"If Fools rush in, then most people in love are idiots. And I'm the biggest one of all." -Jazz Meet Jasmine Coleman. She's the girl that's outgoing, beautiful, and full of self-assurance- a confidence that’s forced to cover the scars she hides. When rushing into love becomes a heartbreaking mistake the last piece of it disappears. Now she is left uncertain, weak, and full of self-loathing. But her strength is needed now more than before. Mason Reed is the quiet computer geek that's always the friend and never the boyfriend. Putting his social life on hold to help his single mother has left him shy when it comes to the opposite sex. And Meeting Jazz is no different. However being in love makes you do crazy things and his crazy has major consequences. Especially when the truth is revealed to others who are determined to rip them apart.
Rash Decisions have major consequences. Some good. Some bad. All Life Changing. "The Truth doesn't always set you free. Sometimes it breaks you apart and leaves you in pieces."
My name is Robin and I live in Alabama. I grew up an army brat and traveled a lot until we finally settled down along the Gulf Coast when I was 4. My husband is 9 years younger so I guess that makes me a COUGAR. I have a little girl who is 9 and is blind as well as autistic. My life is not boring with them two in it. Believe me. I have always loved creating and I would constantly draw on my walls. I love painting and reading. Writing is something I wanted to do but didn't think I could, until I woke up at three a.m. a few months back and started writing. Life has a way of throwing rocks at you and putting cracks in your soul. Either you can duck and cover or you can make something beautiful from the cracks. After that, the story took over. Even though some pieces of my life experience are within it, it is Tru and Jax’s story now. I have truly fell in love with this story and hope you all do too.
Oh sweet sweet Mason. There was 2.5 seconds I wanted to kick you in the balls but I got over it. I loved Jazz and Mason's story. Sweet, hot, and heartwarming. This book had some angst but not as much as book 1. I really felt their connection better than Jax and Tru's. Mason was the perfect guy. He had guts to stand up and stake his claim. I was hooked from the first chapter. I highly recommend this one!
Personal note: I've been a FGL fan for years (way before they hit it big)and when an author slips in my fav song that most people don't know in a book, they will be a new favorite author of mine. Well done, Ms. Cole! Had to add a little eye candy of my husbands doing "work".
If Learning to Live, brought me life, then Learning to Heal brought me healing. I have to say I fell in love with this series even more after reading Learning to Heal. Learning to Live broke me open in so many different ways, not only did you mourn along with Trudy but you cried in her highs and lows. And for me Learning to Heal was the same caliber of book but on a totally new level. You got to see 2 broken people come together and become whole again. Mason stole my heart from the beginning, and by the time this book is over you will love and understand Jazz that much more.
Ok here it is, I LOVE this story! Right now I’m speechless, and for me that’s a big deal, I always have things to say. But with that being said I LOVE it when books leave me feeling that way. Not all of them do that but this entire series seems to leave me feeling that way and for totally different but yet both positive reasons. I was enthralled with the journey you get to take into Jazz & Mason’s world. Learning to Heal picks up at Thanksgiving Dinner with Jazz throwing everyone for a loop. When the dust settles you find yourself really getting to know Mason, and his feelings for Jazz. It’s not hard to understand how Mason could love Jazz not even really knowing her, he is just that type of person. Innocent would be the word that comes to mind but that’s really not the right one … HMMMM maybe well intentioned describes him better. But he steps in and becomes Jazz’s rock deciding that he will take what he can get, and trusting in time she will come to love him. Jazz is pretty certain at first that Mason is just a little nuts, who and why would someone try and take care of her and how they could love her she didn’t really understand. Jazz is a broken woman, and for more reasons that one. And she has become so good at hiding her insecurities that no one really notices them until she is left exposed. And that’s where this story really begins. On the journey that you wont be able to predict. I think that’s my favorite thing about R.D. Cole’s books just when you think you can see what comes she side swipes you and it hits you from a different direction. It was a story that I couldn’t really put down, hence the fact that I read it in a day. There were multiple times in this book when I held my breath going that couldn’t of happened oh, no what's next? And then I was pulled to the other end of the spectrum and shining with happiness at the next turn. I’m telling you that if you read Learning To Live, than you shouldn’t miss out on this book. It’s a 5-star book by far if not 10. And if you missed Learning To Live, go read before you read Learning To Heal. Don’t cheat yourself out of the beginning of the story. And as far as book 3, tomorrow wont be soon enough for it!
Jammie
This review and others can be found at 2 Bookaholics
3.5 out of 5 Love Inspiring, Resilient Stars! [image error]
Well this was another delightfully surprising series I didn't even know existed. While reading, I got the impression that there was something I was missing from the secondary charters, Tru and Jax. Then I find out that there was a book before this one called Learning to Live, which was Tru and Jax's story. Oh, and there is still more books to come in this series. The story told in this book is the relationship of Jazz and Mason. Mason was so sweet he could have given you a serious tooth ache. Despite the relationship being one-sided at first, with Mason loving and fawning over Jazz secretly from a far, Jazz soon comes to meet an unsuspecting new sexy Mason she never knew existed. This is a solid passionate story of Jazz and Mason's journey to find love in spite of all the obstacles thrown their way in the process.
"Geez. He's becoming like fuckably sexy to me. Okay? Every time we're alone I just want to...to. Shit, I don't know. Fuck him." -Jazz
Jazz is a student struggling to find her place in life. Unfortunately, she tries to find it in all the wrong places. She has an affair with her professor, whom she thought was just hiding their relationship because of the student/teacher social taboo. Little did she know that he was hiding for more reasons than that. He was married and had children of his own. She came across these details while hiding in his car attempting to surprise him with the news that she herself was pregnant with his child. She got the surprise of a lifetime that threw her world upside down. Instead of getting her happily ever after with the man she loved, she was to become a single mom. Not the fair tale ending one would hope for. Now she has the unbearable task of telling her family the disappointing news. Something she dreaded more than being alone. Mason was a hard working, honorable, and pretty timid guy. He held the burden of being the man of the family, since he didn't have a father in the picture and his mom needed help with his autistic sister. He was friends with Jazz's brother Jax, and had been there for her as if they were all family. The timid Mason shocked not only Jazz, but the rest of the family by declaring he was the father of Jazz's baby.
"So I'll be her shoulder. I'll be her warmth. And I hope one day I can be her hero." -Mason
Jazz had no idea why Mason would do this unbelievably stupid selfless deed. She eventually reluctantly gives in and accepts his help. They develop a stronger bond that evokes some surprising sexual tension between the two. It is nothing new to Mason of course, but Jazz finds herself confused as she becomes overwhelmed with thoughts of attacking him with her womanly bits. She decides that it must just be her hormones running a muck and devises the ol' friends with benefits plan. This plan seems to back fire, as the little green monster of jealousy rears it's ugly head when his ex fling, Chanda, shows she is still into him. Jazz's feelings escalate more towards the love side due to Mason's faultless devotion to her and the baby that isn't even his. Jazz has her own demons of insecurity that stem from her two open heart surgeries when she was just a baby. She struggles to feel beautiful because of the scars left behind. Mason is there to show her just how truly beautiful he thinks she is. The sexual tension mixed with the undeniable dedicated love that they have for each other....makes for a great mix of passion and devotion.
"I'm terrified that last night was a onetime deal, and I seriously think I'll go fucking insane if that's the case. I mean, she's like my drug now and for her to just take it away after months of wanting will kill me."- Mason
Chanda is not the only wrench that tries to force her way in to derail their smooth flowing machine. Jazz's ex lover, professor douche bag, is suddenly struck with a determination to become a part of his baby's life. The lengths that he goes to are far beyond logical or even humanly same for that matter. Other factors also will themselves to destroy the future that looked so bright for them. Can they conquer these mounting obstacles to finally reach their happy future? Or will they become too trampled to pick up all the pieces?
"The only thing bad for me is you not loving me or you trying to leave me. So don't you ever pull that shit again? Because we're yours and I would never hurt you." -Jazz
This story has action, heart ache, and inspiring soul-mate passion. I enjoyed the development of Jazz and Mason's connection. The only thing that tended to bug me a bit, was that at times it gave off a bit of an immature vibe. They are in college so it's fitting the majority of the time, but at certain points it was a little too much. Despite the occasional tiny eye rolls it caused here and there, it didn't take away from the overall story. I enjoyed the journey and the characters. They both find ways to heal each other and finally become whole. The epilogue gives you a sneak peek into the next story in the series. Way to make a girl sizzle with the hot mysterious alpha rock star, Lyric. Ms. Cole definitely left me wanting more. I recommend this book and this series to my fellow readers. I will be on the look out for the next book.
“You know the euphoric feeling you get when you see the perfect shoes and it’s the last pair that happened to be your exact size? It’s way better then that.”
Yep this book is that good.
When I finished Learning to Live, I was waiting for my tears to dry and I wanted Jazz’s story but OMG I was not prepared for how much I was going to fall in love. Learning to Live broke me and I sat with a box of tissues eating ice cream. I am happy to report the intensity of emotions are still here with Learning to Heal and for me this book cemented this series in my kindle and made me shout, I AM A FOREVER BUY IT NOW FAN OF RD COLE!!
“Oh sweet baby Jesus. I have a feeling I’m in trouble.”
So here it is my feelings, and yes I was scared. We all remember the mother hell CH that we were left with and I was dying to read this book, literally I had reasons why I needed this!! We found out from the ending of LTL that Jazz was pregnant and like that we are thrown right back in the story. However I am happy to say we do get a prologue that gives a little glimpse of time before this announcement. I like to refer to it as the first Douchebag moment of the book. Prepare there are a couple. Jazz’s family does not take this news well at first with proper reason but Mason, well, Mason sees this as his moment. He stands up and claims the baby as his. I know my jaw hit my kindle too and you immediately feel what he feels when he looks at her. And from this point forward you start dating this couple, you slowly being to fall in love with Mason and his feelings for Jazz.
“He’s so sexy and cute all at the same time – practically perfect.”
Not practically, I am pretty sure he is perfect. I am not kidding the boy is perfect, he has this strength about him that pours off the pages. He instantly makes you think he can handle anything like a freaking super hero. Oh and…
“Oh My God! Naked Mason is all I see now, and I have to bite my lip to keep from moaning out loud, but I’m purring on the inside.”
Laugh all you want but read the book and find out! Let’s change the subject and talk about Jazz. Jazz is this broken woman but still she is so easy to love as a character. She is the friend you want to protect. Jazz is also almost certain that Mason has lost his ever loving mind. But the thing was she never realized or saw Mason in the light he seen her. I think that was part of the journey in their story watching Jazz drop her insecurities and begin to see him.
“Beautiful for me is only an illusion. I know every makeup and beauty trick there is to enhance my features. It’s something I’ve been doing since I was a teenager. I’m not good at a lot of things like others, but fashion and flirting are the two subjects I’ve excelled in.”
“But I want to show you the real me.”
It is when she opens herself up that we watch a love story that is so pure, so innocent and one that is so strong it takes your breath away. But just when you think you have things figured out BAM you get those moments of are you freaking kidding me!! This literally was a book I sat and could not stop I just kept saying one more chapter and maybe one more. Then RD Cole got me again, OH SHE GOT ME!!!
“This shit’s getting good.”
DAMN IT I AM GOING TO NEED BOOK 3 WITH SHOUTY CAPS RIGHT NOW and I need my husband to report to the bedroom immediately. With that I will leave you with Mason is amazing, he is the second boy I think I fully said put him on the date my daughter shelf and he is one that I am going to have a problem sharing.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was giving an ARC of this book for an honest review,so here goes :)
I was dying to read this book! Literally dying!!! The first book in the series LTL ends on the mother of all cliff hangers. Where Jazz stands up at thanksgiving dinner and tells the world(okay just her family) that she pregnant! Yeah,everyone is shocked to there core to say the least. Then the dreaded question is asked "Who's the father?" Eeeehhhhhhhhh...... Yeah not wanting to say "Oh its just Oliver,you know my college professor" she stall's. And in the moment of panic Mason stands up and says he's the father. WHAT THE HELL????? Shocked right? Because unless its the reincarnation of Jesus,its not Mason's. But he jumps up to protect Jazz,willing to be in this with her till the end. She is floored. Why would he do this,just for her? She's oblivious to the fake that he's madly in love with her. And would do anything for her. If that means standing by her now and becoming a father then so be it. He loves her and that baby is a part of the women he loves. There's no way he could not love it.
Just one small thing about him announcing he the baby daddy. Is that all hell breaks loose as soon as he admits it. Jax goes for mason straight away,trying to knock some sense into him for knocking uo his baby sister. While Tru run's from the room upset. She's still fughting her own demons about loosing her own baby.
Before all this goes down,in the beginning of the book you see Jazz going to tell Ollie there good news. She's so happy to be starting there own family. She knows he will be as well. So she climbs into the back of his car to surprise him with the news when he gets out of work. But its her that ends up surprised. What she learns breaks her heart,and leads to her been at the house pretending Mason is the reason she's knocked up.
She thinks he's lost his mind. But there's no changing his mind. He's in this for the long hall. He not only loves the bones of Jazz but he's seen what been a single parent can do to someone. After all he was brought up by one. He won't let Jazz do the same. SO there lie begins.
He goes to her doctor appointments,hears the baby's heart beat with her and they even find out the sex of the baby together. Jazz can't get over this Mason. He's always been her best friend but this Mason is.....Sexy. Yeah she thinks he's SEXY! And with her been a walking bag of hormones,it takes all her will not to jump his bones. So thinking of a way to have her cake and eat it to,without opening her heart again,she suggests no strings attached sex. Of course Mason jumps at that. He wants more from Jazz,he wants it all. But this is a step in the right direction.
There first night together shows Jazz what its really like to be seen as beautiful. He worships her,scars and all. To him she is the Sun,Stars and Moon all rolled into one. But things never stay that perfect to they? Hell no. Between Chanda(yeah I said Chanda!) Mason's overly jealous friend who wants him for herself and Ollie creeping back into Jazz's life thing's get out of control. It will keep you gripped and you will have "OH NO SHE DIDN'T" moments. Well I did. And more then once I may have slapped Chanda in my head. Hey I'm only human!
PLUS after the way this books end's you will be dying all over again for the next book is the series. I'm pretty sure RD Cole is trying to kill me. That or make it that I'be no nails left by the time book 3 comes from making me wait :)
Still enjoying this new series; however, wasn't quite as taken by the second installment as the first. Left off with somewhat of a cliffhanger as to what's next and who just rode into town on a big black Harley surprising a bar full of old friends.
Jasmine Coleman aka “Jazz” – recently learned she is pregnant by her college professor. When she discovers that he is married with kids, she is devastated and embarrassed. In her shame, she opts to omit the identity of the father when she announces her pregnancy to her family at Thanksgiving dinner.
Mason Reed – this guy steps up and does the unthinkable…claims to be the father of Jazz’s child. He makes this claim to her family knowing full well that his statement is nowhere close to true and there will be repercussions…specifically Jax and Mr. Coleman. They have never even kissed let alone had sex and he felt compelled to speak up so that Jazz would not have to feel alone.
“I guess love is the ultimate super power because I’d take on the world just to make her happy.”
Once Jazz finally stops trying to convince Mason to come clean to everyone, they settle into a comfortable friendship, while they continue with the facade. She is dealing with her recent heartbreak, the fear of uncertainty with the pregnancy, the implications of her pregnancy on her heart condition, and pregnancy sickness. Mason demonstrates his commitment to Jazz time and again with his attentive ways and giving heart.
After spending quite a bit of time together, Jazz recognizes she is attracted to Mason. She equates the attraction to pregnancy hormones and proposes a FWB (friends with benefits) arrangement to Mason. Mason does not want Jazz to be with anyone else, so of course he says yes with the hope that Jazz will discover there is more to their connection than physical attraction.
When Jazz and Mason finally get the opportunity to consummate their FWB relation, Jazz realizes Mason loves her. And Mason does not disappoint when he finally tells Jazz how he feels. It leads to a very passionate and sexually charged romp in the sheets.
“…our warm bodies lie there for minutes with no words. They’re not needed. I know without a doubt that everything between us is different now. Everything has changed since last night. I knew it as I got dressed for the evening; I just didn't think the change would make me this happy.”
It does not take long after that for Jazz to realize she loves Mason. He accepts her in spite of her pregnancy and the scar that mars her chest from her surgeries. No one has cared for or adored her the way Mason does, and she knows that no one else will make her happy.
Several turns of events occur that test the new found love of Mason and Jazz. They are forced to rely on each other and their friends and family more than ever to get through some trying times. Is love enough to conquer all? If Mason Reed is involved, then YES! He steps up yet again and shows just how far he is willing to go to protect those he loves. (Insert Sigh)
Patricia’s Thoughts
My heart ached for Jazz and her predicament. She was naïve when she got involved with her professor and she allowed her lust/love to blind her to the fact that she was not as special to him as he was to her. I was disturbed with Jazz’s proposition to Mason, especially, since she is pregnant. It was irresponsible on her part, in my opinion, and a reminder that Jazz is young. Who has not acted foolishly when young and in-lust/love? Lord knows I did some pretty ignorant things in that department back in the day. She may lack some self confidence in the bedroom, when there are no clothes to cover her scars, but she more than makes up for it with personality and spunk.
I fell in love with Mason almost immediately. He devotes his time to caring for his autistic sister and helping out his single mother all while going to school and working. When he speaks up and accepts responsibility as the father to Jazz’s child, I was in awe. He has a heart of gold and his actions proved he will go to great lengths to take care of those he loves. Mason loved taking care of Jazz, even before her affections were ever returned. The level of swoon only increased once Jazz lets Mason into her heart and their friendship blossoms into more.
I enjoyed this story. It’s a coming of age story of friendship, love, facing the consequences of your decisions, learning to heal and moving forward. There are plenty of aww moments along with some intense moments to keep you turning the pages. There was a moment when I was really mad at Mason, but he TOTALLY REDEEMED HIMSELF. There were a few times the story was a little slow, but R.D. Cole likes plot twists….so KEEP READING.
Overall Rating: 4 SWOON WORTHY STARS
I was provided a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Well I was totally hooked with the first book Learning To Live in this series. Jax and Tru won my heart and I adored Jazz........the first books ending was an OMG moment when Jazz announced so casually she was pregnant at Thanksgiving dinner. So I have been dying for this book to come out so we can see what happens with Jazz and her baby.
Jazz being 19, adopted by a loving family as a child, she had a serious heart condition that kept her from living the life of a normal child. Now after having an affair with her college professor she not only learns she is pregnant but that he is married with children at home. This crushes her but that little spit fire knows she can raise this baby on her own. She knows that she is going to have to face risks with this pregnancy because of her heart and trust me I had heart stopping moments during her pregnancy. What she didn't count on is her good friend Mason was going to step up and be by her side.
Mason knowing that Jazz was scared to death, decided she wouldn't go through this alone. He is an upstanding young man, I just loved him in the first book. His mom is single works two jobs to help support him and his little sister who has some challenges. He goes to college and basically raises his little sister while his mom is at work. He was told his father died in the war and that his little sisters father just left them because he couldn't handle the pressures of being a dad. Mason didn't have a childhood, he became the man of the house early. He was sure he could make sure Jazz's child wasn't going to suffer not having a daddy figure and Jazz was NOT going to struggle like his mother did being a single mom.
The author once again takes us on a journey that has so many twists and turns, I was at times clutching my kindle so hard because I just couldn't believe what happen next. Jazz had me laughing with her wise cracking attitude and come backs, then she had me in tears when she realized what being a mom was all about. I felt such empathy watching Tru come to terms with her best friend being pregnant and coming clean with the loss of her own son in the first book. Mason melted my heart with his determination to love Jazz and I wanted to beat those who had hurt him when the truth came out about his father. Jax, oh he is such the perfect big brother. I just love this family so much.
Now as with every book so far in this series the author gives us another cliff hanger that leaves us begging for more. She didn't disappoint us with this one. I was touching my kindle screen over and over praying there would be another page, just one more hint as to what happens next. I have already touched on the brilliant character development in this book, but her plots are just awesome. She can take a story that many just neglect to pay attention to in real life and bring it to life. The issues she addresses in this one such as forgiveness not only to those who have destroyed families with cheating and lies but also forgiving yourself when you get caught up in those lies is very strong. The power of love that a person can have for a child that isn't even their own, such as Jax and Jazz adoptive parents and Mason who tries to be a real daddy figure is just so touching and inspiring. I so love this series and this author. I can hardly wait for the next one to see how many tissues I am going to need again.
Reviewed by Tbird for Crystal's Many Reviewers *ARC provided for honest review*
I was given a BETA copy in return of giving an honest review!!
R.D. Cole is a truly amazing individual ,,, her work is AWESOME ,,, I loved her first book in this series so obviously I was keen to get my hands on this one too and ,,, OH ,,,, MY ,,,,, GOD ,,,, I frigging loved it!!!!!! There's no disappointment and you will find the right amount of angst and heart warming story lines to keep you going and wanting to turn the pages ,,, you'll be in conflict with wanting to get through this book and find out what's happening but at the same time you'll not want it to end
This book is Jazz and Masons story and man is it a good one !!!!!
We find out from the ending of LTL that she is pregnant ,,, this book continues from where the last finishes (the prologue gives us a little insight to a time just prior to the pregnancy announcement) ,,, jazz has had a medical condition that a pregnancy could cause problems for her health so her family don't react well to the news ,,,, however ,,,, Mason has always had feelings for Jazz since the moment he saw her photograph ,,, seeing the family ,,, well Jax ,,, react so badly he steps up and claims that he is the father of her child ,,, could this be his opportunity to finally get the girl of his dreams??? ,,,, will she finally see him??
There are a number of events that take place throughout the book some good some bad and some down right horrid ,,, you'll be kept gripped
Jazz has never seen Mason as the sexy guy that makes her tummy flutter with just a look ,,, Mason has never thought that Jazz could ever want someone like him ,,, they are both fighting to be together but at the same time neither wants to cave and tell their feelings in fear that the other won't reciprocate them
These two are opposites, they are from two different worlds ,,, yet there is something there ,,,, between them that they cannot deny
When they finally give in to what they want and things look like they are going well ,,, in walks a piece of drama ,,, set to cause problems ,,, but will they pull through??
Neither wants to be without the other but once again they fear the others response ,,, both have done things, said things they regret but how can the bridges be rebuilt?? ,,,, this is when fate walks in to lend a helping hand !!!!!
We meet some new characters in this one and rekindle with some of the old ones too ,,,, and the ending ,,,,, well let's just say ,,,, I can't cope having to wait for book three :( ,,,, I NEED IT NOW!!!!!
I highly recommend this book to all and I'm sure you'll not be disappointed it's awesome!!!!
I'm not speechless I am the opposite I finished this book at like 11:30 last night and sat there in the dark debating on if I should run down the stairs and call you because I just couldn't process everything that I had just read. Mason was so amazing. The way he steps in regardless of the consequences gave me a huge soft spot for him. I loved Jazz from the first book but this book shows a vulnerability I didn't know she possessed. As the book goes on you see Jazz' insecurities and to be honest I was floored. This might sound strange to the average person but Jammie I know you will get it. These characters become a little real to me I found myself comparing Jazz to someone I am very close to knowing what it's like to have this bravado that you show the world but knowing that this person also has those places in them that are secret and dark and not just a little bit heartbreaking. You also saw her blossoming thanks to the unconditional love that Mason offers. He was the best friend first and we all know that's the one you keep… Then there's when we see Mason start to swagger. Yes I said Mason has swagger there is no other word for it. This is the sweet guy who is shy and quiet, he's the guy that you look and say ahhhh as he cares for his autistic sister. Okay I have to interject just one thing right there. Having a son on the spectrum I have read a few books where they have put in a character who is autistic and they kinda make it up as they go along. I loved how in this R.D. shows her first hand experience and makes Grace's character so endearing. Seeing how Mason cares for her and how Jazz goes out of her way with the christmas gift… I had a little teary moment there, considering I have that swing hanging from the ceiling in my basement.. okay okay wiping my eyes. back to the book. Mason steps up and really becomes a man. I love love love this book. There is no other way to describe it. This book is so far from typical it's incredible. That side swipe your talking about whoa I just… whoa! I love the way it sets up the next book in the series I hate that I have to wait so long for it to come out! This series is fast becoming one of my favorites of all time. I am really really looking forward to getting to know some of the characters she introduced in this one and catching up with a certain red head in the next. Bravo Mrs. Cole Bravo.
This is my 5 star review for Learning to Heal by R.D. Cole for Keepin It Real Book Blog. Learning to Heal is about friends Jasmine Coleman and Mason Reed. Jasmine Coleman is beautiful, caring, and has a personality everyone falls in love with. When Jasmine makes a decision for the sake of love she believes she has it all. She knows her decisions could negatively impact her life but she is willing to do what she has to for the sake of love. What will happen when she finds out that the man she loves has lied to her? Will she ever be able to accept the help her friend Mason gives her? Will she ever be able to see Mason for more than just the friend he has always been? Mason is handsome but not overly so. He is so smart and special but he always sells himself short. He does everything he can for his mom and little sister. He is a kind and caring guy and always has been. When he steps up to help Jazz with her situation without a second thought she is shocked. Will he be willing to go to bat for her when times get tough? Will he be able to keep things together when the unthinkable happens? I really loved this book. This shows how friends can go from being just than friends, to something so much more. Jazz is a great girl. She doesn’t always make the smartest of decisions when it comes to a certain professor but she is young and learns from her mistakes. Mason, well he is a really great guy and I felt from him throughout most of this book. There was one point when I wanted to smack him silly but for the most part he was the hero everyone wants to read about. As we know, life changes and we see that in this book. I look forward to reading Learning to Forgive coming soon in 2014. Blaire and Lyric are going to take us by storm.
Learning to Heal by R.D. Cole In the second story from R.D Cole it continues with Jazz and Mason's story, at the end of book one with Jazz telling her family, during Thanksgiving dinner that she is pregnant. This book was even better than the first. Mason who has been in love with Jazz from the moment he saw a picture of her, decides to stand up and say that the baby is his. Hoping that Jazz will come rationed and see how much he loves and adores her, he does all he can to help her in this time of need. Needing to heal from the heartbreak of her love affair with a married man (who lied), Jazz decides to take Mason on his offer of being their for her during her pregnancy.
Jazz was born with a heart defect and this pregnancy puts her and the baby as risk, but vows to keep it no matter what. Not sure if it the hormones are finally seeing Mason for who he is, hot, Jazz begins to see the alluring side to him. She decides to give it a try and allow Mason to see how insecure she is with her self. He shows her that she is beautiful inside and out and that even though he is not the father p, he wants to be everything for her and the baby.
Unfortunately they relationship is rocky with Chandra, Mason's sneaky ex-seat buddy and neighbor who is jealous of their relationship, and the baby's father her professor. The book had me gripping my sheets, praying and crying for the happily ever that they both deserve Unconditional love.
Can't wait to see which characters she writes about next.
This review might be a spoiler if you haven't read Learning to Live.
Jasmine Coleman is a lively girl that doesn't let her scars define her. She's beautiful and socially confident. Only one mistake changes her life dramatically. Will she ever trust someone and love again? There's one person she needs most, and that's her best friend Mason Reed. Mason Reed is a computer geek and is majoring in biochemistry. At an age of 8 he helps his mother take care of his little sister, Grace. But when his best friend, Jax, needs fake IDs he goes to Mason. From that moment on, Mason is everything Jazz needs him to be. A friend, a lover and even her family.
“His soul is talking to mine, and I feel the warmth of his stare heat my skin."
I loved this book even more than I loved the first one and I didn't think that was possible. Jazz is strong, even though she went through some messed up things. She doesn't let life take her down. Mason is so precious. He's too sweat for words and I loved him completely and irrevocably. He's the best friend and lover a person can have.
Oh my! I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat reading as fast as I could so I could find out what was going to happen in this story. I was immediately captivated. The characters were great and the story line was well written.
Mason and Jazz are a great couple. Total opposites in many ways but together they complement each other really well. Mason is quiet and very smart, especially when it comes to anything technical or mechanical. He’s sweet yet built sexy as hell. Jazz is feisty and despite her insecurities, I really liked her. She had me laughing a couple of times. Their group of friends and family were really great too. All of the characters had their own individual personalities and they felt like real people I was ready about.
The story was well plotted and it transitioned from one scene to the next very smoothly. The great characters and fantastic story line came together for another excellent book in the Learning Series. I really can’t wait to read more in the series. This gets a solid 5 out of 5 stars!
I unfortunately didn't read book 1 (Learning to Live) so at first I was a little lost but I caught on pretty quickly. I really liked the book but I really wish I had read book 1 first. I liked that the story was in Mason and Jazz's POV. I actually find that I really like story's that are in a characters POV's. The book started off with us learning that Jazz is pregnant and even though she ends up having health issues she is going to push through it. I really fell in love with Jazz' character. You can just see that Mason is in love with Jazz and will do anything to stay in her life. Mason is like a knight in shinning armor. Both Mason and Jazz have to deal with growing up and becoming different people but they end up depending on each other and their relationship just blossoms. The story did end a little quickly for me but I will definately be reading book 1 and I can't wait for book 3.
I reread Learning to Live which was in And and Tru's POV then read Learning to Heal which is Mason and Jazz' s POV. I think I enjoyed book 2 more than book 1 because there was more angst and a lot of unexpected twists for a major page turner. I won't give anything away so you will have to read the book to see if Jazz is pregnant from her Professed or Mason.
I fell in love with Mason right from the start owning real life responsibilities while going through college and helping to provide for his mom and sister at the same time. I despised Chanda from the start, need I say more.
You will fall in love with the characters again and you will also see relationships maybe building for the future. Ryan and Corey?? I would like to see David have a book. I know Blair & Lyrics book is Learning to Forgive & then there is Learning to Stand.
4 stars..Wow were has this series been hiding. I just finished learning to live and I loved every minute of it couldn't wait to read Learning to heal. Jazz is done and fed up with everything she has been hurt two many times to count. Then the shy quiet Mason walks into her life but can she really give love a second chance? The Love Mason has for Jazz is passionate and amazing he stands by Jazz through everything and he is just amazing! I love this book it had the right amount of love, drama and everything you need in the perfect boo. This book is full of emotion and had me on the edge of my seat wanting more. Cant wait for book three and to see what else this author has in store for us.
in the first book we learn how to live in this book we learn how to heal. this book was emotional and raw. and heavy on the heart. I just fell in love with it and the storyline. r.d. Cole is an amazing author. she writes her books so you can connect with the characters on a whole new level. and I thought I couldn't love anyone other than Trudy and Jaxon but I was wrong I don't think any other character can out beat Jasmine and Mason or their relationship. I'm still speech less to what to say because the book blew me away and I could hardly put it down but I must say you need to read it and fall in love with it your self.
Loved it, loved it, loved it!!! It`s really amazing! This is story about Jazz and Mason. Mason took my heart. He really is a perfect guy. He has been in love with Jazz since the moment he saw her picture and they soon became best friends. Jazz was born with a heart defect and pregnancy puts her in the risk, but she is determined to keep it. Mason stepped in as the babies father, even though he`s not her biological father. I really enjoyed the development of Jazz and Mason's connection.
Author gives us another cliffhanger that leaves us begging for more. I will be on the look out for the next book.
****4 stars - This is a cute and sweet romance story. Mason is in love with Jasmine who thinks of him as one of her best friends. But what happens when she gets pregnant and tells her family at Thanksgiving, his nerdy self stands up and claims to be the father. I loved this story because I am a sucker for single mom romances and nerd heros. There was one scene in the book that had me SO pissed at Mason. Jasmine drove me crazy for a bit as well with her fighting her feelings and her crazy insecurities. Overall, I would recommend this book. I am interested in seeing what the next blurb is about too :)
While I loved Tru and Jax in Learning to Live, I couldn't wait for Learning to Heal because Jazz just captured my heart from the start. She's fun and quirky but we learn she's also guarded and insecure.
Mason, oh Mason! What woman in her right mind wouldn't want a Mason in her life? I'm pretty sure if you did a Google search the words "perfect male species" Mason would pop up.
Through Mason, Jazz realizes who she really is and her own self worth. With her newfound self-discovery she opens herself to love and be loved.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. Now the torture begins as we wait for book 3.
This book picks up right where the first one left off I can honestly say....hot! the story flows so easily the chapters are short (cause personally I hate stopping in the middle of one). I wasn't expecting this one to have so many twists and turns. I loved how she started with a few character's but kept adding more as the story continues. This is the second book I've read by this author and I seriously can't wait to read another one. Simply put.....Freaking Fantastic!
What can i say i love it. What an amazing love story, it was so sweet, i really fall in love of Mason. I could understand Jazz and her insecurities of her body. I cant wait for Blaire and Lyric, i need to know what happen to her and more about Lyric, i hope the author write about Ryan and Cory and i need David's story hahaha. I really recomend this serie is an amazing and lovely and now is one of my favs.
after reading learning to live teaching you how to live learning to heal is just that healing!!!! I loved this book just ad much as I loved book one!!!!! Amazing story of starting over again!!!! The story was amazing as well as the writing!!!! Truely love the meaning behind each story!!!!! R d Cole !!! you rock!!!!
This book was AMAZING I love how jaz is a spit fire and won't let nothing get her down heart condition be damned!! I love how mason and jaz are opposites it just shows opposites attract and love conquers all!!! Can't wait for the 3rd one !!!!
omg I couldn't wait for this book to come out and I was not disappointed and neither will u. rd cole has done such a great job that it leaves u wanting more. I highly recommend this book and cant wait for book no3 of the series ;) xx
What a great read! There was a kidnapping, there was break ups to make ups and miscommunication; there was confidence building for both; there was a dude name lyric that makes me want to know about him (yum); and that was trust and love. Oh and Blair's back!!!
I simply adore this author! The first book was so emotional and touching and this one is even more so
It's real people, real love, friendships and family that will touch your heart If you love a great read with a little mix of everything you will love this
I really enjoyed reading this story. Probably should have read the first book in the series first but it was easy to catch up. This book had a few twists and turns but it was awesome to see Jazz grow! I will definitely be picking up book 1 of the series to read!!