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Never Lose Sight #1
Darkness Before Dawn
Blinded in Iraq while in the Marines, Matthew Cage never realized the key to unlocking his forever midnight world was within arm’s reach.
Dawn Richards first saw her best friend’s older brother via webcam. For years, she secretly desired him, keeping her fantasies hidden from the rest of the world.
After a downward spiral, Matthew secluded himself in his prison of darkness, but his sister and friends helped him find his way. Having worked hard to become a Master Instructor in Close Quarters Combat, Matthew's world seems normal until tragedy strikes.
When Dawn’s life is threatened, Matthew refuses to let her deal with it alone. Can Dawn trust him to protect her? Will Matthew finally believe he can have sunshine in his world?
Dawn Richards first saw her best friend’s older brother via webcam. For years, she secretly desired him, keeping her fantasies hidden from the rest of the world.
After a downward spiral, Matthew secluded himself in his prison of darkness, but his sister and friends helped him find his way. Having worked hard to become a Master Instructor in Close Quarters Combat, Matthew's world seems normal until tragedy strikes.
When Dawn’s life is threatened, Matthew refuses to let her deal with it alone. Can Dawn trust him to protect her? Will Matthew finally believe he can have sunshine in his world?
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2017
48 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
August 24, 2017
The book was on it’s way to a smooth 5 star when I stumbled across 2 “what the f**k” moments – of which one is sending a totally wrong message to woman that have the problem of abuse and stalking. Furthermore there were a few hangups in the timeline and edits – so I could not keep the 5 stars – but it is still a nice and solid 4 star read that I enjoyed. EXCEPT this one moment I mentioned where I was staring at the kindle and asking myself if the female lead was serious…
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July 23, 2017
Very unique story of freedom, love and second chances. Great debut novel by Leigh Ribbons and I look forward to see if we will hear more about the characters within the pages of Darkness Before Dawn!!
The emotions that I felt while reading this book floored me. I felt Matts pain but I will NEVER know the extremes that he went through!! Matt and Dawn have more obstacles than they could ever have imagined before finding their back to one another and what a ride it is!!!!
The emotions that I felt while reading this book floored me. I felt Matts pain but I will NEVER know the extremes that he went through!! Matt and Dawn have more obstacles than they could ever have imagined before finding their back to one another and what a ride it is!!!!
June 17, 2017
This book grabbed my heart, made it weep and then slowly put it back together. Matt is a military man that almost lost his life in Iraq. Lauren is Matt's sister & caretaker after his war accident. Dawn is Lauren's BFF and in love with Matt ... secretly, even Matt doesn't know. When times get hard and life throws punch after punch at Matt he always rises. Dawn has always held a special place for Matt but one fateful night things spiral hot and all her wet dreams come true ... almost. Lauren keeps the family together no matter what life's tragedies throw at her. When things come to blow up in Dawn life, Matt will be there and he soon finds out what love and courage really mean.
August 20, 2017
Dawn only knows Matt through her best friend and his sister, Lauren. She’s heard his voice and popped her head in when Lauren video chats with Matt during his deployment, but they can’t even be considered friends. He sees Dawn as his teenage sister’s cute best friend, but completely off limits. When Matt is injured and blinded by an IED, everything he thought he knew about himself is ripped away, and he’s forced to rebuild his life. After acquiring a service dog, working hard in college, and doing an internship in counseling soldiers with PTSD, a devastating event has him spiraling out of control. Dawn comes to his rescue when he falls and hits his head while drunk, and although she brings light to his darkness and quiets his nightmares, when things get too intimate he realizes she deserves so much more than to deal with his emotional wreckage. Once he gets his act together and has opened a martial arts studio and his Close Quarters Combat training is highly sought by law enforcement and security specialists, he thinks he has something to offer Dawn, who is realizing her lifelong dream of opening a bakery with Lauren.
I feel like I just wrote my own tome with that synopsis, but it doesn’t even begin to tell you about this phenomenal book! That’s barely a thumbnail sketch, and there’s so much that happens. It takes place over several years, and the author has done a great job including the necessary highlights without weighing down the story. And Matt and Dawn’s story is truly amazing, and inspired by a real life hero. The book is beautifully written, with careful attention to detail, and bursting with heart and emotion. The author has the ability to paint the backdrop with just the right shading and tone so the details in the foreground are vibrant, soul catching artistry. It’s so subtly and cleverly crafted that I was halfway through the book before I grasped all the nuances of the title, alone. There’s so much depth and beauty that this book isn’t just one of those hidden gems, it’s a gold mine!
At times, it’s difficult to see the struggles that Matt goes through, and it’s natural for the reader to want him to “get it right,” but Matt’s battles with his dragons are laid out in such a way that the reader understands some battles have to be faced alone and the one fighting comes out a stronger, better person for having faced them and winning the war. And when he feels he’s ready to share his life with Dawn, he’s 100% committed, and their love is a beautiful thing to see. It’s that epic, life changing, soul deep, forever love we all dream of. A love so breathtaking and exquisite it will renew your hope, fill your heart, and stain your soul.
If you don’t read another book this year, make sure you read this one. If you read a lot, you’ll want to return to this book again and again. It’s one of those books that, each time you read it, you’ll discover something new that will touch you. It will give you courage to deal with your own difficulties and will remind you how indomitable the human spirit is. It will restore your faith in mankind, reaffirm that good overcomes evil and prove that angels really can tame dragons with the light of their love.
I feel like I just wrote my own tome with that synopsis, but it doesn’t even begin to tell you about this phenomenal book! That’s barely a thumbnail sketch, and there’s so much that happens. It takes place over several years, and the author has done a great job including the necessary highlights without weighing down the story. And Matt and Dawn’s story is truly amazing, and inspired by a real life hero. The book is beautifully written, with careful attention to detail, and bursting with heart and emotion. The author has the ability to paint the backdrop with just the right shading and tone so the details in the foreground are vibrant, soul catching artistry. It’s so subtly and cleverly crafted that I was halfway through the book before I grasped all the nuances of the title, alone. There’s so much depth and beauty that this book isn’t just one of those hidden gems, it’s a gold mine!
At times, it’s difficult to see the struggles that Matt goes through, and it’s natural for the reader to want him to “get it right,” but Matt’s battles with his dragons are laid out in such a way that the reader understands some battles have to be faced alone and the one fighting comes out a stronger, better person for having faced them and winning the war. And when he feels he’s ready to share his life with Dawn, he’s 100% committed, and their love is a beautiful thing to see. It’s that epic, life changing, soul deep, forever love we all dream of. A love so breathtaking and exquisite it will renew your hope, fill your heart, and stain your soul.
If you don’t read another book this year, make sure you read this one. If you read a lot, you’ll want to return to this book again and again. It’s one of those books that, each time you read it, you’ll discover something new that will touch you. It will give you courage to deal with your own difficulties and will remind you how indomitable the human spirit is. It will restore your faith in mankind, reaffirm that good overcomes evil and prove that angels really can tame dragons with the light of their love.
June 20, 2017
First of all, this book is very professionally presented and you’d never know it’s a debut release from a new author. The formatting is beautiful and the editing and proofing are really well done. Clearly a lot of work and love went into this book to give it a professional appearance.
If you want the short version:
Likeable. Lots of drama, fun to read. Good characters. Well-edited. Predictable but still addictive.
If you want the detailed version:
Editing/Proofing:
5 stars
Found only a couple minor typos, nothing that distracted from the reading experience.
Formatting:
5 stars
Beautiful!
Cover:
5 stars
I love that it’s not quite like every other romance cover out there. It’s pretty and still relevant.
(Also: The title is perfection! It describes the book simply in both metaphorical and literal senses.)
Continuity:
4 stars
Character design:
4 stars
Characters are fairly well done. Not always perfect continuity with the personalities but it’s Book 1 in a series and they’ve got room to grow. Still the reader gets at least the gist of who they are and a bit of what they’ve been through. Perceptive readers probably get a peek into what’s to come for the other characters too.
POV:
5 stars
The reader is treated to rotating POVs, first person. There's never any confusion as to who is speaking, it's done flawlessly.
The Story:
The book started out FULL of action, drama, regret and pain. It is a brilliantly tragic opening and sucked me right in. That’s about all of the military action there is, however the lives of the main characters are forever changed as a result of those moments so I’d still say it’s okay to deem this a military romance or military drama.
From the first few pages, I can easily predict how the whole book will play out, so I won’t give any originality or unpredictability points, but that’s 99% of media these days. What matters is that despite this, I wasn’t bored. In fact, I was hooked - I liked the characters and wanted to know all that I could about them. I love that baking and cooking are prevalent and the MCs all move to the South. These are all things I could relate to and just made it that much more dynamic and fun to follow, with little side adventures and food to dream about. :)
Some of the sex scenes… they’d start out with plenty of heat but inevitably there’d by a cheesy line or something that I just couldn’t quite get into. I did overall appreciate the sex scenes though, for not exactly being the same old that I usually find. Robbins manages to describe them a bit differently than everyone else, which is refreshing.
The last fifteen percent or so kind of dragged for me. After being so hooked and unable to put it down for the first seventy-plus percent, it took me a little effort to get through it. I probably could take or leave the last bit. But ultimately am really impressed that this is a debut novel, it seems Robbins is a natural and I hope she keeps writing. She’s made me a fan.
I’d give the story… somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars for keeping me hooked, but lacking originality. Overall, I’d give the book as a whole 4 stars.
If you want the short version:
Likeable. Lots of drama, fun to read. Good characters. Well-edited. Predictable but still addictive.
If you want the detailed version:
Editing/Proofing:
5 stars
Found only a couple minor typos, nothing that distracted from the reading experience.
Formatting:
5 stars
Beautiful!
Cover:
5 stars
I love that it’s not quite like every other romance cover out there. It’s pretty and still relevant.
(Also: The title is perfection! It describes the book simply in both metaphorical and literal senses.)
Continuity:
4 stars
Character design:
4 stars
Characters are fairly well done. Not always perfect continuity with the personalities but it’s Book 1 in a series and they’ve got room to grow. Still the reader gets at least the gist of who they are and a bit of what they’ve been through. Perceptive readers probably get a peek into what’s to come for the other characters too.
POV:
5 stars
The reader is treated to rotating POVs, first person. There's never any confusion as to who is speaking, it's done flawlessly.
The Story:
The book started out FULL of action, drama, regret and pain. It is a brilliantly tragic opening and sucked me right in. That’s about all of the military action there is, however the lives of the main characters are forever changed as a result of those moments so I’d still say it’s okay to deem this a military romance or military drama.
From the first few pages, I can easily predict how the whole book will play out, so I won’t give any originality or unpredictability points, but that’s 99% of media these days. What matters is that despite this, I wasn’t bored. In fact, I was hooked - I liked the characters and wanted to know all that I could about them. I love that baking and cooking are prevalent and the MCs all move to the South. These are all things I could relate to and just made it that much more dynamic and fun to follow, with little side adventures and food to dream about. :)
Some of the sex scenes… they’d start out with plenty of heat but inevitably there’d by a cheesy line or something that I just couldn’t quite get into. I did overall appreciate the sex scenes though, for not exactly being the same old that I usually find. Robbins manages to describe them a bit differently than everyone else, which is refreshing.
The last fifteen percent or so kind of dragged for me. After being so hooked and unable to put it down for the first seventy-plus percent, it took me a little effort to get through it. I probably could take or leave the last bit. But ultimately am really impressed that this is a debut novel, it seems Robbins is a natural and I hope she keeps writing. She’s made me a fan.
I’d give the story… somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars for keeping me hooked, but lacking originality. Overall, I’d give the book as a whole 4 stars.
September 1, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This was an awesome romance full of suspense. I loved how the author made the main male character blind, but still able to use his training to save the main female character. An awesome book I would recommend to everyone.
May 16, 2018
This one tore me up!! So emotional in the beginning! The things that our military endure is heartbreaking! Great love story and second chances!
August 31, 2017
From the very first page this book sets itself up to be an epic romance of unrequited love, second chances, and rising above adversity. Readers are literally dropped into the middle of a firefight that leaves them breathless and on edge and from there they get put through the emotional wringer right alongside these memorable characters. In a tale that spans years there are numerous highs and lows, moments of intense realism along with bits of melodrama, that all add up to a journey that leaves you exhausted yet satisfied by The End.
Matthew Cage is the typical young Marine who thinks he's invincible, self-assured, with a loving and supportive sister as well as a girl waiting for him back home. In a single moment though his life is shattered when an IED explodes leaving his face and body burned along with taking his eyesight. It's a moment that takes his life in unexpected directions while breaking him down and ultimately lifting him back up. Through it all he's surrounded by supportive friends, his loving sister Lauren, and also unbeknownst to him is the unrequited love of Lauren's best friend Dawn. He has only a vague remembrance of her but as the years go by he comes to see her as someone he can't live without. For so long his life was depressingly dark as feelings of loss and guilt weighed on him, but being around her brings him light. After he returned home he used alcohol to numb the pain and became a man who felt he had nothing to offer, but with Dawn in his life he strives to be a man worthy of her. Just when it seems as if everything is going their way tragedy strikes and leaves their HEA hanging in the balance. Matt's a flawed but likable character. He's sexy but feels unworthy after his accident and makes a bad decision based on desperation. When hitting rock bottom he hurts Dawn but admits his mistakes and makes grand gestures in winning her back which endeared him to me. The handling of his blindness was done respectfully and realistically. The author depicted all the daily obstacles, all the logistics of living independently, of coping as a blind person which I very much appreciated as I'm a disabled person myself. As the story progresses Matt becomes a true hero, fighting for the woman he loves, while accepting help when he needs it to keep Dawn safe. He becomes comfortable in his own skin and the journey he took to get to acceptance was an empowering one.
From the moment Dawn saw Matt on the computer screen talking to Lauren she was smitten. Fate though kept driving a wedge between her fantasy of making him hers and the unfortunate reality of him taking years to notice her as someone more than Lauren's best friend. He became the man of her dreams as she struggled to move on from her unrequited attraction. A few bad dates, a clandestine moment that led to heartache, all led to a roller coaster love life that ended with an obsessed police officer wanting to make her his. Just when she and Matt put all their painful pasts behind them to forge a romantic connection readers will be left with their hearts ripped out by the degradation Dawn is put through as well as the feelings of helplessness Matt experiences over it. It's a moment that could bring them closer together or break them completely and it kept me on the edge of my seat. Dawn starts off as an energetic young girl with stars in her eyes but as the story progresses she seemed to lose her self-confidence a bit. She became much more weepy as the story went along and made some silly choices. She needed to take a stronger stand and I never stopped rooting for her to do so. When it comes to Matt, she never defined him by his blindness, never saw him as anyone other than the man she's loved for years. She's supportive of him and his most loyal cheerleader alongside Lauren and it made me like her all the more.
On a whole this is a powerful story that's not perfect, but it is captivating as it deals with serious issues. It shows readers the darkness in a wounded warrior's soul as he copes with the remnants of war, shows us the high cost to be paid. It's a heartbreaking story at times but with moments of sweetness and joy too. The main couple is flawed which makes them even more realistic as they made mistakes but learned from them. Their connection was a slow burn and full of sexual tension, but very worthwhile as they're beautifully matched in steamy scenes and quiet introspective moments. Surrounding this appealing couple are a cast of likable secondary characters, foremost among them are Lauren and Matt's war buddy Brett. Their romance was full of highs and lows, heartbreak and forgiveness, and they deserved more than being relegated to the back burner. I was intrigued by the snippets we got related to their rocky romance and I'd love to see their story told in a book of their own as it seems equally as epic as that of Matt and Dawn's journey to HEA. This story went on a bit longer than necessary, threw in some events that frustrated me as they felt too soap opera-ish, but on a whole it was a solid debut work from Ms. Robbins and I look forward to what comes next from this author.
Matthew Cage is the typical young Marine who thinks he's invincible, self-assured, with a loving and supportive sister as well as a girl waiting for him back home. In a single moment though his life is shattered when an IED explodes leaving his face and body burned along with taking his eyesight. It's a moment that takes his life in unexpected directions while breaking him down and ultimately lifting him back up. Through it all he's surrounded by supportive friends, his loving sister Lauren, and also unbeknownst to him is the unrequited love of Lauren's best friend Dawn. He has only a vague remembrance of her but as the years go by he comes to see her as someone he can't live without. For so long his life was depressingly dark as feelings of loss and guilt weighed on him, but being around her brings him light. After he returned home he used alcohol to numb the pain and became a man who felt he had nothing to offer, but with Dawn in his life he strives to be a man worthy of her. Just when it seems as if everything is going their way tragedy strikes and leaves their HEA hanging in the balance. Matt's a flawed but likable character. He's sexy but feels unworthy after his accident and makes a bad decision based on desperation. When hitting rock bottom he hurts Dawn but admits his mistakes and makes grand gestures in winning her back which endeared him to me. The handling of his blindness was done respectfully and realistically. The author depicted all the daily obstacles, all the logistics of living independently, of coping as a blind person which I very much appreciated as I'm a disabled person myself. As the story progresses Matt becomes a true hero, fighting for the woman he loves, while accepting help when he needs it to keep Dawn safe. He becomes comfortable in his own skin and the journey he took to get to acceptance was an empowering one.
From the moment Dawn saw Matt on the computer screen talking to Lauren she was smitten. Fate though kept driving a wedge between her fantasy of making him hers and the unfortunate reality of him taking years to notice her as someone more than Lauren's best friend. He became the man of her dreams as she struggled to move on from her unrequited attraction. A few bad dates, a clandestine moment that led to heartache, all led to a roller coaster love life that ended with an obsessed police officer wanting to make her his. Just when she and Matt put all their painful pasts behind them to forge a romantic connection readers will be left with their hearts ripped out by the degradation Dawn is put through as well as the feelings of helplessness Matt experiences over it. It's a moment that could bring them closer together or break them completely and it kept me on the edge of my seat. Dawn starts off as an energetic young girl with stars in her eyes but as the story progresses she seemed to lose her self-confidence a bit. She became much more weepy as the story went along and made some silly choices. She needed to take a stronger stand and I never stopped rooting for her to do so. When it comes to Matt, she never defined him by his blindness, never saw him as anyone other than the man she's loved for years. She's supportive of him and his most loyal cheerleader alongside Lauren and it made me like her all the more.
On a whole this is a powerful story that's not perfect, but it is captivating as it deals with serious issues. It shows readers the darkness in a wounded warrior's soul as he copes with the remnants of war, shows us the high cost to be paid. It's a heartbreaking story at times but with moments of sweetness and joy too. The main couple is flawed which makes them even more realistic as they made mistakes but learned from them. Their connection was a slow burn and full of sexual tension, but very worthwhile as they're beautifully matched in steamy scenes and quiet introspective moments. Surrounding this appealing couple are a cast of likable secondary characters, foremost among them are Lauren and Matt's war buddy Brett. Their romance was full of highs and lows, heartbreak and forgiveness, and they deserved more than being relegated to the back burner. I was intrigued by the snippets we got related to their rocky romance and I'd love to see their story told in a book of their own as it seems equally as epic as that of Matt and Dawn's journey to HEA. This story went on a bit longer than necessary, threw in some events that frustrated me as they felt too soap opera-ish, but on a whole it was a solid debut work from Ms. Robbins and I look forward to what comes next from this author.
August 25, 2017
I liked this book overall, but when broken down into individual parts it probably seems like I'm less than enthusiastic about it.
First, Dawn seemed so great in the beginning, definitely young and her level of attachment to Matt at the outset matched that youth. Then there was Matt. He seemed much older than his age and I'm pretty sure the beginning mentioned him being 21 but then later in the book he was reported as being blinded at 19...I'd have to re-read the book to catch what was up with that or if I'm just remembering incorrectly, but either way the age thing was confusing when speaking of, to, and about Matt.
Second, I'm less than impressed with the run-in at the hospital with the g-fri and the leg guy and all that. Sure, it was a very in-your-face thing for Dawn and set the tone for a lot of events in the book, but I just didn't like it. It could have been done very differently, something less distracting from what should be the main couple in the story. The events that followed because of this set the timing for Dawn and Matt so much later in the book that I was tempted to skim and jump ahead but would have missed probably half the book.
Third, related to the second issue, is the amount of extra stuff in there that felt superfluous to the main couple and the story in general. When I think back on the book I remember the related points but have a hard time connecting them in a real timeline because a bunch of other vaguely unimportant details fuzzed up the memory of the flow. Also in the realm of extra was Lauren and Brett. I feel like they should have gotten their own story because fairly important and semi-connected events were big and there but merely glossed over because they weren't really the focus. It drew attention away and distracted from the main story but felt like I should be invested in their outcome as well so the little crumbs of information we get about them are completely unsatisfactory.
So there's more that bugged me, like the amount of tears and crying from Dawn from beginning to end, but there's stuff that I liked too. The confessions were especially tender and touching and the difficult moments weren't glossed over or romanticized.
Matt's blindness was dealt with in a pretty mature way. I liked that it was hard, difficult, and that he found ways around his lack of sight. His internship was both good and bad. He did something about his situation and, unfortunately, it didn't work out, but the reasons were intense. It was a turning point for him that was utterly necessary. How he came to that realization wasn't exactly mature and it hurt Dawn and set their union even farther into the future, but it was more real than I expected.
Dawn's situation with needing help and protection was intense as well. As extreme and awful as her experience was near the end I was glad that there wasn't a Deus ex machina situation or a white knight moment. Well, there was a bit of the knightly, but it didn't happen in time to keep bad stuff from happening. We all know that life isn't made up of perfectly timed moments, but how we survive and rise above the bad we encounter. What happened was more real and didn't shy away from the consequences which I respected.
Overall, this was a good book. There was equal frustration and sweetness to recommend it so it was a worthwhile experience. Oh, and there were some really cheesy moments that weren't really the sweet kind, more the extra sappy and juvenile. But other than that, I don't mind the time it took to finish reading.
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC from Hidden Gems.
First, Dawn seemed so great in the beginning, definitely young and her level of attachment to Matt at the outset matched that youth. Then there was Matt. He seemed much older than his age and I'm pretty sure the beginning mentioned him being 21 but then later in the book he was reported as being blinded at 19...I'd have to re-read the book to catch what was up with that or if I'm just remembering incorrectly, but either way the age thing was confusing when speaking of, to, and about Matt.
Second, I'm less than impressed with the run-in at the hospital with the g-fri and the leg guy and all that. Sure, it was a very in-your-face thing for Dawn and set the tone for a lot of events in the book, but I just didn't like it. It could have been done very differently, something less distracting from what should be the main couple in the story. The events that followed because of this set the timing for Dawn and Matt so much later in the book that I was tempted to skim and jump ahead but would have missed probably half the book.
Third, related to the second issue, is the amount of extra stuff in there that felt superfluous to the main couple and the story in general. When I think back on the book I remember the related points but have a hard time connecting them in a real timeline because a bunch of other vaguely unimportant details fuzzed up the memory of the flow. Also in the realm of extra was Lauren and Brett. I feel like they should have gotten their own story because fairly important and semi-connected events were big and there but merely glossed over because they weren't really the focus. It drew attention away and distracted from the main story but felt like I should be invested in their outcome as well so the little crumbs of information we get about them are completely unsatisfactory.
So there's more that bugged me, like the amount of tears and crying from Dawn from beginning to end, but there's stuff that I liked too. The confessions were especially tender and touching and the difficult moments weren't glossed over or romanticized.
Matt's blindness was dealt with in a pretty mature way. I liked that it was hard, difficult, and that he found ways around his lack of sight. His internship was both good and bad. He did something about his situation and, unfortunately, it didn't work out, but the reasons were intense. It was a turning point for him that was utterly necessary. How he came to that realization wasn't exactly mature and it hurt Dawn and set their union even farther into the future, but it was more real than I expected.
Dawn's situation with needing help and protection was intense as well. As extreme and awful as her experience was near the end I was glad that there wasn't a Deus ex machina situation or a white knight moment. Well, there was a bit of the knightly, but it didn't happen in time to keep bad stuff from happening. We all know that life isn't made up of perfectly timed moments, but how we survive and rise above the bad we encounter. What happened was more real and didn't shy away from the consequences which I respected.
Overall, this was a good book. There was equal frustration and sweetness to recommend it so it was a worthwhile experience. Oh, and there were some really cheesy moments that weren't really the sweet kind, more the extra sappy and juvenile. But other than that, I don't mind the time it took to finish reading.
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC from Hidden Gems.
June 16, 2017
First of all, this book is very professionally presented and you’d never know it’s a debut release from a new author. The formatting is beautiful and the editing and proofing are really well done. Clearly a lot of work and love went into this book to give it a professional appearance.
If you want the short version:
Likeable. Lots of drama, fun to read. Good characters. Well-edited. Predictable but still addictive.
If you want the detailed version:
Editing/Proofing:
5 stars
Found only a couple minor typos, nothing that distracted from the reading experience.
Formatting:
5 stars
Beautiful!
Cover:
5 stars
I love that it’s not quite like every other romance cover out there. It’s pretty and still relevant.
(Also: The title is perfection! It describes the book simply in both metaphorical and literal senses.)
Continuity:
4 stars
Character design:
4 stars
Characters are fairly well done. Not always perfect continuity with the personalities but it’s Book 1 in a series and they’ve got room to grow but still the reader gets at least the gist of who they are and a bit of what they’ve been through. Astute readers probably get a peek into what’s to come for the other characters too. ;)
POV:
5 stars
The reader is treated to rotating POVs, first person. There's never any confusion as to who is speaking, it's done flawlessly.
The Story:
The book started out FULL of action, drama, regret and pain. It is a brilliantly tragic opening and sucked me right in. That’s about all of the military action there is, however the lives of the main characters are forever changed as a result of those moments so I’d still say it’s okay to deem this a military romance or military drama.
From the first few pages, I can easily predict how the whole book will play out, so I won’t give any originality or unpredictability points, but that’s 99% of media these days. What matters is that despite this, I wasn’t bored. In fact, I was hooked - I liked the characters and wanted to know all that I could about them. I love that baking and cooking are prevalent and the MCs all move to the South. These are all things I could relate to and just made it that much more dynamic and fun to follow, with little side adventures and food to dream about. :)
Some of the sex scenes… they’d start out with plenty of heat but inevitably there’d by a cheesy line or something that I just couldn’t quite get into. I did overall appreciate the sex scenes though, for not exactly being the same old that I usually find. Robbins manages to describe them a bit differently than everyone else, which is refreshing.
The last fifteen percent or so kind of dragged for me. After being so hooked and unable to put it down for the first seventy-plus percent, it took me a little effort to get through it. I probably could take or leave the last bit. But ultimately am really impressed that this is a debut novel, it seems Robbins is a natural and I hope she keeps writing. She’s made me a fan.
I’d give the story… somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars for keeping me hooked, but lacking originality. Overall, I’d give the book as a whole 4 stars.
If you want the short version:
Likeable. Lots of drama, fun to read. Good characters. Well-edited. Predictable but still addictive.
If you want the detailed version:
Editing/Proofing:
5 stars
Found only a couple minor typos, nothing that distracted from the reading experience.
Formatting:
5 stars
Beautiful!
Cover:
5 stars
I love that it’s not quite like every other romance cover out there. It’s pretty and still relevant.
(Also: The title is perfection! It describes the book simply in both metaphorical and literal senses.)
Continuity:
4 stars
Character design:
4 stars
Characters are fairly well done. Not always perfect continuity with the personalities but it’s Book 1 in a series and they’ve got room to grow but still the reader gets at least the gist of who they are and a bit of what they’ve been through. Astute readers probably get a peek into what’s to come for the other characters too. ;)
POV:
5 stars
The reader is treated to rotating POVs, first person. There's never any confusion as to who is speaking, it's done flawlessly.
The Story:
The book started out FULL of action, drama, regret and pain. It is a brilliantly tragic opening and sucked me right in. That’s about all of the military action there is, however the lives of the main characters are forever changed as a result of those moments so I’d still say it’s okay to deem this a military romance or military drama.
From the first few pages, I can easily predict how the whole book will play out, so I won’t give any originality or unpredictability points, but that’s 99% of media these days. What matters is that despite this, I wasn’t bored. In fact, I was hooked - I liked the characters and wanted to know all that I could about them. I love that baking and cooking are prevalent and the MCs all move to the South. These are all things I could relate to and just made it that much more dynamic and fun to follow, with little side adventures and food to dream about. :)
Some of the sex scenes… they’d start out with plenty of heat but inevitably there’d by a cheesy line or something that I just couldn’t quite get into. I did overall appreciate the sex scenes though, for not exactly being the same old that I usually find. Robbins manages to describe them a bit differently than everyone else, which is refreshing.
The last fifteen percent or so kind of dragged for me. After being so hooked and unable to put it down for the first seventy-plus percent, it took me a little effort to get through it. I probably could take or leave the last bit. But ultimately am really impressed that this is a debut novel, it seems Robbins is a natural and I hope she keeps writing. She’s made me a fan.
I’d give the story… somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars for keeping me hooked, but lacking originality. Overall, I’d give the book as a whole 4 stars.
November 5, 2017
Dawn is a woman who doesnt have any family, her family consists of her best friend Lauren and by extension her brother which they had never meet in person until after his accident in Iraq. Dawn has always had a thing for Matt but never told anyone not even her best friend. Matt a man who has lived through so much after an IED went off and killed most of his brothers and blinded him with other damage never thought he would have a happy life after living through all that but after years of not having any light he see's Dawn as his light.
What I enjoyed most about Darkness Before Dawn is watching both Dawn and Matt having both lived through heartaches and not doing anything to make either of them any happier. Seeing Dawn have this thing for Matt that turned into years of loving him while he never knew she existed but yet staying by his side whenever he needed help, watching Matt give in one night but then deciding she deserved better and sent her away but they both finally come around and know they would be happiest together.
This book was fantastic, This book has Dawn a woman who lost her parents at a young age but somehow found her way in life with a best friend by her side, a war story of a Solider who was injured in the line of Duty and is the brother of her best friend one that she had seen a few times on video chat so other wise he didnt know what she looked like or existed, Dawn a woman who doesnt want to give up on wanting him but not seeing any other way so when she starts dating and this one guy doesnt take no Matt will finally step up and claim what is his, a love story. If you like stories like this, then Darkness Before Dawn is a must!
What I enjoyed most about Darkness Before Dawn is watching both Dawn and Matt having both lived through heartaches and not doing anything to make either of them any happier. Seeing Dawn have this thing for Matt that turned into years of loving him while he never knew she existed but yet staying by his side whenever he needed help, watching Matt give in one night but then deciding she deserved better and sent her away but they both finally come around and know they would be happiest together.
This book was fantastic, This book has Dawn a woman who lost her parents at a young age but somehow found her way in life with a best friend by her side, a war story of a Solider who was injured in the line of Duty and is the brother of her best friend one that she had seen a few times on video chat so other wise he didnt know what she looked like or existed, Dawn a woman who doesnt want to give up on wanting him but not seeing any other way so when she starts dating and this one guy doesnt take no Matt will finally step up and claim what is his, a love story. If you like stories like this, then Darkness Before Dawn is a must!
August 22, 2017
This was a great book that lived up to the blurb that was meant to draw in readers. Yes! I was hooked from the start and fell in love with all the main characters in the first few words. The story was predictable in that you knew it would be about the love Dawn has secretly kept hidden for the older ruggedly handsome Matt who is the brother of Lauren, her BFF. While you know what the plot will unfold, you are still kept on the edge of your seat as each obstacle and heartbreak occurs. When Matt is almost killed in an IED explosion that leaves him blind and he finally comes home, Dawn silently watches as he marries the wrong girl, gets divorced and plunges into a downward alcoholic spiral where she feels helpless to know how to intervene. The pivotal moment that helps Matt see that life is still worth living is when the two finally come together and consummate the passion Dawn has hoped for all thru the years only to find in the morning light that Matt appears to reject her and the remainder of the book is about the struggle where they wonder if either will get their HEA. I was surprised to learn that this was a debut book for this author as it was as well written and polished as one from a New York Times best selling author. This is an author that I will look forward to reading more from in the not to far off future.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2017
I gave this Book a rating of 5 ✩’s
Title: Darkness Before Dawn
Series: (Never Lose Sight Book 1)
Genre: Military Romance, Romantic Suspense
Author: Leigh Robbins
Format: Kindle Edition
Published on: June 15, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a Free Courtesy Advanced Reader Copy of this book
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Character’s Descriptions:
Matthew Cage was injured while serving in the Marines in Iraq. He is now blind and can’t seem to find much to live for at all.
Dawn Richards ex is becoming way too aggressive for her and now she needs help reigning him in or just plain getting the heck away from him
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Summary Paragraph:
When Dawn first saw Matt via webcam with her best friend she felt something for him. Now she needs his protection.
Mat was blinded in Iraq, he is not feeling so good about himself. Will he be able to protect Dawn or not?
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
What I liked/Didn’t Like: Stalker Ex, Blind Marine, and love all in one spot. I loved this one as it had me sitting on the edge of my seat for most of the book. Fear, Lust, Love and romance all in one spot this author is now on my must-read list.
Title: Darkness Before Dawn
Series: (Never Lose Sight Book 1)
Genre: Military Romance, Romantic Suspense
Author: Leigh Robbins
Format: Kindle Edition
Published on: June 15, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a Free Courtesy Advanced Reader Copy of this book
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
Character’s Descriptions:
Matthew Cage was injured while serving in the Marines in Iraq. He is now blind and can’t seem to find much to live for at all.
Dawn Richards ex is becoming way too aggressive for her and now she needs help reigning him in or just plain getting the heck away from him
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
Summary Paragraph:
When Dawn first saw Matt via webcam with her best friend she felt something for him. Now she needs his protection.
Mat was blinded in Iraq, he is not feeling so good about himself. Will he be able to protect Dawn or not?
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
What I liked/Didn’t Like: Stalker Ex, Blind Marine, and love all in one spot. I loved this one as it had me sitting on the edge of my seat for most of the book. Fear, Lust, Love and romance all in one spot this author is now on my must-read list.
August 25, 2017
This story line is very unique. I like that Leigh Robbins has included real life themes to the story. The way the words flow of the pages and combines into an amazing story is great. It is a very well written book.
I like that the Hero is blind and we can read about the issues with that and how he manages and feels about it. We feel how difficult it is for him to make a normal life and live with it. Matthew is a man that has issues and dark periods. These moments are also there because of his time in Iraq in the warzone. The story tells a lot about being a soldier and how to live with it afterwards. Dawn has had a crush on Matthew for years but now she is in trouble. Both main characters develop a lot through the story and they find themselves . The chemistry between Matthew and Dawn is steaming.
This is an emotional rollercoaster and it is heartbreaking. But it has a lot more in it. There is details that is so well described you feel you are with the main characters in the book. That you know them. Love, heartbreak, passion, chemistry, danger, PTSD, war issues, lots of emotions and breathtaking is part of this story. It caught me from the first to last page.
I can only recommend this to be read.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book*
I like that the Hero is blind and we can read about the issues with that and how he manages and feels about it. We feel how difficult it is for him to make a normal life and live with it. Matthew is a man that has issues and dark periods. These moments are also there because of his time in Iraq in the warzone. The story tells a lot about being a soldier and how to live with it afterwards. Dawn has had a crush on Matthew for years but now she is in trouble. Both main characters develop a lot through the story and they find themselves . The chemistry between Matthew and Dawn is steaming.
This is an emotional rollercoaster and it is heartbreaking. But it has a lot more in it. There is details that is so well described you feel you are with the main characters in the book. That you know them. Love, heartbreak, passion, chemistry, danger, PTSD, war issues, lots of emotions and breathtaking is part of this story. It caught me from the first to last page.
I can only recommend this to be read.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book*
January 2, 2018
**SPOILERS**
The story was thoughtfully and emotionally paced. Lauren married and was widowed at the young age of twenty four. Matt divorced, Dawn and him spend the night together but he was a jerk and let her go thinking it was a mistake. He was becoming an alcoholic and decided he wanted to stop drinking and counciling vets so he could stabilze his life. Lauren decides that it is best to move to North Carolina and start over. She persuades Matt and Dawn to move with her. Lauren and Dawn start their own bakery business and Matt discovers his love for the martial arts. When the opportunity arises Matt buys the martial arts school and makes it a success. Dawn is stalked and is sexually assaulted. She goes through an deeply emotional period where Matt has already declared his love for her and she for him. Lauren and Matt provide physical and emotional support to Dawn when she needed it the most. Brett arrives on the scene and declares he still in love with Lauren and they work to get back together. Matt proposes to Dawn and she accepts. It is a wonderful ending when in the epilogue they are married and expecting their first child. Two great romances, lots of drama and real life circumstances this book is an excellent read.
The story was thoughtfully and emotionally paced. Lauren married and was widowed at the young age of twenty four. Matt divorced, Dawn and him spend the night together but he was a jerk and let her go thinking it was a mistake. He was becoming an alcoholic and decided he wanted to stop drinking and counciling vets so he could stabilze his life. Lauren decides that it is best to move to North Carolina and start over. She persuades Matt and Dawn to move with her. Lauren and Dawn start their own bakery business and Matt discovers his love for the martial arts. When the opportunity arises Matt buys the martial arts school and makes it a success. Dawn is stalked and is sexually assaulted. She goes through an deeply emotional period where Matt has already declared his love for her and she for him. Lauren and Matt provide physical and emotional support to Dawn when she needed it the most. Brett arrives on the scene and declares he still in love with Lauren and they work to get back together. Matt proposes to Dawn and she accepts. It is a wonderful ending when in the epilogue they are married and expecting their first child. Two great romances, lots of drama and real life circumstances this book is an excellent read.
July 17, 2017
What a great read and a fantastic story! Leigh’s telling of Matt and Dawn’s story is filled with angst, discovery, acceptance, and finally triumph. The story is well written and you’ll fall in love with the characters.
Matt’s injuries has him drowning in his own hell with dark thoughts and hoping tomorrow will take a vacation. Fortunately, tomorrow doesn’t take a vacation but the sun rises by the name of Lauren, his sister, who helps him get back to the living. Lauren’s best friend, Dawn has been in love with Matt forever and she’s the only one who knows. Dawn would do anything for Matt but their one night was a mistake written all over Matt’s face and his rejection has kept him at arm’s length ever since.
When Dawn’s ex becomes aggressive at her for blowing him off/breaking up with him, something in Matt awaken his need to protect Dawn and realizing that she is the one for him. He knows he has to work harder than ever to win her back but he’s never backed out of a challenge and this is the most important thing he’s ever had to do.
Pick up this book and let it consume you!
Matt’s injuries has him drowning in his own hell with dark thoughts and hoping tomorrow will take a vacation. Fortunately, tomorrow doesn’t take a vacation but the sun rises by the name of Lauren, his sister, who helps him get back to the living. Lauren’s best friend, Dawn has been in love with Matt forever and she’s the only one who knows. Dawn would do anything for Matt but their one night was a mistake written all over Matt’s face and his rejection has kept him at arm’s length ever since.
When Dawn’s ex becomes aggressive at her for blowing him off/breaking up with him, something in Matt awaken his need to protect Dawn and realizing that she is the one for him. He knows he has to work harder than ever to win her back but he’s never backed out of a challenge and this is the most important thing he’s ever had to do.
Pick up this book and let it consume you!
August 24, 2017
Oh my! This is one of the most beautifully written books that I have read and it based on a real story. This is also the debut novel by Leigh Robbins and is so talented - a real gem of a book. This is based round Matt who's younger sister,Lauren, has a best friend called Dawn. They haven't met in real life only seen each other on Skype and photos. Matt is in the military and whilst on active service he is blinded when a IED is exploded near him. This book encompasses how he battled with living as a blind man, learning to be as independent as possible, feeling like a man worthy of a good woman such as Dawn. This is a realistic story that takes the reader through the many challenges that he faces and how their love for one another starts out as friendship upon which a real and lasting love can be established. Leigh Robbins writing is so sensitive to the many issues raised in the story and her characterisation is first class. This is a must have book that I know I will revisit as it was a joy to read. I will, most definitely, be looking out for Miss Robbins next book. A Definite Recommendation. I received an arc of this book and voluntarily leave my honest review of it here
August 24, 2017
Overall, a good read with a unique storyline that I doubt we will see repeated in another book. I really liked Matt’s character; from the first page, his part of the story was quite captivating. Dawn wasn’t quite so well-developed but later did get an emotional and psychological trauma of her own to deal with. Some aspects of this book required a good deal of knowledge about the subjects in question, and I felt the author did well on those and the story came across believable because of that.
I wasn’t a fan of the skipping years in the first third of the book. Every time it happened, I felt like it disconnected me from the characters and their lives, making it harder to really get into the storyline at those times. There were some inconsistencies, perhaps due to all this time jumping, with the ages of various characters in relation to the timeline and to each other. The last 15% or so sort of dragged out for me and felt like a wind-down of the story like a long epilogue, but it did provide a more complete feeling of closure that lots of other books don’t give.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn’t a fan of the skipping years in the first third of the book. Every time it happened, I felt like it disconnected me from the characters and their lives, making it harder to really get into the storyline at those times. There were some inconsistencies, perhaps due to all this time jumping, with the ages of various characters in relation to the timeline and to each other. The last 15% or so sort of dragged out for me and felt like a wind-down of the story like a long epilogue, but it did provide a more complete feeling of closure that lots of other books don’t give.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2017
Dawn is a young woman who falls in love with her friend’s brother since the very first time she lays eyes on him through a screen on the computer.
Matt is a young marine who becomes blind in a trap in Iraq.
I think the title is very appropriated for this book.
Although the book was a little too slow at the beginning, it gets better later. The story is hard because the theme is hard and because it is based on a true story.
War and devastation are two words that always come together. The ability to cope with the terrible experiences, the loss of friends and family, and the terrible injuries suffered by the soldiers are always difficult to endure.
The book is well-written, although I spotted a few editing issues. The characters are well-developed and lovable. The author shows us their feelings; their fear, the fight against darkness, and the courage to go on step by step, day by day.
The story shows us how sometimes friends become our real family staying with us and supporting us through difficult times.
I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy given to me by Hidden Gems.
Matt is a young marine who becomes blind in a trap in Iraq.
I think the title is very appropriated for this book.
Although the book was a little too slow at the beginning, it gets better later. The story is hard because the theme is hard and because it is based on a true story.
War and devastation are two words that always come together. The ability to cope with the terrible experiences, the loss of friends and family, and the terrible injuries suffered by the soldiers are always difficult to endure.
The book is well-written, although I spotted a few editing issues. The characters are well-developed and lovable. The author shows us their feelings; their fear, the fight against darkness, and the courage to go on step by step, day by day.
The story shows us how sometimes friends become our real family staying with us and supporting us through difficult times.
I voluntarily reviewed a gifted copy given to me by Hidden Gems.
August 24, 2017
This is such a carefully crafted tale of strength, determination, hope, and love. Witnessing Matt's fight to regain himself after such tragic injuries made me want to see him achieve every success he desired. Dawn may have started out with a school-girl crush on him but it became something so much more. I thought it was was awe inspiring to see their 'family' of friends pull together to help Dawn through a horrifying event no one should ever experience. I loved that there was a pretty even balance of power between them. They took turns being the caregiver to each other as the situation required. I didn't cry a single tear until the epilogue cut me off at the knees. It's stunningly beautiful. After watching Matt and Dawn struggle through so much to find their places with each, hearing him re-tell the story of all the darkness they survived in such a poignant manner completely did me in.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
August 23, 2017
This is a beautifully written and emotional read.
The depiction of what faces soldiers in war, and afterwards, when they return home injured, is very well written.
Matthew is blinded by an IED ending his career in the military, and making it difficult for him to cope
with life outside the army.
Dawn is attracted to Matthew despite never having met him. She is his sister Lauren's best friend, and knows him via photographs, and Skype calls.
What follows is fairly predictable, a failed marriage, reliance on alcohol,and finally a new start via MMA for Matthew.
The only unpredictable element is the length of time it takes for Matthew and Dawn to finally get together.
The characters are well rounded and the plot is well written.
I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book via Hidden Gems.
The depiction of what faces soldiers in war, and afterwards, when they return home injured, is very well written.
Matthew is blinded by an IED ending his career in the military, and making it difficult for him to cope
with life outside the army.
Dawn is attracted to Matthew despite never having met him. She is his sister Lauren's best friend, and knows him via photographs, and Skype calls.
What follows is fairly predictable, a failed marriage, reliance on alcohol,and finally a new start via MMA for Matthew.
The only unpredictable element is the length of time it takes for Matthew and Dawn to finally get together.
The characters are well rounded and the plot is well written.
I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book via Hidden Gems.
August 27, 2017
This was an addictive read, there is joy, heartbreak and suspense that keep you hooked. The book covers many years and takes us through the highs and lows Matt goes through, as well as how Lauren and Dawn are during this time. To me this wasn't really a love story to begin with but about someone Matt having his whole world ripped apart and trying to claw their way back to living again. The time line/ages of Dawn and Matt appear to be a bit in consistent but do not distract from the story. The book blended well into a love story I just wish things weren't so rushed feeling with them and you got to see them grow together again after what happened years ago. Definitely keep this tissues handy as you will most definitely be needing them!.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 27, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed this ARC book. Gripping opening, this is a book about learning who you are and changing yourself against adversity. Life can change in a second, and it only took a second for an IED to nearly take and change Matt's life. After surviving the tragedy Matt is lost, his vision gone and his path is life is no longer clear. But sometimes life can also throw you a curveball and lead you on a path that changes you. After a drunken night with his sister's friend, Matt realizes that he will never be good enough for her even though his heart calls for Lauren. Finding his new life in a new city, teaching people how to fight; Matt finds that maybe he will never be good enough for Lauren but that will not stop his love from protecting her when her life is on the line.
August 30, 2017
I received this book free as an ARC for my honest review.
This is the 1st book from this author and what a fantastic book. Will defiantly be looking forward to other releases by this author.
This is a second change, my best friend’s brother book. Dawn Richards is Lauren’s roommate, she hasn’t met Lauren’s brother Matthew, but with photos and glances at skype when Lauren is talking to him she has fallen in love. Matthew Cage is a Marine, he was wounded losing his sight and nearly lost his life. They have a one-night stand when Dawn rescues him from a drunken fall. He decides Dawn is too good for him and lets her go. A few years later has Matthew protect Dawn against a stalker and he realises he is ready for a relationship with her. Do they get their second chance and get their HEA?
This is the 1st book from this author and what a fantastic book. Will defiantly be looking forward to other releases by this author.
This is a second change, my best friend’s brother book. Dawn Richards is Lauren’s roommate, she hasn’t met Lauren’s brother Matthew, but with photos and glances at skype when Lauren is talking to him she has fallen in love. Matthew Cage is a Marine, he was wounded losing his sight and nearly lost his life. They have a one-night stand when Dawn rescues him from a drunken fall. He decides Dawn is too good for him and lets her go. A few years later has Matthew protect Dawn against a stalker and he realises he is ready for a relationship with her. Do they get their second chance and get their HEA?
June 14, 2020
Second Chance Reading
I had started this book awhile ago and had hit a point where I just couldnt keep reading..... I added it to my DNFs. Luckily for me. I decided to give it a second chance as the storyline just seemed so compelling. I'm glad I gave it the second chance. I finished reading in record time as I couldn't put it down.
The characters go through some real tough sh*t. Just like in real life. Matt struggling with PTSD and being blind and Dawn recovering from what happens to her. I think we all have experienced or know someone who has experienced tough sh*t like this. For myself; The author perfectly portrayed how healing happens, and how relationships work after trauma.
My favorite military romance I've read so far.
I had started this book awhile ago and had hit a point where I just couldnt keep reading..... I added it to my DNFs. Luckily for me. I decided to give it a second chance as the storyline just seemed so compelling. I'm glad I gave it the second chance. I finished reading in record time as I couldn't put it down.
The characters go through some real tough sh*t. Just like in real life. Matt struggling with PTSD and being blind and Dawn recovering from what happens to her. I think we all have experienced or know someone who has experienced tough sh*t like this. For myself; The author perfectly portrayed how healing happens, and how relationships work after trauma.
My favorite military romance I've read so far.
August 24, 2017
Very emotional read. As a military spouse I can tell you that one of my biggest fears when my husband was active duty was his being hurt while deployed. So many things are out of your control. Reading this book brought a lot of those feelings and fears back. I am eternally thankful that in his 23 years of duty my husband was never majorly injured. I knew other spouses that couldn't say the same. This story touches on several realistic emotions. Self-worth and the love of family and friends to name two. With these two factors anything is possible.
*I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book which I am voluntarily reviewing"
*I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book which I am voluntarily reviewing"
August 26, 2017
I've tried to write this review at least four times...and the only thing I can come up with is a heartfelt thank you to Leigh Robbins for sharing this remarkable story with us. I live in a community populated with tons of active duty military--but a greater number of disabled veterans. These are remarkable men and women who gave so much on our behalf. Darkness before Dawn shares with us one man's sacrifices and the challenging road he traveled to recovery and how love and acceptance healed so many hearts. I think everyone needs to read this book...it's definitely a keeper! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and was totally humbled by it. So awesome!) ❤️
October 4, 2017
Gritty, emotional read detailing one man's journey through the horror of war and PTSD. A story of incredible loss, pain, fear, and triumph. It is heart-wrenching at times and well-written. The characters are so well drawn, one could almost say they know them personally. There is strong language but, to me, it fits the character and the situation.
The dragon/angel tattoo is the perfect analogy for the story. I hate spoilers so won't do that to you. I read it in one evening as I could not put it down. Ms. Robbins is a new author to me and I know without a doubt we will be seeing more from her in the future. Highly recommended
The dragon/angel tattoo is the perfect analogy for the story. I hate spoilers so won't do that to you. I read it in one evening as I could not put it down. Ms. Robbins is a new author to me and I know without a doubt we will be seeing more from her in the future. Highly recommended
December 31, 2017
loved the writing style, storyline and the characters...so much emotions and feels here...definitely its both sweet and sexy where it needs to be, but it also articulates all the struggles of self doubt that this young man has to face and deal with...but what amazing courage and determination he has and he eventually builds this amazing and meaningful life for himself, ofcourse there are various ups and downs through it all...and the heroine was his complement, and these two are survivors after living through traumatic events (there is a potential trigger scene)...will definitely read more from author...i believe this is her debut writing; good read!
August 24, 2017
Darkness Before Dawn (Never Lose Sight Book 1)
By Leigh Robbins
This was an amazing story. The tragedy, the deep friendships, and the suspense. This book pulled me in from the very beginning.
Mathew Cage is Blinded in Iraq while in the Marines. After a downward spiral, Mathews sister and friends help him.
Dawn Richards first saw her best friend’s brother via webcam. For years, she secretly desired him, keeping her fantasies hidden from the rest of the world, so when Dawn's life is threatened Mathew refuses to let her deal with it alone. Can she trust him to protect her.....
By Leigh Robbins
This was an amazing story. The tragedy, the deep friendships, and the suspense. This book pulled me in from the very beginning.
Mathew Cage is Blinded in Iraq while in the Marines. After a downward spiral, Mathews sister and friends help him.
Dawn Richards first saw her best friend’s brother via webcam. For years, she secretly desired him, keeping her fantasies hidden from the rest of the world, so when Dawn's life is threatened Mathew refuses to let her deal with it alone. Can she trust him to protect her.....
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews