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Love at Last #2

Kayden: The Past

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** CAN BE READ AS A STAND ALONE NOVEL**

Kayden Michaels has a past filled with sex, addiction, and heartache. A past that he’s avoided sharing with the love of his life, Sophia, and held close to his core not risking rejection. Needing to get his addictions in check and gain control of his life for the sake of his family, Kayden is forced to confront his past and make amends for the path he’s walked.

Kayden must recount every carnal act and the betrayal from those he’s loved to identify the triggers that spur his addictions and overcome it all to be worthy of Sophia’s love – his sole reason to exist.

This is NOT a novella.

244 pages, Paperback

First published December 31, 2013

151 people are currently reading
2455 people want to read

About the author

Chelle Bliss

135 books9,003 followers
Chelle Bliss is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author. She currently lives in a small town near the Gulf of Mexico, but hates sand. She's a full-time writer, time-waster extraordinaire, social media addict, and loves everything romance.
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Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,344 reviews13.7k followers
January 7, 2014
3.75 Stars




Now I know that there is a note that this can be read as a standalone, and while it can, I wouldn't recommend it. I think that understanding the dynamic behind Kayden and Sophia's relationship, how they started, where they are now, etc is necessary to appreciate this book for what it was. I read this first, and then I went back and read Untangle Me. Had I not read Untangle Me, I'm not sure I would have rated this one as high.

While this was not a novella but a full length book, it read like a novella to me. Not in a way that it was too short, but it was a very quick read. I read it in one sitting. Kayden's life was like a bad car crash; you're almost scared to keep watching, afraid it might get worse, but yet you can't tear your eyes away.

Kayden, my poor fucked up Kayden

The poor guy goes through so much shit only to stumble over a new pile of it at every turn. The Past takes up back to the very beginning, the root of where it all began. It starts from his childhood and continues through many of his relationships.

Now I can tell you that Kayden had some shit luck when it came to women...but somehow I think that would be an understatement. Let me see, how do I best sum it up? Ah yes! They all seem to hit a teeny tiny little iceberg



With as much shit as he went through with women, I was surprised he kept trying. I wouldn't have blamed him if he chose to surround himself with a different type of pussy altogether.



If you're expecting a romance, this is not what this book is at all. It is a deeper look at the man that Kayden is and what made him into who he is today. It takes you through every single one of his doomed relationships, and there were plenty. It takes you through his struggle with alcohol and drugs. It gives you a dark and unapologetic look into the life of a man that has had it anything but easy.

Chelle Bliss knows how to write one hot as hell sex scene, and there were quite a few here. Kayden really knew how to deliver on that front.

I really enjoyed this book. The fact that I read it in one sitting should tell you plenty. So why not 5 stars? I couldn't help but feel I was being told the story at times, as opposed to being shown. I love being able to experience all the ups and downs along with the characters I'm reading about, but this book didn't quite have that. I felt like I was reading Kayden's diary, which I believe this was.

I loved getting a peak into his head, and if you read and enjoyed Untangle Me, this book is a must read.

**ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review**

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Profile Image for Tee loves Kyle Jacobson.
2,541 reviews180 followers
January 3, 2014
Kayden is a force to be reckon with and no one could tame him no matter what they tried because Kayden was a man on a mission. His mission was to do what he wanted to do when he wanted to do it and with whom. He took man whore to another definition. I mean he slept and drank his way through numerous women that he did not even remember their names. Lord have mercy he was a hoot to read about because you get a sense there is something there underneath him but you really don't get to see it until he shares his story and holy hell what a story it is.

Kayden grew up in a dysfunctional house and this is where everything started to fall apart. Kayden has great friends and loves his mother but his father is something else. The man is a force to be reckon with and no matter what Kayden does it is never good enough for his father. There are things in his childhood that change Kayden and it is not for the better let me tell you. How a parent could be so cruel is beyond me but hey life happens and you deal with things as you go.

Kayden leanred early on that he would have to take care of himself. No one was going to be there for him and that is what he did. He lived his life fast and furious until he met Sophia and Suzy. Suzy is the sister he never had and well Sophia is the love of his life. He will do anything to keep her safe and sound and happy. He loves to put a smile on her face and he loves when she laughs it takes his breath away.

Chelle Bliss knows how to write a story about love, pain, disappointment, and redemption. This is a must read series for anyone who loves a bad boy alpha!
Profile Image for Shannon White.
520 reviews1 follower
December 23, 2013
This was a steamy look into what makes Kayden the man he is. It is full of love, loss, and growth. If you read Untangle Me (which i hope you do before this book) you fall in love the with the complicated and loveable man Kayden is. This book is a MUST read sequel.
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,267 reviews220 followers
June 20, 2017
4.5 star Review Kayden: The Past (Love at Last #0.5) by Chelle Bliss

We first learned more about Kayden in Untangle Me and although this is a stand alone novel, in my opinion you really need to read Untangle Me before you read this one. Kayden, what a troubled life he has led; he has certainly been through life's ringer. This book is like a roller-coaster ride, full of ups and downs,highs and lows. There is romance, passion and a great deal of angst in this story, but one that kept me entertained and most certainly tugged at my emotions.

Kayden's past is full of addictions (sex, drugs and alcohol) and it is these and the reasons behind his addictions that he needs to confront and focus on the triggers in order to secure his future with Sophia.

Kayden's past relationships have done him no favours, drawn to women who were either addicted themselves or extremely trouble; I think that is why his feelings for Sophia caused such anguish at times.

This truly was an emotional read and having it told in Kayden's point of view it gave us a unique perspective. Raw and gritty, Kayden: The Past was extremely well written and one that had me interested from the first page.

Kayden's determination to beat his addictions and his past made for an emotional read and having it told in his point of view it gave us a unique perspective. Raw and gritty, Kayden: The Past was  well written and one that had me interested from the first page. Ms.Bliss wrote about extremely difficult issues with honesty and integrity.
Profile Image for Erika Lynn.
114 reviews3 followers
January 7, 2014
Once again Ms. Bliss doesn't disappoint!  I actually was able to beta read this story after I expressed my unconditional love for her first book, Untangle Me.  By the way, if you haven't already read Untangle Me- you NEED to!  At the end of Untangle Me, Sophia expresses a strong interest in learning about Kayden's past.  This book is Kayden telling his story, from start to finish, leaving no gaps, holes, nothing.  In order for Kayden and Sophia's relationship to work he has to be honest with her- even if that means releasing some of his inner demons and letting the skeletons out of the closet.

This review is challenging to write because I'm so pumped up right now!  There's so much I wanna say but so little I can without ruining it for potential readers.  Yep- it's one of 'those books'- the kind where you wanna shout from the rooftops about, tell the neighbors and their cousins fathers step grandmother-in-law.  That make sense?  Probably not- but you get the picture.  I mean, I knew Kayden had a troubling past and his number one problem was his addiction but I NEVER thought that his past story was going to be so outrageous!  I can't even explain it accurately!  I can't even explain the amount of times my chin damn near hit the floor.

Kayden Michaels, a 30-something ladies man is hard working, kind-hearted, over the top, emotional, everything-you-could-ever-want-in-a-man.  Sure, we all have something in our past that we would rather leave unsaid, FOREVER, but not like Kayden.  Kayden has a roller coaster history, a ride that takes us fellow readers through twists and turns, upside down, going down hills so fast that your uterus comes out of your mouth- you know, THAT kind of roller coaster!

Although Kayden's main issue was his substance abuse problem, I strongly believe his altogether present day persona stems from his past relationships.  As we all know, not all relationships end on a good note and in Kayden's case- he's the one that always ends up broken hearted.  Instead of grieving like most people would by keeping himself busy and surrounding himself with friends and so on, he buries himself in a bottle.

This book is a MUST read!  It's not a need, it's a MUST.  I couldn't peel my bloodshot, drooping, I'm-so-tired-I-feel-like-a-zombie eyes away from this book!  THAT amazing!  Throughout reading Kayden's story I felt so attracted to him because his story hits so close to home for me.  Strangely, Kayden and I have a lot in common and I know it will hit close to home for many other readers, as well- especially readers who have been through rough relationships ending in heartbreak.  Although in parts of the story the relationships are bitter, Kayden illustrates the light at the end of the tunnel- you just have to read this book!

Chelle Bliss hits yet another homer, scores another goal, shoots the winning shot.  Truthfully, I do not think I've ever read such hot sex scenes in any other book.  There are some that come close to Chelle's level but in my opinion I have yet to find any authors that can top her sex game.  I said it before and I'll say it again, she MUST have a stud in bed at home and if these scenes reflect at all on her personal life- well, let's just say she SHOULD be more then satisfied. ;) *kidding*  I have NEVER read erotica quite like hers where the book physically turns me on and makes me want to jump my boyfriend- LOL!  So enough of my boasting on her behalf, just do yourself a favor and one-click the damn book. :)

Thanks for reading my insane, twisted, but oh so to the point review!

Profile Image for Three Chicks.
2,637 reviews417 followers
September 7, 2016
4 Star Review by Jen Hagen






For those of us that have read Untangle Me, we know that Kayden had a past tainted with drugs, alcohol, and women…lots and lots of women. In this prequel we get to hear first hand from Kayden about his self-destructing acts and how the accumulation of them made him into the man and father that he is today. Kayden will always fight the battle of addiction, but he will persevere throughout the callings in order to keep his family intact. He doesn’t want to be that person again.
The book is told through Kayden’s journal reliving his past and his triggers to women/alcohol/drugs. We go back all the way to high school when Kayden’s father left his mother and Kayden was forced to contribute to the family’s economic battles instead of focusing on wrestling, where he could have received a scholarship for college. His senior year is when he had his first experience with cocaine and it continued from that point on.
Although Kayden has had his fair share of one night stands, one thing that he was insistent on is that when he was involved in a relationship he gave it 100% and his eyes never roamed. He was devoted to his lover and would never cheat. He always seemed to get the shaft on his devotion. Not once, not twice, but three times. It was always these downfalls that led him into his pits of despair with the only consolation being a bottle, a snort line, and finding release in a warm body.
I wanted to dull the pain, escape reality, and just forget everything. The problem with my method is that it’s only a temporary Band-Aid for the scar that stays with you a lifetime or eventually bites you in the ass.
Kayden’s relationships moved him from state to state, where he finally settled in New Orleans when we met him in Untangle Me. Every relationship demise left him reeling and in a bad place, but it was the last relationship that really set him back financially and never being able to catch a break that we saw in Untangle Me. My heart was always holding onto him because he was so capable of love, but his choices in women never reciprocated the 110% that he gave. I truly believe this all stems from his childhood with his father walking away. He was searching for love and to be loved to replace that void. Unfortunately he couldn’t wait long enough to find the right women for him and he would jump into toxic relationships. Kayden’s life up until Sophia had been filled with hurt, regret, sadness and emptiness.



Luckily he finds Sophia through a social networking site. I had little giggles when Kayden would recount checking his Facebook messages and looking for friends. We can all relate to the Facebook addiction! Kayden’s story is a quick read, and a must read for anybody who enjoyed Untangle Me. Kayden’s story is full of hot sex along with frustrating moments on both his part and also on the women that left him hurting. But all these life moments lead him to the woman he loves wholeheartedly.
She’s my soulmate who I had to walk through hell to find. Sophia’s my kismet, the one worth everything I went through to be with in the end.
Profile Image for Kami Dodson-Perry.
722 reviews24 followers
June 21, 2014
This is a look into Kayden Michaels past. It is filled with sex, addiction, loneliness, heartbreak, revenge and at times love. When you are Kayden's girl there is no other. He will dedicate his life to you and never stray.

Kayden is leading a very dark life. He parties too much, drinks to much, does too many drugs and woman are clearly not a good idea in his world. Kayden has super bad luck when it comes to woman. He has had a fiance cheat on him, a wife leave him because she found someone else and because of his drinking, an unborn child never to be brought into this world, an overbearing girlfriend breakup with him which lead to him being arrested and making him homeless, a false sexual harassment suit filed by his female boss getting him fired........ He turns them on and then flees after all of these hassles. He wants no relationship beyond sex. And really who can blame the guy.

Kayden must write down this story to help himself identify the triggers that impact his life in such a negative way. He is doing this for himself and Sophia. He needs to be worthy of Sophia's love.

Kayden meets Sophia at the end of this story but will refer to her throughout. I read this book before "Untangle Me" which is book #1 of Love at Last series. I'm not sure which would be better to read before the other but I liked this story.

I found myself feeling bad for Kayden even though a lot of times he brought on a lot of his own problems with the drinking, drugs and woman. I thought why would any woman cheat on him. If cheating was about sex then it would never have happened because Kayden's superpower is indeed of a sexual nature. However, cheating is more about a relationship lacking in other ways and throughout Kayden's journey I was trying to see what the relationships were lacking. All I can figure out is the drinking aspect was a true hindrance on most of the woman. I think had Kayden found someone who could just love him he would be able to pull himself out of the dark hole. I think that is what Sophia is for him. This is how Sophia saves him from himself, with her love and understanding.

Rating: 3 1/2 STARS
Profile Image for Cathy.
146 reviews
January 14, 2014
Wow, ok let me say first that this is a book that could be considered a stand alone book. But, I highly recommend that you read "Untangle Me" first. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The back story of Kayden and Sophia explains so much.

Kayden is a #1 Alpha Male who gets/takes what he wants. He brings a whole new level to man whore in this book. You begin to understand the Kayden in Untangle Me and why he is how he is. He endures, love, loss, and pain like no other. Your heart breaks for him and you wonder how he has made it this far in life and not more messed up than he is. This story is not a POV from Kayden it's an explanation of him and who he is. A journal of his past life.

On a different note. I love that these two are in their 30's and neither are independently wealthy and they are your average person who works in dead end jobs and lives pay check to pay check. So often we get sucked into books where the female is perfect and meets the perfect man who sweeps her off her feet and she never has to worry about reality/money again.
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,082 reviews893 followers
July 10, 2017
Kayden the Past is a very brave story for this author to write given the nature of the story. This is not just a glimpse into Kayden’s past – this is his past. As he tackles his demons to be the man that Sophia deserves and so he can learn not to make the same mistakes and return to his addiction, Kayden must first discover where it all started.

As we begin the story, we jump around in time as we view Kayden as a boy – struggling with an absent father, into his young adult life which is tangled in alcohol and drug abuse to finally his sexual exploits and his poor choice in who he gave his heart to.

This was a glimpse into what made Kayden tick. What his triggers were and how his past shaped his behaviors. The one thing I noticed throughout this book was that although Kayden was troubled, he was only seeking out love. This ultimately made me understand him better and when I look at his softness in book one, I can see that he was clinging to the love he finally had.

Not many would venture into the past of their heroes, where you’re going to see all the scars of their pasts – including their past relationships. But I think with Kayden, it really helped sort out just who this character was. It showed that he was finally strong enough to overcome his demons and although book one isn’t really a HFN, reading this made me have more faith in their relationship to really handle the ups and downs that were sure going to occur.
853 reviews
July 3, 2017
After reading their love story, I was left with questions of Kayden's past. While reading this book, all from his pov about his past, I realized that I had only part of his past right. Something had happened to him that caused the addiction. Kayden has gone through a lot in his life and has been in a lot of pain. I was more understanding with the drinking in this story then I was in his love story with Sophie. This book made me fall more for the man he is in the present. With everything he has gone through, he is choosing to fight for himself, his child, and the life he has with Sophia. This was a difficult read for me. I didn't really like who Kayden was in the past. I really did not like reading about all of his sexcapades. I found it difficult after him being with Sophia and happy. I loved the present parts of the story, especially the ending. I admired Sophia's strength and the love she had for Kayden.
Overall, this was just an okay read for me. Though his story explains his life and I can now understand his addiction, I didn't really like it.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book for the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kim.
404 reviews3 followers
July 4, 2017
We all have a past, some are colorful & fun but for others, it consumes you, takes away any chance of happiness but it can also shape how you move forward.
In Kayden, we get a look at the man before Untangle Me, before his life turned around & Sophia became his world. This story will also explain his actions in the first book. You wanted to hate him then but you'll be forgiving Kayden by the end.
Profile Image for crazipotmom.
198 reviews15 followers
February 16, 2019
love the detail in this book so many ups and downs in one person's life when it's all laid out on to another of Chelle Bliss books I haven't read one I don't like they are so good Everytime it's awesome to know any of her books are going to be a must read 😍😁
Profile Image for Rough Draft Book Blog.
475 reviews53 followers
July 3, 2017
***POSSIBLE SPOILERS ALERT***
Kayden: The Past BY Chelle Bliss
BEAUTIFULLY FUCKED UP!!!!
Kayden & His Parade of Pussy
5 Stars!

I was talking with Chelle, and I told her I don't even know where to start with this review... After reading Kayden, my stomach was in knots, my heart felt like it was going to explode, and I was definitely having a book hangover!! I will try my hardest to put this into words you all can comprehend... I LOVED THIS FUCKING BOOK!!!!

I am in awe and don't know quite know what to say, but when I finished this book and got the blurb of the next one.... it was almost too much for my body to handle! Chelle, you're killing me! This book is very commanding, negative, positive, and everything in between. Just when you think things are on the up and up, something happens and you're back a square one. This story of betrayal and acceptance is so compelling that I couldn't put it down! I found myself flying through the pages like they were on fire!

Kayden is one of the most powerful characters I've read in a long time. He's real! He's the guy next door and you don't even know he exists at times! Like he was a small participant in the grand scheme of things that would be his life! As I waited for him to take control of his life (and he did many times) I felt like a silent cheerleader on the sidelines of the Kayden conundrum! I wanted to shout "NO!" and "YES" and "JUST DO IT!" so many times I lost count! So many bad decisions, and so many bad people surrounding him, he almost didn't have a chance. I think if you put any other man in his shoes, they would have been dead years ago. Not our Kayden though. That boy bounced back with so much resilience and tenacity you couldn't help but keep rooting for him!

There are so many female characters in this book, hence the "parade of pussy" reference at the top! Let's start with Mindy in High School. I know her, I know what she's about... and I was so glad to see the "kiss off" Kayden gave her after he got what he wanted! Loved it! Now onto Bridget.... a wolf in sheeps clothing! I think with Bridget, Kayden was slowly dying and didn't even realize it. I think he loved more the idea of Bridget than he loved her! If it was real love, then there should never have been any infidelity or feelings of being not good enough. I know Kayden tried, but he seemed doomed from the start with that one. She changed him forever! Next up, Jessica... uber beotch! She's a filthy liar and I wanted to strangle the ever lovin' shit out of her. Enough said! Now Ms. Candy, well, I kind of liked her. She seemed to know what Kayden wanted and needed and never asked for more than she thought Kayden could handle. From the strip joint, to the broken sink, and onto the gossiping ladies, I laughed my ass off in this chapter! Girls are sometimes WAY more vulgar than dudes! Ok, now this one is a killer for me. Danielle! The way these two start out, you just know it shouldn't go any further, but just like Kayden, he seems to dive head first into it. The chemistry between these two was explosive to say the least. I'm not sure I would have survived it myself! These few chapters were so emotional for me, I had to break out the box of tissue in order to get through them! Well, I'd like to say I was done with the puntang brigade, but NOPE! Kayden's wiener has been in more pussies than Massengill! He goes onto hook up with yet another co-worker, only this time, he's careful and lays it all out for her. No relationship, just a roll in the hay. I'm surprised chicks actually go for that, but as you read on, you'll find a few that actually want the same thing he does and it seems to work out just fine.

Now Lisa, there's one you need to omit from your diet! She's evil and must be destroyed! She's deceitful, phony, and all around appalling! How could Kayden even keep up with all the BS? I've asked myself that so many times, I'm starting to sound like a broken record! LOL! I honestly never thought Kayden would get out of that one alive.

The dialogue flows nicely and the storyline holds together so tightly and keeps you hooked from the very first word to the last! From Ohio, Missouri, Florida, and finally to NOLA, I feel like I've been rode hard and put away wet, but satisfied! Loved, loved, loved this book so much more than the first... but then again I loved Untangle Me too! Gave it 5 stars... so it only make sense to rate Kayden at 10 stars!!!! <3 you Hooker!!!

Profile Image for Lustful Literature.
1,822 reviews336 followers
January 6, 2014
**JOSIE’S REVIEW**

*3.5 Stars*


Kayden the Past, is just what the title says it is about his past, prior to his meeting and falling in love with Sophia. Sophia is from Untangle Me (book 1). Kayden ends up meeting Sophia on Facebook and ultimately falls in love with her. Their relationship was not easy but he knew she was different and real, something new to him.

Which brings us to Book 2; Kayden the Past. Many of us including Sophia wanted to know what happened to Kayden to make him the way he was. We definitely get that in this book. This is told from Kayden’s POV and there are no rainbows or walks in the park. It is a detailed description of his past life, including the good, the bad and the VERY UGLY.

I loved that Chelle takes us back to a time where Z. Cavaricci’s, Drakkar cologne and Walk This way by Run DMC and Livin on a Prayer by Bon Jovi were in style (I loved those days, YEP THE BEST ERA EVER).

Kayden’s childhood was not easy. His father was abusive and left Kayden’s mother when Kayden was in his senior year in High school. Kayden had to give up the only thing that kept him solid and focused…wrestling because his mother could not afford it. After that Kayden started to get in trouble. I loved the fact that despite Kayden being in trouble he wanted to finish high school and made sure he accomplished that goal.

Kayden learned early on about girls and had no problem with giving them what they wanted as long as he was in control. In this book we get to see so many relationships in Kayden’s life such as Bridgett, Amanda and Lisa all that shaped him into the man he was.

This story is gritty he tells about the use of drugs, alcohol and unattached relationships, it is filled with meaningless sexual relationships, and heartbreak. We get to see how Kayden’s heart was ripped about, and stomped on and because of these relationships Kayden does not do “relationships.” He gives up on love and just likes the no strings attached approach. Meaning no promises just the easy WHAM BAM THANK YOU ma’am, but just when he gives up he meets Sophia online and they start to chat.

At times this story was hard to read. I felt it was filled with a lot of meaningless sex but this was about Kayden’s past, and all the ugly. I was glad to get inside Kayden’s mind and see a the part of life that made him the man he was. I fell more in love with Kayden in this book, than in the first. Why you ask? Because when you read all he went through, you appreciate the changed man he was in Untangle Me. I for one became so proud of all that Kayden accomplished. He never gave up and he became a better person for himself, Sophia and his child.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Just My Bucking Book Blog.
123 reviews86 followers
September 9, 2016
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of Kayden: The Past from the author to read and review for Kayden: The Past Blog Tour



Title: Kayden: The Past (Love at Last, #0.5)
Author: Chelle Bliss
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Love at Last
Publication Date: December 31st, 2013

4 Bucking Stars!



description


Having read Untangle Me, book 1 in the series, before I read Kayden: The Past, I feel a little frustrated simply because I know I would have connected and loved Kayden more if I read the #0.5 book first.

Both can be read as stand alone books. Some people have their opinions on which one they should read first, but for me, I would have loved to read Kayden's back story before reading Untangle Me that way I would have understood some of the things he did and why he acted so out of sorts in his relationship with Sophia in Untangle Me.

This is not a novella even though it is a #0.5 book. It is a full length novel, but I got through it in one sitting because I suffered from one more chapter syndrome whilst reading. Even though I know how things worked out in Untangle Me for Kayden, I can't help but feel sad for his past.

My boy went through the ringer in this book (FYI, Daniele is a tramp and I hater her). He couldn't catch a break and just got shite dumped on him through-out different stages of his life. Just when he clears a pile and picks himself up, more is dumped on him knocking him back down.

How he kept on trying with relationships after others failed miserably just floored me, I think if I was him I would just have giving up hope altogether and picked up a hobby of collecting stamps or something. So much happens to him through-out his life that it is honestly needed for Untangle Me to make sense. I understand why he is the way he is; his past built him up and moulded him into the character he is in that book.

His past certainly helped him along the way of becoming a sex God as well because holy hell can he hold his own on that front! ;)

If you have read Untangle Me you should pick Kayden: The Past up, you won't react it. Getting inside his head is very, very enjoyable!



description
Just My Bucking Book Blog

Profile Image for Holly Ann.
81 reviews4 followers
January 2, 2014
5 BRIGHT AND SHINNING STARS FOR THIS BOOK!

Let me start off by saying I have not read Untangle Me (YET) so I don't know Kayden other than him telling his life story in this book. I was given this book to read for my book blog and was told to read it by my partner on the page. I was hooked on the first page of the Prologue. I was sad to see the end of this book and don't even know how to put into words how much I loved the book, Kayden and his fucked up-ness.

This story is about Kayden who struggles with addiction. It starts off with sober Kayden talking about Sophia, his saving grace. Kayden at this point is on the path to beating his addiction. His counselor told him to write down the major events in his life, the ones that caused him to go down a path of destruction. What caused his life to spiral out of control and the women who drove him deeper into the bottle.

This is a roller coaster ride of emotions. Chelle really drives the emotion into her words and you feel what Kayden feels. His anger, his struggle, his lust and his heartbreak. You sit back and kind of say HELL YEAH when he walks away from Mindy, you love his relationship with Bridget and how he tries so hard for her.
"Money's great, but love's more important. Love is the foundation that all else teeters on, the great precept that can bring you happiness or total torture."
But then you're heartbroken. You flip through the hot sex with countless women and find yourself on the bathroom floor with the sink smashed to shards (HOLY HOTNESS!). You meet Danielle and think that there is really hope for Kaydens happiness. But the black cloud comes rolling in and when it rains it pours. Theres hope again for Kayden when he sees Lisa again after it's been years, only to want to punch her and her bi-polar ways. Kayden takes you on an adventure to New Orleans. And you want to scream when Lisa comes slumming around again. Then he stumbles upon someone who has the same last name of a past acquaintance. He friend requests her. "Do I know you?" She asks. And she ends up being the light at the end of the tunnel for him.

This book is hot, a fun read and beautifully thought out. I seriously cannot get over the authors writing. I LOVE when I am hooked and this book will be playing on my mind for DAYS to come.

Chelle Bliss… YOU ARE… AMAZING! xoxo

<3Holly from Pretty Lil Page Turners.
Profile Image for Wendy.
Author 5 books8 followers
January 12, 2014
One of the most moving reads you will experience all year! Your heart will beat and skip beats for Kayden!
How one person can have such bad luck with women is unbelievable. However, when you see the person deep down and how he became who he is, you will completely get him.
Very well written and the time line flowed nicely. The fact that it was written as a therapy diary was a surprisingly nice format.
Well-developed characters gave such insight into how he bounced from one bad choice to another. He came to life on the pages.
Seeing him become an adult, a man and then so much more will have you laughing and crying for this sensitive soul. He has so much pain and feels like a black cloud is following him around. Your heard will break, and then soar as he picks himself up and starts over time after time.

“One thing I did well was work my ass off. I also fucked like a champ and could party like a rock star in my youth, but now was time to put my head down and make cash.” ~Kayden putting his past behind him and moving forward.

Meeting Sophia is his salvation. She sees herself as ordinary. Kayden is anything but ordinary.
“If I had to choose a color to describe my life, I couldn’t pick just one. My life resembled a tie dyed shirt with various colors and shades mingled together in a massive heap twisted together.” ~Kayden picking a color after Sophia says her life is Navy Blue.

Sophia accepts him for who he is and is in it for the long term. This is a first for Kayden. It’s the main reason he goes to therapy, for her and their child. Seeing his story from the beginnings of addiction to the struggle to cope with addiction is an emotional roller coaster. It is a ride he can’t get off and neither will you as you read his chronicle.
This is an outstanding novel that follows up the previous story of how Sophia met Kayden. No matter which one you read first, Kayden will capture your heart.

The Ratings*:
Hero: 4.75
Heroines: 4
Story/Plot/HEA: 4.75

*The rating system is based on 1-5, 5 being the best and 1 the worst.
Hero - The main male character of the story. Heroine - The main female character of the story. Story/Plot/HEA (Happy Ever After) - The over all story line and culmination of the main plot or theme.
Profile Image for Catherine Bibby (Rochelle's Reviews).
998 reviews34 followers
June 28, 2017
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review

I read Kayden and Sophia's story many years ago and decided that it was time to visit with him again. I figured why not since I get to see my Gallo men all the time. It wasn't long before Chelle Bliss had me completely immersed in his story and remembering what a messed up life Kayden had before Sophia entered his world. While some parts of his past had me hanging my head in sorrow for him, other parts had me shaking my head in disappointment wondering if he would ever learn. When reading Kayden's back story be prepared to indulge in lots of debauchery and plenty of mistakes that eventually have him landing in the very sincere and sexy arms of Sophia. Kayden's journal is an eye opener to the wild side that we get a glimpse of in his and Sophia's love story but is a journey worth taking to learn what life choices made this man who he is today.

Kayden Michael's is a sexy and at times overly confident man who has an addictive streak a mile wild. His choices of self destruction are drugs, alcohol, and women...a huge variety of women! Readers get to experience every side of Kayden from high school on that has us overdosing on mullet hair cuts, the party scene, an endless array of sex, and many forays into the arena of relationships long before Sophia. Chelle gives us lots of material to drool over and reveals all of Kayden's flaws which only make us love him all the more.

Chelle Bliss delivers a sinful ride into Kayden's memories that will have readers everywhere hot and bothered and losing our hearts just a little bit more to this beautifully flawed hero. While he may not be perfect, he is more than perfect for Sophia who used to see her life in a boring shade of Navy blue but since meeting Kayden now sees her future in a kaleidoscope of various shades of bright colors. I highly recommend Kayden:The Past for a desire building, heart expanding read that will leave you wanting to relive Sophie and Kayden's love story again and again. Chelle Bliss teaches us that we have a past that is somewhat unsavory that people need to see through to love the person inside. Thanks Chelle for reminding us that we are all human and need to be loved!
Profile Image for Our Fictional Boyfriends.
47 reviews48 followers
January 5, 2014
*** ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review. Blog tour stop can be viewed here: http://ourfictionalboyfriends.blogspo... ***

5 Stars

Even though this is a standalone novel I still recommend reading Untangle me first.
Chelli Bliss you are awesome!!! You not only exceeded my expectations for Kayden’s story but you gave us more to his happily ever after. To top everything off this is not your usual repeat of the story on his POV, it is a whole story in itself, with minor glimpses of Untangle Me.

Kayden’s counselor asks him to write down the major events in his life that might have triggered his addictions so he could understand the cycle. Even though he didn’t understand how it would help him he followed thru.

His story begins right before his freshman year in High School. This is where he developed his love for women and alcohol. When his parents get divorced all his future plans come tumbling down. From here on he doesn’t seem to catch a break. He goes thru one too many heart breaks and loss. Let’s not forget the parade of woman that he goes thru and the steamy sex scenes. No matter how many times he hits rock bottom he manages to come back up. The only constant in his life is alcohol. While under the influence he doesn’t make the smartest choices leading him to have problems with the law.

In hope for a new start he moves to New Orleans. At this point he is no longer interested in a serious relationship. He is just looking for a good time, someone to scratch the itch. So he signs up for as many dating sites as he can, which eventually lead him to meeting Sofia.
I am completely blown away. Both books complement each other. In order to understand Kayden in the present you need to learn his past. I loved Kayden in the first book now I love him even more. His story not only shows his flaws but his strength. He went thru so much and was able to overcome so much with the love and support of the right woman, his soul mate.
Profile Image for ✦ Ellen’s Reviews ✦.
1,800 reviews358 followers
January 11, 2014
4.5 stars!! In Untangle Me, we first met Kayden and Sophia and learned about Kayden’s past, how he had a string of crazy women in his background and got a peek into some of the choices he made before he met Sophia. Kayden: The Past is told from his point of view, and is a wonderfully-written, very hot story with a lot of heart. I recommend reading Untangle Me first not only because its a wonderful story but also so you can get a feel for how deeply Kayden loves Sophia and why he will do anything to correct his past behaviors.

Kayden has an addictive personality, sex, alcohol, drugs — he recognizes that he has some serious issues but still makes some incredibly bad choices along the way. Even though he (mostly) just uses women for sex, the author really made me feel sorry for Kayden despite his rather cold treatment of the women he came in contact with. His teen years were very rough but he made the best of his situation and really tries to become a better man throughout the book. I like how his character really grew and developed throughout the course of the story.

Oh, and the sex scenes in this book are OFF THE CHARTS hot! Chelle Bliss can really write some incredibly steamy scenes. I absolutely loved the sex scenes even when I just knew that some of the relationships were a total train wreck. I love this author’s writing and loved this story. No spoilers but the Epilogue was incredibly satisfying. Enjoy!
Profile Image for JG.
1,075 reviews68 followers
December 10, 2019
Well this was a real roller-coaster of a ride with Kayden telling his story and the reasons he became a man-whore.

Hurt by woman after woman Kayden battles to fight his alcohol addiction whilst trying the preserve what is left of his heart.

Having read Untangle Me first, some of this story is repetitive but at the same time it tells you so much more. You get more insight into what damage Lisa did to Kayden and how amazing it was for him to find happiness in the arms of Sophia.

This book tells a story of pain and malice but if you are an endless romantic and hope against everything that love will win through then read these amazing stories by Chelle Bliss.

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Profile Image for Lost in Romance Books.
58 reviews17 followers
December 24, 2013
I received an ARC for an honest review:
This was brilliantly unexpected! I assumed that Kayden would be the same story as Untangle Me, only from Kayden’s perspective, which seems to becoming common among authors. But Kayden was a complete story in itself. It tells the story of Kayden, before he met Sophia – his journal written at the suggestion of his counselor. All during Untangle Me, we are introduced to Kayden’s past (alcoholism and womanizing) through comments, implications, and one of his crazy ex-girlfriends. This book actually tells Kayden’s story from the time he was a boy all the way until he meets Sophia. Readers do need to understand that they should read Untangle Me first so that they understand the implications of what he is telling. While Kayden’s story does allow us to see the decisions he made in his teens through adulthood, it is a tough story to read. For me, knowing that Sophia is the “reward” at the end is what kept me from getting angry at Kayden! Chelle says that she writes “characters that readers could relate to dealing with real world problems and matching wallets”. I love that she does this! Her characters are so real and believable. I can’t wait for Suzy’s story next!!
Profile Image for Rita.
373 reviews5 followers
June 24, 2017
Well this was a hell of real roller-coaster written as Kayden's POV, his back story and why he became a man-whore. This is not a repeat of Untangle Me!

Hurt by the women in his past, Kayden battles to fight his addictions whilst trying to save himself at the same time, this story gives you the insight into what damage Lisa did to Kayden and how meeting Sophia really turned his life around. You definitely see where Kayden gets his issues from and justifiably so! For Kayden to go through all the shit he did in his life, it's a miracle he was able to let go off his hang ups to find true love with Sophia and for him to open up his heart again.

I love Chelle's writing anyway, but I think giving a back story for a book already written is genius and makes you look at Untangle Me in a completely different light

Keep up the great writing Chelle and readers, you'll be a fool not to get this book - 5 stars all round


Profile Image for Louise H's Book Thoughts.
2,054 reviews320 followers
April 11, 2024
Even though this is #0.5 of the series, I think it works better if you have already read Untangle Me by Chelle Bliss. If you have this will give you a much rounder picture of Kayden and is a wonderful read.

For me it answered a few questions and concerns, the main one being that I felt Kayden's addictions hadn't been dealt with in Untangle Me. I should have known better that Chelle would have had that covered, and indeed she laid to rest my worries with this book.

It's very unlike anything I have read, particularly by this author. and felt very much like a companion novel. I enjoyed it and it really brought out a side of Kayden you don't see in Untangle Me. Whilst I didn't get caught up in the STORY per se, I did love finding out what had shaped Kayden and ultimately lead him to Sophia.

This wasn't what I expected but it was a very well written and captivating tale.
Profile Image for Zita Martin.
74 reviews13 followers
January 29, 2014



Wow! I never have read a book from a males side through out the whole book. Kayden's life is something to read about. I was hooked from the beginning and could not put the book down.


I am still in shock of what these words brung to my mind as images. This male is going on my book boyfriend list and my dream list of wishing to meet him. Wow!
I am not sure if I want to save him or just use him. I bet he would not mind either one.


The story line was straight across the line but it is the life of Kayden, so this is what it should be. The book kept me, the reader, attached to it for a life line as Kayden showed me his life line. Wow!


4 Stars


*I got an ARC for a real honest review.*
Profile Image for Carrie White.
301 reviews29 followers
May 5, 2014
I was given an ARC for an honest review and I must say I wasn't disappointed with Kayden's past!!!!
His tortured past was very entertaining, some funny and sad, such a heart filled experience for me.
Kayden lived thru heartache, addiction, and lots of sex. Who knew it would eventually give him the one thing in life he's been waiting for: A happy, healthy life with Sophia!
My heart truly broke for Kayden, boy he had it rough and it didn't help that he was constantly shit on.
I truly love Kayden & Sophia as a couple, hopefully their story continues!
Chelle Bliss is such an expressive, talented writer, and I'm so great full I was given this opportunity:)!!
Profile Image for Johnnie-Marie Howard.
1,142 reviews43 followers
September 8, 2017
this was not something that I was too fond of, the back in the past story was kinda different. Me personally I didn't care for it. Could have been better maybe if they added more of the present into the story mixed it up a bit more. I did however read this after reading book 1 and I so recommend everyone to read this one first it will give you a more of a insight on Kayden. Really great writing however I loved how the story flowed and went together. The pace of the story is another thing maybe it was just me and how I wasn't that into it but it seemed to take a long time to get to the point of most of it.

***I received this ARC for free in exchange for my honest thoughts***
Profile Image for Kathy Coopmans.
Author 76 books2,688 followers
December 26, 2013
I loved every bit of this book. Chelle Bliss really let's you into the mind of Kayden. We learn in this book why he is the way he is and why he feels that he does not deserve his beloved Sophia.
Chell nailed it with this book and I cannot wait to read more of this beautiful story!
5 Star read for me and if I could rate it higher you bet I would.
Please make sure you read Untangle Me by Chelle Bliss before you read Kayden.

Kayden baby I love every thing about you!!
Profile Image for Hooked On Books.
1,887 reviews64 followers
December 20, 2015
I gave this book 4.5 stars!

WOW! This book takes you into Kayden's past and what a past he has had. From drug addiction to earth shattering life events you will get every emotion drawn out. There is so many twist, turns and ticks to his past. Some of the characters you will first love them, hate but fate has plans for Kayden. I was happy to see Sophia love him no matter what.

Chelle has written a beautiful story about Kayden's past and I can't wait to read more from her.
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