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The Koa Collection #1
Say When
The things we can’t talk about…
It’s been four months since twenty-year-old Macy Nolan was nearly murdered by her stepbrother, Colin. With nowhere to turn, no one she trusts, and her attacker still at large, Macy finds herself squatting in an unoccupied house.
Gareth Powell has always felt like a coward. He has buried the shame of the secret that tore his family apart under layers of pain and pleasure, refusing to truly open his heart to anyone. After the middle-aged man comes home to find a hurt runaway sleeping in his bed, he offers her his help, and he becomes hellbent to keep her safe.
When Macy discovers Gareth’s BDSM lifestyle, the revelation makes her own thoughts go wild, and she begins to face the truth of what she wants. As the chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore, she realizes she can never tell him her secret; he’d never touch her again.
But not all secrets can stay buried. When the past catches up to them, Macy and Gareth find both of their lives in jeopardy. They come to realize exactly how far they’ll go to protect each other. But will it be enough to keep them both alive? Or will the things they can’t talk about tear them apart.
It’s been four months since twenty-year-old Macy Nolan was nearly murdered by her stepbrother, Colin. With nowhere to turn, no one she trusts, and her attacker still at large, Macy finds herself squatting in an unoccupied house.
Gareth Powell has always felt like a coward. He has buried the shame of the secret that tore his family apart under layers of pain and pleasure, refusing to truly open his heart to anyone. After the middle-aged man comes home to find a hurt runaway sleeping in his bed, he offers her his help, and he becomes hellbent to keep her safe.
When Macy discovers Gareth’s BDSM lifestyle, the revelation makes her own thoughts go wild, and she begins to face the truth of what she wants. As the chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore, she realizes she can never tell him her secret; he’d never touch her again.
But not all secrets can stay buried. When the past catches up to them, Macy and Gareth find both of their lives in jeopardy. They come to realize exactly how far they’ll go to protect each other. But will it be enough to keep them both alive? Or will the things they can’t talk about tear them apart.
387 pages, Paperback
Published May 4, 2023
73 people are currently reading
538 people want to read
About the author
Becca Lamb
6 books32 followersBecca Lamb is a Canadian author. She's always had a passion for storytelling, and creating well rounded, interesting characters. She's a sucker for a good love story, and especially loves a good dark romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 5, 2024
| 4/5 Stars | ★★★★☆
Trigger Warnings for Say When:
Say When is the first novel in the KOA series by Becca Lamb. This novel places Macy and Gareth at the forefront, told through their alternating perspectives. As their relationship grows, their individual stories begin to unravel. What has Macey gone through that makes her trust Gareth physically, but mentally? What has Gareth been through to make him think Macy wouldn't trust him if she knew?
This book came as a surprise to me, I didn't think I would like it nearly as much as I did. I figured this would be a spicy book with a little plot, but it is a plot-driven book with spice on the side. I enjoyed understanding Macy's backstory, while slowly putting together Gareth's. This being said Say When reads like fanfiction to me. I love fanfiction, so it was up my alley, but it may not be for everyone. I had to suspend my disbelief sometimes because I just honestly really liked the characters. This is fairly similar to when I'm reading fanfiction about my favorite anime characters.
Overall, Say When was exactly what I needed. It was quick, fun, and heart-wrenching all at the same time. I look forward to reading more of Becca Lamb's work! Thank you to Becca Lamb and Literary Inspired for an e-copy in exchange for my honest review.
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Trigger Warnings for Say When:
Say When is the first novel in the KOA series by Becca Lamb. This novel places Macy and Gareth at the forefront, told through their alternating perspectives. As their relationship grows, their individual stories begin to unravel. What has Macey gone through that makes her trust Gareth physically, but mentally? What has Gareth been through to make him think Macy wouldn't trust him if she knew?
This book came as a surprise to me, I didn't think I would like it nearly as much as I did. I figured this would be a spicy book with a little plot, but it is a plot-driven book with spice on the side. I enjoyed understanding Macy's backstory, while slowly putting together Gareth's. This being said Say When reads like fanfiction to me. I love fanfiction, so it was up my alley, but it may not be for everyone. I had to suspend my disbelief sometimes because I just honestly really liked the characters. This is fairly similar to when I'm reading fanfiction about my favorite anime characters.
Overall, Say When was exactly what I needed. It was quick, fun, and heart-wrenching all at the same time. I look forward to reading more of Becca Lamb's work! Thank you to Becca Lamb and Literary Inspired for an e-copy in exchange for my honest review.
Follow all of my reviews and content with LinkTree
March 15, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! It sucks you in really fast and that's the kind of story I love. You immediately feel for Macy and the trauma she has been through. I think the way her PTSD symptoms play out is well written. You feel for Gareth as he tries to connect with Macy, but he struggles to understand why she keeps him at arms length at times.
One of my favorite scenes is the game around the fire with all of Gareth's friends. 🔥🔥
I would have loved more exploration of Koa, but i know this is the first book in the series so hopefully there's more of that coming. There are some sensitive topics, so check the trigger warnings. I thought it was written really well though. If you like an age gap, BDSM, suspense- this one is for you! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One of my favorite scenes is the game around the fire with all of Gareth's friends. 🔥🔥
I would have loved more exploration of Koa, but i know this is the first book in the series so hopefully there's more of that coming. There are some sensitive topics, so check the trigger warnings. I thought it was written really well though. If you like an age gap, BDSM, suspense- this one is for you! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2024
I loved this book since the first page . I’m excited to read the next book in this series .
August 24, 2024
I didn’t expect to have such emotions from this story. Without spoiling it, too much, there was no way I COULDN’T get mad and want to reach through my kindle and smack a few choice people.
I love the way the author wrote and touched on sensitive subjects, without fear; but still made you hate the bad guys.
I love the way the author wrote and touched on sensitive subjects, without fear; but still made you hate the bad guys.
October 6, 2024
Holy crap this book is heavy af. It took me on such an emotional roller coaster ride I was not prepared to go on. It had me drawn in from the start. Say when is gripping, sad, suspenseful, heartbreaking and so much more.
This is a plot-driven book with spice on the side, the characters have a lot of depth to them and the tension between characters was great. Say when is a story of survival, resilience, romance, forgiveness and what lengths you’ll go through to protect those you love.
This is a plot-driven book with spice on the side, the characters have a lot of depth to them and the tension between characters was great. Say when is a story of survival, resilience, romance, forgiveness and what lengths you’ll go through to protect those you love.
January 13, 2023
WOW
What a thrilling, gripping, grab you by the throat debut! After seeing a recommendation on Reddit I thought I’d read a bit and see if it was any good. Next thing I knew I was reading the epilogue.
I read a lot- maybe 5-7 books a week, but this is the first book in months I just couldn’t put down.
TW - This book is not for the faint of heart. While it isn’t, IMO, gratuitous, it is intense.
Great book - I’m thrilled there are more coming.
What a thrilling, gripping, grab you by the throat debut! After seeing a recommendation on Reddit I thought I’d read a bit and see if it was any good. Next thing I knew I was reading the epilogue.
I read a lot- maybe 5-7 books a week, but this is the first book in months I just couldn’t put down.
TW - This book is not for the faint of heart. While it isn’t, IMO, gratuitous, it is intense.
Great book - I’m thrilled there are more coming.
January 14, 2023
Absolutely loved this book! The characters have a depth and complexity to them that makes the story come alive. The tension between characters and the plot was on point! I can't wait to read more of this series!
June 25, 2023
A perfect hurt/comfort story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had the honor of reading this book in the beta stage, and despite being outside my preferred genres, the plot seemed compelling enough to give it a try. Hurt/comfort is a trope I love, and that premise got my initial interest. What kept me reading was great storytelling and memorable characters. Normally, I am very critical of age gap romances, but the relationship between Macy and Gareth reads as believable and healthy. I cannot wait for the others!
I had the honor of reading this book in the beta stage, and despite being outside my preferred genres, the plot seemed compelling enough to give it a try. Hurt/comfort is a trope I love, and that premise got my initial interest. What kept me reading was great storytelling and memorable characters. Normally, I am very critical of age gap romances, but the relationship between Macy and Gareth reads as believable and healthy. I cannot wait for the others!
June 14, 2024
ARC review
I received this book as an ARC reader.. Age gap romance where the FNC and MMC find solace and escape within each other. Both have damage from past trauma. Eroticism and caring bring them together. You immediately feel for Macy and the trauma she has been through. You feel for Gareth as he tries to connect with Macy, but he struggles to understand why she keeps him at arms length at times. Intense situations and pasts that still haunt them both. Macy is running from her past and when it catches up to her Gareth realizes how much Macy truly means to him...as much trauma as these two characters had they find the sweetest kind of love for each other.
I received this book as an ARC reader.. Age gap romance where the FNC and MMC find solace and escape within each other. Both have damage from past trauma. Eroticism and caring bring them together. You immediately feel for Macy and the trauma she has been through. You feel for Gareth as he tries to connect with Macy, but he struggles to understand why she keeps him at arms length at times. Intense situations and pasts that still haunt them both. Macy is running from her past and when it catches up to her Gareth realizes how much Macy truly means to him...as much trauma as these two characters had they find the sweetest kind of love for each other.
March 22, 2023
When I say I couldn't put this down I mean it!! I started this book in the evening expecting to just read a few chapters and see if I liked it... next thingI know it's 1:30am and I had to tear myself away to get some sleep for work!! If it wasn't so late I definitely would have read this in one sitting!! Loved it 🥰
Read
December 27, 2024It’s giving Penelope Douglas but I wanted more
January 8, 2025
It was an okay read with angst.
September 30, 2024
Heavy read: ANGSTY AND TRAUMATICCCCCC
Generally speaking is not bad, the writing is good.
The characters have good enough personalities, intricate and not plain (not everyone tho ).
The spice is good if you like the BDSM- S/M trope. I have to say that it’s difficult to handle as a dynamic when you know that she’s has being rap*d and beaten before from the villain.
Other point is that the MMC that is the Sadist doesn’t know this 💀(not fair, not demure)
The unsettling thing is that:
At the beginning she says to be a virgin. You see her explore her Masochist side (and go girlieeee) but then you discover the truth.
Ik it’s very different from abuse but it felt a bit weird anyways. Maybe cause I just like therapy better dunno.
Other things:
-Some characters are useless and unnecessary (e.g. her best friend who’s just a super bitch and does nothing if not treating her like shit )
-too much angst regarding the FMC, in the first 6% she does 2 car accidents, almost dies (seriously dies not just hurt) 2 times and the whole book is her getting hurt every 5 secs, okay angst but too much is surreal and boring.
-I would have appreciated a more detailed discussion between the MMF and FMC about BDSM, its rules, the safeword ext.
-I can’t fucking believe that this 43 yo man popped the cherry (at least he believed so) and fucking came inside her. This is unbelievable. I think that a Dom without an exclusive sub would be a lot more careful not only for pregnancies but even for Sexual transmitted diseases. I just want to point out that this girl popped up from nowhere and was a complete stranger, a menace and a wreak. She’s fuckable okay, but I’d use protection bruh.
Generally speaking is not bad, the writing is good.
The characters have good enough personalities, intricate and not plain (not everyone tho ).
The spice is good if you like the BDSM- S/M trope. I have to say that it’s difficult to handle as a dynamic when you know that she’s has being rap*d and beaten before from the villain.
Other point is that the MMC that is the Sadist doesn’t know this 💀(not fair, not demure)
The unsettling thing is that:
At the beginning she says to be a virgin. You see her explore her Masochist side (and go girlieeee) but then you discover the truth.
Ik it’s very different from abuse but it felt a bit weird anyways. Maybe cause I just like therapy better dunno.
Other things:
-Some characters are useless and unnecessary (e.g. her best friend who’s just a super bitch and does nothing if not treating her like shit )
-too much angst regarding the FMC, in the first 6% she does 2 car accidents, almost dies (seriously dies not just hurt) 2 times and the whole book is her getting hurt every 5 secs, okay angst but too much is surreal and boring.
-I would have appreciated a more detailed discussion between the MMF and FMC about BDSM, its rules, the safeword ext.
-I can’t fucking believe that this 43 yo man popped the cherry (at least he believed so) and fucking came inside her. This is unbelievable. I think that a Dom without an exclusive sub would be a lot more careful not only for pregnancies but even for Sexual transmitted diseases. I just want to point out that this girl popped up from nowhere and was a complete stranger, a menace and a wreak. She’s fuckable okay, but I’d use protection bruh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2024
This deserves 1000 ⭐️
I am OBSESSED! I loved this book so much. The story line was great, the book was well written & everything flowed smoothly. I couldn’t get enough of the characters. The spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ was perfect! It made me super curious on things to research 😉😚😅. I seriously could not put this book down, I had to read it every spare second I had because I couldn’t wait to see how it ended. I’m super excited to see where the rest of this series goes!
Becca, please tell me we are getting more of Gareth & Macy!!! Their story isn’t over, I just know it!! And when are we getting more??!!
I am OBSESSED! I loved this book so much. The story line was great, the book was well written & everything flowed smoothly. I couldn’t get enough of the characters. The spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ was perfect! It made me super curious on things to research 😉😚😅. I seriously could not put this book down, I had to read it every spare second I had because I couldn’t wait to see how it ended. I’m super excited to see where the rest of this series goes!
Becca, please tell me we are getting more of Gareth & Macy!!! Their story isn’t over, I just know it!! And when are we getting more??!!
July 5, 2024
⭒ Rating: 5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
✨NEW AUTHOR✨
TROPES:
bdsm 🖤
age gap 🖤
dark romance 🖤
blurb: It’s been four months since twenty-year-old Macy Nolan was nearly murdered by her stepbrother, Colin. With nowhere to turn, no one she trusts, and her attacker still at large, Macy finds herself squatting in an unoccupied house. Gareth Powell has always felt like a coward. He has buried the shame of the secret that tore his family apart under layers of pain and pleasure, refusing to truly open his heart to anyone. After the middle-aged man comes home to find a hurt runaway sleeping in his bed, he offers her his help, and he becomes hellbent to keep her safe. When Macy discovers Gareth’s BDSM lifestyle, the revelation makes her own thoughts go wild, and she begins to face the truth of what she wants. As the chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore, she realizes she can never tell him her secret; he’d never touch her again. But not all secrets can stay buried. When the past catches up to them, Macy and Gareth find both of their lives in jeopardy. They come to realize exactly how far they’ll go to protect each other. But will it be enough to keep them both alive? Or will the things they can’t talk about tear them apart.
review:
why isn't anyone talking about how good this book is? i know it might not be suitable for eveyone because there is some main triggers that might be uncomfortable. but if they don't effect you then you need to read it! i can't exactly remember how i found this author i belive it was on a facebook group i'm in. she was sending them out to some people so they could show these books so extra loving. i read this one in a day which i RARELY do but i really enjoyed the story and plot.
i swear this poor girl is always getting hurt. once she recovers something else happeneds. two car accidents, almost getting blown up, bruises, black eyes, and don't get me started on her emotional state. it's understanding she went through a lot of trauma it's hard to recover from that. gareth will always be her rock. (nothing bad about this but she really cried a lot and it kinda got a little repetive)
really disliked violet and never really understood why she left gareth? i couldn't tell if it was the secret about lucy or what. what i took from it was she couldn't tolerate all his guilt that he was feeling maybe not getting the attention she was wanting and that's the reason she decided to have an affair and leave him. and well i'm at it if this isn't obvious already i hated colin.
i also really liked all gareths friends. they sound really intresting and i love how open and not akaward when talking about what they do. can't wait to read the rest in the series!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
✨NEW AUTHOR✨
TROPES:
bdsm 🖤
age gap 🖤
dark romance 🖤
blurb: It’s been four months since twenty-year-old Macy Nolan was nearly murdered by her stepbrother, Colin. With nowhere to turn, no one she trusts, and her attacker still at large, Macy finds herself squatting in an unoccupied house. Gareth Powell has always felt like a coward. He has buried the shame of the secret that tore his family apart under layers of pain and pleasure, refusing to truly open his heart to anyone. After the middle-aged man comes home to find a hurt runaway sleeping in his bed, he offers her his help, and he becomes hellbent to keep her safe. When Macy discovers Gareth’s BDSM lifestyle, the revelation makes her own thoughts go wild, and she begins to face the truth of what she wants. As the chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore, she realizes she can never tell him her secret; he’d never touch her again. But not all secrets can stay buried. When the past catches up to them, Macy and Gareth find both of their lives in jeopardy. They come to realize exactly how far they’ll go to protect each other. But will it be enough to keep them both alive? Or will the things they can’t talk about tear them apart.
review:
why isn't anyone talking about how good this book is? i know it might not be suitable for eveyone because there is some main triggers that might be uncomfortable. but if they don't effect you then you need to read it! i can't exactly remember how i found this author i belive it was on a facebook group i'm in. she was sending them out to some people so they could show these books so extra loving. i read this one in a day which i RARELY do but i really enjoyed the story and plot.
i swear this poor girl is always getting hurt. once she recovers something else happeneds. two car accidents, almost getting blown up, bruises, black eyes, and don't get me started on her emotional state. it's understanding she went through a lot of trauma it's hard to recover from that. gareth will always be her rock. (nothing bad about this but she really cried a lot and it kinda got a little repetive)
really disliked violet and never really understood why she left gareth? i couldn't tell if it was the secret about lucy or what. what i took from it was she couldn't tolerate all his guilt that he was feeling maybe not getting the attention she was wanting and that's the reason she decided to have an affair and leave him. and well i'm at it if this isn't obvious already i hated colin.
i also really liked all gareths friends. they sound really intresting and i love how open and not akaward when talking about what they do. can't wait to read the rest in the series!
November 21, 2023
"Say When" by Becca Lamb delves into the dark corners of secrets, survival, and desire. Macy Nolan, haunted by a traumatic past, seeks refuge in an abandoned house, unwittingly crossing paths with Gareth Powell, a man grappling with his own hidden turmoil.
The narrative unfolds with tension, as Macy and Gareth navigate a precarious relationship born out of desperation. Lamb skillfully weaves a tale of suspense, drawing readers into a world where trust is a scarce commodity. The dynamic between the characters is heightened by the revelation of Gareth's BDSM lifestyle, adding layers of complexity to their connection.
The exploration of Macy's internal struggle adds depth to the story, especially when faced with the dilemma of exposing her own secrets. Lamb captures the psychological intricacies of the characters, making their journey a compelling one. The chemistry between Macy and Gareth is palpable, creating a magnetic pull that propels the narrative forward.
As the plot thickens, the looming danger from Macy's past threatens to unravel the fragile bond they've forged. The stakes are high, and Lamb keeps the reader on the edge of their seat with unexpected twists and turns. The suspenseful climax forces Macy and Gareth to confront the very secrets that brought them together.
"Say When" is not merely a romance; it's a tale of survival, resilience, and the lengths one will go to protect the ones they care about. The age-gap dynamic adds an additional layer of complexity, handled with sensitivity by the author. Overall, Becca Lamb crafts a gripping dark romance that explores the unspoken and the risks we take for love, making "Say When" a compelling read for those who enjoy suspenseful, emotionally charged narratives.
The narrative unfolds with tension, as Macy and Gareth navigate a precarious relationship born out of desperation. Lamb skillfully weaves a tale of suspense, drawing readers into a world where trust is a scarce commodity. The dynamic between the characters is heightened by the revelation of Gareth's BDSM lifestyle, adding layers of complexity to their connection.
The exploration of Macy's internal struggle adds depth to the story, especially when faced with the dilemma of exposing her own secrets. Lamb captures the psychological intricacies of the characters, making their journey a compelling one. The chemistry between Macy and Gareth is palpable, creating a magnetic pull that propels the narrative forward.
As the plot thickens, the looming danger from Macy's past threatens to unravel the fragile bond they've forged. The stakes are high, and Lamb keeps the reader on the edge of their seat with unexpected twists and turns. The suspenseful climax forces Macy and Gareth to confront the very secrets that brought them together.
"Say When" is not merely a romance; it's a tale of survival, resilience, and the lengths one will go to protect the ones they care about. The age-gap dynamic adds an additional layer of complexity, handled with sensitivity by the author. Overall, Becca Lamb crafts a gripping dark romance that explores the unspoken and the risks we take for love, making "Say When" a compelling read for those who enjoy suspenseful, emotionally charged narratives.
June 25, 2024
Holy crap!! I did not expect the way this went....
Right from the start, I was invested in Macy's story. She had to escape, but we don't get to know the full details of her story until close to the end.
This story was gripping, heartwrenching, traumatising, enlightening, beautiful, sad, suspenseful, teasing....
Macy is scared and alone, but she is stronger than she thinks. She's stronger than she believes. She is a survivor, through and through. She is struggling with so much inner turmoil and demons. She needs to discover herself and find a way to deal with her past and the emotions and feelings she has about it.
Gareth is burly and gruff, he's not perfect and he has a few kinks....he's in his 40s, divorced and is working through his own problems and the guilt he carries from his past.
Somehow, this friendship works...it has its problems, but they learn to rely on each other and trust each other.
This book tore my heart out a few times. It was well written, and I devoured each word! It explained their stories well and also highlighted how dysfunctional some families actually are. It also shows that sometimes, family can be found in unexpected people, and those who thought would have your back in life can easily forget you when they don't agree with your choices.
I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series
Right from the start, I was invested in Macy's story. She had to escape, but we don't get to know the full details of her story until close to the end.
This story was gripping, heartwrenching, traumatising, enlightening, beautiful, sad, suspenseful, teasing....
Macy is scared and alone, but she is stronger than she thinks. She's stronger than she believes. She is a survivor, through and through. She is struggling with so much inner turmoil and demons. She needs to discover herself and find a way to deal with her past and the emotions and feelings she has about it.
Gareth is burly and gruff, he's not perfect and he has a few kinks....he's in his 40s, divorced and is working through his own problems and the guilt he carries from his past.
Somehow, this friendship works...it has its problems, but they learn to rely on each other and trust each other.
This book tore my heart out a few times. It was well written, and I devoured each word! It explained their stories well and also highlighted how dysfunctional some families actually are. It also shows that sometimes, family can be found in unexpected people, and those who thought would have your back in life can easily forget you when they don't agree with your choices.
I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series
August 29, 2025
In this dark contemporary romance, Macy's life is going from worse to worse. She escapes her kidnapper, gets into a car accident, spends 4 months in the hospital recovering, her kidnapper is still out on the loose, she gets into another car accident, and has the most relatable panic triggers in the world. She meets Gareth after breaking into his house, and they form an unlikely pairing. He is a member of a BDSM-lifestyle group and as their budding relationship grows, she begins to explore her kinks with him.
This is definitely a situation where readers should check the trigger warnings before reading. I really struggled with the story because of the repetitive complications in the beginning. It just seemed like too much was piling onto Macy and it broke my disbelief. I liked her initial relationship with Gareth, but started to feel icky about it not long after they graduated into a romantic relationship. I didn't mind the age gap. It just started to feel like he was taking advantage of her willing submission and while the character is consenting, any rational adult could see that it's a coping mechanism not a liberating choice.
Overall, interesting setting, good characters, a good mystery that raised the stakes through the story, but a few critical pacing errors and under-developed relationship beats that stopped me from loving this book.
This is definitely a situation where readers should check the trigger warnings before reading. I really struggled with the story because of the repetitive complications in the beginning. It just seemed like too much was piling onto Macy and it broke my disbelief. I liked her initial relationship with Gareth, but started to feel icky about it not long after they graduated into a romantic relationship. I didn't mind the age gap. It just started to feel like he was taking advantage of her willing submission and while the character is consenting, any rational adult could see that it's a coping mechanism not a liberating choice.
Overall, interesting setting, good characters, a good mystery that raised the stakes through the story, but a few critical pacing errors and under-developed relationship beats that stopped me from loving this book.
May 13, 2024
I started reading this series out of sequence and immediately went to buy the first in the series. I am pleased to report that I have now read the first three in the series and looking forward to book four.
This is where it all begins, where Macy is imprisoned and tortured, manages to escape and finally rescued by Gareth. However, this is not a sunshine and roses romance, but deals with dark and deep betrayal by a human. Please read trigger warnings, as this is stressful to read, but the author brings you through it to the other side. You learn of odd activities that draw people to each other and give them comfort.
This might not be your cup of tea as it won't just be a "turn the last page and on to the next book" type of romantic suspense. I found myself reflecting quite a while on the story. The writing is superb with no hindrance to take your attention off the page.
The start to a series that will remain in your mind for a long time.
This is where it all begins, where Macy is imprisoned and tortured, manages to escape and finally rescued by Gareth. However, this is not a sunshine and roses romance, but deals with dark and deep betrayal by a human. Please read trigger warnings, as this is stressful to read, but the author brings you through it to the other side. You learn of odd activities that draw people to each other and give them comfort.
This might not be your cup of tea as it won't just be a "turn the last page and on to the next book" type of romantic suspense. I found myself reflecting quite a while on the story. The writing is superb with no hindrance to take your attention off the page.
The start to a series that will remain in your mind for a long time.
July 3, 2024
Gareth and Macy met when he came home from work and found a strange woman sleeping in his bed. Macy had been through a horrific experience and was trying to find somewhere to escape and be safe. Gareth is about 45 and Macy is barely 20. Gareth feels very protective over her. He tries to do just about anything he can to keep her safe although he’s not exactly sure what happened because Macy refuses to discuss it. These two people have a lot of terrible issues most of it internal and they really need therapy to work through them but unfortunately they just seem to avoid and supress their feelings and emotions. Most of the book I found myself shouting at them to just talk it out and discuss it. This book kept me engaged and I was truly invested in what exactly happened to both of them since the author only gives us glimpses until the end. Great story.
June 11, 2024
To start off…this book won’t be for everyone. Please read the trigger list before starting.
To say this pushed my usual reading material would be a slight understatement. The writing drew me in and the extra spice wasn’t enough to pull away for the story being told. I could easily skip over scenes that weren’t my jam without loosing the bigger picture, which is how I fell in love with the all of the characters. Although I haven’t dealt with the big trigger topics in my life (so can’t full speak on the topic), I felt like Becca handled them with care.
Am I slightly hesitant to read the other books in the series…maybe…am I going to more than likely! If you’re looking to expand your romance reading genre this might be the dark romance to try it out.
To say this pushed my usual reading material would be a slight understatement. The writing drew me in and the extra spice wasn’t enough to pull away for the story being told. I could easily skip over scenes that weren’t my jam without loosing the bigger picture, which is how I fell in love with the all of the characters. Although I haven’t dealt with the big trigger topics in my life (so can’t full speak on the topic), I felt like Becca handled them with care.
Am I slightly hesitant to read the other books in the series…maybe…am I going to more than likely! If you’re looking to expand your romance reading genre this might be the dark romance to try it out.
July 22, 2024
When Macy discovers Gareth’s BDSM lifestyle, the revelation makes her own thoughts go wild, and she begins to face the truth of what she wants. As the chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore, she realizes she can never tell him her secret; he’d never touch her again.
Another fantastic rollercoaster of emotions, Gareth and Macy's story had me hooked from the first chapter. They've both been through so much trauma, broken souls entwined into a beautiful dynamic of exploration and healing.
Such a great read!
Tropes:
- Age gap
- Past trauma
- BDSM
- Suspense
- D/S Relationship
Another fantastic rollercoaster of emotions, Gareth and Macy's story had me hooked from the first chapter. They've both been through so much trauma, broken souls entwined into a beautiful dynamic of exploration and healing.
Such a great read!
Tropes:
- Age gap
- Past trauma
- BDSM
- Suspense
- D/S Relationship
June 13, 2024
This book was one of the most amazing books I've read in a long time! From the description and trigger warnings, I expected a lot of smut and with the age gap I did not expect to enjoy it but while there is some 🌶🌶 it is the emotionality and sensualness of the story that made it so amazing! 5 star may be the highest rating but I would give this all the stars!
This book has many triggers especially to people with trauma such as myself but I honestly found it to be healing in a way and so beautifully written
This book has many triggers especially to people with trauma such as myself but I honestly found it to be healing in a way and so beautifully written
July 13, 2024
Emotional roller coaster!! So worth it!
It’s just the right amount of spice too.
My husband picked this one out for me so I went in blind and so no expectations and I wasn’t sure how it would go in the beginning but at approximately 26% into the book I realized he picked a good one. One I needed to read. I love the characters so much! I love the storyline and how it all made sense and the ending was perfect, *spoiler* I love that her and Ty was able to make up and be family.
I will highly recommend this book from here on out! Can’t wait to read more from this author either.
It’s just the right amount of spice too.
My husband picked this one out for me so I went in blind and so no expectations and I wasn’t sure how it would go in the beginning but at approximately 26% into the book I realized he picked a good one. One I needed to read. I love the characters so much! I love the storyline and how it all made sense and the ending was perfect, *spoiler* I love that her and Ty was able to make up and be family.
I will highly recommend this book from here on out! Can’t wait to read more from this author either.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2024
"Say When" by Becca Lamb, the first book in the KOA series, centers on Macy, who is fleeing from her dangerously abusive stepbrother. In her desperation to escape, she has an accident and breaks into a house to find a safe place to sleep. Gareth, the owner of the house, discovers her sleeping in his bed. Despite the unexpected intrusion, he decides to let Macy stay since she has no other safe place to go. As they navigate the situation, a budding romance develops between them. But Somebody that deranged and abusive won't stay gone long so the story intensifies.
July 17, 2024
Healing Whats Unseen
Gareth finds his cabin with a surprise that not only calms his inner demons but ignites his protective instincts and passion. Macy has just escaped from her torturous prison and needed shelter. Although they connect in unexpected ways, her past complicates their potential for a future as she keeps the secret of her behavior from him. This was a complex and emotional read with dark themes and a touch of BDSM which were well woven into an intriguing story.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
Gareth finds his cabin with a surprise that not only calms his inner demons but ignites his protective instincts and passion. Macy has just escaped from her torturous prison and needed shelter. Although they connect in unexpected ways, her past complicates their potential for a future as she keeps the secret of her behavior from him. This was a complex and emotional read with dark themes and a touch of BDSM which were well woven into an intriguing story.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
May 27, 2024
3,75/5 ⭐️
✨️ Check TW!!
✨️ FMC is on the run...
✨️ Both the FMC & MMC have secrets & trauma
✨️ Large Age Gap
✨️ BDSM D/s
✨️ Medium/Slow Burn-ish
✨️ Trauma & Healing
❌ This book almost starts with the MMC having D/s dynamic with woman from his kinky/happy friend group. When he meets the FMC he only wants her, but the women he has sex with (before the FMC) are also their friends so they see them constantly.
✨️ Check TW!!
✨️ FMC is on the run...
✨️ Both the FMC & MMC have secrets & trauma
✨️ Large Age Gap
✨️ BDSM D/s
✨️ Medium/Slow Burn-ish
✨️ Trauma & Healing
❌ This book almost starts with the MMC having D/s dynamic with woman from his kinky/happy friend group. When he meets the FMC he only wants her, but the women he has sex with (before the FMC) are also their friends so they see them constantly.
June 14, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! It captivates you really fast and next thing you know you’ve finished the book! You immediately feel for Macy and the trauma she has been through. You feel for Gareth as he tries to connect with Macy, but he struggles to understand why she keeps him at arms length at times.
I would have loved more exploration of Koa. There are sensitive topics, so check the trigger warnings. If you like an age gap, BDSM, suspense- this one is for you! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I would have loved more exploration of Koa. There are sensitive topics, so check the trigger warnings. If you like an age gap, BDSM, suspense- this one is for you! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2024
An older man and a young lady find solace and escape within each other. Both damaged from past trauma and broken hearts. A lifestyle of eroticism and caring bring them together They grieve, grow and experiment as they face their past together to heal and love as only the two of them can. Intense situations and past that still haunts. Can they overcome it all? Find out in this first book which promises to be the start of a great series.
June 20, 2024
Oh the feels!! Our FMC has been through so much and our MMC helps save her from her past and her present. I loved the development of their relationship. I really grew to root for them over the course of the story and I loved every page! You get introduced to some great side characters and I can't wait to see if they get their own books. Definitely recommend reading if you like a little dark, a good helping of spice, and age-gap without a Daddy kink.
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