What do you think?
Rate this book
More Than My Mistakes
Ria is a screwup. At least that’s what she thinks of herself.
Her mom’s not-so-constructive criticism and constant reminders of her past mistakes don’t refute the narrative either.
Fortunately, there is one positive thing they both believe in: Ria becoming a documentarian.
With a year of film school under her belt, Ria finally finds herself on a path that both she and her mother could be proud of…that is until a mistake behind the wheel changes the trajectory of her life, and she deems herself unworthy of true happiness.
Ria’s guilt and fear of messing things up pushes her to live a “safe” life, where she works a job she hates, pushes away the man she loves, keeps around a toxic best friend, and allows other people’s opinions to dictate her choices.
But when she finds herself in trouble at her cookie-cutter job, a new opportunity arises to participate in a life-changing film competition. The timing feels like fate and reignites the spark she once had for her forgotten dreams.
Will Ria be able to capitalize on this opportunity and heal old wounds in the process? Or will the past she's been running from catch up to her and steal her dreams away for a second time?
MORE THAN MY MISTAKES is a story of redemption, forgiveness, purpose, love, friendship, and everyday girlhood.
Her mom’s not-so-constructive criticism and constant reminders of her past mistakes don’t refute the narrative either.
Fortunately, there is one positive thing they both believe in: Ria becoming a documentarian.
With a year of film school under her belt, Ria finally finds herself on a path that both she and her mother could be proud of…that is until a mistake behind the wheel changes the trajectory of her life, and she deems herself unworthy of true happiness.
Ria’s guilt and fear of messing things up pushes her to live a “safe” life, where she works a job she hates, pushes away the man she loves, keeps around a toxic best friend, and allows other people’s opinions to dictate her choices.
But when she finds herself in trouble at her cookie-cutter job, a new opportunity arises to participate in a life-changing film competition. The timing feels like fate and reignites the spark she once had for her forgotten dreams.
Will Ria be able to capitalize on this opportunity and heal old wounds in the process? Or will the past she's been running from catch up to her and steal her dreams away for a second time?
MORE THAN MY MISTAKES is a story of redemption, forgiveness, purpose, love, friendship, and everyday girlhood.
260 pages, Paperback
Published June 6, 2025
2 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 25, 2025
I was not prepared for how much I would relate to this book. I didn’t know Amanda personally before finding More Than My Mistakes, but I am so proud of her. The fact that this is her debut novel is incredibly impressive. Watching her self-publishing journey was super cool. I loved the promo, the title, the cover, and now that I’ve finally had time to sit down and finish reading, I can honestly say I loved the story.
As someone who isn’t currently using their film degree 😅 I may be a little biased, but I loved seeing things unfold for Ria and her career while also witnessing her healing journey. It was so inspiring.
Ria’s love interest, Onyx, that’s a good man, Savannah-Because my girl was putting him through it. I loved that Amanda was able to demonstrate true intimacy without detailed spicy scenes. Now don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a little spice, but it just didn’t feel necessary here. I still felt like I got to know Ria and Onyx intimately, and I loved that.
This book is beautifully written and 100% worth the read.
As someone who isn’t currently using their film degree 😅 I may be a little biased, but I loved seeing things unfold for Ria and her career while also witnessing her healing journey. It was so inspiring.
Ria’s love interest, Onyx, that’s a good man, Savannah-Because my girl was putting him through it. I loved that Amanda was able to demonstrate true intimacy without detailed spicy scenes. Now don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a little spice, but it just didn’t feel necessary here. I still felt like I got to know Ria and Onyx intimately, and I loved that.
This book is beautifully written and 100% worth the read.
October 14, 2025
I didn’t expect to finish this book with a face full of tears, but page 238 took me out 🥹 and made this an unforgettable 5⭐️ read!
This story was so touching, relatable, quietly powerful, uplifting and freeing. The young women in this story deeply touched and inspired me.
Not only is the book very enjoyable, but It touches on relevant topics that we all experience at some time - escaping the mistakes that keep us bound, learning to set boundaries, and allowing the judgment of others keep us confined in a mental prison, unable to break free.
One major mistake can ruin your life and haunt you for years, making you clam up and disappear into yourself, stricken in shame and defeat.
This is Ria. She was in college, pursuing her dream of being a film maker. She had encouraging friends, and her future was bright, until it all got fucked up with a big mistake. The mistake that stuck with her for many years, filling her with anguish and the judgment never went away.
Now, she has a second chance, but can she get out of her own way to live in her true purpose? Does she deserve it? She absolutely does!
This is a story that I want my 19 year old daughter and everyone to read. One can find solace in Ria’s story, peace in forgiving oneself, and hope in the journey of starting anew.
There’s also rest in the fact that we ALL make mistakes and have to push through the mental torture to forgive ourselves and move forward making better choices. Nobody is perfect and brighter days are ahead!!
This is a great indie novel that I highly recommend to everyone!! It can get a bit much with the friend drama and nightlife scenes, but it all works well for the story and will be something that keeps readers keenly tuned in!!
I read the ebook and I looked forward to laying down and savoring Ria’s story as often as I could!
What a remarkable feeling it is to fight your through the mistakes that try to keep you down and hold you back from being the very best version of yourself 💓
“…Your life is not ruined. It’s simply in reconstruction.”
“Do other people’s opinions about you hold more weight than what you believe about yourself?”
This story was so touching, relatable, quietly powerful, uplifting and freeing. The young women in this story deeply touched and inspired me.
Not only is the book very enjoyable, but It touches on relevant topics that we all experience at some time - escaping the mistakes that keep us bound, learning to set boundaries, and allowing the judgment of others keep us confined in a mental prison, unable to break free.
One major mistake can ruin your life and haunt you for years, making you clam up and disappear into yourself, stricken in shame and defeat.
This is Ria. She was in college, pursuing her dream of being a film maker. She had encouraging friends, and her future was bright, until it all got fucked up with a big mistake. The mistake that stuck with her for many years, filling her with anguish and the judgment never went away.
Now, she has a second chance, but can she get out of her own way to live in her true purpose? Does she deserve it? She absolutely does!
This is a story that I want my 19 year old daughter and everyone to read. One can find solace in Ria’s story, peace in forgiving oneself, and hope in the journey of starting anew.
There’s also rest in the fact that we ALL make mistakes and have to push through the mental torture to forgive ourselves and move forward making better choices. Nobody is perfect and brighter days are ahead!!
This is a great indie novel that I highly recommend to everyone!! It can get a bit much with the friend drama and nightlife scenes, but it all works well for the story and will be something that keeps readers keenly tuned in!!
I read the ebook and I looked forward to laying down and savoring Ria’s story as often as I could!
What a remarkable feeling it is to fight your through the mistakes that try to keep you down and hold you back from being the very best version of yourself 💓
“…Your life is not ruined. It’s simply in reconstruction.”
“Do other people’s opinions about you hold more weight than what you believe about yourself?”
June 4, 2025
Thank you to the author Amanda Linette for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
4/5
— This was such a great debut novel for Amanda Linette. I loved how in this book, our FMC Ria navigates life after making a life altering mistake that tends to taunt her with guilt of fulfilling her dreams. — This story is not only relatable but full of life lessons.
— I enjoyed every of the slow burn (friends-to-lovers) romance, sisterhood built between genuine friends, generational parental trauma, forgiveness, healing, betrayal and love. I love me some Onyx. He did not play when it came to Ria, even when she tried to run. Ria annoyed the heck out of me by getting in her own way of allowing herself the love and support that she deserved, while giving it willingly to someone who only took her for granted.
—
Pub Date: 6/6/25
4/5
— This was such a great debut novel for Amanda Linette. I loved how in this book, our FMC Ria navigates life after making a life altering mistake that tends to taunt her with guilt of fulfilling her dreams. — This story is not only relatable but full of life lessons.
— I enjoyed every of the slow burn (friends-to-lovers) romance, sisterhood built between genuine friends, generational parental trauma, forgiveness, healing, betrayal and love. I love me some Onyx. He did not play when it came to Ria, even when she tried to run. Ria annoyed the heck out of me by getting in her own way of allowing herself the love and support that she deserved, while giving it willingly to someone who only took her for granted.
—
Pub Date: 6/6/25
June 18, 2025
Thanks to author Amanda Linette for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
When I finished More Than My Mistakes, which was released today (June 6), I had to sit with my feelings. It’s not often a book that gets to me the way this one did.
I read the ARC of this debut novel in two days, May 23 & and 24, only because I had something else that required my attention, which prevented me from finishing it in one sitting. It is fast-paced, compelling, and well written.
This first novel in The Bloom Series made me think about how hard it is to forgive yourself for something you did or a decision you made that you deem a mistake. It seldom matters if people forgive you. You have to work on forgiving yourself, and it is so hard for someone who was never in this position to understand.
This story is about drowning out those inner voices screaming ‘you’re not good enough’, balancing the expectations of your parents (or in this case her mother Antonia), learning to accept help and love from the people who care about you. It’s about second chances and giving yourself grace and being brave enough to rebuild that self-belief and power towards your destiny.
When we meet Ria, the main female character, she seems eager to press on towards achieving her dream of being a filmmaker. She wants to make documentaries chronicling the lives of everyday people who make an impact on those around them.
An accident one night after she goes partying with her friends – she didn’t drink because she had to drive home - changes her, and she rocks her faith in herself - hard.
We meet her again after time has elapsed, and she is struggling mentally with the effects of the accident and the negativity stemming from it. Those two factors, along with her mother pushing her to get a ‘safe job’ where she felt unfilled, we see Ria sinking into an abyss filled with self doubt that threatened to envelop her and paying penance to the Kind, forgiving, and empathetic Marie (accident victim) and her family to right the wrong.
Although I was rooting for her as though I was in her circle along with her sister Izzy, Maria, Kayla et al, there were times I got so mad at her for being blind to the truth about a long-time friend and not seeing how much Onyx, her bff, loved her and wanted her to succeed.
While this is not a romance novel, there are some sparks. I welcomed the fact that the author didn’t go too deep into an over-the-top spicy storyline and instead developed the emotional intimacy that Ria needed to grow.
I think Onyx was perfect for her, and because they were friends,he knew her and what she was capable of. Friendships are needed in intimate partner relationships and should never by underestimated and I may have swooned when he told her, "My purpose is to be the balance, the support, and the love that you need."
I must admit that when I closed the book, the only friend I remembered was Kayla, but I will definitely read the next one in the series.
When I finished More Than My Mistakes, which was released today (June 6), I had to sit with my feelings. It’s not often a book that gets to me the way this one did.
I read the ARC of this debut novel in two days, May 23 & and 24, only because I had something else that required my attention, which prevented me from finishing it in one sitting. It is fast-paced, compelling, and well written.
This first novel in The Bloom Series made me think about how hard it is to forgive yourself for something you did or a decision you made that you deem a mistake. It seldom matters if people forgive you. You have to work on forgiving yourself, and it is so hard for someone who was never in this position to understand.
This story is about drowning out those inner voices screaming ‘you’re not good enough’, balancing the expectations of your parents (or in this case her mother Antonia), learning to accept help and love from the people who care about you. It’s about second chances and giving yourself grace and being brave enough to rebuild that self-belief and power towards your destiny.
When we meet Ria, the main female character, she seems eager to press on towards achieving her dream of being a filmmaker. She wants to make documentaries chronicling the lives of everyday people who make an impact on those around them.
An accident one night after she goes partying with her friends – she didn’t drink because she had to drive home - changes her, and she rocks her faith in herself - hard.
We meet her again after time has elapsed, and she is struggling mentally with the effects of the accident and the negativity stemming from it. Those two factors, along with her mother pushing her to get a ‘safe job’ where she felt unfilled, we see Ria sinking into an abyss filled with self doubt that threatened to envelop her and paying penance to the Kind, forgiving, and empathetic Marie (accident victim) and her family to right the wrong.
Although I was rooting for her as though I was in her circle along with her sister Izzy, Maria, Kayla et al, there were times I got so mad at her for being blind to the truth about a long-time friend and not seeing how much Onyx, her bff, loved her and wanted her to succeed.
While this is not a romance novel, there are some sparks. I welcomed the fact that the author didn’t go too deep into an over-the-top spicy storyline and instead developed the emotional intimacy that Ria needed to grow.
I think Onyx was perfect for her, and because they were friends,he knew her and what she was capable of. Friendships are needed in intimate partner relationships and should never by underestimated and I may have swooned when he told her, "My purpose is to be the balance, the support, and the love that you need."
I must admit that when I closed the book, the only friend I remembered was Kayla, but I will definitely read the next one in the series.
May 26, 2025
✨ ARC Review ✨
📸 More Than My Mistakes
by Amanda Linnette @authoramandalinette
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Pub Date: June 6, 2025
Book No. 54 (2025)
Author, Amanda Linette is sharing her debut novel, More Than My Mistakes (MTMM) with you. Ria has hopes and dreams and like your typical teenager, she enjoys life. She wants to become a documentarian and she’s on her way in film school, but we all know life comes with curveballs for some of us.
Ria makes a mistake, one that doesn’t result in loss of life, but a serious mistake nonetheless and that changes her life. Fast forward to present day and Ria is working on auto pilot but she can’t shake the guilt from her mistake. Just like life, Ria gets a chance to make a change and with family, friends, haters, and colleagues looking on, she must decide if she’s worth it - another chance to fulfill her dreams.
MTMM oozed romance, sisterhood, motherhood, forgiveness, adulting, love, betrayal and I was there for all of it. Amanda Linette worked her magic with character development and I can say without a doubt that Onyx is now one of my top five book boyfriends because from Linette’s description, Onyx is easy on the eyes and his love game is strong. I will admit that Ria annoyed me a few times because she couldn’t see what was in her soul. I love Ria’s friends (well most of them) and family, and enjoyed the dynamics and strength of their relationship with Ria.
I don’t see any signs of this being a series, but I am open to seeing the next steps in Ria and Onyx’s life.
Thank you, Amanda for sharing your baby with me.
📸 More Than My Mistakes
by Amanda Linnette @authoramandalinette
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Pub Date: June 6, 2025
Book No. 54 (2025)
Author, Amanda Linette is sharing her debut novel, More Than My Mistakes (MTMM) with you. Ria has hopes and dreams and like your typical teenager, she enjoys life. She wants to become a documentarian and she’s on her way in film school, but we all know life comes with curveballs for some of us.
Ria makes a mistake, one that doesn’t result in loss of life, but a serious mistake nonetheless and that changes her life. Fast forward to present day and Ria is working on auto pilot but she can’t shake the guilt from her mistake. Just like life, Ria gets a chance to make a change and with family, friends, haters, and colleagues looking on, she must decide if she’s worth it - another chance to fulfill her dreams.
MTMM oozed romance, sisterhood, motherhood, forgiveness, adulting, love, betrayal and I was there for all of it. Amanda Linette worked her magic with character development and I can say without a doubt that Onyx is now one of my top five book boyfriends because from Linette’s description, Onyx is easy on the eyes and his love game is strong. I will admit that Ria annoyed me a few times because she couldn’t see what was in her soul. I love Ria’s friends (well most of them) and family, and enjoyed the dynamics and strength of their relationship with Ria.
I don’t see any signs of this being a series, but I am open to seeing the next steps in Ria and Onyx’s life.
Thank you, Amanda for sharing your baby with me.
June 5, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book, and wow! Ria’s journey was a lot. There are so many ups and downs, but her resilience? Unmatched. She kept pushing through, even when everything felt like a mess. And Onyx? Always there. The love, the growth, the chaos, I felt everything. 💔❤️✨
December 1, 2025
“Stop letting your past define your now. God don’t make mistakes, so if he let you go through that, then he for sure expects you to do something with that experience.” — Robyn.
The message this book tells us through Ria’s story is an empowering one. Ria made a mistake that ended up hurting somebody. Even though it was an accident, this mistake causes Ria’s life course and plans to derail. Present-day Ria is working a boring and unfulfilling job, she has put her passion for filmmaking on pause, and she has closed herself off to having a relationship with the man she calls her best friend, though he’s really her soulmate.
When an opportunity presents itself for her to participate in a competition to showcase her skills and talents through a documentary, she sees it as a second chance. But what can we do with a second chance when we lack confidence, when anxiety creates doubt, when fear drives our decision-making, or guilt blocks our blessings? Those are the things explored as Ria goes through her journey of healing, forgiveness, and redemption.
I saw this quote on a video from Gyasi Immanuel: “You will not be denied, you will not miss this moment, you will not think yo self outta this.” It made me think of Ria, and how the people who love her and are closest to her keep reinforcing that message.
In the end, More Than My Mistakes is a story that reminds us that we are allowed to begin again, and that sometimes the hardest thing isn’t getting a second chance, but believing we’re worthy of taking it.
The message this book tells us through Ria’s story is an empowering one. Ria made a mistake that ended up hurting somebody. Even though it was an accident, this mistake causes Ria’s life course and plans to derail. Present-day Ria is working a boring and unfulfilling job, she has put her passion for filmmaking on pause, and she has closed herself off to having a relationship with the man she calls her best friend, though he’s really her soulmate.
When an opportunity presents itself for her to participate in a competition to showcase her skills and talents through a documentary, she sees it as a second chance. But what can we do with a second chance when we lack confidence, when anxiety creates doubt, when fear drives our decision-making, or guilt blocks our blessings? Those are the things explored as Ria goes through her journey of healing, forgiveness, and redemption.
I saw this quote on a video from Gyasi Immanuel: “You will not be denied, you will not miss this moment, you will not think yo self outta this.” It made me think of Ria, and how the people who love her and are closest to her keep reinforcing that message.
In the end, More Than My Mistakes is a story that reminds us that we are allowed to begin again, and that sometimes the hardest thing isn’t getting a second chance, but believing we’re worthy of taking it.
June 7, 2025
Alexa, play "If I Was Your Best Friend" by 50 Cent… because babyyyy, Ria & Onyx had me in my feelings. Amanda really came in swinging with this debut. First of The Bloom Series, and it’s giving healing, emotion, and that perfectly messy humanity we all know way too well.
Let’s talk about Ria. Life did not let up on her, and watching her navigate all that pain, self-doubt, and growth? I was rooting for her like she was my cousin fr. Amanda nailed that feeling of trying to move forward without letting your past completely consume you. This book is soft but strong. It’s grace. It’s growth. It’s hope.
And that friend group? Whew. That ride-or-die energy, the hype squad vibes, the hard convos and soft landings—they were everything. (Well… almost everything. One friend was absolutely not passing the vibe check. She could go.)
And listen, y’all already know I’m a sucker for a friends to lovers moment, and Onyx + Ria? They got me. The spice was a light 2/5, but the emotional intimacy?? 10/10.
Like:
“IF you were mine, like really mine, you couldn’t get me to walk away from you. I know that God designed you for me.”
“When I hold you, I feel whole. When I look at you, I see my purpose.”
Whew 😭 give me a minute.
This was a solid 3.5⭐️ read that gave me all the feelings about love, friendship, self-worth, and second chances. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on Amanda Linette because this series? Has serious potential.
Let’s talk about Ria. Life did not let up on her, and watching her navigate all that pain, self-doubt, and growth? I was rooting for her like she was my cousin fr. Amanda nailed that feeling of trying to move forward without letting your past completely consume you. This book is soft but strong. It’s grace. It’s growth. It’s hope.
And that friend group? Whew. That ride-or-die energy, the hype squad vibes, the hard convos and soft landings—they were everything. (Well… almost everything. One friend was absolutely not passing the vibe check. She could go.)
And listen, y’all already know I’m a sucker for a friends to lovers moment, and Onyx + Ria? They got me. The spice was a light 2/5, but the emotional intimacy?? 10/10.
Like:
“IF you were mine, like really mine, you couldn’t get me to walk away from you. I know that God designed you for me.”
“When I hold you, I feel whole. When I look at you, I see my purpose.”
Whew 😭 give me a minute.
This was a solid 3.5⭐️ read that gave me all the feelings about love, friendship, self-worth, and second chances. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on Amanda Linette because this series? Has serious potential.
June 2, 2025
********ARC review******¥¥¥¥¥
Tropes : women fiction , friends to lovers, redemption, sisterhood and purpose
General thoughts:
Loved the story and how it grabs your attention. The main character Ria does get frustrating at times but it’s a relatable story, full of life lessons:
Don’t let your past, hold you back from your potential future successes, learn and grow from your mistakes and trust in the process of healing!
A playlist is provide for you to listen to whilst reading which you know I love ☺️
Book overview:
Ria’s dream is to become a filmmaker, everything looked like it was on the up when an unfortunate accident happened that involved her and a single mother of 4. This accident left Marie the single mother temporarily paralysed.
The guilty of this unfortunate accident has convinced Ria that she isn’t allowed to live her life to the fullest or even enjoy her passion.
Thank God for her sisterhood and her former lecture Dr Carson , these women, not only spoke life into her but also encouraged her to see through, a once in a lifetime opportunity which will not only help her showcase her talent but also allow her to heal and get over her guilt in the process .
This is a story of love, healing , redemption, sisterhood and purpose!
I highly recommend this read, it’s out on 6 June 2025.
Tropes : women fiction , friends to lovers, redemption, sisterhood and purpose
General thoughts:
Loved the story and how it grabs your attention. The main character Ria does get frustrating at times but it’s a relatable story, full of life lessons:
Don’t let your past, hold you back from your potential future successes, learn and grow from your mistakes and trust in the process of healing!
A playlist is provide for you to listen to whilst reading which you know I love ☺️
Book overview:
Ria’s dream is to become a filmmaker, everything looked like it was on the up when an unfortunate accident happened that involved her and a single mother of 4. This accident left Marie the single mother temporarily paralysed.
The guilty of this unfortunate accident has convinced Ria that she isn’t allowed to live her life to the fullest or even enjoy her passion.
Thank God for her sisterhood and her former lecture Dr Carson , these women, not only spoke life into her but also encouraged her to see through, a once in a lifetime opportunity which will not only help her showcase her talent but also allow her to heal and get over her guilt in the process .
This is a story of love, healing , redemption, sisterhood and purpose!
I highly recommend this read, it’s out on 6 June 2025.
June 8, 2025
ARC Review
I was so excited to sign up for Amanda’s debut novel—and she delivered in all the best ways. From layered character development to the raw emotions left on the page, she struck the perfect balance between romance and self-growth. I rooted for Ria every step of the way, hoping she’d see herself beyond her past and make it to the other side of forgiveness.
More Than My Mistakes is a beautiful reminder to extend grace—to others, yes, but especially to yourself. We’re all carrying stories, trying to break generational curses and quiet inner battles. This book isn’t just about romance—it’s about all the relationships that shape us: family, friends, support systems. It had me reflecting on how we show up for each other through the highs and the lows.
I wanted to hug Ria and whisper, “You’re going to make it.”
Even though the romance was more of a background plot, I loved watching Ria and Onyx grow from friends into something real. The intimate moments of unwavering support and soft love had me cheering for Onyx every time.
Also—I need more of this friend group. I’m a mix of Elle and Kayla, and I absolutely love that for me. 💚
This one’s going to stay with me for a while.
I was so excited to sign up for Amanda’s debut novel—and she delivered in all the best ways. From layered character development to the raw emotions left on the page, she struck the perfect balance between romance and self-growth. I rooted for Ria every step of the way, hoping she’d see herself beyond her past and make it to the other side of forgiveness.
More Than My Mistakes is a beautiful reminder to extend grace—to others, yes, but especially to yourself. We’re all carrying stories, trying to break generational curses and quiet inner battles. This book isn’t just about romance—it’s about all the relationships that shape us: family, friends, support systems. It had me reflecting on how we show up for each other through the highs and the lows.
I wanted to hug Ria and whisper, “You’re going to make it.”
Even though the romance was more of a background plot, I loved watching Ria and Onyx grow from friends into something real. The intimate moments of unwavering support and soft love had me cheering for Onyx every time.
Also—I need more of this friend group. I’m a mix of Elle and Kayla, and I absolutely love that for me. 💚
This one’s going to stay with me for a while.
June 10, 2025
I had the privilege of reading an ARC copy of Amanda's debut book and OMG. When I was seeing her promote it over social media, I was already falling in love with the snippets that she would share. However, my mind was blown to pieces when I was given the ARC and actually had a chance to read it.
Amanda's writing is pure hearted, thorough, and it hits you exactly where it needs to. I loved this book, mainly because I was able to resonate with Ria's story more than I was expecting to. Fighting to see the best in yourself and the best in the world when the voices and outside people are saying you're everything but. Ria had to put up a fight to see her worth and to see her glory and that became amplified when I met Onyx while reading the book. Onyx is the type of person everyone needs in their life, standing in their corner no matter what happens. Ria put up a good fight and even though there were points of the story that made me upset (like her friends), I was rooting for her all the way.
Definitely cannot wait to read more from Amanda. Amazing book swinging out the gate!
Amanda's writing is pure hearted, thorough, and it hits you exactly where it needs to. I loved this book, mainly because I was able to resonate with Ria's story more than I was expecting to. Fighting to see the best in yourself and the best in the world when the voices and outside people are saying you're everything but. Ria had to put up a fight to see her worth and to see her glory and that became amplified when I met Onyx while reading the book. Onyx is the type of person everyone needs in their life, standing in their corner no matter what happens. Ria put up a good fight and even though there were points of the story that made me upset (like her friends), I was rooting for her all the way.
Definitely cannot wait to read more from Amanda. Amazing book swinging out the gate!
May 18, 2025
Thank you Amanda Linette for the e-ARC of your new book More Than My Mistakes!! This journey of self-care, self-love and self-compassion evokes an inspirational message especially for those who struggle with self-doubt stemming from their past and of all the noise surrounding them as a result. This was an easy read that I couldn’t put down for long. I had to know how the story would end. From the very beginning, I knew that I’d be rooting for Ria through her trauma, and for her professional and romantic success. Most of all, I was hopeful for her healing. Her story reminded me that although it may seem like God is spinning the block, He’s always right there walking through it beside us. It’s up to us to trust and receive what He has for us. I also enjoyed the minor characters in this book (even the ones that I detested). Learning more about some of them and their backgrounds would make a for a great series. Kudos on this book!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 27, 2025
Arc Review- I had the pleasure of being an Arc reader for More than My Mistakes and I am happy it was my introduction to the Arc reading world!
Ria is a woman who hasn't had the best luck in her young life and is struggling to forgive herself. Throughout the book she struggles to see herself as deserving of good things.
This book was refreshing and relatable in the sense of learning to put your life back together after you feel like you aren't worthy. The character development is strong and the story has you wanting to know more about the characters, whether you are rooting for them or not.
I love the way Amanda Linette gives examples of both positive and negative friendships and the impact each can have on our perceptions of ourselves. This was truly a story of love, growth, and second chances. I can't wait to see what else the author has in store for us.
Ria is a woman who hasn't had the best luck in her young life and is struggling to forgive herself. Throughout the book she struggles to see herself as deserving of good things.
This book was refreshing and relatable in the sense of learning to put your life back together after you feel like you aren't worthy. The character development is strong and the story has you wanting to know more about the characters, whether you are rooting for them or not.
I love the way Amanda Linette gives examples of both positive and negative friendships and the impact each can have on our perceptions of ourselves. This was truly a story of love, growth, and second chances. I can't wait to see what else the author has in store for us.
May 28, 2025
Okay, book besties—let me just say, “More Than My Mistakes” was everything my heart needed! 💖 Some days it’s tough to find time (or motivation) to read, but this story made me excited to dive in every night with my favorite cozy blanket and a cup of tea.
Ria’s journey? SO relatable! Watching her deal with messy friendships, self-doubt, and even break those stubborn generational curses had me cheering her on the whole way. Her glow-up gave me all the feels and reminded me that we’re all worthy of more.
If you’ve ever struggled with letting go or finding your own path, this book will speak to you. It’s beautifully written, super encouraging, and honestly—left me inspired to chase my own growth.
Highly recommend this one for all my girly readers who love a heartfelt story with real-life lessons. Grab your tissues (and maybe your group chat) because you’ll want to talk about this one! 💅📚
Ria’s journey? SO relatable! Watching her deal with messy friendships, self-doubt, and even break those stubborn generational curses had me cheering her on the whole way. Her glow-up gave me all the feels and reminded me that we’re all worthy of more.
If you’ve ever struggled with letting go or finding your own path, this book will speak to you. It’s beautifully written, super encouraging, and honestly—left me inspired to chase my own growth.
Highly recommend this one for all my girly readers who love a heartfelt story with real-life lessons. Grab your tissues (and maybe your group chat) because you’ll want to talk about this one! 💅📚
June 6, 2025
If you’re looking for the Overton to your Sinclair (for my Living Single fans) look no further as Onyx is him. Protective, loyal and completely devoted, Onyx is the kind of man who will stand up for his woman without hesitation. Just like Overton would put anyone in their place for even looking at Sinclair sideways, Onyx does the same for Ria.
Now Ria may not be quite as bubbly or optimistic as Sinclair, but her kindness and ambition still echo that same energy. She’s layered, real and relatable.
The first chapter had me hooked. I’ve been in a reading slump for a year and a half, and I am so glad this was the first book that pulled me back in. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but from the start, it was clear: this is the kind of story you inhale in one sitting. I could not put it down.
If you’re looking for a story that will leave your jaw on the floor, have you yelling at a few characters, and resonate with real-life struggles like mental health and redemption, this is the one for you.
Ria’s journey through self-loathing and self-forgiveness, paired with Onyx’s unwavering love, creates something truly beautiful. This is Ria’s story at its core- raw, emotional, and full of hard truths.
If you’ve ever questioned your path in life, if you’ve ever felt like you couldn’t stop messing everything up, if you’ve carried a mistake so heavy it felt like it was dragging you under, this book will see you. And maybe, just maybe, help you see yourself a little differently too.
Now Ria may not be quite as bubbly or optimistic as Sinclair, but her kindness and ambition still echo that same energy. She’s layered, real and relatable.
The first chapter had me hooked. I’ve been in a reading slump for a year and a half, and I am so glad this was the first book that pulled me back in. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but from the start, it was clear: this is the kind of story you inhale in one sitting. I could not put it down.
If you’re looking for a story that will leave your jaw on the floor, have you yelling at a few characters, and resonate with real-life struggles like mental health and redemption, this is the one for you.
Ria’s journey through self-loathing and self-forgiveness, paired with Onyx’s unwavering love, creates something truly beautiful. This is Ria’s story at its core- raw, emotional, and full of hard truths.
If you’ve ever questioned your path in life, if you’ve ever felt like you couldn’t stop messing everything up, if you’ve carried a mistake so heavy it felt like it was dragging you under, this book will see you. And maybe, just maybe, help you see yourself a little differently too.
June 6, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
Women Fiction
Overall 4⭐️
This is a really soft women fiction book. We follow Ria’s story as she is navigating life after a terrible mistake that she caused when she was slightly younger. She is having a hard time forgiving herself which is hindering her to live to her highest potential.
This debut novel highlights what it truly means to have a solid support system that push you to continue chasing your dreams. Her friend group and Onyx was exactly what she need to continue to push forward.
Now although this isn’t a romance novel I really hope we get more from Onyx and Ria because their chemistry was amazing. I truly enjoyed this book. Make sure yall support my girl and download it and give it a try.
Good luck and much success Amanda💛
Women Fiction
Overall 4⭐️
This is a really soft women fiction book. We follow Ria’s story as she is navigating life after a terrible mistake that she caused when she was slightly younger. She is having a hard time forgiving herself which is hindering her to live to her highest potential.
This debut novel highlights what it truly means to have a solid support system that push you to continue chasing your dreams. Her friend group and Onyx was exactly what she need to continue to push forward.
Now although this isn’t a romance novel I really hope we get more from Onyx and Ria because their chemistry was amazing. I truly enjoyed this book. Make sure yall support my girl and download it and give it a try.
Good luck and much success Amanda💛
June 9, 2025
LOVED this book down!
seeing Ria’s journey after having doubted herself for so, long, and then finally coming into her shining light was heartwarming. i love her “girl group” that she constantly had in her corner. it definitely gave “Insecure” and “Girlfriends” vibes, but a little younger group. i loved them!
and we cannot forget about Onyx. that man had patience out of this world! but his love for Ria was the key takeaway. no matter what dynamic they were operating in, he was always there for her, even when it hurt.
i connected to this story on so many levels- Amanda wrote this beautifully, and i cannot wait to see what she had planned next! 💕
seeing Ria’s journey after having doubted herself for so, long, and then finally coming into her shining light was heartwarming. i love her “girl group” that she constantly had in her corner. it definitely gave “Insecure” and “Girlfriends” vibes, but a little younger group. i loved them!
and we cannot forget about Onyx. that man had patience out of this world! but his love for Ria was the key takeaway. no matter what dynamic they were operating in, he was always there for her, even when it hurt.
i connected to this story on so many levels- Amanda wrote this beautifully, and i cannot wait to see what she had planned next! 💕
May 23, 2025
This book was refreshing and relatable. It’s written from a first person perspective and I was easily able to feel like I was Ria, the main character, as I was reading.
The Author touches on friendship, self-doubt, and relationships. She really hit the mark with her ‘mic drop’ lines about friendship and when I was reading, I was in my head like, “I FELT THAT”.
I finished this book a few days ago and I find myself missing the characters like I was part of their girl gang. 😂🥹
The Author touches on friendship, self-doubt, and relationships. She really hit the mark with her ‘mic drop’ lines about friendship and when I was reading, I was in my head like, “I FELT THAT”.
I finished this book a few days ago and I find myself missing the characters like I was part of their girl gang. 😂🥹
June 6, 2025
This was a beautiful read for the author’s first book! Ria was just like every young woman trying to figure out her path in life. I loved how she had a strong friendship group to lift her up and check her when needed. It was hard to see her find out that some people aren’t your friends no matter and you have to let them go. I identified with the mother-daughter relationship.
Overall, Linette wrote a solid story about redemption, self-love, and learning on your support system.
Overall, Linette wrote a solid story about redemption, self-love, and learning on your support system.
May 24, 2025
Arc Review - This was a cute story. Not just a love story but a story of life, trauma, learning boundaries, having great friends and learning to identify friends who don’t mean you well. Loved seeing so many women supporting one another, overcoming obstacles and taking back their power.
August 17, 2025
This was so beautiful omgggg🥹🥹 Anybody who struggle with self forgiveness would loveee this book it’s literally so beautifully written with beautiful teachings and love how scriptures were referenced❤️
June 11, 2025
I’d been waiting for this book to release and it didn’t disappoint. A beautiful story about forgiveness, self worth, and friendship.
June 6, 2025
ARC Review:
As a debut book the author did a beautiful job. The character building was well done. I love a good friends to lovers romance. This is one I would most definitely recommend to my romance girlies.
As a debut book the author did a beautiful job. The character building was well done. I love a good friends to lovers romance. This is one I would most definitely recommend to my romance girlies.
August 18, 2025
First thank you Amanda for the Arc
This story was so beautifully written to where I couldn’t put it down. I believe everyone can relate to this story where it touches on self doubt, bad friendship and breaking generational curses!
The growth Ria showed throughout the book was amazing and just what I needed!
This story was so beautifully written to where I couldn’t put it down. I believe everyone can relate to this story where it touches on self doubt, bad friendship and breaking generational curses!
The growth Ria showed throughout the book was amazing and just what I needed!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews