What do you think?
The Dark That Kept Us: A Psychological Trauma Bond Romance
472 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 16, 2026
About the author
Nicci Harris
24 books2,709 followersI write about women who make unattainable men fall hard and forever.
♥ Stalk me please:
https://linktr.ee/author.nicciharris
♥
"She (Nicci) shines in crafting novels that toe the line between dark and dangerous, and sweet and sexy, which culminates into a deliciously sinful story of passion, truth, and acceptance." - Jessica @jessicareadsit
♥ Stalk me please:
https://linktr.ee/author.nicciharris
♥
"She (Nicci) shines in crafting novels that toe the line between dark and dangerous, and sweet and sexy, which culminates into a deliciously sinful story of passion, truth, and acceptance." - Jessica @jessicareadsit
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 16, 2026
“The dark that kept us” is the story of Blesk and Konnor.
I’ll be very honest , I love NH but I found this book wildly discomforting and I think it scarred me.
Maybe it was the graphic on page abuse, descriptive sex of hero and heroine with other characters, romanticizing trauma with rose colored lenses, the intense childhood ptsd, the hero treating women like napkins and enjoying his alcoholism, the heroine struggling with her identity and to come in terms with years of familial sexual abuse.. it was just so much mental scarring and regression that I cringed when they got together and the sex scenes nauseated me.
Everyone needs therapy.
Unsafe
2/5
I’ll be very honest , I love NH but I found this book wildly discomforting and I think it scarred me.
Maybe it was the graphic on page abuse, descriptive sex of hero and heroine with other characters, romanticizing trauma with rose colored lenses, the intense childhood ptsd, the hero treating women like napkins and enjoying his alcoholism, the heroine struggling with her identity and to come in terms with years of familial sexual abuse.. it was just so much mental scarring and regression that I cringed when they got together and the sex scenes nauseated me.
Everyone needs therapy.
Unsafe
2/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2026
This is the type of story that grips you from the very first page to the last and will move you completely.
I love Nicci’s books and am very much obsessed with The Kids of the District and The Butcher Boys (I may have squealed and done a little happy dance whenever they were mentioned on page)
This book takes us back to the beginning. We get more glimpses into the world of The District.
I adore Konnor Slater. He’s unhinged and that’s just how I love a MMC. He’s obsessed with his girl. He has a dirty mouth. He’s possessive. All the things we look for in a book boyfriend.
But he also has trauma, problems and a tortured past.
He is drinking and sleeping his way through university, numbing his pain in the only way he knows how, until one day he spots Blesk Bellamy and his whole world changes once again.
Blesk is such a beautiful character. My heart broke for her and everything she has been through. I love that we get to read her journey.
Nicci truly writes books that become real to me, I live and breathe them, I want to climb into their world and never leave.
A truly remarkable, emotional book!
I love Nicci’s books and am very much obsessed with The Kids of the District and The Butcher Boys (I may have squealed and done a little happy dance whenever they were mentioned on page)
This book takes us back to the beginning. We get more glimpses into the world of The District.
I adore Konnor Slater. He’s unhinged and that’s just how I love a MMC. He’s obsessed with his girl. He has a dirty mouth. He’s possessive. All the things we look for in a book boyfriend.
But he also has trauma, problems and a tortured past.
He is drinking and sleeping his way through university, numbing his pain in the only way he knows how, until one day he spots Blesk Bellamy and his whole world changes once again.
Blesk is such a beautiful character. My heart broke for her and everything she has been through. I love that we get to read her journey.
Nicci truly writes books that become real to me, I live and breathe them, I want to climb into their world and never leave.
A truly remarkable, emotional book!
July 19, 2026
What have I just read?
Now Nicci’s are always gripping and intense.
But this book is on whole other level.
I may need a minute or two.
My emotions are all over the place with this.
I don’t even think I have the words to review this book and give it the praise that it deserves.
Just. Read. It.
Now Nicci’s are always gripping and intense.
But this book is on whole other level.
I may need a minute or two.
My emotions are all over the place with this.
I don’t even think I have the words to review this book and give it the praise that it deserves.
Just. Read. It.
July 21, 2026
ENG/ITA REVIEW
ENG
This is a story of pain and survival, of love, passion, uncertainty and truth, Blesk and Konnor’s story of redemption, searching for light.
BLURB
Blesk is now in college, she’s shy, always with her head in a book, always with her domineering, manipulative brother who let her do and believe terrible things. She would like to make friend and be normal. Then she meets Konnor. He’s the joker of the campus, always happy and funny and handsome. But his green eyes hide something terrible, something that incredibly links their pasts together. Until everything is discovered and they’ll have to brace themselves to survive and stay in love.
I did not thought I would have loved so much this story, as it is embedded in trauma and healing, it is dark and sublime, wonderful in every little piece, from the characters’ psychology to their way to transform the pain in opportunity, in hope. I loved that for them and I love how they are all friends, especially to two complicated people as Blesk and Konnor.
Blesk is such a sweetie, but her past is dangerous and very dark, while I really liked Konnor’s golden retriever aura and I hope to find them both in the next books I’m going to read. Perfect Nicci, as always, making us think about the many faces of our humaniry.
RATE: 5/5
—
ITA
Una storia di sofferenza e rinascita, dove due amici si ritrovano inaspettatamente e riescono a guarirai a vicenda col proprio amore.
BLURB
Blesk è appena arrivata al college e vorrebbe davvero farsi degli amici, scoprire le opportunità, invece di stare sempre attaccata a suo fratello maggiore, un fratello che ha sempre deciso tutto per lei, che l’ha manipolata fino a commettere cose impensabili. Poi però arriva Konnor: scanzonato, bellissimo, divertente e tormentato. C’è qualcosa che non riescono a ricordare che accomuna il passato di entrambi e quando tutto viene a galla, dovranno essere davvero forti per rimanere insieme e non farsi trascinare dalla corrente.
Questo libro non è un romance canonico, ma una storia cupa di grave trauma, il racconto della forza di ricominciare dopo anni di soprusi, violenze e manipolazioni. Blesk è una ragazza dolce, ma terribilmente ferita, mentre Konnor non è solo il ragazzo carino e divertente, giullare del campus, ma anche una persona alla ricerca di qualcosa che lo salvi dall’oblio in cui costringe il suo dolore. Insomma, un romanzo spacca cuore, ma anche pieno di risate e amicizia e un amore dolcissimo e inaspettato, davvero bello! Per non parlare dei fantastici personaggi secondari, che fanno la differenza in tutta la vicenda.
VOTO: 5/5
ENG
This is a story of pain and survival, of love, passion, uncertainty and truth, Blesk and Konnor’s story of redemption, searching for light.
BLURB
Blesk is now in college, she’s shy, always with her head in a book, always with her domineering, manipulative brother who let her do and believe terrible things. She would like to make friend and be normal. Then she meets Konnor. He’s the joker of the campus, always happy and funny and handsome. But his green eyes hide something terrible, something that incredibly links their pasts together. Until everything is discovered and they’ll have to brace themselves to survive and stay in love.
I did not thought I would have loved so much this story, as it is embedded in trauma and healing, it is dark and sublime, wonderful in every little piece, from the characters’ psychology to their way to transform the pain in opportunity, in hope. I loved that for them and I love how they are all friends, especially to two complicated people as Blesk and Konnor.
Blesk is such a sweetie, but her past is dangerous and very dark, while I really liked Konnor’s golden retriever aura and I hope to find them both in the next books I’m going to read. Perfect Nicci, as always, making us think about the many faces of our humaniry.
RATE: 5/5
—
ITA
Una storia di sofferenza e rinascita, dove due amici si ritrovano inaspettatamente e riescono a guarirai a vicenda col proprio amore.
BLURB
Blesk è appena arrivata al college e vorrebbe davvero farsi degli amici, scoprire le opportunità, invece di stare sempre attaccata a suo fratello maggiore, un fratello che ha sempre deciso tutto per lei, che l’ha manipolata fino a commettere cose impensabili. Poi però arriva Konnor: scanzonato, bellissimo, divertente e tormentato. C’è qualcosa che non riescono a ricordare che accomuna il passato di entrambi e quando tutto viene a galla, dovranno essere davvero forti per rimanere insieme e non farsi trascinare dalla corrente.
Questo libro non è un romance canonico, ma una storia cupa di grave trauma, il racconto della forza di ricominciare dopo anni di soprusi, violenze e manipolazioni. Blesk è una ragazza dolce, ma terribilmente ferita, mentre Konnor non è solo il ragazzo carino e divertente, giullare del campus, ma anche una persona alla ricerca di qualcosa che lo salvi dall’oblio in cui costringe il suo dolore. Insomma, un romanzo spacca cuore, ma anche pieno di risate e amicizia e un amore dolcissimo e inaspettato, davvero bello! Per non parlare dei fantastici personaggi secondari, che fanno la differenza in tutta la vicenda.
VOTO: 5/5
July 17, 2026
As with all of Nicci’s work, this book is well written, engaging, steamy and filled with drama, emotion and so much more. It completely pulled me in and took me on an emotional rollercoaster from beginning to end. I could not put it down until the very last page, and then I was left needing so much more.
Konnor and Blesk’s story is possibly the most heartbreaking within The Kids of the District series, and they both have equally traumatic pasts. And this book takes you on a journey of healing as these two troubled souls try to navigate their pasts. It’s filled with highs and lows, twists and turns, and some truly devastating moments.
Konnor Slater is incredibly troubled, carrying deep trauma from a tortured past. He numbs his pain in the only ways he knows how: with drink and sex. But despite everything he has been through, he is possibly the most emotional MMC in this series, and an absolute sweetheart underneath it all.
He is a little unhinged, utterly obsessed and possessive as hell, which I would expect nothing less from a Nicci Harris character. But his girl is his absolute world. The yearning he feels for her is heartbreaking to read, and watching him struggle with everything he feels for her makes his story all the more painful to read.
Blesk Bellamy is such a beautiful soul, and everything she has been through and everything she is still going through makes for an incredibly emotional read that absolutely breaks your heart. The way these two poor souls come together and try to heal each other is just perfectly beautiful.
The rewrite of this couple’s story was absolutely not something I thought was needed, but having now read it, I am more than glad it happened. The emotions run so much deeper, and I felt this story far more than I ever thought possible.
The way it is written even had me feeling for Erik to a degree, right up until he does what he does. But, in the beginning, he was just a kid in love, and I think that made his role even more complicated and emotional to read.
My only con is that I would have really loved an epilogue set many years later, so we could see where this beautiful couple are now alongside the timeline of the last book in the series, Her Pretty Little Revenge. I would especially have loved to see Konnor within his family and how their relationship has developed over the years.
I love Nicci’s work; in fact, I’m utterly obsessed. Her books and every character she creates will always hold a special place in my heart. She has a way of making you completely connect with her characters and feel everything alongside them, and with this book, she has done it again.
Romance 🩷🩷
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Konnor and Blesk’s story is possibly the most heartbreaking within The Kids of the District series, and they both have equally traumatic pasts. And this book takes you on a journey of healing as these two troubled souls try to navigate their pasts. It’s filled with highs and lows, twists and turns, and some truly devastating moments.
Konnor Slater is incredibly troubled, carrying deep trauma from a tortured past. He numbs his pain in the only ways he knows how: with drink and sex. But despite everything he has been through, he is possibly the most emotional MMC in this series, and an absolute sweetheart underneath it all.
He is a little unhinged, utterly obsessed and possessive as hell, which I would expect nothing less from a Nicci Harris character. But his girl is his absolute world. The yearning he feels for her is heartbreaking to read, and watching him struggle with everything he feels for her makes his story all the more painful to read.
Blesk Bellamy is such a beautiful soul, and everything she has been through and everything she is still going through makes for an incredibly emotional read that absolutely breaks your heart. The way these two poor souls come together and try to heal each other is just perfectly beautiful.
The rewrite of this couple’s story was absolutely not something I thought was needed, but having now read it, I am more than glad it happened. The emotions run so much deeper, and I felt this story far more than I ever thought possible.
The way it is written even had me feeling for Erik to a degree, right up until he does what he does. But, in the beginning, he was just a kid in love, and I think that made his role even more complicated and emotional to read.
My only con is that I would have really loved an epilogue set many years later, so we could see where this beautiful couple are now alongside the timeline of the last book in the series, Her Pretty Little Revenge. I would especially have loved to see Konnor within his family and how their relationship has developed over the years.
I love Nicci’s work; in fact, I’m utterly obsessed. Her books and every character she creates will always hold a special place in my heart. She has a way of making you completely connect with her characters and feel everything alongside them, and with this book, she has done it again.
Romance 🩷🩷
Spice 🌶️🌶️
July 19, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
💜 College Romance
💜 Working through trama
💜 Instant Attraction
My Thoughts:
I've read every Nicci Harris book except Konnor and Blesk's story, so I've always been curious about what really happened after everything that was revealed at the beginning of the Kids of the District series. Finally getting their story answered so many questions and gave much more depth to moments from the books series.
This is one of those stories that completely breaks your heart before slowly putting it back together again. The emotions hit hard, and I found myself rooting for Konnor and Blesk every step of the way.
The only thing I wanted more of was a little extra closure. I would've loved to see more of Blesk talking with her adoptive dad about everything she'd been through, as well as more of Konnor's journey toward overcoming his alcoholism and healing from his past.
I also loved how this book tied back into the very first book in the series, bringing everything full circle. As someone who's followed this world from the beginning, that connection made the ending even more meaningful.
Summary:
Blesk was adopted as a child, and now that she's starting college, she's determined to build a life of her own instead of relying on her protective brother, Erik (and if you've read the previous books, you know exactly who he is!).
Konnor's childhood was stolen from him after he was kidnapped at a young age. The trauma still follows him into adulthood, and he uses alcohol to numb the memories he can't escape.
The two meet when Blesk performs at a local bar, and Konnor is instantly captivated. There's something about her he can't explain—a connection that feels deeper than simple attraction. But the closer he gets to Blesk, the more unhinged Erik becomes.
After Blesk suddenly flees one of their dates, Konnor follows her, worried something is wrong. What he discovers is heartbreaking. He finds Blesk trapped in an abusive situation with the man she's always believed was her protector–a secret she has been keepng. In that moment, pieces of his own forgotten past begin to fall into place.
The connection he'd been feeling wasn't just fate...
They knew each other as children.
Years earlier, Konnor had been kidnapped by Blesk's biological father—the same man who abused Blesk before she was rescued and adopted. Now, as devastating family secrets come to light, both of them are forced to confront the trauma they've spent years trying to outrun.
Can they overcome the horrors of their pasts and finally find the healing they both deserve?
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
💜 College Romance
💜 Working through trama
💜 Instant Attraction
My Thoughts:
I've read every Nicci Harris book except Konnor and Blesk's story, so I've always been curious about what really happened after everything that was revealed at the beginning of the Kids of the District series. Finally getting their story answered so many questions and gave much more depth to moments from the books series.
This is one of those stories that completely breaks your heart before slowly putting it back together again. The emotions hit hard, and I found myself rooting for Konnor and Blesk every step of the way.
The only thing I wanted more of was a little extra closure. I would've loved to see more of Blesk talking with her adoptive dad about everything she'd been through, as well as more of Konnor's journey toward overcoming his alcoholism and healing from his past.
I also loved how this book tied back into the very first book in the series, bringing everything full circle. As someone who's followed this world from the beginning, that connection made the ending even more meaningful.
Summary:
Blesk was adopted as a child, and now that she's starting college, she's determined to build a life of her own instead of relying on her protective brother, Erik (and if you've read the previous books, you know exactly who he is!).
Konnor's childhood was stolen from him after he was kidnapped at a young age. The trauma still follows him into adulthood, and he uses alcohol to numb the memories he can't escape.
The two meet when Blesk performs at a local bar, and Konnor is instantly captivated. There's something about her he can't explain—a connection that feels deeper than simple attraction. But the closer he gets to Blesk, the more unhinged Erik becomes.
After Blesk suddenly flees one of their dates, Konnor follows her, worried something is wrong. What he discovers is heartbreaking. He finds Blesk trapped in an abusive situation with the man she's always believed was her protector–a secret she has been keepng. In that moment, pieces of his own forgotten past begin to fall into place.
The connection he'd been feeling wasn't just fate...
They knew each other as children.
Years earlier, Konnor had been kidnapped by Blesk's biological father—the same man who abused Blesk before she was rescued and adopted. Now, as devastating family secrets come to light, both of them are forced to confront the trauma they've spent years trying to outrun.
Can they overcome the horrors of their pasts and finally find the healing they both deserve?
July 19, 2026
If you pick up this book, read the trigger warnings first. Seriously.The Dark That Kept Us isn’t here to comfort you. It isn’t here to give you butterflies or a neat little romance arc wrapped in sunshine.
This story walks straight into the darkest corners of trauma, survival, and the impossible task of trying to rebuild yourself when you’ve been shattered more than once.This is not a dark romance.
This is two people trying to figure out who they are after everything they’ve endured — and whether love can exist in the wreckage.
Konnor & Blesk are two souls held together by damage and determination. They aren’t tidy, polished characters. They’re raw. They’re hurting. They’re trying to navigate trauma that doesn’t magically disappear just because they care for each other.Their connection isn’t soft or easy. It’s complicated, layered, and shaped by everything they’ve survived. You don’t just watch them fall for each other. But you watch them confront the parts of themselves they’ve spent years avoiding.
This book doesn’t rush their healing. It doesn’t romanticise their pain. It shows the slow, uneven, uncomfortable process of trying to grow while still carrying the weight of the past.
One of my favourite parts is how this book loops us back to the beginning of the world Nicci built. We get early‑series echoes, deeper context, and pieces that make the entire timeline feel more connected.
Konnor and Blesk’s story might be the most devastating in The Kids of the District. Their pasts are heavy, and Nicci doesn’t shy away from showing how those experiences shape every decision they make.The highs feel fragile. The lows feel brutal. And the entire journey feels painfully human.
I would've loved a little more space for closure. ..not because the story lacked depth, but because these characters deserve every ounce of healing they can get. And I wouldve loved more of Eriks POV. But thats just me.
This book is dark, honest, and emotionally demanding. It’s not romantic in the traditional sense. it’s romantic in the way trauma survivors redefine love for themselves.And the way Nicci ties this story back to book one? Perfect.
Also… I’m still holding out hope that Elise gets her own book one day.
This story walks straight into the darkest corners of trauma, survival, and the impossible task of trying to rebuild yourself when you’ve been shattered more than once.This is not a dark romance.
This is two people trying to figure out who they are after everything they’ve endured — and whether love can exist in the wreckage.
Konnor & Blesk are two souls held together by damage and determination. They aren’t tidy, polished characters. They’re raw. They’re hurting. They’re trying to navigate trauma that doesn’t magically disappear just because they care for each other.Their connection isn’t soft or easy. It’s complicated, layered, and shaped by everything they’ve survived. You don’t just watch them fall for each other. But you watch them confront the parts of themselves they’ve spent years avoiding.
This book doesn’t rush their healing. It doesn’t romanticise their pain. It shows the slow, uneven, uncomfortable process of trying to grow while still carrying the weight of the past.
One of my favourite parts is how this book loops us back to the beginning of the world Nicci built. We get early‑series echoes, deeper context, and pieces that make the entire timeline feel more connected.
Konnor and Blesk’s story might be the most devastating in The Kids of the District. Their pasts are heavy, and Nicci doesn’t shy away from showing how those experiences shape every decision they make.The highs feel fragile. The lows feel brutal. And the entire journey feels painfully human.
I would've loved a little more space for closure. ..not because the story lacked depth, but because these characters deserve every ounce of healing they can get. And I wouldve loved more of Eriks POV. But thats just me.
This book is dark, honest, and emotionally demanding. It’s not romantic in the traditional sense. it’s romantic in the way trauma survivors redefine love for themselves.And the way Nicci ties this story back to book one? Perfect.
Also… I’m still holding out hope that Elise gets her own book one day.
July 19, 2026
⭐️♾️ INFINITY STARS ♾️⭐️
This book is heartbreakingly beautiful…but it’s equally brutal.
If you’re going into The Dark That Kept Us expecting a typical romance, just know…this isn’t that.
Konnor and Blesk are messy. Broken. Traumatised. Their healing isn’t instant, and that’s exactly what makes this story feel so real. You don’t just watch them fall in love—you watch them fight their way through years of manipulation, grief, trauma and everything the past refuses to let go of.
I always loved him, but absolutely fell for Konnor all over again. He might have a playboy reputation, but underneath it all he’s just this broken golden retriever who falls so hard and so fast for Blesk. My heart absolutely hurt for him. No one deserves what he went through, and every time he tried to outrun his past, it somehow found him again. I loved that he calls her Duchess 🤌🏻🫠
And Blesk…my heart broke for her too. Watching the way trauma had shaped her life, the manipulation she’d endured, and the guilt she carried made this such an emotional read. Healing isn’t linear in this story, and Nicci doesn’t pretend that it is.
This isn’t just a romance. It’s psychological. Suspenseful. Confronting. There were moments that genuinely made me uncomfortable, and I mean that as the highest compliment because this story never shies away from how messy surviving trauma really is.
Nicci also balances all that darkness with moments of humour and banter, and I loved every scene with Elise. Those lighter moments make the emotional punches hit even harder.
Having read the original version, I honestly think this rewrite is on another level. The additional perspectives, the deeper character work and the way everything connects into the Kids of the District world is just brilliant. If you’ve already read that series, the little connections and Easter eggs are incredibly rewarding.
This story hurt…a lot. But it was worth every single page.
If you love emotional romance wrapped in psychological suspense, this one absolutely belongs on your TBR.
10/10 would get emotionally damaged again!
♾️⭐️
This book is heartbreakingly beautiful…but it’s equally brutal.
If you’re going into The Dark That Kept Us expecting a typical romance, just know…this isn’t that.
Konnor and Blesk are messy. Broken. Traumatised. Their healing isn’t instant, and that’s exactly what makes this story feel so real. You don’t just watch them fall in love—you watch them fight their way through years of manipulation, grief, trauma and everything the past refuses to let go of.
I always loved him, but absolutely fell for Konnor all over again. He might have a playboy reputation, but underneath it all he’s just this broken golden retriever who falls so hard and so fast for Blesk. My heart absolutely hurt for him. No one deserves what he went through, and every time he tried to outrun his past, it somehow found him again. I loved that he calls her Duchess 🤌🏻🫠
And Blesk…my heart broke for her too. Watching the way trauma had shaped her life, the manipulation she’d endured, and the guilt she carried made this such an emotional read. Healing isn’t linear in this story, and Nicci doesn’t pretend that it is.
This isn’t just a romance. It’s psychological. Suspenseful. Confronting. There were moments that genuinely made me uncomfortable, and I mean that as the highest compliment because this story never shies away from how messy surviving trauma really is.
Nicci also balances all that darkness with moments of humour and banter, and I loved every scene with Elise. Those lighter moments make the emotional punches hit even harder.
Having read the original version, I honestly think this rewrite is on another level. The additional perspectives, the deeper character work and the way everything connects into the Kids of the District world is just brilliant. If you’ve already read that series, the little connections and Easter eggs are incredibly rewarding.
This story hurt…a lot. But it was worth every single page.
If you love emotional romance wrapped in psychological suspense, this one absolutely belongs on your TBR.
10/10 would get emotionally damaged again!
♾️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Konnor and Blesk are perfect
Wow. I’ve known for a while Nicci planned to re-write Konnor and Blesk’s story. I didn’t know why tbh. It was pretty perfect in my eyes. Both of these characters have always held a special place in my heart because of what they went through. They’re both survivors.
When I heard why she was re-writing it, I knew I’d love it. And I do. These are Nicci’s characters. It felt like she’d peeled a layer from the original and let us REALLY IN on the reality of what went on. This story gave us a villains POV. I hate Erik. I always have and always will. He’s sick. He groomed and he manipulated.
For those reading ONLY this version, you’ll still love Konnor. Still love Blesk. This is dark. Psychological. There’s trauma bond. These two aren’t normal. But there’s still something beautiful and pure between the two. Yea, it’s fkd up but they only had each other.
This is a perfect addition to the Kids of the District. I can’t pick a favorite. Facing Us was what made me fall in love with their world and started my journey. The Dark That Kept Us clearly explained their choices. The trauma was in our face and it only made me love them more.
Thank you, Nicci. I know this probably wasn’t easy but you handled Blesk with care. You gave her a voice. You showed her it was safe to speak up, step back and deal.
Wow. I’ve known for a while Nicci planned to re-write Konnor and Blesk’s story. I didn’t know why tbh. It was pretty perfect in my eyes. Both of these characters have always held a special place in my heart because of what they went through. They’re both survivors.
When I heard why she was re-writing it, I knew I’d love it. And I do. These are Nicci’s characters. It felt like she’d peeled a layer from the original and let us REALLY IN on the reality of what went on. This story gave us a villains POV. I hate Erik. I always have and always will. He’s sick. He groomed and he manipulated.
For those reading ONLY this version, you’ll still love Konnor. Still love Blesk. This is dark. Psychological. There’s trauma bond. These two aren’t normal. But there’s still something beautiful and pure between the two. Yea, it’s fkd up but they only had each other.
This is a perfect addition to the Kids of the District. I can’t pick a favorite. Facing Us was what made me fall in love with their world and started my journey. The Dark That Kept Us clearly explained their choices. The trauma was in our face and it only made me love them more.
Thank you, Nicci. I know this probably wasn’t easy but you handled Blesk with care. You gave her a voice. You showed her it was safe to speak up, step back and deal.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love the kids of the district series I hold them all dear to my heart and love all of them and Nicci has not only done an outstanding job on the kids of the district series but also how she’s written these beautiful people and their story
The way she has told Konnor and blesk story not only of them together but as individuals they both have their demons in their past and present and the way they both think I see them in a different light
They are messed up in their own ways but that’s what I think they found comfort in one another from that in a dark kind of way and I’m sure I’m not the only one to think this but this makes me hate Erik 1000000x more than I already did
What he did to blesk was so deceitful and manipulative and her thought process during all of it broke my heart for her not to mention all that Konnor has been through and as a kid together they are both hauntingly beautiful and their bond is like no other
Iv read tons of books in my life but Nicci Harris will always have a spot in my heart along with any character and their story’s she writes she makes me fall in love with them cry and go through their emotions with them and with this book she has done it again so I wanna to say thank you for all you do and we all love you 📚💕
July 18, 2026
If you have read The Kids of the DIstrict series you learned bits and Pieces of Konner and Blesk I was so excited to get their story. The trauma and Torment the past put Konner through was incredibly painful to read. Knowing Blesk was there along with him ripped my heart out. Their story started at a young age but years later they meet again. This time in a different situation They are both drawn to each other not realizing that they knew each other in the past. When the ghosts of the past become in the forefront secrets and truths come out. My heart was gutted for these two while Konner drowns himself in alcohol and drugs to keep the trauma subdued even though he was raised by a loving family. Blesk was adopted into a family that she thought was everything, a brother who helped her but really he was just manipulating and grooming her. She thought she had been healed and reborn from being Liz to being Blesk but until she was free to be herself and with Konner's help she finally saw the truth. I devoured this book, it is dark and twisted with so much trauma but the bond that formed between Konnor and Blesk was beautiful and healing. Another amazing read from Nicci Harris. I can't get enough of this world. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
July 23, 2026
What a book! Nicci's books always feed my soul and make me feel everything!
I absolutely adored Konnor and Blesk when I first met them in Our Thing. I knew that they had something special and a deep bond. I felt it in the little snippits we got of them in Cassidy's books. I loved being able to read how they came to be and to see why that bond and love was so extraordinary.
Their lives were not easy and that is an understatement! It was heartbreaking to read about what happened to them. I am overjoyed that they were able to find eachother again. Their HEA was hard won and is a process. They will need to fight everyday to keep it. But that makes their love strong, beautiful and everlasting!
I just loved Elise! She grabbed on to Blesk and never let go. She was the friend that Blesk desperately needed. Her undying love and loyalty was something to behold. I don't think Blesk could have made it to where she did without the support Elise gave her.
I also loved Jaxon. His friendship and protectiveness for both Konnor and Blesk was amazing. I adored his banter and flirting with Elise.
This book was dark and heavy and so emotional. It was a beautiful journey to go on. I loved it so much! Blesk and Konnor have my heart!
I absolutely adored Konnor and Blesk when I first met them in Our Thing. I knew that they had something special and a deep bond. I felt it in the little snippits we got of them in Cassidy's books. I loved being able to read how they came to be and to see why that bond and love was so extraordinary.
Their lives were not easy and that is an understatement! It was heartbreaking to read about what happened to them. I am overjoyed that they were able to find eachother again. Their HEA was hard won and is a process. They will need to fight everyday to keep it. But that makes their love strong, beautiful and everlasting!
I just loved Elise! She grabbed on to Blesk and never let go. She was the friend that Blesk desperately needed. Her undying love and loyalty was something to behold. I don't think Blesk could have made it to where she did without the support Elise gave her.
I also loved Jaxon. His friendship and protectiveness for both Konnor and Blesk was amazing. I adored his banter and flirting with Elise.
This book was dark and heavy and so emotional. It was a beautiful journey to go on. I loved it so much! Blesk and Konnor have my heart!
July 19, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An agonizingly beautiful masterpiece
This book has been an absolute emotional rollercoaster. It is raw, heavy, deeply addictive, and full of chilling plot twists.
Konnor and Blesk are the definition of a beautifully tragic trauma bond, both fighting immense inner demons. Blesk is desperately trying to forget, while Konnor desperately wants to remember... it was heartbreaking reading their childhood flashbacks and piecing the puzzle together.
The subtle Easter eggs and connections to the Kids of The District series are absolute genius. One in particular was jaw-dropping and mind-blowing when pieced together.
This book handles traumatic experiences, and trigger warnings must be read before diving in. Even though this was not an easy read, it was a story absolutely worth reading—both as a standalone and as a brilliant crossover to the Butcher Family mafia universe. HEA guaranteed.
A deeply haunting, unforgettable five-star read
This book has been an absolute emotional rollercoaster. It is raw, heavy, deeply addictive, and full of chilling plot twists.
Konnor and Blesk are the definition of a beautifully tragic trauma bond, both fighting immense inner demons. Blesk is desperately trying to forget, while Konnor desperately wants to remember... it was heartbreaking reading their childhood flashbacks and piecing the puzzle together.
The subtle Easter eggs and connections to the Kids of The District series are absolute genius. One in particular was jaw-dropping and mind-blowing when pieced together.
This book handles traumatic experiences, and trigger warnings must be read before diving in. Even though this was not an easy read, it was a story absolutely worth reading—both as a standalone and as a brilliant crossover to the Butcher Family mafia universe. HEA guaranteed.
A deeply haunting, unforgettable five-star read
July 24, 2026
Konnor & Blesk
This was a pretty heavy read, I highly recommend reading the TWs for your own mental well being.
I love Konnor and his absolutely unhinged love. He's possessive, funny, caring, obsessed in the best way possible but also struggles with own vices.
Blesk is also another absolute sweetheart, she thinks of others, musically talented, beautiful honestly inside and out. She struggles with feeling guilty about things that she isn't to blame for as well as having grown up sheltered and struggles socially.
Both come from such a heart wrenching past, being so young and having had to see the cruel side of life. The past has carried over into their adulthood with their coping mechanisms being less than healthy.
If you've read any other books by Nicci Harris then I'm 100% sure you'll love this one. There were a lot of ahhh ha moments connecting dots from the other books in the series.
This was a pretty heavy read, I highly recommend reading the TWs for your own mental well being.
I love Konnor and his absolutely unhinged love. He's possessive, funny, caring, obsessed in the best way possible but also struggles with own vices.
Blesk is also another absolute sweetheart, she thinks of others, musically talented, beautiful honestly inside and out. She struggles with feeling guilty about things that she isn't to blame for as well as having grown up sheltered and struggles socially.
Both come from such a heart wrenching past, being so young and having had to see the cruel side of life. The past has carried over into their adulthood with their coping mechanisms being less than healthy.
If you've read any other books by Nicci Harris then I'm 100% sure you'll love this one. There were a lot of ahhh ha moments connecting dots from the other books in the series.
July 19, 2026
If you're looking for an addictive psychological trauma bond romance then this is definitely the book for you.
When Nicci posted the tropes to this book I just had to read it and I was hooked from the first chapter.
The trauma that both Konnor and Blesk have had to deal with is so heartbreaking.
Nicci's writing pulls you so deeply into the story that you experience every emotion as if you're living it with the characters.
I absolutely love Konnor and how obsessed he is with Blesk. He's the perfect boyfriend for a dark romance book. He's unhinged, drinks way too much but tries to be better for his girl.
Blesk has been through so much and my heart broke for her. I enjoyed reading her journey and how strong she is.
I've loved every book I've read by Nicci Harris and this book was no different. Highly recommend but please just check the trigger warnings!
When Nicci posted the tropes to this book I just had to read it and I was hooked from the first chapter.
The trauma that both Konnor and Blesk have had to deal with is so heartbreaking.
Nicci's writing pulls you so deeply into the story that you experience every emotion as if you're living it with the characters.
I absolutely love Konnor and how obsessed he is with Blesk. He's the perfect boyfriend for a dark romance book. He's unhinged, drinks way too much but tries to be better for his girl.
Blesk has been through so much and my heart broke for her. I enjoyed reading her journey and how strong she is.
I've loved every book I've read by Nicci Harris and this book was no different. Highly recommend but please just check the trigger warnings!
August 25, 2026
I finally read Konnor's story, and I have no idea why I waited this long, but perhaps I had some psychic knowledge that Nicci would eventually release it again, lol. But I'm so glad I got to read it all polished and shiny.
Konnor did not disappoint (not that I thought he would, I mean come on, Nicci wrote him!), and I fell in love with him instantly.
Their story is tragic, traumatic and beautiful all at the same time. It was an absolute pleasure to read. This series is incredible, and now that I have read them all, I can safely say it is one of the few series I would re-read. I don't tend to re-read books, but I would read all of these again in a heartbeat.
Bronson may always be my man, but I'm adding Konnor to my collection of Nicci's men.
You definitely need to read this one if you love a bit of trauma and amazing MMCs.
Konnor did not disappoint (not that I thought he would, I mean come on, Nicci wrote him!), and I fell in love with him instantly.
Their story is tragic, traumatic and beautiful all at the same time. It was an absolute pleasure to read. This series is incredible, and now that I have read them all, I can safely say it is one of the few series I would re-read. I don't tend to re-read books, but I would read all of these again in a heartbeat.
Bronson may always be my man, but I'm adding Konnor to my collection of Nicci's men.
You definitely need to read this one if you love a bit of trauma and amazing MMCs.
July 19, 2026
I am not sure why, but this was the only book I hadn’t previously read in the Kids of the District series by Nicci Harris. I am not sure if I am mad that I did not read the original version that was previously published or not because she has just grown so much as a writer over the years and it is evident in the way she weaves together Konnor and Blesk’s painfully beautiful story. I would just love to compare both versions because the storyline, in general, just sits with you as a reader and I think I would truly love any way she told it. I also love how it makes you want to dive right back into the Butcher Boys stories. This Australian mafia world stands out in this genre, and although this book doesn’t lean heavily on those mafia themes, it sets up the reader to fully immerse themselves in this amazing and unique world.
July 16, 2026
Nicci Harris has done it again. This book is an amazing read that will grab you and keep you reading until the end. There is no putting it down until that last page is read and then you are needing more. This book moves along at a speed that is perfect for all the ups and down throughout the story, so it is a seamless transition between them. These characters are so relateable that you feel as though you have known them forever and no matter what happens you cannot help but love them. This book will not disappoint, it needs to be at the top of your TBR list, there is no doubt about it. It is a must read.
July 19, 2026
The first draft was phenomenal, this rewrite is beyond expectations. Nicci just creates the most stunning characters. Even the “baddies” are great! Konnor and Blesk always had a heartbreaking back story and this time round we are taken on a darker route. Be by back with the District gang just makes me happy, The Butcher Brothers are my comfort zone and the fact that Nicci will always feed the addiction is wonderful. The writing was top notch as we have come up o expect from Nicci but this story brings us the best trauma bond I’ve read in a very very long time (since I read Facing Us!)
July 29, 2026
Five huge stars!
Five huge fucking stars for this book. Someone hold my wine while I sob my heart out. I am overwhelmed with the depth of emotion this book has evoked and I am not sorry.
Sweet Jesus, I was not prepared for this although I suspected that Erik was a bit hinkey (and that kept me awake last night). But when I came back to my kindle today and when THAT happened I lost my breath and my heart just broke.
But Konnor, oh my days. When it all comes to light, I did have to put my book down for a few minutes.
What a read!! And just to be noted, I love Jaxon and Elise!
Five huge fucking stars for this book. Someone hold my wine while I sob my heart out. I am overwhelmed with the depth of emotion this book has evoked and I am not sorry.
Sweet Jesus, I was not prepared for this although I suspected that Erik was a bit hinkey (and that kept me awake last night). But when I came back to my kindle today and when THAT happened I lost my breath and my heart just broke.
But Konnor, oh my days. When it all comes to light, I did have to put my book down for a few minutes.
What a read!! And just to be noted, I love Jaxon and Elise!
July 18, 2026
Konnor and Blesk both have a tragic past. They literally grew up together. This book is dark and emotional at times. My heart broke for these two. Konnor is so patient with Blesk and helps her to move past her trauma. There are a couple chapters of the villains point of view too. Please check your trigger warnings before you read it. Do not proceed if you have any triggers without reading that first.
July 21, 2026
Nicci Harris is a a godly a author! I dunno how she drags me in so deep and makes me fall for everyone of her characters, but I'm obsessed.
Story telling is phenomenal, characters are divine, back story and "world building" so easy to follow. She presents some truly chilling and gut wrenching stories of trauma in such a devastatingly easy to empathise way. Breaks you and then builds you back up perfectly. I adore her!
This is a must read!
Story telling is phenomenal, characters are divine, back story and "world building" so easy to follow. She presents some truly chilling and gut wrenching stories of trauma in such a devastatingly easy to empathise way. Breaks you and then builds you back up perfectly. I adore her!
This is a must read!
July 24, 2026
Konnor is the joker on campus but he hides the pain of his past. He meets Blesk at a bar. He can't take his eyes off of her. Blesk is adopted from a terrible childhood and in college. This story will break your heart with both characters dealing with their pasts. All of the questions about the other series books make more sense after reading this story. An emotional, complicated read.
Arc review
Arc review
August 1, 2026
So good!
This kept me reading the entire time. There was so many issues for the both of them stemming from their trauma but together they were beautifully intense. It was great how we got so in depth with their past and the events that happened. It gave a greater understanding of them. Going out to people who want to read this make sure that you are in a good head space mentally before diving into this
This kept me reading the entire time. There was so many issues for the both of them stemming from their trauma but together they were beautifully intense. It was great how we got so in depth with their past and the events that happened. It gave a greater understanding of them. Going out to people who want to read this make sure that you are in a good head space mentally before diving into this
July 16, 2026
Great, but check tw’s
This is an updated rewrite of Facing Us. It had been a long time since I had read Facing Us. I didn’t notice most of the changes because it had been awhile since I read it.
Know this, these 2 have a trauma bond that is dark & psychological. There is a HEA but this is not necessarily a happy story
This is an updated rewrite of Facing Us. It had been a long time since I had read Facing Us. I didn’t notice most of the changes because it had been awhile since I read it.
Know this, these 2 have a trauma bond that is dark & psychological. There is a HEA but this is not necessarily a happy story
July 16, 2026
Konnor and Blesks heart breaking read takes us back to the begining of the district world, and what a journey or highs and lows, twists and turns and dark moments. Well written engaging steamy desires drama action and more
July 17, 2026
The way I DEVOURED this book!!!!!!!! Author Nicci Harris it was PERFECTION!!! My heart bled, my jaw dropped, my chest squeezed, I was furious, entranced, delighted and it fed my obsession. Thank you!!!!
July 29, 2026
Oh my poor heart! damn damn damn … Konner and Blesk broke my heart and I want more of them. More of the District. More of the Butcher Brothers - I missed them so so much. And Jax and Elise need their story! I want more. Can’t get enough of these characters!
July 24, 2026
The Dark That Kept Us
Wow. This is a must read! It keeps your attention from the first page and will not disappoint. 10/10 recommend!
Wow. This is a must read! It keeps your attention from the first page and will not disappoint. 10/10 recommend!
July 27, 2026
Gripping, tragically beautiful and just all round traumatic and emotional. Nicci wrote this so beautifully I felt every emotion.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews