Genesis

by Delon Nicole Starkey

Stay, stay, stay…

Nicki first uttered those words when her mother abandoned her sixteen years ago. Left to be raised by her workaholic dad, she learned to rely on herself, keeping the walls around her heart high. Even as she released novel after novel, her readers couldn’t know the real person behind the pages. And maybe that was for the best, everyone she let in disappointed her anyway. That is until she crossed paths with Denver.

Denver had said those same three words when his wife walked away, leaving him to raise their daughter on his own. He was happy with the way things were, except for the past that still haunted him. Yet, when he met Nicki… he realized she was the missing piece. Denver thought he knew the real Nicki, but when her past unexpectedly comes to light, he begins to question everything.

Will love be enough to make him stay?

** Trigger While this story is fictional, it contains strong elements that may be triggering for some. Because it contains spoilers, they won't be listed here. They can be found in the back of the book or readers are welcome to contact me personally for more info before proceeding. Life can be full of pain, trauma, and grief. But know that there is still hope. I hope this story meets you wherever you are in your story. You are not alone. Contact me www.delonnicole.com

Genres: Romance

310 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 14, 2025

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me sobbing uncontrollably! The storyline is so tragic and heartwarming at the same time. The FMC definitely rises out of the ashes like the true Phoenix that she is, and my heart goes out to her throughout the entire book. The only real issue I had is that you don't find out your first bit of information about Phoenix's tragic past until more than halfway through the book. The beginning was slow, but I had to keep going because I wanted to know what happened. When you find out, it will definitely make your soul weep.

[Cally Fleming · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had to DNF it. I cant stand all the flash backs. The plot of the book sounds so good and i wanted to love it but i couldnt get behind the back and forth.

[Amanda Ronkoski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genesis by Delon Nicole Starkey is an emotional and thought-provoking journey that explores the complexities of love, loss, and healing. Our FMC, Phoenix, is a resilient yet deeply scarred protagonist. Her story delves into themes of trauma, mental health, and the transformative power of love. Her character is raw, authentic, and relatable, embodying the struggles many face when trying to navigate life after tragedy. I found myself rooting for Phoenix from the beginning! My only complaint was that it took too long to learn about her tragedy. That being said, I kept reading because I truly wanted to find out what happened.

This novel is perfect for those who enjoy emotionally charged stories with well-developed characters and a focus on mental health. Stuckey’s Genesis reminds us that even in our darkest moments, love and hope can lead us toward the light.

[Juanita · Rating 4 out of 5]

relatable!!!! something I need in a book these days because everything is starting to read the same.
the plot is on point, and the feeling of struggle is palpable. forced me to look into myself because I was crying, telling her she knew she was worthy.... but never tell myself as much 🧡
grab your tissues!!!!

[Adriahna Arno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stay... OH MY GOODNESS!! the whole time i was reading this book my heart was stuck in my throat.. i was constantly worrying about our MFC and loving the growth that her friend brings out of her and the meet cute.... EEEEEEEE!!!!!

This book is very interesting in the fact of taking the past and present and pushing them at the same time so we r getting glimpses of the past as we progress through the story. I LOVED that!!! it also is a big part of the story as a WHOLE!!!

She was finally starting to get out of her shell and " who ever said the truth shall set you free" was a liar.... OMG my heart was shattered. I love the supporting characters in this book because they are both so loving and supportive even when the mains are being stubborn as HELL.LOL!!!

OVERALL:
Very thought out and well written story and i love the characters and our ending <3

[Stephani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genesis by Delon Nicole Starkey is an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you speechless. From the very first page, the author’s lyrical writing style grips your heart, pulling you deep into the main character's emotional journey. Starkey crafts a beautifully poignant tale of heartbreak, healing, and personal transformation that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced loss or struggled to find their way back to themselves.

The story centers around the heroine’s journey of self-discovery after a devastating heartbreak, and her path to healing is nothing short of extraordinary. The character development is masterfully done—watching the protagonist rise from the ashes of her despair and emerge as a confident, empowered woman is like witnessing the birth of a Phoenix. Her emotional and mental evolution is inspiring, and it’s easy to get lost in her growth as she learns to love herself truly and completely.

What makes Genesis so remarkable is how it taps into a wide range of emotions. You'll feel the heartache, the sadness, and the joy all at once. Starkey has an exceptional ability to make you feel everything the main character feels. One moment, you might be on the verge of tears; the next, you’re filled with hope and love. It’s an emotional journey that will have you rooting for the protagonist every step of the way, and by the end, you’ll find yourself cheering for a well-deserved and satisfying HEA.

This book is a must-read for romance readers who crave a deep, transformative story about love between characters and self-love and growth. Genesis is more than just a romance novel—it’s an uplifting and inspiring story about the power of resilience and the beauty of finding happiness within yourself.

If you're ready to experience a book with your heart aching, crying, and shining all at once, then Genesis is the perfect choice. Starkey’s storytelling is a gift; this book will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a heartfelt, emotional, and beautifully written romance.

[Brianne Sisk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genesis is a blend of suspense, romance, and intricate character development that immediately draws readers into its captivating world. From the very first page, I was hooked, and as the story unfolded, I couldn’t put it down. I was able to connect with characters on such a deep level, and their emotional growth throughout the book added so much depth to the story. The protagonist’s journey, in particular, was beautifully portrayed—flawed yet inspiring, and full of raw emotion. As the plot progressed, I found myself rooting for them, hoping they'd overcome the challenges they faced.

The storyline itself is a perfect mix of suspense and romance, keeping you on the edge of your seat while tugging at your heartstrings. The romantic elements were passionate and full of chemistry, yet they didn’t overshadow the thrilling twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. There’s just the right amount of tension and anticipation that kept me hooked from beginning to end.

Starkley’s writing style is fluid and immersive, effortlessly drawing readers into the narrative. The pacing was spot on, never dragging but also giving enough time to develop both the plot and characters.

Overall, Genesis is a must-read for anyone who loves a suspenseful, emotionally charged story with rich character arcs and an unforgettable romance. It’s a book that lingers long after you’ve turned the final page. Highly recommend!

[Haley Stoner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I picked this one up, I could not put it down. I mean I devoured it! Everytime you think you know what’s going on, I promise you don’t. I had about three possible theories of what was happening. Like, you’ll know something is up but you don’t know just how earth shattering it is. I was simultaneously broken down and put back together. I haven’t cried reading a book since I read “The Last Letter”, only this isn’t unnecessarily traumatic, and for that I thank her. My heart literally felt it could have popped like a balloon, in the best and worst way. 100% a 5 star read and it’s solidly my top January read.

I love that it’s told in a Before/After timeline. At first it seemed like it was going a little slow, but it’s so necessary. It gives just enough to make you not want to put it down because you just have to know what’s next. It covers the hard topics in a beautiful way. I’m not one for crowds or anything involving a flood of people, but this book makes me want to jump in the car and drive however many hours it takes to make her next book event!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Four-Star Review of *Genesis* by Delon Nicole Starkey**

Delon Nicole Starkey’s *Genesis* is a compelling and thought-provoking read that skillfully combines emotional depth with powerful storytelling. The author’s ability to weave complex characters into a raw and authentic narrative makes this book a standout.

One of the aspects I truly appreciated was the inclusion of trigger warnings. They showed a thoughtful consideration for readers, allowing us to engage with the story while feeling prepared for the themes it explores. The themes are handled with care and nuance, adding layers of richness to the narrative.

Starkey’s writing is immersive, with vivid imagery and emotional weight. The pacing felt steady, and while a few moments could have been more fully developed, the story never lost its impact.

*Genesis* is a beautiful exploration of growth and healing, and I would recommend it to readers who enjoy stories that challenge and inspire. Its raw honesty and compelling prose left a lasting impression.

[Larapunzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished "Genesis" by Delon Nicole Starkey, and honestly? I'm still kind of buzzing.
First off, the writing is gorgeous. Starkey has this way with words that just sucks you right in. The imagery is so vivid, you can practically taste the salt air and feel the heat of the Caribbean sun.

The characters? Oh man, they're all so complex and flawed. You really get to know them – their hopes, their fears, their messy, tangled histories. The story itself is a wild ride. It jumps around a bit in time, but it all comes together in the end. There's family drama, forbidden love, secrets that have been buried for generations... it's got it all.

I'll admit, there were a few parts that felt a little slow, but overall, I was completely hooked. It's one of those books that stays with you long after you turn the last page.

If you're looking for a captivating story with rich characters and beautiful writing, definitely give "Genesis" a read. You won't regret it!

[BRandy Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

An exploration of love and healing, though the narrative struggles to fully capture the reader’s imagination. This a telling instead of sharing book that feels more like diary entries in every chapter rather than a cohesive story. While the male main character and supporting cast shine brightly, the female protagonist is neither heartbreaking or endearing- I found her unlikeable and insufferable which makes it challenging to connect with her emotional journey.
The novel shows promise in its thematic approach to love after loss, presenting a cozy narrative with a heartwarming conclusion. Despite pacing issues and occasional narrative flatness, Starkey demonstrates developing skill, crafting a story that will appeal to readers seeking a gentle, hopeful exploration of personal growth and unexpected romance

[Brandi Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review for ‘Genesis’ written by Delon Starkey

This masterpiece took me from sobbing to laughing in a matter of pages.

You will quickly relate to the FMC *Phoenix* because we have all lost someone close to us and on a human level, you can genuinely understand the pain. The choosing of this FMCs name is so fitting because she truly does rise from the ashes and become her best self while working through big emotions.

To pull my favorite line from Genesis… ‘Life is hard, but being alone is harder’. THIS. 100000% THIS. Learning to lean on others during tragedy can be extremely difficult, but it is needed.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who needs to feel those deep feelings while being in your safe space.

[Devon Shaw · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off, I just wanted to say this is a beautiful book about forgiveness and grief. I wasn’t expecting to feel as many emotions as I did reading this! I did not see the plot twist coming, even though I knew something was definitely amiss. I sped through the last part of the book after discovering the root of it all because I needed to know how everything unfolded. The only feedback I really have to give is that I am not a reader who loves how fast things wrap up at the end of a book, especially when it’s only one year later and a lot of significant things happen in that timeframe. It really kind of took me out of it, but I know there are readers who do love this! Unfortunately it just leaves me feeling a little disappointed. Overall it was an impactful book though!!

[Kylie Lindenfelser · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOAH! This book is one of the best that I’ve read in a long time! I finished it in less than 24 hours (which I never typically do). It kept me hooked at every part from beginning to end. The balance of romance and the plot line was phenomenal. I’m not one to get emotional over sappy love stories, but this one had me in tears more than once. It was a beautiful yet tragic story that shed some light on mental health. I’ve had to take a minute to just sit in awe of this book. I read the author’s first novel less than a year ago and now this one and I cannot wait to see more from her in the future!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a heart wrenching Rollercoaster!
Genesis was so well written in a format of swapping between 'Then' and 'Now' which worked well, and had a kind of symmetry to them.
Huge mental health representation in this book, and if you have triggers regarding this please read the trigger warnings.
I work as a mental health nurse and I found the writing to be poignant, heart breaking and beautifully described the ups and downs of someone struggling with their mental health.

And boy did I cry, not only that I sobbed. The author did a wonderful job of taking you on a journey of heartbreak and redemption.

Cannot recommend this book enough. But also I do encourage checking the triggers.

[Cassie Karg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a heartbreaking story that ends with a HEA. It tells of a girl who goes through a heartbreaking experience and learns she can’t give up but can only grow and be stronger. Phoenix grows both mentally and emotionally during the story as she falls in love with Denver. And though I feel she forgave him too easily there is no doubt that the two cannot stay away from each other! The ending had me in tears but as a good thing because you can truly feel how much she grows by the end of the book and creates something beautiful with herself. Definitely think this is a must read and though some topics may be more than lighthearted romance it is a touching story that many will love.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I've read by Delon Nicole Starkey, and I think she's a new favorite. I became so attached to these characters and their journeys both past and present. I laughed. I cried. Truly well written, and a story that will stick with me for a while. As someone who loves cooking, I also love the recipes at the end of the book. You can bet I'll be making those pancakes soon! Finally, I really appreciated her approach for viewing trigger warnings. I didn't view them because I generally don't need them and didn't want to spoil the book, but to those that need it, it was very well done.

[Sarah Eder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genesis by Delon Starkey was an incredible story filled with themes of loss, healing and love. The intertwined stories of Nicki and Denver break your heart, but you can't wait to see how their story turns out. I read quickly through the end as the plot twist began to be revealed. My only constructive thought is how a lot of significant things happened in a short period of time at the end of the book. I can't decide if it was nice to know the specifics of their future or if some of their story after the major plot reveal could have been left to the imagination.
Overall, it was an impactful read that I would recommend!

[Tequila Oliver · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a cute and captivating story. At times it felt like I was reading a diary and it really made it easy to feel all the emotions the main female character was feeling. I could feel the pain and sorrow, the joy and happiness with each page and it made it easy to relate to. I enjoyed the alternating time lines, as it slowly filled in the story, without giving too much away, too soon. Towards the end, I felt like the story was beginning to be too long, but I enjoyed the happy ending and it left me cheering for the characters clear to the end.

[Brittany Grinstead · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions. The author writes so incredibly that you feel like you are Phoenix and Denver. It started out a little slow and I wasn’t sure if I’d like the “then” and “now” rotating chapters, but it’s essential to the story and it flows well.

Both Phoenix and Denver feel like the weight of the world is on their shoulders for 16 years. They both attend a grief group and it goes from there. You will laugh, cry, beam with pride, and feel the hurt in this romance novel.

[Anastasia Klein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. I do not even know where to begin. This book destroyed me in the best way possible and I devoured it in one sitting.

After suffering such heartbreak in her teen years Nicki really seemed to struggle to truly live her life, then Denver comes along and it seemed like Nicki may be finally getting her spark back…but that secret! I dont know who was more shocked by her secret, me, Denver or Nicki herself!

[Shai S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!! this book had me hooked from the first page to the last. It was a bit emotionally heavy, but not in an overwhelming way. I think that it was really awesome watching the protagonist grow into herself more & learn how to deal with past traumas. I thought the romantic interest was the Perfect Man, if that makes sense. The ending was a bit out there but overall an incredible read. A big thank you to the author who let me get my hands on this one early. :)

[Hilary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, though filled with moments of tragedy, showcases the incredible resilience of Phoenix as she rises from the ashes and transforms throughout the narrative. Her journey of growth and strength is both inspiring and heartfelt. I thoroughly enjoyed the read, and I must say, the pancake recipe at the end was a delightful bonus! It had me craving pancakes the entire time I read, and I can't wait to give it a try. A truly rewarding experience from start to finish!

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very well written. The present and past timeliness remain cohesive. Going from now to then is not jarring in any way. I found it to be a page turner.

It's hard to root for Phoenix. She's very closed off, like the light in her has been extinguished. Yet somehow she's been able to write amazing novels. I don't know where she'd be without Wendy.

The story is heartbreaking. In time, she'll slowly begin to rise from the ashes.

[Mica Holloway · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book unfolds as a slow burn, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the FMC’s struggles with relationships and her own internal battles. While the pacing might feel a bit languid at times, it ultimately enhances the emotional weight of her experiences. The gradual unraveling of the plot towards the end is both satisfying and heartbreaking, offering a powerful payoff for those who invest in the character's journey.

[Kate Pazanin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genesis is a wonderful slow burn novel that continues to develop emotions and vivid imagery of the journey of Phoenix. Through love and loss the story is transformed. While the story is emotionally charged, the author does a wonderful job developing the characters.
It is a Before/after timeline, but you do not learn about Phoenix's tragedy til half way through, so you need to stay with the story. But it will be easy to do with the plot and wanting to know the unknown.

[Jessica Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel follows Phoenix, a writer who has faced some serious trials and tribulations in her life. It is written in a past and present timeline that allows readers to take a deep dive into all of the turmoil she has experienced. She has a hardened shell until, Denver enters her life. With some secrets and scarring of his own, he dives deep into helping her find her way and purpose in life. This book does definitely have some triggers but it is raw and beautifully heartbreaking.

[Bailey C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trauma to triumph. This book had me in tears multiple times as Phoenix struggles to love herself and find herself worthy after the trauma she’s been through. The characters felt like friends and the depth of information made this a read I won’t soon forget.

Favorite quote: “That's the thing about being brave. It's pushing through, especially when everything in you is screaming the opposite. I'm glad I didn't."

[Savannah Mincey · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️!!

This book goes through the dark realities of abuse and trauma and navigating those without adequate resources. I wanted so much better for Phoenix after the main event (spoiler free) she deserved better! One critique I have is that I wish Denver had more of a voice. His POV could have added so much value here. Overall it was a good read and easy to pick up! I would consider reading more from the author.

[Charla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was definitely a very emotional and heartfelt read. There could definitely be some triggers for people so that is something you might need to look into.

Nikki is trying to get over some of her trauma in her past. Sixteen years later she is slowly bringing some of that trauma back up through new found relationships.