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Tainted Trust: Kandi Cove Series
Don’t date…
Never trust a guy…
This was my mantra for as long as I can remember—ever since my father failed me as a role model, I wanted to be strong like my mother. She was living proof that I didn’t need a guy to take care of me.
Things changed for the worst and I am forced to be taken away from the only place that I ever called home, even if it isn’t the best, it is all that I know. Having to move to a town that I don’t know a single soul in and really don’t care to.
That is until I meet him.
With his messy dark hair and chocolate brown eyes, Roman, the star Basketball player, situates himself in my life in no time. Somehow he became my comfort, my peace, my calm in the madness—he became my everything—including my downfall.
Never trust a guy…
This was my mantra for as long as I can remember—ever since my father failed me as a role model, I wanted to be strong like my mother. She was living proof that I didn’t need a guy to take care of me.
Things changed for the worst and I am forced to be taken away from the only place that I ever called home, even if it isn’t the best, it is all that I know. Having to move to a town that I don’t know a single soul in and really don’t care to.
That is until I meet him.
With his messy dark hair and chocolate brown eyes, Roman, the star Basketball player, situates himself in my life in no time. Somehow he became my comfort, my peace, my calm in the madness—he became my everything—including my downfall.
- GenresSports Romance
476 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 25, 2024
35 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 19, 2024
Axel and Roman have me in chokehold . Everything Axel deserves, I won't lie I was liking Tatum til certain point. Now I'm like back up .I won't say too much, but I love Roman so much, and my girl Axel has been through so much that I can relate to her on some levels .aunt Bonnie is such an amazing aunt and person .axel dad sucks 100%. I stand by that, especially how he treated her mom for so long and how ruined so many people lives and kept so many people away from Axel and her mom.
I love this book so much . Chapter 45 was so special and had me in love and just melting
Roman is everything he is the kind of guy who always wishes for and more .especially when he helped her with her panic attacks .I absolutely dislike Cree. Ugh, I can't stand him at all
I love this book so much . Chapter 45 was so special and had me in love and just melting
Roman is everything he is the kind of guy who always wishes for and more .especially when he helped her with her panic attacks .I absolutely dislike Cree. Ugh, I can't stand him at all
October 18, 2024
Omg I so fell in love with Roman and Axel story. I was laughing out loud multiple times. I was not expecting the ending. I have already message B. asking her when we will get the next book. I need it like right now! This story is so cute and will pull you in and break your heart as well.
October 20, 2024
So good! Once I started I couldn’t stop! I loved the characters and their love for each other!!!!! Also I am obsessed with a well done V Card trope and THIS WAS EXCELLENT!
October 18, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bravo for this author's debut novel!
This isn't my typical read because I like a medium-to-fast-burn romance, and this was a slow-burn. That's okay because the characters are still in high school, and unlike other kids their age, they are taking the time to get to know one another. The story is about Axel, who suffers from anxiety and has no trust in guys due to her father, who was never there for her or her mother. When devastation hits Axel's life, she's got to move to a new town where she knows nobody. This is where she meets Roman, the star basketball player at Kandi Cove. It takes her a while, but she finally realizes that maybe not all guys are like her father. Axel suffers from her trust issues throughout the book, which alone made me want to pull out my hair so many times. I cursed the author out many, many times throughout. Roman goes off to college after a traumatic experience, and they don't talk for months. When he finally comes home to try and get his girl back, you're left with many questions about how they will repair their relationship. They love each other deeply, and their relationship is tested because of miscommunication and others working against them. This leaves off on a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to see how Axel and Roman's story ends.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bravo for this author's debut novel!
This isn't my typical read because I like a medium-to-fast-burn romance, and this was a slow-burn. That's okay because the characters are still in high school, and unlike other kids their age, they are taking the time to get to know one another. The story is about Axel, who suffers from anxiety and has no trust in guys due to her father, who was never there for her or her mother. When devastation hits Axel's life, she's got to move to a new town where she knows nobody. This is where she meets Roman, the star basketball player at Kandi Cove. It takes her a while, but she finally realizes that maybe not all guys are like her father. Axel suffers from her trust issues throughout the book, which alone made me want to pull out my hair so many times. I cursed the author out many, many times throughout. Roman goes off to college after a traumatic experience, and they don't talk for months. When he finally comes home to try and get his girl back, you're left with many questions about how they will repair their relationship. They love each other deeply, and their relationship is tested because of miscommunication and others working against them. This leaves off on a cliffhanger, and I can't wait to see how Axel and Roman's story ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Want to relive your High School crush days?! Then welcome to Kandi Cove High where Axel and Roman run into each other, and I mean literally. This book gave me all the feels of having your first crush and feeling all the butterflies. Axel has been dealt a hard life but she is so strong because of it and Roman, is looking like the white knight Axle wants but doesn't realize or want to admit how much she needs him. Enjoy this slow burn about first loves.
Tropes:
- Slow Burn (Spice)
- Sports Romance (Basketball)
- High School
- Small Town
- Virgin FMC
- He Falls First
- FMC Family Trauma
TW's:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Mentions of alcoholism
- Mentions of death of a loved one
- Mentions of miscarriage
- Grief
- Explicit Sexual Content
- Attempted sexual assault
- Car crash
- Minor bullying
- Minor violence
- Underage drinking
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Want to relive your High School crush days?! Then welcome to Kandi Cove High where Axel and Roman run into each other, and I mean literally. This book gave me all the feels of having your first crush and feeling all the butterflies. Axel has been dealt a hard life but she is so strong because of it and Roman, is looking like the white knight Axle wants but doesn't realize or want to admit how much she needs him. Enjoy this slow burn about first loves.
Tropes:
- Slow Burn (Spice)
- Sports Romance (Basketball)
- High School
- Small Town
- Virgin FMC
- He Falls First
- FMC Family Trauma
TW's:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Mentions of alcoholism
- Mentions of death of a loved one
- Mentions of miscarriage
- Grief
- Explicit Sexual Content
- Attempted sexual assault
- Car crash
- Minor bullying
- Minor violence
- Underage drinking
November 1, 2024
The fmc axel is independent women who don't trust any man. This is because of her father. The mmc is roman. He is the most respectful man that i know. The mmc falls hard for the fmc and she tried to ignore him. But he didn't make it easy. He put himself in her path to help her. This was a great book.
October 25, 2024
I am feeling so honored to be reviewing this brand new debut novel by B. Rae! When she announced she was writing this book and it’s tropes, I know this would be right up my alley! This is a heartbreaking story about loss, a new start to life and going against all the beliefs of never wanting to fall for the guy.
Axel moves in with her mom’s sister after the passing of her mom. With not knowing much about her aunt, she finds it hard to trust her and truly let her in. Her aunt has her own reasons for why she’s been estranged, but will do anything in her power to earn back Axel’s trust and gain some sort of relatioship.
I loved Axel and Roman so much. The boy who walks in your life, when you’re least expecting it and you’re not even close to being ready for it.
I loved that there was mental health representation in this book because it is so prevalant now, but still shadowed with a stigma.
I loved how many relatable topics that were touched upon in this story. The author did an excellent job at exposing so many different stages of nostalgia to the reader, truly able to make the story, and characters relatable.
Axel is the type of woman who isn’t looking for a bf or to be saved. But that’s exacty where Roman comes in, wanting and needing to be all of those things for her.
Axel and Roman’s story will undoubtedly hook you in until the very final words. And then B. will keep you under her spell , wanting more, after the cliffhanger she gifted us.
PSA! WE’RE READY FOR BOOK 2!
Job well done ! What an outstanding way to make a debut!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Axel moves in with her mom’s sister after the passing of her mom. With not knowing much about her aunt, she finds it hard to trust her and truly let her in. Her aunt has her own reasons for why she’s been estranged, but will do anything in her power to earn back Axel’s trust and gain some sort of relatioship.
I loved Axel and Roman so much. The boy who walks in your life, when you’re least expecting it and you’re not even close to being ready for it.
I loved that there was mental health representation in this book because it is so prevalant now, but still shadowed with a stigma.
I loved how many relatable topics that were touched upon in this story. The author did an excellent job at exposing so many different stages of nostalgia to the reader, truly able to make the story, and characters relatable.
Axel is the type of woman who isn’t looking for a bf or to be saved. But that’s exacty where Roman comes in, wanting and needing to be all of those things for her.
Axel and Roman’s story will undoubtedly hook you in until the very final words. And then B. will keep you under her spell , wanting more, after the cliffhanger she gifted us.
PSA! WE’RE READY FOR BOOK 2!
Job well done ! What an outstanding way to make a debut!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 19, 2024
Wow this story was amazing! This is Bs debut novel and it did not disappoint. This is not a normal read for me as it is a high school slow-burn but boy did it captivate me from start to finish. This book tells the story of anxiety rep Axel who after a tragic event has to move in with her Aunt Bonnie. Her father is not in the right position to care for her anymore due to his struggles with alcoholism which causes severe trust issues for Axel. This is where she meets Roman (the high school basketball star) who try’s to tear down her trust issue walls and prove that not every guy is the same. Which takes a while 🫣. And my gosh did Axels trust issues drive me nuts lol. After a trip with her friends and Roman another devastating event happens and leaves you screaming at your kindle questioning your sanity and wondering when the next book will be coming out lol. Overall this book was a great pallet cleanser and will forever recommend if you are looking for a captivating high school sports romance this is the book for you!!! You will absolutely fall in love with these characters and their banter. Cannot wait to see the story continue.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀
🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀
🌶️🌶️
November 1, 2024
First I want the next one like now 🤣
But all seriousness for a debut novel this surpassed what I even expected. When I saw they were set in High School I was kinda like eh because the teenage drama crap that happens I was worried it would be in TT. However, I was so freaking wrong and the prologue like what the what?
She’s the new girl in town and school not knowing anyone or the area. He’s THE Basketball player everyone knows and wants. She think he’s way out of her league and they’re to different.
I absolutely freaking love this story and cannot wait to get the next one and hopefully get more information on what took place that wasn’t mentioned because like how could you leave us on that epilogue 👉🏻👈🏻
But all seriousness for a debut novel this surpassed what I even expected. When I saw they were set in High School I was kinda like eh because the teenage drama crap that happens I was worried it would be in TT. However, I was so freaking wrong and the prologue like what the what?
She’s the new girl in town and school not knowing anyone or the area. He’s THE Basketball player everyone knows and wants. She think he’s way out of her league and they’re to different.
I absolutely freaking love this story and cannot wait to get the next one and hopefully get more information on what took place that wasn’t mentioned because like how could you leave us on that epilogue 👉🏻👈🏻
October 21, 2024
Author B. Rae debut novel!!
In Tainted Trust we meet Axel Rae. Having lost her best friend, her mom, in an awful car accident and her father being a drunk and basically useless, Axel is forced to go live with her mother’s sister. Her aunt Bonnie lives in Kandi Cove where Axel will have to start over. But social situations with new people triggers Axel’s anxiety. Still she tries her best. It’s in her math class where she locks eyes with Roman Catelli.
Roman is their high school’s start point guard on the basketball team. All the girls love Roman. But he’s drawn to Axel. He’s determined to chip away at her shell little by little.
No one affects Axel quite like Roman does. He gets along with her best friend from back in her hometown and she gets along with his mother and shares a common issue with. They’re both falling hard for each other. But with Roman about to leave for college to play basketball and Axel’s best male friend, Tatum, moving close to Kandi Cove, the trust of their relationship is tested. And one night.. everything changes..
First of all THANK YOU to the brand new author B. Rae for allowing me to ARC read her word baby!! Now for the review.. Tainted Trust is high school (18-19) strangers to lovers, small town, sports romance with a virgin FMC and EXCELLENT anxiety representation. I initially thought I couldn’t get into it cuz it is VERY detailed.. but somewhere along the way, I fell in love with Axel & Roman. The things she’s been through and how he takes care of her just warmed my soul. And when they start getting spicy??? Ooooooff Roman’s dirty mouth HAD ME MOUTH OPEN WIDE!!! Roman is definitely a sunshine book boyfriend. Loved him. Loved their banter.. and I love how she instantly bonded with his mother! Such a great story, so emotional at times, and that CLIFFHANGER???? Ready for book 2!!!
In Tainted Trust we meet Axel Rae. Having lost her best friend, her mom, in an awful car accident and her father being a drunk and basically useless, Axel is forced to go live with her mother’s sister. Her aunt Bonnie lives in Kandi Cove where Axel will have to start over. But social situations with new people triggers Axel’s anxiety. Still she tries her best. It’s in her math class where she locks eyes with Roman Catelli.
Roman is their high school’s start point guard on the basketball team. All the girls love Roman. But he’s drawn to Axel. He’s determined to chip away at her shell little by little.
No one affects Axel quite like Roman does. He gets along with her best friend from back in her hometown and she gets along with his mother and shares a common issue with. They’re both falling hard for each other. But with Roman about to leave for college to play basketball and Axel’s best male friend, Tatum, moving close to Kandi Cove, the trust of their relationship is tested. And one night.. everything changes..
First of all THANK YOU to the brand new author B. Rae for allowing me to ARC read her word baby!! Now for the review.. Tainted Trust is high school (18-19) strangers to lovers, small town, sports romance with a virgin FMC and EXCELLENT anxiety representation. I initially thought I couldn’t get into it cuz it is VERY detailed.. but somewhere along the way, I fell in love with Axel & Roman. The things she’s been through and how he takes care of her just warmed my soul. And when they start getting spicy??? Ooooooff Roman’s dirty mouth HAD ME MOUTH OPEN WIDE!!! Roman is definitely a sunshine book boyfriend. Loved him. Loved their banter.. and I love how she instantly bonded with his mother! Such a great story, so emotional at times, and that CLIFFHANGER???? Ready for book 2!!!
November 6, 2024
Holy cliffhanger batman!
This was an amazing debut novel! Gave me early/mid 2000s vibes in the best way.
Perfectly captured the feelings of first/young love and added bonuses - I was able to strongly relate to the FMC with the loss of her mother (was very close to the same age when I lost mine) and also being biracial (I don't get to see this enough in books!!)
Roman is THE perfect book boyfriend, seriously worships the ground she walks on and would do anything for her. Everytime he called her baby my heart skipped!
I cannot wait to see how things continue into the next!
This was an amazing debut novel! Gave me early/mid 2000s vibes in the best way.
Perfectly captured the feelings of first/young love and added bonuses - I was able to strongly relate to the FMC with the loss of her mother (was very close to the same age when I lost mine) and also being biracial (I don't get to see this enough in books!!)
Roman is THE perfect book boyfriend, seriously worships the ground she walks on and would do anything for her. Everytime he called her baby my heart skipped!
I cannot wait to see how things continue into the next!
February 13, 2025
This book was amazing. He falls first and I love how Roman and Axel relationship grown makes me believe that one day I will find my Roman. As soon as I started reading this book reminded me of the show All American.
November 6, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️
This book was the palette cleanser that I needed, y’all! It’s a high school basketball romance, so it’s not the type of book that i normally review on my page, but it was GREAT!!. The nostalgia was real with this one! It was giving One Tree Hill, Dawson’s Creek, Friday Night Lights. All of the early 2000s teen dramas that we all loved! It took me back to my first real love & all of the feelings that go along with that. This book absolutely tugged at my heartstrings HARD. Axel, the FMC, has been through so much more than anyone her age should have to go through. The anxiety rep in this book was written so well. I unfortunately related to Axel in the regard a lot. Something tragic happens to her and she has to move to Kandi Cove to live with her Aunt Bonnie for her senior year of high school. I loved Aunt Bonnie so much. She didn’t push Axel, even the tiniest bit, to do anything that she wasn’t ready for. She was absolutely everything that Axel needed. Then we have Roman, the MMC, who is the star basketball player at Kandi Cove High. I love how he knew, from the moment he saw her, that Axel was want to be his. He was also everything Axel didn’t know she needed. It does have some spice ( that was H.O.T.T.O.G.O! ) but both main characters are of age. I love how her friends from back home were just as present and loyal to her as they had always been. We’re totally dealing with a love triangle as well, so that plays a huge part of the story as well. It DOES end on a cliffhanger (and what a freaking cliffhanger it was!!) as there will be another book in the series. The ending sets up the next book PERFECTLY! I just ADORED this book y’all!! I had been reading a lot of dark books & I sometimes just need a break & a good palette cleanser, and that’s exactly what this was for me! I totally recommend this book y’all!
This book was the palette cleanser that I needed, y’all! It’s a high school basketball romance, so it’s not the type of book that i normally review on my page, but it was GREAT!!. The nostalgia was real with this one! It was giving One Tree Hill, Dawson’s Creek, Friday Night Lights. All of the early 2000s teen dramas that we all loved! It took me back to my first real love & all of the feelings that go along with that. This book absolutely tugged at my heartstrings HARD. Axel, the FMC, has been through so much more than anyone her age should have to go through. The anxiety rep in this book was written so well. I unfortunately related to Axel in the regard a lot. Something tragic happens to her and she has to move to Kandi Cove to live with her Aunt Bonnie for her senior year of high school. I loved Aunt Bonnie so much. She didn’t push Axel, even the tiniest bit, to do anything that she wasn’t ready for. She was absolutely everything that Axel needed. Then we have Roman, the MMC, who is the star basketball player at Kandi Cove High. I love how he knew, from the moment he saw her, that Axel was want to be his. He was also everything Axel didn’t know she needed. It does have some spice ( that was H.O.T.T.O.G.O! ) but both main characters are of age. I love how her friends from back home were just as present and loyal to her as they had always been. We’re totally dealing with a love triangle as well, so that plays a huge part of the story as well. It DOES end on a cliffhanger (and what a freaking cliffhanger it was!!) as there will be another book in the series. The ending sets up the next book PERFECTLY! I just ADORED this book y’all!! I had been reading a lot of dark books & I sometimes just need a break & a good palette cleanser, and that’s exactly what this was for me! I totally recommend this book y’all!
October 22, 2024
This book literally sucked me in and I devoured 90% of it in one day, I could not put it down.
B Came in strong for her debut Novel. I really enjoyed the balance and cohesiveness this book brought.
Can we just talk about NOSTALGIA!! As someone who is a massive fan of OTH, I got the feel goods that show always gave me, but in it's own unique way. I am also a GG fan and the gift she received on her birthday made me bust out in tears!!
"𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑑, 𝐼 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝐹𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤" iykyk
Axel and Roman really stole my heart from the start I really loved the tenderness and patience Roman shows Axel. Both are experiencing new feelings and new situations that they never thought was possible for themselves. Watching them break down barriers with each other throughout this story was truly beautiful.
"𝐴𝑥𝑒𝑙, 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑤𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑤𝑒 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑑 ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑜𝑢𝑡. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑡𝑒 𝐼 𝑠𝑎𝑤 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡𝑎𝑙𝑘𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑦𝑜𝑢, 𝐼 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑘𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝐼 ℎ𝑎𝑑 𝑡𝑜 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑖𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑦 𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑. 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑖 𝑔𝑜𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤 𝑦𝑜𝑢, 𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠𝑛'𝑡 𝑔𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑔𝑜."
I loved their cooking moments together, the love roman had for his mom, the way he always new exactly what to do for Axel when she was battling a panic attack and grounded her, it was so sweet!!! Made this ol black heart cry!!
I am a sucker for a SLOW BURN and Tension, this one definitely succeeded. Roman's dirty mouth about sent me though, oh my!! It was a perfect balance with more Plot based which was refreshing.
"𝐵𝑎𝑏𝑦, 𝐶𝑎𝑛 𝐼 𝑡𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢"
That ending broke me and I need more!
B Came in strong for her debut Novel. I really enjoyed the balance and cohesiveness this book brought.
Can we just talk about NOSTALGIA!! As someone who is a massive fan of OTH, I got the feel goods that show always gave me, but in it's own unique way. I am also a GG fan and the gift she received on her birthday made me bust out in tears!!
"𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑑, 𝐼 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝐹𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤" iykyk
Axel and Roman really stole my heart from the start I really loved the tenderness and patience Roman shows Axel. Both are experiencing new feelings and new situations that they never thought was possible for themselves. Watching them break down barriers with each other throughout this story was truly beautiful.
"𝐴𝑥𝑒𝑙, 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑤𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑤𝑒 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑒𝑑 ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑜𝑢𝑡. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑡𝑒 𝐼 𝑠𝑎𝑤 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡𝑎𝑙𝑘𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑦𝑜𝑢, 𝐼 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑘𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝐼 ℎ𝑎𝑑 𝑡𝑜 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑖𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑦 𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑. 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑖 𝑔𝑜𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤 𝑦𝑜𝑢, 𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠𝑛'𝑡 𝑔𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝑙𝑒𝑡 𝑔𝑜."
I loved their cooking moments together, the love roman had for his mom, the way he always new exactly what to do for Axel when she was battling a panic attack and grounded her, it was so sweet!!! Made this ol black heart cry!!
I am a sucker for a SLOW BURN and Tension, this one definitely succeeded. Roman's dirty mouth about sent me though, oh my!! It was a perfect balance with more Plot based which was refreshing.
"𝐵𝑎𝑏𝑦, 𝐶𝑎𝑛 𝐼 𝑡𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢"
That ending broke me and I need more!
October 24, 2024
Wow !! What a way to end the first book! Was I in tears? Of course I’m a cry baby - duh!
This was beautiful! This is Brittany’s debut novel and ya know I love my dark, bully, stalker, taboo, unhinge reads and this was a different pace and man I need that!
This story just pulls at your heart strings and made me fall in love with falling in love with your first love all over again. Just the build up to it, the connection, the trust, taking your time with that person. It was honestly beautiful to read
AND THEN SHE RIPPED MY HEART OUT & STOMPED ALL OVER IT!
Without giving anything away Axel just moved in with her aunt after losing her mom- her dad ain’t shxt and she’s the new girl wanting to just live man, she doesn’t trust men easily and has her walls up. Roman is the star basketball player, with a heart of gold, someone who doesn’t date or take anyone seriously and yet when he sees Axel for the first time he knows that’s the girl he wants. This to me was about your first love, trusting after have trust broken and testing if love can withstand anything.
I read somewhere that this was Dawsons Creek / Friday Night Lights vibe and yes! Yess it is. Ima add One Tree Hill into that mix as well - It’s that vibe and I loved it. I’m here for it. And the side characters I loved them, I did wanna whoop one or two side characters asses LOl. This was like watching season 1 of a show.
I have to wait until book 2 - it does end on a cliffhanger so I’ll be here eating my feelings away
This was beautiful! This is Brittany’s debut novel and ya know I love my dark, bully, stalker, taboo, unhinge reads and this was a different pace and man I need that!
This story just pulls at your heart strings and made me fall in love with falling in love with your first love all over again. Just the build up to it, the connection, the trust, taking your time with that person. It was honestly beautiful to read
AND THEN SHE RIPPED MY HEART OUT & STOMPED ALL OVER IT!
Without giving anything away Axel just moved in with her aunt after losing her mom- her dad ain’t shxt and she’s the new girl wanting to just live man, she doesn’t trust men easily and has her walls up. Roman is the star basketball player, with a heart of gold, someone who doesn’t date or take anyone seriously and yet when he sees Axel for the first time he knows that’s the girl he wants. This to me was about your first love, trusting after have trust broken and testing if love can withstand anything.
I read somewhere that this was Dawsons Creek / Friday Night Lights vibe and yes! Yess it is. Ima add One Tree Hill into that mix as well - It’s that vibe and I loved it. I’m here for it. And the side characters I loved them, I did wanna whoop one or two side characters asses LOl. This was like watching season 1 of a show.
I have to wait until book 2 - it does end on a cliffhanger so I’ll be here eating my feelings away
October 26, 2024
leaves you wanting more
Tainted Trust is B. Rae’s debut novel. A story following Axel, a senior who after a family tragedy, who’s into a new town with family she hasn’t seen since she was a baby. She has severe anxiety and trust issues, and as you read her story you understand why.
“I’m not the fairytale girl that gets the happy ending. I’m the girl that gets left for the wolves.”
Roman, another senior, high school basketball star who would do anything and drop anything for his mom, and soon Axel as well. As he needs to know her, and she’s his before she even knows his name.
“Being this close to Axel does something to me that I can’t even explain.”
First off, I loved this story. Axel and Roman are so adorable I can’t. They’re young and fall in love and it’s beautiful, and brings me back to when my fiancé and I met in high school. Axel..she deals with a lot, and doesn’t trust a lot of people and out this wall up and she remind me so much of myself. Roman he’s so sweet how he just wants to care for her and love her and show her there’s more out there if she’ll let him. Of course there are characters we don’t like.. mostly 1 and she gets what she deserves slightly lol.
This is a slow burn, high school to college, sports romance and there are some things in here that people may find triggering, so as always check those warnings. But I think this is a book that everyone will enjoy and I can’t wait to read book 2!
Tainted Trust is B. Rae’s debut novel. A story following Axel, a senior who after a family tragedy, who’s into a new town with family she hasn’t seen since she was a baby. She has severe anxiety and trust issues, and as you read her story you understand why.
“I’m not the fairytale girl that gets the happy ending. I’m the girl that gets left for the wolves.”
Roman, another senior, high school basketball star who would do anything and drop anything for his mom, and soon Axel as well. As he needs to know her, and she’s his before she even knows his name.
“Being this close to Axel does something to me that I can’t even explain.”
First off, I loved this story. Axel and Roman are so adorable I can’t. They’re young and fall in love and it’s beautiful, and brings me back to when my fiancé and I met in high school. Axel..she deals with a lot, and doesn’t trust a lot of people and out this wall up and she remind me so much of myself. Roman he’s so sweet how he just wants to care for her and love her and show her there’s more out there if she’ll let him. Of course there are characters we don’t like.. mostly 1 and she gets what she deserves slightly lol.
This is a slow burn, high school to college, sports romance and there are some things in here that people may find triggering, so as always check those warnings. But I think this is a book that everyone will enjoy and I can’t wait to read book 2!
October 28, 2024
ARC Review- Tainted Trust by B.Rae
Rating 5⭐️ and Spice 2🌶️
FIRST GREAT BOOK!! Thank you for letting me read your baby. You did amazing for debut novel. I can see how this book is like the OC, 90210- kinda, and One Tree Hill all in one. This book had me in a true chokehold and yet also a tad emotional rollercoaster.
Tropes:
💜Slow Burn (Spice)
🏀Sports Romance (Basketball)
💜High School
🏀Small Town
💜Virgin FMC
🏀He Falls First
💜FMC Family Trauma
"Where you lead, I will Follow"
AXEL- she has been through so much at such a young age and just wants to live. After losing mom she moves in with aunt due to daddy issues. She doesn’t trust men easy and yet he catches her off guard.
ROMAN- he is that hot jock that just doesn’t date or take people seriously. He is the star player. He has all these new feelings when he sees her and he knows she’s all he wants.
"Axel, you were mine be fore we even started hanging out. The minute I saw you and talked to you, I just knew I had to have you in any way I could. Then once i got to know you, I wasn't going to let go."
"Baby, Can I taste you"
These two learn their feelings together. They have ups and downs. She has her walls up but he understands and is patient with what she needs. This screams first love but can they withstand everything and make it to the end together??
Rating 5⭐️ and Spice 2🌶️
FIRST GREAT BOOK!! Thank you for letting me read your baby. You did amazing for debut novel. I can see how this book is like the OC, 90210- kinda, and One Tree Hill all in one. This book had me in a true chokehold and yet also a tad emotional rollercoaster.
Tropes:
💜Slow Burn (Spice)
🏀Sports Romance (Basketball)
💜High School
🏀Small Town
💜Virgin FMC
🏀He Falls First
💜FMC Family Trauma
"Where you lead, I will Follow"
AXEL- she has been through so much at such a young age and just wants to live. After losing mom she moves in with aunt due to daddy issues. She doesn’t trust men easy and yet he catches her off guard.
ROMAN- he is that hot jock that just doesn’t date or take people seriously. He is the star player. He has all these new feelings when he sees her and he knows she’s all he wants.
"Axel, you were mine be fore we even started hanging out. The minute I saw you and talked to you, I just knew I had to have you in any way I could. Then once i got to know you, I wasn't going to let go."
"Baby, Can I taste you"
These two learn their feelings together. They have ups and downs. She has her walls up but he understands and is patient with what she needs. This screams first love but can they withstand everything and make it to the end together??
October 27, 2024
Yallll we are so back omggg
Now as someone that reads a lot of spicy romance after a while everything starts kind of reading the same and its hard to find book that has that great plot with the good suspenseful buildup so when those scenes hit it feels real and actually authentic making me root for the couple and the overarching story going on
And let me tell you I was really invested in this story and although this is b Rae’s debut book you can tell she put a lot into this so much so this felt really thought out especially when the story really picked up which I would say happened at around 20% when the romance was introduced the plot just started flowing really nicely and felt cohesive then on.
Roman our main guy in this is such a treat because he’s so in touch with his emotions that it comes across as really genuine and pairs so nicely with axel our main girl whose been through a lot in life so definitely needs someone who can offer her that reassurance and really be their for her
I truly loved so much about this book,I got massive to all the boys I’ve loved before vibes which is always a great thing and I’m so looking forward to the next book since the cliffhanger was so brutal
Now as someone that reads a lot of spicy romance after a while everything starts kind of reading the same and its hard to find book that has that great plot with the good suspenseful buildup so when those scenes hit it feels real and actually authentic making me root for the couple and the overarching story going on
And let me tell you I was really invested in this story and although this is b Rae’s debut book you can tell she put a lot into this so much so this felt really thought out especially when the story really picked up which I would say happened at around 20% when the romance was introduced the plot just started flowing really nicely and felt cohesive then on.
Roman our main guy in this is such a treat because he’s so in touch with his emotions that it comes across as really genuine and pairs so nicely with axel our main girl whose been through a lot in life so definitely needs someone who can offer her that reassurance and really be their for her
I truly loved so much about this book,I got massive to all the boys I’ve loved before vibes which is always a great thing and I’m so looking forward to the next book since the cliffhanger was so brutal
December 31, 2024
Remember your school crush... That butterflies when you come across each other, that sneaky glances... when you have a 5 second eye contact and then you'll be blushing all day long.
This book made me relive those moments for a while 🤗🤗
Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️. 75
Spice 🌶 🌶
Tropes
🩷 Slow burn
🩷 Sports Romance
🩷 High school
🩷 Small Town Romance
🩷 Virgin FMC
🩷 He falls first
🩷 Family Trauma
Please read TW before getting into it.
Axel our FMC who was having a bad time as she lost her mother who was her best buddy and left with her not so useful dad. Axel was trying hard to keep her life on track bit there were bumps that shake her and retrack her for a while. But she had a support her aunt and i was so happy with her character.
Roman a school sweetheart. Girls were stuck to him like a bee to a flower but he was feeling pull towards Axel.. The feel itself will give you butterflies.
Axel and Roman was falling hard for one another. But this is life and it's unpredictable.
Roman has to go away for college and Tatum, Axel's best friend was moving close to her and then story took a turn.
This story had me.. the ending.. I need book 2 asap.
This story is everything you ever wanted to read about high school Romance and I'm glad it was realistic 🩷
This book made me relive those moments for a while 🤗🤗
Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️. 75
Spice 🌶 🌶
Tropes
🩷 Slow burn
🩷 Sports Romance
🩷 High school
🩷 Small Town Romance
🩷 Virgin FMC
🩷 He falls first
🩷 Family Trauma
Please read TW before getting into it.
Axel our FMC who was having a bad time as she lost her mother who was her best buddy and left with her not so useful dad. Axel was trying hard to keep her life on track bit there were bumps that shake her and retrack her for a while. But she had a support her aunt and i was so happy with her character.
Roman a school sweetheart. Girls were stuck to him like a bee to a flower but he was feeling pull towards Axel.. The feel itself will give you butterflies.
Axel and Roman was falling hard for one another. But this is life and it's unpredictable.
Roman has to go away for college and Tatum, Axel's best friend was moving close to her and then story took a turn.
This story had me.. the ending.. I need book 2 asap.
This story is everything you ever wanted to read about high school Romance and I'm glad it was realistic 🩷
October 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️
This is B’s debut book and she did not come to play!
As a 90’s baby this is all of my favorite high school, sports, young love tv shows coming to life. And really this is my high school days coming back to life.
She literally hit every character you encounter throughout high school: the jock, the new student, the mean girls, the friend that gets on everyone’s nerves, and more!
One thing that automatically makes or breaks a book for me that deals with mental health and anxiety is if it’s delivered in a realistic manner. Teenagers and young adults handle things very differently than grown adults and B mastered that difference!
You know I don’t give spoilers so to get a full grasp of Roman and Axel you need to read it, but I can prepare you just a little. The cliffy is going to either make you cry or piss you off. And you’ll be ready for book 2 to answer all the questions!
What to expect:
💜Slow Burn
🏀Basketball Player MMC
💜Virgin FMC
🏀High School
💜Small Town
🏀He Falls First
💜Family Trauma
🏀Mental Health/Anxiety Rep
Thank you B. Rae for giving me the opportunity to read your debut book as an ARC! Can’t wait for book 2💛
This is B’s debut book and she did not come to play!
As a 90’s baby this is all of my favorite high school, sports, young love tv shows coming to life. And really this is my high school days coming back to life.
She literally hit every character you encounter throughout high school: the jock, the new student, the mean girls, the friend that gets on everyone’s nerves, and more!
One thing that automatically makes or breaks a book for me that deals with mental health and anxiety is if it’s delivered in a realistic manner. Teenagers and young adults handle things very differently than grown adults and B mastered that difference!
You know I don’t give spoilers so to get a full grasp of Roman and Axel you need to read it, but I can prepare you just a little. The cliffy is going to either make you cry or piss you off. And you’ll be ready for book 2 to answer all the questions!
What to expect:
💜Slow Burn
🏀Basketball Player MMC
💜Virgin FMC
🏀High School
💜Small Town
🏀He Falls First
💜Family Trauma
🏀Mental Health/Anxiety Rep
Thank you B. Rae for giving me the opportunity to read your debut book as an ARC! Can’t wait for book 2💛
November 20, 2024
*ARC review* What a debut from B. Rae!!! This story gave me all the vibes from shows I watched as a teenager (Gilmore Girls, One Tree Hill, etc) and had me yelling at characters throughout, lol. Axel has trust issues, which she came by honestly, and getting forced to move and be plucked from her comfort zone was portrayed wonderfully. Roman was everything you want in a cinnamon roll MMC, and I loved how his relationship with Axel changed how he carried himself, without changing too much of his personality. I really liked the side characters (not you, though Claire and Tatum), and after the way the last 10% of this story went, I'm chomping at the bit to see what happens next!
October 24, 2024
This was an amazing debut! I LOVED it so much. I was hooked from the very beginning and could not stop. Also with that ending, I NEED book two ASAP!
Roman and Axel were perfect for each other. I loved that Roman would do anything for her and was so sweet with her. He took care of Axel in so many ways and he paid attention to her. He was the perfect book boyfriend.
Axel had been through so much in her life and she was still so strong. I felt so connected to her and really loved her character.
Overall this book was so good and I 💯 recommend!
Roman and Axel were perfect for each other. I loved that Roman would do anything for her and was so sweet with her. He took care of Axel in so many ways and he paid attention to her. He was the perfect book boyfriend.
Axel had been through so much in her life and she was still so strong. I felt so connected to her and really loved her character.
Overall this book was so good and I 💯 recommend!
November 10, 2024
OML B.Rae this book was just absolutely amazing. The way this book had my emotions.. I love the love Roman and Axel have for each other.
Axel had such a hard time after she lost the most important thing in her life. And when she had to move from her hometown and her two best friends. She deserved all the love that she was getting and all her FIRST that she had 😉 This book has the right amount of spice and it’s just amazing..
I don’t know how to put my words onto paper but y’all need to go read this it’s amazing . Besides the cliffhanger that she leaves you on 😒 I can’t wait for book 2
Axel had such a hard time after she lost the most important thing in her life. And when she had to move from her hometown and her two best friends. She deserved all the love that she was getting and all her FIRST that she had 😉 This book has the right amount of spice and it’s just amazing..
I don’t know how to put my words onto paper but y’all need to go read this it’s amazing . Besides the cliffhanger that she leaves you on 😒 I can’t wait for book 2
November 14, 2024
💜💜💜💜
Omg! Roman is everything! I literally couldn’t get enough of him. I loved their chemistry, his patience and understanding. Watching Axel go through so much and working through her trauma while he was right there to help her through them. I don’t do a ton of slowburns but this had me sucked in. I loved them both so much and they were relatable. It was definitely emptiomal rollercoaster. And the ending…. that cliffhanger. omg! 😭 I need book 2 like now. Definitely recommend.
Omg! Roman is everything! I literally couldn’t get enough of him. I loved their chemistry, his patience and understanding. Watching Axel go through so much and working through her trauma while he was right there to help her through them. I don’t do a ton of slowburns but this had me sucked in. I loved them both so much and they were relatable. It was definitely emptiomal rollercoaster. And the ending…. that cliffhanger. omg! 😭 I need book 2 like now. Definitely recommend.
October 23, 2024
Omg this book had me in a chokehold. Axel and Roman omg the scenes came to life as I read it. I could not put this one down. I literally was laughing at parts and definitely crying too. Seeing how Axel suffered with anxiety and Roman was the only person who became her person. I loved their connection. I was starting to like Tatum then he was one I was ready to throat punch. But the ending had me dropping my jaw.
October 25, 2024
Talk about a love story! Roman and Axel are the most comforting characters. They are young but they have both been through a lot . They come together in a way that most adults don’t know how to . This story is so beautifully written. I was instantly hooked and identified with the fmc Axel. This book is a slow burn romance and every character has such an important part of the story . You will fall in love with them all , except maybe one .
November 5, 2024
Highly recommend reading! I didn’t want to put this book down! It was the perfect mix of high school senior/ college drama, first love, family trauma, and romance! I was hooked from Chapter 1! It’s so well written, I felt like I was right there experiencing it all with Alex and Roman. If you wanna be brought back in time to all your firsts and relive your senior year, this is the book for you!! Thank you B. Rae for sharing this amazing book with us! I CANNOT wait for book two!!!
October 20, 2024
I absolutely loved it. You fall in love with the characters off the bat and some characters not to much. The way Roman helps her so much with her anxiety just makes me have that much love for him as a character. I loved that this author put anxiety in there and how it came out and could really relate to that as well.
I can’t wait for book 2!!!
I can’t wait for book 2!!!
October 25, 2024
ARC review
Out now!
This gave all 90s/2000s teen drama vibes! If you're looking for something to take you back to the Dawson's creek/ one tree hill/ gilmore girls times, definitely give this book a read! This was a great debut. It does end on a cliffhanger and has me wanting more!!
Out now!
This gave all 90s/2000s teen drama vibes! If you're looking for something to take you back to the Dawson's creek/ one tree hill/ gilmore girls times, definitely give this book a read! This was a great debut. It does end on a cliffhanger and has me wanting more!!
October 26, 2024
I’m usually not one for a slow-burn but Tainted Trust hit me different. I felt the compassion that went into the characters development and the story line. Axel’s story all though heartbreaking needed to be told in such a way and I’m obsessed with her and Roman. B. Rae you did an amazing job on your debut novel and I can’t wait for the next book!!!!🙌🏼❤️
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