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Finding My Way Outta Darkness : A Story Of Unconditional Love

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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.

340 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2023

315 people are currently reading
1107 people want to read

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Briyanna Michelle

23 books91 followers

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5 stars
163 (43%)
4 stars
122 (32%)
3 stars
68 (18%)
2 stars
15 (4%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
Profile Image for Shawnaci Schroeder.
484 reviews3,879 followers
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!
Profile Image for Rashawnda.
1,391 reviews1,057 followers
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.
Profile Image for Tams Reading Nook.
53 reviews6 followers
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.
Profile Image for Ash Reads Romance.
160 reviews21 followers
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.
Profile Image for Lisette.
603 reviews40 followers
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.
Profile Image for Cristina.
48 reviews6 followers
August 1, 2024
I wanted to love this one 😩 it started off with so much potential but it was just too unrealistic.
Profile Image for Mrs..
5,893 reviews103 followers
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.
Profile Image for Erinreads_.
99 reviews
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.
Profile Image for DOMINIQUE Davis.
494 reviews30 followers
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.
Profile Image for Jaleesa.
392 reviews51 followers
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!!!!
Profile Image for BrownBookNerd.
233 reviews31 followers
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
Profile Image for The Book Jawn .
230 reviews21 followers
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.
Profile Image for Tina Sharane.
126 reviews6 followers
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.
Profile Image for Whit.
3,586 reviews49 followers
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.
Profile Image for Danielle Estrada.
151 reviews
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.
11 reviews
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.
Profile Image for A. Blossom.
Author 16 books376 followers
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!
Profile Image for Books & Locs.
576 reviews15 followers
December 21, 2023
Whew this was heavy 😩😩 but written so beautifully!! Amazing storytelling skills! Man I would definitely read this again ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Profile Image for TellsOfABibliophile.
492 reviews14 followers
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.
Profile Image for Ebony Essence.
489 reviews20 followers
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.
Profile Image for Natashia Crawford.
349 reviews7 followers
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.
Profile Image for Angie.
100 reviews8 followers
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! 👍🏽👍🏽
32 reviews2 followers
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.
Profile Image for Miranda Watkins.
390 reviews4 followers
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 😲
Profile Image for Princess Myles.
69 reviews
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
Profile Image for Treasure.
393 reviews5 followers
November 6, 2023
ARC Review: Such a beautiful story , kindly check triggering warnings before reading this book. My main lesson learned from this book is : no matter how bad you think your situation is, if you trust in God he will make everything prefect in his time.
I love Brian and he is definitely going into my top 5 book boyfriend for 2023, the love he showed Kay was unconditional and support. Kay story is sad but it morphs into strength and profitable passion that she never thought she could do . I highly enjoy you to read this book when ur come out in a few days.
Profile Image for AMBER.
203 reviews3 followers
March 19, 2025
March Read: Finding My Way Out of Darkness by Briyanna Michelle ⭐️⭐️⭐️. Check trigger warnings before reading this book. It does discuss Trafficking & abuse. Special Ops Agent Brian McClain finds himself teaming up with the FBI to end the sex-trafficking ring in the city. He doesn’t expect to run into his first love Makayla Scott as one of the trafficked victims. Brian comes into her life with the opportunity of hope & healing. The book seemed a little rushed & missing some parts throughout. The book definitely has potential.
Profile Image for Ashleigh Jones.
43 reviews
November 13, 2023
This was such a cute second chance love story. Seeing Makayla get the love she deserved especially from someone from her past who always held a special place in her heart was so beautiful. Reading the words and the way Brian poured into her when she didn’t see things within herself was just pure heartwarming. Definitely a good book. Please check your trigger warnings though because there are some dark tones to this novel.
38 reviews
November 29, 2023
Love a brave FMC

Kay Kay!!!
What a brave and strong girl. What a beautiful story.
This story was told delicately, it felt like a sit down with a cup of of coffee and blanket book.
Makayla although young was brave, showed characteristic of growth and consistent courage.
Brian was not overwhelming in his protection of her and he made sure she learns to find her voice. The friendship group as a whole was wholesome.
31 reviews64 followers
January 20, 2024
I spinned the block on this book because I got an arc for book 2 and could not for the life of me remember the details. I remember this book being well written and well developed. All those things were true and the love story between Brian and Makayla was so sweet and he was so patient. I rated this a 4 because it was a slowwwwwww burn but the trauma was handled so well. I wish the opps were taken out way sooner cause they were pissing me off!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews

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