Beyond the Twilight

by D.G. Keene

He wasn’t looking for love. She wasn’t sure she deserved it. But the moment they found each other, nothing could break them… except a past that refuses to stay buried.

Tom Matthews is brilliant, successful, and dangerously attractive—a man who thrives on control. But beneath his confidence and sharp edges lies a past filled with pain.

Hope Archer is all heart—curious, passionate, and deeply sincere. But after a love that shattered her confidence, she’s convinced she’s the kind of woman people leave, not the one they choose.

What starts as friendship soon turns into something more, a slow-burning desire that neither of them can resist. Tom, with his devastating charm and raw intensity, strips away Hope’s insecurities. And she, with her fearless spirit and unwavering kindness, makes him believe in a future he never thought possible.

But love is never simple. And when an ex refuses to let go—hell-bent on destroying everything they’ve built—old wounds resurface, trust is shattered, and doubt threatens to tear them apart.

Because when fear speaks louder than love, nothing survives.

Will they fight for what they’ve found? Or will they become each other’s greatest regret?

A scorching, emotional, open-door contemporary romance filled with longing, passion, and an all-consuming love that refuses to surrender.

Genres: Friends To Lovers

416 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 12, 2025

About the author

Born and raised in Italy, D.G. Keene developed an early passion for storytelling and the written word. She holds a degree in Sociology with an emphasis on Communication and Mass Media, as well as a degree in Italian Language and Literature. Ten years ago, she moved to the United States, where she continued to cultivate her love for reading and writing. Drawing inspiration from her travels and the rich landscapes of both Italy and Hawaii, where she lives, D.G. Keene writes emotionally charged and spicy contemporary romance novels that explore the complexities of love, passion, and personal transformation.

Reviews

[BONNIE SMITH · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very deep emotional rollercoaster.

That is what Beyond the Twilight is. And if you are in a place where you need a good cry and need the trauma/ healing experience, well look no further.

Tom and Hope, the MC in this installment are well fleshed out and you will feel their hurt in your heart. You may also feel their heat- so get ready.

Get for fans of:
Slow Burn
Friends to lovers
Love Triangle
Healing transformation
Open door spice

Thank you to the author for taking me on this emotional journey!

[Chasing Silhouettes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two friends, Tom and Hope, have grown close over the years working for the same employers, who are like family to them. Neither have considered, at least out loud, the possibility of there being more between them.... that is until the moment presents itself. Then Tom seemingly sticks his foot in his mouth and possibly ruins things between them and again does something stupid that really might put an end to thing before it even had a chance to begin.

They find out that they share an event in the past that puts them in the same place and time. However, the feelings toward the event for one are not the same as it is for the other. For one, it is a happy event, for the other, it was a tragedy.

If this were a movie, I'd envision Ryan Reynolds as Tom 🤭, witty antics, and those droolworthy abs! It was an endearingly romantic emotional contemporary story of two people struggling with their own internal demons and insecurities. They fight through half-truths and lies, anger, hurt, and misunderstandings. And yet find their way to each other and to love through healing, hope, s-exploration, desires, and acceptance.

"“You know those books are overrated, right? They lie. Just like those romance novels I love so much. They give you all these unrealistic expectations, and then, in real life, everything’s different.” I raise a brow, intrigued. “Oh yeah? Like what?” Hope tilts her head, pretending to think. “Hmm, let’s see… mind- blowing sex, endless orgasms, five rounds in one night…”" (ch 12)

4🌟 eARC review.

[Ms. Dess · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (ARC Read)

Spice Level: Fluff, but make it filthy.

We Have:
✅ Age Gap
✅ Bi MMC
✅ Curious FMC
✅ Emotional Backstory
✅ Sweet but Spicy
✅ HEA

This book was a slow-burning age-gap romance that surprised me in a few ways. The setup was sweet—an older, emotionally reserved MMC meets an inexperienced-but-curious FMC, and their connection builds from flirty tension into something much deeper.

What really worked? The emotional twist of their shared history. The way the MMC’s past tied into the FMC’s unexpectedly heartfelt. It added just enough emotional weight to anchor the spice….

The spice? Oh, it was spicing. For a book that leans wholesome in tone, it brought the heat like a seasoned pro. There’s kink exploration, power dynamics, and a few unexpected turn-ons that keep the scenes from feeling repetitive.

The miscommunication did get intense. You’ll want to scream “USE YOUR WORDS” at both of them—but the emotional payoff is there once it unravels. You’ll feel the conflict, the confusion, and the slow climb toward trust again.

⸻

Side note for my regular followers:
This isn’t my usual dark, messy, chaotic unhinged love story. It’s fluffier, sweeter, and while I normally rage against the miscommunication trope, I knew what lane I was in with this one. If you’re looking for a romance with emotional depth, a ton of spice, and a little slice of healing? You’ll probably love it. Just know—I was screaming at these fools to TALK for like half the book lol - this one was rough for my mental stability🤣🤣

[Nicole Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas Matthews worked as Nicholas' personal assistant. He has been with Nicholas throughout his career and is part of the family. Nicholas and Carolina had a nanny. Hope was just as much as part of the family as Tom was. She frequently spent the night at the ranch as did Tom. Hope and Tom had a great relationship. Tom wanted more but Hope had a boyfriend. A boyfriend that did not deserve her. When they finally broke up, the first person Hope ran to was Tom. Now was his chance.

Hope and Tom matched each other perfectly. They were determined to start an open and honest relationship. Tom kept one thing from Hope and prayed that it would not come back to bite him. This book takes some serious twists and turns. Hope and Tom are so good together. The things that Tom is hiding from Hope may break them apart. I loved the family relationship they had. The village surrounded this couple and helped them through this tough time. Will it be too much for this new couple? I really enjoyed this book. The spice was off the charts. There is a lot going on but it all came down to love. Ms. Keene definitely has a fan in me.

[Asti · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great story about two lovers who were destined for each other. Their connection goes way back to even before they met. But it wasn’t a smooth ride—there was a lot of conflict and miscommunication between Tom and Hope. It’s an age gap romance, and sometimes Hope’s younger side really showed. A few parts felt a little too toxic or immature for my taste, but I also get it—love can make you do dumb things, and she was really in her feelings.

The spice? ELECTRIC. That group scene at the “spicy” club? Chef’s kiss. Honestly, that alone bumped this up to 4 stars. I just wish we had gotten more scenes like that!

If you’re into messy romances with serious chemistry, you’ll enjoy this one.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an emotional rollercoaster! The chemistry and pull between Tom and Hope was everything. You felt every emotion they were going through. Their journey was slow and had lots of bumps. Tom's past kept coming back, trying to put a wedge between them. Playing on insecurities that both Tom and Hope had. I loved the twist on their shared past and how connected they truly were. Both had a lot of growing to do but they were able to lean on their friends and each other.

[Aubrie Lane · Rating 4 out of 5]

THIS book was an intense and very spicy ride!
After reading Beyond the Spotlight, I knew DG was going to give us something wild, but this one seriously turned up the heat with these tropes:

🔥 Age Gap
🔥 BDSM
🔥 Emotional Damage
🔥 Meddling Exes
🔥 Friends to Lovers
🔥 Bi MMC

I basically ran face first into this book! it was an emotional rollercoaster packed with twists I did not see coming. Watching Tom (MMC) and Hope (FMC) grow both as individuals and as a couple was genuinely heartfelt.

And the spice!? Whew.
😮‍💨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
It did NOT disappoint.

This is part of an interconnected series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. Just a heads-up: if you do read this one first, there will be spoilers for book one.

I seriously cannot wait for the next book in the series!

[Cecily · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible, emotional read!!
Friends to lovers. Found family. Exclusive sex club.
This was such a great read and I am so thankful I received this as an arc. (My regrets in losing it off my Kindle for a bit!) Tom and Hope’s story is one that will live rent free in my head and in my soul.
There are emotional twists and turns that are eventually unfolded to lay bare a powerfully built foundation for love, forgiveness, understanding, discovery, and acceptance.
And for all his connivery, Chase (is this a Chase thing?!?) failed in his attempts and got what his ass deserved.
But allow me to circle back to sex club and open door scenes.
Holy shit!! It was hot. So hot. We did not skimp on those scenes. Nope.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

[Mars Rads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

This is the type of book you read if you are looking for a spicy romance, with characters that have such intense chemistry, but you aren’t afraid to feel all of the emotions and have your heart held hostage by a story. This was an emotional rollercoaster and amazing friends to lovers story. I love reading stories where the characters who are basically broken people because we get the chance to see them heal and come together, even though we spend some time seeing them push each other away. Friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine because it feels the most realistic. Two people who have such a strong bond as long time friends can easily transition into a passionate couple. It almost seems like the slowest of slow burns, but these two belonged together as more. This was a decent length book, at over 400 pages, and started a little slow, but I quickly got into the story and found that the pacing was great. I wanted to keep reading when these characters pulled me in.

I do enjoy reading an age gap story because we get characters that are at such different times in theirs lives and have had different life experiences. Hope is younger than Tom in this story, and at times you can definitely see the age difference. She doesn’t have the life experience that he does. But even with the age gap, you can’t deny the chemistry that these two characters have with each other. This was a pairing that gave the reader plenty as each character had their own issues to deal with. It was great to have the side characters in this book that helped direct the main characters along, giving us such a fantastic pairing.

This was a great book that definitely didn’t lack in the spice department. Some of the scenes were *chef’s kiss*. This was not a simple light and fluffy story but it also wasn’t a dark tale. There is hurt and emotional turmoil, but there is also friendship, romance, and the spice you crave. It’s definitely one that requires you to buckle in, but the ride is worth it.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ready to fall in love? Beyond the Twilight is an emotional, intense, and passionate journey that will have you hooked from the very first page! Hope and Tom's chemistry is off the charts, creating an age gap love story that's both electric and heartfelt. This book is about two people working through the scars of their past—emotional wounds from failed relationships and family tragedies—while learning how to love and trust again.
The story is a true rollercoaster, filled with passion, self-doubt, heartbreak, and that irresistible pull of destiny. Hope and Tom's relationship is tested by a deceitful ex-lover who tries to tear them apart, adding to the tension and drama. It's a slow burn romance, but once it ignites, it's all-consuming.
If you're a fan of deeply emotional second chance love stories that explore trust, vulnerability, and second chances, Beyond the Twilight is a must-read! Perfect for those who crave a romance that will stay with them long after the final page❤️📚

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ First off thank you so much for sending me an ARC copy! This is the second one I’ve been given the privilege of reading, thank you!!

I loved the setting of this book! The ranch is my favorite place here. It seems like such a happy and peaceful place to be with the family!

The emotions that have been put into this book and how they are describe are spot on! I most definitely went through each of them too🤣. Chase boiled my skin….

But the 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ level was a solid yes for me!😎

The love and heartache… 💔 ugh…broke my heart.
Say what you want to say in the moment or the time will pass! Don’t let fear win!

I loved the writing style of this book and how detailed it was. Perfect place to be “a fly on the wall” feeling.

The ending 😳 …. D.G. Keene we need to talk!😉 such a great book thank you!!

[SmuttyEverAfter · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC review:

This book started off well and then it just fell off for me. The plot felt a bit jumbled. Tom and Hope’s connection was so great in the beginning but the miscommunication trope really ruined it for me. I started to skim heavily after 60%, especially following NYE in the club. That probably should’ve been my sign to DNF. Tom was dumb. Hope was dumb. Hope choosing to believe Chase when she was already questioning his motives was dumb. Wanted to love it and ended up being really annoyed by the end.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

The connection between Tom and Hope was undeniable. Not only did they have seriously electric chemistry, but their personalities just matched up so well. The comfortability they had as friends transferred to the bedroom seamlessly. I loved how determined Hope was to ensure she was getting the kind of love and devotion she truly deserved. I loved that Tom put himself out there completely and unapologetically to prove to that what he and Hope had was endgame. This raw and deeply moving romance was worth every aggravating moment. A hard earned HEA not to be missed!

[Kimberly Peralta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the chemistry that Hope and Tom had since the beginning!🔥 Omg the spice in here is spicing 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ The drama was entertaining to read. Also loved seeing the relationship between Tom and Nicholas. Loved how the roles were reversed in this book. I enjoyed every moment of this book. Love Daniela’s writing

[Rach Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm thankful to be given the chance to read this ARC. Such a brilliant read, and the spice was on point and hot! Without a doubt a 5 ⭐️ read!

[Leah Fairhurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beyond the Twilight is the second instalment in the Beyond series by Daniela G Keene

In book one, we were introduced to Tom, who had taken on a father figure role to Nicholas.The roles reverse between them in Book 2.

In Beyond the Twilight, we see a more vulnerable Tom who has endured trauma and has commitment issues. Until Hope comes along.

It was sad to see Tom and Hope battling internal struggles without effective communication that pushed them apart. However, I enjoyed seeing them gradually work towards overcoming their issues to build on their relationship.

Even when Tom and Hope were just friends, their connection was undeniable. When they transitioned from friends to lovers, their chemistry was intense. The book contains a lot  of spice 🔥

I loved Carolina's, Nicholas's, and their families' parts throughout the book. It brought a more wholesome vibe to the book. They provided tough love and advice when it was needed.

The story shows how two broken people can come together and help each other heal.. even through many obstacles.

The ending, although it seemed a bit random, seems like Daniela was potentially setting us up for an introduction to the main character for the next book? 🤔

Overall, it is a spicy, turbulent friend to lovers romance ❤️

✨️ Releases on 12th April 2025 ✨️

Thank you to Daniela G Keene for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Bibliomania143 · Rating 3 out of 5]

“He wasn’t looking for love. She wasn’t sure she deserved it. But the moment they found each other, nothing could break them… except a past that refuses to stay buried.”

Okay, let’s start with the good stuff—because there is a lot to love in this book.

The found family dynamic? So sweet. I adored the little bubble Tom and Hope created with Nicholas, Carolina, and the kiddos. All the interactions with the children gave me such soft, heartwarming moments—Tom with the kids especially made me melt a little.

The story did start off a bit slow for me, but it definitely picked up once the club scenes began. And speaking of that—whew! The spice? Let’s just say this book might’ve reset my entire internal thermostat. It’s probably the spiciest one I’ve read so far, and some scenes had me literally pausing to fan myself. Their chemistry was off the charts.

There’s also a really beautiful thread of trauma healing that runs through the story, and I loved how Tom and Hope helped each other grow. That bit about their connected past? A lovely little surprise that added emotional depth.

Now, here’s where it got a bit tricky for me…

I struggled with the miscommunication trope that showed up mid-way. It’s just not my favorite—especially when it’s between two characters who are mature adults. I really wished they had spoken to each other instead of involving everyone else in their feelings. It kinda broke the emotional rhythm for me.

And while I understood Tom’s fear of losing Hope, the lie about his ex felt unnecessary—especially coming from someone who’s 42. I get the vulnerability, but honesty would’ve added more strength to his character arc.

Overall, this one’s a decent read—especially if you're into friends-to-lovers, emotional healing, and bold spice (like, seriously bold). It wasn’t a perfect match for me, but I can definitely see the appeal for those who love emotionally charged, steamy romances with a side of personal growth.

[The_neurospicy_bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another absolutely amazing read from this author. This book is great as a standalone but if you read book 1 it gives a much more whole experience. There are characters from the first book who, whilst they are not the main two in this book, they are very prominent so I would advise reading book 1 as it really does make book 2 feel like you are revisiting family. The author manages to incorporate a lot of different themes and experiences which I would advise reading the trigger warnings for, but I absolutely loved that it was so different to book 1 and also that the experiences allowed room for both of the main characters to grow as people and move forward from past trauma. The author balances out the spice and the plot beautifully so the spice does not take anything away from the story. I love the two main characters, Tom has his moments where the author makes you really dislike his actions but has a brilliant redemption ARC. Hope has a lot of growing room too and also leads you on an emotional rollercoaster. That is what I love about this book, it is raw, it is real. You could really see this being someone you knows story or even your own which makes the characters very relatable. It is very clear why the characters act a certain way at certain points and you are just willing them to see sense and move forward and work on healing. It is the story of two broken people coming together and how toxic that can be if you are not focused on working on yourself and your past trauma and how to change that narrative. Anyone who has past trauma will be able to relate to this book. If you love a realistic love story that is not all sunshine and rainbows then I highly recommend this book.

[Anna K · Rating 4 out of 5]

🩷 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: 𝐵𝑒𝑦𝑜𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑇𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 🩷

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶

𝐓𝐫𝗼𝐩𝐞𝐬
🫂 Found family
💔 Ex drama
🕰 Age gap
🤝🏻 Friends to lovers
🫦 BDSM

𝐒𝐮𝗺𝗺𝐚𝐫𝐲

Hope and Tom became friends while working for their friends: Tom as Nicholas’ manager/assistant and Hope as Nicholas & Carolina’s kids’ babysitter. They’ve both felt a deeper connection to each other, but could never act on it while Hope was with her boyfriend of multiple years. When Hope and her boyfriend call it quits, she and Tom finally give in to their mutual attraction. But lies, distrust and a scorned ex of Tom’s threaten to split them apart, will they be able to come together and fight for their relationship?

𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝗼𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬

Overall, I thought this was an enjoyable read! The first bit was a tad slow going (for me, anyway) but once I got about a quarter of the way through, things picked up. I’m always a fan of the friends to lovers trope and this one didn’t disappoint. I love that Tom and Hope already had years of friendship and re they gave in. It made the fast-paced romance feel less unrealistic than I’ve seen in other stories. I also loved the connection they discovered about the day Hope was born (I won’t go into too details). Instead of Tom letting it affect their relationship and his emotions in a negative way, he saw it as more proof of their strong connection. I also enjoyed how they bonded over their love for their adopted nieces. So heartwarming!
And the spice?! The spice was definitely spicing! There were some BDSM/kinky elements in there but to me, it wasn’t overkill.

𝐀 𝐡𝐮𝐠𝐞 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐊 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐭𝗼 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝗼𝐫 𝐟𝗼𝐫 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝗺𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐑𝐂 🩷

[Blondies Book Binge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start by saying I read the first book in this series, and while it’s not necessary because this can definitely be read as a standalone, I would encourage you to do so because there’s so much overlap and some of the side characters were the mains in the last book.
I loved this. Dare I say more than the first? The MMC and FMC have some individual but twisty overlapping trauma. They both also have failed relationships and baggage. They both have huge hearts. She is the nanny of Tom’s main client and best friend. The twists were twisty, the banter was executed flawlessly even though the miscommunication trope will make you wanna pull your hair out a bit. And the spice was top tier. I loved the bi-rep. I love that the author made such different choices with the narrative and spice, it felt like a totally fresh and new story which isn’t always the case with standalone books in an interconnected series, sometimes you feel like you’re reading the same thing over and over and that was not the case here.

I read mostly dark books and DG Keene has quickly become my favorite super spicy contemporary author. Her prose is so great and her spice is so delicious and she’s the only contemporary author I’ve given two five star reviews to in the past year. I’m stomping my feet in anticipation of her next book coming out this summer.

10/10 recommend reading tom and hope’s story. It was beautiful and flawed and realistic and devourable.

[Latasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review:

While working for their friends, Hope as a babysitter and Tom as a manager, they developed a strong connection, but Hope's long-term relationship prevented them from acting on it. After Hope's breakup, she and Tom finally gave in to their attraction. However, their relationship is threatened by lies, distrust, and Tom's scorned ex, putting their future together in jeopardy.

Beyond the Twilight is a heart-wrenching tale of true love, filled with intense passion, crippling self-doubt, and heartbreaking moments, all while being driven by an undeniable destiny. The relationship between Hope and Tom is put to the test by a manipulative ex-lover who seeks to tear them apart, thereby increasing the tension and drama. This slow-burning romance eventually ignites into an all-consuming flame. For fans of emotional second-chance love stories that delve into themes of trust, vulnerability, and redemption, Beyond the Twilight is a must-read.

Read if you like:
- BDSM
- Friends to Lovers
- Age Gap (42/28)
- Bi MMC
- Second Chance Love
- Ex Drama Love Triangle
- Steamy & Emotional

Thanks to D.G. for my e-ARC in exchange for a honest review!

[Kay Burrows · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Tom and Hope have had a slow burning chemistry building for a while but Hope’s boyfriend has always been standing in the way.
When Hope is no longer tied down to another man it doesn’t take long for her chemistry with Tom to bring them together in an explosive way.
But as with most explosions, it’s the aftermath that you have to watch for. It was obvious that neither character was ready for the feelings they had for the other. Both were insecure in relationships for different reasons which really impacted the way they were together.
I did enjoy the main characters of this book and the found family vibes they had with Nicholas and Carolina. But I struggled a lot with the constant miscommunication, how the characters insecurities often led them to lie or act impulsive and immature. It really added an unnecessary amount of drama that didn’t feel required to tell the story.
There were a lot of aspects of this book that I did enjoy but unfortunately I struggled with some of the tropes of this book.
That cliffhanger will definitely have me watching for the next release to see what happened!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝑩𝒆𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑻𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕
D.G. Keene

ღ BOOK REVIEW ღ
𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔~

I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Tom in his story there was times in Beyond The Spotlight that I wasn’t his biggest fan but we really get to see a different sides of him here. D.G really brings the angst and feelings out in this one. I love the established easy deep friendship that Tom and Hope already have. Their happy ending was not easy. The ex drama really brings a whole other element to the story and makes them dig deep to over come their individual fears and insecurities to get to what they both want. I enjoyed the chemistry they both had and the spice. I really enjoyed that Nick and Carolina are a part of their story, it really brings the found family feel. It was also fun seeing the role reversal between Nick and Tom.

🤍Open Door Spice
💛Friends to Lovers
🤍Age Gap (42/28)
💛Second Chance Love
🤍Ex Drama Love Triangle
💛Steamy & Emotional

[C.A. Powers · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re ready to plunge headfirst into a hurricane of emotions, sizzling chemistry, and a love that battles through darkness, then grab a cozy blanket and settle in for this spicy romance. This story didn’t just warm my heart—it ignited a full-blown inferno.

Tom Matthews is the kind of man who could melt steel with just one piercing glance. He’s confident, and carries a heavy past that adds a delicious edge to his allure. And Hope Archer? She's the perfect counterbalance, a woman who glows with kindness and raw determination.

Their connection is magnetic—starting off with a cautious friendship, then slowly morphing into an electric dance of desire. The open-door scenes? Let’s just say your Kindle might spontaneously combust.

You’ll swoon, you’ll cry, and you’ll cheer for Tom and Hope as they take on the kind of love that doesn’t surrender—it roars.

Excited for book 3!

[Kass · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beyond the Twilight is the story of Tom and Hope. This is an angsty, friends to lovers book with age gap, sexual exploration and main characters with fantastic chemistry.

This book is a story of an older MMC and a younger FMC that both have scars and go from friends to lovers and bond over their shared traumas. Although there is a lot of miscommunication, which can really be irritating, the storyline makes it make sense and it is worth it in the end.

This is a deeply emotional second chance romance, with lots of spice, that makes you feel the characters emotions and explores their pasts and how those events make them who they are and how it brings them together. If you are looking for a book that will leave a mark on your heart and stay with you long after you are done reading it, then this is the book for you.

[Hailey MacRae · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️
(goodreads, please add half stars)

Honestly, in a general sense I enjoyed the book. I enjoyed the spark between Hope & Tom, and their immediate connection.

This is possibly just a matter of an opinion, but I really just don’t love the third act breakup type trope, and this sort of was that for majority of the book. Ex interferences, extremely messy and dramatic miscommunications. All things that really just aren’t my thing & this book really focused a lot on that.

But the spice in this book is something to speak for, and how the author played on that throughout the book was fun.

I did receive this as an ARC, and this in no way swayed my opinion. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Beverley Chance · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Beyond the Twilight! it was everything I hoped for and more. An emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. This follow-up to Beyond the Spotlight brings a perfect blend of heart, intensity, and spice. The chemistry between Tom Matthews and Hope Archer is palpable, as they navigate their individual scars while discovering a deep and slow-burning connection. Tom, with his sharp edges and hidden vulnerability, contrasts beautifully with Hope’s warm, passionate spirit. Their journey is full of twists, raw emotions, and enough heat to keep you turning the pages. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a compelling romance with a dash of spice and a whole lot of heart. Highly recommend!

[Marissa Hux · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you @dgk.book.nook for the advanced copy!

Read if you like..
- BDSM
- Friends to Lovers
- Age Gap (42/28)
- Bi MMC
- Love Triangle

Wow, this is seriously intense! I didn't see all that heat coming, but Tom and Hope are explosive together. Throw in some private sex club scenes and things really heat up! 🥵

I did notice some miscommunication between them, and I found myself thinking, 'Come on, guys!' a few times. But once you see their backstories and how they heal, it all falls into place. They both grow so much, and when they support each other, they become the perfect pair!

This is the second book in the series, and I'm really enjoying it. Can't wait to dive into more from this author!

[Inge Mosch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by K.G. Keene! This was the story of Tom and Hope. We've already gotten to know Tom a bit in beyond the spotlight. The chemistry between Tom and Hope was very good. The slow build up to the spice is agonizing but once it breaks loose it was so incredibly hot. I loved it so much! I will think about the scene in the club for days to come… 🥵.

K.G. Keene is an amazing writer, her writing style is fluid and reads so nicely! You get sucked into the story from the beginning and I couldn't put the book down. Can’t wait for Gabriele’s story!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

[Hopey’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

I still can’t get over Tom and Hope’s story! ♥️🖤 The steamy romance and emotional rollercoaster that I went through had me squealing in certain parts of the book. I adored the Friends to Lovers, Open door spice, and the love triangle drama that lingered in the book. I really enjoyed Tom the most and his character development. Tom’s character from the beginning to the end of the book completely matured and evolved. I’m so happy how the book ended and can’t wait for others to read Tom and Hopes story. Thank you D.G. Keene for letting me read this arc!