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Bleeding Hearts #2
Stutter
Someone once told me that happiness is fleeting. I can see now that he was right.
I’m trapped in a black hole of darkness I can’t seem to crawl out of. My twin and my lover want each other dead and I’m pregnant with a baby I don’t know how to protect.
Ryland says he will do anything to get me back, but how do you trust the man who almost killed you? When every option before you comes at a cost, how do you choose the right path?
People say that history has a way of repeating itself. Six years after the fact, my father’s actions are still haunting me. When I learn about an old debt yet to be settled, everything changes. It might not matter who I trust anymore when my every breath brings me one step closer to the end of this twisted game.
I’m trapped in a black hole of darkness I can’t seem to crawl out of. My twin and my lover want each other dead and I’m pregnant with a baby I don’t know how to protect.
Ryland says he will do anything to get me back, but how do you trust the man who almost killed you? When every option before you comes at a cost, how do you choose the right path?
People say that history has a way of repeating itself. Six years after the fact, my father’s actions are still haunting me. When I learn about an old debt yet to be settled, everything changes. It might not matter who I trust anymore when my every breath brings me one step closer to the end of this twisted game.
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 1, 2015
426 people are currently reading
2146 people want to read
About the author
A. Zavarelli
56 books7,515 followersA. Zavarelli is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of dark and contemporary romance.
When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.
She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.
Facebook Page- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAuthor
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Bookbub- https://geni.us/AZavarelliBookbub
Twitter- https://geni.us/AZavarelliTwitter
Website- https://www.azavarelli.com
When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.
She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.
Facebook Page- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAuthor
Facebook Reader Group- https://geni.us/FemmeFatales
Mailing List: https://geni.us/ucfAZH1
Instagram- https://geni.us/AZavarelliInstagram
Amazon- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAmazon
Bookbub- https://geni.us/AZavarelliBookbub
Twitter- https://geni.us/AZavarelliTwitter
Website- https://www.azavarelli.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 452 reviews
February 6, 2016
A Satisfying Finale
The second, and final, book in the Bleeding Hearts series, 'Stutter' does not fail to answer all of the questions left unanswered at the end of 'Echo'. The full weight of Ryland's deceptions is realized, as he finds himself fighting to salvage his relationship with Brighton, the woman he loves and nearly killed. 'Stutter' introduces new dangers and brings everything full circle.
Picking up where 'Echo' left off, Brighton and Ryland are separated. She loves Ryland, but knows that she cannot continue to live with a man so consumed with a need for her brother's blood. Ryland must choose, Brighton or his revenge.
Ryland's guilt over nearly causing Brighton's death, is eating him alive. He knows he screwed up in the worst way, but he isn't willing to let her go. He'll let her have her space for a while, but she's still his, whether she wants to admit it or not.
When Brighton's secret comes to light, Ryland is no longer willing to let her have the space she claims to want. He forces her hand and again, assumes control of her life. Despite everything, what he can't control is her feelings toward him. He's given up on his quest for vengeance, but he still has to convince Brighton of that.
For his part, Brayden seems unable to leave the life he knew behind, falling back into old habits and hanging with a bad crowd. His poor choices unwittingly place Brighton in the crosshairs of some very dangerous individuals. It seems that Brayden is constantly endangering those that he claims to care about, making him a very difficult character to like.
All in all, I really enjoyed this second book in the series. There was plenty of action and suspense. I also loved that Brighton didn't just roll over and forgive Ryland easily, like many heroines do. He deserved to suffer a little for what he did and I'm glad she didn't just let him off the hook too easily. Of course, I'm also glad that she did eventually forgive him, so we could get the ending we all wanted so badly!
The second, and final, book in the Bleeding Hearts series, 'Stutter' does not fail to answer all of the questions left unanswered at the end of 'Echo'. The full weight of Ryland's deceptions is realized, as he finds himself fighting to salvage his relationship with Brighton, the woman he loves and nearly killed. 'Stutter' introduces new dangers and brings everything full circle.
Picking up where 'Echo' left off, Brighton and Ryland are separated. She loves Ryland, but knows that she cannot continue to live with a man so consumed with a need for her brother's blood. Ryland must choose, Brighton or his revenge.
Ryland's guilt over nearly causing Brighton's death, is eating him alive. He knows he screwed up in the worst way, but he isn't willing to let her go. He'll let her have her space for a while, but she's still his, whether she wants to admit it or not.
When Brighton's secret comes to light, Ryland is no longer willing to let her have the space she claims to want. He forces her hand and again, assumes control of her life. Despite everything, what he can't control is her feelings toward him. He's given up on his quest for vengeance, but he still has to convince Brighton of that.
For his part, Brayden seems unable to leave the life he knew behind, falling back into old habits and hanging with a bad crowd. His poor choices unwittingly place Brighton in the crosshairs of some very dangerous individuals. It seems that Brayden is constantly endangering those that he claims to care about, making him a very difficult character to like.
All in all, I really enjoyed this second book in the series. There was plenty of action and suspense. I also loved that Brighton didn't just roll over and forgive Ryland easily, like many heroines do. He deserved to suffer a little for what he did and I'm glad she didn't just let him off the hook too easily. Of course, I'm also glad that she did eventually forgive him, so we could get the ending we all wanted so badly!
February 3, 2016
*sucks teeth* OK so this wasn't a great read for me, something I'm bummed about as part one was such a hit.
A few things troubled me:
The narration was different;instead of just getting Brighton' s fp pov, we also got Ryland' s in this. Boy he was windbag, he droned on and on, navel gazing and - horrors - breaching the fourth wall and addressing the reader directly. Personally I really dislike that as it pulls me out of the story and combined with his snore-inducing monologue I found I was skimming.
Tstl behaviour. I realise it's sometimes necessary for the main characters to make dumbass decisions and keep key information from their significant others in order to create tension and conflict, but I don't enjoy reading it. And when they do it repeatedly, my teeth grind together and my eyes roll and I don't enjoy what I'm reading anymore. It also makes the drama and conflict seem manufactured and only there to eke out the story. So, yeah, that.
I missed the darkness in this one. Ryland has transformed into a wet sap and the smut was the poorer for it I'm afraid. Most conversations led to or from a smut scene and I was a bit, well, bored.
I kind of wish the story had wrapped up in book one with an epilogue because that was so good. Ah well.
A few things troubled me:
The narration was different;instead of just getting Brighton' s fp pov, we also got Ryland' s in this. Boy he was windbag, he droned on and on, navel gazing and - horrors - breaching the fourth wall and addressing the reader directly. Personally I really dislike that as it pulls me out of the story and combined with his snore-inducing monologue I found I was skimming.
Tstl behaviour. I realise it's sometimes necessary for the main characters to make dumbass decisions and keep key information from their significant others in order to create tension and conflict, but I don't enjoy reading it. And when they do it repeatedly, my teeth grind together and my eyes roll and I don't enjoy what I'm reading anymore. It also makes the drama and conflict seem manufactured and only there to eke out the story. So, yeah, that.
I missed the darkness in this one. Ryland has transformed into a wet sap and the smut was the poorer for it I'm afraid. Most conversations led to or from a smut scene and I was a bit, well, bored.
I kind of wish the story had wrapped up in book one with an epilogue because that was so good. Ah well.
July 12, 2019
2 repetitive and annoying stars
i am actually sad to say that I am pretty disappointed in this story...
and it's an obvious case of "it's me NOT you" but I just can't figure out where I went wrong?
Sadly, but for me, it was annoying, characters were over repetitive in their actions and dialogues and not to mention a total flip off from the original idea.
It was sappy, mushy and overabundant in unnecessary events, especially towards the end, when everything happened in a rush, I had a feeling that it was just to fill the pages.
the words :
never felt more abused...
and I can't feel the same towards the story or the characters.
One important note: my disliking of this duet, has nothing to do with the author per se, Ashleigh Zavarelli is still one of my favorite authors, I love her writing style the most, she's growing in her magic writing chants with every stroke she makes and I guess that this is a flop because of me, it simply didn't sit right with me and I own my shit.
i am actually sad to say that I am pretty disappointed in this story...
and it's an obvious case of "it's me NOT you" but I just can't figure out where I went wrong?
Sadly, but for me, it was annoying, characters were over repetitive in their actions and dialogues and not to mention a total flip off from the original idea.
It was sappy, mushy and overabundant in unnecessary events, especially towards the end, when everything happened in a rush, I had a feeling that it was just to fill the pages.
the words :
"I love you, baby girl...so fucking much."
never felt more abused...
and I can't feel the same towards the story or the characters.
One important note: my disliking of this duet, has nothing to do with the author per se, Ashleigh Zavarelli is still one of my favorite authors, I love her writing style the most, she's growing in her magic writing chants with every stroke she makes and I guess that this is a flop because of me, it simply didn't sit right with me and I own my shit.
September 7, 2016
3.5 stars
I only read this to get a happily ever after in an otherwise darker setting. This book didn't have much of a plot but i enjoyed the intense scenes between the main characters
I only read this to get a happily ever after in an otherwise darker setting. This book didn't have much of a plot but i enjoyed the intense scenes between the main characters
November 27, 2015
4 heart beating stars...
“His weakness was me.”
I was a little worried how I would like this book because of how it started. I'm happy to say I'm glad I powered through because it was worth it. I liked this book but for me one was better. The first half of the book I was pissed. Anyway...
If you have not read book 1, do not read this review because there will be spoilers. Since I didn't write a review for book one I'm encompassing everything here.
Shutter picks up a month later from where book one ended.
I have been team Ryland from the beginning. I understood his depravity, his need for revenge and I genuinely felt the guy. His story was sad. After this book, omg! I love him more! I am totally cheering for him loud and clear on the sidelines.
Brighton, she was a different story. I understood her in book one. Got that her naivety and love for her brother convinced her of all the lies her family spewed. However, this book. Ugh! For a minute there I was ready to throat punch her.
Omg was she frustrating! Thankfully she got herself together and totally redeemed her character.
Ok, so let's break this baby down.
Ryland is after revenge on Brighton's family because her twin brother and father killed his family. I didn't fault Ryland for this. To seek his form of justice he convinces Brighton to be his sex slave for 6 months. If she agrees her twin brother will be set free from prison. Brighton being innocent and trusting didn't want to believe her brother could be capable of such a hideous crime so she agrees to Ryland's terms.
They fall in love. Ryland's need for revenge and all the lies he's kept from Brighton come forth rearing its ugly head and all hell breaks lose. Of course she loses her shit and cuts him from her life.
Ok, now that we are all caught up, on to this book.
Ryland is doing everything and anything to get Brighton back. I loved Ryland more in this book because it really shows his character. He is broken, hurting and flawed. He understands his mistakes and that his need to destroy Brighton's family wasn't worth losing her forever.
I hated Brighton so much in the beginning of this book because she's a bitch and you see how raw and unbelievably heartbroken Ryland is without her. Brighton spends 50% of the book being wishy washy and purposely hurting Ryland. I was done with her. Her standpoint for everything that happened was seriously misconstrued. Her brother was a douche, he was guilty and at fault for the death of Ryland's whole family but everything was just Ryland's fault. Besides ignoring her brother for a few weeks she never punished her brother at all, nor held him accountable for the death of Ryland's mom, brother and little sister.
As you see, I'm still irritated with that. Plus, when she finally agrees to talk to him, she hides her pregnancy, sees how distraught and broken he is, has sex with him and than yells at Ryland for wanting more.
Anywho, things start to turn around and they figure themselves out. Brighton and Ryland are finally solid, she has his back 100% and they are both completely in love. The past of her father and stupid ass brother comes to haunt both of them and crazy shit goes down. After craziness happens and I'm biting my nails because I have to know what's going on! It just ends.
Granted we do get a epilogue that is years later that highlights missing parts but it seemed unfinished. Not sure how many because they don't say but I'm assuming about 2/3. So I'm happy everyone gets an HEA I just wanted the story to finish first before we got the Happily ever after...
“His weakness was me.”
I was a little worried how I would like this book because of how it started. I'm happy to say I'm glad I powered through because it was worth it. I liked this book but for me one was better. The first half of the book I was pissed. Anyway...
If you have not read book 1, do not read this review because there will be spoilers. Since I didn't write a review for book one I'm encompassing everything here.
Shutter picks up a month later from where book one ended.
I have been team Ryland from the beginning. I understood his depravity, his need for revenge and I genuinely felt the guy. His story was sad. After this book, omg! I love him more! I am totally cheering for him loud and clear on the sidelines.
Brighton, she was a different story. I understood her in book one. Got that her naivety and love for her brother convinced her of all the lies her family spewed. However, this book. Ugh! For a minute there I was ready to throat punch her.
Omg was she frustrating! Thankfully she got herself together and totally redeemed her character.
Ok, so let's break this baby down.
Ryland is after revenge on Brighton's family because her twin brother and father killed his family. I didn't fault Ryland for this. To seek his form of justice he convinces Brighton to be his sex slave for 6 months. If she agrees her twin brother will be set free from prison. Brighton being innocent and trusting didn't want to believe her brother could be capable of such a hideous crime so she agrees to Ryland's terms.
They fall in love. Ryland's need for revenge and all the lies he's kept from Brighton come forth rearing its ugly head and all hell breaks lose. Of course she loses her shit and cuts him from her life.
Ok, now that we are all caught up, on to this book.
Ryland is doing everything and anything to get Brighton back. I loved Ryland more in this book because it really shows his character. He is broken, hurting and flawed. He understands his mistakes and that his need to destroy Brighton's family wasn't worth losing her forever.
I hated Brighton so much in the beginning of this book because she's a bitch and you see how raw and unbelievably heartbroken Ryland is without her. Brighton spends 50% of the book being wishy washy and purposely hurting Ryland. I was done with her. Her standpoint for everything that happened was seriously misconstrued. Her brother was a douche, he was guilty and at fault for the death of Ryland's whole family but everything was just Ryland's fault. Besides ignoring her brother for a few weeks she never punished her brother at all, nor held him accountable for the death of Ryland's mom, brother and little sister.
As you see, I'm still irritated with that. Plus, when she finally agrees to talk to him, she hides her pregnancy, sees how distraught and broken he is, has sex with him and than yells at Ryland for wanting more.
Anywho, things start to turn around and they figure themselves out. Brighton and Ryland are finally solid, she has his back 100% and they are both completely in love. The past of her father and stupid ass brother comes to haunt both of them and crazy shit goes down. After craziness happens and I'm biting my nails because I have to know what's going on! It just ends.
Granted we do get a epilogue that is years later that highlights missing parts but it seemed unfinished. Not sure how many because they don't say but I'm assuming about 2/3. So I'm happy everyone gets an HEA I just wanted the story to finish first before we got the Happily ever after...
December 13, 2016
****4 STARS****
Nice ending to the series.
Review to come...
Nice ending to the series.
Review to come...
July 4, 2017
I loved every moment and every word of this duet. I found myself getting mad at Brighton at the beginning of this story for pushing Ryland away for too long. While I understood, if still began to piss me off. I could feel his pain coming off the pages. He was absolutely and utterly devoted to Brighton.
I loved the trip to the Florida Keys and all that happened there. I grew up there and know the exact place they stayed which was awesome.
This book again had many twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages wanting to see how it would all play out. This series is definitely a favorite of mine. I can't wait to read more by this author.
And again thanks to Sarah for the BR!!
I loved the trip to the Florida Keys and all that happened there. I grew up there and know the exact place they stayed which was awesome.
This book again had many twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages wanting to see how it would all play out. This series is definitely a favorite of mine. I can't wait to read more by this author.
And again thanks to Sarah for the BR!!
July 30, 2017
2.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I'm completely bummed. I really did like the first book, but this just fizzled out from the start for me. It had some major potential especially with the way that the first book ended (major spoiler, so please click at your own risk) , but I feel like it didn't live up to that potential. There was too much stupid drama that was self imposed. I liked both characters in the first one, but both of them did things that annoyed me in this one.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the continuation of Brighton and Ryland's story. The story continues right after the big cliffhanger from the last one and the couple have some big issues to deal with. The beginning deals with a good bit of avoidance from the h because of the way the H messed up in the end of the first book, but eventually they get back together and work on their levels of trust. There is some issues with business rivals, some sexy times, some big developments in the relationship, some big career changes, there are still some major issues with family and the past trauma, but they find their HEA.
POV: This alternated between Brighton and Ryland's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I did skim a good bit on this one. It mainly happened with Ryland's inner dialogue -- because there was a lot of it.
Instalove: This is the second book, so they were in love already at the beginning of the book.
H rating: 2 stars. Ryland. I liked him much better in the first one. We didn't get his inner thoughts in the first one, and we did in this one. I don't think it helped his character to read those inner thoughts, because I actually liked him better when he was just mysterious.
h rating: 2 stars. Brighton. I liked her much better in the first book too. I always have issues with our h's keeping a big secret from the H, and she did for a while in a way that was kind of annoying .
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed in this one.
Heat level: Moderate/high. It was really close to crossing that line and making the book more about sex than the story, because there was a good bit of sex scenes and I felt like the storyline wasn't as well developed as the first book.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had decent closure, and what I'd probably call a HEA ending.
Overall Opinion: I'm completely bummed. I really did like the first book, but this just fizzled out from the start for me. It had some major potential especially with the way that the first book ended (major spoiler, so please click at your own risk) , but I feel like it didn't live up to that potential. There was too much stupid drama that was self imposed. I liked both characters in the first one, but both of them did things that annoyed me in this one.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the continuation of Brighton and Ryland's story. The story continues right after the big cliffhanger from the last one and the couple have some big issues to deal with. The beginning deals with a good bit of avoidance from the h because of the way the H messed up in the end of the first book, but eventually they get back together and work on their levels of trust. There is some issues with business rivals, some sexy times, some big developments in the relationship, some big career changes, there are still some major issues with family and the past trauma, but they find their HEA.
POV: This alternated between Brighton and Ryland's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I did skim a good bit on this one. It mainly happened with Ryland's inner dialogue -- because there was a lot of it.
Instalove: This is the second book, so they were in love already at the beginning of the book.
H rating: 2 stars. Ryland. I liked him much better in the first one. We didn't get his inner thoughts in the first one, and we did in this one. I don't think it helped his character to read those inner thoughts, because I actually liked him better when he was just mysterious.
h rating: 2 stars. Brighton. I liked her much better in the first book too. I always have issues with our h's keeping a big secret from the H, and she did for a while in a way that was kind of annoying .
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed in this one.
Heat level: Moderate/high. It was really close to crossing that line and making the book more about sex than the story, because there was a good bit of sex scenes and I felt like the storyline wasn't as well developed as the first book.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had decent closure, and what I'd probably call a HEA ending.
November 20, 2019
Quick Take:
The first book of the series made me very intrigued with book two. I'm a sucker for pregnancy story lines and I wanted to see how it would come about with Ryland and Brighton. I liked that the author addressed the broken trust between Ryland and Brighton as that was the most interesting aspect of this book to me. I wasn't a fan of all this family drama though. It was very dragged out throughout the two books and then all of a sudden it ended so fast that it felt rushed compared to the rest of the series.
I also wasn't that sure about the narration of this book as it was different than book one. We got more Ryland in this one and I think he ended up breaking the wall and talking to the reader? It was all a bit confusing with the change but I'm glad we've concluded the story with Brighton and Ryland because I really did enjoy the two of them (especially in book one).
The first book of the series made me very intrigued with book two. I'm a sucker for pregnancy story lines and I wanted to see how it would come about with Ryland and Brighton. I liked that the author addressed the broken trust between Ryland and Brighton as that was the most interesting aspect of this book to me. I wasn't a fan of all this family drama though. It was very dragged out throughout the two books and then all of a sudden it ended so fast that it felt rushed compared to the rest of the series.
I also wasn't that sure about the narration of this book as it was different than book one. We got more Ryland in this one and I think he ended up breaking the wall and talking to the reader? It was all a bit confusing with the change but I'm glad we've concluded the story with Brighton and Ryland because I really did enjoy the two of them (especially in book one).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2016
One of my top 10 best books of the year (the series really) !! MUST READ!!
:: 5 Spankin Stars ::
EEEEKKKK! This book was AMAZING. Fans of dark romance and all-consuming love do NOT want to miss out on this book (or the series for that matter). This is the second book of the Bleeding Hearts series and starts right where the first book Echo leaves off.
For me, this book totally messed with my emotions. I wanted to cry, I wanted to laugh, and I certainly felt all swoony. Who knew a deep, dark, and twisted character like Ryland could turn into this amazing and deep book boyfriend? I felt all sorts of things reading this book (somethings that don’t need to be mentioned) and I think other readers will feel the same. You want a book that will send you off on an emotional roller-coaster ride than this one is it! Totally loved it. Six spanking stars, top favorite of all time, one of the best series of the year.
So what’s up with these books? Well you have a male character that was once hell-bent on revenge turn softie when he meets the woman of his dreams. The woman who totally knocks his socks off and makes him feel things he never felt before. But when he betrays her trust the two are thrown down a road filled with heartache and tears. Enter the second book STUTTER. Brighton doesn’t think she will ever be able to forgive Ryland for the betrayal that he has caused. So when she learns that she has her own secret to keep things get harder for her. Her heart is broken, her body is changing, and her emotions have gone haywire. But the two are destined to be together and come hell or high water Ryland with make this happen. You can’t keep two soulmates apart. The pain would be unbearable. But there is still an evil presence stalking the couple and they must race against time to get rid of it. Will the two surive it? Read and find out!
Once again, I HIGHLY recommend this series. You must read Echo first but you won’t be disappointed. I consider this author to be up there with other popular dark romance authors like Ker Dukey, Aubrey Dark, and DH Sidebottom.
Find more reviews, upcoming releases, and GIVEAWAYS on my blog: www.prettylittlebookreviews.com
:: 5 Spankin Stars ::
EEEEKKKK! This book was AMAZING. Fans of dark romance and all-consuming love do NOT want to miss out on this book (or the series for that matter). This is the second book of the Bleeding Hearts series and starts right where the first book Echo leaves off.
For me, this book totally messed with my emotions. I wanted to cry, I wanted to laugh, and I certainly felt all swoony. Who knew a deep, dark, and twisted character like Ryland could turn into this amazing and deep book boyfriend? I felt all sorts of things reading this book (somethings that don’t need to be mentioned) and I think other readers will feel the same. You want a book that will send you off on an emotional roller-coaster ride than this one is it! Totally loved it. Six spanking stars, top favorite of all time, one of the best series of the year.
So what’s up with these books? Well you have a male character that was once hell-bent on revenge turn softie when he meets the woman of his dreams. The woman who totally knocks his socks off and makes him feel things he never felt before. But when he betrays her trust the two are thrown down a road filled with heartache and tears. Enter the second book STUTTER. Brighton doesn’t think she will ever be able to forgive Ryland for the betrayal that he has caused. So when she learns that she has her own secret to keep things get harder for her. Her heart is broken, her body is changing, and her emotions have gone haywire. But the two are destined to be together and come hell or high water Ryland with make this happen. You can’t keep two soulmates apart. The pain would be unbearable. But there is still an evil presence stalking the couple and they must race against time to get rid of it. Will the two surive it? Read and find out!
Once again, I HIGHLY recommend this series. You must read Echo first but you won’t be disappointed. I consider this author to be up there with other popular dark romance authors like Ker Dukey, Aubrey Dark, and DH Sidebottom.
Find more reviews, upcoming releases, and GIVEAWAYS on my blog: www.prettylittlebookreviews.com
March 18, 2016
Well written, steamy and everything fell into place at the end with no stone left unturned...just how I love my romances!
However, I did like the first book MUCH better...
I know not every will agree with me on that one though!
However, I did like the first book MUCH better...
I know not every will agree with me on that one though!
June 18, 2018
Shutter by A. Zavarelli
GENRE: Dark Romance
NARRATION: Dual POV
BOOK DETAILS: Book 2 of 2 Bleeding Hearts Series
AUDIO AVAILABLE? Whisper- sync voice ready
THE STORY:
Echo ended with Brighton telling Ryland and her brother to leave. Now pregnant and alone Brighton struggles to move forward with her life now her heart is broken.
Ryland refuses to let Brighton go but how can he convince Brighton he’s let his revenge go and she can trust him when he had just nearly killed her?
Full of emotional turmoil, angst and possessive love this is the finale instalment in the bleeding hearts duet.
“I’m not letting you go, baby girl. You need to accept that.”
MY THOUGHTS:
I love how intense Ryland is with his love for Brighton, his dedication and possession is obsessive but so damn sexy. I thought that most of this book could have been condensed and added to the first book.
This book seemed to be predominately sex scene after sex scene. Brighton turned into a ravenous pregnant woman acting more like a dog on heat. It borderline nymphomanias and was over kill.
I found the change in narrative for Ryland’s POV odd. A. Zavarelli changed his narration from first person to the monologue approach and it didn’t flow with the rest of the story.
I have to say although I have overall enjoyed the story I was disappointed with the second book it just was not at the level that I have come to expect from A.Zavarelli’s work.
MY RATINGS: (All ratings are out of 5)
HERO RATING:4
HEROINE RATING: 4
BLUSH RATING: 4
ROMANCE RATING: 3
DARKNESS RATING: 2
PLOT RATING: 3
OVERALL: 3 Blushing Stars
DO I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK?
A.Zavarelli is a great story teller and of course she keeps you guessing until the very ending so you have to keep reading to get answers and closure.
Narrated by: Tracy Marks
Length: 7 hrs and 17 mins
As always Tracy’s narration is excellent. She has a way of capturing each character’s traits and emotions that has you captivated and entertained.
AUDIO RATING: 5/5
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April 1, 2016
3.5 Stars
March 21, 2016
4.5 stars for the conclusion of Ryland and Brighton's story. It picks up immediately where the first book left off, except now we get Ryland's point of view as well. It was interesting being in his head and refreshing at the same time. Sometimes when I read the male POV, it's way off from the way I've viewed the character, but that wasn't the case with Ryland. He was still his crazy, obsessed self when it came to Brighton. He's having her watched to make sure she is safe, but things quickly spin out of control when a secret is revealed. I loved the second book just as much as the first. The drama/suspense was definitely high and once the couple reconcile their chemistry is as hot as ever! There's no denying the attraction between these two. I just loved the epilogue too! Great series!!!
February 28, 2016
4.5 "so f@cking much" Stars
Hhh.. just loved it! <3
The vibe of this second book was quite different from the first book. In this book, Ryland was way sweeter. He becomes an adorable and lovable guy although still has a slight dark side in him, and I also love this another side of him :D (I just can't help it). I loved the chemistry between the H and h, eventhough the plot was a bit flat at some point, I still enjoyed it!
By the way, I can't categorize it as a dark read since too much sweet things in it yet I still loved this book <3
All in all, a really appealing series and I will recommend this book to everyone who needs a sweet (and swooning) read!
Hhh.. just loved it! <3
The vibe of this second book was quite different from the first book. In this book, Ryland was way sweeter. He becomes an adorable and lovable guy although still has a slight dark side in him, and I also love this another side of him :D (I just can't help it). I loved the chemistry between the H and h, eventhough the plot was a bit flat at some point, I still enjoyed it!
By the way, I can't categorize it as a dark read since too much sweet things in it yet I still loved this book <3
All in all, a really appealing series and I will recommend this book to everyone who needs a sweet (and swooning) read!
February 28, 2016
I read this sequel just to find out how this hot mess ends. Wish I didn't. The h is so stupid. The H is so stupid. The story is so stupid. I'm feeling stupid for reading it.
February 1, 2019
I am torn between 2 and 3 stars for this book. But end up at 2 stars. I really can not connect with the character. Ryland is always brooding and needy. And I hate his coward behavior. He is also a spoil brat. And the way he just abandon his revenge just because of Brighton. If it is because Brighton why there is book 2?
I just don't get it. Brighton is also timid and annoying. I still can not feel the chemistry. The sex scenes becomes very ridiculous.
2 stars
I just don't get it. Brighton is also timid and annoying. I still can not feel the chemistry. The sex scenes becomes very ridiculous.
2 stars
March 15, 2018
I cried , smiled , frowned , laughed , loved it and hated it! !! yes but I really enjoyed it .
I really like this author ♡
I really like this author ♡
November 19, 2015
5 I love Ryland big fat stars for STUTTER!
I was fortunate to be given first read of this book - thank you to A. Zavarelli for that.
I am officially a fan girl!!
This was a continuation of Echo and offered a fantastic wrap up to the series.
I loved that duel POV, the author nailed it perfectly… Just once it would have been nice to see this author do something badly… Alas, ‘twas not to be in this series. Next time, maybe? Haha!
In Echo, we learnt all about Rylands planned vendetta against Brighton's entire family. He engineered everything that happened in her life. But poor Brighton was the pawn he had to play with. (He can play with me if he likes!) I really loved the first book and was a little worried that this one might not pack as powerful a punch... Boy was I relieved. This one was EVEN BETTER!
I was glad that Brighton found her footing as a woman. But I was even happier when Ryland stepped back in and took over -how I love it when he does that-
On the very first page, Ryland, himself tells the reader of his grand plan. I love the way his mind works, the way he thinks. I think that the author gave Ryland a very strong and unique voice, so much so that I knew who was talking without ever having to check... After writing a book in a male POV I have to say that I have so much respect for authors who alternate POV's, I can not Imaging how difficult that must've been.
I found Ryland to be sophisticated, dry-witted and incredibly sexy. He absolutely has a spot on my book boyfriend list, that's for sure!
Brighton came into her own in this book. She has matured and developed into a strong woman who is more than capable of standing on her own two feet. I was surprised by the fact that Ryland was in contact with Norma in this book. It was beautiful that he'd made that effort. It validated him as an all around good guy. Nicole's presence in this book also threw me, when I first realised she was back I wasn't sure how I felt about it. But, when all was said and done, she sided with Brighton. I was happy she seemed to be moving on, too. I wonder if there'll be a spin-off at some point? Haha.
As usual, I devoured this book in hours. Ashleigh has gone from strength to strength as a writer and I truly believe that this deserved its place in the top 100 in its category on Amazon. The figures don't lie, people.
I didn't really find this so much as a BDSM book. It had elements of it, certainly, but there was no power exchange, no contract. But lots and lots of kinky f#ckery!
Well done, A, Zavarelli on another belter of a book. I can't wait to see what you've got in store for us next. If the quality of detail you've put into this book is anything to go by, then whatever it is, it's going to be nothing short of awesome!
I was fortunate to be given first read of this book - thank you to A. Zavarelli for that.
I am officially a fan girl!!
This was a continuation of Echo and offered a fantastic wrap up to the series.
I loved that duel POV, the author nailed it perfectly… Just once it would have been nice to see this author do something badly… Alas, ‘twas not to be in this series. Next time, maybe? Haha!
In Echo, we learnt all about Rylands planned vendetta against Brighton's entire family. He engineered everything that happened in her life. But poor Brighton was the pawn he had to play with. (He can play with me if he likes!) I really loved the first book and was a little worried that this one might not pack as powerful a punch... Boy was I relieved. This one was EVEN BETTER!
I was glad that Brighton found her footing as a woman. But I was even happier when Ryland stepped back in and took over -how I love it when he does that-
On the very first page, Ryland, himself tells the reader of his grand plan. I love the way his mind works, the way he thinks. I think that the author gave Ryland a very strong and unique voice, so much so that I knew who was talking without ever having to check... After writing a book in a male POV I have to say that I have so much respect for authors who alternate POV's, I can not Imaging how difficult that must've been.
I found Ryland to be sophisticated, dry-witted and incredibly sexy. He absolutely has a spot on my book boyfriend list, that's for sure!
Brighton came into her own in this book. She has matured and developed into a strong woman who is more than capable of standing on her own two feet. I was surprised by the fact that Ryland was in contact with Norma in this book. It was beautiful that he'd made that effort. It validated him as an all around good guy. Nicole's presence in this book also threw me, when I first realised she was back I wasn't sure how I felt about it. But, when all was said and done, she sided with Brighton. I was happy she seemed to be moving on, too. I wonder if there'll be a spin-off at some point? Haha.
As usual, I devoured this book in hours. Ashleigh has gone from strength to strength as a writer and I truly believe that this deserved its place in the top 100 in its category on Amazon. The figures don't lie, people.
I didn't really find this so much as a BDSM book. It had elements of it, certainly, but there was no power exchange, no contract. But lots and lots of kinky f#ckery!
Well done, A, Zavarelli on another belter of a book. I can't wait to see what you've got in store for us next. If the quality of detail you've put into this book is anything to go by, then whatever it is, it's going to be nothing short of awesome!
March 30, 2017
This book could be summed up in one word really: Dramatic. Gah, it was just so dramatic. The first book was really good. But I felt like I was reading about a completely different couple in this one. They just changed so much from the first story. And there were just so many idiotic decisions made in this book. Brighten was just a giant coward, she really bothered me in this. Ryland was this mushy starry eyed boy, not the dark, sexy dominant man from the first book. I mean it was crazy how different he was in this. And their time together both sexual and not was just so over the top and dramatic. There wasn't much that happened in this book, especially compared to the first. This was like a really long epilogue with a little bit of plot. Bummed with this but still a Zavarelli fan because I loved Crow and Ghost.
April 11, 2022
This was a nice conclusion to this story.
I definitely didn't like this one as much as I did the first book, plainly because I felt like certain characters lost their appeal to me over time. I surprisingly wasn't a fan of the Dual-POV in this book, and felt like a lot of the characterization and writing style felt so different than it was within the first book. There was a LOT of repetition, and was quite disappointing in regards to some storylines.
But all in all, it was still enjoyable nonetheless. I personally love those more domestic scenes- so in that regard, I actually really liked the book, despite feeling very different from the first.
But yeah, it was a nice ending to this story.
I definitely didn't like this one as much as I did the first book, plainly because I felt like certain characters lost their appeal to me over time. I surprisingly wasn't a fan of the Dual-POV in this book, and felt like a lot of the characterization and writing style felt so different than it was within the first book. There was a LOT of repetition, and was quite disappointing in regards to some storylines.
But all in all, it was still enjoyable nonetheless. I personally love those more domestic scenes- so in that regard, I actually really liked the book, despite feeling very different from the first.
But yeah, it was a nice ending to this story.
October 14, 2017
4 "Where to Run?" Stars for the story and 5 Stars for the narration!
If you started Brighton's and Ryland's journey in Echo, then Stutter is a must to learn their conclusion. Please note though that you must first listen to Echo. If you haven't yet started this series, please see my review for Echo for the background of this story (as spoilers appear below).
Pregnant and armed with the revenge filled truth of Ryland's past connection to her brother and family, Brighton doesn't know where to turn. The one thing she does know is that she needs to get away from Ryland.
After nearly losing her, Ryland allows Brighton some room, but is even more convinced than ever that he really loves her. Therefore he attempts to woo her back pulling out all the stops. However, when the truth comes out about her pregnancy, will he be able to resist his dominant nature and take back control by forcing her to stay with him? Can there possibly be a HEA under the circumstances?
Tracy Marks as always renders a fantastic narration! Having come to enjoy and love Ms. Marks' narrations in A Zavarelli's prior series, Boston Underworld, I knew I was in for a treat. Ms. Marks has a way to bring strong dominant heroes to life in a genuine and believable way while at the same time lending credibility to the emotional circumstances that their heroines' experience.
In Stutter, in particular, I loved that Ms. Marks maintained consistency between the voices that she used in book 1, allowing me to easily fall back into the story even though I listened to a number of books in between.
All in all, the Bleeding Hearts Series is a great series for those that enjoy revenge and emotion filled, darker themed romances.
Source: Review copy provided for review purposes.
If you started Brighton's and Ryland's journey in Echo, then Stutter is a must to learn their conclusion. Please note though that you must first listen to Echo. If you haven't yet started this series, please see my review for Echo for the background of this story (as spoilers appear below).
Pregnant and armed with the revenge filled truth of Ryland's past connection to her brother and family, Brighton doesn't know where to turn. The one thing she does know is that she needs to get away from Ryland.
After nearly losing her, Ryland allows Brighton some room, but is even more convinced than ever that he really loves her. Therefore he attempts to woo her back pulling out all the stops. However, when the truth comes out about her pregnancy, will he be able to resist his dominant nature and take back control by forcing her to stay with him? Can there possibly be a HEA under the circumstances?
Tracy Marks as always renders a fantastic narration! Having come to enjoy and love Ms. Marks' narrations in A Zavarelli's prior series, Boston Underworld, I knew I was in for a treat. Ms. Marks has a way to bring strong dominant heroes to life in a genuine and believable way while at the same time lending credibility to the emotional circumstances that their heroines' experience.
In Stutter, in particular, I loved that Ms. Marks maintained consistency between the voices that she used in book 1, allowing me to easily fall back into the story even though I listened to a number of books in between.
All in all, the Bleeding Hearts Series is a great series for those that enjoy revenge and emotion filled, darker themed romances.
Source: Review copy provided for review purposes.
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November 10, 2024Her gel diyenin peşine gidip, sonrada vay efendim neden böyle oldu diye sorgulayan Brighton...
Salaksın kızım sen.
Epiloga geçiş kısmı ise saçmalık ötesiydi.
Söyleyeceklerim bu kadar.
Salaksın kızım sen.
Epiloga geçiş kısmı ise saçmalık ötesiydi.
Söyleyeceklerim bu kadar.
December 21, 2015
Excuse me A, can i order a man like Ryland Bennett please!!!!!!!
Damn girl!!!!!your 2nd book is all about Rylands inside.
I really like how you describe very inch of his feeling in this story.
'LOVE will defeat the deepest revenge'
xoxo
Damn girl!!!!!your 2nd book is all about Rylands inside.
I really like how you describe very inch of his feeling in this story.
'LOVE will defeat the deepest revenge'
xoxo
January 11, 2016
3.5 stars ... a completely different vibe from the first book , but that was kinda expected . The tension between Brighton and Ryland was palpable .. Loved how everything came to a good ending .
March 6, 2016
Not my fav but not the worst book I ever read. Just felt like the story was dragging on for no purpose. Why I hate cliffhanger books, the sequel is almost always disappointing.
November 16, 2015
4 hot smelting stars
My heart is a compass, and it always leads me back to you.
Love is such a powerful feeling to have. It can turn a bad man to devote their life to person. It can turn a black heart filled with pain and darkness to a heart that beats for someome. It can also turn revenge into protecting someone with all your heart. It can also turn a bleeding heart and into a heart healed and full of futures and promises. That love is fleeting and euphoric. That is the main part of this story.
Stutter is the second and final story of Ryland and Brighton story and also in the Bleeding Hearts series. Written in dual POV, this book showed love, sacrifice, hot scenes and some suspense to keep me very satisfied.
Ryland changed in my eyes. At first I did not like him at all. His thoughts changed my mind. I saw his pain and frustrations page by page. I got to understand him and it gave a look into his past and also gave enough information to know who he is. Ryland a misguided man filled with so much pain got me to really feel for him. Brighton also made me believe her emotions and fears. The writing fully developed their feelings and allowed to really understand both chatacters. Plus their hot scenes were off the charts and showed truly believable chemistry.
I really enjoyed the series and truly worth it to read.
ARC provided by an author in exchange for an honest reviewm
My heart is a compass, and it always leads me back to you.
Love is such a powerful feeling to have. It can turn a bad man to devote their life to person. It can turn a black heart filled with pain and darkness to a heart that beats for someome. It can also turn revenge into protecting someone with all your heart. It can also turn a bleeding heart and into a heart healed and full of futures and promises. That love is fleeting and euphoric. That is the main part of this story.
Stutter is the second and final story of Ryland and Brighton story and also in the Bleeding Hearts series. Written in dual POV, this book showed love, sacrifice, hot scenes and some suspense to keep me very satisfied.
Ryland changed in my eyes. At first I did not like him at all. His thoughts changed my mind. I saw his pain and frustrations page by page. I got to understand him and it gave a look into his past and also gave enough information to know who he is. Ryland a misguided man filled with so much pain got me to really feel for him. Brighton also made me believe her emotions and fears. The writing fully developed their feelings and allowed to really understand both chatacters. Plus their hot scenes were off the charts and showed truly believable chemistry.
I really enjoyed the series and truly worth it to read.
ARC provided by an author in exchange for an honest reviewm
January 23, 2016
This was so breathtaking! Loved it!
Both of the main characters were written so well! I love the emotion shown through each one of them. I was physically and emotionally connected to the characters and it was amazing.
The plot was thought out very well, but the ending "event" or "scene" was rather rushed and to to-the-point type of ending climax of the story. Overall the story blended well together, but the ending needs some work to flow a little better. But don't get me wrong, I loved the story! Like I've said before, the raw emotion being shown here is the ultimate heart tugger for me. I love to feel what the characters are feeling and the author successfully did just that
The sex scenes in this book were KINKY! Lol I say this because I probably wouldn't have done half the stuff they did while she was ...... Hey, Well I guess y'all are just going to have to read the series to find out what it was huh? ;D
I recommend this dark and kinky book. 5 well deserved stars
Both of the main characters were written so well! I love the emotion shown through each one of them. I was physically and emotionally connected to the characters and it was amazing.
The plot was thought out very well, but the ending "event" or "scene" was rather rushed and to to-the-point type of ending climax of the story. Overall the story blended well together, but the ending needs some work to flow a little better. But don't get me wrong, I loved the story! Like I've said before, the raw emotion being shown here is the ultimate heart tugger for me. I love to feel what the characters are feeling and the author successfully did just that
The sex scenes in this book were KINKY! Lol I say this because I probably wouldn't have done half the stuff they did while she was ...... Hey, Well I guess y'all are just going to have to read the series to find out what it was huh? ;D
I recommend this dark and kinky book. 5 well deserved stars
March 22, 2016
Ryland is still my boo and I've gotta say how much I appreciated his POV in this book. This character absolutely made this series IMO. He was simply amazing! The way we see him transition from cold and heartless revenge-seeking vigilante to a warm, sensitive and loving man was phenomenal. I'm still swooning over him he's that great.
I started to like Brighton at about the 40% mark. From that point I saw a level of maturity that I could respect and that earned her some brownie points. I still don't love her, but Ryland definitely made her more tolerable for me.
I almost became irate at the ending. Thank heavens for that epilogue or someone was going to get throat punched. Heck naw you're not getting rid of my sexy Ryland like that lol!!
This was a wonderful duet but then again I expect nothing less from A. Zavarelli.
I started to like Brighton at about the 40% mark. From that point I saw a level of maturity that I could respect and that earned her some brownie points. I still don't love her, but Ryland definitely made her more tolerable for me.
I almost became irate at the ending. Thank heavens for that epilogue or someone was going to get throat punched. Heck naw you're not getting rid of my sexy Ryland like that lol!!
This was a wonderful duet but then again I expect nothing less from A. Zavarelli.
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