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Heartaches #1
Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes
Anna Simmons is a broken soul searching for meaning in her life.
Shattered by a number of people she trusted, she was almost on the brink of utter despair when her savior came from an unlikely source.
Rafe Brown, ex-army commando, returned to Australia from abroad with a soul fractured to splinters. Moving through life in an aimless search to seek retribution, he meets Anna and she happens to be what he needed but never expected.
Love, lust and passion ignites but beneath it all, two soul unite forever.
Shattered by a number of people she trusted, she was almost on the brink of utter despair when her savior came from an unlikely source.
Rafe Brown, ex-army commando, returned to Australia from abroad with a soul fractured to splinters. Moving through life in an aimless search to seek retribution, he meets Anna and she happens to be what he needed but never expected.
Love, lust and passion ignites but beneath it all, two soul unite forever.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 21, 2017
28 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
H.M. Irwing
31 books44 followersInking is a symphony in romance in itself. The art of flowing ink into curves and lines, forming the patterns of words. Words into the beauty of thought. Thoughts into the beauty of a story.
Stories I love to write and share inking paper after paper with romantic and fantastical thoughts. I hope I do the ink justice and have it spill out stories that will fascinate and enthral you.
H. M. Irwing, an author of romantic fiction from Down Under, takes great pleasure in penning romance stories that often bring light to the pain and suffering faced in today’s world. Her heroines are remarkable characters. Bold brassy women who face the tough strictures of today’s world and all the failings within it with a positive attitude and forward strides marching ahead against all adversity.
Irwing lives with her beloved husband, two kids and dog in the contemporary arty world of Melbourne where living is pleasure and pleasure is living.
Catch all the latest updates and more about your favourite characters at
H. M. Irwing’s author’s website https://www.hmirwing.com
H. M. Irwing’s facebook page https://www.facebook.com/hm.irwing
H. M Irwing’s Amazon page
https://www.amazon.com/H-M-Irwing/e/B...
H. M. Irwing blogs at https://www.hmirwing.com/
She writes on Wattpad under @50shadesofblues, @ufartalot and @dionseth and publish under the pen name of H. M. Irwing.
Stories I love to write and share inking paper after paper with romantic and fantastical thoughts. I hope I do the ink justice and have it spill out stories that will fascinate and enthral you.
H. M. Irwing, an author of romantic fiction from Down Under, takes great pleasure in penning romance stories that often bring light to the pain and suffering faced in today’s world. Her heroines are remarkable characters. Bold brassy women who face the tough strictures of today’s world and all the failings within it with a positive attitude and forward strides marching ahead against all adversity.
Irwing lives with her beloved husband, two kids and dog in the contemporary arty world of Melbourne where living is pleasure and pleasure is living.
Catch all the latest updates and more about your favourite characters at
H. M. Irwing’s author’s website https://www.hmirwing.com
H. M. Irwing’s facebook page https://www.facebook.com/hm.irwing
H. M Irwing’s Amazon page
https://www.amazon.com/H-M-Irwing/e/B...
H. M. Irwing blogs at https://www.hmirwing.com/
She writes on Wattpad under @50shadesofblues, @ufartalot and @dionseth and publish under the pen name of H. M. Irwing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 10, 2018
Heartaches by H.M. Irwing has to be one of my least favorite books of all time. I had to call it quits at chapter nine. SPOILER ALERT
The narrative could benefit from changing the point of view as the third person diction often demonstrates the attitude of the author and not the characters. This choice makes the story befuddled and unfocused at times. For example, "A hand came out of nowhere and slapped the cancer stick right out of [Rafe's] unsteady hand" (10). The use of the term "cancer stick" reflects that Irwing dislikes cigarettes, but the character Rafe finds them relaxing. He even "gasped in horror" (10) when someone squashes it into the ground. It's as if the author wants me to empathize with him/her instead of Rafe - the character. The word choice as a whole is consistently odd; I considered it to be sloppily formal at times. I just wasn't able to conform to this writing style.
The synopsis of this book needs a trigger warning or at the very least be labeled as dark romance. I was not expecting the graphic uncomfortable rape scenes. In fact, I would not have been off-put if I had a warning that rape was going to be explored in detailed excess, but because I wasn't prepared for it, I was disturbed to the point where I didn't want to read the book anymore (and this was chapter three). A tame analogy would be like eating popcorn with such exuberance, and then suddenly a sharp pain spikes up your jaw because one of the kernels had the consistency of a pebble. It's an unwanted surprised that could have been handled gracefully with a warning.
The author does a good job of making me loathe characters like Jason and Peter, but also Anna. This female protagonist gives the word 'weak' a new meaning. She is so unsatisfied with herself that she makes incredibly idiotic decisions. What happened to her was horrible and embarrassing, but the way she deals with it is disappointing. Rafe has to drag the truth out of her.
Now that I mentioned him, let's discuss Rafe. He is easily the most likable character, and this narrative's only redeeming quality. Though, that's not to say he's perfect. His dialogue and actions are often stiff or come off as unnatural. His sixth sense of knowing something happened to Anna is explained later, but it still comes off as...unrealistic. His actions simply drive the plot/romance forward. "Gently wiping away [Anna's] tears" (28) after just meeting her was a bit strange to me. Their relationship doesn't seem that comfortable at that time in the narrative. But, just the same, Rafe's undeniable urge to do something about Anna’s situation is a much needed change of pace as most other “helpful” characters come off as judgemental (Yasmin) or bitchy (Tess, but we’ll get to her later).
Piggybacking off of my last statement, the romance feels manufactured to the core. The pacing seems too fast. For example, Rafe “burst out in a rapid fury of words” (37) when Anna asks what happened to him at war instead of just telling her he doesn’t want to talk about it (even though he knows everything about Anna’s trauma). He reacts like she was egging him on about this for a long time, but she hasn't (they just met). She asked him two questions and he blew up. Even more so than that; Anna living with him, Rafe forcing a confession out of her, Rafe doing everything in his power to help her, both of them sleeping in the same room, both of them sharing the same traumatic experience, Rafe sleeping with no shirt on, all of these events are common happening in romance novels. Heartaches executes this particularly poorly. There were a handful of moments where I was convinced that they both needed therapists instead of each other.
On a different note, the character Tess, is an archetype of the girl who is usually interested in the male lead and is pretty disrespectful toward the female lead. However. This cookie cutter bitch is an officer. So, when Anna and Rafe are trying to report a sexual assault, Tess is too busy flirting with Rafe to do her fucking job. She acts like Anna is bothering her. She sees Anna as competition. She sees the victim of a sexual assault as unimportant. She is the epitome of the wrong character in the wrong position at the wrong time. Tess is ultimately the reason why I went from ‘I don’t like this book’ to ‘I hate this book’.
Chapter six is the best chapter. Rafe’s scrutiny over the situation and the reason why he’s so desperate to help Anna would have been an incredible dramatic reveal had the audience not been made previously aware. There’s a moderately calming scene where Rafe is combing through Anna’s hair, and I was convinced that I would be able to get through this book if there were more platonic scenes such as this one. This book hurts itself by striving for romance. The complexity of the situation that the two main character are in would flourish if their relationship was strictly platonic until maybe a few years after the events of this book.
However, chapter seven goes back to form. All of the reasons why I hate this book came crashing back. Anna is a weak character still. She sleeps in the same bed as Rafe, even though she believes that Tess is his girlfriend, and her character is fractured by this (even more so than before). Tess is the ultimate bitch again, but I begrudgingly have to give credit where credit is due. When Anna goes to talk to Tess about the sexual assault (a scene that was deceivingly satisfying), Tess once again seems disinterested in taking Anna’s case seriously (pissing me off entirely). Tess goes on to state, “I see rape victims...everyday...Most don’t come forward. Others, like you, come in too late then expect me to perform untold miracles in serving up justice. I am not a miracle worker” (52). This spiteful rant is actually incredibly disheartening but accurate. Tess ruins the effect by being bratty and immediately stating afterward that Rafe is hers and blah blah blah.
Rafe's story about what happened to him is incredibly interesting. I was honestly curious about how he took down the people who initiated his trauma and I would've loved if the novel revolved around him taking down Anna's abusers like thriller or action novel would. But again, this book strives to be romantic.
The good things about this novel are wrecked by the bad things about this novel. I did not enjoy reading this book, and I will never pick it up again.
The narrative could benefit from changing the point of view as the third person diction often demonstrates the attitude of the author and not the characters. This choice makes the story befuddled and unfocused at times. For example, "A hand came out of nowhere and slapped the cancer stick right out of [Rafe's] unsteady hand" (10). The use of the term "cancer stick" reflects that Irwing dislikes cigarettes, but the character Rafe finds them relaxing. He even "gasped in horror" (10) when someone squashes it into the ground. It's as if the author wants me to empathize with him/her instead of Rafe - the character. The word choice as a whole is consistently odd; I considered it to be sloppily formal at times. I just wasn't able to conform to this writing style.
The synopsis of this book needs a trigger warning or at the very least be labeled as dark romance. I was not expecting the graphic uncomfortable rape scenes. In fact, I would not have been off-put if I had a warning that rape was going to be explored in detailed excess, but because I wasn't prepared for it, I was disturbed to the point where I didn't want to read the book anymore (and this was chapter three). A tame analogy would be like eating popcorn with such exuberance, and then suddenly a sharp pain spikes up your jaw because one of the kernels had the consistency of a pebble. It's an unwanted surprised that could have been handled gracefully with a warning.
The author does a good job of making me loathe characters like Jason and Peter, but also Anna. This female protagonist gives the word 'weak' a new meaning. She is so unsatisfied with herself that she makes incredibly idiotic decisions. What happened to her was horrible and embarrassing, but the way she deals with it is disappointing. Rafe has to drag the truth out of her.
Now that I mentioned him, let's discuss Rafe. He is easily the most likable character, and this narrative's only redeeming quality. Though, that's not to say he's perfect. His dialogue and actions are often stiff or come off as unnatural. His sixth sense of knowing something happened to Anna is explained later, but it still comes off as...unrealistic. His actions simply drive the plot/romance forward. "Gently wiping away [Anna's] tears" (28) after just meeting her was a bit strange to me. Their relationship doesn't seem that comfortable at that time in the narrative. But, just the same, Rafe's undeniable urge to do something about Anna’s situation is a much needed change of pace as most other “helpful” characters come off as judgemental (Yasmin) or bitchy (Tess, but we’ll get to her later).
Piggybacking off of my last statement, the romance feels manufactured to the core. The pacing seems too fast. For example, Rafe “burst out in a rapid fury of words” (37) when Anna asks what happened to him at war instead of just telling her he doesn’t want to talk about it (even though he knows everything about Anna’s trauma). He reacts like she was egging him on about this for a long time, but she hasn't (they just met). She asked him two questions and he blew up. Even more so than that; Anna living with him, Rafe forcing a confession out of her, Rafe doing everything in his power to help her, both of them sleeping in the same room, both of them sharing the same traumatic experience, Rafe sleeping with no shirt on, all of these events are common happening in romance novels. Heartaches executes this particularly poorly. There were a handful of moments where I was convinced that they both needed therapists instead of each other.
On a different note, the character Tess, is an archetype of the girl who is usually interested in the male lead and is pretty disrespectful toward the female lead. However. This cookie cutter bitch is an officer. So, when Anna and Rafe are trying to report a sexual assault, Tess is too busy flirting with Rafe to do her fucking job. She acts like Anna is bothering her. She sees Anna as competition. She sees the victim of a sexual assault as unimportant. She is the epitome of the wrong character in the wrong position at the wrong time. Tess is ultimately the reason why I went from ‘I don’t like this book’ to ‘I hate this book’.
Chapter six is the best chapter. Rafe’s scrutiny over the situation and the reason why he’s so desperate to help Anna would have been an incredible dramatic reveal had the audience not been made previously aware. There’s a moderately calming scene where Rafe is combing through Anna’s hair, and I was convinced that I would be able to get through this book if there were more platonic scenes such as this one. This book hurts itself by striving for romance. The complexity of the situation that the two main character are in would flourish if their relationship was strictly platonic until maybe a few years after the events of this book.
However, chapter seven goes back to form. All of the reasons why I hate this book came crashing back. Anna is a weak character still. She sleeps in the same bed as Rafe, even though she believes that Tess is his girlfriend, and her character is fractured by this (even more so than before). Tess is the ultimate bitch again, but I begrudgingly have to give credit where credit is due. When Anna goes to talk to Tess about the sexual assault (a scene that was deceivingly satisfying), Tess once again seems disinterested in taking Anna’s case seriously (pissing me off entirely). Tess goes on to state, “I see rape victims...everyday...Most don’t come forward. Others, like you, come in too late then expect me to perform untold miracles in serving up justice. I am not a miracle worker” (52). This spiteful rant is actually incredibly disheartening but accurate. Tess ruins the effect by being bratty and immediately stating afterward that Rafe is hers and blah blah blah.
Rafe's story about what happened to him is incredibly interesting. I was honestly curious about how he took down the people who initiated his trauma and I would've loved if the novel revolved around him taking down Anna's abusers like thriller or action novel would. But again, this book strives to be romantic.
The good things about this novel are wrecked by the bad things about this novel. I did not enjoy reading this book, and I will never pick it up again.
January 7, 2018
A Time for Counseling
Heartaches throws plenty of light on the problem society and the justice system have with regard to rape victims. This story details the perfect scenario for creating a victim beginning with an abusive broken home, bullying at school, leading to low self-esteem. When a boy finally pays attention to Anna, it stands to reason she is more than ready to do anything to keep his affections. This story really drives home the importance of seeking therapy after traumatic events to prevent the continuation of bad and dangerous life choices.
Heartaches throws plenty of light on the problem society and the justice system have with regard to rape victims. This story details the perfect scenario for creating a victim beginning with an abusive broken home, bullying at school, leading to low self-esteem. When a boy finally pays attention to Anna, it stands to reason she is more than ready to do anything to keep his affections. This story really drives home the importance of seeking therapy after traumatic events to prevent the continuation of bad and dangerous life choices.
January 7, 2018
‘I turned to Eric, my leader. I sought his…forgiveness. He offered punishment. I took it.’
Author H.M. Irwing is a fine writer whose background remains anonymous even from combing the Internet sites under the name. There appears to be a hint on one site – two black and white photos of a very handsome young man that seem to be the author. But as Irwing states, ‘Do I have to be a man? Do I have to be a woman? Must I be a homo or a hetero? I write about the weak. Those of society who are abused everyday by a media who justifies their actions by being right. Right shifts with fad and fashion. The day will come when abusing anyone is never right. I won't live to see that ..’
And that is a fine prelude to reading the Bad Boy Vibes books. Yes, this will be considered by many to be Chick Lit as there is romance and passion and copious scenes of steamy erotica – all written very well indeed. But the difference is the fact that Irwing’s main characters are bruised by their pasts. Rape - individual and gang rape – play a significant role in this book, but that is not the driver: the point is finding solace and overcoming the past by finding a mate who will have a forgiving and understanding heart.
The synopsis outlines the basics - ‘Anna Simmons is a broken soul searching for meaning in her life. Shattered by a number of people she trusted, she was almost on the brink of utter despair when her savior came from an unlikely source. Rafe Brown, ex-army commando, returned to Australia from abroad with a soul fractured to splinters. Moving through life in an aimless search to seek retribution, he meets Anna and she happens to be what he needed but never expected. Love, lust and passion ignites but beneath it all, two soul unite forever.’
The shattering reality is that Rafe come into Anna’s life having been individually raped by his officer Eric in the military. But this important fact is well written by Irwing: ‘And Eric, like Anna, was willing to do anything to have him. But Rafe was hers now. Hers to keep. Hers to protect. She loved him. She would not fail him. She could not fail him. But Rafe was right, this wasn’t going to be easy. They really were up against this themselves. There was no one else they could turn to. Rafe clutched Anna tighter to him, wishing they could simply leave, take off to paths unknown; but he knew that was not an option. He owed it to all those men who died under his leadership, to see to it that Eric Dayton paid for his actions. He owed it to them. He owed it to Anna, who looked to him for protection, and he owed it to himself as well. He had turned to the army in hopes of bettering himself. Of escaping that ineffectual hopelessness he’d felt in being unable to save his mother or seek justice for her. But while he had served the first nine years relatively unharmed, doing his bid for his country, the last year had been hell. Being shattered and under Eric’s manipulative thumb had been soul destroying. It was knowing the men needed to be avenged, that he had a purpose beyond himself, that the darkness he was submersed in faded away to allow him to emerge. Renewed and vengeful. It was that that set him off on a collision path with Anna, and then meeting her gave him back to himself. With her he felt a sense of self-worth again that went beyond what was driven by a need for vengeance. With her he felt alive and a new need to continue amongst the living with her by his side. With her he could do and be anything. With her he felt loved. "Together," Anna whispered to Rafe. “We will do this together.”
And there is a subsequent book to follow. Rest assured that there is plenty of sexual play and the erotic scenes are well delivered. It is just that there is much more to these characters than the usual Chick Lit novel offers.
Author H.M. Irwing is a fine writer whose background remains anonymous even from combing the Internet sites under the name. There appears to be a hint on one site – two black and white photos of a very handsome young man that seem to be the author. But as Irwing states, ‘Do I have to be a man? Do I have to be a woman? Must I be a homo or a hetero? I write about the weak. Those of society who are abused everyday by a media who justifies their actions by being right. Right shifts with fad and fashion. The day will come when abusing anyone is never right. I won't live to see that ..’
And that is a fine prelude to reading the Bad Boy Vibes books. Yes, this will be considered by many to be Chick Lit as there is romance and passion and copious scenes of steamy erotica – all written very well indeed. But the difference is the fact that Irwing’s main characters are bruised by their pasts. Rape - individual and gang rape – play a significant role in this book, but that is not the driver: the point is finding solace and overcoming the past by finding a mate who will have a forgiving and understanding heart.
The synopsis outlines the basics - ‘Anna Simmons is a broken soul searching for meaning in her life. Shattered by a number of people she trusted, she was almost on the brink of utter despair when her savior came from an unlikely source. Rafe Brown, ex-army commando, returned to Australia from abroad with a soul fractured to splinters. Moving through life in an aimless search to seek retribution, he meets Anna and she happens to be what he needed but never expected. Love, lust and passion ignites but beneath it all, two soul unite forever.’
The shattering reality is that Rafe come into Anna’s life having been individually raped by his officer Eric in the military. But this important fact is well written by Irwing: ‘And Eric, like Anna, was willing to do anything to have him. But Rafe was hers now. Hers to keep. Hers to protect. She loved him. She would not fail him. She could not fail him. But Rafe was right, this wasn’t going to be easy. They really were up against this themselves. There was no one else they could turn to. Rafe clutched Anna tighter to him, wishing they could simply leave, take off to paths unknown; but he knew that was not an option. He owed it to all those men who died under his leadership, to see to it that Eric Dayton paid for his actions. He owed it to them. He owed it to Anna, who looked to him for protection, and he owed it to himself as well. He had turned to the army in hopes of bettering himself. Of escaping that ineffectual hopelessness he’d felt in being unable to save his mother or seek justice for her. But while he had served the first nine years relatively unharmed, doing his bid for his country, the last year had been hell. Being shattered and under Eric’s manipulative thumb had been soul destroying. It was knowing the men needed to be avenged, that he had a purpose beyond himself, that the darkness he was submersed in faded away to allow him to emerge. Renewed and vengeful. It was that that set him off on a collision path with Anna, and then meeting her gave him back to himself. With her he felt a sense of self-worth again that went beyond what was driven by a need for vengeance. With her he felt alive and a new need to continue amongst the living with her by his side. With her he could do and be anything. With her he felt loved. "Together," Anna whispered to Rafe. “We will do this together.”
And there is a subsequent book to follow. Rest assured that there is plenty of sexual play and the erotic scenes are well delivered. It is just that there is much more to these characters than the usual Chick Lit novel offers.
February 24, 2018
Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes by H.M. Irwing is an emotional roller coaster. It’s definitely not what I had expected from the title, and I’m actually glad for that. It’s not just another “girl falls for a bad boy who breaks her heart” kind of story, but an actual novel with emotional depth and enough twists and turns in the plot to keep the reader guessing what would happen next.
Admittedly, some of the twists are a little too sudden or coincidental for me, like in a soap opera. For example, I have a hard time believing that Anna would actually move in with Rafe when she first does. Still, these soap opera-esque moments are easily overridden by the development of Rafe and Anna’s relationship, just enough for me to suspend disbelief more than usual in order to finish reading this book.
The variety and psychological complexity of the characters really took me by surprise. I was glad to see that, while Anna felt defeated, she was not entirely a damsel-in-distress and was aware enough of her own inner workings to realize when something she was doing did not seem right. More importantly, Rafe’s storyline is not the typical “heroic male” story which often accompanies romance novels. You’ll have to read the book to know what I mean, but once you do, you’ll see why I think more thought has been put into this book than many romance novels.
Of course, this book discusses a subject which not every reader will be comfortable with: rape. For that reason, I must warn fellow readers that if you are triggered by that topic or are otherwise sensitive to it, you probably shouldn’t read this book. I don’t know exactly how individual people will react to it, so use your best judgment, but I thought it best to warn other readers in case it isn’t already clear what this book is about.
Overall, Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes is very emotional and exciting. It sometimes lags in the beginning, but these moments give way to moments highly-charged with tension and emotional peaks, so those little breaks should not bother most readers. At around 278 pages, give yourself plenty of time to read it, especially considering that these characters go through a lot and you might need to take breaks to recharge as you read about their turmoil. Also, if you’re an American reader, remember: this book takes place in Australia and is written in the Queen’s English, so you might not recognize all the phrases used—just relax and enjoy the ride!
Admittedly, some of the twists are a little too sudden or coincidental for me, like in a soap opera. For example, I have a hard time believing that Anna would actually move in with Rafe when she first does. Still, these soap opera-esque moments are easily overridden by the development of Rafe and Anna’s relationship, just enough for me to suspend disbelief more than usual in order to finish reading this book.
The variety and psychological complexity of the characters really took me by surprise. I was glad to see that, while Anna felt defeated, she was not entirely a damsel-in-distress and was aware enough of her own inner workings to realize when something she was doing did not seem right. More importantly, Rafe’s storyline is not the typical “heroic male” story which often accompanies romance novels. You’ll have to read the book to know what I mean, but once you do, you’ll see why I think more thought has been put into this book than many romance novels.
Of course, this book discusses a subject which not every reader will be comfortable with: rape. For that reason, I must warn fellow readers that if you are triggered by that topic or are otherwise sensitive to it, you probably shouldn’t read this book. I don’t know exactly how individual people will react to it, so use your best judgment, but I thought it best to warn other readers in case it isn’t already clear what this book is about.
Overall, Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes is very emotional and exciting. It sometimes lags in the beginning, but these moments give way to moments highly-charged with tension and emotional peaks, so those little breaks should not bother most readers. At around 278 pages, give yourself plenty of time to read it, especially considering that these characters go through a lot and you might need to take breaks to recharge as you read about their turmoil. Also, if you’re an American reader, remember: this book takes place in Australia and is written in the Queen’s English, so you might not recognize all the phrases used—just relax and enjoy the ride!
April 6, 2018
Love changes people, sometimes into a better person, sometimes into a monster. For both Rafe and Anna, it turned out to be the former, plucking them from the midst of self doubt and anxiety into acceptance of the way the world worked, readying them for fighting off the evil that continued to chase them with it's claws drawn out.
"Rafe's pain was oddly her own and in ways more than one."
Not late after Anna becomes an orphan at the age of eleven, her mother marries for a second time only to become a widow years later when her second husband's son Brian turns up on their door. He kill's his father and hands Anna to the Prestons allowing them to make her their sex toy. Anna finds herself slipping away from the woes of reality until Rafe helps her fight her demons. Rafe and Anna become a shield for each other, protecting one another from the people who brought misery and darkness into their lives.
"Perhaps a drastic change was exactly what was needed. A new name, a new identity. Heck even a new religion if it came to that. Eyeing Rafe now, she could see herself having no qualms in making him that religion."
The starting few pages of the book makes the reader feel as if they're reading something similar to the Fifty shades of grey, but as you turn the turn the pages, You'll find yourself thinking, Why is she doing that ? Why is she saying that ? You'll feel yourself screaming internally, pledging Anna to come to her senses and NOT feel the way she's feeling towards her rapists.
I'll rate this book 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐, because of a little BDSM kinda punishment stuff that in my opinion was not needed in the book, otherwise, H. M. Irwing captures the beauty of sentiments remarkably. Heartaches is not intended for readers under 18 years of age, as it deals with rape, depression and carnal desires. The book keeps getting better as you flip through the pages in a haze, desperate to know how will everything turn out for two lovers, who for the lack of a better phrase, stand against the world. My favorite part of the book was when atlast, Rafe and Anna gave in to their very obvious attractions towards each other and made out for the first time.
If you're looking for a steamy whirlwind of a romance with a tinge of mystery and a light sprinkling of humor, this is the book you want to grab next !

"Rafe's pain was oddly her own and in ways more than one."
Not late after Anna becomes an orphan at the age of eleven, her mother marries for a second time only to become a widow years later when her second husband's son Brian turns up on their door. He kill's his father and hands Anna to the Prestons allowing them to make her their sex toy. Anna finds herself slipping away from the woes of reality until Rafe helps her fight her demons. Rafe and Anna become a shield for each other, protecting one another from the people who brought misery and darkness into their lives.
"Perhaps a drastic change was exactly what was needed. A new name, a new identity. Heck even a new religion if it came to that. Eyeing Rafe now, she could see herself having no qualms in making him that religion."
The starting few pages of the book makes the reader feel as if they're reading something similar to the Fifty shades of grey, but as you turn the turn the pages, You'll find yourself thinking, Why is she doing that ? Why is she saying that ? You'll feel yourself screaming internally, pledging Anna to come to her senses and NOT feel the way she's feeling towards her rapists.
I'll rate this book 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐, because of a little BDSM kinda punishment stuff that in my opinion was not needed in the book, otherwise, H. M. Irwing captures the beauty of sentiments remarkably. Heartaches is not intended for readers under 18 years of age, as it deals with rape, depression and carnal desires. The book keeps getting better as you flip through the pages in a haze, desperate to know how will everything turn out for two lovers, who for the lack of a better phrase, stand against the world. My favorite part of the book was when atlast, Rafe and Anna gave in to their very obvious attractions towards each other and made out for the first time.
If you're looking for a steamy whirlwind of a romance with a tinge of mystery and a light sprinkling of humor, this is the book you want to grab next !

January 15, 2018
Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes written by H.M. Irwing is an amazing and different take on romance. Anna, the main character, has gone through hell. From dealing with an abusive step father, to dealing with an abusive and controlling step brother, and she endures some really horrible things in this book. I don’t want to give away a lot of this book, but it was a really good read. The author does a wonderful job with making the reader really feel for Anna and the other characters. I enjoyed this book but did find the graphic rape a little hard to handle. Those who have been through similar situations, may find it triggering. Overall the writing is smooth and is hard to put down. Anna is a very relatable character in regards to her insecurities about herself, even though she is described beautifully by the author… her insecurities brought on be her hard upbringing and horrible men in her life. Highly recommended for those who like a good romance with a really good story line. Extremely triggering for the rape scene though.
January 9, 2018
Heartaches is the first book of the Bad Boy Vibes series and introduces us to the main plot. For me it would be hard to categorize this book for although it is a romance it is also spun around a sensitive subject of sexual exploitation. The underlying theme of the book is grey and there is lots of negativity, but hope, compassion and fighter spirit stop it from being all black. There is also a message on how young girls could be emotionally exploited and fooled to take their advantage at a later stage. Although the book is a fiction, it looks close to reality and just anyone could be victimized in a similar fashion. Hence, young people could learn a lesson on protecting themselves and to trust their instincts and be strong in the face of unending darkness and hopelessness. To say more would act as a spoiler, but the book is definitely entertaining and engaging. I was unable to put down the book and immediately sought to read the sequel which was equally satisfying.
January 9, 2018
There’s more to this book than what the description, or the book cover, or the title gives you. It’s a lot more than a romance as it’s not light reading at all. There are some very strong - and graphic – scenes and a good story revolving around sexual abuse, trauma and many other situations and how that has a tremendous impact on the everyday choices that people make. To me, it’s an important reminder that no one can deal with this kind of drama on their one, burying it and trying to forget it. Seeking help is a must and therapy is quite important to break the cycle.
The story is strong and so are the characters. They are messy and complicated and have ups and downs, good and bad inside of them. Being like this makes them more relatable. Although fictional, there’s a lot in here that will speak close to the heart of the majority of readers. A very interesting book and definitely a “do not judge a book by his cover” case.
The story is strong and so are the characters. They are messy and complicated and have ups and downs, good and bad inside of them. Being like this makes them more relatable. Although fictional, there’s a lot in here that will speak close to the heart of the majority of readers. A very interesting book and definitely a “do not judge a book by his cover” case.
October 21, 2017
Sometimes a perfect love story isn’t pretty
Wow this book is intense from the beginning to the end! I will say if rape/abuse is a trigger for you, I don’t recommend this book, as the rape scene is very graphic as are the other abuse scenes. Outside of that, it’s a great story line, the characters are multi-dimensional and deep. It’s easy to start pulling for Rafe and Ana from the very beginning because of the pain they’ve been through. They deserve to find that lasting and true love and passion that they find in each other. They become a safe haven for one another, everyone needs that sometimes. I really wasn’t able to put the book down once I started reading, I had to know what happened next…. Would Ana stand up for herself, or run away with Rafe? Guess you’ll have to read the book to find out! I feel it was definitely worth the time!
Wow this book is intense from the beginning to the end! I will say if rape/abuse is a trigger for you, I don’t recommend this book, as the rape scene is very graphic as are the other abuse scenes. Outside of that, it’s a great story line, the characters are multi-dimensional and deep. It’s easy to start pulling for Rafe and Ana from the very beginning because of the pain they’ve been through. They deserve to find that lasting and true love and passion that they find in each other. They become a safe haven for one another, everyone needs that sometimes. I really wasn’t able to put the book down once I started reading, I had to know what happened next…. Would Ana stand up for herself, or run away with Rafe? Guess you’ll have to read the book to find out! I feel it was definitely worth the time!
January 9, 2018
It seems love works in very unusual ways, but the real lesson here is good things comes from awful things, you just have to keep moving forward.
This is a truly rare book, I started reading thinking it was a rather standardized romance story, but it turns out to be something else, something different and way too real. I’m not going to dig up into many details because in a fair scenario and for the benefit of the author, you need to read this without knowing anything, but let me tell you there is a truly powerful story waiting for you, and it comes with a lot of intense emotions and harsh truths about everything you think you know.
As I mentioned before, every obstacle, every struggle in life has a reward, but that reward also comes in unexpected ways, you only need to stand up for you and keep going, who knows, maybe love is the only reward.
This is a truly rare book, I started reading thinking it was a rather standardized romance story, but it turns out to be something else, something different and way too real. I’m not going to dig up into many details because in a fair scenario and for the benefit of the author, you need to read this without knowing anything, but let me tell you there is a truly powerful story waiting for you, and it comes with a lot of intense emotions and harsh truths about everything you think you know.
As I mentioned before, every obstacle, every struggle in life has a reward, but that reward also comes in unexpected ways, you only need to stand up for you and keep going, who knows, maybe love is the only reward.
January 12, 2018
H. M. Irwing’s, “Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes,” is honestly much more than a typical romance, which can get repetitive and boring. Irwing’s novel broaches more sensitive topics, such as sex and when an abuse of power comes into play, which is something that can be pushed aside and not seen as an issue. It is so nice to just be able to see a novel that is still enjoyable, but also seeks to teach a valuable lesson in the way the world works and how to combat it, which is something that many individuals with les experience could bear to learn. Anna and Rafe’s relationship is very symbiotic, in which they are both trying to help one another build to who they are meant to be, but in a supportive manner that is realistic to what a healthy relationship should be. I thought it was a very enjoyable book to read and I couldn’t put it down and am ready for the next installment.
January 13, 2018
Raw and honest emotion
Don't let the cover fool you. This book has romance and plenty of sexual tension, but it is also full of raw emotion. When it comes to the topic of rape, it does not hold back on feelings of guilt, shame, lack of self-confidence, and a struggle for power and control. Some parts shocked and made me wonder if it was a dream (or nightmare). For some people, a story about victims of sexual abuse is a tough one to read about. This one felt honest and open without losing a sense of hope and healing even though that journey is long. At times the thoughts were chaotic, but it reflected the character's emotion processing their own ordeal. Anna and Rafe have their own baggage, but they are the kind of couple that the reader wants to see get a happier ending. There is still more to come in the sequel because justice cannot be served in just one book.
Don't let the cover fool you. This book has romance and plenty of sexual tension, but it is also full of raw emotion. When it comes to the topic of rape, it does not hold back on feelings of guilt, shame, lack of self-confidence, and a struggle for power and control. Some parts shocked and made me wonder if it was a dream (or nightmare). For some people, a story about victims of sexual abuse is a tough one to read about. This one felt honest and open without losing a sense of hope and healing even though that journey is long. At times the thoughts were chaotic, but it reflected the character's emotion processing their own ordeal. Anna and Rafe have their own baggage, but they are the kind of couple that the reader wants to see get a happier ending. There is still more to come in the sequel because justice cannot be served in just one book.
January 21, 2018
I mistakenly read the second before the first bad boy vibes so I went back to the first for more! I found myself rooting for Anna and was totally interested in learning more about her backstory. Unlike many other romance type novels, Heartaches does not sugar coat anything and recognizes there is oftentimes a lot of hurt before you find something good. But even that could be putting it lightly. While heartaches does have a lot of romance type writing in it, the author does cover difficult topics that will leave you feeling less than steamy.
I would suggest this book for someone looking for something a bit deeper than a romance book. But I also would warn someone who experiences sexual assault or harassment triggers that this may not be the best book for you.
I would suggest this book for someone looking for something a bit deeper than a romance book. But I also would warn someone who experiences sexual assault or harassment triggers that this may not be the best book for you.
March 2, 2018
Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes by H.M. Irwing tells the romantic tales of Anna Simmons who has been unlucky in love and needing and wanting something to new to prove that they all are not the same and Rafe Brown an ex-army commando who is broken and needing someone to believe in.
Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes tells a very interesting story that was well written and an emotional accurate read. There were stories within the story that made for a very interesting read and the sex scenes were very evident and tastefully written. This story was like my favorite soap opera with your favorite couple. I am a fan of romance and this body of work satisfied my craving and then some. I am off to read part 2 and give this book four stars.
Reviewed by Kisha Green for Literary Jewels
Format: Kindle
Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes tells a very interesting story that was well written and an emotional accurate read. There were stories within the story that made for a very interesting read and the sex scenes were very evident and tastefully written. This story was like my favorite soap opera with your favorite couple. I am a fan of romance and this body of work satisfied my craving and then some. I am off to read part 2 and give this book four stars.
Reviewed by Kisha Green for Literary Jewels
Format: Kindle
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2018
When I pick up this book, I originally thought it would be the usual cheesy love story. Was I ever wrong. Anna, our main character isn’t some midlife divorcee ready for action, there is so much heart break and pain to her story. Broken home, sexual abuse and what every woman encounters; low self-esteem are what makes this so relatable.
Along comes Rafe Brown, having gone through some of the same pain, they team up to right some of the wrongs that have happened to them.
I don’t want to tell too much but if your stomach is strong (graphic rape) then I would recommend Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes. I was surprised at how much this wasn’t the book to judge by the cover.
Along comes Rafe Brown, having gone through some of the same pain, they team up to right some of the wrongs that have happened to them.
I don’t want to tell too much but if your stomach is strong (graphic rape) then I would recommend Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes. I was surprised at how much this wasn’t the book to judge by the cover.
October 21, 2017
Wow, this book was not what I expected. It is a raw, emotional story that tugs at your heart. The main characters- Rafe and Ana- have been through a LOT. Both live separate lives that in no way parallel each other expect for the pain that they have each had to deal with. Some of the abuse scenes are graphic, so prepare yourself, but it adds to the intensity of the book. I had a hard time putting it down, and the characters are well-developed as they discover not only each other but themselves.
December 19, 2017
This was a really intense book and I enjoyed it very much. It is not just a light read, it also gets into socially important issues and interesting psychological effects of trauma. This is the matching of two wounded souls who heal one another. Interestingly, what makes Rafe and Anna so perfect for one another is that their souls have exactly the same scars. You need to be going through the same pain to recognize it another. And this is what happens when Rafe meets Anna. In the end, they learn to trust not just one another but also themselves. This is a journey of self-empowerment and love.
January 8, 2018
A story of an abused young lady looking for love
The author of this story jumps to the pages of current issues in society today. This is a story of a girl who has been through a traumatic life and seeks to be loved. She finds another traumatic event involving a gang rape while drugged. This story will hit home for many survivors out there. Graphic content and serious life issues are taking on in this story. Good presentation and very descriptive. Check out this one for a view into this type of thing that happens all the time in today's world.
The author of this story jumps to the pages of current issues in society today. This is a story of a girl who has been through a traumatic life and seeks to be loved. She finds another traumatic event involving a gang rape while drugged. This story will hit home for many survivors out there. Graphic content and serious life issues are taking on in this story. Good presentation and very descriptive. Check out this one for a view into this type of thing that happens all the time in today's world.
May 23, 2018
Steamy!
The way this book started I wasn’t expecting the events that would unfold. I couldn’t put this book down until I finished reading the entire book. There are some very erotic sex scenes that were a little too much for me. This is actually a love story between two people that have experienced similar pain, and find each other and vow to save one another. I like the strength the main characters are able to show to help one another, while yet battling the demons of their individual situations. I look forward to reading part two!
The way this book started I wasn’t expecting the events that would unfold. I couldn’t put this book down until I finished reading the entire book. There are some very erotic sex scenes that were a little too much for me. This is actually a love story between two people that have experienced similar pain, and find each other and vow to save one another. I like the strength the main characters are able to show to help one another, while yet battling the demons of their individual situations. I look forward to reading part two!
December 25, 2017
To say that I continue to enjoy reading books by H.M. Irwing is an understatement it would be. She continues to grab me with every book I read. This is no exception. Anna and Rafe are two characters that you want to persevere. They both have had difficulties that no one would wish or want however you read on to see how they react. You continue because all though not all books can have happy endings you want Anna and Rafe to have their happy ending.
January 16, 2018
An emotional, romantic novel filled with emotions, unexpected events, surprise, depression, support, love, and revenge and get up and face the challenge. The story of two individuals who come together in unusual circumstances and then unite to fight an unwanted battle. It’s a roller-coaster of emotions and at times touches the heart.
May 31, 2018
This book was so much better than I originally thought. Anna and Rafe are both very well developed, and are meant for each other. The descriptions were really well. However, I must give a trigger warning for the rape scenes that are included, definitely not for young readers.
January 4, 2019
Overall, Anna and Rafe's journey is compelling. I finished it in nearly one sitting. This book is a good fit for those who enjoy a dark romance. The story-line, however, could have an adverse effect on those sensitive to sexual violence. Both main characters are victims, with the subject matter described in full.
While attending a vocational college, Anna feels like an outsider. She begins dating Matt Preston, and he makes her feel less like an outcast. Six months after their relationship begins, the couple attends a rave with Matt's brother Jason. Dosing Anna with an aphrodisiac date drug, the Preston brothers rape her, take her home, and continue the act with their father.
The assault on Anna comes out of nowhere. The scene begins to play out like an exhibitionist threesome. When it is clear the brothers drugged, and are violating Anna, the sensuality still lingers. I don't mind erotica, I prefer it to the euphemisms in other novels, but the narrative here was uncomfortable. If the author's purpose was to place the reader in the lead's shoes, bravo to the method, it worked well. I understand how making the reader experience both passion, and degradation in the act could help them empathize. I know taboo fantasies exist, but a deed this far from the safe zone isn't anything but distressing.
Anna isolates herself for weeks. Hoping to coax her out of the house, her mother takes Anna to see some old family friends. During the outing, Anna and Rafe reconnect. Her behavior indicates to him she is an abuse survivor. When questioned, Anna shares with him details of her attack. Rafe promises to help her receive legal justice, something he never had after his sexual violation.
Tess, who heads the police investigation, treats Anna like she doesn't deserve support or due process. She doesn't care about Anna, which draws Anna deeper into her anguish. Even though Rafe has no interest in her, Tess acts like a jealous girlfriend. If nothing else, the way Tess treats Anna is unprofessional. When not behaving like Anna is a threat to her romance, Tess belittles her. It is infuriating, and her character's actions are appalling.
Hired on at a military school several hours away, Rafe asks Anna go with him to make a new start. She agrees, eager to put her ordeal behind her. Anna, with Rafe close by, feels safe as she learns to defend herself. From the beginning, it is clear Anna and Rafe have strong feelings for one another. The lust Anna continues to have for the Prestons prevents her from being honest with Rafe.
A few weeks later, Matt and Jason enroll in the military school. Anna rushes to Rafe, explaining her belief that if they are together, she will no longer feel any desire for the Prestons. Anna's thoughts on the matter are reasonable, but perhaps not healthy. Rafe is in no position to give her the mental peace she needs. He can barely keep his own emotions in check. They begin a string of sexual encounters as angry as they are passionate.
Rafe's abuser arrives at the school as well. His superior during his tour in Syria, Eric seems determined to keep Rafe under his thrall. Eric desires Rafe, and he won't give him up peacefully. With Eric's declaration of this to Anna, the book ends.
Written in a third person omniscient point of view, it is insightful seeing inside Anna and Rafe's psyche. However, at times, their thoughts become jumbled, and it is hard to tell one from the other. I was still able to enjoy the book, despite the occasional confusion. The Heartache novels contain a continuing narrative. I find myself curious to see how the relationship turns out, and anticipate continuing with the series.
While attending a vocational college, Anna feels like an outsider. She begins dating Matt Preston, and he makes her feel less like an outcast. Six months after their relationship begins, the couple attends a rave with Matt's brother Jason. Dosing Anna with an aphrodisiac date drug, the Preston brothers rape her, take her home, and continue the act with their father.
The assault on Anna comes out of nowhere. The scene begins to play out like an exhibitionist threesome. When it is clear the brothers drugged, and are violating Anna, the sensuality still lingers. I don't mind erotica, I prefer it to the euphemisms in other novels, but the narrative here was uncomfortable. If the author's purpose was to place the reader in the lead's shoes, bravo to the method, it worked well. I understand how making the reader experience both passion, and degradation in the act could help them empathize. I know taboo fantasies exist, but a deed this far from the safe zone isn't anything but distressing.
Anna isolates herself for weeks. Hoping to coax her out of the house, her mother takes Anna to see some old family friends. During the outing, Anna and Rafe reconnect. Her behavior indicates to him she is an abuse survivor. When questioned, Anna shares with him details of her attack. Rafe promises to help her receive legal justice, something he never had after his sexual violation.
Tess, who heads the police investigation, treats Anna like she doesn't deserve support or due process. She doesn't care about Anna, which draws Anna deeper into her anguish. Even though Rafe has no interest in her, Tess acts like a jealous girlfriend. If nothing else, the way Tess treats Anna is unprofessional. When not behaving like Anna is a threat to her romance, Tess belittles her. It is infuriating, and her character's actions are appalling.
Hired on at a military school several hours away, Rafe asks Anna go with him to make a new start. She agrees, eager to put her ordeal behind her. Anna, with Rafe close by, feels safe as she learns to defend herself. From the beginning, it is clear Anna and Rafe have strong feelings for one another. The lust Anna continues to have for the Prestons prevents her from being honest with Rafe.
A few weeks later, Matt and Jason enroll in the military school. Anna rushes to Rafe, explaining her belief that if they are together, she will no longer feel any desire for the Prestons. Anna's thoughts on the matter are reasonable, but perhaps not healthy. Rafe is in no position to give her the mental peace she needs. He can barely keep his own emotions in check. They begin a string of sexual encounters as angry as they are passionate.
Rafe's abuser arrives at the school as well. His superior during his tour in Syria, Eric seems determined to keep Rafe under his thrall. Eric desires Rafe, and he won't give him up peacefully. With Eric's declaration of this to Anna, the book ends.
Written in a third person omniscient point of view, it is insightful seeing inside Anna and Rafe's psyche. However, at times, their thoughts become jumbled, and it is hard to tell one from the other. I was still able to enjoy the book, despite the occasional confusion. The Heartache novels contain a continuing narrative. I find myself curious to see how the relationship turns out, and anticipate continuing with the series.
January 1, 2020
Heartaches by HM Irwing is a disturbingly compelling book. I was honestly shocked after the horror our heroine suffered in the prologue and worried after chapter 1 but renewed upon meeting our hero in chapter 2, no he is not perfect but nobody is. Rafe Brown embodies a good man, strong, not just physically but emotionally; everyone has a past. It's how one uses this going forward, to make a difference. If not to affect just one person but hopefully many, in a positive way.
I give this book 4 stars out of 4, let me be frank this book is not for the feigned of heart. The book is very well written and I was astounded to find only 2 typos, which is why I gave it the full rating. I do not recommend anyone under 16 read this book. This book has strong language in the first chapter, including erotic scenes that I would rate at a level 1, again in the first chapter. It then takes a disturbing twist by chapter 3 as the first rape scene takes place. It is written graphically and rather erotically as poor Anna is confused by the sensations. Does she like it even though her body responds? But she didn't ask for this? And yet she didn't say no. I almost stopped reading the book after this. My heart ached for poor Anna.
After a day or so reprieve I decided to finish the book, it isn't called Heartaches for no reason. Our author has a story to tell and I believe in happy endings. Chapter 2 gives us a glimpse at our hero, that he has a past as well; maybe the two can help one another. In chapter 4 Anna meets Rafe and puts her trust in him, only to be let down again by the world. There seems to be no justice for Anna but Rafe is there for her and the pair decide to start a new life, in a new city. We meet new characters and Anna develops new friendships and her character grows into a wonderful, confidant woman.
As Anna's character grows so does her infatuation with Rafe. Although he is not immune to her he fears his own emotional baggage. Rafe does not feel worthy of her love and so our own heartache grows as we read about his betrayal. The two are connected in more ways than one. But it is Anna who stands up for her man! She convinces him to fight together, as one.
As I stated previously, I was dismayed at the beginning of this book due to the eroticized rape and drugging of the victims but I cannot wait to read the second book in the series. I am invested in these characters and I feel certain my happy ending is coming.
I give this book 4 stars out of 4, let me be frank this book is not for the feigned of heart. The book is very well written and I was astounded to find only 2 typos, which is why I gave it the full rating. I do not recommend anyone under 16 read this book. This book has strong language in the first chapter, including erotic scenes that I would rate at a level 1, again in the first chapter. It then takes a disturbing twist by chapter 3 as the first rape scene takes place. It is written graphically and rather erotically as poor Anna is confused by the sensations. Does she like it even though her body responds? But she didn't ask for this? And yet she didn't say no. I almost stopped reading the book after this. My heart ached for poor Anna.
After a day or so reprieve I decided to finish the book, it isn't called Heartaches for no reason. Our author has a story to tell and I believe in happy endings. Chapter 2 gives us a glimpse at our hero, that he has a past as well; maybe the two can help one another. In chapter 4 Anna meets Rafe and puts her trust in him, only to be let down again by the world. There seems to be no justice for Anna but Rafe is there for her and the pair decide to start a new life, in a new city. We meet new characters and Anna develops new friendships and her character grows into a wonderful, confidant woman.
As Anna's character grows so does her infatuation with Rafe. Although he is not immune to her he fears his own emotional baggage. Rafe does not feel worthy of her love and so our own heartache grows as we read about his betrayal. The two are connected in more ways than one. But it is Anna who stands up for her man! She convinces him to fight together, as one.
As I stated previously, I was dismayed at the beginning of this book due to the eroticized rape and drugging of the victims but I cannot wait to read the second book in the series. I am invested in these characters and I feel certain my happy ending is coming.
January 12, 2019
Heartaches is a story of love and healing. Anna and Rafe have had their share of heartaches, past, and present. Anna's home life isn't great, so when she meets Matt it's like a light at the end of a dark tunnel. Her prince charming turns into a monster who takes advantage of her in the worst way.
Rafe is not that different. He is raped and betrayed while serving in Syria. He decides to return home. On his first encounter with Anna, he recognizes in her the same scars he bears. Together they seek out a new beginning and justice.
This is a beautiful and unique story. It is set in Australia which was a first for me. The story starts well, but the plot gets a bit confusing in the middle. I love the romance genre, so I was sad the book was such a disappointment. The depth that the plot should have had is not there. The characters aren't developed well. It was a struggle to finish the book. The optimist in me wouldn't let me give up on the story half way.
The book highlighted something so important like the flaws in our justice system in regard to rape victims. That message gets muddled because the reader is getting lost in how much of a let down the story really is. Overall, I would rate the book one out of five stars.
Rafe is not that different. He is raped and betrayed while serving in Syria. He decides to return home. On his first encounter with Anna, he recognizes in her the same scars he bears. Together they seek out a new beginning and justice.
This is a beautiful and unique story. It is set in Australia which was a first for me. The story starts well, but the plot gets a bit confusing in the middle. I love the romance genre, so I was sad the book was such a disappointment. The depth that the plot should have had is not there. The characters aren't developed well. It was a struggle to finish the book. The optimist in me wouldn't let me give up on the story half way.
The book highlighted something so important like the flaws in our justice system in regard to rape victims. That message gets muddled because the reader is getting lost in how much of a let down the story really is. Overall, I would rate the book one out of five stars.
January 11, 2018
Night will fall no matter how much you wish it wouldn’t, and then comes the nightmares. They united simply to see the night through. Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes may be an erotic romance, but the unusual circumstances and sensitive issues make this a hard novel to swallow if you are familiar with someone who has been drugged and raped. The depression, guilt, and mixed emotions can be shocking, there is also the chance if the person has to deal with this alone, or is misunderstood, or even doubted.
Anna and Rafael became a sort of refuge and strength for each other after experiencing a similar, traumatic event. The old saying, “you will surely find what you ran away from waiting at your next stop” became true for Anna and Rafael when they left her assailants’ for military school. The man who instigated Rafe’s rape was behind multiple drug trials and abuse that they both had to decide to go or fight a battle they probably will not win.
Anna and Rafael became a sort of refuge and strength for each other after experiencing a similar, traumatic event. The old saying, “you will surely find what you ran away from waiting at your next stop” became true for Anna and Rafael when they left her assailants’ for military school. The man who instigated Rafe’s rape was behind multiple drug trials and abuse that they both had to decide to go or fight a battle they probably will not win.
January 12, 2018
“Heartaches 1 Bad Boy Vibes” has a very serious storyline that holds your attention from the prologue. There is emotional pain laid out for all to see as Anna struggles with her self-esteem after she was badly abused. The storyline could be about a true-to-life experience that happens to a lot of persons and is heavy stuff to use as a central theme in this novel.
However I found the delivery distracting as there is need for more editing. The sentences are too complicated and stilted and try to cram too many words. After additional editing I believe this story will have more shine as it has a very intense plot.
However I found the delivery distracting as there is need for more editing. The sentences are too complicated and stilted and try to cram too many words. After additional editing I believe this story will have more shine as it has a very intense plot.
March 9, 2018
I feel this needs editing, a lot of editing.
I know my grasp on commas is slippery at best and although I try my best, I will probably never be at the par excellence level in English that I would like to be but the sentence structure and idioms and overall use of language in here, was amazingly bad.
But leaving that all aside, I have a feeling that this does not deter readers who just want graphic sex scenes...
https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
I know my grasp on commas is slippery at best and although I try my best, I will probably never be at the par excellence level in English that I would like to be but the sentence structure and idioms and overall use of language in here, was amazingly bad.
But leaving that all aside, I have a feeling that this does not deter readers who just want graphic sex scenes...
https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
March 15, 2018
I liked where the plot and story line was going in this book. Unfortunately, the detail wasn't there and the writing was extremely difficult to read. There were multiple rapes in this book if that is a trigger for you too. It also isn't the complete story and ends on a cliff hanger. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone.
February 25, 2019
Spoilers!!
I wished I liked this book but I absolutely hated it!! It just seemed so far fetched to me.l and it is extremely dark. The rape scenes are incredibly graphic. So the plot itself is horrible, Anna and Rafe have both suffered from rapes. It turns out that it is the same “group” of predators. Rafe suffers from essentially the leader of this powers group across the world in syria while serving in the military. Anna is attacked in her town by the aquatints of the leader. Anna and Rafe find each other at a funeral, it just unrealistic.
Rafe is made out to be incredibly strong and on a mission is to bring the people responsible down and expose all the secrets that are being hidden throughout the military post in Syria. However he cowers when confronted by the person responsible and allows himself to be toyed in front of Anna. He was so weak and completely opposite of his character leading up to those moments.
Anna honestly added a whole new meaning to the weak female, she makes the decision to go and seek help in her enemy who is also suffering at their abusers hands. Finding the strength to face all of them and start the process of taking them down. Finally finding her strength but then allows herself to be placed into the same situation without even muttering a word in front of a room full of students while she’s being abused! I really just couldn’t handle it.
I loved the love between Anna and Rafe. I loved how he was building her up and helping her find her strength. I shocked and saddened by the way he then loses all of his will power and strength rather than standing up for himself. I will obviously not be continuing on with the series.
I wished I liked this book but I absolutely hated it!! It just seemed so far fetched to me.l and it is extremely dark. The rape scenes are incredibly graphic. So the plot itself is horrible, Anna and Rafe have both suffered from rapes. It turns out that it is the same “group” of predators. Rafe suffers from essentially the leader of this powers group across the world in syria while serving in the military. Anna is attacked in her town by the aquatints of the leader. Anna and Rafe find each other at a funeral, it just unrealistic.
Rafe is made out to be incredibly strong and on a mission is to bring the people responsible down and expose all the secrets that are being hidden throughout the military post in Syria. However he cowers when confronted by the person responsible and allows himself to be toyed in front of Anna. He was so weak and completely opposite of his character leading up to those moments.
Anna honestly added a whole new meaning to the weak female, she makes the decision to go and seek help in her enemy who is also suffering at their abusers hands. Finding the strength to face all of them and start the process of taking them down. Finally finding her strength but then allows herself to be placed into the same situation without even muttering a word in front of a room full of students while she’s being abused! I really just couldn’t handle it.
I loved the love between Anna and Rafe. I loved how he was building her up and helping her find her strength. I shocked and saddened by the way he then loses all of his will power and strength rather than standing up for himself. I will obviously not be continuing on with the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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