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False Start
“If this is love, I can’t imagine how it feels to hate her.”
No one outskates Cat Harvey.
Hips like steel and mean blocks have set her apart as the ultimate weapon for the Devil's Dames Roller Derby league.
A false start–a misstep, is all it takes to blow up her carefully curated life and shove her into the back burner of the squad she’s dedicated her all to.
Being replaced wasn’t part of the plan; especially by a cocky little has-been in a braid and torn pantyhose.
Hate. Loathing. Addiction.
They're the only feelings that can bring a skater like Cat to her knees.
The fine line between love and hatred can be crushed, snorted or injected.
But it can’t be ignored.
𝗙𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘙𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘭 𝘚𝘬𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘴𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘤, 𝘳𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘣𝘺 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺 𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩. 𝘐𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 18. 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵.
No one outskates Cat Harvey.
Hips like steel and mean blocks have set her apart as the ultimate weapon for the Devil's Dames Roller Derby league.
A false start–a misstep, is all it takes to blow up her carefully curated life and shove her into the back burner of the squad she’s dedicated her all to.
Being replaced wasn’t part of the plan; especially by a cocky little has-been in a braid and torn pantyhose.
Hate. Loathing. Addiction.
They're the only feelings that can bring a skater like Cat to her knees.
The fine line between love and hatred can be crushed, snorted or injected.
But it can’t be ignored.
𝗙𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘙𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘭 𝘚𝘬𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘴𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘤, 𝘳𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘣𝘺 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺 𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩. 𝘐𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 18. 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵.
338 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2024
31 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
About the author
Santana Knox
19 books1,801 followersSantana Knox is a Brazilian author, a South American immigrant, a mother, wife and witch.
Santana got tired of letting the voices in her head drive her crazy, and decided to write down the stories they were begging to tell instead. A lover of the unusual, and a hopeless romantic when it comes to toxic villains, Santana's books should always be taken with a grain of salt, specifically the kind that keeps demons away.
Santana got tired of letting the voices in her head drive her crazy, and decided to write down the stories they were begging to tell instead. A lover of the unusual, and a hopeless romantic when it comes to toxic villains, Santana's books should always be taken with a grain of salt, specifically the kind that keeps demons away.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
July 5, 2024
oof this one was HEAVY in both spice and emotional damage 😂😅
i wasn’t sure what to expect after the cliffhanger from Crossed Over but FUCK my heart broke for Nia AND Harvey.
this really shows how grief looks different and is dealt with differently by everyone and sometimes that way isn’t the healthiest, but it’s what you gotta do to stop the hurt. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
i’m such a sucker for damaged, broken characters and these two are damaged and broken in their own ways but everything works out for them in the end thank GAWD 😅😅😅😅😅
i wasn’t sure what to expect after the cliffhanger from Crossed Over but FUCK my heart broke for Nia AND Harvey.
this really shows how grief looks different and is dealt with differently by everyone and sometimes that way isn’t the healthiest, but it’s what you gotta do to stop the hurt. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
i’m such a sucker for damaged, broken characters and these two are damaged and broken in their own ways but everything works out for them in the end thank GAWD 😅😅😅😅😅
July 31, 2024
Rtc but unfortunately didn't love this as much as book 1 😭
June 26, 2024
When I finished Crossed Over I had so many questions, but I knew book two was coming. I waited patiently not really knowing what to expect with a cliffhanger like that. Holy shit, Santana did not disappoint. I had to have a tissue box by me at all times for the emotional roller coaster you’re sent on. I think a lot of us out there have/had a Lonnie and to see that depiction of loss done in such a heart wrenchingly wonderful way was amazing. The dynamic of Ryan and Nia I had those same feelings it was so extremely raw and I loved it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2024
Goddamn, Santana is such an incredible author. This story of grief, addiction and love hurt to read but was also healing. I related so hard to emptiness and darkness Nia suffered from grief and trauma. And her spirals through addiction hit close to home. But Nia’s strength and Cat’s compassion healed my soul 😭
June 26, 2024
First off, wow. I was not expecting to be so emotional with this read. I’ve personally never struggled with addiction but I do know people who have & now I have a better understanding of what that’s like.
Thank you Santana for writing this story and sharing it with us.
Thank you Santana for writing this story and sharing it with us.
July 5, 2024
Just when I thought Santana could not shock me or make me feel allll the feels.....this was amazing. Cat & Nia deserved to be together. Ryan was amazing to for always trying to look after "squirt". I am just in loce with both of these books. Santana is amazeballs 😍 5/5 🌟 3/5 🌶 This story was everything and more!!!!
August 11, 2024
♾️✨ oh I’m never getting over this one folks
I finished it and sat in silence with tears streaming down my face and then I calmed down, thought of them again and cried some more 😃
Check TW*** this shit is heavy but it was powerful, beautiful, sexy, romantic and a story that I’m so happy exists.
I finished it and sat in silence with tears streaming down my face and then I calmed down, thought of them again and cried some more 😃
Check TW*** this shit is heavy but it was powerful, beautiful, sexy, romantic and a story that I’m so happy exists.
July 19, 2024
I received this as an ARC to read and review. This is my second time reading for Santana Knox, words couldn’t describe how excited I was for this book. Unfortunately, due to some life situations and struggling mental health, my reading was highly affected and it took me a lot longer to get through. Once I did though, I had to take a couple of days to really sit on the effects it had on me. Crossed Over had absolutely wrecked me with the ending so it took me a minute to understand where False Start was beginning. I loved how, while a duet, you could sense the heavy presence of Harveys POV. I enjoyed seeing this other side of Nia, my heart hurt for her and the nurturer in me could really relate to Harvey. The story itself filled me a multitude of emotions. I love a good caretaker/nurturer presence as it hits really close to home. Once I was able to grasp the start of the story it left me stunned over the ending of the first book. Which I must say, left me with even more feelings. All the applause to Santana for taking my emotions for the most insane rollercoaster ride.
As for a few thoughts on False Start. Getting to see a deeper picture of who Harvey is down to her core was interesting. She seems like a complex character and I really enjoyed learning how she ticks and she tocks. The depth Lonnies character added to the story was brilliant. It added layers to the story while sliding into home for the win at the end. Between watching Nia take such a self destructive path and Harvey being there to catch her when she falls, every time. I loved the way Harvey worked with Nia on bettering herself while helping Nia rid herself of the self destructive behaviors. It really speaks to hurt and bent (because we are not broken) inner child, highlighting that yearning to be provided support to grow. I really liked the HAE that came with story. It didn’t completely wreck my feelings like the first book but it definitely brought everything to a close. Leaving me highly satisfied with the story as a whole. This duet being the first I have read of Santana Knox, I can say I will be checking more of work. Santana can add another avid fan to her growing list. Now if you’ll excuse me while I go ponder this story as a whole, yet again. Just up there living rent free and I’m okay with it.
As for a few thoughts on False Start. Getting to see a deeper picture of who Harvey is down to her core was interesting. She seems like a complex character and I really enjoyed learning how she ticks and she tocks. The depth Lonnies character added to the story was brilliant. It added layers to the story while sliding into home for the win at the end. Between watching Nia take such a self destructive path and Harvey being there to catch her when she falls, every time. I loved the way Harvey worked with Nia on bettering herself while helping Nia rid herself of the self destructive behaviors. It really speaks to hurt and bent (because we are not broken) inner child, highlighting that yearning to be provided support to grow. I really liked the HAE that came with story. It didn’t completely wreck my feelings like the first book but it definitely brought everything to a close. Leaving me highly satisfied with the story as a whole. This duet being the first I have read of Santana Knox, I can say I will be checking more of work. Santana can add another avid fan to her growing list. Now if you’ll excuse me while I go ponder this story as a whole, yet again. Just up there living rent free and I’m okay with it.
July 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
🛼Sapphic
🥾Addiction
🛼Mental Health Rep
🥾Grief
🛼Rivals to Lovers
🥾Found Family
“𝘚𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘢 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘨, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘴, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.”
This was an ARC.
Santana has done it again! I devoured and enjoyed it! Left no crumbs!
I have seen first hand what addiction can do to a person and the ones they care about. My dad is to this day an addict.
The way it can rot the most decent person. The lengths they go to for their next fix. The person they turn into, you don’t even have a good memory left to hold onto.
Another part I really liked about this book that I found relatable is how Nia’s relationship with her mother is written. A lot of people don’t understand that just because someone brought you into this world doesn’t mean they get to control the life that you created for yourself. Boundaries🙌🏻
The way Santana wrote Nia’s character was so well done. The romance in False Start is made up of my favorite “ingredients”, rivals/enemies to lovers, hate to love, banter, and of course spice. I couldn’t even say enough good things about Harvey’s character. I loved everything about Harvey.
The boot scene had me floored! 🙌🏻
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves sapphic romances, and any of the other tropes that I had mentioned. Especially if you loved Crossed Over you will definitely love this one.
🌶️🌶️.5
🛼Sapphic
🥾Addiction
🛼Mental Health Rep
🥾Grief
🛼Rivals to Lovers
🥾Found Family
“𝘚𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘢 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘨, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘴, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.”
This was an ARC.
Santana has done it again! I devoured and enjoyed it! Left no crumbs!
I have seen first hand what addiction can do to a person and the ones they care about. My dad is to this day an addict.
The way it can rot the most decent person. The lengths they go to for their next fix. The person they turn into, you don’t even have a good memory left to hold onto.
Another part I really liked about this book that I found relatable is how Nia’s relationship with her mother is written. A lot of people don’t understand that just because someone brought you into this world doesn’t mean they get to control the life that you created for yourself. Boundaries🙌🏻
The way Santana wrote Nia’s character was so well done. The romance in False Start is made up of my favorite “ingredients”, rivals/enemies to lovers, hate to love, banter, and of course spice. I couldn’t even say enough good things about Harvey’s character. I loved everything about Harvey.
The boot scene had me floored! 🙌🏻
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves sapphic romances, and any of the other tropes that I had mentioned. Especially if you loved Crossed Over you will definitely love this one.
July 30, 2024
“Just the same way that I’m sure you aren’t meant to be an addict. You’re lost. We all get a little lost in the dark, Antônia. Even me.”
I wasn't sure how False Start would wreck me, especially after how Santana ended Crossed Over, but it was beautiful. There's beauty in the vulnerability of Antônia and the pure determinationin Cat. One thing Santana will do is wreck your heart, and if you're lucky, she'll put it back together again in a different order. 🖤
“You want me to be yours? Then I’m yours. But if you put this collar on, you are mine until you throw it back at my feet. Mine to take care of, mine to keep, mine to protect. Even if that means from yourself.”
*Do not* read if active addiction is a trigger. I will say, though, as a daughter of an addict whose addiction claimed his life.. False Start was surprisingly healing for me.
“I’d make the whole world wait for you if I was in charge."
Absolutely amazing story of finding your way out of the dark, found family, inner strength, and never giving up. She balanced the good with the bad VERY well, and obviously, it's a Santana Knox novel, so there's 🌶🌶🌶 too.
I wasn't sure how False Start would wreck me, especially after how Santana ended Crossed Over, but it was beautiful. There's beauty in the vulnerability of Antônia and the pure determinationin Cat. One thing Santana will do is wreck your heart, and if you're lucky, she'll put it back together again in a different order. 🖤
“You want me to be yours? Then I’m yours. But if you put this collar on, you are mine until you throw it back at my feet. Mine to take care of, mine to keep, mine to protect. Even if that means from yourself.”
*Do not* read if active addiction is a trigger. I will say, though, as a daughter of an addict whose addiction claimed his life.. False Start was surprisingly healing for me.
“I’d make the whole world wait for you if I was in charge."
Absolutely amazing story of finding your way out of the dark, found family, inner strength, and never giving up. She balanced the good with the bad VERY well, and obviously, it's a Santana Knox novel, so there's 🌶🌶🌶 too.
June 25, 2024
Making me shed actual tears on the beach. How dare you?
Thank you though. This book was great. As someone who has had a friend in active addiction, this story hit me hard a couple of times. I loved the way Cat and Nia both had great character development in this one and after reading Crossed over, False start was what I needed. The addiction, ODing and grief are written so well. This book goes deep, it's raw, it felt realistic. So go read them both. You won't regret it.
⚠️Please read the triggers before you start, this book will hurt you and maybe also heal you.⚠️
In this book you'll find:
🛼 Sapphic
🛼 Roller derby
🛼 Add!ct!on
🛼 Gr!ef
🛼 Méntal health
🛼 One sided rivalry
🛼 Only I can hurt her
🛼 Stope top - Pillow 👸
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫/5
🌶️🌶️/5
Also, the spice was hot!
Thank you though. This book was great. As someone who has had a friend in active addiction, this story hit me hard a couple of times. I loved the way Cat and Nia both had great character development in this one and after reading Crossed over, False start was what I needed. The addiction, ODing and grief are written so well. This book goes deep, it's raw, it felt realistic. So go read them both. You won't regret it.
⚠️Please read the triggers before you start, this book will hurt you and maybe also heal you.⚠️
In this book you'll find:
🛼 Sapphic
🛼 Roller derby
🛼 Add!ct!on
🛼 Gr!ef
🛼 Méntal health
🛼 One sided rivalry
🛼 Only I can hurt her
🛼 Stope top - Pillow 👸
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫/5
🌶️🌶️/5
Also, the spice was hot!
June 26, 2024
Whew. That was a ... Wow. This is the second book for Santana in the Roller Derby Romance book series. The first introduced you to Nia and Harvey and the Devil's Dames, and left you in a full on loop. This book may not take you on a shocking ride like the first, but it is heartbreaking and difficult nonetheless.
Nia is fighting her demons and is surrounded by so many people who want to help her and keep hurting her. She needs to want to help herself as much as Harvey wants to allow her in. The push and pull is strong, but Harvey has a way to the very center of Nia, and she's not willing to give up.
This is a tough story of addiction, not feeling worth it, self sabotage, some light dom/sub (very light), loving through the pain, tough love and goodbyes. It's also about redemption and true family.
Nia is fighting her demons and is surrounded by so many people who want to help her and keep hurting her. She needs to want to help herself as much as Harvey wants to allow her in. The push and pull is strong, but Harvey has a way to the very center of Nia, and she's not willing to give up.
This is a tough story of addiction, not feeling worth it, self sabotage, some light dom/sub (very light), loving through the pain, tough love and goodbyes. It's also about redemption and true family.
June 26, 2024
• ARC REVIEW •
I’ve been waiting for this second book since finishing Crossed Over. Like that was one ending I was not expecting. So I needed answers ASAP! I really enjoyed this second book. It gives us answers as to what happens with Nia and Harvey. Having Nia’s POV really helps understand what’s going on. This book isn’t for the faint of heart. It deals with addiction and self destruction head on. And the way Santana depicted it is so real that I could feel the emotions through the pages. I felt both Nia and Harvey’s emotions so well. It truly was so beautifully written. I did not see the connection coming between all 3 of them, but it made sense once I knew. This is such a meaningful story about hitting rock bottom and overcoming addiction and self destructive behavior. Thank you again Santana for writing these stories!
I’ve been waiting for this second book since finishing Crossed Over. Like that was one ending I was not expecting. So I needed answers ASAP! I really enjoyed this second book. It gives us answers as to what happens with Nia and Harvey. Having Nia’s POV really helps understand what’s going on. This book isn’t for the faint of heart. It deals with addiction and self destruction head on. And the way Santana depicted it is so real that I could feel the emotions through the pages. I felt both Nia and Harvey’s emotions so well. It truly was so beautifully written. I did not see the connection coming between all 3 of them, but it made sense once I knew. This is such a meaningful story about hitting rock bottom and overcoming addiction and self destructive behavior. Thank you again Santana for writing these stories!
July 3, 2024
I thought Santana ripped my heart out before, but I was wrong. If you’re looking to prep yourself a bit, make sure you read Crossed Over first because False Start will probably cause a lot of feelings. I also would pay money to meet Santana and kick her in the shins real hard. Read the triggers because this gets heavy and not in a dark romance way.
This was easily my favorite read of the year. I love Harvey, Nia, and the Devil Dames so much!
False Start is not just a rivals to lovers story, but a story about being your own worst enemy and needing to rely on the love of others to get you through. After a car crash causes a severe head injury, Nia finds herself deep in the throes of addiction with no will to dig herself out. She’s had a rough life with injuries, an overbearing mother, and she struggles with the thoughts inside her own head. Lucky for her, her skating rival, Harvey Dent-Her-Face, is willing to give Nia her all to pull her back to herself…and some of her methods are spicy! 🥵
This was easily my favorite read of the year. I love Harvey, Nia, and the Devil Dames so much!
False Start is not just a rivals to lovers story, but a story about being your own worst enemy and needing to rely on the love of others to get you through. After a car crash causes a severe head injury, Nia finds herself deep in the throes of addiction with no will to dig herself out. She’s had a rough life with injuries, an overbearing mother, and she struggles with the thoughts inside her own head. Lucky for her, her skating rival, Harvey Dent-Her-Face, is willing to give Nia her all to pull her back to herself…and some of her methods are spicy! 🥵
June 19, 2024
5/5⭐️ 2/5🌶️
I alpha read this book for Santana Knox. It was a difficult book to read due to the relatability, but it was also impossible to put down. If you have read Crossed Over and were waiting for an easy relationship with Harvey and Nia, this ain’t it, babe. This shit is rough, raw, insanely deep. It’s a book that will likely trigger some, heal some, and crawl inside the skin of some readers. It’s a book I’ll cherish and keep on my mind for literally ever. And just because Nia and Harvey don’t have it easy, doesn’t mean we don’t fall head over heels for them. Harvey is DADDY, okay!! 👏🏼 As a pansexual, this had me questioning if I’d ever even like being with my husband again. It made me straight up (pun intended) want to climb on that lesbo rainbow and ride that bitch till to the restart. Needless to say, these sapphic mamis will hold a special place in my reader heart indefinitely.
But seriously, check trigger warnings when it comes out and read responsibly because this is a book like Santana has never written before. I am extremely proud of them for putting this out there because it was hard. But it’s a book that needed to be written and needs to be out in the world.
Side Note: If you ever find a way to make that prototype happen, Santana, I’ll be the first to buy one!
I alpha read this book for Santana Knox. It was a difficult book to read due to the relatability, but it was also impossible to put down. If you have read Crossed Over and were waiting for an easy relationship with Harvey and Nia, this ain’t it, babe. This shit is rough, raw, insanely deep. It’s a book that will likely trigger some, heal some, and crawl inside the skin of some readers. It’s a book I’ll cherish and keep on my mind for literally ever. And just because Nia and Harvey don’t have it easy, doesn’t mean we don’t fall head over heels for them. Harvey is DADDY, okay!! 👏🏼 As a pansexual, this had me questioning if I’d ever even like being with my husband again. It made me straight up (pun intended) want to climb on that lesbo rainbow and ride that bitch till to the restart. Needless to say, these sapphic mamis will hold a special place in my reader heart indefinitely.
But seriously, check trigger warnings when it comes out and read responsibly because this is a book like Santana has never written before. I am extremely proud of them for putting this out there because it was hard. But it’s a book that needed to be written and needs to be out in the world.
Side Note: If you ever find a way to make that prototype happen, Santana, I’ll be the first to buy one!
June 21, 2024
TW - this book is heavy. There are very detailed discussions and portrayals of additiction, drug use, ODing, and the emotional toll on all involved.
This book is so well written. Santana did a beautiful job showing pain and grief and love and anger. Parts of this story were very hard to read due to the subject matter but they were written wonderfully and they were REAL subject matters worth reading and discussing. Nia is such a strong character. I loved her portrayl in this book even more than in Crossed Over. She's a fighter. I absolutely love Cat and her persistence and ability to love.
This book is very different from Crossed Over for anyone who read it. It is absolutely a stand-alone (but highly recommend still reading Crossed Over because that book was WILD!). Also, I just want to say I really love Ryan Lee. He certainly isn't perfect, but he was kind and had guardian angel vibes in a kind of weird way.
This book is so well written. Santana did a beautiful job showing pain and grief and love and anger. Parts of this story were very hard to read due to the subject matter but they were written wonderfully and they were REAL subject matters worth reading and discussing. Nia is such a strong character. I loved her portrayl in this book even more than in Crossed Over. She's a fighter. I absolutely love Cat and her persistence and ability to love.
This book is very different from Crossed Over for anyone who read it. It is absolutely a stand-alone (but highly recommend still reading Crossed Over because that book was WILD!). Also, I just want to say I really love Ryan Lee. He certainly isn't perfect, but he was kind and had guardian angel vibes in a kind of weird way.
July 1, 2024
"𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞’𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐡𝐲. 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐫."
Just like with Crossed Over, I fell in love with Santana's writing. The way grief and addiction are portrayed in False Start is unmatched (this book is quite heavy, so I do suggest to check the trigger warnings for this one; protect your mental health).
I now want my own Roller Derby Squad, as the found family vibes they radiated were immaculate. Also, I'd love my own Cat Harvey (don't we all?), Cat and Nia's chemistry was EVERYTHING.
The vibes ✨:
- S P I C E 🔥
- Mental Health rep 💞
- Grief
- Addiction
- Rivals to lovers
- ... so much more!
Thanks for the ARC, forever grateful 💐✨
Just like with Crossed Over, I fell in love with Santana's writing. The way grief and addiction are portrayed in False Start is unmatched (this book is quite heavy, so I do suggest to check the trigger warnings for this one; protect your mental health).
I now want my own Roller Derby Squad, as the found family vibes they radiated were immaculate. Also, I'd love my own Cat Harvey (don't we all?), Cat and Nia's chemistry was EVERYTHING.
The vibes ✨:
- S P I C E 🔥
- Mental Health rep 💞
- Grief
- Addiction
- Rivals to lovers
- ... so much more!
Thanks for the ARC, forever grateful 💐✨
July 5, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you read Crossed Over then you should know how flabbergasting that ending was. I have to say reading a False Start was disappointing, I was waiting for a twist, I was waiting for Harvey to be in some sort of situation or dreaming or something. We were put through THAT in Crossed Over for it to be a lie?
Also Harvey going from hate to in love was weird. There was no in between, she hated Nia then all of sudden decided nah I want her, no building up just flipped the switch.
I don’t know I expected more but maybe more after Crossed Over wasn’t necessary.
If you read Crossed Over then you should know how flabbergasting that ending was. I have to say reading a False Start was disappointing, I was waiting for a twist, I was waiting for Harvey to be in some sort of situation or dreaming or something. We were put through THAT in Crossed Over for it to be a lie?
Also Harvey going from hate to in love was weird. There was no in between, she hated Nia then all of sudden decided nah I want her, no building up just flipped the switch.
I don’t know I expected more but maybe more after Crossed Over wasn’t necessary.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2024
4.5⭐️ Well written and oh so heavy. So many feels. I feel honored to have been able to read this story. It felt so personal. It hit so many feels. The roller derby was fun, their community was an amazing found family. The strength and fortitude shone throughout even during the lows in both MCs. The spice was hot and flowed well with the intense connection between Cat and Nia. Read the tw! If you can, then definitely give this a read!!
I was able to read this arc and am giving my honest review.
I was able to read this arc and am giving my honest review.
July 6, 2024
OH MY GODDESS do I love these characters, Cat & Nia have my whole heart. Once again this book is written so fucking well, it’s an emotional & relatable rollercoaster ride. The grief, addiction, & metal health rep- it’s just all done so beautifully. This book has the same FMCs as Crossed Over (which I just still cannot stop thinking about and to be honest I’m not sure I ever will be able to) and I just love the ending they got. It was hard fought but I’m glad they got there. Also loved that we got some spice too!
“Cat, whose hatred felt heavy but whose desire feels explosive.”
⭐️5
🌶️3
“Cat, whose hatred felt heavy but whose desire feels explosive.”
⭐️5
🌶️3
July 5, 2024
False Start tells of grief, addiction, community, healing…so well. It is gut-wrenching at times and I definitely cried. But so, so good. I will never look at a boot the same way. ;)
I had so many questions after finishing Crossed Over(gah!) and was so relieved that the Devil’s Dames got their happy ending and all!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily :)
I had so many questions after finishing Crossed Over(gah!) and was so relieved that the Devil’s Dames got their happy ending and all!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily :)
July 6, 2024
This book was heavy and emotional and oh so delicious. I ATE IT UP. I will forever be in love with Cat and Nia. There are some heavy themes throughout this book that brought me new perspectives. I love the way Santana writes the tension and spice with her character. Santana has quickly become an auto buy author for me
July 1, 2024
I am so emotional right now. This story as a whole was absolutely everything. This is by far very different from what I usually read. But im so glad that I got this arc & read Crossed Over. Thank you Santana for such a beautiful fuckin’ story!
July 2, 2024
This was such a good book
July 9, 2024
False Start by Santana Knox 5⭐️
“From the very moment you surged out of whatever dream created you, I was yours and you were mine.”
I have been anxiously awaiting this sequel since I read Crossing Over and I was not disappointed!! Watching Nia’s journey through this novel was absolutely incredible. I can’t say much because I don’t want to spoil anything. Santana did an amazing job depicting the cyclical nature of addiction. Cat and Nia were definitely written in the stars and I loved reading their story. Cat is the rock that Nia needs. The plot twists? The boot scene?? Amazing! The emotional journey was well worth the wait! I can’t wait to read more by Santana!
Thank you to Santana and her team for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
“From the very moment you surged out of whatever dream created you, I was yours and you were mine.”
I have been anxiously awaiting this sequel since I read Crossing Over and I was not disappointed!! Watching Nia’s journey through this novel was absolutely incredible. I can’t say much because I don’t want to spoil anything. Santana did an amazing job depicting the cyclical nature of addiction. Cat and Nia were definitely written in the stars and I loved reading their story. Cat is the rock that Nia needs. The plot twists? The boot scene?? Amazing! The emotional journey was well worth the wait! I can’t wait to read more by Santana!
Thank you to Santana and her team for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
July 5, 2024
Santana has mf done it again. I LOVED crossed over & was distraught by the ending. I loved seeing this perspective 🥹. This story is so addicting! Coming out, finding yourself, falling in love, AND roller derby. Loved this so much
July 9, 2024
Woah! She’s messy!!!!
I loved it!
I mean it’s basically a hallmark movie just rated R. I mean going back home, then they have to save the skating rink. Also rivals to lovers… awesome.
I loved it!
I mean it’s basically a hallmark movie just rated R. I mean going back home, then they have to save the skating rink. Also rivals to lovers… awesome.
July 2, 2024
Man this one gave me all the feels.
Two days later and I’m still reeling in how this one made me feel. The addiction struggles were tough. Really tough. As someone who loves someone who struggles from active addiction it hurt me, broke me, & gave me hope all in one.
Harvey is everything. She was determined.
Nia….damn. Talk about relatable AF.
Ryan… wow 🤯
I have more feelings…Santana is getting my therapy bills because wow.
Two days later and I’m still reeling in how this one made me feel. The addiction struggles were tough. Really tough. As someone who loves someone who struggles from active addiction it hurt me, broke me, & gave me hope all in one.
Harvey is everything. She was determined.
Nia….damn. Talk about relatable AF.
Ryan… wow 🤯
I have more feelings…Santana is getting my therapy bills because wow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2024
Loved, loved, loved it !!
I didn't know what to expect after Crossed Over but this did not disappoint.
The emotions that have gone into this writing are overwhelming. You can feel the struggle that Santana felt writing some parts of this book which just speaks volumes towards how much of an amazing writer she is!
You won't be disappointed!
I didn't know what to expect after Crossed Over but this did not disappoint.
The emotions that have gone into this writing are overwhelming. You can feel the struggle that Santana felt writing some parts of this book which just speaks volumes towards how much of an amazing writer she is!
You won't be disappointed!
Read
November 29, 2024DNF - 75%
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