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Burning Bridges #1
Shattered Rhythm
How much would you sacrifice for a fresh start?
My life seemed perfect. I had everything I could ask for—loving parents, a boyfriend who was also my best friend, talent, and a promising career as a contemporary dancer and YouTube influencer.
But then, everything crumbled away. My life fell apart, forcing me to flee from home to survive, leaving shattered dreams in my wake.
As I tried to move forward and build a new life under a different identity, I never expected to encounter people I could trust, let alone form connections with four guys who were determined to restore my smile.
While finding my way back to myself, I’m discovering that I don’t always have to hide. However, when it finally seems like I have a future, my past comes knocking on my door.
Will I be strong enough to escape once again?
*** SHATTERED RHYTHM is a medium burn spicy ‘why choose’ contemporary romance. It is the first book of the Burning Bridges Duet and ends on a cliffhanger. The book contains graphic violence, profanity, and sexual content. Some parts may be triggering. ***
My life seemed perfect. I had everything I could ask for—loving parents, a boyfriend who was also my best friend, talent, and a promising career as a contemporary dancer and YouTube influencer.
But then, everything crumbled away. My life fell apart, forcing me to flee from home to survive, leaving shattered dreams in my wake.
As I tried to move forward and build a new life under a different identity, I never expected to encounter people I could trust, let alone form connections with four guys who were determined to restore my smile.
While finding my way back to myself, I’m discovering that I don’t always have to hide. However, when it finally seems like I have a future, my past comes knocking on my door.
Will I be strong enough to escape once again?
*** SHATTERED RHYTHM is a medium burn spicy ‘why choose’ contemporary romance. It is the first book of the Burning Bridges Duet and ends on a cliffhanger. The book contains graphic violence, profanity, and sexual content. Some parts may be triggering. ***
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2023
1077 people are currently reading
2267 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
July 12, 2023
**Spoilers after the first paragraph
I really enjoyed this book and would’ve rated it higher had I not read it before. This book very obviously takes inspiration from Ashley N. Rostek’s WITSEC series, which is fine—I don’t think there are many unique plots that one can take ownership of. However, there are just too many similarities between the two series that makes this book feel like a poor imitation or fanfiction. I’ll write examples of similar plot points from Shattered Dreams below.
- Our FMC’s entire family was murdered due to an obsessive ex-boyfriend.
- She decides to start fresh in a new place (Florida) under a new name/documents.
- She has trauma and PTSD from this experience, which induces nightmares.
- Because of her nightmares, she wakes her neighbor up screaming. He comforts her (not in harem).
- Due to her escape and tussle in the situation she was stabbed and shattered her leg causing scarring that she tries to cover up with long sleeves and pants in the blazing heat. It’s a big insecurity.
- In her harem, there are 4 brothers from a found family (grew up in foster care together). There are the twins, the daddy/dom/alpha/leader, and the player.
- She of course goes to school (college age) with the twins. And the other two are older. They all live together in a house that the oldest brother bought.
- She decides to sign up for a gym membership at a local 5-star gym. A gym that happens to be owned by her harem of course.
- The twins are personal trainers, the alpha dom dude is the owner, and the player holds classes.
- She goes to the gym because she works through her trauma dancing.
- Everyone is immediately attracted to her but the twins become smitten first. But because of obvious trauma they take things slow and remain friends.
- She went to their house for a movie night and they of course have a state of the art entertainment room and all the snacks and blankets. Decided not to sit with the twins because they were calling dibs, so she cuddled up with someone else.
- The twins, having shared a previous girlfriend before (which did not end well), were open to sharing her among them and their brothers. They are the first to date, kiss, etc.
- Because of her trauma, she is not ready for sex, so they give her oral and tell her not to reciprocate because it’s for her.
- When the other brothers find out about the arrangement, the dom leader daddy is upset and tells them that it’s a bad idea and that he doesn’t want to see his family broken over a girl. They of course were arguing in his office and had taken her gym bag in there.
- When she overhears, she ends the relationship because she refuses to come between them.
- This causes a ton of fighting between the brothers and they all eventually come around.
- But just when things are falling into place and looking good, she receives a letter from her ex-boyfriend, the murder, and tries to run.
I honestly question if she just took the first one-to-two WITSEC books and had ChatGPT condense them into a 300-page book, where she then did ‘find and replace’ for names and locations. It’s a good read because Ashley created a good plot, but I can’t say that this author wrote an original piece, hence my 2-stars.
I really enjoyed this book and would’ve rated it higher had I not read it before. This book very obviously takes inspiration from Ashley N. Rostek’s WITSEC series, which is fine—I don’t think there are many unique plots that one can take ownership of. However, there are just too many similarities between the two series that makes this book feel like a poor imitation or fanfiction. I’ll write examples of similar plot points from Shattered Dreams below.
- Our FMC’s entire family was murdered due to an obsessive ex-boyfriend.
- She decides to start fresh in a new place (Florida) under a new name/documents.
- She has trauma and PTSD from this experience, which induces nightmares.
- Because of her nightmares, she wakes her neighbor up screaming. He comforts her (not in harem).
- Due to her escape and tussle in the situation she was stabbed and shattered her leg causing scarring that she tries to cover up with long sleeves and pants in the blazing heat. It’s a big insecurity.
- In her harem, there are 4 brothers from a found family (grew up in foster care together). There are the twins, the daddy/dom/alpha/leader, and the player.
- She of course goes to school (college age) with the twins. And the other two are older. They all live together in a house that the oldest brother bought.
- She decides to sign up for a gym membership at a local 5-star gym. A gym that happens to be owned by her harem of course.
- The twins are personal trainers, the alpha dom dude is the owner, and the player holds classes.
- She goes to the gym because she works through her trauma dancing.
- Everyone is immediately attracted to her but the twins become smitten first. But because of obvious trauma they take things slow and remain friends.
- She went to their house for a movie night and they of course have a state of the art entertainment room and all the snacks and blankets. Decided not to sit with the twins because they were calling dibs, so she cuddled up with someone else.
- The twins, having shared a previous girlfriend before (which did not end well), were open to sharing her among them and their brothers. They are the first to date, kiss, etc.
- Because of her trauma, she is not ready for sex, so they give her oral and tell her not to reciprocate because it’s for her.
- When the other brothers find out about the arrangement, the dom leader daddy is upset and tells them that it’s a bad idea and that he doesn’t want to see his family broken over a girl. They of course were arguing in his office and had taken her gym bag in there.
- When she overhears, she ends the relationship because she refuses to come between them.
- This causes a ton of fighting between the brothers and they all eventually come around.
- But just when things are falling into place and looking good, she receives a letter from her ex-boyfriend, the murder, and tries to run.
I honestly question if she just took the first one-to-two WITSEC books and had ChatGPT condense them into a 300-page book, where she then did ‘find and replace’ for names and locations. It’s a good read because Ashley created a good plot, but I can’t say that this author wrote an original piece, hence my 2-stars.
October 19, 2023
DNF @ 52%. It’s not a bad book at all, but it’s basically like I’m re-reading the witsec series.
- whole family murdered by a guy that obsessed with her (mum, dad &sibling died)
- 4 brother (twins-one good, the other bad. Clique player and then the tough older brother)
- They own a gym for Christ sake
- She has a lot of physical scars from the accident & suffers with nightmares (I acknowledge the last one occurs in a lot of books regarding trauma)
I’m basically reading a carbon copy. The sad part is it’s really well written, but because the plot is ridiculously similar I can’t really focus on what happening because I’m playing ‘snap’ in my head. Thus far I have said ‘snap’ a million times.
- whole family murdered by a guy that obsessed with her (mum, dad &sibling died)
- 4 brother (twins-one good, the other bad. Clique player and then the tough older brother)
- They own a gym for Christ sake
- She has a lot of physical scars from the accident & suffers with nightmares (I acknowledge the last one occurs in a lot of books regarding trauma)
I’m basically reading a carbon copy. The sad part is it’s really well written, but because the plot is ridiculously similar I can’t really focus on what happening because I’m playing ‘snap’ in my head. Thus far I have said ‘snap’ a million times.
August 27, 2023
Pretty typical abused/tragic h trying to start a new life story. There wasn’t anything uber new or unique here. I did like the h a lot. The guys are just okay. My issue was the writing. It’s extremely choppy. There are past scenes and present scenes and 5 POVs. There are times when we get three paragraphs of one POV before it switches and then switches again. The flow of the story suffered because of it and so did my connection to it. I doubt I’ll read book two but would check out this author again after she has some more writing experience and hones her craft more.
November 24, 2023
This was veryyyy similar to WITSEC, but look, it was entertaining and addictive. Nothing unique or amazing, but a fun and quick read. Good old fashioned trash 🤷🏻♀️.
July 24, 2025
Audio:
3.5 stars for Kelsey Navarro Foster
4-4.5 stars for Lee Samuels
Book: 1.5-2 stars
The writing wasn’t great. Very very choppy. It felt like every few paragraphs were a different POV and add flashbacks and there wasn’t any cohesiveness to the writing.
And the characters were cringe, idk the way they talked and acted didn’t feel like they should be adults haha!
I saw reviews saying this was like the WITSEC books, and I cannot see it besides the girl hiding from her past, and 4 pseudo brothers wanting to get with her.
Overall don’t really recommend. It was boring and had surface level characters.
3.5 stars for Kelsey Navarro Foster
4-4.5 stars for Lee Samuels
Book: 1.5-2 stars
The writing wasn’t great. Very very choppy. It felt like every few paragraphs were a different POV and add flashbacks and there wasn’t any cohesiveness to the writing.
And the characters were cringe, idk the way they talked and acted didn’t feel like they should be adults haha!
I saw reviews saying this was like the WITSEC books, and I cannot see it besides the girl hiding from her past, and 4 pseudo brothers wanting to get with her.
Overall don’t really recommend. It was boring and had surface level characters.
July 7, 2023
ARC REVIEW
Why Choose
Book 1 of 2 and ends on cliffhanger
Omg girl you did us dirty with that cliffhanger we need book 2 now k thanks love you 😉😘
Okay but seriously this book was freaking amazing!! I absolutely love Liv and her men! The Twins are absolutely adorable I love them both, Jaxon is just a grumpy boss man with sexy daddy vibes and Chase is the natural player who needs to get the stick out of his booty!! I want more of them!!
Gunner is the next door neighbor and current male bestie and I’m just not sure how I feel about him yet so we will see what happens in book 2!!
Liv’s story is an emotional one and I can’t wait to see what happens next! The plot is building and the spice is too can’t wait!!
Why Choose
Book 1 of 2 and ends on cliffhanger
Omg girl you did us dirty with that cliffhanger we need book 2 now k thanks love you 😉😘
Okay but seriously this book was freaking amazing!! I absolutely love Liv and her men! The Twins are absolutely adorable I love them both, Jaxon is just a grumpy boss man with sexy daddy vibes and Chase is the natural player who needs to get the stick out of his booty!! I want more of them!!
Gunner is the next door neighbor and current male bestie and I’m just not sure how I feel about him yet so we will see what happens in book 2!!
Liv’s story is an emotional one and I can’t wait to see what happens next! The plot is building and the spice is too can’t wait!!
July 7, 2023
I can’t shake off the feeling that she’s someone special, someone who could change everything. I hold her tighter and vow to myself that I will do everything in my power to make her happy and protect her from harm…
I am absolutely impressed with this freshman author’s debut release. Told through present-day POVs and the FMC’s traumatic nightmares, it is an emotional tale about trying to live again after suffering a significant loss and learning to trust in love. I was enthralled by the story and found myself having a difficult time putting it down.
This book brought out so many emotions! There were the highs of loving the guys and the lows of wanting to knock some sense into them. The FMC suffers additional setbacks along her growth journey as the men obsessed with her make some foolish choices when they cannot come to terms with their feelings, hurting her in the process.
I know it is a why choose, but I choose the twins. Not only do they know how to share, but their emotional intelligence is most appropriate for the FMC’s needs. The twins remain steadfast supporters and are willing to make every effort to have a plural relationship, but the other two… Let’s just say that one of them will need to show profound remorse to get back into my good graces.
Some of my favorite characters are the supporting cast – the neighbor who is awoken by the FMC’s nightmares and is there to comfort her through the night, and the ride-or-die bff (too bad this book doesn’t include FF because I would 100% ship the FMC with her).
To enhance your reading experience. I recommend checking out the Spotify playlist. The FMC works through her intense emotions through dance, and the songs used help embed you into the story. Additionally, one of the twins is a musician, and several songs he sings are on the playlist. I loved getting that immersive experience of reading and listening. I was able to further feel the FMC’s emotional pain.
I would classify the romance as slow/medium burn with mild spice. Sexual tension builds throughout, but the FMC is not yet in an emotional state to go much further than accepting gratification.
If you have no triggers, I recommend you enter this book blind. Unwrapping the mystery of her past without prior expectations is the best way to go. However, there are some severe triggers; if necessary, view those and make the best decision for your mental and emotional health.
The cliffhanger is intense, but it will not be a long wait for book two’s release. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes/Features: College setting, musician MMC, quiet nerd-type MMC, flirty dancer MMC, protective retired MMA MMC, FMC with traumatic past, learning to live again, abusive ex, twins, brothers, chosen family
Narrator: Multiple 1st Person POV Relationship Type: Why Choose – MFMMM, slow/medium burn, building spice
Book Type/Ending: Book one in Burning Bridges duet, cliffhanger ending
TW/CW: Extensive listing in forward
I am absolutely impressed with this freshman author’s debut release. Told through present-day POVs and the FMC’s traumatic nightmares, it is an emotional tale about trying to live again after suffering a significant loss and learning to trust in love. I was enthralled by the story and found myself having a difficult time putting it down.
This book brought out so many emotions! There were the highs of loving the guys and the lows of wanting to knock some sense into them. The FMC suffers additional setbacks along her growth journey as the men obsessed with her make some foolish choices when they cannot come to terms with their feelings, hurting her in the process.
I know it is a why choose, but I choose the twins. Not only do they know how to share, but their emotional intelligence is most appropriate for the FMC’s needs. The twins remain steadfast supporters and are willing to make every effort to have a plural relationship, but the other two… Let’s just say that one of them will need to show profound remorse to get back into my good graces.
Some of my favorite characters are the supporting cast – the neighbor who is awoken by the FMC’s nightmares and is there to comfort her through the night, and the ride-or-die bff (too bad this book doesn’t include FF because I would 100% ship the FMC with her).
To enhance your reading experience. I recommend checking out the Spotify playlist. The FMC works through her intense emotions through dance, and the songs used help embed you into the story. Additionally, one of the twins is a musician, and several songs he sings are on the playlist. I loved getting that immersive experience of reading and listening. I was able to further feel the FMC’s emotional pain.
I would classify the romance as slow/medium burn with mild spice. Sexual tension builds throughout, but the FMC is not yet in an emotional state to go much further than accepting gratification.
If you have no triggers, I recommend you enter this book blind. Unwrapping the mystery of her past without prior expectations is the best way to go. However, there are some severe triggers; if necessary, view those and make the best decision for your mental and emotional health.
The cliffhanger is intense, but it will not be a long wait for book two’s release. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes/Features: College setting, musician MMC, quiet nerd-type MMC, flirty dancer MMC, protective retired MMA MMC, FMC with traumatic past, learning to live again, abusive ex, twins, brothers, chosen family
Narrator: Multiple 1st Person POV Relationship Type: Why Choose – MFMMM, slow/medium burn, building spice
Book Type/Ending: Book one in Burning Bridges duet, cliffhanger ending
TW/CW: Extensive listing in forward
July 13, 2023
4⭐️ 1🌶️
This gave off major WITSEC by Ashley N Rostek vibes and I’m hereeee for it!!
The beginning was slow but picked up around 35-40%. There was a lot of ‘telling’ rather than showing which made it seem a bit draggy(?)
I loved the back and forth, using Liv and Olivia to showcase the time period. My heart BROKE about Theo.
Love love love the guys, especially the twins. Chris cracks me up the little meddling witch 😂
I don’t trust Gunner whatsoever. There’s weird vibes coming from him and I feel like he ties in with Liam.
Super excited for the second book!
This gave off major WITSEC by Ashley N Rostek vibes and I’m hereeee for it!!
The beginning was slow but picked up around 35-40%. There was a lot of ‘telling’ rather than showing which made it seem a bit draggy(?)
I loved the back and forth, using Liv and Olivia to showcase the time period. My heart BROKE about Theo.
Love love love the guys, especially the twins. Chris cracks me up the little meddling witch 😂
I don’t trust Gunner whatsoever. There’s weird vibes coming from him and I feel like he ties in with Liam.
Super excited for the second book!
July 10, 2023
Twin sandwich? Yes plz
July 9, 2025
2.5 Rounded Up
Liv is starting over after something traumatic happened to her. What she didn't expect was to find two best friends, and four love interests.
While I was reading this I felt like I had read something like this before and then I remembered I had recently read the WITSEC series. This is pretty close to that and since it was only like 6 books ago that I read that series it was still really fresh. Liv is a dancer so that is the fresher element of this. She works hard to push past her trauma and her injury to just feel the music and I think the descriptions in that regard are interesting. Another thing I have an issue with is how some of the paragraphs initially feel like a journal entry. "Today I went to the store to buy groceries. I was too tired to work on my furniture so I went to sleep." It takes a minute to find the rhythm of the writing. The introduction of Ryder and River was too quick for them to be infatuated with her already so I did feel like that was sped up too much. I think that this book could have benefited from slowing down and developing out the characters a bit more.
While it is slightly different that WITSEC there are still too many parallels. I am interested in this series to see if it deviates enough and I find the characters interesting so I am continuing.
Check out a podcast that I host with my boyfriend where we talk books and book related things:
https://open.spotify.com/show/6Xjyht7...
and our Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/talkbooky/
Liv is starting over after something traumatic happened to her. What she didn't expect was to find two best friends, and four love interests.
While I was reading this I felt like I had read something like this before and then I remembered I had recently read the WITSEC series. This is pretty close to that and since it was only like 6 books ago that I read that series it was still really fresh. Liv is a dancer so that is the fresher element of this. She works hard to push past her trauma and her injury to just feel the music and I think the descriptions in that regard are interesting. Another thing I have an issue with is how some of the paragraphs initially feel like a journal entry. "Today I went to the store to buy groceries. I was too tired to work on my furniture so I went to sleep." It takes a minute to find the rhythm of the writing. The introduction of Ryder and River was too quick for them to be infatuated with her already so I did feel like that was sped up too much. I think that this book could have benefited from slowing down and developing out the characters a bit more.
While it is slightly different that WITSEC there are still too many parallels. I am interested in this series to see if it deviates enough and I find the characters interesting so I am continuing.
Check out a podcast that I host with my boyfriend where we talk books and book related things:
https://open.spotify.com/show/6Xjyht7...
and our Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/talkbooky/
June 25, 2023
Reading a new author's debut is always a bit of a gamble, but sometimes you stumble upon a new author who has written a first book with awesome potential. That's exactly what "Shattered Rhythm" is to me; a debut with the potential to make the RH community fall in love with the characters, and the author.
This first book in the "Burning Bridges Duet" has an intriguing contemporary storyline, with an fmc trying to build a new life for herself while still struggling with the mental and physical scars of her past. We get to see a woman who's still struggling with the trauma of her past, while putting one foot in front of the other, determined to not let the man from her past win. She has a pure soul, and it's awesome to see the positive influence she has on the new people in her life.
"Shattered Rhythm" has a lot of light and fluffy moments, with a found family trope and a few men who fall head over heels from the start. Even though these men all have their own troubled pasts, they feel the desire to worship the ground Liv is walking on, and my heart grew a little with every cute gesture they made. Still, this is not an insta-love story, all of these characters have things to overcome to get together, but it's all with the most loving intentions. Nevertheless, this book might be triggering for some because Liv suffers from a lot of flasbacks, showing us the past she ran away from. So if you have any triggers, please read the warning at the start of this book. If you don't, I believe you'll enjoy this mix of light and dark.
With this being the first book in a duet, the book does end in a cliffhanger, leaving me wondering what will happen next. I'm really looking forward to book two, and to get some answers to the questions this first book left me with...
This first book in the "Burning Bridges Duet" has an intriguing contemporary storyline, with an fmc trying to build a new life for herself while still struggling with the mental and physical scars of her past. We get to see a woman who's still struggling with the trauma of her past, while putting one foot in front of the other, determined to not let the man from her past win. She has a pure soul, and it's awesome to see the positive influence she has on the new people in her life.
"Shattered Rhythm" has a lot of light and fluffy moments, with a found family trope and a few men who fall head over heels from the start. Even though these men all have their own troubled pasts, they feel the desire to worship the ground Liv is walking on, and my heart grew a little with every cute gesture they made. Still, this is not an insta-love story, all of these characters have things to overcome to get together, but it's all with the most loving intentions. Nevertheless, this book might be triggering for some because Liv suffers from a lot of flasbacks, showing us the past she ran away from. So if you have any triggers, please read the warning at the start of this book. If you don't, I believe you'll enjoy this mix of light and dark.
With this being the first book in a duet, the book does end in a cliffhanger, leaving me wondering what will happen next. I'm really looking forward to book two, and to get some answers to the questions this first book left me with...
March 10, 2024
4 stars.
So. I’m really enjoying the book. But. The reviews saying it’s really similar to the WitSec series, are 100% correct. Like, to the point that I was wondering the whole time if it was just an unfortunate coincidence or if it actually is fanfic.🤷🏻♀️ I have no idea. But there are enough differences, in the writing, and the characters, and tiny plot points, that I’m still enjoying it.
Hopefully the ending is good🤞🏻
So. I’m really enjoying the book. But. The reviews saying it’s really similar to the WitSec series, are 100% correct. Like, to the point that I was wondering the whole time if it was just an unfortunate coincidence or if it actually is fanfic.🤷🏻♀️ I have no idea. But there are enough differences, in the writing, and the characters, and tiny plot points, that I’m still enjoying it.
Hopefully the ending is good🤞🏻
June 30, 2023
Shattered Rhythm
By Blake Black
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💧
*potential spoilers*
The book had multiple POV’s by the main characters and also had flashbacks of the FMC and ends in a cliffhanger. There are substantial triggers in this book and I highly suggest you check them out BEFORE you read it because the trauma the FMC endured is horrendous.
The way this book was written gripped me from the beginning and held my interest the entire way! I found myself laughing out loud at some parts and holding my heart in the sadness of others.
But overall I loved this book! I cannot wait to see where Liv ends up in book 2!
By Blake Black
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💧
*potential spoilers*
The book had multiple POV’s by the main characters and also had flashbacks of the FMC and ends in a cliffhanger. There are substantial triggers in this book and I highly suggest you check them out BEFORE you read it because the trauma the FMC endured is horrendous.
The way this book was written gripped me from the beginning and held my interest the entire way! I found myself laughing out loud at some parts and holding my heart in the sadness of others.
But overall I loved this book! I cannot wait to see where Liv ends up in book 2!
July 12, 2023
4.75/5 star. 2/5 on spice.
Contemporary RH.
I really enjoyed reading this book! It may be my favorite contemporary RH that I've read. I really enjoyed the development of the characters. The author is very talented as I did not get the characters confused in my head a single time as I went through reading the story. I feel like that is a major feat for RH book, especially in building the initial story/relationships.
It felt very realistic. I loved that they weren't all dancers like the MC and they all had very distinct personalities and interests.
Gave me vibes of the WITSEC series but I enjoyed this one more. The main character was also fun to read, the banter was easy, the guys made me swoon, the trauma was devastating to read. I appreciated the trigger warnings at the beginning.
I am eagerly awaiting august for the second part of this duet!
Contemporary RH.
I really enjoyed reading this book! It may be my favorite contemporary RH that I've read. I really enjoyed the development of the characters. The author is very talented as I did not get the characters confused in my head a single time as I went through reading the story. I feel like that is a major feat for RH book, especially in building the initial story/relationships.
It felt very realistic. I loved that they weren't all dancers like the MC and they all had very distinct personalities and interests.
Gave me vibes of the WITSEC series but I enjoyed this one more. The main character was also fun to read, the banter was easy, the guys made me swoon, the trauma was devastating to read. I appreciated the trigger warnings at the beginning.
I am eagerly awaiting august for the second part of this duet!
July 14, 2023
Really enjoyed this can't wait for book 2
July 11, 2023
Shattered Rhythm is about a young woman, Liv, who is trying to rebuild her life in a new place after losing everything. She is so brave and such a bad@ss, I just can't say enough about how awesome this woman is. She has so many pieces to pick up and no one to rely on. As Liv gets into the rhythm of her new life, she meets four men, twins - Ryder and River, Chase and Jaxon. They are a found family of their own and I love that. She forges different tentative bonds with each of them, as she is learning to trust again (others and herself). These guys - they are just amazing. Each of them have flaws and positive points and I think that's what makes them so great!
This is the first part of the Burning Bridges Duet. I am normally not one for a cliffhanger, but I promise it's worth it!!! ❤️❤️❤️
There are definitely some content warnings for this book, so please be aware of that. As always, dear ones, please read them before embarking on your reading journey.
This is the first part of the Burning Bridges Duet. I am normally not one for a cliffhanger, but I promise it's worth it!!! ❤️❤️❤️
There are definitely some content warnings for this book, so please be aware of that. As always, dear ones, please read them before embarking on your reading journey.
July 12, 2023
Liv (FMC) is dealing with so much.. the storyline is her figuring everything out after events. The author telling you the song (which I played) puts the reader in that headspace which is incredible. Love that all the guys fall for her so fast.. the twins (River & Ryder) freaking love ‘em. Chase.. still has learning to do but.. JAXON?! Good LORD
August 1, 2024
Blake Black writes this best books and Shattered Rhythm is no different.
This book hooked me from the very beginning and left me diving right in to book number 2.
This is a great beginning, great narration, and a great author.
This book hooked me from the very beginning and left me diving right in to book number 2.
This is a great beginning, great narration, and a great author.
July 14, 2023
Shattered Rhythm 📚Blake Black
5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
-tradegy/ trauma
-loss of identity
-why choose / reverse harem
-finding yourself
-found family
-twins
-medium slow burn
“And even if I did, I’m not sure if it’s fair to limit myself to just one person when there are so many different kinds of love and connections out there. Maybe it’s possible to have more than one soulmate, or maybe the concept of soulmates is just something we’ve been conditioned by society to believe; my heart is big enough for all of them, and I like them all the same”
I am obsessed with this book. It has a choke hold on me and Blake already knows that. This book gives you the healing and heartbreak vibes that we all love, while also going on this ride with liv while she falls in love with her self and her passion again.
I kid you not, when I say I couldn’t put this book down, I messaged the author ( Blake) the whole time while I was reading she can attest I couldn’t stop. But to top it all off Blake is the sweetest person, and boy can she write a contemporary reverse Harem.
5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
-tradegy/ trauma
-loss of identity
-why choose / reverse harem
-finding yourself
-found family
-twins
-medium slow burn
“And even if I did, I’m not sure if it’s fair to limit myself to just one person when there are so many different kinds of love and connections out there. Maybe it’s possible to have more than one soulmate, or maybe the concept of soulmates is just something we’ve been conditioned by society to believe; my heart is big enough for all of them, and I like them all the same”
I am obsessed with this book. It has a choke hold on me and Blake already knows that. This book gives you the healing and heartbreak vibes that we all love, while also going on this ride with liv while she falls in love with her self and her passion again.
I kid you not, when I say I couldn’t put this book down, I messaged the author ( Blake) the whole time while I was reading she can attest I couldn’t stop. But to top it all off Blake is the sweetest person, and boy can she write a contemporary reverse Harem.
July 7, 2023
I apologise if my review for Shattered Rhythm is gushy, I normally wouldn't count myself as a 'gusher', but it is so very, very, tremendously good! AND it is a debut novel for author @blakeblackbooks
Liv is starting a new life, trying to move on from fame, loss, heart ache and betrayal. Both her body and mind have been broken and slowly pieced back together and now she is in a new country, pursuing her love of dancing and making new friends.
The minute River, Ryder, Chase and Jaxon set eyes on Liv, something fundamental changes. They've always been close, living together, working and hanging out at Jaxons gym, however liking and pursuing the same girl, well that could be complicated!
Liv's past is filled with pain and horror and the book covers the flashbacks in exceptional detail, really adding layers of character depth. The author also truly brings Liv's love and passion for dance, to life. The scene where Chase and Liv dance together is panty melting!
Watch out for the double cliffy at the end and give me book two RIGHT NOW PLEASE 🙏 🤣🥰
Liv is starting a new life, trying to move on from fame, loss, heart ache and betrayal. Both her body and mind have been broken and slowly pieced back together and now she is in a new country, pursuing her love of dancing and making new friends.
The minute River, Ryder, Chase and Jaxon set eyes on Liv, something fundamental changes. They've always been close, living together, working and hanging out at Jaxons gym, however liking and pursuing the same girl, well that could be complicated!
Liv's past is filled with pain and horror and the book covers the flashbacks in exceptional detail, really adding layers of character depth. The author also truly brings Liv's love and passion for dance, to life. The scene where Chase and Liv dance together is panty melting!
Watch out for the double cliffy at the end and give me book two RIGHT NOW PLEASE 🙏 🤣🥰
July 14, 2023
Wow. So good!
I love everything about this reverse harem book. There is a "bent but not broken" FMC, a herd of swoon worthy guys, and so much emotion you will need a ticket to ride this ride. I love the twists and turns off the plot, it's unpredictable and so exciting. I will be impatiently waiting at the edge of my seat for book 2.
I love everything about this reverse harem book. There is a "bent but not broken" FMC, a herd of swoon worthy guys, and so much emotion you will need a ticket to ride this ride. I love the twists and turns off the plot, it's unpredictable and so exciting. I will be impatiently waiting at the edge of my seat for book 2.
July 7, 2023
I am honored I got the chance to read this ARC for Blake Black’s debut novel! Almost enough that I’ve forgiven her for the cliffhanger! I don’t handle cliffhangers well (IYKYK) 😂
This book is all about healing and Liv’s journey/fresh start. Honestly, it makes me emotional thinking about it. I really liked how much we learn about Liv through her nightmares, and how we very slowly get more and more of the darkness that’s hiding in her past.
The men. Ugh, the men! Each are so different and unique, and all are so perfect for Liv. ALSO, there’s just something that sounds so appealing about being in the middle of a twin sandwich (the cuddle kind or the sexy kind). I felt so strongly about Jaxon, Ryder, River, and Chase. I also have some ✨feelings✨ about Gunner too… 👀👀👀
I am so looking forward to book two in the Burning Bridges Duet (I NEED IT BECAUSE THE CLIFFY IS GOING TO MAKE ME LOSE MY MIND) and I think we can expect great fucking things from Blake 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This book is all about healing and Liv’s journey/fresh start. Honestly, it makes me emotional thinking about it. I really liked how much we learn about Liv through her nightmares, and how we very slowly get more and more of the darkness that’s hiding in her past.
The men. Ugh, the men! Each are so different and unique, and all are so perfect for Liv. ALSO, there’s just something that sounds so appealing about being in the middle of a twin sandwich (the cuddle kind or the sexy kind). I felt so strongly about Jaxon, Ryder, River, and Chase. I also have some ✨feelings✨ about Gunner too… 👀👀👀
I am so looking forward to book two in the Burning Bridges Duet (I NEED IT BECAUSE THE CLIFFY IS GOING TO MAKE ME LOSE MY MIND) and I think we can expect great fucking things from Blake 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
July 8, 2023
Wow, this was a fantastic start to a new medium burn, Reverse Harem duet! 😍
First off, I love how relatable the heroine is. Even if you’re lucky enough to never have experienced any trauma in your life, you can understand where she’s coming from and why she acts the way she does, which is only reinforced with the nightmares/flashbacks she has every night.
The romance part is medium burn und sweet, but not without its struggles. The MMCs have had their own tough past so they are mature enough, but still worries about a poly relationship are laying bricks in their way.
I also like how the story doesn’t only focus on the romance between the main characters, but also on the side characters like Liv‘s friends and even more on the plot. Damn cliffhanger! 😬
I can’t wait to see how it turns out in the second book and how the MCs finally get their HEA!
Please check the TWs first if you’re sensitive to them. The story is sweet, but the flashbacks are definitely not.
First off, I love how relatable the heroine is. Even if you’re lucky enough to never have experienced any trauma in your life, you can understand where she’s coming from and why she acts the way she does, which is only reinforced with the nightmares/flashbacks she has every night.
The romance part is medium burn und sweet, but not without its struggles. The MMCs have had their own tough past so they are mature enough, but still worries about a poly relationship are laying bricks in their way.
I also like how the story doesn’t only focus on the romance between the main characters, but also on the side characters like Liv‘s friends and even more on the plot. Damn cliffhanger! 😬
I can’t wait to see how it turns out in the second book and how the MCs finally get their HEA!
Please check the TWs first if you’re sensitive to them. The story is sweet, but the flashbacks are definitely not.
July 7, 2023
This book was absolutely phenomenal!!!! I loved Olivia (Liv) from the start. A tough FMC with a traumatic history moves to Florida to start a new life. Then she meets the brothers, and oooh, was I hooked! Ryder, River, Jaxon, and Chase are found family and welcome Liv into their lives. The storyline was very well thought out. The plot line was perfect, and the characters felt like they were real. Blake's side characters fit right in, and I loved that dance was a major component. I couldn't wait to keep reading more. A little slow-burn and not overly spicy, the spice and story connected well, and I was able to immerse myself fully. Fair warning, though.... MASSIVE cliffhanger that will absolutely leave you wanting more. (Im)patiently waiting for book 2 in this series. You will not regret picking up this RH/why choose romance to add to your bookshelf!
July 2, 2023
ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 𝕋𝕚𝕞𝕖 📚
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘: ♾️ stars
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖: 🌶🌶🌶
Y'all. If you take anything from my reviews, please let it be this one. This book is so fucking good. I could not put it down. I read this book instead of SLEEPING! Any chance I had to read this book, I was reading it. If I didn't have to work the day I received this ARC, I would have finished it in a couple hours.
I absolutely love the author. She is so sweet and she is now my friend! I love her.
It is a why choose, dark romances. Definitely check the trigger warnings. There is some traumatic events happening in this book.
Livy has had some really, really, really, shitty things happen to her. She is trying her best to keep moving forward. And then she meets our 4 boys; River, Ryder, Chase and Jaxon. Gunner is also her neighbor/best friend.
She thought she was going to have to choose between those 4 boys, but they chose her instead... Hell, if I was her, I wouldn't choose either 🤣
They all have their own special qualities.
My personal favorite though is Daddy Jaxon. (He isn't their dad but he is definitely in that "daddy is a state of mind." Era just like Daddy Pascal has said.)
Pick this fucking book up and read it. It's so good.
It releases on July 7th!
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘: ♾️ stars
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖: 🌶🌶🌶
Y'all. If you take anything from my reviews, please let it be this one. This book is so fucking good. I could not put it down. I read this book instead of SLEEPING! Any chance I had to read this book, I was reading it. If I didn't have to work the day I received this ARC, I would have finished it in a couple hours.
I absolutely love the author. She is so sweet and she is now my friend! I love her.
It is a why choose, dark romances. Definitely check the trigger warnings. There is some traumatic events happening in this book.
Livy has had some really, really, really, shitty things happen to her. She is trying her best to keep moving forward. And then she meets our 4 boys; River, Ryder, Chase and Jaxon. Gunner is also her neighbor/best friend.
She thought she was going to have to choose between those 4 boys, but they chose her instead... Hell, if I was her, I wouldn't choose either 🤣
They all have their own special qualities.
My personal favorite though is Daddy Jaxon. (He isn't their dad but he is definitely in that "daddy is a state of mind." Era just like Daddy Pascal has said.)
Pick this fucking book up and read it. It's so good.
It releases on July 7th!
June 25, 2023
I went into this debut book from a new author not knowing quite what to expect. I had no idea when I picked this up that it would become one of my favorites of the year.
How in the world is this your first book Blake? Honestly, from the very first line I was drawn in. HOOKED! I always fall for the hurt/comfort trope. Shattered Rhythm is that and more. I laughed out loud a few times. The cute moments are heartwarming and the sad parts made my hurt burn. What a fantastic mix of light and dark! Listen guys, this author is going to be the next big thing in the RH community. Do yourself a favor and read it! Can’t wait for book two!
How in the world is this your first book Blake? Honestly, from the very first line I was drawn in. HOOKED! I always fall for the hurt/comfort trope. Shattered Rhythm is that and more. I laughed out loud a few times. The cute moments are heartwarming and the sad parts made my hurt burn. What a fantastic mix of light and dark! Listen guys, this author is going to be the next big thing in the RH community. Do yourself a favor and read it! Can’t wait for book two!
August 23, 2023
Shattered Rhythm is Blake Black’s debut novel and it surprised the hell out of me. I read it one sitting. Shattered Rhythm is a slow burn reverse harem featuring Liv, a trauma survivor. Her story is tragic and heartbreaking. Know your triggers.
…𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘧𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘳, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘱𝘶𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘰. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯.
I fell in love with Liv. She is such a strong woman for surviving what she did. She hasn’t fully healed, but she knows what sets her off and what helps. Dancing calms her; it’s a way for her to safely let out her emotions. Blake did a phenomenal job of connecting Liv’s emotions through song. The song is listed right before Liv starts her dance, and I listened to each song before I continued reading the scene. It made the entire dance performance more emotional. It didn’t matter whether or not I actually liked the song because the lyrics? They spoke to Liv’s pain and I found myself getting teary eyed more often than not. I’m not a dancer and sometimes have a hard time visualizing dance moves in books, but I felt like I could feel Liv’s emotions.
I absolutely love every character in this book and how they support Liv in their own way.
Gunner is Liv’s neighbor and I loved him from the moment he asked Liv if she needed help carrying her espresso machine box. He became a solid fixture for Liv in such a short amount of time. The way he comforts her? Yeah, I’m going to need him to be in the harem, Blake. Right now, their relationship is platonic, but damn. That club scene where Gunner and Liv dance the bachata was hot as all get out. It had me looking up bachata videos on YouTube. 🥵
Ryder, River, Jaxon, and Chase are head over heels for Liv. Ryder and River are my sweet twins, Jaxon is my daddy, and Chase is my playboy who will get his head out of his ass shortly. The guys fell quick and hard, fully intrigued by Liv within moments of meeting her. Some accepted their feelings quickly while others needed more time to process. I can tell Liv will bring out the best of these men. River has already broken out of his shell for her, and I loved those scenes so 👏🏼 much 👏🏼.
Chris is Liv’s new girl BFF. She is so supportive of Liv, no questions asked. Every girl needs a Chris.
Shattered Rhythm is book one of a duet, so Blake leaves us with a rude AF cliffhanger. I’m not okay with it.
5⭐️
2🌶️
…𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘧𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘳, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘱𝘶𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘰. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯.
I fell in love with Liv. She is such a strong woman for surviving what she did. She hasn’t fully healed, but she knows what sets her off and what helps. Dancing calms her; it’s a way for her to safely let out her emotions. Blake did a phenomenal job of connecting Liv’s emotions through song. The song is listed right before Liv starts her dance, and I listened to each song before I continued reading the scene. It made the entire dance performance more emotional. It didn’t matter whether or not I actually liked the song because the lyrics? They spoke to Liv’s pain and I found myself getting teary eyed more often than not. I’m not a dancer and sometimes have a hard time visualizing dance moves in books, but I felt like I could feel Liv’s emotions.
I absolutely love every character in this book and how they support Liv in their own way.
Gunner is Liv’s neighbor and I loved him from the moment he asked Liv if she needed help carrying her espresso machine box. He became a solid fixture for Liv in such a short amount of time. The way he comforts her? Yeah, I’m going to need him to be in the harem, Blake. Right now, their relationship is platonic, but damn. That club scene where Gunner and Liv dance the bachata was hot as all get out. It had me looking up bachata videos on YouTube. 🥵
Ryder, River, Jaxon, and Chase are head over heels for Liv. Ryder and River are my sweet twins, Jaxon is my daddy, and Chase is my playboy who will get his head out of his ass shortly. The guys fell quick and hard, fully intrigued by Liv within moments of meeting her. Some accepted their feelings quickly while others needed more time to process. I can tell Liv will bring out the best of these men. River has already broken out of his shell for her, and I loved those scenes so 👏🏼 much 👏🏼.
Chris is Liv’s new girl BFF. She is so supportive of Liv, no questions asked. Every girl needs a Chris.
Shattered Rhythm is book one of a duet, so Blake leaves us with a rude AF cliffhanger. I’m not okay with it.
5⭐️
2🌶️
July 13, 2023
good
I enjoyed it. This book was like if WITSEC and Peyton’s path had a baby you would get this. It was a bit slow but I enjoyed it. I will be reading book 2 when it’s released
I enjoyed it. This book was like if WITSEC and Peyton’s path had a baby you would get this. It was a bit slow but I enjoyed it. I will be reading book 2 when it’s released
August 14, 2023
Gosh. I don’t know if my standards for books are just way too high, but recently i’ve been DNFING a whole lot!
Yeah, Nah, this wasn’t for me. It felt a little copy pasty from WITSEC. Obviously, this isn’t the first “run away from my old life to get away from bad bad situations” type of book to ever exist, but there were far too many coincidences. The twin brothers, the two older and more parental brothers. The owning a gym. Yeah.
I also feel as if the whole presentation of this book just was poorly executed. The main character doesn’t really have any discernible personality traits within the first 5 chapters other than the fact she went through something traumatic with her ex, she has a massive espresso machine, she dances, and she’s super hot and everyone wants her but somehow she can’t see it.
YAWWWWWN.
I’m so done with these lack of depth characters, and it’s not even just her either, it’s all of the characters in this book. You can always tell when the main character is going to be besties or good friends with female characters because they instantly give her a smile and are super duper sugary sweet! whereas the ones who aren’t, are cold, bitchy and mean. Why can’t we just have one platonic relationship that develops NORMALLY.
None of my friendships have ever started with us being all like “omg! yas queen! i love your hair! let’s be besties!” It just doesn’t happen. Nor have I ever had a girl give me a death glare for just existing; and i’ve met some crazy bitches in my time.
Oh, and where the fuck is all this money she’s got coming from? I know she was famous or whatever before, but surely you wouldn’t want any trace of that life whatsoever, so why would she use her old accounts or money? Everything online can be traced, even if it’s deleted. It seems poorly planned. Like is it inheritance? is it earnings from the fame? from dance comps?? just small details fill those plot holes and it could’ve been solved within a few lines. You could even just say she doesn’t need a job. yeah, maybe i’m nitpicking at that LMAO. It just really bugged me.
Might work for others, but it didn’t for me. Onto the next i suppose!
Yeah, Nah, this wasn’t for me. It felt a little copy pasty from WITSEC. Obviously, this isn’t the first “run away from my old life to get away from bad bad situations” type of book to ever exist, but there were far too many coincidences. The twin brothers, the two older and more parental brothers. The owning a gym. Yeah.
I also feel as if the whole presentation of this book just was poorly executed. The main character doesn’t really have any discernible personality traits within the first 5 chapters other than the fact she went through something traumatic with her ex, she has a massive espresso machine, she dances, and she’s super hot and everyone wants her but somehow she can’t see it.
YAWWWWWN.
I’m so done with these lack of depth characters, and it’s not even just her either, it’s all of the characters in this book. You can always tell when the main character is going to be besties or good friends with female characters because they instantly give her a smile and are super duper sugary sweet! whereas the ones who aren’t, are cold, bitchy and mean. Why can’t we just have one platonic relationship that develops NORMALLY.
None of my friendships have ever started with us being all like “omg! yas queen! i love your hair! let’s be besties!” It just doesn’t happen. Nor have I ever had a girl give me a death glare for just existing; and i’ve met some crazy bitches in my time.
Oh, and where the fuck is all this money she’s got coming from? I know she was famous or whatever before, but surely you wouldn’t want any trace of that life whatsoever, so why would she use her old accounts or money? Everything online can be traced, even if it’s deleted. It seems poorly planned. Like is it inheritance? is it earnings from the fame? from dance comps?? just small details fill those plot holes and it could’ve been solved within a few lines. You could even just say she doesn’t need a job. yeah, maybe i’m nitpicking at that LMAO. It just really bugged me.
Might work for others, but it didn’t for me. Onto the next i suppose!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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