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Defiance #1
Abandoned Heart
Can she trust the men promising to save her?
"Just because one of you carries his scars on the outside, doesn't mean that the rest of you don't have them. Unbroken people don't live in a house together with their colleagues. They have lives, families. They don't take in strays."
Emily never expected to find herself on the street and looking for a place to stay. A park bench doesn't seem very inviting in the depths of winter.
Her luck changes when a mysterious stranger offers her shelter. It seems too good to be true, and when she meets his other two house mates, she starts to question if he's the good Samaritan he seems to be.
Staying means things she couldn't even dream of, but could mean a broken heart if the dream shatters. Going means facing the dangers of the winter streets. Can she make the impossible choice? And will she make the right one?
A contemporary reverse harem set in Edinburgh, Scotland featuring a strong and independent heroine, three charismatic men, spies (although they don't like that word) fighting organised crime, very steamy scenes and nail-biting action.
There are some scenes that readers may find triggering.
This is a full-length, standalone novel that's part of the Defiance
Three books, three women, three real-life stories. These dark contemporary reverse harem romances can be read individually or as part of the series. They are loosely connected by side characters and settings, but they each have a different heroine, theme and love interests.
Frozen HeartBroken SpiritStolen Soul (coming soon)
skyemackinnon.com/defiance
"Just because one of you carries his scars on the outside, doesn't mean that the rest of you don't have them. Unbroken people don't live in a house together with their colleagues. They have lives, families. They don't take in strays."
Emily never expected to find herself on the street and looking for a place to stay. A park bench doesn't seem very inviting in the depths of winter.
Her luck changes when a mysterious stranger offers her shelter. It seems too good to be true, and when she meets his other two house mates, she starts to question if he's the good Samaritan he seems to be.
Staying means things she couldn't even dream of, but could mean a broken heart if the dream shatters. Going means facing the dangers of the winter streets. Can she make the impossible choice? And will she make the right one?
A contemporary reverse harem set in Edinburgh, Scotland featuring a strong and independent heroine, three charismatic men, spies (although they don't like that word) fighting organised crime, very steamy scenes and nail-biting action.
There are some scenes that readers may find triggering.
This is a full-length, standalone novel that's part of the Defiance
Three books, three women, three real-life stories. These dark contemporary reverse harem romances can be read individually or as part of the series. They are loosely connected by side characters and settings, but they each have a different heroine, theme and love interests.
Frozen HeartBroken SpiritStolen Soul (coming soon)
skyemackinnon.com/defiance
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2018
166 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Skye MacKinnon
236 books925 followersSkye MacKinnon is a USA Today & International Bestselling Author whose books are filled with strong heroines who don't have to choose.
She embraces her Scottishness with fantastical Scottish settings and a dash of mythology, no matter if she's writing about Celtic gods, cat shifters, or the streets of Edinburgh.
When she's not typing away at her favourite cafe, Skye loves dried mango, as much exotic tea as she can squeeze into her cupboards, and being covered in pet hair by her tiny black cat (who's secretly a demon).
Join her mailing list ➜ http://skyemackinnon.com/newsletter
Join her Facebook group ➜ facebook.com/groups/skyesbookharem
Visit her website ➜ skyemackinnon.com
Follow her on Twitter ➜ twitter.com/skye_mackinnon
Follow her on Instagram➜ instagram.com/skyemackinnonauthor
She embraces her Scottishness with fantastical Scottish settings and a dash of mythology, no matter if she's writing about Celtic gods, cat shifters, or the streets of Edinburgh.
When she's not typing away at her favourite cafe, Skye loves dried mango, as much exotic tea as she can squeeze into her cupboards, and being covered in pet hair by her tiny black cat (who's secretly a demon).
Join her mailing list ➜ http://skyemackinnon.com/newsletter
Join her Facebook group ➜ facebook.com/groups/skyesbookharem
Visit her website ➜ skyemackinnon.com
Follow her on Twitter ➜ twitter.com/skye_mackinnon
Follow her on Instagram➜ instagram.com/skyemackinnonauthor
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 23, 2021
3.7 stars. I enjoyed it a lot and found it very cute with the protective reverse harem. However I feelt like the characters wasn't fleshed out enough and wanted more development in that sense. It's part of a series but next book is about another woman and her reverse harem. Will continue it as I did find it very readable I just wished for a bit more.
August 25, 2018
This is an awesome contemporary romance that had me hooked from page one
Emily, through no real fault of her own, ends up living on the streets, she trusts no-one so when a mysterious stranger tries to help her she runs away
But things get worse for her and when her mysterious stranger saves her and takes her back to his, where he lives with his two friends she has no choice but to try and trust someone
Well written, you can sympathise with Emily and feel her pain, I could not put this beautiful book down and highly recommend this book to everyone and I am looking forward to hopefully a book two
Emily, through no real fault of her own, ends up living on the streets, she trusts no-one so when a mysterious stranger tries to help her she runs away
But things get worse for her and when her mysterious stranger saves her and takes her back to his, where he lives with his two friends she has no choice but to try and trust someone
Well written, you can sympathise with Emily and feel her pain, I could not put this beautiful book down and highly recommend this book to everyone and I am looking forward to hopefully a book two
March 7, 2019
Tanto la historia como los personajes tienen muchísimo potencial, pero no sabe aprovecharlo.
La prosa, los diálogos y la forma de desarrollar tanto los protagonistas como la trama es sumamente infantil. No profundiza para nada y acabas con la sensación de que ridiculiza tanto a los sin techo como a los espías , ni siquiera la relación amorosa tiene fuerza (eso sí, todo lo solucionan con un kiki... o más).
Vamos, un sin sentido QUE SE LEE DE UN TIRÓN pero que está totalmente desaprovechado
La prosa, los diálogos y la forma de desarrollar tanto los protagonistas como la trama es sumamente infantil. No profundiza para nada y acabas con la sensación de que ridiculiza tanto a los sin techo como a los espías , ni siquiera la relación amorosa tiene fuerza (eso sí, todo lo solucionan con un kiki... o más).
Vamos, un sin sentido QUE SE LEE DE UN TIRÓN pero que está totalmente desaprovechado
June 9, 2020
This was a good story. I wasn’t drawn to the characters as much as I wanted to be. But I still wanted to see the outcome. Loved the reverse harem aspect. I liked the plot. It was interesting.
December 8, 2023
I have a hard time respecting a group of Secret Service men who have their home broken into not once, but twice. The first one because they didn’t ever think to put in security measures, and the second one because if the ones they did install worked, we would have been tragically robbed of another opportunity to see the heroine victimized.
There is also the unfortunate dissonance of these characters being richer than Scrooge McDuck and limiting their help to the homeless community to donations and cooking. Why not use that endless money to build new shelters, free of the many issues the heroine is intimately familiar with? Or donate enough to make sure the existing ones have enough resources to make sure no one is ever left out to spend the night outside, again? Fuck’s sake.
Kyo Sija is a good narrator but tragically wasted on these books.
ETA:
The heroine:
Also the heroine:
🙄
There is also the unfortunate dissonance of these characters being richer than Scrooge McDuck and limiting their help to the homeless community to donations and cooking. Why not use that endless money to build new shelters, free of the many issues the heroine is intimately familiar with? Or donate enough to make sure the existing ones have enough resources to make sure no one is ever left out to spend the night outside, again? Fuck’s sake.
Kyo Sija is a good narrator but tragically wasted on these books.
ETA:
The heroine:
I'm not a gamer and I'm not on any social networks.
Also the heroine:
Alistair showed me some of his favourite video games too, but quickly got frustrated at being beaten by me.
🙄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2018
Unrealistic. A girl that gets assaulted then is kissing new strangers within a couple of days.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2020
Ew... This book is a walking cliche from start to end, she is completely inconsistent and a completely pushover. They wanted her to work for them because she can ‘handle’ herself? Yeah, no. She couldn’t even handle a door let alone anything else. She picks the dumbest place to hide and then when the bad guys find her she puts up no real fight even though she had her crutches with her and we were told she can swing a mean punch.
The author is also extremely repetitive, I can’t tell you how many times we were told she’s homeless in the first few chapters. Over and over and over again, that’s all I can remember from the start of the book.
I genuinely like the guys but for me personally with what we(the readers) know what has happened to the mc (or what gets implied has happened with the mc) she trusts the guys way to easily.
The pacing is also wack in this book, moments that should get drawn out and take longer are rushed but the things you want to happen quickly takes way to long to explain.
Even though I like the guys I don’t particularly care what happens to any of the characters. Would not recommend.
The author is also extremely repetitive, I can’t tell you how many times we were told she’s homeless in the first few chapters. Over and over and over again, that’s all I can remember from the start of the book.
I genuinely like the guys but for me personally with what we(the readers) know what has happened to the mc (or what gets implied has happened with the mc) she trusts the guys way to easily.
The pacing is also wack in this book, moments that should get drawn out and take longer are rushed but the things you want to happen quickly takes way to long to explain.
Even though I like the guys I don’t particularly care what happens to any of the characters. Would not recommend.
August 25, 2018
Worth More Than Five Measly Stars!
Oh my this book was totally awesome I absolutely loved it!
Skye Mackinnon is definitely one talented story weaving genius because she had me hooked before I had even finished the first paragraph of this book.
So if you are searching for a book that’s sweet, steamy and full of surprises well then this is definitely the book for you.
So yes if you haven’t figured it out that was a very big hint that yes I do recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for a fantastic story to crawl into and get lost within its pages!
Oh my this book was totally awesome I absolutely loved it!
Skye Mackinnon is definitely one talented story weaving genius because she had me hooked before I had even finished the first paragraph of this book.
So if you are searching for a book that’s sweet, steamy and full of surprises well then this is definitely the book for you.
So yes if you haven’t figured it out that was a very big hint that yes I do recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for a fantastic story to crawl into and get lost within its pages!
April 23, 2023
I admit it has so.e cute aspects but overall the violence in the book doesn't connect it make sense.
And there feels like there is a HUGE missing chapter of character development.
And honestly readers, be prepared for the most unluckiest woman on the planet.
I don't think I am interested in moving forward but it was ok. Just not for me.
And there feels like there is a HUGE missing chapter of character development.
And honestly readers, be prepared for the most unluckiest woman on the planet.
I don't think I am interested in moving forward but it was ok. Just not for me.
September 17, 2018
Needs more
For the length it is, its not bad, but it needs more flushing out. The main character is strong enough, although I question her homelessness. Maybe that's just because I'm not familiar enough with the issue but she had two friends willing and able to give her a place to stay yet she opted for The streets not to inconvenience them. I also tripped up a little bit on Em jumping back and forth between considering she would stay in a hostile and two sentences later saying she didn't even have enough money for a cup of tea. This came up several times during her internal monologue. Its a continuity error, and a minor one, but it pulled me from The story , and she a story is this short I don't think there should be any continuity errors. The jump to the sex and group sex at that happens REALLY quickly, I mean that was some hug. Also, once the sex happens it just keeps happening in contradiction to other events in the story that would at least physically preclude that from happening. And on a realistic front you don't have the second attack happen and then say hey let's try that for the first time. (You will know what I mean when it happens). Writing it that way just made the sex feel gratuitous and like that was the focus of the story. Some people are only here for the sex, I prefer it to be secondary and and not take away from the story. It crossed he line into taking away.
Second complaint. We don't know much about the guys, which makes sense at first, but by the end that reason is gone. At least there is a mention of why Ben and So are the way they are, but nothing is explained for Lou. We also don't get any of Em's back story beyond some real surface basics. Spoilers ahead. We know the Em has an abusive ex and was kicked out of her family, and at one point they reference it being rough, but that doesn't match with her posh English accent, even though she also makes it sound like she grew up in Edinburgh when they are discussing or maybe at the zoo. She also apparently had a lot of violin lessons and considered going pro, which doesn't jive with a kid from a rough home life who was kicked in at 16 and paid her own way through college. Also, Em, who spends much of the book bemoaning how she doesn't have any friends because she let her ex isolate her never gets any friends and is.still isolated.
Then there is the guys. All we know about Ben is he grew up with vegan parents , likes long bow archery, and his sister was an addict living on the streets, oh as he and the guys all accidentally dated the same girl. None of that is expounded upon. There isn't a touching scene where Ben talks about finding her body of identifying her at the morgue or being out on assignments and didn't know she was addicted and on the streets. What if his parents? Are they alive? Did he have a good childhood? Al shared Ben's gf, plays violin, is off about his book arrangement, plays music, inherited a house, and his mom has some sort of dementia but we only know those details as they were basically bullet pointed out for us. Again no heart to heart scenes of character building. And then Lou, his dad owned a restaurant and shared girl friend. That's it. That is all we know. What is Lot's trauma? How did the guys meet? How did they become spies? Did they all break at the same time or did they break one by one only to be out back together by Em? Where is their ex? Is she.coming back to make trouble? What about Jess? And these are.only a few of the questions I have.
For the length it is, its not bad, but it needs more flushing out. The main character is strong enough, although I question her homelessness. Maybe that's just because I'm not familiar enough with the issue but she had two friends willing and able to give her a place to stay yet she opted for The streets not to inconvenience them. I also tripped up a little bit on Em jumping back and forth between considering she would stay in a hostile and two sentences later saying she didn't even have enough money for a cup of tea. This came up several times during her internal monologue. Its a continuity error, and a minor one, but it pulled me from The story , and she a story is this short I don't think there should be any continuity errors. The jump to the sex and group sex at that happens REALLY quickly, I mean that was some hug. Also, once the sex happens it just keeps happening in contradiction to other events in the story that would at least physically preclude that from happening. And on a realistic front you don't have the second attack happen and then say hey let's try that for the first time. (You will know what I mean when it happens). Writing it that way just made the sex feel gratuitous and like that was the focus of the story. Some people are only here for the sex, I prefer it to be secondary and and not take away from the story. It crossed he line into taking away.
Second complaint. We don't know much about the guys, which makes sense at first, but by the end that reason is gone. At least there is a mention of why Ben and So are the way they are, but nothing is explained for Lou. We also don't get any of Em's back story beyond some real surface basics. Spoilers ahead. We know the Em has an abusive ex and was kicked out of her family, and at one point they reference it being rough, but that doesn't match with her posh English accent, even though she also makes it sound like she grew up in Edinburgh when they are discussing or maybe at the zoo. She also apparently had a lot of violin lessons and considered going pro, which doesn't jive with a kid from a rough home life who was kicked in at 16 and paid her own way through college. Also, Em, who spends much of the book bemoaning how she doesn't have any friends because she let her ex isolate her never gets any friends and is.still isolated.
Then there is the guys. All we know about Ben is he grew up with vegan parents , likes long bow archery, and his sister was an addict living on the streets, oh as he and the guys all accidentally dated the same girl. None of that is expounded upon. There isn't a touching scene where Ben talks about finding her body of identifying her at the morgue or being out on assignments and didn't know she was addicted and on the streets. What if his parents? Are they alive? Did he have a good childhood? Al shared Ben's gf, plays violin, is off about his book arrangement, plays music, inherited a house, and his mom has some sort of dementia but we only know those details as they were basically bullet pointed out for us. Again no heart to heart scenes of character building. And then Lou, his dad owned a restaurant and shared girl friend. That's it. That is all we know. What is Lot's trauma? How did the guys meet? How did they become spies? Did they all break at the same time or did they break one by one only to be out back together by Em? Where is their ex? Is she.coming back to make trouble? What about Jess? And these are.only a few of the questions I have.
August 25, 2019
Abandoned Heart by Skye MacKinnon is a Contemporary Reverse Harem that I listened on audio narrated by Kyo Sija. This is book one in the Defiance Trilogy. All three books are standalones that are loosely connected by side characters and settings, but they each have a different heroine, theme and love interests. This is the first book of Skye’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. I can’t wait to dive into book two Broken Princess. Kyo did an amazing job narrating. She did a great job with the different voices for each character. It really helped pull me into the story. They are an amazing duo. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves Reverse Harem Novels.
July 21, 2019
This is the extended version of Streets of Winter, which was in the Snow and Seduction anthology. I love this longer version even more, it's more fleshed out and still hooks you right away. It's an emotional, sweet, and sexy story. Em and the guys are all great and I loved watching her life and relationships change and develop. This is a great RH that touches on some darker themes.
August 5, 2025
If the author set out to prove that some people are simply born under an unlucky star, then Emily could be the cosmic poster child. First, she’s kicked out of her apartment by an abusive ex (there’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it bisexual nod here that’s never mentioned again), then winds up living on the streets and begging for spare change, despite casually mentioning two friends who could have let her crash. (Why didn’t she? Your guess is as good as mine.) Enter Ben, a good Samaritan who offers her a job and a place to stay. Naturally, Emily assumes it’s too good to be true and bolts… only to get attacked and then rescued by—plot twist—the same good Samaritan. He brings her home, where she meets his two housemates, and the four of them become very close friends very quickly. (Yes, exactly the kind of “close” you’re thinking of.) Here’s where it gets wobbly: despite the guys being some sort of secret agents, Emily still gets attacked in their supposedly safe home—twice. Haven’t these guys heard of basic security? And when they finally shore up the defenses, another intruder somehow waltzes right in with zero explanation. The whole thing started to feel like it was plotted in a fever dream. I did like the guys and their protective streak toward Emily, but their habit of leaving her alone was baffling, especially for trained spies. Emily herself is supposedly able to defend herself, yet those moments never really materialize. She breaks her ankle stepping off a curb, gets captured with laughable ease, and mostly survives by keeping calm until her men show up to save her. And the spicy scenes? Oh, they’re plenty spicy, but also ridiculously ill-timed. Nothing says romance like a steamy interlude immediately after a violent attack, apparently. And while the story is focused on Emily, the guys remain frustratingly shallow as characters. Their relationship with her ends up feeling more like endless physical chemistry than any emotional connection. For the record: Ben may have “recruited” her, but Alistair was my favorite, while poor Luther barely got a personality at all. Despite the plot holes, head-scratchers, and missed opportunities, I still tore through this in one sitting. It’s easy to read, the characters are likable enough, and the pacing never drags, though readers should be aware there are a few potentially triggering scenes. Final verdict: an entertaining ride if you don’t think too hard about the logic, but a few more edits (and a lot more locks on the doors) could have made this great.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2021
I really wanted to like this book, I really did, but there were parts in here that felt like they really rushed and others that desperately needed to be explored much more.
The book starts off with Emily being kicked out of her flat, and all but choosing to live on the streets, in winter - in Scotland!!! Rather than inconveniencing her friends?!?!?!! This I just couldn't understand. I understand that this was a plot point choice by the author, but there is no way I could ever see anyone turning a person away and forcing them onto the streets, rather than offer a couch. I felt like this time on the streets would play an integral role within the book, as it is discussed so thoroughly that it's all I really remember from the first part of the book... but after she moves in with the guys it's all but forgotten, which confused me.
Emily is attacked three times throughout the book, and she claims to be a victim of abuse from her prior relationship. There is a lot of talk about her being a survivor and life on the streets being the best therapy, and it making her harder, more resilient, more willing to fight... and yet when she is attacked, whilst she's hiding in her closet, does she fight? No! Does she use her crutches to try and fend off the would-be attackers? No! Does she meekly go with them and do nothing, while waiting to be rescued? Yes! Does this all happen within a paragraph or two with no real emotional investment? Yes again. :(
On romance side of things... she moves in, they become instant friends, one of them asks for a hug and wham bam they are all having a massive orgy within what feels like days of her moving in... feel rushed??? Yes again!
Oh, and then there are the two instances of near s*xual abuse that occur, both of which seem to be just brushed aside without any thoughts, bad dreams, conversations, therapy etc etc... literally nothing!!! Plus, after the second attack they all jump straight into bed together???? When in real life would this ever happen!!!
I thought perhaps this book might have been part of a series and the huge gapping plot holes would be explained or fleshed out further, but it appears this is a standalone... and I'm left baffled.
To be honest, I was expecting more.
The book starts off with Emily being kicked out of her flat, and all but choosing to live on the streets, in winter - in Scotland!!! Rather than inconveniencing her friends?!?!?!! This I just couldn't understand. I understand that this was a plot point choice by the author, but there is no way I could ever see anyone turning a person away and forcing them onto the streets, rather than offer a couch. I felt like this time on the streets would play an integral role within the book, as it is discussed so thoroughly that it's all I really remember from the first part of the book... but after she moves in with the guys it's all but forgotten, which confused me.
Emily is attacked three times throughout the book, and she claims to be a victim of abuse from her prior relationship. There is a lot of talk about her being a survivor and life on the streets being the best therapy, and it making her harder, more resilient, more willing to fight... and yet when she is attacked, whilst she's hiding in her closet, does she fight? No! Does she use her crutches to try and fend off the would-be attackers? No! Does she meekly go with them and do nothing, while waiting to be rescued? Yes! Does this all happen within a paragraph or two with no real emotional investment? Yes again. :(
On romance side of things... she moves in, they become instant friends, one of them asks for a hug and wham bam they are all having a massive orgy within what feels like days of her moving in... feel rushed??? Yes again!
Oh, and then there are the two instances of near s*xual abuse that occur, both of which seem to be just brushed aside without any thoughts, bad dreams, conversations, therapy etc etc... literally nothing!!! Plus, after the second attack they all jump straight into bed together???? When in real life would this ever happen!!!
I thought perhaps this book might have been part of a series and the huge gapping plot holes would be explained or fleshed out further, but it appears this is a standalone... and I'm left baffled.
To be honest, I was expecting more.
June 16, 2019
I really enjoyed this audiobook by Skye MacKinnon and narrated by Kyo Sija. I hadn't read this book before, its been on my TBR for awhile and was super excited that it was made into an audiobook!
So I was really surprised by the narration. I have listened to a previous book by Kyo and I wasn't impressed and thought her delivery took away from the story. This was definitely not the case with her interpretation of Abandoned Heart. I thought she did a fabulous job with the different voices, especially Ben's. I loved that I could easily tell who was talking, and that is sometimes hard for female narrators doing the male counterparts. I loved it and thought she did a great job. Definitely makes me want to listen to another of hers.
The storyline was really great and I wish it wasn't a standalone haha. I loved the different guys personalities, but wish we got to see more time with Em and Luther. I think Em had amazing moments with Ben and Alistair but didn't get those highlights with Luther. That I think was my only critique. I loved the take on a dark topic, with homelessness, assault, etc. I thought it brought to light hardships that some of us ignore and need to pay attention to, especially because it could be us or a loved one one day. I liked the different confrontations and was happy to see Em wasn't a victim in the last one (like she got herself out of the situation even though that stuff still affected her). She is definitely a survivor and never gave up. I will say I wanted to learn more about the guys work and maybe we could get a novella or bonus scenes in the future when this series of standalone books is complete.
Overall, great job Skye and Kyo. Can't wait to listen to Broken Princess next ❤️
So I was really surprised by the narration. I have listened to a previous book by Kyo and I wasn't impressed and thought her delivery took away from the story. This was definitely not the case with her interpretation of Abandoned Heart. I thought she did a fabulous job with the different voices, especially Ben's. I loved that I could easily tell who was talking, and that is sometimes hard for female narrators doing the male counterparts. I loved it and thought she did a great job. Definitely makes me want to listen to another of hers.
The storyline was really great and I wish it wasn't a standalone haha. I loved the different guys personalities, but wish we got to see more time with Em and Luther. I think Em had amazing moments with Ben and Alistair but didn't get those highlights with Luther. That I think was my only critique. I loved the take on a dark topic, with homelessness, assault, etc. I thought it brought to light hardships that some of us ignore and need to pay attention to, especially because it could be us or a loved one one day. I liked the different confrontations and was happy to see Em wasn't a victim in the last one (like she got herself out of the situation even though that stuff still affected her). She is definitely a survivor and never gave up. I will say I wanted to learn more about the guys work and maybe we could get a novella or bonus scenes in the future when this series of standalone books is complete.
Overall, great job Skye and Kyo. Can't wait to listen to Broken Princess next ❤️
August 25, 2018
Intense and absolutely stunning story!
This isn't your average RH romance novel, it starts with a really unusual but absolutely entertaining description of a situation. I've read a ton of books but haven't seen such a original way of introducing the MC and story. It is perfectly written and shows again that Skye MacKinnon is an absolutely talented author! Her writing style gets you right from the first page and won't let you stop for a second. You just have to devour the book!
Abandoned Heart is full of well developed and deep characters. The topic of the struggles of a homeless woman is really refreshing and heartbreakingly realistic. You'll experience all the emotions and hardships that Emily is going through. Life isn't always easy and Em learns it the hard way, till she meets a kind of strange but also alluring man. She couldn't know how much her life would change just because of this one coincidence. Even though you thought you had the story figured out it surprises you and leads into a different direction. You'll grin, get angry, bite your nails because of the tension and will suffer serious heartbreaking....it will leave you breathless but in such a good way!!
This is like every other book from Skye definitely a MUST-READ! So stop reading this review and buy Abandoned Heart, you won't regret it!!
This isn't your average RH romance novel, it starts with a really unusual but absolutely entertaining description of a situation. I've read a ton of books but haven't seen such a original way of introducing the MC and story. It is perfectly written and shows again that Skye MacKinnon is an absolutely talented author! Her writing style gets you right from the first page and won't let you stop for a second. You just have to devour the book!
Abandoned Heart is full of well developed and deep characters. The topic of the struggles of a homeless woman is really refreshing and heartbreakingly realistic. You'll experience all the emotions and hardships that Emily is going through. Life isn't always easy and Em learns it the hard way, till she meets a kind of strange but also alluring man. She couldn't know how much her life would change just because of this one coincidence. Even though you thought you had the story figured out it surprises you and leads into a different direction. You'll grin, get angry, bite your nails because of the tension and will suffer serious heartbreaking....it will leave you breathless but in such a good way!!
This is like every other book from Skye definitely a MUST-READ! So stop reading this review and buy Abandoned Heart, you won't regret it!!
December 26, 2018
Not sure what I just read.
The beginning was great. I liked how relatable Emily was and her bravado and non-trusting attitude were believable. There so much potential at the begining and then she moved in with the guys and it just fissiled out. They guys were fine standalone characters. They each had some personality though a bit underwhelming and underdeveloped
The relatabily ended when they basically evade her questions non-stop and she barely reacts. I mean the guys are (30+) year olds who basically used an innocent, vulnerable, (20+), girl who pretty much depends on them.
I had to do a double take when the relationship escalated so quickly. Yes there was attraction, but it went south in 1-3 sentences. After few days of living together they are on hugging terms - okay maybe she trust them for that now. They were just being to develop some Chemistry- it was very minor at that point. Then, BAM, he slips hands under her sweater and then they have foursome. Ummm, NO. Believability went down the drain.
After that it was like what little plot that was beginning to develope was rushed on through. Over a few days of more sex, the guys go on a mission, she is helping with translating, left alone, found/hurt by the bad guys, rescued, then the end. I was just unimpressed after that rushed ending.
The beginning was great. I liked how relatable Emily was and her bravado and non-trusting attitude were believable. There so much potential at the begining and then she moved in with the guys and it just fissiled out. They guys were fine standalone characters. They each had some personality though a bit underwhelming and underdeveloped
The relatabily ended when they basically evade her questions non-stop and she barely reacts. I mean the guys are (30+) year olds who basically used an innocent, vulnerable, (20+), girl who pretty much depends on them.
I had to do a double take when the relationship escalated so quickly. Yes there was attraction, but it went south in 1-3 sentences. After few days of living together they are on hugging terms - okay maybe she trust them for that now. They were just being to develop some Chemistry- it was very minor at that point. Then, BAM, he slips hands under her sweater and then they have foursome. Ummm, NO. Believability went down the drain.
After that it was like what little plot that was beginning to develope was rushed on through. Over a few days of more sex, the guys go on a mission, she is helping with translating, left alone, found/hurt by the bad guys, rescued, then the end. I was just unimpressed after that rushed ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2018
Once again Skye has written a beautifully emotional and heartfelt story with Abandoned Heart.
Emily Malone ends up living on the streets and begging for money during Winter, after being suddenly dumped by girlfriend. With no belongings, minimal generous friends, and an unhelpful government, Em eventually has very limited accommodation options.
When an annoying guy - Ben, sits down with her on her beggars corner, she takes a chance to go with him to hear what he has to say. But Em doesn’t stick around after being feed.
After an event and with the lucky pursuit of Ben following their first encounter, Em’s offered something she can turn down - a roof over her head. Life is about to change for Em when joins Ben, Alistair and Luther in this contemporary reverse harem story.
This is an emotional journey that you’ll be taken on with Em, and as mentioned in the book there is a trigger warning.
Also there are a number of references to chocolate in the book, and if you crave something once you read it you, you’ll probably want to stock up on chocolate. Or flip to the end of the book and make sure you have the ingredients for:
* Luther’s Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe
* Mrs M’s Hot Chocolate Recipe
Emily Malone ends up living on the streets and begging for money during Winter, after being suddenly dumped by girlfriend. With no belongings, minimal generous friends, and an unhelpful government, Em eventually has very limited accommodation options.
When an annoying guy - Ben, sits down with her on her beggars corner, she takes a chance to go with him to hear what he has to say. But Em doesn’t stick around after being feed.
After an event and with the lucky pursuit of Ben following their first encounter, Em’s offered something she can turn down - a roof over her head. Life is about to change for Em when joins Ben, Alistair and Luther in this contemporary reverse harem story.
This is an emotional journey that you’ll be taken on with Em, and as mentioned in the book there is a trigger warning.
Also there are a number of references to chocolate in the book, and if you crave something once you read it you, you’ll probably want to stock up on chocolate. Or flip to the end of the book and make sure you have the ingredients for:
* Luther’s Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe
* Mrs M’s Hot Chocolate Recipe
February 24, 2020
Someone has stolen one of the Royals diamond necklaces and it is up to Emily and her men to find it before anyone notices it is missing.
It is almost Valentine’s Day and Emily and the guys get a call about a missing diamond necklace. No problem. Meet Royalty. Welcome back two of the guys who have been away on business. Find the necklace and nab the culprit. Celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Except nothing about the case is as it seems.
Skye MacKinnon gives us a racy novella with Beloved Heart (Peryton Press, 9781793927248, 2019), a spin-off of the first novel Abandoned Hearts in her “Defiance” series. It all starts with a red bow for Valentine’s Day and it ends with a red bow. One cannot ask for more to celebrate this holiday with (laugh - today is Valentine’s Day).
There is a mystery, a red herring, Royalty, and a very “hot” welcoming home party for Emily’s men. MacKinnon ends up giving us the gift for the Valentine’s with Beloved Heart.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
It is almost Valentine’s Day and Emily and the guys get a call about a missing diamond necklace. No problem. Meet Royalty. Welcome back two of the guys who have been away on business. Find the necklace and nab the culprit. Celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Except nothing about the case is as it seems.
Skye MacKinnon gives us a racy novella with Beloved Heart (Peryton Press, 9781793927248, 2019), a spin-off of the first novel Abandoned Hearts in her “Defiance” series. It all starts with a red bow for Valentine’s Day and it ends with a red bow. One cannot ask for more to celebrate this holiday with (laugh - today is Valentine’s Day).
There is a mystery, a red herring, Royalty, and a very “hot” welcoming home party for Emily’s men. MacKinnon ends up giving us the gift for the Valentine’s with Beloved Heart.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
September 16, 2018
A contemporary reverse harem set in Edinburgh, Scotland. This is the extended version of Streets of Winter, a novella previously published in the Snow and Seduction anthology. 18+
Emily never expected to find herself on the street after being thrown out of her apartment by her ex and looking for a place to stay. A park bench doesn't seem inviting in the depths of winter, but taking advantage of the two friends she has again doesn’t seem right.
Her luck changes when a mysterious stranger offers her shelter, but seems too good to be true, and when she meets his other two house mates, she starts to question if he's the Good Samaritan he seems to be.
It’s a very interesting read, since she goes from female to male companion, but hey it’s a reverse harem. Also it’s a bit dark, so be for warned if you’re not into that maybe wrap your head around this book before diving into it. Great read, easy to follow, pretty intense in some areas.
Review for Romance Authors that Rock
Emily never expected to find herself on the street after being thrown out of her apartment by her ex and looking for a place to stay. A park bench doesn't seem inviting in the depths of winter, but taking advantage of the two friends she has again doesn’t seem right.
Her luck changes when a mysterious stranger offers her shelter, but seems too good to be true, and when she meets his other two house mates, she starts to question if he's the Good Samaritan he seems to be.
It’s a very interesting read, since she goes from female to male companion, but hey it’s a reverse harem. Also it’s a bit dark, so be for warned if you’re not into that maybe wrap your head around this book before diving into it. Great read, easy to follow, pretty intense in some areas.
Review for Romance Authors that Rock
August 31, 2018
Intense, emotional and thought-provoking RH book
This one is a little different from the RH stories of Skye’s that I’m used to reading. It was a little darker and grittier and actually quite sad in parts. Definitely very intense. It certainly gives the reader a lot to think about. And I honestly just couldn’t put it down.
Emily was a college graduate who had been in an abusive relationship. But when that when bad, she found herself broke and homeless...resorting to begging in the streets. Thankfully, her life turned back around, due to the goodness of a secret organization. It even with thing getting better, Em seems to find herself in danger and hurt over and over...and none of it is her doing at all. Just kinda unlucky. Thank goodness for the decent ending and the love of three great guys, Ben, Luther and Alistair.
This one is a little different from the RH stories of Skye’s that I’m used to reading. It was a little darker and grittier and actually quite sad in parts. Definitely very intense. It certainly gives the reader a lot to think about. And I honestly just couldn’t put it down.
Emily was a college graduate who had been in an abusive relationship. But when that when bad, she found herself broke and homeless...resorting to begging in the streets. Thankfully, her life turned back around, due to the goodness of a secret organization. It even with thing getting better, Em seems to find herself in danger and hurt over and over...and none of it is her doing at all. Just kinda unlucky. Thank goodness for the decent ending and the love of three great guys, Ben, Luther and Alistair.
June 2, 2021
After reading Broken Spirit, I needed this one … but that’s backwards. I do recommend reading them in order if you can. Seeing some of the history/ backstory though was just as intriguing if I hadn’t read book 2, so I recommend reading this one either way.
Things to love about it:
✔️ Steamy scenes (f/m/m/m/m)
✔️Fresh start
✔️Billionaires
✔️Leaves me wanting more
✔️Lots of action, drama, suspense
4 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Note:
I listened to the audiobook; I’m a fan of this narrator. 5-star performance.
Note:
I borrowed this from my Library, which lists it as Frozen Heart. So do Amazon and BookBub. Apparently Goodreads is sticking with “Abandoned Heart”.
Cover, at the time of my review:
Things to love about it:
✔️ Steamy scenes (f/m/m/m/m)
✔️Fresh start
✔️Billionaires
✔️Leaves me wanting more
✔️Lots of action, drama, suspense
4 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Note:
I listened to the audiobook; I’m a fan of this narrator. 5-star performance.
Note:
I borrowed this from my Library, which lists it as Frozen Heart. So do Amazon and BookBub. Apparently Goodreads is sticking with “Abandoned Heart”.
Cover, at the time of my review:
August 25, 2018
A short version of this story titles “Streets of Winter” was in the Snow and Seduction anthology, so if it sms familiar you might have read parts their, but this in an extended version and is even better. MacKinnon really gets you in the feels :) when this book starts Em is living on the streets. MacKinnon does an excellent job of portraying the plight of the homeless, without making it feel preachy. I liked Em, she ends up on the streets, but she doesn’t blame others and she takes the precautions she can. She’s a smart, but has made poor decisions and at times trusted people she shouldn’t. I liked that she doesn’t trust the guys immediately. I like that the guys understand her and don’t push her beyond what she is comfortable with. Great story!
August 27, 2018
Emily finds herself on the streets and begging for money. Hoping she will find a shelter to stay in each night and be able to get some food. This is not how she thought her life would be, until her ex throws her out and she has no where to go. Suddenly a stranger offers her shelter and a job. Is it too good to be true? Emily has lots of ups and downs but never gives up. Even when things seem hopeless she continues to keep trying. When she decides to take Ben up on his offer and his flat mates. Her life changes. She still has struggles and trials but continues to fight. I enjoyed the story. Lots of ups and downs. Emily is a great character along with the men in the book.
September 10, 2018
Emily was in an abusive situation she had to get out of but with no one to help her she ends up on the streets. Ben sits beside her when she is begging and offers her a hot meal but after the feed she takes off. But when Ben and his friends offer her a roof over her head that is something she can't refuse. Will her luck finally get better with Ben, Luther and Alistair. This isn't preachy book but it shows how a few poor decision can derail you life very easily especially if you don't have a lot of family support
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2019
Interesting read
This book follows Emily, a woman who becomes homeless after her ex threw her out. When a man shows up offering help, she is wary of his intentions.
I liked Emily. I thought she had a good bit of spunk and wasn't a naive little child. There was one part I went hmmm on, but it wasn't a deal breaker type of thing for me.
I liked the plot and overall idea. Everything was clear and it was easy to read.
Editing was very well done. I didnt notice any errors.
Overall I would recommend this book with the caveat that there are some assault scenes within the book so anyone with issues reading about attempted rape should steer clear.
This book follows Emily, a woman who becomes homeless after her ex threw her out. When a man shows up offering help, she is wary of his intentions.
I liked Emily. I thought she had a good bit of spunk and wasn't a naive little child. There was one part I went hmmm on, but it wasn't a deal breaker type of thing for me.
I liked the plot and overall idea. Everything was clear and it was easy to read.
Editing was very well done. I didnt notice any errors.
Overall I would recommend this book with the caveat that there are some assault scenes within the book so anyone with issues reading about attempted rape should steer clear.
October 16, 2019
I think I liked the idea behind this book more than I actually liked the book. Em was homeless.. she had a bad break up and had no where to go. Ben finds her begging for money.. I wanted to put the book down because I kind of found Ben creepy at first. He was too happy and he wanted to help too much. If I put myself in Em’s shoes I’d run too! And Ben acts so hurt that she run.. she’s a homeless WOMAN of course she ran from you. But anyways, I enjoyed the narration and I enjoyed her time with the guys. There are just too many questions I have about each character for me to love this book.
#audiobookobsessionreviewer
#audiobookobsessionreviewer
August 16, 2024
So I liked this book. It was a good little 5 hour time filler. My biggest and pretty much only issues is that when I listened to the audiobook on Everand chapter 4, 5 and THE LAST TWO CHAPTERS, were replaced with chapters 2 and 3. Completely ruined 2 very important parts of the book. I could’ve gotten past it happening the first time but to destroy the ending after the FMC was in mortal danger and the MMCs had just gotten to her!? Omg I’m so upset I would purchase the audiobook just to find out what happens but I’m not gonna risk it happening again. I emailed the author to be like “what’s going on here” but who knows if it’ll get fixed.
July 31, 2025
Dark, dangerous, & delicious
I do not want to give spoilers, so you’ll have to take my word that this is a story that gives the reader so much more than they imagine they are getting from reading the blurb. Wow! It is a darker theme than others I’ve read from this author, however it is still written with consistent attention to detail, intriguing characters, and a plot that is all action. A reverse harem story without angst between MCs. I receive a free ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
Trigger warning: There are scenes of on-page physical and attempted sexual assault, see author’s notes for more details.
I do not want to give spoilers, so you’ll have to take my word that this is a story that gives the reader so much more than they imagine they are getting from reading the blurb. Wow! It is a darker theme than others I’ve read from this author, however it is still written with consistent attention to detail, intriguing characters, and a plot that is all action. A reverse harem story without angst between MCs. I receive a free ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
Trigger warning: There are scenes of on-page physical and attempted sexual assault, see author’s notes for more details.
September 8, 2018
While this book is called Abandoned Heart, it captured mine. This is a emotional read that contains a few triggers.
Skye truly shows that you don't realize how lonely or alone you are and how bad your past relationships are until you are surrounded by the right people.
This might be considered a dark romance but it is more of a romance with dark themes. Everything between Emily and her Harem is completely consensual.
Plenty of surprises are in store if you read this book. The characters are mysterious, and will keep you guessing if they are truly on Emily's side or are against her.
Skye truly shows that you don't realize how lonely or alone you are and how bad your past relationships are until you are surrounded by the right people.
This might be considered a dark romance but it is more of a romance with dark themes. Everything between Emily and her Harem is completely consensual.
Plenty of surprises are in store if you read this book. The characters are mysterious, and will keep you guessing if they are truly on Emily's side or are against her.
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