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Heart in the Clouds
It’s 2011 and Savaya Johnson has just turned 30.
To celebrate escaping a monster, she travels solo to Seattle, where there are places to see, things to do, and apparently, Kai Callaghan, someone who treated her and her friends badly in high school. Kai, who she's pined after during long nights spent aching from unwanted bruises and self-inflicted wounds.
With his friends and new experiences, Kai shows her that change isn't so black-and-white and that sometimes, an instant connection can turn into so much more. Over the course of fourteen days, Savaya will learn what it means to accept her past, embrace her scars, and heal.
And perhaps she'll fall in love along the way.
To celebrate escaping a monster, she travels solo to Seattle, where there are places to see, things to do, and apparently, Kai Callaghan, someone who treated her and her friends badly in high school. Kai, who she's pined after during long nights spent aching from unwanted bruises and self-inflicted wounds.
With his friends and new experiences, Kai shows her that change isn't so black-and-white and that sometimes, an instant connection can turn into so much more. Over the course of fourteen days, Savaya will learn what it means to accept her past, embrace her scars, and heal.
And perhaps she'll fall in love along the way.
346 pages, Paperback
Published August 7, 2025
4 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Mariah L. Stevens
18 books111 followersMariah L. Stevens is a half-Black author and artist who lives in the PNW. She is diagnosed with Autism, BiPolar 1, and CPTSD. Mariah has been writing since she was 13 years old, and she plans to use her passion and life experience to help other survivors through the power of prose. She is a sex trafficking and Bulimia survivor that advocates for recovery and a life worth living. She encourages mental health awareness, as well as ED awareness in Black individuals, and weaves all of these elements into her work with the sole purpose of helping others seek recovery.
Mariah is a very creative person. She loves to write, draw, design fabric, sew lolita-style dresses, design her own book covers, and do different types of crafting. She loves Japanese fashion, Kingdom Hearts, Disneyland, and her cat, Chiiyo.
Mariah listens to metalcore and post-hardcore, has way too many pictures of MGK and Zendaya in her phone, and has 3 Kingdom Hearts tattoos.
She also really loves Godzilla.
Mariah is a very creative person. She loves to write, draw, design fabric, sew lolita-style dresses, design her own book covers, and do different types of crafting. She loves Japanese fashion, Kingdom Hearts, Disneyland, and her cat, Chiiyo.
Mariah listens to metalcore and post-hardcore, has way too many pictures of MGK and Zendaya in her phone, and has 3 Kingdom Hearts tattoos.
She also really loves Godzilla.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 10, 2025
Spice: 3
Tropes:
forced proximity
second chance
trauma healing/recovery
vacation romance
Trigger Warnings:
past child abuse
past domestic abuse
self-harm
bullying
What I love about Mariah L. Steven's books, is how personal they are to her own story.... which also makes them heartbreaking and beautiful to read. Please read the trigger warnings, as I found this story could either trigger someone or it could be therapeutic to someone in a similar situation to read about someone being in an abusive relationship and self-harming. One of the things both the FMC and MMC go through in Heart in the Clouds is past-trauma and while the FMC is in recovery, they mention that relapse is part of recovery. I've never thought about that before.... honestly I've not been in a situation to think of it in that way either. But I appreciated how the author takes that statement and breaks it down so I could understand it- which is a reason I enjoy Mariah's books.
FMC Savaya is on vacation in Seattle before she starts her new job. She was in an abusive relationship for 8 years and use to self-harm to escape. She's seeing a therapist now and in recovery from the self-harm and she's rewarding herself with this trip... a city where her highschool crush happens to be living now. Savaya reaches out to Kai and they begin texting back and forth, eventually meeting face to face. They trauma bond over abuse, Kai's being parental abuse growing up, and the triggers that come with it.
I love how patient and understanding Kai is with Savaya. He's not afraid of her scars and encourages her not to hide behind them anymore. It's a lot of learning between the two and I enjoyed watching Savaya grow and become confident within herself. I think this would be a book I'd recommend to someone if they were in a similar position and needed a fictitious outlook.
Tropes:
forced proximity
second chance
trauma healing/recovery
vacation romance
Trigger Warnings:
past child abuse
past domestic abuse
self-harm
bullying
What I love about Mariah L. Steven's books, is how personal they are to her own story.... which also makes them heartbreaking and beautiful to read. Please read the trigger warnings, as I found this story could either trigger someone or it could be therapeutic to someone in a similar situation to read about someone being in an abusive relationship and self-harming. One of the things both the FMC and MMC go through in Heart in the Clouds is past-trauma and while the FMC is in recovery, they mention that relapse is part of recovery. I've never thought about that before.... honestly I've not been in a situation to think of it in that way either. But I appreciated how the author takes that statement and breaks it down so I could understand it- which is a reason I enjoy Mariah's books.
FMC Savaya is on vacation in Seattle before she starts her new job. She was in an abusive relationship for 8 years and use to self-harm to escape. She's seeing a therapist now and in recovery from the self-harm and she's rewarding herself with this trip... a city where her highschool crush happens to be living now. Savaya reaches out to Kai and they begin texting back and forth, eventually meeting face to face. They trauma bond over abuse, Kai's being parental abuse growing up, and the triggers that come with it.
I love how patient and understanding Kai is with Savaya. He's not afraid of her scars and encourages her not to hide behind them anymore. It's a lot of learning between the two and I enjoyed watching Savaya grow and become confident within herself. I think this would be a book I'd recommend to someone if they were in a similar position and needed a fictitious outlook.
August 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a heavy read (please check your trigger warnings before diving in). Savaya’s story is painful and raw, her relationship with her abusive, red-flag ex was hard to get through, but that’s the point. The way this book explored why women stay in abusive situations felt very real.
I also understood her constant overthinking and self-destructive thoughts (it’s heartbreaking), but true to how trauma works. That said, whew, Savaya’s complicated mind had me throwing my hands up more than once. Girl, you tested my patience.
Kai, though, was her anchor. It’s not easy to love someone carrying that much trauma, and I admired how he stayed. Their relationship was frustrating at times, but it felt honest.
My only gripe? I really wish there had been an epilogue. I need a little extras after everything they went through together. I was squirming (and yes, my predictions about the ending were right 😭) on my way back from work when I read how it ends. So yeah..
P.S. Okay, maybe it’s just me, but every time I read about the FMC and her friend dancing and swaying their hips to hardcore/metalcore (genres she was never even exposed to) I couldn’t help but cringe a little. (I say this as a metalcore fan, so… yeah, I’ll shut up now 🤐).
Thank you, Mariah, for the ARC! 💕
This was a heavy read (please check your trigger warnings before diving in). Savaya’s story is painful and raw, her relationship with her abusive, red-flag ex was hard to get through, but that’s the point. The way this book explored why women stay in abusive situations felt very real.
I also understood her constant overthinking and self-destructive thoughts (it’s heartbreaking), but true to how trauma works. That said, whew, Savaya’s complicated mind had me throwing my hands up more than once. Girl, you tested my patience.
Kai, though, was her anchor. It’s not easy to love someone carrying that much trauma, and I admired how he stayed. Their relationship was frustrating at times, but it felt honest.
My only gripe? I really wish there had been an epilogue. I need a little extras after everything they went through together. I was squirming (and yes, my predictions about the ending were right 😭) on my way back from work when I read how it ends. So yeah..
P.S. Okay, maybe it’s just me, but every time I read about the FMC and her friend dancing and swaying their hips to hardcore/metalcore (genres she was never even exposed to) I couldn’t help but cringe a little. (I say this as a metalcore fan, so… yeah, I’ll shut up now 🤐).
Thank you, Mariah, for the ARC! 💕
July 27, 2025
"Heart in the Clouds" by Mariah L. Stevens is a powerful, compelling, and emotional read that truly draws you in. From the very beginning, you find yourself empathizing deeply with Savaya. The author illustrates her pain, suffering, and anguish, making you feel every heartbreaking step of her path. It's genuinely sad, especially reliving so much trauma through visceral flashbacks.
I loved how Stevens described all the scenes with music, which adds another layer of depth to the narrative. Amidst the struggles, the complex relationship between Savaya and Kai develops, and you can't help but root for them, hoping they find their way through.
Be aware that this book contains sensitive content, including depictions of self-harm, abuse, and violence. These elements are handled with a raw honesty that can be difficult to process but highlights the immense strength Savaya possesses.
The story has themes of self-acceptance, embracing one's past, reclaiming your power, and a well-deserved happily ever after. And best of all, I absolutely loved Byron the Husky!
This was a truly impactful read that stays with you long after you've turned the final page.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this story as an ARC reader.
I loved how Stevens described all the scenes with music, which adds another layer of depth to the narrative. Amidst the struggles, the complex relationship between Savaya and Kai develops, and you can't help but root for them, hoping they find their way through.
Be aware that this book contains sensitive content, including depictions of self-harm, abuse, and violence. These elements are handled with a raw honesty that can be difficult to process but highlights the immense strength Savaya possesses.
The story has themes of self-acceptance, embracing one's past, reclaiming your power, and a well-deserved happily ever after. And best of all, I absolutely loved Byron the Husky!
This was a truly impactful read that stays with you long after you've turned the final page.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this story as an ARC reader.
August 10, 2025
Heart in the Clouds is a deeply emotional read that pulls you in from the very first page. Savaya’s journey is raw and real marked by pain, self-doubt, and loneliness. What stands out most is her courage to face the past and take a leap of faith by traveling alone and reaching out to Kai, someone she knew in high school. The way Kai recognizes the signs of her trauma and responds with genuine care is powerful, showing how compassion can be a turning point for healing. Their relationship feels authentic, built on shared struggles but also on hope and understanding. Kai’s protective instincts and the way he sees Savaya as his home adds a layer of warmth to the story. It’s not just about recovery; it’s about finding someone who truly sees you. I am left with wanting a second book because I am just so curious about how Savaya’s healing continued, how their relationship evolved, and whether the people from her past could accept the new chapter she’s writing. I just loved Savaya and Kai that much.
If you’re drawn to stories that explore the complexities of trauma, friendship, and love without sugarcoating the pain, Heart in the Clouds deserves a spot on your reading list. It’s a reminder that healing is messy but possible, especially when you find the right people to stand by you.
If you’re drawn to stories that explore the complexities of trauma, friendship, and love without sugarcoating the pain, Heart in the Clouds deserves a spot on your reading list. It’s a reminder that healing is messy but possible, especially when you find the right people to stand by you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2025
I want to thank the author for the pleasure of being able to read their glorious work!
First off the writing was to real and raw, in the best way. I haven’t had a book connect with me and my life emotionally and mentally in that way in a long time. The spiralling to Savaya’s mind set after suffering abuse for years was both heart wrenching and glorious. Glorious to see everything written down into words people often find hard to say.
Her strength throughout both her past and current struggles is one that those of us who have suffered only wish to have. The author portrayed her gloriously.
Kai is a bad boy with a bad past who was misunderstood beyond doubt. While still holding his edge, he proves time and time again he cares for Savana. Mentally, physically and emotionally. Saves her from both others and herself.
This story is the perfect amount of twist with real life dilemmas. The metal state of the Savana was one I can’t stop raving about. It was written in such a beautifully tragic way.
Second chances with the real life struggle of mental health is something I believe everyone should read.
First off the writing was to real and raw, in the best way. I haven’t had a book connect with me and my life emotionally and mentally in that way in a long time. The spiralling to Savaya’s mind set after suffering abuse for years was both heart wrenching and glorious. Glorious to see everything written down into words people often find hard to say.
Her strength throughout both her past and current struggles is one that those of us who have suffered only wish to have. The author portrayed her gloriously.
Kai is a bad boy with a bad past who was misunderstood beyond doubt. While still holding his edge, he proves time and time again he cares for Savana. Mentally, physically and emotionally. Saves her from both others and herself.
This story is the perfect amount of twist with real life dilemmas. The metal state of the Savana was one I can’t stop raving about. It was written in such a beautifully tragic way.
Second chances with the real life struggle of mental health is something I believe everyone should read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2025
This story is very dark and heavy, yet heartwarming at the same time. There is a lot of talk about abuse and self harm, so please read the trigger warnings. Regardless, this story is well written and has great character development. Our fmc Savaya was abused for many years by her ex. Her method of escapism is self harm. Now she’s on the path of self healing and self love when she runs into her bully. This is not your typical bullying story where the character is actively being bullied. He bullied her in the past and has changed his ways. We learn that her bully, Kai, is now in a band. Savaya allows Kai back into her life because she wants to believe he’s changed for the better. We see their friendship slowly blossom into a steamy and intoxicating relationship. The banter between them is playful and fun. I really loved how she revealed herself to him intimately and he didn’t run away. He accepted and loved her regardless of the trauma. I did shed a few tears towards the end. However, I guessed the ending and it made me happy.
I did receive an arc from the author. This is my honest review.
I did receive an arc from the author. This is my honest review.
August 2, 2025
I adored every second of this book.
There's so much needed and appreciated representation. A black author and black FMC(the romance genre needs more of this). Mental health/self-harm representation. DV survivor representation.
Savaya is navigating life and recovery after her abusive ex led her down a path of self-harm. She takes a leap and meets up with Kai, a man she was in school with, while she's on vacation. Their second chance meeting makes up for some not-so-wonderful things in the past. He cares for her in ways she's never been cared for before.
Having a past of self-harm, I found myself relating to Savaya on many levels. I only wish I could see more of their stories.
Also, he's in a band and has a Husky. 💖 Needs I say more?
Thank you, Mariah, for the chance to read this. It's instantly in my top favorites.
There's so much needed and appreciated representation. A black author and black FMC(the romance genre needs more of this). Mental health/self-harm representation. DV survivor representation.
Savaya is navigating life and recovery after her abusive ex led her down a path of self-harm. She takes a leap and meets up with Kai, a man she was in school with, while she's on vacation. Their second chance meeting makes up for some not-so-wonderful things in the past. He cares for her in ways she's never been cared for before.
Having a past of self-harm, I found myself relating to Savaya on many levels. I only wish I could see more of their stories.
Also, he's in a band and has a Husky. 💖 Needs I say more?
Thank you, Mariah, for the chance to read this. It's instantly in my top favorites.
August 11, 2025
Heart in the Clouds follows an intense and emotional whirlwind romance between Savaya and Kai, with lots of deep, dramatic, gut wrenching, and heartbreaking moments throughout their journey together. From Savaya’s shocking revelations to the way Kai helps her overcome her trauma and strives to protect her, all of it certainly took my emotions for a ride 🫠
Savaya takes the chance while on vacation to see Kai, the not so nice guy from high school she still has a major crush on. As they have fun with their instant connection and the closer the two of them become, their feelings blossom into something passionate and healing for each other. Now that Kai has her, he shows Savaya he will be there for her no matter what 🥹
Savaya can also turn Kai into a begging and whimpering mess 👀🔥
Thank you so much Mariah L. Stevens for this ARC 🫶🏻
Savaya takes the chance while on vacation to see Kai, the not so nice guy from high school she still has a major crush on. As they have fun with their instant connection and the closer the two of them become, their feelings blossom into something passionate and healing for each other. Now that Kai has her, he shows Savaya he will be there for her no matter what 🥹
Savaya can also turn Kai into a begging and whimpering mess 👀🔥
Thank you so much Mariah L. Stevens for this ARC 🫶🏻
July 26, 2025
Heart in the Clouds - Mariah L. Stevens
There isn’t a book written by this author that I’m not completely obsessed with. This story is no exception. My heart breaks for Savaya and Kai. The writing like normal is beautiful and the characters are so lifelike and realistic. The trauma and the recovery process is also realistic and well written. You can’t help but feel sympathy for the main characters and what they go through. I highly recommend the book and other books by the author. Just please check the trigger warnings. I so happy to have been gifted a copy of this book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Unknown/Not Applicable
Genre/Tropes ✨ sweet romance, rockstar romance, forced proximity, second chance, trauma recovery
There isn’t a book written by this author that I’m not completely obsessed with. This story is no exception. My heart breaks for Savaya and Kai. The writing like normal is beautiful and the characters are so lifelike and realistic. The trauma and the recovery process is also realistic and well written. You can’t help but feel sympathy for the main characters and what they go through. I highly recommend the book and other books by the author. Just please check the trigger warnings. I so happy to have been gifted a copy of this book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 Unknown/Not Applicable
Genre/Tropes ✨ sweet romance, rockstar romance, forced proximity, second chance, trauma recovery
August 1, 2025
I adored this book and received it as an ARC! I related to Savaya and her journey with self-harm, so this book hit hard. Trigger warnings for graphic depictions of self harm, domestic abuse and violence (past), and mental health recovery. The way that the characters were written is raw and unfiltered, and the love they develop for each other is powerful, sexy, and devoted. I love how Kai fell so hard for Savaya, and he was always always there when she needed him. The love that Kai and Savaya have is a love I hope for for everyone. Savaya is a badass too, all on her own. She struggles with recovery, but she is kind and strong and so sweet. I can’t recommend this book enough! Please be sure to check trigger warnings before embarking though ☺️💜
August 8, 2025
This isn’t necessarily my “typical” genre. But I couldn’t put it down. I stayed up entirely too late and abandoned all adult responsibilities until I finished it.
I wasn’t sure about it for the first couple chapters but I *quickly* fell in love with the characters. The writing itself is raw and perfect for the story. As someone who has survived through multiple traumas and struggles with mental health … it felt so real - in all the right ways. I laughed. I cried. My heart melted. All in all it was just… wonderful.
I wasn’t sure about it for the first couple chapters but I *quickly* fell in love with the characters. The writing itself is raw and perfect for the story. As someone who has survived through multiple traumas and struggles with mental health … it felt so real - in all the right ways. I laughed. I cried. My heart melted. All in all it was just… wonderful.
August 9, 2025
Please please please remember to check trigger warnings before reading as this book has hard topics like: graphic depictions of self harm, domestic abuse, and mental health recovery. As someone who has struggled with these things myself, the way these topics were written was absolutely beautiful! I loved how characters were written too. So raw and unfiltered! The love that the MCs develop for each other is is an absolutely beautiful story! I love how Kai fell so hard for Savaya and how he was always there when she needed him. I can't recommend this book enough!
August 5, 2025
2.5⭐️
I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review!
This one had great bones, but it was a little long winded for me (if you love that kind of thing-this one might before you!).
The FMC felt more like 17/18 than 30, and I just couldn’t get into the dialogue between the FMC and MMC.
I LOVE the idea behind this and the representation it brings, so if you love a self-harm, trauma recovery love story, this one might be right up your alley
I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review!
This one had great bones, but it was a little long winded for me (if you love that kind of thing-this one might before you!).
The FMC felt more like 17/18 than 30, and I just couldn’t get into the dialogue between the FMC and MMC.
I LOVE the idea behind this and the representation it brings, so if you love a self-harm, trauma recovery love story, this one might be right up your alley
August 10, 2025
Ugh, this was so emotional. It was an emotional roller coaster, but such a sweet ending. Slow, smutty burn!!! I'm so glad that all of the struggles and emotional battles the FMC went through ended with a happy ending and her getting her man!
August 23, 2025
This book did not disappoint. This book will keep you intrigued and wondering what is going to happen next. It is so easy to get lost in this book and connect with the main characters. This was a captivating read from start to finish.
July 29, 2025
4.25⭐️
October 18, 2025
I loved the premise of the book and it is a good second chance romance. Savaya was very relatable as an over thinker. I appreciated the depiction of the trials and tribulations that come with healing from extreme trauma! My only critique would be that the book is a little long winded! that said I enjoyed this story and the fact that the MMC was attentive and loving and supportive through it all. Thank you Mariah for the opportunity to read your work!
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