Ugh so many feels. I had no clue what this book was about. If Emma freaking Scott wrote it, then I’m reading it. I like to go into her stories blind because she makes me feel...things. Blech! I almost had some liquid coming out of my eye holes. Stupid feelings. Cheese and rice this book. I started it in the wee hours of the morning because I couldn’t sleep. Big mistake! I pulled an all nighter and I’m so glad I waited for the second book cause I’m diving right in. Adulting? Uh, who cares right now. Pants? Hell no, I’ve got a second book finish, Linda! Byeeee. I’m going in.

Wow! I need book 2... Seriously need to know how it all turns out between them all... It's killing me not knowing!! Love this book from start to finish..

This was my first Emma Scott book and it wont be the last. I absolutely loved this story. It draws you in and you just cant stop reading. The way she mixes poetry in with her writing is breathtaking. I fell in love with Weston immediately. He is scarred from his past but he doesnt let it stop him from running for something better. He gets a bad rep from people who dont truly know him and they couldn't be more wrong about him. He goes to all extremes for the ones he love. Autumn was a very likeable character too. She was kind of dumb at times for not figuring things out with Weston and Conner but guess its not her fault. This story was amazing though. I am about to start book 2 immediately because the ending is a crazy one that leaves you wondering and praying for characters. It's a must read though.

Life long friends fall for the same girl. One gets the girl, the other loves her from afar.

I knew this book was going to wreck me, because there is nothing more painful than unrequited love. My heart ached for Weston. The connection between him and Autumn was so obvious and instant, yet she's with Connor - he who gets everything.

And do you know what made it even more painful? The whole Cyrano thing mentioned in the synopsis. Weston had been writing papers and completing assignments for Connor for a decade, and therefore, was not surprised when Connor asked him for help writing letters and texts to Autumn. Part of me struggled with how Weston could do this, but when he talked about how much he loved Connor, how he was more than a brother to him, and how he wanted Connor to be happy, I could sort of see where he was coming from. But still! It was hard to sit by and watch him give away pieces of his heart, without Autumn knowing they were his.

Just when I thought my heart was flat out crushed, we visit the frontlines with the boys. Let me tell you, it was brutal, and the ending! There aren't enough crying emojis to express the agony I am feeling right now.
This story was a whole lot of things. It was a story of connection, of finding your people, of finding your passion, of finding the one you love. It was about friendship and family and the sacrifices you make for those who mean the most to you. I have tears in my eyes as I write this review, but I found solace in the fact, that I am starting the next book as soon as I finish this review.

I absolutely loved this story and I devoured this book in one sitting. This author has a way of writing stories that I truly find hard to stop once I've started and her stories always leave me wanting more. This book has one hell of a cliffhanger and I can't wait to read the next story. This is one of friendship, chemistry, love and pain, and I absolutely loved the characters in this story. I have no doubt that readers will love Weston and Connor as much as I have and I even enjoyed Autumn and her friend Ruby. No one is perfect and I love that neither are these characters, every one of them have their own battles in life. This story does not disappoint when it comes to FEELS and this is one book I will be recommending to my romance loving friends.

Loved, loved, loved this book. Never expected the story line to go where it did. Thought I knew exactly where it was going and BAM, Emma Scott threw in a doozy. So glad I have book two Long Live the Beautiful Hearts, because with the ending of book one your left on the edge of your seat.

Bringing Down the Stars
By: Emma Scott

📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚

Bring Down the Stars just was absolutely heart stopping. Emma Scott's writing is nothing short of brilliant. Her storytelling is beyond incredible. This beautiful, well written emotional story of unrequited love and friendship is one of the most moving, storylines I've read. I never wanted it to end.

These characters, are so special. so unbelievably beautiful. There's a love triangle here on these pages but it's unlike any I've ever read before. These characters are full of selfless love and loyalty. So much respect and honor. It's full of unsaid things and beautiful moments in time. It's a complicated tangle of good intentions and white lies.

This storyline, these characters, have completely eclipsed everything else I planned to do and read next. I see nothing else but what might come for Weston, Connor and Autumn. I need more.

I have become a huge fan of this author. She writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines that are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.



I really enjoyed this book and it kept me engrossed throughout. I really loved the characters and the way they interacted with each other. This is a fun, hot, romantic must read book and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.

This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic. I’m looking forward to the second book in this series.

Thanks Netgally for letting me read and review.📚💕

Speechless. This book hooked me from the first page and I felt every feeling to the depths of my soul. Every word was perfection!
There was a cliffhanger, but I was so glad for it because that meant i would have more of these beautiful characters.
I loved every character and their family dynamics. Do not hesitate to pic up this novel. And the poetry is beautiful.

***5 "Ocean eyes!!! / Una bella anima!!!" stars***

For you, I would
bring down the stars,
wreath their fire
around your neck
like diamonds,
and watch them
pulse
to the beat of your heart

...

I have loved you with both
Hands tied behind my back
Bound with pen and ink
Paper and words
Sealed with someone else’s name
until this moment
in which I am nothing
but a man
who loves a woman.
There is nothing left to say
Except to give
all of my heart
For you

Pffffff.... It's not a good sign that I'm starting my review with a Pfffff!!!
But I might not be capable for the right words at this moment. Maybe I am like Connor in a way!!!! Hahaha...
But let's be serious for a moment!!!!
For once again, Emma Scott took her magical pen and gave us a wonderful story about beautiful hearts and their flaws, because everyone has flaws unfortunately and our heroes weren't perfect. I could say that they were far from perfect, but in a way they were absolutely amazing!!!

"You've no one to blame but yourself."

Well, in a way there was a love triangle in here, but mostly in sentimental level!!!
Weston, Autumn and Connor were connected between them in a deeper level and it was wonderful to witness it, even though it was very hurtful and frustrated as hell!!! My heart was breaking over and over again for all of them, but mostly for Weston's sake!!!!

"I talked to her first..."

From the first word of this book, my heart was his and i couldn't get her back, no matter what....
He made mistakes too, but mostly in expense of himself!!!! No, I'm taking it back!!!!
All the mistakes that had been made in this book by our heroes were infecting everyone's soul... Mine included!!!!

"You have a thousand hearts worth of love to give. A thousand tears may fall when one heart breaks. But never cry for shame."

Well, i really don't know what else to say...
An already heartbroken girl decided to take a chance with a gorgeous, wealthy and funny guy and she became very good friend with his best friend, Weston. There was a deep connection there who got ignored by both of them...
The girl wasn't so sure about Connor, but his words in the paper, the words of his soul, made her fall for him....
But were they the right words after all???

"gold, green, and brown—
your namesake captured
in your eyes."

The things got ugly at some point since many things had happened in the book and the ending left us wanting more... Wanting a closure... Wanting redemption....
What will happen after all???
Will anyone win the girl at the end???
Will the strong friendship between Connor and Weston survive all the ugly things that they had to face???
How will be life for all of them after the difficult ending in here???

“Maybe pain exists to make us appreciate the beauty.”

Well, i loved all three characters and many more in here....
Autumn was innocent in a way, but she was blind. She wasn't listening to her heart who was telling her the truth...
Connor pissed me off in a way, because he was selfish. He was taking advantage of Weston in a way and i didn't like it!!! But I have to admit that at some point, i felt sorry for him... His pain was raw and real!!!! And I was so damn sorry!!!!
As for Weston??? I told you!!! It was love from first sight!!! His heart and soul was so beautiful, but his past and his mind was putting obstacles in what he really wanted...
And in a way, he was wasting his life and his talent. But he was a really good friend!!! He don't deserve what will happen next...

"I want to keep touching him.
The thought was both completely wrong and felt completely right." {Autumn}

“Sometimes the heart hides itself behind the mind.”{Weston}

“We fucked with her heart. When she finds out, she’s going to hate us both.”{Connor}

Also, there was many secondary characters that were lovely, but it would be unfair to not mention how much i loved this crazy French guy, Edmond and Professor O.
And i have to add that i have a really good vibe about Paul!!!!

“I see. You gave your gifts to your best friend. Why?”
“Because I love him,” I said. “And I want him to be happy.”
...“Live every life but the one you want.”
I scrubbed my face with my hands. “I don’t know.”
“I do. A writer who chooses an economics major. A runner who ignores his gift. A poet’s heart now encased in a warrior’s armor.”
....
“Own this love, Wes. It’s not just hers. It’s yours too.” {Weston & Professor O.}

***ARC generously provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***

Oh my goodness - Emma Scott hit it out of the park again. She wasn't kidding when she said it wasn't your typical love triangle. There was so much raw emotional angst in this book that I almost couldn't handle it. But, of course, the writing and plot line was so good that I had to. The writing is phenomenal and the story line was just amazing. I never would have thought to create this - the friendships and relationships seem so real. Emma Scott did an amazing job at creating chemistry between the characters. It flew off the pages.

She did a fantastic job of getting the reader to love both men even though both were in the wrong in different times in the book. Also, to get the reader to fall in love with both men much like Autumn does in the book - which isn't give anything away since it's written in the description of the book.

The way book one drops off - I can't wait to start book #2. I'm completely hooked and reeled in.

I received this ARC for an honest review. First I want to say that this book ends with a cliffhanger. You must read Long Live the Beautiful Hearts”. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED! This is such a wonderful and heart wrenching story. Emma Scott takes you through an emotional ride. This story is mainly about three people Autumn, Connor and Weston and how 3 people with such different backgrounds can effect the rest of your life. Connor and Weston met when Wes won a scholarship to a prep school that Connor attended. They became brothers to each other. In college, they met Autumn and they both fell for her but Wes never said anything because he loved Connor so much that he wanted him to be happy. Wes was taking a poetry class and Autunm found one of Wes’ poems and thought Connor wrote it about her. Autunm was correct that the poem was written about her, but Wes was one who wrote it. Connor took the credit, and Wes never said anything because he wanted the both of them to be happy. That is all I am going to say....So much more happens you must READ THIS BOOK!

4.5 stars. Review to follow. I'm starting book 2. OMG. All kinds of triggers, emotions. This is no RomCom. So good. Such good writing I love Connor, Autumn and Weston.
I'm way older than these kids... I can still get this. Major cliffy.
On to book 2.-------
I've finished book 2 (this is a duet, so you must read both books-in order)
I"m trying hard not to spoil too much:
This book starts off (Prologue) when Weston is a 7 y/o little boy- when his daddy is leaving home.
This wounds him deeply. The beginning of the book is so important for setting up the entire rest of the book- especially Weston's POV.
Weston earns a place at a premiere boy's school. He's constantly ridiculed for being poor & for the essay that he wrote about his father leaving their family.
In steps Connor. He's charismatic, friendly and from a wealthy family. Connor's parents put a lot of pressure on him to make it big. His older brother is a big success at Harvard.
Connor has Weston's back. They become very good friends. Weston also backs up Connor in his studies. Connor is very weak in academics, as Weston is weak in his social skills.
Connor and Weston attend Amherst university where they each meet Autumn.
I usually have a no no for the love triangle trope. This is definitely the exception.
Connor and Weston's friendship for each other is interdependent. Connor's friendly, charming, easy way with women helps him connect with Autumn. Weston's intellect and humble background endears him to Autumn. She sees behind his abrasive attitude.
Connor & Weston are roommates in an apartment that Connor's parents have paid for. They recognize Weston's role in helping Connor get through college, just as he had in prep school.
Weston's mom Miranda really grated on my nerves. She was very emotional & took NO active steps to raise up her situation. Connor's parents are extremely wealthy but are very generous to Weston and to Miranda. Connor's mother, Victoria was especially financially supportive of Weston's mom.
Connor succeeds in starting a relationship with Autumn while Weston has to watch his secret crush with his best friend. Weston and Autumn become friends. She doesn't realize what role Weston plays in Connor's love letters to her.
There is so much angst, emotion and a major shocker at the end.
I'm so glad that I had book 2 ready to go. I kept giving my husband brief updates about this book. At one part, he said "Oh Sh*t". Yeah, I was pretty invested in these characters.
I received an ARC of these two books. I've been wanted to read Ms Scott's books for quite a while. I'm sending her kudos for writing such heart felt books at a time when she's had such a terrible loss.
As a mom, that's had a VERY close call, I'm also sending my support and hugs to you

This book is absolutely stunning! I don't even know how to put back together the emotional wreckage that is my heart! Luckily I can go right to Book 2 so I don't have to suffer for long.
Autumn, Weston and Connor are three very complex and wonderful characters that will take you on a journey you will not soon forget! I am so happy I found this series.

Emma Scott is on my short list of all-time favorite authors. I read this series in two days. I could not put my iPad down! What I found utterly unique about this author's style of writing was her way of weaving the experiences and thoughts of the characters together. The story bounced beautifully to Connor, Weston, and Autumn. The story left nothing unsaid or unknown to the reader and I was blown away each chapter. The second, most absolutely fantastic part about this series are the key messages and takeaways about love, disability, and trust. I have never read such an incredible story about disability until I read the second book in this series. I was rooting for Weston the entire time. His character, life, hardship... just wow. The ending is as exactly as it should have been for these characters. Nothing felt cliche or predictable; simply "magnificent". Get your box of tissues out. I was sobbing through several parts of the second book. I already stocked up on a few more books from Scott for the holiday season.

This book tugs at your heartstrings and makes you feel for and root for the characters. It makes you pull at your hair thinking and hoping the characters will act a certain way. It had me cursing under my breath at times, at others smiling out of exhiliration, or holding back tears. All in all, it's an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you at the edge of your seat, I can promise you that.

Every time I read a book so beautiful it makes me jealous that I myself can't come up with stories like that. The author has a gorgeous way with words which pulls you in and never lets go. I immediately started the other book in the duology as I could not get enough. I fell in love with the characters.

I especially loved the friendship between Connor and Weston. It shows how having a supportive friend can shape your life, even if you seem to be complete opposites. I'd like to think they were both better off together rather than apart.

My favorite quote from this book which made me laugh out loud and yet with which I completely agree with, is one of Wexton's smartass comments: "Feelings," I said, "are like tonsils. Mostly useless, and occasionally a source of pain and discomfort."

I would thoroughly recommend this stunning work of art.

As this is the first part of a two story arc, my full review is with the second book, Long Live the Beautiful Hearts. What I do want to emphasize here, however, is that the prose and poetry in this book is gorgeous. It will ruin you. I was a reluctant reader at first. I tend to like to escape with light reading since my job has me involved in heavy life stories all the time. The writing in the first chapter spoke to me and i was inevitably drawn in and invested in the characters. I'm glad I persisted.

This is a journey into the friendship of three people whose love for each other turns their lives upside down. You don't find chemistry in relationships like these expressed so well and completely very often. At the end of Bring Down the Stars I absolutely could not wait to find out what happens next, so I advise you to have the second book on hand.

This is a college love triangle of sorts– Autumn, Connor, and Weston. This isn’t a menage-trois. It is a story about three people trying to find their identity and in the process fall in love.
Connor is the typical rich boy but without the snobbery. The son of a Senator and tech mogul with every possible privilege money can buy. He’s friendly and outgoing too. His best friend, Weston is the complete opposite in every way. Weston is a Southie, who won a scholarship to attend the prestigious prep school where he met Connor. The two have been best friends ever since. The two would do anything for the other. Even sign up for the Reserves together. Something that pulls them apart.

Autumn is instantly attracted to Connor, who wouldn’t be attracted to the sexy, gorgeous baseball player that has a warm friendly smile for everyone? But Autumn needs more than physical attraction. She needs poetry and romance. She falls in love with his words.

Connor knows he’s not enough for Autumn. He needs help from his best friend in order to keep her. He knows that he probably won’t be able to but he’s going to do everything possible to try. Weston helps his best friend even though he’s secretly in love with her. It pains him every time he sees them together. Autumn loves Connor but she feels an attraction to the introverted asshole, Weston.

**FULL REVIEW**

"Something good and whole in her spoke to the something rotted and broken in me."

To say I loved this story is an understatement. The first part of this duet rightly ripped my heart in two. I fell for both guys and felt every emotion down to my core when it came to Autumn. I wanted her to have them both...but I knew. I knew there was one. And the heartbreak it caused is something I don't think I'll ever forget.

"I'm in love with her. The truth was bold and start on the blank page of my heart. I put my pen to paper and began to write."

I jumped right into the second book from this one because with an ending like this...I couldn't stop. I wouldn't. I needed to know what would happen next.

**5 Double-Sided Love Story, Stars**

When I read the description of Bring Down the Stars, I was sold that it was a book that I needed to read, but I wasn't sold that it would start or end in a place I'd be happy with. I mean the story of Cyrano de Bergerac is well known. A man speaks for another man in love with a woman. I mean obviously there's more to it than that, but I could tell immediately from the description that it was likely Weston was the one giving his words to Connor in order to woo Autumn. But that would mean that Weston wouldn't be with Autumn, yet Weston would be the one I should be rooting for. Starting a book off knowing that inevitable conflict (well all books have conflict, but this particular conflict is what I mean) is ahead had me hesitating.

Despite my hesitation, Bring Down the Stars hooked me quickly. I easily felt the connection between Autumn and Weston. And even the gravitational pull toward Connor and his easygoing charisma. Each character has depth. Connor's struggles to live up to his family's wishes for him. His family is so gracious to Weston and his family, and even Autumn's. They weren't black and white characters. Weston's history with his father and even how his mother's words shaped his view of himself, his worth, and his options for his future. Autumn's romantic history and her family dynamics. All of these characters were more than surface level. Even the side characters like Connor's parents, Weston's mom, Paul, Ruby, Edmond (who I imagine was fashioned in some ways after Javier from Felicity), and Weston's poetry professor.

I was a little frustrated with Autumn. I mean such a large point of this book is the retelling of Cyrano de Bergerac so this couldn't really be avoided, but how much Autumn struggled with the back and forth of Connor. How he felt so different in person versus the poetry, letters, or words he gave her when they weren't together...It seems to me that you've got to go with how you feel when you're together in person versus words shared when apart. So I struggled a little with her indecision. But all of that was necessary for the story.

It's actually hard for me to separate Bring Down the Stars from Long Live the Beautiful Hearts considering I started book 2 immediately after finishing this one. I read in the car on a day trip 3 hours away from home (and then 3 hours back). I basically finished both books in two days total--unheard of for me this past year.

I also want to say that the last poem of Bring Down the Stars did not disappoint. Often times when I'm reading a book that builds up a character's talent in songwriting, poetry, writing, riddles, etc, I end up being disappointed with the lyrics or samples of their art included in the book. That was not the case with the main poem of this book. It was beautiful in every way and I could read it over and over again. I won't share it with you guys, but I will share a few of my other favorite quotes:
-"I can't help myself. I don't want casual. I want electricity. I want someone I can talk to for ages, someone who sets my blood on fire. And not just physically, you know?" Ruby pursed her lips. "Gee, don't expect much, do you?" "Only everything," I said. "And why not? That's exactly what I have to give."

-I wouldn't touch you so quickly, I thought. I'd wait. Draw it out. Build up the moment so that when it happened-

-when each of us feels the other's skin for the first time--it'll be something sublime. Something earned.

-"I'm starting to memorize you," he said. "Not just your words but how you talk. The silences between words. The sound you make when you're thinking. The quiet where you try to hold back, and the little floods where you don't."

Bring Down the Stars was more than I expected it to be. I hoped I would like it. I hoped I could make it past the inevitable conflict that was expected from the book description and the very beginning of the story. And Bring Down the Stars exceeded my expectations. Knowing what was going on in Emma Scott's life during the time of writing these two books made these books even more emotional. My heart goes out to her. Bring Down the Stars gets 4 Stars. Have you read Bring Down the Stars? What did you think? Let me know!

Wow. This book tore me to shreds. This book is so emotional and heart felt, it is beyond words. I have never read a book so hardcore, when it comes to unrequited love. To the kind of love that is so real, that it bleeds angst like you could not imagine. It is a unconventional love triangle that grabs a hold of you, and doesn't let you leave. THIS BOOK IS LOVE, and what all it entails. It doesn't matter if it is a relationship or friendship, this book shows you. This authors writing is absolutely astounding. The way she weaves every little detail in, details you wouldn't think that matters, that do, This book I felt to the depths of my soul, and now I am dying to get my hands on the second part of this duet. I do not want to write too much because this heartfelt book deserves to be in your hands, to have your eyes reading over every single page. Trust me when I say, to bring the tissues.

Wes is not your typical Hero. His childhood is one that has left a mark, that he can't seem to forget. He finds solace in words, either writing or reading them. His emotions run high, and to bury them, he runs. He has the best friend a gut could ask for.

Connor is in a league all by himself. He grew up with the best parents, and an education most people dream of. He enjoys the simple things in life, sports, booze etc. Even with his wealth, he is still as humble as they come.

Autumn is a farm girl from Nebraska. She works for the things she has, and her studies is where her mind stays. She is a romantic at heart, and wants what every girl wants, a man that loves her, truly loves her.

This profound story is one, that I am so glad I took a chance on. I know the words I am putting down are kind of all over the place, but that is what this book has done to me. I have to get my hands on the next one.

I recommend this book.

I am a super fan of Emma Scott! Her writing is always amazingly heartbreaking and beautiful sweet! Her books are some of my all time favorite books!
A love triangle between best friends is heartbreaking because only one can get the girl while the other has to suffer a massive heartbreak.
I was so very thankful that I had book two already when I was done, because I needed to get over that ending in Bring Down The Stars. Emma writes people that you truly fall in love with, you think about them after the last word of her amazing books!
I say Run don't walk to your kindle and ONE Click Bring Down the Stars.....Also one click Long Live the Beautiful Hearts you will want to read the moment you are done this one!

Bring Down the Stars is the first novel I have read by miss Emma Scott and it won’t be my last. This book is nothing short of heartbreaking and breathtaking. As soon as I entered this world I knew what was going to happen. The storytelling is some of the best I’ve read. The way the words seemed to encase you and jump off the page from the very first paragraph till the very end.

It is unforgettable. We’ve all been here at some time or another. Unrequited love and a deep friendship that makes you feel what the character is feeling. It’s an evocative tale that will surely rest in a place that exists inside each of us. Our heart beats, sending our blood throughout our body. That alone should be enough to remember that the heart is resilient. It can be broken, but it will mend.

Each character is a tale unto themselves. They spin the story just as much as the h and H do. I’ve never read a love triangle quite like this one. You think, how can something as crazy as that have a selfless unconditional love and loyalty? Things left unsaid and emotions sometimes hid and laced with respect, honor and longing. It couldn’t be anything but complicated with its little white lies and good intentions. But you know those go bad as well.

I’ll be honest and say this isn’t exactly what I expected but it became more than I hoped for. The book is a haven for brutal heartache, while being deeply sensual and impressive. Be prepared with tissues. And be prepared to WANT to know what happens next. And be prepared for the unexpected.

I am ready to know what becomes of Connor, Autumn and Weston.

But the question is are you? I DO recommend this book and next one. I received the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Netgalley and the publisher.

I have recently started reading books by Emma Scott, and I think she is becoming a new favourite author for me <3

Bring Down the Stars is the first in the Beautiful Hearts series. It is a New Adult romance based in College. There are three main characters, Autumn, Connor and Weston--and yes, it is a love triangle. Sometimes they work, and sometimes they don't, and in this story it definitely worked. Wonderfully written, full of angst and heartbreak, Bring Down the Stars is one book that I was not able to put down.

The deep bond between two best friends Connor and Weston, made it really difficult to justify Autumn's feelings, but of course the entire time I rooting for only one of the two. I loved their friendship, even though it made it hard to choose between the two.

The ending of book #1 does end in a cliffhanger, so I was happy that I had the second book to read right after!

All the stars for this beautiful story. This was one of those reads where I just wanted to speak to the characters and intervene to alter the decisions they were making. My stomach was in knots for most of the book and I know I've lost my heart to Weston Turner.

I'm delighted that I can head straight into the second book of this duet. I need to know what happens next.

I finished this book weeks ago, but it's only now that I feel okay enough to finally write a review (I'm still not okay enough to read the sequel, though)

Bring Down The Stars was, quite frankly, heart wrenching. Like, it literally tore my heart to shreds. It had me crying every few chapters. I wish I was lying.

And that is the reason why I hated and loved and hated it. It was just so beautifully heartbreaking. It was the most beautiful love triangle I'd ever come across.

Why? Because in this love triangle, all three of them loved each other. (Some romantically, some otherwise.) And the characters were all so good, that there was no way I could hate any of them, much less choose a side. And that was why it tore me up so much. Because I was hurting for both of them.

Ugh, I'd hoped to be more professional, but oh well. I'd also hoped this book WOULDN'T END IN A CLIFFHANGER! But apparently, it's not my lucky day!

(I do have the ARC of the sequel, but I don't have the energy to start reading it right now.)

Oh my wow !! I feel completely shattered !! Weston - effing - Turner !!

One of the best reads this year, all genre considered. I beyond loved it ! Truly truly romantic and so heart breaking.. And the characters..Sigh..

I have so many things to write about this book and I am not going to be stingy in my words. This story deserves all the accolades and more.. When I read the synopsis and requested the book, never in my wildest imaginations had I known what I was signing up for. BLOWN ! So, here we go..

1] The prologue : "Almost Empty" WTF ? That a 12 year old boy penned down this essay, was heart breaking to say the least. Burning the sock, the action and the words meant so much to him. His pain was palpable.. The bullying scene where Weston stands up to the boys by roasting himself on a missing father ?? Hands down the best entry scene of a character ever. A few pages and we can already see how bad ass this character is going to be..
"I hate to say you have a dead-beat dad, but if the sock fits...?"
"Knock Knock". " Who's there?" "I don't know, but not your dad, that's for goddamn sure".

WORD !!

2] Amherst Asshole - Woah.. a teenage Weston.. So damn good. Does it make sense when I say his asshole-ness was awesome. Gave so much depth to his character ! This boy has built the Great Wall of China around his heart. Connor was such an affable character, total contrast to Weston, making Weston more intriguing to me. Who wants to read about the good boy, when the bad boy is sooo good ???

3] When Autumn and Weston meet - Awesome scene at the library and looks like Weston has met is match. Usually I don't ship those insta-love theories..But this one I totally shipped..Not they instantly fell in love.. But that connection ? Hot damn ! So well-written...

4] The Twist of Words - I totally understand Autumn's need to hear the words. Words that communicate feelings so effortlessly. Made me a little pissed at Connor for being so oblivious to other people's feelings. He knew Wes for so long and he still couldn't see the signs. And if that was not enough, to make Wes use his own words.. That was a low blow.. Owning that poem ? Low Low blow.. Reading the poem and still not seeing the link.. dumb dumb blow..

5] Joining the Army - This was one direction that I totally did not expect from either of the boys. It made their bond more confusing.. Who needed whom more ? One boy trying to prove his mettle to his father without thinking it through.. the other following him just to live up to his self-burdened emotional debt.. And Autumn still swinging like a pendulum not understanding Connor at all. Which is obvious because her version of Connor is a combination of Wes and Connor.

6] The 'Finally' scenes - So liberating and invigorating to read..I could feel myself getting breath less with each of Autumn's 'Finally'. So so good.. Stopped abruptly, but so many feelings in just a few pages..

7] The poems - Oh my the goddamn poems..

"For you, I would bring down the stars,
wreath their fire around your neck like diamonds,
and watch them pulse to the beat of your heart

For you, I would capture the candlelight in the palm of my hand
Give my breath to give it life, a whisper, 'My love'
So that it may grow
Bright and hot and burn me.. "

Oh yes yes !! Loved it !! Stomped all over my heart...

8] The sneak peak of the next book - The scene where Connor talks about the time they were 14..

"We were all.. boasting about whose ass we wanted to tap, and 'fucking that pussy'.. as if we weren't all virgins". But not you. You were shooting darts, and you had a crush on Kayla Murphy. I'll never forget it. You said, 'Kiss her in the little well of her collarbone, where her heart beats. All the guys just stared at you. Remember? You turned around with a dart in your hand and your face was like Fuck, what did I just say? But instead of taking it back or making a joke.. you just shrugged and said ' Yep, that's what I'd do' and went back to shooting darts. Our friends had no idea what to make of that and burst out laughing. Remember? They thought you were kidding. I laughed too, but I knew you weren't kidding. You weren't fucking kidding at all, were you Wes?".

Looks like Connor is about to redeem himself.. I can't wait to get my hands on it !!

First of all, this cover is incredible! I love it, and not just because of the Dandelions :) 

Somehow, Bring Down the Stars is my first time reading Emma Scott. I saw this on NetGalley, as well as the second in the series, Long Live the Beautiful Hearts, and something about it piqued my interest. Typically, I have no interest in a book that has a cliffhanger and then a second book, but even knowing that ahead of time, I had to read it. And I am so glad!

This novel opens with a heart-wrenching moment with young Weston Turner, who five years later earns a scholarship to a local private school due to an essay he wrote about that event. The "scholarship" boy is a quick and easy target for the rich, snobby, shithead students with the exception of Connor Drake. The two become best friends quickly, more like family, and the story carries on to when they enter college together. Weston is a romantic academic but known more for his exceptional track and field abilities and his even more exceptional crappy attitude with his opponents. Connor is a popular athlete, and new student/Nebraska farmgirl Autumn Caldwell is taken with him the first time she lays eyes on him. Oh, but did I mention that Weston also meets her in the library? Thus begins a wonderful novel about romance, friendship, seducing one with words, and how crucial honesty really is. 

Regarding Connor and Weston, this is a classic tale of two young men secretly envious of what the other has. Connor grew up with money but doesn't feel he meets his parents' expectations. Weston and his mother struggled financially, but even with Weston's amazing gift for writing, he envies Connor's charisma and charm. But truly, they complicated each other in an amazing way, making me understand why Autumn might secretly have feelings for both of them. 

Without spoiling the plot, the overall premise of Bring Down the Stars is based on Cyrano de Bergerac, so I'm assuming you can figure out what happens after Connor starts dating Autumn?? 

Anyway, this novel is beautifully crafted and developed in a way in a way I don't often get the pleasure of experiencing. Emma Scott's characterization and imagery transport you into this book so prepare yourself for a roller coaster of emotions. But every single awkward moment or time of frustration is worth it because of what it is all building up to. 

If you love angsty romance, true friendship, fear, guilt, longing, and so much more - then this is a must-read. But as fantastic as this one is, I have to say, the conclusion in book 2 is even better. Bravo to Emma Scott for this incredible novel!

*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing this copy in exchange for my honest review!

Bringing Down the Stars is my first experience with Emma Scott’s writing and I was completely blown away by her breathtaking and poetic writing style and the emotions it stirred in me. I was totally unprepared for the beauty of the story, the angst, the overwhelming love, the heartfelt poetry, and the devastating numbness I felt at the completion of this book. I am not a fan of love triangles and I was very reluctant to read a story that involved that kind of relationship. That being said, I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!! Between Emma Scott’s beautiful writing style and the selflessness of the characters I was completely swept away and found myself completely immersed in this story.
Since this story is described as a modern day version of the classic tale of Cyrano de Bergerac I don’t believe it’s necessary to go into an in-depth description of the story. With this in mind what completely surprised me was that I fell in love with all three characters mainly because this is a story of honor, friendship, loyalty, love and sacrifice.
Weston Turner is tall, lean, sullen, brooding, intense and most often a loner. He’s had a difficult childhood and has had to work for everything. He’s extremely smart, driven and an amazing poet with a fierce loyalty to his best friend Connor. The two of them have been friends since middle when Connor befriended Weston, the new kid on scholarship at a prestigious school.
Connor Drake is broad built, charming, easy going, and laid back. He has lots of friends and is easy to like. He has been handed everything in life by his wealthy parents. He is not acedemically driven and often relies on Weston to help him and guide him. Also, Connor always feels the need to protect and take care of Weston. On the surface everything is easy for Connor but he often feels the pressure to live up to his parents lofty expectations, especially since his dream of one day opening a bar doesn’t meet with their approval.
Enter the lovely Autumn Caldwell who like Weston is at UMass Amherst on scholarship. She’s from a small town in Nebraska. She’s beautiful, smart, and a romantic at heart. She has trust issues since she’s been hurt by previous relationships. Autumn is determined to change the world. She’s strong in her convictions and determined to make a difference. Weston feels an instant connection to Autumn when they first meet in the library, a connection he’s never felt with anyone else before. He is immediately intrigued by her and throughout the book she speaks to his soul. When Connor shows up after waving to her earlier in the day Weston takes a step back allowing Connor to sweep her off her feet. Like the loyal friend he is, Weston helps Connor win her heart with his poetry and prose. Although Connor seems like the perfect guy for her she’s confused by the two very different sides of Connor. The Connor she see’s in person is not the Connor she connects with on paper or texts. With Weston she feels a spark that is confusing to her especially since Wes is often curt and gruff with her. So begins the angst of the story.
What makes this situation so unique is that you find yourself falling for all three characters. There is no bad guy in this story just three beautiful people trying to be there for each other the best way they know how. What makes this book so special to me, so incredibly different from any other book, is the beautiful poetry. Weston’s poems aren’t just words on a page. They make you FEEL what’s in his heart and make you understand the depth of his love. They help you understand what’s really inside Weston and everything he tries to hide behind his brisk, brooding, tough exterior...the beautiful soul beneath the hard exterior. Through his poetry you get to know his heart, soul and everything that drives him. His poetry moved me. By the end of the story you can’t help falling in love with Weston.
It’s difficult to describe exactly how I felt at the end of this book, definitely devastated and heartbroken. I also felt overwhelmed by the beauty of this story and elated by the emotional experience of being totally immersed in a story that is built on true loyalty, lasting friendship and completely unselfish love. I fell for all three characters because their motives were based on trying to be there for each other, trying to protect each other and the friendship that goes so far beyond the expected. This book touched my heart in a way that few books have. It’s a bittersweet story of three amazing people who completely adore each other and are willing to give up everything for the ones they love the most... even if that means giving up the one you love the most. It’s poetic and emotional. It captures, holds, and breaks your heart. I wholeheartedly recommend reading this book!

Bringing Down the Stars is Book 1 in a two book series (The Beautiful Hearts Duet) by Emma Scott. Book 2-Long Live the Beautiful Hearts is an absolute must read especially since book 1 ends with a cliffhanger.

I thank the publishers for a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.

5 stars?!

6 stars?!

A bucket full of stars?!

No amount of stars would do this book justice. Just look at the sky and bring down all the stars you see.

This is not a love triangle or your typical angsty romance. This is a heart ripping, soul crashing story where finally as sinful and wrong as it must be, it was all you would want.

Thank you so much for writing such an amazing book and doing such an awesome job to so beautifully shatter our hearts. I just hope book two would fix ghe rippings.