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Far from Ruined #2
Every Hidden Truth
Two young men haunted by their pasts. One bond that can save them both.
Sarcastic loud-mouth, Silas Brigs is used to taking care of himself. He's done it for years, after all. But the too-perfect Ben Adams has other plans. Against all odds, the California diver has worked his way under Silas's prickly exterior, and Silas is left to wrestle with the simmering attraction building between them.
When their feelings can no longer be ignored, Silas and Ben must work together to navigate their insecurities and trauma, or risk the delicate relationship they've come to rely on. But Silas's life is filled with more than simple high school drama, and being his friend—let alone more—puts Ben in danger. Monsters from Silas's past refuse to sleep, and the secrets are piling up. Unfortunately for Silas, some truths don't stay hidden.
Sarcastic loud-mouth, Silas Brigs is used to taking care of himself. He's done it for years, after all. But the too-perfect Ben Adams has other plans. Against all odds, the California diver has worked his way under Silas's prickly exterior, and Silas is left to wrestle with the simmering attraction building between them.
When their feelings can no longer be ignored, Silas and Ben must work together to navigate their insecurities and trauma, or risk the delicate relationship they've come to rely on. But Silas's life is filled with more than simple high school drama, and being his friend—let alone more—puts Ben in danger. Monsters from Silas's past refuse to sleep, and the secrets are piling up. Unfortunately for Silas, some truths don't stay hidden.
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published March 23, 2020
28 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Nik Knight
30 books591 followersNik Knight (they/them) is a born and bred Hoosier living in a top-secret location in Europe. They are a single parent to two wonderful gremlins, and they write love in all its forms.
When they aren’t busy adulting, Nik can be found in their writing nook, typing away as their fingers turn to nubs.
When they aren’t busy adulting, Nik can be found in their writing nook, typing away as their fingers turn to nubs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 17, 2023
Ben and Silas are one complicated pair. Their journey from best friends to lovers is epic and expertly done given the sensitive nature of their introduction to one another and the fallout of that experience.
What I love the most about their story is how supportive, patient, and effortlessly devoted they are to one another. They never pretend they are okay and at times are messy with their emotions but stay true to one another, which makes for an amazing story that I devoured from beginning to end.
This entry perfectly builds upon their cemented friendship, which allows for such an emotional story that feels completely true and earnest. I loved this entry and look forward to the finale.
What I love the most about their story is how supportive, patient, and effortlessly devoted they are to one another. They never pretend they are okay and at times are messy with their emotions but stay true to one another, which makes for an amazing story that I devoured from beginning to end.
This entry perfectly builds upon their cemented friendship, which allows for such an emotional story that feels completely true and earnest. I loved this entry and look forward to the finale.
February 7, 2024
4.5 stars. This is the second book in a YA trilogy following Silas and Ben. It is a single POV story told by Silas and book 1 must be read first. This book focused more on Silas and Ben being together and I really loved seeing their relationship grow. I liked that they didn’t beat around the bush and talked it out after so much tension in book 1!
There’s still some tough topics discussed in this book but I found most of the book was pretty happy (until closer to the end). There was one scene that was so hilarious I couldn’t stop laughing out loud (if you saw my collage for this book I wonder if you could figure out what picture goes with that scene 😂). We do get some spice in this one but it is all fade to grey or black.
I am definitely looking forward to seeing how Silas and Ben navigate their relationship and lives in the next story and really hope I’ll be able to listen to the audio again as this narrator is great!
There’s still some tough topics discussed in this book but I found most of the book was pretty happy (until closer to the end). There was one scene that was so hilarious I couldn’t stop laughing out loud (if you saw my collage for this book I wonder if you could figure out what picture goes with that scene 😂). We do get some spice in this one but it is all fade to grey or black.
I am definitely looking forward to seeing how Silas and Ben navigate their relationship and lives in the next story and really hope I’ll be able to listen to the audio again as this narrator is great!
October 21, 2021
4,5 stars.
This is the second book in this series, and it continues where the first one left off. (You really need to have read the first book before reading this one.)
Ben and Silas are friends and in love, but they both are scared to ruin their friendship if they would act upon their true feelings. But their chemistry is hot and undeniable, and you just know that when they give in, sparks will fly.
And they did!
I loved how natural they are, how organic their relationships develops. They're both 18, and they act like it.
Everything is going very well. They become lovers and best friends. Trying to be there for one another no matter what. But they too have secrets they are not ready to share yet, and that's a dark cloud hovering over them. You just feel that something's going to happen, because everything sounds too good too soon.
And yes, when eventually all hell breaks lose, it's bad. Really bad. I felt for them, I felt for Silas. I understood where he came from, but poor, poor Ben...He has my heart and under his tough exterior hides an insecure, scarred and lonely guy and I just wished Silas could have crawled out of his dark thoughts and offered Ben a hand. Some understanding.
But he didn't, and now I really need to know what's going to happen in the third and final book!
I highly recommend this series - it's very well written, there are quite some hot and steamy scenes, but the side characters are great too, and it has a very real, organic way about it. It's about 18 year olds and they sound and act like it. There are a lot of feelings involved too, and so it's not always an easy read. But I suggest you give it a try if you like story's with angst and feelings and genuine characters.
This book ends in a cliffhanger, so you'll have to read the third book to know where Ben and Silas's story eventually will take you.
I was kindly given a free copy of this book by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my voluntary, honest review
This is the second book in this series, and it continues where the first one left off. (You really need to have read the first book before reading this one.)
Ben and Silas are friends and in love, but they both are scared to ruin their friendship if they would act upon their true feelings. But their chemistry is hot and undeniable, and you just know that when they give in, sparks will fly.
And they did!
I loved how natural they are, how organic their relationships develops. They're both 18, and they act like it.
Everything is going very well. They become lovers and best friends. Trying to be there for one another no matter what. But they too have secrets they are not ready to share yet, and that's a dark cloud hovering over them. You just feel that something's going to happen, because everything sounds too good too soon.
And yes, when eventually all hell breaks lose, it's bad. Really bad. I felt for them, I felt for Silas. I understood where he came from, but poor, poor Ben...He has my heart and under his tough exterior hides an insecure, scarred and lonely guy and I just wished Silas could have crawled out of his dark thoughts and offered Ben a hand. Some understanding.
But he didn't, and now I really need to know what's going to happen in the third and final book!
I highly recommend this series - it's very well written, there are quite some hot and steamy scenes, but the side characters are great too, and it has a very real, organic way about it. It's about 18 year olds and they sound and act like it. There are a lot of feelings involved too, and so it's not always an easy read. But I suggest you give it a try if you like story's with angst and feelings and genuine characters.
This book ends in a cliffhanger, so you'll have to read the third book to know where Ben and Silas's story eventually will take you.
I was kindly given a free copy of this book by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my voluntary, honest review
December 19, 2023
So much of this book was so wonderful - experiencing Silas and Ben falling in love, learning to trust each other, sharing their bodies with one another and feeling so happy. But now I’m left shattered and devastated.
This book was hard!! Ugh my heart is in tiny pieces on the floor! This on HURTS!!
Ok onto book 3!
This book was hard!! Ugh my heart is in tiny pieces on the floor! This on HURTS!!
Ok onto book 3!
February 16, 2023
4.5⭐️ RTC
April 18, 2023
Wow! How I love these boys, brilliant YA. This author captures such a sense of joy, youth, playfulness and vitality in the scenes with the friends. Every encounter is written so well that you can easily imagine the interactions in your minds eye. The interrupted intimate moments in the beginning were so great, all that tension. As far as first kisses go, this was EPIC. So much lovely shy, timid, uncertain flirting built the best sort of anticipation. And then the kiss…..squee! So many sweet awkward moments.
I want a Ben of my own! Sweet, vulnerable, brave, caring, supportive. Gah, such a well written character.
Huge book at 432 pages and it FLEW by, perfect balance of action, sweetness and every-day life. There is some hanky panky exploration and those firsts are just so wonderful, the emotional connection was beyond beautiful.
I was heartsore at times when they acknowledged that maybe they would not last forever since they were so young. On one hand I loved that the author acknowledged that, but the romantic in me rebelled and wanted to stay in the fantasy where all first loves are epic, easy and lasting. Ends on a cliffhanger, no HFN or HEA, must read book 3 for closure.
Single POV, YA, high school seniors, bullying, grump/sunshine, m/m. The epilogue is the only chapter from Ben’s perspective.
I want a Ben of my own! Sweet, vulnerable, brave, caring, supportive. Gah, such a well written character.
Huge book at 432 pages and it FLEW by, perfect balance of action, sweetness and every-day life. There is some hanky panky exploration and those firsts are just so wonderful, the emotional connection was beyond beautiful.
I was heartsore at times when they acknowledged that maybe they would not last forever since they were so young. On one hand I loved that the author acknowledged that, but the romantic in me rebelled and wanted to stay in the fantasy where all first loves are epic, easy and lasting. Ends on a cliffhanger, no HFN or HEA, must read book 3 for closure.
Single POV, YA, high school seniors, bullying, grump/sunshine, m/m. The epilogue is the only chapter from Ben’s perspective.
February 1, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Every Hidden Truth follows Every Broken Thing in the Far From Ruined series and the books are meant to be read in order. This review may naturally reveal plot points of the series.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Every Hidden Truth follows Every Broken Thing in the Far From Ruined series and the books are meant to be read in order. This review may naturally reveal plot points of the series.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
November 1, 2021
This book picks up exactly where the first left off. In this installment, Ben and Silas really delve into their feelings and decide to pursue a romantic relationship. I loved this. It felt like two teenagers really trying to make a go of it. Then with the added issue of Silas' trauma, it is another level that just really adds to the story. I really love how patient both Silas and Ben are with everything, and how it doesn't just magically get fixed. I was so saddened by the attack on them and their relationship. It would be very hard. I felt so heartbroken for them. I love Silas' dad, wow he is the best. I also love Aunt June and Uncle Henry. They are so wonderful. All the sider characters are really great. This book has so much depth and I just cannot recommend enough.
ARC provided and this is my honest review.
ARC provided and this is my honest review.
January 20, 2025
A poignant and gripping exploration of trauma, vulnerability, and the transformative power of human connection. Silas and Ben's story in 'Every Hidden Truth' by Nik Knight is a raw and emotional journey of self-discovery, love, and healing. Knight masterfully weaves together a narrative that's both heartbreaking and hopeful.
October 19, 2021
not as good as book 1 but still enjoyable.. it is a cliffy and i cant wait to read book 3.. it was entertaining and curious. i enjoyed it a lot.
February 19, 2024
3.5
I enjoyed this. I enjoyed their relationship growing and how the issues are beginning to be resolved. I do think that maybe this series is just a bit too YA for my taste though.
I enjoyed this. I enjoyed their relationship growing and how the issues are beginning to be resolved. I do think that maybe this series is just a bit too YA for my taste though.
April 13, 2021
So okay, I thought that this was the last book in the series, because the author published at least five other books afther this one, but nope, this is far from the last. I can see at least one more book in this series, but I can imagine even more. Well, I get it. This one was far less entertaining than the Fire and Brimstone series.
It is still well written, and on one hand there is a little bit more happening in term of Ben's and Silas's relationship. It turns physical in this book, and I would say that makes this a new adult book, but unfortunately the characters are still high school kids, thinking and behaving like high school kids, so while there is more adult material (actually not really, because I don't think sex scenes are for 18+ only, most especially because younger people do it as well), the feeling of the story in its entirety is more young adult than anything else. Also, while there is a lot happening on the relationship front, practically nothing else is happening anywhere else. The book kind of degressed into a second rate, everyday gay romance. Which is not bad, just a little bit disappointing.
Still, it's nice to see young love spreading its wings.
It is still well written, and on one hand there is a little bit more happening in term of Ben's and Silas's relationship. It turns physical in this book, and I would say that makes this a new adult book, but unfortunately the characters are still high school kids, thinking and behaving like high school kids, so while there is more adult material (actually not really, because I don't think sex scenes are for 18+ only, most especially because younger people do it as well), the feeling of the story in its entirety is more young adult than anything else. Also, while there is a lot happening on the relationship front, practically nothing else is happening anywhere else. The book kind of degressed into a second rate, everyday gay romance. Which is not bad, just a little bit disappointing.
Still, it's nice to see young love spreading its wings.
June 9, 2020
Silas and Ben are attracted to one another, there's no denying it. But they are so different, there are so many obstacles. When the time comes that they can no longer ignore their feelings they must find a way to overcome their insecurities and pasts. However, the past won't always stay in the past, and Silas's past is ugly and dangerous. Secrets have the power to hurt and they just don't stay secret. A relationship may prove more than they can handle.
This is such a well-written book. The PTSD is dealt with carefully and the healing is realistic. The chemistry between Ben and Silas feels genuine and their banter is fantastic. They pulled all the emotions out of me. Between the fears and the tears, I was a mess but I never stopped rooting for these two. Their love story is a difficult one and so special. Then! More, more, I can't wait for more.
This is such a well-written book. The PTSD is dealt with carefully and the healing is realistic. The chemistry between Ben and Silas feels genuine and their banter is fantastic. They pulled all the emotions out of me. Between the fears and the tears, I was a mess but I never stopped rooting for these two. Their love story is a difficult one and so special. Then! More, more, I can't wait for more.
January 27, 2025
4.5 stars
Man, Nik Knight is really yanking on the heartstrings in this series. The emotion is heavy. Silas' trauma is still a very present thing, and yet it has been handled with so much care. That said, be aware of any triggers before jumping into this one. I really loved seeing the natural development of Silas and Ben' relationship. If I'm being honest, my all-time favorite part of this series so far is Silas' friend group and how protective they are of each other and how easily they accepted Ben into their group. Ben and Silas go through it yet again here, especially together, but they have so much support behind them. I'm continuing to root for them and their well-deserved HEA when everything is said and done.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Man, Nik Knight is really yanking on the heartstrings in this series. The emotion is heavy. Silas' trauma is still a very present thing, and yet it has been handled with so much care. That said, be aware of any triggers before jumping into this one. I really loved seeing the natural development of Silas and Ben' relationship. If I'm being honest, my all-time favorite part of this series so far is Silas' friend group and how protective they are of each other and how easily they accepted Ben into their group. Ben and Silas go through it yet again here, especially together, but they have so much support behind them. I'm continuing to root for them and their well-deserved HEA when everything is said and done.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 9, 2024
Updating for audible. This is the continuing story of two Very Opposite High School age guys. Silas with a dark and secret past and sweet Ben!!Loved seeing these two young men start to connect emotionally and physically in this one. They are finally intimate in all the ways that perfectly fit them. Nick Newport our narrator has the perfect fresh narrating voice for portraying the age of the guys. The way he voices Silas's musings, especially about Ben's assets was so much fun. Silas is still a sarcastic one! They go through some heartbreaking situations this time and since we do get a cliffhanger, I am hanging on for their happy every after!
September 29, 2020
NEED book 3. Am emotionally invested in Silas and bens story now
January 26, 2025
This book is the second installment of t a trilogy that follows the same couple. What happens in this book is directly tied into the first one and ends on a cliffhanger that leads to the third book. None of the three can be read as standalones. Also, really pay attention to your trigger warnings. This one is just as fraught with triggers as the first one, but some of those triggers are different, so double check.
Silas and Ben continue to grow closer and we finally get into the romance in this story. It is closed door, so know that going in. Also, it is imperative to keep in mind that these boys are kids, seniors in high school, and act accordingly. Their emotions can be all over the place, they are reactive, they speak without thinking and can sometimes be hurtful. To top it off, they are dealing with so much trauma. Silas's trauma is mostly more on-page and continuing as the story unfolds. Ben's trauma are things he dealt with before coming to IN but it's severe and has lasting effects. We learn a lot more about Ben's back story in this book, though not everything is revealed.
I've been a foster parent to a traumatized teen who dealt with some of the same things Silas did, though at a slightly younger age. I've also cared for kids whose parents weren't who they should have been. I thought Nik did an excellent job realistically depicting how teens navigate and respond to trauma. While their actions could be frustrating at times, I could absolutely see boys their age acting this way.
I received the entire trilogy as ARCs and I loved them. Make no mistake, they are HARD reads. They are HEAVY reads. Don't go into these blind or with the wrong mindset. Despite the heartbreaking themes, their story is still so beautiful and sweet. It's the kind of story that just sticks with you. I can't stop thinking about these guys and I've already read the series twice, thinking about giving it a third go.
Silas and Ben continue to grow closer and we finally get into the romance in this story. It is closed door, so know that going in. Also, it is imperative to keep in mind that these boys are kids, seniors in high school, and act accordingly. Their emotions can be all over the place, they are reactive, they speak without thinking and can sometimes be hurtful. To top it off, they are dealing with so much trauma. Silas's trauma is mostly more on-page and continuing as the story unfolds. Ben's trauma are things he dealt with before coming to IN but it's severe and has lasting effects. We learn a lot more about Ben's back story in this book, though not everything is revealed.
I've been a foster parent to a traumatized teen who dealt with some of the same things Silas did, though at a slightly younger age. I've also cared for kids whose parents weren't who they should have been. I thought Nik did an excellent job realistically depicting how teens navigate and respond to trauma. While their actions could be frustrating at times, I could absolutely see boys their age acting this way.
I received the entire trilogy as ARCs and I loved them. Make no mistake, they are HARD reads. They are HEAVY reads. Don't go into these blind or with the wrong mindset. Despite the heartbreaking themes, their story is still so beautiful and sweet. It's the kind of story that just sticks with you. I can't stop thinking about these guys and I've already read the series twice, thinking about giving it a third go.
October 15, 2021
TRIGGER WARNING: This book follows the aftermath of an attempted sexual assault. It also features homophobic language and mentions of childhood abuse.
If the first book in the Far From Ruined trilogy was painful, it had nothing on the second book. This book saw Silas and Ben finally getting together, but secrets were being kept. Mainly Silas is keeping the fact that Eric Boyt attempted a second assault on him and the fact that he's getting the occasional text message from an anonymous sender.
At first, he thinks nothing of these texts but as they become more personal, he starts to fear who they may be from. He tries to ignore his fear and his trauma, but they keep bubbling up in beautifully written scenes that tug at my heartstrings.
While this trauma is a central part of the story, this story is more about Silas and Ben falling in love, navigating the pitfalls of their own broken pieces, and trying to figure out how to fit them together into something that feels less broken. The romance part of the story is just as beautiful to me as the recovery from the trauma.
Nikole Knight is absolutely masterful in telling this tale in a way that is both heart wrenching and entertaining. Silas and Ben bring out the best in one another, even as they try to protect each other from their own issues and from Eric Boyt. The romance feels genuine and I fell more in love with these characters with every word on the page.
This book is just as angsty as one would expect from a New Adult novel. The characters are just as real and genuine to the high school setting as they were in book one. This book is a fair bit steamier than the first book, but each scene is handled with such care for Silas's trauma.
Warning: this book does end on a cliffhanger. Luckily, I have book three locked and loaded in my Kindle.
** BOOK PROVIDED BY GRR FOR HONEST REVIEW **
If the first book in the Far From Ruined trilogy was painful, it had nothing on the second book. This book saw Silas and Ben finally getting together, but secrets were being kept. Mainly Silas is keeping the fact that Eric Boyt attempted a second assault on him and the fact that he's getting the occasional text message from an anonymous sender.
At first, he thinks nothing of these texts but as they become more personal, he starts to fear who they may be from. He tries to ignore his fear and his trauma, but they keep bubbling up in beautifully written scenes that tug at my heartstrings.
While this trauma is a central part of the story, this story is more about Silas and Ben falling in love, navigating the pitfalls of their own broken pieces, and trying to figure out how to fit them together into something that feels less broken. The romance part of the story is just as beautiful to me as the recovery from the trauma.
Nikole Knight is absolutely masterful in telling this tale in a way that is both heart wrenching and entertaining. Silas and Ben bring out the best in one another, even as they try to protect each other from their own issues and from Eric Boyt. The romance feels genuine and I fell more in love with these characters with every word on the page.
This book is just as angsty as one would expect from a New Adult novel. The characters are just as real and genuine to the high school setting as they were in book one. This book is a fair bit steamier than the first book, but each scene is handled with such care for Silas's trauma.
Warning: this book does end on a cliffhanger. Luckily, I have book three locked and loaded in my Kindle.
** BOOK PROVIDED BY GRR FOR HONEST REVIEW **
January 23, 2025
Sensitive and thoughtful portrayal of adolescent love
This book follows on from the first book, which started with a shocking scene that had me horrified and hooked from the very beginning. Although this features young adults (eighteen year olds), this is not a YA story per se, dealing with some very serious situations throughout the series. Please heed the trigger warnings. This is a revised edition of a 2019 release and is the second of a trilogy starring Silas and Ben.
Silas and Ben continue to dance around each other, becoming closer all the while, dealing with the effects of the trauma Silas suffered in the first book and which still haunts them, and their friendship deepens into more. While there wasn't even kissing in the first book, now they take their relationship further but those scenes are fade to black so don't go looking for graphic sex. Nik gives enough detail for the reader to understand but they also fill each scene with so much emotion that you can picture the two of them entwined and satiated and blissed out. It's perfect for their story and I don't need any more than Nik gave me.
All the friends from the first book appear here too, and provide great support for Silas and Ben as they try to navigate their way through being out and being together at school. Esther is a beautifully written character and I love her friendship with Silas. They are supportive and giggly and instinctively understand each other, the kind of friend that neither of them seem to have in their lives, and I love how Silas gently encourages her to be herself.
I need a few days before I start the third book, after the heartbreaking events of the last few chapters and how the book finished.
This book follows on from the first book, which started with a shocking scene that had me horrified and hooked from the very beginning. Although this features young adults (eighteen year olds), this is not a YA story per se, dealing with some very serious situations throughout the series. Please heed the trigger warnings. This is a revised edition of a 2019 release and is the second of a trilogy starring Silas and Ben.
Silas and Ben continue to dance around each other, becoming closer all the while, dealing with the effects of the trauma Silas suffered in the first book and which still haunts them, and their friendship deepens into more. While there wasn't even kissing in the first book, now they take their relationship further but those scenes are fade to black so don't go looking for graphic sex. Nik gives enough detail for the reader to understand but they also fill each scene with so much emotion that you can picture the two of them entwined and satiated and blissed out. It's perfect for their story and I don't need any more than Nik gave me.
All the friends from the first book appear here too, and provide great support for Silas and Ben as they try to navigate their way through being out and being together at school. Esther is a beautifully written character and I love her friendship with Silas. They are supportive and giggly and instinctively understand each other, the kind of friend that neither of them seem to have in their lives, and I love how Silas gently encourages her to be herself.
I need a few days before I start the third book, after the heartbreaking events of the last few chapters and how the book finished.
January 27, 2025
There are hundreds of little warm gestures, looks, smiles, and many more moments between Silas and Ben.
They are friends now, Silas can’t deny it anymore. Ben was determined to become closer to Silas, and he succeeded, it was fragile but still, they are friends.
Silas is afraid to lose what they have, it’s precious, it’s everything.
But being open about what they have at school is a problem for Silas, if his assailant hurt Ben, Silas would never forgive himself.
Three months ago Ben saved Silas from being sexually assaulted. He hopes Silas will tell him if something is wrong. Silas has some awful secrets that should stay in the dark.
Ben is protective and has a side even Silas is surprised by.
They have more in common than they know!
“He was everything, and I’d fight for every second he gave me.”
This was another impressive story of this series—the everyday lives of Silas and Ben.
Nothing dull to find. It felt genuine and quite compelling.
The aftermath of the assault was a dark place in Silas’ life, it’s a significant part!
“It’s always darkest before the dawn.”
The story also has hundreds of other moments and matters of their lives. You’ll find humor, sarcasm, support, sweetness, sexuality, romance, banters, hurt, threats, insecurities, jealousy, doubts, fights, and horrible acts, it’s all here to be amazed about (or shudder)!
It's a sublime story, super fascinating, enthralling, and quite heavy weighted!
I had smiles, goosebumps and tears for the endearing, lovable and upsetting moments.
And we’re not done, there’s book three I’ll start reading now!
Review also on Love Bytes
They are friends now, Silas can’t deny it anymore. Ben was determined to become closer to Silas, and he succeeded, it was fragile but still, they are friends.
Silas is afraid to lose what they have, it’s precious, it’s everything.
But being open about what they have at school is a problem for Silas, if his assailant hurt Ben, Silas would never forgive himself.
Three months ago Ben saved Silas from being sexually assaulted. He hopes Silas will tell him if something is wrong. Silas has some awful secrets that should stay in the dark.
Ben is protective and has a side even Silas is surprised by.
They have more in common than they know!
“He was everything, and I’d fight for every second he gave me.”
This was another impressive story of this series—the everyday lives of Silas and Ben.
Nothing dull to find. It felt genuine and quite compelling.
The aftermath of the assault was a dark place in Silas’ life, it’s a significant part!
“It’s always darkest before the dawn.”
The story also has hundreds of other moments and matters of their lives. You’ll find humor, sarcasm, support, sweetness, sexuality, romance, banters, hurt, threats, insecurities, jealousy, doubts, fights, and horrible acts, it’s all here to be amazed about (or shudder)!
It's a sublime story, super fascinating, enthralling, and quite heavy weighted!
I had smiles, goosebumps and tears for the endearing, lovable and upsetting moments.
And we’re not done, there’s book three I’ll start reading now!
Review also on Love Bytes
January 19, 2025
The author really knows how to pull on your heart strings.Both Silas and Ben are dealing with a lot at this moment and time. Silas’s tormentor, Eric, continues to add to the overall situation. What Eric did at the end of the first book left a foul taste in my mouth. Both boy are trying to navigate their relationship on top of everything else. I’m giving it a 4.5 stars. The ending of the book left things quite rocky.
It picked up where the last book left off. Silas is trying to deal with his assaults the best he can, but won’t get help for what happened. I really cannot balm him for not seeking help either. It was a darned if you do, darned if you don’t situation. Also, the sexual tension between Silas and Ben is at an all time high. (In the background I’m screaming “Kiss already! The tension is killing me!”) It was not long after the book began that the boy finally admitted their feelings for one another, and kissed.
A good portion of the story was dedicated to the pair navigating their relationship, and living their lives. Them hiding secrets from one another. On Silas side the last assault in the auditorium, and Ben’s side of keeping past relationships quiet. Silas’s is going to blow quite spectacularly in the end. However, there were hints from an unknown number that trouble was brewing in the background. It finally hits the tipping point after Silas and Ben take their relationship to the next level, and it’s all down hill from there. Now both have to pick up the pieces of what is currently happening, and see if they can save their relationship.
It picked up where the last book left off. Silas is trying to deal with his assaults the best he can, but won’t get help for what happened. I really cannot balm him for not seeking help either. It was a darned if you do, darned if you don’t situation. Also, the sexual tension between Silas and Ben is at an all time high. (In the background I’m screaming “Kiss already! The tension is killing me!”) It was not long after the book began that the boy finally admitted their feelings for one another, and kissed.
A good portion of the story was dedicated to the pair navigating their relationship, and living their lives. Them hiding secrets from one another. On Silas side the last assault in the auditorium, and Ben’s side of keeping past relationships quiet. Silas’s is going to blow quite spectacularly in the end. However, there were hints from an unknown number that trouble was brewing in the background. It finally hits the tipping point after Silas and Ben take their relationship to the next level, and it’s all down hill from there. Now both have to pick up the pieces of what is currently happening, and see if they can save their relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Phew, after everything that went down in the first book I didn’t think I could stress just as hard in the second one but holy guacamole did I stress for these babes!
Things are going seemingly okay for Silas and Ben, sure there’s some secrets Silas should definitely be sharing but they’re figuring shit out and it’s working so far. Feelings have been admitted and goodness gracious they are so fucking cute together. It was everything I’d been hoping for them through the first book. Since this isn’t the last book of the series shit obviously hits the fan towards the end of the book and I literally fucking cried.
I listened to the book (the audio is absolutely fantastic btw) and hearing Silas breakdown when his dad came to the principal’s office absolutely broke my heart. The pain of not just Silas, but of Ben and all the adults in their lives (shout out to some great teachers!) when they realize what happened without them knowing completely destroyed me. 💔 And not to mention the major invasion of privacy the boys experienced 😤What really punched me in the heart at the end though was the single chapter from Ben’s POV, his devastation over what he sorta forced Silas to do was soooo fucking sad. It was a lose-lose situation and I can’t see another way Ben could have done things differently.
I’m looking forward to diving into the next book, I need Silas and Ben to get some goodness in their lives (and maybe some therapy for Silas).
Phew, after everything that went down in the first book I didn’t think I could stress just as hard in the second one but holy guacamole did I stress for these babes!
Things are going seemingly okay for Silas and Ben, sure there’s some secrets Silas should definitely be sharing but they’re figuring shit out and it’s working so far. Feelings have been admitted and goodness gracious they are so fucking cute together. It was everything I’d been hoping for them through the first book. Since this isn’t the last book of the series shit obviously hits the fan towards the end of the book and I literally fucking cried.
I listened to the book (the audio is absolutely fantastic btw) and hearing Silas breakdown when his dad came to the principal’s office absolutely broke my heart. The pain of not just Silas, but of Ben and all the adults in their lives (shout out to some great teachers!) when they realize what happened without them knowing completely destroyed me. 💔 And not to mention the major invasion of privacy the boys experienced 😤What really punched me in the heart at the end though was the single chapter from Ben’s POV, his devastation over what he sorta forced Silas to do was soooo fucking sad. It was a lose-lose situation and I can’t see another way Ben could have done things differently.
I’m looking forward to diving into the next book, I need Silas and Ben to get some goodness in their lives (and maybe some therapy for Silas).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2024
Story: 5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
This is such a heart-breaking story, of two young men, each with deep personal scars, who find each other, and start to have a brighter outlook on the future. Unfortunately, for every ray of sunshine there is a storm cloud, and trouble and grief are not done with them yet. Although I loved seeing Silas and Ben open up to each other and find love, I also found the story frustrating. I kept yelling at them to TELL SOMEONE. (If you read book I, you know what I am talking about. That ugly person is still weighing on Silas like an anchor.) There is some catharsis at the end, and it was nice to see that (most of) the adults stood up for them. I so loved Silas' father and Ben's aunt and uncle, but my heart broke for them and how they must have hurt for Silas and Ben, that they didn't trust them. I listened to the audiobook, and I found the delivery to be a little stilted and mechanical/clinical, less emotional. It felt less emotional, although I suppose that may have made some of the more dramatic events less traumatic to hear. I prefer a more emotional delivery. YMMV. Although the book does end with some good news, Silas and Ben still feel shattered and torn apart to me, so I hope the author has at least one more book planned. I want Silas and Ben to get an HEA, and they are not there yet.
I received a free review copy and an voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Narration: 4 stars
This is such a heart-breaking story, of two young men, each with deep personal scars, who find each other, and start to have a brighter outlook on the future. Unfortunately, for every ray of sunshine there is a storm cloud, and trouble and grief are not done with them yet. Although I loved seeing Silas and Ben open up to each other and find love, I also found the story frustrating. I kept yelling at them to TELL SOMEONE. (If you read book I, you know what I am talking about. That ugly person is still weighing on Silas like an anchor.) There is some catharsis at the end, and it was nice to see that (most of) the adults stood up for them. I so loved Silas' father and Ben's aunt and uncle, but my heart broke for them and how they must have hurt for Silas and Ben, that they didn't trust them. I listened to the audiobook, and I found the delivery to be a little stilted and mechanical/clinical, less emotional. It felt less emotional, although I suppose that may have made some of the more dramatic events less traumatic to hear. I prefer a more emotional delivery. YMMV. Although the book does end with some good news, Silas and Ben still feel shattered and torn apart to me, so I hope the author has at least one more book planned. I want Silas and Ben to get an HEA, and they are not there yet.
I received a free review copy and an voluntarily leaving this honest review.
February 17, 2024
A good middle book (an audio review)
Silas is snippy, snarky, and generally mouthy.
I love him.
Ben is sweet, lovable, and generous.
I love him too.
But navigating life as a teenage boy is bloody difficult. (Not that girls have it any easier.)
I winced through much of this book. High school was a nightmare for me. I was bullied repeatedly at both schools I attended. I always seemed to raise someone’s ire toward me. Now, Silas has it much worse because the boy he’s enraged also has the power to physically hurt him. Has tried. Will try again. Instead of going to the authorities, or even their parents, Silas and Ben try to navigate the situation themselves. Naturally, I would never recommend this course of action. But if they told an adult and the perpetrator had been appropriately dealt with, then this wouldn’t be a story rife with conflict and angst.
There are lots of little things in the book that might trigger readers – most are mentioned in the blurb. Getting past all that, though, is a really good story about the life as a teenager in the twenty-first century. I can’t wait to read the final book.
I’ll add I really like Nick Newport as a narrator. I thought he did a bang-up job of emoting just the right amount of teenageness.
Silas is snippy, snarky, and generally mouthy.
I love him.
Ben is sweet, lovable, and generous.
I love him too.
But navigating life as a teenage boy is bloody difficult. (Not that girls have it any easier.)
I winced through much of this book. High school was a nightmare for me. I was bullied repeatedly at both schools I attended. I always seemed to raise someone’s ire toward me. Now, Silas has it much worse because the boy he’s enraged also has the power to physically hurt him. Has tried. Will try again. Instead of going to the authorities, or even their parents, Silas and Ben try to navigate the situation themselves. Naturally, I would never recommend this course of action. But if they told an adult and the perpetrator had been appropriately dealt with, then this wouldn’t be a story rife with conflict and angst.
There are lots of little things in the book that might trigger readers – most are mentioned in the blurb. Getting past all that, though, is a really good story about the life as a teenager in the twenty-first century. I can’t wait to read the final book.
I’ll add I really like Nick Newport as a narrator. I thought he did a bang-up job of emoting just the right amount of teenageness.
February 20, 2024
Oh heavens to Betsy. This is part 2 of the Far From Ruined series and holy cannoli it will put you through IT. I mean, all the feels. As a continuation of book one this is not a standalone and does end on a cliffhanger basically. Well, I mean, it ends with your heart being ripped out and you’re just hoping that it will get put back together in book 3. Please please please heed any trigger warnings this is not a light read. High angst, sexual assault, teenagers - but you already knew that because you read book one and, I mean, we already knew it was a continuation of that. One note about the audio on this one - it does NOT parallel the book. It seems that perhaps there was some re-writing/editing particularly around the chapters 19, 20, 21 ish chapters (could be more, I’m not sure, that’s where I definitely noticed it). I do sometimes like to read where the audio left off (sometimes I can’t sleep in the middle of the night, it happens) and in this case it was extremely confusing in that area. That being said, none of the changes, so far as I could tell, changed the overarching story or lead us to a different cliffhanger, but a heads up is warranted. I cannot wait for book three as I’m going to need these boys to find some sort of HEA.
September 9, 2023
Oh man. Wow. I just. I shouldn’t be surprised. It’s just. Well. Damn.
So Silas and Ben are officially an obsession. Their relationship is so sweet in a very “coming of age” way since they are BARELY adults, but the story is still beautiful none the less. I ADORED this book. I spent the bulk of it squealing at how cute yet awkward they were. I was flying on cloud nine. It was the cutest story, and I knew something would happen, because this is Nikole Knight and happiness has an expiration date…. It was too early in the book for it to be that happy, and I knew that. But damn. It went from sweet and perfect and warm and fuzzy, to what the heck just happened and will my boys ever know happiness again?! Again, I shouldn’t be surprised. It’s not the first time Nikole Knight has pulled the rug out right from underneath my feet *cough cough* FIRE AND BRIMSTONE SCROLLS *cough cough*
Did I love it? Yes. Am I going to read the next one? Oh absolutely I don’t think I have a choice. Did it end on a cliffhanger? Maybe? More like a MFN, Miserable for Now? Is that a thing? Cause I think that’s a thing.
Anywho, gonna play some video games and start the third one tomorrow.
So Silas and Ben are officially an obsession. Their relationship is so sweet in a very “coming of age” way since they are BARELY adults, but the story is still beautiful none the less. I ADORED this book. I spent the bulk of it squealing at how cute yet awkward they were. I was flying on cloud nine. It was the cutest story, and I knew something would happen, because this is Nikole Knight and happiness has an expiration date…. It was too early in the book for it to be that happy, and I knew that. But damn. It went from sweet and perfect and warm and fuzzy, to what the heck just happened and will my boys ever know happiness again?! Again, I shouldn’t be surprised. It’s not the first time Nikole Knight has pulled the rug out right from underneath my feet *cough cough* FIRE AND BRIMSTONE SCROLLS *cough cough*
Did I love it? Yes. Am I going to read the next one? Oh absolutely I don’t think I have a choice. Did it end on a cliffhanger? Maybe? More like a MFN, Miserable for Now? Is that a thing? Cause I think that’s a thing.
Anywho, gonna play some video games and start the third one tomorrow.
February 16, 2024
Ben and Silas’ relationship develops as they challenge the bullies, led by Eric the idiot. A fight breaks out when Eric makes a slur about Si and Ben sees red.
Ben later talks about sending a kid to the hospital, also for provoking him, but he had lost his Mom and wasn’t in a good place at that time.
As they start dating, then agree to become boyfriends, Silas and Ben don’t hide their relationship at school, and most people don’t care or are very supportive.
The climax occurs when Eric sends a picture of them to a bunch of students, and Silas tells about previous incidents with him, prompted by Ben.
This instalment ends with the boys’ families pursuing legal action, and them wondering if their love can withstand the pressure.
I like the boys, both of whom have dealt with a lot, and they and their friends are an interesting mix. Si is sarcastic, but sweet underneath, and Ben is adorable and loyal. The audio narration was done pretty well, capturing teen dialogue with its unique tones and imagined cringes at the adults in their lives.
I received this audiobook ARC for free, and am giving it my honest review in appreciation.
Ben later talks about sending a kid to the hospital, also for provoking him, but he had lost his Mom and wasn’t in a good place at that time.
As they start dating, then agree to become boyfriends, Silas and Ben don’t hide their relationship at school, and most people don’t care or are very supportive.
The climax occurs when Eric sends a picture of them to a bunch of students, and Silas tells about previous incidents with him, prompted by Ben.
This instalment ends with the boys’ families pursuing legal action, and them wondering if their love can withstand the pressure.
I like the boys, both of whom have dealt with a lot, and they and their friends are an interesting mix. Si is sarcastic, but sweet underneath, and Ben is adorable and loyal. The audio narration was done pretty well, capturing teen dialogue with its unique tones and imagined cringes at the adults in their lives.
I received this audiobook ARC for free, and am giving it my honest review in appreciation.
June 15, 2020
Lackluster author
I have to say I really enjoyed most of this book, but there are a few things that really made me want to put down this book and not finish it. One being the weirdly racist dialogue that the author gives Silas. The author wrote dialogue where Silas refers to an Asian girl as “Mulan” and just honestly, it feels like lazy writing to me. The second thing they made the books hard to read was how the author felt it necessary to remind readers that Silas was versatile when matters of sex were brought up, and it was just really weird after a while. One of the things that I genuinely found offensive was the way the author wrote her transgender character. I get that it’s a common trope to write trans characters as women with deep voices who appear female from far away, but it just really proved how lazy the author is when writing characters. All in all I liked the story, but I feel like it would be better told be a less mediocre author with less outdated views on the lgbt community and race.
I have to say I really enjoyed most of this book, but there are a few things that really made me want to put down this book and not finish it. One being the weirdly racist dialogue that the author gives Silas. The author wrote dialogue where Silas refers to an Asian girl as “Mulan” and just honestly, it feels like lazy writing to me. The second thing they made the books hard to read was how the author felt it necessary to remind readers that Silas was versatile when matters of sex were brought up, and it was just really weird after a while. One of the things that I genuinely found offensive was the way the author wrote her transgender character. I get that it’s a common trope to write trans characters as women with deep voices who appear female from far away, but it just really proved how lazy the author is when writing characters. All in all I liked the story, but I feel like it would be better told be a less mediocre author with less outdated views on the lgbt community and race.
February 25, 2024
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(⭐️) 4,5
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Every hidden truth" follows on seamlessly from the events of the first volume. Nikole Knight is meanwhile one of the authors I really enjoy reading. Her writing style is great. Written in a relaxed and captivating way. The characters have been developed in depth and the secondary protagonists are also likeable.
Silas still has a big mouth and is prickly, but patient Ben slowly manages to get through to Silas. Eventually they can no longer deny the attraction. And there were some really hot scenes. But it's not just Silas who has a past, Ben does too and then things get out of hand. It was very emotional at the end and I felt and suffered immensely with Ben. Volume two ends with a cliffhanger and I really need to know what happens next with Ben and Silas. I can recommend this series!
Nick Newport's performance was amazing and it was good how he brought the story to life, even though I had trouble telling the characters apart at times
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(⭐️) 4,5
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Every hidden truth" follows on seamlessly from the events of the first volume. Nikole Knight is meanwhile one of the authors I really enjoy reading. Her writing style is great. Written in a relaxed and captivating way. The characters have been developed in depth and the secondary protagonists are also likeable.
Silas still has a big mouth and is prickly, but patient Ben slowly manages to get through to Silas. Eventually they can no longer deny the attraction. And there were some really hot scenes. But it's not just Silas who has a past, Ben does too and then things get out of hand. It was very emotional at the end and I felt and suffered immensely with Ben. Volume two ends with a cliffhanger and I really need to know what happens next with Ben and Silas. I can recommend this series!
Nick Newport's performance was amazing and it was good how he brought the story to life, even though I had trouble telling the characters apart at times
February 6, 2024
MM College
This is not a standalone book; you need to read/listen to book one before starting this one.
High Schooler Silas is under attack from a high school bully. Ben and Silas have started a relationship, but the outside world is trying their hardest to hinder this.
The characters are well-defined, and you can relate to them easily. You feel like you know these two boys and want to wrap them up and protect them from the high school bullies.
The narration by Nick Newport was clear and precise, and I only had to speed up to 1.20 on audible.
Every Hidden Truth
Far from Ruined, Book 2
By: Nikole Knight
Narrated by: Nick Newport
Series: Far from Ruined, Book 2
Length: 7 hrs and 42 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.35 speed on Audible
I received this audiobook for free from GRR at my request. My review is my opinion and an honest review - neither the author nor GRR influenced my opinion.
This is not a standalone book; you need to read/listen to book one before starting this one.
High Schooler Silas is under attack from a high school bully. Ben and Silas have started a relationship, but the outside world is trying their hardest to hinder this.
The characters are well-defined, and you can relate to them easily. You feel like you know these two boys and want to wrap them up and protect them from the high school bullies.
The narration by Nick Newport was clear and precise, and I only had to speed up to 1.20 on audible.
Every Hidden Truth
Far from Ruined, Book 2
By: Nikole Knight
Narrated by: Nick Newport
Series: Far from Ruined, Book 2
Length: 7 hrs and 42 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.35 speed on Audible
I received this audiobook for free from GRR at my request. My review is my opinion and an honest review - neither the author nor GRR influenced my opinion.
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