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Almost Us
Seven
There's no forgiving the things I've done. Or failed to do.
But there was a time I was a good man. I had a family. A life that was more than breaking bones and following orders. It was my own fault I lost it all.
The night I met her I was done. Done with the emptiness. Done with the guilt. Done with everything. But then she was there and I had a choice to make. Step in or walk away. I couldn't walk away.
Molly
I've been running for a long time. From myself. From my past. From the truth.
My life has never been what it looks like from the outside. I've always been what I needed to be, done what I needed to do. Even now, my life isn't really mine.
All I'd wanted was a few hours of normal. Instead I ended up somewhere I never should've been. He could've walked away. Instead, he risked his life to save mine.
Seven and Molly are two people with nothing left to lose. One choice that changes everything. Both with secrets that will destroy them if they let them.
Almost Us is a high stakes, slower burn, dark romance featuring deeply human and flawed characters trying to find their way back to themselves and each other.
There's no forgiving the things I've done. Or failed to do.
But there was a time I was a good man. I had a family. A life that was more than breaking bones and following orders. It was my own fault I lost it all.
The night I met her I was done. Done with the emptiness. Done with the guilt. Done with everything. But then she was there and I had a choice to make. Step in or walk away. I couldn't walk away.
Molly
I've been running for a long time. From myself. From my past. From the truth.
My life has never been what it looks like from the outside. I've always been what I needed to be, done what I needed to do. Even now, my life isn't really mine.
All I'd wanted was a few hours of normal. Instead I ended up somewhere I never should've been. He could've walked away. Instead, he risked his life to save mine.
Seven and Molly are two people with nothing left to lose. One choice that changes everything. Both with secrets that will destroy them if they let them.
Almost Us is a high stakes, slower burn, dark romance featuring deeply human and flawed characters trying to find their way back to themselves and each other.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 24, 2026
About the author
Jenni Chris
4 books12 followersHi, I'm Jenni Chris.
I write dark, emotionally charged stories for readers who aren't afraid of the complicated parts — love wrapped in scars, characters who bleed on the page, and the kind of psychological depth that stays with you long after the last page.
My characters are messy, flawed, raw — and real. They break. But they always fight to put themselves back together, piece by jagged piece.
My debut duet Beautiful Scars explores the beautiful, sometimes brutal space between wanting and having, pain and forgiveness. And my upcoming Almost Us duology introduces two of my most beloved characters yet — two deeply broken people with secrets that can destroy them.
If you've ever been drawn to the darker corners of fiction — where the pain is real, the healing is earned, and nothing is ever simple — you'll feel at home here.
When I'm not writing, you'll find me enjoying quiet moments, wrestling my TBR list, or soaking in the wild stillness of the western mountains I call home.
I write dark, emotionally charged stories for readers who aren't afraid of the complicated parts — love wrapped in scars, characters who bleed on the page, and the kind of psychological depth that stays with you long after the last page.
My characters are messy, flawed, raw — and real. They break. But they always fight to put themselves back together, piece by jagged piece.
My debut duet Beautiful Scars explores the beautiful, sometimes brutal space between wanting and having, pain and forgiveness. And my upcoming Almost Us duology introduces two of my most beloved characters yet — two deeply broken people with secrets that can destroy them.
If you've ever been drawn to the darker corners of fiction — where the pain is real, the healing is earned, and nothing is ever simple — you'll feel at home here.
When I'm not writing, you'll find me enjoying quiet moments, wrestling my TBR list, or soaking in the wild stillness of the western mountains I call home.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 18, 2026
ARC review
This book was a great read. I would a 100 percent recommend it.
The author developed two very deep characters who lived through some very horrific experiences individually before they found each other.
The story twists you and tears at your heart. You develop such a connection with both main characters.
This book was a great read. I would a 100 percent recommend it.
The author developed two very deep characters who lived through some very horrific experiences individually before they found each other.
The story twists you and tears at your heart. You develop such a connection with both main characters.
March 11, 2026
I cannot recommend this book enough. It takes u on an emotional roller coaster. I cannot wait until the 2nd book. I will b telling my friends to pick this one up.
April 6, 2026
Amazing! Heart wrenching! A twist I didn't see coming and, as usual, I CANNOT WAIT UNTIL BOOK #2!!!! All the feels while reading this ARC 💙 I love Molly & Edie and I cannot wait to read the firecrackers that will explode in the next book. Seven and Nick....well...I'm emotionally invested is all I can say without spoilers 😃 Spice is minimal, connection is very strong and the twists kept me on my toes! Jenni's best book to date!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC Review for Almost US by Jenni Chris.
4.5 Stars...I wish Goodreads would allow 1/2 stars.
This was dark, you have to know your limits before you read something like this. That being said, it was a very emotional story with excellent character development. The writing pulled you into their story, allowing you to feel everything they were going through. At times I had to stop and take a deep breath, your heart just breaks for them.
Both Seven and Molly go through so much in their early twenties, more than any one person should. It definitely shaped who they are when they meet and who they become once they are together.
Seven was a paramedic, married with a family before he faces a loss that changes everything. Now drinking through life and working as an enforcer, he is ready to end it all. He feels he has nothing to live for.
Molly is divorced, creating a new life for herself after a horrific and abusive marriage. She works mindlessly at a local bakery just trying to survive each day.
Their paths cross one day and their lives will never be the same. I didn't see that ending coming! Now I can't wait to read the next book to see what happens. I feel like their story can't end like that. There has to be more.
4.5 Stars...I wish Goodreads would allow 1/2 stars.
This was dark, you have to know your limits before you read something like this. That being said, it was a very emotional story with excellent character development. The writing pulled you into their story, allowing you to feel everything they were going through. At times I had to stop and take a deep breath, your heart just breaks for them.
Both Seven and Molly go through so much in their early twenties, more than any one person should. It definitely shaped who they are when they meet and who they become once they are together.
Seven was a paramedic, married with a family before he faces a loss that changes everything. Now drinking through life and working as an enforcer, he is ready to end it all. He feels he has nothing to live for.
Molly is divorced, creating a new life for herself after a horrific and abusive marriage. She works mindlessly at a local bakery just trying to survive each day.
Their paths cross one day and their lives will never be the same. I didn't see that ending coming! Now I can't wait to read the next book to see what happens. I feel like their story can't end like that. There has to be more.
March 23, 2026
Almost Us by Jenni Chris completely pulled me in from the start. This is one of those stories where the connection between the characters slowly builds until you realize you’re completely invested in them and their journey.
The banter felt natural and genuine, and I loved how the little moments, coffee, teasing, and quiet conversations, ended up meaning just as much as the bigger emotional scenes. The chemistry between the characters felt real, and the tension had me constantly turning pages.
What stood out the most to me was the emotional depth. The characters aren’t perfect, and seeing them work through their struggles and slowly open up to each other made their relationship feel authentic and earned.
There were moments that made me laugh and others that pulled at my heart. By the end, I honestly didn’t want to leave these characters behind. If you love romance with strong chemistry, emotional depth, and meaningful character moments, this one is definitely worth reading.
The banter felt natural and genuine, and I loved how the little moments, coffee, teasing, and quiet conversations, ended up meaning just as much as the bigger emotional scenes. The chemistry between the characters felt real, and the tension had me constantly turning pages.
What stood out the most to me was the emotional depth. The characters aren’t perfect, and seeing them work through their struggles and slowly open up to each other made their relationship feel authentic and earned.
There were moments that made me laugh and others that pulled at my heart. By the end, I honestly didn’t want to leave these characters behind. If you love romance with strong chemistry, emotional depth, and meaningful character moments, this one is definitely worth reading.
April 23, 2026
Recieved eARC, all opinions are my own.
I have to start off by saying that I dont hand out 5 stars to books often. The fact that I did to this book means a lot to me.
This book made me feel different emotions almost like I was Seven or Molly depending on the pov. There is a point in the story that had me so anxious. I was trying to make my mind read faster because I felt the emotions Seven was feeling and I needed to know what came next. Almost like if I read faster Seven wouldn't be in such emotional turmoil.
Since the beginning I kept trying to predict some plot points and definitely didnt get them right. Which made me love it even more. I didn't feel like it was predictable like many other reads are. (Well at least for me) Also didnt see that cliffhanger happening. Cant wait for the sequel. I need more Seven and Molly in my life.
I will say make sure you search trigger warnings as this book does deal with heavy tags that might be triggering for some.
I have to start off by saying that I dont hand out 5 stars to books often. The fact that I did to this book means a lot to me.
This book made me feel different emotions almost like I was Seven or Molly depending on the pov. There is a point in the story that had me so anxious. I was trying to make my mind read faster because I felt the emotions Seven was feeling and I needed to know what came next. Almost like if I read faster Seven wouldn't be in such emotional turmoil.
Since the beginning I kept trying to predict some plot points and definitely didnt get them right. Which made me love it even more. I didn't feel like it was predictable like many other reads are. (Well at least for me) Also didnt see that cliffhanger happening. Cant wait for the sequel. I need more Seven and Molly in my life.
I will say make sure you search trigger warnings as this book does deal with heavy tags that might be triggering for some.
April 6, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ARC Review – Almost Us by Jenni Chris
This book… I loved it to pieces.
Almost Us is easily a 5-star read for me and one of my favorites this year.
The emotional depth in this story was incredible. The struggle, tension, and brokenness within each character felt so real and so beautifully written. Nothing felt forced or overdone—just raw, honest, and deeply human.
Jenni Chris did an amazing job capturing the complexity of relationships—the timing, the missteps, the “almost” of it all. You feel every moment right alongside the characters, and it pulls you in completely.
And yes, there is spice, but it’s layered with emotion and meaning, which made it even more impactful.
This story stayed with me long after I finished it. Books like this don’t come around often.
Highly recommend.
This book… I loved it to pieces.
Almost Us is easily a 5-star read for me and one of my favorites this year.
The emotional depth in this story was incredible. The struggle, tension, and brokenness within each character felt so real and so beautifully written. Nothing felt forced or overdone—just raw, honest, and deeply human.
Jenni Chris did an amazing job capturing the complexity of relationships—the timing, the missteps, the “almost” of it all. You feel every moment right alongside the characters, and it pulls you in completely.
And yes, there is spice, but it’s layered with emotion and meaning, which made it even more impactful.
This story stayed with me long after I finished it. Books like this don’t come around often.
Highly recommend.
April 4, 2026
This one is heavy in the best way—raw, emotional, and filled with characters who feel real, messy, and human.
Seven and Molly are both carrying so much, and you feel it in every interaction. The story leans into survival, guilt, and second chances, with a slow-burn connection that builds through everything they’ve been through.
What stood out most is how flawed they both are—and how that’s exactly what makes their connection work. Nothing feels easy, and that’s what makes it hit harder.
Secrets, tension, and the kind of love that feels like it could either save you… or destroy everything.
✨ Read this if you love:
• dark, emotional romance
• slow burn tension
• flawed, complex characters
• high-stakes, survival vibes
• secrets that threaten everything
Seven and Molly are both carrying so much, and you feel it in every interaction. The story leans into survival, guilt, and second chances, with a slow-burn connection that builds through everything they’ve been through.
What stood out most is how flawed they both are—and how that’s exactly what makes their connection work. Nothing feels easy, and that’s what makes it hit harder.
Secrets, tension, and the kind of love that feels like it could either save you… or destroy everything.
✨ Read this if you love:
• dark, emotional romance
• slow burn tension
• flawed, complex characters
• high-stakes, survival vibes
• secrets that threaten everything
April 24, 2026
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I found the author on TikTok and Im so happy that I did.
I fell in love with the main characters. They were sooo loveable, how couldn't i?!?!
Molly deserves everything good in the world and so does Seven. They are both still hurting from their pasts.
I absolutely HATE Richard. He deserves the nickname that comes with the name Richard. He fits that nickname to the fullest.
I look forward to what Richard has coming to him in the next book.
This ended on a Cliffy which I dont like but I hope the next book makes up for it.
This book released today: 4/24/2026.
Go grab this book and make sure you check TWs if needed.
As always make sure you are following the author on all platforms.
I found the author on TikTok and Im so happy that I did.
I fell in love with the main characters. They were sooo loveable, how couldn't i?!?!
Molly deserves everything good in the world and so does Seven. They are both still hurting from their pasts.
I absolutely HATE Richard. He deserves the nickname that comes with the name Richard. He fits that nickname to the fullest.
I look forward to what Richard has coming to him in the next book.
This ended on a Cliffy which I dont like but I hope the next book makes up for it.
This book released today: 4/24/2026.
Go grab this book and make sure you check TWs if needed.
As always make sure you are following the author on all platforms.
April 24, 2026
I'm mad I can't give this 6⭐️ but anyways!!! I had the pleasure of ARC reading this book by Jenni Chris. Almost Us is Hands down one of these Best Books of 2026!!! I loved this book so much ❤️ I can't get it out of my head. I loved Molly & Seven's story it's so raw & real. It had me hooked from the first few pages. This is such a good Dark Romance 😍 like the ending WOW can't wait for book two ❤️ I can't stop telling people to read this book!!!! 10/10 Recommend reading this book. I'm not one to spoil things so just go read this book it will not disappoint you ❤️
p.s. Jenni Chris is Now one of my top Favorite Authors. If she writes it I'm reading it ❤️🫶😊
p.s. Jenni Chris is Now one of my top Favorite Authors. If she writes it I'm reading it ❤️🫶😊
April 17, 2026
This book will have you biting your nails at the end. What a cliff hanger. I'm patiently waiting for the next release because I MUST know what happens. This story follows your MMC and FMC as they both deal with their own share of trauma. It is a slow burn, that leaves you hoping for a happy ending. Seven has this tough outer exterior, but gives off some golden retriever vibes only for the FMC, Molly. He would protect her to the ends of the earth, and I'm hoping we see him do just that in the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2026
This is a darrrkkk romance. Triggers being: domestic violence, death of a child, death of a spouse, alcohol abuse, etc. Read with caution!
Jenni, Jenni, Jenni!!! Oh my goodness I’m so grateful I was given the chance to read this as an arc but girl I need the second one nowwww!!!
The dynamic between Seven and Molly is so good! And the ending was perfect! He needed that to get his head in the right place! This had me hooked from the start kept me locked in. Can’t wait for the second one!
Jenni, Jenni, Jenni!!! Oh my goodness I’m so grateful I was given the chance to read this as an arc but girl I need the second one nowwww!!!
The dynamic between Seven and Molly is so good! And the ending was perfect! He needed that to get his head in the right place! This had me hooked from the start kept me locked in. Can’t wait for the second one!
April 18, 2026
I'm completely wrecked by this book. but in the best way possible. seven and molly were everything. this story was dark, emotional, and so intriguing. I wad immediately pulled into their story, they life. the traumas that they faced and how it molded their lives was just so deep. an absolutely amazing book.
March 12, 2026
From the beginning it is very easy to start falling in love. You think it is going to be a sweet friendship but before you realize it turns into more. Fast paced with the perfect amount of spice. It makes you want to keep reading and want more and more Seven and Molly.
March 11, 2026
I absolutely loved it. It dives into a complicated relationship between Seven and Molly. It a sweet love from two people who have been given the short end of life.
March 20, 2026
I was an ARC reader for this book!! It was amazing, can’t wait to read the next book!
March 23, 2026
This book was amazing!! The plot was great! The tension was spot on! The emotions were everywhere!!! I cant wait to read more about Seven and Molly!!! I need Always us now, please!
April 20, 2026
I enjoyed the read. Please check the trigger warning before reading. I need to know how the story ends so I need book 2.
April 25, 2026
I cannot recommend this enough!! It was great to read lots of emotions going on while reading this I can’t wait to read part two!! Seven and Molly were made for each other!
April 25, 2026
This was good! Loved the back stories and how each of them helped without thinking or trying to change each other. They healed. I NEED to do book 2 now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews