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No Strings
Morgan
Rhys Donovan is trouble wrapped in tattoos and a crooked smile—the kind of man who tastes like danger and promises ruin. He’s also my brother’s best friend, and the only one who can keep the past from catching up to me.
Our deal was friends with benefits. No strings. No feelings.
But Rhys doesn’t follow rules—and he doesn’t play fair.
The more I give in, the more I lose control.
Of my body. My heart. My secrets.
And if I’m not careful, he might shatter me completely… or worse, love me when it’s already too late.
Rhys
Morgan Elliott isn’t just my best friend’s little sister. She’s temptation I never should’ve touched, fire I never should’ve fed.
I was supposed to protect her-keep her safe. Instead, I made her mine.
Those three little words slipped from her delectable lips and wrecked every rule we made—and now there’s no going back.
But Morgan’s past is catching up to her, and the more I fall, the more I realise… I might be the biggest threat of all.
Rhys Donovan is trouble wrapped in tattoos and a crooked smile—the kind of man who tastes like danger and promises ruin. He’s also my brother’s best friend, and the only one who can keep the past from catching up to me.
Our deal was friends with benefits. No strings. No feelings.
But Rhys doesn’t follow rules—and he doesn’t play fair.
The more I give in, the more I lose control.
Of my body. My heart. My secrets.
And if I’m not careful, he might shatter me completely… or worse, love me when it’s already too late.
Rhys
Morgan Elliott isn’t just my best friend’s little sister. She’s temptation I never should’ve touched, fire I never should’ve fed.
I was supposed to protect her-keep her safe. Instead, I made her mine.
Those three little words slipped from her delectable lips and wrecked every rule we made—and now there’s no going back.
But Morgan’s past is catching up to her, and the more I fall, the more I realise… I might be the biggest threat of all.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2025
3 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 23, 2025
Brother’s best friend troupe. This was a good book. Check TWs and CWs as there are some topics that some may find difficult to read. I will definitely say skip prolog 2 if you don’t like reading about domestic abuse. Morgan finally escapes her abuser and she ends up at a ranch with her brother’s best friend Rhys. And yes the tension starts to build with these two. And when they finally give in…🥵
August 21, 2025
I was lucky enough to start Alpha reading this at the end of March.
The way Carisse had me instantly hooked and drawn into the story, I am so obsessed with Rhys and Morgan. This is by far my favourite book she has written. I can’t wait to share my full review closer to the release!
*WOW second read through AMAZING!!! Can’t wait to see the final copy once it’s released.
*Full Review
I have tried to write this many times and I just don’t think anything I say will be able to encapsulate exactly how much I LOVE this book! I feel like it’s ingrained so deeply into my mind at this point these characters and their stores, they just feel like family. 🥹
Thankyou to Carisse for trusting to share your work with me, letting me read at almost every stage. I can’t even explain how much that means to me and it’s an experience I will never forget. Seeing how far you helped these characters develop throughout the writing process and watching your writing progress was so incredible to see. You worked so freaking hard and you should be so proud of yourself!!
I was instantly drawn into the story from the prologue. Was it confronting at times? Yes, but it was so raw and real! Watching Morgan’s strength throughout this story, watching her heal and process her past and trauma was everything. She was so incredibly strong and I know a lot of people will be able to connect and relate to her.
Rhys did everything in his power to protect Morgan no matter what and helped her come back to herself after everything she had endured from her past. These two were just as stubborn as each other and all of their little arguments had me giggling so much!
I laughed, I cried, I swear I felt so many emotions throughout the story. I loved seeing the “love to hate” side to Morgan and Rhys’s relationship but also seeing that soft vulnerable side as their relationship progressed was something else entirely. These two were so perfect for each other and we can’t forget the spice! 🔥
It was refreshing and entertaining to read a book set in Australia. I love our sense of humour so much and our slang that was portrayed so perfectly throughout the book. I cannot wait to see what’s next because I am utterly obsessed with this whole little universe and all the side characters!
Okay… I can’t end my review without mentioning Beau! Even though I loved everyone, as soon as Beau came onto the page I was obsessed! He was so hilarious every time he opened his mouth you just never know what was going to come out of it! Haha
I HIGHLY recommend this book!
Please remember to check your triggers.
💜Australian Dark Romance
🤠Brother’s Best Friend
💜He Falls & Hard
🤠Forced Proximity
💜Found Family
🤠Hate To Love
💜DV Survivor
🤠”No Strings”
The way Carisse had me instantly hooked and drawn into the story, I am so obsessed with Rhys and Morgan. This is by far my favourite book she has written. I can’t wait to share my full review closer to the release!
*WOW second read through AMAZING!!! Can’t wait to see the final copy once it’s released.
*Full Review
I have tried to write this many times and I just don’t think anything I say will be able to encapsulate exactly how much I LOVE this book! I feel like it’s ingrained so deeply into my mind at this point these characters and their stores, they just feel like family. 🥹
Thankyou to Carisse for trusting to share your work with me, letting me read at almost every stage. I can’t even explain how much that means to me and it’s an experience I will never forget. Seeing how far you helped these characters develop throughout the writing process and watching your writing progress was so incredible to see. You worked so freaking hard and you should be so proud of yourself!!
I was instantly drawn into the story from the prologue. Was it confronting at times? Yes, but it was so raw and real! Watching Morgan’s strength throughout this story, watching her heal and process her past and trauma was everything. She was so incredibly strong and I know a lot of people will be able to connect and relate to her.
Rhys did everything in his power to protect Morgan no matter what and helped her come back to herself after everything she had endured from her past. These two were just as stubborn as each other and all of their little arguments had me giggling so much!
I laughed, I cried, I swear I felt so many emotions throughout the story. I loved seeing the “love to hate” side to Morgan and Rhys’s relationship but also seeing that soft vulnerable side as their relationship progressed was something else entirely. These two were so perfect for each other and we can’t forget the spice! 🔥
It was refreshing and entertaining to read a book set in Australia. I love our sense of humour so much and our slang that was portrayed so perfectly throughout the book. I cannot wait to see what’s next because I am utterly obsessed with this whole little universe and all the side characters!
Okay… I can’t end my review without mentioning Beau! Even though I loved everyone, as soon as Beau came onto the page I was obsessed! He was so hilarious every time he opened his mouth you just never know what was going to come out of it! Haha
I HIGHLY recommend this book!
Please remember to check your triggers.
💜Australian Dark Romance
🤠Brother’s Best Friend
💜He Falls & Hard
🤠Forced Proximity
💜Found Family
🤠Hate To Love
💜DV Survivor
🤠”No Strings”
July 29, 2025
5⭐️
2.5🌶
Reminder to check your triggers with this one!
I loved, cherished, and adored this book!
Morgan has been in an abusive relationship and finally leaves, with the help of her brother, Shane. After he who shall not be named finds her back in her hometown, her brother moves her, hides her really, across to rural WA to live with his childhood best friend, Rhys.
Ah, the age old best friends sister or brothers best friend trope 🫦
Rhys is *chefs kiss*. He is everything Morgan needs, understands how to help her become herself again without pitying her situation. He helps her find her confidence again.
Special mention for Beau and Davis. I am in love with these characters. When an author makes us as invested in side characters as we are the main, that's truly special.
I loved that this was set in rural WA, being from Perth myself. I found the language used so refreshing and relatable, again, given its set in Australia. I smashed this book in less than 24 hours!!
Thank you to Carisse for letting me ARC read, I'm totally invested in this series and hope there is more to come.
2.5🌶
Reminder to check your triggers with this one!
I loved, cherished, and adored this book!
Morgan has been in an abusive relationship and finally leaves, with the help of her brother, Shane. After he who shall not be named finds her back in her hometown, her brother moves her, hides her really, across to rural WA to live with his childhood best friend, Rhys.
Ah, the age old best friends sister or brothers best friend trope 🫦
Rhys is *chefs kiss*. He is everything Morgan needs, understands how to help her become herself again without pitying her situation. He helps her find her confidence again.
Special mention for Beau and Davis. I am in love with these characters. When an author makes us as invested in side characters as we are the main, that's truly special.
I loved that this was set in rural WA, being from Perth myself. I found the language used so refreshing and relatable, again, given its set in Australia. I smashed this book in less than 24 hours!!
Thank you to Carisse for letting me ARC read, I'm totally invested in this series and hope there is more to come.
August 3, 2025
⭐️Stars - 5/5⭐️
🌶️Spiciness - 3/5🌶️
I enjoyed ARC reading No Strings, a refreshing change from my usual reading genre, and found it to be a completely engaging enemies-to-lovers story.
After six years of emotional abuse at the hands of her high school boyfriend, Morgan Elliot realizes that her carefully laid plans have gone terribly wrong, prompting her to leave her past behind and start anew in Barrenridge, a hometown she had previously vowed to never return to. When Morgan is attacked by Ethan again after her return, her brother Shane decides it would be safer for her to stay with his best friend Rhys until Ethan is caught.
Rhys, a 6‘4“ attractive cowboy and manager of 'The Station', a cattle station with a shop, caravan park and accommodations for backpackers, has a reputation as a cocky playboy who uses women as bed warmers.
Morgan and Rhys have a relationship built on mutual annoyance, so what could possibly go wrong?
Highly recommend!!🖤🖤
This being my first time reading from Author Carisse Lee, I'm excited to see more from her.
🌶️Spiciness - 3/5🌶️
I enjoyed ARC reading No Strings, a refreshing change from my usual reading genre, and found it to be a completely engaging enemies-to-lovers story.
After six years of emotional abuse at the hands of her high school boyfriend, Morgan Elliot realizes that her carefully laid plans have gone terribly wrong, prompting her to leave her past behind and start anew in Barrenridge, a hometown she had previously vowed to never return to. When Morgan is attacked by Ethan again after her return, her brother Shane decides it would be safer for her to stay with his best friend Rhys until Ethan is caught.
Rhys, a 6‘4“ attractive cowboy and manager of 'The Station', a cattle station with a shop, caravan park and accommodations for backpackers, has a reputation as a cocky playboy who uses women as bed warmers.
Morgan and Rhys have a relationship built on mutual annoyance, so what could possibly go wrong?
Highly recommend!!🖤🖤
This being my first time reading from Author Carisse Lee, I'm excited to see more from her.
July 29, 2025
Firstly I want to thank Carisse for the opportunity to be an arc reader this book and my very first arc.
No Strings had me hooked from the start. I read it in 24 hours, she captured the emotions of the characters amazingly, I was crying and laughing and just in complete awe the whole way through.
Rhys is a sexy, caring and stubborn cowboy the way he is with Morgan is amazing. There were ups and downs throughout that just make it all the more interesting and keep you hooked to find out what happens next.
This is a story of a broken hurt woman that was brought back from her darkness by a stubborn hardworking cowboy that gave it his all to protect her.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to read more of Carisse’s work.
No Strings will be available on the 15th of August. Pre orders available now, linked in the authors bio.
No Strings had me hooked from the start. I read it in 24 hours, she captured the emotions of the characters amazingly, I was crying and laughing and just in complete awe the whole way through.
Rhys is a sexy, caring and stubborn cowboy the way he is with Morgan is amazing. There were ups and downs throughout that just make it all the more interesting and keep you hooked to find out what happens next.
This is a story of a broken hurt woman that was brought back from her darkness by a stubborn hardworking cowboy that gave it his all to protect her.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to read more of Carisse’s work.
No Strings will be available on the 15th of August. Pre orders available now, linked in the authors bio.
July 29, 2025
I flipping loved this book!!
Read in 24 hours and I stand up until 5am cause I didn’t want to put it down at all. It was so addictive.
The plot, the trauma, the storyline so good.
Remember to check triggers.
📖: Australian dark romance
📖: Brothers best friend
📖: He falls first and hard
📖: Forced proximity
📖: Found family
📖: Hate to love
📖: DV survivor
📖: “No strings”
Release date: 15th August 2025 📆
Read in 24 hours and I stand up until 5am cause I didn’t want to put it down at all. It was so addictive.
The plot, the trauma, the storyline so good.
Remember to check triggers.
📖: Australian dark romance
📖: Brothers best friend
📖: He falls first and hard
📖: Forced proximity
📖: Found family
📖: Hate to love
📖: DV survivor
📖: “No strings”
Release date: 15th August 2025 📆
August 22, 2025
This book will be tough to read for some, so check your triggers, as it can be quite confronting with the domestic violence side of things but it so real and raw. Morgan is so many things but all I see is strength, the strength it took to leave, the strength to go through everything she did but the growth and healing she does is truly inspiring.
Rhys, God I love him. Between him & Morgans little arguments,the banter and the explosive fuck it moment. He is everything Morgan needs at that moment and way he helps get her spark back. Rhys will do anything in his power to protect her.
Absolutely loved this book.
Rhys, God I love him. Between him & Morgans little arguments,the banter and the explosive fuck it moment. He is everything Morgan needs at that moment and way he helps get her spark back. Rhys will do anything in his power to protect her.
Absolutely loved this book.
August 22, 2025
** This review contains some small spoilers **
Firstly, congratulations to Carisse Lee on the release of her novel No Strings!
As an Aussie myself, I absolutely loved that this story is set in Australia, specifically Western Australia, where I live! The setting, the terminology, and the writing style all felt natural and familiar, making it such a joy to read.
From the very start, the book surprised me. Prologue 2 hit earlier than I expected, but it perfectly set the tone and pulled me right in.
One moment that had me laughing out loud was Rhys’s internal thought: “I don’t answer. There is no safe answer.” Haha, it was brilliant.
Carisse’s writing flows beautifully and is easy to follow, making the story engaging for any reader. She balances humor, emotion, and tension so well.
🌟 Highlights:
Morgan lying beneath the stars in Karijini—breathtakingly written. As someone who adores stargazing in WA, this scene felt so special and real.
The bittersweet conversation about Blueberry—heartbreaking.
The spicy scenes. Dayummm. Carissa did not disappoint—hot, sensual, and so well written. I think I need my own Rhys!
Buttons!! So adorable.
And finally, the devastating scene when Morgan rests her forehead against Esky, telling her to be a good girl before handing her over to a sobbing Molly… I was in tears. Heart wrenching yet beautifully done.
This book gave me laughs, tears, swoons, and goosebumps. Every woman deserves their own cowboy who’d kill for her (whether she likes it or not 😉), and Rhys absolutely delivers!
✨ Final Thoughts:
No Strings was an incredible read from start to finish. It’s emotional, captivating, and so very Australian in the best way possible!!
⭐ 5/5 stars & something I'd highly recommend to all my other Aussie friends!n
Firstly, congratulations to Carisse Lee on the release of her novel No Strings!
As an Aussie myself, I absolutely loved that this story is set in Australia, specifically Western Australia, where I live! The setting, the terminology, and the writing style all felt natural and familiar, making it such a joy to read.
From the very start, the book surprised me. Prologue 2 hit earlier than I expected, but it perfectly set the tone and pulled me right in.
One moment that had me laughing out loud was Rhys’s internal thought: “I don’t answer. There is no safe answer.” Haha, it was brilliant.
Carisse’s writing flows beautifully and is easy to follow, making the story engaging for any reader. She balances humor, emotion, and tension so well.
🌟 Highlights:
Morgan lying beneath the stars in Karijini—breathtakingly written. As someone who adores stargazing in WA, this scene felt so special and real.
The bittersweet conversation about Blueberry—heartbreaking.
The spicy scenes. Dayummm. Carissa did not disappoint—hot, sensual, and so well written. I think I need my own Rhys!
Buttons!! So adorable.
And finally, the devastating scene when Morgan rests her forehead against Esky, telling her to be a good girl before handing her over to a sobbing Molly… I was in tears. Heart wrenching yet beautifully done.
This book gave me laughs, tears, swoons, and goosebumps. Every woman deserves their own cowboy who’d kill for her (whether she likes it or not 😉), and Rhys absolutely delivers!
✨ Final Thoughts:
No Strings was an incredible read from start to finish. It’s emotional, captivating, and so very Australian in the best way possible!!
⭐ 5/5 stars & something I'd highly recommend to all my other Aussie friends!n
August 10, 2025
𓄋ARC REVIEW𓄋
4.75⭐️
3🌶
My first ARC read and review!!! Thank you so much for the opportunity!! So happy to have read and loved this!
Especially being an aussie author 🫶🏼🇦🇺
Rhys a aussie cowboy who only wanted a bed warmer
Morgan a DV survivor trying to escape and rebuild her life
The spice in this was spectacular!🥵 Nicknames I could not stop giggling over 🤭 digo pup named ESKY! 😅Aussie references that i absolutely adored! 🤗 silly, fun, goofy side characters💚found family 🤗🫶🏼 some good old aussie slang 😝
I so badly wanted to reach through this book grab Morgan and give her the biggest hug! 😭 after everything she went though...is going though she just needed to feel safe and loved and thats exactly what Rhys did for her🥹
Rhys was obviously a bit of a shithead to begin with but isn't that what we all love...?🤭 he has his own baggage but is still there and loves so hard!!!
Despite all the crap they are going though the could still love each other and it was absolutely beautiful! 🥹
This was written very well and the domestic violence representation was done very well... I feel like the topic is detailed and explored properly.💜
I did get quite emotional though this book...with all the emotions from sad and sobbing, gigging and kicking my feet but this is just a beautiful story and recommend this to everyone🥹😭❤️🤭
4.75⭐️
3🌶
My first ARC read and review!!! Thank you so much for the opportunity!! So happy to have read and loved this!
Especially being an aussie author 🫶🏼🇦🇺
Rhys a aussie cowboy who only wanted a bed warmer
Morgan a DV survivor trying to escape and rebuild her life
The spice in this was spectacular!🥵 Nicknames I could not stop giggling over 🤭 digo pup named ESKY! 😅Aussie references that i absolutely adored! 🤗 silly, fun, goofy side characters💚found family 🤗🫶🏼 some good old aussie slang 😝
I so badly wanted to reach through this book grab Morgan and give her the biggest hug! 😭 after everything she went though...is going though she just needed to feel safe and loved and thats exactly what Rhys did for her🥹
Rhys was obviously a bit of a shithead to begin with but isn't that what we all love...?🤭 he has his own baggage but is still there and loves so hard!!!
Despite all the crap they are going though the could still love each other and it was absolutely beautiful! 🥹
This was written very well and the domestic violence representation was done very well... I feel like the topic is detailed and explored properly.💜
I did get quite emotional though this book...with all the emotions from sad and sobbing, gigging and kicking my feet but this is just a beautiful story and recommend this to everyone🥹😭❤️🤭
August 3, 2025
No Strings Review
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶.5
I had the pleasure and privilege to beta read No Strings by Carisse, and I want to say thank you for this opportunity to read it
Firstly this book was damn amazing, Carisse has a way with words, and it was written beautifully.
I absolutely loved Rhys and Morgan and their hate to love relationship, their banter between them is just so good. They love getting under each other's skin, and it was just funny. This book had me feeling everything. It had a good balance of plot, spice, and banter.
There were a few characters I loved in this book, and one of them has to be Beau as he is just a cheeky thing. Loved his banter thoughtout this book.
If you're looking for something that has trauma, that is a little dark, then make sure to check out this amazing book.
I can't wait for everyone to read this book.
Please check out content warnings before you start as there are a few in this book, and I don't want this book to cause you any more emotional trauma.
Tropes:
💜 AUSTRALIAN DARK ROMANCE
🖤 FORCED PROXIMITY
💜 HE FALLS FIRST, HARD
🖤 FOUND FAMILY
💜 BROTHERS BEST FRIEND
🖤 HATE TO LOVE
Hope you enjoy reading this book as much as I did.
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶.5
I had the pleasure and privilege to beta read No Strings by Carisse, and I want to say thank you for this opportunity to read it
Firstly this book was damn amazing, Carisse has a way with words, and it was written beautifully.
I absolutely loved Rhys and Morgan and their hate to love relationship, their banter between them is just so good. They love getting under each other's skin, and it was just funny. This book had me feeling everything. It had a good balance of plot, spice, and banter.
There were a few characters I loved in this book, and one of them has to be Beau as he is just a cheeky thing. Loved his banter thoughtout this book.
If you're looking for something that has trauma, that is a little dark, then make sure to check out this amazing book.
I can't wait for everyone to read this book.
Please check out content warnings before you start as there are a few in this book, and I don't want this book to cause you any more emotional trauma.
Tropes:
💜 AUSTRALIAN DARK ROMANCE
🖤 FORCED PROXIMITY
💜 HE FALLS FIRST, HARD
🖤 FOUND FAMILY
💜 BROTHERS BEST FRIEND
🖤 HATE TO LOVE
Hope you enjoy reading this book as much as I did.
August 13, 2025
* Older brothers best friend
* DV survivor
* Rancher x artist
* He would kill for her, and helps her unalive her abuser
* Open door romance
* She rescues animals and he tries to not let her
I really looked forward to this book (among the others of the Sunburnt Heart series) because of the sensitive topics that Carisse wrote about. Domestic Violence is a serious problem around the world and this book continues the ongoing efforts of awareness efforts. This second prologue can be skipped to not be as triggering, please put your mental health first.
Morgan Elliot escapes an abusive relationship with the help of her brother, Barrenridge officer Shane Elliot. Unfortunately, their hometown of Barrenridge does NOT keep her safe and so her brother takes her to Western Australia to live on a ranch with his best friend, Rhys Donovan. Life out West for Morgan includes saving a cute dingo pup she names Esky, having Rhys unalive someone who tries to r@pe her, and flirt with Rhys like the brat he brings out in her. The two fight their feelings out of respect for Shane, her brother and his best friend, but you know what they say - you can't fight what the heart (and groin) wants.
I absolutely LOVED this book. The tropes, the cute moments, the times where I had to stop reading because I was at work and shouldn't have been reading it iykwim 😏 Probably why I finished it in a day - that's how good of a book it is.
Highlyyyy recommend 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
* DV survivor
* Rancher x artist
* He would kill for her, and helps her unalive her abuser
* Open door romance
* She rescues animals and he tries to not let her
I really looked forward to this book (among the others of the Sunburnt Heart series) because of the sensitive topics that Carisse wrote about. Domestic Violence is a serious problem around the world and this book continues the ongoing efforts of awareness efforts. This second prologue can be skipped to not be as triggering, please put your mental health first.
Morgan Elliot escapes an abusive relationship with the help of her brother, Barrenridge officer Shane Elliot. Unfortunately, their hometown of Barrenridge does NOT keep her safe and so her brother takes her to Western Australia to live on a ranch with his best friend, Rhys Donovan. Life out West for Morgan includes saving a cute dingo pup she names Esky, having Rhys unalive someone who tries to r@pe her, and flirt with Rhys like the brat he brings out in her. The two fight their feelings out of respect for Shane, her brother and his best friend, but you know what they say - you can't fight what the heart (and groin) wants.
I absolutely LOVED this book. The tropes, the cute moments, the times where I had to stop reading because I was at work and shouldn't have been reading it iykwim 😏 Probably why I finished it in a day - that's how good of a book it is.
Highlyyyy recommend 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
August 22, 2025
I’m so jealous of Morgan because of Esky! I saw a baby dingo at Fraser Island (K’Gari) and wasn’t allowed to keep it (apparently it’s illegal… but that’s not the point 😅).
No Strings has some heavy topics that can be triggering, but the way it’s written makes it feel healing, eye opening, and reassuring for survivors that your trauma doesn’t define your worth. Morgan’s journey shows the truths around healing and the rollercoaster it can be, while Rhys shows everyone what standards we all truly deserves. He is by her side being patient, supportive, protective while always reminding her that she is worthy and her trauma doesn’t make her broken. They start off with harmless banter while always picking onto each other, while everyone else on the property opened their arms and accepted her into their home and lives what Morgan definitely deserves.
If you want to know more about what actually happens you’ll have to read it yourself, I will say you won’t be disappointed.
This book made me emotional through out, it is very relatable as a survivor myself. I’m praying we get a book two to see where Morgan and Rhys’s journey leads to next. Definitely a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!
No Strings has some heavy topics that can be triggering, but the way it’s written makes it feel healing, eye opening, and reassuring for survivors that your trauma doesn’t define your worth. Morgan’s journey shows the truths around healing and the rollercoaster it can be, while Rhys shows everyone what standards we all truly deserves. He is by her side being patient, supportive, protective while always reminding her that she is worthy and her trauma doesn’t make her broken. They start off with harmless banter while always picking onto each other, while everyone else on the property opened their arms and accepted her into their home and lives what Morgan definitely deserves.
If you want to know more about what actually happens you’ll have to read it yourself, I will say you won’t be disappointed.
This book made me emotional through out, it is very relatable as a survivor myself. I’m praying we get a book two to see where Morgan and Rhys’s journey leads to next. Definitely a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!
July 25, 2025
A reformed playboy/cowboy takes in his best friend's sister to protect her from abus1ve ex. As a whole, the story has no surprises and goes predictably but I do like the world that's being built up here in this interconnecting series!
The dislike to love feels real but I do wish I knew where the dislike stems from (ie from their school days?) as I felt it had no grounded history. I loved the Australian setting a bunch! I got a real feel for a working ranch, the comraderie of the workers etc.
Morgan has been through a lot of DV abu$e. Seeing her slowly work through it and how Rhys empowers her is very heartwarming. At times the dialog sounded a bit overly melodramatic (meaning I couldn't imagine a tough cowboy saying this stuff), but it's touching nonetheless.
I do want to read more from the series.
The dislike to love feels real but I do wish I knew where the dislike stems from (ie from their school days?) as I felt it had no grounded history. I loved the Australian setting a bunch! I got a real feel for a working ranch, the comraderie of the workers etc.
Morgan has been through a lot of DV abu$e. Seeing her slowly work through it and how Rhys empowers her is very heartwarming. At times the dialog sounded a bit overly melodramatic (meaning I couldn't imagine a tough cowboy saying this stuff), but it's touching nonetheless.
I do want to read more from the series.
August 4, 2025
I recieved No String as an ARC and all thoughts and opinions on this book are honest and my own.
My first cowboy romance, and I'm so freaking excited! This has tropes, twists, turns and trigger warning GALORE so please do your research. But in saying that the hard TW are done with grace and with character growth in mind!
This book is a dual POV, of Morgan, a small town girl now big city woman, and Rhys, her brother's best friend, who moved from the small city across country to remote cattle station in FAR West Australia.
The banter between the characters, the spicy scenes, the bogan-ism, the characters growth, it all kept me intrigued from the very beginning to the very end WHICH IS A DAMN CLIFF HANGER, so I guess now I have to sit here and wait!
But seriously read this book, you won't regret it
My first cowboy romance, and I'm so freaking excited! This has tropes, twists, turns and trigger warning GALORE so please do your research. But in saying that the hard TW are done with grace and with character growth in mind!
This book is a dual POV, of Morgan, a small town girl now big city woman, and Rhys, her brother's best friend, who moved from the small city across country to remote cattle station in FAR West Australia.
The banter between the characters, the spicy scenes, the bogan-ism, the characters growth, it all kept me intrigued from the very beginning to the very end WHICH IS A DAMN CLIFF HANGER, so I guess now I have to sit here and wait!
But seriously read this book, you won't regret it
August 22, 2025
Morgan Elliott and Rhys Donovan were never supposed to be more than a casual arrangement—no feelings, no complications, just comfort. But when your brother’s best friend is the one you turn to, rules get messy fast.
This book is raw and addictive—filled with chemistry, angst, and secrets that pull you in from the very first page. Rhys was meant to protect Morgan, but the deeper he falls, the more dangerous love becomes.
Carisse Lee blends heat, heartbreak, and hope into a story that makes you ache for the characters while rooting for their happily-ever-after. If you love dark, emotional romance with tension that won’t let go, this one belongs on your TBR.
🔥 Tropes inside: friends-with-benefits ➝ feelings, brother’s best friend, forbidden attraction, dark past, protective hero, emotional slow burn.
This book is raw and addictive—filled with chemistry, angst, and secrets that pull you in from the very first page. Rhys was meant to protect Morgan, but the deeper he falls, the more dangerous love becomes.
Carisse Lee blends heat, heartbreak, and hope into a story that makes you ache for the characters while rooting for their happily-ever-after. If you love dark, emotional romance with tension that won’t let go, this one belongs on your TBR.
🔥 Tropes inside: friends-with-benefits ➝ feelings, brother’s best friend, forbidden attraction, dark past, protective hero, emotional slow burn.
October 22, 2025
BOOK REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The book hit so close to home for me and I devoured it 😫
This book was heavy, but the good kind that leaves something on your heart. It follows a woman trapped in the quiet horror of domestic violence, learning to rebuild herself one fragile breath at a time. When she moves in with her brother’s best friend, (for protection) it isn’t an instant rescue. But a slow unraveling of walls, fear, and everything she thought love was supposed to be. Their chemistry? ❤️🔥.
Their healing? Messy, real, and extremely human. He didn’t just fall for her he saw her and showed her who she was. And after everything she’d been through, that was the best. I cannot wait for the second book in this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The book hit so close to home for me and I devoured it 😫
This book was heavy, but the good kind that leaves something on your heart. It follows a woman trapped in the quiet horror of domestic violence, learning to rebuild herself one fragile breath at a time. When she moves in with her brother’s best friend, (for protection) it isn’t an instant rescue. But a slow unraveling of walls, fear, and everything she thought love was supposed to be. Their chemistry? ❤️🔥.
Their healing? Messy, real, and extremely human. He didn’t just fall for her he saw her and showed her who she was. And after everything she’d been through, that was the best. I cannot wait for the second book in this series.
August 5, 2025
Rhys is Morgan’s brothers best friend and when she has no where else to escape from her ex boyfriend the only option she has is the outback with… Rhys. The tension between these two is insane but they finally realise that they both can’t get enough of each but they know that Morgan’s brother is not going to handle it well. They agree to friends with benefits while Morgan stays with Rhys but the time will come when she has to return home. I’m not going to give the ending away, that’s for you to read and enjoy because you will love it!
No strings does have some heavy triggers so please check before reading!
No strings does have some heavy triggers so please check before reading!
August 12, 2025
I absolutely loved this book!
Seeing Morgan heal after everything that happened to her while finding a new family and love was incredible. Her character was very well-written and interesting to read about.
Rhys was also awesome. Love the whole 'touch her and 💀' vibes!
The themes in this story are amazingly described and used. Carisse did a wonderful job here!
I am definitely going to miss Morgan and Rhys!
*I was gifted an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Seeing Morgan heal after everything that happened to her while finding a new family and love was incredible. Her character was very well-written and interesting to read about.
Rhys was also awesome. Love the whole 'touch her and 💀' vibes!
The themes in this story are amazingly described and used. Carisse did a wonderful job here!
I am definitely going to miss Morgan and Rhys!
*I was gifted an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
August 12, 2025
I started and finished this book on the same night, I loved reading about Rhys and Morgan (and Esky!)
Such a well written brothers bestfriend /dark cowboy/ love after the trauma of DV story.
The book made me laugh out loud, and it made me tear up. This was the first Carisse Lee book I've ever read, because it was part of the Sunburnt Hearts series, but now im definitely keen to read more by this author.
Such a well written brothers bestfriend /dark cowboy/ love after the trauma of DV story.
The book made me laugh out loud, and it made me tear up. This was the first Carisse Lee book I've ever read, because it was part of the Sunburnt Hearts series, but now im definitely keen to read more by this author.
June 3, 2025
If you’ve got nightmares.. you need Rhys 😮💨
I was super lucky to beta read this for Carisse. I absolutely loved this story, the characters are just 🤌!
Morgan believes she’s broken but all she needed was Rhys and some sexual tension to help heal her mind and body.
I can’t wait to read the final copy. 📚
I was super lucky to beta read this for Carisse. I absolutely loved this story, the characters are just 🤌!
Morgan believes she’s broken but all she needed was Rhys and some sexual tension to help heal her mind and body.
I can’t wait to read the final copy. 📚
August 3, 2025
I don't usually read this style, mostly darker romance, so I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but I was hooked and couldn't put it down. Read it one sitting. I loved how Rhys was Morgan's rock, held her during the nightmares, and bought her back from the dark places and back to being herself. I need more of their story.
August 23, 2025
Please read trigger and content warnings.
ARC Review
There is DV on the page between the Morgan and another male character in the book.
Morgan’s growth and taking back her strength is beautiful. She’s powerful and beautiful.
Rhys is her brother’s BFF. He may even take a man out. He may even fall in love and let her keep the dingo puppy.
Read No Strings OUT NOW.
ARC Review
There is DV on the page between the Morgan and another male character in the book.
Morgan’s growth and taking back her strength is beautiful. She’s powerful and beautiful.
Rhys is her brother’s BFF. He may even take a man out. He may even fall in love and let her keep the dingo puppy.
Read No Strings OUT NOW.
September 4, 2025
Just wow. This book was so freaking good. I loved the banter so much, and especially all the Aussie humour. I was obsessed with the characters in this one and how the whole story unfolded. Don’t even get me started with the angst and tension between Rhys and Morgan. And the spice, it was spicing. So darn good. Highly recommend this one 😍😍
October 29, 2025
Check TW before reading!
No Strings took me on a full emotional journey. The abuse the FMC endured was truly heartbreaking, but watching her reclaim her power and grow into a more confident, self-assured woman was both inspiring and deeply moving.
No Strings took me on a full emotional journey. The abuse the FMC endured was truly heartbreaking, but watching her reclaim her power and grow into a more confident, self-assured woman was both inspiring and deeply moving.
August 6, 2025
Definitely 4 stars. Definitely read the trigger warnings! Love the spice levels. My only criticism would be language used at some times could have been less crass. Overall would recommend though
October 28, 2025
Every person who has gone through what Morgan has deserves a cowboy like Rhys Donovan.
Is it possibly unhealthy the number of times I've read this book? Probably. Do I care? Absolutely NOT. I connected with Morgan in so many ways, and every time her walls were up, I was hurting right there alongside her.
No Strings handles mental health in such a raw and honest way, with real-life struggles written with sensitivity. The way Carisse writes, blows me away. She draws you in, makes you fall hard for the characters, and always gives you someone to resonate with.
The banter between Morgan and Rhys is unmatched. It's perfect, and they're both so quick-witted. Morgan was that annoying younger sister to Rhys's best friend Shane, so you just know that's where the Hate to Love trope comes in. They want to hate each other so bad, but in the end, they just can’t. They find within each other what they needed all along.
If you love a fiery FMC and a sexy, dirty mouthed cowboy MC... this one is for you!
Honourable mentions: Molly, Esky, Buttons, and Beau. If you read this, you'll understand why.
Is it possibly unhealthy the number of times I've read this book? Probably. Do I care? Absolutely NOT. I connected with Morgan in so many ways, and every time her walls were up, I was hurting right there alongside her.
No Strings handles mental health in such a raw and honest way, with real-life struggles written with sensitivity. The way Carisse writes, blows me away. She draws you in, makes you fall hard for the characters, and always gives you someone to resonate with.
The banter between Morgan and Rhys is unmatched. It's perfect, and they're both so quick-witted. Morgan was that annoying younger sister to Rhys's best friend Shane, so you just know that's where the Hate to Love trope comes in. They want to hate each other so bad, but in the end, they just can’t. They find within each other what they needed all along.
If you love a fiery FMC and a sexy, dirty mouthed cowboy MC... this one is for you!
Honourable mentions: Molly, Esky, Buttons, and Beau. If you read this, you'll understand why.
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