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Between Us Trilogy #2
Between Regrets and Promises
We hooked up in a bar bathroom the first night we met.
It was intense, thrilling, and downright hot.
But then I find out who she is and everything changes.
The brunette bombshell’s soulful bedroom eyes are pure temptation. One drink leads to more, and I can no longer resist her playful banter and taunting lips. The desire to get lost in her is too strong to deny.
Except, I’m not looking for anything serious, so I tell her we can be friends.
After years of keeping her at a distance, I want to pull her closer when a looming threat risks her life. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe, but one night takes a tragic turn for the worse when I go head-to-head with her abusive boyfriend.
And ends when I’m arrested for his murder.
Between moving her into my spare bedroom, proving my innocence, and helping her cope with the trauma, we form a solid bond. Just when our relationship blossoms into more, someone else threatens to pull us apart.
But I’m not letting her go a second time.
Even if it risks everything.
Between Regrets and Promises is book two in the Between Us trilogy and must be read in order. This is intended for mature audiences only. The contents deal with domestic violence, grief & loss, and have adult themes. This is a slow burn romance and ends in an HEA.
It was intense, thrilling, and downright hot.
But then I find out who she is and everything changes.
The brunette bombshell’s soulful bedroom eyes are pure temptation. One drink leads to more, and I can no longer resist her playful banter and taunting lips. The desire to get lost in her is too strong to deny.
Except, I’m not looking for anything serious, so I tell her we can be friends.
After years of keeping her at a distance, I want to pull her closer when a looming threat risks her life. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe, but one night takes a tragic turn for the worse when I go head-to-head with her abusive boyfriend.
And ends when I’m arrested for his murder.
Between moving her into my spare bedroom, proving my innocence, and helping her cope with the trauma, we form a solid bond. Just when our relationship blossoms into more, someone else threatens to pull us apart.
But I’m not letting her go a second time.
Even if it risks everything.
Between Regrets and Promises is book two in the Between Us trilogy and must be read in order. This is intended for mature audiences only. The contents deal with domestic violence, grief & loss, and have adult themes. This is a slow burn romance and ends in an HEA.
572 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2025
184 people are currently reading
776 people want to read
About the author
Brooke Fox
6 books232 followersBrooke Fox is the alternate pen name for Brooke Montgomery. She lives in the Midwest with her husband, teenage daughter, and four dogs. She survives on iced coffee and afternoon naps.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
July 23, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
🎢🎢🎢🎟️🎠
Oh my god the rollercoaster ride this book just took me on…
*I love a rollercoaster book. Twists and turns and some nitty gritty🔥
Completely different vibes than book one.
Trigger warnings are there, darker themes.
Suspense subplot.
Sophie & Mason 💕
Looking for right person, wrong time? Here it is.
Book 1 needs to be read first so I don’t want to give away too much…
Sophie: oldest sister, professional violinist
Mason: crime scene investigator, part of the guy friend group
There’s some roommate/forced proximity action.
One night stand to awkward friends
Mutual pining
Hurt/comfort
Slow burn
Acts of service
The crumbs for book 3 at the end. Gasps.
Arc review ✨
🎢🎢🎢🎟️🎠
Oh my god the rollercoaster ride this book just took me on…
*I love a rollercoaster book. Twists and turns and some nitty gritty🔥
Completely different vibes than book one.
Trigger warnings are there, darker themes.
Suspense subplot.
Sophie & Mason 💕
Looking for right person, wrong time? Here it is.
Book 1 needs to be read first so I don’t want to give away too much…
Sophie: oldest sister, professional violinist
Mason: crime scene investigator, part of the guy friend group
There’s some roommate/forced proximity action.
One night stand to awkward friends
Mutual pining
Hurt/comfort
Slow burn
Acts of service
The crumbs for book 3 at the end. Gasps.
Arc review ✨
July 22, 2025
Buckle up, Brooke is about to take you for a ride! There isn't much I can say without major spoilers. From start to finish I was on the edge of my seat, and I audibly gasped at the last sentence. I can't wait for Maddie and Liam's book next.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:
🥺 Right Person, Wrong Time
🛏️ Roommates to Lovers
🔥 Angsty Slow Burn
🏠 Found Family
❤️🩹 Comfort/Hurt
👩🏼🤝👨🏽 Mutual Pining
💋 Forehead Kisses
🫣 Suspense Subplot (Check TW)
🫶🏻 Acts of Service
💁🏻♂️ Protective Hero
🥵 Open-door Spice
👩🏼❤️👨🏻 Dual POV
❣️ HEA
Please check TW/CW before reading. Those book is much darker than the first, but I think Brooke handled it with care
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:
🥺 Right Person, Wrong Time
🛏️ Roommates to Lovers
🔥 Angsty Slow Burn
🏠 Found Family
❤️🩹 Comfort/Hurt
👩🏼🤝👨🏽 Mutual Pining
💋 Forehead Kisses
🫣 Suspense Subplot (Check TW)
🫶🏻 Acts of Service
💁🏻♂️ Protective Hero
🥵 Open-door Spice
👩🏼❤️👨🏻 Dual POV
❣️ HEA
Please check TW/CW before reading. Those book is much darker than the first, but I think Brooke handled it with care
July 23, 2025
These stories feature different couples but all intertwine and should be read in order for the best experience. This book starts off in the past and explores how Mason and Sophie met. Years later after some intense events, Sophie finds herself seeking comfort while she heals from her trauma. Despite their tense friendship and past issues, she turns to Mason for a safe place to land. The new roommates dynamic adds to their tension and gives us some great forced proximity.
The slow burn was done really well. Mason and Sophie were both secretly pining over each other for years. He was so patient with her and exactly what she needed to heal. Although this was a romance, the story was full of suspense, danger, and secrets. A few plot twists thrown in there as well. I loved how fast paced the story was.
This series is emotional and focuses on overcoming pain, traumas, and loss through love. Lots of comfort and healing. A fun group of friends and a great relationship between the sisters. I can’t wait for what’s to come next.
“If two people’s hearts could beat to the same rhythm, at the same pace, in the same melody—it’d be ours.”
𝒪𝓃𝑒 𝒩𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝒮𝓉𝒶𝓃𝒹
𝑅𝑜𝑜𝓂𝓂𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓈
𝒜𝒷𝓊𝓈𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝐸𝓍
𝒞𝑜𝓂𝒻𝑜𝓇𝓉 & 𝐻𝑒𝒶𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑔
𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸𝓎
𝒫𝓇𝑜𝓉𝑒𝒸𝓉𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝑀𝑀𝒞
𝒮𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝐵𝓊𝓇𝓃
𝒮𝓊𝓈𝓅𝑒𝓃𝓈𝑒
The slow burn was done really well. Mason and Sophie were both secretly pining over each other for years. He was so patient with her and exactly what she needed to heal. Although this was a romance, the story was full of suspense, danger, and secrets. A few plot twists thrown in there as well. I loved how fast paced the story was.
This series is emotional and focuses on overcoming pain, traumas, and loss through love. Lots of comfort and healing. A fun group of friends and a great relationship between the sisters. I can’t wait for what’s to come next.
“If two people’s hearts could beat to the same rhythm, at the same pace, in the same melody—it’d be ours.”
𝒪𝓃𝑒 𝒩𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝒮𝓉𝒶𝓃𝒹
𝑅𝑜𝑜𝓂𝓂𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓈
𝒜𝒷𝓊𝓈𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝐸𝓍
𝒞𝑜𝓂𝒻𝑜𝓇𝓉 & 𝐻𝑒𝒶𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑔
𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸𝓎
𝒫𝓇𝑜𝓉𝑒𝒸𝓉𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝑀𝑀𝒞
𝒮𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝐵𝓊𝓇𝓃
𝒮𝓊𝓈𝓅𝑒𝓃𝓈𝑒
August 16, 2025
After the ending of the first book, BETWEEN HATE AND DESIRE, I knew we were in for one heck of a ride with this second one, and Brooke Fox did not disappoint. Oh my, what Sophia went through was rough to read about, especially if you have been in a DA situation, as I have. Although I do not find this triggering, some may, so please check the TW/CW before reading. Sophie and Mason’s story will have you feeling all the feels, so be warned, you will need LOTS and LOTS of tissues and a tall glass of ice water to get through this book.
That being said, I absolutely LOVED this book. While my heart went out to Sophie for everything that she was going through, and man, it was a lot, my heart broke for Mason. This guy, my goodness, the things that he was put through during the course of this book were heartbreaking.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewBRaP
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
That being said, I absolutely LOVED this book. While my heart went out to Sophie for everything that she was going through, and man, it was a lot, my heart broke for Mason. This guy, my goodness, the things that he was put through during the course of this book were heartbreaking.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewBRaP
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
July 25, 2025
✨arc review✨
While this book had an interesting storyline, it definitely dragged. There were 2 climaxes, as this was 2 books joint together, but they were around 30% (made sense) and 60% (didn't really make sense). This meant that for the rest of the 40% of the book, it was just the characters dealing with the aftermath of the second climax. While the storyline definitely had potential, I think this definitely could have been edited more, to reflect Brooke's current level of writing ability.
Thank you to Brooke Fox for the arc!
While this book had an interesting storyline, it definitely dragged. There were 2 climaxes, as this was 2 books joint together, but they were around 30% (made sense) and 60% (didn't really make sense). This meant that for the rest of the 40% of the book, it was just the characters dealing with the aftermath of the second climax. While the storyline definitely had potential, I think this definitely could have been edited more, to reflect Brooke's current level of writing ability.
Thank you to Brooke Fox for the arc!
July 28, 2025
I liked the premise of this book but felt like it was really long winded in places. Sophie’s trauma was trivialised which is refreshing but equally it just felt so drawn out.
July 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
arc review
You ask me for a Right person, wrong time recommendation. THIS IS THE ONE!!!
Mason and Sophie spontaneously meet at a bar, and there is instant chemistry leading to a hook up🤭 But later, he finds out who she is, and it changes EVERYTHING. After a good ol friend zoning, there is distance for years but still longing from both.
Sophie struggles with the distance they have created and is looking for more in life. She finds the "perfect" guy, but things take a turn for the worst. (Throwing punches to the air right now)
With all that is going on with Masons' personal battles, Sophie becoming his new roommate and both healing from their traumatic pasts, they create a special relationship. But as we all know...nothing in life is perfect 😭
If two people deserve love, it's these two🥹 Sophie is such a strong woman and character. Seeing her grow and face battles no one should EVER encounter is just incredible. The slow burn was just so worth it with all the angst built up. And then it was like a damn fire lit up the world😭 I got so lost in the real world when I was reading, I was just playing a whole movie in my head🤣 Seeing the relationships blossom from all the side characters was so dang sweet. I had major beef with some of them..🤨
Please check those TWs before reading friends. Your mental health matters🖤
What you will find-
🥺 Right person, wrong time
🛏️ Roommates to lovers
🔥 Angsty slow burn
🏠 Found family
❤️🩹 Comfort/Hurt
🫣 Suspense subplot (Check TW)
🫶🏻 Acts of service
❤️🔥 Protective hero
arc review
You ask me for a Right person, wrong time recommendation. THIS IS THE ONE!!!
Mason and Sophie spontaneously meet at a bar, and there is instant chemistry leading to a hook up🤭 But later, he finds out who she is, and it changes EVERYTHING. After a good ol friend zoning, there is distance for years but still longing from both.
Sophie struggles with the distance they have created and is looking for more in life. She finds the "perfect" guy, but things take a turn for the worst. (Throwing punches to the air right now)
With all that is going on with Masons' personal battles, Sophie becoming his new roommate and both healing from their traumatic pasts, they create a special relationship. But as we all know...nothing in life is perfect 😭
If two people deserve love, it's these two🥹 Sophie is such a strong woman and character. Seeing her grow and face battles no one should EVER encounter is just incredible. The slow burn was just so worth it with all the angst built up. And then it was like a damn fire lit up the world😭 I got so lost in the real world when I was reading, I was just playing a whole movie in my head🤣 Seeing the relationships blossom from all the side characters was so dang sweet. I had major beef with some of them..🤨
Please check those TWs before reading friends. Your mental health matters🖤
What you will find-
🥺 Right person, wrong time
🛏️ Roommates to lovers
🔥 Angsty slow burn
🏠 Found family
❤️🩹 Comfort/Hurt
🫣 Suspense subplot (Check TW)
🫶🏻 Acts of service
❤️🔥 Protective hero
July 28, 2025
Okay this series is slowly making its way up my favourites list the further in we get.
I had the absolute pleasure of arc reading Between Regrets and Promises.
Sophie and Mason have known each other for years, but stayed away for their own reasons. Sophie’s story was horrific and hard to read, but was written so well and handled so realistically.
It was a hard read, purely because of the content but the story was well worth it.
DV is such a hard topic to broach, but Brookes approach on this was so well written and really got you thinking and feeling with the MCs
I must say, I loath time jumps. But this worked, and the pacing throughout the entire book was incredible. Each time something big happened, I’d look at how far in I was and think ‘surely nothing else can top this. WRONG!
I am extremely excited for the third and final book in this trilogy. I don’t know how Brooke will top the first two books!
I had the absolute pleasure of arc reading Between Regrets and Promises.
Sophie and Mason have known each other for years, but stayed away for their own reasons. Sophie’s story was horrific and hard to read, but was written so well and handled so realistically.
It was a hard read, purely because of the content but the story was well worth it.
DV is such a hard topic to broach, but Brookes approach on this was so well written and really got you thinking and feeling with the MCs
I must say, I loath time jumps. But this worked, and the pacing throughout the entire book was incredible. Each time something big happened, I’d look at how far in I was and think ‘surely nothing else can top this. WRONG!
I am extremely excited for the third and final book in this trilogy. I don’t know how Brooke will top the first two books!
November 26, 2025
I really like this series! Just like the first book this one is an emotional roller coaster but I think I enjoyed it even more. I like that they both worked on themselves first before they got into a relationship. The banter,the sub plots, the characters were all so enjoyable.
July 27, 2025
I ate this book up, it was on the thiiick side (she long) 😂 but I never got bored and I was always interested in this!! The plot in this was plotting and it flowed really good and I just absolutely adored them 🥺
January 25, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
September 17, 2025
Book 2 of the trilogy centers around Sophie and Mason.
It make have taken them a while to get there, but after 3 years of waiting and being "friends" they are finally in a perfect relationship. Or is it?
They both have their demons. Some are physicaly, some are mental.
My only hope is that you read their story to see if they are able to overcome them.
If so, I am certain you will fall in love with them like I did!
It make have taken them a while to get there, but after 3 years of waiting and being "friends" they are finally in a perfect relationship. Or is it?
They both have their demons. Some are physicaly, some are mental.
My only hope is that you read their story to see if they are able to overcome them.
If so, I am certain you will fall in love with them like I did!
July 28, 2025
Mason and Liam are a true Ride or Die friendship. Liam seems to be running from something or someone is since he’s a bounty hunter or as he likes to call himself fugitive recovery agent. Mason on the other hand works for his dad at the District Attorney’s office and is training in the testing lab, it’ll be worth the lack of sleep when he’s officially a forensic investigator in the fall. Now let's catch everyone up, they are on the way to Hunter’s brother Hayden’s wedding to Savannah. Everyone is on pins and needles wondering if Sophie will be attending with the new guy, Weston, she’s been seeing and now living with.
He was cool at first, but has now turned into a nightmare. Her sister, Lennon has now seen bruises under all the makeup she hardly usually wears and is now using to hide the bruising. But, the bad part about all of it is that Mason and Liam tried to warn her she just thought Mason was being jealous after their one quicky in a bar bathroom before they found out their lives were going to be forever connected by a friend's group. However, she didn't believe Liam either, and he was a best friend. Proving love is blind. When Sophie and Mason met, he was still too damaged and needed more time to heal.
Sophie’s a forever girl, but he could only give her one night. Now she’s taken, and while he misses her being around, he’s concerned about her well-being more than anything. Now she’s worried about her safety, but he promised never to let her go. And he lost his job and his drink, and his abuse toward her is out of control. Even though he beat her that morning she got him to nap, and she got ready for the wedding and so did he. She was going to drive since he was drunk, but he wouldn’t allow it. Sophie knew that to save herself she had to get to that wedding.
Sophie was able to save herself but was it at the expense of her friends, and the man she has always truly loved? You see he saved Hunter and Liam from the bullet that was meant for him, but he was also able to save himself. Such a good story. Heart-wrenching, and yet newfound freedom they’re helping each other face their monsters head-on. And in the end, they find the gold at the end of their rainbow. The record makes a long scratch don’t get too comfortable with this happy ending you get, BUT, you will have one bumpy ass scary ride getting there.
So, buckle up, hellcats. You will love this book. Let me just say, I cannot wait for Liam and Maddie’s book. He did her dirty is all I can say and Maddie she doesn’t get mad she just gets even. So can’t wait for their book. So, Ms. Brooke are potty breaks really necessary? We need that book! Just saying 🤭
This is a very intense book at times and an explicit one also. You will find humor at times, sexual situations, physical abuse, and more. Just read the warnings. It is not as bad as I was anticipating. I have read some mafia and motorcycle club books that are harsh.
He was cool at first, but has now turned into a nightmare. Her sister, Lennon has now seen bruises under all the makeup she hardly usually wears and is now using to hide the bruising. But, the bad part about all of it is that Mason and Liam tried to warn her she just thought Mason was being jealous after their one quicky in a bar bathroom before they found out their lives were going to be forever connected by a friend's group. However, she didn't believe Liam either, and he was a best friend. Proving love is blind. When Sophie and Mason met, he was still too damaged and needed more time to heal.
Sophie’s a forever girl, but he could only give her one night. Now she’s taken, and while he misses her being around, he’s concerned about her well-being more than anything. Now she’s worried about her safety, but he promised never to let her go. And he lost his job and his drink, and his abuse toward her is out of control. Even though he beat her that morning she got him to nap, and she got ready for the wedding and so did he. She was going to drive since he was drunk, but he wouldn’t allow it. Sophie knew that to save herself she had to get to that wedding.
Sophie was able to save herself but was it at the expense of her friends, and the man she has always truly loved? You see he saved Hunter and Liam from the bullet that was meant for him, but he was also able to save himself. Such a good story. Heart-wrenching, and yet newfound freedom they’re helping each other face their monsters head-on. And in the end, they find the gold at the end of their rainbow. The record makes a long scratch don’t get too comfortable with this happy ending you get, BUT, you will have one bumpy ass scary ride getting there.
So, buckle up, hellcats. You will love this book. Let me just say, I cannot wait for Liam and Maddie’s book. He did her dirty is all I can say and Maddie she doesn’t get mad she just gets even. So can’t wait for their book. So, Ms. Brooke are potty breaks really necessary? We need that book! Just saying 🤭
This is a very intense book at times and an explicit one also. You will find humor at times, sexual situations, physical abuse, and more. Just read the warnings. It is not as bad as I was anticipating. I have read some mafia and motorcycle club books that are harsh.
August 5, 2025
I really do not know where to start. I mean, god i knew this was going to be an angsty read, like its advertised, and you know this series leans more on the heavy side of life.
this is the most i can tolerate angsty wise ngl, i was rooting since page 1 for them, i swear some times i wanted to shake Mason so hard in the begining like MAN UP.
Sophie, my sweet angel. cannot cope. all she wanted for the past years was Mason, but as he keep repeating they could only be friends, she just had to move on, and what a ride of move on, it was one fo those of cause/effect. i think we all can identify and find our selves in Sophie's shoes, we are all been there where we just wanted to be loved, and we rushed into something where we felt a bit of attention can be classed as love when in reality it isn't, we just project and pretend the red flags do not exist. so this book hit home as i been in Sophie's shoes.
I loved how both did not wanted to rush the relationship once they both realized FINALLY they were meant to be, they wanted to heal first from their traumas to make sure they had a healthy relationship, even thought it takes them a really looong time to get there, and the slow burn? ughhhhhhhhhhhhhh. i mean every time i read and notice they where happy and i had still 1h 30 mins in the book? i knew $h!t was going to hit the fan, and i was stressed for them haha.
some of the slow burn scenes had me screaming WHYYYYYY and Maddie ohh my inappropiate sister how much i love her i cannot wait for her book, but i know that one will take me for a ride too...
I thought i hated Weston, for obvious reasons but then appears DALTON. ugh my anger rised. they both got what they deserve *hehehe*
finally i would like to apologise and thank to Brooke for giving me the chance of sending me and advance copy of the book, but as always this is my honest opinion, also i say apologies on my delay to post, as i struggled to find the right mental space to read the book as i been in Sophie's shoes where i was in a dangerous situation where i could not find a way out. that's probably why it took me a little bit longer than usual to read the book.
sorry, lastly again Brooke, thank you so much i do love your books and this one was another beautiful story that deserves all the love.
xoxoxox
this is the most i can tolerate angsty wise ngl, i was rooting since page 1 for them, i swear some times i wanted to shake Mason so hard in the begining like MAN UP.
Sophie, my sweet angel. cannot cope. all she wanted for the past years was Mason, but as he keep repeating they could only be friends, she just had to move on, and what a ride of move on, it was one fo those of cause/effect. i think we all can identify and find our selves in Sophie's shoes, we are all been there where we just wanted to be loved, and we rushed into something where we felt a bit of attention can be classed as love when in reality it isn't, we just project and pretend the red flags do not exist. so this book hit home as i been in Sophie's shoes.
I loved how both did not wanted to rush the relationship once they both realized FINALLY they were meant to be, they wanted to heal first from their traumas to make sure they had a healthy relationship, even thought it takes them a really looong time to get there, and the slow burn? ughhhhhhhhhhhhhh. i mean every time i read and notice they where happy and i had still 1h 30 mins in the book? i knew $h!t was going to hit the fan, and i was stressed for them haha.
some of the slow burn scenes had me screaming WHYYYYYY and Maddie ohh my inappropiate sister how much i love her i cannot wait for her book, but i know that one will take me for a ride too...
I thought i hated Weston, for obvious reasons but then appears DALTON. ugh my anger rised. they both got what they deserve *hehehe*
finally i would like to apologise and thank to Brooke for giving me the chance of sending me and advance copy of the book, but as always this is my honest opinion, also i say apologies on my delay to post, as i struggled to find the right mental space to read the book as i been in Sophie's shoes where i was in a dangerous situation where i could not find a way out. that's probably why it took me a little bit longer than usual to read the book.
sorry, lastly again Brooke, thank you so much i do love your books and this one was another beautiful story that deserves all the love.
xoxoxox
December 4, 2025
Angsty, ONS to slow-burn romance with longing, suspense and a HEA
4⭐️ 2🌶️ Between Regrets and Promises by Brooke Fox. This is book 2 of the Between Us trilogy, and my 3rd book by Brooke Fox. This series delivers ALL OF THE ANGST, and I’m addicted. Book 1 was more emotional, whereas this book turns up the suspense. We get a lot of longing, healing from trauma, and feelings that get complicated.
Sophie and Mason have history (hot bar bathroom scene 🤭) but Mason made it clear they could only be friends because he ‘doesn’t do relationships anymore’. He thinks it’s what’s best for her because he isn’t capable of giving her more. He’s still healing from a traumatic event, and doesn’t think he deserves happiness or someone like Sophie. Sophie waits for him for quite a while but eventually meets someone and thinks she loves him but turns out he’s an abusive, controlling a-hole.
Just when you think it’s finally time for Sophie & Mason to have their chance, another twist occurs. Sophie has some PTSD from the experience, and asks Mason for space while she is processing everything and seeing a therapist. Mason does his best to give her the space she needs but it’s difficult to see her struggling and not touch her or hold her. You can feel his love for her. He so badly wanted to fix everything and make her whole again. Slowly, with some tips from her therapist on managing her anxiety and starting to feel more like herself, Sophie and Mason once and for all get their moment. 🥹
❤️ Forehead kisses
❤️ He makes her coffee in the morning
Favorite quotes:
"I'm not letting you go, baby. Never again."
"Will you say it again?"
"I love you, Sophie. So. Goddamn. Much."
Read this if you like:
*Friends-to-lovers romance
*Forensic investigator X professional violinist
*ONS
*Angst
*Slow-burn
*Mental health rep
*Trauma/healing
*Grief/loss
*Suspense subplot
*Hard-won HEA
Content warning: Domestic Violence (DV)/Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), emotional abuse, gun violence, assault, thoughts of suicide, abduction, PTSD, anxiety
1. Between Hate and Desire Hunter & Lennon
2. Between Regrets and Promises Mason & Sophie
3. Between Secrets and Obsession Liam & Maddie
Even though each book ends in a happily-ever-after for the couple, there's a hook and continued subplot that leads into the next book, which means this series is best read in order.
4⭐️ 2🌶️ Between Regrets and Promises by Brooke Fox. This is book 2 of the Between Us trilogy, and my 3rd book by Brooke Fox. This series delivers ALL OF THE ANGST, and I’m addicted. Book 1 was more emotional, whereas this book turns up the suspense. We get a lot of longing, healing from trauma, and feelings that get complicated.
Sophie and Mason have history (hot bar bathroom scene 🤭) but Mason made it clear they could only be friends because he ‘doesn’t do relationships anymore’. He thinks it’s what’s best for her because he isn’t capable of giving her more. He’s still healing from a traumatic event, and doesn’t think he deserves happiness or someone like Sophie. Sophie waits for him for quite a while but eventually meets someone and thinks she loves him but turns out he’s an abusive, controlling a-hole.
Just when you think it’s finally time for Sophie & Mason to have their chance, another twist occurs. Sophie has some PTSD from the experience, and asks Mason for space while she is processing everything and seeing a therapist. Mason does his best to give her the space she needs but it’s difficult to see her struggling and not touch her or hold her. You can feel his love for her. He so badly wanted to fix everything and make her whole again. Slowly, with some tips from her therapist on managing her anxiety and starting to feel more like herself, Sophie and Mason once and for all get their moment. 🥹
❤️ Forehead kisses
❤️ He makes her coffee in the morning
Favorite quotes:
"I'm not letting you go, baby. Never again."
"Will you say it again?"
"I love you, Sophie. So. Goddamn. Much."
Read this if you like:
*Friends-to-lovers romance
*Forensic investigator X professional violinist
*ONS
*Angst
*Slow-burn
*Mental health rep
*Trauma/healing
*Grief/loss
*Suspense subplot
*Hard-won HEA
Content warning: Domestic Violence (DV)/Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), emotional abuse, gun violence, assault, thoughts of suicide, abduction, PTSD, anxiety
1. Between Hate and Desire Hunter & Lennon
2. Between Regrets and Promises Mason & Sophie
3. Between Secrets and Obsession Liam & Maddie
Even though each book ends in a happily-ever-after for the couple, there's a hook and continued subplot that leads into the next book, which means this series is best read in order.
July 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
This angsty, suspenseful, slow-burn, right-person-wrong-time story had me rooting for Mason and Sophie from page 1.
This book is two books combined into one, so I have A LOT of thoughts! Thanks for sticking with me. 😂
THOUGHTS 💭
❤️ Mason and Sophie’s instant connection and chemistry with so much potential turns into an “off-limits” situation in the blink of an eye; even though they “can’t,” our MCs can’t get each other out their heads for YEARS.
❤️ Brooke wrote the flashbacks in this book masterfully - this style of writing can be hit or miss for me and this HIT. I loved the context the flashbacks provided and I enjoyed seeing this couple’s origin.
❤️ While this series could be read as a stand-alone, I loved reading/knowing Lennon and Hunter’s history, as well as the history with Brandon.
❤️ This book is A N G S T Y. Mason is trying to be “noble” and spare Sophie his trauma, but by doing so pushes her into the arms of an abuser.
❤️ To see the perspective of a DV victim is just so heartbreaking; to read Sophie’s story and thoughts and want her to get out? My heart. 😭
❤️ Sweet forehead kisses, a protective nature, and someone who wants to be the best version of themselves to deserve the girl - Mason is a wonderful, broken MMC.
❤️ Three. Years. Of. Foreplay. (Whether our MCs meant it to be foreplay or not.)
❤️ Sophie can’t stay away from crazy-a$$ men. 🥲
❤️ The tension and suspense and the rage and the angst - I loved the romantic suspense vibes in this book!
❤️ Three sisters who fall for three best friends is such a fun series premise. After Hunter and Lennon’s roommates/enemies to lovers story and Mason and Sophie’s right person/wrong time story, how could Liam and Maddie’s story not be the same level of perfection?!? I can’t wait!
❤️ I loved the multiple mouth-dropping moments, all the way to the very end.
Thanks so much to Brooke Fox for the ARC of this book!
This angsty, suspenseful, slow-burn, right-person-wrong-time story had me rooting for Mason and Sophie from page 1.
This book is two books combined into one, so I have A LOT of thoughts! Thanks for sticking with me. 😂
THOUGHTS 💭
❤️ Mason and Sophie’s instant connection and chemistry with so much potential turns into an “off-limits” situation in the blink of an eye; even though they “can’t,” our MCs can’t get each other out their heads for YEARS.
❤️ Brooke wrote the flashbacks in this book masterfully - this style of writing can be hit or miss for me and this HIT. I loved the context the flashbacks provided and I enjoyed seeing this couple’s origin.
❤️ While this series could be read as a stand-alone, I loved reading/knowing Lennon and Hunter’s history, as well as the history with Brandon.
❤️ This book is A N G S T Y. Mason is trying to be “noble” and spare Sophie his trauma, but by doing so pushes her into the arms of an abuser.
❤️ To see the perspective of a DV victim is just so heartbreaking; to read Sophie’s story and thoughts and want her to get out? My heart. 😭
❤️ Sweet forehead kisses, a protective nature, and someone who wants to be the best version of themselves to deserve the girl - Mason is a wonderful, broken MMC.
❤️ Three. Years. Of. Foreplay. (Whether our MCs meant it to be foreplay or not.)
❤️ Sophie can’t stay away from crazy-a$$ men. 🥲
❤️ The tension and suspense and the rage and the angst - I loved the romantic suspense vibes in this book!
❤️ Three sisters who fall for three best friends is such a fun series premise. After Hunter and Lennon’s roommates/enemies to lovers story and Mason and Sophie’s right person/wrong time story, how could Liam and Maddie’s story not be the same level of perfection?!? I can’t wait!
❤️ I loved the multiple mouth-dropping moments, all the way to the very end.
Thanks so much to Brooke Fox for the ARC of this book!
July 31, 2025
"If two people’s hearts could beat to the same rhythm, at the same pace, in the same melody—it’d be ours."
I was lucky to receive an ARC of Brooke Fox's newest book, Between Regrets & Promises (book two in the Between Us Trilogy). It follows the story of Sophie and Mason.
I have been dying to read Sophie and Mason's story ever since that cliff-hanger ending in Between Hate and Desire!
I knew this would be an emotional story, but I was unprepared for just how much of a rollercoaster of emotions this book would put me through.
I did have to put this book down at times, as it contains some very triggering and heavy situations that were hard to read.
Sophie went through absolute hell and back, and my heart broke for her so many times. How much pain and suffering can one person endure? I am in complete awe of her strength, especially after everything she has endured.
I felt for Mason, especially after everything he went through and learning more about what happened in his past. The guilt he has carried for all these years, thinking he didn’t deserve to be happy or loved, broke my heart. I loved the way he was always there for Sophie every single time. This man was protective and so attentive towards her, and it was everything.
There is something about two broken people that gets me every time, and I could not help but fall in love with Sophie and Mason.
They deserve the world, and I am so glad they finally got their happily ever after.
Brooke knows how to write about difficult or sensitive topics and do them justice while also treating them with the utmost care they deserve.
My only complaint was that it felt like their story dragged on longer than it needed. Besides that, I loved Sophie and Mason's story.
I did not see that ending coming.
I can not wait to read Maddie and Liam's story next in Between Secrets and Obsession!
Thank you so much to Brooke Montgomery (Fox) for this ARC ❤️
⚠️ * Please check the trigger warnings before reading! * ⚠️
* Between Regrets and Promises is book two in the Between Us trilogy and must be read in order. *
I was lucky to receive an ARC of Brooke Fox's newest book, Between Regrets & Promises (book two in the Between Us Trilogy). It follows the story of Sophie and Mason.
I have been dying to read Sophie and Mason's story ever since that cliff-hanger ending in Between Hate and Desire!
I knew this would be an emotional story, but I was unprepared for just how much of a rollercoaster of emotions this book would put me through.
I did have to put this book down at times, as it contains some very triggering and heavy situations that were hard to read.
Sophie went through absolute hell and back, and my heart broke for her so many times. How much pain and suffering can one person endure? I am in complete awe of her strength, especially after everything she has endured.
I felt for Mason, especially after everything he went through and learning more about what happened in his past. The guilt he has carried for all these years, thinking he didn’t deserve to be happy or loved, broke my heart. I loved the way he was always there for Sophie every single time. This man was protective and so attentive towards her, and it was everything.
There is something about two broken people that gets me every time, and I could not help but fall in love with Sophie and Mason.
They deserve the world, and I am so glad they finally got their happily ever after.
Brooke knows how to write about difficult or sensitive topics and do them justice while also treating them with the utmost care they deserve.
My only complaint was that it felt like their story dragged on longer than it needed. Besides that, I loved Sophie and Mason's story.
I did not see that ending coming.
I can not wait to read Maddie and Liam's story next in Between Secrets and Obsession!
Thank you so much to Brooke Montgomery (Fox) for this ARC ❤️
⚠️ * Please check the trigger warnings before reading! * ⚠️
* Between Regrets and Promises is book two in the Between Us trilogy and must be read in order. *
December 31, 2025
When you realise one of your favourite authors is rereleasing older work under another pen name, can you really stay calm? Because I couldn’t. That was exactly me with the Between Us Trilogy. This was my first time reading it, and honestly, I was more than ready to jump in headfirst and see what all the fuss was about.
Here’s the thing. The series was originally written under a different pen name, as part of a collaboration that later ended. All of their joint works were divided between the authors, and this is Brooke’s share, now released under her own pen name, Brooke Fox. And I must admit, that just made me extra curious. I felt like I was about to uncover a hidden gem I had been missing my whole life without even knowing it.
The story follows three best friends and three sisters, and yes, sibling-driven stories are nothing new to me, but this one grabbed me straight away. There’s a warmth to it, a little bite, and a level of authenticity that made me care about these characters instantly. I wanted to know everything about them, what they thought, what they felt, and how they would survive the messiness of life and love.
The first book is Between Hate and Desire, and I absolutely loved it. It hits all of my favourite tropes at once. There is a surprise pregnancy that is not his, enemies-to-lovers tension, forced proximity, a fake marriage, and that slow burn that just gets under your skin and refuses to let go. Seriously, it wrecked me in the best way.
From the very first page, you feel it. Hunter sees Lennon and he is completely captivated, but of course, life is never simple, right? She walks out of his roommate’s bedroom and suddenly everything is complicated. They end up living together, bickering constantly, and while Hunter tries to annoy her, he cannot stop thinking about her. The chemistry is messy, undeniable, and absolutely perfect. You just feel it.
And then life hits hard. Lennon’s boyfriend, who is also Hunter’s best friend, dies suddenly. I mean, come on. It’s gut-wrenching. Hunter stays close, becomes her anchor, and what starts as reluctant closeness slowly turns into something deeper, messier, and far more complicated than either of them expected.
Just when you think it cannot get more intense, Lennon discovers she is pregnant. Her parents would not accept this at all, so Hunter offers to be her fake husband. Sharing a bed, pretending to be a couple, and of course feelings start slipping where they should not. Hunter tries to keep his distance, but you know he is toast. And when he finally admits it, oh my god, it hits hard. I was right there with them.
What really gets me about this book is not just the romance. It’s the way grief, love, and loyalty intertwine. Hunter’s struggle between loyalty to his late best friend and growing love for Lennon is so real, so gut-wrenching. Every quiet moment, every small act of care, every awkward or tender interaction makes you feel it all. By the end, it is clear this is not just a romance. It is a story about loss, resilience, and finding love when you least expect it. I felt every emotion, and yes, I might have cried a little.
Oh wow… Between Regrets and Promises, the second book in Brooke Fox’s Between Us Trilogy, completely blew me away. From the very first page, it hits you with chaos and heat when Sophie and Mason collide in a bar bathroom, sparks flying, tension everywhere. And when Mason realizes Sophie is the woman his best friend warned him about, everything goes from hot to messy and utterly addictive.
Emotionally? This book hit me harder than I expected. Sophie has kept everyone at a distance for years because of her past trauma and a painful secret she’s buried. But Mason’s protective instincts kick in hard. He softens in ways that are heartbreakingly beautiful, and the moment he literally risks his safety for her, my heart was in my throat. Watching Sophie finally start to open up and let herself feel, even when it terrifies her, was amazing.
Their bond grows in the most real way. Mason doesn’t just offer her a room; he gives her a safe space to be vulnerable, helping her face grief, heartbreak, and old mistakes. The teasing, quiet confessions, and even the heated arguments make their love feel earned and messy and so satisfying. By the end, when Mason chooses Sophie over everything else in his life, I cried happy tears. Their relationship isn’t perfect; it’s messy, complicated, and achingly real, and that’s what makes it so good.
And then the finale, Between Secrets and Obsession, is a full-blown emotional rollercoaster. We meet Liam and Maddie, whose chaotic frat party meet-cute is hilarious, flirty, and tense. The attraction is instant, but what makes their story so gripping is the weight of their pasts, the secrets they’ve been keeping, and betrayals that finally catch up with them.
Maddie’s secret puts her in real danger, and Liam’s protective side takes center stage. He is willing to break rules, push boundaries, and risk everything for her. Midway through, there is a shocking twist that completely reshapes the story and had me gasping out loud. Watching them navigate danger, lies, and their own complicated feelings is absolute page-turner material.
By the end, all the tension pays off beautifully. Liam and Maddie finally confront their feelings and give each other the love they have been holding back. Meanwhile, Sophie and Mason’s story also reaches a satisfying resolution, with both couples stronger, happier, and finally able to heal. My chest ached, my heart soared, and I stayed up way too late turning pages. The finale wraps up every storyline with romance, suspense, and emotional payoff, the kind of ending that makes you immediately want to start the trilogy over.
Looking back at the trilogy as a whole, it grabbed me by the heart and never let go. Each book has its own flavour. There is heartbreak and slow-burn tension in the first, messy intensity in the second, and layered, suspenseful, deeply satisfying romance in the third. Brooke Fox has this amazing ability to make you feel every moment, every emotion, every tiny nuance of human experience.
These books are messy, steamy, emotional, and utterly human. They give you romance, yes, but they also give you real-life stakes, heartbreak, and growth. By the time I finished the last page, I felt like I had lived through every twist and turn, laughed, cried, and rooted for these characters with my whole heart.
If you are looking for a trilogy that is not just about love but about people, their flaws, secrets, resilience, and the messy ways they navigate life and relationships, this is it. I cannot recommend it enough, and I know I will be thinking about Hunter, Lennon, and all the others for a long, long time.
Here’s the thing. The series was originally written under a different pen name, as part of a collaboration that later ended. All of their joint works were divided between the authors, and this is Brooke’s share, now released under her own pen name, Brooke Fox. And I must admit, that just made me extra curious. I felt like I was about to uncover a hidden gem I had been missing my whole life without even knowing it.
The story follows three best friends and three sisters, and yes, sibling-driven stories are nothing new to me, but this one grabbed me straight away. There’s a warmth to it, a little bite, and a level of authenticity that made me care about these characters instantly. I wanted to know everything about them, what they thought, what they felt, and how they would survive the messiness of life and love.
The first book is Between Hate and Desire, and I absolutely loved it. It hits all of my favourite tropes at once. There is a surprise pregnancy that is not his, enemies-to-lovers tension, forced proximity, a fake marriage, and that slow burn that just gets under your skin and refuses to let go. Seriously, it wrecked me in the best way.
From the very first page, you feel it. Hunter sees Lennon and he is completely captivated, but of course, life is never simple, right? She walks out of his roommate’s bedroom and suddenly everything is complicated. They end up living together, bickering constantly, and while Hunter tries to annoy her, he cannot stop thinking about her. The chemistry is messy, undeniable, and absolutely perfect. You just feel it.
And then life hits hard. Lennon’s boyfriend, who is also Hunter’s best friend, dies suddenly. I mean, come on. It’s gut-wrenching. Hunter stays close, becomes her anchor, and what starts as reluctant closeness slowly turns into something deeper, messier, and far more complicated than either of them expected.
Just when you think it cannot get more intense, Lennon discovers she is pregnant. Her parents would not accept this at all, so Hunter offers to be her fake husband. Sharing a bed, pretending to be a couple, and of course feelings start slipping where they should not. Hunter tries to keep his distance, but you know he is toast. And when he finally admits it, oh my god, it hits hard. I was right there with them.
What really gets me about this book is not just the romance. It’s the way grief, love, and loyalty intertwine. Hunter’s struggle between loyalty to his late best friend and growing love for Lennon is so real, so gut-wrenching. Every quiet moment, every small act of care, every awkward or tender interaction makes you feel it all. By the end, it is clear this is not just a romance. It is a story about loss, resilience, and finding love when you least expect it. I felt every emotion, and yes, I might have cried a little.
Oh wow… Between Regrets and Promises, the second book in Brooke Fox’s Between Us Trilogy, completely blew me away. From the very first page, it hits you with chaos and heat when Sophie and Mason collide in a bar bathroom, sparks flying, tension everywhere. And when Mason realizes Sophie is the woman his best friend warned him about, everything goes from hot to messy and utterly addictive.
Emotionally? This book hit me harder than I expected. Sophie has kept everyone at a distance for years because of her past trauma and a painful secret she’s buried. But Mason’s protective instincts kick in hard. He softens in ways that are heartbreakingly beautiful, and the moment he literally risks his safety for her, my heart was in my throat. Watching Sophie finally start to open up and let herself feel, even when it terrifies her, was amazing.
Their bond grows in the most real way. Mason doesn’t just offer her a room; he gives her a safe space to be vulnerable, helping her face grief, heartbreak, and old mistakes. The teasing, quiet confessions, and even the heated arguments make their love feel earned and messy and so satisfying. By the end, when Mason chooses Sophie over everything else in his life, I cried happy tears. Their relationship isn’t perfect; it’s messy, complicated, and achingly real, and that’s what makes it so good.
And then the finale, Between Secrets and Obsession, is a full-blown emotional rollercoaster. We meet Liam and Maddie, whose chaotic frat party meet-cute is hilarious, flirty, and tense. The attraction is instant, but what makes their story so gripping is the weight of their pasts, the secrets they’ve been keeping, and betrayals that finally catch up with them.
Maddie’s secret puts her in real danger, and Liam’s protective side takes center stage. He is willing to break rules, push boundaries, and risk everything for her. Midway through, there is a shocking twist that completely reshapes the story and had me gasping out loud. Watching them navigate danger, lies, and their own complicated feelings is absolute page-turner material.
By the end, all the tension pays off beautifully. Liam and Maddie finally confront their feelings and give each other the love they have been holding back. Meanwhile, Sophie and Mason’s story also reaches a satisfying resolution, with both couples stronger, happier, and finally able to heal. My chest ached, my heart soared, and I stayed up way too late turning pages. The finale wraps up every storyline with romance, suspense, and emotional payoff, the kind of ending that makes you immediately want to start the trilogy over.
Looking back at the trilogy as a whole, it grabbed me by the heart and never let go. Each book has its own flavour. There is heartbreak and slow-burn tension in the first, messy intensity in the second, and layered, suspenseful, deeply satisfying romance in the third. Brooke Fox has this amazing ability to make you feel every moment, every emotion, every tiny nuance of human experience.
These books are messy, steamy, emotional, and utterly human. They give you romance, yes, but they also give you real-life stakes, heartbreak, and growth. By the time I finished the last page, I felt like I had lived through every twist and turn, laughed, cried, and rooted for these characters with my whole heart.
If you are looking for a trilogy that is not just about love but about people, their flaws, secrets, resilience, and the messy ways they navigate life and relationships, this is it. I cannot recommend it enough, and I know I will be thinking about Hunter, Lennon, and all the others for a long, long time.
July 30, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention the entire time. It is very well written and was really engaging the entire time. It is the 2nd book in the series and it really should be read in order. It features different main characters but they are very closely related. Please also check the author's trigger warnings as it does deal with some hard topics that can be triggering and not for everyone to handle. I loved getting to see Mason and Sophie! They have instant chemistry and really hit it off but circumstances and situations put them into a friend zone even though they can't stop thinking about each other for years. They both have things they are dealing with and then more things happen as well. I loved how Mason was trying to deal with his traumatic past and be the best man possible to deserve Sophie and then when everything happens with Sophie and her own trauma how the strength and support they give to each other is great. This story definitely has the angst and slow burn going on and then fireworks when it all starts coming together. This story deals with a lot of emotions and will definitely have you feeling things and I loved that we got those sweet and soft moments between the characters throughout the story. The flashbacks in the story are done really well and totally worked for me. I am not always the biggest fan depending on how they are done but these all made sense and gave us context to things and the relationship and were trackable on past and present. I absolutely loved this story and can't wait for the next one!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 7, 2025
Received as an ARC.
Alright. Buckle in, because this explosive second instalment of the Between Us trilogy doesn’t just pick up the twisted ragged edges left by the first book, it grabs them and chants, “Let’s burn this down properly.” The way it rips open that bar bathroom hook up, spins the chemistry into obsession, and then slams into the heart wrenching crescendo of murder and redemption? It’s beautifully savage. We’re not talking sweet second chance fluff, this is gut stuffing, stakes smoking, tear jerking, adrenaline fuelled romance.
He shouts friends with benefits, but you feel every electric “not that kind of commitment” line deep in your nerve endings. Then the abusive ex backtracks into the picture like a vengeful ghost, darker than your worst nightmares, and our hero? He practically rips through walls to save her. And the twist?? It simply leaves you breathless with disbelief, heart pounding like you just sprinted a marathon, but oh, you’re so damn hooked.
As she nurses his innocence and stitches their bond stronger than the wreckage around them, the tension doesn’t just simmer, it erupts. Every whispered “I’ve got you” feels like a lifeline thrown across an emotional trench. Yet with danger threatening to rip them apart again, you realise this story doesn’t just flirt with destruction, it leans into it, ruthlessly.
And what’s the worst part? The ending is an HEA, yes, but you’ll resent how neat it settles everything. Because by that point, you’re not just invested; you’re bruised, broken, and somehow glad the chaos paid off. It’s an emotional avalanche that collapses into a fragile, blistering hope.
Alright. Buckle in, because this explosive second instalment of the Between Us trilogy doesn’t just pick up the twisted ragged edges left by the first book, it grabs them and chants, “Let’s burn this down properly.” The way it rips open that bar bathroom hook up, spins the chemistry into obsession, and then slams into the heart wrenching crescendo of murder and redemption? It’s beautifully savage. We’re not talking sweet second chance fluff, this is gut stuffing, stakes smoking, tear jerking, adrenaline fuelled romance.
He shouts friends with benefits, but you feel every electric “not that kind of commitment” line deep in your nerve endings. Then the abusive ex backtracks into the picture like a vengeful ghost, darker than your worst nightmares, and our hero? He practically rips through walls to save her. And the twist?? It simply leaves you breathless with disbelief, heart pounding like you just sprinted a marathon, but oh, you’re so damn hooked.
As she nurses his innocence and stitches their bond stronger than the wreckage around them, the tension doesn’t just simmer, it erupts. Every whispered “I’ve got you” feels like a lifeline thrown across an emotional trench. Yet with danger threatening to rip them apart again, you realise this story doesn’t just flirt with destruction, it leans into it, ruthlessly.
And what’s the worst part? The ending is an HEA, yes, but you’ll resent how neat it settles everything. Because by that point, you’re not just invested; you’re bruised, broken, and somehow glad the chaos paid off. It’s an emotional avalanche that collapses into a fragile, blistering hope.
July 24, 2025
✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨
ARC REVIEW
Between Regrets and Promises - Brooke Fox
5/5⭐️
📚📚📚
What a way to start out with a bang!!! That first opening scene truly had my mouth gapped and quickly clicking my kindle to find out what happened next! Also those pictures at the end of chapters I truly loved!! It felt like such an added surprise😍 Now it wouldn’t be a Brooke book without bringing me on such an emotional journey with the characters!! This one had me in tears and gasping and feeling all the butterflies. I binged it because I could not put this book down! Sophie and Mason I just loved but man that slow burn burned!! Sophie at so many points had my heart in my stomach but thankfully by the end I had the biggest smile! Without giving too much away I highly recommend grabbing this one!
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- Suspense subplot
- Angsty slow burn
- Roommates to lovers
- Right person, wrong time
- Mutual pining
- Cooks for her
- One night stand to awkward friends
- Touches her while she reads
- Celibate MMC
- Comfort/Hurt
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy
✨what’s a slow burn you loved? Or what’s something fun you have coming up?
#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok
ARC REVIEW
Between Regrets and Promises - Brooke Fox
5/5⭐️
📚📚📚
What a way to start out with a bang!!! That first opening scene truly had my mouth gapped and quickly clicking my kindle to find out what happened next! Also those pictures at the end of chapters I truly loved!! It felt like such an added surprise😍 Now it wouldn’t be a Brooke book without bringing me on such an emotional journey with the characters!! This one had me in tears and gasping and feeling all the butterflies. I binged it because I could not put this book down! Sophie and Mason I just loved but man that slow burn burned!! Sophie at so many points had my heart in my stomach but thankfully by the end I had the biggest smile! Without giving too much away I highly recommend grabbing this one!
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- Suspense subplot
- Angsty slow burn
- Roommates to lovers
- Right person, wrong time
- Mutual pining
- Cooks for her
- One night stand to awkward friends
- Touches her while she reads
- Celibate MMC
- Comfort/Hurt
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy
✨what’s a slow burn you loved? Or what’s something fun you have coming up?
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July 29, 2025
I honestly don't know where to begin.... Like this book broke me in so many ways ❤️🩹
This book showed every woman's fear in life where we all fear whether the men in our life are our protectors or our enemies.... We all know it is not all men but at the end of the day we fear for our families, our friends and mostly for ourselves whether we are safe, constantly sending our locations to other people, keep looking back to see if anyone is following us 🥺
This book is a slow-burn emotional ride wrapped in tension, healing, and second chances. It begins with a spark—an unexpected night neither of them plans to remember, only to find themselves tangled in a web of danger, grief, and promises too big to ignore.
He’s the man who steps in, even when everything says he shouldn’t.
🚪 Forced proximity, protective vibes, and a murder charge? Yep.
🌪️ Trauma, healing, and love that builds brick by brick.
Brooke Fox delivers a story that’s not just about romance—it’s about survival, redemption, and finding peace where chaos used to live. I couldn’t stop turning the pages. The characters are raw, real, and flawed in the best way.
If you love slow-burn tension, protective heroes, and romance that feels earned, this one’s for you
🫶 TW: Domestic violence, grief, legal trauma
📖 Part of the “Between Us” Trilogy – but can be read as a standalone.
I can't wait for the next book to come!!!
👀👀
Which is Liam and Maddie 🙈🙈
This book showed every woman's fear in life where we all fear whether the men in our life are our protectors or our enemies.... We all know it is not all men but at the end of the day we fear for our families, our friends and mostly for ourselves whether we are safe, constantly sending our locations to other people, keep looking back to see if anyone is following us 🥺
This book is a slow-burn emotional ride wrapped in tension, healing, and second chances. It begins with a spark—an unexpected night neither of them plans to remember, only to find themselves tangled in a web of danger, grief, and promises too big to ignore.
He’s the man who steps in, even when everything says he shouldn’t.
🚪 Forced proximity, protective vibes, and a murder charge? Yep.
🌪️ Trauma, healing, and love that builds brick by brick.
Brooke Fox delivers a story that’s not just about romance—it’s about survival, redemption, and finding peace where chaos used to live. I couldn’t stop turning the pages. The characters are raw, real, and flawed in the best way.
If you love slow-burn tension, protective heroes, and romance that feels earned, this one’s for you
🫶 TW: Domestic violence, grief, legal trauma
📖 Part of the “Between Us” Trilogy – but can be read as a standalone.
I can't wait for the next book to come!!!
👀👀
Which is Liam and Maddie 🙈🙈
August 13, 2025
This second book gives us the story of Sophie and Mason. The epilogue of Between Hate and Desire left you with this cliff hanger and wanting to read this to find out what lead to the circumstances and what happened afterwards.
Sophie is a violinist with the symphony and Mason is going to school and biding his time for a Forensic Investigator position. His father is the DA. In the first book we know that Sophie is good friends with Liam who is Mason’s roommate and best friend but Mason and Sophie don’t really speak. Come to find out they had hooked up the night they were all meeting for the first time and didn’t realize who each other was. Since that day Mason has kept his distance even though he likes her. Sophie likes him. After 3 years Sophie can’t take it anymore and finds another guy. Unfortunately this guy is bad news. Every one tries to warn her but she doesn’t listen. After a few occasions she realizes she needs out but can’t get out. All of that leads to the ultimate event we were left with at the end of book 1. Mason does everything he can to keep Sophie safe and be there for her.
I think the storyline could have done without the 2nd rescue. By that point I was almost at a DNF. But I carried on.
You get to see Sophie build her self back up and fall back in love with music and see her life evolve again. The banter between all the characters helps breakup the series points of the story. I’ll be curious to see how Liam’s story goes.
Sophie is a violinist with the symphony and Mason is going to school and biding his time for a Forensic Investigator position. His father is the DA. In the first book we know that Sophie is good friends with Liam who is Mason’s roommate and best friend but Mason and Sophie don’t really speak. Come to find out they had hooked up the night they were all meeting for the first time and didn’t realize who each other was. Since that day Mason has kept his distance even though he likes her. Sophie likes him. After 3 years Sophie can’t take it anymore and finds another guy. Unfortunately this guy is bad news. Every one tries to warn her but she doesn’t listen. After a few occasions she realizes she needs out but can’t get out. All of that leads to the ultimate event we were left with at the end of book 1. Mason does everything he can to keep Sophie safe and be there for her.
I think the storyline could have done without the 2nd rescue. By that point I was almost at a DNF. But I carried on.
You get to see Sophie build her self back up and fall back in love with music and see her life evolve again. The banter between all the characters helps breakup the series points of the story. I’ll be curious to see how Liam’s story goes.
September 5, 2025
Ohhhh this series will literally end me. The emotions - the rollercoaster - the love - the attraction - the chemistry. It's so much. And I love it all.
I originally read this ENTIRE series when Brooke published it under the Kennedy Fox name years ago, when I first got into reading in this genre. To tell you that I devoured this series, well that's the understatement of the century. The book before this one, when I first read it, it was the first book that literally crushed me. It still lives rent-free in my head. Then to follow it up with this one? Omg. I can't even...
This story is so tragic in a way - it's so deep and touches upon what so many people have or are unfortunately going through. It's not just another feel-good story. And tackling this real subject matter just makes your emotions all the more REAL when you read this. This book just hits different - it hits so deep. Ugh... I can't even get into it.
I won't get into the specifics of this story - I could never do it justice. If you're so inclined, read the book's description. But from my perspective, all you gotta know is this: the writing is quite literally top-notch. The story is incredible, life altering even. The emotions are so real - so hard. The chemistry and smexy scenes, well... bring a fire extinguisher because you'll need it. Holy heat wave!
I can't recommend this book, this series, enough because... just wow.
I originally read this ENTIRE series when Brooke published it under the Kennedy Fox name years ago, when I first got into reading in this genre. To tell you that I devoured this series, well that's the understatement of the century. The book before this one, when I first read it, it was the first book that literally crushed me. It still lives rent-free in my head. Then to follow it up with this one? Omg. I can't even...
This story is so tragic in a way - it's so deep and touches upon what so many people have or are unfortunately going through. It's not just another feel-good story. And tackling this real subject matter just makes your emotions all the more REAL when you read this. This book just hits different - it hits so deep. Ugh... I can't even get into it.
I won't get into the specifics of this story - I could never do it justice. If you're so inclined, read the book's description. But from my perspective, all you gotta know is this: the writing is quite literally top-notch. The story is incredible, life altering even. The emotions are so real - so hard. The chemistry and smexy scenes, well... bring a fire extinguisher because you'll need it. Holy heat wave!
I can't recommend this book, this series, enough because... just wow.
November 27, 2025
Honestly i don't know where to start from but this book is so good! I loved it, even though it tested my emotional limits. The storyline and raw emotions in this book will make you question your sanity, but it you love angst romance (like lots of it), heartbreak, a nice slow burn...this is the book for you.
“You stood up for me in a way that nearly got you killed. I can’t imagine a better man for me.”
These two went through hell and back to finally get together. Sophie is a strong a woman; i swear no one deserves what she went through but her still successfully healing from it and giving herself a chance again? I'm super proud of her🥹.
And Mason? Don't even get me started. He would do anything and readily sacrifice everything for her just to ensure she's happy and protected. Even with his emotional baggage, he put Sophie first even if it meant loving her from the sidelines!
“This is Victoria. My wife.” - that sentence has shattered me. I don't know if I'm ready for the emotional toll in the next book but we are jumping in ASAP because I need answers😭....
♥️Tropes / What to Expect:
♥️Forced Proximity
♥️Roommates
♥️Friends to Lovers
♥️Overprotective MMC
♥️One night stand
♥️Angst/Slow-burn
♥️HEA
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
🎀Fav Quotes:
✨️ “The next time you beg me to fuck you, I won’t say no. So you better mean it and be sober because my restraint is hanging by a thread.”
✨️Mason is home.
“You stood up for me in a way that nearly got you killed. I can’t imagine a better man for me.”
These two went through hell and back to finally get together. Sophie is a strong a woman; i swear no one deserves what she went through but her still successfully healing from it and giving herself a chance again? I'm super proud of her🥹.
And Mason? Don't even get me started. He would do anything and readily sacrifice everything for her just to ensure she's happy and protected. Even with his emotional baggage, he put Sophie first even if it meant loving her from the sidelines!
“This is Victoria. My wife.” - that sentence has shattered me. I don't know if I'm ready for the emotional toll in the next book but we are jumping in ASAP because I need answers😭....
♥️Tropes / What to Expect:
♥️Forced Proximity
♥️Roommates
♥️Friends to Lovers
♥️Overprotective MMC
♥️One night stand
♥️Angst/Slow-burn
♥️HEA
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
🎀Fav Quotes:
✨️ “The next time you beg me to fuck you, I won’t say no. So you better mean it and be sober because my restraint is hanging by a thread.”
✨️Mason is home.
July 22, 2025
After reading the first book in this trilogy, I knew this one was going to take me for a ride. This one was so emotional and a lot darker than the first book, but so addicting and unputdownable!!
I liked that Brooke took us back to where it all began. It set the tone for the book and their meet cute was perfection 😍 this story is going to pull at your heartstrings. Both characters have scars they don’t know how to work through. Some fresher than others. But both stubborn to allow the other to help them heal.
These characters are going to drive you crazy, but when they finally start making the right decisions, they redeem themselves 😍
Mason caught my interest early on in book one, and when you finally know his past and what causes him to not want a relationship, I was like a puddle. This poor man 😭 I was rooting for his HEA so dang hard.
This book has so many plot twists I felt like I was getting a whiplash. Just when I thought my anxiety was under control, another one was thrown at me. I ate it all up and devoured this book so dang fast. It’s long but so worth it!!
Can’t wait to finally see Maddy and Liam’s story. The sexual tension was ready to snap 😍😍 I audibly GASPED at the ending of book 2. I’m already ready for more!! I’m so excited for you all to experience this story!!
I liked that Brooke took us back to where it all began. It set the tone for the book and their meet cute was perfection 😍 this story is going to pull at your heartstrings. Both characters have scars they don’t know how to work through. Some fresher than others. But both stubborn to allow the other to help them heal.
These characters are going to drive you crazy, but when they finally start making the right decisions, they redeem themselves 😍
Mason caught my interest early on in book one, and when you finally know his past and what causes him to not want a relationship, I was like a puddle. This poor man 😭 I was rooting for his HEA so dang hard.
This book has so many plot twists I felt like I was getting a whiplash. Just when I thought my anxiety was under control, another one was thrown at me. I ate it all up and devoured this book so dang fast. It’s long but so worth it!!
Can’t wait to finally see Maddy and Liam’s story. The sexual tension was ready to snap 😍😍 I audibly GASPED at the ending of book 2. I’m already ready for more!! I’m so excited for you all to experience this story!!
July 24, 2025
The way I’ve been waaaaaaiting for Mason & Sophie’s story after how book one ended!! I’m obsessed with this man who didn’t think he deserved the girl, but would stop at nothing to protect her. Mason & Sophie are everything. They’re hot right from the beginning, but between Mason not doing relationships and the realization that Sophie’s sister is dating one of Mason’s best friends these two end up as just friends. After seeing her sister’s pov in book one, we finally see just what Sophie had been through in her relationship with that…jerk (I’d say worse, but I wouldn’t want this to get flagged because he’s the worst of the worst), and my heart shattered for her. I hate that she struggled to find a way out, and loved how her sisters and the guys never stopped trying. My heart hurt for Mason and his story, the guilt he’s carried for all these years and thinking he didn’t deserve more. But also. The way this man showed up for Sophie every single time?! He’s so sweet and protective and just wants her to be happy and ugh I love him. This one brought big feels–there were twists I didn’t see coming, and so much pain and heartache to work through, but to see Mason & Sophie finally together and happy? So worth it. I couldn’t put this one down, and I just loved Mason & Sophie so much.
[ARC review]
[ARC review]
July 26, 2025
“𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐’𝘮 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦, 𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦.”
5/⭐️
1/🌶️
My hearttt oh my gosh. The way I love these two. Mason is freaking adorable, and his protective side? Ugh. I just wanted to hug him after every page. When we learned about his past and what he went through/why he wasn’t looking for a relationship.. I cried. Tissues are a necessity.
And Sophie? Gosh did my heart hurt for her. Her story and what she went through hit me so hard. (Please check the TWs). I really don’t want to spoil anything, so just know that she goes through a lot and I love that she has her sisters and the guys who are there for her..
It’s just a heartbreakingly beautiful story. It’s the only way I know how to describe this. I cried. I thought the hard stuff was over then it hit again. I cried some more. But my heart was so full. The love between Mason and Sophie just made me so happy. I loved seeing them get their HEA 🥹
I am loving this series so much. I love this group, I love the love they have for each other, I love seeing them find happiness. And now I’m beyond ready to know how Maddie and Liam’s story plays out…
🥺 Right person, wrong time
🛏️ Roommates to lovers
🔥 Angsty slow burn
🏠 Found family
❤️🩹 Comfort/Hurt
👩🏼🤝👨🏽 Mutual pining
💋 Forehead kisses
🫣 Suspense subplot (Check TW)
🫶🏻 Acts of service
💁🏻♂️ Protective hero
5/⭐️
1/🌶️
My hearttt oh my gosh. The way I love these two. Mason is freaking adorable, and his protective side? Ugh. I just wanted to hug him after every page. When we learned about his past and what he went through/why he wasn’t looking for a relationship.. I cried. Tissues are a necessity.
And Sophie? Gosh did my heart hurt for her. Her story and what she went through hit me so hard. (Please check the TWs). I really don’t want to spoil anything, so just know that she goes through a lot and I love that she has her sisters and the guys who are there for her..
It’s just a heartbreakingly beautiful story. It’s the only way I know how to describe this. I cried. I thought the hard stuff was over then it hit again. I cried some more. But my heart was so full. The love between Mason and Sophie just made me so happy. I loved seeing them get their HEA 🥹
I am loving this series so much. I love this group, I love the love they have for each other, I love seeing them find happiness. And now I’m beyond ready to know how Maddie and Liam’s story plays out…
🥺 Right person, wrong time
🛏️ Roommates to lovers
🔥 Angsty slow burn
🏠 Found family
❤️🩹 Comfort/Hurt
👩🏼🤝👨🏽 Mutual pining
💋 Forehead kisses
🫣 Suspense subplot (Check TW)
🫶🏻 Acts of service
💁🏻♂️ Protective hero
July 28, 2025
Book 2 has a different vibe to book 1. This focuses on Sophie and Mason and the struggles both face by putting distance between each other and struggling with being friends when they mean so much more to each other without realising.
After meeting in a club and an instant hook up Mason puts on the breaks when he realises who she is. He friend zones her to protect her from his past demons. Sophie is attracted to Mason from the start and struggles with being his friend and not quite being able to move on even after 3 years. She eventually meets someone new but things come to a head when her abusive boyfriend is killed and Mason is arrested for his murder. Gradually these two work out there issues but then Sophie is kidnapped and Masons world turns on its head.
This book is a real slow burn and is long however to story keeps you engaged and trying to anticipate what is going on. Its full of twists and when you think things are finally settling down something else happens.
You must read book 1 as the story continues from this. The book has a continuous theme of domestic abuse with added kidnapping and other forms of abuse so recommended to check your triggers. The end is postive and shows people can overcome anything. Its such a fulfilling story. Then the epilogue comes along and leaves you hanging for book 3!
I received this as an ARC and am leaving my own review
After meeting in a club and an instant hook up Mason puts on the breaks when he realises who she is. He friend zones her to protect her from his past demons. Sophie is attracted to Mason from the start and struggles with being his friend and not quite being able to move on even after 3 years. She eventually meets someone new but things come to a head when her abusive boyfriend is killed and Mason is arrested for his murder. Gradually these two work out there issues but then Sophie is kidnapped and Masons world turns on its head.
This book is a real slow burn and is long however to story keeps you engaged and trying to anticipate what is going on. Its full of twists and when you think things are finally settling down something else happens.
You must read book 1 as the story continues from this. The book has a continuous theme of domestic abuse with added kidnapping and other forms of abuse so recommended to check your triggers. The end is postive and shows people can overcome anything. Its such a fulfilling story. Then the epilogue comes along and leaves you hanging for book 3!
I received this as an ARC and am leaving my own review
August 7, 2025
This series is so addictive! Normally, I shy away from all the angst, but it has me coming back for more. This is a trilogy, so you need to read these books in order.
Book one was packed with emotion, and I couldn’t stop reading. Book two takes it up a notch with suspense, trauma, longing, and all the complicated feelings. I was completely caught up, constantly wondering what was going to happen next.
This one follows Sophie, Lennon’s sister from book one. She’s a professional musician and genuinely kind-hearted. One night, she meets Mason at a bar, and they end up sharing a spontaneous and intense moment in the bathroom. A one-night stand isn’t really Sophie’s style, but there’s something about Mason she can’t ignore.
Mason has a heavy past and isn’t looking for anything serious, but he’s drawn to Sophie from the start. After that night, he finds out she’s the younger sister of his best friend’s fiancée, so he backs off. For the next three years, he keeps his distance.
But staying away from Sophie becomes impossible once he sees her in a relationship that turns abusive. He steps in, and from there, things really start to shift. There are a lot of twists I won’t spoil, but these two go through a lot to get to their happily ever after, and the tension and buildup make it worth it.
The teaser for Book 3 is so good and I cannot wait to read Maddie & Liam's story.
Book one was packed with emotion, and I couldn’t stop reading. Book two takes it up a notch with suspense, trauma, longing, and all the complicated feelings. I was completely caught up, constantly wondering what was going to happen next.
This one follows Sophie, Lennon’s sister from book one. She’s a professional musician and genuinely kind-hearted. One night, she meets Mason at a bar, and they end up sharing a spontaneous and intense moment in the bathroom. A one-night stand isn’t really Sophie’s style, but there’s something about Mason she can’t ignore.
Mason has a heavy past and isn’t looking for anything serious, but he’s drawn to Sophie from the start. After that night, he finds out she’s the younger sister of his best friend’s fiancée, so he backs off. For the next three years, he keeps his distance.
But staying away from Sophie becomes impossible once he sees her in a relationship that turns abusive. He steps in, and from there, things really start to shift. There are a lot of twists I won’t spoil, but these two go through a lot to get to their happily ever after, and the tension and buildup make it worth it.
The teaser for Book 3 is so good and I cannot wait to read Maddie & Liam's story.
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