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Pride and Honor #1
Beautiful Delusions
Kaylee, a single mother of two, has had a rough life that’s about to get a whole lot rougher. When her abusive ex starts stalking her causing her to drive her truck into a ditch, no one believes her.
Kaylee has PTSD from her time with Tyler and her entire family thought she tried to commit suicide and forced her into therapy. Who would have known the therapist would be someone she never thought she’d see again?
Griffin did a bad thing in high school. He hurt someone he’d never intended to. Kaylee. She’d been his childhood friend since they were small and suddenly she just disappeared. He always regretted that.
After spending most of his adult life serving in the military where he’d witnessed his own share of trauma, Griffin decided to go to school for counseling. He specialized in PTSD. When the Chance came up to help Kaylee with her issues he couldn’t say no. He never would have guessed that the attraction would be so great.
With Kaylee’s psycho ex continuing to stalk her how can they navigate through all the challenges they face? Will Griffin be able to protect her, or will the monsters from her past succeed in taking her away?
Kaylee has PTSD from her time with Tyler and her entire family thought she tried to commit suicide and forced her into therapy. Who would have known the therapist would be someone she never thought she’d see again?
Griffin did a bad thing in high school. He hurt someone he’d never intended to. Kaylee. She’d been his childhood friend since they were small and suddenly she just disappeared. He always regretted that.
After spending most of his adult life serving in the military where he’d witnessed his own share of trauma, Griffin decided to go to school for counseling. He specialized in PTSD. When the Chance came up to help Kaylee with her issues he couldn’t say no. He never would have guessed that the attraction would be so great.
With Kaylee’s psycho ex continuing to stalk her how can they navigate through all the challenges they face? Will Griffin be able to protect her, or will the monsters from her past succeed in taking her away?
Unknown Binding
First published March 7, 2017
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264 people want to read
About the author
Ember-Raine Winters
82 books475 followersParanormal romance author Ember-Raine Winters lives in sunny California with her two kids and a wolf. She likes her books like she likes her food: the spicier, the better! Readers who want to connect with her can join her Facebook group, Ember's Beautiful Babes, to join in the fun and learn more about how to get early access to her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 13, 2017
Check out this review, and many more, on my blog https://jessjesinghaus.wordpress.com
Man-dango! This book gave me whiplash... in a good way. Beautiful Delusions follows a single mother, Kaylee, through a very turbulent time in her life. Kaylee's had it rough. Her first partner, and the father of her two kids, was (is still?) a drug addict. Her second relationship was to a man who beat her and abused her, both physically and emotionally, to within an inch of her life. Kaylee's resultant PTSD plays a major role in this story as she tries to cope with multiple crises: custody disputes, a possible stalker, and the questionable 'support' of her immediate family.
When a figure from Kaylee's past, Griffin, resurfaces in the guise of her new therapist (he's a legit PTSD therapist, but he does have ulterior motives) it's just one more obstacle Kaylee has to overcome. Griffin is a great guy! As a reader I liked him right away. Former Special Forces, he helps vets back on their feet, employing many in his security firm. Good thing too, because with the help of his younger brother and a handful of Army buddies, Griffin's gonna have his hands full keeping Kaylee and her kids safe.
The romance aspect of this book was a tad predictable, but did that detract at all from my enjoyment? Hell no! There were so many other curve balls flying toward Kaylee that I appreciated the steadfastness of their burgeoning relationship. Kaylee's PTSD flashbacks were incredibly well written and portrayed. As someone who works in the women's healthcare field, I applaud Ms Winters for taking on such a challenging topic as domestic violence induced PTSD. It couldn't have been easy, but it was portrayed with aplomb. Beautiful Delusions is part of a series, however the book tidies up well, and includes a sneak peek at the next installment, thereby avoiding the dreaded cliffhanger. Needless to say, I will be reading the next book in the series soon!
Man-dango! This book gave me whiplash... in a good way. Beautiful Delusions follows a single mother, Kaylee, through a very turbulent time in her life. Kaylee's had it rough. Her first partner, and the father of her two kids, was (is still?) a drug addict. Her second relationship was to a man who beat her and abused her, both physically and emotionally, to within an inch of her life. Kaylee's resultant PTSD plays a major role in this story as she tries to cope with multiple crises: custody disputes, a possible stalker, and the questionable 'support' of her immediate family.
When a figure from Kaylee's past, Griffin, resurfaces in the guise of her new therapist (he's a legit PTSD therapist, but he does have ulterior motives) it's just one more obstacle Kaylee has to overcome. Griffin is a great guy! As a reader I liked him right away. Former Special Forces, he helps vets back on their feet, employing many in his security firm. Good thing too, because with the help of his younger brother and a handful of Army buddies, Griffin's gonna have his hands full keeping Kaylee and her kids safe.
The romance aspect of this book was a tad predictable, but did that detract at all from my enjoyment? Hell no! There were so many other curve balls flying toward Kaylee that I appreciated the steadfastness of their burgeoning relationship. Kaylee's PTSD flashbacks were incredibly well written and portrayed. As someone who works in the women's healthcare field, I applaud Ms Winters for taking on such a challenging topic as domestic violence induced PTSD. It couldn't have been easy, but it was portrayed with aplomb. Beautiful Delusions is part of a series, however the book tidies up well, and includes a sneak peek at the next installment, thereby avoiding the dreaded cliffhanger. Needless to say, I will be reading the next book in the series soon!
March 7, 2017
4.5 Stars
Beautiful Delusions by Ember Raine Winters is a realistic story of survival and love and the first book in the Pride and Honor series. It is one of the few books that I know of that deals with PTSD that is not associated with combat and the military.
Kaylee Robbins is a young woman who made some bad decisions—the worst is the abusive relationship with her ex Tyler. He beat her regularly until she finally reports his behavior to the police and then escapes. The typical response of most people, including family, when she explains her PTSD is “move on” or “get over it.” Only she can’t get over it when she has triggers that cause flashbacks that put her right back in the deadly situation.
Griffin Thomas is a strong alpha hero—ex-military, psychiatrist, security entrepreneur. Griffin (Griff) needs control. He has a big heart. Unfortunately, years ago, he made a mistake and hurt Kaylee deeply. His actions pushed her down a road of self-destruction. Now he is back in her life with one goal help Kaylee (Kay-Kay) learn how to deal with her PTSD. Kaylee is going to bring any more issues than PTSD.
Both main characters are developed well and grow significantly between the covers of this book. The complexity of Kaylee and Griff and their relationships are the heart of the story. Ms. Winters does an excellent job with the intricate plots and subplots used to drive the story and build interest in the series.
Beautiful Delusions is written in the alternating points of view of the heroine and hero giving us the insight into the flashbacks and how they totally take over Kaylee when they happen. The flashbacks are also insight into the horror of Kaylee’s past. Griffin, her former school friend, and current psychologist reveals his emotions, regrets, and feelings from his point of view.
The secondary characters are used well in telling the story. The members of Griffin’s team are good, loyal, and damaged. They focus on their mission and pique the interest of the reader to learn more about them. We learn enough about these men and women to want more in the future. Tara, Kaylee’s sister-in-law also deals with non-combat related PTSD. I love her. She is a good friend, defender, and confidante. We also have a heavy dose of “bad” guys. Both of Kaylee’s exes leave a lot to be desired. They are scum and show their true colors as the story unfolds. There is nothing better than good characters to hate in a story. We need someone to throw daggers at while reading.
I like the way Ms. Winters uses the PTSD, the characters, and other events to build the tension. It is painful how family, friends and the legal system can be so closed minded or ill-equipped to handle some mental illnesses. There are a couple scenes with Kaylee’s mother that almost made me throw my Kindle, one in the beginning after her car accident. Beautiful Delusions shines a light of some of the misunderstandings and roadblocks the illness places in people’s path. To be honest, parts of the story shocked me, and I’m sure the personal stress is realistic.
The story is fast-paced and filled with action that feels authentic for the most part. Sometimes my heart ached for Kaylee as one thing after another is thrown at her in a short time span. Beautiful Delusions isn’t a book of continuous sex scenes, but when they happen, they are appropriately placed and hot.
I did feel that Tyler getting into the penthouse did feel off or a little unbelievable, especially since she was in a secure building. My other criticism is the unexpected “sort of” cliffhanger. I wasn’t prepared, and that is my fault. I found myself getting excited about the ending and looking down too late to realize there isn’t enough left to the end. The reason I say “sort of” is because the sneak peek for book two ends the book in a satisfying way. It isn’t the end of the story but a good stopping point for a hopeful future.
I highly recommend Beautiful Delusions. Ember Raine Winters is a new author for me. She is an author to watch-- an excellent storyteller. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the future.
Beautiful Delusions by Ember Raine Winters is a realistic story of survival and love and the first book in the Pride and Honor series. It is one of the few books that I know of that deals with PTSD that is not associated with combat and the military.
Kaylee Robbins is a young woman who made some bad decisions—the worst is the abusive relationship with her ex Tyler. He beat her regularly until she finally reports his behavior to the police and then escapes. The typical response of most people, including family, when she explains her PTSD is “move on” or “get over it.” Only she can’t get over it when she has triggers that cause flashbacks that put her right back in the deadly situation.
Griffin Thomas is a strong alpha hero—ex-military, psychiatrist, security entrepreneur. Griffin (Griff) needs control. He has a big heart. Unfortunately, years ago, he made a mistake and hurt Kaylee deeply. His actions pushed her down a road of self-destruction. Now he is back in her life with one goal help Kaylee (Kay-Kay) learn how to deal with her PTSD. Kaylee is going to bring any more issues than PTSD.
Both main characters are developed well and grow significantly between the covers of this book. The complexity of Kaylee and Griff and their relationships are the heart of the story. Ms. Winters does an excellent job with the intricate plots and subplots used to drive the story and build interest in the series.
Beautiful Delusions is written in the alternating points of view of the heroine and hero giving us the insight into the flashbacks and how they totally take over Kaylee when they happen. The flashbacks are also insight into the horror of Kaylee’s past. Griffin, her former school friend, and current psychologist reveals his emotions, regrets, and feelings from his point of view.
The secondary characters are used well in telling the story. The members of Griffin’s team are good, loyal, and damaged. They focus on their mission and pique the interest of the reader to learn more about them. We learn enough about these men and women to want more in the future. Tara, Kaylee’s sister-in-law also deals with non-combat related PTSD. I love her. She is a good friend, defender, and confidante. We also have a heavy dose of “bad” guys. Both of Kaylee’s exes leave a lot to be desired. They are scum and show their true colors as the story unfolds. There is nothing better than good characters to hate in a story. We need someone to throw daggers at while reading.
I like the way Ms. Winters uses the PTSD, the characters, and other events to build the tension. It is painful how family, friends and the legal system can be so closed minded or ill-equipped to handle some mental illnesses. There are a couple scenes with Kaylee’s mother that almost made me throw my Kindle, one in the beginning after her car accident. Beautiful Delusions shines a light of some of the misunderstandings and roadblocks the illness places in people’s path. To be honest, parts of the story shocked me, and I’m sure the personal stress is realistic.
The story is fast-paced and filled with action that feels authentic for the most part. Sometimes my heart ached for Kaylee as one thing after another is thrown at her in a short time span. Beautiful Delusions isn’t a book of continuous sex scenes, but when they happen, they are appropriately placed and hot.
I did feel that Tyler getting into the penthouse did feel off or a little unbelievable, especially since she was in a secure building. My other criticism is the unexpected “sort of” cliffhanger. I wasn’t prepared, and that is my fault. I found myself getting excited about the ending and looking down too late to realize there isn’t enough left to the end. The reason I say “sort of” is because the sneak peek for book two ends the book in a satisfying way. It isn’t the end of the story but a good stopping point for a hopeful future.
I highly recommend Beautiful Delusions. Ember Raine Winters is a new author for me. She is an author to watch-- an excellent storyteller. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the future.
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December 18, 2017Review copies can be requested here: closed - other review opportunities found here]
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February 16, 2017
This book was full of very emotional situations that most people do not understand. The story was a great read. Cannot wait for the second book. 10
September 11, 2017
I am so hooked on this gang. Kaylee has been to hell and back being battered and almost looking her life from her Ex. She just wants to raise her two kids and be left alone but her ex is out to get her back and vows to stop at nothing until he has her. Griffin has know Kaylee since the were young but something happen all those years ago to tear them apart. So when she is in trouble he makes sure he is there to help her. This story has so many twist and turns that you don't want to put this book down. If you want an adventure this is the book.
March 10, 2017
4.5 outstanding stars
Well what an amazing introduction to this new to me author. This book although dealing with issues many will never really fully understand unless you've been part of it really broaches the subject with sensitivity and compassion, this book will not be for everyone, the triggers are there and yes at times it was hard to read and your heart broke along with the character and you wish you could reach into the pages and throttle the living beejees out of certain characters but this is what keeps a grip on your attention and you are unable to put this book down because you just need to know what happens next.
This is a story of love, survival, second chances and the sheer strength to never give up.
An outstanding introduction and first read from Ember and omg I seriously need the next book...
Well what an amazing introduction to this new to me author. This book although dealing with issues many will never really fully understand unless you've been part of it really broaches the subject with sensitivity and compassion, this book will not be for everyone, the triggers are there and yes at times it was hard to read and your heart broke along with the character and you wish you could reach into the pages and throttle the living beejees out of certain characters but this is what keeps a grip on your attention and you are unable to put this book down because you just need to know what happens next.
This is a story of love, survival, second chances and the sheer strength to never give up.
An outstanding introduction and first read from Ember and omg I seriously need the next book...
December 2, 2017
Well, this was one big hot mess. Before getting this, I had read a lot of reviews that praised this book and the light it shows on PTSD. Which I think it does a good job of showing how something like this could severely disrupt a life. But that was about the only good thing I could say for this book.
There was a lot in here that left me either laughing inappropriately or groaning (and not in a good way). The dialog was something terrible. It was cheesy and never felt natural between the characters. It felt like a bad lifetime movie romantic drama. It was enough that it ruined the romance for me completely, not to mention the bullheaded alphaness the author set up for all her heroes.
The characters were something else. The supporting characters, such as Kaylee's mother, infuriated me. It felt like an inconsistency in the story. Kaylee is trying to flee an abusive relationship and her mother, who knows she's fleeing, somehow manages to let the guy know? That she all of a sudden has forgotten the trouble the father of her grandchildren caused? The only real feeling I got from Kaylee's family is their need for her to just "get over it". It being the PTSD. The rest? The rest felt like some convenient cheap shot at Kaylee for story sake.
So much happens in this book. So much, in fact, I was yelling at my book "come on! Seriously?!" Because, for real, how could any of this really happen? It felt like way too much for one book and other things felt completely unreal. Even worse, the story doesn't even end. It just cuts off. Please buy book 2 to find out what happens! Yeah, no. Probably not.
It seems I'm the minority in not liking this book. Which is fine. For me, it was riddled with issue after issue and it was a chore to get it finished without straining my eyes from the constant eye rolls.
There was a lot in here that left me either laughing inappropriately or groaning (and not in a good way). The dialog was something terrible. It was cheesy and never felt natural between the characters. It felt like a bad lifetime movie romantic drama. It was enough that it ruined the romance for me completely, not to mention the bullheaded alphaness the author set up for all her heroes.
The characters were something else. The supporting characters, such as Kaylee's mother, infuriated me. It felt like an inconsistency in the story. Kaylee is trying to flee an abusive relationship and her mother, who knows she's fleeing, somehow manages to let the guy know? That she all of a sudden has forgotten the trouble the father of her grandchildren caused? The only real feeling I got from Kaylee's family is their need for her to just "get over it". It being the PTSD. The rest? The rest felt like some convenient cheap shot at Kaylee for story sake.
So much happens in this book. So much, in fact, I was yelling at my book "come on! Seriously?!" Because, for real, how could any of this really happen? It felt like way too much for one book and other things felt completely unreal. Even worse, the story doesn't even end. It just cuts off. Please buy book 2 to find out what happens! Yeah, no. Probably not.
It seems I'm the minority in not liking this book. Which is fine. For me, it was riddled with issue after issue and it was a chore to get it finished without straining my eyes from the constant eye rolls.
May 3, 2021
Kaylee Robbins was in a terribly abusive relationship with her ex Tyler, receiving constant beatings until she reported him to police. No one seems to believe in her PTSD that resulted because that is almost always associated with military experiences. Her flashbacks keep returning her to the deadly situations once they are triggered.
Griffin Thomas knew her from high school. Now he is an ex-military psychiatrist, back in her life to help her deal with the PTSD. But with Kaylee’s psycho ex continuing to stalk her, she is distracted. Can Griffin protect her? Tyler seems able to bypass the tightest security. Is it only a matter of time until he gets to her and takes her life?
Griffin Thomas knew her from high school. Now he is an ex-military psychiatrist, back in her life to help her deal with the PTSD. But with Kaylee’s psycho ex continuing to stalk her, she is distracted. Can Griffin protect her? Tyler seems able to bypass the tightest security. Is it only a matter of time until he gets to her and takes her life?
May 2, 2021
This is an interesting story with a cast of strong characters. The author brings an emotional story filled with twists and turns as she brings two childhood friends back together.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
April 24, 2017
This book was very emotional and eye opening. As someone who has suffered through some mild panic attacks (mild, in comparison to Kaylee), I know how scary and debilitating they can be. So this book and Kaylee’s experiences definitely resonated with me. My anxiety is not derived from the same reasons as her, but I can definitely empathize with he. Especially coming from an abusive home and having to witness this as a little girl. Like I said, my attacks are mild in comparison to hers, and I can only imagine the full extent of her attacks. I think Ember-Raine did a fabulous job putting a spotlight on a very dark topic, that so many seem to sweep under the rug and ignore.
I think for the most part Kaylee had a great support system with her sister-in-law, at least someone who understand and believed what she was going through. So many people, like her parents, don't understand and tell them to “just get over it and move on”…well little do they know, sometimes you just CAN’T! And they will never understand unless they, god forbid, go through it themselves; and I don't wish that on anyone!
Thank God for Griffin. He seemed to really understand her and was patient with her, without treating her like she was going to break at any moment. He definitely knew how to protect and take care of her.
I can't believe all the things she had to endure prior to this time in her life and then to hear all the things that happened during our time with her…Jesus! There is only so much a person can take before falling to pieces; and while all this is going on, Kaylee is definitely pushed to her limits. But, I don’t think anywhere near breaking. She is a strong and resilient woman and when backed into a corner will come out fighting!
Beautiful Delusion was a great and insightful read and I would highly recommend reading it. I an looking forward to the next book, Beautiful Sacrifice, where I hope to witness just how fierce she really is!!
I think for the most part Kaylee had a great support system with her sister-in-law, at least someone who understand and believed what she was going through. So many people, like her parents, don't understand and tell them to “just get over it and move on”…well little do they know, sometimes you just CAN’T! And they will never understand unless they, god forbid, go through it themselves; and I don't wish that on anyone!
Thank God for Griffin. He seemed to really understand her and was patient with her, without treating her like she was going to break at any moment. He definitely knew how to protect and take care of her.
I can't believe all the things she had to endure prior to this time in her life and then to hear all the things that happened during our time with her…Jesus! There is only so much a person can take before falling to pieces; and while all this is going on, Kaylee is definitely pushed to her limits. But, I don’t think anywhere near breaking. She is a strong and resilient woman and when backed into a corner will come out fighting!
Beautiful Delusion was a great and insightful read and I would highly recommend reading it. I an looking forward to the next book, Beautiful Sacrifice, where I hope to witness just how fierce she really is!!
July 10, 2017
Oh my!!! This book was amazing. I'm so addicted to this series. I'm starting Book 2 today.
February 27, 2018
4.5⭐️’s
Highly entertaining packed with full on drama that will keep you glued to the book. And boy oh boy with the Alfa male in this book!!!!
Highly entertaining packed with full on drama that will keep you glued to the book. And boy oh boy with the Alfa male in this book!!!!
April 26, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book very suspenseful throughout.
March 7, 2017
A realistic story of PTSD not associated with combat. It is easy to forget that some women are in domestic situations that are just as mentally detrimental as combat. Kaylee Robbins is one of these women. Griffin Thomas is an old friend who becomes her therapist and helps her learn how to live with her past and work to make a future.
I highly recommend Beautiful Delusions. Ember Raine Winters is a new author for me. She is an author to watch. She is an excellent storyteller. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the future.
Full review on Badass Bloggettes: http://badassbloggettes.blogspot.com/...
I highly recommend Beautiful Delusions. Ember Raine Winters is a new author for me. She is an author to watch. She is an excellent storyteller. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the future.
Full review on Badass Bloggettes: http://badassbloggettes.blogspot.com/...
March 2, 2017
This was a very emotional book. Kaylee, the main character, has PTSD from a past abusive relationship. You get a real sense of her suffering through vivid flashbacks. You also see how the PTSD affects not only her, but the people in her life. She has two children. There were a few times that situations occurred and it happened in front of the children, which makes it even more sad because they are so innocent and don't need to see any of that. And I kinda wished Kaylee watched her language in front of them. I was confused at one point in the beginning. Kaylee was in a car accident and not much detail of her injuries were explained. I would've enjoyed to know more of that.
Griffin is her main love interest, who she also knew in the past, but they hadn't seen each other in years. Unless I missed it, it wasn't too clear what happened to cause such a rift between them. But Griffin is back in her life and one of the people helping with her PTSD. I really liked Griffin. He was sensitive to Kaylee's needs and very protective of her. I also liked the members of his security team. They had great personalities.
The only thing to really bum me out was it ended in a cliffhanger, and I'm not a huge fan of those. Of course, I gotta read the next book to find out what happens! There were suspense elements in this book as well. So if you're looking for a read with a bit of suspense and emotional impact, this is your book!
Griffin is her main love interest, who she also knew in the past, but they hadn't seen each other in years. Unless I missed it, it wasn't too clear what happened to cause such a rift between them. But Griffin is back in her life and one of the people helping with her PTSD. I really liked Griffin. He was sensitive to Kaylee's needs and very protective of her. I also liked the members of his security team. They had great personalities.
The only thing to really bum me out was it ended in a cliffhanger, and I'm not a huge fan of those. Of course, I gotta read the next book to find out what happens! There were suspense elements in this book as well. So if you're looking for a read with a bit of suspense and emotional impact, this is your book!
March 30, 2018
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Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
I generously received this ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review...
"When we feel weak, we drop our heads on the shoulders of others. Don't get mad when someone does that. Be honored. For that person trusted you enough to, even if subtly, ask you for help.” - Lori Goodwin
Beautiful Delusions by Ember Raine Winters is a beautifully captivating story about a women, Kaylee Robbins who has tragically suffered at the hands of a terrible accident. This amazingly strong women has experienced more tragedy then a person should ever have to experience in a single lifetime. Then enter in Griffin, a man who is suffering from his own demons. I absolutely adored every aspect of this story and enjoyed the concept of two lost souls coming together to heal one another.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD as it is most commonly referred to is something that millions are affected with day in and day out. Before reading this book I had very little insight on what PTSD truly entailed, but after reading this extremely telling book I feel that I have been fortunate enough to gain a better understanding.
I strongly recommend picking up a copy of this book today!
I generously received this ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review...
"When we feel weak, we drop our heads on the shoulders of others. Don't get mad when someone does that. Be honored. For that person trusted you enough to, even if subtly, ask you for help.” - Lori Goodwin
Beautiful Delusions by Ember Raine Winters is a beautifully captivating story about a women, Kaylee Robbins who has tragically suffered at the hands of a terrible accident. This amazingly strong women has experienced more tragedy then a person should ever have to experience in a single lifetime. Then enter in Griffin, a man who is suffering from his own demons. I absolutely adored every aspect of this story and enjoyed the concept of two lost souls coming together to heal one another.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD as it is most commonly referred to is something that millions are affected with day in and day out. Before reading this book I had very little insight on what PTSD truly entailed, but after reading this extremely telling book I feel that I have been fortunate enough to gain a better understanding.
I strongly recommend picking up a copy of this book today!
February 16, 2017
This is a very realistic portrayal of the difficulties of living with PTSD, especially as those who do not understand it respond in ways that are harmful, even when they mean well. Kaylee has a hot temper and isn't waiting around for someone to rescue her, but Griffin, in true hero style, does just that. Their chemistry is hot hot hot, both on a physical and emotional level, and their troubled past only escalates both. Griff is tough and protective, and Kaylee struggles with how much she should allow him to help her - I think this is a struggle many women, PTSD-challenged or not, face.
This reminded me of Sidney Halston's Pull Me Close, which is the only other book I've read that handles PTSD realistically, and has a romance with passion and affection as well. I'm definitely looking forward to book two in this series!
This reminded me of Sidney Halston's Pull Me Close, which is the only other book I've read that handles PTSD realistically, and has a romance with passion and affection as well. I'm definitely looking forward to book two in this series!
February 19, 2018
*I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.*
This is the story of single mother Kaylee who has been having a rough time, with a drug addict father of her two children and being in a very traumatic abusive relationship with her second partner. The trauma from this has caused Kaylee to have PTSD flashbacks and it doesn’t help that her immediate family is not very supportive.
Then we have Griffin, he had let Kaylee go fifteen years ago and now being back posing as her PTSD therapist, his only ulterior motive now was to keep her safe as he is former Special Forces and owns his own security firm, so with the help of his team Kaylee and the kids couldn’t be in better hands.
With lots of action and suspense this story will keep you on your toes to the end and the character development was just right and I liked how the PTSD was dealt with.
Looking forward to the next instalment in this “Pride and Honor” Series by Ember-Raine Winters.
This is the story of single mother Kaylee who has been having a rough time, with a drug addict father of her two children and being in a very traumatic abusive relationship with her second partner. The trauma from this has caused Kaylee to have PTSD flashbacks and it doesn’t help that her immediate family is not very supportive.
Then we have Griffin, he had let Kaylee go fifteen years ago and now being back posing as her PTSD therapist, his only ulterior motive now was to keep her safe as he is former Special Forces and owns his own security firm, so with the help of his team Kaylee and the kids couldn’t be in better hands.
With lots of action and suspense this story will keep you on your toes to the end and the character development was just right and I liked how the PTSD was dealt with.
Looking forward to the next instalment in this “Pride and Honor” Series by Ember-Raine Winters.
October 6, 2017
“The thing about abuse is you can never go back to who you once were. It’s embedded in you, forever. Those moments irrevocably changed me forever. My experiences left a stain on my soul that would never come off. No matter what, I was changed. I would never be what I once was, but I could try like hell to be the best version of the person I become.”
****
Ember-Raine Winters is talented, and her writing is gorgeous. Her PTSD flashbacks are perfectly placed, the portrayal of domestic abuse very realistic, and the action in this book kept me at the edge of my seat.
With that said…
Beautiful Delusions is a love story between Kaylee Robbins, a single mother with PTSD, and Griffin Thomas, a former Special Forces gone psychiatrist.
Kaylee Robbins has walked through Hell and back – her ex-boyfriend, Tyler, brutally beat her to the edge of her life; and now, she's being accused of trying to kill herself, with another ex-boyfriend trying to take her kids away for good. She’s done some bad shit, been through shit, and is going through shit. We can all relate to her on at least one aspect of her life.
Griffin Thomas is, as I stated before, a former Special Forces gone psychiatrist. Also, runs a big-time security firm(?). Yeah. That’s a little too perfect, right? The perfection of Griffin kept me from thinking he was a “real” guy that we could relate to, or see ourselves knowing in real life.
I try not to spoil anything, really. But, please – if you are easily overloaded by a story, this is probably not for you.
(( SPOILERS BELOW ))
**
By the end of the book, you will be overloaded by the stuff going on. Unsupportive parents, a stalker ex, a fuck-boy ex, and kidnappings. Two kidnappings. WITHIN TWENTY-FOUR HOURS. A direct quote from one of the characters in her book – ““How does one child get kidnapped twice in twenty-four hours?”
There is also a cliffhanger for the ending. Yes, a cliffhanger – but, all is good in the Pride and Honor hood, because Miss Winters was kind enough to give us a look into book two of the series.
Oh, and the dog dies. You’re welcome.
((SPOILERS OVER))
**
Those things above were my only complaints. Overall, the book was great. I haven’t had characters make me feel like I was there before, but Miss Winters made (most of) these guys real for me. I felt so many emotions, while almost falling off the edge of my seat for more.
This book gets 4 stars from me. 😊
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****
Ember-Raine Winters is talented, and her writing is gorgeous. Her PTSD flashbacks are perfectly placed, the portrayal of domestic abuse very realistic, and the action in this book kept me at the edge of my seat.
With that said…
Beautiful Delusions is a love story between Kaylee Robbins, a single mother with PTSD, and Griffin Thomas, a former Special Forces gone psychiatrist.
Kaylee Robbins has walked through Hell and back – her ex-boyfriend, Tyler, brutally beat her to the edge of her life; and now, she's being accused of trying to kill herself, with another ex-boyfriend trying to take her kids away for good. She’s done some bad shit, been through shit, and is going through shit. We can all relate to her on at least one aspect of her life.
Griffin Thomas is, as I stated before, a former Special Forces gone psychiatrist. Also, runs a big-time security firm(?). Yeah. That’s a little too perfect, right? The perfection of Griffin kept me from thinking he was a “real” guy that we could relate to, or see ourselves knowing in real life.
I try not to spoil anything, really. But, please – if you are easily overloaded by a story, this is probably not for you.
(( SPOILERS BELOW ))
**
By the end of the book, you will be overloaded by the stuff going on. Unsupportive parents, a stalker ex, a fuck-boy ex, and kidnappings. Two kidnappings. WITHIN TWENTY-FOUR HOURS. A direct quote from one of the characters in her book – ““How does one child get kidnapped twice in twenty-four hours?”
There is also a cliffhanger for the ending. Yes, a cliffhanger – but, all is good in the Pride and Honor hood, because Miss Winters was kind enough to give us a look into book two of the series.
Oh, and the dog dies. You’re welcome.
((SPOILERS OVER))
**
Those things above were my only complaints. Overall, the book was great. I haven’t had characters make me feel like I was there before, but Miss Winters made (most of) these guys real for me. I felt so many emotions, while almost falling off the edge of my seat for more.
This book gets 4 stars from me. 😊
Follow me!
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/KHKReviews/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/KHKReviews / @KHKReviews
WordPress - https://khkreviews.wordpress.com/
July 6, 2017
I received Beautiful Delusions as a gift and this is my honest opinion. Beautiful Delusions was just an okay book for me. I read approximately 200 books a year and I am always looking for the next new talent but sadly I did not find it here. It is the story of Kaylee, a thirty something single mother of two and survivor of drug addiction and domestic violence. This is what grabbed me to read this story but sadly her background is told through choppy flashbacks and lacks development. She reconnects with Griffin as her therapist. He is from her childhood and treated her so poorly that everyone feels that is what sent her into this spiral of self destruction. This subject should be very important to the story but is barely discussed in depth. My other problems, calling a woman throughout the book "KayKay". She is supposed to be in her 30's so using that ridiculous nickname once would have been sufficient. The biggest problem that I had is that the story was disjointed. An good editor could probably have improved this story but I will not be continuing with the series. As I said, it's okay but I want good when I read a book and would really prefer great.
October 8, 2018
Damn Kaylee, you seriously need to sit down and have a heart to heart with Karma!
This is the first book in the series and as I was prepared for a bit of time is spent on the introduction of characters as well as a little bit of everyone's history, but not their whole story we did get a lot of breadcrumb trails, more than enough that I was left starving for more.
This is a very intensely busy read - seriously- I was not kidding when I said earlier that Kaylee needs to talk to Karma - I thought I had craptastic streaks - this poor girl is being buried in them! Normally this much chaos would literally turn me off a book - that was not quite the case here - I found I really liked the characters, their personalities where so diverse and they easily dragged me in - I found I connected with them on a personal level.
Overall there are some minor flaws with the storyline but I would still recommend - Yeah, It was chaotic, a bit off key at times, but it kept me engaged - I laughed, I cried, I enjoyed the ride
I did end up reading this whole series
This is the first book in the series and as I was prepared for a bit of time is spent on the introduction of characters as well as a little bit of everyone's history, but not their whole story we did get a lot of breadcrumb trails, more than enough that I was left starving for more.
This is a very intensely busy read - seriously- I was not kidding when I said earlier that Kaylee needs to talk to Karma - I thought I had craptastic streaks - this poor girl is being buried in them! Normally this much chaos would literally turn me off a book - that was not quite the case here - I found I really liked the characters, their personalities where so diverse and they easily dragged me in - I found I connected with them on a personal level.
Overall there are some minor flaws with the storyline but I would still recommend - Yeah, It was chaotic, a bit off key at times, but it kept me engaged - I laughed, I cried, I enjoyed the ride
I did end up reading this whole series
April 2, 2021
He's the champion she deserves...
by and1515
Wow this one emotional charged story that takes a bite out of some serious topics.
Kaylee Is an amazing character who's life was less then stellar at its lowest moments and she's often had to face an up-hill battle just to live in the now.
Even will having to deal with the fact that some people who should have listened but for some reason tended to see things in a totally different light.
Needless to say when her path brings her to the doorstep of someone she had seen in forever.
And of course that would be Griffin his another interesting character who knew Kaylee when they were younger until things Unfortunately turned sour between them.
However now he's the only one who can help her overcome all the chaos that's has recently highjacked her life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
by and1515
Wow this one emotional charged story that takes a bite out of some serious topics.
Kaylee Is an amazing character who's life was less then stellar at its lowest moments and she's often had to face an up-hill battle just to live in the now.
Even will having to deal with the fact that some people who should have listened but for some reason tended to see things in a totally different light.
Needless to say when her path brings her to the doorstep of someone she had seen in forever.
And of course that would be Griffin his another interesting character who knew Kaylee when they were younger until things Unfortunately turned sour between them.
However now he's the only one who can help her overcome all the chaos that's has recently highjacked her life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
November 20, 2018
Caution triggers ahead
I wish I could ask Ember Raine Winters if she had gone through something like this if she was a domestic violence victim. The scenes are so real it's heartbreaking and sometimes so hard to read through. You really feel for Kaylee and those kids. The way you described Lee Lee was spot on for how a girl of her age would feel and act in these situations. The PTSD symptoms were accurate to the core. Each character really has a full background and you get to fall for each one it's amazingly written. I really couldn't ask for a better book it has you on the edge of your seat, tugging at your heart and all of your emotions.
I wish I could ask Ember Raine Winters if she had gone through something like this if she was a domestic violence victim. The scenes are so real it's heartbreaking and sometimes so hard to read through. You really feel for Kaylee and those kids. The way you described Lee Lee was spot on for how a girl of her age would feel and act in these situations. The PTSD symptoms were accurate to the core. Each character really has a full background and you get to fall for each one it's amazingly written. I really couldn't ask for a better book it has you on the edge of your seat, tugging at your heart and all of your emotions.
July 27, 2018
Lots of Potential. Terrific Read with Minor Weaknesses.
Solid 3.5 Star read. What I liked: Several strong female characters. Terrific cast of varied secondary characters, especially the children. Unpredictable plot. What I didn't like: Lead female (Kaylee) had too many moments of immaturity (name calling, sticking her tongue out, failure to follow reasonable instructions). The bad guys hurt the dog (yes, it was integral to the plot, but I hate when bad things happen to a doggo, even a fictional pupper). Editing needs a little work.
Solid 3.5 Star read. What I liked: Several strong female characters. Terrific cast of varied secondary characters, especially the children. Unpredictable plot. What I didn't like: Lead female (Kaylee) had too many moments of immaturity (name calling, sticking her tongue out, failure to follow reasonable instructions). The bad guys hurt the dog (yes, it was integral to the plot, but I hate when bad things happen to a doggo, even a fictional pupper). Editing needs a little work.
September 15, 2017
Holy sh!t! Those are the first two words that come to mind. Kaylee has had it pretty rough; she's a single mother, her ex was abusive, the kids' dad was an addict, she suffers PTSD, and both of her exes keep showing up and making things harder for her. Her PTSD plays a major role in the story and I thought Ember portrayed it, as well as DV, very well. There were so many twists and turns, I was tense and couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book.
April 6, 2021
Beautiful Delusions (Pride and Honor Book 1) by Ember-Raine Winters.
ARC REVIEW
Kaylee and Griffin
Ember-Raine writes stories that suck you in...
Kaylee has been through it all. She's done drugs, been abused, and had been stalked. She reconnected with a childhood friend who had been in the military. Can he help her?
ARC REVIEW
Kaylee and Griffin
Ember-Raine writes stories that suck you in...
Kaylee has been through it all. She's done drugs, been abused, and had been stalked. She reconnected with a childhood friend who had been in the military. Can he help her?
June 19, 2019
A love story that keeps you on your toes!
I absolutely loved getting to know the characters. I fell more in love with them every page. The story kept me entertained at every turn. I never wanted it to end.
I absolutely loved getting to know the characters. I fell more in love with them every page. The story kept me entertained at every turn. I never wanted it to end.
June 30, 2017
Books about people suffering from PTSD aren't usually high on my to-go-to list, but I found this one by accident and boy am I glad I did. It's heart-rending and emotional. Add to that, the suspense angle along with the attraction between Griffin and Kaylee and you have one hell of a story. Can't wait to find out what happens next.
August 29, 2017
I can not go into details because of the spoilers but this book this was completly not the story I expected after reading the Blurb. And unfortunately therefore it was not for me .... I could not get into the characters. So this is really just MY oppinion on the plotline.
It was well written and developed therefore the experience might be totally different for you .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews