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Doll Parts
Denise Abbott has it all. When she’s not calling the shots and brokering deals at the office, she and her loving husband are supporting their son’s burgeoning music career, chauffeuring their middle daughter to the mall, and cheering for their youngest daughter on the soccer field. The perfect family with the perfect life. The only problem? She doesn’t believe she deserves any of it.
Before settling down in the posh confines of Bel Air in the early ‘90s, Denise is a fixture on the Los Angeles bar scene and in the beds of her numerous one-night stands. Serious commitments will only serve to distract from the future that’s been mapped out for her at her father’s company. But after a chance encounter with an introspective musician uncovers emotions buried deep within her, she embraces her true self and embarks on a love affair that changes not only her perspective but her entire life.
When he unexpectedly reappears nineteen years after their relationship implodes, Denise is shaken to her core. Consumed by her insecurities, she starts down a path of lies in the name of protecting her family. As reasons blur and lines are crossed, turning back becomes an impossibility. The only way forward is sifting through decades of secrets and admitting the truth, but with the wounds from her painful past still unhealed, Denise learns that the toughest lies to face are the ones she’s told herself.
Before settling down in the posh confines of Bel Air in the early ‘90s, Denise is a fixture on the Los Angeles bar scene and in the beds of her numerous one-night stands. Serious commitments will only serve to distract from the future that’s been mapped out for her at her father’s company. But after a chance encounter with an introspective musician uncovers emotions buried deep within her, she embraces her true self and embarks on a love affair that changes not only her perspective but her entire life.
When he unexpectedly reappears nineteen years after their relationship implodes, Denise is shaken to her core. Consumed by her insecurities, she starts down a path of lies in the name of protecting her family. As reasons blur and lines are crossed, turning back becomes an impossibility. The only way forward is sifting through decades of secrets and admitting the truth, but with the wounds from her painful past still unhealed, Denise learns that the toughest lies to face are the ones she’s told herself.
416 pages, Paperback
First published September 25, 2025
1 person is currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Jen Davis
2 books22 followersJen Davis lives in Nashville with her husband and daughter. When not conjuring up stories in her head, she listens to ‘80s music and forces her ornery orange tabby cat to snuggle. For Eva is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 10, 2025
Wow, this one really stuck with me, definitely a new favorite. I was completely hooked from the start and couldn’t put it down. I loved how the story jumped between past and present; it made the backstory feel so rich and helped me really understand Denise. As she worked through her marriage struggles, motherhood, and someone reappearing from her past, I found myself feeling every emotion right along with her. The characters felt so real, and the story was heartfelt without ever feeling cheesy, just raw, honest, and relatable. And that ending? Absolutely perfect. I adored every bit of this book. I did receive an advance copy for free, but this review is 100% my honest opinion.
September 22, 2025
Oh my heart. I knew from the beginning that this would be an emotional journey, but I was not expecting the gut punch to my soul by Jen’s words. Her writing is so real, so raw, and just so beautifully written. I’m sure we’ve all thought the same thoughts as Denise, and even though I got mad at her for some of her decisions, deep down I’d probably do the same.
I love the way Jen weaves two different storylines. You get present day where Denise has it all; A loving husband, kids, and a job she excels in….until her ex unexpectedly shows up into her life. Then you get flashbacks as you learn about the relationship between her and her ex (her first love). How far will Denise go to protect her family in fear of losing it all?
Denise is a flawed character (but aren’t we all?) Jen expertly writes a relatable character who is scared to show her insecurities. Human emotions are complex and Denise’s run deep. Everyone is deserving of happiness, and Denise’s journey to loving and accepting herself is one I admire 💕.
If you love emotional romances, then you MUST add this to your TBR!
I love the way Jen weaves two different storylines. You get present day where Denise has it all; A loving husband, kids, and a job she excels in….until her ex unexpectedly shows up into her life. Then you get flashbacks as you learn about the relationship between her and her ex (her first love). How far will Denise go to protect her family in fear of losing it all?
Denise is a flawed character (but aren’t we all?) Jen expertly writes a relatable character who is scared to show her insecurities. Human emotions are complex and Denise’s run deep. Everyone is deserving of happiness, and Denise’s journey to loving and accepting herself is one I admire 💕.
If you love emotional romances, then you MUST add this to your TBR!
September 10, 2025
Note: I received an Advanced Reader Copy in return for an honest review of the book.
A book that will give you all the feelings. The writing is so beautiful and the epitome of show me not tell me. Denise was such a personality in For Eva that I knew that when she got her own book it was going to be an intense ride. There’s such a beautiful depiction of how relationships morph and it really dives into how our own traumas shape those relationships. The alternating timelines woven throughout were done perfectly to maximize the emotional punch. I cried with Denise and I cheered her on when she couldn’t cheer for herself.
A book that will give you all the feelings. The writing is so beautiful and the epitome of show me not tell me. Denise was such a personality in For Eva that I knew that when she got her own book it was going to be an intense ride. There’s such a beautiful depiction of how relationships morph and it really dives into how our own traumas shape those relationships. The alternating timelines woven throughout were done perfectly to maximize the emotional punch. I cried with Denise and I cheered her on when she couldn’t cheer for herself.
September 27, 2025
Wow this book was a freaking ride! Jen quickly became an auto read author for me after LOVING For Eva so much last year. So I’m absolutely not surprised that I loved this one just as much! This is for sure going to be a fav of the year for me! I already want to reread it, and I will when I have a physical copy so I can tab, tab, tab 😂😍.
Denise is far from a perfect FMC, and she deals with so much through her life leaving her feeling like she doesn’t deserve love or is unworthy of it. Yes, there is romance in here, but it’s so much more than that. This is more so, in my opinion, a story about growth and overcoming and defining trauma in her life, and how it affects her relationships with herself and others. This was definitely heartbreaking and hard to read at times but worth it for the hope we get at the end. This was super emotional and there is definitely some pretty heavy things that go on, so take that into consideration. Denise’s journey from beginning to end and her growth was amazing and beautiful and I loved how everything that happens in here was done. I LOVED the ending of this book and thought that it was PERFECTION for Denise and Marcos and their story ❤️👏
Jen’s writing is absolutely beautiful and it makes it so easy to just binge her books because you won’t want to put them down! She really does an amazing job with these heavier topics and I cannot recommend her books enough!
Denise is far from a perfect FMC, and she deals with so much through her life leaving her feeling like she doesn’t deserve love or is unworthy of it. Yes, there is romance in here, but it’s so much more than that. This is more so, in my opinion, a story about growth and overcoming and defining trauma in her life, and how it affects her relationships with herself and others. This was definitely heartbreaking and hard to read at times but worth it for the hope we get at the end. This was super emotional and there is definitely some pretty heavy things that go on, so take that into consideration. Denise’s journey from beginning to end and her growth was amazing and beautiful and I loved how everything that happens in here was done. I LOVED the ending of this book and thought that it was PERFECTION for Denise and Marcos and their story ❤️👏
Jen’s writing is absolutely beautiful and it makes it so easy to just binge her books because you won’t want to put them down! She really does an amazing job with these heavier topics and I cannot recommend her books enough!
September 14, 2025
Thank you so much for allowing me to read an ARC copy! *This review does contain some spoilers*
Denise is a complex character dealing with a lot of trauma and self-worth. Following her journey with loving an addict, wearing a mask in a new relationship, and doing her best to right her decisions, I felt empathetic for her. As a lot of us have maybe had some experience with loving someone with addiction, we know how hard it is to separate the addict from the person. Christian portrayed the depths of addiction well, the deceit, but also the love. I will say I felt like he was manipulative towards the end and I was rooting for him to make things right, but showing up to Denise's house and blowing everything up threw me. I can understand Denise not wanting to face the past, open up old wounds, or hurt the family with the truth. Following her character development and seeing how much she grew in those last few chapters was empowering. Taking ownership of her mistakes and doing her best to right her wrongs.
I will say I do wish there was an epilogue or if there's a second part coming out that shows her son's side of things finding out who his father is. But I enjoyed the writing, I was immediately sucked in, and this book delivered and exceeded my expectations. I loved the banter between Denise and her best friend. There was humor, love, heartbreak, and some spice. Thoroughly enjoyed and cannot wait to read more by this author.
Denise is a complex character dealing with a lot of trauma and self-worth. Following her journey with loving an addict, wearing a mask in a new relationship, and doing her best to right her decisions, I felt empathetic for her. As a lot of us have maybe had some experience with loving someone with addiction, we know how hard it is to separate the addict from the person. Christian portrayed the depths of addiction well, the deceit, but also the love. I will say I felt like he was manipulative towards the end and I was rooting for him to make things right, but showing up to Denise's house and blowing everything up threw me. I can understand Denise not wanting to face the past, open up old wounds, or hurt the family with the truth. Following her character development and seeing how much she grew in those last few chapters was empowering. Taking ownership of her mistakes and doing her best to right her wrongs.
I will say I do wish there was an epilogue or if there's a second part coming out that shows her son's side of things finding out who his father is. But I enjoyed the writing, I was immediately sucked in, and this book delivered and exceeded my expectations. I loved the banter between Denise and her best friend. There was humor, love, heartbreak, and some spice. Thoroughly enjoyed and cannot wait to read more by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2025
Doll Parts By Jen Davis
This book follows a dual timeline as we switch between Denise as an adult (successful businesswoman, perfect husband and children), and a young Denise that is searching for love and acceptance. When we first meet Denise, she is a 15-year-old girl desperate for attention from her emotionally absent mother and a father whose love is conditional on her behavior, goals and achievements. Denise craves the love and acceptance she isn’t receiving at home, and we follow her as she makes reckless choices over and over again into adulthood. During this period of her life, we are introduced to Christian. Christian is able to break through Denise’s emotional walls and loves exactly as she is. Christian however has his own demons to deal with and can’t break free of the grip heroin has on him.
Denise’s struggles are chaotic and heartbreaking but eventually she finds a way to settle into a life and marriage that seems perfect even if she doesn’t believe she deserves it. Christian reappears in her life after 19 years, threatening to shatter the perfect image she has so carefully curated to hide her past. This book was so raw and powerful in its emotion. The author really did such an incredible job portraying all the emotions and tension as Denise gradually loses her control over her situation. The ending was not how I expected things to resolve, but after reflecting on it I really can’t imagine any other ending. It didn’t tie things up in a neat bow, but it left me with a sense of hope. You can’t plan for all the variables life can throw at you. Life is messy and chaotic and sometimes heartbreaking, but you can grow through it, and I can believe that Denise will be better for it in the end.
*Trigger warnings: This book deals with Heroin use and addiction. There are several spicy scenes as well.
This book follows a dual timeline as we switch between Denise as an adult (successful businesswoman, perfect husband and children), and a young Denise that is searching for love and acceptance. When we first meet Denise, she is a 15-year-old girl desperate for attention from her emotionally absent mother and a father whose love is conditional on her behavior, goals and achievements. Denise craves the love and acceptance she isn’t receiving at home, and we follow her as she makes reckless choices over and over again into adulthood. During this period of her life, we are introduced to Christian. Christian is able to break through Denise’s emotional walls and loves exactly as she is. Christian however has his own demons to deal with and can’t break free of the grip heroin has on him.
Denise’s struggles are chaotic and heartbreaking but eventually she finds a way to settle into a life and marriage that seems perfect even if she doesn’t believe she deserves it. Christian reappears in her life after 19 years, threatening to shatter the perfect image she has so carefully curated to hide her past. This book was so raw and powerful in its emotion. The author really did such an incredible job portraying all the emotions and tension as Denise gradually loses her control over her situation. The ending was not how I expected things to resolve, but after reflecting on it I really can’t imagine any other ending. It didn’t tie things up in a neat bow, but it left me with a sense of hope. You can’t plan for all the variables life can throw at you. Life is messy and chaotic and sometimes heartbreaking, but you can grow through it, and I can believe that Denise will be better for it in the end.
*Trigger warnings: This book deals with Heroin use and addiction. There are several spicy scenes as well.
September 21, 2025
Denise has everything. A doting husband, three kids and an amazing career as a CEO. There’s no such thing though as a perfect life because Denise constantly has a voice in her head reminding her that she doesn’t deserve any of it.
Her mother is only interested in herself and her money and her father is obsessed with work and his money. She’s always felt abandoned. Like she was unloveable. And she’s lived her whole life vying for her mother’s love only to be dismissed every time.
Because of this, Denise spends her teenage and young adult life as a promiscuous woman who refuses to let anyone into her life, besides her best friends Eva and Beau. That is until one day she meets an aspiring musician, Christian, who starts peeling away her layers and connects with her on a level she’s never experienced.
When her relationship with Christian implodes at the worst point in her life, she turns to her now current husband who loves her for who she is - or who she wants him to think she is.
When Christian returns 19 years later, she starts to question everything and tries to keep old secrets buried. This isn’t necessarily a love story, but a story about learning to love yourself.
I loved how messy and painful these relationships got. It’s real. It’s raw and it’s real life. I won’t forget about this for a long time. If you wanna be all in your feels, this one is a must. You’ll be rooting for Denise every step of the way.
Thanks to Jen Davis for the arc!
Her mother is only interested in herself and her money and her father is obsessed with work and his money. She’s always felt abandoned. Like she was unloveable. And she’s lived her whole life vying for her mother’s love only to be dismissed every time.
Because of this, Denise spends her teenage and young adult life as a promiscuous woman who refuses to let anyone into her life, besides her best friends Eva and Beau. That is until one day she meets an aspiring musician, Christian, who starts peeling away her layers and connects with her on a level she’s never experienced.
When her relationship with Christian implodes at the worst point in her life, she turns to her now current husband who loves her for who she is - or who she wants him to think she is.
When Christian returns 19 years later, she starts to question everything and tries to keep old secrets buried. This isn’t necessarily a love story, but a story about learning to love yourself.
I loved how messy and painful these relationships got. It’s real. It’s raw and it’s real life. I won’t forget about this for a long time. If you wanna be all in your feels, this one is a must. You’ll be rooting for Denise every step of the way.
Thanks to Jen Davis for the arc!
September 22, 2025
Fans of For Eva will be so excited to get another look at her world, only this time, we get to know all about Denise. Due to childhood trauma, Denise has developed a tough as nails exterior and she is determined to not let anyone in. She's kicking ass in her dad's film financial firm by day and hitting the bars on Sunset Blvd by night. But, of course, the harder you try to hide from love, the quicker it finds you. Told from 2 different timelines you get a full picture of two very different love stories, but the most important one, may be the one you least expect.
I loved diving back into this world Denise and Eva. Their friendship is such a special one and reminds me of a my closest friends. This story is also about how Denise needs to heal herself, and realize that she is worthy of the love she doesn't think she deserves. This book also has a little more *spice* because, let's face it...that's Denise! The writing in this book is so good that I saw and felt pieces of myself in it. And if any of the above sounds like you've been there before, it will do the same for you.
What I loved about this book:
-multiple timelines
-90's nostalgia
-the love story(s)
-the realistic look at being involved with an addict
-the breaking of a cycle
Thank you so much to Jen Davis for the ARC! I have been so excited about this since her announcement that it was coming.
Expected publication date: September 25th, 2025
I loved diving back into this world Denise and Eva. Their friendship is such a special one and reminds me of a my closest friends. This story is also about how Denise needs to heal herself, and realize that she is worthy of the love she doesn't think she deserves. This book also has a little more *spice* because, let's face it...that's Denise! The writing in this book is so good that I saw and felt pieces of myself in it. And if any of the above sounds like you've been there before, it will do the same for you.
What I loved about this book:
-multiple timelines
-90's nostalgia
-the love story(s)
-the realistic look at being involved with an addict
-the breaking of a cycle
Thank you so much to Jen Davis for the ARC! I have been so excited about this since her announcement that it was coming.
Expected publication date: September 25th, 2025
November 8, 2025
A Masterclass in Emotional Honesty and Healing
This book is a breathtaking exploration of the human spirit—raw, tender, and profoundly moving. From the very first page, I was struck by how authentically the author captures the quiet ache of vulnerability. The main character is Denise, who we first met in author Jen Davis’ first book: For Eva. This book explores her journey through self-doubt and imposter syndrome and her struggle is portrayed with such nuance that I often found myself nodding in recognition, feeling seen in ways I hadn’t expected.
What truly sets this story apart, though, is its unflinching look at the long shadows cast by a neglectful, self-absorbed, probably narcissistic parent. Rather than offering easy resolutions, the narrative honors the complexity of healing—how it’s rarely linear, often messy, and deeply personal. The emotional growth is gradual and hard-won, making the moments of clarity and self-acceptance all the more powerful.
This isn’t just a story—it’s a mirror, a balm, and a quiet revolution. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling “not enough,” or wrestled with the echoes of a painful past, this book will meet you where you are and walk with you toward healing.
This book is a breathtaking exploration of the human spirit—raw, tender, and profoundly moving. From the very first page, I was struck by how authentically the author captures the quiet ache of vulnerability. The main character is Denise, who we first met in author Jen Davis’ first book: For Eva. This book explores her journey through self-doubt and imposter syndrome and her struggle is portrayed with such nuance that I often found myself nodding in recognition, feeling seen in ways I hadn’t expected.
What truly sets this story apart, though, is its unflinching look at the long shadows cast by a neglectful, self-absorbed, probably narcissistic parent. Rather than offering easy resolutions, the narrative honors the complexity of healing—how it’s rarely linear, often messy, and deeply personal. The emotional growth is gradual and hard-won, making the moments of clarity and self-acceptance all the more powerful.
This isn’t just a story—it’s a mirror, a balm, and a quiet revolution. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling “not enough,” or wrestled with the echoes of a painful past, this book will meet you where you are and walk with you toward healing.
September 5, 2025
Thank you to the author for the chance to read an electronic ARC of Doll Parts!
Doll Parts instantly had me invested in the story and my interest never wavered. This story was emotional, nostalgic, hopeful, and witty all at once. Denise’s competing emotions were written in a way that made perfect sense. You could feel how she felt for Christian, all the different things she felt, and feel her guilt and love for Marcos and her family (this would be easy to understand due to how perfect Marcos is, but you can actually feel it as well).
The experiences and trauma underlying Denise’s actions are at the heart of the story and her journey is handled with hope, insight, and depth. I also loved the alternating timelines, which provided great insight into Denise along with nostalgic touches.
There is a tiny bit of spice, a lot of wit, and such an interesting emotional journey in this story. I highly recommend!
I have had Doll Parts’ predecessor companion book For Eva on my list to reed for a while, but now I have actually purchased it and it’s ready to go. Eva is such a great friend to Denise in this story and I can’t wait to get to know her better.
I’m hoping there might be a third story in the works also…maybe focused on Christian? Please? 😬
Doll Parts instantly had me invested in the story and my interest never wavered. This story was emotional, nostalgic, hopeful, and witty all at once. Denise’s competing emotions were written in a way that made perfect sense. You could feel how she felt for Christian, all the different things she felt, and feel her guilt and love for Marcos and her family (this would be easy to understand due to how perfect Marcos is, but you can actually feel it as well).
The experiences and trauma underlying Denise’s actions are at the heart of the story and her journey is handled with hope, insight, and depth. I also loved the alternating timelines, which provided great insight into Denise along with nostalgic touches.
There is a tiny bit of spice, a lot of wit, and such an interesting emotional journey in this story. I highly recommend!
I have had Doll Parts’ predecessor companion book For Eva on my list to reed for a while, but now I have actually purchased it and it’s ready to go. Eva is such a great friend to Denise in this story and I can’t wait to get to know her better.
I’m hoping there might be a third story in the works also…maybe focused on Christian? Please? 😬
September 23, 2025
When you first pick this book up, you may think it’s your typical romance, boy meets girl, both have sordid backstories that make them soulmates, then it gets messy. But you’d be so wrong.
Jen Davis has again managed to mix a dual time POV masterfully, showing the Denise of the “now” and Denise of “then”, building the traditional messy love story alongside, the adult messy after story. The way the two intertwine to give us the whole picture of who Denise is and how she thinks is perfect, setting the stage for the ultimate third act breakup.
Denise’s story is so sad, I felt like reaching through the book to give her the biggest hug through all of it. Jen’s turn of phrase is so artful, that she really hits home the dilemma brewing inside of Denise; how to love when you’re never the one chosen. “If I pull my heart out, how long can I stay alive till I have to put it back in? Can I hold it in my hand, find out what I need to know, then reattach the chords and drive away?”
This book is a must read. It will make you laugh, cry, yell, and everything in between.
Jen Davis has again managed to mix a dual time POV masterfully, showing the Denise of the “now” and Denise of “then”, building the traditional messy love story alongside, the adult messy after story. The way the two intertwine to give us the whole picture of who Denise is and how she thinks is perfect, setting the stage for the ultimate third act breakup.
Denise’s story is so sad, I felt like reaching through the book to give her the biggest hug through all of it. Jen’s turn of phrase is so artful, that she really hits home the dilemma brewing inside of Denise; how to love when you’re never the one chosen. “If I pull my heart out, how long can I stay alive till I have to put it back in? Can I hold it in my hand, find out what I need to know, then reattach the chords and drive away?”
This book is a must read. It will make you laugh, cry, yell, and everything in between.
October 1, 2025
Doll Parts
My heart.
Oh. My. Heart.
It’s been ripped out of my body and shredded.
If you love a story centered around flawed characters, THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU!
I’m just going to introduce the characters to you. I’m not going to give you ANY plot points. Because once you meet the players, you’re going to want to read their story. I want you to have the first experience for yourself. Go in blind. TRUST ME.
FMC: Denise
You are going to love Denise. You are going to identify with Denise’s choices, or at least understand the “why.” At times, you’re going to cheer for her and at times you’re going to want to shake her. Readers meet Denise as a teenager and follow her into adulthood.
MMC 1: Christian
Oh, fun, confident Christian. He’s the one willing to push the boundaries, understands Denise, is chasing his dream. Christian is the “bad boy” (but not) that you want to love. He and Denise understand each other in a most fundamental way.
MMC 2: Marcos
Solid, dependable, loving, handsome Marcos. What’s not to love and adore about him? Like Denise, there were times when I cheered for Marcos and times I was deeply…not cheering for him.
Do you get the sense that these characters are fully developed and nuanced and real?
So what kind of story are you getting here?
Romance? Mmmmm….no. But there is love.
Family drama? Mmmmm…no. But there is definitely drama.
Coming of age? Mmmmmm. Maybe. I mean, there is growing up.
What you’re going to get is a deeply personal look at growing into adulthood and making choices and how those choices impact the future, as well as those you love.
Denise is my friend now. She’s going to live rent free for a long, long time.
My heart.
Oh. My. Heart.
It’s been ripped out of my body and shredded.
If you love a story centered around flawed characters, THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU!
I’m just going to introduce the characters to you. I’m not going to give you ANY plot points. Because once you meet the players, you’re going to want to read their story. I want you to have the first experience for yourself. Go in blind. TRUST ME.
FMC: Denise
You are going to love Denise. You are going to identify with Denise’s choices, or at least understand the “why.” At times, you’re going to cheer for her and at times you’re going to want to shake her. Readers meet Denise as a teenager and follow her into adulthood.
MMC 1: Christian
Oh, fun, confident Christian. He’s the one willing to push the boundaries, understands Denise, is chasing his dream. Christian is the “bad boy” (but not) that you want to love. He and Denise understand each other in a most fundamental way.
MMC 2: Marcos
Solid, dependable, loving, handsome Marcos. What’s not to love and adore about him? Like Denise, there were times when I cheered for Marcos and times I was deeply…not cheering for him.
Do you get the sense that these characters are fully developed and nuanced and real?
So what kind of story are you getting here?
Romance? Mmmmm….no. But there is love.
Family drama? Mmmmm…no. But there is definitely drama.
Coming of age? Mmmmmm. Maybe. I mean, there is growing up.
What you’re going to get is a deeply personal look at growing into adulthood and making choices and how those choices impact the future, as well as those you love.
Denise is my friend now. She’s going to live rent free for a long, long time.
October 14, 2025
I loved Doll Parts so much. After falling in love with Jen Davis’ writing in For Eva (still one of my favorite reads of last year!), I could not wait to pick this one up, and wow, it did not disappoint.
This is a heavy book. There are serious trigger warnings, so definitely reach out and ask if you need them. The story is tough, but that’s what makes it so powerful. Jen has this way of writing that makes you feel every single thing right alongside her characters. I felt gripped, intrigued, and completely gutted at times. The sadness of the elements of this story being a reality of our world was not wasted on me.
I actually related with Denise in this story so much more than I expected, and the way Jen wrote her storyline was so accurate and so real I couldn’t believe it. It hit me hard in the best way, and made me connect with the story even deeper.
Her writing is just incredible. The characters stick with you long after you finish, and the whole experience leaves you thinking and feeling for days. Jen deserves all the accolades for what she’s done with this story.
This is a heavy book. There are serious trigger warnings, so definitely reach out and ask if you need them. The story is tough, but that’s what makes it so powerful. Jen has this way of writing that makes you feel every single thing right alongside her characters. I felt gripped, intrigued, and completely gutted at times. The sadness of the elements of this story being a reality of our world was not wasted on me.
I actually related with Denise in this story so much more than I expected, and the way Jen wrote her storyline was so accurate and so real I couldn’t believe it. It hit me hard in the best way, and made me connect with the story even deeper.
Her writing is just incredible. The characters stick with you long after you finish, and the whole experience leaves you thinking and feeling for days. Jen deserves all the accolades for what she’s done with this story.
September 4, 2025
Review: Doll Parts by Jen Davis
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
Jen Davis delivers a compelling and deeply resonant story in Doll Parts. While I haven’t lived the same experiences as Denise, the FMC, I found myself connecting with her on an emotional level. Denise’s journey is raw and relatable, exploring the weight of breaking cycles, the strain of marriage struggles, and the complexities of rediscovering one’s identity.
The novel strikes a powerful balance between heartache and hope, drawing readers into Denise’s world with authenticity and depth. Davis’s prose captures not only the emotional nuances of her character’s struggles but also the nostalgic backdrop of the 90s/00s, which adds texture and atmosphere without overpowering the narrative.
Hard to put down and thought-provoking in equal measure, Doll Parts is a poignant exploration of resilience and self-discovery that lingers long after the last page. Jen Davis is definitely an author to watch.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
Jen Davis delivers a compelling and deeply resonant story in Doll Parts. While I haven’t lived the same experiences as Denise, the FMC, I found myself connecting with her on an emotional level. Denise’s journey is raw and relatable, exploring the weight of breaking cycles, the strain of marriage struggles, and the complexities of rediscovering one’s identity.
The novel strikes a powerful balance between heartache and hope, drawing readers into Denise’s world with authenticity and depth. Davis’s prose captures not only the emotional nuances of her character’s struggles but also the nostalgic backdrop of the 90s/00s, which adds texture and atmosphere without overpowering the narrative.
Hard to put down and thought-provoking in equal measure, Doll Parts is a poignant exploration of resilience and self-discovery that lingers long after the last page. Jen Davis is definitely an author to watch.
October 1, 2025
This was my first read by Jen Davis. I was excited to get an eARC for an honest review. Truth be told, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I started the book and saw the list of chapters and thought this book was going to give me whiplash going back in time and current time. Honestly, Jen did an amazing job and that dual timeline was perfection!
This book destroyed me. I loved Denise, but hated that she had so many struggles in her life at such a young age. I felt like a lot of her story was relatable to my own with my parents. I loved her life that she made for herself and I loved the life she had with Marcos. It guts me that Christian came back into her life and literally turned the world upside down. I hate him for that! But, I’m so happy Denise was able to seek help with therapy. It was amazing big to see her grow and understand herself better. This book was most definitely a 5 star read for me because it made me fell so many emotions.
This book destroyed me. I loved Denise, but hated that she had so many struggles in her life at such a young age. I felt like a lot of her story was relatable to my own with my parents. I loved her life that she made for herself and I loved the life she had with Marcos. It guts me that Christian came back into her life and literally turned the world upside down. I hate him for that! But, I’m so happy Denise was able to seek help with therapy. It was amazing big to see her grow and understand herself better. This book was most definitely a 5 star read for me because it made me fell so many emotions.
October 15, 2025
✨Book Review ✨
Title: Doll Parts
Author: Jen Davis
Genre: Fiction
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Launch 🚀 Date: September 25, 2025
I finished Doll Parts a couple of days ago but needed some time to consider the wounds of the past that the main character, Denise, doesn’t want to share with even her closest of friends. This book travels through an intense healing journey that has many life lessons for everyone. I found Denise to be very relatable and her insecurities, though well-hidden, influence her decisions throughout her life. The ending gave hope that Denise was on the path for a better future achieving what she wants instead of doing everything for everyone else and trying to live up to her parents warped sense of love. Because of their conditional love while growing up, Denise has complicated relationships throughout her life.
IYKYK - To all the cycle breakers out there, this one’s for you!
Trigger warnings: spicy 🌶️ scenes and heroin addition.
Thank you @authorJenDavis for the ARC! You knocked this one out of the park. 😉
#bookreview #arcreviewer #bookstagram #arcreader
Title: Doll Parts
Author: Jen Davis
Genre: Fiction
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Launch 🚀 Date: September 25, 2025
I finished Doll Parts a couple of days ago but needed some time to consider the wounds of the past that the main character, Denise, doesn’t want to share with even her closest of friends. This book travels through an intense healing journey that has many life lessons for everyone. I found Denise to be very relatable and her insecurities, though well-hidden, influence her decisions throughout her life. The ending gave hope that Denise was on the path for a better future achieving what she wants instead of doing everything for everyone else and trying to live up to her parents warped sense of love. Because of their conditional love while growing up, Denise has complicated relationships throughout her life.
IYKYK - To all the cycle breakers out there, this one’s for you!
Trigger warnings: spicy 🌶️ scenes and heroin addition.
Thank you @authorJenDavis for the ARC! You knocked this one out of the park. 😉
#bookreview #arcreviewer #bookstagram #arcreader
September 4, 2025
🩵🎸 𝓓𝓸𝓵𝓵 𝓟𝓪𝓻𝓽𝓼🎸🩵
⭐️ 5
🌶️ 1
When I tell you I could not put this book down… I only had one break with it… I have been so excited to get into Denise’s story after finishing For Eva 😍
Denise and Christian’s story has some hard topics, but the character growth in this is phenomenal. It’s shocking and heartwarming all in one, and I just wanted to jump back to 2010 and give Denise a hug 🥹
From the first page - 𝒯𝑜 𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒸𝓎𝒸𝓁𝑒-𝒷𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓇𝓈 𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒, 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝑜𝓃𝑒’𝓈 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓎𝑜𝓊.
I have fallen In love with all the characters in this book, as it did with the first one 💕 definitely wouldn’t turn down a chance to read a book about Lucas, Beau and even maybe more of Christian, I definitely want a bit more of him!
Thank you so much Jen for this ARC! Was a kick start read for my honeymoon and has set the bar high for my other reads in September 😍
⭐️ 5
🌶️ 1
When I tell you I could not put this book down… I only had one break with it… I have been so excited to get into Denise’s story after finishing For Eva 😍
Denise and Christian’s story has some hard topics, but the character growth in this is phenomenal. It’s shocking and heartwarming all in one, and I just wanted to jump back to 2010 and give Denise a hug 🥹
From the first page - 𝒯𝑜 𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒸𝓎𝒸𝓁𝑒-𝒷𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓇𝓈 𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒, 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝑜𝓃𝑒’𝓈 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓎𝑜𝓊.
I have fallen In love with all the characters in this book, as it did with the first one 💕 definitely wouldn’t turn down a chance to read a book about Lucas, Beau and even maybe more of Christian, I definitely want a bit more of him!
Thank you so much Jen for this ARC! Was a kick start read for my honeymoon and has set the bar high for my other reads in September 😍
October 7, 2025
I read For Eva, Jen’s first release just a couple of months before Doll Parts was released and I was obsessed! This second book was written a little differently, from one POV, but it was really, really wonderful. Denise was so fun in the first book, I was definitely interested in her story. She had really been through it in life, and created a façade to be who she thought she was supposed to. I’m loving stories about women in their 30s/40s who are having epiphanies about all the things in their childhood and young adulthood that shaped who they are, and the decisions they make now. There is a piece of the story (no spoilers!) that I struggled with; but again, the background on Denise does help the reader understand her motivations behind her actions. I also could’ve used just a little bit more at the end, the conclusion felt a little abrupt after the long journey, in my opinion. Overall, this is a great read, definitely romance is involved but much more about a woman’s journey to healing. Thank you, Jen, for the advanced copy!
September 1, 2025
This story shows you raw and real life trauma and emotional pain from your past life experiences that have a negative impact. Marcos Navarro is such a loving husband and father. They have a great family and wonderful life together. His wife of 18 years Denise, a 46 y/o with buried childhood trauma that was never addressed or dealt with. She makes the biggest mistake that impacts the family dinamic.
I really enjoyed this book but felt that it was rushed toward the ending and needed more closure in the final chapter. There was too much backstory. The going back and forth with the timelines lost me a bit. It was hard to stay focused. I skimmed through the backstory a bit. I wanted to read more of the present day and less about the past.
I really enjoyed this book but felt that it was rushed toward the ending and needed more closure in the final chapter. There was too much backstory. The going back and forth with the timelines lost me a bit. It was hard to stay focused. I skimmed through the backstory a bit. I wanted to read more of the present day and less about the past.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2025
This book will take you on a journey. It's a love story, but in a non-traditional sense. It's a coming of age story, but with an older, more mature leading lady. It's a family drama, but the characters won't realize it for quite some time. It's a story of self love, but you are going to work through a lot of pain to get there. You will laugh with Denise, cry with her, you will want to shake her by her shoulder, and then give her a hug. Be prepared to go on an emotional rollercoaster with unexpected twists and falls, but still an ending that feels peaceful and right.
You don't have to read For Eva before reading Doll Parts, but I highly recommend it to fall in love with Denise before getting on this crazy ride with her!
You don't have to read For Eva before reading Doll Parts, but I highly recommend it to fall in love with Denise before getting on this crazy ride with her!
September 3, 2025
Thank you to Jen Davis for the chance to read this ARC book! Denise is married to a wonderful husband and has three children. They spend time with their kids and seem to have it all. Denise, however, is still not over her past. One being her childhood and the other her wild days partying in the 90's, drinking, and sleeping around. She has a past, but her husband still stands by her - until she does something he never thought she'd do again. Secrets are discovered. Denise must now fight for what matters most to her. #childhoodtrauma #family #dualtimelines #toxiccycles # healingjourney #torturedlove #selfdiscovery
August 29, 2025
I had the privilege of being an ARC reader for this book. I absolutely loved it and the storyline. Denise had a hard upbringing always longing to fit in. And this book takes you through her life from teens, to falling in love with a heroin addict, and then having someone come along and completely love her and give her the family she always wanted but never felt like she deserved. The only reason I gave it 4 stars and not 5 is because I needed more from the ending. I went through so many emotions with this book and I just needed there to be more to the story.
September 21, 2025
I was given an arc copy of this book.
This book opens up with a scene that
just draws you in and shocks you all
at the same time!
This story goes back and forth between
the past and the present, we walk along
side Denise as she grows up and
overcomes so many traumas.
Denise’s story is descriptive, it’s raw,
it’s beautiful, it’s heart-wrenching.
I really wanted more from the ending. It
was unfortunately open ended. Even an
epilogue would have been fantastic!
Trigger warnings: drug abuse, cheating
Not closed door
This book opens up with a scene that
just draws you in and shocks you all
at the same time!
This story goes back and forth between
the past and the present, we walk along
side Denise as she grows up and
overcomes so many traumas.
Denise’s story is descriptive, it’s raw,
it’s beautiful, it’s heart-wrenching.
I really wanted more from the ending. It
was unfortunately open ended. Even an
epilogue would have been fantastic!
Trigger warnings: drug abuse, cheating
Not closed door
September 21, 2025
I received this ARC in return for an honest review.
This book was just really not for me. I honestly wouldn’t have finished it if it wasn’t an ARC. I forced myself to continue reading it to the end, hoping that it would get better for me. I didn’t really enjoy Denise as a character. And I didn’t like how she basically did what was predictable. I liked Marcos until the end when he wouldn’t even give Denise a chance to talk. I love a story that goes back and forth from past to present, and that was done well in this book. I just didn’t really enjoy much else here
This book was just really not for me. I honestly wouldn’t have finished it if it wasn’t an ARC. I forced myself to continue reading it to the end, hoping that it would get better for me. I didn’t really enjoy Denise as a character. And I didn’t like how she basically did what was predictable. I liked Marcos until the end when he wouldn’t even give Denise a chance to talk. I love a story that goes back and forth from past to present, and that was done well in this book. I just didn’t really enjoy much else here
September 22, 2025
This book completely captured me from the very beginning! It had so many components that melded together effortlessly. The MFC pulled on my heartstrings with everything she went through and I felt her joy, anger, sadness and resilience through every page! I really liked the storytelling telling from a past and present kind of way, giving the reader a thorough look into the events that led up to the ending. It was easy to follow and I could not put it down! Spice level, 2/5. Not overly dramatic, but just enough spice. This was an amazing book and one I highly recommend!
October 28, 2025
Look I REALLY loved For Eva but ultimately Denise is my GIRL and you can’t tell me NOTHIN about her.
Jen Davis has such an incredible way of describing emotion and putting you in the moment with her characters and making you want to want to scream at them and smack them but also give them a big hug because the story lets you in on why they do what they do so perfectly that you feel ALL the things they’re feeling. After experiencing what she’s done with her first two novels, I absolutely cannot wait to see what she does next.
Jen Davis has such an incredible way of describing emotion and putting you in the moment with her characters and making you want to want to scream at them and smack them but also give them a big hug because the story lets you in on why they do what they do so perfectly that you feel ALL the things they’re feeling. After experiencing what she’s done with her first two novels, I absolutely cannot wait to see what she does next.
September 25, 2025
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Doll Parts is packed with 90s nostalgic and takes you fully on an emotional journey. I loved the varying timelines and they wove together to create a well-rounded story.
I was rooting for Denise from the beginning and the writing was so potent!! This novel was thought provoking and there was so much to it, I’ll be unpacking it for a few days. It sticks with you!
Definitely check out Doll Parts, out 9/25/25!
Doll Parts is packed with 90s nostalgic and takes you fully on an emotional journey. I loved the varying timelines and they wove together to create a well-rounded story.
I was rooting for Denise from the beginning and the writing was so potent!! This novel was thought provoking and there was so much to it, I’ll be unpacking it for a few days. It sticks with you!
Definitely check out Doll Parts, out 9/25/25!
October 17, 2025
This book was the jelly to my peanut butter! I thought I loved For Eva, and I still do, but Denise pulled a string that was so emotional for me. This book had everything I wanted and more. The emotional journey I took with this one is rarely evoked, Jen's writing has developed and it shines in this book. I want every woman in my life to read Doll Parts because it is about writing your own ending, finding a sense of self through trauma and darkness, and rebuilding stronger than before.
September 16, 2025
I was an ARC reader for this book and I want to say THANK YOU!
This book took me on so many personal roller coasters. I felt like I was reliving my childhood and adulthood with therapy all over again.
The emotions I had were so real. And let me just say this, Denise is such a strong woman for everything she endured. I couldn’t relate so much to a character. 🤍
This book took me on so many personal roller coasters. I felt like I was reliving my childhood and adulthood with therapy all over again.
The emotions I had were so real. And let me just say this, Denise is such a strong woman for everything she endured. I couldn’t relate so much to a character. 🤍
September 25, 2025
I couldn’t put this down! And when it ended, I wanted more! Jen Davis brings her characters to life in such a realistic way — it feels like I know them! If you want to escape to a different world and leave this one behind for a bit, grab this book and dive right in! I can’t wait to read the next Jen Davis novel. She’s an incredibly talented author!
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