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Jinxed Hearts
I made choices. Messy. Soul-shattering. Forbidden choices. The kind that could burn everything to the ground.
From the outside, my life looks perfect. Devoted husband. Two beautiful kids. Even a perky ass at thirty-nine.
But inside? I’m drowning in silence, in guilt, in a version of myself I barely recognize. A pretty train wreck held together with smiles and lies.
Then Dylan F*cking Hayes crashes into my world. Rugged. Addictive. Off-limits. He makes me feel alive. Wanted. Seen.
One problem—I’m married.
Now I have to choose between the life I built… or risking it all for a man who isn't mine.
Secrets unravel. Hearts shatter. No one walks away untouched.
Because not every love story is a sunset. Some are wildfires.
JINXED HEARTS isn’t just about love or healing. It’s raw. Bold. And every shade of grey. A story that dares you to question the life you're living… to tear it all apart… and to start again.
From the outside, my life looks perfect. Devoted husband. Two beautiful kids. Even a perky ass at thirty-nine.
But inside? I’m drowning in silence, in guilt, in a version of myself I barely recognize. A pretty train wreck held together with smiles and lies.
Then Dylan F*cking Hayes crashes into my world. Rugged. Addictive. Off-limits. He makes me feel alive. Wanted. Seen.
One problem—I’m married.
Now I have to choose between the life I built… or risking it all for a man who isn't mine.
Secrets unravel. Hearts shatter. No one walks away untouched.
Because not every love story is a sunset. Some are wildfires.
JINXED HEARTS isn’t just about love or healing. It’s raw. Bold. And every shade of grey. A story that dares you to question the life you're living… to tear it all apart… and to start again.
Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2025
27 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Francesca Graye
1 book51 followersFrancesca Graye writes spicy, messy, heartfelt romance that will burn before it heals. When she’s not dreaming up morally gray characters—or reading about them—she’s indulging in tacos, ice cream, and cat naps.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
February 23, 2026
After over a year of emotional chaos, literal physical pain, ugly tears, uncontrollable laughs, steamy research with my husband (you’re welcome), trauma-dumping, soul-searching, questioning my goddamn sanity…
I clawed my way out of the black hole of endless edits, and I’m giving myself five stars. Maybe ten.
Is this review biased? Obviously.
Do I care? Absolutely not.
If you love angsty, forbidden romance with messy, morally gray characters and a hard-earned happily ever after…
What are you still doing here? Go read the damn book. And if it wrecks you in the best way, leave me a glowing review. 😉
I clawed my way out of the black hole of endless edits, and I’m giving myself five stars. Maybe ten.
Is this review biased? Obviously.
Do I care? Absolutely not.
If you love angsty, forbidden romance with messy, morally gray characters and a hard-earned happily ever after…
What are you still doing here? Go read the damn book. And if it wrecks you in the best way, leave me a glowing review. 😉
July 24, 2025
Messy, chaotic, and a total rollercoaster. I’m not going to lie, I was frustrated with every character at one point or another. But that’s part of what made the story so messy! I really enjoyed watching Jenna’s journey of self-discovery and growth as the FMC. Her friendship with Izzy was such a breath of fresh air, solid, drama-free, and genuinely supportive. I wanted to dislike Jenna’s husband, but surprisingly, I didn’t end up hating him. If you enjoy messy stories with complex characters and a hard-earned HEA, this one’s for you!
July 28, 2025
Review to come.
July 23 2025- ****ARC Review****
This was more than just a romance in many ways. It was a messy, emotional journey of a woman rediscovering herself. The love story tugs at your heart and keeps you hooked, even when the characters’ choices frustrate you.
Not everything worked fully for me, but the emotional depth and honesty made it a solid debut.
Thank you to Francesca Graye for the ARC, and congratulations on your debut! 💐
July 23 2025- ****ARC Review****
This was more than just a romance in many ways. It was a messy, emotional journey of a woman rediscovering herself. The love story tugs at your heart and keeps you hooked, even when the characters’ choices frustrate you.
Not everything worked fully for me, but the emotional depth and honesty made it a solid debut.
Thank you to Francesca Graye for the ARC, and congratulations on your debut! 💐
July 31, 2025
This one shook me to the core. I didn’t know how much I needed this book until I read it—it’s more than just a love story. It’s raw, unyielding, and takes you to places you didn’t expect to go, but absolutely needed to. I couldn’t put it down and devoured it in a day.
My takeaway from this debut novel:
It dives into the hard parts of marriage—the ones people rarely talk about. It asks: who are we within a marriage? Do we give up too much of ourselves just to make it work? And at what point do we ask for ourselves back—or realize we never really knew who we were to begin with?
The story also explores trauma—how it traps us, changes us, and sometimes forces us into versions of ourselves that aren’t truly us. Many people go through life carrying trauma that rewrote who they were supposed to be, adapting their personalities just to cope (I personally relate to this).
This is a love story with forbidden love, secrets, choices and difficult decisions. Oh and the twists I didn’t even see coming.
I found the experience of reading this somewhat therapeutic. It made me sit in the uncomfortable, in the ugly, and feel every emotion. I was gutted. I felt joy. I cried. I mourned, maybe because I related so much to Jenna. (you may want to check TW’s beforehand).
And I needed that epilogue so badly—it gave me the breath I didn’t realize I’d been holding.
Congratulations Francesca on a stellar debut novel, and thank you for bringing this story to life. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to read and review this beautiful and unforgettable love story.
My takeaway from this debut novel:
It dives into the hard parts of marriage—the ones people rarely talk about. It asks: who are we within a marriage? Do we give up too much of ourselves just to make it work? And at what point do we ask for ourselves back—or realize we never really knew who we were to begin with?
The story also explores trauma—how it traps us, changes us, and sometimes forces us into versions of ourselves that aren’t truly us. Many people go through life carrying trauma that rewrote who they were supposed to be, adapting their personalities just to cope (I personally relate to this).
This is a love story with forbidden love, secrets, choices and difficult decisions. Oh and the twists I didn’t even see coming.
I found the experience of reading this somewhat therapeutic. It made me sit in the uncomfortable, in the ugly, and feel every emotion. I was gutted. I felt joy. I cried. I mourned, maybe because I related so much to Jenna. (you may want to check TW’s beforehand).
And I needed that epilogue so badly—it gave me the breath I didn’t realize I’d been holding.
Congratulations Francesca on a stellar debut novel, and thank you for bringing this story to life. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to read and review this beautiful and unforgettable love story.
August 5, 2025
*** ARC Review***
WHAT?! I repeat what!!! This book was soo good. So emotional and yet had some heart warming moments! Definitely a plot twist I didn’t see coming!
WHAT?! I repeat what!!! This book was soo good. So emotional and yet had some heart warming moments! Definitely a plot twist I didn’t see coming!
July 25, 2025
W O W
I went into this book blind and open-minded, and oh goodness, I was rewarded.
I was so pleased to see the FMC turning 40 as I am 39 and have so many emotions myself regarding that.
All of these characters, the story, the thoughts, and the actions, they are all real and raw. And I that is something to be admired.
I could put myself in their shoes so easily, and it was hard not to get attached.
Francesa wrote in a way that anyone could relate, understand, sympathize, and FEEL.
Please have a box of Kleenex ready because you will need it.
I want to tell all of this story, but you will have to just read and feel for yourself how this author is phenomenal ❤️
And always love yourself. Be who you are, and don't apologize for it 🦋⭐️
I went into this book blind and open-minded, and oh goodness, I was rewarded.
I was so pleased to see the FMC turning 40 as I am 39 and have so many emotions myself regarding that.
All of these characters, the story, the thoughts, and the actions, they are all real and raw. And I that is something to be admired.
I could put myself in their shoes so easily, and it was hard not to get attached.
Francesa wrote in a way that anyone could relate, understand, sympathize, and FEEL.
Please have a box of Kleenex ready because you will need it.
I want to tell all of this story, but you will have to just read and feel for yourself how this author is phenomenal ❤️
And always love yourself. Be who you are, and don't apologize for it 🦋⭐️
July 28, 2025
This was messy, dramatic, and emotionally raw. Jenna’s journey of self-discovery is full of tough choices, imperfect people, and a hard-earned relationship with Dylan that felt worth rooting for. There’s infidelity, emotional tension, and a lot of chaos but it all serves the story well.
Thank you to Francesca Graye for the ARC, and congratulations on a strong debut! 💛
Thank you to Francesca Graye for the ARC, and congratulations on a strong debut! 💛
July 22, 2025
Wow… I’m speechless. I loved this book!! It was such an easy read. I’d say one of my favorites this year!
Jenna is such a relatable character. Like her, I’m sure everyone knows it’s too easy to fall into the comfortable routine of daily life and lose your sense of individuality. She’s a mom and married to her high school sweetheart. She’s works a job that she doesn’t necessarily need, but it’s her only escape from her home life. That’s where she meets Dylan.
Don’t even get me started on the drool worthy Dylan!The way he swoops in and sweeps her off her feet was amazing. Making her realize who she is again without hardly even trying.
So this is your book if you’re looking for a great mix of forbidden romance, finding yourself, and hard to resist characters!!
Jenna is such a relatable character. Like her, I’m sure everyone knows it’s too easy to fall into the comfortable routine of daily life and lose your sense of individuality. She’s a mom and married to her high school sweetheart. She’s works a job that she doesn’t necessarily need, but it’s her only escape from her home life. That’s where she meets Dylan.
Don’t even get me started on the drool worthy Dylan!The way he swoops in and sweeps her off her feet was amazing. Making her realize who she is again without hardly even trying.
So this is your book if you’re looking for a great mix of forbidden romance, finding yourself, and hard to resist characters!!
July 23, 2025
First off. It was hard to get through because it hit close to home for me. It was like reading pieces of myself through someone else’s eyes.
Thank you for being my therapist and helping me understand those parts of me that I didn’t understand and constantly had me on fight or flight.
Second… THE PLOT TWIST NEAR THE END. GASP!! Jaw dropping and mind spinning. I couldn’t breathe, my mind literally spiraled and I cried because my heart broke her Jenna.
Thank you for being my therapist and helping me understand those parts of me that I didn’t understand and constantly had me on fight or flight.
Second… THE PLOT TWIST NEAR THE END. GASP!! Jaw dropping and mind spinning. I couldn’t breathe, my mind literally spiraled and I cried because my heart broke her Jenna.
July 18, 2025
omg I loved it i had all the emotions and I didnt know what the heck happened . but I loves the ending and I cant wait for more highly recommended
July 10, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Jinxed Hearts hooked me from the very first page and refused to let go. The emotional tension was off the charts—I was so enthralled, I devoured the entire book in under 24 hours! Jenna’s story is messy, raw, and heartbreakingly real, I felt every ounce of her conflict.
The author doesn’t just explore emotional turmoil—she dives headfirst into it, unafraid to tackle the messy, soul-crushing decisions that make this story hit so hard. Her writing is fearless and intimate, with characters that linger in your mind long after the last page, and I love her for it.
This isn’t just a love story—it’s a wildfire, an emotional roller coaster I could not stop reading. Intense, unpredictable, and utterly unforgettable. Smoldering with chemistry, laced with pain, and threaded with hope, Jinxed Hearts is easily one of my top reads of the year. 🔥
Jinxed Hearts hooked me from the very first page and refused to let go. The emotional tension was off the charts—I was so enthralled, I devoured the entire book in under 24 hours! Jenna’s story is messy, raw, and heartbreakingly real, I felt every ounce of her conflict.
The author doesn’t just explore emotional turmoil—she dives headfirst into it, unafraid to tackle the messy, soul-crushing decisions that make this story hit so hard. Her writing is fearless and intimate, with characters that linger in your mind long after the last page, and I love her for it.
This isn’t just a love story—it’s a wildfire, an emotional roller coaster I could not stop reading. Intense, unpredictable, and utterly unforgettable. Smoldering with chemistry, laced with pain, and threaded with hope, Jinxed Hearts is easily one of my top reads of the year. 🔥
June 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❤️morally grey romance
❤️secrets,secrets,secrets
❤️banter
❤️infidelity
❤️HEA
Holy cow! Francesca Graye has absolutely knocked it out of the park with her debut novel, Jinxed Hearts. This book has so many emotions I was laughing, crying, throwing my Kindle and ultimately so, so happy for Jenna finding her true self and real, true happiness!
This read is a bit different than my usual in that there is infidelity in it. I know what you’re thinking but this book is so well written and the taboo topic is dealt with carefully, with great thought and tact.
Jenna and Jacob seem like the couple who have it all but underneath their marriage is lacking and built on an enormous secret. When Dylan crashes into Jenna’s life she regains her spark, and her desire to reach for the life she wants.
When all the secrets are out in the open, who will be left standing? Read Jinxed Hearts to find out.
A HUGE thank you to Francesca Graye for the pleasure of BETA reading this book.
❤️morally grey romance
❤️secrets,secrets,secrets
❤️banter
❤️infidelity
❤️HEA
Holy cow! Francesca Graye has absolutely knocked it out of the park with her debut novel, Jinxed Hearts. This book has so many emotions I was laughing, crying, throwing my Kindle and ultimately so, so happy for Jenna finding her true self and real, true happiness!
This read is a bit different than my usual in that there is infidelity in it. I know what you’re thinking but this book is so well written and the taboo topic is dealt with carefully, with great thought and tact.
Jenna and Jacob seem like the couple who have it all but underneath their marriage is lacking and built on an enormous secret. When Dylan crashes into Jenna’s life she regains her spark, and her desire to reach for the life she wants.
When all the secrets are out in the open, who will be left standing? Read Jinxed Hearts to find out.
A HUGE thank you to Francesca Graye for the pleasure of BETA reading this book.
January 29, 2026
✨️J I N X E D . H E A R T S✨️
So very grateful for this ARC read 💕
Wow. ❤️
This was therapy in a book. It's raw, and messy and seductive and triggering and all so believable. I went in with an open mind, zero judgements and I was blown away by every emotion I felt - the good the bad and the ugly!
First off it was amazing to see an FMC turning 40... It's great to see this age bracket being represented 👏
The writing of this story was articulated SO well. It opened my eyes and my mind and gave me a newfound perspective on love, relationships and dependency.
Francesca taps into the messy world of infidelity, that gave me mixed emotions towards all the characters, all the way through the book. But that was the beauty of it ❤️ No one's character was "good" or "bad". All of these complex topics were deeply woven into their integrated lives drawing me in every step of the way.
I fell in love with Jenna for her perseverance, her clumsiness and her need to love and be loved. ❤️
I fell in love with Jacob for his fierce overprotectiveness and his need to support his family. 💙
I fell in love with Dylan for his acceptance, his charm (which had me smiling throughout the whole book) and his vulnerability. 💚
I fell in love with Izzy for just being Izzy ! 🧡
This book is not just about finding the right person to love, it's ultimately about self preservation and self love, and the importance of being able to advocate for yourself and what you want and believe in.
So very grateful for this ARC read 💕
Wow. ❤️
This was therapy in a book. It's raw, and messy and seductive and triggering and all so believable. I went in with an open mind, zero judgements and I was blown away by every emotion I felt - the good the bad and the ugly!
First off it was amazing to see an FMC turning 40... It's great to see this age bracket being represented 👏
The writing of this story was articulated SO well. It opened my eyes and my mind and gave me a newfound perspective on love, relationships and dependency.
Francesca taps into the messy world of infidelity, that gave me mixed emotions towards all the characters, all the way through the book. But that was the beauty of it ❤️ No one's character was "good" or "bad". All of these complex topics were deeply woven into their integrated lives drawing me in every step of the way.
I fell in love with Jenna for her perseverance, her clumsiness and her need to love and be loved. ❤️
I fell in love with Jacob for his fierce overprotectiveness and his need to support his family. 💙
I fell in love with Dylan for his acceptance, his charm (which had me smiling throughout the whole book) and his vulnerability. 💚
I fell in love with Izzy for just being Izzy ! 🧡
This book is not just about finding the right person to love, it's ultimately about self preservation and self love, and the importance of being able to advocate for yourself and what you want and believe in.
June 18, 2025
5 stars! Oh my! ⭐️⭐️⭐��⭐️⭐️
This book was one for the books (literally!) I had the privilege of doing a beta read for this book. And that version was AMAZING!! Can’t wait to see the final product. I apparently don’t give out a lot of 5 stars so this is special. Go read this book!!
This book was one for the books (literally!) I had the privilege of doing a beta read for this book. And that version was AMAZING!! Can’t wait to see the final product. I apparently don’t give out a lot of 5 stars so this is special. Go read this book!!
July 31, 2025
**ARC Review**
I want to thank Francesca Graye (love the name) for giving me the opportunity to read her new book Jinxed Hearts and being part of the ARC team. It is an honor and I have enjoyed chatting with others but especially you about your book and getting to know you.
This ARC I went into blind. I signed up because of the beautiful cover and the author's name, similar to mine ;) and I thought I found the book but actually the book found me. That doesn't happen often and as I was reading I didn't even know it until about half way through. Funny how fate works and people and yes even books come into your life when you need it, that is how I feel about Jinxed Hearts.
This was easily a 5 star read for me.
I recommend all to go into this book blind and with an open mind. There are some situations that can easily be judged but I say you never know what you would or would not do. I didn't realize until about half way through that Jenna's feelings and thoughts were similar to some I have had and I think many will be able to relate to this story. This story is real, raw, tragic, and beautiful. I loved all the characters, each one was beautifully written showing their weaknesses and strength. Both Jacob and Dylan were delish in their own way. Everyone needs an Izzy! What a great friend and sister, and sister-in-law, she was so much fun. The spice scenes were excellent and I loved the banter as well. I did tear up, have a tissue readily handy.
I do not want to spoil this book so I will not go into all the details of this story because I want you to have the same experience I had. You will go on an awesome ride and at the end of the ride I think you will be pleased. I loved this book from start to finish, it all wrapped up nicely. I want more! Chef's kiss to Francesca to a beautifully written book - congrats!!
some of my favorites that I highlighted:
*maybe he's not meant to be there forever*
*Why does something this perfect, this undeniably right - feels so devastatingly wrong?*
*he makes me feel loved and seen, like I matter*
*Because sometimes it's easier to stay in what you know, even when it hurts. And peace can feel strange. Like something you don't deserve.*
*the only person who could save me and make me whole - was me*
*what if the truth isn't that I have to make a choice but that I already did and I'm too scared to admit it*
*life's too short to live with what-if's*
I want to thank Francesca Graye (love the name) for giving me the opportunity to read her new book Jinxed Hearts and being part of the ARC team. It is an honor and I have enjoyed chatting with others but especially you about your book and getting to know you.
This ARC I went into blind. I signed up because of the beautiful cover and the author's name, similar to mine ;) and I thought I found the book but actually the book found me. That doesn't happen often and as I was reading I didn't even know it until about half way through. Funny how fate works and people and yes even books come into your life when you need it, that is how I feel about Jinxed Hearts.
This was easily a 5 star read for me.
I recommend all to go into this book blind and with an open mind. There are some situations that can easily be judged but I say you never know what you would or would not do. I didn't realize until about half way through that Jenna's feelings and thoughts were similar to some I have had and I think many will be able to relate to this story. This story is real, raw, tragic, and beautiful. I loved all the characters, each one was beautifully written showing their weaknesses and strength. Both Jacob and Dylan were delish in their own way. Everyone needs an Izzy! What a great friend and sister, and sister-in-law, she was so much fun. The spice scenes were excellent and I loved the banter as well. I did tear up, have a tissue readily handy.
I do not want to spoil this book so I will not go into all the details of this story because I want you to have the same experience I had. You will go on an awesome ride and at the end of the ride I think you will be pleased. I loved this book from start to finish, it all wrapped up nicely. I want more! Chef's kiss to Francesca to a beautifully written book - congrats!!
some of my favorites that I highlighted:
*maybe he's not meant to be there forever*
*Why does something this perfect, this undeniably right - feels so devastatingly wrong?*
*he makes me feel loved and seen, like I matter*
*Because sometimes it's easier to stay in what you know, even when it hurts. And peace can feel strange. Like something you don't deserve.*
*the only person who could save me and make me whole - was me*
*what if the truth isn't that I have to make a choice but that I already did and I'm too scared to admit it*
*life's too short to live with what-if's*
August 7, 2025
It was a good book I really enjoyed it, the drama was so good and the twist at the end omg I can say I didn’t see that coming, I highly recommend you try this new author!
July 12, 2025
Finally…. Some representation!!! Within two pages we find out that Jenna is a married mum of two in her late 30s. Instantly loved this, although that’s where our similarities end, Jenna is so relatable. The feelings of feeling frozen like time is just passing by amongst all the chaos, I get it! We lose so much of ourselves during motherhood and being a wife, we forget about us.
The whole story was emotional, raw and very real. I didn’t agree with some of Jenna’s choices but I understood it, all of it. Not usually a fan of the ‘cheating trope’ but this story was handled and written with such care.
I would have liked more from Jenna’s past because I’m just so captivated by her and how she became so consumed by trying to find the girl she once was (this used to be me). Her journey was about Learning acceptance, embracing growth, seeing who you truly are and what makes you truly happy. Whilst still having a successful career and being an amazing mum- wow! I see you, Jenna.
Oh Dylan….I just loved the quietness of Dylan but how he said what he was feeling, he wore his heart on his sleeve, even if he didn’t know it at the time! He wasn’t afraid to be real and honest. Although he was the other guy, the way the story is written had me rooting for him!! Also, he’s soooo hot!
Jacob, also not a bad guy! I kind of wish we had his pov. I guess he too became just stuck and consumed with the secrets he was keeping. He did try so hard, I know jenna says he never really did but I saw him!
Instantly addicted to this story, I just had to know where it ended! The twist that slowly unraveled throughout, kept me gripped. I predicted it but it was still a shock with it came to a head.
And when the acknowledgments end with ‘until we meet again… in Izzy’s wild world’ yes please!!!
Gave this book 4*, honestly please read it! I cannot wait to delve into this series!! Thank you so much Francesca, for something so bold, raw and utterly emotional! An author to watch out for, for sure!
The whole story was emotional, raw and very real. I didn’t agree with some of Jenna’s choices but I understood it, all of it. Not usually a fan of the ‘cheating trope’ but this story was handled and written with such care.
I would have liked more from Jenna’s past because I’m just so captivated by her and how she became so consumed by trying to find the girl she once was (this used to be me). Her journey was about Learning acceptance, embracing growth, seeing who you truly are and what makes you truly happy. Whilst still having a successful career and being an amazing mum- wow! I see you, Jenna.
Oh Dylan….I just loved the quietness of Dylan but how he said what he was feeling, he wore his heart on his sleeve, even if he didn’t know it at the time! He wasn’t afraid to be real and honest. Although he was the other guy, the way the story is written had me rooting for him!! Also, he’s soooo hot!
Jacob, also not a bad guy! I kind of wish we had his pov. I guess he too became just stuck and consumed with the secrets he was keeping. He did try so hard, I know jenna says he never really did but I saw him!
Instantly addicted to this story, I just had to know where it ended! The twist that slowly unraveled throughout, kept me gripped. I predicted it but it was still a shock with it came to a head.
And when the acknowledgments end with ‘until we meet again… in Izzy’s wild world’ yes please!!!
Gave this book 4*, honestly please read it! I cannot wait to delve into this series!! Thank you so much Francesca, for something so bold, raw and utterly emotional! An author to watch out for, for sure!
February 24, 2026
AHHH! What a twist! I am still reeling from it. I want moreeee. I want more of their love story. This book was a tough read as an emphatic person but WOW! I loved it so much. I love the Jenna got to heal herself independently and as a strong woman AND still get her happy ending with the man. It was beautiful. I love
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2025
I was verrrrrry wrapped up in this story very quickly. I felt deeply and intensely, and was literally secondhand anxious on behalf of Jenna. I really felt as if I was her and was feeling all of what she was feeling.
Jenna is me. I am Jenna. She’s clumsy, can be forgetful, gets distracted, feels as if she’s not enough and struggles with her anxieties day in and out. I truly felt connected to her.
Dylan was a whirlwind. God he was so good. And I fell in love with his just as quick as Jenna did. The push and pull between them made my heart and soul ache.
I’m so glad to have read this and really appreciate the character development that happened throughout, and just the level of realness about how it all went down.
Thank you so much Francesca for this ARC, I loved it ❤️
Jenna is me. I am Jenna. She’s clumsy, can be forgetful, gets distracted, feels as if she’s not enough and struggles with her anxieties day in and out. I truly felt connected to her.
Dylan was a whirlwind. God he was so good. And I fell in love with his just as quick as Jenna did. The push and pull between them made my heart and soul ache.
I’m so glad to have read this and really appreciate the character development that happened throughout, and just the level of realness about how it all went down.
Thank you so much Francesca for this ARC, I loved it ❤️
July 17, 2025
Jenna at 40, has been married to her best friend’s older brother Jacob for the better part of 20 years. They have a family together, a nice life - Jenna hasn’t ever really settled into a career but at 40 has found a passion for event planning.
Enter Dylan, a certifiable playboy construction worker who is tasked with renovating the offices that Jenna works in. Dylan a fan of a situationship and certified commitment phobe forms a bond with married Jenna.
Jenna’s whole perspective shifts when she starts to thrive at work - and when she starts spending more time with Jacob, she starts to wonder… is she really happy?
Written in a first person narrative - with dual points of view we take a journey with Jenna and Dylan. Jenna’s journey has her questioning, is being content really enough at 40? Dylan’s a certified commitment phobic batchelor that runs a mile the second he catches feelings - but is there someone worth taking that leap for? How far would you go to fill your cup?
Enter Dylan, a certifiable playboy construction worker who is tasked with renovating the offices that Jenna works in. Dylan a fan of a situationship and certified commitment phobe forms a bond with married Jenna.
Jenna’s whole perspective shifts when she starts to thrive at work - and when she starts spending more time with Jacob, she starts to wonder… is she really happy?
Written in a first person narrative - with dual points of view we take a journey with Jenna and Dylan. Jenna’s journey has her questioning, is being content really enough at 40? Dylan’s a certified commitment phobic batchelor that runs a mile the second he catches feelings - but is there someone worth taking that leap for? How far would you go to fill your cup?
July 6, 2025
This book is absolutely beautiful—and utterly shattering—in so many ways. It explores some heavy topics like infidelity and domestic violence, so definitely check content warnings beforehand. Some of the themes really hit home for me—especially the feeling of being stuck, and the powerful, painful growth that comes with realising you do have choices in life.
We follow Jenna, who’s wrestling with a deep internal struggle. On the surface, her life looks picture-perfect—husband, kids, lovely home—but inside, she’s falling apart. She wants more, but fears the cost of change. Watching her navigate this emotional tug-of-war is heartbreaking and hopeful all at once.
Enter Dylan—our morally grey hunk—and whew, is he hot! fans self I was 100% rooting (hehe) for Jenna and Dylan. Their chemistry is electric, the banter is chef’s kiss, and the way Dylan just gets Jenna? Obsessed. He sees her in a way no one else does—sometimes even before she sees herself.
Jacob, on the other hand… oof. He frustrated the heck out of me. That said, I did find moments where I genuinely felt for him. Francesca did an incredible job fleshing out these characters and making them feel real—flaws and all. For a debut novel, this is seriously impressive.
Also, can we talk about Izzy? Everyone needs a friend like her. She’s Jenna’s bestie and her sister-in-law, and she brings so much warmth and humour. Fierce, funny, loyal—she’s the kind of friend who reminds you who you are when you forget.
What I loved most is how relatable so much of this story is. Life isn’t black and white, and this book captures that messy, complicated in-between space with so much honesty. It shows how hard change and growth can be, but also reminds us that we do have agency—even when we feel stuck. And that to truly show up for the people we love, we have to show up for ourselves first.
Massive thank you to Francesca for allowing me to read this ARC! I devoured it!
We follow Jenna, who’s wrestling with a deep internal struggle. On the surface, her life looks picture-perfect—husband, kids, lovely home—but inside, she’s falling apart. She wants more, but fears the cost of change. Watching her navigate this emotional tug-of-war is heartbreaking and hopeful all at once.
Enter Dylan—our morally grey hunk—and whew, is he hot! fans self I was 100% rooting (hehe) for Jenna and Dylan. Their chemistry is electric, the banter is chef’s kiss, and the way Dylan just gets Jenna? Obsessed. He sees her in a way no one else does—sometimes even before she sees herself.
Jacob, on the other hand… oof. He frustrated the heck out of me. That said, I did find moments where I genuinely felt for him. Francesca did an incredible job fleshing out these characters and making them feel real—flaws and all. For a debut novel, this is seriously impressive.
Also, can we talk about Izzy? Everyone needs a friend like her. She’s Jenna’s bestie and her sister-in-law, and she brings so much warmth and humour. Fierce, funny, loyal—she’s the kind of friend who reminds you who you are when you forget.
What I loved most is how relatable so much of this story is. Life isn’t black and white, and this book captures that messy, complicated in-between space with so much honesty. It shows how hard change and growth can be, but also reminds us that we do have agency—even when we feel stuck. And that to truly show up for the people we love, we have to show up for ourselves first.
Massive thank you to Francesca for allowing me to read this ARC! I devoured it!
July 30, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Okayyyyyy, WOW! What a book! This read has some of my favourite things, forbidden romance, morally grey, fantastic banter, secretssssssss and ✨trauma✨ (don’t at me) and I absolutely loved it! It’s not my usual kind of read considering it just has straight up adultery, BUT it’s not what you think and is 100% worth the read cause you will NOT be disappointed.
What I liked:
✨Character Development - the way the characters actually managed to communicate with each other and deal with their trauma to a manageable level was very well written!
✨Tough Topics - basically this whole book is a bunch of tough and taboo topics that just no one wants to write about but the fact Francesca just went “FU” and wrote about them was outstanding, like this is stuff that people go through every single day and the level of respect I have for her writing a full book on it is next level!
✨Plot Twists - all I’m gonna say is, WOW 😅
What I didn’t like:
✨You know, I don’t think I have a single problem with this book in the slightest! Maybe one lil quip is some chapters felt a lil too long but that’s just because I’m a slow a$$ reader and is more a me problem 🤣
This book was exceptionally well written, you could feel the passion between Dylan and Jenna, the bond between Izzy and Jenna and the love Jacob has for his girls. It was such a pleasure to read and I’m very excited to see what Francesca has cooking up next! 💖
💕I received an advanced readers copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily! 💕
Okayyyyyy, WOW! What a book! This read has some of my favourite things, forbidden romance, morally grey, fantastic banter, secretssssssss and ✨trauma✨ (don’t at me) and I absolutely loved it! It’s not my usual kind of read considering it just has straight up adultery, BUT it’s not what you think and is 100% worth the read cause you will NOT be disappointed.
What I liked:
✨Character Development - the way the characters actually managed to communicate with each other and deal with their trauma to a manageable level was very well written!
✨Tough Topics - basically this whole book is a bunch of tough and taboo topics that just no one wants to write about but the fact Francesca just went “FU” and wrote about them was outstanding, like this is stuff that people go through every single day and the level of respect I have for her writing a full book on it is next level!
✨Plot Twists - all I’m gonna say is, WOW 😅
What I didn’t like:
✨You know, I don’t think I have a single problem with this book in the slightest! Maybe one lil quip is some chapters felt a lil too long but that’s just because I’m a slow a$$ reader and is more a me problem 🤣
This book was exceptionally well written, you could feel the passion between Dylan and Jenna, the bond between Izzy and Jenna and the love Jacob has for his girls. It was such a pleasure to read and I’m very excited to see what Francesca has cooking up next! 💖
💕I received an advanced readers copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily! 💕
July 28, 2025
ARC Review****These characters hooked me from the very beginning. They are messy and human but also people you want to root for. Jenna is living a life that on the outside seems perfect. On the inside she wants more. She meets Dylan and he makes her feel alive. We follow along as the tension builds and Jenna begins to make choices for herself.
July 6, 2025
This isn’t a genre I usually reach for, but Jinxed Hearts really surprised me—in the best way.
I truly appreciate @francescagrayeauthor for allowing me to read and review this ARC.
The emotional hot mess pulled me in right from the start. I loved how the characters were complex, real, and layered with so much depth. The push and pull of everyone’s feelings made the story feel immersive and authentic.
And yes… the spice? Chef’s kiss 🔥🥵 It was the perfect balance—intense without overpowering the emotional weight of the story. I found myself genuinely invested in where all the relationships would go, and while not totally surprised by the ending, it tied things up very nicely 🩵
If you’re into romance that brings both heat and heart, this one’s worth the read 💫
Book Rating: 🦄🦄🦄🦄
#JinxedHearts #RomanceReads #BookReview #SpicyReads #EmotionalReads #Bookstagram #BookLove #BookishThoughts #BookRec
I truly appreciate @francescagrayeauthor for allowing me to read and review this ARC.
The emotional hot mess pulled me in right from the start. I loved how the characters were complex, real, and layered with so much depth. The push and pull of everyone’s feelings made the story feel immersive and authentic.
And yes… the spice? Chef’s kiss 🔥🥵 It was the perfect balance—intense without overpowering the emotional weight of the story. I found myself genuinely invested in where all the relationships would go, and while not totally surprised by the ending, it tied things up very nicely 🩵
If you’re into romance that brings both heat and heart, this one’s worth the read 💫
Book Rating: 🦄🦄🦄🦄
#JinxedHearts #RomanceReads #BookReview #SpicyReads #EmotionalReads #Bookstagram #BookLove #BookishThoughts #BookRec
July 7, 2025
Wow... just wow. I cried and laughed and felt all the emotions reading this. This book was everything I wanted it to be & more.
Jenna is so relatable, not just because we share the same name, but also because I'm always clumsy and spilling stuff on myself. Her life is a mess but honestly, who can blame her? I'm so proud of how she builds herself up throughout the story and even though it wasn't easy she got her HEA.
Dylan... gosh I think he'd have me wrapped around his finger in no time. I love how open he is with Jenna and how thoughtful he is. While others thought she was too chaotic/clumsy he never complained. While he might not have the best past, I liked how he owned up to it and was trying not to let it define his future.
The two of them together just makes my heart happy.
Jenna is so relatable, not just because we share the same name, but also because I'm always clumsy and spilling stuff on myself. Her life is a mess but honestly, who can blame her? I'm so proud of how she builds herself up throughout the story and even though it wasn't easy she got her HEA.
Dylan... gosh I think he'd have me wrapped around his finger in no time. I love how open he is with Jenna and how thoughtful he is. While others thought she was too chaotic/clumsy he never complained. While he might not have the best past, I liked how he owned up to it and was trying not to let it define his future.
The two of them together just makes my heart happy.
July 8, 2025
Wow! What a debut! I could not get enough of this book and devoured it in HOURS!
It’s honestly a book I needed to read. It isn’t at all what I expected. I think we all have a little bit of Jenna in us. I definitely know I do and I learned a lot from her.
My expectations of this book were turned on its head honestly. It’s gripping and messy and passionate and raw and…healing.
Well done Francesca Graye. Well done.
It’s honestly a book I needed to read. It isn’t at all what I expected. I think we all have a little bit of Jenna in us. I definitely know I do and I learned a lot from her.
My expectations of this book were turned on its head honestly. It’s gripping and messy and passionate and raw and…healing.
Well done Francesca Graye. Well done.
July 4, 2025
This book was perfect. It was raw and it was real. Jenna spoke to me in a way a character never has before. She wasn’t perfect and didn’t pretend to be. I felt her pain as she had to choice between the man she married and the man that made her feel alive. Choice between the man that saved her or the man that understood her? This story was an absolute ride and I can’t recommend it enough. Thank you Francesca for having me on your ARC team. This book will stay with me for a while.
July 4, 2025
I don’t even know where to start. This book wrecked me! I was balling my eyes out from chapter one. I connected with it right away, and it had me questioning the little lies I tell myself all the time just to get through. All the emotions the FMC felt and the connection she had with Dylan was so perfect and real. If you have questioned your life and thought is this really all that there is, then this book is going to hit you so hard! Thank you to the author for writing such a beautiful book!
June 16, 2025
This debut novel absolutely blew me away. The emotional roller coaster of trying to decide who to root for, what is right vs wrong, and are her feeling valid- will take you on a tremendous journey. This is a love story, the love within a marriage and the love of themself!
I was truly blown away by the storytelling!! Literally had moments of every emotion: laughed, cried, and spent a whole lot of time nodding my head while understanding Jenna as she navigated through her tough choices.
Thank you Francesca for allowing me to Beta read your first ever book!! I’m your biggest fan and I can’t wait to see what you write next!!
I was truly blown away by the storytelling!! Literally had moments of every emotion: laughed, cried, and spent a whole lot of time nodding my head while understanding Jenna as she navigated through her tough choices.
Thank you Francesca for allowing me to Beta read your first ever book!! I’m your biggest fan and I can’t wait to see what you write next!!
July 27, 2025
ARC REVIEW :
Thank you @francescagrayeauthor for this arc , I’m grateful to have read and been part of Jenna & Dylan’s world .
Jinxed Hearts is a reverse age-gap and it follows Jenna a married woman and a hot contractor Dylan ; who turns her head and shows her what it means to be loved by a man who truly sees and loves you as you are .
Both characters are dealing with past baggage they have carried for so many years and is somehow interconnected .
I enjoyed watching their character development because Dylan seemed like another F boy who couldn’t commit - someone who is only there for a good time not a long time …. that is until he meets a woman who flips the script !
There were moments of fustration l felt for both characters especially the fmc , l was like “ NO JENNA ” - so many times l wanted to shake her …. but my girl has been through it and deserved all the happiness.
So many times that l became a little indecisive trying to reason out and maybe sometimes justify some actions … but all in all Jenna needed to step back and do what’s best for her before she allows someone into her world .
Jenna has a lot to unpack from her past trauma which has affected how she deals with life in the present . She needed to find a way to ground herself in the midst of the chaos to be able to make a change in her life no matter the consequences.
Her life lesson was - make a choice !
So many secrets , moments of fustration , anger & fear . Buried secrets were revealed (some not) !
The last few chapters really hit me and felt like l was really going through it with Jenna in her chaotic life .
I was on the edge of my seat and when the plot twist came , l had to put my kindle down because 🤯🤯 like l audibly was like NO … OH MY GOD NO !!
Izzy is the bestie you need to set you straight when you have lost your way !
There’s so much to unpack , this book packs a punch .
Check trigger warnings before you dive, in as this book deals with heavy topics !
4 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you @francescagrayeauthor for this arc , I’m grateful to have read and been part of Jenna & Dylan’s world .
Jinxed Hearts is a reverse age-gap and it follows Jenna a married woman and a hot contractor Dylan ; who turns her head and shows her what it means to be loved by a man who truly sees and loves you as you are .
Both characters are dealing with past baggage they have carried for so many years and is somehow interconnected .
I enjoyed watching their character development because Dylan seemed like another F boy who couldn’t commit - someone who is only there for a good time not a long time …. that is until he meets a woman who flips the script !
There were moments of fustration l felt for both characters especially the fmc , l was like “ NO JENNA ” - so many times l wanted to shake her …. but my girl has been through it and deserved all the happiness.
So many times that l became a little indecisive trying to reason out and maybe sometimes justify some actions … but all in all Jenna needed to step back and do what’s best for her before she allows someone into her world .
Jenna has a lot to unpack from her past trauma which has affected how she deals with life in the present . She needed to find a way to ground herself in the midst of the chaos to be able to make a change in her life no matter the consequences.
Her life lesson was - make a choice !
So many secrets , moments of fustration , anger & fear . Buried secrets were revealed (some not) !
The last few chapters really hit me and felt like l was really going through it with Jenna in her chaotic life .
I was on the edge of my seat and when the plot twist came , l had to put my kindle down because 🤯🤯 like l audibly was like NO … OH MY GOD NO !!
Izzy is the bestie you need to set you straight when you have lost your way !
There’s so much to unpack , this book packs a punch .
Check trigger warnings before you dive, in as this book deals with heavy topics !
4 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
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