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The Ties That Bind Us #1
Living with the Past
Kayden
I have always dreamed of having a place I could call home, a place where I could be wanted and loved. But what if that fantasy quickly becomes my worst nightmare?
I have watched from the shadows for years, pretending to be unaffected by the depraved sickness etched into my soul. Like a moth to the flame, I was drawn to his light, and I protected him from the darkness he knew nothing about.
My facade is crumbling; my toxic truth shattering the illusion I carefully crafted. I have loved him in secret for years, but my toxic obsession demands to be heard.
As my darkest secrets threaten to come to life, I feel like I’m living on borrowed time and have nothing left to lose.
Sometimes, the truth is the most dangerous reality of all.
Rhys
There is an age-old adage that the blood of the covenant is stronger than the water of the womb; yet despite this, there exists an empty void in my heart where a missing piece should be.
He is that lost piece; my stepbrother, the anchor of my soul, everything I shouldn’t want. For years, I’ve kept my twisted desire locked away, denying it even to myself, even with his name written on my heart like a brand.
The world I once knew shatters like glass around me, my childhood home becoming a house of secrets, pain, and lies. In the ruins of destruction, I’m forced to confront the truths I’ve been blind to.
Everything I’ve ever wanted is within my grasp. Why, then, does it feel like my dream is living on borrowed time?
Maybe, just maybe, blood was always thicker than water…
I have always dreamed of having a place I could call home, a place where I could be wanted and loved. But what if that fantasy quickly becomes my worst nightmare?
I have watched from the shadows for years, pretending to be unaffected by the depraved sickness etched into my soul. Like a moth to the flame, I was drawn to his light, and I protected him from the darkness he knew nothing about.
My facade is crumbling; my toxic truth shattering the illusion I carefully crafted. I have loved him in secret for years, but my toxic obsession demands to be heard.
As my darkest secrets threaten to come to life, I feel like I’m living on borrowed time and have nothing left to lose.
Sometimes, the truth is the most dangerous reality of all.
Rhys
There is an age-old adage that the blood of the covenant is stronger than the water of the womb; yet despite this, there exists an empty void in my heart where a missing piece should be.
He is that lost piece; my stepbrother, the anchor of my soul, everything I shouldn’t want. For years, I’ve kept my twisted desire locked away, denying it even to myself, even with his name written on my heart like a brand.
The world I once knew shatters like glass around me, my childhood home becoming a house of secrets, pain, and lies. In the ruins of destruction, I’m forced to confront the truths I’ve been blind to.
Everything I’ve ever wanted is within my grasp. Why, then, does it feel like my dream is living on borrowed time?
Maybe, just maybe, blood was always thicker than water…
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 24, 2023
50 people are currently reading
455 people want to read
About the author
S.K. Graves
6 books223 followersS. K. Graves lives in the U.K. with her family— three crazy crotch goblins and a furbaby— on a steady diet of zero sleep, Pepsi Max, and tea by the bucket load. Apparently people think she's shy when they meet her, then they get to know her and realise how wrong they really were as her crazy quickly comes out. She fell in love with reading as a form of escapism and loves to explore things on the darker side of life. She loves having the opportunity to let the voices in her head tell their stories, even if they hurt. But most of all, she loves to hear from her readers so please stop by and leave a message.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
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April 21, 2023This is a very intense and graphic story so please make sure you read the triggers.
Unfortunately the writing style of this book just wasn’t for me, and that’s personal taste, I found the amount of inner dialogue was too much and that dialogue was written extremely descriptively which I struggled with. Again, it’s personal preference and I am sure others will enjoy.
Unfortunately the writing style of this book just wasn’t for me, and that’s personal taste, I found the amount of inner dialogue was too much and that dialogue was written extremely descriptively which I struggled with. Again, it’s personal preference and I am sure others will enjoy.
Read
April 22, 2023This was a new-to-me author and an ARC read. I only accept/ask for ARCs from new-to-me authors that I'm pretty sure I'm going to love based on the blurb, because I really like writing positive reviews. But this book didn't really work for me.
Living With the Past had all the elements I usually love - angsty MM, dark romance, step-brothers, all the triggers - and I can see from all the 5 star reviews that it totally hit the mark for most early readers, so I am in the minority here. It just wasn't for me. For me, the writing style was overly descriptive and the language didn't really fit the MC ages and there were some confusing plot points.
That said it is a definite hit for so many readers, so please don't let me put you off reading it.
Living With the Past had all the elements I usually love - angsty MM, dark romance, step-brothers, all the triggers - and I can see from all the 5 star reviews that it totally hit the mark for most early readers, so I am in the minority here. It just wasn't for me. For me, the writing style was overly descriptive and the language didn't really fit the MC ages and there were some confusing plot points.
That said it is a definite hit for so many readers, so please don't let me put you off reading it.
dnf
April 22, 2023By chapter 3 I found myself annoyed by many separate issues and I’m just going to move on.
-very exaggerated writing (it’s just not for me).
-how old is this kid? I thought he was a young kid in the first chapter cause of the way his inner voice was written… But then in the second chapter it was 10 years earlier and he’s a little kid?
-the second chapter was odd to me. It starts very “little kid” where he’s talking about his mummy and his toy in short ways (kinda like you’d expect) and then all of a sudden he’s having pretty deep thoughts for a kid. Like how he can see the darkness in his eyes, and the way he describes things… more like a teen or adult.
-the basically immediate brotherly affection. It was insta love in a brother way, and it just felt jarring to me.
-h isn’t a casual drug guys…
Basically I’m writing these things down for me for later reference.
-very exaggerated writing (it’s just not for me).
-how old is this kid? I thought he was a young kid in the first chapter cause of the way his inner voice was written… But then in the second chapter it was 10 years earlier and he’s a little kid?
-the second chapter was odd to me. It starts very “little kid” where he’s talking about his mummy and his toy in short ways (kinda like you’d expect) and then all of a sudden he’s having pretty deep thoughts for a kid. Like how he can see the darkness in his eyes, and the way he describes things… more like a teen or adult.
-the basically immediate brotherly affection. It was insta love in a brother way, and it just felt jarring to me.
-h isn’t a casual drug guys…
Basically I’m writing these things down for me for later reference.
April 20, 2023
4.5 stars. Wow. My thoughts are all over the place after this book. A few house-keeping items. This is a duet so we do not have a HEA at the end of the book, not even a HFN, more of an “oh shit that’s how it ends”? So yes there is a cliffhanger. Also this is trigger central. If you have any triggers I beg you to check the triggers list because this probably has it.
Now if you made it this far let me talk about the book:
It was disgusting, depraved, repulsive and I couldn’t put it down!! It was like driving past a car wreck with your face hanging out the window. It was a “never-ending series of unfortunate events”. I don’t even know how I felt while reading this book. It was incredibly intense with no breaks. And I say all of this in the best way possible. None of the above is anything negative.
Kayden has literally been through hell and hasn’t even come back yet. It just keeps on going for him. But in comes his “little devil”, his step-brother Rhys who is the only light he has in the dark, but who also is a little bit broken. There’s only so much Rhys can do for his “angel” when Kayden won’t tell him any of the secrets that will absolutely destroy Rhys.
So what are they to do to get over this darkness? Have kinky sex. Even with all the craziness happening in this story I did not feel there was any lack of sexy times in this book, and the scenes were well done! There was one scene (near the end of chapter 21) that I had to skip over as there was a sounding scene but I didn’t feel like I missed anything by skipping that.
I did feel like I got lost while reading quite a bit and I’m not sure if it’s because of the issues the MCs were dealing with as there was a lot of inner dialogue or because of the very descriptive paragraphs but I did have a bit of a hard time with that.
Overall, the story itself was fantastic. If you want an intense read that will leave you speechless and waiting by the door or your kindle for the release of book 2 I absolutely recommend this book!
Now if you made it this far let me talk about the book:
It was disgusting, depraved, repulsive and I couldn’t put it down!! It was like driving past a car wreck with your face hanging out the window. It was a “never-ending series of unfortunate events”. I don’t even know how I felt while reading this book. It was incredibly intense with no breaks. And I say all of this in the best way possible. None of the above is anything negative.
Kayden has literally been through hell and hasn’t even come back yet. It just keeps on going for him. But in comes his “little devil”, his step-brother Rhys who is the only light he has in the dark, but who also is a little bit broken. There’s only so much Rhys can do for his “angel” when Kayden won’t tell him any of the secrets that will absolutely destroy Rhys.
So what are they to do to get over this darkness? Have kinky sex. Even with all the craziness happening in this story I did not feel there was any lack of sexy times in this book, and the scenes were well done! There was one scene (near the end of chapter 21) that I had to skip over as there was a sounding scene but I didn’t feel like I missed anything by skipping that.
I did feel like I got lost while reading quite a bit and I’m not sure if it’s because of the issues the MCs were dealing with as there was a lot of inner dialogue or because of the very descriptive paragraphs but I did have a bit of a hard time with that.
Overall, the story itself was fantastic. If you want an intense read that will leave you speechless and waiting by the door or your kindle for the release of book 2 I absolutely recommend this book!
April 24, 2023
"I haven't spoken to you in years, but my heart has bled for you every second that's passed."
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Cliffhanger
Spice Rating: 4/5 🔥🔥🔥🔥
"My soul has talked to yours every night in my dreams."
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
First I want to preface that you should be in a good place mentally before reading this book. This has to be the hardest review I've ever written and for good reason. My god, my heart has never been more broken and ruined for these two. I came into this book completely unaware of how it would affect me and how it would change my life completely. The world I see now is simply 'before Living With The Past' and 'after Living With The Past'. There is so much trauma and mental destruction in this book, some parts were really hard to read and I never knew what would happen next. Rhys and Kayden are the definition of broken boys, Kayden especially, and god has he been through hell and back. Without spoiling anything, just know this is a dark read, you will probably ugly cry in parts, but I couldn't put it down for even one second. It wasn't an HEA or even HFN, with a major cliffhanger that left me reeling, but don't let that deter you from reading this book! I absolutely loved it, despite how much it hurt, and I look forward to reading more from this author!
Read if you like:
❣️ MM Romance
❣️ Stepbrothers
❣️ Pining
❣️ Taboo
❣️ Somnophilia
❣️ Dark
Trigger and Content Warnings: Suicidal thoughts, attempted suicide, explicit sexual content, child abuse, manipulation, drug use, forced drugging, degradation, scarification, somnophilia, self harm, rape, attempted rape, taboo relationships.
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual, First Person
HEA: Cliffhanger
Spice Rating: 4/5 🔥🔥🔥🔥
"My soul has talked to yours every night in my dreams."
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
First I want to preface that you should be in a good place mentally before reading this book. This has to be the hardest review I've ever written and for good reason. My god, my heart has never been more broken and ruined for these two. I came into this book completely unaware of how it would affect me and how it would change my life completely. The world I see now is simply 'before Living With The Past' and 'after Living With The Past'. There is so much trauma and mental destruction in this book, some parts were really hard to read and I never knew what would happen next. Rhys and Kayden are the definition of broken boys, Kayden especially, and god has he been through hell and back. Without spoiling anything, just know this is a dark read, you will probably ugly cry in parts, but I couldn't put it down for even one second. It wasn't an HEA or even HFN, with a major cliffhanger that left me reeling, but don't let that deter you from reading this book! I absolutely loved it, despite how much it hurt, and I look forward to reading more from this author!
Read if you like:
❣️ MM Romance
❣️ Stepbrothers
❣️ Pining
❣️ Taboo
❣️ Somnophilia
❣️ Dark
Trigger and Content Warnings: Suicidal thoughts, attempted suicide, explicit sexual content, child abuse, manipulation, drug use, forced drugging, degradation, scarification, somnophilia, self harm, rape, attempted rape, taboo relationships.
Read
April 26, 2023I've been sitting with this for a few days. My goal is to have some kind of constructive criticism when I don't connect with a book. So this comes from a place of truly not wanting to be discouraging. I absolutely love the premise of the book and still believe it has promise, unfortunately it was a DNF for me.
The overwhelming amount of hyperbole and the constant use of similes and metaphors in this book was a deterrent from the actual plot. I don't think it was intentional but it was so overly dramatic that I found myself skimming frequently. The essence of the story was dramatic enough. There were so many paragraphs repeating the exact same sentiment. The redundancies failed to progress the plot or even further develop characters.
The length of certain scenes felt unnecessary and a bit gratuitous. The shock value was already there from the prologue. I also found the interactions with the friend group bizarre and hard to follow. The internal dialogue was a huge disconnect for me since these boys are 18 and 22 (I think) but are written as if they are many decades older and reflecting on life.
All that to say that I absolutely understand why others loved it - it’s emotional with likable MCs. However, I think scaling back and simplifying the internal dialogue would have made a more powerful, cohesive and believable reading experience. In my opinion, the bones of a great story are there but the execution is not.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
The overwhelming amount of hyperbole and the constant use of similes and metaphors in this book was a deterrent from the actual plot. I don't think it was intentional but it was so overly dramatic that I found myself skimming frequently. The essence of the story was dramatic enough. There were so many paragraphs repeating the exact same sentiment. The redundancies failed to progress the plot or even further develop characters.
The length of certain scenes felt unnecessary and a bit gratuitous. The shock value was already there from the prologue. I also found the interactions with the friend group bizarre and hard to follow. The internal dialogue was a huge disconnect for me since these boys are 18 and 22 (I think) but are written as if they are many decades older and reflecting on life.
All that to say that I absolutely understand why others loved it - it’s emotional with likable MCs. However, I think scaling back and simplifying the internal dialogue would have made a more powerful, cohesive and believable reading experience. In my opinion, the bones of a great story are there but the execution is not.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 6, 2023
I received an arc for this book and was excited as the story had all the elements I liked and I was looking forward to reading a darker mm romance. Unfortunately this book was a miss. The writing style just wasn’t for me, it was too overly descriptive and repetitive to the point I found myself skimming and at times it didn’t feel right for the character or what was happening. As well the story seemed a bit all over the place and predictable, with a lot of different story lines thrown in and certain plot points not fleshed out. I found myself confused at times and feeling like there was inconsistencies throughout.
I did enjoy the relationship between Kayden and Rhys. There draw to each other and their intense love and unending sacrifice for the other and it had some good spice. It is because of them and my hope that some of the plot holes/inconsistencies will be fleshed out in the next book as there are good plot points there, that I do plan to continue the series.
I know there are many out there who did enjoy this book, not all books work for everyone so if the plot sounds interesting to you I do suggest you give it a read. I by no means am trying to deter anyone from giving it a go, or saying you won’t like it, I believe everyone should read what they want despite reviews. These are just my thoughts and feelings and unfortunately the book just didn’t work for me. Specially as I didn’t realize it had a trope/trigger I personally do not enjoy reading but wasn’t aware was in it.
I did enjoy the relationship between Kayden and Rhys. There draw to each other and their intense love and unending sacrifice for the other and it had some good spice. It is because of them and my hope that some of the plot holes/inconsistencies will be fleshed out in the next book as there are good plot points there, that I do plan to continue the series.
I know there are many out there who did enjoy this book, not all books work for everyone so if the plot sounds interesting to you I do suggest you give it a read. I by no means am trying to deter anyone from giving it a go, or saying you won’t like it, I believe everyone should read what they want despite reviews. These are just my thoughts and feelings and unfortunately the book just didn’t work for me. Specially as I didn’t realize it had a trope/trigger I personally do not enjoy reading but wasn’t aware was in it.
April 24, 2023
My Heart is Shredded!!!!
S.K. Graves, what have you done to me??? Your broken boys have broken me right along with them. This book is a book to read when you are looking for something that with take you to some very dark places. I found that these boys wrapped their hands around my heart and have yet to let go. This is a sad, very sad and disturbing story so please heed the trigger warnings as this author is brave and has delved head first into some very challenging themes and topics.
I loved how descriptive and in depth this story goes. I felt totally enmeshed with the characters and because of this, I loved the experience of this book. I do warn you, make sure you have some good chocolate and some tissues as you will need this. On the flip side, these characters have some of the best chemistry I have seen and when they are together, their whole world ignites with the heat they give off. Now . . . what am I gonna do until November . . . I need the second book NOW!!!!
S.K. Graves, what have you done to me??? Your broken boys have broken me right along with them. This book is a book to read when you are looking for something that with take you to some very dark places. I found that these boys wrapped their hands around my heart and have yet to let go. This is a sad, very sad and disturbing story so please heed the trigger warnings as this author is brave and has delved head first into some very challenging themes and topics.
I loved how descriptive and in depth this story goes. I felt totally enmeshed with the characters and because of this, I loved the experience of this book. I do warn you, make sure you have some good chocolate and some tissues as you will need this. On the flip side, these characters have some of the best chemistry I have seen and when they are together, their whole world ignites with the heat they give off. Now . . . what am I gonna do until November . . . I need the second book NOW!!!!
April 27, 2023
The synopsis of this story was so intriguing that I couldn’t pass this up.
I really liked the idea of these characters and I wanted a great story for them.
However, the writing style just wasn’t for me.
Internal monologues went on for way longer than it needed to – it was basically the same things being said over and over again, only using different words.
Please, PLEASE do read the trigger warnings.
I really liked the idea of these characters and I wanted a great story for them.
However, the writing style just wasn’t for me.
Internal monologues went on for way longer than it needed to – it was basically the same things being said over and over again, only using different words.
Please, PLEASE do read the trigger warnings.
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April 24, 2023I think this is one of those books you either love or hate and I hated it. Plot/characters/etc aside, what really didn’t vibe for me was the writing style. It’s incredibly descriptive to the point that my eyes were glazing over. Entire passages went by and I had no idea what the heck the point was.
This is also very dark and imo almost gratuitously so. The multiple CSA scenes were incredibly difficult to read and I didn’t think there needed to be as much detail as there was to make the point that it was ongoing and traumatic.
Also the main characters don’t meet up in the present until like 40% in?! I like my romances to have lots of interactions but even when they were in the same place much of the story is told through internal dialogue which I also found boring.
Clearly this author isn’t for me and I won’t be reading any more by them - but some people won’t be bothered by these things and I will say the story itself is compelling.
I received an advanced copy for review - all opinions are my own.
Here’s an example of the descriptive writing:
“The outside world is filled with such life and vitality, a complete contradiction to where I am now. If you were to peel back the white outer casing and shred through the false layers of deception, you’d see the rot that has infested every particle of this building. The final revelation would be hauntingly disturbing, a macabre sight revealing the squalid cesspool that is human depravity. It’s only a matter of time till it reaches epidemic levels and escapes its confines like the plague-ridden zombies of most people’s nightmares.”
This is also very dark and imo almost gratuitously so. The multiple CSA scenes were incredibly difficult to read and I didn’t think there needed to be as much detail as there was to make the point that it was ongoing and traumatic.
Also the main characters don’t meet up in the present until like 40% in?! I like my romances to have lots of interactions but even when they were in the same place much of the story is told through internal dialogue which I also found boring.
Clearly this author isn’t for me and I won’t be reading any more by them - but some people won’t be bothered by these things and I will say the story itself is compelling.
I received an advanced copy for review - all opinions are my own.
Here’s an example of the descriptive writing:
“The outside world is filled with such life and vitality, a complete contradiction to where I am now. If you were to peel back the white outer casing and shred through the false layers of deception, you’d see the rot that has infested every particle of this building. The final revelation would be hauntingly disturbing, a macabre sight revealing the squalid cesspool that is human depravity. It’s only a matter of time till it reaches epidemic levels and escapes its confines like the plague-ridden zombies of most people’s nightmares.”
Read
April 25, 2023While I'm usually a huge fan of these types of romances and could definitely see the draw here with the premise, the execution didn't quite work for me.
This was a definitely a me issue, I'm not too fond of long, overdescriptive paragraphs and most of this book consists of internal monologue and that didn't quite fit with my image of Kayden, either as a boy or later on. I did enjoy aspects of this book, but the writing made me struggle with finishing multiple times. Nevertheless, I'm sure this book will appeal to the right audience and tastes vary so while I may not enjoy the writing style, I'm sure others will fall head over heels for Kayden and Rhys!.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a definitely a me issue, I'm not too fond of long, overdescriptive paragraphs and most of this book consists of internal monologue and that didn't quite fit with my image of Kayden, either as a boy or later on. I did enjoy aspects of this book, but the writing made me struggle with finishing multiple times. Nevertheless, I'm sure this book will appeal to the right audience and tastes vary so while I may not enjoy the writing style, I'm sure others will fall head over heels for Kayden and Rhys!.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
dnf
January 30, 2024I read 14% of the book on April 24 2023, since then I didn't come back to read as the writing style didn't mesh with me. After it sat on my currently reading for so long, I'm finally DNF-ing it. Hopefully will come back to it!
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April 24, 2023Holy shit, what did I just willingly read???
This has to be one of the darkest things I've subjected myself to. Literally relentless in its description of pain and suffering. But also extremely captivating, with twists and turns up until the very end!
Kayden and Rhys are step-brothers, both traumatised by the abuse of their father, albeit in different ways. When their families join when they're young children, they develop an instant connection. But their close relationship is jeopardised when Rhys, being two years old, disappears out of Kayden's life during university, living Kayden to struggle through existence without him. But now, with Rhys back for the summer, the two boys reconnect in ways they've only both dreamt of.
This book was a fever dream. Part of this was due to the fact Kayden went down the rabbit hole every 5 seconds, caving into his drug additions to help himself self-medicate. As a reader, we have to experience his loose grip on time and reality with him. In general though, it's the dark and gritty highly descriptive - yet often poetic - prose that make this book feel like one big trip. These boys have issues, and they're not afraid to talk about them. 😂
This book is also extemelyyyy spicy, often the only reprieve from the dark chaos and madness. 🔥🔥🔥 But again, shit often gets dark, so be prepared for more than a little depravity and blood play 🔪🩸
My favourite thing about their dynamic was how much they cared about each other. Both are equally possessive and adoring of each other, in the best way.
If you're willing to have your heart and soul ripped up reading about two very fucked up lost boys, this could be the book for you!
🛑 Please heed trigger warnings given at the beginning of the book.
This book ends on a cliffhanger.
Roll on book 2 so these boys can get some peace!!!
Follow me on Instagram!
This has to be one of the darkest things I've subjected myself to. Literally relentless in its description of pain and suffering. But also extremely captivating, with twists and turns up until the very end!
Kayden and Rhys are step-brothers, both traumatised by the abuse of their father, albeit in different ways. When their families join when they're young children, they develop an instant connection. But their close relationship is jeopardised when Rhys, being two years old, disappears out of Kayden's life during university, living Kayden to struggle through existence without him. But now, with Rhys back for the summer, the two boys reconnect in ways they've only both dreamt of.
This book was a fever dream. Part of this was due to the fact Kayden went down the rabbit hole every 5 seconds, caving into his drug additions to help himself self-medicate. As a reader, we have to experience his loose grip on time and reality with him. In general though, it's the dark and gritty highly descriptive - yet often poetic - prose that make this book feel like one big trip. These boys have issues, and they're not afraid to talk about them. 😂
This book is also extemelyyyy spicy, often the only reprieve from the dark chaos and madness. 🔥🔥🔥 But again, shit often gets dark, so be prepared for more than a little depravity and blood play 🔪🩸
My favourite thing about their dynamic was how much they cared about each other. Both are equally possessive and adoring of each other, in the best way.
If you're willing to have your heart and soul ripped up reading about two very fucked up lost boys, this could be the book for you!
🛑 Please heed trigger warnings given at the beginning of the book.
This book ends on a cliffhanger.
Roll on book 2 so these boys can get some peace!!!
Follow me on Instagram!
May 8, 2023
TRIGGER WARNING ⚠️
This book contains a lot of triggers!!
This book is intense and an emotional disaster in the best possible way. Although it was overwhelming at times with the personal dialogues of both MC's, the story was riveting and unlike any other I've read. You can tell by the writing that so much thought went into this story, I loved it!
My heart broke 💔 for Kayden as he was in literall hell, and it just kept happening. I loved Rhys for being the light and trying to be Kaydens anchor. The chemistry these two have is unreal, and I'm here for it! 🖤🖤
The twists in this story had me on edge and my mind ticking over. The cliffhanger was brutal! But im definitely intrigued to see what happens in the next book, I can't wait to have my hands on it!
This book contains a lot of triggers!!
This book is intense and an emotional disaster in the best possible way. Although it was overwhelming at times with the personal dialogues of both MC's, the story was riveting and unlike any other I've read. You can tell by the writing that so much thought went into this story, I loved it!
My heart broke 💔 for Kayden as he was in literall hell, and it just kept happening. I loved Rhys for being the light and trying to be Kaydens anchor. The chemistry these two have is unreal, and I'm here for it! 🖤🖤
The twists in this story had me on edge and my mind ticking over. The cliffhanger was brutal! But im definitely intrigued to see what happens in the next book, I can't wait to have my hands on it!
May 10, 2023
READ THE TRIGGERS!!!!
This book is dark and brutal.
It wasn’t for me. I got lost in the plot several times and had a tough time following the story.
However, it is well written, it just simply wasn’t my taste.
BUT, READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS!
This book is dark and brutal.
It wasn’t for me. I got lost in the plot several times and had a tough time following the story.
However, it is well written, it just simply wasn’t my taste.
BUT, READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS!
April 21, 2023
WOW 🥺
I knew this book was going to be intense, but it was utterly heartbreaking and soul destroying it is so very dark and deals with alot of hard to read topics. The things Kayden went through... 😭that poor beautiful broken boy.
"There he is, before me, beautifully broken and utterly perfect."
I couldn't put the book down it was so unlike anything I have ever read before. Some parts of the book were really difficult to read. The inner dialogue from both kayden and Rhys gave a real insight into the turmoil both of these boys were going through, and it literally broke my heart.
“You are worthy of being loved, angel.”
The love Kayden and Rhys have for each other is so beautiful. And the way Kayden tries to protect Rhys from all he had been though was utterly amazing.
“You glow in the ever present darkness that surrounds us, angel, radiating a pure light that guides me through even my darkest days. Never doubt me, for I will be your constant companion, always by your side, no matter what the universe throws our way.”
I feel like I can't even put into words the way this book made me feel. It has a real melancholy around it that sucks you in and really makes you feel as though you are experiencing everything that is on the page. There are soaring highs and rock bottom lows, and i feel as though I have been there for all of them, and I am so rooting for these boys and need them to have their happily ever after more than i need my next breath.
🖤 this book is part of a duet and ends on a cliffhanger. Also, there are some hefty trigger warnings with this one, so please read them before stating the book 🖤
I knew this book was going to be intense, but it was utterly heartbreaking and soul destroying it is so very dark and deals with alot of hard to read topics. The things Kayden went through... 😭that poor beautiful broken boy.
"There he is, before me, beautifully broken and utterly perfect."
I couldn't put the book down it was so unlike anything I have ever read before. Some parts of the book were really difficult to read. The inner dialogue from both kayden and Rhys gave a real insight into the turmoil both of these boys were going through, and it literally broke my heart.
“You are worthy of being loved, angel.”
The love Kayden and Rhys have for each other is so beautiful. And the way Kayden tries to protect Rhys from all he had been though was utterly amazing.
“You glow in the ever present darkness that surrounds us, angel, radiating a pure light that guides me through even my darkest days. Never doubt me, for I will be your constant companion, always by your side, no matter what the universe throws our way.”
I feel like I can't even put into words the way this book made me feel. It has a real melancholy around it that sucks you in and really makes you feel as though you are experiencing everything that is on the page. There are soaring highs and rock bottom lows, and i feel as though I have been there for all of them, and I am so rooting for these boys and need them to have their happily ever after more than i need my next breath.
🖤 this book is part of a duet and ends on a cliffhanger. Also, there are some hefty trigger warnings with this one, so please read them before stating the book 🖤
April 19, 2023
Holy fudge balls!
Be prepared to fall down the rabbit hole..... left reeling, numb and speechless!
This is one of those books.... You slam the book closed because you can't believe what's happening. Yet, morbid curiosity and the need to know how it all ends, has you opening it up again.
I had tears welling reading the prologue. This book is incredibly intense in places that I felt l quite sick, my mouth constantly dry with trepidation.
The author has a unique way with decription of emotions and of the five senses, it almost feels like I'm reading horror, it's very dark and twisted.
It is a heavy emotional read, dark, depraved and full of despair. I felt the desolation and desperation both Kayden and Rhys felt. I had shivers running through my body whilst reading.
As hard, frustrating as this book was to read, wanting to bang heads together, it was also so very grippingly good, I only put it down when I had absolutely had no choice! I am currently at war with myself about whether I speak to the author ever again!
PLEASE check trigger warnings and note this is not a fluffy read in any way shape or form.
Be prepared to fall down the rabbit hole..... left reeling, numb and speechless!
This is one of those books.... You slam the book closed because you can't believe what's happening. Yet, morbid curiosity and the need to know how it all ends, has you opening it up again.
I had tears welling reading the prologue. This book is incredibly intense in places that I felt l quite sick, my mouth constantly dry with trepidation.
The author has a unique way with decription of emotions and of the five senses, it almost feels like I'm reading horror, it's very dark and twisted.
It is a heavy emotional read, dark, depraved and full of despair. I felt the desolation and desperation both Kayden and Rhys felt. I had shivers running through my body whilst reading.
As hard, frustrating as this book was to read, wanting to bang heads together, it was also so very grippingly good, I only put it down when I had absolutely had no choice! I am currently at war with myself about whether I speak to the author ever again!
PLEASE check trigger warnings and note this is not a fluffy read in any way shape or form.
April 20, 2023
Man this one hit me so hard in all my feelings. And to be honest I was not expecting that the story would be so heartbreaking. I feel so much for Rhys and Kayden especially Kayden he has gone through so much that not a child or a man had to go through. I just hope that this two find their happiness they so much deserve love and to find happiness in their lives.
August 19, 2023
Living with the Past by S.K. Graves was, without a doubt, 100% emotionally draining. This story is not a happy story, even though love is very much present between the two MCs. It’s a story of truly living with monsters in the closet and feeling like there is no hope of escaping reality. The MCs are tortured souls and connect through their brokenness. They find each other in the darkness and don’t let go.
S.K. wrote this book with heart and that's what kept me reading. I wanted Kayden and Rhys to be alright and to come out stronger than ever. Digging deep into the emotions tied to the sensitive topics discussed in this book, from start to finish, is what makes it so beautifully written.
Kayden was an abused young man. He was sent to live with a stepfather and his son. Then Rhys, his stepbrother, became his world. Rhys and his father do not get along. His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps into finance, but Rhys had his heart set on medicine. As soon as Rhys was able, he left home and left Kayden to fend for himself, and Kayden barely survived.
After two years away, Rhys finally comes home. Kayden has changed, but seeing him still brings back all of the feelings he has. Rhys deals with knowing he loves Kayden, but also grappling with the fact that society thinks of their relationship as taboo. I love Kayden and Rhys’s connection so much — they literally can’t live without each other. They each have their own demons, but Kayden’s are just a little more obvious. I don’t usually include quotes in my reviews, but here are a couple of my favorites.
“Our love knows no bounds, our souls created for each other. He is the marrow in my bones and we’ll endure eternity together in this life and the next.” -K
“What I feel for him I’ve never felt for anyone else; no one has ever even held a candle to the fire he makes burn within me.” -Rhys
There is so much more in this book. It is not just about forbidden love. It's about loving someone so much that you will do absolutely anything to save them from any pain. It's trying to keep that love safe from any harm. This genre is pretty heavy but I actually enjoy reading stories like this because there is usually always a positive message at the end — there is always hope, there is always someone available to help and support you, without judgement. Please check all trigger warnings before reading Kayden and Rhys’s story. It is graphic and leaves nothing to the imagination. Mental health is important, so make sure you’re making the right decision for you.
This is honestly the first book to ever just destroy me emotionally. I have read thousands of books dealing with these types of subjects and yet none can compare to what this one made me feel. This book is for dark romance readers who don’t have any triggers and want to dive into the world of Kayden and Rhys as they attempt to bring each other to the light, despite their horrific situations. S.K. Graves is by far one of the best descriptive authors when it comes to getting into someone’s head and helping readers understand the characters’ intentions.
I know that this is book one of a duet. And for that I am so thankful because it means there is another book coming. Even without the massive cliffy of this book, I without a doubt need more of these two guys. Highly recommend this one if you like really dark and heavy romance!
S.K. wrote this book with heart and that's what kept me reading. I wanted Kayden and Rhys to be alright and to come out stronger than ever. Digging deep into the emotions tied to the sensitive topics discussed in this book, from start to finish, is what makes it so beautifully written.
Kayden was an abused young man. He was sent to live with a stepfather and his son. Then Rhys, his stepbrother, became his world. Rhys and his father do not get along. His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps into finance, but Rhys had his heart set on medicine. As soon as Rhys was able, he left home and left Kayden to fend for himself, and Kayden barely survived.
After two years away, Rhys finally comes home. Kayden has changed, but seeing him still brings back all of the feelings he has. Rhys deals with knowing he loves Kayden, but also grappling with the fact that society thinks of their relationship as taboo. I love Kayden and Rhys’s connection so much — they literally can’t live without each other. They each have their own demons, but Kayden’s are just a little more obvious. I don’t usually include quotes in my reviews, but here are a couple of my favorites.
“Our love knows no bounds, our souls created for each other. He is the marrow in my bones and we’ll endure eternity together in this life and the next.” -K
“What I feel for him I’ve never felt for anyone else; no one has ever even held a candle to the fire he makes burn within me.” -Rhys
There is so much more in this book. It is not just about forbidden love. It's about loving someone so much that you will do absolutely anything to save them from any pain. It's trying to keep that love safe from any harm. This genre is pretty heavy but I actually enjoy reading stories like this because there is usually always a positive message at the end — there is always hope, there is always someone available to help and support you, without judgement. Please check all trigger warnings before reading Kayden and Rhys’s story. It is graphic and leaves nothing to the imagination. Mental health is important, so make sure you’re making the right decision for you.
This is honestly the first book to ever just destroy me emotionally. I have read thousands of books dealing with these types of subjects and yet none can compare to what this one made me feel. This book is for dark romance readers who don’t have any triggers and want to dive into the world of Kayden and Rhys as they attempt to bring each other to the light, despite their horrific situations. S.K. Graves is by far one of the best descriptive authors when it comes to getting into someone’s head and helping readers understand the characters’ intentions.
I know that this is book one of a duet. And for that I am so thankful because it means there is another book coming. Even without the massive cliffy of this book, I without a doubt need more of these two guys. Highly recommend this one if you like really dark and heavy romance!
May 8, 2023
Damaged heart
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
Darkness Level: 💀💀💀💀
⚠️ drug use, forced drugging, non-con, kidnapping, beating, physical and emotional abuse, child abuse (all forms), taboo relationships
I almost don't know how to review this. S. K. Graves is a relatively new author who writes as if she's been doing it for years. Her writing is wonderfully descriptive, and she has that talent of being able to draw you in and feel all the emotions.
And I mean all. I wanted to be sick. I was angry and heartbroken and could have gladly strangled a few characters. I also could feel the love between Kayden and Rhys and nearly threw my Kindle across the room at the ending.
This book is dark and contains all sorts of yummy warnings. Please make sure you check the author's warning before reading. She doesn't shy away from dark topics.
Absolutely recommended for the dark and taboo crowd.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
Darkness Level: 💀💀💀💀
⚠️ drug use, forced drugging, non-con, kidnapping, beating, physical and emotional abuse, child abuse (all forms), taboo relationships
I almost don't know how to review this. S. K. Graves is a relatively new author who writes as if she's been doing it for years. Her writing is wonderfully descriptive, and she has that talent of being able to draw you in and feel all the emotions.
And I mean all. I wanted to be sick. I was angry and heartbroken and could have gladly strangled a few characters. I also could feel the love between Kayden and Rhys and nearly threw my Kindle across the room at the ending.
This book is dark and contains all sorts of yummy warnings. Please make sure you check the author's warning before reading. She doesn't shy away from dark topics.
Absolutely recommended for the dark and taboo crowd.
August 14, 2023
This book right from the beginning starts off in a very dark and disturbing place that really never fully recovers from there. Going into this I knew there were MANY trigger warnings. I never have any issues with triggers and will basically read anything but this story certainly tested my limits with that.
Right from the beginning, my heart broke for Kayden. As a reader, I spent a good deal of time while reading wondering how anyone could not notice the pain he was in and step in to do something about it. It especially hurts when you realize just how much his mother has checked out and basically set him up to deal with all of the abuse he has suffered.
Kayden and Rhys were off the charts! The dirty talking, the chemistry between then and the spice was beyond fantastic. While this is certainly a forbidden romance kind of story, don't be fooled. It takes a while for this story to get to more of a romance-esque vibe and there are many dark, taboo moments that happen before we get there. While a good chunk of this story is difficult to read, especially that prologue, it was all very well researched before written which is something I feel is not normally done for the very heavy topics in some stories. The attention to detail really adds a new level to this story and really helps with the character development and investment as a reader.
This story does end of a cliffhanger which has me feeling all sorts of ways and is certainly going to be very difficult for me to be able to wait for the next part of the duet! If you don't have any triggers and love dark, taboo romances, this is certainly a story that you should pick up!
Right from the beginning, my heart broke for Kayden. As a reader, I spent a good deal of time while reading wondering how anyone could not notice the pain he was in and step in to do something about it. It especially hurts when you realize just how much his mother has checked out and basically set him up to deal with all of the abuse he has suffered.
Kayden and Rhys were off the charts! The dirty talking, the chemistry between then and the spice was beyond fantastic. While this is certainly a forbidden romance kind of story, don't be fooled. It takes a while for this story to get to more of a romance-esque vibe and there are many dark, taboo moments that happen before we get there. While a good chunk of this story is difficult to read, especially that prologue, it was all very well researched before written which is something I feel is not normally done for the very heavy topics in some stories. The attention to detail really adds a new level to this story and really helps with the character development and investment as a reader.
This story does end of a cliffhanger which has me feeling all sorts of ways and is certainly going to be very difficult for me to be able to wait for the next part of the duet! If you don't have any triggers and love dark, taboo romances, this is certainly a story that you should pick up!
May 2, 2023
My Thoughts:
Im still reeling and taking a breath, but wanted to
write this review while I’m still feeling it. First, I want to
be sure to look at my next slide as it shows almost
ALL the triggers. This was a very emotional read
for me. It litererally had my mind spinning, to the
point i needed to take a break at times. S.K. really
has a way of drawing the reader in that you feel every
emotion that each character is feeling. For me, she
didn’t just bring me into this world to where I can
visualize it like a movie playing in my head, she had
me inside each characters head, feeling exactly what
they were feeling, and the emotional turmoils they
experienced. This is a first for me, for FEELING that
turmoil. Kayden is very in tune with his feelings, and
at times…he seriously broke me. Understanding the
need to cut, as a recovered cutter, it was sometimes
too much for me, bringing memories I didn’t want to
remember.
With that said, I truly enjoyed this read as a
trigger loving reader.
I do have some unanswered questions I
hope will be ansered in the next book, I
was totally wrong on who the other bad
guy was, (no spoilers here)…
And that cliffhanger…S.K.!!!
Definitely recommended but be sure to
read the trigger warnings FIRST.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts which I freely give.
Im still reeling and taking a breath, but wanted to
write this review while I’m still feeling it. First, I want to
be sure to look at my next slide as it shows almost
ALL the triggers. This was a very emotional read
for me. It litererally had my mind spinning, to the
point i needed to take a break at times. S.K. really
has a way of drawing the reader in that you feel every
emotion that each character is feeling. For me, she
didn’t just bring me into this world to where I can
visualize it like a movie playing in my head, she had
me inside each characters head, feeling exactly what
they were feeling, and the emotional turmoils they
experienced. This is a first for me, for FEELING that
turmoil. Kayden is very in tune with his feelings, and
at times…he seriously broke me. Understanding the
need to cut, as a recovered cutter, it was sometimes
too much for me, bringing memories I didn’t want to
remember.
With that said, I truly enjoyed this read as a
trigger loving reader.
I do have some unanswered questions I
hope will be ansered in the next book, I
was totally wrong on who the other bad
guy was, (no spoilers here)…
And that cliffhanger…S.K.!!!
Definitely recommended but be sure to
read the trigger warnings FIRST.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts which I freely give.
May 3, 2023
“Our love knows no bounds, our souls created for each other. He is the marrow in my bones and we’ll endure eternity together in this life and the next.” -K
Nope! I refuse to believe what I just read to be true. I absolutely was NOT ready for this book to end especially given the way it did.
My heart hurts for everything that poor K has gone through since meeting Rhys and his dad. Granted if you ask him, the ONLY good thing that came from that eat and meet at the Pizza Hut was Rhys.
I think deep down that Rhys has always known that there was something extremely special about K. I fear for who he is about to handle everything that is about to be thrown at him.
“What I feel for him I’ve never felt for anyone else; no one has ever even held a candle to the fire he makes burn with in me.” -Rhys
I know that this is a duet. And for that I am so thankful that it means there is another book coming. Even without the massive cliffy of this book, I without a doubt need more of these two guys.
Nope! I refuse to believe what I just read to be true. I absolutely was NOT ready for this book to end especially given the way it did.
My heart hurts for everything that poor K has gone through since meeting Rhys and his dad. Granted if you ask him, the ONLY good thing that came from that eat and meet at the Pizza Hut was Rhys.
I think deep down that Rhys has always known that there was something extremely special about K. I fear for who he is about to handle everything that is about to be thrown at him.
“What I feel for him I’ve never felt for anyone else; no one has ever even held a candle to the fire he makes burn with in me.” -Rhys
I know that this is a duet. And for that I am so thankful that it means there is another book coming. Even without the massive cliffy of this book, I without a doubt need more of these two guys.
August 16, 2023
Wow. I don’t even know where to begin. This book was thick! This book had a lot happening. K and Rhys met one day because their parents ending up getting together. They shocked both boys by introducing them to each other at a restaurant and from there it spiraled. The father of Rhys was a lot. I don’t even know what to say without ruining it for everyone who reads the book soon. I felt so bad for K that his mother ignored him and he felt he couldn’t tell her what was happening in his life. He did a lot of things to feel alive from drugs and inflicting pain. I know Rhys and K were separated for a long time. For K it was to protect Rhys. I’m
Glad they got over there stuff and came back together. I love Gale and that he opened up to K. The ending though I did not see that coming at all. Really enjoyed this book. This did end on a cliffhanger so be prepared!!!
Glad they got over there stuff and came back together. I love Gale and that he opened up to K. The ending though I did not see that coming at all. Really enjoyed this book. This did end on a cliffhanger so be prepared!!!
April 14, 2024
heartbreakingly beautiful
I am just blown away by this story. Kayden’s pain bled into every word on the page. Rhys’ love being the only saving grace he had. These two together are beautiful and pure but the outside evil of the world tries to smother it, to end their love and rip them apart. The author paints these amazing pictures with their words. The pictures range from works of beautiful art to sinister, dark atrocities. This book makes you feel a roller coaster of feelings, front gut wrenching pain, to a love so bright and pure, to a fear that slithers down your spine and an anger and hate that is like fire. This book shines a light on the evil that can be right in front of you. It makes you open your eyes to the pain of a person that is screaming for help without ever opening their mouths. Kayden just needs to be seen and loved. Rhys needs someone to love him in return. They are perfect for each other, true soulmates that will always find their way to each other. I can’t wait to see what happens next, I’ve been left on pins and needles.
I am just blown away by this story. Kayden’s pain bled into every word on the page. Rhys’ love being the only saving grace he had. These two together are beautiful and pure but the outside evil of the world tries to smother it, to end their love and rip them apart. The author paints these amazing pictures with their words. The pictures range from works of beautiful art to sinister, dark atrocities. This book makes you feel a roller coaster of feelings, front gut wrenching pain, to a love so bright and pure, to a fear that slithers down your spine and an anger and hate that is like fire. This book shines a light on the evil that can be right in front of you. It makes you open your eyes to the pain of a person that is screaming for help without ever opening their mouths. Kayden just needs to be seen and loved. Rhys needs someone to love him in return. They are perfect for each other, true soulmates that will always find their way to each other. I can’t wait to see what happens next, I’ve been left on pins and needles.
July 28, 2023
This book is good but it is very heavy. It starts off with hard scene and doesn't get much better from there. There are a lot of triggers. The writing is great. I felt like Ms. Graves knew a lot about the topics she wrote about. She wrote this book with heart and that's what kept me reading. I wanted Kayden and Rhys to be alright, to come out better than ever.
Kayden is an abused young man. He was whisked away to live with a stepfather and his son. His mom checked out soon after and Rhys, his stepbrother, became his world. Rhys and his father do not get along. His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps into finance and Rhys had his heart set on medicine. As soon as Rhys could, he left. He left Kayden to fend for himself. Kayden survived barely. After two years away, Rhys finally comes home. Kayden has changed but seeing him still brings back all of the feelings he remembers. Rhys deals with knowing he loves Kayden but also knowing that society has dubbed a relationship between the two as taboo.
There is so much more in this book. It is not just about forbidden love. It's about loving someone so much that you will allow yourself to get hurt to save them from any pain. It's trying to keep that love safe from any harm. As hard as this book was to read, I would go through it all again. Fortunately this is not the end. This is book one. I will be anxiously awaiting book two because I have to know what happens next.
Kayden is an abused young man. He was whisked away to live with a stepfather and his son. His mom checked out soon after and Rhys, his stepbrother, became his world. Rhys and his father do not get along. His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps into finance and Rhys had his heart set on medicine. As soon as Rhys could, he left. He left Kayden to fend for himself. Kayden survived barely. After two years away, Rhys finally comes home. Kayden has changed but seeing him still brings back all of the feelings he remembers. Rhys deals with knowing he loves Kayden but also knowing that society has dubbed a relationship between the two as taboo.
There is so much more in this book. It is not just about forbidden love. It's about loving someone so much that you will allow yourself to get hurt to save them from any pain. It's trying to keep that love safe from any harm. As hard as this book was to read, I would go through it all again. Fortunately this is not the end. This is book one. I will be anxiously awaiting book two because I have to know what happens next.
August 15, 2023
Emotionally spent
This is honestly the first book to ever just destroy me emotionally. I have read thousands of books dealing with these types of subjects, and yet none can compare to what this one made me feel. S.K. literally described what it feels like to be trapped in the moments that destroy a person's soul. Hats off to you. If you have Triggers, please heed them, but it would be worth it to just read anyway. It took me way longer than any book ever because I had to stop and process more than once. But when I say worth every second of the agony. It was. The ending, though, just no! I need to know now!
This is honestly the first book to ever just destroy me emotionally. I have read thousands of books dealing with these types of subjects, and yet none can compare to what this one made me feel. S.K. literally described what it feels like to be trapped in the moments that destroy a person's soul. Hats off to you. If you have Triggers, please heed them, but it would be worth it to just read anyway. It took me way longer than any book ever because I had to stop and process more than once. But when I say worth every second of the agony. It was. The ending, though, just no! I need to know now!
May 8, 2023
OMFG… Kayden and Rhys! I went into reading this book k owing it was loaded with triggers. Which for me are like a grocery list to make sure I read. The prologue was dark and Depraved… and literally made me want to cry.
If you can get past the triggers in the prologue you will love this story! Their chemistry is off the charts but that ending… I had to message SK and scream about the ending! This leaves off on a very heart wrenching and tearfilled cliffhanger for sure.
This is a book I would read again and again!!! I plan on it when book 2 comes out! If you have no triggers… this is an amazing book!
If you can get past the triggers in the prologue you will love this story! Their chemistry is off the charts but that ending… I had to message SK and scream about the ending! This leaves off on a very heart wrenching and tearfilled cliffhanger for sure.
This is a book I would read again and again!!! I plan on it when book 2 comes out! If you have no triggers… this is an amazing book!
April 26, 2023
Living With The Past is book one in the Ties That Bind Us Duet.
Wow...... This is a truly heartbreaking and soul destroying read. I don't normally have a lot of triggers if any but even I found this book very hard.
I must admit I had to put it down and come back to it several times. If you can push through its worth the read, but please be advised this is not for the faint hearted what so ever.
It has extreme triggers and on page serious trauma (including on page child trauma/ abuse) and I have to say some bits I had to skip. It broke me.
I can't realistically go into the story without completely spoiling it, so I won't.
Taboo, secrets & lies, truths to be revealed, hanging on by a thread.
This book had my stomach twisting, my head buzzing, my heart pounding and breaking and really routing for these guys and for some justice.
Be prepared to have your world shattered and have the tissues at the ready. Kayden and Rhys will invade your mind and leave you needing more. The cliffhanger it ends on is shattering.
One final twist at the end of book one that leads to even more devastation.
I just want to wrap Kayden up and protect him from everything. This poor broken boy ( he should have been kept safe, but never was ) and Rhys loves him so much, but is it enough.
Wow...... This is a truly heartbreaking and soul destroying read. I don't normally have a lot of triggers if any but even I found this book very hard.
I must admit I had to put it down and come back to it several times. If you can push through its worth the read, but please be advised this is not for the faint hearted what so ever.
It has extreme triggers and on page serious trauma (including on page child trauma/ abuse) and I have to say some bits I had to skip. It broke me.
I can't realistically go into the story without completely spoiling it, so I won't.
Taboo, secrets & lies, truths to be revealed, hanging on by a thread.
This book had my stomach twisting, my head buzzing, my heart pounding and breaking and really routing for these guys and for some justice.
Be prepared to have your world shattered and have the tissues at the ready. Kayden and Rhys will invade your mind and leave you needing more. The cliffhanger it ends on is shattering.
One final twist at the end of book one that leads to even more devastation.
I just want to wrap Kayden up and protect him from everything. This poor broken boy ( he should have been kept safe, but never was ) and Rhys loves him so much, but is it enough.
August 14, 2023
A dark taboo romance read
Kayden, a young boy, gets an unwelcome surprise one evening when Rhys, a slightly older boy, is introduced as his new stepbrother when his mom introduced him to her new husband. As the story progresses their lives are rearranging, their relationship is continually changing, and in the end their feelings may be left hanging. Living with the Past is a dark taboo romance read that ends on a cliffhanger
I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
Kayden, a young boy, gets an unwelcome surprise one evening when Rhys, a slightly older boy, is introduced as his new stepbrother when his mom introduced him to her new husband. As the story progresses their lives are rearranging, their relationship is continually changing, and in the end their feelings may be left hanging. Living with the Past is a dark taboo romance read that ends on a cliffhanger
I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
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