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Finding My Way Outta Darkness : A Story Of Unconditional Love
Special Ops Agent Brian McClain finds himself teaming up with the FBI to end the sex-trafficking rank in the city. He doesn’t expect to see his first love Makayla Scott after so many years. The one that got away and he is reminded of the fact that she doesn’t remember the time they spent together. Brian is determined to help Makayla not only gain her freedom but win her heart in the process.
- GenresRomanceRomantic Suspense
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 16, 2024
3.5/5 ⭐️
- This is not your typical romance and would be a perfect read for thriller girlies dipping their toe into romance. I loved that we were able to really see the relationship building throughout the entire story and see Kay really open up by the end.
- I love love looooved the friend group and can’t wait to read more stories about them!!! I felt so connected to many of their stories and it make me excited for the next books in the series.
- The ending was a shocker! Wish we had gotten a little more time to flesh out everything, because the pacing was moving so fast at the end. I was so surprised, but I love a good ending that I can’t predict!
- This is not your typical romance and would be a perfect read for thriller girlies dipping their toe into romance. I loved that we were able to really see the relationship building throughout the entire story and see Kay really open up by the end.
- I love love looooved the friend group and can’t wait to read more stories about them!!! I felt so connected to many of their stories and it make me excited for the next books in the series.
- The ending was a shocker! Wish we had gotten a little more time to flesh out everything, because the pacing was moving so fast at the end. I was so surprised, but I love a good ending that I can’t predict!
December 29, 2024
I really wish I had the mental capacity to write in detail about how much I loved this book! It was just so darn good! I enjoyed the concept and the development of the stories and characters! First read by Briyanna but it won’t be my last.
April 23, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ This was my first read by Briyanna Michelle, and I picked it up after seeing her promote it on social media. I love supporting Black indie authors, and this felt like the perfect “why not?” kind of read. I went in blind, with no expectations just excitement to dive into something new.
The story follows Makayla, a woman clawing her way out of a dark, traumatic past, and her journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring. I rooted for her the whole way through. Her resilience and growth were powerful, and her healing felt like a quiet victory with every page turned.
And then there's Brian, the way that man loved her, he was soft, patient, and protective. Even when life smacked him with unexpected pain, his focus stayed on her and how she’d feel and how she’d perceive him. His love never wavered, and honestly, that’s the kind of love that leaves a mark.
The book was a mix of plot and character driven moments. There were parts that felt a little rushed or skipped over, and I think that’s where I struggled to fully connect at times. I wanted more. More time, more emotion, and more depth. But despite that, the story held me. It made me care, made me feel, and had me flipping pages to see how it all would end for Makayla and Brian.
The story follows Makayla, a woman clawing her way out of a dark, traumatic past, and her journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring. I rooted for her the whole way through. Her resilience and growth were powerful, and her healing felt like a quiet victory with every page turned.
And then there's Brian, the way that man loved her, he was soft, patient, and protective. Even when life smacked him with unexpected pain, his focus stayed on her and how she’d feel and how she’d perceive him. His love never wavered, and honestly, that’s the kind of love that leaves a mark.
The book was a mix of plot and character driven moments. There were parts that felt a little rushed or skipped over, and I think that’s where I struggled to fully connect at times. I wanted more. More time, more emotion, and more depth. But despite that, the story held me. It made me care, made me feel, and had me flipping pages to see how it all would end for Makayla and Brian.
July 31, 2024
DNF’d on Chapter 9. I wanted to give this book and author a chance but I soon found myself forcing to continue to read. I’m a romance girlie through and through and although it is a love story, it just didn’t hit for me. What I did read felt rushed, jumping from scene to scene without a lot of details in between.
July 9, 2024
Full circle
I really enjoyed this story. The way that it is infused with goodness, faith, hope and love overshadow the darkness of some of the content.
It was a long read, but so worth it.
I look forward to reading more from the supporting characters.
I really enjoyed this story. The way that it is infused with goodness, faith, hope and love overshadow the darkness of some of the content.
It was a long read, but so worth it.
I look forward to reading more from the supporting characters.
November 22, 2025
I wanted to love this one 😩 it started off with so much potential but it was just too unrealistic.
February 20, 2024
The story was the first book by this author. The subject matter was grueling for the most part. I'm not sure how I feel about the story. The happy ending just seemed too good to be true.
December 14, 2023
2.5🌟it’s a beautiful and heart healing story. ( the author is the one that breaks and heals it haha )
I can see what the writer was trying to achieve and the story was good it had potential. Unfortunately this was not written well, I don’t think I would’ve kept reading, however I pulled through because I wanted to see the book through.
There are sentences that were just telling and not showing.
E.g the author writes “he seemed smitten with her, but only when she wasn’t paying attention.”
No person actually thinks like this. A person would probably think or say. “Oh, If only she could see how smitten he seems with her.”
Either way I think if you can look past those kind of things you’ll love the story it self.
I can see what the writer was trying to achieve and the story was good it had potential. Unfortunately this was not written well, I don’t think I would’ve kept reading, however I pulled through because I wanted to see the book through.
There are sentences that were just telling and not showing.
E.g the author writes “he seemed smitten with her, but only when she wasn’t paying attention.”
No person actually thinks like this. A person would probably think or say. “Oh, If only she could see how smitten he seems with her.”
Either way I think if you can look past those kind of things you’ll love the story it self.
November 11, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This story follows Makayla Scott and Special Ops Agent Brian McClain. Makayla has been through so much and Brian turns out to be the bright spot in many of her days. Brian has always had a soft spot for his first love and Makayla was just that. Brian is prime book bae material. When he prayed for Makayla that’s what made him solidify his book bae spot. He was so patient and loving to Makayla how could she not fall for him. This was a good read. Overall 4.25/5 stars
Thank You Brianna Michelle for the opportunity to read this in advance.
This story follows Makayla Scott and Special Ops Agent Brian McClain. Makayla has been through so much and Brian turns out to be the bright spot in many of her days. Brian has always had a soft spot for his first love and Makayla was just that. Brian is prime book bae material. When he prayed for Makayla that’s what made him solidify his book bae spot. He was so patient and loving to Makayla how could she not fall for him. This was a good read. Overall 4.25/5 stars
Thank You Brianna Michelle for the opportunity to read this in advance.
August 17, 2024
it was cool
This is a debut and the overall bones of the story were good. The pacing felt a bit off some scenes seemed to drag while others went by too fast so it made it tough to really get engaged the way I wanted to. Idk, I feel like maybe the story needed to be fleshed out a bit more, but I was intrigued by the plot and I did enjoy Makayla and Brian. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author!!!!
This is a debut and the overall bones of the story were good. The pacing felt a bit off some scenes seemed to drag while others went by too fast so it made it tough to really get engaged the way I wanted to. Idk, I feel like maybe the story needed to be fleshed out a bit more, but I was intrigued by the plot and I did enjoy Makayla and Brian. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author!!!!
September 11, 2024
2 stars because the author can write HOWEVER, this story had too many storylines and it was absolutely all over the place and wayyy to unrealistic. Way too many characters and characters way too much fluff. This really could have been half the amount of pages that it was.
October 29, 2023
This story is beautifully written. It had my emotions everywhere. I was rooting for Brian to save Makayla. My heart went out to Makayla. She went through some really tough things in her life and she working towards getting herself out of the situation. Brian comes into her life, being patient and encouraging. Give her what she needed during her healing journey. I just loved how he sent her scriptures and encouraging words. He is truly a man of God. I don’t want to give too much of the story away but this was a really good love story. I highly recommend
August 31, 2025
I just want to start by saying that I can appreciate what this book was trying to do, I just needed more. More depth in the characters. I felt the characters were very shallow. I feel like the plot got lost some point during the book. I felt like everything and nothing happened all at the same time. I really wanted to like it. Unfortunately, I just think it wasn’t for me.
October 28, 2024
4.25 🌟 This was such a poetic, beautifully written second chance romance undeniably filled with so much unconditional love from both the FMC & MMC, and my heart is that much warmer & fulfilled after reading Makayla & Brian's story. The banter, the angst, the writing style, the dialogue, the characters were all A+!
Brian McClain is definitely book boyfriend material!!!!! The way he catered to Makayla, took his time to gain her trust, always asked for her consent, prayed for her & over her... The prayers in this book were so beautiful, there's really no other word for them! To have a man go to God on your behalf is top-tier relationship goals!!! PERIODT. A relationship centered around God is >>>
Also big ups to Johnny for genuinely being a male best friend to Makayla, and respecting both her & Brian even at the costs of his own feelings. He was indeed a rare gem & lowkey the MVP of this love story! All the side characters of the friend group were enjoyable to read, & I'm looking forward to the rest of the books in this series centered around the other couples, in hopes that even Johnny gets his own! 🤞🏾
And I definitely enjoyed & can appreciate the plot twist at the end, even though I feel the ending was indeed a bit rushed & would've been that much more enjoyable if it was completely flushed out in regards to the court case/investigation as well as Jillian, which is why I couldn't rate this as high as I would have liked to. Still overall a beautiful read that I would highly recommend to lovers of healthy, soulful, heartfelt Black romance! 🤎
Please read the author's note before starting this one because there are some heavy subject matters that I feel are beautifully validated that served as an important part to the unconditional love story of Makayla & Brian.
Brian McClain is definitely book boyfriend material!!!!! The way he catered to Makayla, took his time to gain her trust, always asked for her consent, prayed for her & over her... The prayers in this book were so beautiful, there's really no other word for them! To have a man go to God on your behalf is top-tier relationship goals!!! PERIODT. A relationship centered around God is >>>
Also big ups to Johnny for genuinely being a male best friend to Makayla, and respecting both her & Brian even at the costs of his own feelings. He was indeed a rare gem & lowkey the MVP of this love story! All the side characters of the friend group were enjoyable to read, & I'm looking forward to the rest of the books in this series centered around the other couples, in hopes that even Johnny gets his own! 🤞🏾
And I definitely enjoyed & can appreciate the plot twist at the end, even though I feel the ending was indeed a bit rushed & would've been that much more enjoyable if it was completely flushed out in regards to the court case/investigation as well as Jillian, which is why I couldn't rate this as high as I would have liked to. Still overall a beautiful read that I would highly recommend to lovers of healthy, soulful, heartfelt Black romance! 🤎
Please read the author's note before starting this one because there are some heavy subject matters that I feel are beautifully validated that served as an important part to the unconditional love story of Makayla & Brian.
February 20, 2026
Briyanna Michelle jumped in head first in writing with her debut novel Finding my way outta darkness! She didn't try to softly launch into romance, she cannon balled into a romantic suspense. That takes courage that many don't possess. Did she get everything right? No but I see the potential and can't wait to read more from this series. Specifically Levi and Asha's story!
Finding my way outta darkness is the closest book that I've come to reading Christian fiction and yet it didn't feel overly preachy. The way Briyanna balanced faith and free will was beautifully done. Brian was covered in the blood of his enemies but covered by the blood of Jesus. He fought to bring Makayla back to him and back to herself. I loved that he didn't force her to remember him but was resolute in making new memories together. I enjoyed seeing baby girl slay her own demons and find friendship.
From a writing standpoint, I wish we would have gotten Rich's POV, sprinkled in glimpses of the two plot twist we received at the 90% mark earlier and understood William's why. However, these desires didn't diminish my enjoyment. I look forward to reading Kendrix and Phoenix next!
Finding my way outta darkness is the closest book that I've come to reading Christian fiction and yet it didn't feel overly preachy. The way Briyanna balanced faith and free will was beautifully done. Brian was covered in the blood of his enemies but covered by the blood of Jesus. He fought to bring Makayla back to him and back to herself. I loved that he didn't force her to remember him but was resolute in making new memories together. I enjoyed seeing baby girl slay her own demons and find friendship.
From a writing standpoint, I wish we would have gotten Rich's POV, sprinkled in glimpses of the two plot twist we received at the 90% mark earlier and understood William's why. However, these desires didn't diminish my enjoyment. I look forward to reading Kendrix and Phoenix next!
April 24, 2025
Although this is a captivating page turner, I found it extremely difficult and heart breaking to witness what poor Makayla had to face as a captive in the sex-trafficking trade.
Her sleazy father sold her to Rich, a psychotic monster. Both of them should burn deep in Hell. So many lies, so much betrayal and so much fear Makayla was forced to live through. Afraid to go to the police because quite a few of them were involved.
Nevertheless, the author, Briyanna Michelle, handled this tough topic with dignity and grace regarding the captive women involved.
August 6, 2024
Good with some twists in it
This was a good book. I liked that it was from a different perspective of a women who had been child trafficked. Although it’s a sad subject, there are many women/people who go through this in life. I liked the characters and some of the unexpected turns it had. I didn’t like that it seemed a little rushed or missing parts. During one chapter there was a whole part missing. I feel like it jumped from one thing to another without warning. But good story overall.
This was a good book. I liked that it was from a different perspective of a women who had been child trafficked. Although it’s a sad subject, there are many women/people who go through this in life. I liked the characters and some of the unexpected turns it had. I didn’t like that it seemed a little rushed or missing parts. During one chapter there was a whole part missing. I feel like it jumped from one thing to another without warning. But good story overall.
November 13, 2023
You want to read a beautiful love story! This the one! This book is was so beautiful. Brian’s love for Makayla was top tier. This book dealt with some heavy topics so please make sure you check your trigger warnings. In the end It had me looking at my hubby a little funny. Like if I go missing sir…are you going to stop at nothing to find me like Brian. Loved it! Beautifully written!
Did Not Finish
November 19, 2025Dnf’d @12%
I saw the author on TikTok and was intrigued by the way she talked about her books, but I didn’t enjoy the writing as much as I’d hoped. It felt like it needed more descriptions to help me immerse myself in the story.
I saw the author on TikTok and was intrigued by the way she talked about her books, but I didn’t enjoy the writing as much as I’d hoped. It felt like it needed more descriptions to help me immerse myself in the story.
December 21, 2023
Whew this was heavy 😩😩 but written so beautifully!! Amazing storytelling skills! Man I would definitely read this again ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
November 12, 2023
Makayla and Brian ♥️❤️🩹♾️
ARC REVIEW
Listen this is not your typical read. It's sad and emotional with a happy ending. I highly suggest reading the trigger warning before proceeding. Let me say first and foremost that every female need a man like Brian. Makayla and Brian met eachother in their teens and that was all she wrote. They became bestfriends but for Brian it was love at first sight. They were inseperate until one day they got into a disagreement and their lives change for the worst. Fast forward 8 years and they make their way back to eachother but in a way where Brian has to take baby steps due to not having his cover blown. Makayla is unhappy with her occupation and the way her life is going. But Brian does everything in his power to make her comfortable. He also trying to help her get out of her occupation by taking down her boss and his operation. Brian was so selfless for Makayla. A man that prays for, with & over you is top tier everything. He was just so sweet on her. The love and respect this man had for her was just out of this world. Makayla had a rough couple of years. She was let down by a parent that was suppose to have her best interest at heart and protect her. She was groomed at the age of 14. Makayla coming across Brian was a blessing. People that genuinely loved and cared for her also started popping out. She started to come out her shell and also starting finding happiness. Brian was such a good man. He deserved happiness as well and Makayla was it for him. I loved the little cute and motivational notes he always left for her. Now that plot twist with Misty. I did not expect that at all. I also loved Asha and Phoenix. It's always good to have genuine friends around. Kendrix annoyed me a little bit. I understand why he the way he is. Levi was cool and funny. Hoping him and Asha work out because you can definitely see the love. Terrance, William and Richard got what they deserved. Honestly speaking I never really been a fan of slow burn books but this was a good one. The message behind this story, the constant talks about God and the bible scriptures was so touching and motivating.
ARC REVIEW
Listen this is not your typical read. It's sad and emotional with a happy ending. I highly suggest reading the trigger warning before proceeding. Let me say first and foremost that every female need a man like Brian. Makayla and Brian met eachother in their teens and that was all she wrote. They became bestfriends but for Brian it was love at first sight. They were inseperate until one day they got into a disagreement and their lives change for the worst. Fast forward 8 years and they make their way back to eachother but in a way where Brian has to take baby steps due to not having his cover blown. Makayla is unhappy with her occupation and the way her life is going. But Brian does everything in his power to make her comfortable. He also trying to help her get out of her occupation by taking down her boss and his operation. Brian was so selfless for Makayla. A man that prays for, with & over you is top tier everything. He was just so sweet on her. The love and respect this man had for her was just out of this world. Makayla had a rough couple of years. She was let down by a parent that was suppose to have her best interest at heart and protect her. She was groomed at the age of 14. Makayla coming across Brian was a blessing. People that genuinely loved and cared for her also started popping out. She started to come out her shell and also starting finding happiness. Brian was such a good man. He deserved happiness as well and Makayla was it for him. I loved the little cute and motivational notes he always left for her. Now that plot twist with Misty. I did not expect that at all. I also loved Asha and Phoenix. It's always good to have genuine friends around. Kendrix annoyed me a little bit. I understand why he the way he is. Levi was cool and funny. Hoping him and Asha work out because you can definitely see the love. Terrance, William and Richard got what they deserved. Honestly speaking I never really been a fan of slow burn books but this was a good one. The message behind this story, the constant talks about God and the bible scriptures was so touching and motivating.
April 6, 2026
This book was a so hard to read every word feels like something hand plucked to torture my senses. But what can you expect from something on kindle unlimited but childish unrefined slop. The characters are cutouts that the author believes makes them present as powerful or sexy or charming but actually comes of ignorant gross and unappealing. The author has no intention wants or feelings towards engaging in the material she chose with regards to the main female lead being trafficked. I wish she had simply just written a book without the sex trafficking but because her work is so amateurish she had to find something else to I belive spice it up.
My biggest gripe with this book is the portrayel of the abuse our main lead Makayla is facing. One of her first scenes she is in a restaurant sitting across from a man she is going to be servicing later in the evening after they are done with their dinner and as she is going through the motions of her reality the male lead comes in and Makayla instantly gets the hots for him. She describes it like she is on a regular date and had a chance in encounter but I remind you she is a trafficked women on a date with someone who is paying her for sex. But even though she is in such a horrible situation she has time to ogle and admire and swoon over the male lead who storms seemingly randomly aproaches her at this table.
I find no need to hold back and be kinder when the author seems perfectly okay with disregarding the serious nature that she herself presented in the book. If I could give this zero stars that still wouldnt be low enough for how disgusting this book is.
My biggest gripe with this book is the portrayel of the abuse our main lead Makayla is facing. One of her first scenes she is in a restaurant sitting across from a man she is going to be servicing later in the evening after they are done with their dinner and as she is going through the motions of her reality the male lead comes in and Makayla instantly gets the hots for him. She describes it like she is on a regular date and had a chance in encounter but I remind you she is a trafficked women on a date with someone who is paying her for sex. But even though she is in such a horrible situation she has time to ogle and admire and swoon over the male lead who storms seemingly randomly aproaches her at this table.
I find no need to hold back and be kinder when the author seems perfectly okay with disregarding the serious nature that she herself presented in the book. If I could give this zero stars that still wouldnt be low enough for how disgusting this book is.
February 26, 2026
A Cautiously Optimistic Take on Briyanna Michelle’s Finding My Way Outta Darkness
I’m a quick reader who prefers books to television. Books are my escape, transporting me to places I’ve never been and opening a window to adventures I might not dare chase in real life. They let me set my fears aside and let my imagination roam free. That said, some books don’t quite land for me—the prose may flow, but the plot can feel disjointed, the characters unconnected, and the imagery not there.
I recently discovered Finding My Way Outta Darkness by Briyanna Michelle, a romance novel that promises unconditional love, overcoming trauma, and redefining the meaning of family, along with faith and redemption. Its dark themes—sex trafficking, rape, kidnapping, and more—are approached in a way that tries to weave a cohesive journey for the reader.
I pushed through the book despite my initial reservations because I hate starting something and not finishing it. I wanted the author to guide me on a strong and immersive ride, and I felt the attempt was there, even if the execution didn’t fully connect with me this time. I’m giving it 2.5 stars because I recognize the hard work authors pour into crafting new stories and putting them into the world.
This isn’t a top-100 must-read for me, but I encourage fellow readers to form their own opinions—do your own research, give the book a try, and see how it resonates with you. Perhaps I’ll encounter this author again and, in a future work, connect more deeply with the journey she takes us on.
Good luck and happy reading to all!
I’m a quick reader who prefers books to television. Books are my escape, transporting me to places I’ve never been and opening a window to adventures I might not dare chase in real life. They let me set my fears aside and let my imagination roam free. That said, some books don’t quite land for me—the prose may flow, but the plot can feel disjointed, the characters unconnected, and the imagery not there.
I recently discovered Finding My Way Outta Darkness by Briyanna Michelle, a romance novel that promises unconditional love, overcoming trauma, and redefining the meaning of family, along with faith and redemption. Its dark themes—sex trafficking, rape, kidnapping, and more—are approached in a way that tries to weave a cohesive journey for the reader.
I pushed through the book despite my initial reservations because I hate starting something and not finishing it. I wanted the author to guide me on a strong and immersive ride, and I felt the attempt was there, even if the execution didn’t fully connect with me this time. I’m giving it 2.5 stars because I recognize the hard work authors pour into crafting new stories and putting them into the world.
This isn’t a top-100 must-read for me, but I encourage fellow readers to form their own opinions—do your own research, give the book a try, and see how it resonates with you. Perhaps I’ll encounter this author again and, in a future work, connect more deeply with the journey she takes us on.
Good luck and happy reading to all!
March 8, 2024
God covers His people.
Sometimes when you meet someone you just know that y’all were meant for forever. That’s Kay and Brian.
This read was written so well. Even with the rough topic at hand. The reading just flowed for me.
Brian and Kay were truly meant to be and I’m so happy Brian and the guys never gave up looking for her. This book just shows that God has the final say. There are people out here who truly are praying for your better days and healing.
-Love the duo povs.
-Ain’t nothing like a praying woman or man. Especially when you’ve been through something and can see how God always kept his hand on. So He can use you to help others.
-Let’s give it up though for the guy friend group. I absolutely loved each one of them. Matter of fact i loved all the characters that did cause drama and pain.
-Love how we still got relationship/connection building between Kay and Brian. The way he made sure to get her consent every time. Letting her guide them with no pressure. All people should be like no matter if one has went something heartbreaking or not.
-I can’t wait to read the stories about the others couples because Kendrick and Levi need to cut it out. Go get yall women.
-The plot twist at the end was nice. Definitely had my jaw dropped and mouth open.
-Every dog will have their day.
Sometimes when you meet someone you just know that y’all were meant for forever. That’s Kay and Brian.
This read was written so well. Even with the rough topic at hand. The reading just flowed for me.
Brian and Kay were truly meant to be and I’m so happy Brian and the guys never gave up looking for her. This book just shows that God has the final say. There are people out here who truly are praying for your better days and healing.
-Love the duo povs.
-Ain’t nothing like a praying woman or man. Especially when you’ve been through something and can see how God always kept his hand on. So He can use you to help others.
-Let’s give it up though for the guy friend group. I absolutely loved each one of them. Matter of fact i loved all the characters that did cause drama and pain.
-Love how we still got relationship/connection building between Kay and Brian. The way he made sure to get her consent every time. Letting her guide them with no pressure. All people should be like no matter if one has went something heartbreaking or not.
-I can’t wait to read the stories about the others couples because Kendrick and Levi need to cut it out. Go get yall women.
-The plot twist at the end was nice. Definitely had my jaw dropped and mouth open.
-Every dog will have their day.
May 5, 2026
Okay I had a lot of expectations when I started this book, and yes it ate, but not in a good way. Every chapter had a new plot and bunch of unnecessary characters, I kept going back and forth to check if I missed something cause huhhhhh?...
The author made everything sound like sugar and honey. The representation in this book just wasn't it. I'm all in for fast paced and romance but this book was doing way too much.
You're trying to tell me FMC was or is still been sex trafficked,and out of nowhere she meets her prince charming who sweeps her off her feet, rescues her and suddenly they're in love. She gets sexually abused the night before and the next day, she's turned on and wants to sleep with her prince charming. Like be for reallll. That's so unrealistic. The representation in this this book was very fictional. Yes i know its fiction but if you want to represent a certain group of people that actually exist in the real world, then get your facts right. I had the feeling the FMC wasn't even traumatized in the first place. And the plot twists were very unnecessary and felt rushed..
I'm all in for prince charming, but it will be nice to have women actually stand up for themselves in books.
The only reason I didn't Dnf,was the representation of Christianity in this book.
The author made everything sound like sugar and honey. The representation in this book just wasn't it. I'm all in for fast paced and romance but this book was doing way too much.
You're trying to tell me FMC was or is still been sex trafficked,and out of nowhere she meets her prince charming who sweeps her off her feet, rescues her and suddenly they're in love. She gets sexually abused the night before and the next day, she's turned on and wants to sleep with her prince charming. Like be for reallll. That's so unrealistic. The representation in this this book was very fictional. Yes i know its fiction but if you want to represent a certain group of people that actually exist in the real world, then get your facts right. I had the feeling the FMC wasn't even traumatized in the first place. And the plot twists were very unnecessary and felt rushed..
I'm all in for prince charming, but it will be nice to have women actually stand up for themselves in books.
The only reason I didn't Dnf,was the representation of Christianity in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2024
3.75/5⭐️ - Rating: I liked it
Pros for me: Makayla was a resilient young woman. Her character was developed nicely. She had been through a lot but she didn’t Carey herself like a victim. I loved how she was written.
Brian was a sweetheart. He was in touch with his emotions and walked in the protector role. He was a man of his word and he meant what he meant. I loved how he loved and his honesty. I also loved how he prayed for her. He was in touch with his spirituality and that was beautiful to see.
The friend group - I loved all of them.
The plot twist really brought it home for me. That was a nice surprise.
Cons for me: I felt that the plot got a little lost. It starts out one way and then the focus shifts to the developing relationship. And It kept focusing on the two and you wonder about how she had so much freedom in that lifestyle and I was wondering what happened to the case and why Rich was so quiet.
Overall I enjoyed this story. I will definitely read the next installment so I can see how things continue to grow.
Pros for me: Makayla was a resilient young woman. Her character was developed nicely. She had been through a lot but she didn’t Carey herself like a victim. I loved how she was written.
Brian was a sweetheart. He was in touch with his emotions and walked in the protector role. He was a man of his word and he meant what he meant. I loved how he loved and his honesty. I also loved how he prayed for her. He was in touch with his spirituality and that was beautiful to see.
The friend group - I loved all of them.
The plot twist really brought it home for me. That was a nice surprise.
Cons for me: I felt that the plot got a little lost. It starts out one way and then the focus shifts to the developing relationship. And It kept focusing on the two and you wonder about how she had so much freedom in that lifestyle and I was wondering what happened to the case and why Rich was so quiet.
Overall I enjoyed this story. I will definitely read the next installment so I can see how things continue to grow.
February 8, 2025
Man oh man! Brian and Makayla….*sigh*
If you love found family in books, you will absolutely love this. The found family was done so organically! It made me want to go looking for the crew and be friends with them. They held each other all the way down.
As for the love story, it truly made my heart smile. Brian is definitely top tier book boyfriend! When he prayed over her….my little Christian heart melted!! I ate that up! I loved how they were able to come back together after so many years…true soul mates!
The story overall was well written. I loved the highlight on what to look for in human trafficking. This is a topic not talked about enough and makes me wonder how many times I may have seen something and just wasn’t aware of what I was actually seeing. Anyway, the book was great! 👍🏽👍🏽
If you love found family in books, you will absolutely love this. The found family was done so organically! It made me want to go looking for the crew and be friends with them. They held each other all the way down.
As for the love story, it truly made my heart smile. Brian is definitely top tier book boyfriend! When he prayed over her….my little Christian heart melted!! I ate that up! I loved how they were able to come back together after so many years…true soul mates!
The story overall was well written. I loved the highlight on what to look for in human trafficking. This is a topic not talked about enough and makes me wonder how many times I may have seen something and just wasn’t aware of what I was actually seeing. Anyway, the book was great! 👍🏽👍🏽
November 20, 2023
Everything this book stood on I was here for was beautiful; I absolutely loved this book. The representation of human trafficking really just had me in all my feelings because of the stories you see in the everyday news. I am so so proud and happy that Bri decided to highlight a story about this. I also really really loved the representation of a godly man. Whew! I have got to love me some Brian. Everyone, especially every black girl, deserves to have a love like Brian. The encouraging notes to keep her going and giving her the bible were the moments that stuck out the most to me. I enjoyed the side characters as well, not to mention the little twist with Misty. Thank you, Bri, for giving me an arc to this story.
June 8, 2024
First read by Briyanna
The story of Brian & Makayla was extremely beautiful. The character growth of Makayla was amazing & brought me to tears. Makayla had been going through hell since she was 15/16 but Brian was going through his own version of hell too because the woman that was meant to be his forever had nooo recollection of him or who he was but that didn’t stop him from looking for her, finding her, & loving her. Brian loved Makayla in a soft like manner. He made sure that he reassured her, that she felt safe & comfortable. This book was easily 5 stars. Also the two little plot twists ma’am 😲
The story of Brian & Makayla was extremely beautiful. The character growth of Makayla was amazing & brought me to tears. Makayla had been going through hell since she was 15/16 but Brian was going through his own version of hell too because the woman that was meant to be his forever had nooo recollection of him or who he was but that didn’t stop him from looking for her, finding her, & loving her. Brian loved Makayla in a soft like manner. He made sure that he reassured her, that she felt safe & comfortable. This book was easily 5 stars. Also the two little plot twists ma’am 😲
July 25, 2025
A Little Piece of Healing
I almost missed this book and I’m so glad I didn’t. I was about to start another Briyanna Michelle story when I saw her post on Threads about where to begin—and I started here. Finding My Way Outta Darkness is everything the title promises.
Makayla and Brian’s story is a slow and steady testament to healing, growth, and learning to love again—yourself and someone else. It’s not just about romance, it’s about rebuilding. With support from friends and family like Asha, Kendrix, Skyler, and Phoenix, this book shows how community can hold you while you figure it out.
Beautifully written and full of heart
I almost missed this book and I’m so glad I didn’t. I was about to start another Briyanna Michelle story when I saw her post on Threads about where to begin—and I started here. Finding My Way Outta Darkness is everything the title promises.
Makayla and Brian’s story is a slow and steady testament to healing, growth, and learning to love again—yourself and someone else. It’s not just about romance, it’s about rebuilding. With support from friends and family like Asha, Kendrix, Skyler, and Phoenix, this book shows how community can hold you while you figure it out.
Beautifully written and full of heart
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