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Into These Eyes
For half her life, she believed he took everything from her—until she discovers he’s the only one who ever told her the truth.
Gavin Lake
Ever since Jamie Evans swung her piercing eyes my way in the courtroom, I haven’t been able to stop drawing them. I don’t think anyone’s ever looked at me with such utter hatred.
But I never blamed her. She believed a lie. So did the jury.
Convicted of a murder I didn’t commit at the age of nineteen, I’ve spent sixteen years in prison with her loathing eyes haunting my dreams and my sketchbooks.
Now I’m out on parole, hoping that one day I can convince her I’m innocent.
And then maybe, just maybe, I can change the way she looks at me.
Jamie Evans
For half my life, I’ve despised Gavin Lake, the monster who murdered my mother.
Until the day someone else confesses to the crime.
Now Gavin’s out on parole, and it’s up to me to tell the man I’ve hated for sixteen years that I know he’s innocent.
And that I’m the one who’s going to fight to overturn his wrongful conviction.
But I didn’t count on him chipping away at the prison walls I’ve erected around my heart.
And I’m not sure I can stop him ... or even if I want to.
A loving, emotional journey of two broken souls bound by tragedy and lies. Slow burn, steamy (3), all the feels, HEA.
Gavin Lake
Ever since Jamie Evans swung her piercing eyes my way in the courtroom, I haven’t been able to stop drawing them. I don’t think anyone’s ever looked at me with such utter hatred.
But I never blamed her. She believed a lie. So did the jury.
Convicted of a murder I didn’t commit at the age of nineteen, I’ve spent sixteen years in prison with her loathing eyes haunting my dreams and my sketchbooks.
Now I’m out on parole, hoping that one day I can convince her I’m innocent.
And then maybe, just maybe, I can change the way she looks at me.
Jamie Evans
For half my life, I’ve despised Gavin Lake, the monster who murdered my mother.
Until the day someone else confesses to the crime.
Now Gavin’s out on parole, and it’s up to me to tell the man I’ve hated for sixteen years that I know he’s innocent.
And that I’m the one who’s going to fight to overturn his wrongful conviction.
But I didn’t count on him chipping away at the prison walls I’ve erected around my heart.
And I’m not sure I can stop him ... or even if I want to.
A loving, emotional journey of two broken souls bound by tragedy and lies. Slow burn, steamy (3), all the feels, HEA.
534 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2025
268 people are currently reading
1846 people want to read
About the author
Darcy Daniel
9 books133 followersI've loved reading from an early age and fell in love with many genres, but was drawn most of all to thrillers and romances - leaving me ecstatic when I won the Charter Oak Golden Acorn contest for Best Contemporary Series Romance.
I'm lucky enough to live in a picturesque, historic small country town in Sydney, Australia with my two energetic dogs.
I'm lucky enough to live in a picturesque, historic small country town in Sydney, Australia with my two energetic dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
November 16, 2025
Rating
4 💎
2 🌶️
Quick Summary
This book kicked off with a plot twist, wrong-place-wrong-time scenario. The raw pain Jamie carries and Gavin’s unwavering integrity deepen a beautifully developed connection between them. That Aussie accent I doubted but now kinda want on my GPS. Into these Eyes as an ALC was brilliant.
Reading Thoughts
📗Wow the start was nothing like I expected, talk about wrong place, wrong time
-The narrators Sofia Lette & Vincent Shabah were exceptional and I although I was unsure about the Aussie accent for Gavin at the start, I was sooo into it by 20% in.
📗The hatred Jamie feels for the person she thought was responsible for all her pain wrenches my heart
📗Gavin has every right to become a horrible human however he has held onto his values and how he expresses his emotions is inspiring.
📗This story has built the connection between Jamie and Gavin was done so well.
📗There are some plot unravelling through the story that makes this book engaging and I found myself unable to put it down at certain parts.
Words that linger
🍷 "Get Benny and the Jets"
🍷 "Can your little Vibrator do this"
🍷"You’re the most striking woman I have ever seen, you can stop a man in his tracks."
🍷 'Jamie, that piece of my heart is whole again, completely healed 😭'
🍷 “I’m spoiled rotten, you little wench!”
🍷 Screw a vibrator if I had Gavin damn I’d be skinny from the workout
Tropes
🍑 He falls first
🍑 Slow Burn
🍑 Found family
🍑 Emotional healing
4 💎
2 🌶️
Quick Summary
This book kicked off with a plot twist, wrong-place-wrong-time scenario. The raw pain Jamie carries and Gavin’s unwavering integrity deepen a beautifully developed connection between them. That Aussie accent I doubted but now kinda want on my GPS. Into these Eyes as an ALC was brilliant.
Reading Thoughts
📗Wow the start was nothing like I expected, talk about wrong place, wrong time
-The narrators Sofia Lette & Vincent Shabah were exceptional and I although I was unsure about the Aussie accent for Gavin at the start, I was sooo into it by 20% in.
📗The hatred Jamie feels for the person she thought was responsible for all her pain wrenches my heart
📗Gavin has every right to become a horrible human however he has held onto his values and how he expresses his emotions is inspiring.
📗This story has built the connection between Jamie and Gavin was done so well.
📗There are some plot unravelling through the story that makes this book engaging and I found myself unable to put it down at certain parts.
Words that linger
🍷 "Get Benny and the Jets"
🍷 "Can your little Vibrator do this"
🍷"You’re the most striking woman I have ever seen, you can stop a man in his tracks."
🍷 'Jamie, that piece of my heart is whole again, completely healed 😭'
🍷 “I’m spoiled rotten, you little wench!”
🍷 Screw a vibrator if I had Gavin damn I’d be skinny from the workout
Tropes
🍑 He falls first
🍑 Slow Burn
🍑 Found family
🍑 Emotional healing
October 29, 2025
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.
I deliberately took my time with Gavin and Jamie's story, from the very first page I felt that their story- their journey deserved it. I was right about it. Their story started with a tragedy shrouded in so much darkness that I was wholeheartedly certain there was no way for either of them to find the light in their lives again. I am so happy I was wrong about that. The vulnerability that shined through, the authenticity from each of the characters as they both walked their paths was absolutely stunning. This wasn't just a love story, it was so much more than that. It was two souls coming together to consume each other in the best of ways. It was two hearts coming together as one. It was an awful nightmare turning into a wonderful, bright dream. ❤️
Sixteen years is a long time to wait for justice. It should have never happened. Gavin should've been cold and closed off, instead he was kind, caring and so, so open to life. It was absolutely refreshing. His way of looking at life taught me not to take some things for granted. Jamie is probably the most selfless character I have ever encountered. She could've remained quiet, instead she did the right thing and thanks to that one decision she changed the course of so many people's lives - hers, Gavin's, Lach's, Anika's and Benny's. I loved their banter, I loved the angst, and when they finally got together their chemistry was utterly explosive and I ate it up from beginning to end.
I cried tears of sadness and rage and also cried tears of happiness throughout this book. It tore my soul to pieces and broke my heart repeatedly and somehow it managed to heal me by the end. There was agonizing pain and immense relief. Above everything there was love for these characters. So much of it in fact that I know I will carry them in my heart for the rest of my life.
Benny was an AMAZING character. The fact that he was there for Gavin and later for Jamie without ever doubting him (and later her) was beautiful. His love and loyalty was spectacular. I will always love him for what he represented for Gavin in those sixteen years and then of course for who was to him afterwards. Anika was brilliant. She's rough around the edges and a little crude and I loved every piece of her.
Jarrod Reid 🤢 you can rot in Hell. Seriously. As for Brian Evans there is simply NO EXCUSE for what he did to his family, to Gavin and to Lach. I don't think I've ever read a more despicable character. I hated this man with every fiber of my being. 😡
Shawshank and J will forever be some of the sweetest, cutest nicknames ever simply because of the reasoning behind both. 🥰
------
Let me start this second review by stating I received the free audiobook from the author and NetGalley. This was top-tier narration. Reading it the first time around was a profoundly moving experience, but now that I've had the opportunity to hear these characters being brought to life by expert narrators its a completely new experience. Still moving and heartfelt, and yet so much deeper than that. The emotion it provokes was incredible. My infinite start rating from my first read in June still stands. Nothing I write, nothing I say will do this stunning masterpiece justice. This book, these characters and their journey was beautiful in every way. The emotional rollercoaster was absolutely worth it both times. I will carry them with me always. Both in my heart and soul. ❤️
I deliberately took my time with Gavin and Jamie's story, from the very first page I felt that their story- their journey deserved it. I was right about it. Their story started with a tragedy shrouded in so much darkness that I was wholeheartedly certain there was no way for either of them to find the light in their lives again. I am so happy I was wrong about that. The vulnerability that shined through, the authenticity from each of the characters as they both walked their paths was absolutely stunning. This wasn't just a love story, it was so much more than that. It was two souls coming together to consume each other in the best of ways. It was two hearts coming together as one. It was an awful nightmare turning into a wonderful, bright dream. ❤️
Sixteen years is a long time to wait for justice. It should have never happened. Gavin should've been cold and closed off, instead he was kind, caring and so, so open to life. It was absolutely refreshing. His way of looking at life taught me not to take some things for granted. Jamie is probably the most selfless character I have ever encountered. She could've remained quiet, instead she did the right thing and thanks to that one decision she changed the course of so many people's lives - hers, Gavin's, Lach's, Anika's and Benny's. I loved their banter, I loved the angst, and when they finally got together their chemistry was utterly explosive and I ate it up from beginning to end.
I cried tears of sadness and rage and also cried tears of happiness throughout this book. It tore my soul to pieces and broke my heart repeatedly and somehow it managed to heal me by the end. There was agonizing pain and immense relief. Above everything there was love for these characters. So much of it in fact that I know I will carry them in my heart for the rest of my life.
Benny was an AMAZING character. The fact that he was there for Gavin and later for Jamie without ever doubting him (and later her) was beautiful. His love and loyalty was spectacular. I will always love him for what he represented for Gavin in those sixteen years and then of course for who was to him afterwards. Anika was brilliant. She's rough around the edges and a little crude and I loved every piece of her.
Jarrod Reid 🤢 you can rot in Hell. Seriously. As for Brian Evans there is simply NO EXCUSE for what he did to his family, to Gavin and to Lach. I don't think I've ever read a more despicable character. I hated this man with every fiber of my being. 😡
Shawshank and J will forever be some of the sweetest, cutest nicknames ever simply because of the reasoning behind both. 🥰
------
Let me start this second review by stating I received the free audiobook from the author and NetGalley. This was top-tier narration. Reading it the first time around was a profoundly moving experience, but now that I've had the opportunity to hear these characters being brought to life by expert narrators its a completely new experience. Still moving and heartfelt, and yet so much deeper than that. The emotion it provokes was incredible. My infinite start rating from my first read in June still stands. Nothing I write, nothing I say will do this stunning masterpiece justice. This book, these characters and their journey was beautiful in every way. The emotional rollercoaster was absolutely worth it both times. I will carry them with me always. Both in my heart and soul. ❤️
November 19, 2025
Story 4⭐️
Spice 1 🌶️
Audiobook 5
Into These Eyes by Darcy Daniel is a stand alone Romance Thriller. The highlight of this book is for sure the audiobook perfected in duet style, with Aussie accents….ummmm….yummmmmmmmm. This is a contemporary romance so world building is minimal and only when necessary. The narrators Vincent Shaba and Sofia Lette did an amazing job portraying the characters. They made this book particularly engaging and the chemistry between the MCs palpable. This book is an excruciating slow burn, but the banter and yearning is off the charts. The only thing I wish is it was a bit less predictable, this might be because of me as I read high fantasy and other intricate plots in books. However I do love the story and the suspense, I believe this story is perfect for a screen script, as will do an amazing movie.
Thank you Darcy, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for this ALC.
Spice 1 🌶️
Audiobook 5
Into These Eyes by Darcy Daniel is a stand alone Romance Thriller. The highlight of this book is for sure the audiobook perfected in duet style, with Aussie accents….ummmm….yummmmmmmmm. This is a contemporary romance so world building is minimal and only when necessary. The narrators Vincent Shaba and Sofia Lette did an amazing job portraying the characters. They made this book particularly engaging and the chemistry between the MCs palpable. This book is an excruciating slow burn, but the banter and yearning is off the charts. The only thing I wish is it was a bit less predictable, this might be because of me as I read high fantasy and other intricate plots in books. However I do love the story and the suspense, I believe this story is perfect for a screen script, as will do an amazing movie.
Thank you Darcy, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for this ALC.
November 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ALC Review:
Into these eyes
@DarcyDaniel
Wow, What a heartfelt, powerful, emotional story.
🍋The narrators @SofiaLette and @VincentShabah delivered such an amazing performance and expressed all the emotions the author was trying to portray.
🍋This was a slow burn but kept you engaged by everything else that was happening.
🍋The love that Gavin had and wanted to show and share with those close to him was beautiful. He was so understanding and thoughtful.
🍋Vibrator scene- lmao
🍋Chapter 46-no words- you have to read.
Words that Linger:
🍋”you’re my happiness, my life, my breath. When you stop breathing, so will I”.
🍋Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve laughed? Cause I literally can’t remember. I will never forget this. There is no where on earth I would rather be right now, than here with you.” -Gavin
🍋”I had no idea I’d been suffocating until he began breathing life into me.” -Jamie
#bittersweet_chapters_au #bookreview #books #intotheseeyes #darcydaniel #booksofig #audiobook
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ALC Review:
Into these eyes
@DarcyDaniel
Wow, What a heartfelt, powerful, emotional story.
🍋The narrators @SofiaLette and @VincentShabah delivered such an amazing performance and expressed all the emotions the author was trying to portray.
🍋This was a slow burn but kept you engaged by everything else that was happening.
🍋The love that Gavin had and wanted to show and share with those close to him was beautiful. He was so understanding and thoughtful.
🍋Vibrator scene- lmao
🍋Chapter 46-no words- you have to read.
Words that Linger:
🍋”you’re my happiness, my life, my breath. When you stop breathing, so will I”.
🍋Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve laughed? Cause I literally can’t remember. I will never forget this. There is no where on earth I would rather be right now, than here with you.” -Gavin
🍋”I had no idea I’d been suffocating until he began breathing life into me.” -Jamie
#bittersweet_chapters_au #bookreview #books #intotheseeyes #darcydaniel #booksofig #audiobook
October 31, 2025
Into These Eyes is an emotional story that blends suspense and romance. The audiobook version is particularly engaging — Sofia Lette and Vincent Shabah deliver strong, emotive performances that bring the characters’ tension and vulnerability to life. Their voices complement each other beautifully, enhancing the chemistry and depth of the story.
The production quality is clean and professional, with well-balanced sound and smooth transitions between chapters. A few pacing moments felt uneven, but overall, the narration and editing make this a compelling listen.
A solid romantic suspense audiobook that fans of atmospheric storytelling will enjoy. 3.5 stars rounded up!
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for the ARC.
The production quality is clean and professional, with well-balanced sound and smooth transitions between chapters. A few pacing moments felt uneven, but overall, the narration and editing make this a compelling listen.
A solid romantic suspense audiobook that fans of atmospheric storytelling will enjoy. 3.5 stars rounded up!
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for the ARC.
June 17, 2025
This book is definitely a slow burn, but it keeps you intrigued enough to keep turning the pages. The chemistry between the Gavin and Jamie is palpable and really well done. I also have to say, I have a soft spot for Benny — he's a great character!
May 24, 2025
This book felt like an emotional journey. Slow at times, and a few scenes felt like they wandered off the main trail, but just when I thought I was drifting - the twist after twist? Those had me flipping pages like a woman possessed 🤯
There were sweet moments that made me smile ☺️, unexpected turns that made me squirm 🫣, and just enough emotion to keep my heart tied to the pages. The emotional payoff was there, and that ending? Worth it! 🖤
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the lovely Darcy Daniel for the opportunity to read this early and a chance to be part of this story 💕
Rating: 3.9 ☆/5
#arcreview
#netgalley
#intotheseeyes
#darcydaniel
#thankyouauthor
There were sweet moments that made me smile ☺️, unexpected turns that made me squirm 🫣, and just enough emotion to keep my heart tied to the pages. The emotional payoff was there, and that ending? Worth it! 🖤
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the lovely Darcy Daniel for the opportunity to read this early and a chance to be part of this story 💕
Rating: 3.9 ☆/5
#arcreview
#netgalley
#intotheseeyes
#darcydaniel
#thankyouauthor
June 21, 2025
4.5⭐
2🌶️
Wow. Just Wow.
This book was such an emotional rollercoaster of twists, turns, secrets and lies, and a desperate attempt to set things right!
A young man, Gavin, wrongfully accused of murder, the daughter of a murdered woman, Jamie, trying to set the record straight, and more twists and turns than a mountain road! Every emotion was felt while reading this book, from laughing at our MMC's best friend Benny, to grieving the loss of Jamie and Gavin's mothers, to kicking my feet and squealing like a schoolgirl at the TENSION between them, to the utter devastation that was closely followed by sheer relief towards the end. I was hooked!
Although it was quite chunky at over 500 pages, it did note even remotely feel like it. I was so engrossed by the storyline and attached to the characters it all flew by too fast! I could not put it down and read it in a day!
Definitely a recommended read!
Tropes:
Dual POV, Betrayal and Redemption, Class Difference, Enemies to lovers, Forbidden love, Forced Proximity, Rags to Riches, Slow Burn, Dealing with Loss/ Grief, Identity Crisis, Outsider/Misfit, Self Discovery Journey, Found Family, Plot Twist
Triggers:
Abandonment, Alcohol, Anxiety, Attempted Crimes, Blood, Cancer, Death, Death of a Loved One, DV, Emotional Abuse, Family Conflict, Fear, Fighting, Gore, Graphic Death, Guns, Harassment, Hospitalisation, Illness, Incarceration, Injury, Murder, Nightmares, Nudity, Pain, Police Brutality, Profanity, Stabbing, Stalking, Threats, Violence, Weapons
2🌶️
Wow. Just Wow.
This book was such an emotional rollercoaster of twists, turns, secrets and lies, and a desperate attempt to set things right!
A young man, Gavin, wrongfully accused of murder, the daughter of a murdered woman, Jamie, trying to set the record straight, and more twists and turns than a mountain road! Every emotion was felt while reading this book, from laughing at our MMC's best friend Benny, to grieving the loss of Jamie and Gavin's mothers, to kicking my feet and squealing like a schoolgirl at the TENSION between them, to the utter devastation that was closely followed by sheer relief towards the end. I was hooked!
Although it was quite chunky at over 500 pages, it did note even remotely feel like it. I was so engrossed by the storyline and attached to the characters it all flew by too fast! I could not put it down and read it in a day!
Definitely a recommended read!
Tropes:
Dual POV, Betrayal and Redemption, Class Difference, Enemies to lovers, Forbidden love, Forced Proximity, Rags to Riches, Slow Burn, Dealing with Loss/ Grief, Identity Crisis, Outsider/Misfit, Self Discovery Journey, Found Family, Plot Twist
Triggers:
Abandonment, Alcohol, Anxiety, Attempted Crimes, Blood, Cancer, Death, Death of a Loved One, DV, Emotional Abuse, Family Conflict, Fear, Fighting, Gore, Graphic Death, Guns, Harassment, Hospitalisation, Illness, Incarceration, Injury, Murder, Nightmares, Nudity, Pain, Police Brutality, Profanity, Stabbing, Stalking, Threats, Violence, Weapons
November 10, 2025
~Alc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.75
~Into These Eyes~Darcy Daniel~
~Duet Narration~Sofia Lette & Vincent Shabah~
~Production~Two Birds Audio~
“You’re my happiness, my life, my breath. When you stop breathing, so will I.”
♡Have you ever had a book make you second guess yourself so much that you didn't know if you were coming or going? Then when you finally thought you had it all figured out BAM you were only half right...because SAME! Into These Eyes was my first read by Darcy Daniel & immediately after finishing it I was on the hunt for the rest Darcy's backlist!
The duet narration for this audiobook was everything I wanted & more! Both Sofia & Vincent are new to me narrators & their performance left my jaw on the ground in the best way possible! They both did phenomenal bringing Jamie & Gavin to life along with multiple side characters. The chemistry, attention to detail, & perfected emotions in this performance gave me chills & they truly made it feel like you were a fly in the room watching this story play out!
If you love romantic suspense books with a story like no other, slow-burn spice that is worth the wait, & jaw dropping suspense look no further!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
~Thank you Netgalley & Victory Editing for this Alc!~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.75
~Into These Eyes~Darcy Daniel~
~Duet Narration~Sofia Lette & Vincent Shabah~
~Production~Two Birds Audio~
“You’re my happiness, my life, my breath. When you stop breathing, so will I.”
♡Have you ever had a book make you second guess yourself so much that you didn't know if you were coming or going? Then when you finally thought you had it all figured out BAM you were only half right...because SAME! Into These Eyes was my first read by Darcy Daniel & immediately after finishing it I was on the hunt for the rest Darcy's backlist!
The duet narration for this audiobook was everything I wanted & more! Both Sofia & Vincent are new to me narrators & their performance left my jaw on the ground in the best way possible! They both did phenomenal bringing Jamie & Gavin to life along with multiple side characters. The chemistry, attention to detail, & perfected emotions in this performance gave me chills & they truly made it feel like you were a fly in the room watching this story play out!
If you love romantic suspense books with a story like no other, slow-burn spice that is worth the wait, & jaw dropping suspense look no further!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
~Thank you Netgalley & Victory Editing for this Alc!~
November 14, 2025
Again, I am honestly lost for words. Darcy’s writing is incredible—the kind that wraps around you and refuses to let go. Into These Eyes is a beautifully crafted slowburn romantic suspense, rich with tension, emotion, and characters who feel achingly real.
The chemistry between the leads simmers in all the best ways, that delicious slow-burn pull where every glance and every unspoken moment hits you right in the chest. And as the danger builds, the emotional stakes climb with it, creating a story that’s equal parts gripping and heartfelt.
The audiobook is next-level amazing. The narrators—especially with those gorgeous Aussie accents—bring so much depth and nuance that the whole story feels even more vivid and intimate.
Darcy Daniel has delivered something truly special here. A captivating, emotional read you won’t forget anytime soon.
The chemistry between the leads simmers in all the best ways, that delicious slow-burn pull where every glance and every unspoken moment hits you right in the chest. And as the danger builds, the emotional stakes climb with it, creating a story that’s equal parts gripping and heartfelt.
The audiobook is next-level amazing. The narrators—especially with those gorgeous Aussie accents—bring so much depth and nuance that the whole story feels even more vivid and intimate.
Darcy Daniel has delivered something truly special here. A captivating, emotional read you won’t forget anytime soon.
July 17, 2025
What. A. Read. 👀 with over 600 pages to this book, I was initially quite overwhelmed but once I started, I was gripped and loved it.
We journey through the book with dual pov between Jamie and Gavin, which is my kind of vibe. Jamie has not had things easy. When her mum is tragically murdered, her dad distances himself and she is left at aged 18 to raise her 2 year old sister Anika. Gavin spends years behind bars for a crime he didn't commit. He tried to speak up and say things weren't as they seemed, but nobody listened. Years later they come together and the direction of both their lives and others around them changes immensely.
I loved the emotional depth of this book and quite honestly have never read a book quite like this. It was a slow burn but twisty and full of chemistry. This books dives into themes of grief, trauma, healing, secrets and justice.
We journey through the book with dual pov between Jamie and Gavin, which is my kind of vibe. Jamie has not had things easy. When her mum is tragically murdered, her dad distances himself and she is left at aged 18 to raise her 2 year old sister Anika. Gavin spends years behind bars for a crime he didn't commit. He tried to speak up and say things weren't as they seemed, but nobody listened. Years later they come together and the direction of both their lives and others around them changes immensely.
I loved the emotional depth of this book and quite honestly have never read a book quite like this. It was a slow burn but twisty and full of chemistry. This books dives into themes of grief, trauma, healing, secrets and justice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2025
I don't know if I've ever read anything like this before. The romance was so compelling. There were twists and turns that keep me turning the pages despite the fact that the spice was a little spicier than I prefer - which isn't something I ever "mark off" for if you will. That was my fault for not paying attention, not the author's. But I needed to know what was going on.
Like with many mysteries and thrillers I guessed some of what was happening early, but not all the cogs and wheels that made this book what it was. I enjoyed that the main characters were both beacons of goodness in a system that was poised against them.
So many of us know of stories - either first hand or secondary - of prison going wrong. It was great to see a genre that might not normally highlight such an issue do so. But this book really had a little of everything - romance, spice, mystery, drama, family.
I enjoyed the read, and it was so compelling that it didn't seem as long as it was by far!
Like with many mysteries and thrillers I guessed some of what was happening early, but not all the cogs and wheels that made this book what it was. I enjoyed that the main characters were both beacons of goodness in a system that was poised against them.
So many of us know of stories - either first hand or secondary - of prison going wrong. It was great to see a genre that might not normally highlight such an issue do so. But this book really had a little of everything - romance, spice, mystery, drama, family.
I enjoyed the read, and it was so compelling that it didn't seem as long as it was by far!
August 16, 2025
This story is a masterclass in emotional depth, raw grief, aching hope, and a love that’s earned through pain and redemption. Gavin and Jamie’s journey is messy, intimate, and unforgettable.
Gavin spent sixteen years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit, and Jamie spent just as long hating him, until the truth shatters everything she thought she knew.
The chemistry is palpable and the twists are jaw-dropping.
This is forced proximity and a slow-burn that simmers into something fierce and healing.
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers,
Wrongful Conviction
Redemption Arc
Forced Proximity
No Third Act Breakup
Emotional Healing
Found Family
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶 slow burn
Gavin spent sixteen years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit, and Jamie spent just as long hating him, until the truth shatters everything she thought she knew.
The chemistry is palpable and the twists are jaw-dropping.
This is forced proximity and a slow-burn that simmers into something fierce and healing.
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers,
Wrongful Conviction
Redemption Arc
Forced Proximity
No Third Act Breakup
Emotional Healing
Found Family
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶 slow burn
June 19, 2025
This book was amazing. The kind of book, you read a little slower because you don't want it to end! The characters development was amazing and the story was beautiful.
Gavin Lake
Convicted of a murder he didn't commit, is convicted and spends 16 years in prison.
Jamie Evans
Her mother was murdered and she hates Gavin for it... until they day someone else confesses to the crime.
Can they both get over their past traumas to work together to get his conviction overturned?
Will they keep their hearts safe during the journey?
You absolutely must read this book! It had all the feels. Action, compassion, adventure, mystery and an epic surprise.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily
Gavin Lake
Convicted of a murder he didn't commit, is convicted and spends 16 years in prison.
Jamie Evans
Her mother was murdered and she hates Gavin for it... until they day someone else confesses to the crime.
Can they both get over their past traumas to work together to get his conviction overturned?
Will they keep their hearts safe during the journey?
You absolutely must read this book! It had all the feels. Action, compassion, adventure, mystery and an epic surprise.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily
July 6, 2025
Into These Eyes by Darcy Daniel — 5⭐️
An emotional, slow-burn romance that had me hooked! Gavin spent 16 years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit, and Jamie has every reason to hate him… until the truth comes out.
This story is full of heartbreak, healing, and sizzling chemistry. Their romance is messy, raw, and beautifully earned.
If you love:
✔️ Slow-burn romance
✔️ Emotional, character-driven stories
✔️ Wrongful conviction and redemption arcs
✔️ Second chances
✔️ Small-town secrets
…this one belongs on your TBR.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-copy in exchange for my honest review!
July 17, 2025
✮✮✮✮/☆
Imagine being wrongfully convicted.16 years is such a long time... until the truth comes out!!
This one cuts deep... A slow burning romance dripping in thriller vibes with a slash of mystery that's full of raw forbidden emotions ♥︎ this story holds heartbreak, touches on healing, and it puts the CH in chemistry!!
I absolutely devoured Jamie & Gavins' journey.. the walls around their hearts are chipped away to reveal a second chance messy, raw, tots emosh but well deserved romance ♡
Loved this story!! so many emotions were felt.. I feel the emotional depth was top teir with the perfect balance of tension!!
A definte add to the TBR read 📚
Thank you to Love Book tour & Darcey Daniel for having me as part of the virtual book tour in return for my own thoughts & feelings ♥︎
Imagine being wrongfully convicted.16 years is such a long time... until the truth comes out!!
This one cuts deep... A slow burning romance dripping in thriller vibes with a slash of mystery that's full of raw forbidden emotions ♥︎ this story holds heartbreak, touches on healing, and it puts the CH in chemistry!!
I absolutely devoured Jamie & Gavins' journey.. the walls around their hearts are chipped away to reveal a second chance messy, raw, tots emosh but well deserved romance ♡
Loved this story!! so many emotions were felt.. I feel the emotional depth was top teir with the perfect balance of tension!!
A definte add to the TBR read 📚
Thank you to Love Book tour & Darcey Daniel for having me as part of the virtual book tour in return for my own thoughts & feelings ♥︎
October 8, 2025
This story was beautiful! The beginning absolutely broke my heart. Having a teenage boy myself I felt the intense abandonment that the MMC endured that no child should have to. But his soul throughout the entire book was so beautiful. The story itself was a little long but it just made me really connect with all of the characters. I would love for this book to have a better cover page.
September 27, 2025
A few grammatical errors through the book but I really enjoyed the story.
June 12, 2025
Open Your Heart
When you hold a book by Darcy Daniel in your hand, you know you’ve found something special. This one deals with a very serious case: somebody spent 16 years in prison while innocent, because others could not be bothered to tell or find out the truth. And the story is written with so much charm, humour and loving care it takes my breath away. Even with the nauseating egoistic reasons some characters behaved the way they did.
“Amazing what a different perspective can do. What the heart can do.”
Hate can be the reason to survive, but it can also take everything else away.
A book full of goodness, next to some horrendous happenings, it gave me deep felt emotions, tears and warm feelings and I loved being a part of it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When you hold a book by Darcy Daniel in your hand, you know you’ve found something special. This one deals with a very serious case: somebody spent 16 years in prison while innocent, because others could not be bothered to tell or find out the truth. And the story is written with so much charm, humour and loving care it takes my breath away. Even with the nauseating egoistic reasons some characters behaved the way they did.
“Amazing what a different perspective can do. What the heart can do.”
Hate can be the reason to survive, but it can also take everything else away.
A book full of goodness, next to some horrendous happenings, it gave me deep felt emotions, tears and warm feelings and I loved being a part of it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 6, 2025
Oh, wow, what a powerful and moving read.
Into These Eyes invites you into a richly layered story of tragedy, grief, love, secrets, and the deep complexity of human connection.
One life-altering moment shifts everything for Gavin and Jamie, and as their story gently unfolds, revealing long-held pain and deeply buried truths, I felt myself drawn in, fully immersed in their emotional landscape.
There was one scene in particular I returned to multiple times. It felt so resonant, so thoughtfully crafted, that I wanted to sit with it and experience it again at my own pace.
This book made me laugh, cry, and hold my breath. The emotional depth is genuine, the tension is beautifully balanced, and the imagery unfolded vividly in my mind.
I savoured every word, every moment, and every feeling that arose throughout the journey. I didn’t want the story to end, or to say goodbye to these characters. I know I’ll return to Gavin and Jamie’s world again, simply to be with them and revisit the story in my own time.
I received an ARC, but this review is completely voluntary and reflects my own experience with the book.
Into These Eyes invites you into a richly layered story of tragedy, grief, love, secrets, and the deep complexity of human connection.
One life-altering moment shifts everything for Gavin and Jamie, and as their story gently unfolds, revealing long-held pain and deeply buried truths, I felt myself drawn in, fully immersed in their emotional landscape.
There was one scene in particular I returned to multiple times. It felt so resonant, so thoughtfully crafted, that I wanted to sit with it and experience it again at my own pace.
This book made me laugh, cry, and hold my breath. The emotional depth is genuine, the tension is beautifully balanced, and the imagery unfolded vividly in my mind.
I savoured every word, every moment, and every feeling that arose throughout the journey. I didn’t want the story to end, or to say goodbye to these characters. I know I’ll return to Gavin and Jamie’s world again, simply to be with them and revisit the story in my own time.
I received an ARC, but this review is completely voluntary and reflects my own experience with the book.
June 4, 2025
Not my usual type of story but after reading the summary I was intrigued with story line. Jamie's life changed in an instant with her mums murder. Her father shut her younger sister out totally leaving 18 year old Jamie's to care for her 2 year old sister. Attending the court seeing the boy/man who took her mothers life away every day until he was sentenced, but even that didn't take the hatred towards him away. Gavin couldn't believe his father had moved on from his mom's passing and now seeing someone else. How could he 2 years is to soon he'd never forget his mom. Or so he thought until the one night changed his life. Now charged with murder he not committed but found guilty off. When Jamie finds the truth her world is thrown to pieces. Finally on parole he could start trying to piece his life back together. Until he's face to face with the woman who kept him going who's eyes he'll never forget. Sit back for a rollercoaster of secrets and lies that get uncovered and the aftermath it causes to all concerned. I couldn't believe how compelling this story is and the resilience both characters show. Put this on your tbr list you definitely won't regret it
May 26, 2025
New author to me, I glad I decided to take a chance on this story. It did not disappoint, loved Gavin and Jamie's story. Could not and did not want to put down. Their story was heartbreaking but they got their happily ever after in the end. Romantic suspense to the fullest, Anika was a firecracker and I hope we get her story sometime. Would read from this author again.
October 30, 2025
5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and everyone involved for this ARC copy!
Happy Release Day!
I loved this book! When I wasn't reading it, I was constantly thinking about it. I spent every free moment reading and I got sucked into a story that is not only emotionally deep (I cried more than just a few times) but also had wonderful characters and crazy twists!
Reading Jamie and Gavin's story was so deeply emotional for me. I could feel their love and emotions as if they were my own. It's safe to say I felt ALL the emotions haha, from wanting to throw my Kindle on the floor to crying to giggling, the whole spectrum.
I didn't know if, because of the time jumps at the beginning, I wouldn't be able to connect well with the characters. But that changed super quickly, once the scenes from their past were mostly over and I was hanging on to every word. Every character in this book had depth, was lovable, and the absence of miscommunication was the cherry on top for me!
The plot, Jamie and Gavin, the side characters and the shocking twists were exactly what it needed to keep me hooked until the very last page!
An amazing book and an author I'll definitely come back to <3
5⭐️
(audiobook)
Thank you to Netgalley and everyone involved for this ALC. Being so lucky to not only get an ARC but also the ALC made me beyond happy!
Just like the first time, I loved every second of this book!
The narrators were PERFECT! Somehow, they sounded exactly how I imagined their voices when I read it the first time. Absolutely amazing work from both of them and as it's a dual narration it was an equally amazing listening experience.
If you're looking for a story full of emotion, twists and tragic backstories, look no further! This is definitely not my only time rereading "Into These Eyes"!
Thank you to NetGalley and everyone involved for this ARC copy!
Happy Release Day!
I loved this book! When I wasn't reading it, I was constantly thinking about it. I spent every free moment reading and I got sucked into a story that is not only emotionally deep (I cried more than just a few times) but also had wonderful characters and crazy twists!
Reading Jamie and Gavin's story was so deeply emotional for me. I could feel their love and emotions as if they were my own. It's safe to say I felt ALL the emotions haha, from wanting to throw my Kindle on the floor to crying to giggling, the whole spectrum.
I didn't know if, because of the time jumps at the beginning, I wouldn't be able to connect well with the characters. But that changed super quickly, once the scenes from their past were mostly over and I was hanging on to every word. Every character in this book had depth, was lovable, and the absence of miscommunication was the cherry on top for me!
The plot, Jamie and Gavin, the side characters and the shocking twists were exactly what it needed to keep me hooked until the very last page!
An amazing book and an author I'll definitely come back to <3
5⭐️
(audiobook)
Thank you to Netgalley and everyone involved for this ALC. Being so lucky to not only get an ARC but also the ALC made me beyond happy!
Just like the first time, I loved every second of this book!
The narrators were PERFECT! Somehow, they sounded exactly how I imagined their voices when I read it the first time. Absolutely amazing work from both of them and as it's a dual narration it was an equally amazing listening experience.
If you're looking for a story full of emotion, twists and tragic backstories, look no further! This is definitely not my only time rereading "Into These Eyes"!
July 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
🔗Wrongfully Accused MMC (Prison for 15 yr)
💗Cinnamon Roll MMC
❤️🔥Slow Burn Perfection
❤️🩹Healing/Comfort
Thank the instagram g0ds for placing this in my feed somehow because I have a new favorite! It's incredibly rare to find a slow burn, a tender male POV, and a romance that is perfectly symbiotic with a compelling drama, and this is it!
There's some mystery elements of who the real mu4derer of Jamie's mother is, the suspense of proving Gavin's innocence, and the delicious tension of Jamie and Gavin's complicated relationship evolving to love.
This is richly nuanced and I was swept away in the small moments, the soft touches, the hesitant looks away, and the revelations of self.
Gavin - This selfless, kind, warm, beautiful, humble, and courageous man. For what he goes through and still holds on to his goodness, his empathy, his incredible capacity for understanding...I'm a puddle. Plus a man who cries is beautiful.
Jamie - One of the few fmc's I've read that I can truly relate to. She's inexperienced in love and physical intimacy (just like Gavin) but she still has a playfulness about her. Once Gavin is shown to be innocent to her, she has to come to grips with the hard truth that she's hated and blamed an innocent man for 15 years. How they work through that, and how she helps him live again and see his worth, is so heart warming.
At the same time, it's bittersweet and painful to see how Gavin doesn't feel he has anything to offer anyone, having been locked away for so long. But he's so wrong! Jamie sees the beauty in his soul. I LOVE how their feelings grow! He's been deprived of touch for so long, he doesn't want to scare her away.
I applaud the slow evolution of their physical intimacy because it's based on an emotional connection first. Spice like this is my dream! This is a favorite book of 2025 and I can't say enough of how much I love Gavin!
🌶🌶🌶
🔗Wrongfully Accused MMC (Prison for 15 yr)
💗Cinnamon Roll MMC
❤️🔥Slow Burn Perfection
❤️🩹Healing/Comfort
Thank the instagram g0ds for placing this in my feed somehow because I have a new favorite! It's incredibly rare to find a slow burn, a tender male POV, and a romance that is perfectly symbiotic with a compelling drama, and this is it!
There's some mystery elements of who the real mu4derer of Jamie's mother is, the suspense of proving Gavin's innocence, and the delicious tension of Jamie and Gavin's complicated relationship evolving to love.
This is richly nuanced and I was swept away in the small moments, the soft touches, the hesitant looks away, and the revelations of self.
Gavin - This selfless, kind, warm, beautiful, humble, and courageous man. For what he goes through and still holds on to his goodness, his empathy, his incredible capacity for understanding...I'm a puddle. Plus a man who cries is beautiful.
Jamie - One of the few fmc's I've read that I can truly relate to. She's inexperienced in love and physical intimacy (just like Gavin) but she still has a playfulness about her. Once Gavin is shown to be innocent to her, she has to come to grips with the hard truth that she's hated and blamed an innocent man for 15 years. How they work through that, and how she helps him live again and see his worth, is so heart warming.
At the same time, it's bittersweet and painful to see how Gavin doesn't feel he has anything to offer anyone, having been locked away for so long. But he's so wrong! Jamie sees the beauty in his soul. I LOVE how their feelings grow! He's been deprived of touch for so long, he doesn't want to scare her away.
I applaud the slow evolution of their physical intimacy because it's based on an emotional connection first. Spice like this is my dream! This is a favorite book of 2025 and I can't say enough of how much I love Gavin!
November 1, 2025
Reading Into These Eyes by Darcy Daniel, I have definitely stepped outside my usual crime fiction genre. I would describe the style as being steamy romance, with a hint of thriller thrown in for good measure.
To say that Jamie Evans hasn’t had an easy life is an understatement. At just 16, she became the de facto mother of a two year old, after their mum met a violent unnatural end. Despite the Herculean effort that this has taken, she has managed to qualify as a lawyer, but she has no time in her life for anything else. The man responsible was caught red-handed, his conviction a mere formality.
This a slow burn, 534 pages/17 hours long, but an no point was I bored. The longer format allowed the author to develop the characters incredibly well. I genuinely felt that I knew them, and knew how they would behave before the words told me.
The chemistry between two of the characters is palpable. The voices of Sofia Lette and Vincent Shabah channel their emotions perfectly. The duet narration wonderfully suits Into These Eyes, it feels so natural. I wish that more audiobook productions would use this style.
As their attraction deepens, the open door bedroom scenes become more intense. If reading graphic scenes makes you feel uncomfortable, then I would suggest this book is not for you. As these moments are frequent, and described leaving nothing to the imagination. There is also strong language occasionally in the dialogue, which is used to convey the strong emotions being felt.
Darcy Daniel writes with great intensity, taking the reader on a rollercoaster, and gripping the attention tightly.
To say that Jamie Evans hasn’t had an easy life is an understatement. At just 16, she became the de facto mother of a two year old, after their mum met a violent unnatural end. Despite the Herculean effort that this has taken, she has managed to qualify as a lawyer, but she has no time in her life for anything else. The man responsible was caught red-handed, his conviction a mere formality.
This a slow burn, 534 pages/17 hours long, but an no point was I bored. The longer format allowed the author to develop the characters incredibly well. I genuinely felt that I knew them, and knew how they would behave before the words told me.
The chemistry between two of the characters is palpable. The voices of Sofia Lette and Vincent Shabah channel their emotions perfectly. The duet narration wonderfully suits Into These Eyes, it feels so natural. I wish that more audiobook productions would use this style.
As their attraction deepens, the open door bedroom scenes become more intense. If reading graphic scenes makes you feel uncomfortable, then I would suggest this book is not for you. As these moments are frequent, and described leaving nothing to the imagination. There is also strong language occasionally in the dialogue, which is used to convey the strong emotions being felt.
Darcy Daniel writes with great intensity, taking the reader on a rollercoaster, and gripping the attention tightly.
November 13, 2025
alc review:
📚INTO THESE EYES by Darcy Daniel
🎤duet narration by Sofia Lette and Vincent Shabah
💘thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this ALC
This one will take you on quite the journey. It’s quite heavy at times but sticking it out is definitely worth it. There is quite a traumatic incident that kicks the story off and then the story jumps far into the future. I thought the romance developed nicely, a little on the faster side despite this being a long story. Pacing of their relationship felt a bit quick, but I think there is so many unique factors to their dynamic that it made sense.
I really enjoyed Gavin’s perspective and felt like for once, I preferred the mmc’s POV. I wanted more into his mind, I cannot imagine the state of mind you are in after serving 16 years for a crime you didn’t commit. Jamie’s mind was a bit harder to live in, but from the opposite end - she kind of barrels through her trauma and it’s a different pace than Gavin. I really enjoyed the back and forth!!
I do think there was a slump in this book - I find it hard for standalone romances to be more than ~12 hours without there being a lull. This one clocks in at 17 hours and I think it didn’t need to be. It was still worth it, especially with a great ending and I am really glad I gave this a listen.
I love discovering new authors and new narrators. As an American I unfortunately don’t get as much exposure to Australian authors so this was really awesome!! And the narrators - both were SO good, I especially fell in love with the male narrator. And duet narration? What a TREAT.
📚INTO THESE EYES by Darcy Daniel
🎤duet narration by Sofia Lette and Vincent Shabah
💘thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this ALC
This one will take you on quite the journey. It’s quite heavy at times but sticking it out is definitely worth it. There is quite a traumatic incident that kicks the story off and then the story jumps far into the future. I thought the romance developed nicely, a little on the faster side despite this being a long story. Pacing of their relationship felt a bit quick, but I think there is so many unique factors to their dynamic that it made sense.
I really enjoyed Gavin’s perspective and felt like for once, I preferred the mmc’s POV. I wanted more into his mind, I cannot imagine the state of mind you are in after serving 16 years for a crime you didn’t commit. Jamie’s mind was a bit harder to live in, but from the opposite end - she kind of barrels through her trauma and it’s a different pace than Gavin. I really enjoyed the back and forth!!
I do think there was a slump in this book - I find it hard for standalone romances to be more than ~12 hours without there being a lull. This one clocks in at 17 hours and I think it didn’t need to be. It was still worth it, especially with a great ending and I am really glad I gave this a listen.
I love discovering new authors and new narrators. As an American I unfortunately don’t get as much exposure to Australian authors so this was really awesome!! And the narrators - both were SO good, I especially fell in love with the male narrator. And duet narration? What a TREAT.
October 30, 2025
First, I would like to thank Netgalley and the author, Darcy Daniel for allowing me to review such an AMAZING book! If I could rate this more than 5 stars I would do so!
Into These Eyes is a compelling and deeply emotional slow-burn romance with a side of mystery. This is a story of profound loss, overwhelmkng hatred, and the power of truth, that is all centered on a wrongfully convicted man and the woman whose life he changed forever.
For sixteen years, Jamie has held onto an unbelievable hatred for Gavin, the man she believes murdered her mother, until a shocking confession changes everything and proves Gavin is not the killer.
Once Gavin is out on parole, and the one person who looked at him with unbelievable hatred Jamie must now process the recent events and come to terms with the truth, and learn to let her hatred go. Jamie's decides to tirelessly fight to overturn Gavin's wrongful conviction.
There are many twists and turns in this story, making it nearly impossible to put down. The emotions I have felt reading this were a Rollercoaster. Hatred, annoyance, happiness, sadness, fear, all over the place.
Be sure to check trigger warnings. Here are just a few...
Murder and its aftermath
Wrongful Imprisonment
Intense Grief
Trauma and healing
Explicit Sexual Content
Alcoholism
Abandonment
Into These Eyes is a compelling and deeply emotional slow-burn romance with a side of mystery. This is a story of profound loss, overwhelmkng hatred, and the power of truth, that is all centered on a wrongfully convicted man and the woman whose life he changed forever.
For sixteen years, Jamie has held onto an unbelievable hatred for Gavin, the man she believes murdered her mother, until a shocking confession changes everything and proves Gavin is not the killer.
Once Gavin is out on parole, and the one person who looked at him with unbelievable hatred Jamie must now process the recent events and come to terms with the truth, and learn to let her hatred go. Jamie's decides to tirelessly fight to overturn Gavin's wrongful conviction.
There are many twists and turns in this story, making it nearly impossible to put down. The emotions I have felt reading this were a Rollercoaster. Hatred, annoyance, happiness, sadness, fear, all over the place.
Be sure to check trigger warnings. Here are just a few...
Murder and its aftermath
Wrongful Imprisonment
Intense Grief
Trauma and healing
Explicit Sexual Content
Alcoholism
Abandonment
November 24, 2025
4 ⭐️ 1 🌶️
A Deep, Emotional Romance That Stays With You
Into These Eyes turned out to be a captivating surprise for me, especially since romance outside the fantasy subgenre isn’t usually what I reach for. The story follows Gavin Lake, wrongfully convicted at nineteen, and Jamie Evans, who spent sixteen years believing he murdered her mother. When the truth finally comes out, the two must confront guilt, grief, and the complicated path toward forgiveness.
What I loved most is that Darcy Daniel doesn’t shy away from the emotional weight of the premise. Instead, she builds a slow, intimate connection between two people whose lives were shattered in different ways. The way Gavin and Jamie learn to see each other beyond their shared tragedy felt incredibly real, and at times I found myself pausing to imagine what I would feel in Jamie’s position.
The audiobook narration (Sofia Lette and Vincent Shabah) was fantastic—rich, emotive, and perfectly suited to the tone. I highly recommend listening to this 🫶🏻
Loved the reference to Shawshank - my favorite movie.
While the book contains heavy themes, on-page death, grief, trauma, and gunshot wounds, the overall tone isn’t depressing. Instead, it’s a story about healing, connection, and rediscovering hope. Beautiful, emotional, and well worth the 4-star rating from me.
A Deep, Emotional Romance That Stays With You
Into These Eyes turned out to be a captivating surprise for me, especially since romance outside the fantasy subgenre isn’t usually what I reach for. The story follows Gavin Lake, wrongfully convicted at nineteen, and Jamie Evans, who spent sixteen years believing he murdered her mother. When the truth finally comes out, the two must confront guilt, grief, and the complicated path toward forgiveness.
What I loved most is that Darcy Daniel doesn’t shy away from the emotional weight of the premise. Instead, she builds a slow, intimate connection between two people whose lives were shattered in different ways. The way Gavin and Jamie learn to see each other beyond their shared tragedy felt incredibly real, and at times I found myself pausing to imagine what I would feel in Jamie’s position.
The audiobook narration (Sofia Lette and Vincent Shabah) was fantastic—rich, emotive, and perfectly suited to the tone. I highly recommend listening to this 🫶🏻
Loved the reference to Shawshank - my favorite movie.
While the book contains heavy themes, on-page death, grief, trauma, and gunshot wounds, the overall tone isn’t depressing. Instead, it’s a story about healing, connection, and rediscovering hope. Beautiful, emotional, and well worth the 4-star rating from me.
July 15, 2025
Considering the length of this being around double what I typically pick up, I finished it in a handful of sittings over 2 days, from the off I was totally hooked, reading just over 150 pages before I realised it.
There is so much warmth in the relationships throughout, such as Jamie and Annika, and Gavin and Benny. I loved seeing the love and care between them all.
The characters were the real heart of the story. They had complex backgrounds, present lives and were completely real. Characterisation is obviously something this author does incredibly well.
There were a couple of bits that were obviously meant to be major plot twists, but I had guessed them already. This didn't detract my enjoyment but it is always nice to have a shock element and I just didn't get that here.
The romance aspect was a tantalising slow burn, when it eventually reaches its peak, then it's hot, hot, hot and super explicit, while I enjoy this I know some prefer a more closed-door type of romance, so this definitely isn't for you.
With some tough topics addressed throughout, the author writes with care for all of these and treats everyone and everything with the respect it deserves.
This was a great read that I would definitely recommend and I would absolutely read more from this author in the future.
There is so much warmth in the relationships throughout, such as Jamie and Annika, and Gavin and Benny. I loved seeing the love and care between them all.
The characters were the real heart of the story. They had complex backgrounds, present lives and were completely real. Characterisation is obviously something this author does incredibly well.
There were a couple of bits that were obviously meant to be major plot twists, but I had guessed them already. This didn't detract my enjoyment but it is always nice to have a shock element and I just didn't get that here.
The romance aspect was a tantalising slow burn, when it eventually reaches its peak, then it's hot, hot, hot and super explicit, while I enjoy this I know some prefer a more closed-door type of romance, so this definitely isn't for you.
With some tough topics addressed throughout, the author writes with care for all of these and treats everyone and everything with the respect it deserves.
This was a great read that I would definitely recommend and I would absolutely read more from this author in the future.
July 16, 2025
Thank you to @goodreads and @darcydaniel for the chance to read "Into These Eyes" on Kindle. This book arrived just when it was needed, pulling me out of a reading slump and reigniting my passion for reading. I was surprised by the range of emotions it evoked—something I hadn’t experienced while reading in some time.
I had no idea what the story was about when I opened the book. Turned out the story was deeply enjoyable, so much so that I found myself wishing for more when it ended. While I noticed a couple of typos—less than a handful—they were minor and are mentioned only for those who might be particularly sensitive to such details.
Although there were a few predictable moments, these did not detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. The emotional connection between Gavin and Jaime was palpable throughout the book. The gradual development of their relationship kept me waiting, wanting, and rooting for them until the very end. The chemistry and the profound, soulful love they shared was beautifully written and made for a compelling read.
There's lies, secrets, second changes, redemption, loyalty, romance, love and laughter. I highly recommend reading, prepare to feel all kinds of feelings.
I had no idea what the story was about when I opened the book. Turned out the story was deeply enjoyable, so much so that I found myself wishing for more when it ended. While I noticed a couple of typos—less than a handful—they were minor and are mentioned only for those who might be particularly sensitive to such details.
Although there were a few predictable moments, these did not detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. The emotional connection between Gavin and Jaime was palpable throughout the book. The gradual development of their relationship kept me waiting, wanting, and rooting for them until the very end. The chemistry and the profound, soulful love they shared was beautifully written and made for a compelling read.
There's lies, secrets, second changes, redemption, loyalty, romance, love and laughter. I highly recommend reading, prepare to feel all kinds of feelings.
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