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Bitter Thorns

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All Olivia Stone ever wanted is control over her own destiny. But when witches murder her best friend, her brother reveals secrets about her that will change everything.Thrust into an unfamiliar and frightening world full of magic, she must put her fears aside and place all her faith in a group of strangers.But even her new friends can’t protect her from all the evils of the world. Especially when the worst of it comes from within.The Book One

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 2, 2019

102 people are currently reading
80 people want to read

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Chrissy Jaye

4 books28 followers

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5 stars
83 (40%)
4 stars
63 (30%)
3 stars
38 (18%)
2 stars
13 (6%)
1 star
7 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for Cecilia.
602 reviews
July 7, 2019
so i might give this 3.5. But its only the first book, and I have a feeling I'll like book 2 more.
I've read this type of RH soo many times before. Which isn't a bad thing. It's just the same RH genre I have read over and over. Its the whole the girl has some kind of special powers like mutant x kind, and so do her guys.
And, again she has been abused in some kind of way in the past( which happens in most RH)
It's not a bad thing, but I like when RH stories break away from some of the same RH forumula sterotypes.

I liked the guys who are around he that we are introduced to so far
And, i like the relationship she had with her brother, and felt the pacing was good to the story.

Again, i didn't love book 1. But, i look forward to book 2.
Profile Image for Hillary Stallo.
17 reviews
July 3, 2019
EXCEPTIONAL!!!

Can’t praise this book enough! Exciting! A true thrill ride from beginning to end. Can’t WAIT for the next book. Like... literally. Can’t wait! Supremely well done. Beautiful character building. Did I mention that I’m excited for the next book?
Profile Image for Lauren.
1,091 reviews119 followers
July 15, 2019
Let's face it, liv is down right horrible

Hard book to rate, story is a little confusing, what is the council? Why do these ppl follow and listen to them, they say the witches that take the entwined are horrible for killing and sucking out all they're magic, which it's not magic? But it very much sounds like magic, anyways the council we learn when you don't have a twin or the twin is killed ur taken and experimented on! Jesus! How can these ppl live in a community and know this happens and not care? What else I'm confused about is what are these entwined for, what is it that they do? What is they're purpose? This is a RH and I really liked the guys, however I felt that unfortunately these guys had no choice but to be with liv, almost like mates in a sense? Like she was what completed they're circle and in doing so she was like a mate, they say it pretty much loud and clear they're will be no others. I'm going to just out and say it though, I loathed liv, she is a walking cliche, I've been abused, I don't trust, I can't love, oh I need to not like these guys but there I go checking out their abs (eye roll) but what really did it for me was how utterly useless of a individual she was, liv is a selfish brat, she disgusted me on so many levels it's a miracle I got through this book. I wanted to shake the ever loving s**** out of her so many times. Liv is not only a hot mess, she is also very melodramatic, she is having melt downs at every turn, she kisses a few of the guys, freaks out running and trying to hide while crying and feeling horrified, this makes the guys fight a lot, honestly by the end you just all out hate her, I know I did. This book is pretty much centered around liv and her not being able to function or be a decent person for all but 5 minutes. She actually might be the worse heroine I've ever had to read about, there is a moment when her bf Emma asked her to stay in the car and she doesn't because, well I'm not sure why but in doing so gets Emma killed, she wakes up remembering and in the same paragraph asks if her silver bracelet is there, finds out it's not a is heartbroken, I mean ur friend turned to total ash and ur asking about ur things. Liv cries and complains about everything, the author wanted to go for broken, but she ended up writing about a bitchy, self absorbed child, she never puts others before herself, she never thinks about how others feel, she is all about liv, the only reason I read on is because I totally liked everyone is the circle except her
Profile Image for Missy Brown.
1,750 reviews30 followers
July 9, 2019
I was just scrolling through the new releases and stumbled upon Bitter Thorns. Oh man, I loved it. Everything from the main female lead, although there was some times I got somewhat impatient with her, to the guys. I loved every single one. And what can I say, sets of twins!!! Yes, Twin sets in the Harem!!

Okay, the main female lead is Livvy. She had been in the foster care system with her twin brother Vian. But because of past manipulation they were separated. Now with her best friend and fellow foster, Liv is finally reunited one day with her brother. But things are not as they seem. For Liv is special, even among her new found friends. But danger follows her to her new haven. Will she ever be able to escape it? And will she be able to deal with all that she has learned, about who and what she is? Is it okay to be crushing on your brothers 5 friends, friends who make her feel things she shouldn't.

As I said, I was blown away by this new world that Chrissy has created. How imaginative it is. There was a few times I did not know what I was reading, I got confused, but I seem to just be following Liv's responses anyway. So when she would comment "Explain" I had a feeling it wasn't just for her. Her relationship with her brother is so freaking sweet, i love when we get overprotective siblings. She is a strong female lead, that yes has had some abuse in her past, so if you are sensitive , beware. It is referenced as well as a scene that may cause a trigger.

The guys, wow, where do I begin on them. They each have their own personalities, and yes we do also have the jerk of the group. You will definitely find who it is very easily. But all hope is not lost, I liked him just as much as the others by the ending. Liam, Flynn, Kieran, Ben, and Lucien. You will get to know each one, how they are with Liv, and you will fall for them as well.

The story itself flows pretty quick, a few times difficult to follow everything happening. The characters are very interesting and have lots of chemistry. I found myself laughing out loud lots of times. Overall, I really enjoyed this start to a new series. And I cannot wait for more.
Profile Image for Rambling Reader.
465 reviews75 followers
July 13, 2019
Bitter Thorns takes the ideas of twins and turns them into something unique, something special. In the world of the Entwined, twins have gifts, and they bond together with other sets of multiples to make a powerful family.

For Livvy, this is something entirely new. She had her twin brother, until circumstances and social services separated them, but she really hasn't had the true feel of a family in a long while. Being surrounded by a new "family" that want to cuddle her, get into her space, and, most difficult, know how she FEELS is going to definitely take some getting used to.

What I liked about Livvy is that even though she's temperamental, it feels like she has good reason for it. She's been through a lot, and now she's getting immersed in this magical world where her best friend, her twin, is already miles ahead of her in understanding it and creating a new family.

The guys that are in our harem-to-be are a creative mix. We've got a nerd, a flirt, a jerk, a protective leader, and more of the archetypes that we love to dig into book after book. Even though they're the basic archetypes, we start to get a little bit of background, some hints of what makes them more than the surface in this first book.

The action moves at a decent pace, but there are a lot of unanswered questions. We're really learning about the Entwined, Livvy's past, and the challenges heading their way as she knows it. The major thing I disliked is that there's the typical case of her being kept ignorant in the effort to protect her, protect her feelings. For me, it was so obvious that the guys were meant for her, but there's this skating around it, and I'm hoping that it won't continue too long into book two.

Overall, Bitter Thorns was a pleasant surprise. When you see a book popping up all over social media, it always seems to be a 50% chance whether it's actually worth the hype. While I think the series has some growing to do (and to be completely fair, this is just book one), I think there's a lot of potential for it to be really great, and I'm definitely checking out book two.
Profile Image for Kristi Jung.
327 reviews8 followers
July 28, 2019
Hmm.. conflicting

Its hard not to talk about the cons first, because I know that would pushing my biases on whoever reads this - but this book is very conflicting.. good? bad? maybe in the middle?

[overview]
Olivia and her twin bounced from foster to foster after their parents died when they were 8. After a harsh time in foster care, they were separated, where Olivia suffered more (mostly vague, no details or triggers. One scene that deals with attempted rape can be a trigger). Unknowing of supernaturals (except her&twin ability). I don’t know how old she is in the present, but her best friend (questionable, confusing events) and her brother take her some place where they meet up with the boys and brooke, who become friends. Olivia had a lot of trust issues and is very emotional (rightfully so). She is kept in the dark about a lot, with somewhat random info dumps that left me confused, but with the events that happen its conflicting if they were in the right or wrong to keep her in the dark. still a ton of questions and left in the dark by the end of book.

[harem]
With Oliva’s trust and emotional triggers, they become friends who she somewhat trusts. There is a lot of lust-scenes, but no clear talked about relationship. They keep a lot of things from her, make decisions for her but olivia is so wrapped up in her thoughts, emotions and the horrible events that keep occurring that i suppose it makes sense.
Profile Image for Heather Gilbert.
1,773 reviews85 followers
July 3, 2019
Intriguing

This book was recommended in a group I follow and I nabbed the pre-order blurb unread and site unseen. I like being surprised! Well, this one DID surprise me, though there were a few times I quirked my brow at my kindle, just as confused as Liv by the events going down.

In every way that matters, this is an introductory novel to a new series and a new world - though it deftly avoids the dreaded ‘info dump’ first books are sadly known for. Instead, there is a decided lack of information given, as we learn along with the FMC, and apparently keeping her in the dark (almost - they do tell her certain things) is beneficial.

Pros:
- It is VERY interesting, the world and the characters are strangely captivating.
- Well written.
- She has emotional issues.... deal with it.
- THEY have emotional issues too...
- Cliffhanger.... but I really liked this one.
- Is it magic? Is it science? I don’t know.... but I want it.

Cons:
- Very confusing at times.
- Keeping secrets for ‘her own good’ trope.
- There is soooo much WE (as readers) don’t get yet. Need answers!!
Profile Image for Anna.
838 reviews
August 12, 2019
I've seen this book around and heard good things so I've had it downloaded for a while. I finally got caught up enough to read it and man, did I love it!! The whole twin thing gets a little overplayed sometimes in RH but this put a whole new spin on it. A whole community based off of twins and their abilities.
Livvy was a great female lead. She did get on my nerves a little sometimes with the whole, I'll leave before I hurt them. There's only so many times they can say that before it's just like ugh!!! Overall, I think she was a solid, strong, savvy main character.
The guys are all really great too. Even though they are sets of twins, they are all unique. They all have their strengths and weaknesses.
Now that ending! Man. This is the part where I'm glad I didn't read it a month ago b/c that would be even longer I have to wait for more!! It's not a huge cliffhanger, just a setup for the next book. But it's got me needing that next book like right now!!!!!
Profile Image for Kayla Pipkin.
782 reviews38 followers
July 5, 2019
Was a little disappointed with how quickly this ended.
It was just getting to the good parts and I felt like it came to a halt.
I can't wait to see where this leads though.
We get a POV from one of the boys in the epilogue, but it is told from the main female's point of view.
I was a bit leery of starting this book. Not for any particular reason, just having a hard time getting it started. I opened it several times only to start something else. When I finally dived in, I was glad I did.
Though I did hate how much they (well Flynn) harped on Olivia for her standoffishness. (Yes that's a word LOL)
It was an interesting world set up as well as characters.
Very well written.
And ends on a bit of a cliffhanger.
Would definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Bookiechick  Reviews.
725 reviews24 followers
July 10, 2019
What a pleasant surprise

Well i didnt know anything about this book going into it. It was a recommendation from one of my fav authors so i thought why not? Ive never read a book like this before and i instantly was intrigued. I enjoyed the writing style and the world created. I would have liked to get an expansion of that but i feel its something that would come in the next books in the series. I absolutely fell in love with the characters. While some of the characteristics of the MC bugged me i still enjoyed reading their journey. In saying that i also feel like there was no growth at all from the MC in my opinion even in a small amount but thats just me. Im looking forward to seeing how they develop in coming books. Definitely an enjoyable read, i cant wait for more.
Profile Image for Britt B.
408 reviews
July 31, 2019
Potential but fell flat

Decent concept but poorly executed. I was lost most of the time. Confusing as heck when it feels like you start the book in the middle of a climatic scene. The demands everyone places on Liv are ridiculous. Who just up and trust strangers and gets all touchy with them too. When Flynn said she needs to get over it, I'm like why?! Its like 1 day that she knows you and she is suppose to welcome your comfort, touch, and how you dictate what she needs to know?! Yeah no. Also Liv is irritating she runs hot and cold and is a walking contradiction. Her inner monologues are confusing and all over the place.
DNF because I got way too confused and it's like 50%in. By now I should have a better picture about what the heckbis happening and why.
68 reviews8 followers
July 5, 2019
Woah

This book, I swear. It has two different types of “supernaturals,” being witches and something unique called the Entwined. The world building was excellent, the plot kept me on my toes and engaged the entire time, and I could not put it down. I am living for the rest of the series!

Fair warning this does deal with themes of abuse and sexual assault, but I felt that it was done in a tasteful way while still being impactful.
Profile Image for Dezi.
301 reviews1 follower
July 6, 2019
Good but missing something

First thing, I enjoyed the story. The Charcters were great and the world detailed but as I was reading I felt it was slow in places and missing something. I really felt frustrated along with Olivia about all the secrets being kept from her. Not everything being said and only crumbs left here and there. I hope book 2 has more answers because I really need them.
3 reviews2 followers
July 7, 2019
Awesome

I was on the fence about reading this book..... The synopsis just didn't do it justice. To be fair though I don't think there was a way to truly describe this book without just reading it. I highly recommend this book and won't even try to describe it, but if you love heroines who don't even know they are and wonderful guys who'd do anything for her, well you might want to try this book.
Profile Image for T..
Author 13 books572 followers
July 7, 2019
Bitter Thorns was fast-paced, unique in concept, and well-written. While I didn't much care for the group keeping things from Olivia, the plot held my interest. The slow reveal of the group dynamics and world-building was equally frustrating and intriguing. Olivia wasn't a really strong protagonist, but there was enough character development, I can see her potential to grow into a confidant, strong main character-- I'll read on, just to see where the writer takes this storyline.
Profile Image for BookishBlondeNerd.
547 reviews
July 10, 2019
Devoured

I could not put this book down. It is so amazing. It's frustrating at times because just like Olivia you are in the dark. Some things do not make sense now... It will definitely be a book to re-read once you know more and be like.... Ahhh now that makes sense!! I love the characters and twin-ness . I hope there is more of Octavian in the next book as well. Exciting new story and I can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Katrina.
316 reviews2 followers
May 24, 2020
First off, I didn’t like Olive much but the lack of personal space the guys gave her right from the start, despite knowing of her trauma made me cringe. Her twin barely stuck up for her or got them to back off. It made me feel stabby, especially at the start. I know they need the energy flow but triggering her and telling her that they are getting fed up with her attitude does not make them likeable characters. DNF 66%. I just couldn’t.
Profile Image for Jessica Rousseau.
30 reviews2 followers
July 5, 2019
Surprisingly unique!

Great characters and very interesting story. Can not wait for book 2!
My only issue is the use of the ‘keeping secrets to protect her’ trope. I suppose it is tried and true in the romance genre and possibly even necessary to an extent... I just can never quite understand how main characters get over all the deceit.
Regardless... amazing read!
Profile Image for Melissa Hickman.
1,042 reviews14 followers
July 6, 2019
Great Book!!

I thought this was a unique storyline with some amazing characters. Olive is trying to understand the culture she just found out she is a part of and trying to deal with her feelings for the guys. I have to say that I love all of the men but Flynn is my current favorite (10 points) 😂😂😂. I can’t wait to read the next book!!
103 reviews
July 7, 2019
Great Introduction

Wow this book was a pleasant surprise to find in my mountain of mediocre books. It was well written and well paced, with just the right amount of drama, romance, and backstory. I’m intrigued to learn more about all the characters and to see where this journey takes us.
Profile Image for Sydney Hopke.
1,381 reviews18 followers
July 14, 2019
What a read! I knew this would be interesting but was unprepared for how hooked I'd be. From the start you want to know more. The characters make you wonder what will happen next. And then when you're like oh ok something happens that make you wonder again. Can't wait to find out what happens next!!
Profile Image for Boo.
3,672 reviews14 followers
July 27, 2019
Really great

I very much enjoyed this book and how the characters were portrayed. I love how she still has her problems and doesn’t just get over it because she like the Mmc. I like the flow of the book and the new concept that’s going on here. My first book from this author and I’m loving it
Profile Image for Cherylynn Tilley.
597 reviews
December 2, 2019
Loved it

I loved the characters and the storyline. This was so amazing to read. I love Liv and how she’s getting to know herself and what she’s capable of. Now that cliffhanger is still a WTF moment cause I want to know what happens next so I’ll just have to wait for the next book. Which I’m looking forward to reading.
Profile Image for Megan.
109 reviews
March 18, 2020
Wow

This book is absolutely amazing - I highly recommend. Olivia is the female main character and this book explores some of her past, and also shows how she deals with this new environment she is in. She’s surrounded by her twin brother, his girlfriend and 5 other guys. Ends on a little bit of a cliffhanger but I can’t reiterate more about how good this book is.
19 reviews
April 7, 2020
Wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this book. But I was sucked in from the very beginning and thoroughly enjoyed it. I cannot wait for her next book to see what happens.
This is definitely an author I’ll be following and I’m glad I checked her out after watching the Q&A she did with B.L. Brunnemer.
I recommend Chrissy Jaye to anyone who wants to lose them selves in a great story.
Profile Image for Kelly Wheeler.
219 reviews1 follower
July 2, 2019
Wow

This was one I wasn’t sure if I’d read or pass , I gave it a shot and am so very glad I did ! The characters are layered , the plot intricate , the writing on point and overall just a fantastic read , truly made a fan out of me and can’t wait to see what happens next :)
158 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2019
Amazing

Oh my! This book was amazing. I couldn’t put it down when I started reading. I love Olivia as an FMC and the relationship emerging with her and the guys is fantastic. I love all the twists as she grows into who she’s meant to be. Seriously can’t wait for the next one
Profile Image for Ami Kidd.
83 reviews1 follower
July 4, 2019
Amazing!

A new book recommended by one of my favorite authors and I am so glad! I hate Olivia had such a bad upbringing but so glad she now has her “family “ once she decides to trust them..
523 reviews3 followers
July 4, 2019
What a cliffy !!

I downloaded this book on to my kindle this morning and I just finished it . I couldn't put it down . Now I'm on the lookout for the next book ! I loved this story .
16 reviews
July 4, 2019
Amazing!

I was recommended this book by another author and I’m glad that I took the bait! I devoured this book in one sitting. Livvy has such an amazing strength. I can’t wait to see her grow with the boys!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews

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