Pretty Heartache

The Harding Brothers #3

by Brittany Taylor

Micah Harding has always been known to cause heartache.

He didn’t know it, but he broke my heart the summer I turned eleven.

Humiliated and embarrassed, I didn’t speak to him again after he claimed to have rescued me.

Now, ten years later, I find myself on his doorstep, heartbroken yet again.

Only this time, I’m an unemployed model, running from the life I’ve tried so hard to create, about to be thrust back into the one I escaped.

Although he’s the same billionaire I knew all those years ago, Micah’s changed.
I see the pain he holds in his blue-gray eyes, desperate to forget his reality and the secrets he holds within them.

My childhood feelings for him were kept under lock and key—they had to be—but now that we’re older and living together, the feelings I once had for him are no longer reduced to a meaningless crush. They’re real. And the more time we spend together, the more difficult they are to dismiss.

But as temptation consumes us, we realize our pasts aren’t the only facts we’re running from.

I’m twenty-one.
He’s thirty-three.
And my older brother’s best friend.

I never believed there was beauty in heartache… until I fell for him.

Genres: Forced Proximity, Abuse, Romance, Slow Burn, Forbidden Romance, Billionaire Romance, Age Gap Romance

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 24, 2024

About the author

Join my newsletter and sign up for the latest news and upcoming book releases: https://bit.ly/3wRrBaF

Brittany is a bestselling author known for writing angst filled romance that will have your heart both melting and racing. She currently resides in Maine with the love of her life (her husband), and her two wonderful sons.

Find out more about Brittany at www.brittanytaylorbooks.com

Join my reader group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/98354...

Feel free to email with any questions/comments: authorbrittanytaylor@gmail.com

Professional Inquiries:

I am represented by SBR Media. For inquiries regarding foreign rights, audio, and other media outlets, please contact Nikki Groom.

nikki@sbrmedia.com

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I would save you over and over again if it meant that you were safe and well loved.”

Pretty Heartache is hands down one of the best older brother’s best friends romances that I’ve read and Brittany Taylor absolutely knocked it out of the park this book!

The summer Adeline turned eleven, she experienced her first heartbreak. Humiliated and embarrassed, she vowed to never speak to Micah again. Ten years later, Adeline finds herself in the last place she expected: unemployed and broken at Micah’s doorstep. On the outside, Micah appears to be the same guy she once knew, but those blue-gray eyes hold all of his secrets and pain. Those childhood feelings she once thought were locked away, are begging to come to the surface and offer comfort to the man who broke her heart. Only those childhood feelings aren’t some mere crush. They’re real and all-consuming and the more time Micah and Adeline spend together, the harder it is to fight what’s brewing between them…

Adeline and Micah’s story is a romance built to stand the test of time. It is real and passionate, and it has a beautiful, raw quality. Adeline and Micah are anything but weak. Their characters are strong, yet vulnerable. Their struggles are easy to connect with and you can’t help but find yourself rooting for them.

Adeline and Micah had lots of obstacles to overcome throughout their journey and I loved watching them grow, fight, and ultimately give in. The tension and chemistry were undeniable. They fought hard for what they wanted and I loved every moment of their journey.

There’s not much to say other than I loved this book. It’s the perfect age-gap romance and is my favorite in the Harding Brothers series. If you’re a fan of old brother’s best friend tropes and forbidden romances, you won’t want to miss Pretty Heartache. I hope you’ll fall head over heels for Micah and Adeline just as I have.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*

[Kim Merkenhof · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a heavy story, beautiful but heavy. Micha and Addy have both been trough so much pain in their younger lifes, but blossemd to a perfect couple togheter.

Micha's life as been so hard. He always does everything for everybody and does not think about himself. Which almost costs him his life and happiness. Thankfully Abby was there to guide him back to his own life.

Abby also had a very hard past. And still has a hard life now. Everything that happend to her is heartbreaking. Micha showed up at the right time to save her.

I loved this book. There was so much pain, but also so much love. Micha and Abby fit perfectly togheter.

[Brittiny Harrand · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars. This review may contain slight spoilers. This was my first book by this author. I believe this series can be read as standalones. This story comes with some serious topics. Tropes/topics covered in this book include brother's best friend, age gap (12 years), protective mmc, child abuse/neglect, drugs/crime, prison and model x business man. This story focuses on Adeline who was abused by her father and neglected by her mother and Micah who had a similar background and whose father was a drug dealer. I don't want to give anything away but it also has a bit of suspense and a happy ending. It gave me a bit of an icky feeling when it mentions her being 2 years old when he first meets her and he and her brother are 14 years old. But otherwise it was a good story. Would recommend.

[Catherine M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️

This age gap, brother’s best friend was as heartbreaking as it was good. Both Micah and Addy have difficult pasts and they each have their own struggles. It was beautiful to watch them heal themselves and each other throughout the story. They were such a perfect fit together.

The intrigue and suspense that followed both of them kept me on my toes. I never knew who was going to strike and what would happen next. I’m glad they were able to surpass the obstacles they were faced with.

While this book is part of a series, it reads really well as a standalone.

I would to thank Brittany Taylor and the Author Agency for the opportunity to read and review Pretty Heartache.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was pretty wonderful to read. It was heavy at times. Do read the triggers and heed them!

Micah and Addy have been through a lot of pain which blossoms into this very beautiful story together. Micah has been through some rough times and because of this I could relate to how he put others before his own wishes. Addy enters his life with a story full of twists and rough patches too. She’s strong and powerful and coming together with Micah gives her a sense of peace I think.

The story is well-written and hard hitting. Definitely my favourite of the brothers romances she’s written so far.

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️
When I received an ARC of this book, I was unaware that it was part of a series. However, I found that it stands strong on its own and can be thoroughly enjoyed without any prior knowledge of the first book. The story centers around Adeline, who has a longstanding crush on her brother's best friend, Micah, who happens to be a decade older than her.

Life takes an unexpected turn for Adeline when she faces a traumatic event that compels her to return to her hometown. This homecoming brings with it a surprising twist: she discovers that she will be living in Micah’s house during this difficult period. Where he was also staying. The tension between the two characters is palpable from the very beginning, creating a compelling "will-they-won't-they" dynamic that keeps readers interested. As Adeline navigates her feelings for Micah amidst the complexities of her situation, the story unfolds with engaging depth and emotion, making it hard to put down.

[Aakanksha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Micah and Addy were both so strong and reading about their personal growth was amazing. Addy is a strong-headed FMC, determined to break free from the toxic patterns that ensnared her, dedicating herself to her happiness, I loved how Micah played a significant role in her journey. He also grappled with the weight of his past and the judgments of others, yet, beneath that exterior lay a deeply caring person. Their chemistry was off the charts and I loved it. This was a heavy read and it's admiring how the author presented those heavy themes. Overall loved this book.

[Nicole Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

To be honest, Micah Harding is one of the best cinnamon rolls I’ve had the pleasure of reading about! I also loved the evolution of our FMC! There are many moving parts to this story and I enjoyed it all!
Main Takeaways/ tropes without spoilers! 👏🫶
🖤 billionaire romance
🖤 brothers best friend
🖤 age gap
🖤 forced proximity
🖤 mental health awareness
🖤 medium slow burn
🖤 “who did this to you”

[Madison_renee2415 · Rating 5 out of 5]

another Harding brother!!!

Brittany has me falling for another Harding brother!
Micah almost ruins a business deal when his brother tells him to take a break from work and fix the house he bought years ago.
Adeline is taking a break from modeling and running from her ex and ends up at her childhood crush’s house and helps fix it up.
I loved their story, both feeling broken and lost in their own way, trying to figure out who they want to be.

[Paula (on hiatus) · Rating 1 out of 5]

🖐🖐🖐

👇SPOILERS👇


It starts with Hero in a bar with OW getting turned on and about to have sex, only for him to bail out the last minute. Normally this is where I DNF right away but I persevered as I was curious about the secrets Hero was holding which BTW turned into a flop.

There were some parts I liked such as when the MCs finally got together, they had some Hot & sweet moments. They also had a lot in common which made them perfect for each other. BUT that is all because here is what I hated:

- The sex scene with Hero & OW. 🤯Why? To show us how well he f***s OP and how he can get turned on by anyone? ☹️
- Heroine at 11 years old lusting/falling in love with 23 yr old Hero and being hurt that he doesn’t notice her. 🙄 Cry me a river. Lol.
- Hero not seeing the bruises on her face. Moments before, heroine was trying to cover up the bruises but failing. She was in deep pain and her Assistant noticed them even though she had makeup on so suffice it to say he would have noticed too but didn't and no mention was ever made again until later towards the end when she told him that her ex beat her up. 😤
- No major attraction shown from Hero towards heroine in the first couple of chapters which was a mistake because heroine is supposed to be very beautiful, sexy and a model. When he finally did notice, this is when story picked up and they were hot & good together but as a reader I want the attraction from beginning to end to buy into their relationship. 🤷‍♀️
- Both MCs in serious prior relationships with OP. Hero in particular was in a 2 year relationship with OW whom he loved and thought about marrying. Heroine was in love with her abusive & controlling Manager until he hit her and she ran away.
- Hero being a major former Manho. 🤦 What else is new here.
- MC’s “secrets” & big mystery – total flop and lame. Heroine's brother & Hero are BFFs. Her brother got himself involved with a drug dealer and Hero stepped in and took the rap for him to save his BFF from going to jail. So he instead went to jail for him for 2 years and is both bitter & angry at himself for it but not enough to stop being friends and constantly helping the BFF who didn't give a rat's ass that he sent an innocent man and a friend to boot to jail because of his actions. Self sacrificing Hero came across as a doormat. I honestly didn't understand the devotion he had for her brother/his BFF - especially as OM didn't give a rat's ass for him. 🙇‍♀️🤕
- Hero gets punched by the heroine's brother and goes down but doesn't get up to fight back. Pathetic.
- The fight scene in the end where heroine gets attacked by her ex. Hero acted too wimpy and stupid. And what was up with his brother hiding in the hallway and not coming in to help the MCs? They were both being attacked by the crazy ex and he just sits there in the hallway hiding?? Uhm, make it make sense author....

Quotes:

“I realize I don’t know much about your dating history. And with the way you are in bed, it got me thinking…”
I raise my eyebrows. “Are you asking how many women I’ve slept with?”
“Sort of. Or just serious relationships in general.”
“Oh, man.” I sigh, and stare at the ceiling. “Unfortunately, if you’re asking for a number on how many women I’ve slept with since I lost my virginity, I won’t be able to give you one.”
“Micah Harding, a Playboy?” Addy mocks, pretending to gasp. “No…”
“Stop.” I laugh, her sarcasm a slight pin prick to the chest. But she’s right. I’ve had a reputation for years as the menace little brother of the Harding dynasty. Up until last year, I wore it like a badge of honor, sporting it proudly. And up until a few months ago, I’d slipped back into old habits, delicately balancing on the line of wanting to be the person I know I am to the person I once was.
“It’s okay,” Adeline says, disappointment lingering in her voice. “I kind of expected that. But what about relationships?”
“The last serious relationship I had was right before I went to prison. I was with Calista for almost two years when I cut things off with her the day before my sentencing.”
I close my eyes and remember the day I’d bought this house. Calista stood on the front porch and told me about the life she’d envisioned here with me, but that dream died the second I stepped into my prison cell. I’d considered asking her to marry me but wasn’t sure I was completely ready to take that leap at the time. I’ve been dealing with the loss of that dream ever since.
“You didn’t think she’d stay with you until you got out?” Adeline whispers.
“No,” I sigh. “I noticed the way she looked at me, and I didn’t want to be with someone who looked at me with disdain, because even after I got out, it would always be a point of contention with us. It would always be an issue.”
Guilt and regret make a home in my bones.
Silence lingers before Adeline breaks it. “Did you want children with her?”
A knot tightens in my chest. “I’ve always envisioned having children. I still want them, but I don’t know if it’ll ever happen.”
“Do you regret leaving Calista?” she asks, as if reading my mind.
I cup the side of Adeline’s face. Heat spreads down the length of my arm, warming at the place we’re connected. I haven’t talked about Calista in a long time, but the feeling I’m having now isn’t what I expected.
“No,” I confidently say. I lean down and kiss the corner of Adeline’s mouth. She smiles against me. “I don’t. I only regret the time I’ve lost in moving on from my past.”

Safety:

Safe. No OW drama. Some with OM who comes back to hurt FMC but she is over him.
OP Scenes: Yes. See above.
Violence: Yes. Heroine is attacked but not raped by her ex
HEA: Kind of. Epilogue 4 years later with MMC proposing to FMC and a glance in the future that you have to register for and download which I didn't.

PS: Don't bother downloading the 2nd Epilogue that you have to sign up for newsletter because a friend said all it contains is a 3 page dialogue where after the end with the proposal, they get on the plane and go to Ireland and has sex. That's it. Waste of time. Glad I didn't download.

[Maryger Chacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretty Heartache by Brittany Taylor, is the third book in The Harding Brothers Series, Adeline Mayfield when we meet her is an 11-year-old girl with a crush on her brother's best friend, her life at home is not easy, but she hopes and dreams when she comes of age to be able to follow in her mother's footsteps and enter the world of modeling. Ten years later we meet again with Adeline, who has made her way in modeling, but without realizing it she has allowed herself to be conquered by a man who is nothing like she thought. In the midst of shock and harsh reality, Adeline decides to leave and returning to Boston, with the help of her brother she finds a place to stay and go unnoticed for a while, but what she didn't count on was that this place was going to be precisely the half-fixed house of her childhood crush. Micah Harding, is the youngest of the Hardings and after his life took a detrimental turn, which led him to spend time in prison, he finds himself in constant war with his conscience and the ways he tries to manage his demons take him to affect a negotiation, so his brother Lennon tells him to take some time off. Micah is now adrift without knowing what to do and this leads him to approach the house that he bought with the intention of fixing it but had not had time to do so, but now his best friend's little sister is staying there, only she is no longer the girl he remembers from those years ago but is a beautiful woman and although he should stay away, his resolve ends up not being as strong as he expected, and with the excuse of fliping up the house he begins to spend time with her. For Adeline, this closeness with Micah will make her realize that her feelings for him have never gone away and now, that they spend so much time together, they come back stronger than before, but they are both people with many wounds and as they get to know each other and explore what they feel, the danger will touch their lives when what Adeline tried to leave behind comes after her.
This story is a journey for feelings, both characters were formed by far from simple pasts and although broken, they find their redemption and let go of their pasts with the support of the other. This book is a perfect mix of drama, angst, pain, growth, redemption and, above all, love. This book captures you and you live and feel their story with the characters. These two did not have it easy in their lives and it was wonderful to see how they found their way to happiness. A wonderful story that comes to close and complement an extraordinary series. I'm an absolute fan of this author and I will wait patiently for what will bring in the future. If you haven't already, what are you waiting for to go read these books, you will love them. Totally, Absolutely and Completely Highly Recommended!
*Thanks to Brittany Taylor and The Author Agency for my ARC. I voluntarily leave my honest review*

Pretty Heartache de Brittany Taylor, es el tercer libro de la Serie The Harding Brothers, Adeline Mayfield cuando la conocemos es una chica de 11 años con un enamoramiento por el mejor amigo de su hermano, su vida en casa no es fácil, pero ella espera y sueña cuando se haga mayor de edad poder seguir los pasos de su madre y entrar en el mundo del modelaje. Diez años después nos encontramos de nuevo con Adeline, quien ha hecho su camino en el modelaje, pero sin darse cuenta se ha dejado conquistar por un hombre que no es nada como lo pensaba, en medio del shock y de la dura realidad Adeline decide irse y regresar a Boston, con la ayuda de su hermano este lo consigue un sitio donde quedarse y pasar desapercibida un tiempo, pero con lo que no contaba era que este sitio iba a ser precisamente la casa medio arreglar de su enamoramiento de niña. Micah Harding, es el menor de los Harding y luego de que su vida tomara un rumbo perjudicial, que lo llevo a pasar un tiempo en la cárcel, se encuentra en constante guerra consigo mismo, su consciencia y las formas es que intenta manejar sus demonios lo llevan a que afecte una negociación, por lo que su hermano Lennon le dice que se tome un tiempo. Micah se encuentra ahora a la deriva sin saber que hacer y esto lo lleva a acercarse a la casa que ha comprado con la intención de arreglar pero no había tenido tiempo para hacerlo, pero ahora ahí se esta quedando la hermana pequeña de su mejor amigo, solo que ya no es la niña que recuerda de esos años atrás sino que es una hermosa mujer y aunque debería mantenerse alejado su resolución termina no siendo tan fuerte como esperaba, y con la excusa de arreglar la casa comienza a pasar tiempo junto a Adeline. Para Adeline esta cercanía con Micah le hará darse cuenta que sus sentimientos por él nunca se han ido y ahora, que pasan tanto tiempo juntos, regresan más fuertes que antes, pero ambos son personas con muchas heridas y mientras van conociéndose y explorando lo que sienten, pero el peligro tocará sus vidas cuando lo que Adeline intento dejar atrás venga tras ella.
Esta historia es un viaje para los sentimientos, ambos personajes fueron formados por pasados nada sencillos y aunque rotos encuentran sus redenciones y dejan ir sus pasados con el apoyo del otro. Este libro es una mezcla perfecta de drama, angustia, dolor, crecimiento, redención y sobre todo de amor. Este libro te atrapa y vives y sientes junto a los personajes su historia. Estos dos no la tuvieron nada fácil en sus vidas y fue maravilloso ver como encuentran su camino a la felicidad. Una historia maravillosa que viene a cerrar y complementar una serie extraordinaria. Soy una fan absoluta de esta autora y esperare pacientemente a lo que no traiga en el futuro. Si aún no lo has hecho que estas esperando para ir a leer estos libros, los amarás. ¡Total, Absoluta y Completamente Altamente Recomendada!
*Gracias a Brittany Taylor y a The Author Agency por mi ARC. Dejo voluntariamente mi reseña honesta*

[Elizabeth Keeter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretty Heartache by Brittany Taylor is a gripping and emotionally charged romance that dives deep into the struggles of trauma, redemption, and love. The story focuses on Micah Harding, the youngest of the Harding brothers, who has lived a carefree playboy lifestyle while working at Harding Holdings, alongside his older brother Lennon. However, everything changes when Micah is arrested for drug possession, leading to a three-year prison sentence that completely alters his outlook on life. Prison has left Micah scarred, and since his release, he hasn’t been the same man he once was. Adeline Mayfield, twelve years younger than Micah, grew up harboring a secret crush on him, as he was her brother’s best friend. Now an adult, Adeline returns to Boston after escaping a toxic and terrifying relationship in Los Angeles. Seeking refuge in Micah’s home, old feelings begin to resurface for both of them. The chemistry between Adeline and Micah becomes undeniable, and their connection grows stronger as they spend more time together. However, danger continues to lurk as Adeline’s past threatens to catch up with her, and her brother’s dangerous involvement in illegal activities puts everyone around him at risk.

Brittany Taylor does a fantastic job of developing the characters in this novel. Micah’s journey from a carefree, wealthy bachelor to a man who must reckon with the impact of his prison time is both compelling and relatable. His history with his now deceased father adds another layer of emotional complexity, highlighting the difficulties many readers may face in navigating familial expectations and conflicts. Micah’s internal battle to acclimate back into society after prison, and his fear of not being worthy of Adeline, are themes that resonate deeply with anyone who has gone through life-altering experiences. Adeline’s character, on the other hand, showcases the struggles many women face when dealing with toxic and abusive relationships. Taylor portrays Adeline’s journey of healing and self-discovery with sensitivity, illustrating the internal conflict of making excuses for an abuser while also trying to break free. Her resilience, strength, and eventual reconnection with Micah make her a character readers can root for and relate to.

In conclusion, I gave this book 5 stars because the romance between Micah and Adeline is beautifully written, filled with both passion and emotional depth. Their connection is undeniable, but it is complicated by the external dangers looming over them, particularly Adeline’s ex-boyfriend and the dangerous world her brother is entangled in. The suspense of whether Micah can protect Adeline and whether they can overcome the obstacles in their way keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Another highlight of the book is the time jump, which allows readers to catch up with the other Harding brothers and get a glimpse into where they are in their lives. This adds a sense of continuity and further development to the world Brittany Taylor has created, making it feel like an ongoing saga of love, redemption, and family ties.

[Lisa Conant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 out of 5

Tropes:
🫂Close Proximity
🫦Age Gap (21, 33)
💰Billionaire
👿Angsty MMC
🏃‍♀️Heroine on the Run
🤫Secrets

✨️Blurb:
Only this time, I’m an unemployed model, running from the life I’ve tried so hard to create, about to be thrust back into the one I escaped.

Although he’s the same billionaire I knew all those years ago, Micah’s changed.
I see the pain he holds in his blue-gray eyes, desperate to forget his reality and the secrets he holds within them.

My childhood feelings for him were kept under lock and key—they had to be—but now that we’re older and living together, the feelings I once had for him are no longer reduced to a meaningless crush. They’re real. And the more time we spend together, the more difficult they are to dismiss.

✨️Review:
I love me an angsty MMC, and Micah is such a beautifully wounded soul as he hangs on to his angst. The fact that his pain comes from a place meaning to do good, ie his protectiveness and love, makes it all the more emotionally affecting.

The prologue is perfect to set up not only some crucial backstory to our couple as they meet at 11 and 23, but it shows us in a shorthand way a hint of the dark rooted issue that will plague our protagonists and their personality type.

There's a lovely balance with the seedier underworld dealings that Micah is a part of and the close proximity romance that starts to grow between him and his best friend's little sister, Adeline. The push pull with Micah warring against himself on crossing that line with her, was so juicy.

Adeline coming to terms with her unloving parents provides some growth for her and Micah needing to come clean about his secrets and finding a soul mate in Adeline, gives them both peace that they've been searching for.

This couple had amazing chemistry! Truly enjoyed how their love evolved, and especially how Micah's secrets and the darker underworld dynamic flowed into the narrative providing solid suspense!

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brittany Taylor's Pretty Heartache is a captivating addition to the contemporary romance genre, showcasing her signature style of weaving emotional depth with steamy romance. The story revolves around complex characters navigating the intricacies of love, heartache, and personal growth, all set against the backdrop of an age-gap relationship.

One of the standout features of this novel is Taylor's ability to create relatable characters. The protagonists are well-developed, each carrying their own emotional baggage that shapes their interactions and decisions throughout the story. This depth allows readers to connect with their struggles and triumphs, making their journey feel authentic and engaging.

The chemistry between the main characters is palpable, filled with tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Taylor expertly balances moments of passion with heart-wrenching vulnerability, ensuring that the romance feels both steamy and genuine. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with humor, providing a nice contrast to the heavier themes explored in the narrative.

While Pretty Heartache excels in character development and emotional resonance, some readers may find certain plot points predictable. However, Taylor's writing style—marked by vivid descriptions and a fast-paced narrative—compensates for any clichés, making it a compelling read from start to finish.

Overall, Pretty Heartache is a delightful blend of angst and romance that will resonate with fans of the genre. Brittany Taylor has once again proven her knack for crafting stories that tug at the heartstrings while delivering plenty of heat. This book earns a solid four-star rating for its emotional depth, relatable characters, and engaging storytelling.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty Heartache us the third book in the Harding Brothers series. It's a complete stand alone and the books doesn't have to be read in sequence. If you like an emotional, age gap (33/21) NA romance with your best friends little sister who becomes your roommate and add in some lies, secrets and suspense with an HEA then this book is just for you.
TW: alcohol addiction, drug addiction and drug use, as well as scenes and discussions of physical and emotional domestic abuse.

I would sincerely like to Thank @theauthor.agency and @authorbrittanytaylor for my early digital copy and in return I voluntarily leave an honest review.


Adeline Mayfield looked forward to summer so she could see her crush, who just happened to be her older brothers best friend. Her crush on him suddenly came to a halt when he embarrassed her by rescuing her after being shoved in the pool when she was 11.

Micah Harding is not the same carefree guy he was before going to prison. He felt like he was left behind and now lets his dark side control him. His best friend asks him for a favor and as usual he can't say no.

Addy has runaway from modeling and a bad relationship. Her brother sent her to the door step of the man she hasn't seen or talked to in 10 years. She just needs to hide and find herself and Micah does that by letting her help renovate his dilapidated home.

In each others company they are comfortable and can be themselves by putting aside heartache. But the more time they spend together their attraction becomes a daily battle. The battle is fought and won and when secrets are exposed there newly founded love they share is put to a deadly test.

[Elizabeth Satala (ElizaJayneReads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5

This book was pretty heavy and extremely vulnerable yet showcased two people who lost themselves because of the circumstances of life, only to find themselves again with the help of one another. Adeline and Micha both lived hard lives, and it took them both a while to come out of the darkness. Adeline has always been the unwanted child, and her father made that known. When she was able, she fled her family to make a life for herself in LA as a model. Years later, she is struggling because of a relationship gone bad, and her lack of self-esteem is hindering her career. She moves back to Boston and ops to stay with her older brother’s best friend until she can figure out her next move. Micha has had his fair share of troubles. He went to prison for a reason no one but him, and his best friend, knows and even after he got out, was a shell of himself. He wasn’t sure where he fit anymore, and his brother told him to take some time off and fix the old, dilapidated house he purchased. When Micha and Adeline start living together, the tensions get high. He doesn’t want to ruin his friendship with Archer, Adeline’s brother, and tries to tamp down his attraction to her. Adeline’s innocent crush from when she was eleven evolved into a full-blown crush when she’s around Micha again. They start working together to fix the old house, and the more time they spend together, the more their lost souls speak to one another. Micha finds himself unable to keep his distance from Adeline and decides for once to do something that makes him happy, and Adeline makes him extremely happy. These two had magnetic chemistry, and it was explosive when they got together. I was rooting for both of them to find their way out of the darkness, and the way they helped each other was really beautiful. There was so much in both of their pasts that shaped who they were, and they were able to let go of that past and just live. Great book and great series!

[Ehva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Micah Harding 🥰😩 Jesus this man! He drove me insanely in love from the first page. The way he goes out of his way to protect his woman. Out of this world.

If I don't have a man like Him, I don't want him at all! 🥹 Adeline, you are one of the luckiest women in the world and I know you know that. Thank you so much Brittany and The Author Agency for the ARC Opportunity, I cannot thank you enough!

Micah Harding! Tall, handsome, intelligent, protective, possessive, obssesed, touch her and die, a Billionaire and a certified freak 🥵 When we first meet Micah, he's troubled by his past so much that he can't seem to see a way out, but as the story progresses, Adeline pulls him to his freedom and becomes the light of his life. There is an 12 year age gap and add to that, she is his best friends little sister, I could see why he was reluctant at the start, but as time went on, he knew that she's always been the one for him! And he never took that for granted!

Adeline Mayfield 🥹 Beautiful, brave, intelligent, stubborn, feisty, protective, possessive, shy and kindhearted. This woman is a literal Disney Princess, but this time she said f*ck it, give me a scarred knight 🥵 I was so proud of her as the story progressed, and cheered her on every opportunity. She's been in love with her brothers best friend since she first saw him and never gave up hope that someday he could be hers. They drifted apart but almost a decade later, fate finds a way to put them in the same house, this time there really is a chance.

The storyline was absolutely brilliant and everything I expected from a Brittany Taylor book 🥵 Gosh! The writing is brilliant and captivating as always.

If you haven't picked them up yet, what are you doing?!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am an absolute fan of the Harding brothers. Each of their stories has pulled me in, and had me wanting to know more about their lives. I'd be lying if I didn't say I was eagerly awaiting Micah's story. I knew there was more to him than what we had witnessed in his brothers books.

Loved the tropes in this book. They are some of my favorites, but brother's best friend is one of my top 3 favorites. The age gap, forced proximity, childhood crush, and billionaire tropes also fit perfectly. I would have loved to learn more about Adeline's dad and even her brother. There seems to be quite the story there, or maybe I'm just hoping for it.

Adeline and Micah were just meant to be together. He was always meant to be by her side, pushing her, guiding her, and loving her. At the same time, Adeline is what Micah needed as well. Everything he had been through up until now showed that he was pushing back, calling out for someone to love and support him, to be in his corner. Adeline was that person for him. While he was trying his best to fight it, she got under his skin.

The story was one I didn't want to end. I fell for the characters. Loved the romance, the forbiddenness of it all, the brother's reaction. That bit of suspense that came with Adeline's story (as well as her brother's little side story) added a wonderful mix to the overall vibe of the book. Micah's story did not disappoint at all. I also loved getting to watch the Harding brothers mend their relationships a bit, and bring Micah more into the fold.

[Fatma · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐.5

ARC Review

Tropes:
Age Gap (12 years)
Years of Pining
Brother's Best Friend
He Saves Her
Good Girl
Forced Proximity

Yet another amazing story for the Hardy brothers! I was eager for Micah's story from the bit we got of him in Lennon's story, & this did not disappoint!

Adeline ran from one abuse relationship( her parents) to another, but this time she's not letting it happen. Meeting time to heal, she heads back to Boston & ends up helping Micah (her brother's best friend) renovate his broken down home.

Micah may have been raised in a life of privilege, but his life hasn't been easy. The emotional abuse he endured from his father & the fear of turning into him has always been a burden on his shoulders. Him going to prison for drug trafficking only added to this burden.

While it was heartbreaking to read both Adeline & Micah's stories, it was so wholesome reading till the end. Both were broken & abused in similar ways. Both broken & needed the strength to move on. They found that strength within themselves, but while having the support of one another. They didn't necessarily NEED each other, but together made a beautiful life.

I was expecting a lot more drama among, Adeline, Micah & Archer. While it was emotional reading the secrets coming to life, it felt anti-climatic, but was relieved when they were all honest with each other.

I loved the Hardy brother's relationship, they are firm, but loving with each other. I do wish we got to see more of Uncle Micah though! Adeline doesn't have the best relationship with her brother, I was hoping to see more of them repairing their relationship after secrets were revealed.

[Sunny Shelly Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Damaged is drawn to damaged, and in Pretty Heartache, Micah and Addy heal each other's broken pieces.

This book seemed a little darker than the other books in the Harding Brothers series, and it was just as good as the other two. Micah and Addy have both had a really rough go of it in life. She was abused by her father and neglected/ignored by her mother. After getting out of her parent's clutches, she's made a name for herself as a model in Los Angeles, but an incident puts her in danger and sends her running back home where her older brother's best friend takes her in. Meanwhile, Micah has always felt like the odd man out with his brothers, since he was the product of an affair between their dad and a stripper. He was always made to feel a little less-than by their late dad, and that continues to mess with his mind even after his father's death. Micah spent some time in prison, and the reasons around that, decisions he made and the truth of what really went down, continue to haunt him as he's trying to rebuild his life.

There are so many secrets surrounding both Addy and Micah. It takes them a while to get to a place where they feel comfortable removing the masks they present to the world. And once they reveal their authentic selves to the other, a beautiful love develops. They just *see* each other in ways that nobody else does.

It's an intense and heartbreaking story, but Addy and Micah get a great HEA in the end that makes it all worth it!

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever come across a book or a series that just hooked you in a way no other has for a very long time ? That you found yourself not only falling completely in love with from the very first installment / page but had the ability to make you feel so many different emotions you never saw coming? Everything. From smiling, to laughing out loud, to crying and cheering so freaking hard . Kinda like being on the craziest ride at the amusement park !!! you know that feeling you get in your stomach from being excited and nervous at the same time - the anticipation of whats to come next ? Well Brittany’s The Harding Brothers Series has very quickly become that series for me . I really was not prepared for the emotional toll Adeline and Micah’s journey would have on my heart . It’s so beautifu and l extremely touching. It’s a journey about love and tragedy and healing acceptance , about second chances , and slowly getting to know one another , how friendship can turn into so much more . How two people can compliment each other even when they have many differences . Adeline and Micah just grabbed onto my heart so completely and before I even knew what was happening I was tumbling hook line and sinker in love . Their characters and their story were not easy by any means , in fact I would definitely say it was complex . But if anyone deserved a happy ending it was without a doubt them .

[VicReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

🩷 𝙿𝚛𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚢 𝙷𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚊𝚌𝚑𝚎 🩷
𝚋𝚢 @authorbrittanytaylor

🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆

4.25/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️

↓↓
This was such a heavy story but absolutely beautiful at the same time. Micah is completely misunderstand but honestly he brought it on himself being as guarded as he was. He is portrayed as the most troubled brother but deep down he is so much more. He loves deeply and he is loyal, so loyal that his best friend took that loyalty for granted which lead Micah to lose everything at the time.

Adeline has some pretty deep rooted trauma from her childhood from her father. She has tried to overcome it but finds her self in a relationship that reminds her of how her father treated her so she ran from her life in LA and ran back home to Boston.

These two had their fair share of bumps along the way and Micah pushed her away a lot in the beginning and when they finally both gave in to what they wanted, secrets came out and they had to fight for each other. There was so much pain and hurt between these two but they helped each other heal from their past to be able to move on to their future.

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🩷Billionaire
🩷Age Gap
🩷Older Brother's Best Friend
🩷Forced Proximity
🩷Roommates
🩷Protective MMC
🩷Touch Her & 💀 Vibes

#brittanytaylor #forcedproximity #billionaireromance #kindleunlimited #bookstagram #agegap

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Her love has set me free when the cage I’ve lived in for the past ten years.”

Pretty Heartache was a deeply emotional and beautiful story of growth and healing. Adeline had crushed on her brother’s best friends for years, and when she needs a safe place to stay, her brother arranges for her to stay at his house. As these two slowly begin to get to know each other as adults, they realize they share a connection that can’t be denied. These two were the perfect complement for one another.

“I would save you over and over again if it meant you were safe and felt well-loved.”

My heart broke for both Micah and Adeline. The tragic and painful past that both had caused them both to retreat into themselves and hide their true identities from everyone, but with each other, they were able to vulnerable and to find the people they were truly meant to be. Their chemistry is absolutely combustible and they help each other begin to heal. This heartwrenching story is absolutely beautiful and was an addictive read that just kept you waiting to see what secret would be revealed next and to watch these two broken people find the happiness they deserved.

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Brittany Taylor book but it will not be my last. I was instantly hooked and could not put it down. Micah and Adeline keep you hooked and on your toes. Both characters have been through so much separately that once they get together, they help the other heal. Micah is dealing with the fall back of his loyalty to his best friend and the effects it had not only to his life but the relationship he has with his brothers. Adeline has always wanted to be a model but after her ex gets more than just aggressive with her, she leaves before it’s too late. It was too similar to how she grew up and that was not what she wanted for her adult life. She calls her older brother to help find somewhere safe to stay to regroup, and that’s how she ends up living in Micah’s neglected house he bought that’s needs a lot of work. Things aren’t easy for them but as they learn to trust each other and really get to know one another, feelings begin to grow. Their journey is a hard one with heartache but it’s beautiful and once they reach their HEA, it was all worth it. I loved this book so much and will definitely be reading more books Brittany has written.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretty Heartache
Brittany Taylor

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
Older brother’s best friend
Billionaire
Roommates & Protective MMC
Forced Proximity
Age Gap
Touch Her & ☠️ vibes


Quotes:
I don’t need you to save me. I don’t need anyone to save me.

You were the light in my dark world.

Heartache isn’t always pretty.

Adeline returns home after a break up. Needing a place to stay her brother’s friend Micah provides a place for her.

He was her childhood crush, but being several years older and her brother’s best friend always seemed out of reach. He had his own issues to work through.

I instantly fell in love with these two, their chemistry was off the charts. The little snippets we got of Micah in the first two books I knew he was going to be my favorite. I loved seeing how his character developed in the third book. Adeline was a great FMC for him, she wos supportive and didn’t let his past scare her off.

This whole series was great and I am going to miss it now that it’s over, but look forward to what next from Brittany.

[Only.ever.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review:
✨Pretty Heartache✨
Harding Brothers

By Brittany Taylor

✨ Older brother’s best friend
✨ Age Gap
✨ Suspense

Micah and Adeline

⭐5/5

A Romance like no other. Despite never wanting to talk to him again, Adeline finds herself at Micah’s place when all goes down in her life.
One embarrassed moment ten years ago crushed the crush Adeline had on Micah, her older brother’s best friend. But then she was a kid and today she is not that child anymore. Micah is the same as he was, or so he seems to be. But when taken a closer look his eyes held so much more.
Both have secrets they keep, and have been through a lot neither knows about the other one. Adult Adeline living with Micah brings them closer on another level. There is tension and chemistry between them and of course they can’t deny each other forever.
Only what brings them closer can also tear them apart.
Secrets are about to be revealed. And the vulnerability they are carrying is showing. And the suspense that hangs in the back comes finally out of the dark.
Adeline and Micah too, did a lot growing on a different level and developing feelings for each other that have lots of hurdles and tests to overcome.
A romance that has a rollercoaster journey till the happy end.

[Imogen Dior · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Pretty Heartache. I loved the plot, characters and past hurt that they were both working to overcome. I really liked both Micah and Addy as characters and the growth i saw from both of them both for the work they put into themselves and they love they gave one another was beautiful to see. Addy was such a strong heroine who really fought to pull herself out of the toxic cycle she found herself in. She really worked into putting effort into herself and her own happiness which Micah was a huge part of. Micah was a great hero whose past he thought defined him, as did what people thought of him, the stain that was put on his name. He leant into what people thought of him because he didn’t think he deserved or was better. In actuality he had the biggest heart and was loyal to a fault. I’m so glad he and Addy met, fell in love and were able to have such a great influence on one another. Their chemistry was fire, their love story beautiful. I’m hoping we see more of Archer. I really enjoyed Pretty Heartache.

[•Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read both Gorgeous Lies and Sweet Nothings I've been looking so forward to more from this world! As soon as this third installment was announced I wanted to read it. I picked it up and got back into The Harding Brothers world. I finished it in one sitting. I so enjoyed this story!

Adeline and Micah's journey captured my attention right from the start! These two have been in each other's lives for years since Micah is best friends with Adeline's brother. Adeline had a thing for Micah when she was younger, but that changed one summer and she didn't talk to him for years. When certain circumstances bring Adeline and Micah back into each other's lives, could it lead to the unexpected for their hearts?

Both Adeline and Micah got me into their story. The moment they were brought back into each other's lives, I couldn't wait to see how everything would unfold for them. I didn't know how they'd tackle their pasts, their living situation, fixing up the house, things they'd tackled in their lives, and the truths in their hearts for one another. There were many moments that got to me.

Adeline and Micah had both been though things in their lives and I was so glad I got to peel back their layers. The chemistry between these two was undeniable even when admitting it was tough. It wasn't easy for Adeline and Micah and my heart and I truly felt for them. I loved the ways in which they connected. Micah and Adeline had me going through many emotions while reading!

I was glad to be back in The Harding Brothers world! I thoroughly enjoyed the forced proximity aspect as well!

With Pretty Heartache, Ms.Taylor has created such a good read that brought depth, steam, moments that kept me on edge, and many feels! I can't wait to read what this author brings our way next! Definitely check out The Harding Brothers books if you haven't already. 💗

Be sure to read the author's content note.


*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*

[Just_a_nerd_withcats · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by Brittany and I loved it. There was a good amount of angst, dual pov and good "fuck it" moment. All my favorite things.

Micah has a good heart, he has just been dealt a bad hand in life. He does everything for everyone and has put his life on hold. He isn't really living before Addy comes back into it.

Addy has a hard past. Everyone with parents like hers, can relate to her. Her present hasn't been much better, until she goes home and Micah enters her life.
From the start it was just a matter of time before they ended up together, as they fit each other perfectly. They kind of saved each other.
The intrigue and suspense that followed both of them kept me on my toes. I never knew who was going to strike and what would happen next.

While this book is part of a series, it reads really well as a standalone. I loved this so much I now have a need to read the other books

I would like to thank Brittany Taylor and the Author Agency for the opportunity to read and review Pretty Heartache.

[Hailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️5
🌶️2.5

This is my first Brittany Taylor book and I have fallen in love! The writing is beautifully descriptive and makes you feel connected to each character.

Micah is the older man that Adeline had a crush on when she was growing up. Now she’s back in town after getting away from her ex and living with Micah. Because Adeline is Micah’s best friend’s little sister, he tries to keep his distance from her. He can’t resist her forever though. Their chemistry is too strong.

The secrets in this story made me want to keep reading. After finding out what they both were trying to hide from each other I fell in love with their relationship even more. Both wanted to protect the other one. Micah is absolutely the most loyal person and best friend in the world. I fell hard for him after learning what he was keeping from people. Adeline is the strongest person for being able to overcome all of her struggles. This story made me think and kept me on my toes the whole time. I loved it so much!