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Credence
James Morgan, lead guitarist for the rock band Eden, seems to have it all. That is, until Theo, Eden’s lead singer and James’s secret lover, violently betrays him, sending James into a deep depression and cutting their current tour and the band’s life short. Kieran Jackson, the lead vocalist for the less successful band Lost and Found, is at his wits’ end. At thirty-three, he never dreamed he’d still be opening for bands comprised of twentysomethings. When Eden pulls out of the last few shows of their summer tour, Kieran returns home burned out and heartbroken. Over a year later, James, Phil, and David of Eden decide to reform under a different name with Kieran as their new vocalist. James, never having forgotten his single interaction with Kieran, nor the only time he ever listened to him perform, knows Kieran’s the best choice. James is still closeted—and skittish after his last relationship—and one fumbling, drunken kiss threatens to undo everything he’s worked so hard to rebuild, as well as the cover he’s fought to maintain. Can James overcome his past, confront his demons, and reclaim his former fame? Or will he and the newly formed True North remain in Eden’s shadow forever? Can he finally find comfort in who he is, accept his past, and reopen his heart? Or will the memories of Theo’s betrayal and the subsequent fallout dash any hope of finding—and trusting—love again? Trigger this book contains explicit rape, as well as one failed suicide attempt by a main character.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2019
81 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
About the author
Delphia Baisden
3 books24 followersDelphia Baisden is a proud indie author. In 2016, she finally decided to use her passion for writing to tell the love stories of her heart and hasn’t stopped since. She is an avid rock ‘n’ roll fan who feels most comfortable in a band tee and a pair of jeans. She currently lives in a small town near Columbus, Ohio, with her mom, Lola.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
November 11, 2024
After thinking about it for some time, and then thinking some more, I feel it's only fair to give this book the full five stars.
Delphia Baisden has created an emotional, believable, and often heartbreaking story for which you should heed the trigger warnings. There is a graphic albeit short depiction of rape, and a graphic description of attempted suicide. If these are triggers for you, you may want to think twice about reading this book.
At its core, this is a novel of survival, of overcoming past hurts and acts of violence, finding strength in adversity, and finding love after pain and loss.
James Morgan is the lead guitarist for the rock band Eden, currently on tour, in the closet, and hiding a romantic relationship with the band's lead singer, Theo. Oh, and James is drowning his angst with alcohol more often than not. After one of their concerts, James is nearly pass-out drunk in Theo's hotel room when their make-out session turns violent and Theo takes something from James that wasn't his to take. The fallout from the rape brings about the end of their current tour, and James falls into a deep depression that culminates with him nearly committing suicide. Waking up in the hospital is a turning point for James but he's still haunted by what happened to him.
A year later, James and his bandmates (without Theo) are looking to start over and are in need of a new lead singer. Their search brings them to Kieran Jackson, whose band Lost And Found was on the same tour the previous year, opening for Eden. Kieran is hiding a bit of a secret as well.
The author did a fantastic job creating believable and relatable characters. It was heartbreaking to watch James fall deeper and deeper into the hole of depression, haunted by the memories, drowning his self-blame and self-doubt in alcohol, and contemplating ending his life to escape the demons. I hurt with him, flinched with him, and understood why he was blaming himself and why he felt he couldn't tell anyone what happened. I wanted to reach into the book and hug him and protect him and I watched with bated breath as he spiraled further and further downward.
Kieran too was tugging on my heartstrings. His tinnitus is interfering with his ability to hear clearly and causes some balance issues, though it hasn't affected his singing ability. He too is fighting demons of his own, not only due to his condition but also due to his perceived lack of success - he expected to be farther along in his career at his age, and is dispirited that he hasn't been more successful. What he is though is steadfast and supportive and patient and kind, especially as he and James begin to fall for each other. The tenderness with which he approached James made me sniffle more than once.
As James and Kieran become closer, their relationship grows steadily. I was rooting for them both, even as their romance unfolds slowly, understandably so. I cheered for James growing stronger, I cheered for Kieran starting to believe more in himself, and I rejoiced as they find in each other the solace they've been missing for so long. With crisp, fresh, and engaging writing, the author fully drew me into this novel, and I cannot wait to see what more she has in stock for her readers. The characters felt real, their interactions relatable, and the dialogue organic. There were a few moments when I sniffled, and there were moments when I laughed with the characters. Their bedroom interactions became increasingly more intimate and dripped with emotion.
As expected, Theo's reckoning comes as the truth about his actions finally comes out. I thought that once he had been given the consequences of his actions, we'd be done with the character, but the author did surprise me at the end. Can't say I expected that.
I also adored Phil, James' best friend. I think their relationship was giving James the foundation he needed to be able to trust someone again and open himself up to Kieran. Phil was supportive even if he didn't understand what was haunting James, and he was protective of him, and enraged on his behalf when the truth finally comes out.
This is not an easy read, considering how much angst is inside, but it is a worthy read. Don't expect to be able to put this book down once you start, and take your time to read every single word. There's not a superfluous scene nor any gratuitous sexy times, and the author appears to have done quite a bit of research for this novel.
So yeah... I loved this book. A fresh new voice. Gimme more!
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for being patient while I figured out what I wanted to say about your book.**
Delphia Baisden has created an emotional, believable, and often heartbreaking story for which you should heed the trigger warnings. There is a graphic albeit short depiction of rape, and a graphic description of attempted suicide. If these are triggers for you, you may want to think twice about reading this book.
At its core, this is a novel of survival, of overcoming past hurts and acts of violence, finding strength in adversity, and finding love after pain and loss.
James Morgan is the lead guitarist for the rock band Eden, currently on tour, in the closet, and hiding a romantic relationship with the band's lead singer, Theo. Oh, and James is drowning his angst with alcohol more often than not. After one of their concerts, James is nearly pass-out drunk in Theo's hotel room when their make-out session turns violent and Theo takes something from James that wasn't his to take. The fallout from the rape brings about the end of their current tour, and James falls into a deep depression that culminates with him nearly committing suicide. Waking up in the hospital is a turning point for James but he's still haunted by what happened to him.
A year later, James and his bandmates (without Theo) are looking to start over and are in need of a new lead singer. Their search brings them to Kieran Jackson, whose band Lost And Found was on the same tour the previous year, opening for Eden. Kieran is hiding a bit of a secret as well.
The author did a fantastic job creating believable and relatable characters. It was heartbreaking to watch James fall deeper and deeper into the hole of depression, haunted by the memories, drowning his self-blame and self-doubt in alcohol, and contemplating ending his life to escape the demons. I hurt with him, flinched with him, and understood why he was blaming himself and why he felt he couldn't tell anyone what happened. I wanted to reach into the book and hug him and protect him and I watched with bated breath as he spiraled further and further downward.
Kieran too was tugging on my heartstrings. His tinnitus is interfering with his ability to hear clearly and causes some balance issues, though it hasn't affected his singing ability. He too is fighting demons of his own, not only due to his condition but also due to his perceived lack of success - he expected to be farther along in his career at his age, and is dispirited that he hasn't been more successful. What he is though is steadfast and supportive and patient and kind, especially as he and James begin to fall for each other. The tenderness with which he approached James made me sniffle more than once.
As James and Kieran become closer, their relationship grows steadily. I was rooting for them both, even as their romance unfolds slowly, understandably so. I cheered for James growing stronger, I cheered for Kieran starting to believe more in himself, and I rejoiced as they find in each other the solace they've been missing for so long. With crisp, fresh, and engaging writing, the author fully drew me into this novel, and I cannot wait to see what more she has in stock for her readers. The characters felt real, their interactions relatable, and the dialogue organic. There were a few moments when I sniffled, and there were moments when I laughed with the characters. Their bedroom interactions became increasingly more intimate and dripped with emotion.
As expected, Theo's reckoning comes as the truth about his actions finally comes out. I thought that once he had been given the consequences of his actions, we'd be done with the character, but the author did surprise me at the end. Can't say I expected that.
I also adored Phil, James' best friend. I think their relationship was giving James the foundation he needed to be able to trust someone again and open himself up to Kieran. Phil was supportive even if he didn't understand what was haunting James, and he was protective of him, and enraged on his behalf when the truth finally comes out.
This is not an easy read, considering how much angst is inside, but it is a worthy read. Don't expect to be able to put this book down once you start, and take your time to read every single word. There's not a superfluous scene nor any gratuitous sexy times, and the author appears to have done quite a bit of research for this novel.
So yeah... I loved this book. A fresh new voice. Gimme more!
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for being patient while I figured out what I wanted to say about your book.**
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March 13, 2019
DNF @26%
I wanted to like this so much, but I am not feeling it, at all.
1) Confusing dialogue. The book opens with POVs from 3 band members, and I had to go back in the sentences to work out who was doing the talk, many times.
2) There are an M in front of some words that I found very annoying, was that supposed to represent a stutter, insecurity, drunkness?
3) Many scenes were abruptly ended. It was weird like some chunks were missing.
Example: The MC (Kieran) goes for an audition. He is introduced to the band members who are looking for a vocalist. They send him to a recording room. In the next paragraph, he is seating at the table with the guys discussing the result of the audition. We get nothing on that.
Another example, The other MC (James Morgan) calls the singer (Kieran) to invite him for dinner and give him the good news that he’s got the job. They decide to go to a pizzeria. Bear in mind that they are our guys and that scene could or should give us something, anything, eye contact, a twitch in the dick, show some chemistry, establish a connection since they ARE OUR GUYS but what we had was:
A rapid interaction about the audition and then,
“You were pretty pissed.” James seemed to be teasing him. Is he teasing? Kieran wondered. “But anyway, I felt bad, so I came down and watched your set.” Kieran studied him. “I was embarrassed, thought I could at least be respectful enough to watch the last show. You guys were good, really good. Phil thought so too.” Kieran was taken aback by James’s candor. “Which is why we called. Would you like the part?” “I would.”
Next paragraph:
Once in his car and headed back to the hotel, Kieran called Adrienne.
What the what??
Not for me.
Peace!
March 11, 2019
Reading the blurb you think that you're in for a very angsty and emotional read and I was prepared for some hard scenes. Here I want to warn any potential readers that there's a detailed sexual assault scene on page. The book doesn't really deal much with the direct aftermath of that event but rather takes place a year and a half after it. The only info we get about the time immediately after it happened is really short and ends once James takes the first steps in moving forward and trying to deal with what happened by getting help outside of a bottle. I would have liked to see the process of him moving forward and finding himself again.
Anyway, one year after James starts putting his life back together, the remaining members of Eden decide to form a new band and they are looking for a singer. Kieran was the singer of a smaller band that opened for Eden at their last tour. He was very good so they offer him the position and they start recording a new album. I have no idea about the workings of a professional band but the whole thing seemed very effortless. There was a new member but they didn't really spend any time together. Everyone was recording their parts alone, they didn't practice (or if they did it wasn't mentioned), the members of the band didn't connect with each other, not even the old ones and they barely spent any time together. I was always under the impression that band members kind of lived in each other's pockets. These guys interacted even less than if they were working an office job for different departments.
The relatioship between James and Kieran had a weird vibe. Let's put aside the fact that it moved at the speed of light - and that they actually moved in together at the same speed - and focus at the lack of any real connection between them. I couldn't see why they were together or why it was such a big romance. They didn't really know each other, they lived miles and miles away and they didn't talk. I understand why James didn't want to immediately open up about his past but Kieran was the same way. Even when they started sharing things they always kept something back.
Kieran's medical condition was a thread that just went nowhere. It created a bit of drama in one scene and then it was never mentioned again. I never even fully understood what it was. There was an explanation of sorts at some point but it wasn't very clear about his future and the only thing I'm sure about is that it had something to do with his hearing. With him being a singer I expected to learn more about it and for it to be a bigger part in the story.
My biggest issue with the story and with James in particular was the drunk driving. He was constantly doing it! What was up with that? He was drinking and driving and not only it wasn't a big deal for him, it wasn't a big deal for those around him either. Phil talked to him about it some but he was pretty mellow about it. This seriously affected my rating and my enjoyment of the story.
The way the story was told was perfectly fine if I put aside the missing letters when the characters talked, especially James. There was " 'M" instead of "I'm" at the majority of his sentenses. " 'S" instead "It's" and even instead of "There's" on a couple of occasions. It grated on my nerves.
It sounds like I didn't enjoy the book but in reality it was good. I didn't skip any parts and I wanted to keep reading in order to find out what happened in the end. I liked that there was a band and I liked James's relationship with his best friend and bandmate, Phil. I didn't like what happened with Theo in the end, though.
I'd read this author again in the future though I sincerely hope she'll stop cutting off letters in favor of using apostrophes.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
Anyway, one year after James starts putting his life back together, the remaining members of Eden decide to form a new band and they are looking for a singer. Kieran was the singer of a smaller band that opened for Eden at their last tour. He was very good so they offer him the position and they start recording a new album. I have no idea about the workings of a professional band but the whole thing seemed very effortless. There was a new member but they didn't really spend any time together. Everyone was recording their parts alone, they didn't practice (or if they did it wasn't mentioned), the members of the band didn't connect with each other, not even the old ones and they barely spent any time together. I was always under the impression that band members kind of lived in each other's pockets. These guys interacted even less than if they were working an office job for different departments.
The relatioship between James and Kieran had a weird vibe. Let's put aside the fact that it moved at the speed of light - and that they actually moved in together at the same speed - and focus at the lack of any real connection between them. I couldn't see why they were together or why it was such a big romance. They didn't really know each other, they lived miles and miles away and they didn't talk. I understand why James didn't want to immediately open up about his past but Kieran was the same way. Even when they started sharing things they always kept something back.
Kieran's medical condition was a thread that just went nowhere. It created a bit of drama in one scene and then it was never mentioned again. I never even fully understood what it was. There was an explanation of sorts at some point but it wasn't very clear about his future and the only thing I'm sure about is that it had something to do with his hearing. With him being a singer I expected to learn more about it and for it to be a bigger part in the story.
My biggest issue with the story and with James in particular was the drunk driving. He was constantly doing it! What was up with that? He was drinking and driving and not only it wasn't a big deal for him, it wasn't a big deal for those around him either. Phil talked to him about it some but he was pretty mellow about it. This seriously affected my rating and my enjoyment of the story.
The way the story was told was perfectly fine if I put aside the missing letters when the characters talked, especially James. There was " 'M" instead of "I'm" at the majority of his sentenses. " 'S" instead "It's" and even instead of "There's" on a couple of occasions. It grated on my nerves.
It sounds like I didn't enjoy the book but in reality it was good. I didn't skip any parts and I wanted to keep reading in order to find out what happened in the end. I liked that there was a band and I liked James's relationship with his best friend and bandmate, Phil. I didn't like what happened with Theo in the end, though.
I'd read this author again in the future though I sincerely hope she'll stop cutting off letters in favor of using apostrophes.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
March 13, 2019
2.75 STARS - this looked like it would have been a great story, but so much of it was just off for me. All of the characters fell flat, and I felt no connection between them. A big strike in any book for me is I am not a fan of insta-love, so having the MC’s declaring love within weeks of knowing each other plus I didn’t find any substantial on page relationship building.
The whole band writing aspect of the story felt contrived, almost like an afterthought or side character to the book. Then there was side story with one of the M/C’s that felt important yet after one issue it was just dropped, Odd?
Lastly the M/C’s were grown men 32 & 28 I think, at times I felt like I was reading the thoughts of 13 year olds it just didn’t fit
The whole band writing aspect of the story felt contrived, almost like an afterthought or side character to the book. Then there was side story with one of the M/C’s that felt important yet after one issue it was just dropped, Odd?
Lastly the M/C’s were grown men 32 & 28 I think, at times I felt like I was reading the thoughts of 13 year olds it just didn’t fit
March 6, 2019
*´¨✫)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´✶ (¸.•` "What am I doing?" ~James
"Breathing again," Phil said. "Maybe trying to live your life again."
Holy hell!
This one took me on a roller coaster ride and oh, it captured my heart. I have read so many books since the year rolled in and only one has captured me as such. I now add this book to that pile.
New to me author and first timer Delphia Baisden has proven that she has what it takes to be an author with her first book Credence. This book was like going through a plethora of emotions. Highs, lows, anger, ugly cry and settling - finally, yes!!!
I will always pick up rock and roll romance books to read no matter what and though the book did not focus on that aspect, it took us to the building relationship of James, guitarist of the group Eden and Kieran, singer for the group Lost and Found. The two were not even friends, especially after a very drunk and not to friendly James encountered a horrific event in his life that made him walk away from his group to survive. But years later, James, with the help of his best friend Phil decided to make a comeback and Kieran was top list for being the singer. Watching James get his life together and fighting for himself was satisfying. And I loved the way Kieran both stood up for himself and for James.
The author made the readers feel all the hurt and the pain and the joy. The main issue of the book is what so many have gone through and the fear and embarrassment and denial is heart wrenching and is a major trigger, but it was beautifully written and the resolution executed with delicateness. I absolutely give kudos to Ms. Baisden and say, welcome to the writing world.
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´✶ (¸.•` "What am I doing?" ~James
"Breathing again," Phil said. "Maybe trying to live your life again."
Holy hell!
This one took me on a roller coaster ride and oh, it captured my heart. I have read so many books since the year rolled in and only one has captured me as such. I now add this book to that pile.
New to me author and first timer Delphia Baisden has proven that she has what it takes to be an author with her first book Credence. This book was like going through a plethora of emotions. Highs, lows, anger, ugly cry and settling - finally, yes!!!
I will always pick up rock and roll romance books to read no matter what and though the book did not focus on that aspect, it took us to the building relationship of James, guitarist of the group Eden and Kieran, singer for the group Lost and Found. The two were not even friends, especially after a very drunk and not to friendly James encountered a horrific event in his life that made him walk away from his group to survive. But years later, James, with the help of his best friend Phil decided to make a comeback and Kieran was top list for being the singer. Watching James get his life together and fighting for himself was satisfying. And I loved the way Kieran both stood up for himself and for James.
The author made the readers feel all the hurt and the pain and the joy. The main issue of the book is what so many have gone through and the fear and embarrassment and denial is heart wrenching and is a major trigger, but it was beautifully written and the resolution executed with delicateness. I absolutely give kudos to Ms. Baisden and say, welcome to the writing world.
March 1, 2019
Oh my, I have been waiting all week to post my review on this book. I am so excited to share my thoughts with you.
We are thrown into a colorful and real story world of a rock band named Eden who are at the top of their game.
But something dark has been hanging in the shadows and James Morgan the bands leader is hiding it by drinking, believing he deserves everything that is happening in his life.
After being Raped, his whole defense and world crumble and James falls so low that the only way is up.
Phil is James bandmate and best friend, they are like brothers. He guides James to break up the band. And after James attempts suicide, Phil finally get James to seek help.
It takes James a couple of years before he can find the strength to start putting his world and himself back together.
The guys form a new band called True North with a new front man, Kieran Jackson. A singer James met from a supporting band on their last tour.
What follows is a journey of rebuilding of James’s life, for which Kieran is the rock that James leans on and the glue that helps James to repair himself. It’s a story of strength, determination, love and learning to be honest with oneself and those who love you.
Have a few tissues handy there are some heart wrenching moments, as well as other moments that will have you with tears of laughter. So, expect have your emotions wrung out once or twice.
The banter between James, Phil and Kieran is perfect, and never feels false.
There is one part of the story where I freely admit I wanted to Grab James and shake some sense into him. But I do understand why he did what he did.
I Loved Phil, and his no nonsense attitude to James when he needs a kick up the butt, Phil is there to do it.
And Kieran is so sweet and understanding, even though he does not know what James’s past issues are, he is understanding and patient.
This is a debut novel by the author, and it feels like a well-seasoned authors novel. I am looking forward to following the authors future releases. If this book is anything to go by, we are in for some amazing stories in the future.
We are thrown into a colorful and real story world of a rock band named Eden who are at the top of their game.
But something dark has been hanging in the shadows and James Morgan the bands leader is hiding it by drinking, believing he deserves everything that is happening in his life.
After being Raped, his whole defense and world crumble and James falls so low that the only way is up.
Phil is James bandmate and best friend, they are like brothers. He guides James to break up the band. And after James attempts suicide, Phil finally get James to seek help.
It takes James a couple of years before he can find the strength to start putting his world and himself back together.
The guys form a new band called True North with a new front man, Kieran Jackson. A singer James met from a supporting band on their last tour.
What follows is a journey of rebuilding of James’s life, for which Kieran is the rock that James leans on and the glue that helps James to repair himself. It’s a story of strength, determination, love and learning to be honest with oneself and those who love you.
Have a few tissues handy there are some heart wrenching moments, as well as other moments that will have you with tears of laughter. So, expect have your emotions wrung out once or twice.
The banter between James, Phil and Kieran is perfect, and never feels false.
There is one part of the story where I freely admit I wanted to Grab James and shake some sense into him. But I do understand why he did what he did.
I Loved Phil, and his no nonsense attitude to James when he needs a kick up the butt, Phil is there to do it.
And Kieran is so sweet and understanding, even though he does not know what James’s past issues are, he is understanding and patient.
This is a debut novel by the author, and it feels like a well-seasoned authors novel. I am looking forward to following the authors future releases. If this book is anything to go by, we are in for some amazing stories in the future.
March 2, 2019
The Blogger Girls
What a heartbreaking and, sometime, harsh and brutal read. There are a couple trigger warnings for this book, so do yourself a big ol’ favor and make sure that if rape or attempted suicide are gonna negatively affect you, that you give this one a pass. The scenes are not overly gruesome, but they are graphic. You know yourself and must be able to make that decision on whether to read this one or not. For me, even though it hurt my heart, they played a pivotal role in understanding James and his problems with alcohol and men.
The beauty of this book, to me, was more in James’s friendship with Phil, even more so than his relationship with Kieran. Granted, Kieran was amazeballs, though James tried his patience due to not being able to completely share his demons. So, Kieran was left to guess, for a while…but sadly, he was not given the whole story. This does call for some future issues, but they did not last too long, not enough to make the reader want to bang their heads together.
I admit, the ending was bit surprising to me. I kinda figured that when Theo got what was coming, that would be it. So prepare yourself. This does end a bit shockingly, but don’t fear, our boys get their happy ever after…and Phil probably will, too. Recommended for this debut author and I will be looking for more by her in the future.
Overall Impression: I really liked it
What a heartbreaking and, sometime, harsh and brutal read. There are a couple trigger warnings for this book, so do yourself a big ol’ favor and make sure that if rape or attempted suicide are gonna negatively affect you, that you give this one a pass. The scenes are not overly gruesome, but they are graphic. You know yourself and must be able to make that decision on whether to read this one or not. For me, even though it hurt my heart, they played a pivotal role in understanding James and his problems with alcohol and men.
The beauty of this book, to me, was more in James’s friendship with Phil, even more so than his relationship with Kieran. Granted, Kieran was amazeballs, though James tried his patience due to not being able to completely share his demons. So, Kieran was left to guess, for a while…but sadly, he was not given the whole story. This does call for some future issues, but they did not last too long, not enough to make the reader want to bang their heads together.
I admit, the ending was bit surprising to me. I kinda figured that when Theo got what was coming, that would be it. So prepare yourself. This does end a bit shockingly, but don’t fear, our boys get their happy ever after…and Phil probably will, too. Recommended for this debut author and I will be looking for more by her in the future.
Overall Impression: I really liked it
October 2, 2024
An emotional, wonderful whirlwind. The emotional upheaval from the start pulled me into the story so quickly that I read the book in one sitting. Delphia has captured the hurt, fear, and psyche of her characters eloquently, sharing their struggles while simultaneously having us root for them that their pasts won’t hinder their future. I loved the development of the relationship as it made the characters and their interactions credible and relatable. James broke my heart showing strength and surviving to become a better version of himself. James and Kieran will make you laugh and cry, fan your face – they are hot, hot, hot, and pull at your heart strings. I can't wait to see what Delphia comes up with next. I received an ARC for an honest review.
Want to read
March 4, 2019I just want to be clear that I have no idea how a 1 star rating appeared on this book by "me." There should never have been any rating on this book. I haven't even read it. It is on my TBR now.
August 1, 2019
Wow! Just....wow.
This book is so good. The first chapter is like a cold bucket of water followed by a slap to the face. If you’re looking for an angsty hurt/comfort, then look no further! The feels are real. Mind the trigger warning, though. Ends with a HEA!
This book is so good. The first chapter is like a cold bucket of water followed by a slap to the face. If you’re looking for an angsty hurt/comfort, then look no further! The feels are real. Mind the trigger warning, though. Ends with a HEA!
March 8, 2019
Credence is an interesting, multi-layered rock star romance. Delphia Baisden does a great job of immersing the reader into the crazy world of fame and rock stars.
James and Kieran are two band members who fall in love while dealing with their past pains. Both have endured so damn much, and are struggling with moving forward with their passion and their lives in general.
James will grab you and burrow his way into your heart. He's a mess, both before and after his rape. He has a lot of issues to overcome, but he's stronger than he ever imagined.
Kieran's a remarkable man, struggling with his own physical issues, and always there to support James. He stays patient, never forcing the facts from James, and is a lovable guy.
Phil's the steady bandmate/best friend who's lovable and helps James throughout. He's a great character who tells it as it is, adding a whole lot of fun to the story.
At it's heart, this is a tender, yet raw, tale of survival. It's about hitting rock bottom and finding your way back.
Warnings include rape, alcoholism, anxiety, depression, and a suicide attempt. Definitely skip this one if these are triggers for you.
Credence is an emotional and gripping story that will leave you feeling all the feels. Definitely save this one for a time when you want to read something heavy. It's an impressive debut novel and I look forward to seeing what Delphia Baisden creates in the future.
April 6, 2019
3.7* rounded up to 4*
The story was qute good but I had a problem with some things.
Confusing dialogues for one - Sometimes I had to reread sentences several times to understand who was talking to whom.
I wish the author hadn't skipped the important part of James's mental recovery - but she just fast forwarded it and we meet James 2 years after the traumatic events. I feel this part was missing.
Somehow I didnt fall for Kieran. He was alright as a character but he's been referred to as a smart mouth throughout the book, and it was just not present in the story. I feel like I don't know this character at all.
Also, the character of Theo - yes, he was the villain, but I feel there could be much more to him. We still don't really know what made him the way he was. Not really.
All in all the story was interesting, however I don't feel like I invested in the story and in the characters. I guess I enjoyed it enough to give it 4* (I give 3* to books I didn't enjoy so much, 2* to books I didn't like, 1* to book atrocities)
The story was qute good but I had a problem with some things.
Confusing dialogues for one - Sometimes I had to reread sentences several times to understand who was talking to whom.
I wish the author hadn't skipped the important part of James's mental recovery - but she just fast forwarded it and we meet James 2 years after the traumatic events. I feel this part was missing.
Somehow I didnt fall for Kieran. He was alright as a character but he's been referred to as a smart mouth throughout the book, and it was just not present in the story. I feel like I don't know this character at all.
Also, the character of Theo - yes, he was the villain, but I feel there could be much more to him. We still don't really know what made him the way he was. Not really.
All in all the story was interesting, however I don't feel like I invested in the story and in the characters. I guess I enjoyed it enough to give it 4* (I give 3* to books I didn't enjoy so much, 2* to books I didn't like, 1* to book atrocities)
March 7, 2019
This was an exceptionally well written book. The author leads us right into the story and even after the first chapter, you're caring about the characters. This book is full of life, love, sorrow, fear, just about everything anyone has ever been through. It's definitely worth the read!
March 2, 2019
i fell head over heels fast for this story.. the emotions are real and raw.. parts of this broke my heart.. other parts made me happy.. very emotional and very amazing. i loved it
March 6, 2019
I really enjoyed this book.
March 11, 2019
Love is better when you find your True North
James Morgan, guitarist for the metal band Eden, has a secret: lead singer Theo is his liver on the down-low. Worse, Theo is emotionally and verbally abusive to him. When the night comes that Theo becomes physically abusive, James realizes they are done, as is Eden and their current tour. The unintended consequence is that their opening act Lost and Found featuring singer Kieran Jackson doesn't survive. Kieran ends up returning home afraid that he's lost his last chance at a singing career. When James and his former Eden bandmates (except Theo) decide to form a new group called True North, James remembers Kieran and suggests him as the lead singer. Does James dare to explore the feelings he finds himself having for Kieran? Can Kieran help James come out and become the man he really is? And when Theo reenters the picture, what will James do? Broaden has done a wonderful job with her first novel. Here's hoping she has a long and prolific career ahead of her.
James Morgan, guitarist for the metal band Eden, has a secret: lead singer Theo is his liver on the down-low. Worse, Theo is emotionally and verbally abusive to him. When the night comes that Theo becomes physically abusive, James realizes they are done, as is Eden and their current tour. The unintended consequence is that their opening act Lost and Found featuring singer Kieran Jackson doesn't survive. Kieran ends up returning home afraid that he's lost his last chance at a singing career. When James and his former Eden bandmates (except Theo) decide to form a new group called True North, James remembers Kieran and suggests him as the lead singer. Does James dare to explore the feelings he finds himself having for Kieran? Can Kieran help James come out and become the man he really is? And when Theo reenters the picture, what will James do? Broaden has done a wonderful job with her first novel. Here's hoping she has a long and prolific career ahead of her.
February 25, 2020
This book might have been good if I could’ve gotten past the lack of professional-level composition and editing. Sadly, the writing felt stilted, with lots of extraneous wording that failed to show the story to the audience but bluntly told it instead. Because of this writing style it came across as juvenile and unsophisticated, more at a high school level than what I’d expect from an experienced, published author. The dialogue was also not very good. It sounded trite and very unrealistic except perhaps for a soap opera. The transitions from scene to scene were also awkward, with disjointed pauses rather than continuity. All in all the story had the potential to be good but lacked the professional quality it needed. An editor would be a good start in bringing the writing up to an acceptable reading level.
April 7, 2019
Good debut
First of all...that cover! Drew me right in. Good premise and great characters. I just felt the romance between James and Kierian was rushed and underdeveloped. They said I love yous before any time together or real conversations or interactions. I'm also not sure if why Kierian's medical condition was written into the storyline as that plot device went no where. We also did not get any details of James' coming out...so perhaps a little too much drama thrown in that went nowhere but in the end, sweet romance amongst horrible trauma. I'd read more for this author.
First of all...that cover! Drew me right in. Good premise and great characters. I just felt the romance between James and Kierian was rushed and underdeveloped. They said I love yous before any time together or real conversations or interactions. I'm also not sure if why Kierian's medical condition was written into the storyline as that plot device went no where. We also did not get any details of James' coming out...so perhaps a little too much drama thrown in that went nowhere but in the end, sweet romance amongst horrible trauma. I'd read more for this author.
September 1, 2022
This one is high angst and be aware that you need to note the triggers; I handled it okay because I went in knowing what would happen. After the worst, there is progress and I thought the consequences were appropriate. I really respect the way the abuse was dealt with. The MC's responses totally made sense and there was no easy rush through. The romance is sweet and relatively slow but again, no easy fix and I respected that because that is like real life.
March 29, 2019
Good Story
This book was good. It deals with a sensitive and abusive topic and the long-term effects. I was glad the author tackled the therapy needed, the support system required and the ability to move forward and love again.
This book was good. It deals with a sensitive and abusive topic and the long-term effects. I was glad the author tackled the therapy needed, the support system required and the ability to move forward and love again.
August 4, 2019
The writing style didn’t work for me. It should have been angsty, but everything just felt on the surface; I couldn’t connect. Stopped at 50% because I was getting angry that what should have been a story I loved wasn’t delivering.
April 9, 2019
😍
Loved it
The cast - The story - the angst - the sweetest romance
I i hope the rest of the cast gets their stories
On my tablet full review to follow
Loved it
The cast - The story - the angst - the sweetest romance
I i hope the rest of the cast gets their stories
On my tablet full review to follow
March 18, 2022
Not my usual style and to be honest j bought this thinking it was a book from another author but I was not disappointed! Nice falling in love story gentle spice but I enjoyed it. Thank you!
January 1, 2024
Got this for Christmas, not my normal read but the message behind it was good. Quick pretty easy read although some of the dialogue is confusing.
February 19, 2019
Where do I even begin to describe how much I loved this book? I mean, do I start with the unbelievably relatable and well-developed characters? The span of settings and scenery’s that blend together seamlessly like a Bob Ross painting?
Now, this story isn’t all happy little trees. There are trigger warnings for a reason, and there are some gut punches that had me coming up for air…then immediately diving back in because I just could not get enough of how quickly I fell in love with James. And then I met Kieran and was an absolute goner as far as trying to put it down. So, go ahead and block off a good amount of time from your schedule before you pick this up. The way I could truly feel the shifts in emotions and atmoshpere was truly captivating from sentence one.
James Morgan finds himself weathering not only the way he feels about others, but how he feels about himself simultaneously after a string of soul and spirit shaking events. Kieran Jackson is more than just a right place at the right time lover for him; Kieran is the glue that offers a pillar of unwavering dedication that helps him reconcile what he really wants and deserves in life against what he has been conditioned to think is normal. Each character and scene have meaning and not a single element was phoned in. It was obviously highly researched and done in a professional manner.
If you’re looking for a beautifully angsty story where love truly finds it’s way to shine, marked with unforgettable characters and even a fair share of chuckles sprinkled along the way, this is the one!
Now, this story isn’t all happy little trees. There are trigger warnings for a reason, and there are some gut punches that had me coming up for air…then immediately diving back in because I just could not get enough of how quickly I fell in love with James. And then I met Kieran and was an absolute goner as far as trying to put it down. So, go ahead and block off a good amount of time from your schedule before you pick this up. The way I could truly feel the shifts in emotions and atmoshpere was truly captivating from sentence one.
James Morgan finds himself weathering not only the way he feels about others, but how he feels about himself simultaneously after a string of soul and spirit shaking events. Kieran Jackson is more than just a right place at the right time lover for him; Kieran is the glue that offers a pillar of unwavering dedication that helps him reconcile what he really wants and deserves in life against what he has been conditioned to think is normal. Each character and scene have meaning and not a single element was phoned in. It was obviously highly researched and done in a professional manner.
If you’re looking for a beautifully angsty story where love truly finds it’s way to shine, marked with unforgettable characters and even a fair share of chuckles sprinkled along the way, this is the one!
March 2, 2019
These rock starts are unlike any you’ve met before. Or is this rock star life we’ve never been privy to?
James and Kieran are sweet emotional rockstars. After James goes through a traumatic experience with their previous band, Eden’s lead singer, it’s hard for him to trust other people and think about being in a relationship. But it looks like being cussed out and told off if the perfect thing to help him overcome his trauma and live his life.
Kieran who has problems of his own with being a lead singer has to overcome some of his own difficulties but he’s the perfect amount of caring and passionate to make him James soulmate. They both power through their problems and bring their band True North to the top.
This story focuses on the relationship between Kieran and James so the rockstar aspect of the book kind of took a backseat but this is one of those books where the focus is in the trauma, love, and compassion not only between the MCs but the secondary characters as well, such as Phil, best friend extraordinare.
I’d definitely recommend this book if your looking for trauma focused romances. So I recommend!!!!
James and Kieran are sweet emotional rockstars. After James goes through a traumatic experience with their previous band, Eden’s lead singer, it’s hard for him to trust other people and think about being in a relationship. But it looks like being cussed out and told off if the perfect thing to help him overcome his trauma and live his life.
Kieran who has problems of his own with being a lead singer has to overcome some of his own difficulties but he’s the perfect amount of caring and passionate to make him James soulmate. They both power through their problems and bring their band True North to the top.
This story focuses on the relationship between Kieran and James so the rockstar aspect of the book kind of took a backseat but this is one of those books where the focus is in the trauma, love, and compassion not only between the MCs but the secondary characters as well, such as Phil, best friend extraordinare.
I’d definitely recommend this book if your looking for trauma focused romances. So I recommend!!!!
March 5, 2019
Finding yourself, healing and learning to love is an amazing journey. Trauma has long range impacts and this story really was honest with that. i enjoyed the writing style and thought the story-line was engaging.
James has a lot to work through and he has amazing friends to stand by him. I loved Phil and what an awesome friend he is to James. We all need a friend like him.
James and Kieran create magic together. I loved how solid and gentle Kieran is as a person and i loved them together. James is someone that needs something sold and kind in his life and Kieran is the perfect person for him. Together these guys create a future full of love.
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my review.
James has a lot to work through and he has amazing friends to stand by him. I loved Phil and what an awesome friend he is to James. We all need a friend like him.
James and Kieran create magic together. I loved how solid and gentle Kieran is as a person and i loved them together. James is someone that needs something sold and kind in his life and Kieran is the perfect person for him. Together these guys create a future full of love.
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my review.
March 2, 2019
This is a well written book with a hurt/comfort trope.
Both MC's experienced harmful relationships in the past - though one to a much higher degree (trigger warning). While those points of the story were a piece of the narrative, they played out without over exaggeration.
I liked that both MC's were musicians, which allowed the author to minimize the jealous groupie issue that so many books fall into.
The MC's were wonderful together & I loved how tender Kieran was with James.
Nicely done!
Both MC's experienced harmful relationships in the past - though one to a much higher degree (trigger warning). While those points of the story were a piece of the narrative, they played out without over exaggeration.
I liked that both MC's were musicians, which allowed the author to minimize the jealous groupie issue that so many books fall into.
The MC's were wonderful together & I loved how tender Kieran was with James.
Nicely done!
March 8, 2019
3/5
The story was fine. The narration can be quite jumpy at times, which can cause some confusion, but I didn't mind it so much. Oh and I didn't expected the but that's my fault for not reading the trigger warning.
The main problem is that it's just not for me. I just found myself falling out of love with it.
The story was fine. The narration can be quite jumpy at times, which can cause some confusion, but I didn't mind it so much. Oh and I didn't expected the but that's my fault for not reading the trigger warning.
The main problem is that it's just not for me. I just found myself falling out of love with it.
March 5, 2019
This was an emotional rollercoaster of a read. I really enjoyed following along with the characters on their journey to their happy ending. All in all a very enjoyable read.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book*
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book*
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