Take a photo of a barcode or cover
3.82 AVERAGE
3.82 AVERAGE
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I really loved this one! I loved Eli and how soft he was for Sage, how he was always a shoulder to lean on when she needed one!
As with most FMCs, I did see parts of my personality and vibe reflected in Sage’s mannerisms and thoughts, and there were time I wanted to scream at her that she deserves love and happiness.
The main qualms I had were the all-too-familiar third-act breakup and the epilogue (mainly the fact that Sage and Eli adopted an eight-year-old seemingly overnight????). I wasn’t a fan of how the third-act breakup went down, but the resolution was so good !!
As with most FMCs, I did see parts of my personality and vibe reflected in Sage’s mannerisms and thoughts, and there were time I wanted to scream at her that she deserves love and happiness.
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
⤿ Reading period: July 12 - July 13, 2025
So YEAH new favorite book alert , I can't stop talking about this man because he is my type. LIKE CAN HE BE REAL?
⤿ Rating: ★★★★☆.5
The story opens with Elias, a young athlete who finds himself unfairly labeled by the media as a womanizer. Compounding his struggles, he has yet to score his first goal in the NHL, leading to harsh criticism from fans who suggest he spends more time off the ice than on it. Meanwhile, Sage, an aspiring ballerina, is determined to land the coveted role in Swan Lake but faces the harsh reality that popularity often trumps talent in the competitive world of dance—something she lacks due to her limited social media following. Their paths unexpectedly cross at an auction, setting off a chain of events that alters both of their lives. In a bid to improve Elias's public image and boost her own social media presence, Sage devises a fake dating scheme. Initially, Elias is hesitant, causing tension between them, but everything shifts when he unexpectedly claims Sage as his girlfriend during a live television appearance, driven by a protective instinct. This moment is so captivating that it left me breathless, and I couldn't help but giggle with delight. The plot thickens as the story introduces the accidental roommates trope when Sage's apartment is engulfed in flames, prompting Elias to insist she stay with him. Their dynamic embodies the grumpy-sunshine trope perfectly, showcasing a refreshing take on the "sunshine" character. Unlike many portrayals that reduce such characters to mere bubbly stereotypes, Sage emerges as a strong, multi-dimensional woman, proving that a cheerful disposition can coexist with depth and resilience.
➸ Sage Beaumont:
➵“Like a ray of sunlight, Sage cuts through the dark clouds distorting my vision. I realize that no matter what, I’d spend my entire life trying to be good enough for her.”
➵“I’m beginning to think Elias Westbrook could tell me to bark and I would.”
She astonished me in countless ways. One of my primary concerns with "Collide" was the portrayal of the female protagonist, Summer; however, Sage emerged as a breath of fresh air. Initially, I envisioned Elias ending up with Amara, but now I find myself immensely grateful that he discovered Sage. It’s hard to imagine him with anyone else but her! I must confess that I typically have reservations about people-pleasers, both in literature and in real life, largely due to my own experiences. Yet, Sage’s inclination to please others did not irk me in the slightest. On the contrary, her actions radiated a profound sense of selflessness and authenticity. She willingly takes on double shifts, all to ensure her younger brother has opportunities that she never had. Her self-sacrifice stems not from weakness, but from a deep-rooted love and sense of responsibility. Sage embodies a fierce independence while simultaneously exuding a delightful lightness that captivates those around her.
➸ Elias Westbrook:
➵“And I’m the right woman?”
“The perfect one.”
➵ “Sage is beautiful and strong, a ray of light in a field of darkness.”
Elias Westbrook—what a remarkable character you are! Where do I even begin to express my admiration? Initially, I must confess that I underestimated him in "Collide," perceiving him as somewhat unremarkable. However, I have since come to realize that he embodies a kind of perfection that transcends mere fiction; it’s the kind of perfection that makes one yearn to claim him as their own. The painful truth is that he exists only in the realm of imagination, and yet here I am, unabashedly declaring my affection for him. The media may have portrayed him as a playboy, but the revelation that he has remained celibate until Sage is nothing short of astonishing. It seems he has never truly engaged in a romantic relationship prior to her, and the years without dates only add to his allure. While some may deem my feelings possessive, I find comfort in knowing he is not easily swayed by fleeting encounters, especially considering the dark shadow cast by his father’s manipulative actions. There’s something intoxicating about his untouchable nature, and the thought of his dominance in intimate moments only heightens my fascination. Yet, what truly moved me to tears is the realization that his love language aligns perfectly with my own: acts of service and words of affirmation. This profound connection adds layers to his character that resonate deeply within me.
➵“You don’t have to pretend that you’re okay, but I’ll never let you doubt yourself. There’s nothing that can dim your light, and if you think there is, I’d crush it before it ever touched you.”
In a heartfelt gesture, he meticulously crafted a birthday cake for Sage, replicating the cherished recipe she savors each year, yet elevating it to new heights of deliciousness that tantalized the senses. To ensure that Sage could indulge in the joy of celebration once more, he procured an identical cake, allowing her to share the moment with her brother. In a thoughtful twist, he also prepared sugar-free cupcakes tailored for her brother, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to their happiness, even amidst the challenges of life. His culinary efforts were not mere acts of service; they were expressions of love, as he had cooked for her countless times, each meal infused with care and attention. Furthermore, he took it upon himself to cover the costs of her brother's medication, a gesture that spoke volumes of his compassion and dedication. He was attentive to her needs, recalling her words about the crystals that had fallen off before her performance, and he surprised her with extra glue and crystals, ensuring she felt confident and radiant on stage. In moments of vulnerability, he gently removed her makeup, a tender act that revealed his deep understanding of her, as if he were a boyfriend custom-made to cater to her every need. Despite the distance that separated them, he consistently encouraged Sage to chase her dreams, embodying the essence of a partner who believes in her potential, no matter the obstacles they face in their long-distance relationship.
“I want you to be mine. If anyone in this world deserves someone who’s there for them, it’s you. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do to make you believe you’re worth every bit of worry and care.”
On their first date, he goes above and beyond by renting out an entire restaurant, creating an intimate atmosphere just for the two of them. Understanding that she rarely receives flowers, he surprises her with daily bouquets, patiently waiting for her to discover her favorite blooms. When he realizes that Sage lacks close female friends, he makes it a point to join her on her wellness days, sharing face masks and providing companionship that she clearly cherishes. His thoughtfulness extends to the kitchen, where he cooks for her every day, pouring love into each meal. For her birthday, he bakes not one, but two cakes—one for them to enjoy together and another for her to celebrate with her brother, a gesture that left me momentarily speechless as I pondered the depth of his kindness. To top it all off, he even bakes sugar-free cupcakes for her brother, mindful of his diabetes, showcasing a level of care that is truly heartwarming. It’s moments like these that make me believe wholeheartedly that a man who looks after your loved ones because he loves you is indeed a keeper, and my heart swells at the thought of such genuine affection.
➵“If I could handcuff you to myself, I would. But you’re a star, Sage Beaumont, and you’re too precious to be kept a secret”
Elias goes above and beyond to connect with Sage, even going so far as to Google ballet moves to better understand her passion for dance. His care for her shines through in moments when she’s had too much to drink; he patiently sits with her, tending to her skincare routine as if it were the most natural thing in the world. It’s hard not to feel a pang of insecurity when faced with someone like him—how can anyone compete with such thoughtfulness? When Sage’s brother stays over at a friend’s house, Elias takes the initiative to gather the parents’ and neighbors’ contact numbers, ensuring that Sage feels secure and untroubled. This level of consideration is truly remarkable, and it’s been ages since I’ve encountered a fictional boyfriend who embodies such depth of character. Even when Sage’s uncle attempts to belittle him, Elias remains unfazed, instead feeling grateful that Sage has someone willing to stand up for her. After sustaining an injury during a game, he wears a smile despite the pain, simply because Sage expressed her concern for him; her worry signifies her affection. And let’s not overlook the tattoo of a sage plant on his finger, a permanent reminder of his devotion. To top it all off, he has mastered the art of the forehead kiss, a gesture that I find utterly irresistible. It’s as if he’s weaponized this sweet act of intimacy against me, and I can’t help but be completely enchanted.
➵“From the moment I saw you, I couldn’t look away. And it had nothing to do with your body or face. It was just you. Your energy, your determination, your strength. That’s all that I could see. It was blinding.”
Elias and Sage share a relationship that radiates purity, gentleness, and authenticity. Their connection unfolds gradually, a slow burn that feels entirely appropriate given their complex personalities, which require time to fully explore and express their emotions. Each milestone they achieve together feels hard-won, adding depth to their bond. I could easily fill pages discussing the intricacies of their dynamic; their love embodies trust, vulnerability, and profound emotional resonance. It transcends mere romance, taking on a sacred quality that captures the essence of longing and the deep-seated need to belong to one another. While I wish I could dissect every scene to convey the emotions they stirred within me, it would take far too long. Instead, I urge you to read the book for yourself. Immerse yourself in their journey and allow yourself to feel the weight of their connection. This story left me with a sense of emptiness and a yearning for my own Elias—where can I find someone like him? If only there were a link to connect me to such a soul! Their relationship serves as a masterclass in trust, vulnerability, and love, though I must admit the book felt just a touch too lengthy, which prevented me from awarding it a full five stars. Nevertheless, it was so close to perfection that I can easily overlook that minor flaw.
Plus favorite quotes:
➼ “does it look like i’m fucking jealous?” he says. “i don’t care about him. i care about you.”
➼ “this is for me?” “it’s always for you.”
➼ “It’s not just that. It’s like no matter what I do, no matter how much I try, I’ll always be scraping by. I’m a goddamn mess.”
“You’re my mess.”
────୨ৎ────
⤷ Thank you for reaching to this point here and I’m really glad and thankful for you, love you ⟡.
So YEAH new favorite book alert , I can't stop talking about this man because he is my type. LIKE CAN HE BE REAL?
⤿ Rating: ★★★★☆.5
The story opens with Elias, a young athlete who finds himself unfairly labeled by the media as a womanizer. Compounding his struggles, he has yet to score his first goal in the NHL, leading to harsh criticism from fans who suggest he spends more time off the ice than on it. Meanwhile, Sage, an aspiring ballerina, is determined to land the coveted role in Swan Lake but faces the harsh reality that popularity often trumps talent in the competitive world of dance—something she lacks due to her limited social media following. Their paths unexpectedly cross at an auction, setting off a chain of events that alters both of their lives. In a bid to improve Elias's public image and boost her own social media presence, Sage devises a fake dating scheme. Initially, Elias is hesitant, causing tension between them, but everything shifts when he unexpectedly claims Sage as his girlfriend during a live television appearance, driven by a protective instinct. This moment is so captivating that it left me breathless, and I couldn't help but giggle with delight. The plot thickens as the story introduces the accidental roommates trope when Sage's apartment is engulfed in flames, prompting Elias to insist she stay with him. Their dynamic embodies the grumpy-sunshine trope perfectly, showcasing a refreshing take on the "sunshine" character. Unlike many portrayals that reduce such characters to mere bubbly stereotypes, Sage emerges as a strong, multi-dimensional woman, proving that a cheerful disposition can coexist with depth and resilience.
➸ Sage Beaumont:
➵“Like a ray of sunlight, Sage cuts through the dark clouds distorting my vision. I realize that no matter what, I’d spend my entire life trying to be good enough for her.”
➵“I’m beginning to think Elias Westbrook could tell me to bark and I would.”
She astonished me in countless ways. One of my primary concerns with "Collide" was the portrayal of the female protagonist, Summer; however, Sage emerged as a breath of fresh air. Initially, I envisioned Elias ending up with Amara, but now I find myself immensely grateful that he discovered Sage. It’s hard to imagine him with anyone else but her! I must confess that I typically have reservations about people-pleasers, both in literature and in real life, largely due to my own experiences. Yet, Sage’s inclination to please others did not irk me in the slightest. On the contrary, her actions radiated a profound sense of selflessness and authenticity. She willingly takes on double shifts, all to ensure her younger brother has opportunities that she never had. Her self-sacrifice stems not from weakness, but from a deep-rooted love and sense of responsibility. Sage embodies a fierce independence while simultaneously exuding a delightful lightness that captivates those around her.
➸ Elias Westbrook:
➵“And I’m the right woman?”
“The perfect one.”
➵ “Sage is beautiful and strong, a ray of light in a field of darkness.”
Elias Westbrook—what a remarkable character you are! Where do I even begin to express my admiration? Initially, I must confess that I underestimated him in "Collide," perceiving him as somewhat unremarkable. However, I have since come to realize that he embodies a kind of perfection that transcends mere fiction; it’s the kind of perfection that makes one yearn to claim him as their own. The painful truth is that he exists only in the realm of imagination, and yet here I am, unabashedly declaring my affection for him. The media may have portrayed him as a playboy, but the revelation that he has remained celibate until Sage is nothing short of astonishing. It seems he has never truly engaged in a romantic relationship prior to her, and the years without dates only add to his allure. While some may deem my feelings possessive, I find comfort in knowing he is not easily swayed by fleeting encounters, especially considering the dark shadow cast by his father’s manipulative actions. There’s something intoxicating about his untouchable nature, and the thought of his dominance in intimate moments only heightens my fascination. Yet, what truly moved me to tears is the realization that his love language aligns perfectly with my own: acts of service and words of affirmation. This profound connection adds layers to his character that resonate deeply within me.
➵“You don’t have to pretend that you’re okay, but I’ll never let you doubt yourself. There’s nothing that can dim your light, and if you think there is, I’d crush it before it ever touched you.”
In a heartfelt gesture, he meticulously crafted a birthday cake for Sage, replicating the cherished recipe she savors each year, yet elevating it to new heights of deliciousness that tantalized the senses. To ensure that Sage could indulge in the joy of celebration once more, he procured an identical cake, allowing her to share the moment with her brother. In a thoughtful twist, he also prepared sugar-free cupcakes tailored for her brother, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to their happiness, even amidst the challenges of life. His culinary efforts were not mere acts of service; they were expressions of love, as he had cooked for her countless times, each meal infused with care and attention. Furthermore, he took it upon himself to cover the costs of her brother's medication, a gesture that spoke volumes of his compassion and dedication. He was attentive to her needs, recalling her words about the crystals that had fallen off before her performance, and he surprised her with extra glue and crystals, ensuring she felt confident and radiant on stage. In moments of vulnerability, he gently removed her makeup, a tender act that revealed his deep understanding of her, as if he were a boyfriend custom-made to cater to her every need. Despite the distance that separated them, he consistently encouraged Sage to chase her dreams, embodying the essence of a partner who believes in her potential, no matter the obstacles they face in their long-distance relationship.
“I want you to be mine. If anyone in this world deserves someone who’s there for them, it’s you. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do to make you believe you’re worth every bit of worry and care.”
On their first date, he goes above and beyond by renting out an entire restaurant, creating an intimate atmosphere just for the two of them. Understanding that she rarely receives flowers, he surprises her with daily bouquets, patiently waiting for her to discover her favorite blooms. When he realizes that Sage lacks close female friends, he makes it a point to join her on her wellness days, sharing face masks and providing companionship that she clearly cherishes. His thoughtfulness extends to the kitchen, where he cooks for her every day, pouring love into each meal. For her birthday, he bakes not one, but two cakes—one for them to enjoy together and another for her to celebrate with her brother, a gesture that left me momentarily speechless as I pondered the depth of his kindness. To top it all off, he even bakes sugar-free cupcakes for her brother, mindful of his diabetes, showcasing a level of care that is truly heartwarming. It’s moments like these that make me believe wholeheartedly that a man who looks after your loved ones because he loves you is indeed a keeper, and my heart swells at the thought of such genuine affection.
➵“If I could handcuff you to myself, I would. But you’re a star, Sage Beaumont, and you’re too precious to be kept a secret”
Elias goes above and beyond to connect with Sage, even going so far as to Google ballet moves to better understand her passion for dance. His care for her shines through in moments when she’s had too much to drink; he patiently sits with her, tending to her skincare routine as if it were the most natural thing in the world. It’s hard not to feel a pang of insecurity when faced with someone like him—how can anyone compete with such thoughtfulness? When Sage’s brother stays over at a friend’s house, Elias takes the initiative to gather the parents’ and neighbors’ contact numbers, ensuring that Sage feels secure and untroubled. This level of consideration is truly remarkable, and it’s been ages since I’ve encountered a fictional boyfriend who embodies such depth of character. Even when Sage’s uncle attempts to belittle him, Elias remains unfazed, instead feeling grateful that Sage has someone willing to stand up for her. After sustaining an injury during a game, he wears a smile despite the pain, simply because Sage expressed her concern for him; her worry signifies her affection. And let’s not overlook the tattoo of a sage plant on his finger, a permanent reminder of his devotion. To top it all off, he has mastered the art of the forehead kiss, a gesture that I find utterly irresistible. It’s as if he’s weaponized this sweet act of intimacy against me, and I can’t help but be completely enchanted.
➵“From the moment I saw you, I couldn’t look away. And it had nothing to do with your body or face. It was just you. Your energy, your determination, your strength. That’s all that I could see. It was blinding.”
Elias and Sage share a relationship that radiates purity, gentleness, and authenticity. Their connection unfolds gradually, a slow burn that feels entirely appropriate given their complex personalities, which require time to fully explore and express their emotions. Each milestone they achieve together feels hard-won, adding depth to their bond. I could easily fill pages discussing the intricacies of their dynamic; their love embodies trust, vulnerability, and profound emotional resonance. It transcends mere romance, taking on a sacred quality that captures the essence of longing and the deep-seated need to belong to one another. While I wish I could dissect every scene to convey the emotions they stirred within me, it would take far too long. Instead, I urge you to read the book for yourself. Immerse yourself in their journey and allow yourself to feel the weight of their connection. This story left me with a sense of emptiness and a yearning for my own Elias—where can I find someone like him? If only there were a link to connect me to such a soul! Their relationship serves as a masterclass in trust, vulnerability, and love, though I must admit the book felt just a touch too lengthy, which prevented me from awarding it a full five stars. Nevertheless, it was so close to perfection that I can easily overlook that minor flaw.
Plus favorite quotes:
➼ “does it look like i’m fucking jealous?” he says. “i don’t care about him. i care about you.”
➼ “this is for me?” “it’s always for you.”
➼ “It’s not just that. It’s like no matter what I do, no matter how much I try, I’ll always be scraping by. I’m a goddamn mess.”
“You’re my mess.”
────୨ৎ────
⤷ Thank you for reaching to this point here and I’m really glad and thankful for you, love you ⟡.
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
emotional
funny
lighthearted
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I don’t remember anything that happened in this book wtf was it about? Did I like it? Idk
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
hopeful
fast-paced