The Edge of Forgiveness by Kristin Turnage {a review}

Hi. I'm not okay. I just finished reading an advanced copy of The Edge of Forgiveness by Kristin Turnage. My heart is happy, my mind is all over the place, and my emotions took a hit. If you've been around for a while, then you know how much I adore The Edge series. There is just something about the small town of Oaks, and all of the characters that I've met. I want to go visit, befriend them all, or even better yet have Cora and Caleb adopt me.

If you're new to The Edge series, like I said it is small town romance. Not only that but each book hits a different emotion just right. If you're an emotional reader, then you should have tissues close by. Here in The Edge of Forgiveness you'll also find these two tropes: forced proximity and enemies to lovers. In a way I think, at least for Courtney, the trope of found family also applies. It could also be considered a second chance romance of sorts. Especially given the history between these two. We've met both Hunter and Courtney in previous books, so it's nice to finally hear their stories. 

So what's The Edge of Forgiveness about? Let's read the blurb first:

Courtney Rogers has two secrets, secrets that she’s kept from her best friend. One involves a night that changed her best friend’s life forever and the other is her best friend’s soon to be brother-in-law. She thought she was going to take both secrets to the grave, to make sure neither sees the light of day. But, when her best friend asks her to housesit while she goes on her honeymoon for two weeks, her once concrete walls start to crumble. Courtney’s always prided herself on being able to put on blinders and forget about her problems, but now the pressure seems to be too great. If she talks and lets out what’s trapped inside, she’ll be more alone than ever.

Could her best friend handle knowing that she was the reason her life changed forever?

Then, there’s the other serious issue, Hunter Freeman, AKA The Other Secret. The one she pushed so far away that, instead getting lustful glances and playful banter, she gets nothing but cold stares and a rock-hard heart. She thought it was for all the right reasons, he made her feel things, and those things were uncontrollable.

Hunter Freeman knows the game. He understands what needs to be done, but his problem, he doesn’t want to play. So, he doesn’t. Don’t expect him to bring you flowers, he won’t. Don’t expect him to chase you because his ass ain’t running. After going through his own heartbreak, and watching his brother struggle with love, he has decided to stop, to just stop trying. The fear of rejection hangs over him like a dark cloud. He’s seen the dark side of love and it’s not worth it to him. The highs never make up for the lows.

Just when he felt things starting to turn around, life decided to throw a wrench in his gears or, in his case, life decided to throw in a little bit of Courtney Rogers, the fucking curveball that came out of nowhere and always sends him home licking his wounds.

Now, she’s back after a year and will be in his world for two weeks. Both fighting to end what was started before it becomes too much. Both needing what everybody always wants.

Love, acceptance, and a little forgiveness.

Content Warning: This book contains sensitive subject matter. Reader discretion is advised.

 

Doesn't their story sound good? Right off the bat you know it's going to be an emotional one. Especially once Courtney shares her backstory. This woman has been hurt, and she has the trauma to go with that hurt. Yet she tries to bury it as deep as possible. Thankfully people are starting to see the cracks forming, and she's going to need the support once it all crumbles down. Don't think that this book is only about Courtney's journey toward healing. Oh no. You see Hunter also has some issues that he keeps hidden. There is a reason he stays away from relationships. There is a reason there is a brick wall surrounding his heart.

My rating for The Edge of Forgiveness:

5 Stars

Now if you've read The Edge of Happiness, then you know that Courtney is Cassie's best friend. These two have known each other for a long time and have an incredible bond. So when it's Cassie's wedding naturally Courtney is by her side on the big day. It is also Courtney that Cassie asks to house/dog sit while she and Ryan are off on their honeymoon. Now was there more to the story about having Courtney house/dog sit for 2 weeks? Of course there was, and that is part of Courtney's story.  Naturally during these two weeks she and Hunter are at each other's throats. Ever since that relationship that wasn't a relationship ended, there has been a lot of pain/frustration/heartache/longing happening. Here we are now and they are pretty much forced to be near each other. Even more so since Hunter works with Ryan (aka his brother) as the horse trainer. There are so many words flung back and forth between these two, it's ridiculous. Yet they can't stay apart. It's a wild ride.

You might be wondering how they get together if there is so much pain separating them. Well all that forced proximity is coming into play with the verbal volleys. It is when one of those moments spark something, and causes Courtney to panic that has Hunter's wall starting to crack. He sees the vulnerability, and knows that he needs to push a bit to get her to open up. Hunter just doesn't expect that this push is going to result in a verbal vomit. That's precisely what happened. These two have finally aired all their dirty laundry, and have bared their souls. It is now that a real relationship can form. That is if they want it to happen, or if they don't screw it up in the process.

I'm not going to touch too much on their relationship as it's really interesting to take in as you're reading it. That being said, Courtney has created bonds with others in Oaks. Whether it is Cassie, Joss, AJ, Madison, or even Cora. Not just those people though, she's finding that she has these connections within the town. She may not like it as it scares her, but those connections have been formed. She's found her family essentially. I think one of my favorite connections though was with Ollie. Ollie Freeman is the brother of Hunter and Ryan. He's the baby. He's trying to find his place in the family business, as well as in life. Something is causing him pain though, and Courtney sees that in him. She's called him on it, and I love that. She's let him know that she'll be his safe place to land when he's ready. It was that connection that had me wishing that Kristin would write his story as well.

Let's talk about the fact that the two weeks is up, and Courtney is heading back to Texas. After all that's where her apartment is, her job is, and a good portion of her life. As much as Courtney wants to get out of Oaks (or so she thinks), she's also feeling that perhaps Texas isn't where she's meant to be any longer. Yet she says her goodbyes to all except one. It is right before she leaves that she has a heartfelt conversation with Cora. It is that conversation that had me sobbing. I thought that since I had made it this far through The Edge of Forgiveness that I wouldn't get hit with the emotional moments. Yet this happened as Cora shared something from her past that resonated with Courtney, and it hit me. It was that simple conversation that had the flood gates opening. I was busy wiping away my tears while feeling all the compassion and love pouring off of Cora. She was speaking truth, she was speaking from her heart, and pouring this love into Courtney when she needed it most. I think that this conversation reached Courtney at just the right time. Perhaps something clicked into place even though she was still trying to run. 

Since this story was almost over, not only did I think I was going to get out of getting hit in the feelings, I also was wondering if church was going to happen. Now not traditional church. No no no. Church is where the group of friends (who are really family at this point) come together for one to bare their soul. To tell the things that are causing them pain. This therapy of sorts isn't always voluntary. Sometimes it is the group showing up to your house to have it out. To call you on your shit, and make you face the things that you might not want to. Yet at the end of the conversation, that therapy session, you find yourself with the answers you need. THAT is church. THAT is what this group continues to encourage, as well as experience. It may be something their parents started many years ago, but they are gladly carrying it into the future.

There is so much more that I want to say about The Edge of Forgiveness, but I've been long winded enough. If you're an emotional reader...take breaks, have the tissues close by, and feel free to message me while reading. I may have messaged the author a couple of times while reading, and I regret nothing. Hunter and Courtney are now part of my fictional family, along with the others I've "met" in Oaks. These characters have wedged themselves into my heart, and it is glorious. May we all find a group of friends similar to Ryan, Cassie, Mac, Joss, Jace, AJ, Hunter, Courtney, Travis, Madison, Ollie, and Noah. (I can't leave out Cora and Caleb either.)

When I started reading The Edge of Forgiveness I was worried. I was worried that I wouldn't enjoy it as much as the others in the series. I was worried that I wouldn't connect with Hunter and Courtney. Yet here I am on the other side, and I did love their story as much as the others. I did connect with them. I did empathize with their situations. I was rooting for them since their initial meeting back in The Edge of Happiness. So to know that they've found their happily ever after, and that they are making their mental health needs a priority, just has me loving it all the more. I look forward to reading Noah's story when it comes out. Kristin has solidified herself as an autobuy author for me, and also her books are going to be on my 5 star predictions list. Time and time again she's shown me how talented she is with her words, her characters, her world buiding, and also all the energy (physical, mental, emotional) that she pours into creating these books. It's phenomenal. It is also why I buy the kindle copy of the book, as well as the paperback. I want to support her writing career as much as possible. It's my way of showing my appreciation for the stories she brings to life.


I truly hope you'll consider picking up The Edge of Forgiveness. If you haven't read the other three books (Happiness, Serenity, Redemption) I suggest you do. They all hit different. They all have emotional moments. They all struggle with something different. These books are not just romance, they are so much more than that. If anything these books are healing. The Edge of Forgiveness releases on April 13, 2023. Go preorder it, and get ready to fall for these characters.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Thank you Kristin Turnage, and Grey Promo, for providing me with an advanced copy of The Edge of Forgiveness.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

What I Read Last Week

Happy Monday! The last week of March is upon us, and I'm in denial. Let's not focus on that though. Instead let's take a look at the books I read last week!

Last week I devoured 5 books, and all of them were solid 4 star reads. I was quite happy with every single book, and had few complaints. I read a few sports romances, a billionaire romance, and a police romance. Trope wise there was single mom, workplace, age gap, forbidden, brother's best friend, single bed, second chance, and suspense. Oh how I loved all of it. Full disclosure: All five of the books I read this week were advanced copies from authors and pr companies. That doesn't affect my rating, or opinion, on the books though. I would be all in regardless.

Did you have a favorite book this last week? Was there one that stood out above the rest? For me, I think it was Hello Billionaire.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Groundball by Lisa Suzanne

This fourth book in the Vegas Heat series had my jaw dropping. We pick up after that major cliffhanger, and things are still up in the air. There were so many little things that happened in Groundball that I can't talk about, but desperately want to. Plus what happened toward the end? Not to mention what happened at the end? DAMN! Can I have Hardball now please? PLEASE! I am so not ready for Cooper and Gabby's story to be over, but at the same time I need to know what happens. (also, Lisa Suzanne mentioned in her facebook group that she's setting up dates for season two!)

Coast to Coast by Cali Melle

I LOVE the Wyncote Wolves. While college hockey isn't my preferred, there is just something about these characters that draws me in. So I can only assume it is Cali's storytelling. Coast to Coast was a book I was excited about. We had met both characters previously, and I just knew they would be amazing together. I wasn't disappointed in their connection at all. I fully enjoyed every moment of their time together, and their relationship bloomed wonderfully. The only things I had issues with was that the story seemed rushed. Also we didn't get to fully know Simon. He had alluded to things in his past, but we didn't find out what that was. No matter what though I enjoyed the story, and am looking forward to the next. (It's Vaughn's story!)

Hello Billionaire by Kelsie Hoss

Hello Billionaire was my introduction to Kelsie Hoss, and let me tell you I will return! This single mom, workplace romance had everything I liked. I mean from the very beginning when Farrah door dings the Tesla next to her, I was all in. Because of course, OF COURSE, it had to belong to Gage. The attraction was obvious, the flirting began slowly, the passion (once we got there) was intense. I absolutely loved this story. My favorite part though was that Farrah wasn't willing to settle. She knew what she wanted in the relationship, laid it all out there, and wasn't backing down. Now of course the conversations, and scenes, with Farrah's ex-husband were difficult to read. I did not like it when he appeared, and it put a damper on the mood. That being said, it's also real life being mixed in. So it is showing that aspect, which I can appreciate. I'm ready for the next story. I'm invested, and I need to see these now familiar faces find their happily ever afters.

Never Too Late by Rue Lennox

Rue Lennox did it again. She wrote a story where I fell for the characters, was invested in their journey towards a happily ever after, and was captivated by the suspense. OH THE SUSPENSE! My only complaint was that the book felt rushed. I wanted to spend more time with the couple, and I felt there was more opportunity for drama (from the woman Jake had been seeing), and for the suspense to be more grand. Not sure if I'm putting that into words correctly. I guess you could say I was left wanting more.

Over My Brother's Dead Body, Chase Andrews by Piper Rayne

Piper Rayne has had this story building for a while now. Ever since Twyla was introduced to the Kingsmen world, I knew that her story would be one of my favorites. OMBDBCA could have easily been read in one sitting. That being said I tried to slow it down, and did make it stretch over the course of two days. I loved the connection that Chase and Twyla had. I loved how their relationship built. The steam was so good. The grand gesture was perfection! The build up for the story featuring Miles was also quite epic. I have high hopes for his and Bryce's story. I'm going to miss the Kingsmen, but am ready to get to know the Chicago Grizzlies.

Thank you to all the authors listed above for providing me with advanced copies of their books.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

What I Read Last Week

Spring break is officially over, and my kids are back to school. We had a great week together, and didn't let that little bug ruin too much of our plans. My kids did a lot of fun activities, and hopefully made some good memories. I think the highlight was bowling. We all had a good time, and bowled decently. 

When it comes to reading my week was really good. I read 6 books, and enjoyed the majority of them. Four books were advanced copies from the authors (and/or PR teams), and two were already on my kindle. There were 3 small town romances, 2 sports romances, and 1 paranormal. It was a nice little variety.

So what were the six books that I read this week? Keep scrolling to find out!

I would love to hear about the books you read, or booktubers you watched, and anything bookish. Please share!

Happy Reading,
Laura

 Yours to Take by Emily Silver

The meet cute in this book had me laughing. The setting was fabulous. I love a good small town, and it being set on a family ranch was just that much better. Our heroine was lovable. Our hero had potential. While the story was good, this wasn't my favorite. It felt lacking, and that connection between the characters wasn't strong. I'll still be returning for the next book in the series because the Winchester family intrigues me. I want to see each of them get their happily ever after. I went into a little more detail with my review over on Goodreads.

A False Start by Elsie Silver

I LOVED this story. Seriously so good. Elsie Silver is an amazing writer, and the characters she creates are some of my favorites. While I did enjoy this story, I felt like it was missing a lot of Griff's point of view. I wanted more of his history, and his struggles. Plus there was that reveal that seemed major at the time, but then didn't really amount to anything. Again, I went into more detail over on Goodreads if you're curious.

Batter Up by Hallie Bennett

Oof, this book was a hot mess. I went in knowing it was a baseball romance with a plus size female main character. I also knew it was instalove. Instalove is fine. It is. As long as there is a connection between the characters. I did not feel that what so ever. Our heroine clearly hated her body, and her self esteem was in the trash. Then there was our hero who was over the top and quite annoying. He was trying to be all alpha-ish, but it was a miss. Thankfully this book was a novella so it all went quickly. Unfortunately I still wasted time reading it. 

Captive of the Night by Meg Anne & K Loraine

The Mate Games: Pestilence continues to pull me in. Not as much as War did, but that's okay. Different characters, different storylines, same world. I still am enjoying it. Now when the second book ended I thought that someone else was taken over. So when this book started and it was a different character I was confused. That could have just been my reading though and not fully paying attention. I liked this change up though, and how the possession played into the story. Also when the one characters past was revealed that was interesting. I knew there was something "special" about the character, but didn't know what it was. So this new piece of info just has things making sense. I am curious as to what will happen in the future, and how everything will play out. If you're wanting to read this book, it will be releasing on April 10, 2023. (although paperbacks are typically available a bit before hand.)

Almost Goodbye by Nola Marie

Oh Nola! This author continues to pull me into her storytelling, and has me falling for the characters. Almost Goodbye is Henry's story. We met him in the Sons of Sin series, and while I knew his story was coming, I didn't know what to expect. This age gap romance duet ends on a doozy of a cliffhanger. It is very much a second chance romance, and it is forbidden. Plus this small town is completely against Henry. Now because of what happened the town is also against Ashleigh. I loved that we were able to get to know Henry, and see all that he had been through over the years. I wish we had a point of view from Ashleigh during the same time. I would love to know what she dealt with during those 5 years. The way the secret came out was just what I was expecting. That being said I wasn't expecting what went down with Carter. Then there is Ashleigh's dad, and OOFTA he's a lot. I'm not a fan. I need the second half of this duet ASAP, but I have to wait until May. 

The Third Baseman by Lulu Moore

I don't even know what to say about this book. It wasn't really what I was expecting. Maybe it had to do with this being my introduction to Lulu Moore's storytelling. Or maybe it was the adding in of british terms (diary for schedule/calendar being one). Or it could have been the way the high school was portrayed that felt very hollywood, and not realistic. Or perhaps it was Jupiter and Marnie that I just didn't completely vibe with. I still cannot fully understand why 18 year old Jupiter did what he did. Yes it's been explained, but it still isn't sitting right. Now flash forward 14 years, and I'm confused as to why 32 year old Jupiter did what he did. I mean yes, he wanted her back, and was using that influence to make it happen, but again, not sitting right. Then there is Marnie, and I don't understand why she accepted the job. It doesn't matter how irresistible the owner is, you can still say no if it's not something you're interested in. Now did these two have a connection? Absolutely. From day one they had that connection. I'm not denying that. They are meant to be together. That much I can see. Now don't think I didn't like the book, because I did for the most part. I'm always up for a second chance romance, add in that it's sports related, and I'll read it. Will I read another book by Lulu? Possibly. I mean now that I know what to expect, I might give her books another go. The Third Baseman releases on March 29, 2023.

Thank you Emily Silver, Nola Marie, Lulu Moore, Meg Anne, and K Loraine for the advanced copies you provided me with.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

Jagged Thorns by January James {a review}

 "I like it here. The Isle of Crow is beautiful. It deserves to be seen."

January James is about to release Jagged Thorns. This is the first book in the Thorn trilogy, and hold on to your hats for a wild ride. The Isle of Crow is quite exclusive, and it is shrouded in mystery. Now outsiders are wanting to visit the island, not only to find out what happens here, but also to learn about a medication they are producing. It is this new venture that is bringing Vivian to the island. She has just been hired as the tour guide, but she has an ulterior motive for accepting the position. This item is the only thing that can help her sister. 

Let's talk tropes. From what I have gathered, Jagged Thorns falls into these categories: Forbidden, workplace, hate to love, billionaire, and suspense. It could also be a little forced proximity, and maybe soul mates; I haven't fully wrapped my head around it to make that declaration.

Before we get to my review, allow me to share the description for Jagged Thorns:

The Isle of Crow is elusive, exclusive and untouchable. Only the richly beautiful, and the beautifully rich are allowed in. But, a century has passed, and they want to open their doors, and I’m the new tour guide.

I’m to work for the latest generation of Thorn billionaires on the stormiest island in the British Isles. Home to the cruellest hearts that ever lived and the most thunderous eyes I’ve ever seen. He says he never wanted me there, but when his hands catch my hips, his dark stare tells a different story.

The Thorns are enigmatic, cunning and dangerous, and keeping one of the world’s deepest, dirtiest secrets. I can’t unsee it. I can’t unlearn it. And I can’t forget it. Because I’ve just fallen for the brightest, most beautiful Thorn of them all.

 

My rating for Jagged Thorns is:

4 stars!

Now on to my review!

First things first, THAT CLIFFHANGER! Even though I KNEW there was going to be a cliffhanger, I hadn't begun to process how it would be. Then it happened. Ugh. January James you're torturing me! It cannot end that way! 

Let's back up though. I can understand why Vivian applied for this job. It was what she felt she needed to do. So while yay for getting a job on this mysterious island, but I can also imagine how difficult it was for her to leave home. Now she has benn thrust into this new location, this new job, and knows no one. All this for one reason, and one reason only. It's very selfless of her. Then there is Rupert. He is determined to push back as much as he is able to get away with when it comes to the family business. That is his focus. That whole married by 27 thing isn't even at the front of his mind. Stopping his brother, or at least slowing him down, is. Now though this tour business is about to begin, and that's the last thing he wants.

I really liked the instant connection that Rupert felt with Vivian. It was very hate to love, and I'm here for it. He tried his best to avoid falling, but the wheels were already set in motion from the moment he saw her. You could tell that Vivian wasn't really feeling it at first. Was he gorgeous? Yes. Was she looking for a relationship? No. Nothing could happen between them. Nothing. Another thing that I loved was the mysteriousness of the island. We knew what was being created on the island, but we didn't know how, we didn't know really much of anything. That is what pulled me to the book when January approached me about an advanced copy. Then there is Ossian. January had me hating this man early on, and rightfully so. He is clearly one of the villains, and I cannot wait for the next two books to see what happens with him.  I'm also intrigued by Minty. She seems like a good sidekick for Vivian, and has taken her under her wing. This "townie" is going to be just what Vivian needs.

I have many questions regarding the consortium. Okay fine, I just have many questions, and the consortium part is just one. For those who haven't read the book, the consortium is the billionaires on the island who really control everything. They have rules and expectations for their families to adhere to, and if they don't there are grave consequences. I mentioned Ossian in this graphic ↓, but seriously what is this man's issue? He's probably going to end up on my love to hate list. I highly doubt he will redeem himself.

Now I will say that the first quarter of this book was a struggle for me. I get that a new world is being created, these characters need to be introduced, and the stage needs to be set. Yet at the same time it was a lot to get through. It seemed more of an intense build than I've experienced by other authors. Even with the paranormal books I've read, the build doesn't seem this grand. So I'm not 100% certain what to think about that. If I'm honest it did cause to me to almost DNF the book. But then as I sit and think about it, was it truly the book, or was it me coming off of another book and dealing with a book hangover? Doesn't really matter I guess. Once I made it past the set up the book became really interesting. Even more so as Vivian and Rupert began their working relationship. It began to show different things happening, it opened up more about the family, the island, and the issues taking place. When all this was happening, I found myself looking at all the details to try and figure out what was happening, as well as who could be behind it.

Obviously I have questions about things. I referenced that above. There was just something about what was revealed toward the end that had my jaw dropping. Everything that was uncovered just amped up the story that much more. I have this desire to know what is going to happen next. Pushing that aside though I also want to know more about the Thorns. Based on things that were shared there could be a major shake up about to happen. 

Let's talk about the relationship between Rupert and Vivian real quick. The attraction is there. That's been established. It is mutual. But we also know it cannot happen. So you need to cherish those steamy moments they give us because they will not last. Or at least I don't think they will until probably until book 3. 

I loved the conversation that Rupert had with Hector after the grand experience of the night before. Rupert has a point. Hector cannot deny it either. Especially given what's going on in HIS romantic life.

This book has a chokehold on me. While things may have started off a bit rocky, I cannot get this storyline off my mind. I need the next book immediately. Unfortunately, January James has said (in her group) that it won't be out until late May or early June. So now I need to exercise some patience. All I know is that I need to know what happens after that cliffhanger. That was quite the bomb to drop, and with the way things ended I just have more questions.

Do you read romantic suspense and/or mystery? I love them and cannot get enough. I hope you'll consider checking out Jagged Thorns when it releases on March 21! (psst: although if you want the paperback it looks like it's available NOW!)

Happy Reading,
Laura

Thank you January for providing me with an advanced copy of Jagged Thorns!

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

The Sky At Night by Samantha Lovelock {a review}

If you've been following me for a while now, you know that I adore Samantha Lovelock's writing. Her characters are some of my favorites, and I tend to devour each book she releases. Well, Samantha has a new book coming soon! The Sky at Night is a new adult, enemies to lovers, rockstar romance. I read an early copy, and it was AMAZING! Yes, The Sky At Night is an emotional read, but it's 100% worth it. It touches on some difficult situations, and the majority of the story takes place at The Overlook. Both of our main characters are headed there to work on themselves, and find a way to work through the traumas they have been living with.

Here's the description of the book:

 

He has women falling at his feet. I plan to bring him to his knees.

Heroin Heartbreak is the hottest band around, and Ty McInnis is the reason why. His blistering blend of smoldering sexiness, bad-boy charm, and killer voice makes him the perfect front man. But until I got here, he was just a faceless voice on the radio in my messed-up world.

The Overlook is supposed to be the place for me to heal the wounds left by my father. Instead, Ty has made it his mission to make my stay here pure hell. He has no idea who he's playing with, though. I give as good as I get—and then some. I've already survived the Devil personified, and this cocky rockstar has nothing on him. The trouble is, the more I learn about Ty, the more something in me craves what he's trying so desperately to hide.

It's all fun and games until somebody loses their heart. Why am I starting to think that somebody is going to be me?

 

Sounds good, I know!

Here's the thing I didn't know before going into the story, and I'll tell you now I wasn't sure I was ready for this person to get a redemption arc. If you've read the Folkestone Sins series, then you might know the name I'm about to say. It's Hali. Yes, Hali is getting a redemption arc. We know what she's done in the past, and while I screamed "NO" when her name appeared, I've since changed my tune. Hali has been through a lot in her 18 years. A LOT. Once she explains everything, you get a better understanding of her. You see the struggle, the uncertainty, the loneliness. Samantha Lovelock went and made my heartbreak for Hali. While Hali didn't want to spend 4 weeks at The Overlook, it's about to change her life. It was really interesting to see Hali outside of Folkestone, see her go through the work to deal with her past, find a good friend in Vann, and ultimately come out of this in a good place. 

Then there is Ty. He's coming back to The Overlook for a bit of "maintenance". He's just experienced a big shake up in his life, and wants to get on top of things before he spirals. So while there is a small break in the tour, he's taking care of business. Does he expect to meet the woman, that's going to change his life, while there? No, obviously not. Yet he cannot look away. First things first though, and that's working on himself.

The connection that Ty and Hali had was interesting. I loved the verbal volleys that went back and forth. I loved how he could see the person underneath the pain. I loved how they weren't afraid to speak about the hard things together. These two bonded through the things that hurt them, but they also grew stronger as they both healed. Now don't get me wrong, these two also had some humorous moments together, and I appreciated those. Especially when the more difficult moments of their pasts were discussed.

Vann and Kess were fantastic side kicks for our duo. Vann was right there with Hali throughout her time at The Overlook. Yes she was there for her own reasons, and I really think that this new found friendship benefitted them both. As for Kess, he's been Ty's "brother" for a long time. He knows what Ty has gone through, and he knows that Ty has been by his side for the issues of his past. Kess can also see when Ty is about to spiral, and gives him the needed push to get help. Then there is Mari, who was just amazing. She was able to see her clients for who they are underneath the mask. Mari knows how to get them to open up, shed some light on those dark spaces, and get them to a point of healing/grieving/moving forward. 

This book spoke on some very difficult topics, and as such there are trigger/content warnings. So please keep these in mind should you read The Sky At Night.

Even though I knew those harder topics were going to be discussed, a part of me was not anticipating tearing up while reading. Yet it happened twice. The way Samantha put these words to paper just hit me in the feelings just right. So here I was taking all that in, and tearing up for the characters. Honestly I think the tears were more so for the things that Hali had been through than that of Ty, but that doesn't mean his story isn't as heartbreaking.

There was so much in this story that had me looking at personal experiences. Not that I've experienced what either of these two have, but I have dealt with parental issues. So to read those scenes were touching. I think that's why I liked this quote from Mari: 

She was telling Hali that she could start anew. It was eye opening for Hali, adn it was also a quote that I thought would be beneficial for others. It is one of those lines that just stands out, and makes an impact. Mari was letting Hali know that she doesn't have to be that person she was back in Folkestone. This is her opportunity to be the person she truly is, that woman that is hidden deep but is her authentic self.

I don't think I can say it enough, but this book was so spectacular. Samantha Lovelock continues to impress me with her storytelling and character development. It's what keeps me coming back for more, and it's a reason she is an auto-buy author for me.

The epilogue of The Sky At Night had me SCREAMING! That last line just has me anticipating Wounded Things that much more, and I cannot wait to return to Folkestone. I am hoping that when we do return that everyone sees the work Hali has put in, and that they give her the chance to show her growth. I'm a bit worried that the group won't accept her, but thankfully she has Ty, Vann, and Kess in her corner.

You need to read The Sky At Night. You do. This story has just grabbed hold of my heart, and had me doing a 180 on my feelings for Hali. I hope you'll give it a chance also. Also, if the next book is not Kess and Vann's story I will be disappointed. I need their story, and to see how their relationship came to be.

Happy Reading,

Thank you Samantha for providing me with an advanced copy of The Sky At Night. 

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