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Ten years ago, she betrayed me. Now it's time for payback.
Gaia comes from a powerful family. I grew up with the servants on their estate. Passion ignited, bringing a world of risk with it. When our secret love was discovered, Gaia accused me of an unforgivable crime, and I was forced out of New Orleans.
I didn't come back for a second chance at love. I'm home to settle old scores. Her grandfather left me controlling interest in the family empire but nothing is ever as it seems…
The need for revenge runs deep in my veins, yet with every step closer to my goal, I'm haunted by the intoxicating allure of her.
In the steamy, seductive streets of the bayou old wounds are reopening, buried secrets are threatening to surface, and Gaia's life is on the line. Did I have it all wrong?
My quest for vengeance may cost me everything…
Quake is the first book in the Jazz Sessions series. Each novel in this series is a standalone romance, complete with its own satisfying happily ever after but the shadow of a sinister family mystery stretches across the series.
Gaia comes from a powerful family. I grew up with the servants on their estate. Passion ignited, bringing a world of risk with it. When our secret love was discovered, Gaia accused me of an unforgivable crime, and I was forced out of New Orleans.
I didn't come back for a second chance at love. I'm home to settle old scores. Her grandfather left me controlling interest in the family empire but nothing is ever as it seems…
The need for revenge runs deep in my veins, yet with every step closer to my goal, I'm haunted by the intoxicating allure of her.
In the steamy, seductive streets of the bayou old wounds are reopening, buried secrets are threatening to surface, and Gaia's life is on the line. Did I have it all wrong?
My quest for vengeance may cost me everything…
Quake is the first book in the Jazz Sessions series. Each novel in this series is a standalone romance, complete with its own satisfying happily ever after but the shadow of a sinister family mystery stretches across the series.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2024
535 people are currently reading
395 people want to read
About the author
Maya Alden
55 books1,126 followersA top 20 Amazon Bestselling Author, Maya Alden pens angsty contemporary romances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
July 9, 2024
Part 1/3
2,5💥🤔s
While each part focuses on a different couple, this trilogy is linked by a mystery.
Without the Doucet Family Tree at the beginning of the book, I would have definitely been lost with all those characters...
2,5💥🤔s
While each part focuses on a different couple, this trilogy is linked by a mystery.
Without the Doucet Family Tree at the beginning of the book, I would have definitely been lost with all those characters...
December 10, 2024
Nope.
Had it been 1981 and Carole Mortimer, I could have partly understood. For this time and age, it is not acceptable.
The heroine was a teenager from a rich family, and she was in love with the poor hero. Her evil family, her mother especially, kidnapped her (I swear) and forced her to say the hero raped her.
He thought she had betrayed him.
Years later, she’s not rich anymore and she never moved on. The hero is rich, engaged and had plenty of ow of course.
He wants revenge from the heroine but eventually he finds out the truth.
So, things I didn’t like.
- double standard. As many already know, I never give more than one star if the book has been written after the 1995 and has double standard. The hero has had plenty of ow and now has a fiancee. The heroine was celibate for years. I understand she had trauma, because she had a traumatic experience, but still. Unbelievable and disgusting double standards.
- unsafe. The hero cheats on his fiancee wit the heroine and keeps having sex with his fiancee at the same time. Disgusting and unacceptable behavior. And then no, I want my heroes to be celibate as soon as they meet the heroine or they meet again.
- the hero turns out to be simply petty. He humiliates the heroine, which is something that make him look like a grumpy teenager who holds grudges, more than a successful mature man. He’s still a poor mean boy.
- the heroine feels guilty. But she was abused and violated by her family too. She apparently suffers from PTsd. It’s not nice to see that she keeps being abused by the small minded hero in her still weak mental condition. One of this authors fault is that she often is not able to understand the importance of abuse, trauma and ptsd. She’s apparently sure that love heals everything and that when the hero tells the heroine he loves her, poof, magically, all the abuses , here both emotional and physical, that she had endured from him, from her family, disappear. Really? It’s not that simple. It takes years and it leaves scars. Don’t underestimate abusers please. This is one of the reasons why I can’t appreciate this book. I doesn’t give the correct importance to the effects and process of emotional and physical abuse. Unacceptable.
- in this time and age, please, stop writing as if we are still in the 60s. Sex is not dirty, both men and women need it, a person, man or woman doesn’t have to be in love to have good sex. I understand that the heroine had trauma, but still. Nobody would have badmouthed the heroine if she had some men in her life.
So no, I didn’t like it and I didn’t appreciate it at all. Never felt the angst because it has to be motivated by real and believable situations. To me it had nothing to the sort.
Had it been 1981 and Carole Mortimer, I could have partly understood. For this time and age, it is not acceptable.
The heroine was a teenager from a rich family, and she was in love with the poor hero. Her evil family, her mother especially, kidnapped her (I swear) and forced her to say the hero raped her.
He thought she had betrayed him.
Years later, she’s not rich anymore and she never moved on. The hero is rich, engaged and had plenty of ow of course.
He wants revenge from the heroine but eventually he finds out the truth.
So, things I didn’t like.
- double standard. As many already know, I never give more than one star if the book has been written after the 1995 and has double standard. The hero has had plenty of ow and now has a fiancee. The heroine was celibate for years. I understand she had trauma, because she had a traumatic experience, but still. Unbelievable and disgusting double standards.
- unsafe. The hero cheats on his fiancee wit the heroine and keeps having sex with his fiancee at the same time. Disgusting and unacceptable behavior. And then no, I want my heroes to be celibate as soon as they meet the heroine or they meet again.
- the hero turns out to be simply petty. He humiliates the heroine, which is something that make him look like a grumpy teenager who holds grudges, more than a successful mature man. He’s still a poor mean boy.
- the heroine feels guilty. But she was abused and violated by her family too. She apparently suffers from PTsd. It’s not nice to see that she keeps being abused by the small minded hero in her still weak mental condition. One of this authors fault is that she often is not able to understand the importance of abuse, trauma and ptsd. She’s apparently sure that love heals everything and that when the hero tells the heroine he loves her, poof, magically, all the abuses , here both emotional and physical, that she had endured from him, from her family, disappear. Really? It’s not that simple. It takes years and it leaves scars. Don’t underestimate abusers please. This is one of the reasons why I can’t appreciate this book. I doesn’t give the correct importance to the effects and process of emotional and physical abuse. Unacceptable.
- in this time and age, please, stop writing as if we are still in the 60s. Sex is not dirty, both men and women need it, a person, man or woman doesn’t have to be in love to have good sex. I understand that the heroine had trauma, but still. Nobody would have badmouthed the heroine if she had some men in her life.
So no, I didn’t like it and I didn’t appreciate it at all. Never felt the angst because it has to be motivated by real and believable situations. To me it had nothing to the sort.
March 16, 2024
What a freaking cliffhanger!!! MAYA!!!
Ate this up in just a couple of days and loved it.
I thought Gaia and Rome’s chemistry was palpable and the tension delicious. I liked the mystery part of it and the ending KILLED ME! I can’t wait for the next one!
Ate this up in just a couple of days and loved it.
I thought Gaia and Rome’s chemistry was palpable and the tension delicious. I liked the mystery part of it and the ending KILLED ME! I can’t wait for the next one!
May 7, 2024
1. Of course the H has been f*cking everything that moves and the h has been celibate for TEN YEARS.
2. Even if Zephyr believed that Rome was justified in being angry at Gaia, Zephyr was her brother. For him to stand by and watch Rome treat her so badly and remain such good friends with him was unforgivable.
3. Rome really was a piece of $hit; he was practically eye f*cking the detective in the hospital after Gaia was shot.
4. After the way that Rome treated Gaia in this book, I was expecting some major grovel when he found out that everything she had done, she did to protect him. Unfortunately, all he did was force his way back into her life and her bed and tell her to “stop fighting it” and “I’m not going anywhere so f*cking get used to it”. And, of course, Gaia had a major case of BBS and just rolled over and did what she was told.
DNF
2. Even if Zephyr believed that Rome was justified in being angry at Gaia, Zephyr was her brother. For him to stand by and watch Rome treat her so badly and remain such good friends with him was unforgivable.
3. Rome really was a piece of $hit; he was practically eye f*cking the detective in the hospital after Gaia was shot.
4. After the way that Rome treated Gaia in this book, I was expecting some major grovel when he found out that everything she had done, she did to protect him. Unfortunately, all he did was force his way back into her life and her bed and tell her to “stop fighting it” and “I’m not going anywhere so f*cking get used to it”. And, of course, Gaia had a major case of BBS and just rolled over and did what she was told.
DNF
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2024
This was a Dynasty meets A Long Hot Summer southern romance revenge story. On a scale of one to ten for a cruel H where the typical Maya Alden ranks around 100, this H was a good 7. I think he only calls her bitch and slut a couple of times.
Part of a trilogy and more drama than you can shake a hot and humid stick since this is set in New Orleans or as Alden insists on writing it N'awlins. I think I'm going to stroke out as she does it in the next book too. Even when characters aren't talking in their Cajun accents but just thinking about the city, she spells it N'Awlins.
Foghorn Leghorn says STOP!!!!!
Part of a trilogy and more drama than you can shake a hot and humid stick since this is set in New Orleans or as Alden insists on writing it N'awlins. I think I'm going to stroke out as she does it in the next book too. Even when characters aren't talking in their Cajun accents but just thinking about the city, she spells it N'Awlins.
Foghorn Leghorn says STOP!!!!!
August 20, 2025
Drama, betrayal, angst, first loves - all set in New Orleans backdrop. Gaia and Rome were in love a decade ago, and then everything fell apart. Now reunited in the present by Gaias grandfathers passing, Rome is back to take over and make everyone pay. Little does he know, he only knows half the story, and those who bore his hatred might not have deserved it. It’s a story of redemption and grovelling. I like the backdrop and setting of the Quarter and Jazz - I felt like maybe there could have been move grovel. But overall it was ok, I just didn’t connect to some elements of story, so for me, it’s a good but not great. Still will read anything this author writes - likely will continue the series as it ends on a bit of a cliffhanger.
December 9, 2025
4.5⭐️
September 9, 2024
I could’ve swore I reviewed this and it disappeared! This is one of my favorites by Alden. I read it earlier this summer and reread it today. So much angst and poignancy. Loved every bit of this baby! I wish Alden would quit putting her epilogues on her website/newsletter though. I still haven’t gotten around to reading about the baby!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2024
Everyone in this either abused the h or was blind to what was occurring in her life. (h's mother and extended family excluding her brothers were verbally/physically abusive; h's brother and the H were blind to what was actually happening to the h)
Angst = See above and no one ever noticed how clinically depressed the h was and made no effort to try and figure it out. h is not a truly strong person. She puts everyone else's needs/wants in front of herself and no one ever challenges her or forces her to be honest. They are all content to let the h fade away for the last 10 years.
Cheating = the H is engaged when he returns to town (he intentionally got engaged to stick it to the h and to hold himself back from the h, using OW as a buffer) yet that doesn't seem to hold the H back from propositioning the h to not only a BJ but also a hate f*ck. H also kisses the h a few times. The h pushes back on the H each time and is the one to remind him that he is engaged. h will not be the OW. H in thought and deed cheated on the OW.
h sees H with OW = H makes sure to hug up and kiss on the OW in front of the h
OW drama = h's mom was physically/mentally abusive to the h and in the past forced a miscarriage/abortion onto the h (when h was locked for a few days in the basement, mom gave h some water with crushed up pills, h drank it unknowingly and the pills induced an abortion), mom never apologizes for it and has zero regrets for the way she treated the h, there is ZERO grovel from mom. The OW/fiancée of the H confronts the h in her home asking h if she is sleeping with H. h is highly offended and OW apologizes but still asks the questions. h, rightfully so, says this is an issue between OW and H and not to pull her into their issues.
Grovel = H finds out about all the things that the h has gone through, not from the h but from her brothers who spill all the h's secrets with out her consent. H proceeds to grovel for quite a while by word and deed. H goes out of his way to spend time and dedicate himself to the h so he can cater to her. Like stated before, h is not a strong person when it comes to standing up for herself and is a complete marshmallow with never a harsh word for anyone. So it is completely reasonable that h would accept the H back but she still has doubt that the H loves her as he had never told her before that he did. She eventually accepts it.
CLIFFHANGER = books ends with open ended questions such as who is trying to kill the h (should I have mentioned that someone tried to kill the h multiple times in the book??) which is a pretty big cliffy. Is h's mom doing it? Someone from h's extended family? OW/Fiancée? A business rival of the H? We don't know and it leads into second book which will have different H/h, but I am assuming we will get updates in this book's H/h. I'm undecided if I will read the next one, but may just to answer the questions I have in my mind.
Angst = See above and no one ever noticed how clinically depressed the h was and made no effort to try and figure it out. h is not a truly strong person. She puts everyone else's needs/wants in front of herself and no one ever challenges her or forces her to be honest. They are all content to let the h fade away for the last 10 years.
Cheating = the H is engaged when he returns to town (he intentionally got engaged to stick it to the h and to hold himself back from the h, using OW as a buffer) yet that doesn't seem to hold the H back from propositioning the h to not only a BJ but also a hate f*ck. H also kisses the h a few times. The h pushes back on the H each time and is the one to remind him that he is engaged. h will not be the OW. H in thought and deed cheated on the OW.
h sees H with OW = H makes sure to hug up and kiss on the OW in front of the h
OW drama = h's mom was physically/mentally abusive to the h and in the past forced a miscarriage/abortion onto the h (when h was locked for a few days in the basement, mom gave h some water with crushed up pills, h drank it unknowingly and the pills induced an abortion), mom never apologizes for it and has zero regrets for the way she treated the h, there is ZERO grovel from mom. The OW/fiancée of the H confronts the h in her home asking h if she is sleeping with H. h is highly offended and OW apologizes but still asks the questions. h, rightfully so, says this is an issue between OW and H and not to pull her into their issues.
Grovel = H finds out about all the things that the h has gone through, not from the h but from her brothers who spill all the h's secrets with out her consent. H proceeds to grovel for quite a while by word and deed. H goes out of his way to spend time and dedicate himself to the h so he can cater to her. Like stated before, h is not a strong person when it comes to standing up for herself and is a complete marshmallow with never a harsh word for anyone. So it is completely reasonable that h would accept the H back but she still has doubt that the H loves her as he had never told her before that he did. She eventually accepts it.
CLIFFHANGER = books ends with open ended questions such as who is trying to kill the h (should I have mentioned that someone tried to kill the h multiple times in the book??) which is a pretty big cliffy. Is h's mom doing it? Someone from h's extended family? OW/Fiancée? A business rival of the H? We don't know and it leads into second book which will have different H/h, but I am assuming we will get updates in this book's H/h. I'm undecided if I will read the next one, but may just to answer the questions I have in my mind.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2024
A Misguided Revenge
The premise of this novel was promising. A hero consumed by a decade-old misunderstanding, harboring a deep-seated hatred for the heroine? Count me in! The initial build-up of tension and angst was palpable, keeping me hooked for a significant portion of the book. However, the plot took a drastic detour when the truth finally emerged.
The abrupt transformation of the hero from a tormented, vengeful man to an overly affectionate boyfriend was jarring and unconvincing. It felt like a complete 180-degree turn that undermined the carefully constructed tension. Sadly, the story lost its momentum from there on.
The heroine, while likable, lacked the strength and resilience to match the intensity of the hero's character. Her somewhat passive nature didn’t quite complement the alpha-male persona of the male lead.
Overall, while the initial setup was compelling, the execution fell short of its potential.
The premise of this novel was promising. A hero consumed by a decade-old misunderstanding, harboring a deep-seated hatred for the heroine? Count me in! The initial build-up of tension and angst was palpable, keeping me hooked for a significant portion of the book. However, the plot took a drastic detour when the truth finally emerged.
The abrupt transformation of the hero from a tormented, vengeful man to an overly affectionate boyfriend was jarring and unconvincing. It felt like a complete 180-degree turn that undermined the carefully constructed tension. Sadly, the story lost its momentum from there on.
The heroine, while likable, lacked the strength and resilience to match the intensity of the hero's character. Her somewhat passive nature didn’t quite complement the alpha-male persona of the male lead.
Overall, while the initial setup was compelling, the execution fell short of its potential.
September 10, 2024
3.75 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cover: I prefer the new version, with the flower.
The story: great setting! Nola calls me.
I’m very into the story. I loved the longing and the angst that was brought by Gaia and Rome.
And I’m intrigued by what’s going on! Next book, here I come
Cover: I prefer the new version, with the flower.
The story: great setting! Nola calls me.
I’m very into the story. I loved the longing and the angst that was brought by Gaia and Rome.
And I’m intrigued by what’s going on! Next book, here I come
April 28, 2025
So He Gets To Use Her Infantile Coerced Accusation, As Justification To Sexually Assault Her, And Only His Ego Stops Him Raping Her, With Another Womans Lipstick Staining Lady Macbeth's Cock
He's still divking Isabella.
He's a cheater.
And sexually assaults her ywice at the bar.
But its framed as "really wanting to fuck her" as he grabs her and weaponises body betrayal.
No, What hurts her DOESN'T hurt him, what hurts him is that fact he wanted to be moral, and it hurts him that he isn't. He's a cunt.
Pretending his abuse is self harm.
How buffered is this privileged asshole man?
Wow, way to make it look like he was more pissed at being perceived as a rapist, than forcing himself onto someone.
It was only the thought that rape makes him a rapist, that stopped him raping her while engaged to another woman.
And this pathetic bitch forgives THAT??????
Wow, I need some privilege in my veins, to understand that.
And he goes on to have sex with Isabella after trying to rape Gaia.
Gaia cannot love this.
This is dissonance.
Please tell the Cheating raper isnt the Hero.
Sorry his memories of her confirm he is a groomer, the way he enjoys her chasing him like a child, hollow her minor cheeks on his cock.
You cannot rehabilitate this fucker.
Abuser.
ABUSER.
Her Granda Is A Patriachially Abusive Asshole, And Her Brother, And This Cunt, Abortions Happen To Pregnancies, Not Babies, But He Immaturely Makes A Baby, Toxic Trumperlite
Camille learned to abuse kids from Lucien. Those impulses are learned, not spontaneous, learned, but we must protect him so he can abusively punish her victim with Rome, because then we notice Rome is a part of the abusive wheel.
That video from Lucien was disgusting.
The Most Abusive Thing I've Ever Seen Is Someones Last Words To A Supposed Loved One Is OneOf Shame.
Fuck. Lucien. Can We Call Luigi To Make Rome Into Fertiliser Like Lucien.
Best thing that cunt did was die and provide his family with relief.
Disgusting old man.
And Henri's fucking LOVEBOMB GASLIGHTING HER.
BASTERDS.
FUCKING HENRI ENJOYED HER SHAME, ENJOYED WATCHING LUCIEN CRUSH HER.
FUCK THESE PEOPLE.
The he gets to use her infantile words as an excuse to sexually assault her and then only his ego stops him raping her.
Wow.
So he is a rapist.
She clocked him in an unfortunate circumstance.
Ok Conor McGregor, Russell Brand and Andrew Tate aspiring asshole.
How many women did Camille see you rape and sexually assault and silence, for it be normalised as a weapon?
The moment hes in her face and then Dicks Isabella, he's cheating. Hes open, hes done. But Maya is still in high school, needs the words even though he knows what he is doing.
Ew his dick will never not have Isabella's lipstick on it now, doing that, after meeting Gaia again, his dick is Lady Macbeths hands, dirty, and never clean. Theres nothing like emotional tarnish on a person.
Ahem, Ten years he didn't "hurt when she was hurting" (fucking liberals and their Toxic Positivity as their lifestyle burns the world down) and then just now he does?
Wow, I learnt more about how Rome the Narcissist felt about her Suicide Attempt, than her. How depowering. And she's still not allowed to grow beyond her infantile desire to please someone actively dominating her, even after she is shot, he overwhelms her.
She's so pathetic. She makes my eyes bleed. He treated you like shit, what kind of SHIT therapist are you visiting?
Angers me when dogs roll over.
Bitch you were almost a character, but you are a Trauma Tourist Insert instead.
"She killed my baby." I want him to die. There is no forgiveness for that thought on Bodily Autonomy. None.
To label abortion infanticide is toxic.
He, and men like him, are why Trump gets to do this, making her pregnancy a baby. Fuck Patriarchy.
Why should the attempted suicide of an infanticider, in his brain, hurt him?
Abuser.
Making it all about himself.
Like her brother.
Wow, not once did she wake up and demand more than this cold cunt.
Wow, he was in her underwear drawer while attached to another woman.
Emotional cheater.
And an actual cheater.
I don't understand why she needs forgiveness.
He got everything, he wasn't traumatised at all.
Fuck him.
His inner monologue reminds me of those crazy Settlers in Israel, talking to Louis Theroux, punching themselves in their own faces over and over so they can dominate.
I hate this cheater.
And I hate that she never worked out that he was vile and intrusive, and violated her drunken boundaries after he got everything.
I really cant stand people who get away with weaponising their trauma like him.
Wheres St Luigi to save her and pap this Classist, Ableist, Misogynistic mother fucker.
Hes awful.
But hes there for the Unseen, Unloved and utterly Unfucked to rush to forgive his toxic ass.
Boring.
Reading her mental health recovery is making my skin crawl because its so inauthentic.
If a half a book worth of toxicity, isn't enough to force neurogenesis in Gaia to protect herself from the Emotional Dysregulation Rome keeps forcing on her, then I don't believe she was abused to the point of suicide, to begin with.
There's this comorbid thing that abuse does to your body, because rather than a person of privilege, getting assaulted one time, its a person getting assaulted over and over again until they can only understand marginalisation.
The only way to stand up to Marginalisation is this little fuck oy getting exposed for crying over his own choices.
Legitimately nothing more Narcissistic than a Toxic person getting to Emotionally center themselves in someone else trauma.
When he's crying with Z, it disgusts me.
How dare you weaponise her trauma to be vulnerable to someone else.
But thats for the Neoliberal women who need to compete, instead of cooperate, they need him to be broken for a second, and not broken long term, by being forced to let her grow withouth his input.
Imagine fantasising about a man you think is emotionally connected elsewhere?
Either her abuse was long term or short term.
She is responding like it was a mere moment she runs from, instead of the entire world her emotional wellbeing was founded on.
That's what repeated Abuse does, even though Patriarch JK Rowling belittles people who have CPTSD, which is long term, repeated, you know, as opposed to getting to escape to an Emotional Support Network after the first slap, it changes how you understand the world.
Completely.
Gaia's perspective comes across as if this entire book is a video game, or interactive Patriarchial Parable, where the acutely abused person gets pretend the chronically abused person, will have the same symptoms.
They. Do. Not.
She just sits there like an inert Disney Princess, fantasising about someone elses man.
By late-20s, she wouldn't be tolerant of this treatment.
If she was genuinely abused to this degree, she would be standing up for herself by the middle of the book at least, or having already developed severe chronic illnesses, related to stress focusing in her belly, as repeated Cortisol Flushes shut down the digestive system first, and are the most common cause of a myriad of issues from IBS, to Endo, from Chron's, to Eating Disorders.
She reads like she has to have the perfect emotion about everything, which yes, common trauma symptom, but, we want her to stop, right?
Like she never had the power to destroy his life, that was a lie, which means the Neoliberals get to pretend the issues of this book were "miscommunication" when the point is there is no excuse to treat another human being the way he was treating her, she is not your mother, go be a toddler somewhere else.
His resolution is "I didn't know" and I call bullshit.
She was 17.
Bullshit.
But its a Patriarchial Parable, to save him from getting to emotionally dominate every situation by.....letting him emotionally dominate every situation.
Wow, what's it like in your world?
Does alcohol cure alcoholism in your world too?
He's still divking Isabella.
He's a cheater.
And sexually assaults her ywice at the bar.
But its framed as "really wanting to fuck her" as he grabs her and weaponises body betrayal.
No, What hurts her DOESN'T hurt him, what hurts him is that fact he wanted to be moral, and it hurts him that he isn't. He's a cunt.
Pretending his abuse is self harm.
How buffered is this privileged asshole man?
Wow, way to make it look like he was more pissed at being perceived as a rapist, than forcing himself onto someone.
It was only the thought that rape makes him a rapist, that stopped him raping her while engaged to another woman.
And this pathetic bitch forgives THAT??????
Wow, I need some privilege in my veins, to understand that.
And he goes on to have sex with Isabella after trying to rape Gaia.
Gaia cannot love this.
This is dissonance.
Please tell the Cheating raper isnt the Hero.
Sorry his memories of her confirm he is a groomer, the way he enjoys her chasing him like a child, hollow her minor cheeks on his cock.
You cannot rehabilitate this fucker.
Abuser.
ABUSER.
Her Granda Is A Patriachially Abusive Asshole, And Her Brother, And This Cunt, Abortions Happen To Pregnancies, Not Babies, But He Immaturely Makes A Baby, Toxic Trumperlite
Camille learned to abuse kids from Lucien. Those impulses are learned, not spontaneous, learned, but we must protect him so he can abusively punish her victim with Rome, because then we notice Rome is a part of the abusive wheel.
That video from Lucien was disgusting.
The Most Abusive Thing I've Ever Seen Is Someones Last Words To A Supposed Loved One Is OneOf Shame.
Fuck. Lucien. Can We Call Luigi To Make Rome Into Fertiliser Like Lucien.
Best thing that cunt did was die and provide his family with relief.
Disgusting old man.
And Henri's fucking LOVEBOMB GASLIGHTING HER.
BASTERDS.
FUCKING HENRI ENJOYED HER SHAME, ENJOYED WATCHING LUCIEN CRUSH HER.
FUCK THESE PEOPLE.
The he gets to use her infantile words as an excuse to sexually assault her and then only his ego stops him raping her.
Wow.
So he is a rapist.
She clocked him in an unfortunate circumstance.
Ok Conor McGregor, Russell Brand and Andrew Tate aspiring asshole.
How many women did Camille see you rape and sexually assault and silence, for it be normalised as a weapon?
The moment hes in her face and then Dicks Isabella, he's cheating. Hes open, hes done. But Maya is still in high school, needs the words even though he knows what he is doing.
Ew his dick will never not have Isabella's lipstick on it now, doing that, after meeting Gaia again, his dick is Lady Macbeths hands, dirty, and never clean. Theres nothing like emotional tarnish on a person.
Ahem, Ten years he didn't "hurt when she was hurting" (fucking liberals and their Toxic Positivity as their lifestyle burns the world down) and then just now he does?
Wow, I learnt more about how Rome the Narcissist felt about her Suicide Attempt, than her. How depowering. And she's still not allowed to grow beyond her infantile desire to please someone actively dominating her, even after she is shot, he overwhelms her.
She's so pathetic. She makes my eyes bleed. He treated you like shit, what kind of SHIT therapist are you visiting?
Angers me when dogs roll over.
Bitch you were almost a character, but you are a Trauma Tourist Insert instead.
"She killed my baby." I want him to die. There is no forgiveness for that thought on Bodily Autonomy. None.
To label abortion infanticide is toxic.
He, and men like him, are why Trump gets to do this, making her pregnancy a baby. Fuck Patriarchy.
Why should the attempted suicide of an infanticider, in his brain, hurt him?
Abuser.
Making it all about himself.
Like her brother.
Wow, not once did she wake up and demand more than this cold cunt.
Wow, he was in her underwear drawer while attached to another woman.
Emotional cheater.
And an actual cheater.
I don't understand why she needs forgiveness.
He got everything, he wasn't traumatised at all.
Fuck him.
His inner monologue reminds me of those crazy Settlers in Israel, talking to Louis Theroux, punching themselves in their own faces over and over so they can dominate.
I hate this cheater.
And I hate that she never worked out that he was vile and intrusive, and violated her drunken boundaries after he got everything.
I really cant stand people who get away with weaponising their trauma like him.
Wheres St Luigi to save her and pap this Classist, Ableist, Misogynistic mother fucker.
Hes awful.
But hes there for the Unseen, Unloved and utterly Unfucked to rush to forgive his toxic ass.
Boring.
Reading her mental health recovery is making my skin crawl because its so inauthentic.
If a half a book worth of toxicity, isn't enough to force neurogenesis in Gaia to protect herself from the Emotional Dysregulation Rome keeps forcing on her, then I don't believe she was abused to the point of suicide, to begin with.
There's this comorbid thing that abuse does to your body, because rather than a person of privilege, getting assaulted one time, its a person getting assaulted over and over again until they can only understand marginalisation.
The only way to stand up to Marginalisation is this little fuck oy getting exposed for crying over his own choices.
Legitimately nothing more Narcissistic than a Toxic person getting to Emotionally center themselves in someone else trauma.
When he's crying with Z, it disgusts me.
How dare you weaponise her trauma to be vulnerable to someone else.
But thats for the Neoliberal women who need to compete, instead of cooperate, they need him to be broken for a second, and not broken long term, by being forced to let her grow withouth his input.
Imagine fantasising about a man you think is emotionally connected elsewhere?
Either her abuse was long term or short term.
She is responding like it was a mere moment she runs from, instead of the entire world her emotional wellbeing was founded on.
That's what repeated Abuse does, even though Patriarch JK Rowling belittles people who have CPTSD, which is long term, repeated, you know, as opposed to getting to escape to an Emotional Support Network after the first slap, it changes how you understand the world.
Completely.
Gaia's perspective comes across as if this entire book is a video game, or interactive Patriarchial Parable, where the acutely abused person gets pretend the chronically abused person, will have the same symptoms.
They. Do. Not.
She just sits there like an inert Disney Princess, fantasising about someone elses man.
By late-20s, she wouldn't be tolerant of this treatment.
If she was genuinely abused to this degree, she would be standing up for herself by the middle of the book at least, or having already developed severe chronic illnesses, related to stress focusing in her belly, as repeated Cortisol Flushes shut down the digestive system first, and are the most common cause of a myriad of issues from IBS, to Endo, from Chron's, to Eating Disorders.
She reads like she has to have the perfect emotion about everything, which yes, common trauma symptom, but, we want her to stop, right?
Like she never had the power to destroy his life, that was a lie, which means the Neoliberals get to pretend the issues of this book were "miscommunication" when the point is there is no excuse to treat another human being the way he was treating her, she is not your mother, go be a toddler somewhere else.
His resolution is "I didn't know" and I call bullshit.
She was 17.
Bullshit.
But its a Patriarchial Parable, to save him from getting to emotionally dominate every situation by.....letting him emotionally dominate every situation.
Wow, what's it like in your world?
Does alcohol cure alcoholism in your world too?
July 16, 2024
I have read almost all of the books from this author.
Most of her FMCs are doormats that are abused by the family and mainly by the MMCs but slowly the MMCs realize their grave mistake of judgement and fall very very hard in love. And it doesn't matter if they are not physically goddesses; the MMCs are crazy for their women irrespective of how they look.
I have reviewed some of the books harshly because of the writing style but with this series I have to admit I fell in love with the author's writing style.
Yes there is abuse but Gaia is a survivor, yes Rome is really an asshole towards her when they meet again but he really thought she betrayed him.
Yes she hasn't been with anyone else while he was sleeping with women and he even got engaged just to spite her. But everything has a good baseline and context and reasoning and development.This is what bothers me in so many books: that one out of the couple (98% the FMC) avoids relationships while the other one sleeps around and moves on in order to forget.
Gaia is strong, resilient and she accepts everything coming her way because she feels she has to pay for her sins.Rome slowly understands and finds out that he owes everything to Gaia and he becomes her rock and protector.
The mystery of who is behind chasing them, every character that comes on the page, the city, everything screams "make it a movie".
So yes I really loved this one and every other in the series.
Most of her FMCs are doormats that are abused by the family and mainly by the MMCs but slowly the MMCs realize their grave mistake of judgement and fall very very hard in love. And it doesn't matter if they are not physically goddesses; the MMCs are crazy for their women irrespective of how they look.
I have reviewed some of the books harshly because of the writing style but with this series I have to admit I fell in love with the author's writing style.
Yes there is abuse but Gaia is a survivor, yes Rome is really an asshole towards her when they meet again but he really thought she betrayed him.
Yes she hasn't been with anyone else while he was sleeping with women and he even got engaged just to spite her. But everything has a good baseline and context and reasoning and development.This is what bothers me in so many books: that one out of the couple (98% the FMC) avoids relationships while the other one sleeps around and moves on in order to forget.
Gaia is strong, resilient and she accepts everything coming her way because she feels she has to pay for her sins.Rome slowly understands and finds out that he owes everything to Gaia and he becomes her rock and protector.
The mystery of who is behind chasing them, every character that comes on the page, the city, everything screams "make it a movie".
So yes I really loved this one and every other in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2024
Quake is a second chance romantic suspense that is the start of a trilogy following a group of siblings.
Maya really delivered on the angst with this one. Our hero is awful at first but you later see that he has the wrong thoughts about what really happened with him and Gaia. Gaia only ever wanted to protect Rome and lost everything in doing so.
I loved this series so much. This book had it all. Angst. Second chance. Grovel. I adored it.
Maya really delivered on the angst with this one. Our hero is awful at first but you later see that he has the wrong thoughts about what really happened with him and Gaia. Gaia only ever wanted to protect Rome and lost everything in doing so.
I loved this series so much. This book had it all. Angst. Second chance. Grovel. I adored it.
November 1, 2024
This is first in a trilogy. There is romance with suspense thrown in. The romance gets its HEA by the end of the story, and one mystery is solved while the bigger one is ongoing. It also sets the stage for the next story in the trilogy. Now if you are only reading this for the romance, you will be satisfied with the end. If you get roped up in the whodunnit part then you will want to continue.
I will continue the series as I want to know who did the what. Right now, I am going to focus on the romance.
Gaia- Gaia has been let down by those that should love her the most. Neither of her parents were stellar, but her dad passed away and her mom remarried. Her mom is/was cruel. Gaia has two older brothers(they get the next 2 stories) who left as soon as they could. They knew their mom was nothing to write home about, but they had no idea the lengths she went to make Gaia’s life a living hell.
However, she found happiness in her friend/lover Rome, the illegitimate child of her Aunt’s husband. His mom was a servant to the very wealthy Doucet family so he lived near the estate and worked. He ended up with Gaia, and was her first lover. He also got along with her older brothers. She was not like the older Doucets. She was kind and loving and did not put on “airs”. They fell in love and the future looked bright. Well that is until she did the unthinkable. She told a lie to save her lover, and in doing so she lost him. She lost the life she was going to have. She settled for a life without love and missed out on goals.
Meanwhile, Rome had time to grow his hate of Gaia. He made a success of himself, moved on(sexually but not emotionally) After 10 years, he is back in town with a fiancé’ and revenge on his mind. Sadly, he has no idea that our poor Gaia has put up with a lion’s share of heartache and grief.
It is obvious to the reader that Rome has never gotten over Gaia. He has hate/love for her. When things come to light around the 50 percent mark, Rome goes all in on his pursuit of Gaia. She loves him, but she is hesitant in putting everything out there as she probably wouldn’t survive another break. It is very evident that Rome was there to stay.
We still have to figure out who has been shooting at our hero and heroine. Again, I am not going to delve into the intrigue part so much, I was looking for the romance and it was a solid romance.
Gaia’s brothers were in the dark about many of the obstacles their sister faced. She was very good at hiding things. However, they were a support for her. Unfortunately, they could only support her to a certain extent as they were not armed with all of the knowledge.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. The angst was there initially, and it killed me to see the pain Gaia was continuously subjected to in addition to hearing about the lost years when the H was not around. I felt like most of the angstier parts were done before the 50 percent mark but I was still interested in the outcome of the story and watching Gaia gain back her trust.
Next up is Inferno, which is Gaia’s brother Blaze Doucet’s story. The ending sets this up nicely.
February 24, 2024
Secrets, Lies, Family Drama, Old Money, Revenge in NOLA. MUST READ!
This is the first book in a new Jazz Session Series by Maya Alden. We meet the Doucet Family of New Orleans and three Siblings, Gaia, Zephyr, and Blaze. This book is a second chance, enemies to lovers book of Gaia and Rome. Gaia and Rome had a teenage love affair when Gaia was 17 and Rome was 20. Gaia grew up the youngest and only daughter of an old money and powerful family and Rome was an illegitimate child of “the help” that her mother did not approve of. Their reltionship ended in a heartbreaking way when Gaia wronged Rome in a way that he could not forgive and left New Orleans 10 year earlier.
After the death of her grandfather, Rome is summoned back to New Orleans for the reading of his will that sets a series of events in motion that reveals secrets and lies, attempted murder, and Rome’s ultimate revenge plan to get back at nearly everyone in the Doucet family, including taking his ultimate revenge again Gaia. Little does he know that Gaia has spent the last 10 year punishing herself and everything he thought he knew would be turn on its head.
This is a FANTASTIC first book in a series. You instantly fall in love with the characters, you ache for Gaia and Rome and you want to yell and scream and cry at the injustice of their situation. This book also does a great job of making New Orleans its own character. Gaia and Rome’s story is at times heartbreaking and emotional and just when you think there is no way back, a series of unexpected events force them to face their past to reclaim a future that they both want but didn’t seem possible with all the secrets and lies between them. Warning: This book ends with a cliffhanger that leads right into book 2 that will focus on Blaze. I cannot wait for the next installment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the first book in a new Jazz Session Series by Maya Alden. We meet the Doucet Family of New Orleans and three Siblings, Gaia, Zephyr, and Blaze. This book is a second chance, enemies to lovers book of Gaia and Rome. Gaia and Rome had a teenage love affair when Gaia was 17 and Rome was 20. Gaia grew up the youngest and only daughter of an old money and powerful family and Rome was an illegitimate child of “the help” that her mother did not approve of. Their reltionship ended in a heartbreaking way when Gaia wronged Rome in a way that he could not forgive and left New Orleans 10 year earlier.
After the death of her grandfather, Rome is summoned back to New Orleans for the reading of his will that sets a series of events in motion that reveals secrets and lies, attempted murder, and Rome’s ultimate revenge plan to get back at nearly everyone in the Doucet family, including taking his ultimate revenge again Gaia. Little does he know that Gaia has spent the last 10 year punishing herself and everything he thought he knew would be turn on its head.
This is a FANTASTIC first book in a series. You instantly fall in love with the characters, you ache for Gaia and Rome and you want to yell and scream and cry at the injustice of their situation. This book also does a great job of making New Orleans its own character. Gaia and Rome’s story is at times heartbreaking and emotional and just when you think there is no way back, a series of unexpected events force them to face their past to reclaim a future that they both want but didn’t seem possible with all the secrets and lies between them. Warning: This book ends with a cliffhanger that leads right into book 2 that will focus on Blaze. I cannot wait for the next installment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 5, 2024
This book…my goodness…is full of passion, and depth, and darkness, and…well, everything. And I don’t just say that because it’s set in New Orleans. I mean, I do…in part…because it’s one of my favorite places on earth. But the way this author captured the Crescent City, along with the entire dark journey of the Doucet family, was just so well done!
Gaia is one such member of the wealthy Doucet family. After her grandfather recently died and left his entire fortune to Rome Decuir (the illegitimate son of her aunt’s husband), the entire family falls into a fight over the Bayou Belle Holdings company. Despite their protests, Rome become the new CEO and changes everything in their world.
The only problem is his past with Gaia…and what that will mean for his present. With a mother who is not beyond punishing them both, Gaia has to come to terms with their past as they find a way back into each other’s arms.
The story of their love is dark and twisted, a true second-chance romance, but the ending works things out in a way that is satisfying. That said, the entire book ends up with a sort of cliffhanger. This is book 1 of the 3-book Jazz Sessions series and the over-arching plot of the Doucet family stretches across all three books. Luckily, though, the romance plot lines in each book are self-contained...whew! Though I am not generally a fan of being left in suspense, I like the way this was all thought out…
Well-written, brimming with suspense and intrigue, this book is perfect for fans of LJ Shen and Shain Rose. I truly enjoyed it!
Gaia is one such member of the wealthy Doucet family. After her grandfather recently died and left his entire fortune to Rome Decuir (the illegitimate son of her aunt’s husband), the entire family falls into a fight over the Bayou Belle Holdings company. Despite their protests, Rome become the new CEO and changes everything in their world.
The only problem is his past with Gaia…and what that will mean for his present. With a mother who is not beyond punishing them both, Gaia has to come to terms with their past as they find a way back into each other’s arms.
The story of their love is dark and twisted, a true second-chance romance, but the ending works things out in a way that is satisfying. That said, the entire book ends up with a sort of cliffhanger. This is book 1 of the 3-book Jazz Sessions series and the over-arching plot of the Doucet family stretches across all three books. Luckily, though, the romance plot lines in each book are self-contained...whew! Though I am not generally a fan of being left in suspense, I like the way this was all thought out…
Well-written, brimming with suspense and intrigue, this book is perfect for fans of LJ Shen and Shain Rose. I truly enjoyed it!
July 28, 2024
The H is a product of a relationship between the h's married uncle and a servant who lives on the family estate. The H and h enter into a secret, intimate relationship. The h feels unwell and the family doctor shares her pregnancy news with her mother. Her mother forces the h to sign over her shares in the family business and her inheritance to her in exchange for allowing the H to leave town and avoid prosecution for a charge of tape which the h is forced to collaborate. Ten years later the angry and vengeful H returns for the funeral of the h's grandfather and the inheritance of control of the family business. He proves his success despite the h' s false charge with partnership in a successful company, a college degree and a recent engagement to a beautiful, smart business woman. The h miscarried after being given abortion pills by her mother, barely graduated high school, gave away her money to secretly pay for the H's
schooling, attempted suicide and now works as a bartender in the bar her brothers own. The H enjoys humiliating the h in her low status, flaunting his success and engagement thinking she deserves it for her false accusation. The H learns the truth about the circumstances around their breakup as well as the criminal mismanagement of the company he inherited. Family members are fired and there is no lack of suspects when the h is shot and fires are started. That part of the story continues in the next book.
schooling, attempted suicide and now works as a bartender in the bar her brothers own. The H enjoys humiliating the h in her low status, flaunting his success and engagement thinking she deserves it for her false accusation. The H learns the truth about the circumstances around their breakup as well as the criminal mismanagement of the company he inherited. Family members are fired and there is no lack of suspects when the h is shot and fires are started. That part of the story continues in the next book.
October 3, 2024
This story wasn't too shabby. I'm a sucker for stories with an underdog/abused heroine, who has had a shit life, and then is horrifically mistreated and misjudged by her Hero. Yeah, I'm sick that way, but it is what it is....
This story gave me a bit of the angst I crave, as well as the asshole Hero who has to realize and make up for how wrong he as been about his sweet heroine. This story had all of that and more. There's an evil mother, a bit of OW drama, and mystery going on in the background.
The ending started to drag a little bit with so much filler sex in it, but I still enjoyed the story despite all of that. This story was another win for me by this author. Can't wait to see where the rest of the characters go from here.
March 18, 2025
Quake – A Love That Shattered, A Passion That Endures 💔🔥
Some love stories erupt like a force of nature, like something unstoppable, destructive, and destined to change everything. Rome and Gaia’s story? It’s a category five hurricane, yes, a slow-burning inferno, a tragedy and a second chance wrapped in betrayal, revenge, and undeniable longing.
✔ Brother’s Best Friend 👀
✔ Enemies-to-Lovers with History 🔥
✔ Second Chance but with High-Stakes Vengeance 💔
✔ Twists, secrets & suspense in the heart of New Orleans 🌆
✔ A heroine who gave up everything for love & a hero who has no idea 💣
Rome returns to New Orleans not for love, but for retribution. Gaia—his past, his pain, the girl who ruined him—is now a woman surviving in the wreckage of a life she never chose. You can understand the rage... my God as he wants payback. She’s already paid the price. But what happens when the truth unravels, and the real betrayal is far worse than either of them imagined?
This book wrecked me. The angst is suffocating, the tension drips off the page, and Rome and Gaia’s love is as cruel as it is beautiful. The French Quarter breathes through every scene, rich with mystery, heartbreak, and an intensity that never lets up.
Is there any more doubt that Maya once again delivers a magical masterclass in slow-burn agony and devastating revelations. Quake will shake you, consume you, and leave you desperate for the next chapter. 10/5 (not joking!!) – Absolutely unmissable. 💥🔥
Some love stories erupt like a force of nature, like something unstoppable, destructive, and destined to change everything. Rome and Gaia’s story? It’s a category five hurricane, yes, a slow-burning inferno, a tragedy and a second chance wrapped in betrayal, revenge, and undeniable longing.
✔ Brother’s Best Friend 👀
✔ Enemies-to-Lovers with History 🔥
✔ Second Chance but with High-Stakes Vengeance 💔
✔ Twists, secrets & suspense in the heart of New Orleans 🌆
✔ A heroine who gave up everything for love & a hero who has no idea 💣
Rome returns to New Orleans not for love, but for retribution. Gaia—his past, his pain, the girl who ruined him—is now a woman surviving in the wreckage of a life she never chose. You can understand the rage... my God as he wants payback. She’s already paid the price. But what happens when the truth unravels, and the real betrayal is far worse than either of them imagined?
This book wrecked me. The angst is suffocating, the tension drips off the page, and Rome and Gaia’s love is as cruel as it is beautiful. The French Quarter breathes through every scene, rich with mystery, heartbreak, and an intensity that never lets up.
Is there any more doubt that Maya once again delivers a magical masterclass in slow-burn agony and devastating revelations. Quake will shake you, consume you, and leave you desperate for the next chapter. 10/5 (not joking!!) – Absolutely unmissable. 💥🔥
January 7, 2024
It's my first book of 2024, and it's a wow wower wowest!!
Rome and Gaia were soulmates. Rome's words: What hurt you hurts me !!, just proves that?? They fell in love when they were young, something happened (read the book), and now they face each other after a decade.. there's hurt, anger, longing, revenge, love, heartbreak, and so many different emotions.. what Gaia did for Rome was just out of this world.. to give him a chance to succeed, to have everything that he ever wanted.. even at the cost of her own dreams and sanity, was just so emotional to read.. Rome was hurt, but deep down, he wanted Gaia and how!! He knew she was the only person in the entire world who had his heart, and she still owned it.. when he came to know the truth, he was shocked and then the way he took control and loved Gaia , like she's his sun and air, and he can't live without her.. it was so romantic.. he was so protective of her.
The suspense was great.. I want all the answers right now.. I can't wait for the next book.. Zephyr and Blaze were such protective brothers.. I can't wait to read their books.. especially after how Blaze reacted after seeing Nick!! There's a story there!!
Loved Quake so so much!! Go read the book and have a great time.!!
Rome and Gaia were soulmates. Rome's words: What hurt you hurts me !!, just proves that?? They fell in love when they were young, something happened (read the book), and now they face each other after a decade.. there's hurt, anger, longing, revenge, love, heartbreak, and so many different emotions.. what Gaia did for Rome was just out of this world.. to give him a chance to succeed, to have everything that he ever wanted.. even at the cost of her own dreams and sanity, was just so emotional to read.. Rome was hurt, but deep down, he wanted Gaia and how!! He knew she was the only person in the entire world who had his heart, and she still owned it.. when he came to know the truth, he was shocked and then the way he took control and loved Gaia , like she's his sun and air, and he can't live without her.. it was so romantic.. he was so protective of her.
The suspense was great.. I want all the answers right now.. I can't wait for the next book.. Zephyr and Blaze were such protective brothers.. I can't wait to read their books.. especially after how Blaze reacted after seeing Nick!! There's a story there!!
Loved Quake so so much!! Go read the book and have a great time.!!
June 4, 2024
“What hurts you, hurts me” has become my favorite quote ever.
Okay here we go on another adventure with the amazing and all time favorite Maya Alden. QUAKE is a new series with new exciting plots and our favorite tropes, such as family dama, revenge, second chance, enemies to lovers, mystery, and many more.
Quake is the first book in Maya Alden’s new Jazz Session Series, in this book we meet Gaia and Rome. Through the book we see how their relationship ended in heartbreak after Gaia wronged Rome. Ten years later Gaia & Rome are reunited due to a death in her family. After this ‘reunion” a series of events are set in motion. Secrets are revealed, attempted murder, and Rome’s plan to get revenge on Gaia and anyone with the last name Doucet.
Rome and Gaia’s story it’s an emotional and heartbreaking rollercoaster ride, everytime you think you see everything, something unexpected happens. All of these unexpected events help Rome and Gaia confront their past, and fight for a future they both thought was lost. This first book ends with a cliffhanger that leads into book 2. Inferno (book two) focus on Blaze Doucet. Quake is a most read book, get it on kindle unlimited now!
Okay here we go on another adventure with the amazing and all time favorite Maya Alden. QUAKE is a new series with new exciting plots and our favorite tropes, such as family dama, revenge, second chance, enemies to lovers, mystery, and many more.
Quake is the first book in Maya Alden’s new Jazz Session Series, in this book we meet Gaia and Rome. Through the book we see how their relationship ended in heartbreak after Gaia wronged Rome. Ten years later Gaia & Rome are reunited due to a death in her family. After this ‘reunion” a series of events are set in motion. Secrets are revealed, attempted murder, and Rome’s plan to get revenge on Gaia and anyone with the last name Doucet.
Rome and Gaia’s story it’s an emotional and heartbreaking rollercoaster ride, everytime you think you see everything, something unexpected happens. All of these unexpected events help Rome and Gaia confront their past, and fight for a future they both thought was lost. This first book ends with a cliffhanger that leads into book 2. Inferno (book two) focus on Blaze Doucet. Quake is a most read book, get it on kindle unlimited now!
March 28, 2024
“When my cher is around, I see no one else.”
Maya you have done it once again!!! Quake grabbed me by the hand and took me on an emotional rollercoaster. If you’re looking for a lovers to enemies to lovers, second chance romance, with elements of mystery and romantic suspense, this book is absolutely worth reading. (*note: this book does touch on difficult topics, so please check tw before reading).
Gaia is such a strong and resilient character. She keeps all of her emotions and feelings to herself, putting on a facade for those around her. She holds so much guilt inside of her, which ultimately leads her to believe she isn’t worthy of love. Rome does not make it easy for her. After she accuses him of something horrible, he’s set out to get revenge, even 10 years later. You can feel his pain, hatred, but also love that never truly dissipated.
It takes a while for Gaia and Rome to get together again but when they do, the pace of the book speeds up. Since their relationship was ten years in the making, their relationship was paced very well. The cliffhanger left me speechless! I highly recommend reading this amazing book!
Maya you have done it once again!!! Quake grabbed me by the hand and took me on an emotional rollercoaster. If you’re looking for a lovers to enemies to lovers, second chance romance, with elements of mystery and romantic suspense, this book is absolutely worth reading. (*note: this book does touch on difficult topics, so please check tw before reading).
Gaia is such a strong and resilient character. She keeps all of her emotions and feelings to herself, putting on a facade for those around her. She holds so much guilt inside of her, which ultimately leads her to believe she isn’t worthy of love. Rome does not make it easy for her. After she accuses him of something horrible, he’s set out to get revenge, even 10 years later. You can feel his pain, hatred, but also love that never truly dissipated.
It takes a while for Gaia and Rome to get together again but when they do, the pace of the book speeds up. Since their relationship was ten years in the making, their relationship was paced very well. The cliffhanger left me speechless! I highly recommend reading this amazing book!
February 17, 2024
This is my second book by Maya Alden and I am falling more in love with her stories! This was a dark romance and the start of a new series. It’s based in New Orleans and the ambience was honestly chef’s kiss. She did such a good job of creating a dark but romantic tone in a setting that I wanted to transport myself to.
The main characters are Gaia and Rome, and their love story is perfection. Rome has so many red flags, so you know I instantly fell in love with him. And Gaia’s progression throughout the story was really well done.
There was a good amount of spice and a lot of side characters that I can’t wait to read more about in the rest of the series. Also, this book ended on a major cliffhanger so I am dying to get my hands on the second book. I can’t wait!
Thank you to the author and Book Influencers for my gifted copy!
The main characters are Gaia and Rome, and their love story is perfection. Rome has so many red flags, so you know I instantly fell in love with him. And Gaia’s progression throughout the story was really well done.
There was a good amount of spice and a lot of side characters that I can’t wait to read more about in the rest of the series. Also, this book ended on a major cliffhanger so I am dying to get my hands on the second book. I can’t wait!
Thank you to the author and Book Influencers for my gifted copy!
February 23, 2024
This is the first book in a new series set in New Orleans and this novel has it all. Romance, suspense, second chance at love, heroes and villains, and dysfunctional families. The main characters are well-written and we see a lot of growth and development in them as the story progresses. Rome and Gaia have a special kind of magic in their interactions and their chemistry is on fire. It's an open door romance so you can expect a few spicy scenes.
There are also a few darker scenes that deal with difficult topics that I thought the author handled in a sensitive manner. I enjoyed Maya's writing style, the time flew by, and I couldn't stop turning the pages to see what twist was coming next. I'm looking forward to Inferno, the next book in the series.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
There are also a few darker scenes that deal with difficult topics that I thought the author handled in a sensitive manner. I enjoyed Maya's writing style, the time flew by, and I couldn't stop turning the pages to see what twist was coming next. I'm looking forward to Inferno, the next book in the series.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2024
"Quake" is a heartbreakingly beautiful second chance billionaire romance book. It is one of the few books that have made me ugly cry while reading. The book not only focuses on romance but also delves into themes of family, bonds, suspense, and unsolved mysteries. However, it ends with a cliffhanger concerning its mystery subplot. Don't worry, if you only focus on the romantic aspect, it won't bother you a lot.
The story unfolds in a quaint New Orleans town, immersing readers in its Frenchy, winey, and jazz-infused atmosphere. Among the many captivating elements, the bond between the siblings stands out as a cherished highlight. Moreover, the narrative is peppered with swoon-worthy quotes that I couldn't help but annotate. In essence, the book took me on a thrilling roller coaster ride of emotions, an experience I thoroughly enjoyed.
The story unfolds in a quaint New Orleans town, immersing readers in its Frenchy, winey, and jazz-infused atmosphere. Among the many captivating elements, the bond between the siblings stands out as a cherished highlight. Moreover, the narrative is peppered with swoon-worthy quotes that I couldn't help but annotate. In essence, the book took me on a thrilling roller coaster ride of emotions, an experience I thoroughly enjoyed.
March 30, 2024
Set in New Orleans, this quick read was a slow burn, open door romantic suspense for fans of enemies to lovers and second chance romance.
I enjoyed the characters and the suspense. I’m a fan of the high powered but broken bad boy, and Rome fits the bill. I also enjoyed Gaia’s character as the FMC, and their history and backstories were heartbreaking.
There’s a smattering of side characters to enjoy as well - particularly Gaia’s brothers, Blaze and Zephyr; I liked her relationship with them and I’m into the idea of learning more about them in future books
The New Orleans speak throughout was authentic, but also something I personally struggled with at times, so felt it worth noting.
This book ends with a cliffhanger and I will certainly continue this interconnected series to find out what happens
3.75⭐️
I enjoyed the characters and the suspense. I’m a fan of the high powered but broken bad boy, and Rome fits the bill. I also enjoyed Gaia’s character as the FMC, and their history and backstories were heartbreaking.
There’s a smattering of side characters to enjoy as well - particularly Gaia’s brothers, Blaze and Zephyr; I liked her relationship with them and I’m into the idea of learning more about them in future books
The New Orleans speak throughout was authentic, but also something I personally struggled with at times, so felt it worth noting.
This book ends with a cliffhanger and I will certainly continue this interconnected series to find out what happens
3.75⭐️
November 29, 2024
Wow, possibly the best Maya Alden I've read, part revenge romance, part thriller.
Rome the mixed race son of a worker at the Doucet estate, now self-made and rich as Croesus, returns after 10 years to be majority shareholder of the family company. He is bitter and wants revenge on the beautiful Gaia. His teenage love from many years ago, she was the beautiful daughter of the rich family who betrayed him. As the story unfolds we learn the truth about Gaia, her terrible life and why she was forced to betray the man she loved. The two become close again and all is forgiven then the story shifts to become a tale of mismanagement, fraud and attempted murder. It ends with a cliffhanger and I can't wait to read part 2.
Rome the mixed race son of a worker at the Doucet estate, now self-made and rich as Croesus, returns after 10 years to be majority shareholder of the family company. He is bitter and wants revenge on the beautiful Gaia. His teenage love from many years ago, she was the beautiful daughter of the rich family who betrayed him. As the story unfolds we learn the truth about Gaia, her terrible life and why she was forced to betray the man she loved. The two become close again and all is forgiven then the story shifts to become a tale of mismanagement, fraud and attempted murder. It ends with a cliffhanger and I can't wait to read part 2.
January 13, 2025
I adored Rome and Gaia’s love story.
I know that it is part of a trilogy ( and although I read the other two books ) this book was by far my favourite.
I looked past the mystery and really by the end I really didn’t care.
There were so many roadblocks that were set up to derail Rome and Gaia’s love and yea he was so hurt and angry but when the truth came out his devotion to her was beautiful.
Her mother was vile and I’d love for her to suffer more but I believe watching Rome be so successful and owning the controlling shares of her beloved company was its own special karma. I also disliked the grandfather. I wished he had been alive to receive a swift comeuppance as well.
I really enjoyed Gaia and Rome’s story.
I know that it is part of a trilogy ( and although I read the other two books ) this book was by far my favourite.
I looked past the mystery and really by the end I really didn’t care.
There were so many roadblocks that were set up to derail Rome and Gaia’s love and yea he was so hurt and angry but when the truth came out his devotion to her was beautiful.
Her mother was vile and I’d love for her to suffer more but I believe watching Rome be so successful and owning the controlling shares of her beloved company was its own special karma. I also disliked the grandfather. I wished he had been alive to receive a swift comeuppance as well.
I really enjoyed Gaia and Rome’s story.
February 29, 2024
4.5
If you want a book that has a little bit of everything, look no further! The author did a great job of weaving everything into the story and that location was topnotch! I haven’t read many books set in New Orleans but now I want to seek out more. I’ve never visited New Orleans in person but reading this book made me feel like I was there. The author did a fantastic job with their use of descriptions. I’ll be honest, slow burn and second chance romance aren’t typically my favorite but this story had me fully invested. The romantic suspense definitely helped and liking the characters was a plus because I found myself rooting for them. Overall, I would highly recommend this story.
If you want a book that has a little bit of everything, look no further! The author did a great job of weaving everything into the story and that location was topnotch! I haven’t read many books set in New Orleans but now I want to seek out more. I’ve never visited New Orleans in person but reading this book made me feel like I was there. The author did a fantastic job with their use of descriptions. I’ll be honest, slow burn and second chance romance aren’t typically my favorite but this story had me fully invested. The romantic suspense definitely helped and liking the characters was a plus because I found myself rooting for them. Overall, I would highly recommend this story.
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