Gravity

Brewing Passion #4

by Liz Crowe

Out of the ashes of ruined lives they finally find love.

When Brock Fitzgerald is welcomed back into his family thanks to the sympathy of his sister-in-law Evelyn and the tolerance of his twin brother Austin, he understands that this may be the best he’ll ever get for himself. Years spent partying, drinking and screwing his way through life have left him drained, exhausted and accepting of his many weaknesses. He’s grateful for the second chance he’s been offered, even as he continues to battle his demons, including one that leads him back into co-dependency with his oldest girlfriend.

Kayla Hettinger never imagined that once she declared herself clean after several near-overdoses of opiates she’d find herself tending bar for her brother’s fiancée Melody, and enjoying what life she’d managed to build. When she strikes up a friendship with Brock over shared experiences and ginger ale, she discovers something needier and more frightening inside herself—and in Brock—than either of them feels equipped to handle.

Breaking through the clutter of addiction and despair only to find your soulmate waiting on the other side seems like the stuff of fairy tales—until Brock and Kayla accept that being dependent on one another is the only way they’ll survive.

Reader This book contains mentions of self-harm, references to child and adult sexual abuse, and addiction.

Pre-Order 15th August 2017
Early Download 29th August 2017
General Release 26th September 2017

Genres: Contemporary Romance

185 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 26, 2017

About the author

Liz Crowe is a Kentucky native and graduate of the University of Louisville living in South Carolina. She's spent her time as a three-continent expat trailing spouse, mom of three, real estate agent, brewery owner and bar manager, and is currently a digital marketing and fundraising consultant, in addition to being an award-winning author.

The Liz Crowe backlist has something for any reader seeking complex storylines with humor and complete casts of characters that will delight and linger in the imagination long after the book is finished.

Her favorite things to do when she’s not scrolling social media for cute animal videos is walk her dogs, cuddle her cats, and watch her favorite sports teams while scrolling social media for cute animal videos.

Reviews

[books are love · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brock and Kayla’s story is powerful, real and amazing. Liz Crowe has been a author I have read and enjoyed but this book was one that I devoured and loved.

It is in both Brock and Kayla’s views and what we get is very real and emotional. They are both struggling with pasts, addictions, insecurities and fear. Brock is afraid is doesn’t deserve love in his world. That he only hurts everyone and he also is frustrated. He is struggling with his demons and addictions and we see this in such a very real and powerful way. He doesn’t hide himself from them but puts them out there for us and works on them. It is when he meets Kayla that he finds someone who helps quiet the antsyness and has him believe. Believe he can have more. He also believes that he will hurt her. He tries so hard and it is so beautiful to see. He is such a sweet and kind guy. Intelligent, patient and just trying to be normal. Trying to find what his brother has but he is also grateful just for each day it is humbling. And the way he is with Kayla is so heartwarming and heartbreaking at times.

Kayla is struggling like Brock with demons and addictions. She also has some self esteem issues and fear of touching issues. when she meets Brock though she feels safe with him. She knows he understands what she is dealing with and they are able to open up with one another. Help each other. they fight the attraction fearful of what path it can lead them down but soon they can’t and we get a wonderful love story.

Kayla’s brother truly I like him but he was really hard on Brock. He made him feel unworthy when he was fighting to be better. He changed Kayla and brock’s relationship to me. It was others that showed them they belonged together and needed to fight for one another.

the story will tug at you and captivate you. their struggles and feelings are real and you just root them on as they find their way to each other and as each others support systems that they need to tackle the demons and continue to fight the addictions they want to keep at bay.

[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is the fourth book in the series - and I highly recommend that you read them in order, as themes and people carry forward and are key to the story. I have to say that I have loved them all - but this one ... well it is a very special book indeed. The way that it deals with two damaged souls is beautiful. They have both been through the rehab route, and now both strive to be better for themselves and their families. Ms Crowe has done an amazing job of bringing to life the way both of them think and act - and whilst their everyday is affected by the addictions, their underlying personalities are given a chance to shine through.

I love that the story moves forward with our previous couples too. We even get to enjoy Trent's wedding to Melody. This romance brings together two new brewery employees - Austin's twin brother Brock, and Trent's long lost sister, Kayla. And whilst they navigate the tumultuous waters of attraction, we can only hope that the barriers in their way will give way, and give them a much deserved chance of happiness.

There are so many themes which make this a special, I can only suggest that you read it and see what an amazing story Ms Crowe has created,

[Tami · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

We met this H at the end of book 1. I was always curious to hear his side of things. This book explores many painful topics and the necessary healing of each. More in depth than the other three and well written. Very good contemporary romance.

This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Avid Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gravity (Brewing Passion, #4) by Liz Crowe
4.5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Addiction, Recovery, Self-Injury, past abuse
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.

This has been the most honest, real, almost gritty story in the series thus far.

Kayla is recovering, but struggling with her ability to let things go. She wants to have a good relationship with her brother, Trent, but with her past, feelings and thoughts are constantly bombarding her. She copes as best she can, but when she finds herself slipping, she reaches out to Brock.

Brock has his own mess of issues. Caroline being a large one. I just really couldn't like her at all - she was a major ick for me in this book. Brock is also recovering from his own addictions and while he knows that he should not be wanting things from Kayla, it isn't until he learns the extent of her abuse that he really falls low.

Both characters' brothers meddle when they probably shouldn't, but it gives the story a much more realistic feel.

I really liked this story and despite all of the miscommunications, doubts and struggles, loved the result.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am making my way through Liz Crowe’s Brewing Passion series, which I am breaking my own rule and reading out of order. But this is one of those times where I am granting myself the permission to do so, because I happen to think that this might make it an even more powerful reading experience for me. But that’s me. I will tell you that what I am loving about this series is that these characters are so flawed – they are not always nice to each other or themselves and I am drawn to them like a moth to the flame.
With the newest book, Gravity it so absolutely true. This story and these characters are addicts. Recovering. But they are riding the razors edge on unicycles and we are riding along in their heads, praying they make it to the other end. It is story that gripped me in ways I never anticipated. It shattered my heart and still putting it back together. It is not a long story, but don’t be fooled by size, it packs a punch.
Addiction and recovery has kept Brock Fitzgerald from his family and a life of comfort. In Gravity we get the Brock who is the calmer of tantrummy toddlers and crisis manager extraordinaire. But in his head, he is battling demons on several fronts. He is a reminder that addiction is an insidious disease that isn’t picky about its victims – not only can money not buy happiness, it can’t buy a cure for addiction. But watching Brock do this, you get to understand it a little bit better.
I don’t think that I can truly do Kayla Hettinger’s story justice. She is Heroine whose story will buckle your knees. But it is her battle back that will leave you with a teary-eyed smile. She has weathered storm upon storm and has found her way home. She is truly amazing.
Kayla and Brock shouldn’t be. Circumstance brings them together and while it is fraught with doubt, from themselves and those around them, is right. So. Right. It is rightfully slow burn and powerful. It is ultimately not about bringing out the worst in each other, shining a light on everything that is good and wonderful in these two people.
I am still feeling the effects of Gravity. This book moved me in ways that I am still processing. Well done, Liz Crowe. Well done.
Laurie’s Rating: 5+++++++++++++++++ STARS

[Mommaleena · Rating 5 out of 5]

GRAVITY (Brewing Passion #4) by Liz Crowe
Please note from Liz: GRAVITY contains repeated references to alcohol/opiate/sex addictions on the part of both H and h; the heroine’s early life as a victim of abuse by her stepfather and later his friends NONE of which is in any way explicitly described (i.e. these are only by way of her memories and are NOT EXPLICIT per the publisher’s direct edits); descriptions of how she now self-harms (i.e. cuts her skin with razor blades) by way of a not so great coping mechanism.
There are no sex scenes except toward the end and these are in keeping with the tone of the book (not ugly or dark, but not long and drawn out either).
It’s a romance, sure. But not a “romance,” if you get me.
I 100% guarantee that any reader who enjoys books that include well-written, realistic depictions of flawed, interesting characters will EARN the incredible HEA that I bestow on these two.
Out of the ashes of ruined lives they finally find love.
• Addicted
Once an addict always an addict, BUT can two addicts help each other or will they be destined to be alone for the rest of their lives? Life as an addict is extremely tough but with the right support they can have a happy and healthy life OR it could all backfire and they could crash and burn... Which will it be for Brock and Kayla? You'll have to read this intensely, riveting and definitely down to earth story to find out. This author just keeps snagging me in as soon as I know she had a new book within this series I have to read it....I don't know how she keeps building on this series but she does and it just keeps getting better....I can't wait to see what's next off her horizon. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours for an honest blog tour review

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read the other Brewing Passion series books, but this one was deep and heavy. It mainly focused on the addictions and the people dealing with them, Brock and Kayla. They seem like an unlikely duo, but they complemented each other well. They understood what the other was going through and was able to support them in a different way. Even though this was a sad topic, this book was well written and I felt like the reader understood and sees things through the addicts eyes. For me, it made me feel for the characters and I wanted to cheer them on! I enjoyed Brock and Kayla's interactions with each other and to their families. They are a support for their family as well as they are for them. Their story felt realistic and was scary, sweet, sexy and full of emotions. I was captivated by their journey and highly recommend. I do also recommend reading the 3 other books in the series first, before reading this one.

[Ginelle Blanch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series really just continues to amaze me. These stories are not easy to read, hearts and rainbows stories. The issues these characters have are true to life and oftentimes very painful to read about.

Brock and Kayla are certainly no exception. They are, by far, her most broken characters. The ones you root for, the ones you just really want to wrap up in love and help them to see that things can be different.

Everyone needs someone to lean on, to call their own. What some may see as a cruel twist of fate, might just be what saves them from themselves. To see such...compassionate and caring characters brought so low...past demons, self destruction...a tailspin of really horrible abuse...it was just tough to read. They were meant to find one another and, it couldn't have happened at a better time.

This author does dark and downtrodden like no one else. The emotion shines through beautifully and, it might not be pretty, it might be messy but, the ride is worth it!

[Whispers From · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kayla is a recovering drug addict and starts working at a brewery where her future sister in law manages. She doesn’t want her brother to know yet that she’s back. She had a terrible childhood and lived a party girls life. Brock is also a recovering alcoholic, drug addict and sex addict. He works in the foundation his twin brother runs. When Brock and Kayla meet, its to be friends only. They both want more but with their pasts, they are both afraid. Brock finds out about her past and figures she is better off without him. But Kayla wants to give normal a try and she must first convince Brock that they can do it.
This is a disturbing story because you know this has really happened to people. Drugs. Sex. Self cutting. And child prostitution. Some people might not like it but I thought it was very moving. Two people who fight daily to stay sober.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for netgalley *

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Brock Fitzgerald and Kayla Hettinger. Brock has battled demons for a very long time - partying, drinking and loads of meaningless sex. Kayla is a recovering addict and also has hidden demons. They are both hurting and trying to find their way back to normalcy. When they meet they form a friendship, but will they also find something else along the way?

This is a very emotional story about battling addiction and despair, and it is gritty, realistic and hopeful. The story is very complex and very well-written. The characters will pull at your heart and suck you right in. I loved this installment of the series and am looking forward to the next one. Highly recommended!

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another great book in this series. It is amazing how all the characters are connected in some way.

Brock and Evelyn are both recovering addicts because of their problems growing up. They become co-survivors together and survive their families help to become able to help each other through their hard times.

Liz has written this one in the same style of the others in this series and can't wait to read the next one.

I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review - Naughty Book Eden

[Laurie Beemer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book took a little bit of reading before I found out it was a gem of rich emotion. The story is touching; sad and deep. The author did a great job covering some very serious subject matters while maintaining the romance angle. This was worth the read. Thank you NetGalley and Liz Crowe for allowing me to read an ARC and write a honest review.

[Kelly_Reads_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful story about addiction and what happens to those we love who are dealing with it.
This story has a lot of heart. Anyone who has lived through a loved ones addiction, and addicts themselves, will realize there is hope as long as there is still breathe.
I highly recommend this story to everyone!

[RCA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quintessential Liz Crowe. This book is a very heavy read of two damaged souls. It's hard to get through but worth it for the HEA. If you like a good gut punch, this is your book. PS followers, I read this one with my eyes. SHOCK.

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

[Michelle Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kayla and Brock are two people with a ton of baggage between them. Both of them are recovering drug addicts, both of them have had unhealthy and/or abusive relationships, both of them struggle to find their place. But they have family in Grand Rapids, Michigan. And a chance to start over. But starting over means that they have to face their family and former temptations. Can they find strength in each other to piece themselves back together.

This is not an easy read, and I knew that going in. But for anyone looking at this review, this book handles the tough subjects of drug addiction, sex addiction, sexual abuse, child abuse, self-harm, and suicide ideation. And the book handles them realistically. Which is something I applaud. The descriptions of withdrawal are chilling in their accuracy as well as the self-harm coping mechanisms employed by one of the characters. And this helps shed light on a very real illness. Addiction is an illness. It needs to be respected as such, and in this book they are.

The portrayal of mental health is positive. It casts getting help in a positive light. It casts therapy in a positive light. This is critical since Mental Health stigma and the belittling of rehab can and do lead to deaths. This choice by the author was very important and it's the reason why I picked this book. We need more atypical romance leads.

And our leads are not typical. First off, both of them are older. Brock is 38 and Kayla is 42. Brock has some very man's man tendancies but he's also soft inside. Nurturing. This is shown to great effect with his toddler niece. Kayla is both fragile and strong. She's got a stubbornness which is appealing, but also shows a willingness to change and step outside of her comfort zone.

My favorite thing in this was how carefully the author, and by extension, the characters treated sex. It was sex positive in a refreshing way. Kayla's past was something she was ashamed of, but it wasn't treated as shameful. The distinction matters. The repeated verbal consent was sexy as heck. Consent is sexy. And it shows respect and caring more than a million diamond rings.

My least favorite thing was the setting. As a resident of Grand Rapids, I looked forward to seeing little details of my town sprinkled in. The business was very clearly an amalagm of Founders Brewery, HopCat, and Grand Rapids Brewing Company (the bar in particular has GRBC written all over it from the banquet room to the brewery in the back). However, instead of seeing my hometown, I saw "Generic city" with my town's name slapped on it. For example... there's the line about the lead going to 'whole paycheck' which is a shoutout to Whole Foods... except Grand Rapids doesn't have a Whole Foods. The closest is 60 miles and an hour drive away in East Lansing. In addition, part of the story takes place in September/early October in Downtown Grand Rapids... but no mention of Artprize is made. There were a lot of inaccuracies as well... too many to list. And this led to me knocking the story down a star. The setting is as an important a character as any of the human characters.

In all, I enjoyed the book and the positive portrayal of people with addiction.

So I'm happy to give this:

Four Stars

***I received an ARC through NetGalley.

[Cynthia Jenkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great read! I love the twist and turns the story line took. Who would of thought, love could flourish out of so much pain. Reader beware, of the emotional ride you are about to take. I guarantee you will fall for the Fitzgerald  brothers. ****: 4 stars