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Beneath the Strokes
One day, Sage Anderson is putting on her wedding dress; the next, she’s leaving for her honeymoon with a man who’s not the groom. But she knows what she wants, so why should she settle for anything else? Unless, of course, beneath her positivity and confidence, she doesn’t have a clue what she wants and she’s making it up as she goes.
If anyone deserves the woman of their dreams, surely it’s good-guy Callum Ridge. Once known for his popularity on the varsity football team, he now works for a charity, volunteers at an animal shelter, is the go-to for advice with life’s problems, and helps out his neighbors. However, behind his good deeds is a man who grapples with the guilt from his past.
After the worst trip of their lives, Sage and Callum struggle with their feelings for each other. Sage needs to uncover who she really is beneath the strokes of the image she paints for appearances' sake. And Callum throws himself into volunteer work to get his mind off Sage. But that only works until Sage unveils a determination to be with him, despite his insistence he’s not worthy of her love.
**This novel has dark themes, including depression, low self-worth, bullying, and thoughts of dying.
If anyone deserves the woman of their dreams, surely it’s good-guy Callum Ridge. Once known for his popularity on the varsity football team, he now works for a charity, volunteers at an animal shelter, is the go-to for advice with life’s problems, and helps out his neighbors. However, behind his good deeds is a man who grapples with the guilt from his past.
After the worst trip of their lives, Sage and Callum struggle with their feelings for each other. Sage needs to uncover who she really is beneath the strokes of the image she paints for appearances' sake. And Callum throws himself into volunteer work to get his mind off Sage. But that only works until Sage unveils a determination to be with him, despite his insistence he’s not worthy of her love.
**This novel has dark themes, including depression, low self-worth, bullying, and thoughts of dying.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 10, 2026
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 23, 2026
ARC review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beneath the Strokes is a heartfelt, quietly emotional romance about identity, guilt, and choosing love even when you’re not entirely sure who you are yet. It feels tender and thoughtful, the kind of story that lingers in the spaces between big moments rather than racing toward them.
Sage’s journey is refreshingly honest. Leaving with a man who isn’t her groom isn’t framed as impulsive recklessness, but as the first crack in a life she’s been carefully painting to look right from the outside. Her struggle to separate who she’s expected to be from who she actually is gives the story its emotional depth. Watching her peel back those layers—confidence, positivity, certainty—reveals a heroine who’s flawed, searching, and deeply human.
Callum is the definition of a “good man” romance readers adore. His kindness isn’t performative; it’s a penance. Beneath his generosity and steady presence is a man weighed down by past guilt, convinced he doesn’t deserve happiness. His instinct to retreat—to bury himself in service rather than face his feelings—feels painfully realistic and quietly noble.
Their connection is built on mutual care rather than grand gestures, which makes the tension between wanting and withholding all the more effective. Sage’s determination to choose Callum, even when he insists he’s unworthy, is both frustrating and beautiful—an insistence that love doesn’t require perfection, only honesty.
If you enjoy emotionally grounded romances with self-discovery, soft angst, and characters who grow into themselves before they grow together, Beneath the Strokes is a gentle, rewarding read that reminds us love often begins when we finally stop pretending. 🤍🎨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beneath the Strokes is a heartfelt, quietly emotional romance about identity, guilt, and choosing love even when you’re not entirely sure who you are yet. It feels tender and thoughtful, the kind of story that lingers in the spaces between big moments rather than racing toward them.
Sage’s journey is refreshingly honest. Leaving with a man who isn’t her groom isn’t framed as impulsive recklessness, but as the first crack in a life she’s been carefully painting to look right from the outside. Her struggle to separate who she’s expected to be from who she actually is gives the story its emotional depth. Watching her peel back those layers—confidence, positivity, certainty—reveals a heroine who’s flawed, searching, and deeply human.
Callum is the definition of a “good man” romance readers adore. His kindness isn’t performative; it’s a penance. Beneath his generosity and steady presence is a man weighed down by past guilt, convinced he doesn’t deserve happiness. His instinct to retreat—to bury himself in service rather than face his feelings—feels painfully realistic and quietly noble.
Their connection is built on mutual care rather than grand gestures, which makes the tension between wanting and withholding all the more effective. Sage’s determination to choose Callum, even when he insists he’s unworthy, is both frustrating and beautiful—an insistence that love doesn’t require perfection, only honesty.
If you enjoy emotionally grounded romances with self-discovery, soft angst, and characters who grow into themselves before they grow together, Beneath the Strokes is a gentle, rewarding read that reminds us love often begins when we finally stop pretending. 🤍🎨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beneath the Strokes is a tender, emotionally grounded romance about identity, guilt, and the courage it takes to choose love before you’ve fully figured yourself out. Quiet and reflective, the story lingers in the spaces between big moments, allowing emotion to unfold naturally rather than rushing toward resolution.
Sage’s journey feels deeply honest. Her decision to leave with a man who isn’t her groom isn’t framed as reckless or impulsive, but as the first visible fracture in a life she’s been carefully constructing to meet expectations. As she begins to untangle who she’s supposed to be from who she truly is, layers of confidence and certainty fall away, revealing a flawed heroine, searching, and achingly human.
Callum embodies the kind of “good man” romance readers want—not because he’s flawless, but because his kindness is rooted in remorse. His generosity and steadiness are acts of quiet penance, shaped by a past he believes disqualifies him from happiness. His instinct to retreat, to lose himself in service rather than confront his desires, feels both noble and heartbreakingly real.
Their connection is built on care, patience, and emotional safety rather than grand gestures, which makes the push and pull between desire and restraint especially effective. Sage’s determination to choose Callum—even as he insists he isn’t worthy—becomes a powerful assertion that love doesn’t require perfection, only honesty.
For readers who appreciate emotionally rich romances filled with self-discovery, soft angst, and characters who grow into themselves before they grow together, Beneath the Strokes is a quietly rewarding story—one that reminds us love often begins the moment we stop pretending.
Sage’s journey feels deeply honest. Her decision to leave with a man who isn’t her groom isn’t framed as reckless or impulsive, but as the first visible fracture in a life she’s been carefully constructing to meet expectations. As she begins to untangle who she’s supposed to be from who she truly is, layers of confidence and certainty fall away, revealing a flawed heroine, searching, and achingly human.
Callum embodies the kind of “good man” romance readers want—not because he’s flawless, but because his kindness is rooted in remorse. His generosity and steadiness are acts of quiet penance, shaped by a past he believes disqualifies him from happiness. His instinct to retreat, to lose himself in service rather than confront his desires, feels both noble and heartbreakingly real.
Their connection is built on care, patience, and emotional safety rather than grand gestures, which makes the push and pull between desire and restraint especially effective. Sage’s determination to choose Callum—even as he insists he isn’t worthy—becomes a powerful assertion that love doesn’t require perfection, only honesty.
For readers who appreciate emotionally rich romances filled with self-discovery, soft angst, and characters who grow into themselves before they grow together, Beneath the Strokes is a quietly rewarding story—one that reminds us love often begins the moment we stop pretending.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was going through the biggest emotional rollorcoaster whilst reading this book. I have to admit that the book has some very heavy themes, but that made the book even better. Thank you for letting me ARC-read this book!
To be honest, I wasn't very fond of Sage (FMC). That's because she's very reckless, but she quite grew on me!!! I got to understand her better and that made her fantastic. I loved Callum (MMC) right from the moment he helped Sage escape.
Sage and Callum go on Sage's honneymoon, after she ran away from her own wedding. Sage thinks that Callum hates her, but he's actually in love with her. They have the wildest adventures while they are on their honeymoon. The funniest things happen with these two. Callum and Sage go through the most funny, weird and stressful situations. They are the definition of Grumpy x Sunshine.
I was so happy that I got to learn more about Sage. She isn't as reckless as people describe her to be. She's just herself. I'm happy that I got to learn more about her, and what is going on inside her head. There's so much more going on than she lets on.
I thought that Callum was just a grumpy guy, but his backstory is actually really heavy. He turned his whole life around and felt so guilty that he became depressed. I cried hard at the ending with Jake.
I'm really happy that Sage's relationship with her Mom got better than before. I think we all love Edna. If you know, you know.
My favorite quotes:
'You and your perfect wildernss has brought me so muvh healing in my life.'
'If i'm ever murdered, i have a feeling you'll be involved somehow.'
My ratings:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
To be honest, I wasn't very fond of Sage (FMC). That's because she's very reckless, but she quite grew on me!!! I got to understand her better and that made her fantastic. I loved Callum (MMC) right from the moment he helped Sage escape.
Sage and Callum go on Sage's honneymoon, after she ran away from her own wedding. Sage thinks that Callum hates her, but he's actually in love with her. They have the wildest adventures while they are on their honeymoon. The funniest things happen with these two. Callum and Sage go through the most funny, weird and stressful situations. They are the definition of Grumpy x Sunshine.
I was so happy that I got to learn more about Sage. She isn't as reckless as people describe her to be. She's just herself. I'm happy that I got to learn more about her, and what is going on inside her head. There's so much more going on than she lets on.
I thought that Callum was just a grumpy guy, but his backstory is actually really heavy. He turned his whole life around and felt so guilty that he became depressed. I cried hard at the ending with Jake.
I'm really happy that Sage's relationship with her Mom got better than before. I think we all love Edna. If you know, you know.
My favorite quotes:
'You and your perfect wildernss has brought me so muvh healing in my life.'
'If i'm ever murdered, i have a feeling you'll be involved somehow.'
My ratings:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🔅 ARC Read 🔅
Huge thank you to @amandacourtney.author and @netgalley for the opportunity to read and review Beneath the Strokes before its release.
This book follows Sage, a woman who leads with her heart instead of her head—something her family never lets her forget. They’re convinced she can’t commit to anything, so when they insist she’ll never truly settle down, Sage impulsively jumps into an engagement with her on-again, off-again boyfriend.
But on her wedding day, reality hits. She realizes the engagement is a mistake, bolts from the dressing room, and ends up on her honeymoon with the most unexpected person possible—the man she’s always believed hated her.
Only… she couldn’t be more wrong.
I absolutely devoured this book—and it far exceeded my expectations. I thought I’d enjoy it, but I wasn’t prepared for how heartfelt and impactful it would be. The story dives into deep, heavy subject matter and handles it with so much care in a way I’ve honestly never seen before. It completely blew me away. I finished it in a single day because I simply couldn’t put it down.
This book made me laugh, tear up, reflect, and genuinely feel—all while being an incredibly enjoyable read.
If you’re a fan of Christina Lauren, I highly recommend picking this up. It gave me strong The Unhoneymooners vibes, especially in the beginning.
Tropes:
• Runaway bride
• One bed
• He falls first
• Forced proximity
• Friends to lovers
• Grumpy × sunshine
• Mental health
Huge thank you to @amandacourtney.author and @netgalley for the opportunity to read and review Beneath the Strokes before its release.
This book follows Sage, a woman who leads with her heart instead of her head—something her family never lets her forget. They’re convinced she can’t commit to anything, so when they insist she’ll never truly settle down, Sage impulsively jumps into an engagement with her on-again, off-again boyfriend.
But on her wedding day, reality hits. She realizes the engagement is a mistake, bolts from the dressing room, and ends up on her honeymoon with the most unexpected person possible—the man she’s always believed hated her.
Only… she couldn’t be more wrong.
I absolutely devoured this book—and it far exceeded my expectations. I thought I’d enjoy it, but I wasn’t prepared for how heartfelt and impactful it would be. The story dives into deep, heavy subject matter and handles it with so much care in a way I’ve honestly never seen before. It completely blew me away. I finished it in a single day because I simply couldn’t put it down.
This book made me laugh, tear up, reflect, and genuinely feel—all while being an incredibly enjoyable read.
If you’re a fan of Christina Lauren, I highly recommend picking this up. It gave me strong The Unhoneymooners vibes, especially in the beginning.
Tropes:
• Runaway bride
• One bed
• He falls first
• Forced proximity
• Friends to lovers
• Grumpy × sunshine
• Mental health
February 10, 2026
Beneath The Strokes blew me away!
Sage is a tornado that blew into Callum's life when he was least expecting. And like most people when faced with a tornado he was awed by the beauty and destruction and terrified at the same time. These two are complete opposites and Sage drives him crazy but he'd never tell her it's crazy in the best of ways!
Sage is a free spirit, impulsive, and afraid of commitment. Callum is grounded, overthinking, and cautious and troubled. Together they are a perfect chemical explosion waiting to happen!
I loved seeing how they each opened each other up to a different point of view when thinking about themselves which helped them heal both as individuals and together.
This story is more plot based than spice based but there is a bit of spice so don't worry about that! The author really makes you think about yourself through the use of her characters in this book and it is such a beautiful thing to be able to do because I believe we could all use a bit of self reflection.
Thank you Amanda Courtney for allowing me to ARC read this beautiful story and I can't wait to see what ride you'll take us on with your next book!
This review is my own and the thoughts and opinions are mine alone. I hope you all will grab your copy of Between The Stokes so you can witness the beautiful, crazy whirlwind that is Sage and Callum!
Sage is a tornado that blew into Callum's life when he was least expecting. And like most people when faced with a tornado he was awed by the beauty and destruction and terrified at the same time. These two are complete opposites and Sage drives him crazy but he'd never tell her it's crazy in the best of ways!
Sage is a free spirit, impulsive, and afraid of commitment. Callum is grounded, overthinking, and cautious and troubled. Together they are a perfect chemical explosion waiting to happen!
I loved seeing how they each opened each other up to a different point of view when thinking about themselves which helped them heal both as individuals and together.
This story is more plot based than spice based but there is a bit of spice so don't worry about that! The author really makes you think about yourself through the use of her characters in this book and it is such a beautiful thing to be able to do because I believe we could all use a bit of self reflection.
Thank you Amanda Courtney for allowing me to ARC read this beautiful story and I can't wait to see what ride you'll take us on with your next book!
This review is my own and the thoughts and opinions are mine alone. I hope you all will grab your copy of Between The Stokes so you can witness the beautiful, crazy whirlwind that is Sage and Callum!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beneath The Strokes by Amanda Courtney, Book 2 of the Lies We Believe Series. This is a Grumpy/Sunshine, Contemporary Romance with some Romantic Comedy following Sage Anderson and Callum Ridge. 🚩This is for adult readers only (18+) as it has mature content and not suitable for underage readers 🚩
My thoughts 💭
Ahhh I knew this was going to be a top read for me…Callum, oh my goodness this beautiful, broken man. My heart ached for him, denying himself love and happiness due to guilt he has carried the last 10 years. Sage is everything that man needed in his life. The honesty she seeks without even realizing was also heartbreaking, Callum being there for her not able to say no but still being honest about how her rash decision are not the greatest is exactly what she needed also. I loved their character development and watching their love unfold was just so beautifully written. Amanda Courtney writes mental health so well and respectful, as someone who suffers with anxiety and depression I appreciate that. I cannot wait for the next book in this series and I hope 🤞🏼 it’s Tyler and Hailey!!
✨I would like to thank Author Amanda Courtney for the opportunity to read and review Beneath The Strokes.
My thoughts 💭
Ahhh I knew this was going to be a top read for me…Callum, oh my goodness this beautiful, broken man. My heart ached for him, denying himself love and happiness due to guilt he has carried the last 10 years. Sage is everything that man needed in his life. The honesty she seeks without even realizing was also heartbreaking, Callum being there for her not able to say no but still being honest about how her rash decision are not the greatest is exactly what she needed also. I loved their character development and watching their love unfold was just so beautifully written. Amanda Courtney writes mental health so well and respectful, as someone who suffers with anxiety and depression I appreciate that. I cannot wait for the next book in this series and I hope 🤞🏼 it’s Tyler and Hailey!!
✨I would like to thank Author Amanda Courtney for the opportunity to read and review Beneath The Strokes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book was a fantastic read and really made me self-reflect at times. I love how Amanda writes her books because they seem so real to me. Bullying is covered during this book (so if this is a trigger for you, be warned) and I love how it was approached. I don’t want to give too much away but I love the change in the normal perspective we receive in these instances. I had such strong feelings during this book, sometimes I just wanted to reach inside and shake these characters silly… especially Sage.
Callum is a tortured individual, mostly from his own doing. He believes he doesn’t deserve happiness so when Sage barrels into his life, she becomes his most perfect torture. He dedicates his time with charities and helping people in need, hoping to redeem himself of past sins.
Sage doesn’t dwell on the past nor does she focus on things she cannot change. Instead, she just moves on and focuses on the positive in the situation. She is afraid of commitment, forever a free spirit.
✨ What to Expect ✨
💍 Runaway Bride
🌤️ Grumpy x Sunshine
💘 He Falls First
✈️ Vacation Romance
🛏️ One Bed
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book was a fantastic read and really made me self-reflect at times. I love how Amanda writes her books because they seem so real to me. Bullying is covered during this book (so if this is a trigger for you, be warned) and I love how it was approached. I don’t want to give too much away but I love the change in the normal perspective we receive in these instances. I had such strong feelings during this book, sometimes I just wanted to reach inside and shake these characters silly… especially Sage.
Callum is a tortured individual, mostly from his own doing. He believes he doesn’t deserve happiness so when Sage barrels into his life, she becomes his most perfect torture. He dedicates his time with charities and helping people in need, hoping to redeem himself of past sins.
Sage doesn’t dwell on the past nor does she focus on things she cannot change. Instead, she just moves on and focuses on the positive in the situation. She is afraid of commitment, forever a free spirit.
✨ What to Expect ✨
💍 Runaway Bride
🌤️ Grumpy x Sunshine
💘 He Falls First
✈️ Vacation Romance
🛏️ One Bed
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝘙𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘈𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳
Beneath The Strokes is an emotional and heartfelt read, speaking about battling with inner demons and self growth. It’s an easy read, yet touching, as it resonates with deeper emotions.
Sage, our runaway bride, is just trying to find her place in the world & learn to be comfortable with her own company, while Callum is a tortured soul who just wants to be loved and cared but is denying himself of that luxury.
I definitely have bigger feelings for Callum than I do for Sage. It’s hard for me to connect with her (probably because of her free-spirited self) and half the time, I’m not sure what she is even thinking but Callum is good, 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳, despite the demons he’s fighting. But together they are right, because they’re each others’ home. Safe.
In all, this was a lovely read and I easily finished this in about two days 🙌🏼 I’d say, do pick this up if you’re in need of a romance that is also about self growth & also the fun of two people taking a road trip together (and sharing one bed! 🤭)
3.75 rating round up to 4⭐️
Trigger warning ⚠️ bullying is mentioned
Thank you Amanda for the ARC opportunity 🫶🏼
Beneath The Strokes is an emotional and heartfelt read, speaking about battling with inner demons and self growth. It’s an easy read, yet touching, as it resonates with deeper emotions.
Sage, our runaway bride, is just trying to find her place in the world & learn to be comfortable with her own company, while Callum is a tortured soul who just wants to be loved and cared but is denying himself of that luxury.
I definitely have bigger feelings for Callum than I do for Sage. It’s hard for me to connect with her (probably because of her free-spirited self) and half the time, I’m not sure what she is even thinking but Callum is good, 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳, despite the demons he’s fighting. But together they are right, because they’re each others’ home. Safe.
In all, this was a lovely read and I easily finished this in about two days 🙌🏼 I’d say, do pick this up if you’re in need of a romance that is also about self growth & also the fun of two people taking a road trip together (and sharing one bed! 🤭)
3.75 rating round up to 4⭐️
Trigger warning ⚠️ bullying is mentioned
Thank you Amanda for the ARC opportunity 🫶🏼
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had a huge smile on my face as I was reading this.
Sage is a lot of fun. She's spontaneous and rushes into things, which gets her into some funny situations. She also doesn't always know herself as well as she likes to think she does. I was both delighted and frustrated (but in a good way) by some of her actions, reactions, and choices.
Callum instantly won me over with how kind and caring he is. He is also quite reserved, and I loved seeing the difference between how Sage perceived his grumpy exterior and what he was thinking when we got his pov. Callum also has a heavy past that he feels quite guilty about, which influences his life greatly. I really appreciated how that was handled and worked through.
Sage and Callum go together so well. They really do fit the grumpy x sunshine trope, and their relationship developed in a way that feels honest, real, and refreshing.
If you want a romance that perfectly captures the grumpy x sunshine trope and isn't afraid to tackle some heavy topics in-between all the fun, then this is the perfect book for you.
Sage is a lot of fun. She's spontaneous and rushes into things, which gets her into some funny situations. She also doesn't always know herself as well as she likes to think she does. I was both delighted and frustrated (but in a good way) by some of her actions, reactions, and choices.
Callum instantly won me over with how kind and caring he is. He is also quite reserved, and I loved seeing the difference between how Sage perceived his grumpy exterior and what he was thinking when we got his pov. Callum also has a heavy past that he feels quite guilty about, which influences his life greatly. I really appreciated how that was handled and worked through.
Sage and Callum go together so well. They really do fit the grumpy x sunshine trope, and their relationship developed in a way that feels honest, real, and refreshing.
If you want a romance that perfectly captures the grumpy x sunshine trope and isn't afraid to tackle some heavy topics in-between all the fun, then this is the perfect book for you.
January 23, 2026
ARC Review! 4.5 Stars! This book follows Sage (Cori’s twin) and Callum. Sage is spontaneous and strong headed, but as you read more, you learn that some of this is just a facade and defense mechanism for how she truly feels/sees herself.
Callum is thoughtful and selfless. He volunteers and helps out wherever he can, but at the end of the day, he’s really struggling with an internal battle that he can’t let go of.
I loved the banter between Sage and Callum! This book touches on some hard topics like self worth and bullying, but the overall message is so moving.
This book includes:
• Forced Proximity
• Runaway Bride
• Only one bed
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• He Falls First
I can’t say too much without giving some of the story away, but if you enjoyed the first book in this series, you’ll enjoy this one!
Thank you to Amanda for letting me be apart of the ARC team yet again. I’m already so excited for the next one!
Callum is thoughtful and selfless. He volunteers and helps out wherever he can, but at the end of the day, he’s really struggling with an internal battle that he can’t let go of.
I loved the banter between Sage and Callum! This book touches on some hard topics like self worth and bullying, but the overall message is so moving.
This book includes:
• Forced Proximity
• Runaway Bride
• Only one bed
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• He Falls First
I can’t say too much without giving some of the story away, but if you enjoyed the first book in this series, you’ll enjoy this one!
Thank you to Amanda for letting me be apart of the ARC team yet again. I’m already so excited for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wonderful new read 📚! Beneath the Strokes by Amanda Courtney is a captivating story.
Sage, the Runaway Bride, discovers she's not ready to tie the knot with Brian after all, and her best option is to take a leap of faith out the window and run. But what she finds on the other side is a whole new tale. Callum Ridge, a man who's had a distasteful first impression of Sage two years ago, thinking she's too loud and scattered.
Yet, he did warn her to think twice before committing. Callum's journey has been one of self-reflection, trying to break free from past mistakes and forge a path of redemption, believing he doesn't deserve joy. Meanwhile, Sage shines bright, turning obstacles into opportunities with her infectious optimism. She's a marvel, indeed.
#arcreader #arcreadersofinstagram #rafterreads #beneaththestrokes #amandacourtney
Sage, the Runaway Bride, discovers she's not ready to tie the knot with Brian after all, and her best option is to take a leap of faith out the window and run. But what she finds on the other side is a whole new tale. Callum Ridge, a man who's had a distasteful first impression of Sage two years ago, thinking she's too loud and scattered.
Yet, he did warn her to think twice before committing. Callum's journey has been one of self-reflection, trying to break free from past mistakes and forge a path of redemption, believing he doesn't deserve joy. Meanwhile, Sage shines bright, turning obstacles into opportunities with her infectious optimism. She's a marvel, indeed.
#arcreader #arcreadersofinstagram #rafterreads #beneaththestrokes #amandacourtney
January 28, 2026
This was an emotional rollercoaster. Some parts funny, sweet and filled with banter. Others deeply emotional and vulnerable. There are lots of meaningful moments and it takes Sage and Callum some time and self discovery to get their HEA, but it's so worth it the ride. It’s one of those stories where the slow emotional build makes the payoff completely worth it.
This one very much explores the deeper backgrounds behind their grumpy/sunshine personas. You get the emotional history and personal baggage behind both of their personalities, which makes their connection feel more layered and less surface level. Saying this, overall this is a cute and enjoyable read. Definitely check the triggers but it isn't overly angsty for most of it. It also felt surprisingly fresh compared to anything read for a while. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
This one very much explores the deeper backgrounds behind their grumpy/sunshine personas. You get the emotional history and personal baggage behind both of their personalities, which makes their connection feel more layered and less surface level. Saying this, overall this is a cute and enjoyable read. Definitely check the triggers but it isn't overly angsty for most of it. It also felt surprisingly fresh compared to anything read for a while. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was everything. From the very first page, the FMC absolutely stole my heart. She’s carefree, go-with-the-flow, and unapologetically herself. Watching her clash with the MMC, who very much could not stand her laid-back attitude, was pure entertainment… and I loved every single moment of it.
From the engagement to the honeymoon and everything that followed, the story flowed beautifully and kept me invested the entire time. The tension, the banter, and the way their dynamic evolved made this such a fun and satisfying read. Their personalities balanced each other in the best way, and seeing the MMC slowly unravel because of her was chef’s kiss.
If you love romance that delivers laughs, swoon-worthy moments, and characters you genuinely enjoy spending time with, this one needs to be on your TBR list.
From the engagement to the honeymoon and everything that followed, the story flowed beautifully and kept me invested the entire time. The tension, the banter, and the way their dynamic evolved made this such a fun and satisfying read. Their personalities balanced each other in the best way, and seeing the MMC slowly unravel because of her was chef’s kiss.
If you love romance that delivers laughs, swoon-worthy moments, and characters you genuinely enjoy spending time with, this one needs to be on your TBR list.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review!*
3.5⭐️
This was a good read. It had a bit of angst, a lot of self discovery and growth, a little spice and a nice HEA.
Sage was wild and impulsive and Callum was so consumed by guilt and fear. They were a good couple and knew how to draw the other out and push when needed and their moments together were sweet.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with any of it, so I don't know why but I honestly just couldn't connect to the characters. I just felt life I needed a little something extra to give it that push for me.
But overall, a good read that I will absolutely still recommend to others because it deserves to be read and celebrated.
3.5⭐️
This was a good read. It had a bit of angst, a lot of self discovery and growth, a little spice and a nice HEA.
Sage was wild and impulsive and Callum was so consumed by guilt and fear. They were a good couple and knew how to draw the other out and push when needed and their moments together were sweet.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with any of it, so I don't know why but I honestly just couldn't connect to the characters. I just felt life I needed a little something extra to give it that push for me.
But overall, a good read that I will absolutely still recommend to others because it deserves to be read and celebrated.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Amanda Courtney for allowing me to read this as an ARC!
I am not a romance reader. If you look at my reviews of books with romance subplots, I often find them annoying and detracting. This one was not annoying (and it's hard to be detracting when it's literally the genre!).
I do think there were some minor flubs in characterization, especially actions carried out by A when we're in B's POV and vice versa, but it's nothing horrendous or especially egregious.
That being said, my least favourite trope of all time does rear it's disgusting little head later one: miscommunication. My most hated foe.
And for my own enjoyment, I'm going to pretend that the last sentence doesn't exist.
I am not a romance reader. If you look at my reviews of books with romance subplots, I often find them annoying and detracting. This one was not annoying (and it's hard to be detracting when it's literally the genre!).
I do think there were some minor flubs in characterization, especially actions carried out by A when we're in B's POV and vice versa, but it's nothing horrendous or especially egregious.
That being said, my least favourite trope of all time does rear it's disgusting little head later one: miscommunication. My most hated foe.
And for my own enjoyment, I'm going to pretend that the last sentence doesn't exist.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🎨ARC READ🖌
Beneath the Strokes was full of some of my favorite tropes. One bed? Check! He falls first? Check! Forced Proximity? Check! Grumpy x Sunshine? Double check! It felt like a roller coaster from start to finish and really sucked me in to their little world. I laughed, cried, and felt an almost personal connection to Sage, both from being an artist myself and finding it hard to commit to things. I also really adored Callum and his flawed self. I love a book where the characters actually have flaws and try to fix them where as many books overlook that aspect. Overall this book was a great read and I definitely reccomend.
Beneath the Strokes was full of some of my favorite tropes. One bed? Check! He falls first? Check! Forced Proximity? Check! Grumpy x Sunshine? Double check! It felt like a roller coaster from start to finish and really sucked me in to their little world. I laughed, cried, and felt an almost personal connection to Sage, both from being an artist myself and finding it hard to commit to things. I also really adored Callum and his flawed self. I love a book where the characters actually have flaws and try to fix them where as many books overlook that aspect. Overall this book was a great read and I definitely reccomend.
November 27, 2025
I don't want to say too much, since this is still in beta.
What I will say... If you liked Cori's story in What Hurts The Most, you NEED to read this one. I did not personally relate to the FMC but I loved her so so so much anyway. Amanda is an auto-buy for me, and I'm generally not someone who reads a lot of contemporary romance! She has this way of getting DEEP into the heart of the story and making the reader fall in love with the characters. I just... 12/10, no notes.
I will come back once this is like, actually out in the world.
What I will say... If you liked Cori's story in What Hurts The Most, you NEED to read this one. I did not personally relate to the FMC but I loved her so so so much anyway. Amanda is an auto-buy for me, and I'm generally not someone who reads a lot of contemporary romance! She has this way of getting DEEP into the heart of the story and making the reader fall in love with the characters. I just... 12/10, no notes.
I will come back once this is like, actually out in the world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc Review:
Sage is fiery, impulsive, and a glass-half-full kind of girl. When she realizes she’s about to marry the wrong man, she runs—straight into an unexpected journey with Callum.
Callum is her complete opposite: quiet, guarded, and secretly head over heels for her. As they grow closer, Sage helps Callum confront his guilt and see the worth he’s always had, while she begins to understand that her impulsiveness is rooted in her own insecurities.
I loved this story. Their growth—both individually and together—proves that opposites don’t just attract, they heal. #LoveCallum
Sage is fiery, impulsive, and a glass-half-full kind of girl. When she realizes she’s about to marry the wrong man, she runs—straight into an unexpected journey with Callum.
Callum is her complete opposite: quiet, guarded, and secretly head over heels for her. As they grow closer, Sage helps Callum confront his guilt and see the worth he’s always had, while she begins to understand that her impulsiveness is rooted in her own insecurities.
I loved this story. Their growth—both individually and together—proves that opposites don’t just attract, they heal. #LoveCallum
January 30, 2026
This book has all the feelings! I loved the energy of Sage and how she pulls Callum out of his own darkness. The way that Amanda portrays both characters is amazing. Callum is struggling with his past decisions and wants Sage but refuses to have her until he just SNAPS (and does he snap 🤪). Sage can’t fully decide what she wants out of life and is always making it up as she goes. She makes sure that she never has to endure heartbreak or failure by quitting everything before she has a chance to fail. When she escapes a wedding she was positive she wanted (until she didn’t) and made Callum go with her on her “honeymoon” I knew all bets were going to be off. Once she has him and then finds out his reasoning for not giving them a chance she goes and tries to help him see that he is everything she deserves 🥹 The chaos that comes with these 2, the banter, the love, ugh I just love it 🤍
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a quick and easy read. The narrative style flowed well, making it a smooth read. I just struggled to connect with the characters (particularly the FMC) and their character developments. Based on the synopsis and the title, I thought there'd be more complexity to the characters, making their behavior a bit frustrating and not quite consistent with their life experiences.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Thank you so much Amanda Courtney and NetGalley for this ARC!
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Thank you so much Amanda Courtney and NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was amazing. It was heart felt and the perfect mix of sweet and spicy. The character development through out the story was perfect it was not to fast but also not to slow. The bumps along the way on the trip was amazing along with him thinking that he was not good enough for her. I can tell that this book is going to be a re read for sure. Thank you for the chance to read this book as an ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I receieved Beneath the Strokes as an ARC and was excited after loving What Hurts The Most. I wasn't disappointed!
I loved both Sage and Callums characters. So many times I wanted to give Callum and hug, and so many times I wanted to shake him. I loved seeing them fall in love, and loved them together. I wish we would have gotten more story with them together as a couple.
Beneath the Strokes is an easy read with a good story when you're wanting a happy ending.
I loved both Sage and Callums characters. So many times I wanted to give Callum and hug, and so many times I wanted to shake him. I loved seeing them fall in love, and loved them together. I wish we would have gotten more story with them together as a couple.
Beneath the Strokes is an easy read with a good story when you're wanting a happy ending.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an ARC read I got to be apart of so thanks to Amanda for picking me!
This book was a quick easy read. Overall the book was good and flowed really well. For me personally I would’ve liked to see more character developments. I felt that may have been lacking with how some of the story navigated. Giving it 4 stars because the story as a whole was intriguing.
This book was a quick easy read. Overall the book was good and flowed really well. For me personally I would’ve liked to see more character developments. I felt that may have been lacking with how some of the story navigated. Giving it 4 stars because the story as a whole was intriguing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was super good!! I have never wanted to hug someone as much as I wanted to hug Callum. Amanda wrote his character as one that truly struggled with past decisions and she done it wonderfully! Sage felt like a true wildfire to me, in all the best ways! I felt like she had a beautiful soul and would be able to get whatever she wanted out of life!
January 25, 2026
I received an ARC for an honest early review. Beneath The Strokes is a heartfelt and warming book. Definitely recommend this to any of my romance girlies. The writing is like the swift soft brush strokes on a canvas. The ending will leave you with a smile on your face and in your heart.
Review of advance copy
I read this book as an ARC. i really enjoyed reading the second book in the Lies we believe series.
It was an emotional roller coaster, with topics anyone could relait to. How the main characters have grown and learned to love themselves was a beautiful journey to read.
It was an emotional roller coaster, with topics anyone could relait to. How the main characters have grown and learned to love themselves was a beautiful journey to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sage is SOOO funny I fell in love with her right from the start. Callum is also funny. You will fall in love with these characrers. She thinks he hates her but hes really been in love with her since he first saw her. Its a cute romance to take a break from the chaos I always read.
January 30, 2026
Arc review:
Absolutely loved the story!☺️
I couldn’t put the book down once I started! Sage and Callum’s story is adventurous and pack!
Absolutely loved the story!☺️
I couldn’t put the book down once I started! Sage and Callum’s story is adventurous and pack!
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