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Beautiful Pieces #1
Erik's Salvation
She’ll mend his broken heart. He’ll shatter anew to protect her.
Hannah Jacobs is intimately familiar with pain. Growing up in foster care, she experienced all of its varying shades, in ways that still impact her as an adult. But she makes a daily conscious effort to overcome her past, to bear the heartache of losing her only source of care and support, and to live her life with purpose…
Purpose like her new neighbor.
Hannah recognizes another broken soul when she sees one. Erik isn’t open to healing, but she’s never shied away from a challenge. Even if she did…something won’t let her stop chipping away at the man’s nearly impenetrable exterior.
Life as he knew it shattered for Erik Hunter in the space of a single phone call, leaving pieces so small and jagged, he fears they’ll never be put back together. He’s a different person now. Largely estranged from his family and doing dangerous work for the government, when he moves back to his hometown, he’s seeking peace and solitude.
He didn’t count on his neighbor. Her determination, her indomitable will, her beauty. She makes him want something he hasn’t had in years. More terrifyingly…she gives him something to lose.
Turns out that fear is well founded. When a faceless enemy emerges, Erik must risk everything to protect Hannah—or see his world shatter again.
This is the beginning of Erik and Hannah's story, book one in a three-part serial. That means happy-for-now endings until book three, when Erik and Hannah will get the happy ever after they deserve.
Hannah Jacobs is intimately familiar with pain. Growing up in foster care, she experienced all of its varying shades, in ways that still impact her as an adult. But she makes a daily conscious effort to overcome her past, to bear the heartache of losing her only source of care and support, and to live her life with purpose…
Purpose like her new neighbor.
Hannah recognizes another broken soul when she sees one. Erik isn’t open to healing, but she’s never shied away from a challenge. Even if she did…something won’t let her stop chipping away at the man’s nearly impenetrable exterior.
Life as he knew it shattered for Erik Hunter in the space of a single phone call, leaving pieces so small and jagged, he fears they’ll never be put back together. He’s a different person now. Largely estranged from his family and doing dangerous work for the government, when he moves back to his hometown, he’s seeking peace and solitude.
He didn’t count on his neighbor. Her determination, her indomitable will, her beauty. She makes him want something he hasn’t had in years. More terrifyingly…she gives him something to lose.
Turns out that fear is well founded. When a faceless enemy emerges, Erik must risk everything to protect Hannah—or see his world shatter again.
This is the beginning of Erik and Hannah's story, book one in a three-part serial. That means happy-for-now endings until book three, when Erik and Hannah will get the happy ever after they deserve.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2023
636 people are currently reading
1077 people want to read
About the author
Nyssa Kathryn
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Australian Romantic Suspense Author, Nyssa Kathryn, is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance. Living in South Australia with her hubby and daughter, when she's not spending time with the family, she's either plotting her next story or got her head stuck in a book.
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https://www.nyssakathryn.com/vip-newsletter
Australian Romantic Suspense Author, Nyssa Kathryn, is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance. Living in South Australia with her hubby and daughter, when she's not spending time with the family, she's either plotting her next story or got her head stuck in a book.
Follow Nyssa here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nyssakathrynauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornyssakathryn/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
May 20, 2024
Part 1/3
3 💥🌪🤔⭐️s
It kept my interest.
3 💥🌪🤔⭐️s
It kept my interest.
October 1, 2023
so emotional and beautiful!!!
September 1, 2023
This little bb was my first paid author partnership for TikTok 🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼
TROPES & VIBES:
- Small town romance with suspense sub-plot
- He’s a dangerous dude who does bad things for good reasons x she’s a sunshine real estate agent who had a rough childhood
- Next door neighbours / forced proximity
- A final line that made me audibly gasp
- Found family
4⭐️ 1.5🌶️
TROPES & VIBES:
- Small town romance with suspense sub-plot
- He’s a dangerous dude who does bad things for good reasons x she’s a sunshine real estate agent who had a rough childhood
- Next door neighbours / forced proximity
- A final line that made me audibly gasp
- Found family
4⭐️ 1.5🌶️
January 13, 2024
5/5⭐️
I wish I read this book earlier I am just so obsessed 🩷📖
Spice 3/5🌶️
Fluff 5/5 💞
Humour 3/5 👑
Tear 2/5 💧
If you love small town romance with a grumpy guy living in a big house and a sunshine girl living in the cute cottage next door this is for you!!
I loved this book!! This was a wholesome cute romance mixed with suspense and action! It was not what I was expecting but in the best way. I love me some action books and the romance mixed in was just soo good. Erik is a special ops agent. Not only was the romance amazing but the plot for this was just soo good.
I loved both Hannah and Erik so much and both their POVs were so good. Hannah was so cute and funny and I just loved her and can’t wait to get to know her character even more. Erik was sooo hot and I’m just obsessed with him.
I never got bored with this book the writing is amazing and so up my alley. Nyssa sent me her book and I’m so sad I didn’t read it earlier. I’m so excited to read the second book and don’t think I can’t wait till march to get the third book!!
Check out my Booktok for more reviews and fun Vids! 💌
TIKTOK: Taschclegg8
I wish I read this book earlier I am just so obsessed 🩷📖
Spice 3/5🌶️
Fluff 5/5 💞
Humour 3/5 👑
Tear 2/5 💧
If you love small town romance with a grumpy guy living in a big house and a sunshine girl living in the cute cottage next door this is for you!!
I loved this book!! This was a wholesome cute romance mixed with suspense and action! It was not what I was expecting but in the best way. I love me some action books and the romance mixed in was just soo good. Erik is a special ops agent. Not only was the romance amazing but the plot for this was just soo good.
I loved both Hannah and Erik so much and both their POVs were so good. Hannah was so cute and funny and I just loved her and can’t wait to get to know her character even more. Erik was sooo hot and I’m just obsessed with him.
I never got bored with this book the writing is amazing and so up my alley. Nyssa sent me her book and I’m so sad I didn’t read it earlier. I’m so excited to read the second book and don’t think I can’t wait till march to get the third book!!
Check out my Booktok for more reviews and fun Vids! 💌
TIKTOK: Taschclegg8
August 31, 2023
We finally get Erik’s first book and oh what a story it is. There is so much more to him than we ever guessed. When he comes home it’s to find that the house next door is occupied by a beautiful woman.
“I need to get myself a sexy neighbor with money coming out his ears.” “No, you don’t. The man’s mood swings are giving me whiplash.
Hannah loved her elderly neighbor but his grandson can be a total jerk most of the time. The attraction is there but he wants nothing to do with her.
It just stuck to her like that Gorilla Glue that was so strong you could glue your fingers together and never get them apart.
This story has lots of action , suspense , and a alpha male who we want to smack up side the head half the time.
“No matter how hard I try, I can’t seem to get you out of my head, Angel.”
That cliff hanger was a doozy!!
“I need to get myself a sexy neighbor with money coming out his ears.” “No, you don’t. The man’s mood swings are giving me whiplash.
Hannah loved her elderly neighbor but his grandson can be a total jerk most of the time. The attraction is there but he wants nothing to do with her.
It just stuck to her like that Gorilla Glue that was so strong you could glue your fingers together and never get them apart.
This story has lots of action , suspense , and a alpha male who we want to smack up side the head half the time.
“No matter how hard I try, I can’t seem to get you out of my head, Angel.”
That cliff hanger was a doozy!!
September 13, 2023
I was excited for Erik’s story. I think with more books it will help flush the story out, but I found that at some moments it felt like the story was dragging, but other other moments it was going too quick.
October 15, 2025
In a nutshell: kind of sweet but also unbelievable.
The most unbelievable bit? No, actually, not the hero's career. I don't want to look too closely at the possibility that such people exist honestly. As an aside - I was pleased the hero wasn't too gung ho but the few opinions he did express about his job showed a disappointing lack of nuance. Yes, I want the characters in my trashy novels to show nuance, sorrynotsorry. *
The heroine was the most unbelievable bit. She's apparently had this traumatic childhood and she shows not an ounce of it. She trusts easily and shows virtually no sense of self preservation. She rarely bothers to lock the door (but forgets this when locked out in a storm because why miss the opportunity for a romantic rescue?) Her gut tells her something is wrong at various points and she just dismisses it. There is a clear threat made to one of the characters via her and she just texts that character's partner like
oh hey babe, saw some suuuper shady guys looking for your bf today. Take care xxx
Really? Do you think maybe you could at least have phoned her? It was actually so obvious that disaster was about to strike that I speed read the last 25% or so because I got fed up with the sense of impending doom.
Also the thing with the keys - if, as a real estate agent, the keys to a client's mansion go missing and you try and fail to find them... do you think maybe that's a security issue? No?
This woman is a good person, but she's certainly not a good estate agent.
Don't get me wrong; she is sunny and sweet and vanilla frosting but her behaviour simply doesn't seem to make sense given her past.
It's kind of a cute story but I doubt if I will bother to read the next one, even with that cliffhanger ending.
* Take drug dealers as an example. Does labelling someone as a drug dealer automatically mean they deserve to die? Might some people consider killing someone who abused you murder and others self defence? How do you define terrorist? Could a child soldier count?
The most unbelievable bit? No, actually, not the hero's career. I don't want to look too closely at the possibility that such people exist honestly. As an aside - I was pleased the hero wasn't too gung ho but the few opinions he did express about his job showed a disappointing lack of nuance. Yes, I want the characters in my trashy novels to show nuance, sorrynotsorry. *
The heroine was the most unbelievable bit. She's apparently had this traumatic childhood and she shows not an ounce of it. She trusts easily and shows virtually no sense of self preservation. She rarely bothers to lock the door (but forgets this when locked out in a storm because why miss the opportunity for a romantic rescue?) Her gut tells her something is wrong at various points and she just dismisses it. There is a clear threat made to one of the characters via her and she just texts that character's partner like
oh hey babe, saw some suuuper shady guys looking for your bf today. Take care xxx
Really? Do you think maybe you could at least have phoned her? It was actually so obvious that disaster was about to strike that I speed read the last 25% or so because I got fed up with the sense of impending doom.
Also the thing with the keys - if, as a real estate agent, the keys to a client's mansion go missing and you try and fail to find them... do you think maybe that's a security issue? No?
This woman is a good person, but she's certainly not a good estate agent.
Don't get me wrong; she is sunny and sweet and vanilla frosting but her behaviour simply doesn't seem to make sense given her past.
It's kind of a cute story but I doubt if I will bother to read the next one, even with that cliffhanger ending.
* Take drug dealers as an example. Does labelling someone as a drug dealer automatically mean they deserve to die? Might some people consider killing someone who abused you murder and others self defence? How do you define terrorist? Could a child soldier count?
September 1, 2023
Hold on for a wild ride. I had been anticipating this book because Erik had been mentioned in all 4 of the Mercy Ring Series. Nyssa Kathryn did not disappoint with this book. It was filled with suspense, romance, danger, family, and plot twists that you will not see coming. The fact that Erik and Hannah have been broken and need each other is such a strong part to their story. Erik’s loss is so prominent throughout this book and it makes you choke up over what he’s lost. Hannah had faced her own demons in the past and is not ready to share all those details with Erik yet. This book was well worth the wait and I am salivating over the release of the remaining books in this series.
January 16, 2025
There was a lot to I unpack in this story. I enjoyed it and it kept me guessing so I am not really sure why I feel dissatisfied. I am definitely excited to jump into the second book especially with that cliffy.
September 16, 2025
Wow the cliffhanger is one of a kind. Absolutely left you to begin Erik’s Redemption immediately!
February 18, 2024
I’m still in shock over the ending. Sensational.
September 21, 2023
*ARC review*
“Are you telling me there’s beauty in my scars?”
“Beauty. And strength. And a lesson… that what has been broken, can always be repaired.”
“You repaired me.”
“No, we repair because we choose to repair. We choose to make art with our broken pieces.”
A beautiful written love story, but also a story about finding light after darkness, trauma, healing, and health struggles. It is a romantic suspense with a lot of small bits and pieces of the mystery being revealed throughout - it all fit together so well in the end.
“I’m damaged. And that, in combination with everything else, is a cocktail that could ruin you.”
“I don’t believe people can become damaged. They just become different versions of themselves.”
“Lesser versions?”
“Stronger. Sometimes life makes us believe we’re broken beyond repair. We’re not. Everyone’s fixable.”
“And if the fragments don’t slot together anymore?”
“They always slot together. The old cracks will be visible, but they’re meant to be. To show everything a person has overcome.”
There is so many beautiful quotes from this book I could share. The writing so good, and even though it took me a bit of time to get used to it, since it is in 3rd person, it really fits the story and the characters.
Erik Hunter is a grumpy, broken ex-marine, who works for a secret government project as an assassin. He moves back to his hometown after being away ever since his wife died. He just wants some piece and quiet, so he is shocked to find he has a new neighbor.
Hannah Jacobs is all sunshine and positive, at least on the outside. She had a tough time in her past, being in the foster system and also having diabetes, but she does not let that close her off to life.
“Hannah… I’m a man in pieces.” Jagged, ugly pieces.
“Beautiful pieces.”
“I could be your ruin.”
“Maybe. Or maybe I could be your salvation.”
Maybe they were both right. Maybe she’d be his salvation, and he’d be her ruin.
Both Erik and Hannah are broken in some ways, Erik more so than Hannah. They have experienced hardships and unimaginable pain and heartbreak, but the way they each are coping/dealing/living is very different. Hannah is positive and sunshiny, while Erik keeps his distance, and is in his head a lot. He has put up a lot of walls, which Hannah is slowly tearing down. She helps pull Erik back into the real world and show him the light. She is his Angel, and he is her protector. They are kindred spirits recognizing something in each other.
When you spent too much time in the darker corners of the world, that darkness started to become a part of you.
He could heal. He could live without needing the rush of danger.
I love how Nyssa deals with the struggles of diabetes and especially the health insurance aspect of it. It is a very different reality than what we have in my home country, but I think it reflects the real life frustrations in the US very well, and is good to give a perspective on the importance of a good health care system.
Even though it is a standalone, it is also part 1 of a trilogy following Erik and Hannah on their road to HEA. So this book ends on a HFN, with their relationship in a good, strong and healthy place - even if some things in their past is still a secret. Then the last line… Now I need to read the next part of their story when it is released to see how this will be resolved!
*Immediate reaction: Omg, that last line! Now I need the next book like yesterday…*
“Are you telling me there’s beauty in my scars?”
“Beauty. And strength. And a lesson… that what has been broken, can always be repaired.”
“You repaired me.”
“No, we repair because we choose to repair. We choose to make art with our broken pieces.”
A beautiful written love story, but also a story about finding light after darkness, trauma, healing, and health struggles. It is a romantic suspense with a lot of small bits and pieces of the mystery being revealed throughout - it all fit together so well in the end.
“I’m damaged. And that, in combination with everything else, is a cocktail that could ruin you.”
“I don’t believe people can become damaged. They just become different versions of themselves.”
“Lesser versions?”
“Stronger. Sometimes life makes us believe we’re broken beyond repair. We’re not. Everyone’s fixable.”
“And if the fragments don’t slot together anymore?”
“They always slot together. The old cracks will be visible, but they’re meant to be. To show everything a person has overcome.”
There is so many beautiful quotes from this book I could share. The writing so good, and even though it took me a bit of time to get used to it, since it is in 3rd person, it really fits the story and the characters.
Erik Hunter is a grumpy, broken ex-marine, who works for a secret government project as an assassin. He moves back to his hometown after being away ever since his wife died. He just wants some piece and quiet, so he is shocked to find he has a new neighbor.
Hannah Jacobs is all sunshine and positive, at least on the outside. She had a tough time in her past, being in the foster system and also having diabetes, but she does not let that close her off to life.
“Hannah… I’m a man in pieces.” Jagged, ugly pieces.
“Beautiful pieces.”
“I could be your ruin.”
“Maybe. Or maybe I could be your salvation.”
Maybe they were both right. Maybe she’d be his salvation, and he’d be her ruin.
Both Erik and Hannah are broken in some ways, Erik more so than Hannah. They have experienced hardships and unimaginable pain and heartbreak, but the way they each are coping/dealing/living is very different. Hannah is positive and sunshiny, while Erik keeps his distance, and is in his head a lot. He has put up a lot of walls, which Hannah is slowly tearing down. She helps pull Erik back into the real world and show him the light. She is his Angel, and he is her protector. They are kindred spirits recognizing something in each other.
When you spent too much time in the darker corners of the world, that darkness started to become a part of you.
He could heal. He could live without needing the rush of danger.
I love how Nyssa deals with the struggles of diabetes and especially the health insurance aspect of it. It is a very different reality than what we have in my home country, but I think it reflects the real life frustrations in the US very well, and is good to give a perspective on the importance of a good health care system.
Even though it is a standalone, it is also part 1 of a trilogy following Erik and Hannah on their road to HEA. So this book ends on a HFN, with their relationship in a good, strong and healthy place - even if some things in their past is still a secret. Then the last line… Now I need to read the next part of their story when it is released to see how this will be resolved!
*Immediate reaction: Omg, that last line! Now I need the next book like yesterday…*
September 20, 2023
I like the story line, there is a little bit of mystery that keeps you guessing who causing the issues with the housing listing. Erik thinks he is broken and damaged and can’t be fixed, but Hannah doesn’t see it that way . She see it as people become different but stronger versions of themselves. She know he is dangerous but also feels the most safest with him . I can’t wait for the 2nd book to come out so I can find out what happens next.
Don’t get me wrong I like this book, However, I just wish it was in Erik and Hannah point of view. I feel like it’s missing a lot of details when it comes to their chemistry between them and also Hannah’s worries and fears. I love a book when I can picture myself there with them and this one I couldn’t , which is why it made me feel like it was lacking . That is why I rated it the way I did.
Don’t get me wrong I like this book, However, I just wish it was in Erik and Hannah point of view. I feel like it’s missing a lot of details when it comes to their chemistry between them and also Hannah’s worries and fears. I love a book when I can picture myself there with them and this one I couldn’t , which is why it made me feel like it was lacking . That is why I rated it the way I did.
January 6, 2024
3⭐️ 2🌶️
This was my first Nyssa book and I was so excited to start it. I’m a sucker for anything set in Washington.
But unfortunately I was left feeling underwhelmed. I didn’t feel like Hannah and Erik had any chemistry and I was hoping for some more sexual tension before they jumped each other. The lack of communication was frustrating too. I understand that Erik has some pretty serious trauma but I felt like he needed to get over some of it once people started talking to Hannah about his trauma like she already knew it.
I appreciate the attempts at making this a thriller but felt like so much was very cliche or so over the top it defied belief, who hires a hitman to recover a painting? I wasn’t even surprised by the cliffhanger ending.
I did really like the diabetes representation in this book although I can’t speak to the accuracy.
This was my first Nyssa book and I was so excited to start it. I’m a sucker for anything set in Washington.
But unfortunately I was left feeling underwhelmed. I didn’t feel like Hannah and Erik had any chemistry and I was hoping for some more sexual tension before they jumped each other. The lack of communication was frustrating too. I understand that Erik has some pretty serious trauma but I felt like he needed to get over some of it once people started talking to Hannah about his trauma like she already knew it.
I appreciate the attempts at making this a thriller but felt like so much was very cliche or so over the top it defied belief, who hires a hitman to recover a painting? I wasn’t even surprised by the cliffhanger ending.
I did really like the diabetes representation in this book although I can’t speak to the accuracy.
June 3, 2024
3.5
This will be a series continuing Hannah and Erik’s story so hopefully I like books 2 & 3 more but this fell a little flat to me!
So many different things are happening throughout and with practically all of the side characters that it just felt a little hectic. As well as a lot of secrets in Erik’s side being revealed by side characters and not himself. The final pages are definitely intriguing enough to find out more and explore for book 2
This will be a series continuing Hannah and Erik’s story so hopefully I like books 2 & 3 more but this fell a little flat to me!
So many different things are happening throughout and with practically all of the side characters that it just felt a little hectic. As well as a lot of secrets in Erik’s side being revealed by side characters and not himself. The final pages are definitely intriguing enough to find out more and explore for book 2
December 19, 2023
3.5 stars
September 20, 2023
⭐ 4
🌶️ 2.75
Tropes:
* Age Gap
* Touch her and die
* Forced Proximity
* Enemies to Lovers
* Neighbors
* Small town
* Special Ops
Blurb:
She’ll mend his broken heart. He’ll shatter anew to protect her.
Hannah Jacobs is intimately familiar with pain. Growing up in foster care, she experienced all of its varying shades, in ways that still impact her as an adult. But she makes a daily conscious effort to overcome her past, to bear the heartache of losing her only source of care and support, and to live her life with purpose…
Purpose like her new neighbor.
Hannah recognizes another broken soul when she sees one. Erik isn’t open to healing, but she’s never shied away from a challenge. Even if she did…something won’t let her stop chipping away at the man’s nearly impenetrable exterior.
Life as he knew it shattered for Erik Hunter in the space of a single phone call, leaving pieces so small and jagged, he fears they’ll never be put back together. He’s a different person now. Largely estranged from his family and doing dangerous work for the government, when he moves back to his hometown, he’s seeking peace and solitude.
He didn’t count on his neighbor. Her determination, her indomitable will, her beauty. She makes him want something he hasn’t had in years. More terrifyingly…she gives him something to lose.
Turns out that fear is well founded. When a faceless enemy emerges, Erik must risk everything to protect Hannah—or see his world shatter again.
*
*
*
Thoughts:
To be honest, when I started reading this book the POV was annoying me so much. I didn't like how it was trying to be Duel POV but also third person, i almost DNF the book because of that. However, i was so engrossed in the story that around 30% I forgot that I even had an issue with it. The back and forth and angst of this book was PERFECT. Hannah is this sunshiny girl who takes no crap from anyone. She is struggling to financially survive after putting her life savings into remodeling her house. The house also happened to be across the street/next door to a man she has never seen. She neve thought to bother him until she noticed the flowers her old neighbor asked her to keep alive before he passed away. She was persistent to keep the flowers alive, so much so that on countless occasions she defied Erik's demands to stay away.. This started the beautiful romance between the two.. The suspenseful aren't predictable at all, I never once would have guessed that any of the multiple events would have happened. Usually authors hint at them through out the book, but not this one. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to book two because the cliffhanger 😮..
🌶️ 2.75
Tropes:
* Age Gap
* Touch her and die
* Forced Proximity
* Enemies to Lovers
* Neighbors
* Small town
* Special Ops
Blurb:
She’ll mend his broken heart. He’ll shatter anew to protect her.
Hannah Jacobs is intimately familiar with pain. Growing up in foster care, she experienced all of its varying shades, in ways that still impact her as an adult. But she makes a daily conscious effort to overcome her past, to bear the heartache of losing her only source of care and support, and to live her life with purpose…
Purpose like her new neighbor.
Hannah recognizes another broken soul when she sees one. Erik isn’t open to healing, but she’s never shied away from a challenge. Even if she did…something won’t let her stop chipping away at the man’s nearly impenetrable exterior.
Life as he knew it shattered for Erik Hunter in the space of a single phone call, leaving pieces so small and jagged, he fears they’ll never be put back together. He’s a different person now. Largely estranged from his family and doing dangerous work for the government, when he moves back to his hometown, he’s seeking peace and solitude.
He didn’t count on his neighbor. Her determination, her indomitable will, her beauty. She makes him want something he hasn’t had in years. More terrifyingly…she gives him something to lose.
Turns out that fear is well founded. When a faceless enemy emerges, Erik must risk everything to protect Hannah—or see his world shatter again.
*
*
*
Thoughts:
To be honest, when I started reading this book the POV was annoying me so much. I didn't like how it was trying to be Duel POV but also third person, i almost DNF the book because of that. However, i was so engrossed in the story that around 30% I forgot that I even had an issue with it. The back and forth and angst of this book was PERFECT. Hannah is this sunshiny girl who takes no crap from anyone. She is struggling to financially survive after putting her life savings into remodeling her house. The house also happened to be across the street/next door to a man she has never seen. She neve thought to bother him until she noticed the flowers her old neighbor asked her to keep alive before he passed away. She was persistent to keep the flowers alive, so much so that on countless occasions she defied Erik's demands to stay away.. This started the beautiful romance between the two.. The suspenseful aren't predictable at all, I never once would have guessed that any of the multiple events would have happened. Usually authors hint at them through out the book, but not this one. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to book two because the cliffhanger 😮..
September 21, 2023
Erik's Salvation is the first book in the Beautiful Pieces series. It is a contemporary romance featuring 23-year old Hannah Jacobs and 36-year old Erik Hunter.
Hannah has had a difficult life. She grew up in foster care and had some undesirable placements. The closest thing she had to family was her foster brother Nico, who passed away. She's had therapy and is doing her best to find the joy in life. She has two wonderful friends - Brigid and Henry - who are there for her to share in the good times and the bad. They helped her renovate a fixer upper when she moved to Redwood, so she now owns her own house.
Hannah's neighbour, Stanley Hunter, was an older gentleman. He asked her to water his flowers, and after he passed, she kept her word. One day she finds someone else on the property - Stanley's grandson, Erik. He accuses her of trespassing, and asks her to stay away.
Erik inherited the property from his grandfather. He has just returned to Redwood after having been away for years. He's an ex-Marine who now works as a government contractor, but his job is highly classified. He pushes everyone away because he doesn't want to bring danger to their door. He's already been there and done that, and isn't looking for a sequel.
Hannah sees his darkness. She understands it because she's lived it. She keeps extending an olive branch in the hopes that he will reach out and grab it but he keeps pushing her away. Erik has experienced too much loss, and while there's something about Hannah that calls to him, he can't afford to open up and let her in.
When Hannah has a particularly challenging day, including her car dying on her and locking her keys inside said car, she ends up outside Erik's door, standing in the pouring rain, teeth chattering, covered in mud from a fall. Erik couldn't turn her away. The two end up sharing a very passionate moment, and the first crack in his tough shell. While Erik's mood swings give Hannah whiplash, the two are drawn to each other, and Erik jumps into hero mode when Hannah is in danger.
This was a fun read! I loved the chemistry between Hannah and Erik. Both are strong-willed characters who can be soft for the other. They complimented each other beautifully. In addition to this small town, enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, age gap, forced proximity romance, there is a separate storyline complete with action, adventure and intrigue that enhanced the reading experience.
Their story doesn't end here as there's an unexpected cliffhanger at the end of the first book. We have to wait until early 2024 for Erik's Redemption to find out what comes next.
Hannah has had a difficult life. She grew up in foster care and had some undesirable placements. The closest thing she had to family was her foster brother Nico, who passed away. She's had therapy and is doing her best to find the joy in life. She has two wonderful friends - Brigid and Henry - who are there for her to share in the good times and the bad. They helped her renovate a fixer upper when she moved to Redwood, so she now owns her own house.
Hannah's neighbour, Stanley Hunter, was an older gentleman. He asked her to water his flowers, and after he passed, she kept her word. One day she finds someone else on the property - Stanley's grandson, Erik. He accuses her of trespassing, and asks her to stay away.
Erik inherited the property from his grandfather. He has just returned to Redwood after having been away for years. He's an ex-Marine who now works as a government contractor, but his job is highly classified. He pushes everyone away because he doesn't want to bring danger to their door. He's already been there and done that, and isn't looking for a sequel.
Hannah sees his darkness. She understands it because she's lived it. She keeps extending an olive branch in the hopes that he will reach out and grab it but he keeps pushing her away. Erik has experienced too much loss, and while there's something about Hannah that calls to him, he can't afford to open up and let her in.
When Hannah has a particularly challenging day, including her car dying on her and locking her keys inside said car, she ends up outside Erik's door, standing in the pouring rain, teeth chattering, covered in mud from a fall. Erik couldn't turn her away. The two end up sharing a very passionate moment, and the first crack in his tough shell. While Erik's mood swings give Hannah whiplash, the two are drawn to each other, and Erik jumps into hero mode when Hannah is in danger.
This was a fun read! I loved the chemistry between Hannah and Erik. Both are strong-willed characters who can be soft for the other. They complimented each other beautifully. In addition to this small town, enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, age gap, forced proximity romance, there is a separate storyline complete with action, adventure and intrigue that enhanced the reading experience.
Their story doesn't end here as there's an unexpected cliffhanger at the end of the first book. We have to wait until early 2024 for Erik's Redemption to find out what comes next.
August 5, 2023
5 Stars for Erik’s first book in this amazing trilogy!!!
Finally, FINALLY it is Erik Hunter’s book, ERIK’S SALVATION, and a new trilogy that Author Nyssa Kathryn is embarking us all on. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I’ve anticipated reading this. He’d fought in the underground boxing circuit, held his cards close to his muscular chest (well I imagine it is anyway!), has Hazel eyes and an eye-brown ring 🔥🔥🔥 Oh holy hell but I’ve been waiting to read about this enigmatic man!!! And, Ms Kathryn has also broken her own successful storyline mold by kicking this one into a TRILOGY!
He was such a beautiful hearted man within a loving wider family made broken by the most horrendous of events.
Hannah was such an amazingly upbeat character for all that life had kicked her in the backside. Where lesser people might’ve caved under less pressure, she stood in the face of many storms and was the kind of person you need in your life as a partner or a best friend. I totally admired her as she gave Erik a run for his money.
I also loved the whole message underpinning this book where Ms Kathryn says it all first in the prologue, then Hannah’s gift to Erik had me CRYING!!!
“It’s only when something breaks that one can realize it wasn’t the art that was beautiful, it’s the pieces.”
This is a three part series remember, and while I usually avoid cliff-hangers like the plague, I’m lucky for the advance reading opportunity, and by bl👀dy crikey Ms Kathryn ripped the rug of sentimental romantic happiness out from under me with the mother of all rude awakenings. Cue me as being shocked and horrified. I was left with serious heart palpations and I have just DIED!
To say that I’m gonna wander around aimlessly for the rest of the day thinking about the kind of heart-breaking journey Ms Kathryn is going to be sending Erik and Hannah on is no understatement. I’m bereft and my heart is breaking not only for them both but for Erik’s family as well. They lost an essential part of him when his soul died eight years ago, and I have no doubt that they’ll be floundering again soon.
Ms Kathryn has in my opinion outdone herself with ERIK’S SALVATION. Even if like me, you hate cliffies, I recommend reading this book now anyway, and consider the wait for the next release as a kind of delayed gratification. The reward will be more than worth it because this is way more than a 5-Star-Worthy-Romantic-Suspense, so get into it! 🖤💜✦
#mumsalwaysreading #bookblogger #bookreviewer #marnsreads #marnsj
Finally, FINALLY it is Erik Hunter’s book, ERIK’S SALVATION, and a new trilogy that Author Nyssa Kathryn is embarking us all on. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I’ve anticipated reading this. He’d fought in the underground boxing circuit, held his cards close to his muscular chest (well I imagine it is anyway!), has Hazel eyes and an eye-brown ring 🔥🔥🔥 Oh holy hell but I’ve been waiting to read about this enigmatic man!!! And, Ms Kathryn has also broken her own successful storyline mold by kicking this one into a TRILOGY!
He was such a beautiful hearted man within a loving wider family made broken by the most horrendous of events.
Hannah was such an amazingly upbeat character for all that life had kicked her in the backside. Where lesser people might’ve caved under less pressure, she stood in the face of many storms and was the kind of person you need in your life as a partner or a best friend. I totally admired her as she gave Erik a run for his money.
I also loved the whole message underpinning this book where Ms Kathryn says it all first in the prologue, then Hannah’s gift to Erik had me CRYING!!!
“It’s only when something breaks that one can realize it wasn’t the art that was beautiful, it’s the pieces.”
This is a three part series remember, and while I usually avoid cliff-hangers like the plague, I’m lucky for the advance reading opportunity, and by bl👀dy crikey Ms Kathryn ripped the rug of sentimental romantic happiness out from under me with the mother of all rude awakenings. Cue me as being shocked and horrified. I was left with serious heart palpations and I have just DIED!
To say that I’m gonna wander around aimlessly for the rest of the day thinking about the kind of heart-breaking journey Ms Kathryn is going to be sending Erik and Hannah on is no understatement. I’m bereft and my heart is breaking not only for them both but for Erik’s family as well. They lost an essential part of him when his soul died eight years ago, and I have no doubt that they’ll be floundering again soon.
Ms Kathryn has in my opinion outdone herself with ERIK’S SALVATION. Even if like me, you hate cliffies, I recommend reading this book now anyway, and consider the wait for the next release as a kind of delayed gratification. The reward will be more than worth it because this is way more than a 5-Star-Worthy-Romantic-Suspense, so get into it! 🖤💜✦
#mumsalwaysreading #bookblogger #bookreviewer #marnsreads #marnsj
August 4, 2023
Welp this could go straight to the top of my favourite couple and reads list!
You meet Erik Hunter in the Mercy Ring Series and can tell straight away he is a tortured soul. How tortured, we aren’t sure of until you start with Erik’s Salvation.
Erik, aka Mr Handsome Grumpiness, recently moved back to his home town after 8 years away. 8 years since the worst day of his life, marked by back to back heartache. His grandfather left him his home, and after much contemplation and support from his friends within Mercy Ring, he returns home to patch up his relationship with his family he left behind and take a vacation of sorts from his classified and dangerous profession. What he thought would be a quiet break quickly switches gears when he saw HER next door, in the since renovated home that he and his siblings would play in when he was younger. The woman he saved from a speeding car that made him feel things he hadn’t felt in so long.
Flowers are the starting point to yo-yo relationship with realtor Hannah Jacobs and her hunky yet broody new neighbour. Coming from foster homes and a rocky childhood, Hannah holds her own sorrows but uses them to rise from the ashes. She was asked to tend to the flowers of her sweet elderly neighbour before he passed, and now the big mysterious and grumpy yet oh so handsome neighbour is letting those flowers die. Hannah challenges Mr Tall Dark and Handsome by convincing him to let her water the flowers still after a really bad day. Work was drying up, her job was in jeopardy and although manageable, her diabetes was still something she needed to be in constant worry of.
Hannah and Erik just fit together, you can feel their chemistry through the pages and you itch to have them both be together. But Erik is convinced he is darkness will blot out her light. But when dangers comes knocking on Hannah’s door that has nothing to do with Erik, he can’t help but want to burn down the world to help her.
And as if the angst and page turning suspense isn’t getting you reading through all hours of the night, your hit with one heck of a cliff hanger…..in the best way possible. Because if Erik and Hannah can make it this far….is there anything that can bring them crashing down…again?
This is your sign to not only read Erik’s Salvation but every Nyssa Kathryn book available. They just get better and better!
You meet Erik Hunter in the Mercy Ring Series and can tell straight away he is a tortured soul. How tortured, we aren’t sure of until you start with Erik’s Salvation.
Erik, aka Mr Handsome Grumpiness, recently moved back to his home town after 8 years away. 8 years since the worst day of his life, marked by back to back heartache. His grandfather left him his home, and after much contemplation and support from his friends within Mercy Ring, he returns home to patch up his relationship with his family he left behind and take a vacation of sorts from his classified and dangerous profession. What he thought would be a quiet break quickly switches gears when he saw HER next door, in the since renovated home that he and his siblings would play in when he was younger. The woman he saved from a speeding car that made him feel things he hadn’t felt in so long.
Flowers are the starting point to yo-yo relationship with realtor Hannah Jacobs and her hunky yet broody new neighbour. Coming from foster homes and a rocky childhood, Hannah holds her own sorrows but uses them to rise from the ashes. She was asked to tend to the flowers of her sweet elderly neighbour before he passed, and now the big mysterious and grumpy yet oh so handsome neighbour is letting those flowers die. Hannah challenges Mr Tall Dark and Handsome by convincing him to let her water the flowers still after a really bad day. Work was drying up, her job was in jeopardy and although manageable, her diabetes was still something she needed to be in constant worry of.
Hannah and Erik just fit together, you can feel their chemistry through the pages and you itch to have them both be together. But Erik is convinced he is darkness will blot out her light. But when dangers comes knocking on Hannah’s door that has nothing to do with Erik, he can’t help but want to burn down the world to help her.
And as if the angst and page turning suspense isn’t getting you reading through all hours of the night, your hit with one heck of a cliff hanger…..in the best way possible. Because if Erik and Hannah can make it this far….is there anything that can bring them crashing down…again?
This is your sign to not only read Erik’s Salvation but every Nyssa Kathryn book available. They just get better and better!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2023
This book is definitely a 5 star read for me!
Spice:🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
✨ Enemies-To-Lovers
✨ Age Gap (36/23)
✨ Grumpy/Sunshine
✨ NEIGHBORS
✨ Small Town
✨ Trauma Healing
✨ Diabetic Rep
Hannah is a 23 year old realtor in a small town with a past that has brought her pain and difficulties. From the loss of her family, to moving around in foster care, and managing Type 1 diabetes. Despite her upbringing, she remains the sweet sunshine girl next door with a positive outlook on life. Even when times start to get tough.
Erik is a 36 year old Special Operations Marine who is returning home for the first time in 8 years. With one phone call his entire life changed and the man he was 8 years ago is not the man coming home now. He's guarded, broken, and not looking for anything except peace and solitude.
And as fate should have it, they turn out to be neighbors!! Ahhh!! It just keeps getting better! 😍 No matter how hard he fights it, he can't seem to stay away from her. Erik thinks he is too damaged, too broken, to be with someone like Hannah. Hannah wants to help him put his broken pieces back together because she sees the beauty in those jagged edges. 😭❤️
This book also had so many twists and turns that it truly kept me on the edge. Hannah finds herself in the middle of a situation that endangers her life and others. Erik is there to protect her and defend her no matter the challenges they face. But our Hannah in smart does not go down without a fight.
I absolutely loved this book soooo much!❤️❤️ I ended up buying the audiobook so I could read along and listen at the same time! This is my first 3rd person POV I've read in a while and although it took me a minute to get back into that style, I loved it!! This book is so well written that I felt like this book needed to be written in 3rd person in order to get all the background. I loved the trauma healing that we see from both of them. And the slow burn ❤️🔥 in this book was exquisite! The way these two characters connected and built a solid foundation together made every spicy scene so freaking perfect!
This is book 1 of the Beautiful Pieces Series and it does end with a Happy For Now type of ending and a cliff hanger!
Spice:🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
✨ Enemies-To-Lovers
✨ Age Gap (36/23)
✨ Grumpy/Sunshine
✨ NEIGHBORS
✨ Small Town
✨ Trauma Healing
✨ Diabetic Rep
Hannah is a 23 year old realtor in a small town with a past that has brought her pain and difficulties. From the loss of her family, to moving around in foster care, and managing Type 1 diabetes. Despite her upbringing, she remains the sweet sunshine girl next door with a positive outlook on life. Even when times start to get tough.
Erik is a 36 year old Special Operations Marine who is returning home for the first time in 8 years. With one phone call his entire life changed and the man he was 8 years ago is not the man coming home now. He's guarded, broken, and not looking for anything except peace and solitude.
And as fate should have it, they turn out to be neighbors!! Ahhh!! It just keeps getting better! 😍 No matter how hard he fights it, he can't seem to stay away from her. Erik thinks he is too damaged, too broken, to be with someone like Hannah. Hannah wants to help him put his broken pieces back together because she sees the beauty in those jagged edges. 😭❤️
This book also had so many twists and turns that it truly kept me on the edge. Hannah finds herself in the middle of a situation that endangers her life and others. Erik is there to protect her and defend her no matter the challenges they face. But our Hannah in smart does not go down without a fight.
I absolutely loved this book soooo much!❤️❤️ I ended up buying the audiobook so I could read along and listen at the same time! This is my first 3rd person POV I've read in a while and although it took me a minute to get back into that style, I loved it!! This book is so well written that I felt like this book needed to be written in 3rd person in order to get all the background. I loved the trauma healing that we see from both of them. And the slow burn ❤️🔥 in this book was exquisite! The way these two characters connected and built a solid foundation together made every spicy scene so freaking perfect!
This is book 1 of the Beautiful Pieces Series and it does end with a Happy For Now type of ending and a cliff hanger!
August 21, 2023
BOOK REVIEW
Book: Erik’s Salvation, Beautiful Pieces, Book 1
Author: Nyssa Kathryn
Narrators: Stella Bloom, Teddy Hamilton
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is my first ever Nyssa Kathryn novel. I’m a sucker for an age gap, angsty/sunshine, and alpha male trope and this one hit all the correct spots.
This book is about a young woman who has a new sexy neighbor. Hannah has lost all the important family members in her life and is learning to heal. Erik isn’t open to healing his broken soul like Hannah is. Erik’s life was dramatically changed by 1 phone call. He’s now estranged from his family and has a dangerous government job when he moved back to his hometown to seek peace and solitude. He didn’t count on falling for his beautiful neighbor. Turns out Erik and Hannah’s fear is well founded when faceless enemies emerge. Erik must risk everything to protect Hannah.
The story had angst, sunshine, and a push and pull I really enjoyed. There’s also some really surprising places this story goes. This is book 1 or 3 for Hannah and Erik. The book does end on a cliff hanger, just fair warning. I’ll definitely be reading more Nyssa Kathryn books since I need to know how their story ends!
Stella Bloom and Teddy Hamilton were so great in this story! I loved the duet narration. The story is in 3rd person POV, but the duet narration of the story made this audio absolute perfection.
This was my first time listening to Stella Bloom perform. She was an absolute stunner from the very first minute. The way Stella became Hannah in my mind was amazing. She brought all the female characters to life in such a great way and I’m so happy I got to experience this story with her.
Teddy Hamilton is one of my top 5 male narrators. He’s amazing in everything I’ve ever heard. He becomes the characters with such ease. I believe him each time. I’ll definitely be coming back to Teddy in the future.
Thank you @bluenoseaudio for the ALC
Book: Erik’s Salvation, Beautiful Pieces, Book 1
Author: Nyssa Kathryn
Narrators: Stella Bloom, Teddy Hamilton
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is my first ever Nyssa Kathryn novel. I’m a sucker for an age gap, angsty/sunshine, and alpha male trope and this one hit all the correct spots.
This book is about a young woman who has a new sexy neighbor. Hannah has lost all the important family members in her life and is learning to heal. Erik isn’t open to healing his broken soul like Hannah is. Erik’s life was dramatically changed by 1 phone call. He’s now estranged from his family and has a dangerous government job when he moved back to his hometown to seek peace and solitude. He didn’t count on falling for his beautiful neighbor. Turns out Erik and Hannah’s fear is well founded when faceless enemies emerge. Erik must risk everything to protect Hannah.
The story had angst, sunshine, and a push and pull I really enjoyed. There’s also some really surprising places this story goes. This is book 1 or 3 for Hannah and Erik. The book does end on a cliff hanger, just fair warning. I’ll definitely be reading more Nyssa Kathryn books since I need to know how their story ends!
Stella Bloom and Teddy Hamilton were so great in this story! I loved the duet narration. The story is in 3rd person POV, but the duet narration of the story made this audio absolute perfection.
This was my first time listening to Stella Bloom perform. She was an absolute stunner from the very first minute. The way Stella became Hannah in my mind was amazing. She brought all the female characters to life in such a great way and I’m so happy I got to experience this story with her.
Teddy Hamilton is one of my top 5 male narrators. He’s amazing in everything I’ve ever heard. He becomes the characters with such ease. I believe him each time. I’ll definitely be coming back to Teddy in the future.
Thank you @bluenoseaudio for the ALC
January 2, 2024
Erik's Salvation
Beautiful Pieces, Book 1
By: Nyssa Kathryn
Narrated by: Teddy Hamilton, Stella Bloom
Nyssa Kathryn is one of the new authors I had the pleasure of discovering this year and she quickly became a favorite. Each book is an original plot, with amazing characters and story. This trilogy is no exception. The first book of the Beautiful Pieces Duet, Erik's Salvation introduces Erik. Broken, keeps to himself and definitely a broody man, he drowns himself in work. When Hannah, the woman much younger than him moves in next door, there is a flutter in his chest, but he has no intention of becoming involved. Hannah grew up under the most dire of circumstances and keeps pulling herself up to create her own happiness. Now she sees Erik, the man who needs to be healed and she rises to the challenge. But there are more obstacles than these two see coming! The fast paced, whirlwind love they find is threatened, and when the truth is revealed, will Hannah still want to be with Erik? This is a fabulous start to a romantic suspense series! Erik is the over protective man with a family I know I would love to be a part of. Hannah has a beautiful heart, and it's impossible not to see her goodness. With fantastic secondary characters like Henry, Bridgit and Chandler, I am completely invested in seeing how this is all going to play out. Kathryn takes relevant issues of health to heart in this series, and I am loving the awareness she is giving it. A fantastic start to this series.
Teddy Hamilton and Stella Bloom are our story tellers and they tell the pants of this story! It's an incredible pairing for this series, as they both have such expressive voices to bring out all the emotions for each personality. I am loving their collaboration and can't wait to dive into book 2, Erik's Redemption!
Beautiful Pieces, Book 1
By: Nyssa Kathryn
Narrated by: Teddy Hamilton, Stella Bloom
Nyssa Kathryn is one of the new authors I had the pleasure of discovering this year and she quickly became a favorite. Each book is an original plot, with amazing characters and story. This trilogy is no exception. The first book of the Beautiful Pieces Duet, Erik's Salvation introduces Erik. Broken, keeps to himself and definitely a broody man, he drowns himself in work. When Hannah, the woman much younger than him moves in next door, there is a flutter in his chest, but he has no intention of becoming involved. Hannah grew up under the most dire of circumstances and keeps pulling herself up to create her own happiness. Now she sees Erik, the man who needs to be healed and she rises to the challenge. But there are more obstacles than these two see coming! The fast paced, whirlwind love they find is threatened, and when the truth is revealed, will Hannah still want to be with Erik? This is a fabulous start to a romantic suspense series! Erik is the over protective man with a family I know I would love to be a part of. Hannah has a beautiful heart, and it's impossible not to see her goodness. With fantastic secondary characters like Henry, Bridgit and Chandler, I am completely invested in seeing how this is all going to play out. Kathryn takes relevant issues of health to heart in this series, and I am loving the awareness she is giving it. A fantastic start to this series.
Teddy Hamilton and Stella Bloom are our story tellers and they tell the pants of this story! It's an incredible pairing for this series, as they both have such expressive voices to bring out all the emotions for each personality. I am loving their collaboration and can't wait to dive into book 2, Erik's Redemption!
January 2, 2024
This was my first read by this author & there’s a whole new world that I feel the need to dive in to.
Hannah is the product of the foster care system & has struggled her entire life to form meaningful relationships. With the exception of one foster brother, Nico, she’s never had anyone who truly cared for her well being until she moved to the wonderful town of Redwood where she met her best friends & chosen family, Brigid & Henry. But as she soon finds out, not all are warm & welcoming…one tall, dark, & grumpy man in particular who happens to be her new neighbor.
Erik’s move into his late grandfathers old home was supposed to be his secluded sanctuary. He’s ex-military, but still does sanctioned classified jobs for the government. He’s seen things, he’s suffered loss, and he’s merely a shell of the man he used to be because of it. He’s a private man at all costs, so when his gorgeous neighbor trespasses to water his grandfather’s flowers, he goes out of his way to put his foot down.
Hannah has a glow about her that draws people in. Despite her horrific childhood, she’s made a way for herself & discovered her true joy in living. But that grumpy neighbor…he needs a dose of her sunshine, & she’s willing to spread it. Erik’s put off by her cheery demeanor, and though he’s drawn to her in so many ways, he’s resilient in keeping his distance. But when trouble finds their small town and begins to wreak havoc, he goes out of his way to ensure the safety of his gorgeous neighbor & those he loves.
This book does end on a cliffhanger, and it was one that had me jumping headfirst into the next book, Erik’s Redemption which releases January 5, 2024.
Hannah is the product of the foster care system & has struggled her entire life to form meaningful relationships. With the exception of one foster brother, Nico, she’s never had anyone who truly cared for her well being until she moved to the wonderful town of Redwood where she met her best friends & chosen family, Brigid & Henry. But as she soon finds out, not all are warm & welcoming…one tall, dark, & grumpy man in particular who happens to be her new neighbor.
Erik’s move into his late grandfathers old home was supposed to be his secluded sanctuary. He’s ex-military, but still does sanctioned classified jobs for the government. He’s seen things, he’s suffered loss, and he’s merely a shell of the man he used to be because of it. He’s a private man at all costs, so when his gorgeous neighbor trespasses to water his grandfather’s flowers, he goes out of his way to put his foot down.
Hannah has a glow about her that draws people in. Despite her horrific childhood, she’s made a way for herself & discovered her true joy in living. But that grumpy neighbor…he needs a dose of her sunshine, & she’s willing to spread it. Erik’s put off by her cheery demeanor, and though he’s drawn to her in so many ways, he’s resilient in keeping his distance. But when trouble finds their small town and begins to wreak havoc, he goes out of his way to ensure the safety of his gorgeous neighbor & those he loves.
This book does end on a cliffhanger, and it was one that had me jumping headfirst into the next book, Erik’s Redemption which releases January 5, 2024.
August 31, 2023
Erik’s Salvation is the first book in the Beautiful Pieces trilogy, where the lead characters are Hannah Jacobs and Erik Hunter., two totally opposite people. This book lays the foundation for what is undoubtedly going to be a stellar trilogy going off what happens in this story.
Erik suffers from so much guilt from his past that he literally has stopped trying to enjoy life. Hannah, his new next door neighbour, is a threat to his current way of thinking and living. She challenges him on most levels but in good ways. Hannah is a young, energetic woman who sees the good in people, and considering her tough past, that’s a feat in and of itself. She sees through Erik’s grumpy, gruff facade and is positive he can live life in a more positive way. I like both of these characters, having met Erik in this author’s Mercy Ring series, we were given a small glimpse of him—more like a tease really. 😀 It’s great to learn more about him and his past.
Alongside the romance in the story there’s Erik’s work issues and his ‘colleague’ making things difficult for him, as well as Hannah. For Hannah, her work issues start from the beginning and escalate into something very nasty indeed—but so exciting too. Once the action really heated up I couldn’t read fast enough, the adrenaline coursing through my veins with the uncertainty and excitement of the story. Truly magnificent writing. After that ending, which to be honest I wasn’t really shocked about, I can’t wait for the next book—Erik’s Redemption.
Erik suffers from so much guilt from his past that he literally has stopped trying to enjoy life. Hannah, his new next door neighbour, is a threat to his current way of thinking and living. She challenges him on most levels but in good ways. Hannah is a young, energetic woman who sees the good in people, and considering her tough past, that’s a feat in and of itself. She sees through Erik’s grumpy, gruff facade and is positive he can live life in a more positive way. I like both of these characters, having met Erik in this author’s Mercy Ring series, we were given a small glimpse of him—more like a tease really. 😀 It’s great to learn more about him and his past.
Alongside the romance in the story there’s Erik’s work issues and his ‘colleague’ making things difficult for him, as well as Hannah. For Hannah, her work issues start from the beginning and escalate into something very nasty indeed—but so exciting too. Once the action really heated up I couldn’t read fast enough, the adrenaline coursing through my veins with the uncertainty and excitement of the story. Truly magnificent writing. After that ending, which to be honest I wasn’t really shocked about, I can’t wait for the next book—Erik’s Redemption.
August 24, 2023
This is my first book by Nyssa Kathryn but it will most definitely not be the last. I loved the narration choices for this audiobook. Teddy Hamilton is just perfect as always. It has been years since I have listened to Stella Bloom but I thought she did such a wonderful job as Hannah and the other female characters. I truly loved that this book was done in duet.
I seriously loved Hannah so much. She was cute and quirky at times. She had lived a hard life growing up but now she had two very close friends and a very hot neighbor to keep her occupied. Erik was definitely mysterious with his career, which was understandable. He had been pretty much closed off to the idea of any type of relationship after losing his wife a few years ago. But there was just something about Hannah that brought him back to life without him even realizing it was happening.
One thing that I enjoyed was that all the mystery wasn't just surrounding Erik's life/job. I kind of had an idea of what might have been going on with Hannah and her job but things did keep twisting and turning for me to keep me on my toes. Romantic suspense is one of my top favorite tropes and I thought this one was just perfect.
And that ending...I am still sitting here shocked at how this story ended. Now I shall "patiently" wait for Erik's Redemption so that I can have all of the answers that I am desperately needing right now.
I seriously loved Hannah so much. She was cute and quirky at times. She had lived a hard life growing up but now she had two very close friends and a very hot neighbor to keep her occupied. Erik was definitely mysterious with his career, which was understandable. He had been pretty much closed off to the idea of any type of relationship after losing his wife a few years ago. But there was just something about Hannah that brought him back to life without him even realizing it was happening.
One thing that I enjoyed was that all the mystery wasn't just surrounding Erik's life/job. I kind of had an idea of what might have been going on with Hannah and her job but things did keep twisting and turning for me to keep me on my toes. Romantic suspense is one of my top favorite tropes and I thought this one was just perfect.
And that ending...I am still sitting here shocked at how this story ended. Now I shall "patiently" wait for Erik's Redemption so that I can have all of the answers that I am desperately needing right now.
November 14, 2023
What an emotional journey this story was. I was worried about starting it as Nyssas not releasing book 2 till next year, and I was sure I'd be frustrated. But thankfully, it wasn't a cliffhanger. I got my answers. I had a sneaky suspicion of the outcome before the answer spoke in my ears. I'm left wondering what's the next action, mystery for the future, And I have to say, I didn't see that coming, it's going to be a huge test for book 2.
I like that there was another plot weaving with the main story, which so cleverly mingled. It was solved with a relieved ending.
There was heartbreaking sadness with the H even though he was an overprotective, grumpy, alpha, and strong, wonderful sassy, persistent h. although she still has secrets.
Twists and turns, which is so typical of Nyssa, spins through this novel with such familiarity that it was wonderful to listen.
If you haven't read/listened to Nyssa before and like her mysteries, then Arma, Blue Halo, and Mercy Ring are definitely worth looking at.
Back to Erik.
The plot spins out as if it's a final, even though I know it's a trilogy.
The torment was real with angst and worry, and I just kept holding my breath.
Fantastic start to the series.
As for the duet..omg!! how good is it. Teddy and Stella did an awesome job, I haven't listened to duets that often as the production is few and far. I wish there was more of it. It's such a refreshing change from a listener POV.
Can't wait for book 2.
I like that there was another plot weaving with the main story, which so cleverly mingled. It was solved with a relieved ending.
There was heartbreaking sadness with the H even though he was an overprotective, grumpy, alpha, and strong, wonderful sassy, persistent h. although she still has secrets.
Twists and turns, which is so typical of Nyssa, spins through this novel with such familiarity that it was wonderful to listen.
If you haven't read/listened to Nyssa before and like her mysteries, then Arma, Blue Halo, and Mercy Ring are definitely worth looking at.
Back to Erik.
The plot spins out as if it's a final, even though I know it's a trilogy.
The torment was real with angst and worry, and I just kept holding my breath.
Fantastic start to the series.
As for the duet..omg!! how good is it. Teddy and Stella did an awesome job, I haven't listened to duets that often as the production is few and far. I wish there was more of it. It's such a refreshing change from a listener POV.
Can't wait for book 2.
August 5, 2023
I have been impatiently waiting for Erik’s story since we met him in the Mercy Ring Series, and the first installment of his trilogy was everything! Erik is the very definition of a broken, tortured hero. He has so much pain and guilt from his past that you can literally feel the darkness living in him jump off the page. Hannah is the young, sweet neighbor that he never saw coming. She brings light and goodness to his world, and slowly begins helping him piece himself back together. The chemistry between these two characters was undeniable, and the emotion swirling between them was a thing of pure beauty. I absolutely loved both of these characters. Hannah is so much stronger than she appears. Her childhood was not easy and life has dealt her a rough hand, but she’s determined to work hard and find the joy in the everyday things around her. Erik is broody to the max, and although he fights against the pull he feels towards Hannah, he can’t help but be growly and protective over her. Once he decides to stop running from his feelings, this man is all in, and he is even more irresistible! This book was not only full of emotion and romance, but true to Nyssa’s writing we’ve got bad guys and suspense galore. And that ending…I can’t wait to see where that goes! This was an amazing beginning to what is sure to be a fantastic trilogy!
August 31, 2023
Erik was one of my favourite side characters in the Mercy Ring series and I was looking forward to hearing his story as he was so mysterious but always there at the right time. This book did not disappoint and I am so invested in this man getting his HEA.
This started off as quite a slow burn but as this is a series rather than a standalone it works well for Erik's character development. My heart broke for him when his backstory comes out. I loved his relationship with Hannah and was rooting for them the whole way. Hannah is so likeable and they definitely have one of my favourite meet cutes for a grumpy/sunshine story! There are some dark moments in this (largely off page) but there is enough humour to lighten it too; Erik and the muffin was a particular highlight!
The plot though has so much going on but it ties together; Hannah and Erik are both dealing with issues out with their romance and when the action gets going it doesn't stop. The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat and that ending! My jaw genuinely dropped. Book two can't come soon enough!
My review system;
3 stars - I liked it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I need the next book now and have added all the authors works to my TBR
This started off as quite a slow burn but as this is a series rather than a standalone it works well for Erik's character development. My heart broke for him when his backstory comes out. I loved his relationship with Hannah and was rooting for them the whole way. Hannah is so likeable and they definitely have one of my favourite meet cutes for a grumpy/sunshine story! There are some dark moments in this (largely off page) but there is enough humour to lighten it too; Erik and the muffin was a particular highlight!
The plot though has so much going on but it ties together; Hannah and Erik are both dealing with issues out with their romance and when the action gets going it doesn't stop. The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat and that ending! My jaw genuinely dropped. Book two can't come soon enough!
My review system;
3 stars - I liked it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I need the next book now and have added all the authors works to my TBR
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