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Shadows of Sin #1
Lessons In Grey
We call ourselves The Family.
We each have a part to play, but we also do our own thing.
Jack, the Hunter.
Everett, the Heir.
Azrael, the Ghost.
Greyson, the Teacher.
Beckett, the Uncle
Malachi, our Father.
We have sisters who keep us in line, but their jobs prove to be difficult from time to time, as we tend to become…unhinged.
Malachi tries to keep track of us. He gives us jobs to keep us busy, but sometimes a few of us like to go out on our own.
This is my story.
Good evening, I'm Greyson, but she calls me Grey. I want you to lay back like the good little student you are so I can walk you through exactly what I want from you.
That's my girl.
The night my sister died, a piece of me died with her.
She had been the sunshine, I had been the night. She was cheery and outgoing, I would rather remain in my oversized sweaters and dark room than go out and explore the world. She pushed me to be better, so when I lost her, I lost the part of me that wanted to try.
I didn't believe in love. I believed in sour gummy worms and exploding galaxies. In metaphors and songs. There was darkness in this world and I wanted to drown in it with everything I was. So, when I met a mysterious stranger outside of a gas station in the middle of the night in July, no part of me was searching for anything but a conversation.
I couldn't have guessed that the conversation would change my life.
I couldn't have guessed that the mysterious stranger wearing a suit, hands covered in tattoos, speaking in poetic words that spoke to a part of me long since dead would have walked into my college classroom on the first day of my last year of classes claiming to be the new Professor.
And I couldn't have guessed what his true intentions were.
I never wanted anyone to suffer the way I was suffering, but with his enticing words and the world of danger he promised me, how could I not fall into him? He saw my brokenness and met me with the same.
Masks and guns and a family on the top of a pyramid of crime and corruption, I never stood a chance.
We each have a part to play, but we also do our own thing.
Jack, the Hunter.
Everett, the Heir.
Azrael, the Ghost.
Greyson, the Teacher.
Beckett, the Uncle
Malachi, our Father.
We have sisters who keep us in line, but their jobs prove to be difficult from time to time, as we tend to become…unhinged.
Malachi tries to keep track of us. He gives us jobs to keep us busy, but sometimes a few of us like to go out on our own.
This is my story.
Good evening, I'm Greyson, but she calls me Grey. I want you to lay back like the good little student you are so I can walk you through exactly what I want from you.
That's my girl.
The night my sister died, a piece of me died with her.
She had been the sunshine, I had been the night. She was cheery and outgoing, I would rather remain in my oversized sweaters and dark room than go out and explore the world. She pushed me to be better, so when I lost her, I lost the part of me that wanted to try.
I didn't believe in love. I believed in sour gummy worms and exploding galaxies. In metaphors and songs. There was darkness in this world and I wanted to drown in it with everything I was. So, when I met a mysterious stranger outside of a gas station in the middle of the night in July, no part of me was searching for anything but a conversation.
I couldn't have guessed that the conversation would change my life.
I couldn't have guessed that the mysterious stranger wearing a suit, hands covered in tattoos, speaking in poetic words that spoke to a part of me long since dead would have walked into my college classroom on the first day of my last year of classes claiming to be the new Professor.
And I couldn't have guessed what his true intentions were.
I never wanted anyone to suffer the way I was suffering, but with his enticing words and the world of danger he promised me, how could I not fall into him? He saw my brokenness and met me with the same.
Masks and guns and a family on the top of a pyramid of crime and corruption, I never stood a chance.
- GenresDark RomanceDarkRomance
618 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2024
75 people are currently reading
621 people want to read
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March 17, 2024
It’s 3 o’clock in the morning in July and Emily meets a handsome stranger at a gas station. For 30 minutes, they speak of galaxies and inevitability before they disappear back into their lives. But Emily can’t stop thinking about him. So when he shows up at her university in September, is it fate or something much more dangerous?
”All around us are these echoes. Universes breathing and dying, stars exploding, everything we ever were or could be in the infinite forever and yet, here we stand. Two perfect strangers outside a gas station speaking of insignificant things.”
The first few chapters of Lessons in Grey had me in tears. From the opening page, it’s clear that this novel is raw and unflinchingly honest in its portrayal of depression, grief, and mental illness. Following Emily who struggles with depression in the aftermath of a tragic accident, and Grey, a man with too many ties to the underworld, the novel will drag you through the dark only to remind you that there is always light.
It’s hard to remember that warmth still exists in the dead of winter, and it’s hard to remember that your lungs still work even when you’re drowning.”
Emily is one of those main characters who feels too real. Her struggle with depression and self-harm was painful and honest and never glamorized. It is clear that the author understands the pain her character faces, and Emily’s depression was never ignored when it would have been convenient to do so. Yet she’s more than her disorder. She struggles, but she’s not defined by those struggles, which is so important to see in a character who deals with such a realistic and dangerous disease.
”We are inevitable, not because the universe declares it, but because I do.”
Grey was what every dark romance hero tries to be. Though his life was full of darkness, he was never cruel, and never abusive. His obsession didn’t smother Emily (unlike so many romance heroes) and he cared for her without needing to constantly control her. Lessons in Grey is a dual POV and the author did an excellent job of switching between perspectives. Grey and Emily both had distinct and unique voices, which made the reading experience that much more enjoyable.
”You’re halfway out of the dark.
This novel is a romance (obviously) and believe me when I say it’s one for the ages. While there is a bit of insta-love on Grey’s part (he falls first and goodness does he fall harder), I still bought that the romance was real and powerful. The smut was intense in the best possible way, and I really appreciated that Emily’s relationship didn’t magically cure her depression. There are so many sweet moments (guys, he leaves her paper roses everywhere), though you should absolutely check the trigger warnings before reading.
”You saved me in every way I was unwilling to be saved.”
There are two main side characters in this book (Ash and Syn) which I loved because Grey wasn’t the only person in Emily’s support network. Strong female friendships are crucial in romance because they balance out the I-need-a-man-for-everything complex (which Emily didn’t have, for the record), and I adored that Ash and Syn were in love. Their dynamic was sweet without being perfect, just the kind of casual LGBTQIA+ representation that fits into a story like this. Emily wasn’t the only one with a strong support network, so I loved catching glimpses of Grey’s murderous brothers who will no doubt take center stage in future novels set in this world (or so I hope).
”You are strong, but so are dams until it rains just a bit too much.”
What prevented this book from being a five-star was the pacing. The beginning started out strong and I read through 400 pages in less than a day. However, right around the 60% mark, the plot took an unexpected turn that didn’t gel with the rest of the novel. The pacing at the end also felt a little rushed and I would’ve liked to see more from Grey’s perspective since he was the one facing the most danger.
”You are unspoken lines of tragic poetry wrapped in vines of thorns budding with roses, but I’ve wrapped my hands around blades before, I’ve bled for far lesser things. Let me bleed for you.”
Regardless of the pacing, the author’s writing was stunning. There were so many quotes I wanted to print out and tack on my wall and they blended in well without the dialogue. I enjoyed every second I spent reading Lessons in Grey and to say I’m excited for the rest of the series is an understatement. If you’re looking for a dark romance (without abuse or noncon) that will make you cry and then restore your faith in humanity, Lessons in Grey is perfect for you.
I recieved an e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
”All around us are these echoes. Universes breathing and dying, stars exploding, everything we ever were or could be in the infinite forever and yet, here we stand. Two perfect strangers outside a gas station speaking of insignificant things.”
The first few chapters of Lessons in Grey had me in tears. From the opening page, it’s clear that this novel is raw and unflinchingly honest in its portrayal of depression, grief, and mental illness. Following Emily who struggles with depression in the aftermath of a tragic accident, and Grey, a man with too many ties to the underworld, the novel will drag you through the dark only to remind you that there is always light.
It’s hard to remember that warmth still exists in the dead of winter, and it’s hard to remember that your lungs still work even when you’re drowning.”
Emily is one of those main characters who feels too real. Her struggle with depression and self-harm was painful and honest and never glamorized. It is clear that the author understands the pain her character faces, and Emily’s depression was never ignored when it would have been convenient to do so. Yet she’s more than her disorder. She struggles, but she’s not defined by those struggles, which is so important to see in a character who deals with such a realistic and dangerous disease.
”We are inevitable, not because the universe declares it, but because I do.”
Grey was what every dark romance hero tries to be. Though his life was full of darkness, he was never cruel, and never abusive. His obsession didn’t smother Emily (unlike so many romance heroes) and he cared for her without needing to constantly control her. Lessons in Grey is a dual POV and the author did an excellent job of switching between perspectives. Grey and Emily both had distinct and unique voices, which made the reading experience that much more enjoyable.
”You’re halfway out of the dark.
This novel is a romance (obviously) and believe me when I say it’s one for the ages. While there is a bit of insta-love on Grey’s part (he falls first and goodness does he fall harder), I still bought that the romance was real and powerful. The smut was intense in the best possible way, and I really appreciated that Emily’s relationship didn’t magically cure her depression. There are so many sweet moments (guys, he leaves her paper roses everywhere), though you should absolutely check the trigger warnings before reading.
”You saved me in every way I was unwilling to be saved.”
There are two main side characters in this book (Ash and Syn) which I loved because Grey wasn’t the only person in Emily’s support network. Strong female friendships are crucial in romance because they balance out the I-need-a-man-for-everything complex (which Emily didn’t have, for the record), and I adored that Ash and Syn were in love. Their dynamic was sweet without being perfect, just the kind of casual LGBTQIA+ representation that fits into a story like this. Emily wasn’t the only one with a strong support network, so I loved catching glimpses of Grey’s murderous brothers who will no doubt take center stage in future novels set in this world (or so I hope).
”You are strong, but so are dams until it rains just a bit too much.”
What prevented this book from being a five-star was the pacing. The beginning started out strong and I read through 400 pages in less than a day. However, right around the 60% mark, the plot took an unexpected turn that didn’t gel with the rest of the novel. The pacing at the end also felt a little rushed and I would’ve liked to see more from Grey’s perspective since he was the one facing the most danger.
”You are unspoken lines of tragic poetry wrapped in vines of thorns budding with roses, but I’ve wrapped my hands around blades before, I’ve bled for far lesser things. Let me bleed for you.”
Regardless of the pacing, the author’s writing was stunning. There were so many quotes I wanted to print out and tack on my wall and they blended in well without the dialogue. I enjoyed every second I spent reading Lessons in Grey and to say I’m excited for the rest of the series is an understatement. If you’re looking for a dark romance (without abuse or noncon) that will make you cry and then restore your faith in humanity, Lessons in Grey is perfect for you.
I recieved an e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
March 12, 2024
I don’t think I’ve ever had a book speak to me on the level this one did, I’m not sure what that says about me.
So many lines in this made me cry. It was beautiful and sad all at the same time. I loved the way they were together. There were twists and turns that I may have anticipated in some way but they played out in a way that I never would’ve thought of. I can’t wait to learn more about The Family in future books in this series!
A couple quotes and a new (to me) word from this book:
‘Toska was an immense ache for nothing and everything all at once. An anguish from the bottom of the heart.’
"It's hard to remember that warmth still exists in the dead of winter, and it's hard to remember that your lungs still work even when you're drowning."
"We are inevitable, Emily, not because the universe declares it, but because I do."
I’d like to thank H.G. for allowing me to read an early copy!
So many lines in this made me cry. It was beautiful and sad all at the same time. I loved the way they were together. There were twists and turns that I may have anticipated in some way but they played out in a way that I never would’ve thought of. I can’t wait to learn more about The Family in future books in this series!
A couple quotes and a new (to me) word from this book:
‘Toska was an immense ache for nothing and everything all at once. An anguish from the bottom of the heart.’
"It's hard to remember that warmth still exists in the dead of winter, and it's hard to remember that your lungs still work even when you're drowning."
"We are inevitable, Emily, not because the universe declares it, but because I do."
I’d like to thank H.G. for allowing me to read an early copy!
March 18, 2024
Had the privilege of receiving this as an ARC and when I tell you I enjoyed reading every second….I literally LOL’ed, I was fully ugly crying at one point, and above all, I was so immersed in this story.
Emily is one of the most relatable characters I’ve ever read and I’m sure anyone else who has struggled with mental illness would agree. Hannah does a fantastic job of explaining and bringing to light how it feels to be drowning while living your life in a way that I’ve not experienced in another book.
Grey is SO hot. Muscles, tattoos, touch her and die vibes…who could ask for more?!
I can’t wait to get a physical copy!
Emily is one of the most relatable characters I’ve ever read and I’m sure anyone else who has struggled with mental illness would agree. Hannah does a fantastic job of explaining and bringing to light how it feels to be drowning while living your life in a way that I’ve not experienced in another book.
Grey is SO hot. Muscles, tattoos, touch her and die vibes…who could ask for more?!
I can’t wait to get a physical copy!
April 6, 2024
The way I loved this book. The story… Gold. The characters…. Gold. The spice…. Gold. But honestly.. what I loved the most about this book was the time spent working through the struggle of things not being ok inside. For a lot of us, we struggle with mental health. We make jokes about it, not because it’s really funny, but because we have to so the darkness doesn’t take over and drag you over the edge. The constant masking, the hard outer shell…. Trying to seal off the void that feels like it just wants to swallow you whole. It’s exhausting.
Seeing that kind of struggle in a book is so freaking validating. Being able to see the situation as whole with the individual struggle and the struggle of those trying to love you through it is both heartbreaking and healing at the same time. It feeds that part of you that needs to see someone that struggles the way you do make it through it. Not that it’s sunshine and rainbows on the other side of it in the happily ever after, but that the darkness is manageable and it doesn’t have to be as dark all the time and you don’t have to shut out everyone around you.
This won’t be the only time I read it. I just wish that I could read it again for the first time. It will be one of my favorite reads of 2024.
Seeing that kind of struggle in a book is so freaking validating. Being able to see the situation as whole with the individual struggle and the struggle of those trying to love you through it is both heartbreaking and healing at the same time. It feeds that part of you that needs to see someone that struggles the way you do make it through it. Not that it’s sunshine and rainbows on the other side of it in the happily ever after, but that the darkness is manageable and it doesn’t have to be as dark all the time and you don’t have to shut out everyone around you.
This won’t be the only time I read it. I just wish that I could read it again for the first time. It will be one of my favorite reads of 2024.
August 30, 2024
I rarely write reviews and I just want to say.. please read this book. It’s so good.. I’m in for the entire series I need more!
March 17, 2024
“Yes, you will rise from the ashes, but the burning comes first. For this part, darling, you must be brave.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
ARC Review
This was such a good book! It's well written with well thought out characters and does an amazing job at portraying depression, mental illness and grief. So as always please check the trigger warnings before reading as the book does deal with some heavy subjects.
I was hooked from the start. As someone who has struggled with mental illness for the majority of my life, and has dealt with grief this book spoke to me on such a deep level. I really found myself relating to the FMC Emily throughout most of the book, it made me like the book that much more having a character I relate to.
I loved the relationship between the two main characters. I liked how it developed throughout the course of the book, how they were with each other and how they spoke to each other was great as well. I also loved the relationships between the main characters and their friends and family.
The MMC Greyson or Grey as Emily calls him is definitely one of my new book boyfriends! He's a dark touch her and d!e MMC who is also charming and sweet at the same time.
I definitely recommend this book and can't wait to read more in the future from H.G. and this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
ARC Review
This was such a good book! It's well written with well thought out characters and does an amazing job at portraying depression, mental illness and grief. So as always please check the trigger warnings before reading as the book does deal with some heavy subjects.
I was hooked from the start. As someone who has struggled with mental illness for the majority of my life, and has dealt with grief this book spoke to me on such a deep level. I really found myself relating to the FMC Emily throughout most of the book, it made me like the book that much more having a character I relate to.
I loved the relationship between the two main characters. I liked how it developed throughout the course of the book, how they were with each other and how they spoke to each other was great as well. I also loved the relationships between the main characters and their friends and family.
The MMC Greyson or Grey as Emily calls him is definitely one of my new book boyfriends! He's a dark touch her and d!e MMC who is also charming and sweet at the same time.
I definitely recommend this book and can't wait to read more in the future from H.G. and this series.
July 14, 2024
Not really sure why certain books have to end but here we are. Soul crushed and wishing I could read it again for the first time 😔
April 16, 2024
This book is a lot but not in a bad way.. In a face your own demons and work through the pain kind of way... it literally rips your heart apart and then gives you the tools to put it back together. A wonderful book beautifully written without putting sunshine and sparkle on mental illness and some of the best writing I have ever seen in relation to depression and other such things. Incredible book.
April 11, 2024
Tropes:
Professor/Student
Found Family
Mafia
So much Praise
You meet the main characters, Emily and Greyson, in a mysterious chance meeting late in the night at a gas station.
"In a world filled with raining stars, don't be the ones they wish on."
Emily is so relatable for me in her struggle with suicidal ideation, depression, and anxiety, but also with her glimmers of hope and want for more. Greyson is a poet with his words, and there is so much therapy and validation in the pretty words that he says to Emily.
“It is okay to not be okay,” he said quietly, “and it is okay if that means that you have to sit in silence until you are."
The thing that stood out the most for me with this book was that healing is always possible, even on the darkest nights and the brightest days. Healing is not linear, and your trauma does not define you. Reading this book brought me to ugly sobbing tears at points and also made my heart do the flutter thing where you question if you're having palpations or butterflies. Love love loved it.
"We're halfway out of the dark."
Lessons in Grey will live rent-free in my head for the rest of my days. H.G. Johnston's writing is amazing for so many reasons, but a major one is that Mental Illness Representation is so prevalent in her books.
TW include
Step-sibling abuse
Death of a parent/sibling
Parental cheating (off book)
Substance abuse
Attempted suicide/self-harm
Professor/Student
Found Family
Mafia
So much Praise
You meet the main characters, Emily and Greyson, in a mysterious chance meeting late in the night at a gas station.
"In a world filled with raining stars, don't be the ones they wish on."
Emily is so relatable for me in her struggle with suicidal ideation, depression, and anxiety, but also with her glimmers of hope and want for more. Greyson is a poet with his words, and there is so much therapy and validation in the pretty words that he says to Emily.
“It is okay to not be okay,” he said quietly, “and it is okay if that means that you have to sit in silence until you are."
The thing that stood out the most for me with this book was that healing is always possible, even on the darkest nights and the brightest days. Healing is not linear, and your trauma does not define you. Reading this book brought me to ugly sobbing tears at points and also made my heart do the flutter thing where you question if you're having palpations or butterflies. Love love loved it.
"We're halfway out of the dark."
Lessons in Grey will live rent-free in my head for the rest of my days. H.G. Johnston's writing is amazing for so many reasons, but a major one is that Mental Illness Representation is so prevalent in her books.
TW include
Step-sibling abuse
Death of a parent/sibling
Parental cheating (off book)
Substance abuse
Attempted suicide/self-harm
April 17, 2024
HG depicted the harsh reality of mental illness very well to the point that anyone that has suffered should feel seen, understood, and loved. Emily is shown in her darkest moments with Grey being her lifeboat.
“You can’t fight it anymore.
But what you didn’t see was that the shore had come into view. You were minutes from being safe.
That moment right now, right before it hits, that’s where she is. It’s where she’s been for a very long time.”
This is a criminal professor and a student with severe depression romance. This is the first in the Shadows of Sin series and HG herself said this is the softest book there will be… that is saying A LOT. I can’t wait to read about the other members of the family!
“You can’t fight it anymore.
But what you didn’t see was that the shore had come into view. You were minutes from being safe.
That moment right now, right before it hits, that’s where she is. It’s where she’s been for a very long time.”
This is a criminal professor and a student with severe depression romance. This is the first in the Shadows of Sin series and HG herself said this is the softest book there will be… that is saying A LOT. I can’t wait to read about the other members of the family!
June 15, 2025
Review: Lessons in Grey by @h.g.johnstonauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I can count on one hand the number of times I cry in a year, and this book had me sobbing! Grey and Emily are definitely in my top 10 favorite couples. I couldn’t put this book down. The character building and plot development were excellent. Grey is the ideal dark romance MMC without smothering the FMC. Emily was one of the most realistic and relatable FMCs that I have read to date. This was also probably the most accurate and thoughtful depiction I have seen of mental illness / depression, without glamorizing any of the struggles. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I can count on one hand the number of times I cry in a year, and this book had me sobbing! Grey and Emily are definitely in my top 10 favorite couples. I couldn’t put this book down. The character building and plot development were excellent. Grey is the ideal dark romance MMC without smothering the FMC. Emily was one of the most realistic and relatable FMCs that I have read to date. This was also probably the most accurate and thoughtful depiction I have seen of mental illness / depression, without glamorizing any of the struggles. ❤️
March 16, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Tropes: He falls first, Touch her and 💀, Found family
"Don't inhale yet, little Snowflake, I want to know more about you before you leave this tired little world."
Hannah will take you on an emorional ride with this one. The book has a good plot, and good flow. You're immediately sucked into the story from Chapter 1 because Emily is so mysterious and speaks as if she's otherworldly. Hannah is good at writing damaged characters. She understands the nuances of mental illness, and how your own mind can betray you. I went into this book with my mental health in a decent place, and I still felt the feelings in certain parts. I resonated so much with Emily because I am her. I've been Emily a few times in my life. The story is gritty and realistic, and a little too relatable. So, check your TW's and make sure you're ready to dive in because your mental health matters. 🖤
Emily is a senior in college with a broken family dynamic. She's trying to finish getting her degree while simultaneously battling clinical depression.
Greyson is a complex man with a dark past, and a questionable line of work. His Family was the most important thing to him- until Emily came into his life.
"The universe is filled with echoes. Echoes upon echoes. Echoes of stories once told, will be told, and some that will never be told. All around us are these echoes. Universes breathing and dying, stars exploding, everything we ever were or could ever be in the infinite forever and yet, here we stand. Two perfect strangers outside a gas station speaking of such insignificant things."
They are both deeply beautiful souls, and when they came together it was perfection. Grey understands exactly what Emily needs, and provides it. They have such healthy communication. He works on teaching her how to feel again, while also asking her to be honest about how she feels and where her head is at.
I throughly enjoyed this book, and I definitely hope Azrael is getting his own book next because his character is absolutely unhinged. I think he would make for an interesting MMC indeed. 😈
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Tropes: He falls first, Touch her and 💀, Found family
"Don't inhale yet, little Snowflake, I want to know more about you before you leave this tired little world."
Hannah will take you on an emorional ride with this one. The book has a good plot, and good flow. You're immediately sucked into the story from Chapter 1 because Emily is so mysterious and speaks as if she's otherworldly. Hannah is good at writing damaged characters. She understands the nuances of mental illness, and how your own mind can betray you. I went into this book with my mental health in a decent place, and I still felt the feelings in certain parts. I resonated so much with Emily because I am her. I've been Emily a few times in my life. The story is gritty and realistic, and a little too relatable. So, check your TW's and make sure you're ready to dive in because your mental health matters. 🖤
Emily is a senior in college with a broken family dynamic. She's trying to finish getting her degree while simultaneously battling clinical depression.
Greyson is a complex man with a dark past, and a questionable line of work. His Family was the most important thing to him- until Emily came into his life.
"The universe is filled with echoes. Echoes upon echoes. Echoes of stories once told, will be told, and some that will never be told. All around us are these echoes. Universes breathing and dying, stars exploding, everything we ever were or could ever be in the infinite forever and yet, here we stand. Two perfect strangers outside a gas station speaking of such insignificant things."
They are both deeply beautiful souls, and when they came together it was perfection. Grey understands exactly what Emily needs, and provides it. They have such healthy communication. He works on teaching her how to feel again, while also asking her to be honest about how she feels and where her head is at.
I throughly enjoyed this book, and I definitely hope Azrael is getting his own book next because his character is absolutely unhinged. I think he would make for an interesting MMC indeed. 😈
April 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 4.5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Lessons in Grey is one of those books that will stick with me forever! If you are looking for a book that will make you cry, then look no further! This book is for you!!
✨This novel felt like more than just a romance, it’s about healing from trauma you never thought possible moving forward from.💀Emily resinated with me the most because the mental struggles she battles throughout the story made me feel seen and understood. She deserves to be happy but can’t seem to find her joy, until she meets Grey and he teaches her in more ways than one.
💀Grey is so obsessed with Emily and he will do anything to protect her, that includes protecting her from herself. He is the level headed one of the family, but that doesn’t make him any less lethal.
Mark my words H.G. Johnston is the best at writing relatable characters!! I promise by the end of the book you will be a mess of emotions (in a good way), and ready for more.
🤍Favorite Quotes🤍
“We are inevitable, Emily, not because the universe declares it, but because I do.”
“Baby, I would suffer a thousand g*nshot wounds, a thousand broken bones, a thousand severed tendons, if it meant I could have all of you. You are so good. Too good.”
“In a world full of raining stars, you’re the one I wished on,” he said his eyes glassing over. “End of story.”
✨Lessons in Grey is an interconnected standalone, this is book 1 in the Shadows of Sin series. I can’t give away the secrets I know but what I can tell you is… you won’t want to take your eyes off a single family member 😏 (they are all so unique and interesting)
✨There are TW in the beginning of the book such as: d€pr€ssion, s€lf harm, talks of su!c!de, sibling ab*se (mental & physical), and loss of family. Please remember your mental health matters!
✨This book does contain explicit s€xual scenes and is intended for readers 18+
🤍This is an ARC review and as always, my honest thoughts/ feelings🤍
Happy Reading Lovelies 🫶🏻
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Lessons in Grey is one of those books that will stick with me forever! If you are looking for a book that will make you cry, then look no further! This book is for you!!
✨This novel felt like more than just a romance, it’s about healing from trauma you never thought possible moving forward from.💀Emily resinated with me the most because the mental struggles she battles throughout the story made me feel seen and understood. She deserves to be happy but can’t seem to find her joy, until she meets Grey and he teaches her in more ways than one.
💀Grey is so obsessed with Emily and he will do anything to protect her, that includes protecting her from herself. He is the level headed one of the family, but that doesn’t make him any less lethal.
Mark my words H.G. Johnston is the best at writing relatable characters!! I promise by the end of the book you will be a mess of emotions (in a good way), and ready for more.
🤍Favorite Quotes🤍
“We are inevitable, Emily, not because the universe declares it, but because I do.”
“Baby, I would suffer a thousand g*nshot wounds, a thousand broken bones, a thousand severed tendons, if it meant I could have all of you. You are so good. Too good.”
“In a world full of raining stars, you’re the one I wished on,” he said his eyes glassing over. “End of story.”
✨Lessons in Grey is an interconnected standalone, this is book 1 in the Shadows of Sin series. I can’t give away the secrets I know but what I can tell you is… you won’t want to take your eyes off a single family member 😏 (they are all so unique and interesting)
✨There are TW in the beginning of the book such as: d€pr€ssion, s€lf harm, talks of su!c!de, sibling ab*se (mental & physical), and loss of family. Please remember your mental health matters!
✨This book does contain explicit s€xual scenes and is intended for readers 18+
🤍This is an ARC review and as always, my honest thoughts/ feelings🤍
Happy Reading Lovelies 🫶🏻
May 2, 2024
"When archeologists dig me up thousands of years from now, they'll see it, your name etched into my bones for all of eternity."
What in the beautiful words did I just read?! This has a bit of everything in it: praise k!nk, teacher/student, mafia-esque, and a trigger list that really needs to be read through twice. If I didn't have a grip on my depression, the first 50% of the book would have sent me spiraling. Now that may come off mean possible, but Johnston clearly captures what it feels like to have depression, the grief I'm not as familiar with but I'm glad and feel privileged that I haven't experienced that level of agony. The love story has got to be one of my favorites. It's filled with a man who will do anything to care for a woman. Not only does Grey care for her physically but also mentally and emotionally. The quote above tore at my heartstrings and show the amount of heart and soul that they put into each other and felt on an entirely different level. This quote is only a few of the ones that really touched my heart. Here are a few others:
"The world will keep spinning on its axis without you but think of all the sunrises you'll miss. Think of all the tears you'll never get to shed. Think of all the music you'll never get to write or hear or fucking dance to in the middle of the pouring rain. Think of the Christmases you'll miss, all of those terrible Hallmark movies you'll never get to sit through. Think of all the roses you'll never get to hold. Think of all the regenerations you'll never experience."
"You will rise from the ashes, but the burning comes first. For this part, darling, you must be brave."
"Our graves were all unmarked somewhere in this world, why waste time creating connections that would rather shatter once the universe heard the final beat of our hearts? Might as well just walk the world as the very thing that haunted me: Ghosts."
Just incredible. If you need the nudge to dive into this book, this is it. YOU NEED TO READ IT!!
What in the beautiful words did I just read?! This has a bit of everything in it: praise k!nk, teacher/student, mafia-esque, and a trigger list that really needs to be read through twice. If I didn't have a grip on my depression, the first 50% of the book would have sent me spiraling. Now that may come off mean possible, but Johnston clearly captures what it feels like to have depression, the grief I'm not as familiar with but I'm glad and feel privileged that I haven't experienced that level of agony. The love story has got to be one of my favorites. It's filled with a man who will do anything to care for a woman. Not only does Grey care for her physically but also mentally and emotionally. The quote above tore at my heartstrings and show the amount of heart and soul that they put into each other and felt on an entirely different level. This quote is only a few of the ones that really touched my heart. Here are a few others:
"The world will keep spinning on its axis without you but think of all the sunrises you'll miss. Think of all the tears you'll never get to shed. Think of all the music you'll never get to write or hear or fucking dance to in the middle of the pouring rain. Think of the Christmases you'll miss, all of those terrible Hallmark movies you'll never get to sit through. Think of all the roses you'll never get to hold. Think of all the regenerations you'll never experience."
"You will rise from the ashes, but the burning comes first. For this part, darling, you must be brave."
"Our graves were all unmarked somewhere in this world, why waste time creating connections that would rather shatter once the universe heard the final beat of our hearts? Might as well just walk the world as the very thing that haunted me: Ghosts."
Just incredible. If you need the nudge to dive into this book, this is it. YOU NEED TO READ IT!!
March 13, 2024
( ARC Review )
‘ Don’t exhale yet, little snowflake, I want to know more about you before you leave this tired little world. ‘
Okay, firstly I am going to need you to save this to your TBR and pre order this right now. This book hit differently… I’m still all twisted up inside after reading this, not enough words.
This book has me so in love with it that honestly, I’m not sure why the real world exists and books aren’t real life instead. I would be, without a doubt, okay with living in a world that only Rags exists in.
The book hadn’t even started yet before I turned the page and was utterly consumed by 3 lines. 3 lines that honestly held so much power in them that I had tears flowing freely, my mind felt free.
Emily, the most incredible FMC, so horribly hurt by this absolutely corrupted little world. Her trauma, her undefinable suffering and yet, she isn’t willing to share that suffering with any other. Believes her pain is hers and only hers having that heavy burden of life and loss on her shoulders.
Until she meets Grey, no. Not even then.
The whole story was so incredibly written. Every small detail is without fault, characters and moments that will take hold of you and not let go. You never fully expect a story to touch you so much, but when it does? It becomes more than a book.
My favourite part? All of it.. but that ending? Yeah. Thank you for that ending Hannah.
Lessons In Grey, this little world is so ready to meet you.
* Copied from my review on my Instagram. @livingmybookera
‘ Don’t exhale yet, little snowflake, I want to know more about you before you leave this tired little world. ‘
Okay, firstly I am going to need you to save this to your TBR and pre order this right now. This book hit differently… I’m still all twisted up inside after reading this, not enough words.
This book has me so in love with it that honestly, I’m not sure why the real world exists and books aren’t real life instead. I would be, without a doubt, okay with living in a world that only Rags exists in.
The book hadn’t even started yet before I turned the page and was utterly consumed by 3 lines. 3 lines that honestly held so much power in them that I had tears flowing freely, my mind felt free.
Emily, the most incredible FMC, so horribly hurt by this absolutely corrupted little world. Her trauma, her undefinable suffering and yet, she isn’t willing to share that suffering with any other. Believes her pain is hers and only hers having that heavy burden of life and loss on her shoulders.
Until she meets Grey, no. Not even then.
The whole story was so incredibly written. Every small detail is without fault, characters and moments that will take hold of you and not let go. You never fully expect a story to touch you so much, but when it does? It becomes more than a book.
My favourite part? All of it.. but that ending? Yeah. Thank you for that ending Hannah.
Lessons In Grey, this little world is so ready to meet you.
* Copied from my review on my Instagram. @livingmybookera
April 17, 2024
This is beautifully and powerfully written and explores Emily’s past traumas and guilt in dealing with the loss of her mother and sister. It is an incredible layered story that both made me laugh and cry.
☠️Grey is loyal, strong, dedicated and has zero qualms about unaliving someone who crosses him.
❄️Emily is caught in a trauma trench and can’t seem to drag herself out of it.
🖤They challenge each other. The attraction is not just physical, her intelligence and wit drive Grey wild. She has captivated Grey with her insightful and dark responses and questions.
🖤He is so patient and soft just for her, he will sit with her and watch her sleep on breaks. He along with her friends Ash & Syn want her to break away from the abuse that she is experiencing at home.
🥵Grey waited until he was certain Emily was ready and then they made things physical.
🌶️Grey is VERY attuned to Emily’s needs and wants and being her first for a few things was all the more sweeter. Grey will push her limits and then be that perfect partner who steps back when she needs her space.
❤️🔥The love story between these two is top tier! 🫠 I love how they are learning to communicate with each other.
☠️ I am very much looking forward to learning more about the rest of Grey's family.
☠️Grey is loyal, strong, dedicated and has zero qualms about unaliving someone who crosses him.
❄️Emily is caught in a trauma trench and can’t seem to drag herself out of it.
🖤They challenge each other. The attraction is not just physical, her intelligence and wit drive Grey wild. She has captivated Grey with her insightful and dark responses and questions.
🖤He is so patient and soft just for her, he will sit with her and watch her sleep on breaks. He along with her friends Ash & Syn want her to break away from the abuse that she is experiencing at home.
🥵Grey waited until he was certain Emily was ready and then they made things physical.
🌶️Grey is VERY attuned to Emily’s needs and wants and being her first for a few things was all the more sweeter. Grey will push her limits and then be that perfect partner who steps back when she needs her space.
❤️🔥The love story between these two is top tier! 🫠 I love how they are learning to communicate with each other.
☠️ I am very much looking forward to learning more about the rest of Grey's family.
October 8, 2024
This book was really good! I began reading it on my kindle but there was a lot of internal dialogue and a lotttt of words (not a bad thing because her writing is fabulous! Literally on page one I thought to myself "holy shit" this writing is GOOD) so I ended up purchasing the physical book and reading it that way, which allowed me to read the book faster. Make sure to check your triggers because although I do not mind what I read, there were a few scenes where I was like "oh wow" with her depression.
The only reason I gave this book four stars is because I was under the impression it was mostly focused on Grey and his family. This book was mostly focused on Emily and her story whereas Grey did not get as many chapters as I would have hoped. It felt more her book than his book, and given the series name I was confused with this. We still got some background information on Grey and his family and the shadows of sin but I wish there had been more because I am still quite confused with him and his family. I wish there had been more plot to the book in regards to grey and his side of things. his little drug side quest did not make much sense to me because it was randomly sprinkled in throughout the book. The main purpose of the book was healing Emily which I do appreciate, it was just not what I expected going into the book. So please be aware that this heavily focused on Emily and her healing, background, and the affects of her depression.
I did enjoy their story and their growth together! I felt they matched perfectly and their chemistry was on point. You could truly feel Emily's pain and Grey's utter love for her! They were 1000% meant to find one another and leave HEA
side note spoiler not spoiler:
emily was so real for getting mad at grey when he left at the end for not talking to her and same girl same because I would have been exactly in the same spot because men are FRUSTRATING! (even the good ones lol) so I loved that she was feeling the same way I would have
The only reason I gave this book four stars is because I was under the impression it was mostly focused on Grey and his family. This book was mostly focused on Emily and her story whereas Grey did not get as many chapters as I would have hoped. It felt more her book than his book, and given the series name I was confused with this. We still got some background information on Grey and his family and the shadows of sin but I wish there had been more because I am still quite confused with him and his family. I wish there had been more plot to the book in regards to grey and his side of things. his little drug side quest did not make much sense to me because it was randomly sprinkled in throughout the book. The main purpose of the book was healing Emily which I do appreciate, it was just not what I expected going into the book. So please be aware that this heavily focused on Emily and her healing, background, and the affects of her depression.
I did enjoy their story and their growth together! I felt they matched perfectly and their chemistry was on point. You could truly feel Emily's pain and Grey's utter love for her! They were 1000% meant to find one another and leave HEA
side note spoiler not spoiler:
emily was so real for getting mad at grey when he left at the end for not talking to her and same girl same because I would have been exactly in the same spot because men are FRUSTRATING! (even the good ones lol) so I loved that she was feeling the same way I would have
April 8, 2024
Book Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Smutty: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
*Please pay attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. They are there for a reason*
This book might just save a life.
Man, the struggles Emily went through hit really close to home with me. I saw myself a lot in Emily and it made me so emotional reading this book. I cried, a lot, and it wasn’t because the book was sad it was just that I really stepped into the pages and have lived where Emily was.
Grey was my dream come true in a book boyfriend and although him not having the best work/lifestyle his words healed a piece of me reading this.
The book was amazing and I know anything that comes out of H. G. Johnston is going to be amazing. I cannot wait to read more of her work as they come out.
Favorite Quotes:
“You’re afraid that someone will see the darkness you feel, and they’ll run away, they’ll judge you for it, but what gives me the right to feel anything negative about a war I’m not fighting?”
“Stop worrying about what others feel and focus on how you feel. What you want. Where you want to go in this life. Everyone else will be fine. So long as the ghosts in your head and the demons in mine continue to dance then the world will know peace.”
An e-ARC was provided by the author in exchange for and honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
Smutty: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
*Please pay attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. They are there for a reason*
This book might just save a life.
Man, the struggles Emily went through hit really close to home with me. I saw myself a lot in Emily and it made me so emotional reading this book. I cried, a lot, and it wasn’t because the book was sad it was just that I really stepped into the pages and have lived where Emily was.
Grey was my dream come true in a book boyfriend and although him not having the best work/lifestyle his words healed a piece of me reading this.
The book was amazing and I know anything that comes out of H. G. Johnston is going to be amazing. I cannot wait to read more of her work as they come out.
Favorite Quotes:
“You’re afraid that someone will see the darkness you feel, and they’ll run away, they’ll judge you for it, but what gives me the right to feel anything negative about a war I’m not fighting?”
“Stop worrying about what others feel and focus on how you feel. What you want. Where you want to go in this life. Everyone else will be fine. So long as the ghosts in your head and the demons in mine continue to dance then the world will know peace.”
An e-ARC was provided by the author in exchange for and honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
May 15, 2024
I am absolutely obsessed with this book. I cannot put it down and I’m literally finished one night. This book is complex. I can’t get over it MMC and FMC actual met at the gas station and FMC is not the usual female. Shes into deep meanings of literature with deep effects the way she explains her emotions in poets. She goes to college and she realizes that her professor is the guy that she can’t stop thinking about from the gas station it is him. This is a dark romance with a HEA. The things they go through will make them stronger. There is a lot of sadness in this book and lots of mental health issues but I promise hold on and read the ride. She lost her twin her other half and her mom on the same day. Her dad isn’t really a good dad he remarries and her new brother harms her and is obsessed with her so much he stalks her. The MMC is her hero in all the ways but as well being in a high crime family as well. I love this book!
April 20, 2024
I started book on the evening thinking a few chapters then sleep..but i couldn't put it down.. I read the book throughout the night as I was so immersed in the story of Emily and her life echos that I didn't realise I hadn't slept.
Grey is a bad boy, corrupt in the world but when he first mets her... the super fractured but one of a kind, Emily.. his idea of a snowflake... he is ready to pull his world down to rebuild hers.
Emily is one of the most relatable MCs I have ever had to pleasure to read. There is no attempt to hide how broken she is compared to the *normal standards of this world.. there is also no apology for it either, which was amazing...
We they build a world up from the ground together... or will they have it destroyed before them...
I would love to ask Author... Will the be move books on the Sinner Brothers ? Novellas on the sisters? And prequel to explain Malachis story of lost love and rebuilding of an empire ? Because if not .. WHY.. we need them..
Book timer 7 hours 3 minutes..
Grey is a bad boy, corrupt in the world but when he first mets her... the super fractured but one of a kind, Emily.. his idea of a snowflake... he is ready to pull his world down to rebuild hers.
Emily is one of the most relatable MCs I have ever had to pleasure to read. There is no attempt to hide how broken she is compared to the *normal standards of this world.. there is also no apology for it either, which was amazing...
We they build a world up from the ground together... or will they have it destroyed before them...
I would love to ask Author... Will the be move books on the Sinner Brothers ? Novellas on the sisters? And prequel to explain Malachis story of lost love and rebuilding of an empire ? Because if not .. WHY.. we need them..
Book timer 7 hours 3 minutes..
April 22, 2024
So I'm starting my review at the midway point of this book there's just so much . The writing just speaks Shakespeare to me , absolutely fantastic. I'm so deeply intertwined with Emily and grey , one of the best connections between characters I have ever read . You truly feel every word they say every pain they feel , for anyone who's ever had it hard you will feel this in your heart and soul .this is by far one of the best connections I have read between characters in a book.
And the book is finished and my heart and soul have been stolen from this story . This book touches on the topics of depression and suicide with a very strong message of love for yourself and Fighting to get through the other side along with found family and it's truly breathtaking, this story will forever be in my heart and soul the author did an amazing job . Truly magical writing .
And the book is finished and my heart and soul have been stolen from this story . This book touches on the topics of depression and suicide with a very strong message of love for yourself and Fighting to get through the other side along with found family and it's truly breathtaking, this story will forever be in my heart and soul the author did an amazing job . Truly magical writing .
April 14, 2024
Lessons In Grey is a dark romance that takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. You feel everything!! I experienced so many emotions while reading Grey and Emily's story. Hannah does a great job at character and world building. I couldn't put it down!!
What you get.....
♡Morally Grey MMC
♡Student/Professor Relationship
♡Touch Her and ☠️
♡Obession
♡Insta Attraction
♡Trauma
♡Death of Family Members
♡Family Drama
♡Abuse from Stepbrother
♡Mental Health Rep
♡Self-Harm/Thoughts of Self-Harm
♡Kinky
♡Spicy Scenes
♡Deep dive into the mind of a woman who experiences severe depression.
Your mental health matters. Please read the trigger warnings before starting this book.
What you get.....
♡Morally Grey MMC
♡Student/Professor Relationship
♡Touch Her and ☠️
♡Obession
♡Insta Attraction
♡Trauma
♡Death of Family Members
♡Family Drama
♡Abuse from Stepbrother
♡Mental Health Rep
♡Self-Harm/Thoughts of Self-Harm
♡Kinky
♡Spicy Scenes
♡Deep dive into the mind of a woman who experiences severe depression.
Your mental health matters. Please read the trigger warnings before starting this book.
April 14, 2024
I received an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m a huge fan of dark romance, so this book was right up my alley. These characters were incredible, their story is amazing and you will fall in love with them separately and as a couple! The writing is wonderful, I thoroughly enjoyed the character building.
I didn’t expect there to be plot twists throughout the book, so I had to pick my jaw up from the floor multiple times and that just made me love the book even more.
I really enjoy this author and her writing style, her ability to build a world, as well as her ability to create characters you can relate to and fall in love with.
I’m a huge fan of dark romance, so this book was right up my alley. These characters were incredible, their story is amazing and you will fall in love with them separately and as a couple! The writing is wonderful, I thoroughly enjoyed the character building.
I didn’t expect there to be plot twists throughout the book, so I had to pick my jaw up from the floor multiple times and that just made me love the book even more.
I really enjoy this author and her writing style, her ability to build a world, as well as her ability to create characters you can relate to and fall in love with.
April 15, 2024
Loved it!
This book captured my attention from the first chapter!
Filled with drama, suspense and action, spice and romance.
This book also took me on a bit of an emotional roller-coaster at times.
The author created characters that were relatable and easy to love.
I loved both, Emily and Greyson(Grey)
My heart went out to Emily. All of her emotional struggles and pain.
Grey had me swooning at times. Some of the things he said were everything.
My favorite part was seeing their relationship evolve throughout the story.
These two were each others match. I think they both helped to heal each other.
This is a must read and a definite 5 stars!!!
This book captured my attention from the first chapter!
Filled with drama, suspense and action, spice and romance.
This book also took me on a bit of an emotional roller-coaster at times.
The author created characters that were relatable and easy to love.
I loved both, Emily and Greyson(Grey)
My heart went out to Emily. All of her emotional struggles and pain.
Grey had me swooning at times. Some of the things he said were everything.
My favorite part was seeing their relationship evolve throughout the story.
These two were each others match. I think they both helped to heal each other.
This is a must read and a definite 5 stars!!!
April 14, 2024
This story reaches into the darkest places of one's soul of depression, sorrow, and loss. The survival of the FMC was hanging on by a thread, and her hope of all things was almost gone when the MMC walked into her life. Not was as it seemed, corruption, criminals families at war, and she gets stuck in the cross fire. This story is very dark, hitting deep issues of depression and suicide, abuse, and family loss. Definitely with the read. Proving love is a powerful emotion. Please read trigger warnings.
April 15, 2024
I don’t think I have ever had a book speak so deep to me. I fell in love with this book from the very beginning. As someone who feels the darkness within I connected to Emily understanding her feelings. I loved Grey from the very beginning to see that even in through the darkness he saw Emily, really saw her. This is something I dream of and it was amazing to see this connection, the love and the power of finding your true someone that can help pull you out of the darkness. Please be sure to read the trigger warnings but know this is a tragic but also beautiful love story.
April 23, 2024
This book... just, wow. Have you ever wondered what life would be like if someone embraced your darkness and met you on your level? This book is how that would go. I laughed, I cried, I cried some more. It layed me out emotionally, in the best way. The MMC is everything you want in a morally grey man. The fmc doesn't try to be some badass heroine, she's just trying to get by. He shows her that her darkness isn't something to flee from, but something to embrace, feel, and conquer. Another delightful well written page turner from the lovely HG Johnston.
February 12, 2025
“I’ve traveled from sea to sea. I’ve seen every corner of this world, ones so dark you couldn’t see an ounce of light, and ones so bright, it would blind you. I’ve seen things you wouldn’t believe, beautiful things, tragic things, impossible things. Yet nothing in this world could ever compare to what I see when I look at you.”
Greyson the man that you are🙂 this book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions but it was so so good. Emily was such a brave and strong person and the way grey loved her thru it all was everything.
Onto jacks story!!
Greyson the man that you are🙂 this book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions but it was so so good. Emily was such a brave and strong person and the way grey loved her thru it all was everything.
Onto jacks story!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2024
What an amazing book! I consumed this book in 3 days, and definitely need a physical copy for my trophy shelf.(Bookshelf lol )
Please read the trigger warnings before delving into the story!
H.G. Johnston pulled so many emotions from me with this book. There were multiple times throughout the story I felt I could relate to the characters. I was moved to tears multiple times. I fell in love with the characters and would love to learn more about their world.
Please read the trigger warnings before delving into the story!
H.G. Johnston pulled so many emotions from me with this book. There were multiple times throughout the story I felt I could relate to the characters. I was moved to tears multiple times. I fell in love with the characters and would love to learn more about their world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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