed out," I said, unable to look up at him. God, will I ever grow up?
"What was it?" he asked, his voice low and husky.
"Be kissed until I'm breathless."
This is a story of hope, redemption and sacrificing it all for the one you love. How far would you go? What would you do for the person who brought you back from the living dead? How far would you go to help the person you loved?
"We all have scars, Lailah. Some are just more visible than others."
What are your scars, Jude?"
***Complimentary copy courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Shelved as 'not-appealing'
September 5, 2018Duet.
Ends with separation.
You need to read Book 2 for their happily ever after.
Ends with separation.
You need to read Book 2 for their happily ever after.
August 28, 2018
4,5
Reseña completa:
No sabía muy bien que iba a encontrarme en este libro, solo sabía que era New Adult y este género suele gustarme bastante así que no dude mucho a la hora de comprarlo. Y menos mal que me dejé llevar por mi instinto, porque ha sido una lectura memorable que he disfrutado desde la primera página.
Está narrado desde la perspectiva de ambos protagonistas -Lailah y Jude- lo que nos da una visión muy amplia de sus mundos y sus pensamientos, me gusta que se vayan turnando y siempre seamos partícipes de lo que sucede en sus vidas. El estilo de la autora es directo, con una prosa delicada y rica en detalles, diálogos interesantes, un ritmo ligero y algunas escenas preciosas, lo que consigue sumergirte entre sus páginas sin esfuerzo ninguno. Es un libro cargado de sentimientos, de dolor, superacion, amor y esperanza, sin embargo, aunque me embeleso y enamoró por completo, reconozco que peca de típico y hacia el final desconecte un poco de la historia, no me resultaba tan interesante como el inicio (no sé exactamente por qué), pero seguía teniendo algo que me hacía continuar y suspirar por lo monos que eran los protagonistas, lo que compensaba en cierta medida el desapego. En general mi sensación ha sido muy positiva, el drama está muy bien llevado, las escenas tiernas y románticas toman mucho peso y te roban el aliento, también hay cabida para el humor, la pasión y alguna sorpresa, así que en conjunto es un libro a tener en cuenta.
Reseña completa:
No sabía muy bien que iba a encontrarme en este libro, solo sabía que era New Adult y este género suele gustarme bastante así que no dude mucho a la hora de comprarlo. Y menos mal que me dejé llevar por mi instinto, porque ha sido una lectura memorable que he disfrutado desde la primera página.
Está narrado desde la perspectiva de ambos protagonistas -Lailah y Jude- lo que nos da una visión muy amplia de sus mundos y sus pensamientos, me gusta que se vayan turnando y siempre seamos partícipes de lo que sucede en sus vidas. El estilo de la autora es directo, con una prosa delicada y rica en detalles, diálogos interesantes, un ritmo ligero y algunas escenas preciosas, lo que consigue sumergirte entre sus páginas sin esfuerzo ninguno. Es un libro cargado de sentimientos, de dolor, superacion, amor y esperanza, sin embargo, aunque me embeleso y enamoró por completo, reconozco que peca de típico y hacia el final desconecte un poco de la historia, no me resultaba tan interesante como el inicio (no sé exactamente por qué), pero seguía teniendo algo que me hacía continuar y suspirar por lo monos que eran los protagonistas, lo que compensaba en cierta medida el desapego. En general mi sensación ha sido muy positiva, el drama está muy bien llevado, las escenas tiernas y románticas toman mucho peso y te roban el aliento, también hay cabida para el humor, la pasión y alguna sorpresa, así que en conjunto es un libro a tener en cuenta.
February 16, 2018
Ay, por favor. Qué historia más tierna. Pensaba que sería un libro diferente a lo que resultó ser (y por ello mismo me gustó muchísimo). Tiene muuuchos tópicos ya vistos en miles de libros pero ¿qué le voy a hacer? Me siguen encantando estas historias. Y aunque la historia de amor me chirrió un poco porque fue quizás precipitada, luego la autora lo arregló. Ha sido muy, muy tierna.
July 11, 2023
I love rereading old favorites!! This book always held a special place in my heart. Jude and Lailah’s story was heartwrenching with a gorgeous happily ever after. I cried and swooned so much, even after all these years. I still loved it just as much, if not more.
Jude suffered so much loss in his young life and stopped living. He was just a shell…until he met Lailah. She was such a bright light of hope and redemption. Even though her life was so bleak and uncertain. She was always so positive and happy, when most would be broody and bitter. I loved how she changed Jude. She opened his world to color and rainbows…and we can’t forget pudding. Mmmm.
But their love story was anything but easy. Lots of pain and turmoil they had to suffer before their road finally took a turn for the happy. I was just so giddy and excited for them. For Lailah. Especially for her. She deserved her happy ending with her prince Flynn Ryder.
***
This was the first book I've started and finished in a long time. It kept me glued to my kindle, desperately needing to know more. These characters are both flawed and real and beautiful. I loved them and wanted nothing but for everything to work out for them. It's a tragic lovestory, but also a journey of self-discovery, first love and second chances. I'm so glad I read and experienced it. It got me out of a long book funk. 5 Stars!
Jude suffered so much loss in his young life and stopped living. He was just a shell…until he met Lailah. She was such a bright light of hope and redemption. Even though her life was so bleak and uncertain. She was always so positive and happy, when most would be broody and bitter. I loved how she changed Jude. She opened his world to color and rainbows…and we can’t forget pudding. Mmmm.
But their love story was anything but easy. Lots of pain and turmoil they had to suffer before their road finally took a turn for the happy. I was just so giddy and excited for them. For Lailah. Especially for her. She deserved her happy ending with her prince Flynn Ryder.
***
This was the first book I've started and finished in a long time. It kept me glued to my kindle, desperately needing to know more. These characters are both flawed and real and beautiful. I loved them and wanted nothing but for everything to work out for them. It's a tragic lovestory, but also a journey of self-discovery, first love and second chances. I'm so glad I read and experienced it. It got me out of a long book funk. 5 Stars!
February 28, 2018
Puede que sea más un 3.5 pero como ŷ no tiene medias estrellas, pues eso. Mayormente porque he disfrutado muchísimo de esta historia.
Entre estas paredes es una historia de lucha y superación por parte de ambos personajes principales y ambos por diferentes motivos. El escenario es pequeño, ya que la mayor parte de la novela sucede dentro de un hospital, y aún así, es maravilloso ver como los personajes se desenvuelven ahí.
La relación entre ambos ha sido muy cuqui, tierna y sus momentos han sido geniales. Había química. Aunque sí que es cierto que hay un gran instalove, pero se lo perdonamos ¿no? Por lo menos yo lo he hecho ^^
Si le he bajado la nota un poquito es porque ciertas casualidades han sido como DEMASIADO CASUALIDAD. Y no me gusta la acción-reacción que hubo sobre este tema al que se le podría haber sacado mucho más partido y drama. Ya sabéis que adoro el drama.
En definitiva, si os apetece una historia tierna new adult, tenéis que darle una oportunidad. A mí me ha sorprendido mucho.
Entre estas paredes es una historia de lucha y superación por parte de ambos personajes principales y ambos por diferentes motivos. El escenario es pequeño, ya que la mayor parte de la novela sucede dentro de un hospital, y aún así, es maravilloso ver como los personajes se desenvuelven ahí.
La relación entre ambos ha sido muy cuqui, tierna y sus momentos han sido geniales. Había química. Aunque sí que es cierto que hay un gran instalove, pero se lo perdonamos ¿no? Por lo menos yo lo he hecho ^^
Si le he bajado la nota un poquito es porque ciertas casualidades han sido como DEMASIADO CASUALIDAD. Y no me gusta la acción-reacción que hubo sobre este tema al que se le podría haber sacado mucho más partido y drama. Ya sabéis que adoro el drama.
En definitiva, si os apetece una historia tierna new adult, tenéis que darle una oportunidad. A mí me ha sorprendido mucho.
May 16, 2020
Sometimes my penchant for just diving into books without any research is not always good. I did got lucky with this one because what could have been a real tear jerker, turned out to be not that sad. I'm pretty relieved because medical illnesses in books are something I tend to avoid. It's just to real life for me. There are sad elements, but the overall feel to me was about hope and young love. The book was good, but it's just not my normal go-to type of read. I will say that I am intrigued by the brother. I may skip to his book in the series to see if that is more my cup of tea.
December 22, 2017
4.5 stars
Free on Amazon Dec 20, 2017
Free on Amazon Dec 20, 2017
December 31, 2015
Ho acquistato questo libro rapita dalla trama. Mi aspettavo una storia travagliata, dolore, sofferenza, mi aspettavo di versare qualche lacrima (cosa che, ovviamente, è successa!) ma non mi sarei aspettata TUTTO questo!
Non mi aspettavo tanta dolcezza, tanta delicatezza, tanta gioia in un mondo ristretto che avrebbe potuto trasudare solo insofferenza, solo rimpianto. Invece la storia è un inno alla speranza, alla vita. Un invito a non arrendersi mai, a vivere un’esistenza piena, fino in fondo e ad avere sempre rispetto per ogni singola scelta che la vita ci pone davanti. In più l’autrice ci regala due protagonisti meravigliosi, la loro storia è zucchero filato liquido ed è impossibile, fino alla fine, non sperare per loro.
Ero terrorizzata dalle scelte dell’’autrice, temevo che avrebbe concluso la narrazione in modo drammatico spezzandomi il cuore e facendomi versare un mare di lacrime amare. Si, di lacrime ne ho versate, è vero, ma sono state le più dolci di sempre.
Il mio cuore si è riempito di un amore infinito, dolcissimo.
Non vedo l’ora di leggere la conclusione di questa storia.
Spero che sia stupenda come lo è stato l’inizio.
(Mi raccomando Berg� il mio cuore è delicato, non frantumarlo mai, please!)
Non mi aspettavo tanta dolcezza, tanta delicatezza, tanta gioia in un mondo ristretto che avrebbe potuto trasudare solo insofferenza, solo rimpianto. Invece la storia è un inno alla speranza, alla vita. Un invito a non arrendersi mai, a vivere un’esistenza piena, fino in fondo e ad avere sempre rispetto per ogni singola scelta che la vita ci pone davanti. In più l’autrice ci regala due protagonisti meravigliosi, la loro storia è zucchero filato liquido ed è impossibile, fino alla fine, non sperare per loro.
Ero terrorizzata dalle scelte dell’’autrice, temevo che avrebbe concluso la narrazione in modo drammatico spezzandomi il cuore e facendomi versare un mare di lacrime amare. Si, di lacrime ne ho versate, è vero, ma sono state le più dolci di sempre.
Il mio cuore si è riempito di un amore infinito, dolcissimo.
Non vedo l’ora di leggere la conclusione di questa storia.
Spero che sia stupenda come lo è stato l’inizio.
(Mi raccomando Berg� il mio cuore è delicato, non frantumarlo mai, please!)
August 20, 2014
4.5 stars for this beautiful and sweet story. I really enjoyed this one. Lailah was born with a heart defect and has spent most of her life in and out of the hospital. She's never really even lived life, missing out on the normal stuff most of us take for granted. Jude is broken and basically lives at the hospital working as a CNA and roaming the halls. He's kind of lost and not who he use to be. I loved these two characters. I loved their first interactions and I loved how sensitive and sweet Jude was. This book really made me appreciate my own health and think about all the simple things I take for granted. It was beautifully written and a really sweet love story.
January 25, 2016
This was just okay for me. I actually wanted to stop reading but I did finish it. This book deals with a few heavy subjects but it's done in a light and never serious way and I'm not sure it completely worked for me because I never really cared about Jude or Lailah. I don't know if I'll be purchasing book 2 to find out what happens based on how I felt about this book...maybe if it goes on sale. ***SPOILERS*** So don't continue to read unless you want to know details about this story and why it just was okay for me.
Jude loses the love of his life, his fiancee, and because of this loss he cannot leave the hospital -- ends up getting a job there as a CNA. Lost his family because of how he acted after her loss. As a result, he's pretty much a loner, works tons of hours in the ER, hardly leaves the hospital because he just can't get over losing Megan (the love of his life). Jude is whiny and despondent for a good portion of the beginning. Then he gets switched to cardiology where he meets Lailah. All of a sudden, he's interested in something other than himself and Megan and has a sudden interest in Lailah. What he did started out sweet and I thought "okay...this could be good." But it went from the sweet to the over-the-top quickly. The "I love you" came far too fast especially for someone who was stuck on his dead fiancee, and really these two hadn't shared much about each other to warrant "I love you" so quickly IMO. Lialah who I actually liked at first went from sheltered (due to her illness), shy, never having a boyfriend to being seductive and such a temptress with Jude. It was too rushed especially for someone who barely has been out of a hospital. Again, just my opinion on this. When I was just at over 50% the story completely lost my interest and I very nearly DNF. But I wanted to see what happened so I did finish the book. Unfortunately, the last parts of the book ends up with them breaking up because it's what best for both of them and the issues with her being sick etc etc. Ugh. And, I pretty much skimmed the last 10%.
Jude loses the love of his life, his fiancee, and because of this loss he cannot leave the hospital -- ends up getting a job there as a CNA. Lost his family because of how he acted after her loss. As a result, he's pretty much a loner, works tons of hours in the ER, hardly leaves the hospital because he just can't get over losing Megan (the love of his life). Jude is whiny and despondent for a good portion of the beginning. Then he gets switched to cardiology where he meets Lailah. All of a sudden, he's interested in something other than himself and Megan and has a sudden interest in Lailah. What he did started out sweet and I thought "okay...this could be good." But it went from the sweet to the over-the-top quickly. The "I love you" came far too fast especially for someone who was stuck on his dead fiancee, and really these two hadn't shared much about each other to warrant "I love you" so quickly IMO. Lialah who I actually liked at first went from sheltered (due to her illness), shy, never having a boyfriend to being seductive and such a temptress with Jude. It was too rushed especially for someone who barely has been out of a hospital. Again, just my opinion on this. When I was just at over 50% the story completely lost my interest and I very nearly DNF. But I wanted to see what happened so I did finish the book. Unfortunately, the last parts of the book ends up with them breaking up because it's what best for both of them and the issues with her being sick etc etc. Ugh. And, I pretty much skimmed the last 10%.
July 16, 2015
"Ogni cosa ha un inizio.E questo è il nostro"
Mi ha commosso tantissimo questo libro,alla fine avevo i lacrimoni,una storia d'amore dolce,romantica,straziante,intensa,una storia che fa riflettere su tante cose,il dolore,la rinascita,il sacrificio,la speranza....assolutamente da leggere,e spero che magari ne facciano un film!!
"Era Layla il sole.E io ero folgorato dalla sua presenza,così pura e affascinante"
"Non si può vivere senza soffrire.Fa parte del pacchetto."
Mi ha commosso tantissimo questo libro,alla fine avevo i lacrimoni,una storia d'amore dolce,romantica,straziante,intensa,una storia che fa riflettere su tante cose,il dolore,la rinascita,il sacrificio,la speranza....assolutamente da leggere,e spero che magari ne facciano un film!!
"Era Layla il sole.E io ero folgorato dalla sua presenza,così pura e affascinante"
"Non si può vivere senza soffrire.Fa parte del pacchetto."
July 8, 2018
1,5/5
No me ha gustado. Es una historia bonita pero totalmente irreal y totalmente clicheada. No me he creído en ningún momento la historia de amor. Es un Instalove en toda regla y todo pasa demasiado deprisa. Me he llegado a aburrir y no he sentido nada. Una historia olvidable.
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No me ha gustado. Es una historia bonita pero totalmente irreal y totalmente clicheada. No me he creído en ningún momento la historia de amor. Es un Instalove en toda regla y todo pasa demasiado deprisa. Me he llegado a aburrir y no he sentido nada. Una historia olvidable.
Reseña completa:
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-Blogger:
July 20, 2015
La mia recensione sul blog
Attirata dalla trama e dalle premesse, avevo paura di piangere come una fontana per colpa di questo libro... invece, per fortuna, è andata molto meglio del previsto! Non che non ci siano scene tristi e commoventi, ma l'epilogo mi ha fatto tirare un sospiro di sollievo.
Per prima cosa mi è molto piaciuto il fatto che il romanzo sia narrato attraverso il punto di vista di entrambi i protagonisti: Lailah e Jude. I racconti in prima persona dei due ragazzi mi hanno coinvolto ancora di più nella loro storia.
Lailah ha 22 anni ed è nata con un difetto cardiaco che le ha sempre condizionato la vita: ha vissuto da reclusa dentro e fuori agli ospedali senza avere l'opportunità di fare nemmeno l'esperienza più semplice e banale. L'affascinante Jude ha 25 anni, è laureato in economia ma lavora come operatore socio-sanitario nell'ospedale in cui è morta la sua fidanzata 3 anni prima a causa di un incidente stradale. Il destino dei due protagonisti si intreccia quando Jude viene spostato dal pronto soccorso a cardiologia, reparto dove è ricoverata Lailah.
Per Jude fare la conoscenza di Lailah significa ricominciare un po' alla volta a provare nuovamente emozioni e sentirsi veramente interessato a qualcuno. Il ragazzo infatti è sopraffatto dai sensi di colpa e negli ultimi 3 anni è andato avanti soltanto per inerzia.
Lailah è una giovane innocente e inesperta, ma è anche altrettanto forte; nonostante i suoi problemi di salute e tutte le cose che la vita le ha privato, riesce per la maggior parte delle volte a tenere alto il morale e a non scoraggiarsi, grazie anche alla sua “lista di cose da fare prima o poi�.
«Voglio che tu faccia ciascuna di quelle cose, Lailah. Voglio vederti depennare quelle voci una per una, se così ti sentirai viva o semplicemente normale. Ma la verità è che sei tutt’altro che normale. Sei anni luce da tutti gli altri. Tu sei speciale. Definirti normale sarebbe un insulto. So che vorresti viverti tutte le esperienze che ti sono state negate dalla malattia, ma c’� una cosa che io non permetterò mai.» Mi passò una mano tra i capelli, chiuse gli occhi un istante e poi sussurrò: «Nessuno ti spezzerà il cuore. Te lo prometto»
Ho amato ogni scena in cui Jude e Lailah depennano insieme, uno dopo l’altro, i tanti punti della lista. Jude si è dimostrato un ragazzo d'oro, che aveva bisogno solo di trovare qualcuno che lo amasse incondizionatamente e gli desse un motivo per andare avanti, lasciandosi il tragico passato alle spalle.
"Il mondo in una stanza" è un romanzo molto dolce, triste in certe parti, ma anche pieno di amore e di speranza: uno di quei libri che quando chiudi sei veramente felice di averlo letto.
Anche se esiste un secondo romanzo con protagonisti Jude e Lailah, non preoccupatevi per il finale... c'è un epilogo, ed è anche molto bello!
J.L. Berg è stata una bella scoperta, scrive in maniera talmente scorrevole che sono arrivata alla fine senza accorgermene, inoltre con le sue parole è riuscita ad emozionarmi davvero tanto, motivo per cui spero di leggere presto altri suoi romanzi.
Una lettura romantica sicuramente consigliata!
Attirata dalla trama e dalle premesse, avevo paura di piangere come una fontana per colpa di questo libro... invece, per fortuna, è andata molto meglio del previsto! Non che non ci siano scene tristi e commoventi, ma l'epilogo mi ha fatto tirare un sospiro di sollievo.
Per prima cosa mi è molto piaciuto il fatto che il romanzo sia narrato attraverso il punto di vista di entrambi i protagonisti: Lailah e Jude. I racconti in prima persona dei due ragazzi mi hanno coinvolto ancora di più nella loro storia.
Lailah ha 22 anni ed è nata con un difetto cardiaco che le ha sempre condizionato la vita: ha vissuto da reclusa dentro e fuori agli ospedali senza avere l'opportunità di fare nemmeno l'esperienza più semplice e banale. L'affascinante Jude ha 25 anni, è laureato in economia ma lavora come operatore socio-sanitario nell'ospedale in cui è morta la sua fidanzata 3 anni prima a causa di un incidente stradale. Il destino dei due protagonisti si intreccia quando Jude viene spostato dal pronto soccorso a cardiologia, reparto dove è ricoverata Lailah.
Per Jude fare la conoscenza di Lailah significa ricominciare un po' alla volta a provare nuovamente emozioni e sentirsi veramente interessato a qualcuno. Il ragazzo infatti è sopraffatto dai sensi di colpa e negli ultimi 3 anni è andato avanti soltanto per inerzia.
Lailah è una giovane innocente e inesperta, ma è anche altrettanto forte; nonostante i suoi problemi di salute e tutte le cose che la vita le ha privato, riesce per la maggior parte delle volte a tenere alto il morale e a non scoraggiarsi, grazie anche alla sua “lista di cose da fare prima o poi�.
«Voglio che tu faccia ciascuna di quelle cose, Lailah. Voglio vederti depennare quelle voci una per una, se così ti sentirai viva o semplicemente normale. Ma la verità è che sei tutt’altro che normale. Sei anni luce da tutti gli altri. Tu sei speciale. Definirti normale sarebbe un insulto. So che vorresti viverti tutte le esperienze che ti sono state negate dalla malattia, ma c’� una cosa che io non permetterò mai.» Mi passò una mano tra i capelli, chiuse gli occhi un istante e poi sussurrò: «Nessuno ti spezzerà il cuore. Te lo prometto»
Ho amato ogni scena in cui Jude e Lailah depennano insieme, uno dopo l’altro, i tanti punti della lista. Jude si è dimostrato un ragazzo d'oro, che aveva bisogno solo di trovare qualcuno che lo amasse incondizionatamente e gli desse un motivo per andare avanti, lasciandosi il tragico passato alle spalle.
"Il mondo in una stanza" è un romanzo molto dolce, triste in certe parti, ma anche pieno di amore e di speranza: uno di quei libri che quando chiudi sei veramente felice di averlo letto.
Anche se esiste un secondo romanzo con protagonisti Jude e Lailah, non preoccupatevi per il finale... c'è un epilogo, ed è anche molto bello!
J.L. Berg è stata una bella scoperta, scrive in maniera talmente scorrevole che sono arrivata alla fine senza accorgermene, inoltre con le sue parole è riuscita ad emozionarmi davvero tanto, motivo per cui spero di leggere presto altri suoi romanzi.
Una lettura romantica sicuramente consigliata!
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