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Scream for Me
Pasts don’t stay buried for very long–and mine is clawing its way back. He might be the only thing standing in its way.
A year ago, I died and ended up in Bridgeport.
It isn’t the heaven I imagined, but it’s life. A life I didn’t have before. A second chance I’m trying my damndest not to screw up.
I was quite happy playing guitar in a dusty room with my friends and bandmates, hiding inside the music. Until the opportunity of a lifetime shows up–a residency opportunity at one of the hottest rock venues in the city, Headstone.
That’s when he enters my life.
The owner of Headstone. Intense, guarded, and impossible to read. He’s devastatingly beautiful, but he’s everything I should avoid… and everything I can’t seem to stay away from. There’s a familiarity there that sets every nerve on edge. Like he can see right through the walls I’ve so carefully built.
But I can’t let myself get attached. I can’t drag him into the wreckage I crawled out of. Because the truth is, your past never stays buried for long. And mine is starting to surface.
As the lines between safety and desire blur, I’m questioning everything.
But if I’m honest?
I think he could be the only thing standing between me and the past that’s creeping closer.
-----------------------------------------
Author's Scream For Me is a dark rockstar romance with adult themes that may not be suitable for all readers. Please check TWs. This book is book one in a duet and does end on a cliffhanger.
A year ago, I died and ended up in Bridgeport.
It isn’t the heaven I imagined, but it’s life. A life I didn’t have before. A second chance I’m trying my damndest not to screw up.
I was quite happy playing guitar in a dusty room with my friends and bandmates, hiding inside the music. Until the opportunity of a lifetime shows up–a residency opportunity at one of the hottest rock venues in the city, Headstone.
That’s when he enters my life.
The owner of Headstone. Intense, guarded, and impossible to read. He’s devastatingly beautiful, but he’s everything I should avoid… and everything I can’t seem to stay away from. There’s a familiarity there that sets every nerve on edge. Like he can see right through the walls I’ve so carefully built.
But I can’t let myself get attached. I can’t drag him into the wreckage I crawled out of. Because the truth is, your past never stays buried for long. And mine is starting to surface.
As the lines between safety and desire blur, I’m questioning everything.
But if I’m honest?
I think he could be the only thing standing between me and the past that’s creeping closer.
-----------------------------------------
Author's Scream For Me is a dark rockstar romance with adult themes that may not be suitable for all readers. Please check TWs. This book is book one in a duet and does end on a cliffhanger.
- GenresDark Romance
391 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 21, 2026
About the author
Ayla Valentine
1 book21 followersAyla Valentine is a dark romance author who loves to write heartwrenching stories mixed with satisfying, healing conclusions where each character earns their happily ever after.
Ayla can be found in her little cottage in rural Ireland with her husband and animals. She loves all things occult, creepy, and paranormal, but also loves baking sourdough, gardening, and travelling. As a neurodivergent author, her interests are as broad as her stories.
She may or may not survive on coffee, sarcasm, and chocolate.
Ayla can be found in her little cottage in rural Ireland with her husband and animals. She loves all things occult, creepy, and paranormal, but also loves baking sourdough, gardening, and travelling. As a neurodivergent author, her interests are as broad as her stories.
She may or may not survive on coffee, sarcasm, and chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
July 20, 2026
Firstly a huge congratulations to the author on her debut, absolutely knocked it out of the park with Elias and Kat. I am obsessed and need the second book in their duet pronto because that cliffhanger left me wanting more🤭
Our book opens where we meet our FMC Kat and she is running from her past. She starts over and builds a new life for herself and this is where she meets Harper. These two were definitely like long lost sisters as the clicked very quickly, and it is through Harper that Kat started playing guitar once again as on one evening after a few beverages Kat plucks up the courage to play and Harper absolutely demanded that she joined her band Tether and from there the rest is history. Now the band are preparing for a big audition to land a residency in quite a popular bar.
Prior to the audition Kat and Harper go on a night out in which Kat’s eye is caught by a handsome stranger and let’s just say the feeling of attraction was mutual on both ends but on this eve nothing happens nor do the pair even speak to each other. It is at the audition that Kat sees this stranger again which lo and behold he is the bar’s owner. To say Elias was smitten with Kat would be an understatement and he was very impressed with her bands talent that they landed the residency.
Elias was respectful when it came to Kat but if anyone dared to make her uncomfortable or upset her well that’s a whole different ball game. Elias recognises that Kat has a past that is starting to catch up together but their worlds are entwined and Elias will stop at nothing to keep Kat safe.
I don’t want to give to much away about this book but if you love a book where the man would set the world on fire and not let a flame touch her then this is the book for you.
Thank you so much to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
Our book opens where we meet our FMC Kat and she is running from her past. She starts over and builds a new life for herself and this is where she meets Harper. These two were definitely like long lost sisters as the clicked very quickly, and it is through Harper that Kat started playing guitar once again as on one evening after a few beverages Kat plucks up the courage to play and Harper absolutely demanded that she joined her band Tether and from there the rest is history. Now the band are preparing for a big audition to land a residency in quite a popular bar.
Prior to the audition Kat and Harper go on a night out in which Kat’s eye is caught by a handsome stranger and let’s just say the feeling of attraction was mutual on both ends but on this eve nothing happens nor do the pair even speak to each other. It is at the audition that Kat sees this stranger again which lo and behold he is the bar’s owner. To say Elias was smitten with Kat would be an understatement and he was very impressed with her bands talent that they landed the residency.
Elias was respectful when it came to Kat but if anyone dared to make her uncomfortable or upset her well that’s a whole different ball game. Elias recognises that Kat has a past that is starting to catch up together but their worlds are entwined and Elias will stop at nothing to keep Kat safe.
I don’t want to give to much away about this book but if you love a book where the man would set the world on fire and not let a flame touch her then this is the book for you.
Thank you so much to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
July 25, 2026
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
TW - fatphobia (internal and external), fat shaming, disordered eating, self harm (including scars, past cutting, on page hairband snapping against the wrist and on page cutting), narcissistic abuse, sexual assault, attempted rape (on page), rape (recounted in detail, not by the MMC), domestic abuse, physical abuse, mental abuse, PTSD incl flashbacks, trauma recovery, suicide ideation, attempted suicide (past, mentioned, on page accidental attempt due to cutting too deep), drugging of the FMC (incl date rape, on page, not by the MMC, mentioned past instances to keep the FMC compliant), sex trafficking, murder, torture, mild gore, death of a parent (past, mentioned), gun violence, knife violence, alcohol consumption, death of a sibling (past, mentioned), financial insecurity, loss of a pet (mentioned), homelessness (past, mentioned), vomit (mentioned), panic attack, anxiety, smoking, drugs (mentioned), night terrors, blood, unsafe sex, drug addicted parents (past, recounted), grief, overdose (parents, past, mentioned), death of a grandparent (past, mentioned), kidnapping
CW - orgasm denial, edging, forced orgasms, exhibitionism, voyeurism, public play, sex club
Tropes - rockstar romance, organised crime, dark, age gap (7 yrs), who did this to you?
Representation - plus size FMC, queer scs
sc(s) = side character(s)
This was a good debut from Ayla! Kat (FMC) is very clearly going through something and/or hiding from something and throughout, we are fed subtle details about her victory. I think Kat is a character a lot of people will either be able to relate to or empathise with given the struggles we see her go through on page.
Elias (MMC) is immediately obsessed with her on site whether she’s just working in the coffee shop or performing with her band in his bar. He definitely is the steady presence missing from Kat’s life. He can be ruthless when it comes to work but is always so understanding when it comes to Kat.
The plot picks up towards the end and this story does end on a cliffy. I am interested to see what happens in the next book and what else drives the plot forward. I am eager to continue reading the development of Kat’s character; there were times where I could not for the life of me wrap my head around some of the choices she was making but it was also hard not to give her the benefit of the doubt.
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List / The Naughtier List / By Command Alone: Book 1 of the Kinky ABC Anthology
TW/CW not to be repurposed by authors / publishers for website / book / content use without permission
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
TW - fatphobia (internal and external), fat shaming, disordered eating, self harm (including scars, past cutting, on page hairband snapping against the wrist and on page cutting), narcissistic abuse, sexual assault, attempted rape (on page), rape (recounted in detail, not by the MMC), domestic abuse, physical abuse, mental abuse, PTSD incl flashbacks, trauma recovery, suicide ideation, attempted suicide (past, mentioned, on page accidental attempt due to cutting too deep), drugging of the FMC (incl date rape, on page, not by the MMC, mentioned past instances to keep the FMC compliant), sex trafficking, murder, torture, mild gore, death of a parent (past, mentioned), gun violence, knife violence, alcohol consumption, death of a sibling (past, mentioned), financial insecurity, loss of a pet (mentioned), homelessness (past, mentioned), vomit (mentioned), panic attack, anxiety, smoking, drugs (mentioned), night terrors, blood, unsafe sex, drug addicted parents (past, recounted), grief, overdose (parents, past, mentioned), death of a grandparent (past, mentioned), kidnapping
CW - orgasm denial, edging, forced orgasms, exhibitionism, voyeurism, public play, sex club
Tropes - rockstar romance, organised crime, dark, age gap (7 yrs), who did this to you?
Representation - plus size FMC, queer scs
sc(s) = side character(s)
This was a good debut from Ayla! Kat (FMC) is very clearly going through something and/or hiding from something and throughout, we are fed subtle details about her victory. I think Kat is a character a lot of people will either be able to relate to or empathise with given the struggles we see her go through on page.
Elias (MMC) is immediately obsessed with her on site whether she’s just working in the coffee shop or performing with her band in his bar. He definitely is the steady presence missing from Kat’s life. He can be ruthless when it comes to work but is always so understanding when it comes to Kat.
The plot picks up towards the end and this story does end on a cliffy. I am interested to see what happens in the next book and what else drives the plot forward. I am eager to continue reading the development of Kat’s character; there were times where I could not for the life of me wrap my head around some of the choices she was making but it was also hard not to give her the benefit of the doubt.
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek/ The Naughty List / The Naughtier List / By Command Alone: Book 1 of the Kinky ABC Anthology
TW/CW not to be repurposed by authors / publishers for website / book / content use without permission
July 20, 2026
Thank you to the author Ayla Valentine for sending me this arc! And looking forward to everyone meeting Kat and Elias 🥹🥹
First off… AYLA FRICKEN VALENTINE!!!! You did not use those dreaded words, to be continued 😭😭😭😭😭😭 yes I know it’s a duet but still…. And omg I called it!!!!! I knew he was a weasel, I knew it 🙌🏽🙌🏽
I absolutely loved how he fell first! One look was all it took and he was obsessed. Healthily? Who knows, all the overly attractive guys have some form of possessiveness and I ain’t mad about it 👀
Both of them had really tragic pasts, and I won’t disclose why because it’s better for the reader to experience it for the first time but they literally were both empty and when they got together it was hot and heavy from the get go. But they were each’s missing puzzle piece in a lonely world.
The fact Kat can get the leader of a crime syndicate to actually sit down and the have a twilight marathon was a magical moment!!!! And yes Elias, the same question has plagued me too, why does Edward sparkle 💀
How the events follow is perfectly paced because a lot of the story aligns together. The problem Elias has been having is somehow connected with a dark period in Kat’s life and it didn’t feel forced at all. It was pieced together flawlessly and I found no fault with it at all, as sometimes it can feel like 2 separate stories but it didn’t read that way at all! I’m looking forward to how the events play out in the next book, and I will be patiently(kinda) waiting for the answers but also the justice they both deserve!!
First off… AYLA FRICKEN VALENTINE!!!! You did not use those dreaded words, to be continued 😭😭😭😭😭😭 yes I know it’s a duet but still…. And omg I called it!!!!! I knew he was a weasel, I knew it 🙌🏽🙌🏽
I absolutely loved how he fell first! One look was all it took and he was obsessed. Healthily? Who knows, all the overly attractive guys have some form of possessiveness and I ain’t mad about it 👀
Both of them had really tragic pasts, and I won’t disclose why because it’s better for the reader to experience it for the first time but they literally were both empty and when they got together it was hot and heavy from the get go. But they were each’s missing puzzle piece in a lonely world.
The fact Kat can get the leader of a crime syndicate to actually sit down and the have a twilight marathon was a magical moment!!!! And yes Elias, the same question has plagued me too, why does Edward sparkle 💀
How the events follow is perfectly paced because a lot of the story aligns together. The problem Elias has been having is somehow connected with a dark period in Kat’s life and it didn’t feel forced at all. It was pieced together flawlessly and I found no fault with it at all, as sometimes it can feel like 2 separate stories but it didn’t read that way at all! I’m looking forward to how the events play out in the next book, and I will be patiently(kinda) waiting for the answers but also the justice they both deserve!!
July 21, 2026
You ever read something that you know is going to end on cliffhanger but you still end up getting mad?! Yeah that’s me even though I really enjoyed it! The spice was spicing! We have a badass plus sizes fmc and a hot protective mmc yeah it works! So Kat is running from her past we don’t know exactly what but it’s bad she has bad anxiety but when she auditions for a residency at a bar with her band she comes in contact with Elias who owns the bar and they get the gig! She can feel him watching her and when he finally gets her he worships her body as it is he tells her she’s is perfect in as many ways as he can
So Elias runs the circle a mob like organization that keeps all the gangs in line and out of drugs but girls keep going missing and he has no idea who it is but it is tied to Kats past after she has a accident at her apartment and is in dire condition they both confess their love and their pasts
I loved their banter and how he called her little rebel I also
Love how his trusted guys called her kiddo!!
I knew something felt slimy about Nathan like I couldn’t put my finger on it but when it was revealed the gasp I let out!
I need book 2 now immediately because when Elias said he would burn the world down for her I felt it and I feel like after that cliffhanger bodies will be dropping!
I did cry once the reunion with Freddy! This big tough mafia man got her cat back are you fucking kidding me!? Like kill me now!
So Elias runs the circle a mob like organization that keeps all the gangs in line and out of drugs but girls keep going missing and he has no idea who it is but it is tied to Kats past after she has a accident at her apartment and is in dire condition they both confess their love and their pasts
I loved their banter and how he called her little rebel I also
Love how his trusted guys called her kiddo!!
I knew something felt slimy about Nathan like I couldn’t put my finger on it but when it was revealed the gasp I let out!
I need book 2 now immediately because when Elias said he would burn the world down for her I felt it and I feel like after that cliffhanger bodies will be dropping!
I did cry once the reunion with Freddy! This big tough mafia man got her cat back are you fucking kidding me!? Like kill me now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2026
Thank you Ayla for the ARC. This contained everything I love, fabulous characters, spectacular writing and spice that had me needing to take a moment to remember to breathe.
I loved the chemistry between Elias and Kat. Themes that are real and painful and beautiful. The cliffhanger? Rather rude tbh because I already need the second in this brilliant duology.
Our FMC a plus size rocker, super refreshing, admired her ability to keep fighting, using music as therapy and going for what she wants whilst also being so afraid it will go wrong.
MMC Elias f’in Monroe, damn mafia boss to end all Maria bosses. The way he truly cares for Kat was endearing, hard personality but soft when it comes to her.
Side characters that added to the plot and brought the characters to life. Could not recommend this more.
I loved the chemistry between Elias and Kat. Themes that are real and painful and beautiful. The cliffhanger? Rather rude tbh because I already need the second in this brilliant duology.
Our FMC a plus size rocker, super refreshing, admired her ability to keep fighting, using music as therapy and going for what she wants whilst also being so afraid it will go wrong.
MMC Elias f’in Monroe, damn mafia boss to end all Maria bosses. The way he truly cares for Kat was endearing, hard personality but soft when it comes to her.
Side characters that added to the plot and brought the characters to life. Could not recommend this more.
July 22, 2026
🎸🎸🎸 Scream For Me 🎸🎸🎸
🖤 Rockstar romance
🖤 Touch her & 💀
🖤 Mafia vibes
🖤 Possessive MMC
🖤 He Falls First
🖤 "Who Did This to You" Moment
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is my first rockstar romance read and I really enjoyed it. Katherine locks eyes across a busy bar with a man as dangerous as he is handsome. Setting her soul on fire with just a look she knows there's no escaping the infamous owner of Headstone, her new boss. The slow burn tension between these two builds throughout the book as the evil from her past begins to catch up with her. Kat soon realises Elias might be the only one who can protect her from what comes next. The cliffhanger is outrageous, we are left on a knife edge and I cant wait for the fallout in the next book.
🖤 Rockstar romance
🖤 Touch her & 💀
🖤 Mafia vibes
🖤 Possessive MMC
🖤 He Falls First
🖤 "Who Did This to You" Moment
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is my first rockstar romance read and I really enjoyed it. Katherine locks eyes across a busy bar with a man as dangerous as he is handsome. Setting her soul on fire with just a look she knows there's no escaping the infamous owner of Headstone, her new boss. The slow burn tension between these two builds throughout the book as the evil from her past begins to catch up with her. Kat soon realises Elias might be the only one who can protect her from what comes next. The cliffhanger is outrageous, we are left on a knife edge and I cant wait for the fallout in the next book.
June 25, 2026
Scream for Me by Ayla Valentine completely pulled me into its dark, emotional world and refused to let go. The chemistry was electric, the tension kept building with every chapter, and I found myself needing to know what would happen next.
The characters were easily my favorite part of the book. I became so invested with all of them, especially Kat. Elias stole the show for me. He’s the kind of morally gray, protective, emotionally complex character that lives rent-free in your head long after you finish the last page. He would burn the world for Kat and I LOVE that in my MMC’s.
Here lately, I’ve been skipping so many spicy scenes in my books (I know, don’t judge me 😭) but I genuinely couldn’t pull my eyes away from the scenes in this book.
I’m already counting down until the next book. 🖤
The characters were easily my favorite part of the book. I became so invested with all of them, especially Kat. Elias stole the show for me. He’s the kind of morally gray, protective, emotionally complex character that lives rent-free in your head long after you finish the last page. He would burn the world for Kat and I LOVE that in my MMC’s.
Here lately, I’ve been skipping so many spicy scenes in my books (I know, don’t judge me 😭) but I genuinely couldn’t pull my eyes away from the scenes in this book.
I’m already counting down until the next book. 🖤
July 27, 2026
I loved everything about this book. I loved how Kat and Elias relationship developed. Kat’s vulnerabilities and being able open up to Elias eventually. Her past traumas and her past catching up with her. That cliffhanger though 😱
June 27, 2026
ARC REVIEW
4 stars!
Scream for me by Ayla Valentine was everything I didn't expect. I like to surprise myself by just reading the tropes, not the blurb. This story surprised me in the best way. Towards the end it got so interesting, I didn't want to put it down.
Kat is such a strong woman, I really admire her. With Elias it took me some time to like him. He gave off fuckboy energy but he is so much better than that. The side characters are also amazing.
I can't wait for Book 2 and I hope to read it soon!
Thank you so much Ayla and Charli for sending me an arc!
4 stars!
Scream for me by Ayla Valentine was everything I didn't expect. I like to surprise myself by just reading the tropes, not the blurb. This story surprised me in the best way. Towards the end it got so interesting, I didn't want to put it down.
Kat is such a strong woman, I really admire her. With Elias it took me some time to like him. He gave off fuckboy energy but he is so much better than that. The side characters are also amazing.
I can't wait for Book 2 and I hope to read it soon!
Thank you so much Ayla and Charli for sending me an arc!
June 25, 2026
This book was phenomenal. Having a plus size FMC was so refreshing and I loved that she was a rocker! The characters were so well written and the dynamics between all of them were so relatable. The MMC was swoon worthy lol. The trauma that our sweet Kat has been through was absolutely devastating and learning more about her story brought tears to my eyes. The cliffhanger ending has me begging for the second book already 😭 thank you so much to Ayla for the opportunity to arc read for you! It was such a ride!!
July 25, 2026
“I would burn this entire city to its core before I ever let anyone hurt you.”
Scream For Me was an exciting ride! It’s filled with mystery, suspense, drama, romance, and plenty of spice. Not to mention some bad@ss rocker chick vibes!
“He looks at you like you’re the reason for the air that he breathes.”
I always love a man that knows what he wants. He was obsessed with her from the start and didn’t try to hide it. He’s dark and dangerous, but never towards her. My favorite type of MMC.
“You had the strength to continue on… that’s what I admire about you,”
I love our FMC. Kat is so beautiful and brave and strong. She’s gorgeous and talented, but her past prevents her from being able to see herself in that light. I loved seeing her come into her own and start getting to a place where she could feel confident and free. Elias helped so much with that, and it’s one of the reasons I enjoyed him as our MMC.
“I miss the person I was, but she’s long fucking gone.”
Aside from the fact that he knows what he wants and goes after it when it comes to Kat, which we love, Elias has the most tragic and noble reason for being the way he is. When we finally get both of their stories, they both broke my heart completely.
The two together are perfect. Elias understands her on such a deep level and accepts her exactly the way she is. And Kat, despite her trauma, is able to open herself up to this man who’s absolutely obsessed with her. They’re both so strong and perfect for one another, and their interactions genuinely brought tears to my eyes a few times.
And speaking of leaving me emotional—ugh that cliffhanger 😭 I need the next one like, immediately!
“Acceptance and love. That’s all I’ve ever wanted. And now I have it.”
Other thoughts that I had, but didn’t fit thematically into this review lol:
-Harper is an angel? I love when there are girls in books who aren’t mean girls. She’s such a good friend!
-Elias smelling like mint and tobacco—all o could think of was The Parent Trap “He smells of peppermint and pipe tobacco.” But that’s fully on me because I’ve watched that movie so many times that I’ve long since memorized every line in the movie lol
-Not him obsessing over what an emoji means like a love struck teenager 🤣
-Ugh Freddie 😭 I’m not sobbing, you are!
Thank you to Ayla Valentine for the ARC and to Whimsy Words After Dark for the opportunity!
Scream For Me was an exciting ride! It’s filled with mystery, suspense, drama, romance, and plenty of spice. Not to mention some bad@ss rocker chick vibes!
“He looks at you like you’re the reason for the air that he breathes.”
I always love a man that knows what he wants. He was obsessed with her from the start and didn’t try to hide it. He’s dark and dangerous, but never towards her. My favorite type of MMC.
“You had the strength to continue on… that’s what I admire about you,”
I love our FMC. Kat is so beautiful and brave and strong. She’s gorgeous and talented, but her past prevents her from being able to see herself in that light. I loved seeing her come into her own and start getting to a place where she could feel confident and free. Elias helped so much with that, and it’s one of the reasons I enjoyed him as our MMC.
“I miss the person I was, but she’s long fucking gone.”
Aside from the fact that he knows what he wants and goes after it when it comes to Kat, which we love, Elias has the most tragic and noble reason for being the way he is. When we finally get both of their stories, they both broke my heart completely.
The two together are perfect. Elias understands her on such a deep level and accepts her exactly the way she is. And Kat, despite her trauma, is able to open herself up to this man who’s absolutely obsessed with her. They’re both so strong and perfect for one another, and their interactions genuinely brought tears to my eyes a few times.
And speaking of leaving me emotional—ugh that cliffhanger 😭 I need the next one like, immediately!
“Acceptance and love. That’s all I’ve ever wanted. And now I have it.”
Other thoughts that I had, but didn’t fit thematically into this review lol:
-Harper is an angel? I love when there are girls in books who aren’t mean girls. She’s such a good friend!
-Elias smelling like mint and tobacco—all o could think of was The Parent Trap “He smells of peppermint and pipe tobacco.” But that’s fully on me because I’ve watched that movie so many times that I’ve long since memorized every line in the movie lol
-Not him obsessing over what an emoji means like a love struck teenager 🤣
-Ugh Freddie 😭 I’m not sobbing, you are!
Thank you to Ayla Valentine for the ARC and to Whimsy Words After Dark for the opportunity!
July 28, 2026
Advanced copy received in exchange for my honest review.
This book had me hooked so quickly. From the very first chapters, I knew I was in for an emotional ride, and I absolutely flew through it.
Kat was such a beautifully written FMC. You could really feel the weight of everything she'd been through, and the way her trauma and dissociation were portrayed felt so raw and believable. Watching someone trying to rebuild their life while constantly looking over their shoulder was heart breaking. I loved seeing her slowly begin to trust again, finding the pieces of herself she'd lost along the way. Her growth throughout the story was one of my favourite parts.
And then there's Elias...
Another book boyfriend to add to my ever-growing list. 😮💨
The moment he walked onto the page, I knew I was going to love him. He's the powerful, intimidating boss that everyone fears, yet when it comes to Kat, he's patient, gentle, and completely devoted. One of my favourite things about him was how aware he was of her trauma. He never pushed her boundaries, consistently asked for consent, and always made sure she was the one in control. Seeing such a strong, feared man willingly bring himself to his knees for the woman he loves? Absolutely everything. This man would burn an entire city to keep her safe, and I loved every second of it.
The chemistry between Kat and Elias was beautiful. Their relationship wasn't rushed; it was built on trust, healing, and understanding, which made every moment between them feel so much more meaningful.
That ending though... 😭 Even though I knew it was going to end on a cliff hanger, nothing could have prepared me for that ending. I need book two immediately because there is absolutely no way I can move on after that. And without giving away any spoilers... I KNEW from the very beginning when a particular someone entered the book that that person was bad news! 👀 Anyone with that name - do not trust!
If you love these tropes, add this one to your TBR immediately:
🖤 Dark romance
🎸 She's the rockstar
🖤 Crime syndicate
🔪 Touch her and die
🧠 Mental health representation
🔥 Toys in public
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 4/5
Please check the trigger warnings before diving in, as this story explores some heavy themes.
This book had me hooked so quickly. From the very first chapters, I knew I was in for an emotional ride, and I absolutely flew through it.
Kat was such a beautifully written FMC. You could really feel the weight of everything she'd been through, and the way her trauma and dissociation were portrayed felt so raw and believable. Watching someone trying to rebuild their life while constantly looking over their shoulder was heart breaking. I loved seeing her slowly begin to trust again, finding the pieces of herself she'd lost along the way. Her growth throughout the story was one of my favourite parts.
And then there's Elias...
Another book boyfriend to add to my ever-growing list. 😮💨
The moment he walked onto the page, I knew I was going to love him. He's the powerful, intimidating boss that everyone fears, yet when it comes to Kat, he's patient, gentle, and completely devoted. One of my favourite things about him was how aware he was of her trauma. He never pushed her boundaries, consistently asked for consent, and always made sure she was the one in control. Seeing such a strong, feared man willingly bring himself to his knees for the woman he loves? Absolutely everything. This man would burn an entire city to keep her safe, and I loved every second of it.
The chemistry between Kat and Elias was beautiful. Their relationship wasn't rushed; it was built on trust, healing, and understanding, which made every moment between them feel so much more meaningful.
That ending though... 😭 Even though I knew it was going to end on a cliff hanger, nothing could have prepared me for that ending. I need book two immediately because there is absolutely no way I can move on after that. And without giving away any spoilers... I KNEW from the very beginning when a particular someone entered the book that that person was bad news! 👀 Anyone with that name - do not trust!
If you love these tropes, add this one to your TBR immediately:
🖤 Dark romance
🎸 She's the rockstar
🖤 Crime syndicate
🔪 Touch her and die
🧠 Mental health representation
🔥 Toys in public
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 4/5
Please check the trigger warnings before diving in, as this story explores some heavy themes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Scream for Me, book one in the Headstone Duet, written by Ayla Valentine, is a dark, emotional rock-star romance that blends music, danger, trauma, found family, and a deliciously obsessive hero into an addictive story.
Kat is a talented, plus-size guitarist trying to rebuild her life while carrying the weight of a painful past. I loved the contrast between her confidence onstage and the anxiety she struggles with privately. Her panic attacks and mental health challenges felt raw and realistic, without ever diminishing her strength.
Elias is dangerous, powerful, and completely captivated by Kat. His devotion is immediate and intense, occasionally bordering on insta-love, but I still enjoyed their chemistry and the tenderness beneath his morally gray exterior. I especially appreciated how fully he admired and accepted Kat exactly as she was.
Their chemistry was fantastic. The attraction between them is immediate, the spice is plentiful, and Elias’s protective nature provides plenty of swoon-worthy moments. Beneath the physical relationship, however, are two wounded people slowly recognizing each other's pain.
The supporting characters added humor and genuine found-family warmth, while the grunge and alternative-rock influences gave the story a distinctive atmosphere. The beginning moved a little slowly, but once the danger and secrets from Kat’s past began unfolding, I was completely invested.
Music is woven throughout the entire book, and the grunge and alternative-rock influences gave the story a distinctive personality. The songs connected to the chapters helped intensify the emotions and made Kat’s love of music feel like an essential part of her character rather than simply an aesthetic.
The cliffhanger is cruel, shocking, and almost guaranteed to leave us desperately searching for the next book. It answers just enough to deepen the mystery before pulling everything out from beneath us.
Thanks to Ayla Valentine for gifting me an eARC of Scream for Me. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Kat is a talented, plus-size guitarist trying to rebuild her life while carrying the weight of a painful past. I loved the contrast between her confidence onstage and the anxiety she struggles with privately. Her panic attacks and mental health challenges felt raw and realistic, without ever diminishing her strength.
Elias is dangerous, powerful, and completely captivated by Kat. His devotion is immediate and intense, occasionally bordering on insta-love, but I still enjoyed their chemistry and the tenderness beneath his morally gray exterior. I especially appreciated how fully he admired and accepted Kat exactly as she was.
Their chemistry was fantastic. The attraction between them is immediate, the spice is plentiful, and Elias’s protective nature provides plenty of swoon-worthy moments. Beneath the physical relationship, however, are two wounded people slowly recognizing each other's pain.
The supporting characters added humor and genuine found-family warmth, while the grunge and alternative-rock influences gave the story a distinctive atmosphere. The beginning moved a little slowly, but once the danger and secrets from Kat’s past began unfolding, I was completely invested.
Music is woven throughout the entire book, and the grunge and alternative-rock influences gave the story a distinctive personality. The songs connected to the chapters helped intensify the emotions and made Kat’s love of music feel like an essential part of her character rather than simply an aesthetic.
The cliffhanger is cruel, shocking, and almost guaranteed to leave us desperately searching for the next book. It answers just enough to deepen the mystery before pulling everything out from beneath us.
Thanks to Ayla Valentine for gifting me an eARC of Scream for Me. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 4, 2026
Scream For Me
Firstly thank you Ayla and Charli for sending me an ARC copy of this book! With my book club theme this month being dark romance it was perfect timing!!
Some key tropes/themes:
- Rockstar romance
- Plus size FMC
- He falls first
- Crime syndicate
- Mental Health rep
- Dark romance
- 90s grunge rep
- found family vibes
- "who did this to you"
Scream For Me was a great read - it had all of the key aspects of a dark romance which I enjoy... a mysterious, morally black man, an ongoing issue for both the MMC and the FMC, and the joyous side characters.
Kat (our FMC) is running from a past life and has began to settle in her new town with friend Harper. Kat and Harper work together and are in a band together. The band gets a new residency in a local bar. Kat catches the eye of bar owner Elias and it all goes from there... In the prologue we get an insight into what Kat is running from but I would have loved a little more of this throughout the book.
Elias (our MMC), as well as being bar owner, is a crime syndicate and controls many groups within the town. Again, I wish we saw a little more of this in the beginning half of the book I would have loved just a little more crime plot within the beginning of the book.
With that being said it has some great dark romance tropes... we have a guy who falls first with the classic "who did this to you?" as well as the overbearing MMC... “I would burn this entire city to its core before I ever let anyone hurt you again.”
The book ends on a cliff hanger after we start to see the plot develop a little more so looking forward to seeing what happens in the second half of this duet!! (and I really hope we get a Harper and Ryland book hehe)
Firstly thank you Ayla and Charli for sending me an ARC copy of this book! With my book club theme this month being dark romance it was perfect timing!!
Some key tropes/themes:
- Rockstar romance
- Plus size FMC
- He falls first
- Crime syndicate
- Mental Health rep
- Dark romance
- 90s grunge rep
- found family vibes
- "who did this to you"
Scream For Me was a great read - it had all of the key aspects of a dark romance which I enjoy... a mysterious, morally black man, an ongoing issue for both the MMC and the FMC, and the joyous side characters.
Kat (our FMC) is running from a past life and has began to settle in her new town with friend Harper. Kat and Harper work together and are in a band together. The band gets a new residency in a local bar. Kat catches the eye of bar owner Elias and it all goes from there... In the prologue we get an insight into what Kat is running from but I would have loved a little more of this throughout the book.
Elias (our MMC), as well as being bar owner, is a crime syndicate and controls many groups within the town. Again, I wish we saw a little more of this in the beginning half of the book I would have loved just a little more crime plot within the beginning of the book.
With that being said it has some great dark romance tropes... we have a guy who falls first with the classic "who did this to you?" as well as the overbearing MMC... “I would burn this entire city to its core before I ever let anyone hurt you again.”
The book ends on a cliff hanger after we start to see the plot develop a little more so looking forward to seeing what happens in the second half of this duet!! (and I really hope we get a Harper and Ryland book hehe)
July 21, 2026
Thank you to the author Ayla Valentine and Whimsy After Dark PR for this ARC.
Cue Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne and listen: this book is really off the rails (IN A GOOD WAY). This book literally gave me a physical reaction. My heart was aching for the FMC and then it was in my throat with all the suspense, twists, and turns. This book is a wild ride, full of emotions🖤
There are several things I liked about this book. For example, the found family vibes. Harper is such a gem! Love a girl's girl. Everybody in the band is, really. I hope we'll get more of the band in the next book!
For most of the book, we don't know much about the Kat's background. But we get little snippets here and there and we know enough. To see that the Kat feels safe enough to be sassy with the MMC, Elias, made me so happy. I feel like the real Kat is shining through.
I'm a major sucker for suspense, and suspense is something this book has a lot of!
The spicy scenes were HOT. Elias is such a great match for Kat. Like I mentioned earlier, it says a lot that she feels safe enough to sass him. He just adores her and the way she looks and he definitely has that "touch her and die" vibe down to a T. LITERALLY.
The author, Ayla Valentine, is truly amazing and I think she likes to make us readers suffer because she kept throwing twist after twist at me, and I kept relaxing every single time. I got so relaxed, so comfy, and then one thing after another happened💀
And the ending!!!! The cliffhanger! I was NOT expecting this at all. By the end, I was completely relaxed and satisfied. I did not expect the author to give me even more heartbreak. Let me tell you, I'm TERRIFIED (the good kind of terrified, though) for book 2🖤
Cue Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne and listen: this book is really off the rails (IN A GOOD WAY). This book literally gave me a physical reaction. My heart was aching for the FMC and then it was in my throat with all the suspense, twists, and turns. This book is a wild ride, full of emotions🖤
There are several things I liked about this book. For example, the found family vibes. Harper is such a gem! Love a girl's girl. Everybody in the band is, really. I hope we'll get more of the band in the next book!
For most of the book, we don't know much about the Kat's background. But we get little snippets here and there and we know enough. To see that the Kat feels safe enough to be sassy with the MMC, Elias, made me so happy. I feel like the real Kat is shining through.
I'm a major sucker for suspense, and suspense is something this book has a lot of!
The spicy scenes were HOT. Elias is such a great match for Kat. Like I mentioned earlier, it says a lot that she feels safe enough to sass him. He just adores her and the way she looks and he definitely has that "touch her and die" vibe down to a T. LITERALLY.
The author, Ayla Valentine, is truly amazing and I think she likes to make us readers suffer because she kept throwing twist after twist at me, and I kept relaxing every single time. I got so relaxed, so comfy, and then one thing after another happened💀
And the ending!!!! The cliffhanger! I was NOT expecting this at all. By the end, I was completely relaxed and satisfied. I did not expect the author to give me even more heartbreak. Let me tell you, I'm TERRIFIED (the good kind of terrified, though) for book 2🖤
July 22, 2026
Scream for Me completely caught me off guard. I expected a dark mafia romance with plenty of spice, but what I found was an emotional story about healing, trust, and finding the courage to start over after surviving the unimaginable.
Kat was, without question, my favourite part of the book. She’s a plus-size FMC whose confidence and vulnerability coexist beautifully. Watching her slowly reclaim pieces of herself while refusing to let her past define her made her incredibly easy to root for. Her anxiety and trauma are handled with care, adding depth without ever overshadowing her strength.
And then there’s Elias…
He’s the definition of “touch her and die.” A powerful mafia boss who falls first, falls hard, and never once tries to change the woman he’s obsessed with. Instead, he admires her exactly as she is, making their chemistry feel surprisingly tender beneath all the intensity. Their banter, the protective moments, and the undeniable attraction kept me turning pages.
One of my favourite aspects was the found family. Kat’s band and the people surrounding both main characters brought warmth, humour, and heart to a story that explores some very dark themes. The music element also gave the novel its own personality, making it feel different from the average mafia romance.
The mystery running beneath the romance kept me hooked from beginning to end. Little pieces are revealed at just the right pace, constantly making me question who could be trusted without ever giving too much away.
And that ending…
Let’s just say Ayla Valentine clearly enjoys emotionally torturing her readers. I knew this was a duet, but I still wasn’t prepared for that cliffhanger.
…this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Kat was, without question, my favourite part of the book. She’s a plus-size FMC whose confidence and vulnerability coexist beautifully. Watching her slowly reclaim pieces of herself while refusing to let her past define her made her incredibly easy to root for. Her anxiety and trauma are handled with care, adding depth without ever overshadowing her strength.
And then there’s Elias…
He’s the definition of “touch her and die.” A powerful mafia boss who falls first, falls hard, and never once tries to change the woman he’s obsessed with. Instead, he admires her exactly as she is, making their chemistry feel surprisingly tender beneath all the intensity. Their banter, the protective moments, and the undeniable attraction kept me turning pages.
One of my favourite aspects was the found family. Kat’s band and the people surrounding both main characters brought warmth, humour, and heart to a story that explores some very dark themes. The music element also gave the novel its own personality, making it feel different from the average mafia romance.
The mystery running beneath the romance kept me hooked from beginning to end. Little pieces are revealed at just the right pace, constantly making me question who could be trusted without ever giving too much away.
And that ending…
Let’s just say Ayla Valentine clearly enjoys emotionally torturing her readers. I knew this was a duet, but I still wasn’t prepared for that cliffhanger.
…this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
July 2, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Scream For Me By: Ayla Valentine
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Release Date: 7-21-2026
🎸Who did this to you
🔫Crime Syndicate
🎸Plus size FMC
🔫He falls first
🎸She’s a Rockstar90s Grunge vibes
⚠️CHECK TW⚠️
Fat-phobia
Fat Shaming
S.A.
Narcissistic Abuse
Attempted Rope
Mental Abuse
And more…
** There are 30 or more triggers for this book**
“What did I tell you Little Rebel? God doesn’t get the pleasure of having his name fall from your lips.”
“I would burn this entire city to its core before I ever let anyone hurt you again.”
I had the pleasure of getting to be a ARC reader for Ayla Valentine. This her debut book and she hit it out of the park! This book does end on a cliffhanger; and I cannot wait to read the second one…. I have to find out how scorched earth the MMC goes!
This is book one of the Headstone Duet. The FMC Katherine (Kat) has a past that she is running from and hopes that it will stay hidden forever. But is anyone that lucky?? She gets to a place where she has a job, found family, apartment and even is in a band. But she just never feels truly safe until she meets the MMC Elias who is the owner of Headstone. Where her band was just selected for a residency to play at.
While you can tell through out the book that whatever Kat was running from was bad, I wasn’t truly prepared for it to be what it was. To me Kat is a strong FMC even though at times you question it … until you learn her history.
I loved how protective Elias is over her but then also is proud of her when she stands up and takes no crap and is willing to stand behind her to support her even when she doesn’t know she needs it.
Scream For Me By: Ayla Valentine
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Release Date: 7-21-2026
🎸Who did this to you
🔫Crime Syndicate
🎸Plus size FMC
🔫He falls first
🎸She’s a Rockstar90s Grunge vibes
⚠️CHECK TW⚠️
Fat-phobia
Fat Shaming
S.A.
Narcissistic Abuse
Attempted Rope
Mental Abuse
And more…
** There are 30 or more triggers for this book**
“What did I tell you Little Rebel? God doesn’t get the pleasure of having his name fall from your lips.”
“I would burn this entire city to its core before I ever let anyone hurt you again.”
I had the pleasure of getting to be a ARC reader for Ayla Valentine. This her debut book and she hit it out of the park! This book does end on a cliffhanger; and I cannot wait to read the second one…. I have to find out how scorched earth the MMC goes!
This is book one of the Headstone Duet. The FMC Katherine (Kat) has a past that she is running from and hopes that it will stay hidden forever. But is anyone that lucky?? She gets to a place where she has a job, found family, apartment and even is in a band. But she just never feels truly safe until she meets the MMC Elias who is the owner of Headstone. Where her band was just selected for a residency to play at.
While you can tell through out the book that whatever Kat was running from was bad, I wasn’t truly prepared for it to be what it was. To me Kat is a strong FMC even though at times you question it … until you learn her history.
I loved how protective Elias is over her but then also is proud of her when she stands up and takes no crap and is willing to stand behind her to support her even when she doesn’t know she needs it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Massive thank you to Whimsy After Dark PR and Ayla for the arc🖤
I absolutely adored this book, from the second I read the blurb and had the opportunity to get this arc, I knew I was going to be obsessed.
Kat made my heart ache
Elias made me swoon
Together, they made each other more than their past trauma
I knew going into this that it ends on a cliffhanger, I’m still mad😂
•plus size fmc
•mafia vibes
•she’s the rock star
•touch her and 💀 literally
•found family
•mental health rep
•who did this to you
“Nobody’s past stays buried for long, and mine is clawing its way back with a vengeance. He might just be the only thing standing in its way…
One year ago, I died and ended up in Bridgeport.
It’s not the heaven I hoped it would be, but it’s not hell either. It’s a life I didn’t have before. A second chance I’m trying my hardest not to screw up by playing guitar, trusting only my bandmates, and wearing my music like a mask.
But when the opportunity of a lifetime presents itself, a residency at one of the hottest rock venues in the city, the paycheck is impossible to turn down—even if that leaves me at the mercy of the spotlight and the intense, guarded eyes of the nightclub’s owner. With his devastating good-looks and penetrating stare that feels all too familiar, he’s everything I should avoid… and everything I can’t seem to resist.
I can’t let myself get attached. I can’t let him drag me into another wreckage when I’m barely holding on as it is. But as the lines between safety and desire blur, I can’t help but question…
Is he the one dragging me back to hell, or am I the one dragging him?
I absolutely adored this book, from the second I read the blurb and had the opportunity to get this arc, I knew I was going to be obsessed.
Kat made my heart ache
Elias made me swoon
Together, they made each other more than their past trauma
I knew going into this that it ends on a cliffhanger, I’m still mad😂
•plus size fmc
•mafia vibes
•she’s the rock star
•touch her and 💀 literally
•found family
•mental health rep
•who did this to you
“Nobody’s past stays buried for long, and mine is clawing its way back with a vengeance. He might just be the only thing standing in its way…
One year ago, I died and ended up in Bridgeport.
It’s not the heaven I hoped it would be, but it’s not hell either. It’s a life I didn’t have before. A second chance I’m trying my hardest not to screw up by playing guitar, trusting only my bandmates, and wearing my music like a mask.
But when the opportunity of a lifetime presents itself, a residency at one of the hottest rock venues in the city, the paycheck is impossible to turn down—even if that leaves me at the mercy of the spotlight and the intense, guarded eyes of the nightclub’s owner. With his devastating good-looks and penetrating stare that feels all too familiar, he’s everything I should avoid… and everything I can’t seem to resist.
I can’t let myself get attached. I can’t let him drag me into another wreckage when I’m barely holding on as it is. But as the lines between safety and desire blur, I can’t help but question…
Is he the one dragging me back to hell, or am I the one dragging him?
Review of advance copy received from Author
The book is about Kat and Elias. Kat is a bad ass guitarist whose band just booked a residency in the hottest bar in town, Headstone. Elias is the owner of Headstone and that’s when it all begins.
Kat has been giving a second chance to live a simple life with her friends and bandmates. She’s trying to put the past behind her, but unfortunately for her things don’t stay buried and the past may come back and disturbs the life she has built.
From the first moment Elias sees Kat he’s obsessed and knows he won’t let go that easily. He also knows that he’ll do anything for her to keep her safe.
I absolutely love the chemistry and dynamic between Kat and Elias. Elias is usually this tough and heartless business man, but with Kat he is so protective and caring. Kat has built up so many walls and never let anyone get too close, until she met Elias. She feels safe and trusts him. Everything about them is just so adorable and sweet. Also the spicy scenes between them were definitely spicing. You don’t want to miss that.
Both Kat and Elias have a tragic past. When I learned what happened to Kat and why she ran away my heart broke for her. It was so devastating. But she’s also very strong and resilient to have overcome all that. Their past doesn’t define them, but it has made them in the person they are today.
This book is everything and more. I honestly went through a roller coaster of emotion reading this book. It was overall an amazing read, 4 stars!
That cliffhanger at the end though had ME screaming. I can’t wait for the second book in the duet to come out and see how everything will unfold.
You’ll love this book if you’re into dark romance with a female rockstar and a club owner who is also the leader of a crime organization.
Thank you Ayla Valentine for the e.ARC!
Kat has been giving a second chance to live a simple life with her friends and bandmates. She’s trying to put the past behind her, but unfortunately for her things don’t stay buried and the past may come back and disturbs the life she has built.
From the first moment Elias sees Kat he’s obsessed and knows he won’t let go that easily. He also knows that he’ll do anything for her to keep her safe.
I absolutely love the chemistry and dynamic between Kat and Elias. Elias is usually this tough and heartless business man, but with Kat he is so protective and caring. Kat has built up so many walls and never let anyone get too close, until she met Elias. She feels safe and trusts him. Everything about them is just so adorable and sweet. Also the spicy scenes between them were definitely spicing. You don’t want to miss that.
Both Kat and Elias have a tragic past. When I learned what happened to Kat and why she ran away my heart broke for her. It was so devastating. But she’s also very strong and resilient to have overcome all that. Their past doesn’t define them, but it has made them in the person they are today.
This book is everything and more. I honestly went through a roller coaster of emotion reading this book. It was overall an amazing read, 4 stars!
That cliffhanger at the end though had ME screaming. I can’t wait for the second book in the duet to come out and see how everything will unfold.
You’ll love this book if you’re into dark romance with a female rockstar and a club owner who is also the leader of a crime organization.
Thank you Ayla Valentine for the e.ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a well executed Debut!
This is so well written with meticulous details relevant to the characters and the plot.
Ayla has hit the ground running with this.. not only with her original characters but with the appropriate, well placed details that makes this a true Rockstar Romance.
Kat was so satisfying and realistic to read about. She's almost like a friend at the point, due to her genuine personality traits and insecurities.. Ayla has made her such a relatable character.
Elias is the absolute KING of consent! Urgh I love him! I mean we all love a 'Head of Criminal Empire' but the tender, sensitive side that Kat brings out of him was pleasurable to read.. I mean the man tracks down her best friend and reunited them! 🥹 but make no mistake Elias has a deliciously dirty mouth and bedroom behaviour is top teir.
I get a little nervous reading a Debut, fearing that the spice doesn't quite hit - that's not the case here! Those spicy scenes are 🤌🏼🥵
Katherine has been living under her new alias 'Kat' for the past 15 months. After relocating, finding a new friend who shares similar interests, securing an apartment and a job .. now is the perfect time for her and her 3 friends to take the leap and audition for headliners spot at Elias' exclusive and highly reputable club.
Elias is captivated by Kat from the moment he sets eyes on her. Her luscious curves and no b^llshit attitude draws him in, in a way he never expected.
But its not all easy sailing .. both harbour secrets that they fear the other will run from.
Just when I thought "yay, they'll get a fantastic HEA", Ayla hit me with an unexpected cliffhanger!
Please don’t make me wait too long 🙈
This is so well written with meticulous details relevant to the characters and the plot.
Ayla has hit the ground running with this.. not only with her original characters but with the appropriate, well placed details that makes this a true Rockstar Romance.
Kat was so satisfying and realistic to read about. She's almost like a friend at the point, due to her genuine personality traits and insecurities.. Ayla has made her such a relatable character.
Elias is the absolute KING of consent! Urgh I love him! I mean we all love a 'Head of Criminal Empire' but the tender, sensitive side that Kat brings out of him was pleasurable to read.. I mean the man tracks down her best friend and reunited them! 🥹 but make no mistake Elias has a deliciously dirty mouth and bedroom behaviour is top teir.
I get a little nervous reading a Debut, fearing that the spice doesn't quite hit - that's not the case here! Those spicy scenes are 🤌🏼🥵
Katherine has been living under her new alias 'Kat' for the past 15 months. After relocating, finding a new friend who shares similar interests, securing an apartment and a job .. now is the perfect time for her and her 3 friends to take the leap and audition for headliners spot at Elias' exclusive and highly reputable club.
Elias is captivated by Kat from the moment he sets eyes on her. Her luscious curves and no b^llshit attitude draws him in, in a way he never expected.
But its not all easy sailing .. both harbour secrets that they fear the other will run from.
Just when I thought "yay, they'll get a fantastic HEA", Ayla hit me with an unexpected cliffhanger!
Please don’t make me wait too long 🙈
Review of advance copy received from Author
I stumbled across Ayla on Instagram and Scream for Me sounded intriguing and oh wow it was so much more than I was expecting, for a debut for a new author I am blown away! I devoured this in less than 12 hours! I started reading and it felt like I blinked and then I was on chapter 40! Ayla’s writing & storytelling just struck with me and pulled me in until the very end, and that cliffhanger?! Yes, I know it’s a duet but seriously?! Write quickly Ayla, but you know take your time and don’t rush!
I absolutely loved Kat & Elias. Both have tragic backstories, you definitely want to check the trigger warnings before reading as it is a dark romance with lots of potential triggers.
I love when an mmc falls first and hard and Elias did not disappoint, he was everything I want in an mmc, obsessed, protective, caring & gentle only with her but ruthless and brutal with anyone who crosses him. Kat was such an easy fmc to like and I loved her drive, determination, fierce independence and inner strength. She understandably doesn’t trust easily but I loved how Elias was just there, consistently showing her that she could trust him to protect & care for her. The chemistry between them was palpable and built throughout the story, I couldn’t stop reading!
I cannot wait for book 2!
I would recommend this to anyone who likes dark romance, rockstar romance (she’s the rockstar), crime syndicate/mafia tropes, plus size fmc rep, mental health rep. Check trigger warnings first!
Thank you Ayla & Charli for providing me with ARC copy, my review is left voluntarily and all opinions expressed are my own.
I absolutely loved Kat & Elias. Both have tragic backstories, you definitely want to check the trigger warnings before reading as it is a dark romance with lots of potential triggers.
I love when an mmc falls first and hard and Elias did not disappoint, he was everything I want in an mmc, obsessed, protective, caring & gentle only with her but ruthless and brutal with anyone who crosses him. Kat was such an easy fmc to like and I loved her drive, determination, fierce independence and inner strength. She understandably doesn’t trust easily but I loved how Elias was just there, consistently showing her that she could trust him to protect & care for her. The chemistry between them was palpable and built throughout the story, I couldn’t stop reading!
I cannot wait for book 2!
I would recommend this to anyone who likes dark romance, rockstar romance (she’s the rockstar), crime syndicate/mafia tropes, plus size fmc rep, mental health rep. Check trigger warnings first!
Thank you Ayla & Charli for providing me with ARC copy, my review is left voluntarily and all opinions expressed are my own.
July 29, 2026
Received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author.
My review is past due because life got in the way, with that being said here we go. First of all check your TWs before reading this book, it touches on extremely sensitive subjects.
Kat is running from a past that is very dark and traumatic. She meets Harley, and through her Rayland and Luca. They form the band Thether where Kat is the guitarist. She is constantly looking over her shoulder because of the past she escaped from. One night while out at Headstone a popular club she catches the attention of Elias.
Elias Monroe is the head of The Circle and owner of multiple clubs around the city of Bridgeport. He falls first, hard and fast for Kat. He is looking for a new band for the club and hires her band because well she is everything he wants. He recognizes a trouble past in her and little by little gains her trust and helps her open up.
His story is also traumatic and once shared with her you get a better grasp of why he is the way he is. The reasoning behind The Circle and the choices he’s made in life. It’s heartbreaking and brave at the same time.
I really admired how he saw the strong survivor that she was and gave her room to be independent while doing his best to protect her as well. Once she gains her confidence she decides to walk beside him and proves herself even more in his eyes.
When everything seems to be going their way life has other plans and this left me reeling!!! The book ends in a cliffhanger that is extremely shocking because of the unexpected villain character at the end.
Please be aware that there are some detailed flashbacks that can be triggering for survivors.
My review is past due because life got in the way, with that being said here we go. First of all check your TWs before reading this book, it touches on extremely sensitive subjects.
Kat is running from a past that is very dark and traumatic. She meets Harley, and through her Rayland and Luca. They form the band Thether where Kat is the guitarist. She is constantly looking over her shoulder because of the past she escaped from. One night while out at Headstone a popular club she catches the attention of Elias.
Elias Monroe is the head of The Circle and owner of multiple clubs around the city of Bridgeport. He falls first, hard and fast for Kat. He is looking for a new band for the club and hires her band because well she is everything he wants. He recognizes a trouble past in her and little by little gains her trust and helps her open up.
His story is also traumatic and once shared with her you get a better grasp of why he is the way he is. The reasoning behind The Circle and the choices he’s made in life. It’s heartbreaking and brave at the same time.
I really admired how he saw the strong survivor that she was and gave her room to be independent while doing his best to protect her as well. Once she gains her confidence she decides to walk beside him and proves herself even more in his eyes.
When everything seems to be going their way life has other plans and this left me reeling!!! The book ends in a cliffhanger that is extremely shocking because of the unexpected villain character at the end.
Please be aware that there are some detailed flashbacks that can be triggering for survivors.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First things first - books with playlists deserve extra points! Faint has been stuck in my head ever since I finished this and I'd completely forgotten how much I loved that song.
Give me a tattooed, long-haired mafia man who's feared by everyone except the woman he'd do anything for and I am IN.
Ahh Elias...ruthless when he needs to be, fiercely protective, but somehow still incredibly sweet. The contrast between the crime boss everyone fears and the softer side that only Kat gets to see was one of my favourite parts of the book. "Little Rebel" is such an fun nickname.
Kat is such an easy FMC to root for. She's survived more than anyone should ever have to and although parts of her story are difficult to read, they are still handled with care throughout the story. Watching her slowly reclaim herself through music and absolutely shred on the guitar?! HELL YEAH KAT!
I also really appreciated the mental health representation. This is an emotional read at times, so I'd definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings before picking it up.
This is a story about survival, healing, found family, learning to trust again and (of course) plenty of hot spice.
The ending though??? Ayla... why?!
My favourite quote from the book:
"And if you want to snuff out the source of your darkness, I'll be the light that stands beside you."
3.75⭐️
Thank you to Ayla Valentine and Whimsy After Dark for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I'm looking forward to seeing where the duet goes next!
Give me a tattooed, long-haired mafia man who's feared by everyone except the woman he'd do anything for and I am IN.
Ahh Elias...ruthless when he needs to be, fiercely protective, but somehow still incredibly sweet. The contrast between the crime boss everyone fears and the softer side that only Kat gets to see was one of my favourite parts of the book. "Little Rebel" is such an fun nickname.
Kat is such an easy FMC to root for. She's survived more than anyone should ever have to and although parts of her story are difficult to read, they are still handled with care throughout the story. Watching her slowly reclaim herself through music and absolutely shred on the guitar?! HELL YEAH KAT!
I also really appreciated the mental health representation. This is an emotional read at times, so I'd definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings before picking it up.
This is a story about survival, healing, found family, learning to trust again and (of course) plenty of hot spice.
The ending though??? Ayla... why?!
My favourite quote from the book:
"And if you want to snuff out the source of your darkness, I'll be the light that stands beside you."
3.75⭐️
Thank you to Ayla Valentine and Whimsy After Dark for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I'm looking forward to seeing where the duet goes next!
July 28, 2026
ARC review!!!
Thank you Ayla for allowing me to read an early copy of Scream for Me! It is out now on Kindle Unlimited
Triggers:
-Fatphobia (both internal and external
-Fat shaming
-Disordered eating
-Previous self-harm
-On-page self-harm
-Sexual assault
-Narcissistic abuse
-Attempted rape
-Rape (previous, not by MMC but mentioned in detail)
-Domestic abuse
-Physical abuse
-mental abuse
-PTSD
-PTSD-inudced flashbacks
-Trauma recovery
-Suicidal ideation
-Suicide attempt (previous, not mentioned in detail)
-Drugging of the FMC
-Trafficking
-Murder
-Torture
-Mild-gore
-Death of a parent (previous, not mentioned in detail)
-Guns
-Knives
-Alcohol consumption
-Smoking
-Death of a sibling (previous, mentioned in detail)
-Accidental suicide attempt
-Financial insecurity
-needles
Graphic, on-page sexual scenes included:
-Orgasm denial
-Edging
-Exhibitionism
-Voyeurism
-Public play
-Squirting
Tropes:
-Dark rockstar romance (she’s the rockstar)
-Plus size FMC
-Crime syndicate
-he falls first
-90’s grunge vibes
-Mental health rep
-Found family vibes
-“Who did this to you?”
-And lots more
“My girl. It has a ring to it, but Little Rebel is so much better”
I loved this book so much. I can’t even explain all the words on how much I like it. There was just enough spice to leave plenty of room for the plot.
I can’t wait until the 2nd book after the cliffhanger I was left on. I need the second one like tomorrow 😅
If you like dark romance and don’t mind a menu🤭 of triggers, this is your book! I highly recommend it.
Thank you Ayla for allowing me to read an early copy of Scream for Me! It is out now on Kindle Unlimited
Triggers:
-Fatphobia (both internal and external
-Fat shaming
-Disordered eating
-Previous self-harm
-On-page self-harm
-Sexual assault
-Narcissistic abuse
-Attempted rape
-Rape (previous, not by MMC but mentioned in detail)
-Domestic abuse
-Physical abuse
-mental abuse
-PTSD
-PTSD-inudced flashbacks
-Trauma recovery
-Suicidal ideation
-Suicide attempt (previous, not mentioned in detail)
-Drugging of the FMC
-Trafficking
-Murder
-Torture
-Mild-gore
-Death of a parent (previous, not mentioned in detail)
-Guns
-Knives
-Alcohol consumption
-Smoking
-Death of a sibling (previous, mentioned in detail)
-Accidental suicide attempt
-Financial insecurity
-needles
Graphic, on-page sexual scenes included:
-Orgasm denial
-Edging
-Exhibitionism
-Voyeurism
-Public play
-Squirting
Tropes:
-Dark rockstar romance (she’s the rockstar)
-Plus size FMC
-Crime syndicate
-he falls first
-90’s grunge vibes
-Mental health rep
-Found family vibes
-“Who did this to you?”
-And lots more
“My girl. It has a ring to it, but Little Rebel is so much better”
I loved this book so much. I can’t even explain all the words on how much I like it. There was just enough spice to leave plenty of room for the plot.
I can’t wait until the 2nd book after the cliffhanger I was left on. I need the second one like tomorrow 😅
If you like dark romance and don’t mind a menu🤭 of triggers, this is your book! I highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Scream For Me🖤🎸- Ayla Valentine
We start this story off by following our FMC Kat, a baddie plus sized guitarist with mental heath issues😮💨😏, and a girl running from her secret traumatic past trying to start a new life of her own.😮🤔 When she runs into a man, our MMC Elias, there is an automatic sexual tension in the air, come to find out he owns the place where her band has gotten their first big paying gigs.🤭😉 On the side Elias is a deeply feared and respected leader of a crime syndicate, radiating power wherever he goes.😈 These two come together in this story and understand one another in a way that no one else has, and they have been waiting to come across forever.🥹😍 Although their lives do intertwine in multiple ways and I feel they were supposed to come together for a reason more than just love.🧐🫣
What will come of this dynamic and their story… and what are the deeper connections of his line of work and her past?😱😳
Holy crap this book put me through the RINGER!🤯🫠 I was absolutely obsessed with their dynamic and their HEAT!!🌶️🥵 I loved the concept of him falling first and the mental health struggles included in this story. DONT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE ENDING🤬…..let’s just say it puts you in a place immediately needing book 2 or you want to shove your head into the wall…😰😃🖤 But may I just say….WORTH. IT.✨
Scream for me out July 21st😱🎸🖤
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:🌶️🌶️🌶️⛓️💥
We start this story off by following our FMC Kat, a baddie plus sized guitarist with mental heath issues😮💨😏, and a girl running from her secret traumatic past trying to start a new life of her own.😮🤔 When she runs into a man, our MMC Elias, there is an automatic sexual tension in the air, come to find out he owns the place where her band has gotten their first big paying gigs.🤭😉 On the side Elias is a deeply feared and respected leader of a crime syndicate, radiating power wherever he goes.😈 These two come together in this story and understand one another in a way that no one else has, and they have been waiting to come across forever.🥹😍 Although their lives do intertwine in multiple ways and I feel they were supposed to come together for a reason more than just love.🧐🫣
What will come of this dynamic and their story… and what are the deeper connections of his line of work and her past?😱😳
Holy crap this book put me through the RINGER!🤯🫠 I was absolutely obsessed with their dynamic and their HEAT!!🌶️🥵 I loved the concept of him falling first and the mental health struggles included in this story. DONT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE ENDING🤬…..let’s just say it puts you in a place immediately needing book 2 or you want to shove your head into the wall…😰😃🖤 But may I just say….WORTH. IT.✨
Scream for me out July 21st😱🎸🖤
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:🌶️🌶️🌶️⛓️💥
Read
July 13, 2026Review of advance copy received from the author Ayla Valentine
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🎸Who did this to you
🖤Crime Syndicate
🎸Plus size FMC
🖤He falls first
🎸She’s a Rockstar90s Grunge vibes
Firstly a huge thank you to Ayla for allowing me to read an advanced copy of Scream For Me.
I am unwell after reading this book, in the best possible way. I do not know how I’m supposed to go about my everyday life without a dose of Elias in it, sorry Kat – don’t feel left out girl because you were fabulous too, but Elias was the book boyfriend I needed.
The book is packed with darkness, emotion, friendship, sizzling tension and perfectly written spice! Ayla you know what you’re doing lady 🥵 Also side note….the playlist is top tier! Took me right back to my youth and I was here for it!
I loved the band element and how supportive they all were to Kat, Ayla I feel like I need a little novella for each band member, I need to know how their lives turn out 🩷
This book is going to put you through it, the emotions, the twist and the ENDING!!!!!!! ARGGGHHHHHH how long until book 2????????
This book is guaranteed to have you wholeheartedly rooting for the morally blackest of black MMC’s and you’re not even going to be sorry about it.
Favourite Quote: “What did I tell you Little Rebel? God doesn’t get the pleasure of having his name fall from your lips.” 🥵
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🎸Who did this to you
🖤Crime Syndicate
🎸Plus size FMC
🖤He falls first
🎸She’s a Rockstar90s Grunge vibes
Firstly a huge thank you to Ayla for allowing me to read an advanced copy of Scream For Me.
I am unwell after reading this book, in the best possible way. I do not know how I’m supposed to go about my everyday life without a dose of Elias in it, sorry Kat – don’t feel left out girl because you were fabulous too, but Elias was the book boyfriend I needed.
The book is packed with darkness, emotion, friendship, sizzling tension and perfectly written spice! Ayla you know what you’re doing lady 🥵 Also side note….the playlist is top tier! Took me right back to my youth and I was here for it!
I loved the band element and how supportive they all were to Kat, Ayla I feel like I need a little novella for each band member, I need to know how their lives turn out 🩷
This book is going to put you through it, the emotions, the twist and the ENDING!!!!!!! ARGGGHHHHHH how long until book 2????????
This book is guaranteed to have you wholeheartedly rooting for the morally blackest of black MMC’s and you’re not even going to be sorry about it.
Favourite Quote: “What did I tell you Little Rebel? God doesn’t get the pleasure of having his name fall from your lips.” 🥵
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I like the base story line. A plus guitarist barely able to love herself hits home for me. And the tragic backstory has my heart. Kat(FMC) had some great character development. The comfort friendship Harper and Kat had was something to desire for any nest friend duo. The platonic touching and care they had for each other. There was some great smut as well. Elias (MMC) was a tough straight forward boss that has a soft heart for those who need to be taken care of. I like the love story between those too, and how the author captures the real essence of what a Dom does for a submissive, though it's not explicitly said in the story there is that dynamic.
Now here's where I have beef with the book: the first half, yes it was slow but it had all the right juice for the side characters and development. But as soon as elias and Kat started their relationship, they were all just forgotten. It was the typical, girl gets boyfriend and forget everyone. I was screaming where is the check in after events with Harper or connection with the band. Also, every smut scene was in Elias POV, I wanted Kats POV at points. The was just so much juice missing and just got a lot of smut.
Though it had its downfalls, I would recommend this book to dark romance readers. Especially those who want an older plus size FMC who need to know what love is.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I like the base story line. A plus guitarist barely able to love herself hits home for me. And the tragic backstory has my heart. Kat(FMC) had some great character development. The comfort friendship Harper and Kat had was something to desire for any nest friend duo. The platonic touching and care they had for each other. There was some great smut as well. Elias (MMC) was a tough straight forward boss that has a soft heart for those who need to be taken care of. I like the love story between those too, and how the author captures the real essence of what a Dom does for a submissive, though it's not explicitly said in the story there is that dynamic.
Now here's where I have beef with the book: the first half, yes it was slow but it had all the right juice for the side characters and development. But as soon as elias and Kat started their relationship, they were all just forgotten. It was the typical, girl gets boyfriend and forget everyone. I was screaming where is the check in after events with Harper or connection with the band. Also, every smut scene was in Elias POV, I wanted Kats POV at points. The was just so much juice missing and just got a lot of smut.
Though it had its downfalls, I would recommend this book to dark romance readers. Especially those who want an older plus size FMC who need to know what love is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Scream for Me starts off as Rockstar romance with Kat and her bandmates trying to catch a break. After auditioning for a residency that they get (YAY) the owner Elias is captivated by her and she Him. Then, things start getting dark.
Kat's past starts to haunt her as she tries to navigate a life from what she left. She's reluctant to share anything with Elias, afraid of what it would mean for them, if there even is a them. Then, we have Elias who isn't just a club/bar owner. As Kat is healing, she's now having to accept Elias completely like he has accepted her but she's running out of time.
I had the absolute honor to read an ARC from Ayla and I'm so glad I did. This was one of those books I knew if I read it, it would be a banger. Ayla captivates you into Kat's mind as you try to understand her pain and her way of coping with so much going wrong at once. You feel for and with Kat throughout the story. With Elias, you understand him as a morally black MMC and still root for him. He runs things with such control and you see it with how he loves Kat, fighting his own monsters and internal conflicts.
The plot takes you on a journey trying to piece together things yourself as Kat does. You don't' see the twist coming, and the end was jaw dropping to say the least. Book two could not come any sooner.
Kat's past starts to haunt her as she tries to navigate a life from what she left. She's reluctant to share anything with Elias, afraid of what it would mean for them, if there even is a them. Then, we have Elias who isn't just a club/bar owner. As Kat is healing, she's now having to accept Elias completely like he has accepted her but she's running out of time.
I had the absolute honor to read an ARC from Ayla and I'm so glad I did. This was one of those books I knew if I read it, it would be a banger. Ayla captivates you into Kat's mind as you try to understand her pain and her way of coping with so much going wrong at once. You feel for and with Kat throughout the story. With Elias, you understand him as a morally black MMC and still root for him. He runs things with such control and you see it with how he loves Kat, fighting his own monsters and internal conflicts.
The plot takes you on a journey trying to piece together things yourself as Kat does. You don't' see the twist coming, and the end was jaw dropping to say the least. Book two could not come any sooner.
July 21, 2026
As soon as I saw the tropes for this one I had to read it immediately.
She’s the rockstar, 90s grunge rep, who did this to you vibes with dark romance? Say less!
The story follows Kat, who is trying to build a second chance at life after ending up in Bridgeport. When an opportunity comes up for her band at one of the hottest rock venues in the city she meets Elias, the guarded owner of Headstone who seems to see right through the walls she has built.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and honestly you would never know it was a debut. The writing was so good and I was hooked by Kat and Elias’s story.
Kat was such a strong character. After everything that had happened to her I loved seeing her try to build a new life and find safety in music and the people around her.
And then there was Elias he was amazing. I loved that he fell first and the way he saw through the walls Kat had built around herself. Their tension and connection had me so invested.
This had dark romance, rockstar vibes, emotion, secrets and a past that refuses to stay buried.
This is a dark romance so check triggers if needed.
And that cliffhanger! I need book two like yesterday and I'm really looking forward to see what happens next
She’s the rockstar, 90s grunge rep, who did this to you vibes with dark romance? Say less!
The story follows Kat, who is trying to build a second chance at life after ending up in Bridgeport. When an opportunity comes up for her band at one of the hottest rock venues in the city she meets Elias, the guarded owner of Headstone who seems to see right through the walls she has built.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and honestly you would never know it was a debut. The writing was so good and I was hooked by Kat and Elias’s story.
Kat was such a strong character. After everything that had happened to her I loved seeing her try to build a new life and find safety in music and the people around her.
And then there was Elias he was amazing. I loved that he fell first and the way he saw through the walls Kat had built around herself. Their tension and connection had me so invested.
This had dark romance, rockstar vibes, emotion, secrets and a past that refuses to stay buried.
This is a dark romance so check triggers if needed.
And that cliffhanger! I need book two like yesterday and I'm really looking forward to see what happens next
July 22, 2026
Scream for Me is a dual-POV rockstar romance where the FMC is the rockstar, and I loved seeing a plus-size heroine take center stage. Elias is the kind of MMC who basically runs the city, and he’s incredibly possessive and protective when it comes to Kat. This book is definitely spicy, but it also has some darker moments, so I’d recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving in.
Kat’s story was heartbreaking. After spending three years in an abusive relationship where she was emotionally, mentally, physically, and sexually abused, she finally escapes and starts over in a new city. Watching her slowly rebuild her life by finding a job, making genuine friends, finding a place to call home, and joining a band made it so easy to root for her. When she meets Elias after his bar becomes the band’s residency, their relationship begins to grow, but just as she’s finding happiness, her past comes back to haunt her.
I also really loved the friendships throughout this book. They added so much heart to the story and reminded Kat that she didn’t have to face everything alone. The ending left me completely stressed with that cliffhanger, and now I need the next book to see what happens.
Kat’s story was heartbreaking. After spending three years in an abusive relationship where she was emotionally, mentally, physically, and sexually abused, she finally escapes and starts over in a new city. Watching her slowly rebuild her life by finding a job, making genuine friends, finding a place to call home, and joining a band made it so easy to root for her. When she meets Elias after his bar becomes the band’s residency, their relationship begins to grow, but just as she’s finding happiness, her past comes back to haunt her.
I also really loved the friendships throughout this book. They added so much heart to the story and reminded Kat that she didn’t have to face everything alone. The ending left me completely stressed with that cliffhanger, and now I need the next book to see what happens.
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