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Crushing Misery

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Have you ever lost the will to fight?

Kennedy Anderson has continually struggled with the crummy hand life has dealt her. A failed, abusive marriage has left her worn, yet relieved that the past is finally locked away. Unfortunately, the past has a way of repeating itself. Once again faced with tragedy and despair, Kennedy’s anguish is multiplied by the fact that she doesn’t suffer alone; she now has a two year old daughter, Ashlynn.

Love has only served to complicate Corbin Nash’s life.

He’s focused, hardworking, and dedicated to regaining his middleweight title until the unlikely duo of Kennedy and Ashlynn enter his life. While trying to help her fight her demons, Corbin finds his own resurfacing, steadily revealing the secrets he’s worked so hard to keep buried the last eighteen years.

Two beaten and battered souls, desperate to break free of the misery...

Will they cower to their plagued pasts, or will they fight through the despair and finally find the happiness that has evaded them their entire lives?




Follow Author Kinsey's board Crushing Misery Teasers on Pinterest.

Unknown Binding

First published August 24, 2015

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About the author

Kinsey Taylor

2 books97 followers
Author Kinsey Taylor lives in the beautiful state of Washington. You'll find her running after her three crazy minions, two food-loving dogs, and a moody cat who believes he's the King of their castle. Her inspiration for her books comes from deep in her heart, inspired by her soul mate and husbands adoring support. The everlasting romantic, Kinsey's writing is sure to give twists, turns, and plenty of drama that will leave you breathless.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Christina.
1,452 reviews100 followers
August 18, 2015
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Kennedy has suffered a lifetime of abuse, either at the hands of her biological parents or her husband; she’s finally had enough. When she runs into Corbin, an MMA fighter she had a crush on in high school, she begins to realize that she is stronger than she ever gave herself credit for. With the help of Corbin and her “adoptive parents” (her best friend’s parents whom took her in, saving her from further abuse), she finally leaves the man that has made her and her young daughter’s lives hell. But as she gets closer and closer to Corbin, she has to come to terms with her past, to find herself before she’s able to give herself to someone yet again.

Corbin has his own issues. Dealing with the death of childhood friend in his formative years has left him with a sense of guilt he’s carried into adulthood. For years he has medicated himself with meaningless flings, so when Kennedy, the girl he secretly harbored a crush on in high school comes back into his life, he realizes he needs to tackle his own demons before he can give himself to someone else.

As you might expect with two broken characters, their relationship is a bit of a rollercoaster. Add into it the complication of Kennedy’s daughter and the obvious love Corbin has for the both of them, they need to tread lightly, to make sure that there are no expectations of a happily ever after until they know they dedicate themselves fully.

The absolute highlight of the book was Kennedy’s daughter Ashlynn. The interaction between her and Corbin was downright heartwarming, making it easy to root for the young family in the making. The relationship between Kennedy and Corbin was sweet with a side of steamy, a coupling fans of contemporary romance will easily embrace. The first person, dual POV gives readers a chance to see inside the thoughts and fears of each of the characters.

While the book started out strong, by about the halfway point it started to fall. Unfortunately the author attempted to incorporate too many dramatic elements that were not resolved in any sort of meaningful way. Abuse, both spousal and parental, MMA fighter hero, second chance love, reunion with an estranged parent, allegations of cheating were all represented, but not with any significant depth to really make an impact on the story as a whole. The heroine’s ex-husband just kind of gives up and disappears, as does her abusive father. Perhaps if the author had explored just one or two of those tropes in depth, the book would have felt more cohesive than it did.

In the acknowledgements section of the book there is a reference to both an editor and a proofreader, however I’m not sure if the arc I received had been seen by either of them, as there were numerous errors and plot holes. As a first time author Taylor holds a lot of promise, and I hope that my comments are accepted as constructive criticism, but the way that the book in its current incarnation is tough read.
Profile Image for Kimmy.
374 reviews64 followers
November 4, 2015
** Was give Crushing Misery by the author in exchange for an honest review**

When asked to read Crushing Misery I just saw UFC/MMA and jumped at the chance, little did I know there was SO much more to this book. The MMA/UFC portion was just an added bonus.

This was one extremely emotional read. I found myself crying, laughing, crying a little more, heart breaking pain and unbelievable love. Crushing Misery is definitely in my top reads of 2015.

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Kennedy Anderson has been dealt on pretty shitty hand of life growing up. Just when Kennedy thinks everything is finally going to be okay, she is thrown for another loop by her husband, Troy, who turns out to be just like her father all those years ago. This time around Kennedy doesn't just have herself to worry about she has her 2 year old daughter Ashlynn to protect.

Corbin Nash big up and coming UFC fighter, best-friend to Kennedy's brother, Jagger, steps in to try to help Kennedy and Ashlynn. However Corbin has his own demons that need to be battled. Corbin's way of healing with his demons is fast cars, drinking and women. Can he give up this way of life to be there for Kennedy?

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**This book may not be for everyone. If you can't handle reading about abuse then this is not the book for you. If you are fine with reading about this then you MUST go pick up this book ASAP you won't be disappointed!
Profile Image for A.D. McCammon.
Author 23 books386 followers
February 16, 2019
I love stories with strong female characters, and that’s exactly how I would describe Kennedy. Corbin seems like your typical sexy, alpha, bad boy on the surface, but he’s so much more. He doesn’t just protect Kennedy, he helps her learn how to defend herself. That’s what I loved most about this story. He gave her the power that other men in her life had tried to take from her.

“Corbin, I’m finding my fighter again. That’s huge for me. I don’t feel like I’m this fragile girl anymore. The one I’ve kept hidden inside for so many years… always hiding behind the numbness no one knew was there. I’m starting to feel again, and I have you to thank for that. Since you came into my life, it’s like you hit a switch that was turned off inside me and woke me up.”
Profile Image for Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon.
2,091 reviews154 followers
December 31, 2015
***** 5 Cranky Stars *****



One of my favorite reads of 2015. An amazing debut novel from Kinsey Taylor.



From the cover, I thought this was going to be the typical story of a hot, but troubled MMA fighter.



This is the ultimate love story about surviving the worst of tragedies and finding yourself on the journey to healing.



Life has dealt Kennedy one bad hand after the other. In an unhappy marriage, she keeps going because of her daughter, Ashylnn. As a side note, this kid is a scene stealer. She chews the scenery and finds a way into your heart.



Kennedy crashes into her past and resolves to stop the cycle of violence.



In walks Corbin Nash, hot and sexy MMA fighter, and best friend to Kennedy’s brother Jagger. He was Kennedy's crush growing up and seeing him awakens old feelings.



Corbin, is unlucky in love. He's afraid of commitment. He's afraid of what he feels for Kennedy.



Both have specters from the past that play into their presents and futures. It's a struggle, but they're in it together.



Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Jeanette Book-Reviews.
577 reviews10 followers
February 11, 2016
**** 5 Stars ****

I received a copy for an honest review.

Wow, for an debut novel - it's just an amazing story about 2 strong people with their own baggage coming together to heal.

Kennedy has been through so much crap in her early years till she was 17 when her friend's father decided it's was enough! And took her home to his family. What an amazing family - I have to say as it's was just heart breaking to read the prologue but it gives me an insight of what kind of person Kennedy is... She doesn't realise how strong she really is.

Fast forward to 8 years, she's a wife... a mother to 2 year old Ashlynn that I've come to love!
Her husband is an asshole!!! I was kind of screaming at my kindle saying open your mouth Kennedy - tell your parents or Justeen... no she keeps on taking shit! till the he does the one thing she knew she need to leave!... Phew!!

Corbin Nash - MMA fighter with his own demons... holy shit the chemistry between Corbin & Kennedy flew off the charts!!

No cheating in this story, just an amazing friendship while trying to figure out just exactly what's is sizzling between them, until she's free from that asshole Troy!

Not going to spoil the story, but I just absolutely loved this story, as both discovering how to be strong while coming to face with their demons.... Once I knew what was troubling Corbin - OMG I just wanted to hug him!!!

Seriously its a must read!

I loved it that much that I purchased this book!

Profile Image for Tonya Farmer.
211 reviews
August 21, 2015
Reviewed for 2 girls who love books

I loved this book.I need me a Nash!!!
The book was at a steady pace and easy to fall into. Kennedy was such an amazing woman to watch develop through out the book. She was fun and easy to like.

Although life seemed to hate Kennedy with a passion she pushes through never giving up. After a failed marriage she seeks friendship with Corban Nash. Nash is a known player with secrets of his own dark past.

Profile Image for Nikki.
139 reviews
August 30, 2015
**Warning: This book contains scenes of domestic violence and non-consensual sex. If these are triggers for you, please heed the warning.**

Growing up in a less than perfect home, with less than perfect parents, Kennedy Anderson seeks the comfort and friendship of Justeen Finley and her loving family. Never did Kennedy image that this friendship would save her life. The day Bruce Finley saved her, was the very day she became part of a loving family. Never did she imagine that only a few years later, history would repeat itself, only this time the vile bastard was her husband, the father of her beautiful daughter.

Corbin Nash left town after high school to escape his demons and made a life for himself as an MMA fighter. When he returns to town, not only are the demons still there but so is she, Kennedy, Jagger Finley’s adopted sister. And she is a beautiful distraction, one he doesn’t need. Witnessing Troy’s verbal abuse of Kennedy, Corbin’s protective instincts kick. He refuses to sit idly by watching as Kennedy is torn down by the degradation of her husband.

Crushing Misery is the debut novel from author Kinsey Taylor, and she has done a fantastic job of relaying this story of love, pain, and abuse. While reading this book, I went through all range of emotions from fear and anger to love and erotic desire. More than once, I felt the wetness on my cheeks as my tears fell for Kennedy and her daughter Ashlynn. For me, a good book is one that evokes an emotional response, and this book certainly delivered.

If you are not comfortable reading about domestic abuse of both women and children, this book may not be for you. However, if you allow yourself the chance, you will take a journey that will lead you to a glorious HEA. While the intense subject matter may have been difficult at times, the story was very well written and well worth the read.

This book has shown that Kinsey Taylor has something to say, and she said it well. I truly look forward to seeing what this author has up her sleeve for her next book. I rate Crushing Misery a 4.5 Stars!

**I was given A complimentary copy of Crushing Misery for an honest Review.
Profile Image for Verna Loves Books.
426 reviews60 followers
September 5, 2015
Oh My Gosh!! Talk about falling in love with a book. Crushing Misery by Kinsey Taylor is one of the most beautiful and heartfelt stories I’ve read this year. I loved how raw and real it was. Not to mention my heart skips a beat every time I think about Corbin Nash. The man is AMAZING.

Crushing Misery will break your heart so many times and have you so mad that you just don’t know if you can keep reading. I mean I wanted to yell at my kindle a few times. But that’s what I loved about this book it brought out the emotions in me and that’s a great thing to experience when reading a book.

Kennedy’s story is so painful that it just pulls at every heart string you have. I love how even though she was dealt such an awful hand, she still kept going and tried to make her life better at every turn. She is an inspiration and you can’t help but admire her character. She’s a wonderful mother, sister, friend, just absolutely amazing. I love the effect that Corbin has on her. No matter how hard she fights it she knows that there pull is a once in a life time kind of love that needs to be found and explored.

Corbin Nash! Now what can I say about Nash, besides he’s incredible and leaves you begging the author for more of him. You will fall in love with Nash, I can guarantee it. He is strong, resilient, and loves like no other. Did I mention he’s also a fighter? I loved how he just couldn’t fight his love for Kennedy and her daughter. He loved them both so unconditionally it left me swooning after the man. Everyone deserves a man like Nash. A man who fights for them and loves them as if they were his entire world.

So if you love a story that captures your heart and leaves you grinning from ear to ear this is the book for you. I recommend it to anyone that loves a good love story with a little bit of sexiness and rawness thrown into it. It will leave you breathless.

I give Crushing Misery by Kinsey Taylor 5 out of 5 CRUSHED STARS!!
Profile Image for J.L..
Author 24 books260 followers
August 29, 2015
ARC Provided for an honest review.

An honest is what I'll say...oh my god.

Okay let me just start off by saying that this book was SO GODDAMN AMAZING LIKE I LITERALLY CAN'T EVEN RIGHT NOW!

Now that I got all that out, let me just get right down to it. When I discovered this author, it was thru an email I received asking to participate in the release blitz. I was like cool, I'll do it. I found out it was her first book so I read the blurb and WAM BAM THANK YOU MA'AM I was hooked. so when the blog tour doc went out, I was all over that like white on rice. Or brown. Whichever you prefer. I'm not judging. Maybe you like a nice pilaf blend...anyways I'm getting off topic, and now I'm hungry.

This book within 10 minutes had me almost in tears. I normally don't cry during a book but this one changed that. My heart was breaking. Fucking breaking for Kennedy within the first twenty pages or so. So I was about to message Miss Taylor and say "What's the deal? Why you make me cry?" But I kept reading and found out that happier things happen. I won't spoil it for you. Kennedy was everything I wanted in a heroine. She's strong, funny, smart, and an awesome kickass mother to her adorable little girl, Ashlynn.

Let me give you a little insight to the story. Kennedy has been dealt horrible hands her whole life. When the hand that gets dealt lands her into the arms of hottie mchottie Corbin Nash, then things start to get a little steamy.

Corbin hasn't had the best of luck either. After suffering a horrible tragic loss at a young age, he's lost. But he finds himself again when he runs into his high school crush, Kennedy.

This book was a roller coaster of emotions but really good ones. I have never had a book make me cry, then laugh on the same page because this was the first.

If you're looking for a cute, sweet, funny and sexy romance then you definitely pick this one up because this is beautiful!!! <3
Profile Image for Breanna  Eichhorn.
1,251 reviews13 followers
November 23, 2015
Kennedy has had a ruff childhood, when Bruce Finely stepped in and saved her from her father. The Finely's took Kennedy in and she gained a sister out of Justeen and a brother out of Jagger. Now she is married to a man who is abusive, he never was like this until she found out that she was pregnant. Kennedy is working hard to get back to her pre pregnancy weight for Jagger's wedding. While at the gym she saw her crush Corbin was in there, she couldn't stop watching him so she left.Kennedy was taking pictures of her brother Jagger's wedding, while she was changing in order to take Ashlynn home because she got sick. That was the night that made her leave Troy.
Kennedy will do anything to protect her daughter, finally is getting her courage back, own's her own Photography Clinic. She is a very good photographer, doesn't want to cause any problems for her family. Corbin has been Kennedy's crush since high school. He is a fighter, he is very protective of Kennedy, Has his own demons. Jagger Finley is Kennedy's brother, is getting married, is very protective of Kennedy. Justeen is Jagger and Kennedy's friend, she is a licensed nutritionist. Starting her own business. Bruce is Kennedy, Justeen and Jagger's father, he is very protective of Kennedy.Troy is very abusive, he hates Ashlynn, Kennedy's husband.Paige is Jagger's fiance/ wife, she is very sweet and nice.
This is my first book by Kinsey Taylor and it most definitely will not be my last. This book is very well written and the characters are very well developed. This book hooked me from the first page. I couldn't put this book down. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Profile Image for K.A. Graham.
Author 22 books119 followers
November 22, 2015
So from the title and cover of this book, you think maybe it’s about a hot MMA fighter with girl troubles, but then all of a sudden it becomes this beautiful story of ultimate love, surviving the worst of tragedies, and finding yourself along the way. This book was an absolute emotional mess for me; it literally gutted me at every turn, and then somehow glued all my broken pieces back together again. Amazing debut novel from Kinsey Taylor, and definitely one of my favorite reads of 2015.
Kennedy has had the most traumatizing life any person could have, dealt one bad hand after another, yet she’s found a way to keep moving forward, and that would be because of her precious daughter Ashlynn. Talk about a scene-stealer in the best way, that little girl owns my heart! Being married to the king of douche bags, she’s thrown back into her past, and realizes she has to stop the cycle of violence, not only for herself but also for her baby girl.
In walks Corbin Nash, hot and sexy MMA fighter, and best friend to Kennedy’s brother Jagger. She always had a secret crush on him growing up, but seeing him years later, brings back a flood of emotions she’s not ready to deal with. Vice versa, Corbin has been unlucky in love, yet is mind boggled by what he feels for Kennedy.
They both have serious demons in their past and present, but together can they find a way to cope and put the past to rest? It’s a back and forth struggle, yet it’s beautiful to see two people trying so hard to heal the other. I can’t say enough how much I loved this story, and can’t wait to see what Kinsey brings us next!
Profile Image for Michelle Taylor.
235 reviews23 followers
October 27, 2015
Crushing Misery is the debut novel from Kinsey Taylor.

I liked the overall idea of this novel: two broken individuals with rough pasts come together and rely on each other to heal, grow and fight through the demons that haunt their past. Unfortunately, I feel the execution of this idea was a bit all over the place and I struggled through the story.

I don't really know how to classify this novel in a sub-genre because there were so many outside factors that affected the story: abuse, cheating, friends/friends with benefits, and old skeletons coming back to bite you in the butt. I understand the importance of keeping the story line fresh and riveting but when too many aspect are thrown into it, it complicates things. In my case, it made the story unbelievable and forced.

I liked each main characters on their own but their connection didn't click in my brain fully. Their relationship had me asking a lot of questions...

I also struggled with the grammar/punctuation. Using quotations to open/close dialogue is extremely important as well as the proper use of words. (Again, I'm not perfect, and am not claiming to be, but an extra pair of eyes would have been helpful to eliminate these small errors.)

The lack of dividers/breaks (I'm not sure their official name) in between paragraphs made the story feel a bit rushed. For example, in one paragraph the characters mention taking a nap, the next paragraph it's the following evening.
Profile Image for Stacy.
447 reviews10 followers
November 24, 2015
Ok so at first I was really unsure of this one. I bought it because I was curious about the new author and wanted to see what she had. I love finding new authors to read and so I jumped in. It was a little slow at first but that may have just been me. It didn't take to long for it to pick up and for me to fall in love with all the characters and then I couldn't put it down.

Kennedy Anderson had a rough life growing up but her best friend and her family saved her when she was a teenager. I had a love hate relationship with her character. I hated that she let her life repeat and she stayed with her abusive husband so long but I loved that she finally got the courage to leave his sorry @ss and get her and her daughter away from him.

Corbin Nash was the sexy, sweet, very alpha male lead who happened to be a fighter. Not just a MMA fighter but he also helped Kennedy fight and they both found themselves in the process. He melted my heart a lot with how sweet he was towards Ashlynn and Kennedy.

I was left with a little bit of wondering going with some of the "side" characters and what was going on with them but I am hoping that was just little stepping stones building for more books in the series. This was a great read and I will being looking for more of Kinsey Taylors work :)
Profile Image for Helena Bookhooked .
449 reviews53 followers
August 29, 2015
**warning**

This book has scenes depicting domestic violence towards a woman and child.

I believe this is Kinsey's debut novel and if so I think it's an amazing piece of literature it's emotional, heartbreaking and sexy.

Kennedy has known abuse her whole life, physically abused as a child she is resumed and welcomed into her best friends family at age 17... Fate again steps in and deals her an abusive husband and history starts to repeat itself.

Kinsey has wrote such passion and fight into Kennedy she it the epitome of an abused person yet the survival instinct is in her it just has to break free and I enjoyed her journey throughout this book.

Corbin Nash an MMA fighter and long lost crush of Kennedy is back in town and an attraction sparks between the two.. Corbin has his own demons and his journey to find the light in the darkness was a good one too.

This is a story of two tortured souls trying to find their way in life, throw in some nut bag ex's on both sides to amp the story up, you have a compelling and passionate read.

If you are a fan of the angst and emotional with a bit of sexy read then this is a recommended read as it it just has an all round feel to it.
Profile Image for H..
563 reviews1 follower
September 16, 2015
For this being Kinsey's debut novel, she blew me away. Such a wonderful story of a strong woman who lost her way and self worth. Kennedy grew up in a horrible household. The very people that are supposed to love and cherish her, treat her like trash. She is taken in by her best-friends family and soon blossoms to be a loving caring girl. She later falls in love and has a beautiful daughter Ashlynn. Soon enough life starts to repeat itself and Kennedy's self worth slowly slips away from her. But she's a fighter and vows never to allow what happened to her happen to her daughter. She keeps running into someone from her past and there is a spark between the two. Corbin is dealing with his own demons. Women, racing and fighting are what helps him cope. These two beautiful souls come back together when they needed it most. Healing and helping each other to find that second chance love can sometimes be the most power love. I adored the strength they found in each other. Beware that this book has some darkness to it, but it is also full of love. And lots of great sex!! Woop woop. I highly recommend this book and can't wait for more books from this author.

**reviewed by Over-Readersanonymous blog**
Profile Image for Heather Carver.
602 reviews7 followers
September 6, 2015
Crushing Misery

4.5 Stars

This is a great debut novel by Kinsey. It's a great read. It deals with some hard subject matters though. It had me wanting to jump into the book and beat the crap out of a couple people.

I absolutely loved Kennedy and Ashlynn. They were the two most amazing people. Kennedy had a strong personality but had to learn how to find herself again. She went through a lot in her young life, but she grew and you get to watch her grow. She does things that most of us wouldn't have the strength to do. She is a fighter!!!!

Corbin is hiding behind his past. He doesn't do relationships with anyone. He doesn't want to have his heart ripped out again. Will he be able to face his demons and move on in his life? Or will he lose the two best things in his life?

I cannot wait to read more books by Kinsey!! I have a feeling she will be a go to author for a great read! This book pulled me in and didn't let me go. I still want more and the book is over. It's one of those books!! I really hope we get more Kennedy, Ashlynn and Corbin in the next book! This is a total 5 star book, but I just needed a little more in a couple places!!!
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
5,386 reviews273 followers
August 27, 2015
Ok wow I give this book 5 amazing beautiful stars!! I don't know how I have been able to get so many amazing books the past couple weeks! First off I have to say that this book as some hard subject matters so if you are uncomfortable with that maybe don't read. But this is a beautiful story of finding your inner strength and fighting for yourself. And if this is how Kinsey Taylor is coming out of the gate, I cannot wait for more books!!!
Kennedy has had a rough life, one that no one should have to go through. And as she finds history repeating itself only this time she has her daughter to think of.
Corbin Nash had to endure a childhood tragedy that haunts him still. The only way he's been able to tame the beast is fighting, women and racing. But when Kennedy needs him he is there. But can two people with so much pain inside them heal each other or destroy each other more.
I am taking this to be a series and I really hope it is because there is some secondary characters who also need a story. I would definitely recommend this book and I am planning on reading more from this author!!
Profile Image for Ashley Richards.
24 reviews3 followers
August 28, 2015
I freaking loved this book Kennedy and Corbin are two lost souls damaged by life and circumstances outside of their control. They both are stumbling through staying strong as individuals. When they come together as a couple as one, their strength is awe inspiring.

Kennedy is struggling to regain her footing after leaving her abusive husband who won't just quit. She is determined to protect her daughter Ashlynn and succeed in life. She was such a well rounded character, My internal cheerleader was pulling for her from page 1.

Corbin is a focused MMA fighter he uses fighting and risky behavior to push the demons of his childhood back as far as he can. He is beyond sexy, strong, and so freaking sweet. I think I melted every time he had interaction with Ashlynn.

The reason I gave this book 4 stars was I felt it was too long, that it was pushed passed what felt like the natural ending of the book. I could have done without the last two "O-Crap" moments. But overall a good read and a Crushing success for a debut novel!
Profile Image for Jennifer Sons.
403 reviews18 followers
August 24, 2015
Review for Through the Booking Glass

Kennedy is damaged & in an abusive marriage! She's portrayed as a weak person until one day she has enough! She decides to be strong for her daughter, Ashlynn! This little girl, for me, stole the show! She's adorable! I honestly wish she had a bigger part!

Corbin is the strong, tough fighter that has always adored Kennedy! He comes in on his white horse & saves the day..... a lot! The bond that they built up was great! I loved the interaction with them!

It broke my heart with the stuff that Ked & Ash endured! Such tough subjects were introduced & many were talked about extensively! Poor Ash may need counseling when she gets older, thanks to her piece of trash father! LOL

This is a good debut novel for Kinsey Taylor. There are things that were not perfect but will come with experience! Congrats & good luck!! I will definitely read more from this author!
158 reviews
August 16, 2015
5 soul crushing stars

Where do I even begin? Probably the biggest plot twist of my 2015 reading list was in this book. There were moments where I just had to sit my kindle down to truly appreciate what I just read.

Kennedy is a woman who's been broken down by the people who are supposed/ vowed to protect her. And she promises herself that her daughter, Ashlynn, will never deal with the abuse she endured.

Corbin is a broken soul haunted by demons from his past. Glossing over his real issues because he's too afraid of the vulnerability he'd endure if the truth came out.

This book is dark and may have triggers for some. But, it is more than worth the read. There are moments that are dark but there are also moments that are filled with laughter and love. I'd recommend this book to someone who wants more than the generic HEA. Someone looking for a realistic read. A book that tells the story of two people who are tired of letting their pasts control them.
Profile Image for reading the sheets.
267 reviews8 followers
August 25, 2015
Kennedy has suffered from abuse from both her parents and her husband ,when she runs into her highschool crush Corbin hes now a MMA fighter hes fighting demons of his own his childhood friend died and he has always carried the guilt with him everyday since.Corbin tries to block out the pain with endless women that mean nothing to him.He bumps into Kennedy hes crushed on her too and he vows to help her escape her hellish life,she makes him feel hes worth more than meaningless flings that he can be with someone.Can Kennedy open up to Corbin and can he reveal his secrets that have weighed heavy on him for so long to her?Maybe they can heal each other.
This is a dark gritty read in places but also a story of finding love again when you never thought you could.Theres some steamy scenes too.The path of true love doesn’t always run smoothly but there are some funny moments too.You will find yourself keeping everything crossed for these two hoping they get the HEA they so deserve.
Profile Image for Corey Clancy.
163 reviews9 followers
September 8, 2015
I received an arc for an honest review.

Kinsey Taylor writes a beautiful story of a woman with a horrid past and present. This book is not for the faint of heart. It has scenes that may trigger memories to those with abuse in their past. Please take caution if you even think this book will trigger you.

It could also help someone get beyond their past. This is a book about letting go of the past and accepting that you deserve a future of happiness. About retaking your life and becoming confident in who you are.

Taylor is an excellent author and I cannot wait to see what comes next. Her world building makes you feel as if you are in the room. Her characters will pull emotions you didn't know you could feel for a fictional character. There are a bit of editing mistakes, but the storyline comes through loud and clear.


Keep Writing!

This book is a contemporary erotica, it has descriptive intimate scenes.

Assassins Reading and Reviewing group
Profile Image for Becky Cox.
433 reviews11 followers
August 14, 2015
I was gifted a copy for an honest review.

Crushing Misery is Kinsey Taylor's debut novel. She came out with a bang. I love Ashlynn and how well the character is written. Kennedy is such a great mom and so much stronger than she thinks. The support from her pseudo family was amazing and endearing.

Corbin is one hunky piece of man candy. Corbin has his own demons and doesn't always handle them in the best way.

Crushing Misery deals with some difficult subjects. Intermingled with those, Kinsey has given us humor, family, friendship, love and some great sex scenes.

I think what I enjoyed so much about this book was although there was some dark moments Kennedy and Ashlynn had such a great support system and were surrounded by so much love that they persevered.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog


136 reviews
August 14, 2015
I was given a copy for an honest review.

Crushing Misery was a very intense and powerful read. It did deal with some tough subject matters, but I felt Kinsey did an amazing job of bringing light to those tough topics in a sensative way! I was immediately pulled into the story from the very first page until the end! The characters, writing, and storyline all worked perfect together!!

I absolutley loved Kennedy and Corbin!! They were two people who you honestly feel yourself rooting for them. The chemistry was hot and awesome!! The whole package worked!!! The other characters also brough an extra charm to the story! I am secretly hoping for more from this group!!

I would 100% recommend this book! Although some of the topics are tough and yes it does bring out emotions, it was done wonderfully! I am looking forward to what Kinsey has to come in the future!!
Profile Image for Frances.
220 reviews
Read
September 9, 2015
Crushed it!

First of all I would like to congratulate Kinsey for writing and publishing this book. I never knew that she does this on her spare time because when I first met her, I thought she is just one of the book friends that I meet during signings. I never thought that she is plotting behind everybody's back to give us a good book.

Why did I give this book a five-star rating? Because it has all the things I love in a book;love, despair,angst,surprise. I love how protective Corbin is to Kennedy and her daughter. This is not your ordinary MMA fighter love story because both of the characters had to battle their demons before they can let go and be with the ones they love.

Get your kleenex ready because you will definitely shed a few tears with this one. I can't wait for the next book in the series. And again congratulations Kinsey!!!
Profile Image for Tonya.
2,069 reviews10 followers
December 23, 2015
This is a freaking fantastic debut novel from Kinsey Taylor. This story had me crying multiple times, but it also had me laughing some too.

What Kennedy has gone through, both while growing up with her parents, and then while being married to Troy, it’s heartbreaking. She knows she needs to leave, especially to keep Ashlynn safe.

Kennedy is brave and strong. She’s a great mom. She just needs to realize it.

Corbin is a UFC fighter. He has his own demons he needs to face from his childhood. He is a “playboy”. He is also Kennedy and Ashlynn’s warrior and protector.

He is an awesome guy.

There were points in this book where I just wanted to scream that these two deserve all the happiness in the world, but they can’t catch a darn break!

Kinsey Taylor is definitely an author I will be reading more of. And I really can’t wait to read more!
Profile Image for Amo Thomson.
617 reviews
August 18, 2015
I have to say this book blow me away.... I was taken on one hell of a journey with Kinsey's writing.

I felt every emotion pouring through each page, It was hard to read In some places which unfortunately some of the more horrible things in life that happen to some people who feel their less fortunate but their actually some of the strongest people to survive.

I'm not going to give any spoilers away you have to read this and process this story for your own journeys
it's amazing to watch or read some peoples journeys and Kennedy & Corbin's story is a hell of a ride you do not want to miss out on.

I am giving this read 5***** if I could give more I would, I loved it I cried laughed and needed a hug through this book.

Kinsey you are amazing.

Annmarie XX
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,250 reviews52 followers
August 31, 2015
This book was so powerful and intense. I will warn and say there are some subject matters and events that may not to everyone's liking. There are tough parts to read, but it makes the relationship between Kennedy and Corbin so much more powerful and meaningful. What Kennedy has endured in her life no one should have. Even though she has gone through so much she still has a beautiful heart. Her little girl is just so previous. The interactions between her and Corbin just melt your heart. Corbin hasn't had it easy either. He has a past that haunts him. Two damaged souls find a healing touch in one another. The road to love is not an easy one when road block after road block pop up, but these two have learned to never give up. I highly recommend this one.
Profile Image for Lauren Firminger.
Author 25 books95 followers
September 1, 2015
Wow! Talk about a rollercoaster of emotions. In the early stages, I told Kinsey that I wanted to slap one of her characters. The more I read, the more that emotion and some others became very strong. With every page turned, Kinsey and Kennedy took my heart in their hands and squeezed it tight. She had me crying with feels before laughing at the sweet moments shared between Kennedy and Corbin. Just when you thought it was safe to turn the page BAM! She has your jaw hitting the floor. YOU HAD ME FLOORED KINSEY! FLOORED! LOL

You know you have found a winner when you feel the pain of the characters, the happiness, you cry the tears they cry and this is the journey “Crushing Misery” takes you on and heres the kicker… you can’t put it down.

I can’t wait to read what happens next!
Profile Image for What Lies.
29 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2015
This is a fantastic Debut novel from Kinsey Taylor.
The Main characters..
Ashlynn, she was adorable and melted my heart.
Kennedy, she didn’t come across as a strong person, I found her a little whiny at times, but to overcome what she did she had to be extremely strong willed, and she grew on me.
Corbin……..mmm, yes please!! He was so nice. He came across as this strong Fighter but in reality he has just as many demons as Kennedy and is struggling to deal with them.
I love the relationship between Corbin and Kennedy and the way Corbin is with Ashlynn is beautiful.
I would recommend this book and I hope to see other books for the secondary characters. Please?!
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