What do you think?
Rate this book
A Sky Full Of Stars
My name is Lainey Bennett, and I’m hopelessly in love with my older brother's best friend—rising star quarterback, Thomas Kelly.
He’s popular and out of my league, but even if he wasn’t, there’s an invisible sign on my forehead telling him I’m “off-limits.”
But when he accidentally stumbles into my bedroom during one of my brother’s obnoxious parties, all that changes.
He stays after realizing his mistake and keeps coming back…in secret.
From stolen moments to nights spent dancing under the stars, there’s no denying our connection.
Despite knowing we’re on borrowed time, I can’t let him go.
Because there are two versions of Thomas Kelly—the cocky football player that everyone knows and loves, and the broken man I see. The man that needs me.
Only we can’t hide our relationship forever…
So what happens when the truth comes out?
A Sky Full Of Stars is a brother's best friend/teammate, angsty and emotional sports romance with adult language and themes. This Dual POV romance can be read as a standalone or as part of the Heartstrings series. For a list of potential triggers, please visit Katherine's website.
He’s popular and out of my league, but even if he wasn’t, there’s an invisible sign on my forehead telling him I’m “off-limits.”
But when he accidentally stumbles into my bedroom during one of my brother’s obnoxious parties, all that changes.
He stays after realizing his mistake and keeps coming back…in secret.
From stolen moments to nights spent dancing under the stars, there’s no denying our connection.
Despite knowing we’re on borrowed time, I can’t let him go.
Because there are two versions of Thomas Kelly—the cocky football player that everyone knows and loves, and the broken man I see. The man that needs me.
Only we can’t hide our relationship forever…
So what happens when the truth comes out?
A Sky Full Of Stars is a brother's best friend/teammate, angsty and emotional sports romance with adult language and themes. This Dual POV romance can be read as a standalone or as part of the Heartstrings series. For a list of potential triggers, please visit Katherine's website.
562 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2024
69 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
June 15, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Thomas & Lainey
Childhood “friends” to strangers to lovers
Phew did this take us on a journey over the course of years.
Some heavy topics sprinkled in.
Pro football x ballerina
Brothers little sister
I enjoyed the overall storyline, I read this directly after the first book so some things felt repetitive with Summers story. And this book was relatively lengthy…
Thomas & Lainey
Childhood “friends” to strangers to lovers
Phew did this take us on a journey over the course of years.
Some heavy topics sprinkled in.
Pro football x ballerina
Brothers little sister
I enjoyed the overall storyline, I read this directly after the first book so some things felt repetitive with Summers story. And this book was relatively lengthy…
June 23, 2024
Really bummed about this one since I’ve enjoyed all the rest. Yes it was a slow burn angst type romance, the book dragged. I was skimming the second half just to not DNF.
June 18, 2024
Beta Read
Loved Thomas and Lainey so much. They Have an incredible story and had my heart from the very beginning. I wonderful ending to a must read series.
UPDATE
What an amazing way to end this series. Thomas and Lainey created such a special place in my heart-this book is beyond words and I can’t express how much I enjoyed the writing, the layout and characters. I loved the evolution of their relationship, and the complexity it entailed. It made for a captivating read, that brought forth so many emotions and a beautifully told story.
The easy way these two open up to one another having a safe space instantly was fantastic. Though have technically known each other for years, Lainey being the little sister of Thomas’ best friend, one night changed everything for them. They had a sweet connection that led to such deep significant moments in their lives.
I loved Lainey she needs to learn what makes her happy, her purpose and to stop living her life for others. She is incredibly strong, having gone through something awful-but is so caring and such a fighter.
My heart hurt so much for Thomas, I have such a soft spot for him and will fight for him. The raw realism of everything he dealt with, was led to believe, and how hard he worked was both heartbreaking and wonderful. He had such a great character arc, it’s easy to be in his corner.
The love he had for Lainey, how much he believed in her and how protective he was-the best!
Lainey does so much for others, so watching her learn to put herself first, and truly find her own path was wonderful. She was Thomas’s peace and he was her comfort, but they needed to figure out how to do things themselves, despite their strong connection and chemistry. The attraction between these two never stoped and I loved seeing as their relationship changed and progressed.
This story has all the angst and feels we’ve come to love from a Katherine book. Thomas and Lainey went on incredible journey’s. A lot of ups and downs, learning and heartbreak - it was truly hard fought to get the HEA they both deserved; even during the times they didn’t think they were worthy of it or each other.
While not necessary, I highly recommended reading When Nothing Else Matters first. There are overlapping timelines and events that really enhance this story.
They are perfect together and I’m so happy we got to experience their story.
This was a second read for me, as I did BETA read, and let me just say this was phenomenal as a re-read, I can’t say enough good things about doing it that way. The little things I picked up on and anticipated was wonderful, and yes, I did cry during both reads!
5+⭐️
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book, this review and its opinions are my own.
Loved Thomas and Lainey so much. They Have an incredible story and had my heart from the very beginning. I wonderful ending to a must read series.
UPDATE
What an amazing way to end this series. Thomas and Lainey created such a special place in my heart-this book is beyond words and I can’t express how much I enjoyed the writing, the layout and characters. I loved the evolution of their relationship, and the complexity it entailed. It made for a captivating read, that brought forth so many emotions and a beautifully told story.
The easy way these two open up to one another having a safe space instantly was fantastic. Though have technically known each other for years, Lainey being the little sister of Thomas’ best friend, one night changed everything for them. They had a sweet connection that led to such deep significant moments in their lives.
I loved Lainey she needs to learn what makes her happy, her purpose and to stop living her life for others. She is incredibly strong, having gone through something awful-but is so caring and such a fighter.
My heart hurt so much for Thomas, I have such a soft spot for him and will fight for him. The raw realism of everything he dealt with, was led to believe, and how hard he worked was both heartbreaking and wonderful. He had such a great character arc, it’s easy to be in his corner.
The love he had for Lainey, how much he believed in her and how protective he was-the best!
Lainey does so much for others, so watching her learn to put herself first, and truly find her own path was wonderful. She was Thomas’s peace and he was her comfort, but they needed to figure out how to do things themselves, despite their strong connection and chemistry. The attraction between these two never stoped and I loved seeing as their relationship changed and progressed.
This story has all the angst and feels we’ve come to love from a Katherine book. Thomas and Lainey went on incredible journey’s. A lot of ups and downs, learning and heartbreak - it was truly hard fought to get the HEA they both deserved; even during the times they didn’t think they were worthy of it or each other.
While not necessary, I highly recommended reading When Nothing Else Matters first. There are overlapping timelines and events that really enhance this story.
They are perfect together and I’m so happy we got to experience their story.
This was a second read for me, as I did BETA read, and let me just say this was phenomenal as a re-read, I can’t say enough good things about doing it that way. The little things I picked up on and anticipated was wonderful, and yes, I did cry during both reads!
5+⭐️
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book, this review and its opinions are my own.
June 21, 2024
A Sky Full Of Stars
Heartstrings Series Book 5
Interconnected standalone that can be read separately.
♥️ All.The.Feels.
Thomas Kelly has had it easy, he’s the handsome and popular rookie, a professional football player with supportive parents. But appearances are not always real. In the deep, Thomas struggles after a ticking bomb within his family explodes, leaving Thomas all by himself. But hey, his professional life is thriving and Thomas is forced to keep that facade alive even he’s SO BROKEN inside. The only time he feels relieved is when he talks to Laine, his best friend’s younger sister. Lainey’s life has always been somewhat dictated by her family and her legacy. When Lainey’s voice is not heard and her life ends up being decided by her she breaks.
These two broken souls find each other in darkness. They shared so many beautiful moments that makes them hide from reality together in complicity. But, when Thomas realizes they’re hurting each other he takes a decision that will hurt them deeply and change their lives.
WOW. I felt everything in this story. The MC is raw, hurt, broken. But we will read their path to become better, to grow.
Thank you so much @katherinejayauthor for providing me this amazing ARC, I can’t wait for my physical copy to complete my Heartstrings Series Collection! Before I go, I have to make an honorable mention to Luke Bennett, Lainey’s brother, that character was hilarious and I loved how everyone skips his calls! 🤭🤭🤭
A Sky Full of Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 stars
What to expect:
#romance #bestfriendssister #sportsromance #rightpersonwrongtime #brokenhero
Heartstrings Series Book 5
Interconnected standalone that can be read separately.
♥️ All.The.Feels.
Thomas Kelly has had it easy, he’s the handsome and popular rookie, a professional football player with supportive parents. But appearances are not always real. In the deep, Thomas struggles after a ticking bomb within his family explodes, leaving Thomas all by himself. But hey, his professional life is thriving and Thomas is forced to keep that facade alive even he’s SO BROKEN inside. The only time he feels relieved is when he talks to Laine, his best friend’s younger sister. Lainey’s life has always been somewhat dictated by her family and her legacy. When Lainey’s voice is not heard and her life ends up being decided by her she breaks.
These two broken souls find each other in darkness. They shared so many beautiful moments that makes them hide from reality together in complicity. But, when Thomas realizes they’re hurting each other he takes a decision that will hurt them deeply and change their lives.
WOW. I felt everything in this story. The MC is raw, hurt, broken. But we will read their path to become better, to grow.
Thank you so much @katherinejayauthor for providing me this amazing ARC, I can’t wait for my physical copy to complete my Heartstrings Series Collection! Before I go, I have to make an honorable mention to Luke Bennett, Lainey’s brother, that character was hilarious and I loved how everyone skips his calls! 🤭🤭🤭
A Sky Full of Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 stars
What to expect:
#romance #bestfriendssister #sportsromance #rightpersonwrongtime #brokenhero
June 18, 2024
(I received an ARC for this book)
trigger warnings will be at the bottom of this review, to avoid spoilers
different kinds/severity of abuse, bullying, depression (no violence occurs between MCs)
& listed on author’s website
Katherine is now eight for eight! She has destroyed me and put my back together eight times. And as always, I’m thankful for it. I’m also so thankful for these characters, for this series. I don’t have any idea how to even begin writing a review for this book. As with every book in this series, this one can be read as a standalone. But the heart and pain and growth throughout this book elicits such strong emotions after becoming so attached to these characters. (And boy am I ATTACHED!) Going through things in this book hurt WORSE than going through them previously with other characters. (ATTACHED and PROTECTIVE!) Being friends with her brother their whole lives, Thomas and Lainey never had any choice but to cross paths over and over again. The universe made sure of it. Their orbits were always meant to align. They knew the pain was there, knew the damage, knew the chances. But the sacrifices…oh my poor heart. Thomas and Lainey just want each other to have the very best, want to give each other the world. And even with all the weight, they give each other such a beautiful space to be carefree, safe. So while there were plenty of tears shed because of my pain and suffering, there was also an abundance of happy tears too. I'm going to miss this Friendsgiving crew, but I am so excited to see what comes next!
My Favorite Quotes:
• “You’ve always been mine.”
• “Promise me you’ll never settle for anything less than you deserve. Even when it comes to me. Because you deserve the world. Every bit of it.”
• “I can’t seem to stop myself.”
• “God, you’re beautiful when you come apart like that.”
• “You are heaven. This is heaven.”
• “You are a goddess. You were made for me.”
• “I didn’t plan on holding you hostage, but now that I have you in my arms again, I can’t seem to let go.”
• “In my eyes, the power is all yours.”
• “I never quit you.”
• “Let them look. I’m not ready to let you go.”
• “Hands on the glass. You’re about to find out exactly how much I worship you.”
• “You are the only one in my orbit. No matter how many stars are in the sky, the only one that shines brightly is yours.”
• “You’ve always been my girl.”
• “I am in awe of you.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
5/10 Brother’s BFF
9/10 Second Chance
5/10 Sports Romance
8/10 Tearjerker
9/10 Series
This is my review for Ain’t No Sunshine
This is my review for When Nothing Else Matters
This is my review for Still Here Without You
This is my review for It Had To Be Us
This is my review for Truly Madly Deeply Mine
Trigger Warnings include:
the physical abuse of a side character (off page/minor on page), child abuse involving a side character (mentioned/described), bulling of a sexual nature (discussed on page), depression and alcoholism
trigger warnings will be at the bottom of this review, to avoid spoilers
different kinds/severity of abuse, bullying, depression (no violence occurs between MCs)
& listed on author’s website
Katherine is now eight for eight! She has destroyed me and put my back together eight times. And as always, I’m thankful for it. I’m also so thankful for these characters, for this series. I don’t have any idea how to even begin writing a review for this book. As with every book in this series, this one can be read as a standalone. But the heart and pain and growth throughout this book elicits such strong emotions after becoming so attached to these characters. (And boy am I ATTACHED!) Going through things in this book hurt WORSE than going through them previously with other characters. (ATTACHED and PROTECTIVE!) Being friends with her brother their whole lives, Thomas and Lainey never had any choice but to cross paths over and over again. The universe made sure of it. Their orbits were always meant to align. They knew the pain was there, knew the damage, knew the chances. But the sacrifices…oh my poor heart. Thomas and Lainey just want each other to have the very best, want to give each other the world. And even with all the weight, they give each other such a beautiful space to be carefree, safe. So while there were plenty of tears shed because of my pain and suffering, there was also an abundance of happy tears too. I'm going to miss this Friendsgiving crew, but I am so excited to see what comes next!
My Favorite Quotes:
• “You’ve always been mine.”
• “Promise me you’ll never settle for anything less than you deserve. Even when it comes to me. Because you deserve the world. Every bit of it.”
• “I can’t seem to stop myself.”
• “God, you’re beautiful when you come apart like that.”
• “You are heaven. This is heaven.”
• “You are a goddess. You were made for me.”
• “I didn’t plan on holding you hostage, but now that I have you in my arms again, I can’t seem to let go.”
• “In my eyes, the power is all yours.”
• “I never quit you.”
• “Let them look. I’m not ready to let you go.”
• “Hands on the glass. You’re about to find out exactly how much I worship you.”
• “You are the only one in my orbit. No matter how many stars are in the sky, the only one that shines brightly is yours.”
• “You’ve always been my girl.”
• “I am in awe of you.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
5/10 Brother’s BFF
9/10 Second Chance
5/10 Sports Romance
8/10 Tearjerker
9/10 Series
This is my review for Ain’t No Sunshine
This is my review for When Nothing Else Matters
This is my review for Still Here Without You
This is my review for It Had To Be Us
This is my review for Truly Madly Deeply Mine
Trigger Warnings include:
the physical abuse of a side character (off page/minor on page), child abuse involving a side character (mentioned/described), bulling of a sexual nature (discussed on page), depression and alcoholism
July 10, 2024
& that’s a wrap on the Heartstrings series!
What a wild ride. I fell in love with all these characters and loved that they all resurfaced in every book and you continue to get a look in their lives throughout the series.❤️
The story of Thomas and Lainey takes place over many years.
Thomas Kelly has been through a lot of traumatic experiences involving his older sister (Summer) and finds out the truth about a lot of things. He has a lot of healing and dealing to do in this book and he finds solace in Lainey Bennett, his best friend’s little sister.
Little does he know, his feelings for Lainey will evolve from a friendship to love very fast. He has to continue to keep his feelings a secret because his best friend has declared his little sister off-limits to all his friends.
Lainey Bennett has grown up doing exactly what her family has expected of her. She’s a ballet dancer who lives in the shadow of her famous ballerina grandmother. She strives to please her family and get into prestigious schools for dance, until she realizes that’s not what she wants and she needs to find herself. She leans on Thomas with her worries and desires for her life. She knows from the beginning that she loves Thomas but tries continuously to forget him.
•Age-gap
•Forbidden Love
•Brother’s best friend
•Football player & ballerina
•Healing/Trauma/Mental illness
•Childhood Friends to Lovers
What a wild ride. I fell in love with all these characters and loved that they all resurfaced in every book and you continue to get a look in their lives throughout the series.❤️
The story of Thomas and Lainey takes place over many years.
Thomas Kelly has been through a lot of traumatic experiences involving his older sister (Summer) and finds out the truth about a lot of things. He has a lot of healing and dealing to do in this book and he finds solace in Lainey Bennett, his best friend’s little sister.
Little does he know, his feelings for Lainey will evolve from a friendship to love very fast. He has to continue to keep his feelings a secret because his best friend has declared his little sister off-limits to all his friends.
Lainey Bennett has grown up doing exactly what her family has expected of her. She’s a ballet dancer who lives in the shadow of her famous ballerina grandmother. She strives to please her family and get into prestigious schools for dance, until she realizes that’s not what she wants and she needs to find herself. She leans on Thomas with her worries and desires for her life. She knows from the beginning that she loves Thomas but tries continuously to forget him.
•Age-gap
•Forbidden Love
•Brother’s best friend
•Football player & ballerina
•Healing/Trauma/Mental illness
•Childhood Friends to Lovers
June 21, 2024
We finally get the full story of Thomas and Lainey in the final installment of the Heartstrings series. They first appear in Nothing Else Matter (book one), and this series has been amazing start to finish
Thomas & Lainey
Football Player
Ballet Dancer
Best Friends Sister
Right Person Wrong time
Broken MMC & FMC
Oh, my heart hurts so much for Thomas. For all of the guilt he has been harboring. Getting to know the true Thomas is a bit heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time.
He falls so hard for Lainey, and she becomes his safety and his comfort.
Thomas's past truly haunts him. After all the revelations, it's not something he can easily move on from, and he is hurting more than he realizes. He goes through depths for Lainey's happiness, knowing what she truly deserves.
Lainey is trying to figure out who she is beyond what she is told. In doing so, she faces some of her own hardships.
Both Lainey and Thomas have this connection that runs so deep. She knows Thomas better than he may know himself, and she is there for him in a way that no one else can be
Their story happens over the course of a few years. It evolves in a way that Katherine really pulls at your heartstrings. Lainey and Thomas are just meant to be, and they work hard to get their hea!
Thomas & Lainey
Football Player
Ballet Dancer
Best Friends Sister
Right Person Wrong time
Broken MMC & FMC
Oh, my heart hurts so much for Thomas. For all of the guilt he has been harboring. Getting to know the true Thomas is a bit heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time.
He falls so hard for Lainey, and she becomes his safety and his comfort.
Thomas's past truly haunts him. After all the revelations, it's not something he can easily move on from, and he is hurting more than he realizes. He goes through depths for Lainey's happiness, knowing what she truly deserves.
Lainey is trying to figure out who she is beyond what she is told. In doing so, she faces some of her own hardships.
Both Lainey and Thomas have this connection that runs so deep. She knows Thomas better than he may know himself, and she is there for him in a way that no one else can be
Their story happens over the course of a few years. It evolves in a way that Katherine really pulls at your heartstrings. Lainey and Thomas are just meant to be, and they work hard to get their hea!
July 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
✨ Football Player x Dancer
✨ Brother’s Best Friend
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Second Chance
✨ Angsty & Emotional
✨ Right person, wrong time
Lainey & Thomas were the perfect emotional rollercoaster!! From the secret crush on her older brother’s best friend, to their “help me forget” meet ups years later, Thomas & Lainey were an angst filled ride that I won’t soon forget.
I loved their bond, and the unavoidable draw they have to each other. The way Katherine Jay wrote their past traumas and the ways in which they dealt with them, was perfect. The mental health rep was so well done, and at the same time, broke my whole heart.
Thankfully, it was put back together piece by piece, as Lainey & Thomas made their way back into each other’s hearts.
Thank you so much to Katherine Jay for giving me the chance to read & review this ARC.
✨ Football Player x Dancer
✨ Brother’s Best Friend
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Second Chance
✨ Angsty & Emotional
✨ Right person, wrong time
Lainey & Thomas were the perfect emotional rollercoaster!! From the secret crush on her older brother’s best friend, to their “help me forget” meet ups years later, Thomas & Lainey were an angst filled ride that I won’t soon forget.
I loved their bond, and the unavoidable draw they have to each other. The way Katherine Jay wrote their past traumas and the ways in which they dealt with them, was perfect. The mental health rep was so well done, and at the same time, broke my whole heart.
Thankfully, it was put back together piece by piece, as Lainey & Thomas made their way back into each other’s hearts.
Thank you so much to Katherine Jay for giving me the chance to read & review this ARC.
June 21, 2024
A sky full of stars is wonderfully angsty as Thomas and Lainey seek continue to find each other time and time again. I appreciated Thomas's character in particular. Some of his struggles resonated with me and the ones that didn't I felt so much empathy towards. His journey had some significant hurdles that would be traumatic even though he didn't deal with it in a healthy way. I loved the sweet and nurturing Lainey was a safe space. She was dealing with her own struggles but I admired her finding her passions while healing from her own harsh past. Their story isn't simple and sweet but worth the ride to the end as their love overcomes so many obstacles.
June 19, 2024
What a beautifully bittersweet ending to this series. I adored Lainey, Thomas though my heart hurt for him.
Their chemistry, angst and their friendship was perfect. Seeing the rest of this group and their found family was amazing.
What a way to go out, @katherinejayauthor
And yes, I said you'd make me cry and you did!
Their chemistry, angst and their friendship was perfect. Seeing the rest of this group and their found family was amazing.
What a way to go out, @katherinejayauthor
And yes, I said you'd make me cry and you did!
June 20, 2024
ARC review I thought this book was really slow and kind of repetitive. I like Thomas and Lainey they have both been through a lot and rely on each other to get through it. Like Thomas said being with Lainey is addicting and at times their relationship wasn’t healthy. I think it was good that they both took time apart to better themselves
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2024
The final chapter of the heartstring series. I cannot believe that was it, I am not ready to say goodbye. I loved being part of this journey. Katherine Jay writes with so much heart and passion. I love her characters. A sky full of stars was such an emotional journey. The way she unravels the story with all its pain and struggles was amazing. The story feels so real. Love is not always easy and straightforward. Sometimes it needs time and work, you need to have those hopeless moments to value what you have and to know your priorities. It was beautiful to witness Thomas’s and Lainey‘s way to each other. So much love for this book
June 22, 2024
What a way to end a perfect series!
Lainey and Thomas had a journey to get their HEA and it was so worth it. With every page I turned my heart was in my throat I wanted to slap them both around the head and tell them to sort themselves out. Each of them have their own trauma that they need to overcome and their own individual journeys to recovery without leaning on each other.
With every book Katherine writes I am drawn into the friendship group wanting to be apart of their group and as I have followed and read every one of Katherine’s books to see them all together in this final instalment so bittersweet.
As this book spans the whole heartstrings series the way Katherine has woven the story so beautifully felt nostalgic.
Lainey and Thomas had a journey to get their HEA and it was so worth it. With every page I turned my heart was in my throat I wanted to slap them both around the head and tell them to sort themselves out. Each of them have their own trauma that they need to overcome and their own individual journeys to recovery without leaning on each other.
With every book Katherine writes I am drawn into the friendship group wanting to be apart of their group and as I have followed and read every one of Katherine’s books to see them all together in this final instalment so bittersweet.
As this book spans the whole heartstrings series the way Katherine has woven the story so beautifully felt nostalgic.
July 4, 2024
This isn’t what I expected at all- and maybe that’s on me because I haven’t read anything else by this author but it was such a sad slog to get through.
There are some deep issues here & while they clearly care about one another their relationship is such a co-dependent red flag. Writing off alcoholism as a quick fix that’s actually because of depression seems really irresponsible to me too.
I liked the characters, liked the chemistry & the arc of the story but the details were too heavy & it dragged on a bit for my taste. How many years would you really wait for someone, and how much of another persons baggage can you really carry?! It just seemed like a waste of characters lives & my time!
There are some deep issues here & while they clearly care about one another their relationship is such a co-dependent red flag. Writing off alcoholism as a quick fix that’s actually because of depression seems really irresponsible to me too.
I liked the characters, liked the chemistry & the arc of the story but the details were too heavy & it dragged on a bit for my taste. How many years would you really wait for someone, and how much of another persons baggage can you really carry?! It just seemed like a waste of characters lives & my time!
August 29, 2024
🩵𝒜 𝒮𝓀𝓎 𝐹𝓊𝓁𝓁 𝑜𝒻 𝒮𝓉𝒶𝓇𝓈 - 𝐻𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉𝓈𝓉𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔𝓈 𝟧 - 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌🩵
Author: Katherine Jay
Couple: Lainey Bennett & Thomas Kelly
Tropes: Age-gap, Forbidden Love, Brother’s best friend, Football player & ballerina, Healing/Trauma/Mental illness, Childhood Friends to Lovers
Review: A Sky Full of Stars is responsible for 90% of the tears I have shed while reading this year. Katherine really brought her best in this book and I could not believe the way I loved Lainey’s character in this book. From the beginning her story and character sucked me in and refused to let go and all I have to say is that she deserved her HEA at the end.
Lainey and Thomas have the most emotional romance in this series in my opinion and there were times I had to pause while reading to get a grip. The two of them are a perfect catastrophe waiting to happen and the crush Lainey has on Thomas adds fuel to the fire at first while we learn bits and pieces of their intertwined past. They way Katherine hooked us in the prologue drove me to read and see what the event that led them there was and I could not believe the inner resilience Lainey had throughout this book. The way she dealt with mental health struggles also added a layer of rawness to her story and Katherine did a wonderful job in this area of her story.
Thomas was a bit of a shock to me in this book. I found him to be a lot more soft and sweet than I expected and loved how he ADORED Lainey. The way he supports her and is utterly obsessed with her melted my heart and the explosion of them left me happy and sated for a bit. This book did the forbidden romance well and the two of them pushed and pulled at the right times but also fit in ways that showed how well they fit with one another. Katherine did a good job with creating the tension between them as they realize they are in too deep with their feelings and I always love a good explosion of brothers and parents finding out, which did not upset in this book.
A Sky Full of Stars is an emotional journey that is guaranteed to make you grab for the tissues but also clutch your heart in relief. Katherine poured her soul into this story and it shows all the way through. This book closed out the Heartstrings series with a bang and I am sad that this chapter is closing but cannot wait for what is to come!
Rating: 4.5/5, an emotional, angst filled sports romance to round out this heartfelt series by Katherine!
Thank you to Katherine for sending me this eARC!
Author: Katherine Jay
Couple: Lainey Bennett & Thomas Kelly
Tropes: Age-gap, Forbidden Love, Brother’s best friend, Football player & ballerina, Healing/Trauma/Mental illness, Childhood Friends to Lovers
Review: A Sky Full of Stars is responsible for 90% of the tears I have shed while reading this year. Katherine really brought her best in this book and I could not believe the way I loved Lainey’s character in this book. From the beginning her story and character sucked me in and refused to let go and all I have to say is that she deserved her HEA at the end.
Lainey and Thomas have the most emotional romance in this series in my opinion and there were times I had to pause while reading to get a grip. The two of them are a perfect catastrophe waiting to happen and the crush Lainey has on Thomas adds fuel to the fire at first while we learn bits and pieces of their intertwined past. They way Katherine hooked us in the prologue drove me to read and see what the event that led them there was and I could not believe the inner resilience Lainey had throughout this book. The way she dealt with mental health struggles also added a layer of rawness to her story and Katherine did a wonderful job in this area of her story.
Thomas was a bit of a shock to me in this book. I found him to be a lot more soft and sweet than I expected and loved how he ADORED Lainey. The way he supports her and is utterly obsessed with her melted my heart and the explosion of them left me happy and sated for a bit. This book did the forbidden romance well and the two of them pushed and pulled at the right times but also fit in ways that showed how well they fit with one another. Katherine did a good job with creating the tension between them as they realize they are in too deep with their feelings and I always love a good explosion of brothers and parents finding out, which did not upset in this book.
A Sky Full of Stars is an emotional journey that is guaranteed to make you grab for the tissues but also clutch your heart in relief. Katherine poured her soul into this story and it shows all the way through. This book closed out the Heartstrings series with a bang and I am sad that this chapter is closing but cannot wait for what is to come!
Rating: 4.5/5, an emotional, angst filled sports romance to round out this heartfelt series by Katherine!
Thank you to Katherine for sending me this eARC!
June 23, 2024
4.25⭐️
🏈Sports Romance
🩰Brother’s best friend
✨Right person, Wrong time
🏈Broken MC’s
🩰Found family
✨ Angsty
The end of an era! The heartstrings crew are such a fab friendship group and I’ve enjoyed getting to know the characters that make up the group throughout their very own books in this series.
We end the series on Lainey and Thomas’s book. Thomas is Summers older brother and aside from the romance between Lainy and Thomas, getting to see events from Summers book from Thomas’ POV and how it affected him was something I loved that we got to see.
Lainey has been in love with her older brothers best friend and teammate for years from afar. Thinking nothing would ever come of it because he’s the star quarterback, she’s the best friend’s forbidden little sister she focuses her time on her dancing. That is until one night, Thomas accidentally stumbles into her room at a party and that sets their story in motion.
These are two broken characters and I enjoyed watching them come together and help mend each other. Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither was the relationship between these two which spans a number of years.
He may have been her crush for forever, but when Thomas falls he falls hard.
Starting off as a friendship, you get to see these two navigate through personal struggles, mending relationships, coming into their own. It’s not an easy road for them and it wouldn’t be an angsty book without the characters making decisions sometimes that have you like..what? But when you see their growth and it’s time for them to finally be together you see why things needed to happen, the love is always there it’s just finding the right timing and enjoying the journey whilst they do rooting for them. There will be moments that tug at your heartstrings and moments that make you swoon and it was a great end to a great series that I have thoroughly enjoyed!
If you haven’t read this series yet, now is the best time as the series is complete so you can binge them all! They can be read as standalones but personally I would read them in order.🩵
.
June 21, 2024
Thank you for the ARC, Katherine!
The end of an era. I’m really sad to say goodbye to this crew. It’s been a wonderful journey and ended in the best way. Technically this could be a standalone but for the best experience I think you should start at the beginning with When Nothing Else Matters. You’ll appreciate it so much more.
Lainey and Thomas. Where do I even begin! It’s such a complex, emotional, beautiful story. Real. Raw. Heartbreaking. A hard fought love that will give you hope.
Lainey and Thomas meet because he’s her brother’s best friend. He’s older and she’s always had a little crush on him. One night they unexpectedly spend some time talking and it leads to a really great friendship. Then to more. But it’s a secret and it can’t be anything real even though they both feel it. So much happens that I can’t talk about and leads to years, yes I said years, of yearning, angst and longing. They both have their own journeys to go on, to be ready for something more. Magical. That’s how their love feels. Because they never gave up. They couldn’t. When you feel the way they do, it’s not an option. I will say my heart hurt for Thomas. He’s drowning in guilt and the way he punishes himself broke me. Katherine has this gift of drawing you in and making you feel everything and boy did I ever. I’ll leave you with the lesson Lainey and Thomas taught me-seize the moments.
“Fuck it,”
“No talking,” “I never got my dance under the stars.”
“Time doesn’t matter. Then, now, or the future… we will always have this connection.”
“I may have made her come a couple of times since we reconnected, but it’s not enough. I want more. I want her so sated and sore that she never forgets me. Never forgets how good we fit. Because without even sinking inside her, I know that we were made for each other.”
“You make me forget too. When I’m with you, I forget the world, I forget my problems, I forget everything.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🔥🔥
The end of an era. I’m really sad to say goodbye to this crew. It’s been a wonderful journey and ended in the best way. Technically this could be a standalone but for the best experience I think you should start at the beginning with When Nothing Else Matters. You’ll appreciate it so much more.
Lainey and Thomas. Where do I even begin! It’s such a complex, emotional, beautiful story. Real. Raw. Heartbreaking. A hard fought love that will give you hope.
Lainey and Thomas meet because he’s her brother’s best friend. He’s older and she’s always had a little crush on him. One night they unexpectedly spend some time talking and it leads to a really great friendship. Then to more. But it’s a secret and it can’t be anything real even though they both feel it. So much happens that I can’t talk about and leads to years, yes I said years, of yearning, angst and longing. They both have their own journeys to go on, to be ready for something more. Magical. That’s how their love feels. Because they never gave up. They couldn’t. When you feel the way they do, it’s not an option. I will say my heart hurt for Thomas. He’s drowning in guilt and the way he punishes himself broke me. Katherine has this gift of drawing you in and making you feel everything and boy did I ever. I’ll leave you with the lesson Lainey and Thomas taught me-seize the moments.
“Fuck it,”
“No talking,” “I never got my dance under the stars.”
“Time doesn’t matter. Then, now, or the future… we will always have this connection.”
“I may have made her come a couple of times since we reconnected, but it’s not enough. I want more. I want her so sated and sore that she never forgets me. Never forgets how good we fit. Because without even sinking inside her, I know that we were made for each other.”
“You make me forget too. When I’m with you, I forget the world, I forget my problems, I forget everything.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🔥🔥
June 23, 2024
What a beautiful conclusion to this series! This book was so lovely. We have two very broken main characters who lean on each other in every possible way they can. They are running from themselves. I wish they knew sometimes, that it’s ok to ask for help. The beginning of this book had my heart in my throat, and there was a lot of back and forth; but once we get there, we get there. Lainey is 15 almost 16 yrs and is a dancer, but this isn’t really her dream. This is her parents dream for her, but she wants to play the dutiful daughter and make her parents/family proud. She doesn’t really have much of a choice. In comes our happy go lucky, (so it seems) Thomas. Thomas is Lainey’s older brother’s best friend. Under accidental circumstances, Lainey and Thomas finally meet face to face, and have an instant connection. No matter how great their friendship is, outside forces try to keep them a part and that they have no control over. Thomas loves football like nothing else, and he’ll do what ever it takes to make that dream come true. Thomas seems to have it all figured out, but there are some secrets with his family that will devastate you. Lainey and Thomas see each other. Lainey and Thomas calm the chaos in each others lives. Something rips them apart, and we get glimpses of their life on and off. They never stopped loving each other, but sometimes we all know love isn’t enough. Will they fix each other or destroy each other? I I’m gonna miss this group of nit close friends. I’ve been around for this series from the very beginning, and I’m so glad I got to see the gang here and there. THESE ARE THE TYPE OF PEOPLE WHO YOU WANT IN YOUR LIFE. They love you unconditionally, but call you out on your stuff. The heart strings final book is probably my favorite, next to ain’t no sunshine. Definitely check out this series for lovers of sports romance, tight friendships and a bit of an angst a long the way. Such a wonderful job Katherine.
June 21, 2024
I did fall in love with Thomas when I read When Nothing Else Matters. I don't know why, but this man had my attention. Even if the circumstances in WNEM weren't really good ones. 🤔 But his character spoke to me. I'm so happy Katherine Jay granted me (I pretend she did it only for me 🤣) with a full length novel only for Thomas. If I tell you I was sceptical in the beginning because, how could he met my expectations and what FMC ever can be the right choice for him - if you haven't figured it out already I'm obsessed with this man. But what Katherine created here and Lainey, oh my God Lainey. You had it hard with me bad damn gurl you made me fall in love with you too! She's is the perfect love interest for Thomas. She is strong, and she is fighting for herself 🫶.
In typically Katherine Jay manner this book is a hard earned HEA. She lets these two fight for their relationship and there are multiple hurdles they've to jump through.
This book might be not for everyone, which is totally fine. But if you're looking for a romantic suspense, hard earned love, she falls first but he falls harder, drama, multiple chances, right person wrong time, brothers best friend / best friends sister, then this is it! 👑
Please do read When Nothing Else Matters first, you don't have to read the whole series (but I highly recommend) but the emotions Thomas is going through hit so much harder if you have the full background!
I told it to Katherine already, but I love what she did with Thomas, and we need more of these MMCs in the world. To all the men who might read this - you're worth it, and you're allowed to have emotions and show them. There is no men up, we're all human and we're allowed to equally share our emotions. 🫂❤️
In typically Katherine Jay manner this book is a hard earned HEA. She lets these two fight for their relationship and there are multiple hurdles they've to jump through.
This book might be not for everyone, which is totally fine. But if you're looking for a romantic suspense, hard earned love, she falls first but he falls harder, drama, multiple chances, right person wrong time, brothers best friend / best friends sister, then this is it! 👑
Please do read When Nothing Else Matters first, you don't have to read the whole series (but I highly recommend) but the emotions Thomas is going through hit so much harder if you have the full background!
I told it to Katherine already, but I love what she did with Thomas, and we need more of these MMCs in the world. To all the men who might read this - you're worth it, and you're allowed to have emotions and show them. There is no men up, we're all human and we're allowed to equally share our emotions. 🫂❤️
June 21, 2024
Thomas and Lainey owned a piece of my heart during the binge session I had reading this book. Their journey from childhood "friends" to strangers to lovers over the course of roughly 10 years was nothing short of captivating. With some heavy topics throughout, this story that started as an 18 year old confused football player and a 16 year old ballerina mistakenly interacting, wrapped in the best friend's sister trope, kept me hooked from start to finish.
I absolutely loved Thomas. His moments of panic and happiness were so vividly portrayed that I felt every emotion with him. His chaos was palpable, making him an incredibly relatable and human character. Thomas was broken, trying to hold himself together, and the weight of his messed-up family added layers to his struggle. His vulnerability and strength made him unforgettable.
Lainey was a joy to read. Sweet, fun, and a genuinely good person, she was a light in the lives of everyone around her. Her interactions with other characters were delightful, and she practically jumped off the page with her vibrant personality.
The story's timeline, spanning roughly 10 years, added depth and realism to the narrative. The angst and emotional growth experienced by the characters during this period made the reading experience even more immersive and satisfying. I loved seeing how their relationship evolved over time, and the long-term development was awesome.
Overall, "A Sky Full of Stars" is a fantastic read. It stands alone perfectly, though I understand why readers would be eager to learn more about the amazing background characters who have their own stories. Katherine Jay has created a beautiful, heartfelt romance that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
I absolutely loved Thomas. His moments of panic and happiness were so vividly portrayed that I felt every emotion with him. His chaos was palpable, making him an incredibly relatable and human character. Thomas was broken, trying to hold himself together, and the weight of his messed-up family added layers to his struggle. His vulnerability and strength made him unforgettable.
Lainey was a joy to read. Sweet, fun, and a genuinely good person, she was a light in the lives of everyone around her. Her interactions with other characters were delightful, and she practically jumped off the page with her vibrant personality.
The story's timeline, spanning roughly 10 years, added depth and realism to the narrative. The angst and emotional growth experienced by the characters during this period made the reading experience even more immersive and satisfying. I loved seeing how their relationship evolved over time, and the long-term development was awesome.
Overall, "A Sky Full of Stars" is a fantastic read. It stands alone perfectly, though I understand why readers would be eager to learn more about the amazing background characters who have their own stories. Katherine Jay has created a beautiful, heartfelt romance that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
June 22, 2024
ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎
𝙰 𝚂𝚔𝚢 𝙵𝚞𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚂𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜 𝚋𝚢 @katherinejayauthor
“You’re my Kryptonite. You’re the only one that could bring me to my knees.”
What to expect:
🏈College/Pro Football
🩰Dancer FMC
🏈Brother’s Best Friend/Teammate
🩰Broken MC’s
🏈Soulmates
🩰Angst, Steam and Swoon
I can’t believe the final book in the 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 is out in the world! It feels like forever that this series has been a part of my soul. For me it’s hard to really choose favorite because while each book can be enjoyed on its own I can’t seem to think of one book without thinking of another. These characters care so deeply for each other and the way that each “new” face was brought into the fold and it was as if they had been there all along was always one of my favorite parts. I knew from Book 1 or (2 as I will always recommend;)) that Thomas was so much more than the older brother who just didn’t get it. I knew his story would bring you through it as most of Katherine’s writing does, but I had no idea how much.
Thomas and Lainey were unexpected to themselves and to us. It was a “forbidden” love of sorts, but not just because she was his best friend’s little sister. Sure he was a bit older, a little bit more life experience behind him but he was broken. Laine was broken. Truly their love was forbidden because they didn’t have the capacity to love themselves. So, after the back and forth, the “f-ck it” moments, the secrecy they decided time was what they needed. True time apart to get their life together….then when that true second chance arrives —— all that angst that we go through just makes it that much sweeter.
Katherine did a beautiful job of giving each character their own growth separately. Generally I love when couples grow together, but really I loved seeing both of them own their problems and start to learn how to be healthier versions of themselves. This book dealt more with mental health more so than the other books and it was such a beautiful look at the way partners can help the other heal but can’t do it for them. I just felt so much for Thomas….and I loved getting his perspective in relation to his issues with Summer.
Katherine nailed it with these two and while for me the emotional aspect will always outweigh the spice….we definitely got the spiciest book of the series with these two! The spice was spicin’ when it hit! Plus, we also got to catch up with all of the “Friendsgiving” crew much later in the future and it was so much fun! I will
FOREVER love this world that Katherine created!!!!
𝙰 𝚂𝚔𝚢 𝙵𝚞𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚂𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜 𝚋𝚢 @katherinejayauthor
“You’re my Kryptonite. You’re the only one that could bring me to my knees.”
What to expect:
🏈College/Pro Football
🩰Dancer FMC
🏈Brother’s Best Friend/Teammate
🩰Broken MC’s
🏈Soulmates
🩰Angst, Steam and Swoon
I can’t believe the final book in the 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 is out in the world! It feels like forever that this series has been a part of my soul. For me it’s hard to really choose favorite because while each book can be enjoyed on its own I can’t seem to think of one book without thinking of another. These characters care so deeply for each other and the way that each “new” face was brought into the fold and it was as if they had been there all along was always one of my favorite parts. I knew from Book 1 or (2 as I will always recommend;)) that Thomas was so much more than the older brother who just didn’t get it. I knew his story would bring you through it as most of Katherine’s writing does, but I had no idea how much.
Thomas and Lainey were unexpected to themselves and to us. It was a “forbidden” love of sorts, but not just because she was his best friend’s little sister. Sure he was a bit older, a little bit more life experience behind him but he was broken. Laine was broken. Truly their love was forbidden because they didn’t have the capacity to love themselves. So, after the back and forth, the “f-ck it” moments, the secrecy they decided time was what they needed. True time apart to get their life together….then when that true second chance arrives —— all that angst that we go through just makes it that much sweeter.
Katherine did a beautiful job of giving each character their own growth separately. Generally I love when couples grow together, but really I loved seeing both of them own their problems and start to learn how to be healthier versions of themselves. This book dealt more with mental health more so than the other books and it was such a beautiful look at the way partners can help the other heal but can’t do it for them. I just felt so much for Thomas….and I loved getting his perspective in relation to his issues with Summer.
Katherine nailed it with these two and while for me the emotional aspect will always outweigh the spice….we definitely got the spiciest book of the series with these two! The spice was spicin’ when it hit! Plus, we also got to catch up with all of the “Friendsgiving” crew much later in the future and it was so much fun! I will
FOREVER love this world that Katherine created!!!!
June 21, 2024
My heart is full
This is a standalone, but you should read When Nothing Else Matters because this book happens before, during and and after.
Lainey and Thomas' story was so beautiful. This book is right person wrong time, soulmates, brother's best friend/teammate, it was just beautiful.
Lainey is a dancer who wants to get into her favorite college, but her grandmother has other plans for her dancing career. She keeps a lot to herself about it until Thomas happens to see her at her lowest and just listens to her vent. She also happens to have the biggest crush on Thomas, even though she doesn't think he sees her.
Thomas is the Quarterback in college who looks like he has it all together, but his home life isn't the best. He and his sister and drifting apart, but he is trying his best to be there for her.
Thomas starts hanging out with Lainey in secret because his best friend Luke, Lainey's brother, will think he is trying to date her, when she is off limits, but really he just likes talking to her and loves that she listens to him vent.
There are so many obstacles in their way that keeps them from being with each other, but somehow they keep finding each other again.
They are both broken in their own way and it is beautiful on how they have to overcome their problems, instead of just trying to forget about it all.
Can't believe this is the end of the series, but it came together beautifully!
This is a standalone, but you should read When Nothing Else Matters because this book happens before, during and and after.
Lainey and Thomas' story was so beautiful. This book is right person wrong time, soulmates, brother's best friend/teammate, it was just beautiful.
Lainey is a dancer who wants to get into her favorite college, but her grandmother has other plans for her dancing career. She keeps a lot to herself about it until Thomas happens to see her at her lowest and just listens to her vent. She also happens to have the biggest crush on Thomas, even though she doesn't think he sees her.
Thomas is the Quarterback in college who looks like he has it all together, but his home life isn't the best. He and his sister and drifting apart, but he is trying his best to be there for her.
Thomas starts hanging out with Lainey in secret because his best friend Luke, Lainey's brother, will think he is trying to date her, when she is off limits, but really he just likes talking to her and loves that she listens to him vent.
There are so many obstacles in their way that keeps them from being with each other, but somehow they keep finding each other again.
They are both broken in their own way and it is beautiful on how they have to overcome their problems, instead of just trying to forget about it all.
Can't believe this is the end of the series, but it came together beautifully!
June 25, 2024
Katherine Jay I dont know how you did it but you turned a guy I wasnt actually a fan of into this beautiful broken boy that I wanted to fix and love.
We first meet Thomas and Lainey in When Nothing Else Matters and not under the best circumstances. This book is their story and we revisit where it all began. This is painful, and heart breaking and pulls at your heartstrings (no pun intended) but it’s also a stunning story of healing, overcoming demons, personal growth and finally falling in love. Katherine makes us work for our HEA but boy was it worth it.
Thomas. The man that has a life others can only dream about, suffering behind closed doors. Lainey, a beautiful woman with so much strength and confidence, fighting her own struggles.
These two were toxic, but they knew this. They knew nothing good would come from their time together. But time apart makes them realise the depth of their love, and how they were together for the wrong reasons and needed to work on them and heal before they could find their happiness.
This drags emotions out of me I did not expect and I am gutted we’re saying goodbye to this series. The friendsgiving crew are like home. Every single character I adore for many different reasons. It was amazing to get caught up with previous MCs and see where they are in life now.
We first meet Thomas and Lainey in When Nothing Else Matters and not under the best circumstances. This book is their story and we revisit where it all began. This is painful, and heart breaking and pulls at your heartstrings (no pun intended) but it’s also a stunning story of healing, overcoming demons, personal growth and finally falling in love. Katherine makes us work for our HEA but boy was it worth it.
Thomas. The man that has a life others can only dream about, suffering behind closed doors. Lainey, a beautiful woman with so much strength and confidence, fighting her own struggles.
These two were toxic, but they knew this. They knew nothing good would come from their time together. But time apart makes them realise the depth of their love, and how they were together for the wrong reasons and needed to work on them and heal before they could find their happiness.
This drags emotions out of me I did not expect and I am gutted we’re saying goodbye to this series. The friendsgiving crew are like home. Every single character I adore for many different reasons. It was amazing to get caught up with previous MCs and see where they are in life now.
June 18, 2024
Aw my beautiful broken babies, I just wanted to reach in and give them a hug!!
Katherine very accurately named this series Heartstrings because mine have been pulled in every direction possible!
𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙇𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙮. 𝙎𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙚—𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙪𝙢𝙗𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣, 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙤 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧.
Thomas and Lainey’s story spans over many years and full of angst, and love, friendship and family while touching on some difficult topics as well.
Their journey was so beautiful and emotional, the way they found each other again after years apart 😩
I loved seeing the group all together again and also seeing things from book 1 from a different perspective (I highly recommend at least reading When Nothing Else Matters before diving in here) all the emotion and inner turmoil that Thomas went through, made such an impact.
𝙃𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩, 𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙂𝙤𝙙, 𝙙𝙤 𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩.
Katherine you should be so proud of this series as a whole, you are brilliant and I am so excited for what more is to come ❤️
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙧𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙤𝙤.”
Katherine very accurately named this series Heartstrings because mine have been pulled in every direction possible!
𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙇𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙮. 𝙎𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙚—𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙪𝙢𝙗𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣, 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙤 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝙄 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧.
Thomas and Lainey’s story spans over many years and full of angst, and love, friendship and family while touching on some difficult topics as well.
Their journey was so beautiful and emotional, the way they found each other again after years apart 😩
I loved seeing the group all together again and also seeing things from book 1 from a different perspective (I highly recommend at least reading When Nothing Else Matters before diving in here) all the emotion and inner turmoil that Thomas went through, made such an impact.
𝙃𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩, 𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙂𝙤𝙙, 𝙙𝙤 𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩.
Katherine you should be so proud of this series as a whole, you are brilliant and I am so excited for what more is to come ❤️
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙧𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙤𝙤.”
June 25, 2024
I truly have no words for how much I loved this!!
Such a beautiful and bittersweet ending to an amazing series, one that I know I will love forever.
My heart fully belongs with Lainey and Thomas, the Angst and chemistry between those two was off the charts and seeing their friendship grow was so freaking cute. I just love them and the bond they share. Their character growth was also incredible, both separately and together.
Like every other book in this series, I sobbed my heart out. Katherine, I don't know how you do it but every single time I finish one of your books I’m completely destroyed - in the best way possible and I would 100% go back and feel all those emotions again!
I honestly couldn't have asked for a better ending to this series but I'm also sad it has come to an end, these books will always have a special place in my heart. The world and found family Katherine has created is a beautiful thing and I can’t recommend these books enough.
If you love any of the below you NEED to check this book out (and also read all other books before it for the best possible emotional impact)
Brothers Best Friend
Sports Romance (Football)
Angst, Steam and Swoon
Broken MC’s
Right Person, Wrong Time
Such a beautiful and bittersweet ending to an amazing series, one that I know I will love forever.
My heart fully belongs with Lainey and Thomas, the Angst and chemistry between those two was off the charts and seeing their friendship grow was so freaking cute. I just love them and the bond they share. Their character growth was also incredible, both separately and together.
Like every other book in this series, I sobbed my heart out. Katherine, I don't know how you do it but every single time I finish one of your books I’m completely destroyed - in the best way possible and I would 100% go back and feel all those emotions again!
I honestly couldn't have asked for a better ending to this series but I'm also sad it has come to an end, these books will always have a special place in my heart. The world and found family Katherine has created is a beautiful thing and I can’t recommend these books enough.
If you love any of the below you NEED to check this book out (and also read all other books before it for the best possible emotional impact)
Brothers Best Friend
Sports Romance (Football)
Angst, Steam and Swoon
Broken MC’s
Right Person, Wrong Time
July 3, 2024
✨️" Promise me you'll never settle for anything less than you deserve. Even when it comes to me. Because you deserve the world. Every bit of it." ✨️
There is just something about a brothers best friend book that just hits different. Especially the secret togetherness that goes on and the ability to be oneself with one another. I love it. Thomas and Lainey put me through the ringer. What a whirlwind of emotions. The battles that these two go through make your heart ache. But the way that they are there for one another, while also simultaneously not being there. UGH. My heart ❤️🩹 . They go out of their way to make sure that the other is okay even if they aren't. Thomas and Lainey are destined to be together. No matter how many years they've been up and down, they have this pull towards one another. Thomas is a broken man and takes a long time to understand what's going on in his world. Thanks to Lainey, she shines some light into his dark. I loved how Lainey found her true passion in the end, all thanks to Thomas for being a little encouraging bystander to get her dancing again.
My only wish was that we got a little more of Thomas after his mental health discovery and his recovery. This book was lengthy and a whole lot angsty, I just wanted more of them together. But overall, a phenomenal ending to a great series.
✨️" You are the only one in my orbit. No matter how many stars are in the sky, the only one that shines brightly is yours. " ✨️
Read if you like :
🩵Brothers Best Friend
🏈Sports Romance
🩰Football Player x Ballet Dancer
🩵Trauma
🏈Broken MMC
🩰Strong FMC
🩵Angst
Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
There is just something about a brothers best friend book that just hits different. Especially the secret togetherness that goes on and the ability to be oneself with one another. I love it. Thomas and Lainey put me through the ringer. What a whirlwind of emotions. The battles that these two go through make your heart ache. But the way that they are there for one another, while also simultaneously not being there. UGH. My heart ❤️🩹 . They go out of their way to make sure that the other is okay even if they aren't. Thomas and Lainey are destined to be together. No matter how many years they've been up and down, they have this pull towards one another. Thomas is a broken man and takes a long time to understand what's going on in his world. Thanks to Lainey, she shines some light into his dark. I loved how Lainey found her true passion in the end, all thanks to Thomas for being a little encouraging bystander to get her dancing again.
My only wish was that we got a little more of Thomas after his mental health discovery and his recovery. This book was lengthy and a whole lot angsty, I just wanted more of them together. But overall, a phenomenal ending to a great series.
✨️" You are the only one in my orbit. No matter how many stars are in the sky, the only one that shines brightly is yours. " ✨️
Read if you like :
🩵Brothers Best Friend
🏈Sports Romance
🩰Football Player x Ballet Dancer
🩵Trauma
🏈Broken MMC
🩰Strong FMC
🩵Angst
Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2024
Oh man!! What a story this was?? I am impressed with the way Katherine ended the series and I was so happy to see all the book characters live their lives the way they deserve. Their love and support for each other means the world here. Katherine hats off!!
I think this book is my favourite of the series. I loved Joel and Delilah a lot but Lainey and Thomas topped them. The angst, the emotional roller coaster was best. The need to see their happy ending was nail-biting, and every time they come together, a new hope ignites just to extinguish it into sadness.
The plot is amazing, covering their start to their second chance and then to their third chance. It’s all so smooth and heartbreaking. The Broken MCs deserve so much more than they are dealt with but everything was needed for them to be where they are now, I don’t want to change anything about it.
The journey was difficult but I loved every line of it. It touched my heart and now I am ready for the spin-off series and to meet the new characters Katherine is writing. I hope to meet the existing ones as well as they are all related. This is a must-read series.
I think this book is my favourite of the series. I loved Joel and Delilah a lot but Lainey and Thomas topped them. The angst, the emotional roller coaster was best. The need to see their happy ending was nail-biting, and every time they come together, a new hope ignites just to extinguish it into sadness.
The plot is amazing, covering their start to their second chance and then to their third chance. It’s all so smooth and heartbreaking. The Broken MCs deserve so much more than they are dealt with but everything was needed for them to be where they are now, I don’t want to change anything about it.
The journey was difficult but I loved every line of it. It touched my heart and now I am ready for the spin-off series and to meet the new characters Katherine is writing. I hope to meet the existing ones as well as they are all related. This is a must-read series.
June 23, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
This book completely wrecked me but in a good way. There was so much depth to the characters, angst, heartbreak and love. I felt Laney and Thomas's pain so deeply for them. Their circumstances and the circumstances of the side characters were just so unfair at times.
Laney the FMC starts in the beginning of the book as a 15 year old ballerina dancer who has a huge crush on her brothers good friend, Thomas. Thomas is 19 just graduated high school and is hoping to be the starting quarterback. They develop a sweet and innocent friendship that is forbidden due to their age and due to their association. There story begins there and grows throughout the book.
I haven't read the other books in this series but I don't think that mattered. Yes, this book did give away some things that you should have learned from other books but I was still able to enjoy this story.
If you enjoy depth in characters, brothers friend, childhood crushes, right person wrong time, and lots of angst you will love this book.
I will definitely be checking out more from this author!
College/Pro Football
Dancer FMC
Brother's Best Friend/Teammate
Broken MC's
Soulmates
Angst, Steam and Swoon
🌶️🌶️
This book completely wrecked me but in a good way. There was so much depth to the characters, angst, heartbreak and love. I felt Laney and Thomas's pain so deeply for them. Their circumstances and the circumstances of the side characters were just so unfair at times.
Laney the FMC starts in the beginning of the book as a 15 year old ballerina dancer who has a huge crush on her brothers good friend, Thomas. Thomas is 19 just graduated high school and is hoping to be the starting quarterback. They develop a sweet and innocent friendship that is forbidden due to their age and due to their association. There story begins there and grows throughout the book.
I haven't read the other books in this series but I don't think that mattered. Yes, this book did give away some things that you should have learned from other books but I was still able to enjoy this story.
If you enjoy depth in characters, brothers friend, childhood crushes, right person wrong time, and lots of angst you will love this book.
I will definitely be checking out more from this author!
College/Pro Football
Dancer FMC
Brother's Best Friend/Teammate
Broken MC's
Soulmates
Angst, Steam and Swoon
July 1, 2024
I had the privilege of ARC reading Katherine's series and jumped at the opportunity to do the same for this book.
Overall, the story was well written and flushed out and I loved her attention to details. As a therapist, I wanted to reach out to both Thomas and Lainey and shake them. There was so much trauma and manipulation in their history that it was felt heavily through out the story. I was rooting for them from the jump but their separation was necessary for Lainey's growth. I do wish that Thomas would have gotten professional help for his drinking but I loved that he did start the therapy process because it was so necessary for the betterment of self. However, it was over all a good story told by an amazing author I will be going back to read the other books in the series a little later this summer.
My Favorite Quotes:
“Promise me you’ll never settle for anything less than you deserve. Even when it comes to me. Because you deserve the world. Every bit of it.”
“You are the only one in my orbit. No matter how many stars are in the sky, the only one that shines brightly is yours.”
Overall, the story was well written and flushed out and I loved her attention to details. As a therapist, I wanted to reach out to both Thomas and Lainey and shake them. There was so much trauma and manipulation in their history that it was felt heavily through out the story. I was rooting for them from the jump but their separation was necessary for Lainey's growth. I do wish that Thomas would have gotten professional help for his drinking but I loved that he did start the therapy process because it was so necessary for the betterment of self. However, it was over all a good story told by an amazing author I will be going back to read the other books in the series a little later this summer.
My Favorite Quotes:
“Promise me you’ll never settle for anything less than you deserve. Even when it comes to me. Because you deserve the world. Every bit of it.”
“You are the only one in my orbit. No matter how many stars are in the sky, the only one that shines brightly is yours.”
July 9, 2024
As the final story in the Heartstring Series I went into this one already loving Thomas, but quickly learned his happy-go-lucky persona isn’t exactly what it seems. As someone who seems to have it all; family, friends, a promising football career he just can’t seem to find true happiness. And if you haven’t read book one, When Nothing Else Matters, I highly suggest starting there. While you’ll be able to follow Thomas’s story without it, his sister Summer’s story helps shed light on their past and lets us truly see where his struggles stem from.
Lainey and Thomas seemed doomed from the start and though I was rooting for them throughout, I often had my doubts on if they’d actually be able to heal their own wounds in order to be healthy for each other.
This was such a deep story on so many levels. There are some trigger warnings found on Katherine’s website, but I think the things touched upon are very important topics and were handled with care.
Would definitely recommend this one if you like a love story that dives into deeper issues and highlights working on yourself to be better together.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Lainey and Thomas seemed doomed from the start and though I was rooting for them throughout, I often had my doubts on if they’d actually be able to heal their own wounds in order to be healthy for each other.
This was such a deep story on so many levels. There are some trigger warnings found on Katherine’s website, but I think the things touched upon are very important topics and were handled with care.
Would definitely recommend this one if you like a love story that dives into deeper issues and highlights working on yourself to be better together.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews