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Altar Anthem
My anthem will forever be that I’ll worship at her altar.
Cohen Williams has been my best friend since the moment we first met in school at twelve years old. He’s been there for me through everything life has thrown my way.
Now we’re all grown up and I’m terrified he’ll see how much I love him. Instead of chasing him away, I’ll chase my dreams instead.
—
Tori Tanner flipped my world right side up again and makes me want to be a better person…
But only for her.
Now someone else wants her, but I’ve waited long enough and I won’t let him have what I’ve already claimed as mine.
Even if she doesn’t approve of my methods. What she doesn’t know won’t hurt her.
I’m keeping her. Always and Forever.
Cohen Williams has been my best friend since the moment we first met in school at twelve years old. He’s been there for me through everything life has thrown my way.
Now we’re all grown up and I’m terrified he’ll see how much I love him. Instead of chasing him away, I’ll chase my dreams instead.
—
Tori Tanner flipped my world right side up again and makes me want to be a better person…
But only for her.
Now someone else wants her, but I’ve waited long enough and I won’t let him have what I’ve already claimed as mine.
Even if she doesn’t approve of my methods. What she doesn’t know won’t hurt her.
I’m keeping her. Always and Forever.
- GenresContemporary Romance
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2024
2 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Amber Lee
3 books40 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads data base.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
June 22, 2025
DNF @52%
July 2, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel. I would almost consider it an almost dark thriller romance.
The main characters Tori and Cohen have been best friends since middle school, however both have had feelings for each other but not revealed them to the other. There is a lot of yearning and some obstacles to overcome. The slow burn has you gripping your book with anticipation.
I enjoyed the author’s writing style and the plot of the story. Between the twists, secrets and suspense … all had me flipping through the pages! Such a good read! *I do advise you to check out the TWs
The main characters Tori and Cohen have been best friends since middle school, however both have had feelings for each other but not revealed them to the other. There is a lot of yearning and some obstacles to overcome. The slow burn has you gripping your book with anticipation.
I enjoyed the author’s writing style and the plot of the story. Between the twists, secrets and suspense … all had me flipping through the pages! Such a good read! *I do advise you to check out the TWs
June 30, 2025
This book will forever live in my head and heart. I couldn’t help but fall in love with the story and characters. I couldn’t put it down. This book had me giggling, swooning and I even shed some tears. I thought it was going to just be a sweet and beautiful story, but noooo the author had to go and rip my heart out at one point.
Tori and Cohen have been best friends since they met. Always together. Always supporting one another. Secretly both loving and having a crush on the other without telling each other. After her father passed away and their parents end up together, they are not sure that they could ever be together now.
Tori is beautiful, strong, and a very talented photographer. She gets an opportunity of a lifetime to go to Germany for a photography program and is away from Cohen, her best friend. But they are always in contact and nothing changes, maybe feeling become a little bit stronger.
Cohen is an asshole to most ever since his mom left, but not to Tori. He would do anything for her. He even secretly places cameras in her room to watch her. His father wants him to take over his family business, but he has other plans. He wants to do music and he does as Altar Anthem. But no one, but his partner Silas knows.
I found myself yelling at these two to just tell each other how they felt so they could be together. Their friendship and banter was fantastic. But when they finally allowed their feelings to come out, they became even better. Their chemistry was electric and the spice was on fire.
5⭐️
3🌶️
Tori and Cohen have been best friends since they met. Always together. Always supporting one another. Secretly both loving and having a crush on the other without telling each other. After her father passed away and their parents end up together, they are not sure that they could ever be together now.
Tori is beautiful, strong, and a very talented photographer. She gets an opportunity of a lifetime to go to Germany for a photography program and is away from Cohen, her best friend. But they are always in contact and nothing changes, maybe feeling become a little bit stronger.
Cohen is an asshole to most ever since his mom left, but not to Tori. He would do anything for her. He even secretly places cameras in her room to watch her. His father wants him to take over his family business, but he has other plans. He wants to do music and he does as Altar Anthem. But no one, but his partner Silas knows.
I found myself yelling at these two to just tell each other how they felt so they could be together. Their friendship and banter was fantastic. But when they finally allowed their feelings to come out, they became even better. Their chemistry was electric and the spice was on fire.
5⭐️
3🌶️
July 3, 2025
ARC REVIEW “ALTAR ANTHEM” 📸🎤 Book One of “Eternal Rose” Series
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book follows the story of Tori and Cohen’s journey in their future careers and how they endure hardships until they confess to each other. They are childhood friends, they meet in the 6th grade and they fall in love at the first sight. Until they become a couple, Tori is in Germany for her Photography Program and Cohen is pursuing his music career with his best friend, Silas, forming an EDM duo called “Altar Anthem”.
The first hardship they endure is, after Tori’s dad death, her mother and Cohen’s father are forming a couple which is a surprise for both of them. The redecoration and the disappearing of her dad pictures from the living room makes Tori to move out from her childhood house. She moves out at Jacobson, her boyfriend from highschool, who secretely pins her and from this situation appears the problems.
The first 200 pages I read them in a single day, the last 100 pages were really overwhelming for me because there are the whole smut, Tori’s problems with Jacobson who becomes the villain in the story and the whole aggression. I don’t get the hiding of Cohen’s career and his reason from Tori. Even if he said it’s something for him I can’t justify the reason.
It was a quick romance read and I enjoyed it. But I dropped a star because of the last 100 pages who I wanted to became 200 pages with more scenes and not all of them once, because there were a lot of problems and they became overwhelming quickly.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book follows the story of Tori and Cohen’s journey in their future careers and how they endure hardships until they confess to each other. They are childhood friends, they meet in the 6th grade and they fall in love at the first sight. Until they become a couple, Tori is in Germany for her Photography Program and Cohen is pursuing his music career with his best friend, Silas, forming an EDM duo called “Altar Anthem”.
The first hardship they endure is, after Tori’s dad death, her mother and Cohen’s father are forming a couple which is a surprise for both of them. The redecoration and the disappearing of her dad pictures from the living room makes Tori to move out from her childhood house. She moves out at Jacobson, her boyfriend from highschool, who secretely pins her and from this situation appears the problems.
The first 200 pages I read them in a single day, the last 100 pages were really overwhelming for me because there are the whole smut, Tori’s problems with Jacobson who becomes the villain in the story and the whole aggression. I don’t get the hiding of Cohen’s career and his reason from Tori. Even if he said it’s something for him I can’t justify the reason.
It was a quick romance read and I enjoyed it. But I dropped a star because of the last 100 pages who I wanted to became 200 pages with more scenes and not all of them once, because there were a lot of problems and they became overwhelming quickly.
June 23, 2025
This book is good. It has the yearning, forbidden love, possessiveness, and just enough dark romance to keep you on your toes.
I love that this book had no third-act breakup and that the yearning was mutual.
The obsession that Cohen has for Tori is unmatched and dips into the darker side of romance at times. There was so much suspense at the end and I was reading it so fast because I just had to know what happened next. My other 2 favorite side characters were their parents believe it or not. Faye and Silas were pretty good ones too and I know that there is going to be another book based off this one as an interconnected standalone.
Altar Anthem sounds like every EDM girl’s dream and to be the one featured in the song and not even know it…then to find out after the fact is crazy.
Please check the trigger warnings and tropes as there is a lot that goes on in this book that probably won’t be for everyone.
I love that this book had no third-act breakup and that the yearning was mutual.
The obsession that Cohen has for Tori is unmatched and dips into the darker side of romance at times. There was so much suspense at the end and I was reading it so fast because I just had to know what happened next. My other 2 favorite side characters were their parents believe it or not. Faye and Silas were pretty good ones too and I know that there is going to be another book based off this one as an interconnected standalone.
Altar Anthem sounds like every EDM girl’s dream and to be the one featured in the song and not even know it…then to find out after the fact is crazy.
Please check the trigger warnings and tropes as there is a lot that goes on in this book that probably won’t be for everyone.
July 1, 2025
4.5⭐️
Altar Anthem is an emotional best friends to lovers story about two people who would give up the world for each other.
We follow Tori and Cohen as they navigate trauma, grief, finding their personal success, and finally their love for each other. Apart from the romance, I really enjoyed reading about Tori’s photography and Cohen’s music, and the way it all came together in the end.
It’s the perfect read to get you out of a reading slump - it’s short, fast-paced, and very well written. Full of yearning, tension, betrayal, and sweet and spicy romance, you won’t be able to put it down!
What to expect:
📸 best friends to lovers
📸 slow burn
📸 stalker
📸 touch her and 💀
📸 dual POV
“Always and forever, Pips.” He whispers against my skin. “Always and forever, Co.”
Thank you to Inkspire Services and the author for the ARC! I can’t wait for the next book.
Altar Anthem is an emotional best friends to lovers story about two people who would give up the world for each other.
We follow Tori and Cohen as they navigate trauma, grief, finding their personal success, and finally their love for each other. Apart from the romance, I really enjoyed reading about Tori’s photography and Cohen’s music, and the way it all came together in the end.
It’s the perfect read to get you out of a reading slump - it’s short, fast-paced, and very well written. Full of yearning, tension, betrayal, and sweet and spicy romance, you won’t be able to put it down!
What to expect:
📸 best friends to lovers
📸 slow burn
📸 stalker
📸 touch her and 💀
📸 dual POV
“Always and forever, Pips.” He whispers against my skin. “Always and forever, Co.”
Thank you to Inkspire Services and the author for the ARC! I can’t wait for the next book.
August 18, 2024
I loved these two characters so, so much. I love me a man obsessed with his girl and Cohen was nothing short of that!!! I loved their flaws, and how they were written so naturally into them—how incredibly human they both felt. They overcame every obstacle so wonderfully. I was worried the parents would be a problem, but how Amber handled that whole situation was also done so beautifully, I found myself loving Penelope and Jack just as much! I cannot wait for more in the series. I’m so excited to read more about Faye and Silas and I’m crossing my fingers for a Hendrix book! Idk why, but I’m already in love with him.
June 19, 2025
I really like the two main character, Cohen and Tori’s relationship. I liked how it started as a friendship and then ultimately progressed after a lot of yearning. This book is definitely a slow burn. I loved the aspects of photography that were incorporated, as photography is a major part of my life, and agree with Tori’s sentiments that photography represents many aspects of the beauty of both life and death. I would classify this book as a thriller romance, and the book built up to the last 40% that had a lot of suspense and intrigue!
Thank you to Inkspire and the author for the gifted copy.
Thank you to Inkspire and the author for the gifted copy.
April 15, 2025
✅Friends to lovers
✅obsession
✅tension
✅step siblings
✅found family
Yes please! This book was such a good read and checked some of my favorite tropes boxes!! 🥰
✅obsession
✅tension
✅step siblings
✅found family
Yes please! This book was such a good read and checked some of my favorite tropes boxes!! 🥰
June 23, 2025
I am crying 😭… the end of this book had me in tears!
I freaking loved all the characters EXCEPT one of them. What a royal d-bag!
The whole story was seriously the cutest! I couldn’t get enough!
I was given the opportunity to read this an ARC and I am so glad I was! A HUGE thank you!!!
I freaking loved all the characters EXCEPT one of them. What a royal d-bag!
The whole story was seriously the cutest! I couldn’t get enough!
I was given the opportunity to read this an ARC and I am so glad I was! A HUGE thank you!!!
July 6, 2025
First of all, thank you Inkspire and Amber Lee for gifting me an ARC of Altar Anthem.
Amber Lee's debut novel is a lovely friends-to-lovers romance with just enough mutual yearning and romance to make the plot work. Tori and Cohen have been friends since they were twelve, but each has a secret crush on the other. As they approach graduation, deal with loss, and begin their careers, their hidden feelings begin to emerge as Tori travels to Germany to launch her photography career while Cohen pursues a music career as part of the duo 'Altar Anthem.
The story is fast-paced, yet it covers years of friendship so that the romance never feels hurried, and the dual POV allows for enough character development to add complexity to the plot. The story does involve some darker undertones, and if Tori and Cohen had communicated more, they might have solved so much and avoided some of these elements. But I suppose it was more about the tension and drama between the two lead characters.
Tori and Cohen's relationship has a strong foundation, and I admired Cohen for being so supportive of Tori and her dreams. It was enjoyable to watch the two develop, but I felt that the actions were occasionally one-sided and that some of the reactions to circumstances by both main and supporting characters were strange. I also found that once Tori and Cohen eventually revealed their feelings, there was a dip in the story's progression; instead, things seemed to happen around the many intimate encounters between the two. I also think that a few of the details in the last half of the book were unnecessary.
Overall, I found it an engaging read, and I am looking forward to reading about what happens to the other characters, so I will be picking up the rest of the books in the series.
🌶🌶🌶/5
________________________
Favourite Quotes:
"Do you know what Selcouth means?" He finally asks.
"I'm afraid that I don't" folding my clammy hands over my lap.
"It's unfamiliar. Something that is strange and rare but breathtaking and marvellous." Sweeping his fingers across the photo faintly. "You, my dear, are selcouth.'
Why should you let the opinions of other people dictate how you live your life?
"If that means that I'm your boyfriend, great. You want to call me your everything, I'm good with that too. Your past, present, and future? I'm all those things. You're mine and I'm yours. End of discussion."
_______________________
Amber Lee's debut novel is a lovely friends-to-lovers romance with just enough mutual yearning and romance to make the plot work. Tori and Cohen have been friends since they were twelve, but each has a secret crush on the other. As they approach graduation, deal with loss, and begin their careers, their hidden feelings begin to emerge as Tori travels to Germany to launch her photography career while Cohen pursues a music career as part of the duo 'Altar Anthem.
The story is fast-paced, yet it covers years of friendship so that the romance never feels hurried, and the dual POV allows for enough character development to add complexity to the plot. The story does involve some darker undertones, and if Tori and Cohen had communicated more, they might have solved so much and avoided some of these elements. But I suppose it was more about the tension and drama between the two lead characters.
Tori and Cohen's relationship has a strong foundation, and I admired Cohen for being so supportive of Tori and her dreams. It was enjoyable to watch the two develop, but I felt that the actions were occasionally one-sided and that some of the reactions to circumstances by both main and supporting characters were strange. I also found that once Tori and Cohen eventually revealed their feelings, there was a dip in the story's progression; instead, things seemed to happen around the many intimate encounters between the two. I also think that a few of the details in the last half of the book were unnecessary.
Overall, I found it an engaging read, and I am looking forward to reading about what happens to the other characters, so I will be picking up the rest of the books in the series.
🌶🌶🌶/5
________________________
Favourite Quotes:
"Do you know what Selcouth means?" He finally asks.
"I'm afraid that I don't" folding my clammy hands over my lap.
"It's unfamiliar. Something that is strange and rare but breathtaking and marvellous." Sweeping his fingers across the photo faintly. "You, my dear, are selcouth.'
Why should you let the opinions of other people dictate how you live your life?
"If that means that I'm your boyfriend, great. You want to call me your everything, I'm good with that too. Your past, present, and future? I'm all those things. You're mine and I'm yours. End of discussion."
_______________________
June 17, 2025
I wished I enjoyed this book more than I did. The concept sounded great, but unfortunately it fell flat for me. I think if I was in my late teens/early twenties, I would have eaten this up. In my mid thirties, this book left me frustrated. If you’re a fan of the miscommunication trope, you’ll enjoy this. Unfortunately, I loathe the miscommunication trope so it was already a bad start. I’ll go over what I enjoyed and what I didn’t down below.
What I liked:
• The MMC, Cohen, is obsessed with the FMC and his best friend Tori. I love a good male obsession story.
• There is plenty of longing (more on that later) and I like that they didn’t get together right away.
• The side characters being the voices of reason
What didn’t work for me:
• The entire base of this novel revolves around miscommunication. If Cohen and Tori had one simple conversation, this whole situation could have been avoided. That’s where my frustration lies. If I was younger, it wouldn’t matter. The fact that I’m older, it frustrated the heck out of me. The argument could be made that they were young and immature. But there are plenty of sixteen year olds who can confess their feelings for each other.
• The miscommunication continues and Cohen doesn’t tell Tori about his being apart of an anonymous DJ duo, who she’s obsessed with (because of course she is). He even goes so far as to have her work for the DJ duo, Altar Anthem, without telling her he’s one of the DJs. Why? They’re supposed to be best friends. Why keep that from her? It’s weird at best.
• Tori. She’s young and dumb. I get it. But even when literally all of her dreams come true, she still isn’t content to be happy.
• Cohen. He wasn’t the worst, but if he only stopped for a second and was honest about something, anything, that would be great.
• The longing felt off. Things didn’t feel like they fell naturally in place that created the tension and longing. It felt forced, because most of the longing was created by miscommunication.
Thank you to Inkspire and the author for the gifted copy.
What I liked:
• The MMC, Cohen, is obsessed with the FMC and his best friend Tori. I love a good male obsession story.
• There is plenty of longing (more on that later) and I like that they didn’t get together right away.
• The side characters being the voices of reason
What didn’t work for me:
• The entire base of this novel revolves around miscommunication. If Cohen and Tori had one simple conversation, this whole situation could have been avoided. That’s where my frustration lies. If I was younger, it wouldn’t matter. The fact that I’m older, it frustrated the heck out of me. The argument could be made that they were young and immature. But there are plenty of sixteen year olds who can confess their feelings for each other.
• The miscommunication continues and Cohen doesn’t tell Tori about his being apart of an anonymous DJ duo, who she’s obsessed with (because of course she is). He even goes so far as to have her work for the DJ duo, Altar Anthem, without telling her he’s one of the DJs. Why? They’re supposed to be best friends. Why keep that from her? It’s weird at best.
• Tori. She’s young and dumb. I get it. But even when literally all of her dreams come true, she still isn’t content to be happy.
• Cohen. He wasn’t the worst, but if he only stopped for a second and was honest about something, anything, that would be great.
• The longing felt off. Things didn’t feel like they fell naturally in place that created the tension and longing. It felt forced, because most of the longing was created by miscommunication.
Thank you to Inkspire and the author for the gifted copy.
May 25, 2024
I’m not typically fond of friends to lovers, but I absolutely looooved this one! Victoria “Tori” Tanner and Cohen Williams have been best friends since middle school and have been in love with each other since. I enjoyed seeing their relationship from the start and experiencing the bond they had early on.
Cohen is such a sweet guy to Tori, or “Pips” as he likes to call her, and the care and support he constantly showed her had me swooning. Even when her career goals separate them for a year, his support and understanding had me falling in love with him. Meanwhile, he’s working his way up in the EDM world with his best friend Silas as Altar Anthem.
Can we talk about the song he made though??? Which featured Tori 👀 I was cacklinggg because nooo this man did not go this far with his obsession for her 😂 and why am I now jealous lmao
Is Cohen a little on the morally grey side? Obviously, because what man who is utterly obsessed with a women isn’t? His need to always protect her and keep her as his has him doing some unconventional things, but when it helps stop someone else from taking her, can we really blame him?
I loved seeing Tori grow into the woman she was truly meant to be. Seeing her find herself and go after what she wants in life was such a freeing experience. And we can’t forget about her best friend Faye, who is there to help her on her journey every step of the way. I mayyyy be wanting Faye and Silas to get together now and I’m crossing my fingers that they get a book 👀
Ratings:
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Darkness: 🩶
Plot: 📝📝📝📝
Character development: 🙍🏻🙍🏻🙍🏻
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
POV: Dual - first person
Ending: 🩷 HEA
Tropes:
✨ Obsessive MMC
✨ Stalker
✨ Trauma healing
✨ Childhood best friends
✨ Touch her and 💀
✨ Who did this to you
✨ Forbidden romance
✨ Slow burn
✨ Masked MMC
TWs:
⚠️ Parental Death from Cancer
⚠️ Attempted SA
⚠️ Physical Violence
⚠️ Mention of Knives
⚠️ Parental Abandonment
Cohen is such a sweet guy to Tori, or “Pips” as he likes to call her, and the care and support he constantly showed her had me swooning. Even when her career goals separate them for a year, his support and understanding had me falling in love with him. Meanwhile, he’s working his way up in the EDM world with his best friend Silas as Altar Anthem.
Can we talk about the song he made though??? Which featured Tori 👀 I was cacklinggg because nooo this man did not go this far with his obsession for her 😂 and why am I now jealous lmao
Is Cohen a little on the morally grey side? Obviously, because what man who is utterly obsessed with a women isn’t? His need to always protect her and keep her as his has him doing some unconventional things, but when it helps stop someone else from taking her, can we really blame him?
I loved seeing Tori grow into the woman she was truly meant to be. Seeing her find herself and go after what she wants in life was such a freeing experience. And we can’t forget about her best friend Faye, who is there to help her on her journey every step of the way. I mayyyy be wanting Faye and Silas to get together now and I’m crossing my fingers that they get a book 👀
Ratings:
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Darkness: 🩶
Plot: 📝📝📝📝
Character development: 🙍🏻🙍🏻🙍🏻
Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
POV: Dual - first person
Ending: 🩷 HEA
Tropes:
✨ Obsessive MMC
✨ Stalker
✨ Trauma healing
✨ Childhood best friends
✨ Touch her and 💀
✨ Who did this to you
✨ Forbidden romance
✨ Slow burn
✨ Masked MMC
TWs:
⚠️ Parental Death from Cancer
⚠️ Attempted SA
⚠️ Physical Violence
⚠️ Mention of Knives
⚠️ Parental Abandonment
June 22, 2025
Synopsis
This contemporary romance features friends to lovers, a protective and obsessive MC and a coming of age FMC. Tori and Cohen have been friends since middle school, but neither think the other would want anything more from their friendship. After the death of Tori’s father, Cohen does everything he can to make sure Tori is protected and helps her as she grieves the loss. As they continue to start their adult lives, things keep them apart and when another man has his sights on Tori, Cohen has to take matters into his own hands to ensure Tori is his always and forever.
My Thoughts
Tori and Cohen’s relationship is sweet and their story is one of patience, devotion and deep friendship which I found refreshing. I enjoyed the way Cohen’s character goes against his father’s wishes and creates a career for himself that fits his creativity while Tori follows her own passion. The fact they separately pursue their dreams before coming together gave their friends to lovers romance credibility and maturity. The plot has a few twists which kept it from being predictable and the side characters, Silas and Faye, were developed well and added humor to the story.
If you’re looking for a sweet contemporary romance with emotional depth and spice, I recommend this for your next read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This contemporary romance features friends to lovers, a protective and obsessive MC and a coming of age FMC. Tori and Cohen have been friends since middle school, but neither think the other would want anything more from their friendship. After the death of Tori’s father, Cohen does everything he can to make sure Tori is protected and helps her as she grieves the loss. As they continue to start their adult lives, things keep them apart and when another man has his sights on Tori, Cohen has to take matters into his own hands to ensure Tori is his always and forever.
My Thoughts
Tori and Cohen’s relationship is sweet and their story is one of patience, devotion and deep friendship which I found refreshing. I enjoyed the way Cohen’s character goes against his father’s wishes and creates a career for himself that fits his creativity while Tori follows her own passion. The fact they separately pursue their dreams before coming together gave their friends to lovers romance credibility and maturity. The plot has a few twists which kept it from being predictable and the side characters, Silas and Faye, were developed well and added humor to the story.
If you’re looking for a sweet contemporary romance with emotional depth and spice, I recommend this for your next read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 10, 2024
This is Amber debut novel and it was pretty awesome. The story was beautiful - it’s about Victoria & Cohen who are childhood best friends, they feel the same for each other but don’t tell each other that. Cohen has loved her since the moment he saw her … they soon find out they are to become step siblings and kinda put those feelings on hold but the chemistry is there. Victoria goes out and follows her dreams of becoming a photographer and Cohen of becoming an artist. When they finally get together, there is someone who has always been jealous of Cohen and is set of making his life hell, with everything in his life including the love of his life. We get to experience these childhood besties love grow, give each other space to grow and become something of their lives - always supporting each other and getting through hardship, a stalker/ asshole, and their dreams together
Amber this is yojr debut novel and ma’am it was beautiful …
I loved reading Cohen & Victorias story … seeing their love grew, how supportive that man is! I enjoyed it - we had spice, drama, romance, a man obsessed 😮💨
You definitely have a way with words and how to tell a romance story. It wasnt rushed, it flowed. I fell in love with the main characters as well as the side
Amber this is yojr debut novel and ma’am it was beautiful …
I loved reading Cohen & Victorias story … seeing their love grew, how supportive that man is! I enjoyed it - we had spice, drama, romance, a man obsessed 😮💨
You definitely have a way with words and how to tell a romance story. It wasnt rushed, it flowed. I fell in love with the main characters as well as the side
June 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
💗Friends to Step-Siblings to Lovers
🖤Obsessive MMC
😈Sta1ker-ish
❤️🔥Mutual Pining
Tori and Cohen have been best friends for years, then their parents get married and that makes things awkward, especially when both secretly pines for the other. It's a great hook and I read fast through this lightly forbidden, rather low stakes romance. So it'll hit the spot if that's the kind you're looking for!
Cohen is very endearing, his teasing is loving, he's very protective (sabotaging guys that show interest in Tori), a bit Obsessive (placing cameras), but ultimately a genuinely loving man. The white lie he keeps from Tori was a slight stretch for me to believe but I kinda see the reason why. Tori is an artsy soul and loves Cohen's musical side, his slight bad boy edge, his intensity, and his devotion to her.
The push-pull doesn't last very long, the "threat" I saw coming but that's ok. It's also rewarding to see them come together quite soon if you’re not one for the "will they wont they". This isn't meant to be angsty as similar forbidden loves, it's lighter in tone. But still entertaining, sweet and an enjoyable quick read.
🌶🌶🌶
💗Friends to Step-Siblings to Lovers
🖤Obsessive MMC
😈Sta1ker-ish
❤️🔥Mutual Pining
Tori and Cohen have been best friends for years, then their parents get married and that makes things awkward, especially when both secretly pines for the other. It's a great hook and I read fast through this lightly forbidden, rather low stakes romance. So it'll hit the spot if that's the kind you're looking for!
Cohen is very endearing, his teasing is loving, he's very protective (sabotaging guys that show interest in Tori), a bit Obsessive (placing cameras), but ultimately a genuinely loving man. The white lie he keeps from Tori was a slight stretch for me to believe but I kinda see the reason why. Tori is an artsy soul and loves Cohen's musical side, his slight bad boy edge, his intensity, and his devotion to her.
The push-pull doesn't last very long, the "threat" I saw coming but that's ok. It's also rewarding to see them come together quite soon if you’re not one for the "will they wont they". This isn't meant to be angsty as similar forbidden loves, it's lighter in tone. But still entertaining, sweet and an enjoyable quick read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
I’ve been in a little reading slump and I was afraid of starting any book for fear that the slump would just ruin any books. Well, Altar Anthem fixed that slump and FAST. I literally started the book at 9PM tonight and I’m typing them at 11:45PM. I DEVOURED this book.
The story follows Tori and Cohen, two high school best friends as they grow, experience trauma, develop as individuals, and eventually realize there may be some attraction to their friendship. The story starts off sweet (and possibly very sad), our MMC wants only to help the FMC and that theme travels throughout the entire book.
Their relationship was adorable. The best friends to lovers trope isn’t my favorite trope in the world but this book is definitely an exception for me. The tenderness the pair had from being friends mixed with the passion of a slow burn absolutely lit a fire under me that had me wanting more.
Some spicy scenes (no spoilers, I promise) were more risqué and just, WOW 🥵. I don’t want to ruin them so just trust me here.
Definitely check triggers before you jump in!
Overall, the story was amazing and I HIGHLY recommend!
🌶️🌶️.5
I’ve been in a little reading slump and I was afraid of starting any book for fear that the slump would just ruin any books. Well, Altar Anthem fixed that slump and FAST. I literally started the book at 9PM tonight and I’m typing them at 11:45PM. I DEVOURED this book.
The story follows Tori and Cohen, two high school best friends as they grow, experience trauma, develop as individuals, and eventually realize there may be some attraction to their friendship. The story starts off sweet (and possibly very sad), our MMC wants only to help the FMC and that theme travels throughout the entire book.
Their relationship was adorable. The best friends to lovers trope isn’t my favorite trope in the world but this book is definitely an exception for me. The tenderness the pair had from being friends mixed with the passion of a slow burn absolutely lit a fire under me that had me wanting more.
Some spicy scenes (no spoilers, I promise) were more risqué and just, WOW 🥵. I don’t want to ruin them so just trust me here.
Definitely check triggers before you jump in!
Overall, the story was amazing and I HIGHLY recommend!
May 22, 2024
Wow, what a debut! A wonderfully written, feel good romance with some dark undercurrents.
I'm gonna be honest, them still being in high school at the beginning of the book had me rolling my eyes, I'm in my 30s it isn't my favorite thing to read about, but I moved past it and gave it a chance. I'm so glad I did cause I really enjoyed this book.
Cohen and Tori really prove that true connection can withstand any test—distance, drama, and all the messy bits of life.
I absolutely loved how they supported each other through thick and thin. Cohen’s mix of protectiveness and sweetness is everything, I adore him.
I love me a best friends to lovers and their communication with one another was refreshing (despite taking so long to admit their true feelings) but I really get so annoyed with the miscommunication trope, this take so was nice to read! It tugged on my heart strings so many times. I laughed, cried, got angry, you name it.
I'm excited for the series to continue!
Thank you Amber for the ARC, happy release day!
I'm gonna be honest, them still being in high school at the beginning of the book had me rolling my eyes, I'm in my 30s it isn't my favorite thing to read about, but I moved past it and gave it a chance. I'm so glad I did cause I really enjoyed this book.
Cohen and Tori really prove that true connection can withstand any test—distance, drama, and all the messy bits of life.
I absolutely loved how they supported each other through thick and thin. Cohen’s mix of protectiveness and sweetness is everything, I adore him.
I love me a best friends to lovers and their communication with one another was refreshing (despite taking so long to admit their true feelings) but I really get so annoyed with the miscommunication trope, this take so was nice to read! It tugged on my heart strings so many times. I laughed, cried, got angry, you name it.
I'm excited for the series to continue!
Thank you Amber for the ARC, happy release day!
June 13, 2025
Find someone who will love you like Cohen! I can’t lie, i did find some of his behavior questionable but found myself forgiving him - does that make me wrong, maybe! He goes so hard for Tori, Always and Forever!
Tori, she’s grieving, finding her path and growing into a strong woman. I found her to be a character that is easy to identify with - the hurt of loss and figuring out life after that pain. Realizing you have something great but feelings of uncertainty in the reciprocation helping control your decisions.
Honestly, I started this book and it quickly became a full on obsession, I couldn’t put it down, of course I had to (work and life) but I couldn’t stop thinking about it!
Gimme all the slow burn and the absolute sweetest love- this one delivers! And we can’t forget that feeling of impending doom that was also slid in there —-boy, I was holding my breath just knowing something was gonna go down! And aghhhhh!
Tori, she’s grieving, finding her path and growing into a strong woman. I found her to be a character that is easy to identify with - the hurt of loss and figuring out life after that pain. Realizing you have something great but feelings of uncertainty in the reciprocation helping control your decisions.
Honestly, I started this book and it quickly became a full on obsession, I couldn’t put it down, of course I had to (work and life) but I couldn’t stop thinking about it!
Gimme all the slow burn and the absolute sweetest love- this one delivers! And we can’t forget that feeling of impending doom that was also slid in there —-boy, I was holding my breath just knowing something was gonna go down! And aghhhhh!
June 28, 2025
Emotional , intense, and full of that slow-burn tension.
Tori and Cohen have been best friends forever, and you can feel that deep connection between them from the start. Their bond is strong, but there’s also so much longing and unspoken love between them. Watching them slowly realize what they mean to each other was both beautiful and frustrating (in a good way)
Cohen is the kind of character who makes you swoon and stress at the same time. He’s protective, a little obsessive, and so in love with Tori that it hurts. Some of his choices made me pause, but I couldn’t help but love how deeply he cared. And Tori—she’s grieving, growing, and trying to find her place in the world. Her journey felt real and relatable, and I admired her strength.
The music angle added something really special to the story. It was romantic, a little wild, and totally unforgettable.
This book had me feeling everything—joy, heartbreak, tension, and hope.
Tori and Cohen have been best friends forever, and you can feel that deep connection between them from the start. Their bond is strong, but there’s also so much longing and unspoken love between them. Watching them slowly realize what they mean to each other was both beautiful and frustrating (in a good way)
Cohen is the kind of character who makes you swoon and stress at the same time. He’s protective, a little obsessive, and so in love with Tori that it hurts. Some of his choices made me pause, but I couldn’t help but love how deeply he cared. And Tori—she’s grieving, growing, and trying to find her place in the world. Her journey felt real and relatable, and I admired her strength.
The music angle added something really special to the story. It was romantic, a little wild, and totally unforgettable.
This book had me feeling everything—joy, heartbreak, tension, and hope.
July 1, 2025
I enjoyed this friends to lovers romance with yearning and so much possessiveness!
Since middle school, Tori and Cohen have shared a close bond—though neither expects it to become romantic. After Tori loses her father, Cohen does everything to keep her safe and support her through the pain. As life pulls them apart, a new rival appears, pushing Cohen to step up and claim Tori as his, determined she’ll be his forever.
Tori and Cohen share a heartfelt bond rooted in steady commitment and true companionship, which felt like a breath of fresh air. I enjoyed seeing Cohen break away from his father’s expectations to follow a creative career, while Tori chased her own ambitions. Their separate paths before coming together made their transition from friends to partners feel realistic.
This contemporary romance was truly captivating to me. I loved the characters and their growth as the pages turned. It will bring you spice but also doesn't falter on pulling your heart strings and brining that emotion to light.
Since middle school, Tori and Cohen have shared a close bond—though neither expects it to become romantic. After Tori loses her father, Cohen does everything to keep her safe and support her through the pain. As life pulls them apart, a new rival appears, pushing Cohen to step up and claim Tori as his, determined she’ll be his forever.
Tori and Cohen share a heartfelt bond rooted in steady commitment and true companionship, which felt like a breath of fresh air. I enjoyed seeing Cohen break away from his father’s expectations to follow a creative career, while Tori chased her own ambitions. Their separate paths before coming together made their transition from friends to partners feel realistic.
This contemporary romance was truly captivating to me. I loved the characters and their growth as the pages turned. It will bring you spice but also doesn't falter on pulling your heart strings and brining that emotion to light.
July 1, 2025
Thank you so much @inkspireservices and @amberleewrites for giving me the chance to read this novel. I enjoyed reading this contemporary romance.
Now, for starters… as for someone whose last name is Prewitt… I initially made the comment to my husband at the beginning of the book saying, “Hey. Our last name is in the book. It’s just spelled wrong.” Then, later on, you could hear Colin laughing because I shouted, ”Thank God that his last name is different.” 😂
One of my biggest issues that I had with the book were the relationships between Tori and her mother as well as Cohen and his father. Obviously, one or both parents would have noticed or suspected Tori’s and Cohen’s feelings for one another. The lack of communication was frustrating, especially for Tori and her mom. They were both hurting in their own way, and Penelope’s actions put herself first in spite of her own daughter. She could have easily just talked to Tori at the beginning like she should have done.
Now, for starters… as for someone whose last name is Prewitt… I initially made the comment to my husband at the beginning of the book saying, “Hey. Our last name is in the book. It’s just spelled wrong.” Then, later on, you could hear Colin laughing because I shouted, ”Thank God that his last name is different.” 😂
One of my biggest issues that I had with the book were the relationships between Tori and her mother as well as Cohen and his father. Obviously, one or both parents would have noticed or suspected Tori’s and Cohen’s feelings for one another. The lack of communication was frustrating, especially for Tori and her mom. They were both hurting in their own way, and Penelope’s actions put herself first in spite of her own daughter. She could have easily just talked to Tori at the beginning like she should have done.
May 22, 2024
Theo is the golden retriever of my dreams! I am obsessed with him. He has the sweetest heart and the dirtiest mouth 😮💨 plus he is a defensive hockey player? Yes please.
Now Bailey is just coming out of an abusive relationship and this causes her to be very fearful of course. Completely understandable and valid to be mistrusting, but it does get a little frustrating when you are rooting for her so much and see her making the wrong decisions! I will say this was very realistic to what would happen in real life. Thankfully Theo is amazing and Bailey does learn from her past and see how incredible Theo is and that she can move on from her past with him and they get their HEA after some rough bumps in the road. No spoilers here!!! lol
Absolutely worth the time to read, soooo good. I laughed, i cried, I related more than I would like to. Hahaha it was perfect!!
Now Bailey is just coming out of an abusive relationship and this causes her to be very fearful of course. Completely understandable and valid to be mistrusting, but it does get a little frustrating when you are rooting for her so much and see her making the wrong decisions! I will say this was very realistic to what would happen in real life. Thankfully Theo is amazing and Bailey does learn from her past and see how incredible Theo is and that she can move on from her past with him and they get their HEA after some rough bumps in the road. No spoilers here!!! lol
Absolutely worth the time to read, soooo good. I laughed, i cried, I related more than I would like to. Hahaha it was perfect!!
September 7, 2024
When @amberleewrites told me about this story she had in her head about an EDM love I was OVER THE MOON. I practically screamed at her to get it written ASAP. And let me tell you, she wasn't kidding when she said it was going to be so much fun!
I don't know what it is, but l'm not generally into the friends to lovers trope. I think I just get bored of them both wanting each other but not doing anything about it. But Amber did something different here. Yes, it was friends to lovers and yes they both wanted each other and didn't do anything about it. BUT... the way these two interacted with each other was almost as if they were already together kept me interested.
I loved that she wrote the FMC to be big into photography and let her travel the world to chase her dream with no holding back. And I love that she wrote the MMC to be just as passionate about his love of music.
Together, these two could build a freaking empire. This book was the perfect example of "if you want something-chase it and don't let anything stop you"
Victoria + Cohen 4ever <3
Also the little hints from your last one? 09 gimme more of my Hendrix babyyyy
4.25⭐️
Very excited to read the rest of this series my friend!
I don't know what it is, but l'm not generally into the friends to lovers trope. I think I just get bored of them both wanting each other but not doing anything about it. But Amber did something different here. Yes, it was friends to lovers and yes they both wanted each other and didn't do anything about it. BUT... the way these two interacted with each other was almost as if they were already together kept me interested.
I loved that she wrote the FMC to be big into photography and let her travel the world to chase her dream with no holding back. And I love that she wrote the MMC to be just as passionate about his love of music.
Together, these two could build a freaking empire. This book was the perfect example of "if you want something-chase it and don't let anything stop you"
Victoria + Cohen 4ever <3
Also the little hints from your last one? 09 gimme more of my Hendrix babyyyy
4.25⭐️
Very excited to read the rest of this series my friend!
June 27, 2025
“We’ve been best friends for over five years.
I’ve been in love with him for just as long.”
💜 Contemporary romance
🩷 Best Friends to step siblings to lovers
💛 Possessive MMC
💜 Forced proximity
🩷 Touch her and 💀
💛 Stalker
💜 Long distance
🩷 Dual POV
💜 Forbidden Love
🩷 Slow burn
💛 Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
My thoughts
———————
This book was so amazing 🤩 I could not put it down. It was a slow burn in the best of ways with so much yearning.
The characters were both very likeable from the beginning, even though Cohen had a bit of a morally grey side, but we love that here 🤭 I liked to see how their relationship developed as the time went on.
There was tension, a lot of longing, secrets🤐, love for the arts ( music and photography), and ultimately a lot of fun, so I recommend this book if it sounds like your thing 😌💕
Thank you so much to the author and to Inkspire for the eARC!
4.5⭐️ rounded to 5
I’ve been in love with him for just as long.”
💜 Contemporary romance
🩷 Best Friends to step siblings to lovers
💛 Possessive MMC
💜 Forced proximity
🩷 Touch her and 💀
💛 Stalker
💜 Long distance
🩷 Dual POV
💜 Forbidden Love
🩷 Slow burn
💛 Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
My thoughts
———————
This book was so amazing 🤩 I could not put it down. It was a slow burn in the best of ways with so much yearning.
The characters were both very likeable from the beginning, even though Cohen had a bit of a morally grey side, but we love that here 🤭 I liked to see how their relationship developed as the time went on.
There was tension, a lot of longing, secrets🤐, love for the arts ( music and photography), and ultimately a lot of fun, so I recommend this book if it sounds like your thing 😌💕
Thank you so much to the author and to Inkspire for the eARC!
4.5⭐️ rounded to 5
May 11, 2024
ARC Book Review:
🎵”We’re going to take over the world, Pips.”🎵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📷 I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, give me a book with a masked man and I will DEVOUR it.
📷 Cohen & Tori’s relationship is literally unbreakable. Distance? No prob. Secrets? They’ll get through them. Crazy ex’s? We all have them. Parents? Who cares?! They don’t let anything stop them and their love for each other. I can’t wait for this series to continue. I can already tell it’s going to be a good one. Also, I have a feeling the next book will be Faye & Silas 🤔🤔
📷Altar Anthem is the first book in the Eternal Rose Series.
📷Alter Anthem will be released on May
📷Thank you Amber Lee for the ARC!
❤️🔥Tropes:
Friends To Lovers
Long Distance
Slow Burn
Dual POV
🎵”We’re going to take over the world, Pips.”🎵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📷 I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, give me a book with a masked man and I will DEVOUR it.
📷 Cohen & Tori’s relationship is literally unbreakable. Distance? No prob. Secrets? They’ll get through them. Crazy ex’s? We all have them. Parents? Who cares?! They don’t let anything stop them and their love for each other. I can’t wait for this series to continue. I can already tell it’s going to be a good one. Also, I have a feeling the next book will be Faye & Silas 🤔🤔
📷Altar Anthem is the first book in the Eternal Rose Series.
📷Alter Anthem will be released on May
📷Thank you Amber Lee for the ARC!
❤️🔥Tropes:
Friends To Lovers
Long Distance
Slow Burn
Dual POV
June 29, 2025
Tori and Co forever 🖤 this book was a super cute read. The spice was there and the story was engaging! It took a turn I was not expecting early on in the book and I was INTO it! I loved the relationship between the two main characters and it’s honestly what kept me reading, I had to see where they ended up!
It’s a three star for me because at times I felt like there was too much description of details that didn’t matter to the story. It took me a bit off track from what was important. A few times it felt that the MMC was a bit too hot and cold during the intimate scenes…aggressive then suddenly soft. It gave me a little whiplash.
Overall the story is wonderful and I look forward to what this author writes in the future!
🖤 Stalker vibes
🖤 Touch her and die
🖤 Friends to lovers
It’s a three star for me because at times I felt like there was too much description of details that didn’t matter to the story. It took me a bit off track from what was important. A few times it felt that the MMC was a bit too hot and cold during the intimate scenes…aggressive then suddenly soft. It gave me a little whiplash.
Overall the story is wonderful and I look forward to what this author writes in the future!
🖤 Stalker vibes
🖤 Touch her and die
🖤 Friends to lovers
July 1, 2025
Tori and Cohen were adorable. I loved their friendship and how supportive they were. They were always there for each other. The banter and tension between them was over the roof. They made me smile so much.
Cohen was such a golden retriever. I loved how obsessed and protective he was of his girl.
It was so fun seeing these two friends grow into their own person and going for their dreams. They didn't have to pick between their wants and their friendship and that was so refreshing to read about.
The found family warmed my heart. Silas and Faye were amazing friends.
My only complaint is the miscommunication. They usually communicate so well, unless it's about how they truly feel for each other. I just wanted to shake some sense into both of them.
Cohen was such a golden retriever. I loved how obsessed and protective he was of his girl.
It was so fun seeing these two friends grow into their own person and going for their dreams. They didn't have to pick between their wants and their friendship and that was so refreshing to read about.
The found family warmed my heart. Silas and Faye were amazing friends.
My only complaint is the miscommunication. They usually communicate so well, unless it's about how they truly feel for each other. I just wanted to shake some sense into both of them.
July 4, 2025
I absolutely loved every part of this story! Tori and Cohen have been close friends since 6th grade and now they are in college. After Tori's father dies, her mother starts seeing Cohen's father and they get married. Tori and Cohen were not happy becoming step siblings. She gets into a photography program in Germany and is gone for 8 months. When she comes back she is a totally different person, has this confidence she didn't have before. She moves out her mom and step dad's house to live with her ex boyfriend, which goes horribly. Then Tori and Cohen start having a thing and the chemistry is so amazing! The things that happen towards the end were so good, I love it. This was such an amazing story and I can't wait for the next one.
July 4, 2025
holy moly guacamole!
this story had me hoooked from the first chapter, the slow burn, the yearning! GAH! i was flying through the story.
tori is such a strong fmc! she’s creative, sassy, funny, and most of all loving. she’s such a sweetheart and to see her dreams come true was heartwarming.
cohen..wow. cohen was possessive and obsessed with tori. i mean who wouldn’t when she literally made his whole life turn up side down? she became the center of his universe, she became the sun.
seeing how he felt about her and the cute moments when they were both oblivious was just AH! and when they finally kissed? the squeal i let out was loud! i was so happy to see them get their happily ever after, perfectly made for each other.
this story had me hoooked from the first chapter, the slow burn, the yearning! GAH! i was flying through the story.
tori is such a strong fmc! she’s creative, sassy, funny, and most of all loving. she’s such a sweetheart and to see her dreams come true was heartwarming.
cohen..wow. cohen was possessive and obsessed with tori. i mean who wouldn’t when she literally made his whole life turn up side down? she became the center of his universe, she became the sun.
seeing how he felt about her and the cute moments when they were both oblivious was just AH! and when they finally kissed? the squeal i let out was loud! i was so happy to see them get their happily ever after, perfectly made for each other.
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