What do you think?
Rate this book
These Jagged Edges
She’s a woman bound by fear, her life shaped by shadows she’s too afraid to confront. Every moment feels like a tightrope walk, the ground beneath her scattered with fragments of a past she can’t escape.
He’s a man hollowed by loss, drifting through a world that no longer feels real. His heart is closed off, his soul scarred by the weight of what he’s endured, leaving him a shell of who he once was.
He is the embodiment of the violence that almost destroyed her.
She is the light he can’t bring himself to touch.
When their paths collide, they’re drawn together by a force neither can explain nor resist—a connection that cuts through the walls they’ve built and tangles them in a bond as unexpected as it is undeniable. Their jagged lives, so broken and incomplete on their own, begin to take shape in each other’s presence.
This is a story of redemption and second chances—a journey of healing, love, and the discovery that even the deepest wounds can lead to something whole.
This is Evie and Maddox.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 29, 2025
121 people are currently reading
782 people want to read
About the author
Tuesday James
4 books118 followersI'm just your average mom of four. I spend most days hitting on my husband and concocting the next thirst trap in head. I've been an avid reader and writer for most of my life. Book's served as an escape from reality when I was younger and I find there's nothing like slipping into worlds we create with words. I'm fueled by 90's grunge, LOTR, tattoos, and Coke Zero. I have an emotional support chicken, her name is Frodo. I spent most of my childhood sneaking my grandmother's romance novels off her shelf. There was just something captivating about a shirtless Fabio embracing some damsel in destress while his long locks blew in the wind. I write characters who've dealt with the grittier side of life and still blossomed like a rose in concrete. So, if you read my work and find yourself connecting with any character within the pages just know, this was for you. Always for you.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews
March 20, 2025
3.75 ⭐️ This was a really easy book to read, the story line flowed really well. Tuesday James did a wonderful job building these characters. I loved the twins they both had such strong personalities. The found family trope is strong, and it made me emotional at times. This would have easily been a 4 star book for me if not for one thing that I couldn't get over.
Grumpy/sunshine
Touch her and die
Traumatic past
Small town
Single mom
Found family
🌶🌶🌶
Grumpy/sunshine
Touch her and die
Traumatic past
Small town
Single mom
Found family
🌶🌶🌶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2025
DNF @51%
Literally had to DNF this ARC after the MMC, who knows that the FMC has been through domestic violence and has extreme trauma, used her trauma against her bc he was hurting over his own trauma. I understand that his daughter was killed and he blames himself, but that doesn’t give him the right to use her trauma against her all bc he is mad at the world. Yes, he has trauma too and has been through a lot, but that doesn’t justify him saying that to her especially when they are in a relationship and he supposedly “loves” her. She literally walked in to him crying and was trying to help him when he spewed such nasty words. She has a thing about belts bc her ex used to beat her and the MMC literally told her if she doesn’t leave “he’s gonna have to get his belt out to make her leave”. When he said that my jaw literally dropped. I’m honestly just so flabbergasted that he said that. I honestly can’t go on after that bc this was just a total flip to his personality. Like in no way shape or form, him hurting or not, makes it ok for him to say that. And all the FMC did was smack him and walk away????? Like what. And then he doesn’t even grovel AT ALL! They literally get back together like three chapters later. This book started out so good, but I honestly can’t go on after that. He is the one person who is supposed to help her heal and love every piece of her, yet he used her trauma against her? Yea that’s gonna be a hard no for me.
Literally had to DNF this ARC after the MMC, who knows that the FMC has been through domestic violence and has extreme trauma, used her trauma against her bc he was hurting over his own trauma. I understand that his daughter was killed and he blames himself, but that doesn’t give him the right to use her trauma against her all bc he is mad at the world. Yes, he has trauma too and has been through a lot, but that doesn’t justify him saying that to her especially when they are in a relationship and he supposedly “loves” her. She literally walked in to him crying and was trying to help him when he spewed such nasty words. She has a thing about belts bc her ex used to beat her and the MMC literally told her if she doesn’t leave “he’s gonna have to get his belt out to make her leave”. When he said that my jaw literally dropped. I’m honestly just so flabbergasted that he said that. I honestly can’t go on after that bc this was just a total flip to his personality. Like in no way shape or form, him hurting or not, makes it ok for him to say that. And all the FMC did was smack him and walk away????? Like what. And then he doesn’t even grovel AT ALL! They literally get back together like three chapters later. This book started out so good, but I honestly can’t go on after that. He is the one person who is supposed to help her heal and love every piece of her, yet he used her trauma against her? Yea that’s gonna be a hard no for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2025
These Jagged Edges by Tuesday James
4/5⭐
3/5🌶️
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster! The backstories of the main characters pulled at my heartstrings. They’ve been through so much, and it’s hard not to root for them. Evie, who escapes her abusive husband, settles in a small town with her six-year-old twins. She has a job, makes friends, and always wears a bright smile, but deep down, she’s still living in fear. Then there’s Maddox, her new neighbor. He moved to be closer to his brother and runs a gym in town. With his grumpy exterior, he can be pretty intimidating, but he’s carrying a lot of anger inside.
All Evie has ever wanted is love. She didn’t get it as a child and ended up marrying a monster who abused her. After running away, she discovers she’s pregnant with twins and dedicates her life to loving her sons and keeping them safe. Even when she seems okay on the outside, she’s always on high alert, looking over her shoulder in fear. Maddox sees through her brave façade and encourages her to join his self-defense class. Week by week, as she trains with him, Evie starts to gain confidence and strength.
Maddox has his struggles too. After a tragic accident, he became a grouch and pushed his family away, preferring to drown in his own guilt, anger, and loneliness. When he first meets Evie, he’s intrigued by her. As they spend more time together, he slowly lets his guard down.
This book touches on some heavy topics, so be mindful of your triggers. Evie and Maddox’s healing journey isn’t easy, but I loved how they leaned on each other. The side characters are fantastic, bringing a wonderful sense of friendship and that cozy found-family vibe. And I adored Evie’s twin boys—their bond with Maddox is heartwarming. The suspense adds an exciting twist, but what I loved most was watching the growth of these characters. I’m intrigued by the next couple’s story and can’t wait to read their book!
4/5⭐
3/5🌶️
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster! The backstories of the main characters pulled at my heartstrings. They’ve been through so much, and it’s hard not to root for them. Evie, who escapes her abusive husband, settles in a small town with her six-year-old twins. She has a job, makes friends, and always wears a bright smile, but deep down, she’s still living in fear. Then there’s Maddox, her new neighbor. He moved to be closer to his brother and runs a gym in town. With his grumpy exterior, he can be pretty intimidating, but he’s carrying a lot of anger inside.
All Evie has ever wanted is love. She didn’t get it as a child and ended up marrying a monster who abused her. After running away, she discovers she’s pregnant with twins and dedicates her life to loving her sons and keeping them safe. Even when she seems okay on the outside, she’s always on high alert, looking over her shoulder in fear. Maddox sees through her brave façade and encourages her to join his self-defense class. Week by week, as she trains with him, Evie starts to gain confidence and strength.
Maddox has his struggles too. After a tragic accident, he became a grouch and pushed his family away, preferring to drown in his own guilt, anger, and loneliness. When he first meets Evie, he’s intrigued by her. As they spend more time together, he slowly lets his guard down.
This book touches on some heavy topics, so be mindful of your triggers. Evie and Maddox’s healing journey isn’t easy, but I loved how they leaned on each other. The side characters are fantastic, bringing a wonderful sense of friendship and that cozy found-family vibe. And I adored Evie’s twin boys—their bond with Maddox is heartwarming. The suspense adds an exciting twist, but what I loved most was watching the growth of these characters. I’m intrigued by the next couple’s story and can’t wait to read their book!
April 27, 2025
ARC Review
⭐️/5 🌶🌶/5
TW - miscarriage (following an intentional push off a balcony to end the pregnancy, mentioned), miscarriage (sc, recounted, grief), suicidal thoughts (mentioned), domestic violence (recounted in detail, mentioned throughout and some seen on page incl scars / bite marks on the FMC, forced dieting / disordered eating, sexual violence / sexual assault / rape (loosely recounted and one instance resulting in pregnancy), groping, fat shaming, verbal abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse; assailant was a police officer), and subsequent trauma (throughout), domestic violence (parents, mentioned incl isolation and physical abuse incl towards their children), scars on the MMC from a car accident, kidnapping / captivity, torture, animal death (mentioned, class pet - hamster, squirrel), death of a partner (sc, mentioned), chemo (sc, mentioned), death of a parent (sc, mentioned incl finding the body, heart attack), death of a parent (car crash, falling asleep behind the wheel, loosely recounted), panic attacks, children with illness (fever, strep, stomach flu, RSV which incl hospitalisation, recounted), parental neglect and abuse (past, recounted), drug addicted parent (mentioned), drug addicted ex wife (recounted and implied on page, stemming from prescription drugs, heroine implied), drug use (sc, mentioned), sex work (sc, mentioned incl victim of sexual manipulation), abortion (parent wanted to abort the FMC, mentioned), postpartum depression (ex wife, mentioned), vomit (sc), death of the MMCs child (past, car accident involving a drunk driver, recounted in graphic detail and mentioned throughout), ex military scs (subsequent trauma / nightmares / near death experience and death of a friend, recounted), nightmares, anxiety, grief, alcohol consumption, parental abandonment (implied FMC, mentioned sc), broken / fractured bones (past, mentioned and on page sc), change of identity, fake death, threat of violence (from the MMC to the FMC, specifically using one of her domestic violence triggers against her), physical violence incl possible hearing damage, manipulation, sexual harassment, drugging or the FMC, blood, gun violence, knife violence, murder (brief), hospitalisation incl medically induced coma (on page), disassociating, infertility (sc, briefly implied), pregnancy (mentioned)
CW - very light somno (he wakes her up with head), spanking, light primal play (chasing), restraints (once)
Tropes - small town, found family, single mum with twins, who did this to you?
Representation - plus size FMC, biracial MMC (mentioned in passing)
If you liked this book, do not read this review xoxo. I will also note the published version of this book is slightly shorter than the ARC version so I wouldn't know what has been changed.
(rating updated from 2⭐️ to 1 ⭐️)
I... did not like this. Sporadic thoughts below:
❗️By 10% in, I was not sold on this book. It felt very discombobulating and like a huge dump of information not helped by the short and choppy sentence structure. It kind of felt like Evie's (FMC) ramblings in a diary and IF it was that, then I’d have no qualms about the way this is written.
❗️The timeline confused me a bit -Evie got to town before she gave birth. Her twins are currently old enough to be in some sort of school and play outside / go to the neighbours unattended but it’s only now these interactions with Maddox (MMC), her neighbour, are happening? Why now? What prompted this? He's been back in the town for a year now.
❗️I wouldn’t say this is a dark romance. Don’t get me wrong, Evie's past is dark and fucked but nothing about these characters nor their relationship is dark.
❗️Maddox lost his daughter in a car accident. I’m genuinely not sure if Evie was being obtuse or not but I was confused about why she was confused that he had such a visceral reaction about them making sure they had their seatbelts on before driving like she doesn’t know his past.
❗️Maddox' random spurts of jealousy as deflection was weird to me, especially when the guy in question is his brother and he already commented that Mercy has always been like that.
❗️The TW/CW included in the book is... poorly written, imo.
❗️The MCs had no chemistry.
❗️This isn't grumpy x sunshine. He's grumpy, sure, but I wouldn't say she's sunshine.
❗️The MMC uses one of her very specific trauma / trigger points when he's mad about something. It was uncalled for and dumb and she forgave him far too easily. There's a comment on his grovelling but said grovelling was definitely not in the room with us.
❗️Said scene mentioned above was dumb imo because it’s so left field and feels like this scene was just plopped in out of nowhere. It’s his dead daughter’s birthday and he wanted to be alone IT DOES NOT justify what he did but I do think there is an imbalance in the way their trauma is being displayed as there is a clear bias towards the FMC throughout the book. Often, the MMC's trauma is brushed aside and I felt like he was made to feel like he just needs to deal with it / get over it. The same grace that was offered to the Evie was not there for Maddox.
❗️There were a few continuity errors but I can't comment on whether this was updated in the published version.
❗️Maddox has an upcoming fight mentioned in Chapter 8 - we barely hear about him fighting or any of his fights after this point. Considering the original cover literally had boxing gloves on it, I found this weird.
❗️The conflict (from outside forces) was flimsy for me. What do you mean Joe (sc) didn't have working cameras as their workplace because she didn't think it was necessary? She employs vulnerable women????? bsffr rn please
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List / The Naughtier List
⭐️/5 🌶🌶/5
TW - miscarriage (following an intentional push off a balcony to end the pregnancy, mentioned), miscarriage (sc, recounted, grief), suicidal thoughts (mentioned), domestic violence (recounted in detail, mentioned throughout and some seen on page incl scars / bite marks on the FMC, forced dieting / disordered eating, sexual violence / sexual assault / rape (loosely recounted and one instance resulting in pregnancy), groping, fat shaming, verbal abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse; assailant was a police officer), and subsequent trauma (throughout), domestic violence (parents, mentioned incl isolation and physical abuse incl towards their children), scars on the MMC from a car accident, kidnapping / captivity, torture, animal death (mentioned, class pet - hamster, squirrel), death of a partner (sc, mentioned), chemo (sc, mentioned), death of a parent (sc, mentioned incl finding the body, heart attack), death of a parent (car crash, falling asleep behind the wheel, loosely recounted), panic attacks, children with illness (fever, strep, stomach flu, RSV which incl hospitalisation, recounted), parental neglect and abuse (past, recounted), drug addicted parent (mentioned), drug addicted ex wife (recounted and implied on page, stemming from prescription drugs, heroine implied), drug use (sc, mentioned), sex work (sc, mentioned incl victim of sexual manipulation), abortion (parent wanted to abort the FMC, mentioned), postpartum depression (ex wife, mentioned), vomit (sc), death of the MMCs child (past, car accident involving a drunk driver, recounted in graphic detail and mentioned throughout), ex military scs (subsequent trauma / nightmares / near death experience and death of a friend, recounted), nightmares, anxiety, grief, alcohol consumption, parental abandonment (implied FMC, mentioned sc), broken / fractured bones (past, mentioned and on page sc), change of identity, fake death, threat of violence (from the MMC to the FMC, specifically using one of her domestic violence triggers against her), physical violence incl possible hearing damage, manipulation, sexual harassment, drugging or the FMC, blood, gun violence, knife violence, murder (brief), hospitalisation incl medically induced coma (on page), disassociating, infertility (sc, briefly implied), pregnancy (mentioned)
CW - very light somno (he wakes her up with head), spanking, light primal play (chasing), restraints (once)
Tropes - small town, found family, single mum with twins, who did this to you?
Representation - plus size FMC, biracial MMC (mentioned in passing)
If you liked this book, do not read this review xoxo. I will also note the published version of this book is slightly shorter than the ARC version so I wouldn't know what has been changed.
(rating updated from 2⭐️ to 1 ⭐️)
I... did not like this. Sporadic thoughts below:
❗️By 10% in, I was not sold on this book. It felt very discombobulating and like a huge dump of information not helped by the short and choppy sentence structure. It kind of felt like Evie's (FMC) ramblings in a diary and IF it was that, then I’d have no qualms about the way this is written.
❗️The timeline confused me a bit -Evie got to town before she gave birth. Her twins are currently old enough to be in some sort of school and play outside / go to the neighbours unattended but it’s only now these interactions with Maddox (MMC), her neighbour, are happening? Why now? What prompted this? He's been back in the town for a year now.
❗️I wouldn’t say this is a dark romance. Don’t get me wrong, Evie's past is dark and fucked but nothing about these characters nor their relationship is dark.
❗️Maddox lost his daughter in a car accident. I’m genuinely not sure if Evie was being obtuse or not but I was confused about why she was confused that he had such a visceral reaction about them making sure they had their seatbelts on before driving like she doesn’t know his past.
❗️Maddox' random spurts of jealousy as deflection was weird to me, especially when the guy in question is his brother and he already commented that Mercy has always been like that.
❗️The TW/CW included in the book is... poorly written, imo.
❗️The MCs had no chemistry.
❗️This isn't grumpy x sunshine. He's grumpy, sure, but I wouldn't say she's sunshine.
❗️The MMC uses one of her very specific trauma / trigger points when he's mad about something. It was uncalled for and dumb and she forgave him far too easily. There's a comment on his grovelling but said grovelling was definitely not in the room with us.
❗️Said scene mentioned above was dumb imo because it’s so left field and feels like this scene was just plopped in out of nowhere. It’s his dead daughter’s birthday and he wanted to be alone IT DOES NOT justify what he did but I do think there is an imbalance in the way their trauma is being displayed as there is a clear bias towards the FMC throughout the book. Often, the MMC's trauma is brushed aside and I felt like he was made to feel like he just needs to deal with it / get over it. The same grace that was offered to the Evie was not there for Maddox.
❗️There were a few continuity errors but I can't comment on whether this was updated in the published version.
❗️Maddox has an upcoming fight mentioned in Chapter 8 - we barely hear about him fighting or any of his fights after this point. Considering the original cover literally had boxing gloves on it, I found this weird.
❗️The conflict (from outside forces) was flimsy for me. What do you mean Joe (sc) didn't have working cameras as their workplace because she didn't think it was necessary? She employs vulnerable women????? bsffr rn please
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List / The Naughtier List
March 25, 2025
5 BEAUTIFUL ⭐️ 4🌶️
ARC Review
“In a voice tinged with sorrow, he whispers, “What if that darkness is all I’ve ever known?…“Then I’ll shine some light in there, so you don’t feel so alone.”
Can we pause and just give a STANDING OVATION for our author Tuesday James 😭👏🏽 I am sobbing, weeping for the beauty of this masterpiece.
Ok hear me out…
She calls him “Big Guy” and he calls her “Pretty Girl”
EEEEKKKK literally obsessed. 😍
There’s survival.. then there’s deciding to live.
Evie Taylor (FMC) is the most fierce, independent single mama who loves abundantly and will hands down burn the world for her family. Six years later after leaving her trauma in the past. She finds herself in Thunder Ridge. Raising her little twin dare-devil and soft spoken twins. What she doesn’t expect is her little dare-devil climbing the onto the roof the moody, broody, reclusive Maddox Wilder.
MADDOX ❤️🔥😭 when you think.. “who hurt your dark soul” a picture of our green eye, devilishly handsome MMC is right there. Anger is his safety net after the world has been so unkind to him. But when a curvy firey little woman comes in and puts out his flames.. oh you can bet your sweet little heart. He’s not safe.
The way I was connected not only to our main characters but to our side characters as well!
Mercy our golden retriever brother who can sweet talk the panties off of any woman.
Louisiana our fiesty hot headed best friend that everyone needs in their life.
Aunt Joe. 🥹🌹 takes you in and makes you feel at home.
Vic our military vet who sees Evie as more daughter than neighbor.
Even our twins have more personality and you just want to wrap them up in hugs and kisses 🤗
The banter. The longing. The found family. The trauma unfolding. Maddox finding himself. Evie tearing down walls. The FILTHY mouth of this man. Oh holy water where art thou??
Tropes:
CTW (talks of grape, abuse, kidnapping)
Grumpy x Sunshine
Single Mama
Morally Grey MMC
Found Family
Friends to Lovers
Scarred FMC
“Who did this to you”
He falls first ♥️🌹
Besties, boutique worthy?? 100000% YES 🙌🏽
ARC Review
“In a voice tinged with sorrow, he whispers, “What if that darkness is all I’ve ever known?…“Then I’ll shine some light in there, so you don’t feel so alone.”
Can we pause and just give a STANDING OVATION for our author Tuesday James 😭👏🏽 I am sobbing, weeping for the beauty of this masterpiece.
Ok hear me out…
She calls him “Big Guy” and he calls her “Pretty Girl”
EEEEKKKK literally obsessed. 😍
There’s survival.. then there’s deciding to live.
Evie Taylor (FMC) is the most fierce, independent single mama who loves abundantly and will hands down burn the world for her family. Six years later after leaving her trauma in the past. She finds herself in Thunder Ridge. Raising her little twin dare-devil and soft spoken twins. What she doesn’t expect is her little dare-devil climbing the onto the roof the moody, broody, reclusive Maddox Wilder.
MADDOX ❤️🔥😭 when you think.. “who hurt your dark soul” a picture of our green eye, devilishly handsome MMC is right there. Anger is his safety net after the world has been so unkind to him. But when a curvy firey little woman comes in and puts out his flames.. oh you can bet your sweet little heart. He’s not safe.
The way I was connected not only to our main characters but to our side characters as well!
Mercy our golden retriever brother who can sweet talk the panties off of any woman.
Louisiana our fiesty hot headed best friend that everyone needs in their life.
Aunt Joe. 🥹🌹 takes you in and makes you feel at home.
Vic our military vet who sees Evie as more daughter than neighbor.
Even our twins have more personality and you just want to wrap them up in hugs and kisses 🤗
The banter. The longing. The found family. The trauma unfolding. Maddox finding himself. Evie tearing down walls. The FILTHY mouth of this man. Oh holy water where art thou??
Tropes:
CTW (talks of grape, abuse, kidnapping)
Grumpy x Sunshine
Single Mama
Morally Grey MMC
Found Family
Friends to Lovers
Scarred FMC
“Who did this to you”
He falls first ♥️🌹
Besties, boutique worthy?? 100000% YES 🙌🏽
March 17, 2025
⭐ Rating: 5/5
🔥 Spice: 3.5/5
I went into These Jagged Edges not knowing what to expect, and I came out absolutely in love. As a debut novel, this was delicious. I’m so glad I signed up for the ARC because this book hit me right in the feels, and I have zero regrets.
Trigger warnings apply. The FMC, Evie, is a survivor of both SA and domestic abuse. While none of it happens on-page, her experiences are deeply woven into her character and the story. What I loved most was how her healing felt raw, authentic, and never rushed. There was no ‘magic penis’ that fixed everything—and thank god for that. Instead, Evie’s strength, her love for her kids, and her determination to build a better life were what drove her story, and it was so beautifully done.
The found family dynamic? Perfection. Evie’s warmth wasn’t just something we were told about; it was shown through her actions, and that’s what made her relationships feel so real. Watching her sunshine personality shine through, even when she believed it was just a mask, felt incredibly powerful.
Maddox? The broody, angry MMC of my heart. He had his own battles to fight, and seeing him work through his pain alongside Evie was beautiful. Their dynamic felt balanced; full of support, respect, and genuine care.
[Light Spoiler Ahead]
That said, I did not love the moment where Maddox weaponized one of Evie’s triggers. It was deeply uncomfortable. While I appreciate that the book addressed it as wrong, and Maddox was clearly remorseful, it still pulled me out of the story and I struggled to get back into it. It felt like there should have been a deeper emotional fallout there, but instead, it felt brushed over too quickly.
[End of Spoiler]
The side characters stole my heart. The Wilder family, the parental figures, and Lou? I LOVE GIRL BFFS. Lou was hands down one of the best parts of the book, and if Tuesday James doesn’t give me a companion book for Lou and Henry, I might cry. (Dear author, if you’re reading this… please. I’m begging.)
The theme of healing runs deep here. Maddox? Healing. Evie? Healing. Allison, Mercy, Vic, Aunt Joe? Everyone gets to heal. Honestly, it’s like an Oprah show—you get to heal, you get to heal, EVERYONE GETS TO HEAL. But jokes aside, it felt earned. Allison’s arc in particular was complex, emotional, and handled with so much grace—I adored it.
And now… the spice.
Chef’s kiss. Watching Evie rediscover her sexuality on her own terms was beautiful. Maddox’s willingness to let her take the lead (even though he’s very much a soft dom) made those scenes even more impactful. Him physically struggling to not touch her while she plays with him? Wow. And that kitchen chase scene? Borderline primal play and I AM SO HERE FOR IT. More of that, please.
TLDR: This book was emotional, steamy, and just so good. The 5/5 rating is well-earned, and the spice sits comfortably at 3.5/5—could have been hotter, but honestly? The emotional depth made up for it.
Highly recommend.
🔥 Spice: 3.5/5
I went into These Jagged Edges not knowing what to expect, and I came out absolutely in love. As a debut novel, this was delicious. I’m so glad I signed up for the ARC because this book hit me right in the feels, and I have zero regrets.
Trigger warnings apply. The FMC, Evie, is a survivor of both SA and domestic abuse. While none of it happens on-page, her experiences are deeply woven into her character and the story. What I loved most was how her healing felt raw, authentic, and never rushed. There was no ‘magic penis’ that fixed everything—and thank god for that. Instead, Evie’s strength, her love for her kids, and her determination to build a better life were what drove her story, and it was so beautifully done.
The found family dynamic? Perfection. Evie’s warmth wasn’t just something we were told about; it was shown through her actions, and that’s what made her relationships feel so real. Watching her sunshine personality shine through, even when she believed it was just a mask, felt incredibly powerful.
Maddox? The broody, angry MMC of my heart. He had his own battles to fight, and seeing him work through his pain alongside Evie was beautiful. Their dynamic felt balanced; full of support, respect, and genuine care.
[Light Spoiler Ahead]
That said, I did not love the moment where Maddox weaponized one of Evie’s triggers. It was deeply uncomfortable. While I appreciate that the book addressed it as wrong, and Maddox was clearly remorseful, it still pulled me out of the story and I struggled to get back into it. It felt like there should have been a deeper emotional fallout there, but instead, it felt brushed over too quickly.
[End of Spoiler]
The side characters stole my heart. The Wilder family, the parental figures, and Lou? I LOVE GIRL BFFS. Lou was hands down one of the best parts of the book, and if Tuesday James doesn’t give me a companion book for Lou and Henry, I might cry. (Dear author, if you’re reading this… please. I’m begging.)
The theme of healing runs deep here. Maddox? Healing. Evie? Healing. Allison, Mercy, Vic, Aunt Joe? Everyone gets to heal. Honestly, it’s like an Oprah show—you get to heal, you get to heal, EVERYONE GETS TO HEAL. But jokes aside, it felt earned. Allison’s arc in particular was complex, emotional, and handled with so much grace—I adored it.
And now… the spice.
Chef’s kiss. Watching Evie rediscover her sexuality on her own terms was beautiful. Maddox’s willingness to let her take the lead (even though he’s very much a soft dom) made those scenes even more impactful. Him physically struggling to not touch her while she plays with him? Wow. And that kitchen chase scene? Borderline primal play and I AM SO HERE FOR IT. More of that, please.
TLDR: This book was emotional, steamy, and just so good. The 5/5 rating is well-earned, and the spice sits comfortably at 3.5/5—could have been hotter, but honestly? The emotional depth made up for it.
Highly recommend.
March 28, 2025
This was a spectacular read.
Such an emotional story, but such love and compassion and kindness. I loved every single character in this. The kids were amazing the found family dynamic they love support kindness strength they show each other literally brought me to tears.
The BROKEN HEARTED AND GRIEF that Maddox held and carried and how Evie helped guide him and helped him heal and come to terms with it was so beautiful and vice versa- how Maddox saw Evie for what she truly was hiding and the pain fear and secrets she carried. & what she would do to make sure her babies were and will be forever safe and how Maddox made sure to help give her a sense of independence strength confidence and self awareness to do so was so reassuring ❤️ ugh I cried so hard with this story watching it all unfold and their stories be told and their floodgates open.. so beautiful… thank you for this truly.
Such an emotional story, but such love and compassion and kindness. I loved every single character in this. The kids were amazing the found family dynamic they love support kindness strength they show each other literally brought me to tears.
The BROKEN HEARTED AND GRIEF that Maddox held and carried and how Evie helped guide him and helped him heal and come to terms with it was so beautiful and vice versa- how Maddox saw Evie for what she truly was hiding and the pain fear and secrets she carried. & what she would do to make sure her babies were and will be forever safe and how Maddox made sure to help give her a sense of independence strength confidence and self awareness to do so was so reassuring ❤️ ugh I cried so hard with this story watching it all unfold and their stories be told and their floodgates open.. so beautiful… thank you for this truly.
March 24, 2025
ARC Review
I absolutely loved These Jagged Edges! As a huge fan of single-parent tropes, I was hooked from the start. Evie's character is beautifully crafted, showcasing her strength as she navigates a life filled with challenges. Despite her struggles, she remains resilient, with her two sweet kids, Bash and Charlie, lighting up her world. Bash’s adventurous spirit and Charlie’s determination to be the “man of the house” add such depth to Evie's journey.
Maddox was a complete surprise to me. His backstory hit hard and left me shocked—some of the twists were totally unexpected! I found myself tearing up throughout the book, yet it was ultimately such a heartwarming and loving read. The chemistry between Evie and Maddox is off the charts; Maddox’s calm demeanor and careful approach to Evie made their relationship compelling, even during moments that frustrated me.
I am eagerly looking forward to Lou and Henry’s story; I can already tell it’s going to be intense and filled with emotion. And I can’t overlook Mercy—his wild side deserves a loving counterpart, especially after everything he’s been through.
This story is a beautiful exploration of redemption and second chances, and it reminds us that even the deepest wounds can lead us to love and healing. Highly recommended!
I absolutely loved These Jagged Edges! As a huge fan of single-parent tropes, I was hooked from the start. Evie's character is beautifully crafted, showcasing her strength as she navigates a life filled with challenges. Despite her struggles, she remains resilient, with her two sweet kids, Bash and Charlie, lighting up her world. Bash’s adventurous spirit and Charlie’s determination to be the “man of the house” add such depth to Evie's journey.
Maddox was a complete surprise to me. His backstory hit hard and left me shocked—some of the twists were totally unexpected! I found myself tearing up throughout the book, yet it was ultimately such a heartwarming and loving read. The chemistry between Evie and Maddox is off the charts; Maddox’s calm demeanor and careful approach to Evie made their relationship compelling, even during moments that frustrated me.
I am eagerly looking forward to Lou and Henry’s story; I can already tell it’s going to be intense and filled with emotion. And I can’t overlook Mercy—his wild side deserves a loving counterpart, especially after everything he’s been through.
This story is a beautiful exploration of redemption and second chances, and it reminds us that even the deepest wounds can lead us to love and healing. Highly recommended!
March 19, 2025
This book hits deep. Evie and Maddox are two broken souls—she’s bound by fear, he’s hollowed by loss—and their connection is electric in the most raw, unexpected way. Their journey is filled with tension, healing, and second chances, making every page feel like an emotional whirlwind.
Tuesday James delivers a beautifully written romance that’s equal parts heartache and hope. If you love stories about love piecing together the broken, this one’s a must-read. 💔✨
Be sure to check the trigger warnings on this one!
Tuesday James delivers a beautifully written romance that’s equal parts heartache and hope. If you love stories about love piecing together the broken, this one’s a must-read. 💔✨
Be sure to check the trigger warnings on this one!
April 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️.75
This Book!! It’s a trauma healing journey ! It will chatter your heart, because how can anyone go through what Evie did and still be a decent human and try every single day to be good to her kids and society !!?
It broke my heart, the trauma they both survived, is soul crushing!
Evie needed a Maddox, just like he needed Evie and her boys to heal and banish his inner demons.
FMC is in hiding with her twin boys( Such characters, mamas boys)
MMC is a grumpy hermit who is a walking non-talking wounded bear.
They are neighbors.
Found family is Ahhhmazing !!!
The Wilders brother ! I’m in love 🫠🫠🫠
At first of course, Maddox can’t stand her or the kids in his vicinity, or on his property.
But when she tells him that his “anger scares her.” He does a 180. The man literally convinces her to start self defense classes. In his Gym ! And he is her coach 😩🥹
Their healing journey is so beautiful, ( I needed the cry) how he teaches her to ground herself when she gets her panic attacks, or during an episode triggered by past events.
The man You are Maddox 😮💨😩
The spice was finger licking Goooood 🫣❤️🔥I mean! Take a cold shower to cool off, or get you partner ( organic or mechanic)
The suspense … The TOUCH HER AND DIE 😮💨☠️!!
Highly recommend it, and looking forward to all her future books !😩 I need them yesterday 🙏🏻
grumpyxsunshine
Hurt comfort
"'pretty girl'” 🫠
height difference plus-size FMC
single mom (on the run)
FMC with physical scars
Trauma
banter
MMC that wears glasses
This Book!! It’s a trauma healing journey ! It will chatter your heart, because how can anyone go through what Evie did and still be a decent human and try every single day to be good to her kids and society !!?
It broke my heart, the trauma they both survived, is soul crushing!
Evie needed a Maddox, just like he needed Evie and her boys to heal and banish his inner demons.
FMC is in hiding with her twin boys( Such characters, mamas boys)
MMC is a grumpy hermit who is a walking non-talking wounded bear.
They are neighbors.
Found family is Ahhhmazing !!!
The Wilders brother ! I’m in love 🫠🫠🫠
At first of course, Maddox can’t stand her or the kids in his vicinity, or on his property.
But when she tells him that his “anger scares her.” He does a 180. The man literally convinces her to start self defense classes. In his Gym ! And he is her coach 😩🥹
Their healing journey is so beautiful, ( I needed the cry) how he teaches her to ground herself when she gets her panic attacks, or during an episode triggered by past events.
The man You are Maddox 😮💨😩
The spice was finger licking Goooood 🫣❤️🔥I mean! Take a cold shower to cool off, or get you partner ( organic or mechanic)
The suspense … The TOUCH HER AND DIE 😮💨☠️!!
Highly recommend it, and looking forward to all her future books !😩 I need them yesterday 🙏🏻
grumpyxsunshine
Hurt comfort
"'pretty girl'” 🫠
height difference plus-size FMC
single mom (on the run)
FMC with physical scars
Trauma
banter
MMC that wears glasses
March 26, 2025
okay this was really good. I loved the storyline and the plot. The character development throughout the book was so good. Specially Maddox. He was just a broken man trying to get by the best way he knew how, anger. Until he met evie and she brought the light back into his life. Both main characters have been through so much and they’re learning to navigate the hurt / pain & trauma they both have.
Maddox irked me so bad at about 50 % but when you know his story and what that day was, you understand a little bit. Was it right? No. But he is a trying man and he is learning. And he redeemed himself and made up for the hurt he caused and grew. And I love that.
Not only was he always trying to be better but that man and his filthy mouth 🤤🤭🥵 I devoured this book just like he constantly devoured evie 😏
Evie was such a strong character & she went through so much but she was the BESTTTT mother to her babies and I loved to see it. She didn’t let her storm ever get her babies wet 🥹
The plot at the end with Trent? Wowwwww it was wild and so crazy and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time until “big guy” showed up 🥹
I’d also just like to add that her babies were the sweetest little boys and Vic? And Joe? Just the whole found family in general was so good & I’m so excited for the books to come because the bread crumbs were definitely crumbingggg😏🥰
Maddox irked me so bad at about 50 % but when you know his story and what that day was, you understand a little bit. Was it right? No. But he is a trying man and he is learning. And he redeemed himself and made up for the hurt he caused and grew. And I love that.
Not only was he always trying to be better but that man and his filthy mouth 🤤🤭🥵 I devoured this book just like he constantly devoured evie 😏
Evie was such a strong character & she went through so much but she was the BESTTTT mother to her babies and I loved to see it. She didn’t let her storm ever get her babies wet 🥹
The plot at the end with Trent? Wowwwww it was wild and so crazy and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time until “big guy” showed up 🥹
I’d also just like to add that her babies were the sweetest little boys and Vic? And Joe? Just the whole found family in general was so good & I’m so excited for the books to come because the bread crumbs were definitely crumbingggg😏🥰
April 12, 2025
Jagged Edges by Tuesday James was my very first read by this Indie author. This book has a lot happening so be sure to take care of yourself and read the Trigger Warnings.
Jagged Edges has Evie, the FMC. She's a single mom of twin boys. She was able to leave an unsafe relationship and start over & start healing in the small, Southern town of Thunder Ridge. Her neighbor, Maddox, is the grumpy MMC. His demeanor causes Evie to dislike him. He has his baggage let me tell you. The sweet brother is named Mercy and he is the epitome of Southern Charm.
The story has ups and downs and with these, I felt so many emotions. At times I was angry, other times I was sad and reading tearfully and there were beautiful times in the story when I felt joy & happiness (and yep, tears again lol).
I recommend this book to all Dark Romance lovers who crave light to better see in the darkness, he falls first and spicy scenes, with eventually hope of an HEA. As suggested in the beginning of this review, read the warnings, if you decide not to and are triggered, remember that's on you NOT the author.
Jagged Edges has Evie, the FMC. She's a single mom of twin boys. She was able to leave an unsafe relationship and start over & start healing in the small, Southern town of Thunder Ridge. Her neighbor, Maddox, is the grumpy MMC. His demeanor causes Evie to dislike him. He has his baggage let me tell you. The sweet brother is named Mercy and he is the epitome of Southern Charm.
The story has ups and downs and with these, I felt so many emotions. At times I was angry, other times I was sad and reading tearfully and there were beautiful times in the story when I felt joy & happiness (and yep, tears again lol).
I recommend this book to all Dark Romance lovers who crave light to better see in the darkness, he falls first and spicy scenes, with eventually hope of an HEA. As suggested in the beginning of this review, read the warnings, if you decide not to and are triggered, remember that's on you NOT the author.
March 25, 2025
Only reason it got four stars is the grammar errors. Some were hard to get by but, that being said, this was an ARC review and it wasn’t a final copy. But, PLEASE check triggers for this one. It was such a good story and I absolutely loved the plot but it was HEAVY. Maddox and Evie healed together and it was so beautiful watching them heal and grow with each other. They both went through so much and I loved watching them fall in love and heal and be there for each other. 10/10 still recommend this book because I still loved it!
I loved the twins in the book and how protective they were of their mama and I loved the whole found family. The way Vic was her honorary dad because her actual parents were crappy? We love to see it. Evie truly deserved a family because she never got a real one and I loved that she found one in the people we meet in this book. All of the side characters captivated me.
I also loved that Evie was plus sized. As a plus size girly myself, it hit close to home especially with the self image issues.
*GRUMPY/SUNSHINE
*HE FALLS FIRST
*PLUS SIZE FMC
*TOUCH HER AND DIE
So many good tropes that were in it.
I loved the twins in the book and how protective they were of their mama and I loved the whole found family. The way Vic was her honorary dad because her actual parents were crappy? We love to see it. Evie truly deserved a family because she never got a real one and I loved that she found one in the people we meet in this book. All of the side characters captivated me.
I also loved that Evie was plus sized. As a plus size girly myself, it hit close to home especially with the self image issues.
*GRUMPY/SUNSHINE
*HE FALLS FIRST
*PLUS SIZE FMC
*TOUCH HER AND DIE
So many good tropes that were in it.
March 18, 2025
**ARC REVIEW**
6⭐️
3🌶️
The amount of money I would pay to wipe my brain just to experience this book for the first time again… UNREAL! The fact this is a debut novel makes me so excited for future books by Tuesday. This book is emotional, filled with tension, and brings awareness to domestic violence. Both Evie and Maddox were written beautifully. I feel like I know them personally. I also really enjoyed Mercy’s humor. *Hoping for his story!*
Side note: the quotes below will always make me sob my eyes out.
“For her, it was war. Your mama is brave, but sometimes even the bravest people need help.” - Vic
“That’s why we sleep with her when we hear her crying, to help her be extra brave.” - Bash
6⭐️
3🌶️
The amount of money I would pay to wipe my brain just to experience this book for the first time again… UNREAL! The fact this is a debut novel makes me so excited for future books by Tuesday. This book is emotional, filled with tension, and brings awareness to domestic violence. Both Evie and Maddox were written beautifully. I feel like I know them personally. I also really enjoyed Mercy’s humor. *Hoping for his story!*
Side note: the quotes below will always make me sob my eyes out.
“For her, it was war. Your mama is brave, but sometimes even the bravest people need help.” - Vic
“That’s why we sleep with her when we hear her crying, to help her be extra brave.” - Bash
March 17, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
This book gave me absolutely everything!!!!!
I cried at least 5 times. I laughed out loud. I was big cheesin, kicking my feet and blushing.
I received an ARC of this book and I am so in love with it!! Everyone needs to go read this book!!
Now I need all the stories for the side characters!
This book gave me absolutely everything!!!!!
I cried at least 5 times. I laughed out loud. I was big cheesin, kicking my feet and blushing.
I received an ARC of this book and I am so in love with it!! Everyone needs to go read this book!!
Now I need all the stories for the side characters!
April 10, 2025
3.75 stars
THESE JAGGED EDGES
by @authortuesdayyjames
❤️🔥🌹❤️🔥🌹❤️🔥🌹❤️��🌹❤️🔥
this wickedly dark debut was so full of heart and banter, with enough spice to require a cool glass of water. 💦
evie taylor escaped her abusive ex with her twin sons and started over in thunder ridge. maddox wilder is the town grump. both are scarred on the inside and outside. can they move on from their pasts?
please check trigger warnings
THESE JAGGED EDGES
by @authortuesdayyjames
❤️🔥🌹❤️🔥🌹❤️🔥🌹❤️��🌹❤️🔥
this wickedly dark debut was so full of heart and banter, with enough spice to require a cool glass of water. 💦
evie taylor escaped her abusive ex with her twin sons and started over in thunder ridge. maddox wilder is the town grump. both are scarred on the inside and outside. can they move on from their pasts?
please check trigger warnings
March 27, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book considering I read it all in one sitting. I love that both of the characters have their own traumas from their past and find a way to love and heal each other and themselves. It was so nice to see them grow and become better versions of themselves while also not letting their past keep them from being happy.
I really like Evie. It was so obvious how good of a mother she is and everything she does it to make a better life for her boys. I respect her so much for always doing what's best for them and standing up for herself as well.
Maddox definitely came off as a douche/grouch but once you got to know him it made sense, and he really has a big heart. I love his character growth especially because he truly faced his demons and Evie helped so much. I think that was my favorite part. I feel like aside from his little moment their relationship was very healthy, and Evie needed that desperately. The spice was also really good. Maddox had an appetite if you know what I mean lol. He also worshipped her body which who doesn't love that?
Aside from the romance, the found family was so heartwarming, and I loved all the side characters, especially the brothers. I really want to get their stories and see them with their own HEAs. That ending with the breadcrumbs has me dying for me because what...
I really like Evie. It was so obvious how good of a mother she is and everything she does it to make a better life for her boys. I respect her so much for always doing what's best for them and standing up for herself as well.
Maddox definitely came off as a douche/grouch but once you got to know him it made sense, and he really has a big heart. I love his character growth especially because he truly faced his demons and Evie helped so much. I think that was my favorite part. I feel like aside from his little moment their relationship was very healthy, and Evie needed that desperately. The spice was also really good. Maddox had an appetite if you know what I mean lol. He also worshipped her body which who doesn't love that?
Aside from the romance, the found family was so heartwarming, and I loved all the side characters, especially the brothers. I really want to get their stories and see them with their own HEAs. That ending with the breadcrumbs has me dying for me because what...
March 20, 2025
ARC REVIEW 🖤
This book is a WILD ride!! Wooow, the emotional depth of these characters and their back stories had me deep in my feels.
There’s a lot of heavy topics in this one, so mind your triggers baby.
Maddox and Evie have gone through so much traumatic events, but the way they heal one another felt so damn heartwarming.
Their chemistry was palpable and I just knewwww Maddox was gonna be SO GOOD 🥵 he’s such a grump, but he had the heart of gold and he was absolutely perfect for Evie.
Also, Evie is easily at the top of my chart for bad ass FMCs because her journey of abuse and escaping that life, and becoming this version of herself was so empowering for women who have gone through the depths of hell, only to escape and survive and become the strongest versions of themselves.
So many great messages in this book, and I absolutely loved it.
The plot was incredible and the spice was spicyyy. I wish I could relive this one again for the first time.
Overall: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
This book is a WILD ride!! Wooow, the emotional depth of these characters and their back stories had me deep in my feels.
There’s a lot of heavy topics in this one, so mind your triggers baby.
Maddox and Evie have gone through so much traumatic events, but the way they heal one another felt so damn heartwarming.
Their chemistry was palpable and I just knewwww Maddox was gonna be SO GOOD 🥵 he’s such a grump, but he had the heart of gold and he was absolutely perfect for Evie.
Also, Evie is easily at the top of my chart for bad ass FMCs because her journey of abuse and escaping that life, and becoming this version of herself was so empowering for women who have gone through the depths of hell, only to escape and survive and become the strongest versions of themselves.
So many great messages in this book, and I absolutely loved it.
The plot was incredible and the spice was spicyyy. I wish I could relive this one again for the first time.
Overall: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
dnf
June 26, 2025DNF @7%.
ARC Review.
I see the potential in this but unfortunately, 7% in and I’m over it. Besides the obvious need for editing - which, you know, I get it’s an ARC review and I normally don’t base my reviews on that precisely because it’s an ARC and usually not the final product—but there were just so many grammar errors especially with sentence structures that it just made it so hard to follow and stay focused on the story.
I also didn’t care for the MC. He did not captivate me ONE bit. And I accidentally stumbled over a review that spoiled something that happens at 51% that was just absolute garbage coming from the MMC which put me off.
Also there were soooooo many descriptions of all the side characters and their back stories…for what?
Yeah…I’m good on this one.
ARC Review.
I see the potential in this but unfortunately, 7% in and I’m over it. Besides the obvious need for editing - which, you know, I get it’s an ARC review and I normally don’t base my reviews on that precisely because it’s an ARC and usually not the final product—but there were just so many grammar errors especially with sentence structures that it just made it so hard to follow and stay focused on the story.
I also didn’t care for the MC. He did not captivate me ONE bit. And I accidentally stumbled over a review that spoiled something that happens at 51% that was just absolute garbage coming from the MMC which put me off.
Also there were soooooo many descriptions of all the side characters and their back stories…for what?
Yeah…I’m good on this one.
March 22, 2025
From the very first page of *These Jagged Edges*, I felt an exhilarating sense of anticipation wash over me. As an ARC reader, I was instantly captivated by the promise of a compelling story featuring a plus-size heroine—a representation that is often overlooked in contemporary romance. The protagonist, Evie, a single mother of twins navigating the tumultuous waters of escaping an abusive relationship, immediately tugged at my heartstrings. I was eager to see how her journey would unfold.
Evie’s fierce love for her boys is palpable and beautifully depicted. The bond they share is heartwarming, a testament to her resilience as a mother. It’s a narrative that resonates deeply, especially for those who understand the weight of responsibility that comes with single parenting. The contrast between Evie’s struggles and Maddox, a character who initially appears to embody darkness and danger, creates a rich emotional landscape that keeps readers on their toes. As we delve deeper into Maddox’s character, we start to see the cracks in his tough exterior, particularly through his interactions with Evie’s children.
Maddox himself is a wildfire of intensity. His brooding demeanor and the emotional scars he carries are compelling, and the way the author unfolds his character—from a seemingly cold figure to someone capable of tenderness—is executed beautifully. I found myself rooting for him, feeling the pull of his complexities. The relationship between Maddox and Evie is equally profound; they are two broken souls finding solace in each other’s arms. Their chemistry is electric, and the emotional stakes are high, making every moment they share feel significant.
The pacing of the story strikes a perfect balance, allowing readers to savor the tension and the slow burn of their romance. The emotional depth is palpable, and I appreciated how the author didn’t shy away from portraying the characters’ vulnerabilities. Evie is not just a survivor; she’s a warrior. Her strength is inspiring, and it’s refreshing to see a heroine who embodies resilience while still being relatable.
The supporting characters also add delightful layers to the narrative. Maddox’s brother, Mercy, comes across as a charming flirt—his golden retriever energy is irresistible, and I found myself hoping for his own story. The potential for more tales featuring the brothers, including Henry, who has a hint of chemistry with Lou, is exciting. I can easily envision a series that explores their dynamics further.
And let’s talk about Maddox. This man is a force of nature! His intensity in bed is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Fanning myself just thinking about his commanding presence, I couldn’t help but appreciate how he gives Evie all the control she needs. It’s a powerful dynamic that had me highlighting passages like crazy!
The tender yet messy moments between Maddox and Evie are relatable and touching. Their coping techniques resonate deeply, and I found myself connecting with Evie on so many levels. I love this book so much! Holy hell, Maddox is 6’5”? Lord have mercy, this man is everything! Broody, sexy, tall, and muscular—total swoon material!
This man is a damn inferno!
Evie, with her huge heart, remains everyone’s sunshine despite her broken past. The way Maddox loves is what every woman craves—possessive yet tender, demanding yet gentle. He’s a big giant who knows how to protect not just Evie but her boys as well.
Five things you can see.
Four things you can feel.
Three things you can hear.
Two things you can smell.
One thing you can taste.
I seriously loved Charlie and his protective nature towards his mama. And Bash? Those boys are just too adorable! Old man Vic also stole my heart with the way he cares for Evie and her children like they are his own. By the very end of the book, my heart was so full of joy! I soaked up every moment of this story. I have never gushed over a book like this before; I truly didn’t want it to end!
In conclusion, *These Jagged Edges* is a heartfelt exploration of love, resilience, and the complexities of human connection. I can’t wait to add this to my collection upon its release. It’s a solid 4-star read for me, with the understanding that any minor errors I noted will likely be corrected. I will be first in line for this book on release day, and I look forward to more from this author. Maddox, with his fierce protectiveness and tender heart, has won a special place in my literary affections. This book is a must-read!
March 17, 2025
✨️ARC Review✨️
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶.5
(Check trigger warnings)
❗️Mentions of DV and Loss of a child❗️
✨️Dark Small town
🖤Single Mom
✨️Grumpy/Sunshine
🖤Traumatic Pasts
✨️Plus Sized FMC
🖤Found Family
✨️He Falls First and Harder
🖤Who f*cking did this to you
"Our scars are proof we still live and breathe Evie, despite everything. One day I hope you wear them proudly. I hope you look in the mirror and dont see them as chains to your past any longer. I want you to swell with so much pride it hurts because you made it. You. Fucking. Made. It." - Maddox
I was so excited to read a book with a short plus sized FMC. Evie is beautifully written. I was captivated from the start. She is an amazing mom and her strength and struggles are equally powerful and relatable for the reader. She's feisty and I love her.
Maddox was immediately intriguing. His past is heartbreaking and you instantly understand why he is the way he is. The relationships in his life are complicated by his grief and it's so raw and honest the way it's portrayed. Angry ass Clark Kent is valid. For me, I found his behavior near unforgivable to use Evies traumas that she trusted him with, against her to push her away.
As a couple Evie and Maddox are honest from the start. Maddox can track Evie's triggers like their his own. Evie, although deeply traumatized from her past, does her best to voice her triggers to Maddox and it's that communication that makes their relationship so great from day one. She understands Maddox and his visceral reactions and doesnt blame him for them, but understands and supports him. Their spice is spicing 🥵 I loved that Maddox completely gave control over to Evie. It showed his respect for her in the bedroom👏 that being said his choice to throw a trigger in her face to hurt her seemed so out of character.
❗️Spoilers❗️
One of the favorite things in the book was "Tell me five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can touch, and one thing you can taste"- that coping mechanism was an amazing technique that I honestly may use and teach in my every day life. I appreciated that Maddox allowed his heart to open to Charlie and Sebastian- even though his past could have easily made him stay closed off.
For my drawbacks- I didn't initially see in the descriptions that it was a single mom romance. I tend to steer away from those, so for the Goodreads description of the book I think it should be included.
The flow of the book was fast paced which I usually like but some of the big reveals like Maddox's daughter death reveal was very abrupt and for me was very whiplash like. I didn't feel like that big of a reveal got the attention it deserved. It barely felt acknowledged in the moment. I understand the intentions behind it to a certain extent because I think both characters are obviously extremely traumatized and have a certain amount of desensitized reactions to information regarding others trauma. So I tried to be understanding of that. But when you have Evie going into panic attacks by the sound of a belt sound shortly after that (understandably so) but barely acknowledging Maddox's reveal it's very staggering and didn't feel like a real situation. Again I understand the intention, just for me I didn't vibe with it.
I HATED that Maddox threw the belt comment at Evie when she found him in his office. He KNEW her trigger and used it against her. That set me off and I got the ick instantly.
Overall it was an easy read, and I would recommend it for someone who likes small town romances with dark and heavy elements.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶.5
(Check trigger warnings)
❗️Mentions of DV and Loss of a child❗️
✨️Dark Small town
🖤Single Mom
✨️Grumpy/Sunshine
🖤Traumatic Pasts
✨️Plus Sized FMC
🖤Found Family
✨️He Falls First and Harder
🖤Who f*cking did this to you
"Our scars are proof we still live and breathe Evie, despite everything. One day I hope you wear them proudly. I hope you look in the mirror and dont see them as chains to your past any longer. I want you to swell with so much pride it hurts because you made it. You. Fucking. Made. It." - Maddox
I was so excited to read a book with a short plus sized FMC. Evie is beautifully written. I was captivated from the start. She is an amazing mom and her strength and struggles are equally powerful and relatable for the reader. She's feisty and I love her.
Maddox was immediately intriguing. His past is heartbreaking and you instantly understand why he is the way he is. The relationships in his life are complicated by his grief and it's so raw and honest the way it's portrayed. Angry ass Clark Kent is valid. For me, I found his behavior near unforgivable to use Evies traumas that she trusted him with, against her to push her away.
As a couple Evie and Maddox are honest from the start. Maddox can track Evie's triggers like their his own. Evie, although deeply traumatized from her past, does her best to voice her triggers to Maddox and it's that communication that makes their relationship so great from day one. She understands Maddox and his visceral reactions and doesnt blame him for them, but understands and supports him. Their spice is spicing 🥵 I loved that Maddox completely gave control over to Evie. It showed his respect for her in the bedroom👏 that being said his choice to throw a trigger in her face to hurt her seemed so out of character.
❗️Spoilers❗️
One of the favorite things in the book was "Tell me five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can touch, and one thing you can taste"- that coping mechanism was an amazing technique that I honestly may use and teach in my every day life. I appreciated that Maddox allowed his heart to open to Charlie and Sebastian- even though his past could have easily made him stay closed off.
For my drawbacks- I didn't initially see in the descriptions that it was a single mom romance. I tend to steer away from those, so for the Goodreads description of the book I think it should be included.
The flow of the book was fast paced which I usually like but some of the big reveals like Maddox's daughter death reveal was very abrupt and for me was very whiplash like. I didn't feel like that big of a reveal got the attention it deserved. It barely felt acknowledged in the moment. I understand the intentions behind it to a certain extent because I think both characters are obviously extremely traumatized and have a certain amount of desensitized reactions to information regarding others trauma. So I tried to be understanding of that. But when you have Evie going into panic attacks by the sound of a belt sound shortly after that (understandably so) but barely acknowledging Maddox's reveal it's very staggering and didn't feel like a real situation. Again I understand the intention, just for me I didn't vibe with it.
I HATED that Maddox threw the belt comment at Evie when she found him in his office. He KNEW her trigger and used it against her. That set me off and I got the ick instantly.
Overall it was an easy read, and I would recommend it for someone who likes small town romances with dark and heavy elements.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2025
Stars- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice- 🌶🌶🌶
These Jagged Edges was one of my most anticipated books for 2025, and it was worth the wait because I loved it! Evie and Maddox took us on an emotional rollercoaster that had me crying, swooning, nauseous, heartbroken, and sitting on the edge of my seat!
⬇️ Tropes ⬇️
🥊 Hurt/Comfort
🥊 He teaches her self-defense
🥊 Small Town
🥊 Found Family
🥊 Single Mom
🥊 Grumpy next-door neighbor
⚠️ Triggers ⚠️
⚠️ Flashbacks of DV, gr@pe, body mutilation
⚠️ Child Loss
⚠️ Use of past trauma to hurt someone.
I was hooked on the first page. Evie Taylor is one of my favorite FMC's. She has been through so much, and my heart broke for her. Her growth through this book was beautiful. Yes, Maddox helped, but Evie did a lot of work on her own. She's a badas$!
Maddox was almost perfect. I love a strong, silent, grumpy MMC, and Maddox checked every box! The way he worshiped Evie was beautiful. I loved that he always reminded her of her worth and reminded her of how hard she had fought for the life she has. My heart broke for him and the pain he was in. One of the times when he was hurting the most, he said something to Evie that broke my heart, and honestly, I had a hard time letting it go. I felt like Evie let it go too quickly. Idk, I really wish he would not have said that to her.
Found Family is one of my favorite tropes and I loved the characters in this book! Bash and Charlie were absolutely adorable! When they would get protective of their Mama, it was precious. I am invested in all of the relationships, especially Henry & Lou and Mercy & Sophie 🤔 I can't wait to see where future books take us.
The storyline with Allison surprised me. I didn't expect it to go where it went, and I was pleasantly surprised. Evie is a better woman than I am, and that's why I love her so much. I would love a book/novella about Allison and Lucien!
The vibe of this book was so good! As I was reading it, I slowed down and started procrastinating because I didn't want it to end. I loved this book from beginning to end and would definitely recommend it!
Spice- 🌶🌶🌶
These Jagged Edges was one of my most anticipated books for 2025, and it was worth the wait because I loved it! Evie and Maddox took us on an emotional rollercoaster that had me crying, swooning, nauseous, heartbroken, and sitting on the edge of my seat!
⬇️ Tropes ⬇️
🥊 Hurt/Comfort
🥊 He teaches her self-defense
🥊 Small Town
🥊 Found Family
🥊 Single Mom
🥊 Grumpy next-door neighbor
⚠️ Triggers ⚠️
⚠️ Flashbacks of DV, gr@pe, body mutilation
⚠️ Child Loss
⚠️ Use of past trauma to hurt someone.
I was hooked on the first page. Evie Taylor is one of my favorite FMC's. She has been through so much, and my heart broke for her. Her growth through this book was beautiful. Yes, Maddox helped, but Evie did a lot of work on her own. She's a badas$!
Maddox was almost perfect. I love a strong, silent, grumpy MMC, and Maddox checked every box! The way he worshiped Evie was beautiful. I loved that he always reminded her of her worth and reminded her of how hard she had fought for the life she has. My heart broke for him and the pain he was in. One of the times when he was hurting the most, he said something to Evie that broke my heart, and honestly, I had a hard time letting it go. I felt like Evie let it go too quickly. Idk, I really wish he would not have said that to her.
Found Family is one of my favorite tropes and I loved the characters in this book! Bash and Charlie were absolutely adorable! When they would get protective of their Mama, it was precious. I am invested in all of the relationships, especially Henry & Lou and Mercy & Sophie 🤔 I can't wait to see where future books take us.
The storyline with Allison surprised me. I didn't expect it to go where it went, and I was pleasantly surprised. Evie is a better woman than I am, and that's why I love her so much. I would love a book/novella about Allison and Lucien!
The vibe of this book was so good! As I was reading it, I slowed down and started procrastinating because I didn't want it to end. I loved this book from beginning to end and would definitely recommend it!
March 31, 2025
After reading These Jagged Edges by Tuesday James, I had to take a day to write this review, just to digest the emotional damage that it reeked on my mind. Ms. James crafted characters that went through it, but they also found love and family along the way. Along with our main characters, Maddox Wilder and Evie James, there is a whole cast of true characters that add to the charm to this small town romance. Evie James is a single mother to twin boys Charlie and Bash. Six years ago she escaped a hellish and abusive relationship. She found her self alone and pregnant in the southern farm town of Thunder Ridge. Maddox Wilder moved back to town a year ago. He had cutoff his family and retreated into himself lost in grief and anger. The first time Evie and Maddox met, she went toe to toe with him and screamed “fu€k you” in his face. Maddox was immediately obsessed. He sees past Evie’s mask to the scarred woman underneath. Evie gains more self-confidence and control of her demons and Maddox lets her light shine into his darkness. I loved their relationship, it was very believable. They had real conversations and argued but didn’t immediately make up. They had to work together to make the relationship work. It was beautiful to see their messy love story. Their jagged edges were softened by each other’s love and they fit together with the bad and good. I was giggling one page and tearing up the next. This story will live rent free in my mind for months.
I’d like to thank Tuesday James and The Author Agency for the privilege of reading an advanced copy of These Jagged Edges
5⭐️
4🌶️
📚ARC Review📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera 🐦🔥
I’d like to thank Tuesday James and The Author Agency for the privilege of reading an advanced copy of These Jagged Edges
5⭐️
4🌶️
📚ARC Review📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera 🐦🔥
March 25, 2025
I absolutely ate this up! I finished it in two sittings and if it wasn’t for work I’d probably have finished it one. For me it’s 4.5⭐️!! Honestly the only reason it isn’t a full 5 star read for me was because I started to get the ick from how many times Maddox said the word p***y. But I couldn’t get completely mad at it because these characters felt so real and relatable that I could see that the average guy does talk like that.
The character development for both characters was so good. Seeing Evie overcome her fears and become such a badass, I literally balled tears.
I could see how some people would be upset about a situation that occurred between Maddox and Evie but although, yes I was shocked, I understood it. It was such a real moment. And it made him human!
Now hear me out. I love me my dark brooding literally touched her and die Mads. Buuuut Mercy though! I loved him so much!! His charm was top tier.
This book had all my favorite tropes and more. I really enjoyed the writing as well. It was so easy to digest that it made me fly through the pages. I was literally left wanting more. I need at least three more books. My man Mercy needs his own book. I have to have a Lou story and I also want an Allison story. I just loved this little small town found family that you could give me a book for each character and I would not complain.
Overall this was an amazing experience for reading my first ARC.
The character development for both characters was so good. Seeing Evie overcome her fears and become such a badass, I literally balled tears.
I could see how some people would be upset about a situation that occurred between Maddox and Evie but although, yes I was shocked, I understood it. It was such a real moment. And it made him human!
Now hear me out. I love me my dark brooding literally touched her and die Mads. Buuuut Mercy though! I loved him so much!! His charm was top tier.
This book had all my favorite tropes and more. I really enjoyed the writing as well. It was so easy to digest that it made me fly through the pages. I was literally left wanting more. I need at least three more books. My man Mercy needs his own book. I have to have a Lou story and I also want an Allison story. I just loved this little small town found family that you could give me a book for each character and I would not complain.
Overall this was an amazing experience for reading my first ARC.
March 29, 2025
Happy Release Day to @authortuesdayyjames 💕
This is book 1 in the series and oh boy, I cannot wait for more.
Evie leaves her abusive ex-husband and finds out she’s pregnant with twins. Six years later, she is settled in Thunder Ridge…settled but on edge. Building relationships has been hard but Evie has a good network of friends around her, including one very gruff and equally as hurt, Maddox.
Oooooooo I was looking forward to reading this book when I first saw a teaser and I knew I would love it and I did! It’s really emotional and gritty, so please do check the TW’s!
I loved Evie and how strong she was, especially for her boys. She literally would do anything for them, but they also have her back and I adored their relationship.
Evie has some demons lurking but so does Maddox and his history made me cry 😭
He is super grumpy and can be hurtful but it’s because of his trauma. However, his love for Evie and her children made me swoon.
Their relationship was DELIGHTFUL and DELICIOUS and I gobbled it all up like a nice slice of apple pie.
I loved the side characters, especially Maddox’s brother, Mercy and Evie’s best friend, Lou oh Henry, the police officer. I’m soooo excited if they are the next book.
Anyway, this book was honestly amazing and I absolutely devoured it.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
March 30, 2025
“What if that darkness is all I’ve ever known?”
Big Guy and Pretty Girl… need I say more? Trauma, healing, finding your people - you get it all. The bond between the twins and Maddox is adorable and so heartwarming. And the fierce protectiveness is what everyone wants.
💀 Dark Romance
🩷 Small Town
💀 Found Family
🩷 Grumpy x Sunshine
💀 Single Mom
🩷 Plus Size FMC
Evie Taylor knows how to survive. She ran with nothing but a bag of clothes, stolen cash, and the kind of scars that don’t fade. Now, six years later, she’s built a life in Thunder Ridge—raising her twin boys, slinging coffee at the local diner, and keeping her past buried where it belongs. But when Maddox Wilder storms into her orbit, all jagged edges and brooding stares, she realizes some ghosts don’t stay dead.
Maddox doesn’t do attachments. The world took too much from him, and he’s learned that anger is easier to hold onto than hope. But Evie? She’s fire wrapped in thorns, daring him to get close even as she keeps him at arm’s length. He sees the fear she tries to hide, the way she double-checks locks and flinches at shadows. And when her past comes clawing its way back, Maddox finds himself ready to burn the world down to keep her safe.
But Evie isn’t some damsel waiting to be saved. She’s done running, and if the devil wants her, he better be ready to bleed.
These Jagged Edges is a raw, gritty romance about survival, redemption, and the kind of love that doesn’t just heal—it wrecks you first
Big Guy and Pretty Girl… need I say more? Trauma, healing, finding your people - you get it all. The bond between the twins and Maddox is adorable and so heartwarming. And the fierce protectiveness is what everyone wants.
💀 Dark Romance
🩷 Small Town
💀 Found Family
🩷 Grumpy x Sunshine
💀 Single Mom
🩷 Plus Size FMC
Evie Taylor knows how to survive. She ran with nothing but a bag of clothes, stolen cash, and the kind of scars that don’t fade. Now, six years later, she’s built a life in Thunder Ridge—raising her twin boys, slinging coffee at the local diner, and keeping her past buried where it belongs. But when Maddox Wilder storms into her orbit, all jagged edges and brooding stares, she realizes some ghosts don’t stay dead.
Maddox doesn’t do attachments. The world took too much from him, and he’s learned that anger is easier to hold onto than hope. But Evie? She’s fire wrapped in thorns, daring him to get close even as she keeps him at arm’s length. He sees the fear she tries to hide, the way she double-checks locks and flinches at shadows. And when her past comes clawing its way back, Maddox finds himself ready to burn the world down to keep her safe.
But Evie isn’t some damsel waiting to be saved. She’s done running, and if the devil wants her, he better be ready to bleed.
These Jagged Edges is a raw, gritty romance about survival, redemption, and the kind of love that doesn’t just heal—it wrecks you first
April 23, 2025
3.0⭐️ This took me almost an entire month to finish, I think that is part of the reason I’m rating it a little lower than I initially thought I would. This story was entertaining and had some great found family aspects, but overall I found it slow (even though the book is less than 300 pgs). I struggled to stay engaged after they got together so quickly, also wtf is up with the mid-story conflict?? Him throwing a desk next to her and threatening her with a belt?? When he knew she had trauma?? I thought I would get over it because he is in a dark headspace and missing his daughter who passed, but then this man continued to have outrageous anger issues the entire book. Don’t get me wrong he was sweet to her and loved her, but damn this man needs serious counseling. I think there were funny and sweet parts, and the best parts were the side characters and her kids, but overall the couple was not what I wanted them to be. I enjoyed Evie more than anyone else, she was kind and a deep/well written character. I do wish her and Maddox had a better relationship though, I wish the man would go get some help too. Okay rant over, I’ll still read the next one cause I’m intrigued with the story, but I wish there was a little more connection between the main characters other than their deep levels of trauma.
March 25, 2025
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ wide open door🥵
Cry sesh: 10+ times😭
I signed up for this arc mainly because I love smut lol but this was so much more than that!
This was such an emotional experience but in the best way possible. It’s literally better than any movies I’ve seen in years! The plot, the actions, the spice🥵you name it, this book have it.
I also think that this has the best chosen family trope or found family that I’ve ever read. I’m a sucker for meddling older characters in books and this took that and put it on a different level. I love the Evie found what she deserves but also that Vic and Joe found theirs 😭❤️
Maddox oh sweet baby hulk Maddox😮💨 He’s everything. I don’t even have enough words to describe him. I love how he doesn’t just wanna protect her, but also teach her so she can feel powerful and in control which is what she needs.
Evie is one of the strongest fmc I’ve ever read and that’s including fantasy fmcs. She got the mama bear down and despite what she went through, she is still willing to carry other people’s baggages.
Please tell me we’re getting books about the rest of the Wilders, Lou and Sophie🤞🏼 because I neeeeed it❤️
Thank you @theauthor.agency and @authortuesdayyjames for the eARC!❤️ I can’t wait to read more from you!
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ wide open door🥵
Cry sesh: 10+ times😭
I signed up for this arc mainly because I love smut lol but this was so much more than that!
This was such an emotional experience but in the best way possible. It’s literally better than any movies I’ve seen in years! The plot, the actions, the spice🥵you name it, this book have it.
I also think that this has the best chosen family trope or found family that I’ve ever read. I’m a sucker for meddling older characters in books and this took that and put it on a different level. I love the Evie found what she deserves but also that Vic and Joe found theirs 😭❤️
Maddox oh sweet baby hulk Maddox😮💨 He’s everything. I don’t even have enough words to describe him. I love how he doesn’t just wanna protect her, but also teach her so she can feel powerful and in control which is what she needs.
Evie is one of the strongest fmc I’ve ever read and that’s including fantasy fmcs. She got the mama bear down and despite what she went through, she is still willing to carry other people’s baggages.
Please tell me we’re getting books about the rest of the Wilders, Lou and Sophie🤞🏼 because I neeeeed it❤️
Thank you @theauthor.agency and @authortuesdayyjames for the eARC!❤️ I can’t wait to read more from you!
March 29, 2025
5 ⭐️
📕: These Jagged Edges by Tuesday James
Why you’ll love this book!
Found Family
Plus Size FMC
Small Town
Dark Romance
Grumpy x Sunshine
Single Mom
⚠️ Check Trigger Warnings ⚠️
This book hooked me from the beginning and put me on one of a rollercoaster of emotions. I was rooting for Evie this whole book that she could find a man who would treat her right and worship her and her boys!! Evie didn’t shake the abuse she has as a child and fell for a man who kept it up..Like any women who goes through these things the always check your surroundings and watching others to make sure you in a safe environment. After all everything Evie went through she wants to learn to defend herself that’s where Maddox comes in he trains and every week the build on the relationship is ugh each other .. Maddox has gone through the own things so he has an understanding that he has to earn Evie’s trust and love !! I loved this book the roller coaster of emotions is totally worth it in this book!!
📕: These Jagged Edges by Tuesday James
Why you’ll love this book!
Found Family
Plus Size FMC
Small Town
Dark Romance
Grumpy x Sunshine
Single Mom
⚠️ Check Trigger Warnings ⚠️
This book hooked me from the beginning and put me on one of a rollercoaster of emotions. I was rooting for Evie this whole book that she could find a man who would treat her right and worship her and her boys!! Evie didn’t shake the abuse she has as a child and fell for a man who kept it up..Like any women who goes through these things the always check your surroundings and watching others to make sure you in a safe environment. After all everything Evie went through she wants to learn to defend herself that’s where Maddox comes in he trains and every week the build on the relationship is ugh each other .. Maddox has gone through the own things so he has an understanding that he has to earn Evie’s trust and love !! I loved this book the roller coaster of emotions is totally worth it in this book!!
March 27, 2025
ARC REVIEW: I was hoping to enjoy this story when I signed up to be an ARC reader and I’m so glad I did! This book was a solid 5 stars for me. - usually I read a book where one of the MC’s has had a rough past, but this story had a FMC with brutal scars inside & out AND a MMC that was deeply broken. This book was simultaneously shattering and revitalizing. I was balling my eyes out by the end. Also, the two little boys in this story were the cutest little kids! - Two broken souls find each other in this book, but healing isn’t easy for either of them and of course there’s always something bad waiting to break you all over again… but this book does end on a happy note! (Spice level: 3.5/5, lots of dirty talk!) - Some TW’s for those that need them: Domestic abuse including mentions of past rap£; drug addiction; absent parents; death of children/miscarriages; body shaming.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews