Theodore Giovanni was finally going to leave behind the grim town that held so many dark memories. Rising among the ranks on the ice, he had done well as Thunderbirds’s star Left Wing within the Division 1 Hockey league. Well enough that he had signed an NHL contract which guaranteed his freedom from the gruesomely checkered past that had been his life. Just a few more months and he would be able to escape the gory truth hidden beneath years of lies. Everything was going perfectly as planned for Theo, until he met the one person that could change his fate in an Danica Ellis, a girl with a few dark secrets of her own. Having spent the past two years solely trying to survive whilst living under the intense scrutiny of her family and the public eye, she has had to cross a few lines of her own. As his teammate’s younger sister, Danica is more trouble than Theo ever bargained for. Just one wrong look in her direction could send his carefully guarded heart spiraling. Bending more rules and pushing a few boundaries might just be the only way to save her from Hell, but will trying to protect her from the flames send both their lives up in smoke?
M. George is an indie author who lives in the Pacific Northwest with her spouse, three young children and fur baby Goldendoodle. She has always been passionate about reading and writing. Imagining her favorite stories come to life in a way where the characters continue to live long after their stories ended on page, and creating worlds of her own where her characters live rent-free in her mind. When she is not lost in a book or her writing, she enjoys spending her free time with her children, supporting them in their extracurriculars and playing video games or watching shows with her spouse. Her favorite shows lie within the realm of fantasy and the paranormal, and favorite characters are of the morally gray variety. The darker the better. . .
Ya'll... as far as dark goes... check the triggers... the graphic scenes had me tearing up for the FMC.. but HOLY SH*+.. This book was absolutely amazing in its own right. Like this indie author has a gift for writing and MAN!! she sure showed her talent with this book!!
OMG I need more of Theo and Danica! Splintered Truths was captivating. Definitely heed the TWs, but written so well. The world isn’t always as it seems and Danica’s story is one example. Thankfully Theo and the boys, including her brother will protect her at all costs. “I may be the worst, baby, but I will be the best fake boyfriend you have ever had.” 🔥 enemies to lovers 🔥 Friend’s little sister 🔥 bad boy 🔥Dual POV I NEED to read book 2 ASAP!!
This one really surprised me, you guys! Then come to find out, it’s a debut but it definitely doesn’t read like one! This story was layered and complex; it was well written and engaging! Not to mention, it’s a duet! I will say that there were parts that were tough to get through due to on page triggers which were slightly on the excessive side but were still written about in a way that wasn’t distasteful.
If you have been around a while then you know my love for all things Mafia romance, so trust me when I say this was the perfect mix of Mafia meets Hockey with brother’s best friend mixed in!
The world and the characters that this author has built were insane! I never thought someone could make me hate a Bradley (because my hubby is a Bradley) but this POS is an absolute doucher(and that’s putting it nicely). He is one of the worst (but well written) characters I have read in a while. Now, for THEO! OMG! He was absolutely everything! He was protective, possesive and oh so freaking HOT! THIS MAN!
This story ended on an cliffhanger and I am reeling from it! I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE HOW SEVEN YEARS TREATS THEO!!! I. Need. Book. Two. ASAP! *screaming*
Splintered Truths is the debut novel by author M.George and let me tell you if this book is anything to go by this author has a bright future ahead.
This story contains hockey, mafia, enemies to lovers, brother's best friend and touch her and die, just to name a few.
The story centres around MMC Theodore, an aspiring ice hockey star eager to leave behind a troubled past and FMC Danica is the younger sister of one of Theodore's teammates. Danica is a pro gymnast who is about to enter an arranged marriage to a crazy and toxic man named Brad courtesy of her parents.
The author's writing style brings the story to life and keeps you engaged throughout the book. The story contains so many twists and turns it will have you second guessing everything, but in the best way possible.
I highly recommend you get this book and read it. You will not regret it. As always though please check the trigger warnings before reading.
I just finished reading this book and I am completely speechless. I loved it so much! I really fell in love with Theo and felt so sorry for Danni. I really liked the storyline, it was sweet but also thrilling, lots of plot twists, the characters were well described, it wasn't too fast or too slow, the different POV were good, you could feel the growing love between the two people, I was really sucked into the story and I couldn't put the book down. Can’t wait for part 2!
The plot twist I didn’t see coming was beautiful 😭 and terrible because it’s a cliff hanger ending and I’m upset.
This book had me hooked from page one. I knew I wouldn’t put it down!
Danica was a FMS with trauma, a dark history that her family didn’t even know. It was so good to see her bond with Theo grow to the point that they both shared and supported each other. The slow burn and flirting between them was well done and I know more is to come in book two that will keep us ensnared! 🖤
This BOOK HAS ME SHOOK OMG!!! This was dark not even going to lie but absolutely amazing for M. George’s debut novel! LIKE WHAT!? Ending on that cliffhanger had me in shambles and my heart sunk. IM SO OVERWHELMED WITH EMOTIONS. My poor baby girl Danica absolutely going through it and Theo being the amazing man he is being there for her every step of the way!
This was such a good book. But I can't stress enough, read the warnings. I don't want anyone reading something that might upset them in any way, as there are some very graphic parts. But the plot of the book. The deeper plot of the story was amazing. The characters have so much chemistry and connection. I loved them. But who doesn't love a morally grey male character. He is the definition of I will protect what's mine, and touch her and I'll unalive you. It is a slow burn, in my opinion, but once it gets good. It is so good. So so good. I can't wait to read the second book.
5 🌟 3 🌶 Tropes: - Dark Romance - Hockey - He Falls First - Touch her and 💀 - Damaged Hero
Where do I even start? I think it's definitely worth mentioning that you should take the triggers seriously. Look at those before you proceed. Anyone who makes it past the triggers.....hold on tight! This book is gonna ruin you. I could not love our H more. Theo is absolutely bf goals. Danica's story will break you. What our h goes through is categorically horrendous. Theo holds her together, but will they manage to keep holding on to each other? There were moments I wanted to shout and plead with the author! Seriously, I could not stop reading. To say I'm anxious for the next book is quite frankly a ridiculous understatement. I just don't know if my heart can take it!
Wow. This book at it all. I love how rich the characters were in personality and backstory. I want to know more about all of them. There are some really dark moments, the hockey is more in the back ground but still so good. I am now eagerly waiting on part two of this duet.
The plot had me hooked! I love following from both Danica and Theo’s perspectives and instantly loved both characters. The book was intense and every chapter left me wanting to know more. I do wish there was a bit more dialogue between more characters so we could get to know them and their interactions a little bit better but overall the book was fantastic and I would definitely recommend it to romance lovers!
Theo is an amazing young man. He loves hard. I felt sad and upset for poor Danni. The girl can't catch a break. This is a love story that has you routing for a HEA. They both deserve it. Can't wait for book two! I'm invested in this journey. PS. CHAPTER 53 ...
Splintered Truths was captivating! It is a great romantic story that doesn’t seem like a sob story, instead it is very well developed and the characters are likable and even relatable.
TW for mentions of sexual abuse and physical/mental abuse. But, the author does well in using correct and sensitive language when introducing these topics
The romance and the darkness tie well together with two main characters who have opposite perspectives and different stories to share with one another to help each other grow. Love Love Love the characters development.
Spice Level 100/10 Really good spice but in a slow burn sort of way😉
This book was my first ARC to receive, thank you so much M. George! I really liked this book for the drama. It definitely is a slow burn, which I didn’t realize until I looked at the tropes that were in the book. I really loved Theo. Who doesn’t like a male main character who is protective, patient, and sweet to their love? I also liked Danica, but would appreciate to see more of her character development in the next book. She is definitely giving damsel in distress in most of the story, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing with how much trauma she endures throughout. I can’t wait to see more about the mafia aspects in the next book either!
Thank you for including me again, and I can’t wait to see what else M. George writes!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I found this randomly at an indie book store and had so much fun with it. I did end up reading the kindle version because the fonts of the physical copy was a little confusing for my brain. But the physical book was beautiful. The kindle did have some typos and grammar issues so it did pull me out a couple times, but I had so much fun with the characters!!! All of the boys and Danni were so great to get to know and there was a lot of dark heavy topics addressed well. Look at trigger warnings but if you are looking to get into dark romance this is the way to go. And I clif hanger! I’m so sad!!! I need the next book!!!
🖤 Dark romance 🏒 Sports romance (hockey and gymnastics) 🖤 Mafia romance 🏒 Touch her and die 🖤 Fake relationship 🏒 Brother's best friend 🖤 Slow burn 🏒 He falls first 🖤 Hidden secrets 🏒 Damaged hero 🖤 Alpha cinnamon roll 🏒 Vigilante shit
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫 Spice: 🌶️🌶️
"Splintered Trusts" by M. George unfolds a gripping narrative that centers around Theodore Giovanni, an aspiring ice hockey star eager to leave behind a troubled past. The story is set against the backdrop of the Division 1 Hockey league, where Theodore has risen through the ranks as Thunderbirds' star Left Wing. The promise of an NHL contract appears to be the key to his escape from a grim town haunted by dark memories.
The plot takes an unexpected turn when Theodore encounters Danica Ellis, a girl with her own share of secrets. As the younger sister of one of Theodore's teammates, Danica introduces an element of complexity and danger into his life. The author skillfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, revealing the challenges and sacrifices both characters must face.
The character dynamics between Theodore and Danica add depth to the narrative. Theodore's carefully guarded heart faces the risk of unraveling as he becomes entangled with Danica, who is portrayed as more trouble than he anticipated. The juxtaposition of their individual struggles and shared challenges adds layers to the story, creating a compelling and emotionally charged atmosphere.
The author's exploration of themes such as redemption, sacrifice, and the consequences of bending rules adds depth to the novel. The tension between Theodore's desire to protect Danica and the potential repercussions for both of them creates a sense of urgency that propels the story forward. The narrative is not only about escaping a dark past but also about confronting and overcoming the shadows that threaten to engulf the protagonists.
M. George's writing style is engaging, with vivid descriptions that bring the hockey world and the characters to life. The pacing of the story keeps readers hooked, and the development of the central relationship is both believable and emotionally resonant. The plot twists and turns maintain suspense, ensuring that the reader remains invested in the outcome until the very end.
"Splintered Trusts" is a captivating novel that successfully blends sports, romance, and suspense. M. George demonstrates a keen understanding of character development and plot intricacies, creating a compelling narrative that will resonate with readers who enjoy stories of love, redemption, and the pursuit of a brighter future amidst the shadows of the past.
🩵 Morally grey hockey player MMC 🤍 Gymnast FMC 🩶 Fake dating 🩵 Touch her and ☠️ 🩶 Found Family 🤍 Psycho B@stard ex boyfriend
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💀Please check trigger warnings!!💀
I felt like I was on a winding road traveling through the mountains for all the twists and turns this book had. It has been a Very long time since I read a romantic suspense book that was so intense and kept me on my toes. This book is everything. I gasped so many times I can’t keep track. Holy shit. This book is an absolute stunner. And for a debut novel? Damn. M. George is a fu€k!ng genius. I need to go back and reread this. I am sooo thankful that I received an ARC of this. But did I order the discreet paperback as a trophy for my shelf? You bet your sweet a$$ I did.
There were a few things that I questioned at the beginning of this book. The FMCs age, the immediate possessiveness of the MMC, the absolute fu€k!ng TRAUMA that was endured. But Ho-Ly SH!T. M. George took care to make things that could be misconstrued, and wrote it in a tactful way to dispel any of those issues.
Don’t get me wrong. There are A LOT of issues in this book. But NOT with the writing. She wrote characters that you hate. They are the worst of humanity. Things that happen in this book should NEVER happen to anyone in real life. But the struggles, the realizations, the growth, the care, the love, the support, the STRENGTH that M. George writes in her “good” characters is overwhelmingly emotional. You will fall in love with them and this story. This is going to be one of those books that will live with me forever.
Danica goes to a frat party to meet up with her boyfriend after his football game. At the party she meets Hoodie Guy, a tall brooding hockey player who is on the same team as Danica’s brother and friends, Seb, Bash, and Finn.
Danni finds her boyfriend in a compromising position. Theo, “Hoodie Guy” happens to be the one to find her and keep her from doing anything she’ll regret. She’s more trouble than he bargained for. But ever since the party she has worked her way under his skin and Theo can’t seem to stay away.
If you’re looking for a gentle, light hearted hockey romance, this isn’t for you. But if you want to be immersed in feelings of depth and strength, turmoil and suspense, love and remorse? THEN PICK THIS BOOK UP RIGHT NOW!!!
🏒 “Eyes on me, la mia diavoletta.” 🏒 “At last, I am able to sort through my jumbled thoughts and get my feminist a$$ back into the twenty-first century.” 🏒 “I may be the worst, baby, but I will be the best fake boyfriend you have ever had.” 🏒 “Danica wasn’t a distraction or a hindrance, but my anchor in the storm.”
What I loved: • Hockey romance (that's a given, I'm a sucker for them) • Mafia romance - yep, that's in here too • He falls first (another one of my faves) • Protective hero • Friend/teammate little sister
This was a touch her and die story that really grabbed me. As a first time reader of M. George's work I didn't have any expectations but I was blown away in the process of reading Splintered Truths. Beware: there is a cliffhanger so we don't know how their story ends yet. I'm a hockey romance lover, but can take or leave mafia romance but this book blends them together surprisingly well. They're not tropes I'd have thought of combining but George makes it work. Theo is taken with Dani when they meet at a party after a heartbreaking event for Dani. Being the protector that he is, he has to step in and save the day by any means necessary and the book pretty much is about those situations playing out and the challenges they face. Mind you, those challenges aren't over. Cliffhanger, remember? This is a book that makes you feel all the feels, kind of like Say You Swear. I was happy, I was sad, I cried, I wanted to throw things, I raged at the characters. I had all the reactions that a good book makes you have and this was a GREAT book.
Who this book is for: If you like anything that I listed as loving above, this is a great book for you. You'll also have to be ok with the TW and they are clearly listed, so make sure you check them before getting invested in Danica and Theo's story.
🖤 Hockey romance?! Mafia romance?! When I first started reading this book, I had a few million books to read ahead of this, so my head wasn’t in the right frame of mind. Initially, I struggled to get into it—having just come from a historical fiction, the beginning of this story threw me. What am I reading? Why is this random dude yelling at this other random dude about his sister? What’s happening?!
So, I put it down. The next day, I knew I needed to read it, so I thought, "Okay, here we go, just get it done." Then, I couldn’t stop reading, I couldn't put it down! I had admittedly forgotten it was a hockey romance, and as I kept reading, I started realising it was a mafia story too—two of my favourites, together, in one book. I realised the sluggishness I felt at the start had nothing to do with the book and all to do with me. This was addictive! I had intense feelings about Bradley, even more so when some more details are revealed about him later in the book. I couldn’t BELIEVE HIM. All I could think about was thank goodness Danica has Theo around. I felt really sad for Danica and what she has been through. Her parents are diabolical—how did Caleb & Danica end up so ‘normal,’ when his parents are so… awful?!
This is definitely a slow burn, given some of the experiences Danica has been through. The spice levels are low, but I wouldn’t expect them to be high given the story.
I heavily encourage you to read the content warnings prior to reading this story; the SA is fairly detailed, plus other warnings that may affect you.
I NEED to read the next book. I cannot wait! I also really want a book for Finn; I think he is so adorably lovely and sweet.
Splintered Truth is book one of the Splintered Promises Duet. Theo Giovanni is a college hockey player who has a dark past he is ready to leave behind him and move on to the NHL. Danica Ellis is a high school senior and a skilled gymnast with Olympic dreams, but her life isn’t as great as it seems on the surface. She has a few dark secrets of her own rat will soon read their ugly heads. Theo is instantly drawn to Danica and wants to do everything he can to protect her, even if it means revisiting the dark past he is trying to leave behind him. Will Theo be able to protect Danica and stay true to himself in the process? Or will their dark pasts overrun them?
I enjoyed this story from the very beginning and the farther I got in the story the more invested I was. I am always a fan of sports romances and was interested when I saw this hockey romance coming out, but this was nothing like the typical hockey romances I am used to. Hockey was an after thought and there was so much more to this story than just another hockey romance. I loved Theo and Danica together and was rooting for them from the very beginning. I don’t think I have hated so characters more than a few in this book, but that was by the authors design. I found this to be a great, dark romance that pulled me in and I can’t wait until the second book comes out so we can see what comes next. If you are a dark romance fan and don’t mind waiting for the second book, give this a try!
I honestly could not put this book down.. she is DARK and very graphic so I beg you to please check the TW before reading.
I was sucked in right from the start and was not released from this books grips until the very end and even then I was screaming WTH!! The cliffy is brutal and I absolutely need book 2 like yesterday.
This book does have a 3rd act breakup but ugh the catalyst it spurred was insane! If you love a damsel in distress this is your book!!! Danica is strong and fierce but a bit broken and feeling trapped. Theo is the dark brooding secret cinnamon roll I love to read about it! Something about a man who is utterly obsessed with his girl just does it for me!
This read was similar to a puzzle, SO SO many pieces were slowly put into place and unraveled and some aspects I expected but others really caught me off guard and I loved that! I was gripping my kindle so hard reading this one because of it.
My concerns for this book was primarily the ages (the graphic scenes being a LOT). For me the age threw me for more of a loop as the FMC is 17 for majority of this book and the MMC is in his 20’s. However! Despite wanting Danica, Theo never took it too far so while I initially had those age concerns it was managed well and book 2 is set years down the road. For someone who loves all the spice this book was not the place for it and I’m glad it was on the slower side!
Theodore Giovanni plays hockey for his college. At a party one night, his life becomes entangled with his fellow players' little sister named Danica. Danica has spent two years living a life of secrets and unhappiness. It's not until she meets Theo that her life completely changes. Theo makes it his mission to do everything in his power to protect Danica. What he didn't expect was to fall for her along the way. Will Danica and Theo find happiness, or will they both be on a path to destruction?
Have you ever finished a book that was so good it just left you speechless? That's how I was left after finishing this one. Splintered Truths is one of those books that rips you open and leaves you feeling raw. Danica was a sweet, kindhearted soul who had been through so much (not giving away spoilers, sorry). Then one night along came broody Theo. Hot damn 🥵, every woman needs a Theo in their life. This man, having never met Dani before, claimed her and made it his mission to take care of her and protect her. There's romance, angst, suspense, lies, and so much going on in this book. I couldn't put it down. Then, the cliffhanger of an ending on this one 😱. Talk about shock value!! I need the next book as of yesterday! I need more of Theo and Danica's story! I need to know how this plays out and ends!
This book took me on a thrilling journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, like navigating a winding road through the mountains. This story is a true gem, leaving me gasping in surprise countless times. M. George's debut is nothing short of brilliant, and I'm already planning to dive back into its pages for a re-read. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have received an ARC
While some aspects of the story gave me pause initially – like the age of the main character and the intense possessiveness of the male lead – M. George skillfully addresses these elements in a thoughtful and compelling way.
Let me be clear: this book doesn't shy away from tackling tough issues, but it does so with grace and sensitivity. The characters are complex and flawed, representing both the best and worst of humanity. While the events depicted are harrowing and should never occur in real life, the resilience, growth, and love displayed by the "good" characters are incredibly moving. This story has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I know it will stay with me for a long time to come. Danica's journey begins at a frat party, where she discovers her boyfriend in a compromising position. Enter Theo, who steps in to prevent her from making a rash decision. Despite their rocky start, Danica and Theo are drawn to each other in ways they never expected.
The gasps I gusped during this book. Theo and Danica absolutely have my heart in this story! I loved the chemistry between the two of them, even when Danica loathed everything about Theo. He was protective from the very beginning, even with her wanting nothing to do with him, which, why the hell would she not?!
After Danica leaves her boyfriend, Brad, he becomes more possessive of her. So in an attempt to keep Brad away, her brother, Theo and their friends come up with a plan to make sure Brad gets the picture and stays away from her. Theo pretends to be her boyfriend and continues to make public scenes that allow Brad to see that Danica has moved on from him, all the while, Danica and Brad’s parents were cooking up a scheme that put Danica in harms way.
Theo and Danica have taken the spot of my favorite couple of 2024! I love how much he took care of her, how he was patient and loved on her and gave her exactly what she needed🥹
This book had so many twists and turns that I was NOT ready for! It was an emotional rollercoaster that wouldn’t let me off! And THAT ENDING?! I was not prepared and am desperate for book 2 of the series!
Please note that this book contains dark content - reader discretion advised.
Splintered Truths by M. George (Splintered Promises- Book 1)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
✅ Tall, Dark and Broody MMC ✅ Hockey Romance ✅ ‘Who did this to you?’ ✅ Fake Dating ✅ He Falls First ✅ Mafia Romance ✅ Family Secrets ✅ Cliffhanger
TW: Cheating (not between MC’s), DV, SA and R@pe, Panic Attacks, Kidnapping, Torture and Death.
As a gymnast, Danica knows how to deal with pain. Being promised to Bradley against her will has taught her that sometimes that pain is more than physical. Trapped in a gilded cage, she must fight to earn her freedom.
Theo’s only focus? An NHL career. He’s gotten a second chance and nothing can get in the way. Not even the beautiful younger sister of his friend and teammate. She needs his help and after one night, he knows she’s his.
This book was SO good! I cannot put into words how impactful this story was! There are some very difficult moments that both Danica and Theo go through and I found myself crying right along with them! Theo is just what Danica needs and his cinnamon roll personality is so sweet! I’ve definitely fallen in love. I can’t wait for book 2. Thank you, M. George and Happily Booked PR, for an ARC of this book! My review is mine and freely given.
Splintered Truths by M. George I honestly don't know how to feel about this book. It started off pretty good and was going strong until the end. But first let me start off with some other things. We get no information on how old Theo is, so when he starts seeing or more like fake dating a girl who just turned 18 and is still in high school, I immediately felt weirded out. From how things are stated it makes it seem like he's almost in his late 20's. And that is something I can't get behind. There's 65 chapters in the book and it was lacking description and world and character building. It just seemed rushed and the fmc couldn't catch a break. Also definitely make sure to check the triggers as there are some serious hard topics and situations in this book..And it started to become predictable. I wanted to get to know both Danica and Theo more. Especially Theo since we are getting his pov. Other than that the writing was good and the author did such a good job on keeping the readers attention. I was hooked immediately. I wanted to find out what happened or what was going to happen after each chapter. I was on the fence with the star rating. So overall I will be giving it a 3.5. As for spice I will say it was about a 1.