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I'm Fine Save Me
Escapism is how Tegan copes with the pressures of being the only neurotypical person in her household. Her husband Cooper knows that his spiraling mind, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism are a lot to handle. He’s not always the best version of himself for the love of his life.
He agrees that Tegan needs an escape. Online role play is where she finds it. Creating fictional worlds with others helps her relax and cope with what she can’t change about reality. Time and again she learns that very few can respect the boundaries of her marriage.
When Morgan enters the chat, she learns that they aren’t all the same. She finds an anchor in the chaos, and someone who sees the woman she was before so many broke her down. He sees her struggles, and encourages her to admit when she’s not fine…but he can’t save her from everything.
He agrees that Tegan needs an escape. Online role play is where she finds it. Creating fictional worlds with others helps her relax and cope with what she can’t change about reality. Time and again she learns that very few can respect the boundaries of her marriage.
When Morgan enters the chat, she learns that they aren’t all the same. She finds an anchor in the chaos, and someone who sees the woman she was before so many broke her down. He sees her struggles, and encourages her to admit when she’s not fine…but he can’t save her from everything.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
346 pages, Paperback
Published June 24, 2025
15 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Heart-wrenching, honest, and quietly powerful
“I'm fine, save me” by LJ Daniel is not your typical love story — it's a raw, emotional life story about the silent battles we fight every day and the toll they take on us, especially when we carry them alone.
Tegan is the only neurotypical person in a household shaped by neurodivergence, and the emotional weight she bears is almost invisible — even to herself. Her husband Cooper, dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism, knows he’s not always the version of himself she deserves, but love alone isn't enough to fix everything. Tegan finds a form of escape in online roleplay — a coping mechanism more than a hobby — but even that space isn’t always safe… until Morgan enters the chat.
This book hit me hard. The emotional depth LJ Daniel weaves into these characters is spectacular. I felt for Tegan in every moment — for how she keeps showing up, supporting everyone else, never asking for space, never claiming it. Her eventual breakdown, her darkest confession — that she dreams of simply being alone and at peace — was utterly devastating and so, so real.
What stood out the most is how the story shifts focus from the neurodivergent partner — who often receives more narrative attention — to the silent burden of the caretaker. Tegan is “fine” because compared to others, she feels she has no right to struggle. And that’s what makes this so powerful: it shines a light on a kind of emotional labor that’s so often overlooked or dismissed.
The multi-POV narrative was masterfully done. I loved how it highlighted not just different perspectives, but different ways of experiencing time — how a crisis can stretch forever, while joy is fleeting. The time jumps worked beautifully too, helping the story span years without ever feeling like something essential was lost.
This isn’t a book that shouts. It whispers truths you didn’t know you needed to hear. It doesn’t romanticize mental health struggles, or offer easy fixes. It’s about survival, connection, and being seen — even when you’ve spent your whole life hiding how not-fine you really are.
“I'm fine, save me” by LJ Daniel is not your typical love story — it's a raw, emotional life story about the silent battles we fight every day and the toll they take on us, especially when we carry them alone.
Tegan is the only neurotypical person in a household shaped by neurodivergence, and the emotional weight she bears is almost invisible — even to herself. Her husband Cooper, dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism, knows he’s not always the version of himself she deserves, but love alone isn't enough to fix everything. Tegan finds a form of escape in online roleplay — a coping mechanism more than a hobby — but even that space isn’t always safe… until Morgan enters the chat.
This book hit me hard. The emotional depth LJ Daniel weaves into these characters is spectacular. I felt for Tegan in every moment — for how she keeps showing up, supporting everyone else, never asking for space, never claiming it. Her eventual breakdown, her darkest confession — that she dreams of simply being alone and at peace — was utterly devastating and so, so real.
What stood out the most is how the story shifts focus from the neurodivergent partner — who often receives more narrative attention — to the silent burden of the caretaker. Tegan is “fine” because compared to others, she feels she has no right to struggle. And that’s what makes this so powerful: it shines a light on a kind of emotional labor that’s so often overlooked or dismissed.
The multi-POV narrative was masterfully done. I loved how it highlighted not just different perspectives, but different ways of experiencing time — how a crisis can stretch forever, while joy is fleeting. The time jumps worked beautifully too, helping the story span years without ever feeling like something essential was lost.
This isn’t a book that shouts. It whispers truths you didn’t know you needed to hear. It doesn’t romanticize mental health struggles, or offer easy fixes. It’s about survival, connection, and being seen — even when you’ve spent your whole life hiding how not-fine you really are.
June 8, 2025
I just finished I’m Fine, Save Me by LJ Daniel and I’m sitting here absolutely wrecked in the best way. I cannot believe this is a debut novel. The writing? Stunning. The characters? Deeply human. The emotional impact? Soul-crushing, healing, and unforgettable—all at once.
This story dives headfirst into mental health, trauma, and healing without flinching—and it does it right. The FMC is raw, relatable, and so authentically written that I felt seen in ways I didn’t expect. And the two MMCs? Let’s just say... I’d sell my soul to be in the middle of that emotional support sandwich.
Even better? The relationships are open, honest, and healthy—a breath of fresh air in a genre that often romanticizes toxicity. It’s sexy without being shallow, intense without being manipulative. And just when I thought I could breathe… THAT CLIFFHANGER.
I need book two yesterday.
LJ Daniel has set a new bar for what I want in contemporary romance and emotionally grounded fiction. This book deserves to be talked about. It deserves to be shared. And it deserves to be on everyone's shelf.
If you're looking for a book that will break you and build you back up with open arms—this is it. Add it. Read it. Obsess over it with me. You won’t regret it!
This story dives headfirst into mental health, trauma, and healing without flinching—and it does it right. The FMC is raw, relatable, and so authentically written that I felt seen in ways I didn’t expect. And the two MMCs? Let’s just say... I’d sell my soul to be in the middle of that emotional support sandwich.
Even better? The relationships are open, honest, and healthy—a breath of fresh air in a genre that often romanticizes toxicity. It’s sexy without being shallow, intense without being manipulative. And just when I thought I could breathe… THAT CLIFFHANGER.
I need book two yesterday.
LJ Daniel has set a new bar for what I want in contemporary romance and emotionally grounded fiction. This book deserves to be talked about. It deserves to be shared. And it deserves to be on everyone's shelf.
If you're looking for a book that will break you and build you back up with open arms—this is it. Add it. Read it. Obsess over it with me. You won’t regret it!
June 23, 2025
Tegan is a superwoman who’s doing it all. She’s married to the man of her dreams and has a beautiful family but underneath it all, she just needs to breathe. Tegan is portrayed as a strong, caring wife who, at times, wants to scream into the void. Through her escape, she finds a connection and a way to relieve some of the day-to-day stress. She’s the queen of doing it all with a smile and then, in the still of the night, she sometimes crumbles, only to rise and be strong all over again.
Then we have Cooper, her doting and caring husband, who knows that his good days are often outweighed by the bad ones. But he would do anything for his wife and is accepting of her outlet to enjoy herself. We see how he tries to work through it all and be the best he can be for his family.
There is some spice in this story, but it’s not the main focus. Still, LJ gives that aspect a unique twist that sets it apart from the usual.
This is an emotional and touching story that shows how Teagan often carries the heaviest burden in the family and no matter what, their love will withstand it all.
Be warned: this ends in a cliffhanger of cliffhangers! If you're looking for a story that represents mental health and so much more, this is it.
Then we have Cooper, her doting and caring husband, who knows that his good days are often outweighed by the bad ones. But he would do anything for his wife and is accepting of her outlet to enjoy herself. We see how he tries to work through it all and be the best he can be for his family.
There is some spice in this story, but it’s not the main focus. Still, LJ gives that aspect a unique twist that sets it apart from the usual.
This is an emotional and touching story that shows how Teagan often carries the heaviest burden in the family and no matter what, their love will withstand it all.
Be warned: this ends in a cliffhanger of cliffhangers! If you're looking for a story that represents mental health and so much more, this is it.
June 18, 2025
4⭐️/3🔥
That Was A Journey
I'm Fine. Save Me. is quite a journey through the struggles of mental health. Our FMC is the common woman trying to hold her family together throughout the episodes of her child dealing with being on the spectrum and her husband trying to keep his spirals to a minimum. Safe to say, this story is relatable in that way and what sacrifices women will go through for their families. This is not your typical marriage and it seems to work for them. We're left on a cliffy and it was a doozy!
That Was A Journey
I'm Fine. Save Me. is quite a journey through the struggles of mental health. Our FMC is the common woman trying to hold her family together throughout the episodes of her child dealing with being on the spectrum and her husband trying to keep his spirals to a minimum. Safe to say, this story is relatable in that way and what sacrifices women will go through for their families. This is not your typical marriage and it seems to work for them. We're left on a cliffy and it was a doozy!
July 23, 2025
I'm not great at writing reviews but trust me you want to read this one! It touches on so many topics that are seldom covered in most books and really makes it relatable to anyone working through mental disorders. And who doesn't love a good cliffhanger! Great things are coming and this author is one to follow!
June 17, 2025
I will come back once my emotions calm down.
Edit: my review (finally!)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
6/16/25
I don’t write many, if any, reviews. I always feel like I don’t have the words to adequately express my thoughts and feelings on the books I finish. But I am going to try my hardest for this book, because it absolutely deserves it.
Tegan is one of my new all time favorite heroines. No, she doesn’t ride dragons, or slay monsters, or fight in a war. She simply lives her life day in and day out struggling with a special needs daughter and husband on the spectrum. She’s always learning, always trying to do better, always trying to make her home a safe space. And in the midst of all of that, she tries to find little bits of time for herself, so she doesn’t lose herself. And yes, she makes mistakes along the way. She’s far from perfect, but she keeps showing up, doing her best, and loving on her family. That’s the same battle I fight every day with two special-needs children and a husband with ADHD. I’ve never seen myself in any of the books I’ve read until this book, and I didn’t realize how good it would feel to see parts of myself on the page.
You can really tell this book was written with so much thought out detail, love, and passion on the page. Poly romances may be a new trope for some people, and this is definitely an incredible first read for those individuals with how much care was put into understanding the thoughts and feeling of Tegan, Cooper, and Morgan.
And one last thing… THAT ENDING?! I need book 2 ASAP Ms. Daniel!!
Edit: my review (finally!)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
6/16/25
I don’t write many, if any, reviews. I always feel like I don’t have the words to adequately express my thoughts and feelings on the books I finish. But I am going to try my hardest for this book, because it absolutely deserves it.
Tegan is one of my new all time favorite heroines. No, she doesn’t ride dragons, or slay monsters, or fight in a war. She simply lives her life day in and day out struggling with a special needs daughter and husband on the spectrum. She’s always learning, always trying to do better, always trying to make her home a safe space. And in the midst of all of that, she tries to find little bits of time for herself, so she doesn’t lose herself. And yes, she makes mistakes along the way. She’s far from perfect, but she keeps showing up, doing her best, and loving on her family. That’s the same battle I fight every day with two special-needs children and a husband with ADHD. I’ve never seen myself in any of the books I’ve read until this book, and I didn’t realize how good it would feel to see parts of myself on the page.
You can really tell this book was written with so much thought out detail, love, and passion on the page. Poly romances may be a new trope for some people, and this is definitely an incredible first read for those individuals with how much care was put into understanding the thoughts and feeling of Tegan, Cooper, and Morgan.
And one last thing… THAT ENDING?! I need book 2 ASAP Ms. Daniel!!
June 8, 2025
One of the most powerful, beautiful, and emotionally raw books I’ve ever read.
I’m Fine, Save Me is an unforgettable debut from LJ Daniels, and I genuinely cannot believe this is their first novel. This book broke me open in the best way — and then gently put the pieces back together with love, truth, and hope.
This poly romance dives deep into the complexities of love, identity, and mental health, and it does it with such authenticity and grace that it felt less like reading fiction and more like sitting down with someone’s soul. Daniels doesn’t shy away from the hard things — the unraveling of a marriage, the emotional exhaustion of caregiving, the unique joys and challenges of raising an autistic child — but they write it all with such compassion and care that it feels like a warm hand holding yours through the storm.
As someone who reads a lot of romance, especially in the poly and neurodivergent space, this one stands out like a flare in the dark. The characters are messy, flawed, real, and absolutely unforgettable. I saw pieces of myself in them. I felt them. I rooted for them.
If you’re looking for a book that makes you feel seen, makes you cry in public, and reminds you that love can look a thousand different ways and still be true — this is it. This is the one.
Bravo, LJ Daniels. I can’t wait to see what you write next.
June 4, 2025
This book made me cry actual tears; it pulled so many emotions out of me. It is dual POV of a married couple with so many challenges and the cards stacked against them and all they want to do is love one another. The Prologue alone will hook you and then Tegan and Cooper’s internal and external struggles will finish you off. Very rarely do I ever read a book and not find a single thing I’d want to change about it, but “I’m Fine Save Me” is the exception. This is one of the most beautifully written, heartbreaking, educating books that I’ve ever turned the pages on and I cannot wait to get my hands on book #2. The cliffhanger absolutely took me out, but I HIGHLY recommend giving this book a shot!
June 26, 2025
okay LJ I see you ! you've left me speechless on this one and still can't find the words to tell you how amazing this book was and how much I could feel the emotions of Tegan it was bone chilling amazing ! this will leave your soul shattered but happy at the same time a whirl wind of emotions but what I loved the most is how her husband was there through it all and understood why Tegan needed space and she holds that crown high still no matter what she's fierce and strong in my eyes ! but this ending ahhh I need more like now you left me on a cliffhanger aching My chest to know what's next!! good mental health rep book for sure a heart throbbing story ! minimal spice but that's okay I loved it !
July 29, 2025
4.75⭐️
This book was definitely an emotional read! I loved every second of it! This was a first book for me by this author and wow! I’ll definitely be reading more of their work! This was a phenomenal story! Highly recommend!
This book was definitely an emotional read! I loved every second of it! This was a first book for me by this author and wow! I’ll definitely be reading more of their work! This was a phenomenal story! Highly recommend!
June 25, 2025
I finished this within 24 hours… or did it finish me? Completely obsessed with this book and THAT CLIFFHANGER? Holy smokes do I need book two like yesterday
June 28, 2025
This book was sooo good! It was very refreshing to read a realistic look at a neurotypical and neurodivergent relationship that doesn't romanticize mental health issues. The struggles that the MMC and FMC share are easy to emphasize with. How could you not fall in love with Cooper and Tegan from the very start!
We follow their relationship from first date to many years married with all the struggles that happen with raising a child, mental health issues, awful parents (of MC'S, not MC's), and open marriage.
As this book touches on a lot of topics, please check your TW before giving this book a read. If you can handle the triggers, this book is worth the read! I felt all the emotions going through this one, it was real and deep but I'm so grateful it exists and I was able to read it.
This is book one in a duet, and we do end on a cliff, but book two will be out soon 🤞🤞🤞
Slow burn beginning, spicier ending
🌶️🌶️🌶️
We follow their relationship from first date to many years married with all the struggles that happen with raising a child, mental health issues, awful parents (of MC'S, not MC's), and open marriage.
As this book touches on a lot of topics, please check your TW before giving this book a read. If you can handle the triggers, this book is worth the read! I felt all the emotions going through this one, it was real and deep but I'm so grateful it exists and I was able to read it.
This is book one in a duet, and we do end on a cliff, but book two will be out soon 🤞🤞🤞
Slow burn beginning, spicier ending
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2025
4.5
Wow. Wow, wow, wow - well done 👏🏻 this book is a ride of raw emotion. I absolutely loved the character building, I felt something for every main character and wanted nothing more than to see them overcome the obstacles put in their way.
Tegan is an absolute powerhouse. She is one of the best FMC I've read in awhile and I love her. What she goes through and how she keeps her head held high is amazing.
It wasn't a full 5 stars for me because I felt some of it to be quite repetitive.
*Please check the TW before reading, and note that this is a Duet, so book one ends on a cliffhanger.
Wow. Wow, wow, wow - well done 👏🏻 this book is a ride of raw emotion. I absolutely loved the character building, I felt something for every main character and wanted nothing more than to see them overcome the obstacles put in their way.
Tegan is an absolute powerhouse. She is one of the best FMC I've read in awhile and I love her. What she goes through and how she keeps her head held high is amazing.
It wasn't a full 5 stars for me because I felt some of it to be quite repetitive.
*Please check the TW before reading, and note that this is a Duet, so book one ends on a cliffhanger.
June 7, 2025
A brutally honest story about holding and carrying everyone else’s world together while yours slowly and quietly falls apart 💔
And this line hit like a freight train through the chest. It wrecked me 💔
- "If I let myself break, no one will be able to take care of them while I put myself back together. They'll be lost."
That’s not just heartbreak - that’s suffocating strength. That quiet kind of pain no one sees but eats you alive inside 😢
And this line hit like a freight train through the chest. It wrecked me 💔
- "If I let myself break, no one will be able to take care of them while I put myself back together. They'll be lost."
That’s not just heartbreak - that’s suffocating strength. That quiet kind of pain no one sees but eats you alive inside 😢
May 3, 2025
I’m Fine, Save Me by LJ Daniel is a deeply moving and authentic portrayal of a journey through the complexities of love, mental health, and self-discovery. As the first installment in The Spiral Duet, this book introduces readers to Tegan, a woman navigating the challenges of being the only neurotypical person in her household, and her husband Cooper, who grapples with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism.
Daniel’s writing is both raw and poetic, capturing the nuances of Tegan and Cooper’s relationship with sensitivity and depth. One thing that I really loved was the communication between Cooper and Tegan, even through the struggles. Their love was everything. 🥹 Cooper would literally burn the world down for Tegan.
When their daughter, Hannah, is diagnosed similarly to Cooper, we see the struggle that comes with that. There’s one scene in particular where Hannah is having a meltdown that made me cry like a baby. Tegan had been battling for hours emotionally in trying to do all the intricate and necessary things needed to calm Hannah down. I could feel the anguish in Tegan, because all she wanted to do was hold her child, but in doing so it would set Hannah off further.
We also do get to see Tegan’s coping mechanisms, including her escape into online role play, and the emotional complexities that arise from those online relationships. I loved seeing Tegan’s self worth grow through this, although it had its ups and downs. When she meets Morgan through role playing, he becomes the perfect addition to Tegan and Cooper’s lives.
Daniel’s portrayal of neurodiversity and the challenges it brings to a marriage is both enlightening and compassionate. It definitely opened my eyes to the complexities of these mental health diagnoses, and what the caregiver role looks like in those situations.
Needless to say, this was 5 stars. I can’t wait for the next installment! That cliffhanger was brutal. 🥲
*thank you to the author for providing me an arc in exchange for my honest review*
dnf
June 25, 2025No funcionó para mí. Leí como el 40% del libro de corrido y otro 30% lo pasé por encima porque quería saber cómo terminaba. Obviamente no lo contaré para mi reto y lo pondré en la lista de libros abandonados.
Nota para mi:
Desde el principio es evidente que se trata de un matrimonio abierto, así que estaba preparada para el tema. Sin embargo, no me gustó cómo se manejó. Tegan y Cooper llevan más de una década juntos y actualmente están en crisis: él tiene problemas de salud mental y ella tiene que ser la fuerte y cargar con todo el peso de ayudarlo, además de ser una buena madre para su hija, quien tiene autismo. Cuando deciden abrir su matrimonio él pone una regla: ella puede tener aventuras, pero solo de forma virtual, nunca en persona. Así conoce a Morgan, un hombre también casado, con quien pronto empieza algo más que una relación online. Cooper está al tanto de todo y, sabiendo lo que su esposa soporta, acepta abrir el matrimonio para que ella pueda distraerse y despejarse.
Y ahí empieza mi problema: es evidente que Cooper solo accede porque se siente como una carga y no quiere perder a Tegan. Por otro lado, está la esposa de Morgan, quien (según él) tiene un buen matrimonio con él, aunque no son compatibles sexualmente, por lo que también ( acepta una relación abierta. Sin embargo, en ambos casos (Cooper y la esposa de Morgan), ninguno de los dos sale con otras personas, lo que me hace pensar que solo lo aceptaron para no perder a sus parejas.
Otro punto que no me gustó es que, según Morgan, ama a su esposa, pero nunca la menciona por su nombre ni habla bien de ella. Solo la menciona cuando se va a ver con Tegan, con frases como: “mientras mi esposa duerme” o “mi esposa y los niños”.
*Se ven por videollamada
Tampoco me gustó que, aunque se suponía que su aventura era solo eso, llega un punto en el que Tegan y Morgan desarrollan sentimientos y se dicen “te amo”. El final no pudo ser más conveniente para ellos, porque, aunque ella está sufriendo, todo se acomoda para que por fin puedan verse en persona y su relación avance al siguiente nivel, ya que solo queda el “obstáculo” de la esposa.
Nota para mi:
Desde el principio es evidente que se trata de un matrimonio abierto, así que estaba preparada para el tema. Sin embargo, no me gustó cómo se manejó. Tegan y Cooper llevan más de una década juntos y actualmente están en crisis: él tiene problemas de salud mental y ella tiene que ser la fuerte y cargar con todo el peso de ayudarlo, además de ser una buena madre para su hija, quien tiene autismo. Cuando deciden abrir su matrimonio él pone una regla: ella puede tener aventuras, pero solo de forma virtual, nunca en persona. Así conoce a Morgan, un hombre también casado, con quien pronto empieza algo más que una relación online. Cooper está al tanto de todo y, sabiendo lo que su esposa soporta, acepta abrir el matrimonio para que ella pueda distraerse y despejarse.
Y ahí empieza mi problema: es evidente que Cooper solo accede porque se siente como una carga y no quiere perder a Tegan. Por otro lado, está la esposa de Morgan, quien (según él) tiene un buen matrimonio con él, aunque no son compatibles sexualmente, por lo que también ( acepta una relación abierta. Sin embargo, en ambos casos (Cooper y la esposa de Morgan), ninguno de los dos sale con otras personas, lo que me hace pensar que solo lo aceptaron para no perder a sus parejas.
Otro punto que no me gustó es que, según Morgan, ama a su esposa, pero nunca la menciona por su nombre ni habla bien de ella. Solo la menciona cuando se va a ver con Tegan, con frases como: “mientras mi esposa duerme” o “mi esposa y los niños”.
*Se ven por videollamada
Tampoco me gustó que, aunque se suponía que su aventura era solo eso, llega un punto en el que Tegan y Morgan desarrollan sentimientos y se dicen “te amo”. El final no pudo ser más conveniente para ellos, porque, aunque ella está sufriendo, todo se acomoda para que por fin puedan verse en persona y su relación avance al siguiente nivel, ya que solo queda el “obstáculo” de la esposa.
September 13, 2025
I just finished this book, and inside I feel such chaos that I don’t even know how to put my thoughts into words…
What first drew me to this story was the title: I’m Fine. Save Me. The trigger warnings and disclaimer caught my attention too. The prologue prepared me for the fact that everything would be more complicated than it seemed…
And then the story itself… A love story between two people, so raw, so relatable, so honest. It had all the ups and downs, and sometimes those downs hit me hard because they mirrored pieces of my own life, my disappointments, and my wounds.
While reading, my thoughts kept running ahead, creating possible scenarios, but I never guessed anything right. I kept waiting for the moment Tegan would break, for the moment Cooper would ruin it all. But instead, I found Tegan’s immeasurable strength and love. No matter how much she was breaking inside, she always stood back up—for the people she loved. It’s impossible not to admire her.
Later in the story, Cooper’s love and his selfless care for Tegan’s happiness brought a third person into their lives—Morgan. Even though it was a long-distance relationship, he was able to give Tegan what she was missing.
And the ending… left me absolutely wrecked. 💔
What first drew me to this story was the title: I’m Fine. Save Me. The trigger warnings and disclaimer caught my attention too. The prologue prepared me for the fact that everything would be more complicated than it seemed…
And then the story itself… A love story between two people, so raw, so relatable, so honest. It had all the ups and downs, and sometimes those downs hit me hard because they mirrored pieces of my own life, my disappointments, and my wounds.
While reading, my thoughts kept running ahead, creating possible scenarios, but I never guessed anything right. I kept waiting for the moment Tegan would break, for the moment Cooper would ruin it all. But instead, I found Tegan’s immeasurable strength and love. No matter how much she was breaking inside, she always stood back up—for the people she loved. It’s impossible not to admire her.
Later in the story, Cooper’s love and his selfless care for Tegan’s happiness brought a third person into their lives—Morgan. Even though it was a long-distance relationship, he was able to give Tegan what she was missing.
And the ending… left me absolutely wrecked. 💔
June 19, 2025
This poly romance dives deep into the complexities of love, identity, and mental health, and it does it with such authenticity and grace that it felt less like reading fiction and more like sitting down with someone’s soul. Daniels doesn’t shy away from the hard things the unraveling of a marriage, the emotional exhaustion of caregiving, the unique joys and challenges of raising an autistic child but it's written with such compassion and care that it feels like a warm hand holding yours through the storm.
This story dives headfirst into mental health, trauma, and healing without flinching and it does it right. The FMC is raw, relatable, and so authentically written that I felt seen in ways I didn’t expect. And the two MMCs? Let’s just say, I would sell my soul to be in the middle of that emotional support sandwich.
Even better? The relationships are open, honest, and healthy a breath of fresh air in a genre that often romanticizes toxicity. It’s sexy without being shallow, intense without being manipulative. And just when I thought I could breath there was this CLIFFHANGER.
This story dives headfirst into mental health, trauma, and healing without flinching and it does it right. The FMC is raw, relatable, and so authentically written that I felt seen in ways I didn’t expect. And the two MMCs? Let’s just say, I would sell my soul to be in the middle of that emotional support sandwich.
Even better? The relationships are open, honest, and healthy a breath of fresh air in a genre that often romanticizes toxicity. It’s sexy without being shallow, intense without being manipulative. And just when I thought I could breath there was this CLIFFHANGER.
July 6, 2025
📚✨ I'm Fine. Save Me. by LJ Daniel
⭐️3/5 | 🌶️3/5
This book broke me quietly and then gently helped me put the pieces back together.
What stood out the most was how the story shifted the focus from the neurodivergent partner — who often gets center stage — to the quiet, internal unraveling of the caretaker. Tegan is “fine” because she thinks she has to be. Her pain isn’t loud or dramatic, but it’s deeply, achingly real. And that’s what makes this story hit so hard — it gives voice to the emotional labor so many carry in silence.
The multi-POV narrative is incredible. It doesn’t just switch perspectives — it explores how different people experience time, trauma, and healing. The way the timeline jumps worked so well; nothing felt disjointed or lost, just layered and intentional.
This isn’t a book that shouts. It whispers — truths you didn’t know you needed to hear. It doesn’t romanticize mental health or offer neat resolutions. It’s about survival, exhaustion, connection, and being seen — even when you’ve spent your whole life pretending you’re okay.
⭐️3/5 | 🌶️3/5
This book broke me quietly and then gently helped me put the pieces back together.
What stood out the most was how the story shifted the focus from the neurodivergent partner — who often gets center stage — to the quiet, internal unraveling of the caretaker. Tegan is “fine” because she thinks she has to be. Her pain isn’t loud or dramatic, but it’s deeply, achingly real. And that’s what makes this story hit so hard — it gives voice to the emotional labor so many carry in silence.
The multi-POV narrative is incredible. It doesn’t just switch perspectives — it explores how different people experience time, trauma, and healing. The way the timeline jumps worked so well; nothing felt disjointed or lost, just layered and intentional.
This isn’t a book that shouts. It whispers — truths you didn’t know you needed to hear. It doesn’t romanticize mental health or offer neat resolutions. It’s about survival, exhaustion, connection, and being seen — even when you’ve spent your whole life pretending you’re okay.
June 24, 2025
📚 Full Review:
Received as an ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 Stars
Emotional. Honest. Uncomfortably real—in all the right ways.
I’m Fine, Save Me by LJ Daniel isn’t just a story—it’s a mirror. Tegan’s journey hit so close to home that it felt like reading pieces of my own life. Her quiet unraveling, the weight she carries, the way she escapes into fictional worlds just to stay afloat—I saw myself in her again and again.
LJ Daniel writes mental health and emotional burnout with painful authenticity. The portrayal of neurodivergence, relationship strain, and the ache of being the “strong one” in a fragile world is handled with so much care. Morgan’s arrival in the story isn’t about romance or rescue—it’s about being seen when you’re disappearing under the surface.
There are no easy answers here, and that’s what makes it powerful. This book doesn’t offer a fix—it offers validation. And the cliffhanger? Let’s just say I’m counting down the days for book two.
Received as an ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 Stars
Emotional. Honest. Uncomfortably real—in all the right ways.
I’m Fine, Save Me by LJ Daniel isn’t just a story—it’s a mirror. Tegan’s journey hit so close to home that it felt like reading pieces of my own life. Her quiet unraveling, the weight she carries, the way she escapes into fictional worlds just to stay afloat—I saw myself in her again and again.
LJ Daniel writes mental health and emotional burnout with painful authenticity. The portrayal of neurodivergence, relationship strain, and the ache of being the “strong one” in a fragile world is handled with so much care. Morgan’s arrival in the story isn’t about romance or rescue—it’s about being seen when you’re disappearing under the surface.
There are no easy answers here, and that’s what makes it powerful. This book doesn’t offer a fix—it offers validation. And the cliffhanger? Let’s just say I’m counting down the days for book two.
July 7, 2025
Holy moly! Whip lash is an understatement!
I went into this intrigued and open minded, although I was not at all prepared for this, it hit deep and pulled on my heart strings. With my experience as a home health caregiver dealing with (LBD) and a former military wife familiar with the high-lows, this story struck a chord and brought up intense emotions.
The characters from the family’s dynamic is meticulously developed and descriptive in their distinct roles giving depth to the plot. Full of real life situations, family dynamics, marriage, twisted spicy bedroom shenanigans- amidst the challenges and loving devotion keeping you thoroughly engaged.
The story examines the multifaceted experiences of mental health and trauma, and was masterfully crafted while fostering hope even amidst adversity in a whirlwind cliffhanger…you are not ready for.
*Thank you to LJ Daniel and Naughty Nook PR for the early copy!*
I went into this intrigued and open minded, although I was not at all prepared for this, it hit deep and pulled on my heart strings. With my experience as a home health caregiver dealing with (LBD) and a former military wife familiar with the high-lows, this story struck a chord and brought up intense emotions.
The characters from the family’s dynamic is meticulously developed and descriptive in their distinct roles giving depth to the plot. Full of real life situations, family dynamics, marriage, twisted spicy bedroom shenanigans- amidst the challenges and loving devotion keeping you thoroughly engaged.
The story examines the multifaceted experiences of mental health and trauma, and was masterfully crafted while fostering hope even amidst adversity in a whirlwind cliffhanger…you are not ready for.
*Thank you to LJ Daniel and Naughty Nook PR for the early copy!*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2025
OMG. This book tore me up and has left me an emotional mess (in a good way). The whole time my heart was aching. I was fully and completely invested in Tegan and Cooper's story. I savored every moment of this book. It is one that will stick with me for a very long time.
These two do not have an easy life but for them it is their's. I have read several books where one of the characters is neurodivergent. However, I have to say this is the first one where I felt like the author did not truly shy away from both the person affected by being neurodivergent and their loved ones caring for them.
I have never felt so strongly about wanting to see great harm come to a character move than I do Teagan's estranged father. I despise him with every bone in my body. I hope he gets it in the conclusion to this duet. Which I need now after the major cliffhanger the author has left me with.
These two do not have an easy life but for them it is their's. I have read several books where one of the characters is neurodivergent. However, I have to say this is the first one where I felt like the author did not truly shy away from both the person affected by being neurodivergent and their loved ones caring for them.
I have never felt so strongly about wanting to see great harm come to a character move than I do Teagan's estranged father. I despise him with every bone in my body. I hope he gets it in the conclusion to this duet. Which I need now after the major cliffhanger the author has left me with.
June 19, 2025
ARC Review:
LJ WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!
I was afraid that's where the ending was going. I'm so mad at you right now.
In other news. I signed up for this ARC strictly based on the dedication. This book reminds me so much of my husband and I. My husband is wheelchair bound with a diagnosis of primary progressive ms. The way Cooper feels, that's my husband. The way Cooper gets into his head, that's my husband. It truly felt like I was reading about us.
Caregivers don't get enough credit in my opinion and I love how this book sheds light on how difficult it can be. And Tegan does it double time with her daughter AND husband.
I was living my day to day life within this book. (Just husband)
Besides that though, this was a beautiful book. Except that ending!
I am definitely eager for book 2. I hope he gets what he deserves! Iykyk.
LJ WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!
I was afraid that's where the ending was going. I'm so mad at you right now.
In other news. I signed up for this ARC strictly based on the dedication. This book reminds me so much of my husband and I. My husband is wheelchair bound with a diagnosis of primary progressive ms. The way Cooper feels, that's my husband. The way Cooper gets into his head, that's my husband. It truly felt like I was reading about us.
Caregivers don't get enough credit in my opinion and I love how this book sheds light on how difficult it can be. And Tegan does it double time with her daughter AND husband.
I was living my day to day life within this book. (Just husband)
Besides that though, this was a beautiful book. Except that ending!
I am definitely eager for book 2. I hope he gets what he deserves! Iykyk.
June 25, 2025
4.5
these characters are deeply and authentically human. the emotional turmoil of this story? wrecked me completely. this story is a deep dive into mental health, trauma, and healing.
the fmc, is wow, such a strong woman. she’s honest, raw, and relatable. she’s the only neurotypical one in her family and you see the struggles, the weight on her shoulders, and just her trying to navigate life.
the two mmcs, are wow. they are written just the same, with this emotionally rawness.
her husband copper deals with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism (their daughter also has been diagnosed). they have such great communication and the love they share was written so … just ugh! i love them! we then have morgan who becomes such a perfect and needed addition to their lives who just brings the story together.
this book is open, honest, healthy, intense, and sexy all at once.
these characters are deeply and authentically human. the emotional turmoil of this story? wrecked me completely. this story is a deep dive into mental health, trauma, and healing.
the fmc, is wow, such a strong woman. she’s honest, raw, and relatable. she’s the only neurotypical one in her family and you see the struggles, the weight on her shoulders, and just her trying to navigate life.
the two mmcs, are wow. they are written just the same, with this emotionally rawness.
her husband copper deals with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism (their daughter also has been diagnosed). they have such great communication and the love they share was written so … just ugh! i love them! we then have morgan who becomes such a perfect and needed addition to their lives who just brings the story together.
this book is open, honest, healthy, intense, and sexy all at once.
June 27, 2025
This book was a great debut, from the writing to the deeply relatable characters. The story dives into the complicated experiences of mental health and trauma, both through the POV of the MMC and through his wife who serves as his lifeline.
The relationship between Tegan and Cooper had me in tears as I admired Tegan's resilience and willpower to be a caring wife and mother. I loved that Cooper, despite his struggles with his mental health, was a doting husband who acknowledged his good and bad days and knew that his wife needed time to herself. Tegan's escape into online roleplaying shook the plot in a good way. The cliffhanger made my jaw drop. I can't wait to read book 2.
This was a powerful, emotional story that made me turn internally to my own struggles with mental health and see things in a new perspective.
*Huge thanks to LJ Daniel and Naughty Nook PR for the early copy!
The relationship between Tegan and Cooper had me in tears as I admired Tegan's resilience and willpower to be a caring wife and mother. I loved that Cooper, despite his struggles with his mental health, was a doting husband who acknowledged his good and bad days and knew that his wife needed time to herself. Tegan's escape into online roleplaying shook the plot in a good way. The cliffhanger made my jaw drop. I can't wait to read book 2.
This was a powerful, emotional story that made me turn internally to my own struggles with mental health and see things in a new perspective.
*Huge thanks to LJ Daniel and Naughty Nook PR for the early copy!
July 8, 2025
This book was incredibly well written—raw, emotional, and clearly pulled from a place of real, lived experience. You can feel the intensity behind every word. Tegan’s struggle as the only neurotypical person in her household is explored with painful honesty, and Cooper’s mental health journey is handled with realism and heart.
That said, this was a lot to read. It’s the kind of story that doesn’t offer a break from the heavy—it immerses you in it. And while I normally read to escape from reality, this book put me face-to-face with it in a way that was both uncomfortable and important. I think it will mean so much to readers who are looking to feel seen in their own chaos or find solace in someone else’s survival.
Just know going in—it ends on a cliffhanger, so prepare yourself emotionally.
That said, this was a lot to read. It’s the kind of story that doesn’t offer a break from the heavy—it immerses you in it. And while I normally read to escape from reality, this book put me face-to-face with it in a way that was both uncomfortable and important. I think it will mean so much to readers who are looking to feel seen in their own chaos or find solace in someone else’s survival.
Just know going in—it ends on a cliffhanger, so prepare yourself emotionally.
June 23, 2025
This book takes you into the lives of Cooper and Tegan. A married couple that have so much love for each other, but they also deal with such major issues inside the marriage. Cooper deals with issues of anxiety and depression and their daughter has autism.
Tegan, the superwoman of it all, holds everything on her shoulders. Having to be strong for everyone in her family. Especially with her sperm donor constantly trying to affect her life, she tries her hardest not to break.
The story takes you deep into the struggles a marriage can have. it shows you the happiest of things and the worst of things. This novel will have you tearing up. It will have you smiling, and it will have you laughing. On top of all that emotion, it makes you understand.
Tegan, the superwoman of it all, holds everything on her shoulders. Having to be strong for everyone in her family. Especially with her sperm donor constantly trying to affect her life, she tries her hardest not to break.
The story takes you deep into the struggles a marriage can have. it shows you the happiest of things and the worst of things. This novel will have you tearing up. It will have you smiling, and it will have you laughing. On top of all that emotion, it makes you understand.
June 23, 2025
ARC Review
What can I say LJ has out done herself in this book it was an amazing read.
Tegan & Cooper are married in this book and they both are fighting their demons. Tegan is a badass women in this book with her trying to deal with her self figure as she is a curvy woman who doesn’t like her body on top of their daughter having autism and Cooper having problems on his open but Cooper also tries to take care of both of them as best as he can. But I loved reading their story and really loved how LJ tied everything together.
I do have to mention that this book talks about Autism, ADHD and mental health so at some points in this book it gets very emotional.
Writing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
What can I say LJ has out done herself in this book it was an amazing read.
Tegan & Cooper are married in this book and they both are fighting their demons. Tegan is a badass women in this book with her trying to deal with her self figure as she is a curvy woman who doesn’t like her body on top of their daughter having autism and Cooper having problems on his open but Cooper also tries to take care of both of them as best as he can. But I loved reading their story and really loved how LJ tied everything together.
I do have to mention that this book talks about Autism, ADHD and mental health so at some points in this book it gets very emotional.
Writing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 24, 2025
WHAT THE F IS THIS ENDING!! I may have yelled out loud and all most throw my kindle out of the window!
What a book! I cryed through this whole book and i’m not well right now! I really am not okey right now
This was so emotional book and now i am emotional
Tegan, she is awesome, she really is amazing person and a good mother and wife
Cooper, he really loves tegan and his daughter. And his mind, i mean, he has a lot going on there! I really love him and this character so much
Morgan is sweet, i really like him!
Wayne on the other hand can burn! Really wish i could smack him with a chair, and that me being nice
I’m a total emotional mess right now and i just don’t know what to say or write, this book is so good! I’m just so all over the place right now
June 25, 2025
My ARC review
This book had me in tears; real, heart wrenching tears. It’s a deeply emotional story told from both sides of a married couple, Tegan and Cooper, who are doing everything they can to hold onto their love while life throws every possible challenge at them. The prologue alone completely pulled me in, and from there, their emotional journeys (both together and individually) hit me hard.
It’s not just a romance; it’s raw, powerful, and eye opening. One of the most beautifully written and soul crushing books I’ve ever read. I was fully invested in every page, and that cliffhanger? Absolutely wrecked me. I need book two like yesterday. If you want a love story that feels real, messy, and unforgettable; this one’s a must read.
This book had me in tears; real, heart wrenching tears. It’s a deeply emotional story told from both sides of a married couple, Tegan and Cooper, who are doing everything they can to hold onto their love while life throws every possible challenge at them. The prologue alone completely pulled me in, and from there, their emotional journeys (both together and individually) hit me hard.
It’s not just a romance; it’s raw, powerful, and eye opening. One of the most beautifully written and soul crushing books I’ve ever read. I was fully invested in every page, and that cliffhanger? Absolutely wrecked me. I need book two like yesterday. If you want a love story that feels real, messy, and unforgettable; this one’s a must read.
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