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Heartstrings
“The violin is an essential piece of an orchestra. It's only right that one gets to experience its melodic sounds just before meeting their maker.” Haven Acosta lived by that sentiment. As the go-to accountant, Haven manipulated numbers just as well as he could manipulate a cause of death. But one thing Haven would never try to alter falsely were matters of the heart. Lucky for him, he never had to think about it when he met Essex Pierce.
Essex was a music teacher, offering music lessons to underprivileged kids. Her love for music had become her escape from a past that had unexpectedly found a place in her present. However, Haven showed her how secrets of the past can transform into something beautiful.
Cove Acosta had been silenced her entire life. Her bold opinions falling on the wrong ears made her feel like she wasn't good enough for so long. Now, being heard has become the sole part of her identity. Cove stood on her feelings, opinions, and wants. Despite the reasoning behind this particular want, she wanted Phoenix Devine.
The bank owner, Phoenix Devine, shared that same desire. However, he wanted all of Cove—her mind, body, and soul—and would stop at nothing to get it. Not even with betrayal at his doorstep.
This stand-alone story of love, secrets, trauma, and betrayal is one you don't want to miss. Especially the moments that will pull at your heartstrings
Essex was a music teacher, offering music lessons to underprivileged kids. Her love for music had become her escape from a past that had unexpectedly found a place in her present. However, Haven showed her how secrets of the past can transform into something beautiful.
Cove Acosta had been silenced her entire life. Her bold opinions falling on the wrong ears made her feel like she wasn't good enough for so long. Now, being heard has become the sole part of her identity. Cove stood on her feelings, opinions, and wants. Despite the reasoning behind this particular want, she wanted Phoenix Devine.
The bank owner, Phoenix Devine, shared that same desire. However, he wanted all of Cove—her mind, body, and soul—and would stop at nothing to get it. Not even with betrayal at his doorstep.
This stand-alone story of love, secrets, trauma, and betrayal is one you don't want to miss. Especially the moments that will pull at your heartstrings
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 16, 2024
312 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
September 2, 2024
Heartstrings was nice. I do wish there was more focus on Haven and Essex, our two violinist. We heard a lot about Havens penchant to do a “performance” before death but did not get to experience the full-out action. It feels like their relationship began to take a backseat to Cove and Phoenix once they became established. Even the drama with the families and frenemies leaned more towards that pair although they are all connected. Overall would have enjoyed more of the couples separately growing together.
I found myself still having questions about our MCs and their families at the end
I found myself still having questions about our MCs and their families at the end
December 29, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ugh! Prime example of a really good story- and poor editing ruined the overall book.
This is a new to me author I found via an IG review. And man did I really enjoy this story. Both couples were interesting, the pacing was decent. I enjoyed reading all POVs.
But the misspellings and sometimes missing words really ruined the book. Poor editing of the grammar issues completely disrupted the flow. I would find myself stuck trying to decipher what the author was trying to say. Which wasn’t good because this was a bit fast paced; with two couples and several plots occurring at once.
Despite all this, the story was interesting enough to keep me invested. I definitely plan on reading more from her catalog, starting with the next book in the series.
Ugh! Prime example of a really good story- and poor editing ruined the overall book.
This is a new to me author I found via an IG review. And man did I really enjoy this story. Both couples were interesting, the pacing was decent. I enjoyed reading all POVs.
But the misspellings and sometimes missing words really ruined the book. Poor editing of the grammar issues completely disrupted the flow. I would find myself stuck trying to decipher what the author was trying to say. Which wasn’t good because this was a bit fast paced; with two couples and several plots occurring at once.
Despite all this, the story was interesting enough to keep me invested. I definitely plan on reading more from her catalog, starting with the next book in the series.
September 4, 2024
Hard... spoilers...
I like fantasy but this was too fantastical for me. I struggled to finish. From Cove seeing Phoenix and instantly wanting a baby to the Tiger to the violin playing in the club parking lot to everything else. It was just a hard read. Maybe the others will be better.
I like fantasy but this was too fantastical for me. I struggled to finish. From Cove seeing Phoenix and instantly wanting a baby to the Tiger to the violin playing in the club parking lot to everything else. It was just a hard read. Maybe the others will be better.
November 17, 2025
**Unhinged!** Let me repeat that: Unhinged! This story is truly unhinged, but it is an excellent read! The main male characters, Haven and Phoenix, are unhinged—as are their love interests, the female main characters, Cove and Essex, each in their own unique ways. This is my first book by this author, and I look forward to exploring more of their stories.
As a music lover and musician myself, I was captivated by the beautiful cover featuring a violin, and I can say that this story was nothing like I expected. Initially, I was unsure about how the narrative would unfold since it revolves around two couples who are connected, and we experience all of their points of view. However, everything flowed very nicely.
That said, if you're particular about grammar, you may notice some errors. Fortunately, they didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story or make me want to stop reading. Approaching this story without any prior knowledge—and as a "give me all the sweet and swoony" vibes type Black Romance reader with particular tastes in varying tropes and subgenres, I was uncertain about whether I would like it. To my surprise, it held my attention, and I couldn't put it down!
This story captivated me from start to finish, keeping me on the edge of my seat with every twist and turn. The men in the narrative were serious about their women; they were committed, and their partners matched their energy! The dynamics within and between each couple's families were intriguing—though two of the family members infuriated me at times. However, one family member eventually came around in a hilarious scene that had me hollering with laughter! Overall, this was a fantastic read.
As a music lover and musician myself, I was captivated by the beautiful cover featuring a violin, and I can say that this story was nothing like I expected. Initially, I was unsure about how the narrative would unfold since it revolves around two couples who are connected, and we experience all of their points of view. However, everything flowed very nicely.
That said, if you're particular about grammar, you may notice some errors. Fortunately, they didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story or make me want to stop reading. Approaching this story without any prior knowledge—and as a "give me all the sweet and swoony" vibes type Black Romance reader with particular tastes in varying tropes and subgenres, I was uncertain about whether I would like it. To my surprise, it held my attention, and I couldn't put it down!
This story captivated me from start to finish, keeping me on the edge of my seat with every twist and turn. The men in the narrative were serious about their women; they were committed, and their partners matched their energy! The dynamics within and between each couple's families were intriguing—though two of the family members infuriated me at times. However, one family member eventually came around in a hilarious scene that had me hollering with laughter! Overall, this was a fantastic read.
February 17, 2025
This was my 1st time reading a book from this author. I enjoyed this book and it made me question just how unhinged I might be when it comes to reading these books. Because it what world does this add up. You have Haven that man exuded confidence that just radiated. Then you have Phoenix, who is nothing like you think he is when you first are introduced to him he might scare me more than Haven. Then you have my girl Cove who is outspoken and unapologetic stands on business and goes for what she wants. There’s always someone who is the nice optimistic person of the group which is Essence. I loved how brother and sister combo came to double dating and everyone got along. There are some unorthodox family dynamics, and some betrayal and drama that is too much to bear. The way that Haven and Phoenix are about their women is something else. But Phoenix and Halo had me shook I would be like the damn photographer because ain’t no way in hell I’m gonna be in your backyard ever in life! I liked how the book flowed and how the characters opened up to one another. My only con with this book is the grammatical issues. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed this book the storyline, the plot twist the family dynamics, even though some parents need their ass beat and some are unworthy. I wish there was more to Haven and Essence.
August 21, 2025
Family Dynamics
I started reading this series out of order, but I still understood everything!!!…
The dynamics of these families were traumatic and the healing can be seen, in baby steps!!!…
The dysfunctional aspects of the relationships with the parents was so realistic and very relatable, it was scary!!!.
The mission was cultivating and the healing of the children started with their new relationships!!!…
I was so glad Cove stood on business where her father was concerned, but my heart broke for her mother because while she was excelling and growing, she was breaking with every step while being in the presence of her demented husband!!!…
Phil was on sick little puppy and he got everything he deserved!!!…Taylor and Justine too!!!…The fact that Grace was pushing for a relationship with Taylor and her son, blinded her to all of Taylor’s sneaky and selfish behavior!!!…
I started reading this series out of order, but I still understood everything!!!…
The dynamics of these families were traumatic and the healing can be seen, in baby steps!!!…
The dysfunctional aspects of the relationships with the parents was so realistic and very relatable, it was scary!!!.
The mission was cultivating and the healing of the children started with their new relationships!!!…
I was so glad Cove stood on business where her father was concerned, but my heart broke for her mother because while she was excelling and growing, she was breaking with every step while being in the presence of her demented husband!!!…
Phil was on sick little puppy and he got everything he deserved!!!…Taylor and Justine too!!!…The fact that Grace was pushing for a relationship with Taylor and her son, blinded her to all of Taylor’s sneaky and selfish behavior!!!…
December 4, 2024
Heartstrings
This is the first time I've read a book by Jas B and this book was amazing. I was captivated from the start. The book had some errors but nothing that would take away from the story. I love Haven and Essex together just like I love Haven's sister Cove with Essex's brother Phoenix. Haven and Essex was drawn to each other because of their love of the violin, although when you hear Haven play its kinda like the call of the reaper. I just love his calm crazy. I love Phoenix for Cove. He's every thing she's never had in a man including her father. I knew Taylor wasn't about a bowl of grits. How can you marry a man you barely know and then let him convince you to betray your best friend of over15 years. Till death due them part. ❤❤
This is the first time I've read a book by Jas B and this book was amazing. I was captivated from the start. The book had some errors but nothing that would take away from the story. I love Haven and Essex together just like I love Haven's sister Cove with Essex's brother Phoenix. Haven and Essex was drawn to each other because of their love of the violin, although when you hear Haven play its kinda like the call of the reaper. I just love his calm crazy. I love Phoenix for Cove. He's every thing she's never had in a man including her father. I knew Taylor wasn't about a bowl of grits. How can you marry a man you barely know and then let him convince you to betray your best friend of over15 years. Till death due them part. ❤❤
April 22, 2025
Pretty Nice Start to a Series
Loved the FMC and MMC. The author was able to wove a story with individual and couples character development and growth.
This was a rollercoaster ride of a story that kept me turning the pages. Essex and Darius’s little side story touched my heart. It was heartfelt and heartbreaking at the same time. I felt like Cove out of the four main characters needed just a little bit more growing, but she learnt to be herself in all her BOLD self because she had a man that was standing behind her no matter what she did.
There were some grammatical errors that took it from a 4.5 to a 4.
Loved the FMC and MMC. The author was able to wove a story with individual and couples character development and growth.
This was a rollercoaster ride of a story that kept me turning the pages. Essex and Darius’s little side story touched my heart. It was heartfelt and heartbreaking at the same time. I felt like Cove out of the four main characters needed just a little bit more growing, but she learnt to be herself in all her BOLD self because she had a man that was standing behind her no matter what she did.
There were some grammatical errors that took it from a 4.5 to a 4.
September 16, 2024
I love it!
I enjoyed Essex and Haven! I loved the violin and the reason behind its appearing! I loved Essex and Darius’s relationship even though he didn’t know exactly who she was! Usually I’m all in for the main two characters but it was Cove and Phoenix for me! Everything about their first appearance from the office meeting to the phone call to the date to the end had me loving on them real bad! Phoenix exudes BDE and I was here for it! I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen in Giani and Jayde’s story!
I enjoyed Essex and Haven! I loved the violin and the reason behind its appearing! I loved Essex and Darius’s relationship even though he didn’t know exactly who she was! Usually I’m all in for the main two characters but it was Cove and Phoenix for me! Everything about their first appearance from the office meeting to the phone call to the date to the end had me loving on them real bad! Phoenix exudes BDE and I was here for it! I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen in Giani and Jayde’s story!
August 25, 2024
Decent story..needs editing
The story needs a lot of editing. There were so many issues with grammar, punctuation, and missing words that it took away from the story at times.
The story was good but Cove was very unlikeable. Even her interactions with the “villains” (Grace & Taylor) of the story made her look worse than them. The author tried to give us a backstory to explain her attitude and endear her to us but it personally did not work for me.
The story needs a lot of editing. There were so many issues with grammar, punctuation, and missing words that it took away from the story at times.
The story was good but Cove was very unlikeable. Even her interactions with the “villains” (Grace & Taylor) of the story made her look worse than them. The author tried to give us a backstory to explain her attitude and endear her to us but it personally did not work for me.
December 30, 2024
Love Instrumental #1
I love the fantastic 4. Haven & Essex provided the perfect melody through drama and love all together. Cove & Phoenix were the two firecrackers that needed the other to balance the other one out. I love how Phoenix gave Cove her voice & NEVER silenced her. I love how Essex was never judged by Haven & he added to her peace! I still wanna see Sabel in the middle of the street. I would really love to hear the music being played!!!
I love the fantastic 4. Haven & Essex provided the perfect melody through drama and love all together. Cove & Phoenix were the two firecrackers that needed the other to balance the other one out. I love how Phoenix gave Cove her voice & NEVER silenced her. I love how Essex was never judged by Haven & he added to her peace! I still wanna see Sabel in the middle of the street. I would really love to hear the music being played!!!
August 24, 2024
This book was so good ! Haven and Phoenix are the men you need in your life ! Cove and Essex were just the right women in their own way. Cove almost got on my nerves but then I got to see the reason behind her and it all made sense ! To Cove and Haven daddy…. Come outside, we’re not going to jump you ! Taylor… girl I wish.. oowweee I just wish ! Girl I got some things to say to your corpse!
September 7, 2024
🖤
Jas never disappoints. I loved all of the characters. Haven and Cove were hilarious. Phoenix may’ve been my favorite character but I’m not sure. Definitely enjoyed the read and it was good to see a few characters from previous reads. You can definitely this as a standalone but check out her catalog if you’re new to this author. You won’t be disappointed.
Jas never disappoints. I loved all of the characters. Haven and Cove were hilarious. Phoenix may’ve been my favorite character but I’m not sure. Definitely enjoyed the read and it was good to see a few characters from previous reads. You can definitely this as a standalone but check out her catalog if you’re new to this author. You won’t be disappointed.
December 29, 2024
my type of crazy 😜
I absolutely loved this story. That fact that the author was able to expand on this storyline while adding her on touch of unhinged was everything! I definitely can’t wait to continue reading in this standalone series! Absolutely amazing and well written! And did I mention crazy! Loved it!
I absolutely loved this story. That fact that the author was able to expand on this storyline while adding her on touch of unhinged was everything! I definitely can’t wait to continue reading in this standalone series! Absolutely amazing and well written! And did I mention crazy! Loved it!
February 6, 2025
Great couples!
I loved the MMC and FMC and side characters. The book was a good read. However, it felt like it was information missing and big-time jumps. Some thoughts seemed unfinished.
But overall, it's a good read.
Also, there are quite a few grammar/spelling mistakes that just throw the reading off. Just a tip for the authoress.
I loved the MMC and FMC and side characters. The book was a good read. However, it felt like it was information missing and big-time jumps. Some thoughts seemed unfinished.
But overall, it's a good read.
Also, there are quite a few grammar/spelling mistakes that just throw the reading off. Just a tip for the authoress.
August 10, 2025
Potential
This is my first book by the author. The storyline had great potential. The various storylines took away from what should have been the primary story, Essex and Haven. A missed opportunity for further character development for them. In addition, the errors were distracting. Editing matters.
This is my first book by the author. The storyline had great potential. The various storylines took away from what should have been the primary story, Essex and Haven. A missed opportunity for further character development for them. In addition, the errors were distracting. Editing matters.
August 19, 2024
Grammar
The story was good. I felt like there was some information that didn’t add to the story (his dead wife) unless I missed something. Grammar was a big problem and I’m usually not picky about grammar
The story was good. I felt like there was some information that didn’t add to the story (his dead wife) unless I missed something. Grammar was a big problem and I’m usually not picky about grammar
September 18, 2024
Don’t Judge A Book By its cover….
From the cover, I thought this would be a sweet love story….
The only sane one in this story was the dog, Dolly 😂😂😂😂 whew. What a roller coaster ride of a tale.
Minus the grammar, check it out!
From the cover, I thought this would be a sweet love story….
The only sane one in this story was the dog, Dolly 😂😂😂😂 whew. What a roller coaster ride of a tale.
Minus the grammar, check it out!
September 20, 2024
Chilleeeee
Whew chile. I like the dynamic duo between siblings. That dang plot twist though, smh. She definitely could’ve went about that a different way. This was such a great read, Jas.
Whew chile. I like the dynamic duo between siblings. That dang plot twist though, smh. She definitely could’ve went about that a different way. This was such a great read, Jas.
September 21, 2024
so good
Listen this book was funny a little twisted and the men were definitely crazy lol. Outside of a little grammar errors this was a really good book. I really enjoyed it. Good job! Highly recommend ❤️
Listen this book was funny a little twisted and the men were definitely crazy lol. Outside of a little grammar errors this was a really good book. I really enjoyed it. Good job! Highly recommend ❤️
October 14, 2024
Wild Ride!
This was a wild one. The company you keep. You've got to be careful. That pillow talk will have you in a world of trouble. Cove & Grace where hilarious about them greens. The right man will let you know when it's okay to stay in your soft girl era.
This was a wild one. The company you keep. You've got to be careful. That pillow talk will have you in a world of trouble. Cove & Grace where hilarious about them greens. The right man will let you know when it's okay to stay in your soft girl era.
December 1, 2024
I wish it was edited well that’s my only complaint!
I found the grammar and spelling errors take away from the story. But both love stories and character dynamics were on point! I’d reread
I found the grammar and spelling errors take away from the story. But both love stories and character dynamics were on point! I’d reread
December 3, 2024
A good a** story!
A new to me author and baby she did not disappoint! This book was the total package, the spice, the suspense, and the dark romance. Whew! Can't wait for the next book.
A new to me author and baby she did not disappoint! This book was the total package, the spice, the suspense, and the dark romance. Whew! Can't wait for the next book.
December 8, 2024
Best thing about this book for me was the cover. Look at it, it's classic and quìte beautiful!
The menacin violin player/killer just didn't do it for me. This whole novel was like the curl that wouldn't curl.
The menacin violin player/killer just didn't do it for me. This whole novel was like the curl that wouldn't curl.
January 7, 2025
Great book! Not sure if they’ll be another part to their stories but I enjoyed this one. Haven is my favorite but I loved Phoenix and Cove’s story best. That tiger is a no go for me!
I will excuse that there is a cello on the cover but the characters play the violin.
I will excuse that there is a cello on the cover but the characters play the violin.
February 3, 2025
Heartstrings pulled…
This didn’t disappoint!!! Everyone stood on business!!! Them daddies would’ve caught hands and feet!!! Both of them!!!!! Go ahead and read this… you won’t be disappointed!!!
This didn’t disappoint!!! Everyone stood on business!!! Them daddies would’ve caught hands and feet!!! Both of them!!!!! Go ahead and read this… you won’t be disappointed!!!
March 22, 2025
4.5⭐
Cove is that girl!! Round of applause for their first time meeting and another for her call. Phoenix with his white tiger, Halo, bring a good sexy timeeee! When he snatched the lightbulbs from her house I had to laugh and do a small pearl clutch because what in the world! Lmao I loved it.
Haven and Essex broke my heart and I don't mind it. This is what I subconsciously call the brother, sister story because Cove and Haven. Essex and Phoenix. Listen.
Cove is that girl!! Round of applause for their first time meeting and another for her call. Phoenix with his white tiger, Halo, bring a good sexy timeeee! When he snatched the lightbulbs from her house I had to laugh and do a small pearl clutch because what in the world! Lmao I loved it.
Haven and Essex broke my heart and I don't mind it. This is what I subconsciously call the brother, sister story because Cove and Haven. Essex and Phoenix. Listen.
August 24, 2024
Strange and Interesting
Very good kind of weird but very good nonetheless. Can’t wait to read the second book i’m sure it’s gonna be equally strange.
Very good kind of weird but very good nonetheless. Can’t wait to read the second book i’m sure it’s gonna be equally strange.
August 25, 2024
Mature
This book was for grown folks. I loved the communication and relationship dynamics shown. Great storylines and powerful ending. I did think the dad is wrong.
This book was for grown folks. I loved the communication and relationship dynamics shown. Great storylines and powerful ending. I did think the dad is wrong.
August 25, 2024
Pretty
When I say these men in this book was BDE, that's what I mean. Both Haven and Phenix was thee man. They did not play about their women. I'm still on the Fence about Sable.
When I say these men in this book was BDE, that's what I mean. Both Haven and Phenix was thee man. They did not play about their women. I'm still on the Fence about Sable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews