What do you think?
Rate this book
Three Days Grace
On the eve of their trip to South Africa, Lynne and her wife, Susan, await three guests in a Paris Nick, Lynne's distant son; Laslo, Susan's effusive friend; and Marc, a former professor living on borrowed glamour.
What begins as a bon voyage soon becomes a clash of old wounds and fresh resentments. As night falls, long-buried secrets surface, threatening to dismantle the facades each has built.
Through the winding corridors of Paris and the tangled landscapes of memory, five people must confront the truths they've spent decades avoiding. At the heart lies the tragic story of two brothers-one present, one absent-and the lingering trauma that continues to shape their lives.
Set over three days, this unflinching exploration of family, betrayal, and silence asks whether we can ever truly escape our past-and what it takes to finally face the truths we've spent a lifetime running from.
What begins as a bon voyage soon becomes a clash of old wounds and fresh resentments. As night falls, long-buried secrets surface, threatening to dismantle the facades each has built.
Through the winding corridors of Paris and the tangled landscapes of memory, five people must confront the truths they've spent decades avoiding. At the heart lies the tragic story of two brothers-one present, one absent-and the lingering trauma that continues to shape their lives.
Set over three days, this unflinching exploration of family, betrayal, and silence asks whether we can ever truly escape our past-and what it takes to finally face the truths we've spent a lifetime running from.
- GenresFiction
210 pages, Paperback
Published May 12, 2026
About the author
Jeremy C. Bradley-Silverio Donato
3 books25 followersAuthor also writes as Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato
Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato is originally from the United States and now lives in Paris. He is a graduate of Oxford and a respected voice on organizational leadership, innovation, and culture.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
June 18, 2026
I received a copy of this book for free from the author for promotional purposes.
What a deeply moving story!
This was a short book that really packed a punch. The book is around 200 pages but takes you on an emotional roller coaster with the characters. The story spans three days and deals with the emotional aftermath of the death of the main character’s father.
The book deals with some heavy topics (trigger warning for childhood sexual abuse and suicide) and does get dark at times, but there is a hopefulness at the end. It can be tough to write a book that is filled with such darkness but the author did an amazing job at not letting it consume the story.
The characters are all well developed and nuanced. The main character, Nick, was so complex in a realistic way. I loved the way his relationship with his mom was portrayed. Their relationship was heavily strained due to past trauma and I could feel their tension and emotions through the pages. Their interactions were so emotionally charged.
The setting also made an impact. The story is set in Paris which was a wonderful backdrop to the story.
Overall, this is a dark story that is well worth the read. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking to read something short but still full of substance.
What a deeply moving story!
This was a short book that really packed a punch. The book is around 200 pages but takes you on an emotional roller coaster with the characters. The story spans three days and deals with the emotional aftermath of the death of the main character’s father.
The book deals with some heavy topics (trigger warning for childhood sexual abuse and suicide) and does get dark at times, but there is a hopefulness at the end. It can be tough to write a book that is filled with such darkness but the author did an amazing job at not letting it consume the story.
The characters are all well developed and nuanced. The main character, Nick, was so complex in a realistic way. I loved the way his relationship with his mom was portrayed. Their relationship was heavily strained due to past trauma and I could feel their tension and emotions through the pages. Their interactions were so emotionally charged.
The setting also made an impact. The story is set in Paris which was a wonderful backdrop to the story.
Overall, this is a dark story that is well worth the read. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking to read something short but still full of substance.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Three Days Grace is a character study (?) of a young man with a traumatic past, and the people in his life who feel some type of way about said past. For me, the characters were the issue - they didn't come off as believable in their actions in any way. But that might just be me.
The book explores a really heavy theme from several perspectives and tries to make sense of a pretty senseless thing. I felt like the book's strongest suit were the descriptions of the settings, it was really easy to imagine the restaurant, the apartments, the club etc.
I'm glad I read something out of my comfort zone for a change, even if this didn't end up being a new favourite.
Got the early copy of the book from Netgalley.
Edit - I added my star rating now that the book has several more reviews and my rating won't hurt the average all that much.
The book explores a really heavy theme from several perspectives and tries to make sense of a pretty senseless thing. I felt like the book's strongest suit were the descriptions of the settings, it was really easy to imagine the restaurant, the apartments, the club etc.
I'm glad I read something out of my comfort zone for a change, even if this didn't end up being a new favourite.
Got the early copy of the book from Netgalley.
Edit - I added my star rating now that the book has several more reviews and my rating won't hurt the average all that much.
June 19, 2026
Thank you to the author and publisher for my gifted copy.
There are some books where you already know pretty quickly that you’re in for an emotional ride, and this was definitely one of those for me.
From the start, you can feel this deep heaviness following Nick around. You can tell he’s been carrying things for a very long time, even before you fully understand what those things are.
The story follows Nick as he’s forced to revisit parts of his past that he’s spent years trying to forget. A visit with his mother starts bringing everything back to the surface. The more we learn about what was kept from him, the more devastating the whole thing becomes.
The relationship between Nick and his younger brother Jason was honestly the part that hurt the most. There was so much time lost between them and so many things that should have been said.
This book deals with some incredibly heavy topics surrounding abuse, grief, and trauma. It’s messy, painful, and it really shows the damage that gets left behind.
My only complaint was the amount of similes and metaphors. Some of them worked really well, but there were definitely moments where I was like, okay, we get it 😂.
Overall, this was a heartbreaking read. I think part of why this one hit me so hard is because some of the family dynamics felt a little too familiar.
There are some books where you already know pretty quickly that you’re in for an emotional ride, and this was definitely one of those for me.
From the start, you can feel this deep heaviness following Nick around. You can tell he’s been carrying things for a very long time, even before you fully understand what those things are.
The story follows Nick as he’s forced to revisit parts of his past that he’s spent years trying to forget. A visit with his mother starts bringing everything back to the surface. The more we learn about what was kept from him, the more devastating the whole thing becomes.
The relationship between Nick and his younger brother Jason was honestly the part that hurt the most. There was so much time lost between them and so many things that should have been said.
This book deals with some incredibly heavy topics surrounding abuse, grief, and trauma. It’s messy, painful, and it really shows the damage that gets left behind.
My only complaint was the amount of similes and metaphors. Some of them worked really well, but there were definitely moments where I was like, okay, we get it 😂.
Overall, this was a heartbreaking read. I think part of why this one hit me so hard is because some of the family dynamics felt a little too familiar.
June 28, 2026
I loved Three Days Grace. It was emotional and gave me so many feels. I enjoyed the story and the concept. The cover is nice and simple. It's a good design and fits the genre well. The writing is wonderful and the story flowed beautifully. How the story unfolded was so heartfelt. Jeremy definitely did a great job invoking emotions. The setting was excellent and gave the story a contemporary feel. The characters were excellent and very well developed. I loved their individual journeys. How the secrets and traumas unravelled was done exceptionally well. I really recommend the book!
May 31, 2026
This was one of those books that I wouldn't normally gravitate to as it's a genre that I don't read all that often - but I do love to add variety to my reading and this was such a good option and although I went in fairly blind, I found this turned out to be quite something.
Now, before we dive into this, I have to tell you that the content deals with a really tough topic and I don't want to give spoilers, but this is definitely a sensitive read, so do go into this with caution.
This was such an uncomfortable read in many ways as it follows Nick who reunites for a meal with family and friends before their next trip away and as the story unfolds, past truths and secrets unravel bit by bit.
For Nick, this opens up old wounds and reveals betrayals beyond comprehension - which set off a chain of events that become progressively more revealing and heartbreaking.
The thing that really stands out here is the way the narrative runs - written in third person allows us to detach somewhat from the characters, which definitely helps us digest the more unsavoury aspects - but it also allows us to peek inside each of the characters minds and this added weight to the overall trauma.
I have to admit that I really didn't like many of the older characters here - we only focus on five or six, but apart from Nick, I really couldn't summon up much sympathy for the others.
Their behaviours were, for me, unforgivable.
My heart went out to Nick and all that he had already suffered as we see how the events had impacted on him all his life so far.
I loved that we got to see some light for him towards the end and this left me feeling like there was hope that he could accept a better lot for himself now this was all out in the open.
The setting was stunning.
Paris, a place we associate with love and romance but here we see a much darker, rainy side to the city which really added to the atmosphere, showing the different facets of love and how these can often be broken.
A difficult, emotional but compelling read that will leave you thinking about it's characters even after the end.
Now, before we dive into this, I have to tell you that the content deals with a really tough topic and I don't want to give spoilers, but this is definitely a sensitive read, so do go into this with caution.
This was such an uncomfortable read in many ways as it follows Nick who reunites for a meal with family and friends before their next trip away and as the story unfolds, past truths and secrets unravel bit by bit.
For Nick, this opens up old wounds and reveals betrayals beyond comprehension - which set off a chain of events that become progressively more revealing and heartbreaking.
The thing that really stands out here is the way the narrative runs - written in third person allows us to detach somewhat from the characters, which definitely helps us digest the more unsavoury aspects - but it also allows us to peek inside each of the characters minds and this added weight to the overall trauma.
I have to admit that I really didn't like many of the older characters here - we only focus on five or six, but apart from Nick, I really couldn't summon up much sympathy for the others.
Their behaviours were, for me, unforgivable.
My heart went out to Nick and all that he had already suffered as we see how the events had impacted on him all his life so far.
I loved that we got to see some light for him towards the end and this left me feeling like there was hope that he could accept a better lot for himself now this was all out in the open.
The setting was stunning.
Paris, a place we associate with love and romance but here we see a much darker, rainy side to the city which really added to the atmosphere, showing the different facets of love and how these can often be broken.
A difficult, emotional but compelling read that will leave you thinking about it's characters even after the end.
June 18, 2026
Three Days Grace by Jeremy C. Bradley-Silverio Donato is an emotionally charged psychological novel that takes readers on an intense journey through the hidden corners of family dynamics and unresolved trauma. Set over the course of three days in a Paris, the story unfolds als Lynne and her wife Susan gather a small group of people before a big journey. What begins as a farewell gathering quickly transforms into a deeply emotional confrontation, peeling back layers of secrets, guilt, and the devestating impact of secrets within a family, including the tragic loss of a son and brother.
What I Loved
- Athmospheric World-Building: The author is incredibly talented at establishing an atmosperic, palpable mood that pulls you in right from the start.
- Complex Relationships: The raw and painful dynamic between Nick and his mother is written with stunning authenticity and emotional depth.
- Meaningful LGBTQ+ Representation: The exploration of queer themes is integrated beautifully, moving far beyond traditional tropes to look at the psychological aftermath of conditional love and rejection.
Things for Considration
- Heavily Methaphorical Prose: The writing style is highly poetic and relies heavily on metaphors. At times, the abundance of figurative language can feel a bit overwhelming and can slightly distract from the core momentum of the narrative.
- Deliberate Pacing and Open Ending: The story moves slowly with a somewhat open ending, which might leave readers who prefer definitive resolutions wanting more.
- Heavy Emotional Themes: Please be aware that the book tackles very heavy and dark themes, making it an emotionally intense read that requires the right headspace.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
I gave this book a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars. It is a beautifully written, slow-moving, and deeply reflective novel that offers a profound look at grief and healing. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven psychological fiction, intricate family dramas, and stories with meaningful LGBTQ+ representation.
Disclosure
I received a physical ARC from the author and bookinfluencers.com in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
What I Loved
- Athmospheric World-Building: The author is incredibly talented at establishing an atmosperic, palpable mood that pulls you in right from the start.
- Complex Relationships: The raw and painful dynamic between Nick and his mother is written with stunning authenticity and emotional depth.
- Meaningful LGBTQ+ Representation: The exploration of queer themes is integrated beautifully, moving far beyond traditional tropes to look at the psychological aftermath of conditional love and rejection.
Things for Considration
- Heavily Methaphorical Prose: The writing style is highly poetic and relies heavily on metaphors. At times, the abundance of figurative language can feel a bit overwhelming and can slightly distract from the core momentum of the narrative.
- Deliberate Pacing and Open Ending: The story moves slowly with a somewhat open ending, which might leave readers who prefer definitive resolutions wanting more.
- Heavy Emotional Themes: Please be aware that the book tackles very heavy and dark themes, making it an emotionally intense read that requires the right headspace.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
I gave this book a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars. It is a beautifully written, slow-moving, and deeply reflective novel that offers a profound look at grief and healing. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven psychological fiction, intricate family dramas, and stories with meaningful LGBTQ+ representation.
Disclosure
I received a physical ARC from the author and bookinfluencers.com in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
June 9, 2026
Three Days Grace is a powerful, engaging and emotionally taxing read.
In truth, that could be all I needed to say. It captures Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato’s novel perfectly. However, to leave it there would be to overlook just how deeply it affected me.
Set over three days, we encounter a small cast of characters brought together in Paris for what should be a bon voyage celebration for a couple about to begin a new adventure. Instead, tensions quickly rise and long-buried truths begin to surface. This group has been held together by lies, denial, and a lack of accountability on one side, and resentment and pain on the other, with an overwhelming desire from some to appear “normal.”
The gradual way the author reveals the strain between Nick and his mother feels painfully authentic, sometimes to the point of discomfort. At times, I felt like a voyeur listening to conversations I was never meant to hear. That careful character work not only kept me turning the pages as my emotions grew but also earned Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato a place on my auto-buy list.
Nick, his mother, and the wider cast all feel authentic, as does the fallout from the truths of their past. The novel understands that trauma does not simply disappear; it lingers, shaping who you become long after the event itself. As the fragile façade of “everything is okay” begins to crack, the horrific experiences suffered by Nick and his deceased brother are dragged into the light. I particularly appreciated how thoughtfully the author handles both the abuse and how Nick’s brother took his own life. He never shies away from the reality of what happened, but neither does he overwhelm the reader, allowing the story to remain devastating without becoming unbearable.
I cried a lot while reading this book because you are right there in the metaphorical trenches alongside these characters. Some inspire anger for the choices they have made, while others make you want to reach into the pages and hold them. My heart broke most for Nick, a man who struggles to believe that touch can be kind rather than transactional. He and his brother deserved so much more than they were given, and throughout the novel I found myself hoping that Nick would finally find some light after carrying so much darkness in silence.
This is not a book I can say I enjoyed, and I doubt many readers would use that word. What I can say is that it affected me deeply. Three Days Grace is a powerful, emotional novel that refuses to look away from grief and pain, instead shining a light on survival, healing, and the consequences of leaving the wounds of the past unaddressed for far too long.
In truth, that could be all I needed to say. It captures Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato’s novel perfectly. However, to leave it there would be to overlook just how deeply it affected me.
Set over three days, we encounter a small cast of characters brought together in Paris for what should be a bon voyage celebration for a couple about to begin a new adventure. Instead, tensions quickly rise and long-buried truths begin to surface. This group has been held together by lies, denial, and a lack of accountability on one side, and resentment and pain on the other, with an overwhelming desire from some to appear “normal.”
The gradual way the author reveals the strain between Nick and his mother feels painfully authentic, sometimes to the point of discomfort. At times, I felt like a voyeur listening to conversations I was never meant to hear. That careful character work not only kept me turning the pages as my emotions grew but also earned Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato a place on my auto-buy list.
Nick, his mother, and the wider cast all feel authentic, as does the fallout from the truths of their past. The novel understands that trauma does not simply disappear; it lingers, shaping who you become long after the event itself. As the fragile façade of “everything is okay” begins to crack, the horrific experiences suffered by Nick and his deceased brother are dragged into the light. I particularly appreciated how thoughtfully the author handles both the abuse and how Nick’s brother took his own life. He never shies away from the reality of what happened, but neither does he overwhelm the reader, allowing the story to remain devastating without becoming unbearable.
I cried a lot while reading this book because you are right there in the metaphorical trenches alongside these characters. Some inspire anger for the choices they have made, while others make you want to reach into the pages and hold them. My heart broke most for Nick, a man who struggles to believe that touch can be kind rather than transactional. He and his brother deserved so much more than they were given, and throughout the novel I found myself hoping that Nick would finally find some light after carrying so much darkness in silence.
This is not a book I can say I enjoyed, and I doubt many readers would use that word. What I can say is that it affected me deeply. Three Days Grace is a powerful, emotional novel that refuses to look away from grief and pain, instead shining a light on survival, healing, and the consequences of leaving the wounds of the past unaddressed for far too long.
June 16, 2026
This was a dark, heavy book that explores the effect of childhood abuse on families. Please check your trigger warnings before reading.
The author has done a brilliant job at creating such a heartbreaking story. From the start it was awkward and uncomfortable and continued throughout.
I really felt for Nick, he was completely let down by every adult involved. He was really relatable and watching him seeking out punishment from other men was devastating, but such a great representation of trauma.
I really despised Lynne and I would never forgive her. I did struggle with this at times because I found the characters were really unlikeable but I think that was the vibe the author was going for due to the nature of the story. Laslo and Mark were just a little too creepy and predatory for me.
The book is really interesting and I like that it’s set over 3 days. The way it explores trauma and healing was really relatable and messy, like real life. I loved the queer representation and the confusion due to the trauma. I enjoyed the Paris setting too, although some of the French dialogue I didn’t understand.
Overall, I rate this 3.5⭐️ (rounded up to 4 on Amazon and Goodreads.
The author has done a brilliant job at creating such a heartbreaking story. From the start it was awkward and uncomfortable and continued throughout.
I really felt for Nick, he was completely let down by every adult involved. He was really relatable and watching him seeking out punishment from other men was devastating, but such a great representation of trauma.
I really despised Lynne and I would never forgive her. I did struggle with this at times because I found the characters were really unlikeable but I think that was the vibe the author was going for due to the nature of the story. Laslo and Mark were just a little too creepy and predatory for me.
The book is really interesting and I like that it’s set over 3 days. The way it explores trauma and healing was really relatable and messy, like real life. I loved the queer representation and the confusion due to the trauma. I enjoyed the Paris setting too, although some of the French dialogue I didn’t understand.
Overall, I rate this 3.5⭐️ (rounded up to 4 on Amazon and Goodreads.
June 19, 2026
#ad much love for my finished copy
Three Days Grace
< @jeremycbradly >
Available Now
Loss | LGBTQIA+ | Family
Oh did I enjoy this one! Donato writes his scenes so vividly that I could imagine these characters - and the things they were doing - out in my mind. It’s the type of book you will remember like a movie.
It was supposed to be a trip that they’d all remember for the rest of their lives, in the best of ways. But it turns out they’re remember this supposed trip for all the wrong reasons.
This is an emotionally charged story that will have you hanging off of every word. You’ll probably binge this one because it is shorter but all the drama and feelings just pour from the pages - making it impossible to put down.
Couldn’t recommend this book more. There’s so much to unpack, so much to discuss, and just the perfect book for any book club. I liked how the story unfolded and how we got tiny glimpses of what was coming / had happened.
This book blew me away. Everything I thought this book was going to be was just that, but it was also so much more than I expected. If you’re looking for a story that will keep you engaged - this is the one!
Three Days Grace
< @jeremycbradly >
Available Now
Loss | LGBTQIA+ | Family
Oh did I enjoy this one! Donato writes his scenes so vividly that I could imagine these characters - and the things they were doing - out in my mind. It’s the type of book you will remember like a movie.
It was supposed to be a trip that they’d all remember for the rest of their lives, in the best of ways. But it turns out they’re remember this supposed trip for all the wrong reasons.
This is an emotionally charged story that will have you hanging off of every word. You’ll probably binge this one because it is shorter but all the drama and feelings just pour from the pages - making it impossible to put down.
Couldn’t recommend this book more. There’s so much to unpack, so much to discuss, and just the perfect book for any book club. I liked how the story unfolded and how we got tiny glimpses of what was coming / had happened.
This book blew me away. Everything I thought this book was going to be was just that, but it was also so much more than I expected. If you’re looking for a story that will keep you engaged - this is the one!
July 14, 2026
“I think” he said, “that sometimes we learn how to love by recognizing what love isn’t. By seeing the darkness and choosing to live in the light instead.”
Trigger warnings on this book ⚠️
What happens when one night can bring back the history or everyone in the group. They all know what happened on the past and it’s now they are all being confronted with the situation and how they have dealt with it (or lack of).
This book is fast paced and makes you think about it long after you’ve finished. It demonstrates the complexity of people and situations and family. I do think you need to look at the trigger warning before you read!
Trigger warnings on this book ⚠️
What happens when one night can bring back the history or everyone in the group. They all know what happened on the past and it’s now they are all being confronted with the situation and how they have dealt with it (or lack of).
This book is fast paced and makes you think about it long after you’ve finished. It demonstrates the complexity of people and situations and family. I do think you need to look at the trigger warning before you read!
June 17, 2026
the vibe: it is giving peak emotional warfare. paris is basically treated like a moody, depressed character watching everyone's life crumble.
the drama: the tension between nick and his mom is so aggressively uncomfortable it will give you actual secondary anxiety.
the verdict: honestly a total psychological fever dream of a book that explores how silence can utterly ruin a family. it’s deeply tragic and emotionally taxing, so prepare to be unwell.
the drama: the tension between nick and his mom is so aggressively uncomfortable it will give you actual secondary anxiety.
the verdict: honestly a total psychological fever dream of a book that explores how silence can utterly ruin a family. it’s deeply tragic and emotionally taxing, so prepare to be unwell.
June 22, 2026
This is a character-driven book with immersive dialogue, which was both understated and spectacular in the way key elements of characters and their past were landed. The interactions felt so natural, and the emotions so beautifully raw, that it was as if I was there to witness the unmasking of long suppressed fear, guilt, shame, and ennui. It reminded me of The Secret History by Donna Tartt, which I loved and loathed at various points but was left silently stunned by the end.
Paris as a setting was a character of its own, with the downpours of rain throughout and the slick, dark streets reflecting the mood of the scenes.
The subject matter covers the darkest elements of society, but I felt that I had a duty to read it even when I felt my skin crawl, because there are unfortunately so many people living a version of the situations described who cannot just close the book, no matter how much they yearn to. I must emphasise that the handling of the deepest flaws of humanity were in no way gratuitous; the author allowed the characters to lead us just far enough through the glass darkly to understand what was being inferred, but stopping short of graphic detail. And this made it feel all the more believable to me.
This is a stunning novel which won three awards at the International Firebird Book Awards. I hope it continues to receive the accolades it so richly deserves. It’s going to remain in my thoughts for a long time coming.
Paris as a setting was a character of its own, with the downpours of rain throughout and the slick, dark streets reflecting the mood of the scenes.
The subject matter covers the darkest elements of society, but I felt that I had a duty to read it even when I felt my skin crawl, because there are unfortunately so many people living a version of the situations described who cannot just close the book, no matter how much they yearn to. I must emphasise that the handling of the deepest flaws of humanity were in no way gratuitous; the author allowed the characters to lead us just far enough through the glass darkly to understand what was being inferred, but stopping short of graphic detail. And this made it feel all the more believable to me.
This is a stunning novel which won three awards at the International Firebird Book Awards. I hope it continues to receive the accolades it so richly deserves. It’s going to remain in my thoughts for a long time coming.
June 23, 2026
An emotionally resonant and beautifully crafted story.
Three Days Grace completely caught me off guard. Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato has crafted a beautifully written and emotionally devastating novel that explores family, grief, trauma, identity, and the lasting impact of long-buried secrets with remarkable sensitivity and compassion.
Set over three days in Paris, this is a deeply character-driven story filled with flawed, complex, and painfully human characters. Their relationships feel authentic, messy, and emotionally charged, making it impossible not to become invested in their stories - particularly that of Nick - and a lot of ways, Jason, and the effect the past has on the present.
The writing is lyrical and immersive, with Paris serving as more than just a backdrop. The dark rainy setting was a subtle but effective metaphor for the grief, guilt, and unresolved tensions that hang over the characters.
This wasn’t always an easy read. The themes explored are heart wrenching and, at times, difficult to process. The emotional honesty at the heart of the novel makes its most powerful moments all the more raw and realistic.
What resonated most with me was the exploration of accountability, family responsibility, and the scars left by trauma. This really was a beautifully crafted, thought-provoking novel that will be difficult to forget.
Three Days Grace completely caught me off guard. Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato has crafted a beautifully written and emotionally devastating novel that explores family, grief, trauma, identity, and the lasting impact of long-buried secrets with remarkable sensitivity and compassion.
Set over three days in Paris, this is a deeply character-driven story filled with flawed, complex, and painfully human characters. Their relationships feel authentic, messy, and emotionally charged, making it impossible not to become invested in their stories - particularly that of Nick - and a lot of ways, Jason, and the effect the past has on the present.
The writing is lyrical and immersive, with Paris serving as more than just a backdrop. The dark rainy setting was a subtle but effective metaphor for the grief, guilt, and unresolved tensions that hang over the characters.
This wasn’t always an easy read. The themes explored are heart wrenching and, at times, difficult to process. The emotional honesty at the heart of the novel makes its most powerful moments all the more raw and realistic.
What resonated most with me was the exploration of accountability, family responsibility, and the scars left by trauma. This really was a beautifully crafted, thought-provoking novel that will be difficult to forget.
June 23, 2026
I was kindly sent a free copy of this book as part of a book tour in exchange for an honest review. I read this slowly as it is quite a heavy book and deals with some dark topics, namely the effect of childhood abuse and the aftermath of its cover ups. Jeremy has done a masterful job of making the story deeply affecting and heart wrenching in just a short number of pages. It can be quite an uncomfortable read in parts and I really felt for Nick and I was thankful we were starting to see a little bit of hope for him at the end. It’s amazing how much scope the narrative has considering the whole timeline takes place over just three days and the way it explores the trauma and the start of the healing process for Nick was really insightful, emotionally charged and relatable. The mood of all the characters, but Nick especially, is palpable and it pulls you in to every page, it was just a little too painful for me to read and I don’t think I could read something this triggering again. At times I did also find the writing style a bit overwhelming and, although it worked for the book, I found the amount of metaphors being used too complicated and unnecessary for me. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 on Goodreads.
June 27, 2026
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for Amazon and Goodreads.
This was a heartbreaking journey. It is difficult for me to organize my thoughts in a sufficient manner to write a review.
Be mindful of your triggers. SA of minor children, while not described on the page, is a deep rooted theme throughout. Suicide, while not on page, as well.
Three Days Grace deftly tells a painful story of generational trauma, a broken family, the complicity of those around us, but also ultimately hope. These characters are all broken in some way, and while many of them are incredibly unlikeable, they are all vividly rendered and realistic.
The beginning of the book finds the main characters all meeting up for a get-together before Lynne and her wife Susan leave for South Africa. This awkward get-together becomes absolute chaos with a revelation made over dinner. Then we watch as over the next three days secrets are exposed, old wounds reopened, forgotten memories painfully resurface. While at times immensely heartbreaking to read, this was also a story of what real love can and should be and the journey to healing and forgiveness.
Thank you to the author, Indigo River Publishing, and ZooLoo's Book Tours for the gifted copy to read and review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
This was a heartbreaking journey. It is difficult for me to organize my thoughts in a sufficient manner to write a review.
Be mindful of your triggers. SA of minor children, while not described on the page, is a deep rooted theme throughout. Suicide, while not on page, as well.
Three Days Grace deftly tells a painful story of generational trauma, a broken family, the complicity of those around us, but also ultimately hope. These characters are all broken in some way, and while many of them are incredibly unlikeable, they are all vividly rendered and realistic.
The beginning of the book finds the main characters all meeting up for a get-together before Lynne and her wife Susan leave for South Africa. This awkward get-together becomes absolute chaos with a revelation made over dinner. Then we watch as over the next three days secrets are exposed, old wounds reopened, forgotten memories painfully resurface. While at times immensely heartbreaking to read, this was also a story of what real love can and should be and the journey to healing and forgiveness.
Thank you to the author, Indigo River Publishing, and ZooLoo's Book Tours for the gifted copy to read and review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
June 20, 2026
This is a beautifully written literary novel that’s a perfect pride month read. Set in the course of three days, it will pull at all your heartstrings as we sit with the five characters presented to us in this novel as they reflect on bad news, past trauma, and new grief.
The five characters we meet, all in third person, are couple Lynne and Susan, Lynne’s son, Nick, Susan’s friend Lazlo, and a former professor, Marc. After Lynne receives news that someone close to their family has passed, Nick searches within his past to cope with hard memories, while seeking out current comfort.
This book is written so impressively because many of the main crises don’t happen on page and we are left as a reader to put together what happened over time and how everyone ended up where they are. Definitely check the content warnings for this, but this is a snapshot of family trauma playing out over the course of a weekend vacation. I would recommend to literary fiction lovers! Thanks to the author for the gifted copy.
This is a quick read that’s really beautifully written and has a lot of really great characters in them that feel complicated in real. This book is riddled with nuance.
The five characters we meet, all in third person, are couple Lynne and Susan, Lynne’s son, Nick, Susan’s friend Lazlo, and a former professor, Marc. After Lynne receives news that someone close to their family has passed, Nick searches within his past to cope with hard memories, while seeking out current comfort.
This book is written so impressively because many of the main crises don’t happen on page and we are left as a reader to put together what happened over time and how everyone ended up where they are. Definitely check the content warnings for this, but this is a snapshot of family trauma playing out over the course of a weekend vacation. I would recommend to literary fiction lovers! Thanks to the author for the gifted copy.
This is a quick read that’s really beautifully written and has a lot of really great characters in them that feel complicated in real. This book is riddled with nuance.
June 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoyed Three Days Grace and found myself quickly drawn into both the storyline and the characters.
What stood out most for me was Nick. He felt like a genuinely relatable and well-developed main character, and I found myself invested in his journey from the very beginning. His struggles, relationships and personal conflicts gave the story real emotional depth and kept me turning the pages.
One of the highlights of the book was the setting. Paris provided a wonderful backdrop to the story, adding atmosphere, charm and a strong sense of place throughout. The author’s knowledge of the city really shines through and helped bring the story to life.
At times I did feel the writing became a little over descriptive, which occasionally slowed the pace for me. However, this never took away from my overall enjoyment of the novel or the strength of the story being told.
With engaging characters, an intriguing plot and a beautifully realised setting, Three Days Grace was an enjoyable and memorable read that I’m glad I picked up.
Thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for my place on the tour.
I really enjoyed Three Days Grace and found myself quickly drawn into both the storyline and the characters.
What stood out most for me was Nick. He felt like a genuinely relatable and well-developed main character, and I found myself invested in his journey from the very beginning. His struggles, relationships and personal conflicts gave the story real emotional depth and kept me turning the pages.
One of the highlights of the book was the setting. Paris provided a wonderful backdrop to the story, adding atmosphere, charm and a strong sense of place throughout. The author’s knowledge of the city really shines through and helped bring the story to life.
At times I did feel the writing became a little over descriptive, which occasionally slowed the pace for me. However, this never took away from my overall enjoyment of the novel or the strength of the story being told.
With engaging characters, an intriguing plot and a beautifully realised setting, Three Days Grace was an enjoyable and memorable read that I’m glad I picked up.
Thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for my place on the tour.
July 4, 2026
This book is heavy and dark. The premise is not new - five people meet in a Paris hotel, as a bon voyage, for a trip to South Africa that two of the characters are taking.
What you would assume to be a jovial gathering is anything but. They all confront family secrets, long held, new shocking revelations, and searing betrayals.
The five characters - Lynne, Susan, Nick, Maslow, and Marc - find themselves in a bit of a claustrophobic setting where they are forced to confront their demons.
Dysfunction does not begin to tell their stories. They all use their silence and denials as their currency, believing it keeps them safe.
The author's writing flows like poetry, lilting, and brutal in equal measure. The subject matter is handled with a velvet glove, never going over the top.
The pacing is a bit slow, and some of the dialogue (for me) was strange, but the story definitely made me think about families and how we choose to remember events in our lives. The story has no resolutions wrapped up neatly at the end but rather highlights the messiness of life.
Content Warning: The book contains significant and heavy themes regarding childhood abuse and suicide.
What you would assume to be a jovial gathering is anything but. They all confront family secrets, long held, new shocking revelations, and searing betrayals.
The five characters - Lynne, Susan, Nick, Maslow, and Marc - find themselves in a bit of a claustrophobic setting where they are forced to confront their demons.
Dysfunction does not begin to tell their stories. They all use their silence and denials as their currency, believing it keeps them safe.
The author's writing flows like poetry, lilting, and brutal in equal measure. The subject matter is handled with a velvet glove, never going over the top.
The pacing is a bit slow, and some of the dialogue (for me) was strange, but the story definitely made me think about families and how we choose to remember events in our lives. The story has no resolutions wrapped up neatly at the end but rather highlights the messiness of life.
Content Warning: The book contains significant and heavy themes regarding childhood abuse and suicide.
April 19, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author.
Thank you, Jeremy!
Set over the course of three days in Paris, this story brings together five people bound by a shared past, each trying in their own way to move forward.
Susan and Lynne are preparing for a trip to South Africa and reconnect with Nick, Lynne’s son, and longtime friends Laslo and Marc at what’s meant to be a simple send-off dinner.
As the evening unravels, long buried secrets begin to surface and old wounds open as the lingering presence of Nick’s deceased brother hangs over everything, compounded by the news of Lynne’s ex-husband’s death.
The tone is quiet and understated, but the pacing slowly tightens, building a deep, emotional tension that eventually reaches a fever pitch. The characters feel real, and become unlikable, shaped much more by what they don’t say or do. The weight of their secrets hangs heavily over the entire plot.
Three Days Grace explores love, loss, grief, and the complicated dynamics of a fractured family through an LGBTQ+ lens with a masterful nuance.
It doesn’t tie everything up neatly, but it ends on a softer, more hopeful note. Three Days Grace is haunting, complex, and quietly devastating.
Thank you, Jeremy!
Set over the course of three days in Paris, this story brings together five people bound by a shared past, each trying in their own way to move forward.
Susan and Lynne are preparing for a trip to South Africa and reconnect with Nick, Lynne’s son, and longtime friends Laslo and Marc at what’s meant to be a simple send-off dinner.
As the evening unravels, long buried secrets begin to surface and old wounds open as the lingering presence of Nick’s deceased brother hangs over everything, compounded by the news of Lynne’s ex-husband’s death.
The tone is quiet and understated, but the pacing slowly tightens, building a deep, emotional tension that eventually reaches a fever pitch. The characters feel real, and become unlikable, shaped much more by what they don’t say or do. The weight of their secrets hangs heavily over the entire plot.
Three Days Grace explores love, loss, grief, and the complicated dynamics of a fractured family through an LGBTQ+ lens with a masterful nuance.
It doesn’t tie everything up neatly, but it ends on a softer, more hopeful note. Three Days Grace is haunting, complex, and quietly devastating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2026
Firstly, I must say that this is not usually the type of book I gravitate towards normally, so I was pleasantly surprised by it! It is a quick read that is both emotionally sensitive and powerfully engaging! It’s a fast paced book with a deep dive into what happens when trauma isn’t addressed and left to fester in the deep dark recesses of your mind! Its third person narrative allows us to digest the difficult topics and detach ourselves from the characters! We follow Nick- a man in his late 20s- in the aftermath of a dinner with his mother, her wife and friends- where a bombshell of news is dropped. The character development of Nick throughout the turbulent three days is astonishing. It is really well thought out and planned by the author. The only thing I would say that hindered my experience was the splattering of random French phrases here and there throughout the book. As a non French speaker I found it a little distracting in areas! But apart from that- it was a great read!
June 16, 2026
In Three Days Grace, we follow a fairly small cast of characters, brought together in Paris over the course of three days for a farewell celebration for a couple about to embark on the next chapter in their lives
But not all goes to plan as past truths are exposed, secrets begin to be unravelled and old wounds are reopened.
So first of all, I must admit, this isn't my typical type of read but I think it's important for authors to have the perspective of readers who are not necessarily their target audience so I try to read outside of my comfort zone as often as possible, and in this instance, I'm glad I did.
I'm not sure If this is a read to be enjoyed, it's too emotional and dark for that, if that makes sense. So it's one to be appreciated and savoured, to think about long after you've turned the final page.
The Paris setting was very fitting and the atmospheric feel was brilliantly done.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
But not all goes to plan as past truths are exposed, secrets begin to be unravelled and old wounds are reopened.
So first of all, I must admit, this isn't my typical type of read but I think it's important for authors to have the perspective of readers who are not necessarily their target audience so I try to read outside of my comfort zone as often as possible, and in this instance, I'm glad I did.
I'm not sure If this is a read to be enjoyed, it's too emotional and dark for that, if that makes sense. So it's one to be appreciated and savoured, to think about long after you've turned the final page.
The Paris setting was very fitting and the atmospheric feel was brilliantly done.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
June 26, 2026
Its quite difficult to review this, without giving away spoilers.
Its a relatively short read at just over 200 pages and boy does it pack a punch. Set over just 3 days, a phone call, who's meaning isn't revealed until a bit later, causes a series of stories to be told and long held secrets to be revealed.
Some of those secrets are dark and utterly heartbreaking, but its a compelling and engrossing read.
The main characters, a song, his mother and her lesbian lover, a friend and an ex, all combined to make quite the group.
Looking at the impact of secrets, how hindsight can completely change your view of events, family, relationships between mother and sons, brothers, and much more.
Its set against the backdrop of Paris, sprinkling of French and the weather all used to utter perfection to really build the mood and feel of what's happening.
I cant say I enjoyed this exactly, but I did read it in almost one go because I had to know the outcome.
Its a relatively short read at just over 200 pages and boy does it pack a punch. Set over just 3 days, a phone call, who's meaning isn't revealed until a bit later, causes a series of stories to be told and long held secrets to be revealed.
Some of those secrets are dark and utterly heartbreaking, but its a compelling and engrossing read.
The main characters, a song, his mother and her lesbian lover, a friend and an ex, all combined to make quite the group.
Looking at the impact of secrets, how hindsight can completely change your view of events, family, relationships between mother and sons, brothers, and much more.
Its set against the backdrop of Paris, sprinkling of French and the weather all used to utter perfection to really build the mood and feel of what's happening.
I cant say I enjoyed this exactly, but I did read it in almost one go because I had to know the outcome.
May 19, 2026
I found this hard to get into in the beginning. I struggled with the dynamics of the group and how they fit together.
The interjection of french phrases didn't really help either as although you get a basic understanding of what is being said, I found myself having to translate the phrases.
It is written in 3 parts, 1 for each day.
Part 2 makes everything more clear and you finally get an understanding of what Nick has gone through and why he acts the way he does. It also explains everyone's cagey behaviour.
I struggled with the book in the beginning as I didn't understand what the book was truly about but by the end I had a new sense of understanding. People spend too long acting how they think people want us to act by putting up defences and masking how we really feel. We should love ourselves and not hide behind something we are not. You can't hide from the past forever.
The interjection of french phrases didn't really help either as although you get a basic understanding of what is being said, I found myself having to translate the phrases.
It is written in 3 parts, 1 for each day.
Part 2 makes everything more clear and you finally get an understanding of what Nick has gone through and why he acts the way he does. It also explains everyone's cagey behaviour.
I struggled with the book in the beginning as I didn't understand what the book was truly about but by the end I had a new sense of understanding. People spend too long acting how they think people want us to act by putting up defences and masking how we really feel. We should love ourselves and not hide behind something we are not. You can't hide from the past forever.
June 22, 2026
3 stars⭐️. Three Days Grace is a beautifully written story that takes place in Paris. The book is based on Nick’s life and the trauma he has endured and continues to endure. Make sure to read the trigger warnings, as some of the themes covered in this book may be heavy for many readers.
I’m glad we got to see different perspectives, including those of the victims of Gene’s abuse. It’s heartbreaking to see that a life was lost because of him and that the lives of multiple people were forever affected by this trauma.
I do think that Jason and Nick deserved a much better support system than the adults they had around them. It’s sad to see how many adults recognize certain signs of (sexual) abuse and still fail to take action.
Thank you to the author and bookfluencers for providing me with a free copy.
I’m glad we got to see different perspectives, including those of the victims of Gene’s abuse. It’s heartbreaking to see that a life was lost because of him and that the lives of multiple people were forever affected by this trauma.
I do think that Jason and Nick deserved a much better support system than the adults they had around them. It’s sad to see how many adults recognize certain signs of (sexual) abuse and still fail to take action.
Thank you to the author and bookfluencers for providing me with a free copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2026
Thanks to Zooloo's Book Tours and the author for this ARC.
The novella is an absolute ride. I loved the first section, with the introductions to the characters, and I spent the other two sections absolutely fuming at how awful most of the characters are. If you want to hate read something, this is the book for you, because this author has mastered writing anger-inducing characters! The whole thing was so brilliantly written.
Maybe it's because it's set in Paris, but the first section in particular has a real Parisian vibe of style over substance - almost apathetic, Camus-esque. This is in no way a criticism; I loved the kind of vapid nature of it before the real storylines kicked in. It felt like the whole thing was a metaphor and it was just brilliant to read. It's not a happy book; there are no feel-good vibes... but it's well worth reading.
The novella is an absolute ride. I loved the first section, with the introductions to the characters, and I spent the other two sections absolutely fuming at how awful most of the characters are. If you want to hate read something, this is the book for you, because this author has mastered writing anger-inducing characters! The whole thing was so brilliantly written.
Maybe it's because it's set in Paris, but the first section in particular has a real Parisian vibe of style over substance - almost apathetic, Camus-esque. This is in no way a criticism; I loved the kind of vapid nature of it before the real storylines kicked in. It felt like the whole thing was a metaphor and it was just brilliant to read. It's not a happy book; there are no feel-good vibes... but it's well worth reading.
June 26, 2026
First and foremost, this book is surrounding some very heavy topics so check trigger warning before diving in. Because it stays with you. The plot. The characters. The heaviness. Lots and lots of layers in a short book. It all just tells such a powerful story of the impact of heart wrenching trauma and what it can do to all of the people surrounding it. And then it shows us resilience. Ultimately I loved the story. Especially Nick. This character. He brought out the waterworks in me. Some pages I couldn’t even see through the tears so I’d have to pause and collect myself. Sometimes I felt like I couldn’t breathe because I felt so deeply for him. I could not relate on the exact same level but some of the feelings he carried with himself over the years I could relate to all too well and that can bring on such reflective feelings while reading. Which I enjoy.
July 1, 2026
Three Days Grace by Jeremy Bradley-Silverio Donato is a contemporary LGBTQ+ novel is quite a quick read.
This book covers heavy topics, including child abuse, so please be aware before going into it.
I didn’t know what to expect when I started reading this book because of the style in which the story is told, but I was left emotional by the end. At one point I had to stop reading because my heart couldn’t take it.
There are very few characters in this book, but the way they’re developed means every interaction leaves a huge impact. Each character stands out in their own complex way.
It can be a difficult book to push through because of the topics it covers, but despite all the dark themes, it’s still one I’d recommend. The author’s writing creates a web of layered emotions alongside a fantastic character-driven story with an engrossing writing style.
This book covers heavy topics, including child abuse, so please be aware before going into it.
I didn’t know what to expect when I started reading this book because of the style in which the story is told, but I was left emotional by the end. At one point I had to stop reading because my heart couldn’t take it.
There are very few characters in this book, but the way they’re developed means every interaction leaves a huge impact. Each character stands out in their own complex way.
It can be a difficult book to push through because of the topics it covers, but despite all the dark themes, it’s still one I’d recommend. The author’s writing creates a web of layered emotions alongside a fantastic character-driven story with an engrossing writing style.
May 4, 2026
Okay firstly a huge thank you to Jeremy for reaching out and sending me a copy of this book!!
All I knew about this one was it was a story based on lies but when I tell you the lies had my jaw in the ground…. I was not expecting this book to be as dark as it was! 👀
What makes it better is that it’s set in Paris so you would think it’ll be a cute little book and the lies being bad but not overly dramatic well I couldn’t of been more wrong…
As I was reading this book I genuinely thought I was just floating about these characters witnessing it all play out!
All I want to do now is find this made up character Nick and give him the biggest hug 🫂😩
200 pages that most definitely hits & leaves a huge impact
All I knew about this one was it was a story based on lies but when I tell you the lies had my jaw in the ground…. I was not expecting this book to be as dark as it was! 👀
What makes it better is that it’s set in Paris so you would think it’ll be a cute little book and the lies being bad but not overly dramatic well I couldn’t of been more wrong…
As I was reading this book I genuinely thought I was just floating about these characters witnessing it all play out!
All I want to do now is find this made up character Nick and give him the biggest hug 🫂😩
200 pages that most definitely hits & leaves a huge impact
June 9, 2026
It’s hard to explain how well this book captures the dynamics of a broken relationship between a parent and a child. It felt like destiny to read Three Day Grace when I did. At first the themes were hard to dive into, given my own experiences with complex family dynamics, but I am so glad I leaned in. This book profoundly explores navigating loss, the courage it takes to face the ghosts of the past, and the tangled love and betrayal wrapped up in caregiving.
The author has a remarkable way of capturing both the light and the dark, in particular, the lingering hope that an estranged child still holds. It is a delicate, deeply moving balance, and so rare to find in stories. The pacing genuinely flies by with the intensity of a stage play.
Hats off for writing such a gripping, emotionally resonant story.
The author has a remarkable way of capturing both the light and the dark, in particular, the lingering hope that an estranged child still holds. It is a delicate, deeply moving balance, and so rare to find in stories. The pacing genuinely flies by with the intensity of a stage play.
Hats off for writing such a gripping, emotionally resonant story.
Read
June 15, 2026I recently took part in a read-along for this book and generally its not a genre i would usually pick up so it was a very different reading experience.
Im glad i read it and had the questions to prompt discussion throughout, its definitely a book that makes you think about past experiences in your own life and relationships and how you act/react to others.
I struggled with a few french phrases etc being added since its not a language i know a single word of lol but i enjoyed the descriptive way Paris was brought to us as readers.
This is a short book that packs a punch, its about family secrets/betrayal and tackles very serious issues like forgiveness and trauma. Is it worth losing your family members to protect your peace?
Im glad i read it and had the questions to prompt discussion throughout, its definitely a book that makes you think about past experiences in your own life and relationships and how you act/react to others.
I struggled with a few french phrases etc being added since its not a language i know a single word of lol but i enjoyed the descriptive way Paris was brought to us as readers.
This is a short book that packs a punch, its about family secrets/betrayal and tackles very serious issues like forgiveness and trauma. Is it worth losing your family members to protect your peace?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews