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The Dark Before Light
I’ve never fallen for a patient.
But I’ve never had one quite like him.
Kieran Hayes is a modern-day brilliant, arrogant, and ruthless. The Irish tech CEO has spent the last decade building his legacy in my city, but now he's breaking beneath the weight of his multibillion-dollar crown.
Forced into my therapy office, he’s confident I can't help him. I'm determined to prove him wrong.
Kieran will never know my desire to treat him stems from more than professional obligation. He doesn't remember the long-ago act of kindness that changed my life, but I've never forgotten.
This time I'm going to save him.
Or so I think.
The more I learn about his beautiful mind, the more my professional boundaries crumble. Especially when he decides he doesn't want any boundaries—or clothes—separating us.
Can I save him without sacrificing my ethics?
Or will Kieran be the first man to bring me to my knees?
WHAT TO
• Therapist/Patient forbidden romance
• Dual POV
• Surprise second chance
• Dislike to Obsession to Love
• Battle of wills (in and out of the bedroom)
• Bossy, troubled Irish hero + former Domme
• Sprinkle of suspense
The Dark Before Light is a full-length contemporary romance with a HEA. While it is a complete standalone, it takes place in the same world as The Vision Series (romantic suspense) and The Fall Before Flight (therapist/patient romance). For a detailed list of content warnings, please visit the author's website.
But I’ve never had one quite like him.
Kieran Hayes is a modern-day brilliant, arrogant, and ruthless. The Irish tech CEO has spent the last decade building his legacy in my city, but now he's breaking beneath the weight of his multibillion-dollar crown.
Forced into my therapy office, he’s confident I can't help him. I'm determined to prove him wrong.
Kieran will never know my desire to treat him stems from more than professional obligation. He doesn't remember the long-ago act of kindness that changed my life, but I've never forgotten.
This time I'm going to save him.
Or so I think.
The more I learn about his beautiful mind, the more my professional boundaries crumble. Especially when he decides he doesn't want any boundaries—or clothes—separating us.
Can I save him without sacrificing my ethics?
Or will Kieran be the first man to bring me to my knees?
WHAT TO
• Therapist/Patient forbidden romance
• Dual POV
• Surprise second chance
• Dislike to Obsession to Love
• Battle of wills (in and out of the bedroom)
• Bossy, troubled Irish hero + former Domme
• Sprinkle of suspense
The Dark Before Light is a full-length contemporary romance with a HEA. While it is a complete standalone, it takes place in the same world as The Vision Series (romantic suspense) and The Fall Before Flight (therapist/patient romance). For a detailed list of content warnings, please visit the author's website.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 9, 2024
385 people are currently reading
2055 people want to read
About the author
L.M. Halloran
22 books1,099 followersWhen she's not reading or writing, the author enjoys walking barefoot and chasing her spirited daughter. She's a rabid fan of coffee, moongazing, and small dogs that resemble Ewoks. She lives in Portland, OR.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
October 21, 2024
I'm going to start off with a sort of "buyer beware" tag, because I think this might be a make-or-break issue for some readers:
The Dark Before Light doesn't really feel like a therapist/patient romance. At least, not like the ones readers of the trope would find most familiar.
Yes, in addition to being a psychologist, Talia is a sex therapist, kink educator, and former dominatrix. But even before readers get to thoroughly explore all those additional avenues of, uh, care ... the difference is marked by how many of the MCs' interactions take place outside of traditionally clinical spaces, sometimes in settings that are plainly social. If one were to cut all explicit mentions as to the nature of Talia and Kieran's relationship, their back-and-forth could read like a broader combative, borderline enemies-to-lovers pairing: just two people finding themselves very attracted to each other while wrestling for a dominant role in the relationship—wrestling for it because they're both innately powerful people.
The boundaries crack pretty quickly.
There's a paragraph of dialogue—Talia speaking to Kieran—about a third of the way into the novel that nicely encapsulates some of what I'm talking about:
So if you're looking for a dynamic similar to Leo and Mia's in The Fall Before Flight, this isn't it. To be sure, there's some common backstory/background, the most significant being—SPOILER for The Fall Before Flight—that both Leo and Talia knew Mia and Kieran, respectively, prior to becoming their therapists. They took on the roles at the requests of their patients' loved ones, with whom they also have established friendships. They did so despite their better judgement, despite the fact that they're already kinda-sorta-maybe head-over-heels obsessed with these people.
As for Mia and Kieran ... they don't recognize their new therapists, and are therefore unaware of the above.
That overlap is substantial, but one of the things I love about The Dark Before Light is that Halloran ensures common ground with The Fall Before Flight doesn't mean common journeys or common destinations.
Taboo romances in which the FMC plays the more vulnerable party (student, stepchild, patient) can be difficult to gender-swap. To be frank, many readers don't want their MMCs scrabbling with that level of vulnerability or insecurity or—in the case of someone under, say, psychiatric care—that level of "weakness." (BIG scare quotes there.) It can register as, erm, "unattractive." (More BIG scare quotes.)
This means that Halloran had to make both the FMC (as therapist) and MMC (as patient) equally powerful, equally alpha, and in doing so, she had to tackle this challenge: When both therapist and patient are peers in their leonine qualities—when the power imbalance isn't quite as evident—how do you keep things interesting?
Halloran, Lord bless her, seems to have figured it out. Both by bringing the book's narrative edges into the realm of the thriller/suspense subgenre, and by way of more granular craftsmanship. Halloran's prose has never been more sophisticated, funny, daring and—most important—surprising. She's offering up a quality of writing that's, statistically speaking, somewhat rare in indie romance. What we get is a book that's intriguing, sexy, and sharp.
Halloran picked this challenge, and she kicked it's muscle-bound butt. The Dark Before Light is absolutely worth your time, and whether or not you end up loving it, I think you'll find a lot to admire here, a lot to respect. I'm certainly impressed AF.
______
Advance copy courtesy of author, no quid pro quo.
Read more from me—reviews, essays, interviews with authors like Lauren Layne, Cate C. Wells and L.M. BLOODY RIGHT HALLORAN—at Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Read.
The Dark Before Light doesn't really feel like a therapist/patient romance. At least, not like the ones readers of the trope would find most familiar.
Yes, in addition to being a psychologist, Talia is a sex therapist, kink educator, and former dominatrix. But even before readers get to thoroughly explore all those additional avenues of, uh, care ... the difference is marked by how many of the MCs' interactions take place outside of traditionally clinical spaces, sometimes in settings that are plainly social. If one were to cut all explicit mentions as to the nature of Talia and Kieran's relationship, their back-and-forth could read like a broader combative, borderline enemies-to-lovers pairing: just two people finding themselves very attracted to each other while wrestling for a dominant role in the relationship—wrestling for it because they're both innately powerful people.
The boundaries crack pretty quickly.
There's a paragraph of dialogue—Talia speaking to Kieran—about a third of the way into the novel that nicely encapsulates some of what I'm talking about:
"There are many people who'd say my behavior was unprofessional. I shouldn't have gone in the jacuzzi, shared details of my private life, or stayed the night in your guest room. I'll admit, initially, I shared that mindset. But I've since given it a lot of thought and come to the conclusion that our experience was in line with my general methodology. . ."
So if you're looking for a dynamic similar to Leo and Mia's in The Fall Before Flight, this isn't it. To be sure, there's some common backstory/background, the most significant being—SPOILER for The Fall Before Flight—that both Leo and Talia knew Mia and Kieran, respectively, prior to becoming their therapists. They took on the roles at the requests of their patients' loved ones, with whom they also have established friendships. They did so despite their better judgement, despite the fact that they're already kinda-sorta-maybe head-over-heels obsessed with these people.
As for Mia and Kieran ... they don't recognize their new therapists, and are therefore unaware of the above.
That overlap is substantial, but one of the things I love about The Dark Before Light is that Halloran ensures common ground with The Fall Before Flight doesn't mean common journeys or common destinations.
Taboo romances in which the FMC plays the more vulnerable party (student, stepchild, patient) can be difficult to gender-swap. To be frank, many readers don't want their MMCs scrabbling with that level of vulnerability or insecurity or—in the case of someone under, say, psychiatric care—that level of "weakness." (BIG scare quotes there.) It can register as, erm, "unattractive." (More BIG scare quotes.)
This means that Halloran had to make both the FMC (as therapist) and MMC (as patient) equally powerful, equally alpha, and in doing so, she had to tackle this challenge: When both therapist and patient are peers in their leonine qualities—when the power imbalance isn't quite as evident—how do you keep things interesting?
Halloran, Lord bless her, seems to have figured it out. Both by bringing the book's narrative edges into the realm of the thriller/suspense subgenre, and by way of more granular craftsmanship. Halloran's prose has never been more sophisticated, funny, daring and—most important—surprising. She's offering up a quality of writing that's, statistically speaking, somewhat rare in indie romance. What we get is a book that's intriguing, sexy, and sharp.
Halloran picked this challenge, and she kicked it's muscle-bound butt. The Dark Before Light is absolutely worth your time, and whether or not you end up loving it, I think you'll find a lot to admire here, a lot to respect. I'm certainly impressed AF.
______
Advance copy courtesy of author, no quid pro quo.
Read more from me—reviews, essays, interviews with authors like Lauren Layne, Cate C. Wells and L.M. BLOODY RIGHT HALLORAN—at Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Read.
August 7, 2024
This is one of a handful of authors who manages to leave me speechless with her work. I’ve read several books since this one, and it hasn’t left my mind. I’m still at a loss to express this book's impact.
One of the things I love about this talented wordsmith's work is that her characters are truly unique. You won’t see anything like them in any other contemporary romance. They're complicated and layered with vulnerabilities and ghosts that demand conquering and laying to rest.
I’m not sure who I love more – the hero, Kieran Hayes, or the shero, Talia Stirling. Kieran is a brilliant tech mogul who's gone off the rails and is forced into therapy. So how does this work, exactly? A powerful, self-made man, successful and prominent enough that he requires security, is not someone who will subjugate himself to be on an equal playing field with a therapist.
Never mind that the therapist is an alpha female, highly acclaimed and sought after with certifications, diplomas, and experience galore. And intelligence? Talia is off the charts. She has a specific plan for her patients and keeps a clear boundary between her personal and professional lives.
And Kieran? He has a way of needling and resistinging and blurring lines until they’re obliterated. The push and pull between two dominant people who refuse to bend is really delicious. Then the way they each question themselves, their beliefs, and their values is brilliantly presented. Halloran takes us deep, refuses to pull punches, and enthralls us into her story with poetic prose.
This may not be for every reader, but for those adventurous readers who enjoy going dark, this will be your new favorite read. And for Halloran fans, you'll absolutely love reacquainting with old friends while getting a compelling, hypnotic, masterfully written romance that's impossible to put down. A shining star in a crowded galaxy of contemporary romance, this extraordinary, unique, unforgettable romance stands head and shoulders above the rest
One of the things I love about this talented wordsmith's work is that her characters are truly unique. You won’t see anything like them in any other contemporary romance. They're complicated and layered with vulnerabilities and ghosts that demand conquering and laying to rest.
I’m not sure who I love more – the hero, Kieran Hayes, or the shero, Talia Stirling. Kieran is a brilliant tech mogul who's gone off the rails and is forced into therapy. So how does this work, exactly? A powerful, self-made man, successful and prominent enough that he requires security, is not someone who will subjugate himself to be on an equal playing field with a therapist.
Never mind that the therapist is an alpha female, highly acclaimed and sought after with certifications, diplomas, and experience galore. And intelligence? Talia is off the charts. She has a specific plan for her patients and keeps a clear boundary between her personal and professional lives.
And Kieran? He has a way of needling and resistinging and blurring lines until they’re obliterated. The push and pull between two dominant people who refuse to bend is really delicious. Then the way they each question themselves, their beliefs, and their values is brilliantly presented. Halloran takes us deep, refuses to pull punches, and enthralls us into her story with poetic prose.
This may not be for every reader, but for those adventurous readers who enjoy going dark, this will be your new favorite read. And for Halloran fans, you'll absolutely love reacquainting with old friends while getting a compelling, hypnotic, masterfully written romance that's impossible to put down. A shining star in a crowded galaxy of contemporary romance, this extraordinary, unique, unforgettable romance stands head and shoulders above the rest
December 19, 2024
I did not know what to expect from this novel. I had it recommended to me by a viewer and had it on my kindle. Then there was an opportunity to listen to the audio book, so I jumped at the chance. I wasn't sure whether it would be a dark romance, or an erotic romance based on the content warnings. I just hit play and let it take me away.
Boy, did it ever.
I was immediately sucked into the dynamic between Talia and Kieran. Both in her office and out. The brief yet impactful moment they exchanged years ago, never left either of them. For Talia, it was so important that it helped guide her toward a more promising future and helped her believe in herself. I loved that when she has the chance she wants to offer that same option to Kieran.
The burdens Kieran is carrying are so heavy, and while he does have strong shoulders, even he needs a chance to let go sometimes. While he isn't sure what kind of therapy Dr. Talia Sterling is offering him. He is pretty damn positive he doesn't want to try out submission. But there is SO much more to it than that.
So yes, Talia is a Sex Therapist and a specialist in Kink therapy as well. Yet, the methods she offers to help Kieran heal is much more complex than that and if he'll just give her a chance... freedom might be waiting on the other side.
I enjoyed them together so much. This story sucked me right in from the start and I was rooting for them the whole time. It was deep, and painful sometimes, but it was very much worth the journey.
Narrated by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers. Masters pulled off an Irish accent to absolute perfection. It was subtle and not heavy handed. Just smooth as a good whiskey.
5 stars
4 on the spice scale
CW: Dr/Patient relationship, grief, loss of a spouse, neglectful parents, drug use, stalking, kidnapping, violence, threat of SA
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*
Boy, did it ever.
I was immediately sucked into the dynamic between Talia and Kieran. Both in her office and out. The brief yet impactful moment they exchanged years ago, never left either of them. For Talia, it was so important that it helped guide her toward a more promising future and helped her believe in herself. I loved that when she has the chance she wants to offer that same option to Kieran.
The burdens Kieran is carrying are so heavy, and while he does have strong shoulders, even he needs a chance to let go sometimes. While he isn't sure what kind of therapy Dr. Talia Sterling is offering him. He is pretty damn positive he doesn't want to try out submission. But there is SO much more to it than that.
So yes, Talia is a Sex Therapist and a specialist in Kink therapy as well. Yet, the methods she offers to help Kieran heal is much more complex than that and if he'll just give her a chance... freedom might be waiting on the other side.
I enjoyed them together so much. This story sucked me right in from the start and I was rooting for them the whole time. It was deep, and painful sometimes, but it was very much worth the journey.
Narrated by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers. Masters pulled off an Irish accent to absolute perfection. It was subtle and not heavy handed. Just smooth as a good whiskey.
5 stars
4 on the spice scale
CW: Dr/Patient relationship, grief, loss of a spouse, neglectful parents, drug use, stalking, kidnapping, violence, threat of SA
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*
Read
December 14, 2024Soft DNF. This book is not bad—I’m just not feeling the story right now, so I’m pausing it and will try to resume it later.
December 21, 2024
Star Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3.5/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 4.5/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Therapist/Patient
- Taboo Romance
- Forbidden Romance
- Billionaire Romance
- Dislike to Obsession to Love
- Second Chance
- Ex-Female Domme
- Possessive, Alpha, Irish Hero
- He Falls First
- Light BD$M/K!nk
This is my second book by this author, and I truly did not know what to expect. This story grabbed my attention from the start. It reconnects Kieran Hayes, a tormented tech genius, with Talia Stirling, a therapist known for her strict professional boundaries. Both characters are complex and have troubled pasts they must confront. They do this amid themes of dominance and submission, which makes things really tense and interesting.
The story goes beyond what you expect, blending angst, suspense, and romance, as it explores their vulnerabilities and moral dilemmas. Their first meeting during a stormy night in Ireland leaves a lasting mark, and when they meet again, they are both very different people. Now, Talia is a therapist specializing in unconventional methods that challenge Kieran to face his past, making their relationship even more layered.
Talia and Kieran have amazing chemistry, and the development of their slow-burn romance is taboo, with psychological and BDSM elements that really heat things up. This is not just a romance but a journey of self-discovery and healing. Rich in emotional depth and occasionally venturing into dark themes, this story is an emotional journey worth taking. The relationship between Kieran and Talia is intense and captivating, filled with both steamy tension and tender moments, making it a memorable and unique book in the romance genre.
The Dark Before Light is beautifully written. Certainly, this is not for everyone, and it's important to check the trigger and content warnings; however, if you appreciate deep, emotionally charged narratives with rich character development, this is one to add to your TBR.
Narration:
Lucy Rivers and Sean Masters deliver an incredible performance in this audiobook, which features dual-style narration. They are the perfect voices for Talia and Kieran. Sean's Irish accent was *chef's kiss*. Lucy and Sean fully invested me in the characters and expertly captured this story's angst, tension, and emotion.
Thanks to L.M. Halloran, Lyric Audiobooks, and Must Love Audio for the gifted advanced listener copy. Opinions expressed are my own.
Heat Rating: 3.5/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 4.5/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Therapist/Patient
- Taboo Romance
- Forbidden Romance
- Billionaire Romance
- Dislike to Obsession to Love
- Second Chance
- Ex-Female Domme
- Possessive, Alpha, Irish Hero
- He Falls First
- Light BD$M/K!nk
This is my second book by this author, and I truly did not know what to expect. This story grabbed my attention from the start. It reconnects Kieran Hayes, a tormented tech genius, with Talia Stirling, a therapist known for her strict professional boundaries. Both characters are complex and have troubled pasts they must confront. They do this amid themes of dominance and submission, which makes things really tense and interesting.
The story goes beyond what you expect, blending angst, suspense, and romance, as it explores their vulnerabilities and moral dilemmas. Their first meeting during a stormy night in Ireland leaves a lasting mark, and when they meet again, they are both very different people. Now, Talia is a therapist specializing in unconventional methods that challenge Kieran to face his past, making their relationship even more layered.
Talia and Kieran have amazing chemistry, and the development of their slow-burn romance is taboo, with psychological and BDSM elements that really heat things up. This is not just a romance but a journey of self-discovery and healing. Rich in emotional depth and occasionally venturing into dark themes, this story is an emotional journey worth taking. The relationship between Kieran and Talia is intense and captivating, filled with both steamy tension and tender moments, making it a memorable and unique book in the romance genre.
The Dark Before Light is beautifully written. Certainly, this is not for everyone, and it's important to check the trigger and content warnings; however, if you appreciate deep, emotionally charged narratives with rich character development, this is one to add to your TBR.
Narration:
Lucy Rivers and Sean Masters deliver an incredible performance in this audiobook, which features dual-style narration. They are the perfect voices for Talia and Kieran. Sean's Irish accent was *chef's kiss*. Lucy and Sean fully invested me in the characters and expertly captured this story's angst, tension, and emotion.
Thanks to L.M. Halloran, Lyric Audiobooks, and Must Love Audio for the gifted advanced listener copy. Opinions expressed are my own.
August 31, 2024
4.5 Stars ⭐️
“Tell me a secret, Birdie.”
L.M. Halloran easily finds a place on our favourite authors list. This lady never fails to deliver thought provoking stories that explore human emotions and their vulnerabilities. She digs deep into the psyche of her characters, peeling them back layer by layer, ensuring we feel deeply for her characters, their pain, love and healing.
“Why do I feel like you just saved my life then broke my heart?”
Again, she explores these complexities and vulnerabilities in The Dark Before Light. Delivering an emotive story with a touch of suspense thrown in to keep us on our toes.
The Dark Before Light begins when we meet a then, 14-year-old, Talia Stirling, and Kieran Hayes, then 17. It’s a brief, chance meeting that would have a significant effect on Talia, that culminates when, once again, chance brings them together.
“Why is it whenever I see you, I feel instantly defensive? Like we’re about to do battle and I need to attack first.”
Now, thirty-five Kieren is hugely successful, founding his company Lumitech with his brother. After the heartbreaking loss of his wife, Kieran is a shell of his former self.
Now thirty-one, the now Dr Talia Stirling is a sex therapist and former dominatrix. She is enlisted by Kieran’s brother to help him overcome his loss and deal with his pain head on, and Talia does this in her own unique way. Kieran certainly faces his vulnerabilities. To see this big strong powerful man open himself to Talia and her needs was confronting at times, and beautiful in others. Two complex characters, finding common ground.
“Equals don’t kneel. “I think they do.” “But only to each other.”
It was a joy to meet characters from previous books and how they played a role in Kieran’s path back to himself. Another emotionally driven, beautifully written story by one of our faves.
August 1, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Where do I start? The Dark before Light was so beautifully written it had me hooked from the start. I went a little blind with this book, only having seen a few tropes and I’m so glad I didn’t know more.
After a brief encounter while younger, the couple are reunited again after Kieran becomes Talia’s patient. I was so captivated by the story of Kieran and Talia, it was emotional and I also found unique, having not read anything like it before. They’re both intelligent, brilliant, powerful people and definitely both alphas but somehow they were perfect and balanced each other. Both vulnerable, but also willing to let go and trust each other.
“𝑬𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒔 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒍.”
“𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒅𝒐,”
“𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.”
This book was the perfect mix of everything I love when reading. It had the angst, with a little side of suspense that kept me from putting it down. It exceeded what I was expecting and I loved every minute of reading.
Shout out to Sven for being the best badass side character, I just loved him 🤭
It touches on light BDSM but I won’t dive too much into this except from saying that I haven’t read a book where the world of BDSM has been so well written and beautifully done before.
Tropes
🤍therapist/patient
🤍he falls first
🤍suspense
🤍ex domme
🤍surprise second chance
🤍billionaire/ possessive Irishman
Thankyou to LM Halloran for the ARC 🫶🏼
Where do I start? The Dark before Light was so beautifully written it had me hooked from the start. I went a little blind with this book, only having seen a few tropes and I’m so glad I didn’t know more.
After a brief encounter while younger, the couple are reunited again after Kieran becomes Talia’s patient. I was so captivated by the story of Kieran and Talia, it was emotional and I also found unique, having not read anything like it before. They’re both intelligent, brilliant, powerful people and definitely both alphas but somehow they were perfect and balanced each other. Both vulnerable, but also willing to let go and trust each other.
“𝑬𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒔 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒍.”
“𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒅𝒐,”
“𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.”
This book was the perfect mix of everything I love when reading. It had the angst, with a little side of suspense that kept me from putting it down. It exceeded what I was expecting and I loved every minute of reading.
Shout out to Sven for being the best badass side character, I just loved him 🤭
It touches on light BDSM but I won’t dive too much into this except from saying that I haven’t read a book where the world of BDSM has been so well written and beautifully done before.
Tropes
🤍therapist/patient
🤍he falls first
🤍suspense
🤍ex domme
🤍surprise second chance
🤍billionaire/ possessive Irishman
Thankyou to LM Halloran for the ARC 🫶🏼
December 31, 2024
the audio of this absolutely blew my mind… i couldn’t put it down
it’s not a book i would normally gravitate towards but this author’s words are so incredibly powerful and special.. i had to give it a try
and i loved it!!! i was crying?! and smiling?! and every single emotion!!
it’s not a book i would normally gravitate towards but this author’s words are so incredibly powerful and special.. i had to give it a try
and i loved it!!! i was crying?! and smiling?! and every single emotion!!
February 1, 2025
4.5 - A very thoughtful and emotional story. Lots of scorching tension. Don’t read this thinking you’re just getting a generic taboo therapist / client relationship. It’s 1000% more nuanced and way more interesting. I really really enjoyed this couple’s dynamic and the way they fell together like soul mates. This has some well written and carefully curated BDSM elements, and it’s used so so well. I’ve read several others from this author, and this is a standout. Highly recommend.
January 8, 2025
why, WHY, did the characters purr??? there’s so many synonyms to the word said and u chose purr??? also, the phrase “pregnant moment” not once, not twice, but three times???? THE MOMENT IS NOT PREGNANT
other than that the book was lowkey good
other than that the book was lowkey good
January 6, 2025
4.5⭐️ goodness gracious, where do i even begin?! I ABSOLUTELY ATE THIS BOOK UP. I quite literally didn’t want to put this book down! There were so many layers to Talia and Kieran’s story that made it so, so good. First off, it’s a forbidden romance between a therapist and her billionaire client. That’s already a gag in itself. But they actually met 17 years prior to the therapy sessions beginning, but our MMC doesn’t initially remember her. Then, don’t even get me started on the fact that the FMC is also a certified dominatrix… YAAAAH YOU READ THAT RIGHT. Ugh, the writing was so good that i actually felt like a fly on the wall in these therapy sessions because it actually gave therapist and client which only added to the forbidden aspect of their dynamic. I ate that up. This was a slow burn but when the spice hit baby…. IT FUCKING HIT. I did say she was a dominatrix already right??? BABBYYYYYY🥵 Then we have the layer of some danger in this book because Kieran is a billionaire who is currently doing research to cure Alzheimer’s. (I actually really loved that because it hits close to home) anyways, the last 80% had me turning the page like a mad woman because i was trying to figure out who in tf was behind everything!!! Ugh, i will now find myself lost in LM Halloran’s catalogue because I’m actually obsessed with this. Enjoy some of my highlights from this book below because i literally was highlighting like CRAZYYYYY.
“Because I was wrong. You’re not a bird, after all. You’re a lioness. A queen of the jungle still growing her claws. Hold fast, Birdie. Someday the world will kneel to you.”
“Equals don’t kneel”
“I think they do. But only to eachother”
(Yallll they definitely kneeled to eachother LMAOOO)
—-
“Tonight is just one more battle, but I’m going to win the war. And when I do, when she surrenders to this, I’ll give her the crown. Everything I have. Everything I am. I’ll lay it all at her feet.”
—
“You may be built like a goddess, but lucky for you, I’m built to worship one.”
—
As I knew they would be, her depths are beautiful beyond words. “I see you,” I whisper. “And you do belong, Birdie. You belong with me.”
“Because I was wrong. You’re not a bird, after all. You’re a lioness. A queen of the jungle still growing her claws. Hold fast, Birdie. Someday the world will kneel to you.”
“Equals don’t kneel”
“I think they do. But only to eachother”
(Yallll they definitely kneeled to eachother LMAOOO)
—-
“Tonight is just one more battle, but I’m going to win the war. And when I do, when she surrenders to this, I’ll give her the crown. Everything I have. Everything I am. I’ll lay it all at her feet.”
—
“You may be built like a goddess, but lucky for you, I’m built to worship one.”
—
As I knew they would be, her depths are beautiful beyond words. “I see you,” I whisper. “And you do belong, Birdie. You belong with me.”
August 7, 2024
Oh my lucky stars this book!
My first L.M Halloran book and it won't be the last. Can't wait to read her other stories and I have a feeling I will be like if she writes it I will read it.
Where do I even begin. Keiran and Talia are the two most dominate characters I have read and instantly fell for in a long time. From the moment they met, it's not what you expect and it's really only the beginning. Keiran sees something in a young Talia that she carries with her. Years later, Talia's obsession from her youth becomes her patient which makes him forbidden. And now we have that layer added to their dynamic of Doctor/Ex-Domme/Kink Professor and Patient.
Buckle up because this is where the chess match begins and what a match.
The struggle they go through, one step forward and two steps back in therapy sessions that are unconventional. The need to show their dominance and yet there is this small bone in their body that makes them want to submit to each other, very small but it's something they need to feel whole. There is attraction and yet denied at first that turns into obsession. Honestly how can Kieran not fall first, Talia is his match and more. Talia lets her claws grow and yet there is this relatable quality she has. They are far from perfect, they have flaws, they deal with grief and mental health issues and with them being genius you get to see those expressions of them calculating their next move.
I was gasping at the honest confessions (pretty hot along with the no they didn't), fanning myself during those spicy moments when both Talia and Keiran showed their dominance and submission. Laughed at their banter and fell for the lovable side characters, like seriously I want a Sven, Dylan and Gabe. Add a little bit of suspense and this story keeps you turning the page. There was just a small moment and I do mean small at the end that made me go, ok but it didn't take away from the story that was read.
I could keep going but I don't want to spoil anything, all I will say is this is a must read if you understood my gibberish of words because I still can't think straight after reading this.
Many and I do mean many thanks to L.M Halloran and The Author Agency for and ARC.
My first L.M Halloran book and it won't be the last. Can't wait to read her other stories and I have a feeling I will be like if she writes it I will read it.
Where do I even begin. Keiran and Talia are the two most dominate characters I have read and instantly fell for in a long time. From the moment they met, it's not what you expect and it's really only the beginning. Keiran sees something in a young Talia that she carries with her. Years later, Talia's obsession from her youth becomes her patient which makes him forbidden. And now we have that layer added to their dynamic of Doctor/Ex-Domme/Kink Professor and Patient.
Buckle up because this is where the chess match begins and what a match.
The struggle they go through, one step forward and two steps back in therapy sessions that are unconventional. The need to show their dominance and yet there is this small bone in their body that makes them want to submit to each other, very small but it's something they need to feel whole. There is attraction and yet denied at first that turns into obsession. Honestly how can Kieran not fall first, Talia is his match and more. Talia lets her claws grow and yet there is this relatable quality she has. They are far from perfect, they have flaws, they deal with grief and mental health issues and with them being genius you get to see those expressions of them calculating their next move.
I was gasping at the honest confessions (pretty hot along with the no they didn't), fanning myself during those spicy moments when both Talia and Keiran showed their dominance and submission. Laughed at their banter and fell for the lovable side characters, like seriously I want a Sven, Dylan and Gabe. Add a little bit of suspense and this story keeps you turning the page. There was just a small moment and I do mean small at the end that made me go, ok but it didn't take away from the story that was read.
I could keep going but I don't want to spoil anything, all I will say is this is a must read if you understood my gibberish of words because I still can't think straight after reading this.
Many and I do mean many thanks to L.M Halloran and The Author Agency for and ARC.
September 3, 2024
Sweet. Low angst.
Safety: SPOILERS
H is a widow- I think 3-5 years. He did love her but is a different person now. He loves heroine more and I never felt like she was second best.
h was a dominatrix. She's had multiple subs.
No cheating but heroine is technically with someone after meeting again (see om drama)
Ow drama- no ow except a bit of talk of hero's dead wife. He did become a big hoe after her though and there is some talk of it too, but it's been about 5ish weeks maybe since he's been with anyone.
Om drama- heroines ex sub is sorta obsessed with her and causes some issues (not between h and H tho). Heroine also has an ex sub that she sometimes hooks up with and she did once during the course of the book. It was after one of the therapy sessions with the Hero. Maybe a quarter in the book. They didn't go all the way, it wasn't explicit, but some stuff did happen. No one else since then.
No sharing
Safety: SPOILERS
H is a widow- I think 3-5 years. He did love her but is a different person now. He loves heroine more and I never felt like she was second best.
h was a dominatrix. She's had multiple subs.
No cheating but heroine is technically with someone after meeting again (see om drama)
Ow drama- no ow except a bit of talk of hero's dead wife. He did become a big hoe after her though and there is some talk of it too, but it's been about 5ish weeks maybe since he's been with anyone.
Om drama- heroines ex sub is sorta obsessed with her and causes some issues (not between h and H tho). Heroine also has an ex sub that she sometimes hooks up with and she did once during the course of the book. It was after one of the therapy sessions with the Hero. Maybe a quarter in the book. They didn't go all the way, it wasn't explicit, but some stuff did happen. No one else since then.
No sharing
August 3, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
3.5/5 🌶️
After struggling with life and tragedy, Kieran is forced into therapy. Talia is drawn to him and is determined to save him… like he did for her long ago.
This was such a unique story. Talia and Kieran meet at such a young and vulnerable moment in Talia’s life that she never forgets him. Years later when they meet they are totally different people. Talia is trying her best to make sure Kieran deals with his past so he can have a future, and her methods can be unconventional but that is her specialty. I loved how these characters developed, worked on themselves, and tried so hard to fight their attraction. That added taboo element played well with their past and their current lives. The spice and tension were great. I can’t wait to read more from this author. As always, check for TWs and happy reading!
3.5/5 🌶️
After struggling with life and tragedy, Kieran is forced into therapy. Talia is drawn to him and is determined to save him… like he did for her long ago.
This was such a unique story. Talia and Kieran meet at such a young and vulnerable moment in Talia’s life that she never forgets him. Years later when they meet they are totally different people. Talia is trying her best to make sure Kieran deals with his past so he can have a future, and her methods can be unconventional but that is her specialty. I loved how these characters developed, worked on themselves, and tried so hard to fight their attraction. That added taboo element played well with their past and their current lives. The spice and tension were great. I can’t wait to read more from this author. As always, check for TWs and happy reading!
Read
December 31, 2024I’m jumping straight into this review. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narrators. Unfortunately, I struggled to understand the characters’ connection, and it took me a while to get into the story as there was a lot happening. I feel this is a book you need to read as an eBook or physical copy to fully grasp everything.
In my opinion, there was too much emotional dialogue, which made me lose interest at times. The story revolves around a chance encounter between the characters when they were 14 and 18, during a brief 10-minute interaction in Ireland. Now, years later as adults, she still hasn’t stopped thinking about him. However, that initial interaction didn’t feel significant enough to leave a lasting impression.
Additionally, there were too many characters introduced, and I often lost track of who was who. I also felt bad for the MMC’s late wife, who passed away years earlier after a tragic incident. While she was occasionally mentioned in therapy conversations, her memory didn’t feel like much. Kieran’s thoughts barely touched on Liz, which made it seem like her memory was somewhat forgotten.
That said, the spice was great and very intimate. Overall, this was good, but as mentioned, it’s one you’ll likely appreciate more if you read it physically.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook - ALC
Audiobook Length: 9hrs 50mins
Narrators: Lucy Rivers and Sean Masters - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Forbidden, Second Chance, Billionaire, Mutual Pining, My Girl, Mine, Therapist / Patient, Anxiety Rep, Neurodivergent Rep, Mental Heath, PTSD, Kidnapping, Gun Violence, Violence, Alcohol, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Dom, Sub, Fem Dom, Impact Play, Backdoor Play and Toys.
Mentions: Death and Baby Loss
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
In my opinion, there was too much emotional dialogue, which made me lose interest at times. The story revolves around a chance encounter between the characters when they were 14 and 18, during a brief 10-minute interaction in Ireland. Now, years later as adults, she still hasn’t stopped thinking about him. However, that initial interaction didn’t feel significant enough to leave a lasting impression.
Additionally, there were too many characters introduced, and I often lost track of who was who. I also felt bad for the MMC’s late wife, who passed away years earlier after a tragic incident. While she was occasionally mentioned in therapy conversations, her memory didn’t feel like much. Kieran’s thoughts barely touched on Liz, which made it seem like her memory was somewhat forgotten.
That said, the spice was great and very intimate. Overall, this was good, but as mentioned, it’s one you’ll likely appreciate more if you read it physically.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook - ALC
Audiobook Length: 9hrs 50mins
Narrators: Lucy Rivers and Sean Masters - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Forbidden, Second Chance, Billionaire, Mutual Pining, My Girl, Mine, Therapist / Patient, Anxiety Rep, Neurodivergent Rep, Mental Heath, PTSD, Kidnapping, Gun Violence, Violence, Alcohol, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Dom, Sub, Fem Dom, Impact Play, Backdoor Play and Toys.
Mentions: Death and Baby Loss
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
August 21, 2024
Such a good story!
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
"I’m a madman. She’s a succubus. Heaven can’t compare to this and if this is Hell, I’m never leaving."
This was such a good story! I really enjoyed reading it. If you love a book with tons of angst, great spice, and a strong & smart FMC, then you should check this book out!
“I see you,” I whisper. “And you do belong, Birdie. You belong with me.”
🖤 Therapist/Patient
🖤 Angst
🖤 Dom/Sub
🖤 Irish MMC
🖤 Forbidden
🖤 Love after loss
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
"I’m a madman. She’s a succubus. Heaven can’t compare to this and if this is Hell, I’m never leaving."
This was such a good story! I really enjoyed reading it. If you love a book with tons of angst, great spice, and a strong & smart FMC, then you should check this book out!
“I see you,” I whisper. “And you do belong, Birdie. You belong with me.”
🖤 Therapist/Patient
🖤 Angst
🖤 Dom/Sub
🖤 Irish MMC
🖤 Forbidden
🖤 Love after loss
January 6, 2025
** One of my Top 20 of 2024 Picks on www.JeevesReads.com! **
Really, really good - I took a chance on a new-to-me author and a storyline that's not my usual, and it definitely paid off. I loved how deftly this tension-filled romance navigated between heavier topics like therapy/grief/mental health and sexual dynamics. The push/pull between the characters was absolutely fantastic, with electric tension that bled from the page. They're two people who are used to being in charge, so there's some serious friction as they dance around each other. There's also the forbidden element (she's his therapist!), an exploration into k!nk, and the way one chance encounter forever changed both of their lives. I was smitten with the hero, who undergoes such a transformation throughout the book. He's in a dark place when we meet him, and seeing him slowly come alive again was very fulfilling. The author does such a great job of digging into the psychological side of things, and there were some really insightful and thought-provoking moments. It's also incredibly SPICY, with a slowish burn that catches fire along the way. A memorable, powerful, and blush-inducing read - I loved it!
The story follows Talia, a woman who struggled as a teenager. One conversation with a stranger changed her life at 14, allowing her to find the inner strength that's made her into the strong, confident woman she is today. Now a therapist with a waiting list a mile long, Talia is asked to take on a new high-profile client. She'd say no, except the man is none other than the stranger who helped her years ago - tech mogul Kieran. Burned out, liquored up, and still blaming himself for the loss of his wife, Kieran is in rough shape. Though the man is frustrating to no end and challenges her like none other, Talia feels a duty to help Kieran... even if he doesn't remember her. As Talia begins her therapy sessions with Kieran, things become even more complicated when Kieran discovers that Talia is a k!nk specialist who paid her way through college by being a dominatrix. That knowledge adds tension to a relationship that was already messy enough.
I stumbled upon this book one day and the reviews were so positive that I took notice. I'm not a reader who gravitates towards BDSM in my romance books, but I don't mind it if the storyline is strong enough. And this was definitely great. It only took a few pages to draw me in, and I loved the level of tension throughout. There's so much interwoven into the story that gives it depth, especially when it comes to psychology and relationship dynamics. I loved watching Talia and Kieran try to figure each other out, and the therapy aspect was really interesting. The romance is the star though, with two strong characters fighting for dominance. Kieran adores the fact that Talia is his equal in every way, and it was incredibly compelling to read about a guy who is drawn to his girl because of her intelligence and confidence. He certainly appreciates her skills in the bedroom, but that is not the foundation of their relationship, which was great. Some of the spice pushes boundaries and dials up the heat in a big way, but those moments are also intimate and important to showcasing the level of trust between the characters, which I loved. This had my full attention the whole way through, and ended up being a pretty spectacular read.
Really, really good - I took a chance on a new-to-me author and a storyline that's not my usual, and it definitely paid off. I loved how deftly this tension-filled romance navigated between heavier topics like therapy/grief/mental health and sexual dynamics. The push/pull between the characters was absolutely fantastic, with electric tension that bled from the page. They're two people who are used to being in charge, so there's some serious friction as they dance around each other. There's also the forbidden element (she's his therapist!), an exploration into k!nk, and the way one chance encounter forever changed both of their lives. I was smitten with the hero, who undergoes such a transformation throughout the book. He's in a dark place when we meet him, and seeing him slowly come alive again was very fulfilling. The author does such a great job of digging into the psychological side of things, and there were some really insightful and thought-provoking moments. It's also incredibly SPICY, with a slowish burn that catches fire along the way. A memorable, powerful, and blush-inducing read - I loved it!
The story follows Talia, a woman who struggled as a teenager. One conversation with a stranger changed her life at 14, allowing her to find the inner strength that's made her into the strong, confident woman she is today. Now a therapist with a waiting list a mile long, Talia is asked to take on a new high-profile client. She'd say no, except the man is none other than the stranger who helped her years ago - tech mogul Kieran. Burned out, liquored up, and still blaming himself for the loss of his wife, Kieran is in rough shape. Though the man is frustrating to no end and challenges her like none other, Talia feels a duty to help Kieran... even if he doesn't remember her. As Talia begins her therapy sessions with Kieran, things become even more complicated when Kieran discovers that Talia is a k!nk specialist who paid her way through college by being a dominatrix. That knowledge adds tension to a relationship that was already messy enough.
I stumbled upon this book one day and the reviews were so positive that I took notice. I'm not a reader who gravitates towards BDSM in my romance books, but I don't mind it if the storyline is strong enough. And this was definitely great. It only took a few pages to draw me in, and I loved the level of tension throughout. There's so much interwoven into the story that gives it depth, especially when it comes to psychology and relationship dynamics. I loved watching Talia and Kieran try to figure each other out, and the therapy aspect was really interesting. The romance is the star though, with two strong characters fighting for dominance. Kieran adores the fact that Talia is his equal in every way, and it was incredibly compelling to read about a guy who is drawn to his girl because of her intelligence and confidence. He certainly appreciates her skills in the bedroom, but that is not the foundation of their relationship, which was great. Some of the spice pushes boundaries and dials up the heat in a big way, but those moments are also intimate and important to showcasing the level of trust between the characters, which I loved. This had my full attention the whole way through, and ended up being a pretty spectacular read.
February 21, 2025
Fact is, three weeks ago she lit the book of my type on fire and started writing a new one. Now every damn page is her. I can’t even look at other women because I’m obsessed with the one in front of me.
The best therapist-patient trope I've ever read and surprisingly it was a rare dynamic I don't pick up often. With the female lead being the therapist.
This book surprised me in ways that were educating - the heroine being a dominatrix and all her other specializations that were new to me.
The hero is a widow. And I've said it before as well that second chance love is one of the hardest tropes to write, so to see this quote from the hero's pov was novel. I've never seen this described in such a perfect manner that finally made sense :
I loved Liz [the dead wife] deeply. From the moment I met her, I knew she was going to be my wife. She was soft and gentle and kind. An antidote to my rough edges; clear skies to my storm. Her death and that of our unborn child destroyed me. I’d never felt that kind of pain. Some days, on anniversaries or when I see something that reminds me of her, I still can’t believe I survived her loss.
But maybe that in itself is a kind of explanation for this fixation I have with Stirling. Like an earthquake that exposes a hidden cave system, perhaps grief opened parts of me that weren’t visible before. Brought oxygen and life to the darkest recesses of my spirit. I’m too feral now for anyone gentle. Too sharp for anyone soft.
Aside from this, the relationship dynamic and the heroine specifically fascinated me and I fell in love hard and fast.
I’d tie myself up if it meant any part of me could be inside her. I’d punch myself in the fucking face.
I want her to destroy me.
I think it might be my only road to salvation.
May 15, 2025
That. Was. Brilliant.
“intersectionality of psychology, gender, and kink”
I found this book via scrolling and downloaded it to my kindle but didn’t rush to read it. Then while watching my kids at their sports, I chose a short book to start and wow. Just wow.
I would say this is more of a psychological thriller with romance. But the story was so good.
Talia is on a family holiday to Ireland when she’s 14 and meets a boy in a graveyard after her shitty ass sister ditches her after getting her drunk. Her family sucks and hates her because she’s beyond brilliant and is graduating ahead of time because of her brains.
Boy in the graveyard encourages her to find her inner lioness, ditch her shitty family, and grow claws.
17 years later she is the lioness. She’s an ex domme, link educator and world renowned psychologist. Her friend from university begs her to take on a new client which happens to be that Irish boy from the graveyard all those years ago.
He’s a broken man and the story that follows is great.
Plus the fact that she’s so smart in her field of psychology, there’s no insta love. She shuts that down with psychological facts🤣.
It’s fascinating to see why she chose the field of being a domme and also her eventual change into wanting to submit. There is psychology behind people’s kinks and this book does not shame it at all.
“It’s about finding light in the dark. We only appreciate the dawn because of the night that precedes it, and we only survive the night because of the moon and stars.”
Domme/sub
Trauma/panic
“intersectionality of psychology, gender, and kink”
I found this book via scrolling and downloaded it to my kindle but didn’t rush to read it. Then while watching my kids at their sports, I chose a short book to start and wow. Just wow.
I would say this is more of a psychological thriller with romance. But the story was so good.
Talia is on a family holiday to Ireland when she’s 14 and meets a boy in a graveyard after her shitty ass sister ditches her after getting her drunk. Her family sucks and hates her because she’s beyond brilliant and is graduating ahead of time because of her brains.
Boy in the graveyard encourages her to find her inner lioness, ditch her shitty family, and grow claws.
17 years later she is the lioness. She’s an ex domme, link educator and world renowned psychologist. Her friend from university begs her to take on a new client which happens to be that Irish boy from the graveyard all those years ago.
He’s a broken man and the story that follows is great.
Plus the fact that she’s so smart in her field of psychology, there’s no insta love. She shuts that down with psychological facts🤣.
It’s fascinating to see why she chose the field of being a domme and also her eventual change into wanting to submit. There is psychology behind people’s kinks and this book does not shame it at all.
“It’s about finding light in the dark. We only appreciate the dawn because of the night that precedes it, and we only survive the night because of the moon and stars.”
Domme/sub
Trauma/panic
December 9, 2024
This book hooked me from the beginning. The beginning starts with the two main characters meeting; she is 14 and he was 18. Kieran finds Talia drunk in an Irish Cemetary after her sister left her at a bar and the owner kicked her out. She finds Kieran. He wakes her back to her hotel bed asides her that she will be fine.
“Because I was wrong. You’re not a bird, after all. You’re a lioness. A queen of the jungle still growing her claws. Hold fast, Birdie. Someday the world will kneel to you.”
Talia and Kiernan are both such complex, flawed characters. They are both trying to heal from past tramautic things that have happened in their life. Their chemistry was off the charts, their banter was top tier - it made for such a push and pull dynamic; two steps forward but 4 steps back. I just loved their story and the similarities of both characters.
The audiobook is narrated by Lucy Rivers and Sean Masters. Both of these narrators are incredible!! I loved their voices for Kieran and Talia. The chemistry was perfect and the narration really captivated me.
“Because I was wrong. You’re not a bird, after all. You’re a lioness. A queen of the jungle still growing her claws. Hold fast, Birdie. Someday the world will kneel to you.”
Talia and Kiernan are both such complex, flawed characters. They are both trying to heal from past tramautic things that have happened in their life. Their chemistry was off the charts, their banter was top tier - it made for such a push and pull dynamic; two steps forward but 4 steps back. I just loved their story and the similarities of both characters.
The audiobook is narrated by Lucy Rivers and Sean Masters. Both of these narrators are incredible!! I loved their voices for Kieran and Talia. The chemistry was perfect and the narration really captivated me.
December 18, 2024
Just amazing
Audiobook review: Narrated by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers
Absolutely love love love this story. Talia and Kieran are both such complicated characters, each in their own way, and as a result, we get a lot of angst in their relationship. The story is multi-layered and the author did an amazing job weaving them together and then peeling them back in a way that had me captivated and unable to turn this off. We get a full, plot driven romance that will tug on all your heartstrings. There is a bit of a taboo feel at the beginning of the relationship with mentions of some mental health issues so check content warnings just in case.
As far as the audio aspect...I was genuinely blown away by these narrators. I finished this book in under 12 hours because I could not stop listening. The emotions, the accents, the skill in differentiating between different characters was all done so well. As wonderful as this story is, I am so glad I caught this one on audio because the emotional aspect was amplified and the performances had me mesmerized throughout.
Audiobook review: Narrated by Sean Masters and Lucy Rivers
Absolutely love love love this story. Talia and Kieran are both such complicated characters, each in their own way, and as a result, we get a lot of angst in their relationship. The story is multi-layered and the author did an amazing job weaving them together and then peeling them back in a way that had me captivated and unable to turn this off. We get a full, plot driven romance that will tug on all your heartstrings. There is a bit of a taboo feel at the beginning of the relationship with mentions of some mental health issues so check content warnings just in case.
As far as the audio aspect...I was genuinely blown away by these narrators. I finished this book in under 12 hours because I could not stop listening. The emotions, the accents, the skill in differentiating between different characters was all done so well. As wonderful as this story is, I am so glad I caught this one on audio because the emotional aspect was amplified and the performances had me mesmerized throughout.
August 11, 2024
Synopsis:
After a brief encounter on a rainy night in a graveyard in Ireland as teenagers, Talia and Kieran reunited back in the states as adults when Kieran is forced into therapy as a last ditch effort by his family to save him. Talia has always felt that Kieran saved her on that rainy night years ago and when the opportunity comes for her to save him she knows she is willing to do anything to help him. Even when it means she may lose all she has built for herself.
💭My thoughts:
I was drawn into the story from the initial scene in the graveyard. The banter, the nicknames, the magnet connection Talia and Kieran had anytime they were together. This story has a little bit of everything. Secrets, fantastically hot banter, mystery, romance and side characters like Sven and Gabe.
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 4.5 Stars rounded up
🔥Doctor/Patient
🔥Second Chance
🔥Dislike to Obsession to Love
🔥Billionaire Romance
🔥He Falls First
🔥Suspense
🔥BDSM/kink (light)
🔥Irish Hero
🔥Spicy Contemporary Romance
🔥Characters in their 30s
🔥Female Domme
🔥Alpha Hero
🔥Posessive Hero
Thank you to the author agency and L.M. Halloran for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
After a brief encounter on a rainy night in a graveyard in Ireland as teenagers, Talia and Kieran reunited back in the states as adults when Kieran is forced into therapy as a last ditch effort by his family to save him. Talia has always felt that Kieran saved her on that rainy night years ago and when the opportunity comes for her to save him she knows she is willing to do anything to help him. Even when it means she may lose all she has built for herself.
💭My thoughts:
I was drawn into the story from the initial scene in the graveyard. The banter, the nicknames, the magnet connection Talia and Kieran had anytime they were together. This story has a little bit of everything. Secrets, fantastically hot banter, mystery, romance and side characters like Sven and Gabe.
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 4.5 Stars rounded up
🔥Doctor/Patient
🔥Second Chance
🔥Dislike to Obsession to Love
🔥Billionaire Romance
🔥He Falls First
🔥Suspense
🔥BDSM/kink (light)
🔥Irish Hero
🔥Spicy Contemporary Romance
🔥Characters in their 30s
🔥Female Domme
🔥Alpha Hero
🔥Posessive Hero
Thank you to the author agency and L.M. Halloran for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
November 27, 2024
I'm not quite sure how this book came into my orbit, but I'm glad it did!
I went in completely blind, not knowing anything about the book or the author. Going off the cover and reading the prologue, I thought I would be reading an emotional contemporary romance. That illusion was swiftly shattered.
It did not take long to realize this story was so much more. It is a beautifully written book, showcasing how, when used correctly, BDSM and especially the D/s relationship could be beneficial to both.
⚠️ Definitely check trigger warnings.
WHAT TO EXPECT
• Unconventional therapy
• Therapist/Patient forbidden romance
• Dislike to Obsession to Love
• Bossy, troubled Irish hero + former female Domme
• Two alpha personalities
• Battle of wills (in and out of the bedroom)
• Suspense
I went in completely blind, not knowing anything about the book or the author. Going off the cover and reading the prologue, I thought I would be reading an emotional contemporary romance. That illusion was swiftly shattered.
It did not take long to realize this story was so much more. It is a beautifully written book, showcasing how, when used correctly, BDSM and especially the D/s relationship could be beneficial to both.
⚠️ Definitely check trigger warnings.
WHAT TO EXPECT
• Unconventional therapy
• Therapist/Patient forbidden romance
• Dislike to Obsession to Love
• Bossy, troubled Irish hero + former female Domme
• Two alpha personalities
• Battle of wills (in and out of the bedroom)
• Suspense
August 9, 2024
I’m not sure where to start with my review. This story so blew me away, it’s taking a bit to gather my thoughts and put words to them. Should I say it was incredible? Emotional? Unreal? Mind blowing? Best story I’ve read this year? Then, yes, it was all that plus so much more! From the very beginning I knew this story would be epic, and I was so right. It’s about finding one’s self, finding a love from the past and bringing two tortured souls together. Kieran is a man who is so brilliant and has had tragedy in his life that he can’t come to terms with day to day life. Enter Talia, a woman who is so intelligent and beautiful and is a therapist with a unique background. When Kieran comes to her for help, nothing could have prepared both of them for what would transpire. They are explosive, instantly attracted, perfectly matched, and yet somehow familiar to each other. My heart was broken, put back together and I completely and utterly fell in love with Kieran and Talia. Their chemistry is so sizzling I needed a fire extinguisher to put out the flames coming off my Kindle. Words cannot truly tell the depths of emotions I felt while reading this phenomenal story. All I can say is, you need Kieran and Talia in your life! I need more of them! Absolutely brilliant!
August 10, 2024
Whew what a wild ride this book was. Talia and Kieran - a perfectly matched couple at the right time. Talia - I absolutely love this FMC, she was fierce, sexy and brilliant. So aware of who she is and who she wants to be, her journey to the woman she is when Kieran becomes her patient - amazing. Kieran - such a tortured soul when he becomes Talia’s patient. I loved them together as both Dr and patient and then as a couple. This book is emotional and spicy and has some suspense that will keep you turning the pages all the way until then end and then keep you wanting more. I loved this couple and this book.
August 11, 2024
ARC REVIEW
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!
I have been in a major book slump all year and didn't think I could ever fully love a book again but this book pulled me out of it!
I dont know how to write a review to explain how amazing this book is but I'll try!
It is a really unique story and it has everything I love in a book. It's forbidden, slightly suspenseful, mysterious and hits you in the feels. It gave me that angsty feeling that only those certain special books can.
I loved both the hero and heroine. Talia is smart , strong and badass and Kieran...oh Kieran. He has to be one of my favourite MMC's ever. He's tortured but also so strong and passionate , not to mention he's Irish AND a billionaire 😉
I could go on and on about how amazing this book is but if you enjoy the tropes below you will LOVE this book.
🖤Therapist/patient
🖤Ex Domme
🖤Surprise second chance
🖤Billionaire/Possessive Irishman
🖤Sprinkle of Suspense
🖤Light BDSM
🖤Main characters in their 30s
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!
I have been in a major book slump all year and didn't think I could ever fully love a book again but this book pulled me out of it!
I dont know how to write a review to explain how amazing this book is but I'll try!
It is a really unique story and it has everything I love in a book. It's forbidden, slightly suspenseful, mysterious and hits you in the feels. It gave me that angsty feeling that only those certain special books can.
I loved both the hero and heroine. Talia is smart , strong and badass and Kieran...oh Kieran. He has to be one of my favourite MMC's ever. He's tortured but also so strong and passionate , not to mention he's Irish AND a billionaire 😉
I could go on and on about how amazing this book is but if you enjoy the tropes below you will LOVE this book.
🖤Therapist/patient
🖤Ex Domme
🖤Surprise second chance
🖤Billionaire/Possessive Irishman
🖤Sprinkle of Suspense
🖤Light BDSM
🖤Main characters in their 30s
August 22, 2024
I liked the first book better only because this one was giving werewolf alpha vibes in a contemporary dark romance type setting which threw me off. I also wish there was more therapist - patient interaction. REGARDLESS, loved the two books centred around similar premises and L.M Halloran’s writing style may be my new favourite
September 17, 2024
Soooooo, yeah. 😳 🌶️ 🍆
There is definitely a little more to this book than what you might think. Like whips and chains and choking and other R-rated stuff.
And that’s all we’re going to say about that.
There is definitely a little more to this book than what you might think. Like whips and chains and choking and other R-rated stuff.
And that’s all we’re going to say about that.
December 23, 2024
Soooo good
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