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Bearing the Burden
Beautiful Deceit’s playboy drummer, Brett Donovan, has been waiting a long time to get his hands on Bri Vorossi. Forced to play concert after concert with her half-naked body twirling above him, he’s more than ready to hit the sheets the second their restrictive U.S. tour contract ends and the European tour kicks off.
With both parties allergic to long-term relationships, their on-tour hook-ups seem like the perfect pressure release valve.
Until Brett opens his mouth after too many drinks and hints at the secret he swore to take to his grave. The secret that’s been killing him slower than the alcohol he consumes to numb the pain.
When Bri offers to help, despite her own distaste for commitment, she struggles to keep her emotions at bay. Spooked by the feel of a relationship and the darkness that surrounds Brett, Bri brings their trysts to an end.
Angry at Bri and the world around him, Brett goes off the rails, pushing away everyone who cares about him. Recognizing his outbursts as an outlet for his pain, Bri gets pulled back in and becomes determined to help him heal.
But as it turns out, trying to relieve Brett of whatever plagues him may ultimately kill Bri, and when her life is on the line, it’s up to Brett to save them both. Can he be trusted to do the right thing? Or will he succumb to the darkness of the burdens he bears?
With both parties allergic to long-term relationships, their on-tour hook-ups seem like the perfect pressure release valve.
Until Brett opens his mouth after too many drinks and hints at the secret he swore to take to his grave. The secret that’s been killing him slower than the alcohol he consumes to numb the pain.
When Bri offers to help, despite her own distaste for commitment, she struggles to keep her emotions at bay. Spooked by the feel of a relationship and the darkness that surrounds Brett, Bri brings their trysts to an end.
Angry at Bri and the world around him, Brett goes off the rails, pushing away everyone who cares about him. Recognizing his outbursts as an outlet for his pain, Bri gets pulled back in and becomes determined to help him heal.
But as it turns out, trying to relieve Brett of whatever plagues him may ultimately kill Bri, and when her life is on the line, it’s up to Brett to save them both. Can he be trusted to do the right thing? Or will he succumb to the darkness of the burdens he bears?
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2024
34 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Jillian D. Wray
16 books122 followersJillian lives in North Carolina with her incredibly supportive husband and three awesome stepkids. After over ten years in the healthcare industry, it was time to pursue a new passion. An avid reader her whole life, she sat down one night and let the words begin to flow. Four hours and ten thousand words later, a love of writing was discovered.
She writes spicy, bingeable reads that encourage self-discovery and come with all the angst and excitement of a new relationship.
When she isn’t reading or writing, you can either find her in her vegetable garden, at CrossFit™, or on a plane headed toward her next adventure.
She writes spicy, bingeable reads that encourage self-discovery and come with all the angst and excitement of a new relationship.
When she isn’t reading or writing, you can either find her in her vegetable garden, at CrossFit™, or on a plane headed toward her next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 24, 2024
THIS! BOOK!
Like don’t get me wrong I LOVED the first one!!
But this one?!
Jillian I know i already told you already…… BUT THANK YOU THANK YOU for letting me message you my reactions all throughout being an ARC reader for this book!!!!
The TENSION between Bret and Bri was already there all throughout the first book! But y’all I wasn’t even maybe second chapter and I was already feeling the tension!!! Like y’all……
The fact that even though Bret was the way he was (ain’t tellin yah so you gotta read it when it comes out!), and kept tellin Bri he didn’t want to be saved, Bri still stood up and was there for him!!! Talk about a true ride or die!
But in the end thanks to Bri (although it was a scary reason) she was able to get him to where he needed to be inorder to start forgiving himself. With Bri’s support he was able to tell not only her, but his family and close friends what finally happened. Why he blamed himself.
BUT!!!! Before I give any major spoilers away…
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! Became little more attached to Bri and Bret in this one!
I absolutely CANNOT (but will do so patiently of course!) wait to be able to read the last two books!!!!
-insert Kevin hart voice here- SO ESSITED!!!!! SO ESSITED!!
10/10 will DEFINITELY be rereading!!!!!
Like don’t get me wrong I LOVED the first one!!
But this one?!
Jillian I know i already told you already…… BUT THANK YOU THANK YOU for letting me message you my reactions all throughout being an ARC reader for this book!!!!
The TENSION between Bret and Bri was already there all throughout the first book! But y’all I wasn’t even maybe second chapter and I was already feeling the tension!!! Like y’all……
The fact that even though Bret was the way he was (ain’t tellin yah so you gotta read it when it comes out!), and kept tellin Bri he didn’t want to be saved, Bri still stood up and was there for him!!! Talk about a true ride or die!
But in the end thanks to Bri (although it was a scary reason) she was able to get him to where he needed to be inorder to start forgiving himself. With Bri’s support he was able to tell not only her, but his family and close friends what finally happened. Why he blamed himself.
BUT!!!! Before I give any major spoilers away…
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! Became little more attached to Bri and Bret in this one!
I absolutely CANNOT (but will do so patiently of course!) wait to be able to read the last two books!!!!
-insert Kevin hart voice here- SO ESSITED!!!!! SO ESSITED!!
10/10 will DEFINITELY be rereading!!!!!
May 10, 2024
4.5 stars, hands down, no questions asked. Bearing the Burden had me instantly hooked and I loved being back with our Beautiful Deceit boys! After the slow burn and tension between them in the first book where Brett and Bri cannot be together, they certainly waste no time after the last show on that tour and the banter and spice we get early on is HOT!! I couldn't help but root for these two throughout the entire book, even as they both struggle to deny that they want more or that they have feelings.
That ending had me absolutely all over with my feelings and without giving any spoilers away, I was not expecting that to happen at all! Despite everything that happens, I couldn't help but smile how one scary incident helped both move on and become stronger together. So far, this is my favorite book in the series and I cannot wait for the next one!!
That ending had me absolutely all over with my feelings and without giving any spoilers away, I was not expecting that to happen at all! Despite everything that happens, I couldn't help but smile how one scary incident helped both move on and become stronger together. So far, this is my favorite book in the series and I cannot wait for the next one!!
March 11, 2024
A story where it was meant to be just sex between the two characters? I will always read. And trust me, I definitely enjoyed those scenes.
But then it turns out their undeniable pull to each other is more than just sexual tension? The best!
Of course things will get messy when you practically work together 24/7 but they didn't care. But you can blame them? If I was working alongside a hot guy from a band, I too would do it.
The relationship between Brett and Bri is complex enough. Neither believe in monogamous relationships and never wants anything serious but of course that will never work. Bri is strong enough to realize she couldn't stop her heart from falling for the band's bad boy. But Brett, in denial, wouldn't let her go, knowing that the both of them will end up hurt if they continued.
She wants all of Brett but he's hiding a dark secret that no one in his life knows. And that causes him to push everyone in his life. Will Bri's persistence finally get passed all his defenses and confess his secret?
But then it turns out their undeniable pull to each other is more than just sexual tension? The best!
Of course things will get messy when you practically work together 24/7 but they didn't care. But you can blame them? If I was working alongside a hot guy from a band, I too would do it.
The relationship between Brett and Bri is complex enough. Neither believe in monogamous relationships and never wants anything serious but of course that will never work. Bri is strong enough to realize she couldn't stop her heart from falling for the band's bad boy. But Brett, in denial, wouldn't let her go, knowing that the both of them will end up hurt if they continued.
She wants all of Brett but he's hiding a dark secret that no one in his life knows. And that causes him to push everyone in his life. Will Bri's persistence finally get passed all his defenses and confess his secret?
March 6, 2024
• The story of Bri and Brett, what a ride! Both are allergic to relationships but agree to a long term hook up deal. I wonder if that lasts 😉
• I’m obsessed with both of their characters. Bri is head-strong, confident, and sassy. Such an awesome FMC. She avoids attachments for her own reasons. Brett, honestly the same but in the male version. Normally the playboy of the band, shows you more to him than you originally thought. Plagued by his past, and feels unworthy of love. Their connection is wild and spicy, just like the story itself. And I was HERE for it. Every turn of this rollercoaster was perfect.
• I was SO thrilled to read the second book about another one of my favorite men from Beautiful Deceit. I honestly cannot wait for the next one. I’ll be waiting impatiently Jillian 😂
• I’m obsessed with both of their characters. Bri is head-strong, confident, and sassy. Such an awesome FMC. She avoids attachments for her own reasons. Brett, honestly the same but in the male version. Normally the playboy of the band, shows you more to him than you originally thought. Plagued by his past, and feels unworthy of love. Their connection is wild and spicy, just like the story itself. And I was HERE for it. Every turn of this rollercoaster was perfect.
• I was SO thrilled to read the second book about another one of my favorite men from Beautiful Deceit. I honestly cannot wait for the next one. I’ll be waiting impatiently Jillian 😂
March 20, 2024
When the drummer you have fantasized over for years becomes equally obsessed with you, do you dare take him head on? In a heartbeat! This is more than a romance story, it is a journey of self for two broken beautiful souls. I don’t believe I have ever read a pairing quiet like Brett and Bri. Everything with these two felt completely raw and honest. This book deals with some heavy topics but the self journey they both go on is beautiful. There was a faith journey that was so gracefully done by Jillian D. Wray it felt like a gentle breeze through the story. These two have high drives on the stage and off but it makes their coming together that much more fun. I love how they were allowed to truly feel their feelings and show themselves at their worst. They may have taken their own path but finding themselves along with each other was so artfully done. If you want more than you bargained for then rock on with Brett and Bri.
June 29, 2024
Brett is the typically rockstar carrying grief and rage and pain until Bri comes along and rocks his view on life. Bri is my spirit animal in every way, so I really connected with her and her need to help everyone. But even I wasn’t prepared for the amazing way she stood beside Brett and helped him heal.
This story was heartbreakingly sweet and I ate it up. On to book 3..
This story was heartbreakingly sweet and I ate it up. On to book 3..
March 21, 2024
ARC Review - no spoilers.
Bearing the Burden by Jillian D. Wray debuted on 19Mar2024.
Happy #BookBirthday! 🥳
There’s a point to love. To live. To breathe. It heals the fractures, however big or small, that line our hearts. It weathers the storms & waits for the sunshine that follows. But when tragedies unequivocally change who we are, it can be difficult to escape from psychological pits even with support from loved ones. How long do you ignore one’s burdens that are obscured by their lies or vices? And how do you help someone when they don’t/won’t help themself first?
Having marched to the beat of her drum all her life, Bri has no intention of settling down. Self-loathing & sheltering guilt, Brett uses sex and alcohol as methods to disguise his grief. They explore their undeniable chemistry with a no-strings-no-complications-situationship. Neither examines their growing feelings of like…until tragedy strikes. An unlikely person becomes a voice of reason for Brett by listening & giving insight into life, love, & Bri. That is one of my favorite chapters because Brett’s vulnerability finally shines. He's raw to the bone & fully realizes the depth of Bri’s love.
I also enjoyed how Bri struggles with not only her feelings for Brett but also her religious upbringing. When we’re young, we take things as Truth, but as we become more knowledgeable, we begin to question this Truth. Whether religion, history, or policy, we should be encouraged to seek all truths, all stories, all experiences. Because when we do, we become kinder, more compassionate, more empathetic, & more loving towards those who are different from us.
Bearing the Burden is a standalone book in The Beautiful Deceit series; however, it’s best to read it after Invisible Burdens (book 1). I wasn’t a fan of Brett until after reading over 2/3 of the book; I think Noah (book 1) is a hard character to follow. But don’t let it stop you from reading book 2! You’ll laugh & cry, smile & frown. Bri & Brett will take you for one wild ride, so buckle up!
#ARCReview #Romance #RockstarRomance #DrummerBoy #Metalcore #AerialArtist #MentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters #Depression #SubstanceAbuse #KindleUnlimited #KU
Bearing the Burden by Jillian D. Wray debuted on 19Mar2024.
Happy #BookBirthday! 🥳
There’s a point to love. To live. To breathe. It heals the fractures, however big or small, that line our hearts. It weathers the storms & waits for the sunshine that follows. But when tragedies unequivocally change who we are, it can be difficult to escape from psychological pits even with support from loved ones. How long do you ignore one’s burdens that are obscured by their lies or vices? And how do you help someone when they don’t/won’t help themself first?
Having marched to the beat of her drum all her life, Bri has no intention of settling down. Self-loathing & sheltering guilt, Brett uses sex and alcohol as methods to disguise his grief. They explore their undeniable chemistry with a no-strings-no-complications-situationship. Neither examines their growing feelings of like…until tragedy strikes. An unlikely person becomes a voice of reason for Brett by listening & giving insight into life, love, & Bri. That is one of my favorite chapters because Brett’s vulnerability finally shines. He's raw to the bone & fully realizes the depth of Bri’s love.
I also enjoyed how Bri struggles with not only her feelings for Brett but also her religious upbringing. When we’re young, we take things as Truth, but as we become more knowledgeable, we begin to question this Truth. Whether religion, history, or policy, we should be encouraged to seek all truths, all stories, all experiences. Because when we do, we become kinder, more compassionate, more empathetic, & more loving towards those who are different from us.
Bearing the Burden is a standalone book in The Beautiful Deceit series; however, it’s best to read it after Invisible Burdens (book 1). I wasn’t a fan of Brett until after reading over 2/3 of the book; I think Noah (book 1) is a hard character to follow. But don’t let it stop you from reading book 2! You’ll laugh & cry, smile & frown. Bri & Brett will take you for one wild ride, so buckle up!
#ARCReview #Romance #RockstarRomance #DrummerBoy #Metalcore #AerialArtist #MentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters #Depression #SubstanceAbuse #KindleUnlimited #KU
March 8, 2024
✨ARC review✨
By: @jillian_wray_author
Release date: March 19th, 2024
“Ruin me. Make it so your name is the only one I remember “
✨When I signed up for this ARC I realized it was a second book so I rushed to read the first one, Invisible Burdens, and it was instantly 5 stars for me. One of my favorite reads & it just made me MORE excited for this ARC!
✨This book had me on the brink of tears in some parts. Bri & Brett’s story is 🤌🏻 *chefs kiss*. The spice in this book is instant! After 10 long months of a concert tour their current contract is null & void which means the rule of not sleeping with the dancers is over! They decide to spend the last 8 weeks of the tour having a tryst, sex and only sex. That is until someone starts to catch feelings.
The Beautiful Deceit series is not over yet! The next book will be released later this year! And I for one can not wait!
By: @jillian_wray_author
Release date: March 19th, 2024
“Ruin me. Make it so your name is the only one I remember “
✨When I signed up for this ARC I realized it was a second book so I rushed to read the first one, Invisible Burdens, and it was instantly 5 stars for me. One of my favorite reads & it just made me MORE excited for this ARC!
✨This book had me on the brink of tears in some parts. Bri & Brett’s story is 🤌🏻 *chefs kiss*. The spice in this book is instant! After 10 long months of a concert tour their current contract is null & void which means the rule of not sleeping with the dancers is over! They decide to spend the last 8 weeks of the tour having a tryst, sex and only sex. That is until someone starts to catch feelings.
The Beautiful Deceit series is not over yet! The next book will be released later this year! And I for one can not wait!
March 24, 2024
This book I LOVED! I didn’t think it could get better than the first one, but it did. The character and plot development was do good. I could feel the tension between Brett and Bri from the start. The range of emotions I felt throughout the book left me wanting more.
Brett and Bri both have things they need to deal with. They push each other to the brink, only to be proved to be ride or dies for each other. Definitely read your trigger warnings!! I can not wait for the next book, but I’ll be patiently waiting. Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this book Jillian.
Brett and Bri both have things they need to deal with. They push each other to the brink, only to be proved to be ride or dies for each other. Definitely read your trigger warnings!! I can not wait for the next book, but I’ll be patiently waiting. Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this book Jillian.
April 17, 2024
After Invisible Burdens, Jillian D. Wray was easily named my favorite author of the year in 2023.
Once I knew there'd be more in the series I knew I wouldn't be disappointed.
Bearing the Burden:
Brett and Bri claim to not want a relationship, but have been waiting for the chance to have their hands on each other, well, more than just their hands.
They are toxic and messy, and hardly do the "right" thing. When I becomes clear to Bri that Brett is fighting some major demons, she can't keep her distance.
Battling more than just fatigue and lustful desires, the burdens Brett is bearing paired with the feelings they are both trying to deny threaten to ruin everything.
I knew this story would be amazing and hot and spicy, but I did not expect it to be a beautiful story of redemption and love that saves them from themselves. Learning to come clean, and accept the love we all deserve as flawed people.
This story, though as I said is toxic and messy, it is also so beautiful and unexpectedly I am in awe. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, but it is perfect. Written in a way that had my heart racing and fluttering in all the right ways!
I honestly...I almost want to say I liked this one more than the first. Almost...because i love a good redeeming character arch, but Noah is still swoon worthy.
I am so excited for the next one! The only book that could possibly top book 1 and 2 is book 3!!
Once I knew there'd be more in the series I knew I wouldn't be disappointed.
Bearing the Burden:
Brett and Bri claim to not want a relationship, but have been waiting for the chance to have their hands on each other, well, more than just their hands.
They are toxic and messy, and hardly do the "right" thing. When I becomes clear to Bri that Brett is fighting some major demons, she can't keep her distance.
Battling more than just fatigue and lustful desires, the burdens Brett is bearing paired with the feelings they are both trying to deny threaten to ruin everything.
I knew this story would be amazing and hot and spicy, but I did not expect it to be a beautiful story of redemption and love that saves them from themselves. Learning to come clean, and accept the love we all deserve as flawed people.
This story, though as I said is toxic and messy, it is also so beautiful and unexpectedly I am in awe. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, but it is perfect. Written in a way that had my heart racing and fluttering in all the right ways!
I honestly...I almost want to say I liked this one more than the first. Almost...because i love a good redeeming character arch, but Noah is still swoon worthy.
I am so excited for the next one! The only book that could possibly top book 1 and 2 is book 3!!
March 20, 2024
༻❥☆🥁☆❥༺
📖🅱︎🅾︎🅾︎��•🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆📖
──────☆🥁🎶🥁☆──────
📚🎶🥁✨𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦✨🥁🎶📚
✨𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝚄𝚁𝙳𝙴𝙽 by 𝙹𝙸𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙰𝙽 𝙳. 𝚆𝚁𝙰𝚈
✨𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦: 𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟸 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚄𝚃𝙸𝙵𝚄𝙻 𝙳𝙴𝙲𝙴𝙸𝚃 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂 (𝙸𝙽𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙲𝙾𝙽𝙽𝙴𝙲𝚃𝙴𝙳 𝚂𝚃𝙰𝙽𝙳𝙰𝙻𝙾𝙽𝙴𝚂)
✨𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗥𝗘: 𝚁𝙾𝙲𝙺𝚂𝚃𝙰𝚁 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
✨𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: 𝙼𝙰𝚁𝙲𝙷 𝟷𝟿𝚃𝙷, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺
╰┈❥𝙰𝚅𝙰𝙸𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙻𝙴 𝙾𝙽 𝙺𝚄!✨
✨𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝗡𝗨𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥: 𝟹𝟷𝟾 𝙿𝙰𝙶𝙴𝚂
✨𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ || 𝟻
✨𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗘: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ || 𝟱
──────☆🥁🎶🥁☆──────
✨✨𝑀𝑦 𝑇ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑠✨✨
Thank you so much to Jillian D. Wray for my Advanced Reader Copy of Bearing the Burden! This review is comprised entirely of my own thoughts & opinions, & is based on the copy I received.
This book was absolutely & unequivocally AMAZING. I DEVOURED this book & read it in just over 24 hours! When I read the first book in this series of stand-alones, I didn’t think I could love anyone more than Noah & Sienna but Brett & Bri have my whole heart.
Brett & Bri had undeniable chemistry in Book 1, but in Book 2, their chemistry just explodes. They are a force of nature together & their intense attraction to each other created some *delicious* spice & it starts from the very first page. The romance between them was so insanely hot, but also so deep on an emotional level. These two needed each other. Their romance starts as no strings attached, & really just to satiate their intense physical attraction. Even though they both don’t want feelings involved, it ends up going so much deeper than that. Brett is harboring some serious guilt & trauma surrounding the loss of his sister, & that grief is coming to a head in this book. He’s got some pretty self destructive tendencies & it’s affecting him in all facets of life. Learning of this, Bri just wants to help him & let him know he’s not alone & doesn’t need to feel guilty. Bri is exactly what Brett needs to go on his journey toward forgiving himself, if only he would let himself.
This story, while being a spicy romance, is very much about healing journeys & what truly being there for someone looks like. It touches on some dark themes such as loss and grief, and Jillian writes about this topics in a beautiful and respectful way. I loved Brett’s journey in this book, and seeing his progression from beginning to end was so inspiringly and emotionally impactful. This book had me in my emotions! I cried, I laughed, & I had to fan myself on multiple occasions because these two are HOT! I just really loved every single thing about it. The ending had me ugly crying at 1am.
This book, & honestly the whole series, is just amazing so far. Jillian is a fantastic writer and is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. The way she writes is so powerful and I love that I can feel all the characters emotions through the pages. I cannot wait to see what’s in store for Ryan’s book, & I have some ideas about who will be in it and let me just say, I can’t wait!
𝗧𝗟𝗗𝗥: Infinity stars, spicy spice that will make you melt, tortured drummer boy on a healing journey, rockstar romance, INFINITY STARS! 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱, 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱, 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗗 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸!
🥁✨𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗙𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗜𝗙 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘...✨🥁
🖤Rockstar Romances
🖤Tortured Bad Boy/Broken MMC
🖤Feisty and Lovable FMC
🖤Friends to Lovers
🖤Spicy Hot Spice
🖤No Strings Attached Relationship…
🖤Healing Journeys
🖤Angst/Lust
──────☆🥁🎶🥁☆──────
📖🅱︎🅾︎🅾︎��•🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆📖
──────☆🥁🎶🥁☆──────
📚🎶🥁✨𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦✨🥁🎶📚
✨𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙶 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝚄𝚁𝙳𝙴𝙽 by 𝙹𝙸𝙻𝙻𝙸𝙰𝙽 𝙳. 𝚆𝚁𝙰𝚈
✨𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦: 𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟸 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙱𝙴𝙰𝚄𝚃𝙸𝙵𝚄𝙻 𝙳𝙴𝙲𝙴𝙸𝚃 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂 (𝙸𝙽𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙲𝙾𝙽𝙽𝙴𝙲𝚃𝙴𝙳 𝚂𝚃𝙰𝙽𝙳𝙰𝙻𝙾𝙽𝙴𝚂)
✨𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗥𝗘: 𝚁𝙾𝙲𝙺𝚂𝚃𝙰𝚁 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
✨𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: 𝙼𝙰𝚁𝙲𝙷 𝟷𝟿𝚃𝙷, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺
╰┈❥𝙰𝚅𝙰𝙸𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙻𝙴 𝙾𝙽 𝙺𝚄!✨
✨𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗘 𝗡𝗨𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥: 𝟹𝟷𝟾 𝙿𝙰𝙶𝙴𝚂
✨𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ || 𝟻
✨𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗘: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ || 𝟱
──────☆🥁🎶🥁☆──────
✨✨𝑀𝑦 𝑇ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑠✨✨
Thank you so much to Jillian D. Wray for my Advanced Reader Copy of Bearing the Burden! This review is comprised entirely of my own thoughts & opinions, & is based on the copy I received.
This book was absolutely & unequivocally AMAZING. I DEVOURED this book & read it in just over 24 hours! When I read the first book in this series of stand-alones, I didn’t think I could love anyone more than Noah & Sienna but Brett & Bri have my whole heart.
Brett & Bri had undeniable chemistry in Book 1, but in Book 2, their chemistry just explodes. They are a force of nature together & their intense attraction to each other created some *delicious* spice & it starts from the very first page. The romance between them was so insanely hot, but also so deep on an emotional level. These two needed each other. Their romance starts as no strings attached, & really just to satiate their intense physical attraction. Even though they both don’t want feelings involved, it ends up going so much deeper than that. Brett is harboring some serious guilt & trauma surrounding the loss of his sister, & that grief is coming to a head in this book. He’s got some pretty self destructive tendencies & it’s affecting him in all facets of life. Learning of this, Bri just wants to help him & let him know he’s not alone & doesn’t need to feel guilty. Bri is exactly what Brett needs to go on his journey toward forgiving himself, if only he would let himself.
This story, while being a spicy romance, is very much about healing journeys & what truly being there for someone looks like. It touches on some dark themes such as loss and grief, and Jillian writes about this topics in a beautiful and respectful way. I loved Brett’s journey in this book, and seeing his progression from beginning to end was so inspiringly and emotionally impactful. This book had me in my emotions! I cried, I laughed, & I had to fan myself on multiple occasions because these two are HOT! I just really loved every single thing about it. The ending had me ugly crying at 1am.
This book, & honestly the whole series, is just amazing so far. Jillian is a fantastic writer and is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. The way she writes is so powerful and I love that I can feel all the characters emotions through the pages. I cannot wait to see what’s in store for Ryan’s book, & I have some ideas about who will be in it and let me just say, I can’t wait!
𝗧𝗟𝗗𝗥: Infinity stars, spicy spice that will make you melt, tortured drummer boy on a healing journey, rockstar romance, INFINITY STARS! 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱, 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱, 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗗 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸!
🥁✨𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗙𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗜𝗙 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘...✨🥁
🖤Rockstar Romances
🖤Tortured Bad Boy/Broken MMC
🖤Feisty and Lovable FMC
🖤Friends to Lovers
🖤Spicy Hot Spice
🖤No Strings Attached Relationship…
🖤Healing Journeys
🖤Angst/Lust
──────☆🥁🎶🥁☆──────
March 23, 2024
🖤 Drummer/Aerialist
♥️ Internal struggle
🖤 Strong AF FMC
♥️ Hand necklaces
🖤 Rough 😏😏😏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Oh Jillian, you did it again. Bravo ma’am, you’re making me struggle to find words for this beautiful book. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I blushed, I gasped, and I thought about my own struggles and doubts with Him. Thank you for not only letting me ARC your book you fabulous human, but for helping me to start to evaluate myself and why I have pulled a Brett and distanced myself from Him.
This story was more than what I expected it to be. The spice, the plot, the arc, the backstory, the relationship, the friendship, the support, all of it. Brett and Bri were explosive together in the best ways possible. I wish I was more eloquent in what to say about how beautiful this book is. But I’m not. The book speaks for itself. So all I can say is READ IT.
Brett has been struggling for so long. No one really understood the exact reason and the guilt has weighed on him so heavily. How could he get close to someone, or let the people he loves know about it, when they might leave him? So s€x and alc0hol have been his go to.
Bri has been into Brett for years, even before she became part of the tour. The chemistry between the two is 🔥🔥🔥! And once the contract is up for the US tour, it’s no holds bar. The only catch? Don’t catch feelings.
Turns out, that’s hard to do when the s€xy as sin drummer is exact who Bri has wanted for years. And as much as he can’t give in because of his past, Bri is exactly who Brett needs. The two were made for each other, they just have too much in the way to see that.
A tragic event causes the two of them to reevaluate themselves and each other. Is it enough to finally see what, and who is in front of them?
Not only do I love this band their bond, and seeing Bri and Brett’s story come to life, but I love that Jillian spent time setting up the next book. I am so excited for Ryan’s book. He is absolutely my kind of book boyfriend! 🤩🥵
🥁 “Apparently, I have a penchant for broken things and walking red flags.”
🥁 “Ruin me. Make it so your name is the only one I remember.”
🥁 “You’re going to pay for that smart mouth of yours. I’m going to f*** it so hard you won’t be able to talk for three days.”
🥁 “I want her marks on me. I want the world to know she’s claimed me.”
🥁 “Carry on, you wonderfully filthy motherf***er.”
♥️ Internal struggle
🖤 Strong AF FMC
♥️ Hand necklaces
🖤 Rough 😏😏😏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Oh Jillian, you did it again. Bravo ma’am, you’re making me struggle to find words for this beautiful book. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I blushed, I gasped, and I thought about my own struggles and doubts with Him. Thank you for not only letting me ARC your book you fabulous human, but for helping me to start to evaluate myself and why I have pulled a Brett and distanced myself from Him.
This story was more than what I expected it to be. The spice, the plot, the arc, the backstory, the relationship, the friendship, the support, all of it. Brett and Bri were explosive together in the best ways possible. I wish I was more eloquent in what to say about how beautiful this book is. But I’m not. The book speaks for itself. So all I can say is READ IT.
Brett has been struggling for so long. No one really understood the exact reason and the guilt has weighed on him so heavily. How could he get close to someone, or let the people he loves know about it, when they might leave him? So s€x and alc0hol have been his go to.
Bri has been into Brett for years, even before she became part of the tour. The chemistry between the two is 🔥🔥🔥! And once the contract is up for the US tour, it’s no holds bar. The only catch? Don’t catch feelings.
Turns out, that’s hard to do when the s€xy as sin drummer is exact who Bri has wanted for years. And as much as he can’t give in because of his past, Bri is exactly who Brett needs. The two were made for each other, they just have too much in the way to see that.
A tragic event causes the two of them to reevaluate themselves and each other. Is it enough to finally see what, and who is in front of them?
Not only do I love this band their bond, and seeing Bri and Brett’s story come to life, but I love that Jillian spent time setting up the next book. I am so excited for Ryan’s book. He is absolutely my kind of book boyfriend! 🤩🥵
🥁 “Apparently, I have a penchant for broken things and walking red flags.”
🥁 “Ruin me. Make it so your name is the only one I remember.”
🥁 “You’re going to pay for that smart mouth of yours. I’m going to f*** it so hard you won’t be able to talk for three days.”
🥁 “I want her marks on me. I want the world to know she’s claimed me.”
🥁 “Carry on, you wonderfully filthy motherf***er.”
March 20, 2024
Beautifully Rendered Rockstar Romance...
From Chapter 1, author Jillian Wray pulls no punches as rock band Beautiful Deceit's playboy drummer Brett Donovan and free spirit aerialist Bri Vorossi are finally able to act on their months-long attraction after their European tour begins.
Wray throws us into the SPICY deep end from the get-go, and wow, the chemistry and heat immediately take center stage! Brett is a demanding but generous lover, Bri gives as good as she gets, and the two waste no time making beautiful music together. The banter between the two and their frank desire for each other are refreshing.
Each professing an aversion to commitment, they decide to scratch the itch for the remaining tour, agreeing to keep it physical only. What Bri doesn't know is that Brett is harboring a dark secret, medicating his pain and guilt with alcohol and sex.
As their physical relationship intensifies, their emotional connection increases, and each has to individually grapple with the idea that this will end. Bri takes steps to protect her heart, and Brett spirals under the weight of his incredible guilt and Bri's rejection. Bri's strong feelings and compassion for Brett win out, but when lives are on the line, Brett must step up to save them both.
Readers, this book is unlike any spicy romance I have ever read. Both Brett and Bri come from faith-based backgrounds, each having rejected dogma and religiosity for different reasons. Each must come to terms with how and where they place their faith, both in each other and in something greater than themselves.
Wray has written a story that is freeing and redemptive without being preachy, poignantly and carefully crafting moments of quiet reflection, acceptance of grace, and forgiveness. This is the first open door, sex positive book with underlying spiritual themes I have read, and Wray had me in tears throughout. As someone who has experienced spiritual hurt and the fallout of purity culture, this story was what I needed when I needed it.
I immediately downloaded Book 1 (Invisible Burdens), and so should you. Books 3 and 4 of the Beautiful Deceit series are forthcoming.
As always, check content warnings.
From Chapter 1, author Jillian Wray pulls no punches as rock band Beautiful Deceit's playboy drummer Brett Donovan and free spirit aerialist Bri Vorossi are finally able to act on their months-long attraction after their European tour begins.
Wray throws us into the SPICY deep end from the get-go, and wow, the chemistry and heat immediately take center stage! Brett is a demanding but generous lover, Bri gives as good as she gets, and the two waste no time making beautiful music together. The banter between the two and their frank desire for each other are refreshing.
Each professing an aversion to commitment, they decide to scratch the itch for the remaining tour, agreeing to keep it physical only. What Bri doesn't know is that Brett is harboring a dark secret, medicating his pain and guilt with alcohol and sex.
As their physical relationship intensifies, their emotional connection increases, and each has to individually grapple with the idea that this will end. Bri takes steps to protect her heart, and Brett spirals under the weight of his incredible guilt and Bri's rejection. Bri's strong feelings and compassion for Brett win out, but when lives are on the line, Brett must step up to save them both.
Readers, this book is unlike any spicy romance I have ever read. Both Brett and Bri come from faith-based backgrounds, each having rejected dogma and religiosity for different reasons. Each must come to terms with how and where they place their faith, both in each other and in something greater than themselves.
Wray has written a story that is freeing and redemptive without being preachy, poignantly and carefully crafting moments of quiet reflection, acceptance of grace, and forgiveness. This is the first open door, sex positive book with underlying spiritual themes I have read, and Wray had me in tears throughout. As someone who has experienced spiritual hurt and the fallout of purity culture, this story was what I needed when I needed it.
I immediately downloaded Book 1 (Invisible Burdens), and so should you. Books 3 and 4 of the Beautiful Deceit series are forthcoming.
As always, check content warnings.
June 26, 2024
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Wray did it once again. She completely capture my attention and mind with this book. The story of Brett and Bri was something I definitely needed in my life. I literally couldn't get enough of these two.
Everything about this book captivated me, but I have to admit that it was the character development had me falling completely in love with it. In my opinion, Bri was the one that showed the most strength when it came to her realizing her true feelings. I loved the way she communicated with Brett about what she needed in order to respect the boundaries they had set in the beginning. It may have driven me out of mind because I just them to keep on going, but I agree that it was for the best.
On the other hand, I feel like Brett showed the most growth because he had a bit more challenges to overcome. Finding out what was holding him back from being truly happy and carefree was heart-wrenching. His story had me crying and tearing for a good part of the book. As emotional as it was, I loved learning more about Brett because it made me appreciate him and love him even more as a character not to mention admire him. Both of these two showed incredible strength and growth in my eyes. Not everyone can go through what they went through and come out the other side the way they did. I truly believe I'll forever be in awe of Brett and Bri.
Something I truly admire about Jillian Wray and her works are her characters. They are some of the most dynamic characters I've had the pleasure of encountering in my reading journey. She makes it so easy to connect with them and wrap you up in their stories and emotions. She honestly did an incredible job with this book and its characters. I'm seriously finding it challenging to find the correct words to describe just how great of a job she did.
Bearing the Burden was an amazing read, but also a rough one because it contained many tough topics. It is not for the light of heart mind you, but it is definitely worth the time to read. Absolutely recommend it to anyone who may be interested in it.
Wray did it once again. She completely capture my attention and mind with this book. The story of Brett and Bri was something I definitely needed in my life. I literally couldn't get enough of these two.
Everything about this book captivated me, but I have to admit that it was the character development had me falling completely in love with it. In my opinion, Bri was the one that showed the most strength when it came to her realizing her true feelings. I loved the way she communicated with Brett about what she needed in order to respect the boundaries they had set in the beginning. It may have driven me out of mind because I just them to keep on going, but I agree that it was for the best.
On the other hand, I feel like Brett showed the most growth because he had a bit more challenges to overcome. Finding out what was holding him back from being truly happy and carefree was heart-wrenching. His story had me crying and tearing for a good part of the book. As emotional as it was, I loved learning more about Brett because it made me appreciate him and love him even more as a character not to mention admire him. Both of these two showed incredible strength and growth in my eyes. Not everyone can go through what they went through and come out the other side the way they did. I truly believe I'll forever be in awe of Brett and Bri.
Something I truly admire about Jillian Wray and her works are her characters. They are some of the most dynamic characters I've had the pleasure of encountering in my reading journey. She makes it so easy to connect with them and wrap you up in their stories and emotions. She honestly did an incredible job with this book and its characters. I'm seriously finding it challenging to find the correct words to describe just how great of a job she did.
Bearing the Burden was an amazing read, but also a rough one because it contained many tough topics. It is not for the light of heart mind you, but it is definitely worth the time to read. Absolutely recommend it to anyone who may be interested in it.
March 19, 2024
Brett’s younger sister passed away three years ago and he has always blamed himself. Now he buries his pain in large amounts of alcohol and sex - which is readily available to the drummer of the biggest rock band around. Bri is an aerial dancer for the band who has never been one for monogamy. They both have this sexual tension between them which they have never crossed the line on. Both jealous of anyone touching the other, but not willing to stake that claim yet. With an 7 week tour around Europe, they decide that maybe being friends with benefits and absolutely no strings would be the best option. Nothing could complicate that right? Except her jealous streak which is a mile long, him having a million fan pining for him and always grabbing on him, another band mate playing on his jealous side, otherworldly sex and something strange that feels similar to feelings - these two are in a world of trouble if they cannot get it under control.
This book was spicy from the start, with a troubled bad boy and a girl wanting to save him. Plus the twist toward the end was less than expected. I am not usually into rockstar romances but these two had me in a chokehold from the beginning!!!! Now I need to go back and read Noah and Sienna’s story and wait for Ryan’s story to come!!!
-Kayla/Hot.Bookmance
This book was spicy from the start, with a troubled bad boy and a girl wanting to save him. Plus the twist toward the end was less than expected. I am not usually into rockstar romances but these two had me in a chokehold from the beginning!!!! Now I need to go back and read Noah and Sienna’s story and wait for Ryan’s story to come!!!
-Kayla/Hot.Bookmance
March 20, 2024
- Rockstar romance
- Spice spice spice
- Past trauma
- Fling to ?
My word, this book!!! I am an enormous fan of music, and rockstar romances are a personal favorite of mine. However, it's not a genre that many do well. This book? This author? Done to perfection. The characters are so complex, not always likable, but never boring. The heat? Smoking! The story? Wonderful and sometimes heartbreaking.
Brett and Bri are on tour. Brett is the drummer and Bri is one of the dancer/aerial artists that is part of the band's shows. They have been flirting big time during the tours in the US, but their contracts forbade them from a relationship. Now that they are on the European tour, the contract is no longer valid and Brett has been waiting for this day. But that's not the end of the story...
Neither Brett nor Bri have had any interest in long term relationships, for their own reasons. However, now that they have scratched their itches, so to speak, Brett starts to catch feelings. Which Bri doesn't like... When Bri starts to emotionally distance herself, this triggers Brett due to past traumas.
What we get is the front row seat to a beautiful, angsty, complex, messy romance. And I need an encore!
- Spice spice spice
- Past trauma
- Fling to ?
My word, this book!!! I am an enormous fan of music, and rockstar romances are a personal favorite of mine. However, it's not a genre that many do well. This book? This author? Done to perfection. The characters are so complex, not always likable, but never boring. The heat? Smoking! The story? Wonderful and sometimes heartbreaking.
Brett and Bri are on tour. Brett is the drummer and Bri is one of the dancer/aerial artists that is part of the band's shows. They have been flirting big time during the tours in the US, but their contracts forbade them from a relationship. Now that they are on the European tour, the contract is no longer valid and Brett has been waiting for this day. But that's not the end of the story...
Neither Brett nor Bri have had any interest in long term relationships, for their own reasons. However, now that they have scratched their itches, so to speak, Brett starts to catch feelings. Which Bri doesn't like... When Bri starts to emotionally distance herself, this triggers Brett due to past traumas.
What we get is the front row seat to a beautiful, angsty, complex, messy romance. And I need an encore!
March 17, 2024
✨️✨️✨️✨️
Bearing the Burden by Jillian Wray
@jillian_wray_author
🪢Arc Review 🪢
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
🪢interconnected standalone
🪢 Forbidden love
🪢 Angsty/lust
🪢 Self hate
🪢 talk of loss by death
🪢Hand necklaces
🪢 Breath play
Be Still my heart. . . This book had everything packed in this 320-page story. Angsty , sexy, wild sex, lust, first love butteflies, friendship, and emotional rollercoaster and forgiveness. This book was Brett and Bri's story. What started out as lust turned something more, neither can deny. This book had me feeling all the feels from laughing to crying at the last few chapters. I haven't cried reading a book in quite a while. My heart was hurting for Brett, for Bri, but Jillian mended it in the end just as she mended Brett's . What a great story, I can't wait for Ryan's story, and hopefully Emma is included in that!!! Most definitely recommend this book. I read part of Invisible Burdens just so I can get a feel of the other characters and the start of the band and aerial dancers. Definitely recommend reading Invisible Burdens!!! 10/10 recommend this book if you want dark, but also yearn for that emotional connections.
Bearing the Burden by Jillian Wray
@jillian_wray_author
🪢Arc Review 🪢
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
🪢interconnected standalone
🪢 Forbidden love
🪢 Angsty/lust
🪢 Self hate
🪢 talk of loss by death
🪢Hand necklaces
🪢 Breath play
Be Still my heart. . . This book had everything packed in this 320-page story. Angsty , sexy, wild sex, lust, first love butteflies, friendship, and emotional rollercoaster and forgiveness. This book was Brett and Bri's story. What started out as lust turned something more, neither can deny. This book had me feeling all the feels from laughing to crying at the last few chapters. I haven't cried reading a book in quite a while. My heart was hurting for Brett, for Bri, but Jillian mended it in the end just as she mended Brett's . What a great story, I can't wait for Ryan's story, and hopefully Emma is included in that!!! Most definitely recommend this book. I read part of Invisible Burdens just so I can get a feel of the other characters and the start of the band and aerial dancers. Definitely recommend reading Invisible Burdens!!! 10/10 recommend this book if you want dark, but also yearn for that emotional connections.
March 12, 2024
I need a minute to recover from this, because damn that was intense. Since book 1, I knew that Brett and Brie would be a force to be reckoned with, but they were so much more than what I expected.
Since they met, Dono-Rossi have had an off the charts chemistry, and when they finally give into it, it turns out to be more than they both bargained for. I'm not gonna lie, at times I found myself wanting to punch Brett in the face, but the next minute I would find myself wanting to protect him and put all his pieces back together, because damn that burden!
I don't want to give any spoilers, so I'm just gonna say that this story had me feeling all the feels. From happy, to broken, to holy shit that was hot! Jillian did an amazing job putting to paper some very deep themes, like grieving and forgiveness, while at the same time keeping the mood light with some great banter, and setting up the storyline for the next book, which I can't wait to read!
Quite: “Don’t idolize me, baby. A pretty face can hide a whole lot of fucked up shit.”
Since they met, Dono-Rossi have had an off the charts chemistry, and when they finally give into it, it turns out to be more than they both bargained for. I'm not gonna lie, at times I found myself wanting to punch Brett in the face, but the next minute I would find myself wanting to protect him and put all his pieces back together, because damn that burden!
I don't want to give any spoilers, so I'm just gonna say that this story had me feeling all the feels. From happy, to broken, to holy shit that was hot! Jillian did an amazing job putting to paper some very deep themes, like grieving and forgiveness, while at the same time keeping the mood light with some great banter, and setting up the storyline for the next book, which I can't wait to read!
Quite: “Don’t idolize me, baby. A pretty face can hide a whole lot of fucked up shit.”
March 19, 2024
When you have two main characters that are allergic to serious relationships and decide to have a no strings attached affair while working together, basically living together, and sharing a friend circle, what could possibly go wrong?
I was hooked on this book from the first page until the very end. Bri and Brett are impossible not to love. In fact, I even got attached to the side characters. Thank goodness Jillian is writing more of the band’s stories! The banter and the friendship between the Maine characters is perfection! This book had the perfect amount of spice it was believable and not over the top while still being enough!
It is rare for me to cry while reading a book and I got very choked up during this one. The ending was just absolutely perfect. When you close a book and just have to take deep breaths… thats what I love about reading… thats the feeling I chase! I can’t do this book justice in a little review, all I can say is get a copy of it and read it. Then get the rest of the books and read them too because the rest of Jillian’s books are now on my TBR.
I was hooked on this book from the first page until the very end. Bri and Brett are impossible not to love. In fact, I even got attached to the side characters. Thank goodness Jillian is writing more of the band’s stories! The banter and the friendship between the Maine characters is perfection! This book had the perfect amount of spice it was believable and not over the top while still being enough!
It is rare for me to cry while reading a book and I got very choked up during this one. The ending was just absolutely perfect. When you close a book and just have to take deep breaths… thats what I love about reading… thats the feeling I chase! I can’t do this book justice in a little review, all I can say is get a copy of it and read it. Then get the rest of the books and read them too because the rest of Jillian’s books are now on my TBR.
April 25, 2024
I won this copy of Bearing the Burden from new to me author Jillian Wray’s Instagram contest. Thank you, I loved it so much.
I rarely win anything, and I love a good rockstar romance.
This is book 2 in her Beautiful Deceit series. While waiting for the physical copy to arrive, I downloaded the first book “Invisible Burdens” on Kindle Unlimited. Both can be read as standalone books but do have many of the same characters. I wanted to be sure I knew who the main characters were.
Book 2 starts where Book 1 ends. The band Beautiful Deceit is ready to start the second leg of their tour and bring it to the UK and Europe. Bri was hired as an aerial dancer for the U.S. tour. Brett Donovan is the bad boy drummer of the band, and their lives are changing dramatically with the success of the tour and upcoming album.
The U.S. tour had a contract for band members, dancers, and crew to keep things professional and no one could date or hook up or they’d be fired. Turns out that didn’t stop Bri’s friend and fellow dancer Sienna and lead singer Noah Kincaid who are now a couple….more on that when I review Invisible Burdens. lol
Bri and Brett have been frenemies with so much pent-up chemistry in Book 1 and the funniest banter. Bri doesn’t put up with his nonsense. Brett likes getting under her skin. Now that the new tour is starting all bets are off since the contract terms don’t require them to stay apart. The build-up and sexual tension between these two will finally come to a head. They agree they can hook up but not develop feelings for each other.
That doesn’t quite work out for either of them as the more time they are together their connection grows. Brett also has a secret that he won’t share with his bandmates or family. It’s too hard to carry and he is getting through it by drinking and being reckless. Bri helps him to come to terms with what has been haunting him. Their attraction is so intense and also causes something to happen to Bri. This causes Brett to reflect on how he has been living his life and what Bri means to him. He finally shares his burden with her and his family and releases all the guilt he’s been holding in. It’s such a tragic but beautiful resolution and had me weeping.
I loved how they worked out their problems and ultimately shared with those closest to them and found some peace and resolution. Can’t wait to read Ryan’s story next. Well done Jillian! xoxo
I rarely win anything, and I love a good rockstar romance.
This is book 2 in her Beautiful Deceit series. While waiting for the physical copy to arrive, I downloaded the first book “Invisible Burdens” on Kindle Unlimited. Both can be read as standalone books but do have many of the same characters. I wanted to be sure I knew who the main characters were.
Book 2 starts where Book 1 ends. The band Beautiful Deceit is ready to start the second leg of their tour and bring it to the UK and Europe. Bri was hired as an aerial dancer for the U.S. tour. Brett Donovan is the bad boy drummer of the band, and their lives are changing dramatically with the success of the tour and upcoming album.
The U.S. tour had a contract for band members, dancers, and crew to keep things professional and no one could date or hook up or they’d be fired. Turns out that didn’t stop Bri’s friend and fellow dancer Sienna and lead singer Noah Kincaid who are now a couple….more on that when I review Invisible Burdens. lol
Bri and Brett have been frenemies with so much pent-up chemistry in Book 1 and the funniest banter. Bri doesn’t put up with his nonsense. Brett likes getting under her skin. Now that the new tour is starting all bets are off since the contract terms don’t require them to stay apart. The build-up and sexual tension between these two will finally come to a head. They agree they can hook up but not develop feelings for each other.
That doesn’t quite work out for either of them as the more time they are together their connection grows. Brett also has a secret that he won’t share with his bandmates or family. It’s too hard to carry and he is getting through it by drinking and being reckless. Bri helps him to come to terms with what has been haunting him. Their attraction is so intense and also causes something to happen to Bri. This causes Brett to reflect on how he has been living his life and what Bri means to him. He finally shares his burden with her and his family and releases all the guilt he’s been holding in. It’s such a tragic but beautiful resolution and had me weeping.
I loved how they worked out their problems and ultimately shared with those closest to them and found some peace and resolution. Can’t wait to read Ryan’s story next. Well done Jillian! xoxo
March 9, 2024
ARC REVIEW 🥁
After reading the first book in the Beautiful Deceit series and loving it, I had high hopes for book 2. @jillian_wray_author came through with all I could want for Bearing the Burden and more!!!!!!
My God (yes Brett, I had to) I can’t even say all I want to without giving away too much, but here goes. Brett and Bri were made for each other; we saw it when we first met them. Brett however is dealing with some heavy 🤫 and being the healer she is Bri wants to fix him. But how do you fix someone you’re not supposed to love? How do you build someone up that you have to break down? How do you accept unconditional love when you feel you’re not worthy?
This book took us on a roller coaster of love, lost, trauma, spirituality, iniquity’s and so much more. A whole theme park of emotions. I’m so shook that it’s over and even more shook of the Ryan/Emma cliffhanger like ummmm hellooooooo definitely need that story. 5 ⭐️ read for me.
After reading the first book in the Beautiful Deceit series and loving it, I had high hopes for book 2. @jillian_wray_author came through with all I could want for Bearing the Burden and more!!!!!!
My God (yes Brett, I had to) I can’t even say all I want to without giving away too much, but here goes. Brett and Bri were made for each other; we saw it when we first met them. Brett however is dealing with some heavy 🤫 and being the healer she is Bri wants to fix him. But how do you fix someone you’re not supposed to love? How do you build someone up that you have to break down? How do you accept unconditional love when you feel you’re not worthy?
This book took us on a roller coaster of love, lost, trauma, spirituality, iniquity’s and so much more. A whole theme park of emotions. I’m so shook that it’s over and even more shook of the Ryan/Emma cliffhanger like ummmm hellooooooo definitely need that story. 5 ⭐️ read for me.
March 11, 2024
Only two days! Would have finished it sooner if duty didn’t call. I loved this book; I knew on seeing the blurb that this would be my favourite of Beautiful Deceit (quite premature without having read the others). Drummer boy and Bri’s banter, repartee was next level and seeing their pain, growth was amazing. Their characters worked so well together, and it was wonderful to see them as fully developed characters instead of bits and pieces.
I cried, had my heartbroken as both characters were so relatable. I loved their stubbornness, fierceness, and protectiveness.
It’s hard not to give away but I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book. Can’t wait for a re-read when next book comes out!
Thanks so for such a beautiful book Jillian ❤️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I cried, had my heartbroken as both characters were so relatable. I loved their stubbornness, fierceness, and protectiveness.
It’s hard not to give away but I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book. Can’t wait for a re-read when next book comes out!
Thanks so for such a beautiful book Jillian ❤️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
March 13, 2024
As usual, Jillian does it again. I have loved everything that I have read of hers, and Bearing the Burden is no different.
What an absolutely beautiful story. It definitely got emotional. I can absolutely relate to the feelings that Brett had around the death of his sister. I had a brother die, and the feelings around it are so complicated. I felt like Jillian really captured that inner turmoil in this book.
I am not really big on religion in my books, but this was very tastefully done and very spiritual and healing than what I typically associate with organized religion.
The love story was wonderful, and I was so happy when they finally admitted their feelings for each other. Bri was so responsible and good at taking care of herself in this book. Also, I love jealousy tropes 😂
What an absolutely beautiful story. It definitely got emotional. I can absolutely relate to the feelings that Brett had around the death of his sister. I had a brother die, and the feelings around it are so complicated. I felt like Jillian really captured that inner turmoil in this book.
I am not really big on religion in my books, but this was very tastefully done and very spiritual and healing than what I typically associate with organized religion.
The love story was wonderful, and I was so happy when they finally admitted their feelings for each other. Bri was so responsible and good at taking care of herself in this book. Also, I love jealousy tropes 😂
March 14, 2024
Beautiful Deceit’s drummer, Brett Donovan, has been waiting montha to get his hands on Bri Vorossi. With the sexual tension through the roof, these two are on the verge of detonation.
While neither Bri or Brett are looking for a relationship, the idea of them with anyone else makes them green with jealous (and maybe a little ragey).
When Brett's past gets the best of him and he gets a little too drunk, Bri learns about the pain that has been haunting him the last three years and all she wants to do is find a way to help him.
I was shocked by how much I loved Invisible Burdens and was so excited for Bearing the Burden to release. I was not disappointed! Cannot wait for Ryan's book (is he next? Please tell me he's next!?)
While neither Bri or Brett are looking for a relationship, the idea of them with anyone else makes them green with jealous (and maybe a little ragey).
When Brett's past gets the best of him and he gets a little too drunk, Bri learns about the pain that has been haunting him the last three years and all she wants to do is find a way to help him.
I was shocked by how much I loved Invisible Burdens and was so excited for Bearing the Burden to release. I was not disappointed! Cannot wait for Ryan's book (is he next? Please tell me he's next!?)
June 11, 2024
Brett and Bri delivered a truly beautiful and heart-wrenching performance in this book. Both searching for a fun time on the European leg of Beautiful Deceit’s sold out world tour, they collide after weeks of build up and it is explosive. We learn a lot about the back story for both characters and it is easy to identify with both of them as they navigate this situation. I love that while they are works in progress they were willing to take the risks needed to explore their relationship instead of waiting to become their ideal versions of themselves. The family and found family is this book was on full display and helped to flesh out the background for each character culminating in a satisfying ending to their love story.
I can’t wait for Ryan and Emmie’s story up next!
I can’t wait for Ryan and Emmie’s story up next!
January 11, 2025
Bri has had a crush on Brett for as long as she can remember. Who would have predicted that she and her best friend, Sienna would end up being arial dancers for his band. It was like a dream come true, and she was going after drummer boy. She has commitment issues but Brett is definitely not any better. Brett has issues because of his sister, Penny. Getting him to open up and share the burden he’s carrying wasn’t going to be easy especially since they were both falling in love. They’re both denying what’s happening until it reaches disastrous proportions. This story has no parts that drag, it’s smooth and flows well. I love their chemistry and it’s romantic when you least expect it. I’m giving this book five stars and highly recommend it.
March 19, 2024
Ok so this book was even better than the first one, and hit closer to home for me. I dont want to say why exactly but what you end up finding out about Bri at the end is similar to my childhood.
This is the love story of Bri and Brett! They are literally both smex on legs so you can imagine what happens when they finally cave in to eachother......steammmyyyy!! But with that comes all the drama, past traumas, secrets, and character growth. I adore both these characters and it was impossible for me to put this down.
This is the love story of Bri and Brett! They are literally both smex on legs so you can imagine what happens when they finally cave in to eachother......steammmyyyy!! But with that comes all the drama, past traumas, secrets, and character growth. I adore both these characters and it was impossible for me to put this down.
March 26, 2024
I've been waiting for Brett and Bri's story since meeting them in Invisible Burdens. Jillian blew my expectations out of the water! The chemistry and spice between thesm were chef's kiss. I found myself drowning in the best ways with these two, and taken on the emotional rollercoaster of my life. There were countless moments that made me laugh, cry, and melt into a puddle. My heart broke for Brett and his loss of his sister, but Bri mended it back together with each compassionate act and countless moments of support. This is definitely one of my favorite books I've read so far this year!
March 11, 2024
This was my first time reading one of Jillians' books. But it will definitely not be the last. Bri and Brett take us on an emotional roller coaster. Brett is obviously dealing with something, and Bri wants to help him but is torn. I don't want to give anything away, so I will leave you with this... You NEED to read this book and series! I will be going back to read the first book and can not wait for the next one!
March 21, 2024
WOW that’s what I got to say. This is book 2 of the beautiful deceit series and it’s so damn good. Jillian Wray has done it again. It had me all in my feels. That is one reason why I love reading I love reading books that make me feel and boy did this book do that. Brett and Bri story was just so good and hot 🥵 Jillian threw us right into the heat and spice and it was amazing. Seriously can’t wait for book 3.
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