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The Darkest Sunrise #1
L'ombre du passé
Les coups briseront mes os, mais les mots ne me feront jamais de mal.
L'auteur de ce proverbe est un menteur éhonté. Les mots sont les armes les plus aiguisées ; elles provoquent les émotions les plus fortes dont un humain puisse faire l'expérience.
— Vous êtes enceinte.
— C'est un garçon.
— Votre fils a besoin d'une greffe de cœur.
Les coups briseront mes os, mais les mots ne me feront jamais de mal.
Mensonges.
Les syllabes et les lettres ne sont peut-être pas matérielles, mais elles peuvent malgré tout détruire votre vie tout entière bien plus vite qu'un coup de feu.
Cinq mots : c'était tout ce qu'il avait fallu pour faire disparaître le soleil de mon univers.
— Il n'est plus là.
L'obscurité m'a consumée pendant dix ans.
Au final, il aura suffi de cinq mots sur un ton grave et râpeux pour me donner l'espoir de voir un nouveau lever de soleil.
— Salut. Je suis Porter Reese.
L'auteur de ce proverbe est un menteur éhonté. Les mots sont les armes les plus aiguisées ; elles provoquent les émotions les plus fortes dont un humain puisse faire l'expérience.
— Vous êtes enceinte.
— C'est un garçon.
— Votre fils a besoin d'une greffe de cœur.
Les coups briseront mes os, mais les mots ne me feront jamais de mal.
Mensonges.
Les syllabes et les lettres ne sont peut-être pas matérielles, mais elles peuvent malgré tout détruire votre vie tout entière bien plus vite qu'un coup de feu.
Cinq mots : c'était tout ce qu'il avait fallu pour faire disparaître le soleil de mon univers.
— Il n'est plus là.
L'obscurité m'a consumée pendant dix ans.
Au final, il aura suffi de cinq mots sur un ton grave et râpeux pour me donner l'espoir de voir un nouveau lever de soleil.
— Salut. Je suis Porter Reese.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2017
1937 people are currently reading
11755 people want to read
About the author
Aly Martinez
53 books8,120 followersOriginally from Savannah, Georgia, USA Today bestselling author Aly Martinez now lives in South Carolina with her four young children.
Never one to take herself too seriously, she enjoys cheap wine, charcuterie boards, and her mildly neurotic golden retriever. It should be known, however, that she hates pizza and ice cream, almost as much as writing her bio in the third person.
She passes what little free time she has reading anything and everything she can get her hands on, preferably with a super-sized tumbler of wine by her side.
Never one to take herself too seriously, she enjoys cheap wine, charcuterie boards, and her mildly neurotic golden retriever. It should be known, however, that she hates pizza and ice cream, almost as much as writing her bio in the third person.
She passes what little free time she has reading anything and everything she can get her hands on, preferably with a super-sized tumbler of wine by her side.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,605 reviews
July 13, 2017
After finishing this book right now, this is me:
For reals though.
Damn you and your portentous cliffhanger, Aly Martinez.
Now that I've gotten my false rage out of the way, all I really have to say about this book is this...
Well done, Lady Martinez, well done.
Proving once again why she is always in the top of the my auto-buy list, Martinez uses her word wizardry to gut us all and grab all of our emotional lady parts by the balls.
And then squeezes.
I mean, for fucks sake, she almost made me cry here, people. Again.
I say almost, though, because ya'll know this body houses a cold dry heart that rarely leaks.
It's in a perpetual state of drought, really. But any book that can garner the "almost cry" title from 'lil ole me is usually one that hath spun quite the mesmerizing tale.
Both of the main characters in this story have been (and are going through) some crazy rough life tragedies.
CRAZY rough.
And this story is about how they find solace in each other, and then, well, CLIFFHANGER.
Pfffft.
So you're welcome.
I've now prepared you by giving you a small taste of the aforementioned fresh hell.
Now we wait...
For reals though.
Damn you and your portentous cliffhanger, Aly Martinez.
Now that I've gotten my false rage out of the way, all I really have to say about this book is this...
Well done, Lady Martinez, well done.
Proving once again why she is always in the top of the my auto-buy list, Martinez uses her word wizardry to gut us all and grab all of our emotional lady parts by the balls.
And then squeezes.
I mean, for fucks sake, she almost made me cry here, people. Again.
I say almost, though, because ya'll know this body houses a cold dry heart that rarely leaks.
It's in a perpetual state of drought, really. But any book that can garner the "almost cry" title from 'lil ole me is usually one that hath spun quite the mesmerizing tale.
Both of the main characters in this story have been (and are going through) some crazy rough life tragedies.
CRAZY rough.
And this story is about how they find solace in each other, and then, well, CLIFFHANGER.
Pfffft.
So you're welcome.
I've now prepared you by giving you a small taste of the aforementioned fresh hell.
Now we wait...
July 13, 2017
ALL THE STARS!!!
Aly Martinez is one of those authors who sometimes writes great books, and sometimes writes exceptional books. This book is beyond exceptional. When I finished this book I was in absolute shock. Like, ‘OMG what is this life’ kind of shock! It was emotional and tore me up inside. I mean that in the best way possible! It’s one of those books that will stay on my mind for a long time and never leave my heart.
Broken characters are my kryptonite. And Charlotte is so broken she seems completely shattered, unable to be put back together. Then she meets Porter.
Porter Reese is a broken man as well, but he’s got something to live for. Something that keeps him together. Porter is an incredible character. For all he had been through, he has such a kind and healing heart. I loved how persistent he was to get to know Charlotte and how he helped her, even though he was hurting as well.
These characters and their stories broke me. I’m talking full on gut wrenching sobs. I don’t want to talk too much about the characters stories or history, because being so caught off guard by the twist in this book made it that much better.
The Darkest Sunrise is one of Aly’s best books yet. It’s epic and completely unforgettable. It could very well be my favorite book of 2017. It’s THAT GOOD. It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that’s effected me so much, and one that I was unable to put down while reading. The ending shocked me. It wrecked me. I’m so happy Aly is releasing this duet in the same month. My poor heart can’t wait much longer! This book is a MUST READ- seriously, don’t skip out on it! It’s everything!
Aly Martinez is one of those authors who sometimes writes great books, and sometimes writes exceptional books. This book is beyond exceptional. When I finished this book I was in absolute shock. Like, ‘OMG what is this life’ kind of shock! It was emotional and tore me up inside. I mean that in the best way possible! It’s one of those books that will stay on my mind for a long time and never leave my heart.
Broken characters are my kryptonite. And Charlotte is so broken she seems completely shattered, unable to be put back together. Then she meets Porter.
“Hi. I’m Porter Reese.” I didn’t know it yet. But those four simple words changed my life all over again.
Porter Reese is a broken man as well, but he’s got something to live for. Something that keeps him together. Porter is an incredible character. For all he had been through, he has such a kind and healing heart. I loved how persistent he was to get to know Charlotte and how he helped her, even though he was hurting as well.
These characters and their stories broke me. I’m talking full on gut wrenching sobs. I don’t want to talk too much about the characters stories or history, because being so caught off guard by the twist in this book made it that much better.
The Darkest Sunrise is one of Aly’s best books yet. It’s epic and completely unforgettable. It could very well be my favorite book of 2017. It’s THAT GOOD. It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that’s effected me so much, and one that I was unable to put down while reading. The ending shocked me. It wrecked me. I’m so happy Aly is releasing this duet in the same month. My poor heart can’t wait much longer! This book is a MUST READ- seriously, don’t skip out on it! It’s everything!
“I know who you are, Charlotte. And I know it doesn’t feel like the darkness when we’re together.”
July 6, 2017
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
AMAZING!!!
My immense physical reaction paled in comparison to the way his words had penetrated my mind and stripped me bare.
Porter Reese understood me.
Not in sentences, but in the silence.
THE DARKEST SUNRISE is a gut wrenching story that will put your hearts through emotional turmoil. I fell absolutely in love with this one! I guarantee that once you start it, you will find it nearly impossible to put down until you get to the last page. I’m struggling with how much I should even divulge in my review because there are some huge twists. Honestly, I had some of it figured out early on and even that didn’t hinder my love for the book. I loved this story so much that even today I get goosebumps thinking about it.
Charlotte Mills is a young woman who was attending medical school when she found out she was pregnant. It wasn’t what she wanted at that time but once she gave birth to her son, he quickly became her universe. The child was born with a weak heart and she was advised that eventually, her son would need a heart transplant. Charlotte knew that his chances for living a long life were slim but no matter what she held on to hope. During an outing to the park with her son, she rushes to help a mother whose child stopped breathing. For mere minutes, she took her eyes off her son and that’s all it took for a parent’s worst nightmare to become Charlotte’s reality. Someone had kidnapped her child and there weren’t any witnesses to the crime. Ten years later she still hasn’t given up hope of one day finding her son but Charlotte has become a shell of the person she used to be. She threw herself into her studies and has become one of the top Pulmonologists in the country. She has her own private practice but absolutely will not have any children as patients. The pain is still so overwhelming that she is unable to be around children.
Charlotte’s world is dull and lifeless. She puts on a mask to hide her pain from everyone but one day she meets a handsome and charming stranger who can truly see her. Porter Reese is no stranger to tragedy. He lost his wife a few years back when she died in a car accident. Since his wife’s death, he has had to care for his two children on his own, but his family does help out whenever they can. Porter is a successful restaurant owner and he offers to cater for a charity function that Charlotte’s practice is running. He has ulterior motives for doing so that involve meeting Charlotte. She has been recommended to him by several doctors as being one of the best Pulmonologists and he desperately needs her help. But from the moment he meets her, Porter is completely smitten. So he ends up pursuing her romantically.
The passion between Charlotte and Porter is intense!! Neither of them has ever felt anything like it before but what they feel for each other goes beyond a physical attraction as well. Their tragic pasts have linked them on a soul-deep level as well.
I can’t begin to express how much this book affected me and I really do hope that everyone enjoys it as much as I did. I was literally biting my nails in anticipation for what was to happen next. It ends on a pretty huge cliffhanger so, for those of you who are impatient, you may want to wait till the second book releases, which we actually only have to wait a few weeks for.
THE DARKEST SUNRISE releases on July 13th!! This is an absolute MUST READ!
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
AMAZING!!!
My immense physical reaction paled in comparison to the way his words had penetrated my mind and stripped me bare.
Porter Reese understood me.
Not in sentences, but in the silence.
THE DARKEST SUNRISE is a gut wrenching story that will put your hearts through emotional turmoil. I fell absolutely in love with this one! I guarantee that once you start it, you will find it nearly impossible to put down until you get to the last page. I’m struggling with how much I should even divulge in my review because there are some huge twists. Honestly, I had some of it figured out early on and even that didn’t hinder my love for the book. I loved this story so much that even today I get goosebumps thinking about it.
Charlotte Mills is a young woman who was attending medical school when she found out she was pregnant. It wasn’t what she wanted at that time but once she gave birth to her son, he quickly became her universe. The child was born with a weak heart and she was advised that eventually, her son would need a heart transplant. Charlotte knew that his chances for living a long life were slim but no matter what she held on to hope. During an outing to the park with her son, she rushes to help a mother whose child stopped breathing. For mere minutes, she took her eyes off her son and that’s all it took for a parent’s worst nightmare to become Charlotte’s reality. Someone had kidnapped her child and there weren’t any witnesses to the crime. Ten years later she still hasn’t given up hope of one day finding her son but Charlotte has become a shell of the person she used to be. She threw herself into her studies and has become one of the top Pulmonologists in the country. She has her own private practice but absolutely will not have any children as patients. The pain is still so overwhelming that she is unable to be around children.
Charlotte’s world is dull and lifeless. She puts on a mask to hide her pain from everyone but one day she meets a handsome and charming stranger who can truly see her. Porter Reese is no stranger to tragedy. He lost his wife a few years back when she died in a car accident. Since his wife’s death, he has had to care for his two children on his own, but his family does help out whenever they can. Porter is a successful restaurant owner and he offers to cater for a charity function that Charlotte’s practice is running. He has ulterior motives for doing so that involve meeting Charlotte. She has been recommended to him by several doctors as being one of the best Pulmonologists and he desperately needs her help. But from the moment he meets her, Porter is completely smitten. So he ends up pursuing her romantically.
The passion between Charlotte and Porter is intense!! Neither of them has ever felt anything like it before but what they feel for each other goes beyond a physical attraction as well. Their tragic pasts have linked them on a soul-deep level as well.
I can’t begin to express how much this book affected me and I really do hope that everyone enjoys it as much as I did. I was literally biting my nails in anticipation for what was to happen next. It ends on a pretty huge cliffhanger so, for those of you who are impatient, you may want to wait till the second book releases, which we actually only have to wait a few weeks for.
THE DARKEST SUNRISE releases on July 13th!! This is an absolute MUST READ!
June 17, 2017
This. Book.
ALL OF THE STARS!!
This is quite possibly the most memorable, captivating, and gripping romance Aly has written to date. It was full of so much depth and raw emotion, I couldn't tear myself away for even a second. I sobbed my way through the entire second half. I fell SO hard for the hero because he just may be the swooniest broken hero Aly has written. He was EVERYTHING. The romance here was simply unforgettable and this is only the beginning. I don't have enough words to describe how much I adored it, so I won't even try.
Instead, I'll just be off rocking myself in a corner somewhere in my wait for the conclusion to this incredible duet.
If this book isn't on your radar yet, it needs to be at the very top of your list. PERIOD.
Find me on:
ALL OF THE STARS!!
This is quite possibly the most memorable, captivating, and gripping romance Aly has written to date. It was full of so much depth and raw emotion, I couldn't tear myself away for even a second. I sobbed my way through the entire second half. I fell SO hard for the hero because he just may be the swooniest broken hero Aly has written. He was EVERYTHING. The romance here was simply unforgettable and this is only the beginning. I don't have enough words to describe how much I adored it, so I won't even try.
Instead, I'll just be off rocking myself in a corner somewhere in my wait for the conclusion to this incredible duet.
If this book isn't on your radar yet, it needs to be at the very top of your list. PERIOD.
Find me on:
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April 17, 2023THIS BOOK!!!!!!!
STUNNING. RAW. UNPUTDOWNABLE
First, I should mention that I have not read a novel this well crafted in a long time. Reading The Darkest Sunrise felt to me as if everything, literally EVERYTHING, scene, chapter, and twist was plotted to the very last detail. The flow of the story was incredible, like music it entranced, and pulled me in. Every twist and character development was extraordinarily well thought through.
This story was more than just complex. It was the motherland of complexity. I'm still in awe!!!! I can't wrap my mind around how the author was able to craft such a layered story in such a way that I didn't feel like saying "huh". Not ONCE in the entire book did my mind stray. The authors eloquent writing was addicting, beautiful, and touching. The banter between the couple was hilarious, emotional, and heart-wrenchingly beautiful.
Most of all Charlotte and Porter stole my heart. Whenever those two were together I smiled a bit more. Swooned. But also ached for them. It was quite emotional.
The feelings in this book were overwhelmingly raw. They went deep and were all consuming. I'm still talking about this book the day after. And I had to talk to TJ just to get it of my chest. There was sooooo much going on inside of me. I really needed someone to listen to me swoon.
Hands down this book was a enthralling.
And even though I didn't need Kleenex, many people did. But even without the need of a Kleenex the story was at times gutting. And awesome! And beautiful! Sigh!
The Darkest Sunrise will stay with you long after you've finished reading this book. And I can only recommend: Read. Both. Books. At. Once!!!! You'll thank me!
STUNNING. RAW. UNPUTDOWNABLE
First, I should mention that I have not read a novel this well crafted in a long time. Reading The Darkest Sunrise felt to me as if everything, literally EVERYTHING, scene, chapter, and twist was plotted to the very last detail. The flow of the story was incredible, like music it entranced, and pulled me in. Every twist and character development was extraordinarily well thought through.
This story was more than just complex. It was the motherland of complexity. I'm still in awe!!!! I can't wrap my mind around how the author was able to craft such a layered story in such a way that I didn't feel like saying "huh". Not ONCE in the entire book did my mind stray. The authors eloquent writing was addicting, beautiful, and touching. The banter between the couple was hilarious, emotional, and heart-wrenchingly beautiful.
Most of all Charlotte and Porter stole my heart. Whenever those two were together I smiled a bit more. Swooned. But also ached for them. It was quite emotional.
The feelings in this book were overwhelmingly raw. They went deep and were all consuming. I'm still talking about this book the day after. And I had to talk to TJ just to get it of my chest. There was sooooo much going on inside of me. I really needed someone to listen to me swoon.
Hands down this book was a enthralling.
And even though I didn't need Kleenex, many people did. But even without the need of a Kleenex the story was at times gutting. And awesome! And beautiful! Sigh!
The Darkest Sunrise will stay with you long after you've finished reading this book. And I can only recommend: Read. Both. Books. At. Once!!!! You'll thank me!
July 16, 2017
Hey Aly Martinez …
I have read all of your books to date and even though I may be considered a fangirl of yours gushing about how fantastic this story line was… I really don’t care because this was fantastic.
All that’s left for me to do is patiently await July 27th!
"But how do you move forward when all you really want is to go back?”
I have read all of your books to date and even though I may be considered a fangirl of yours gushing about how fantastic this story line was… I really don’t care because this was fantastic.
All that’s left for me to do is patiently await July 27th!
"But how do you move forward when all you really want is to go back?”
July 19, 2017
There are times I really wish one could sit an author down, tie them up, then demand they hand over the conclusion to their cliffhanger.
And this here is one mindfuckery of a cliffy; I'm way too invested in the story of Porter, Charlotte and baby Lucas. What happens now?!
July 8, 2017
FIVE STARS. FIVE ENDLESSLY EPIC STARS.
I've read a lot of books, but I have NEVER read a book like this.
NEVER. EVER. EVER.
This was a storyline that stole me with it's emotional depth and intensity. It's unique and captivating, heart wrenching and hopeful, sweet and sad, and I was left totally GUT PUNCHED AND GASPING. I don't know what to do with myself right now. I don't want to read anything else, I just want the sequel. Man, when it comes to the ending of a first book in a series/duet, this is a 10 star fave.
I can't wrap my head around what I just read. And nothing I can say would do it justice. It's another level of brilliance.
And also God, I hope you go into this without reading super detailed reviews or getting any spoilers. This is a JUMP INTO IT BLIND AND OPENED HEARTED read. Really! I'm so serious! Just kick up your feet, grab something comforting (coffee, chocolate, wine, tissues etc etc.) and read.
It's JAW. DROPPING.
I felt so many things, at so many different times. It was an endless array of emotions. One minute I was giggling, the next I was crying, and then I was gasping. It's THAT read. So twisty and turbulent and achingly heartbreaking. A book of ENDLESS feels. Goodness!
And also, Aly Martinez is a wonderful writer. Her stories are always so full of depth. I love that she writes novels with meaning and soul. She writes books that feed a readers spirit. I'm so impressed. The way she weaved and spun this story was breathtaking and I'm there, on the edge of my seat, panting, dying, anxious for more! So totally stolen, claimed, and owned by her words.
Just bravo, man. I don't think it gets better than this. What a wicked web Aly Martinez has weaved. I can't wait to see where part two goes. Holy hell.
I've read a lot of books, but I have NEVER read a book like this.
NEVER. EVER. EVER.
This was a storyline that stole me with it's emotional depth and intensity. It's unique and captivating, heart wrenching and hopeful, sweet and sad, and I was left totally GUT PUNCHED AND GASPING. I don't know what to do with myself right now. I don't want to read anything else, I just want the sequel. Man, when it comes to the ending of a first book in a series/duet, this is a 10 star fave.
I can't wrap my head around what I just read. And nothing I can say would do it justice. It's another level of brilliance.
And also God, I hope you go into this without reading super detailed reviews or getting any spoilers. This is a JUMP INTO IT BLIND AND OPENED HEARTED read. Really! I'm so serious! Just kick up your feet, grab something comforting (coffee, chocolate, wine, tissues etc etc.) and read.
It's JAW. DROPPING.
I felt so many things, at so many different times. It was an endless array of emotions. One minute I was giggling, the next I was crying, and then I was gasping. It's THAT read. So twisty and turbulent and achingly heartbreaking. A book of ENDLESS feels. Goodness!
And also, Aly Martinez is a wonderful writer. Her stories are always so full of depth. I love that she writes novels with meaning and soul. She writes books that feed a readers spirit. I'm so impressed. The way she weaved and spun this story was breathtaking and I'm there, on the edge of my seat, panting, dying, anxious for more! So totally stolen, claimed, and owned by her words.
Just bravo, man. I don't think it gets better than this. What a wicked web Aly Martinez has weaved. I can't wait to see where part two goes. Holy hell.
July 12, 2017
REVIEW ALSO POSTED ON MY BLOG
KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS The Darkest Sunrise
Holy fucking shitballs, bugger me sideways and back, bitch of a book to review, gah what to write, the author has not made it easy for us bloggers to write our reviews up without divulging any spoilers what so ever, so mines pretty much going to be full of cuss words lol..The frustration is real folks!!
DARKEST SUNRISE: is the first book within the (Darkest Sunrise #1) series by Aly Martinez. In this first book we met Charlotte, Parker and Tom who plays a pivotal role in this book. Two intertwining stories that collide in a gut wrenching climax that takes a hit to the heart.
CHARLOTTE
How could a day go from good to bad so quickly in the blink of an eye? From saving a woman’s child to losing your own, ten years later and it’s turned into a cold case.
She's frozen in time not able to claw her way out of the darkness that tries to drag her down daily. The only thing that kept her going was Hope and her job as a Doctor running a Pulmonology clinic.
PARKER
Three years on from losing his wife life stopped still and never recovered, the sole parent of two children, one healthy the other suffers from an illness and the only woman that can help in any way is Charlotte, but here's the deal she may be the best in her field at what she does, but the deal breaker is she doesn't treat children.
➽ “Two people alone in the darkness. No questions. No judgments. No faking it.”
Hitting chapter twenty three, all my emotions that I’d kept under wraps throughout this book came to a holt when I’d reached the end of that chapter, that’s when my heart flew out of my chest like a curveball on a collision course to my heart. My heart just sunk, one minute I was sad with the news that Charlotte was delivered by Tom then in the next breath I breathed a sigh of relief only to wonder what now? What a rollercoaster of a fucked up life she’s led, 10 years of not living, 10 years of just existing, to finally being able to breathe with an amazing man walking beside her to be thrown into a cloud of darkness again.
➽ Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never harm me. LIES...
She’s just stepped out of the darkness into the light is she going to spiral down that slippery slope again only to never return?
I needed, craved, wanted an emotional read, this had all the bones to give me that, and it didn’t reach within and drag those out of me until I was nearing the end, so it was a slow burn climatic read, in the beginning I found it hard connecting with Charlotte's character, I empathised with her loss, but it wasn’t until she stepped out of the shadows into the light was when I was actually starting to see her. I see you now.
Holy fuckity fuck fuck, so yes I have hit the ending, yes it ends in one major fucking cliffy, did I see it coming yes I had an inkling at the beginning, but to read it fully in your face to completely understand it sucked the breath out of my lungs. So many unanswered questions that will all come in due course when the next book is released. God I need that book now!!
My review is like a rollercoaster going off the rails, does it make sense? Not really until you read this book. You have to read this book! Goddamnit just one click it when it comes out and read it!! Then I can laugh at you when your emotions and brain gets all twisted up..Sorry not sorry.So brilliantly written, a curveball that had me by the guts, an ending like no other, an emotionally invigorating, debilitating read. I highly recommend this!!
July 13, 2017
Live Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073T48VBF/...
5 Beautiful Stars ❤
This book is by far one of my all time favorites!I don't know where to start,this story was everything!The Darkest Sunrise was an emotional,heartwarming,intense,beautiful and sweet story.I have never read anything like this!For one more time Aly Martinez delivers a unique,unforgetable and original story!The writing is flawless and I felt like I was a part of the story!
There were moments I wanted to cry feeling desperate and so sad .I could feel everything these character were going trhough.The Darkest Sunrise is a powerful story!Charlotte and Porter make me swoon and melt all the time.These two are so cute,adorable and sweet.
I will keep this story forever in my heart and I will re-read it again and again!!I loved every part of it and I desperately need the next book!!
5 Beautiful Stars ❤
This book is by far one of my all time favorites!I don't know where to start,this story was everything!The Darkest Sunrise was an emotional,heartwarming,intense,beautiful and sweet story.I have never read anything like this!For one more time Aly Martinez delivers a unique,unforgetable and original story!The writing is flawless and I felt like I was a part of the story!
There were moments I wanted to cry feeling desperate and so sad .I could feel everything these character were going trhough.The Darkest Sunrise is a powerful story!Charlotte and Porter make me swoon and melt all the time.These two are so cute,adorable and sweet.
I will keep this story forever in my heart and I will re-read it again and again!!I loved every part of it and I desperately need the next book!!
July 16, 2017
2.5
Another book where I just don't seem to understand the hype.
I don't want to get into too many details about the plot because if people do decide to read this, I don't want to spoil anything. I read a few reviews after I finished this book and most reviews seem to have the same idea; it's best to go into this story blind.
While this had some well written and very emotional parts, I didn't connect with it the way other reviewers seem to have. I didn't sob and my heart did not pound. Maybe because I felt Charlotte and Porter's relationship was too deep too fast for my liking. Insta love/lust just isn't my thing. Maybe because I found the whole "light/dark" bit really repetitive.
But I think my biggest issue was the fact that I was expecting my jaw to hit the floor from the "crazy ending" I kept seeing everyone reference. However, I guessed the plot twist very early on so I wasn't surprised or shocked at all. I actually told myself my guess was probably wrong because it was just way too obvious. In all honesty, I found the lead up to the plot twist a little blasé, and was hoping the "crazy" ending would save the story for me. And while it will make for an interesting story line for book 2, I think the fact that I knew where this was going all along made it hard for me to be truly blown away.
I know everyone loves this author's writing, but for me her stories tend to lack that "wow" factor I am always looking for.
All in all an okay read but underwhelming for me.
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Another book where I just don't seem to understand the hype.
I don't want to get into too many details about the plot because if people do decide to read this, I don't want to spoil anything. I read a few reviews after I finished this book and most reviews seem to have the same idea; it's best to go into this story blind.
While this had some well written and very emotional parts, I didn't connect with it the way other reviewers seem to have. I didn't sob and my heart did not pound. Maybe because I felt Charlotte and Porter's relationship was too deep too fast for my liking. Insta love/lust just isn't my thing. Maybe because I found the whole "light/dark" bit really repetitive.
But I think my biggest issue was the fact that I was expecting my jaw to hit the floor from the "crazy ending" I kept seeing everyone reference. However, I guessed the plot twist very early on so I wasn't surprised or shocked at all. I actually told myself my guess was probably wrong because it was just way too obvious. In all honesty, I found the lead up to the plot twist a little blasé, and was hoping the "crazy" ending would save the story for me. And while it will make for an interesting story line for book 2, I think the fact that I knew where this was going all along made it hard for me to be truly blown away.
I know everyone loves this author's writing, but for me her stories tend to lack that "wow" factor I am always looking for.
All in all an okay read but underwhelming for me.
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July 27, 2017
I would like to preface this by saying that nothing in your life will have prepared you for this book. Not one thing!!!
Charlotte and Porter come from very different worlds. The only thing that connects them is the soul crushing pain they both endure everyday. It's evident in their eyes and suddenly two lost souls find their kindred spirit.
But grief has a way of tightening it's clutches just when you think it's letting go. The story of pain and suffering, of love and acceptance. The epic saga of two people finding ray of light in the darkness that surrounds them.
I laughed for ten minuted straight after finishing because the other option was to ugly cry and run into walls.
I realised what actual pain means while reading this book. I had to physically rub my chest to ease the heartache. Charlotte and Porter's pain is what connects them but their relationship is so much more than that.
Their chemistry was off the charts hot. I LOVE how they were absolutely at ease with each other and made the other smile. Gosh they are so cute together. *happy tears* I want to hug them both and just help them. I love them so much OHMYGOD!!!
Charlotte is my babe and I want her as my best friend. That poor soul, she needs to be protected from this cruel World at all costs. Porter, OH MY LAWD this man!!! I cannot believe this man is real. CANNOT!!!! He is loving, caring, funny, awkward and such a great dad. I love these characters so much that I wish they were real.
Aly has weaved such a brilliant story with these two. I am in awe and basically this book owns me for life. The characters are absolutely real and you can actually feel everything they are going through. You just don't read this story, you experience it and then you feel it in your bones. This book became a part of me and I'll carry it forever.
This story also gives you hope that no matter how broken you are, you always deserve love and one day it will find you. ~Sonal
Charlotte and Porter come from very different worlds. The only thing that connects them is the soul crushing pain they both endure everyday. It's evident in their eyes and suddenly two lost souls find their kindred spirit.
But grief has a way of tightening it's clutches just when you think it's letting go. The story of pain and suffering, of love and acceptance. The epic saga of two people finding ray of light in the darkness that surrounds them.
I laughed for ten minuted straight after finishing because the other option was to ugly cry and run into walls.
I realised what actual pain means while reading this book. I had to physically rub my chest to ease the heartache. Charlotte and Porter's pain is what connects them but their relationship is so much more than that.
Their chemistry was off the charts hot. I LOVE how they were absolutely at ease with each other and made the other smile. Gosh they are so cute together. *happy tears* I want to hug them both and just help them. I love them so much OHMYGOD!!!
Charlotte is my babe and I want her as my best friend. That poor soul, she needs to be protected from this cruel World at all costs. Porter, OH MY LAWD this man!!! I cannot believe this man is real. CANNOT!!!! He is loving, caring, funny, awkward and such a great dad. I love these characters so much that I wish they were real.
Aly has weaved such a brilliant story with these two. I am in awe and basically this book owns me for life. The characters are absolutely real and you can actually feel everything they are going through. You just don't read this story, you experience it and then you feel it in your bones. This book became a part of me and I'll carry it forever.
This story also gives you hope that no matter how broken you are, you always deserve love and one day it will find you. ~Sonal
July 14, 2017
“Two people alone in the darkness. No questions. No judgments. No faking it.”
I absolutely loved this book. Multiple times whilst reading it, tears welled up in my eyes at the beauty of AM's writing, and just imagining being in Charlotte's situation got me really emotional. The writing is gripping, demanding that the pages are turned. The story is exceptional!
Without giving too much away, the author makes all characters in this story extremely real. Despite the somewhat dark subject matter this is a story of hope, life affirmation and all that it brings. The relationship between Charlotte and Porter is honest, they might be in love but they have real problems and they aren't all solved with a snap of the fingers. I loved the way the romance developed in this story. Their slow transition from formality to a deeper understanding and eventually, to love was beautifully played out.
“Porter Reese understood me. Not in sentences, but in the silence”. ~ Charlotte
“Our situations were different, but the same shade of black painted both of our souls. But, as I clung to him, trying to perform the impossible task of collecting myself, it hit me that the darkness was all we’d ever have”. ~ Charlotte
The Darkest Sunrise is a heartachingly beautiful book about the power of love, the true meaning of family, and the choices we all make. All in all, a truly heart-warming love story, and one I would recommend to all fans of contemporary romance and family drama.
In short:
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 5/5 | Writing Style 5/5 | Steam 4/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 5/5 | Darkness 4/5 | Humor 3/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 5/5 | Mystery 4/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 3/5
I absolutely loved this book. Multiple times whilst reading it, tears welled up in my eyes at the beauty of AM's writing, and just imagining being in Charlotte's situation got me really emotional. The writing is gripping, demanding that the pages are turned. The story is exceptional!
Without giving too much away, the author makes all characters in this story extremely real. Despite the somewhat dark subject matter this is a story of hope, life affirmation and all that it brings. The relationship between Charlotte and Porter is honest, they might be in love but they have real problems and they aren't all solved with a snap of the fingers. I loved the way the romance developed in this story. Their slow transition from formality to a deeper understanding and eventually, to love was beautifully played out.
“Porter Reese understood me. Not in sentences, but in the silence”. ~ Charlotte
“Our situations were different, but the same shade of black painted both of our souls. But, as I clung to him, trying to perform the impossible task of collecting myself, it hit me that the darkness was all we’d ever have”. ~ Charlotte
The Darkest Sunrise is a heartachingly beautiful book about the power of love, the true meaning of family, and the choices we all make. All in all, a truly heart-warming love story, and one I would recommend to all fans of contemporary romance and family drama.
In short:
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 5/5 | Writing Style 5/5 | Steam 4/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 5/5 | Darkness 4/5 | Humor 3/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 5/5 | Mystery 4/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 3/5
September 15, 2020
Might not seem like it but this IS a 5-star review...
BLOODY, BLOODY, POO BUM GIT HEAD!!
That is me having a very, very cranky tanty. I am WILD!! Wild, I tell you. Aly Martinez has dragged me through the wringer and is probably laughing at my craziness. Tears are bloody leaking out of my eyes one minute and then the next I’m laughing like a bloody loon. Now, all I want to do is bloody SCREAM...really, really LOUDLY. Please excuse all of my shouty capitals, but it’s better for me to yell here than have the coppers paying a visit to the madwoman’s house. My poor boys have had to deal with my emotional upheaval today and hubby thinks I’ve finally lost it.
See, I have been giving my hubby a blow by blow account of what went on in The Darkest Sunrise from start to finish. As per usual…HE DOESN’T GET IT!! How dare he just nod his head and say *Yes, Dear*. Why doesn’t he understand that I NEED to talk about this storyline? I need him to wrap his arms around me as I blubber like a baby, without expecting me to explain why I’m so bloody sad. He should get why it was so funny that Porter wanted to eat Charlotte’s tacos in bed. Last, but by hell not least, he should not LAUGH at me when it’s time for me to write my review AND I WANT TO RIP EVERYONE’S HEADS OFF!!
Glad I’ve got that off my chest. Hmmmm…deep breaths.
OK, you may have cottoned on by now that I’m a wee bit of a mess with this one. There are some really tricky subjects dealt with and I couldn’t help but put myself in the shoes of the characters. I struggled to come up with answers as to how I would deal and cope with the loss of a loved one. Could I have dealt with the grief? Would I be able to move one? Can you move on from guilt, devastation, unanswered questions and losing a part of you?
This is a story about darkness. This darkness had beauty, though. We have one person who recognised another in the dark, made it OK to be there and held a hand out ready to help them step into the light. Even though there was darkness, I never felt depressed. In this story, the grieving is worn like a hoodie on a sunny day. A little out of place but comfortable and easy to hide behind. I could somewhat relate to it. I don’t mind wearing a hoodie on a sunny day and hanging in the dark every once in a while. But, lucky for me, I don’t live there.
It wasn’t all darkness. There were times that I chuckled at the adult humour, sibling banter and childhood squabbles. A restaurant owner who couldn’t cook a barbeque to save his life. Ninja warrior battles to decide who would make the final decisions on business matters. Outfit choices to help boost morale in the neighbourhood. All of these things managed to balance the bad with the good.
I admit to feeling a little frustrated at the ending and surprisingly it wasn’t because it was a bloody cliffhanger. THIS is a story that I don’t mind taking in smaller doses and I’m kind of happy to take a break. There is one certain person that I would LOVE to kick in the butt right about now and give him a lecture on doing his job properly.
I survived and after writing this review I’m a wee bit calmer. Hubby has stopped laughing and the boys are willing to walk into my room without fear of getting their heads ripped off. Now, it’s time to rest, recover and wait for The Brightest Sunset.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
BLOODY, BLOODY, POO BUM GIT HEAD!!
That is me having a very, very cranky tanty. I am WILD!! Wild, I tell you. Aly Martinez has dragged me through the wringer and is probably laughing at my craziness. Tears are bloody leaking out of my eyes one minute and then the next I’m laughing like a bloody loon. Now, all I want to do is bloody SCREAM...really, really LOUDLY. Please excuse all of my shouty capitals, but it’s better for me to yell here than have the coppers paying a visit to the madwoman’s house. My poor boys have had to deal with my emotional upheaval today and hubby thinks I’ve finally lost it.
See, I have been giving my hubby a blow by blow account of what went on in The Darkest Sunrise from start to finish. As per usual…HE DOESN’T GET IT!! How dare he just nod his head and say *Yes, Dear*. Why doesn’t he understand that I NEED to talk about this storyline? I need him to wrap his arms around me as I blubber like a baby, without expecting me to explain why I’m so bloody sad. He should get why it was so funny that Porter wanted to eat Charlotte’s tacos in bed. Last, but by hell not least, he should not LAUGH at me when it’s time for me to write my review AND I WANT TO RIP EVERYONE’S HEADS OFF!!
Glad I’ve got that off my chest. Hmmmm…deep breaths.
OK, you may have cottoned on by now that I’m a wee bit of a mess with this one. There are some really tricky subjects dealt with and I couldn’t help but put myself in the shoes of the characters. I struggled to come up with answers as to how I would deal and cope with the loss of a loved one. Could I have dealt with the grief? Would I be able to move one? Can you move on from guilt, devastation, unanswered questions and losing a part of you?
This is a story about darkness. This darkness had beauty, though. We have one person who recognised another in the dark, made it OK to be there and held a hand out ready to help them step into the light. Even though there was darkness, I never felt depressed. In this story, the grieving is worn like a hoodie on a sunny day. A little out of place but comfortable and easy to hide behind. I could somewhat relate to it. I don’t mind wearing a hoodie on a sunny day and hanging in the dark every once in a while. But, lucky for me, I don’t live there.
It wasn’t all darkness. There were times that I chuckled at the adult humour, sibling banter and childhood squabbles. A restaurant owner who couldn’t cook a barbeque to save his life. Ninja warrior battles to decide who would make the final decisions on business matters. Outfit choices to help boost morale in the neighbourhood. All of these things managed to balance the bad with the good.
I admit to feeling a little frustrated at the ending and surprisingly it wasn’t because it was a bloody cliffhanger. THIS is a story that I don’t mind taking in smaller doses and I’m kind of happy to take a break. There is one certain person that I would LOVE to kick in the butt right about now and give him a lecture on doing his job properly.
I survived and after writing this review I’m a wee bit calmer. Hubby has stopped laughing and the boys are willing to walk into my room without fear of getting their heads ripped off. Now, it’s time to rest, recover and wait for The Brightest Sunset.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
July 19, 2017
4 - "Right now, it's just me and you in the dark..." Stars!
ITs LIVE!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2tYlkMY
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2u5aPrp
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2u5dCAX
Amazon AU: http://amzn.to/2u4XsHs
My first foray into the writing of Aly Martinez, was definitely a good one. The Darkest Sunrise offered up two broken characters, trying to find their way back to the light, and although pretty heavy in its themes, the story didn’t get bogged down with drama and angst.
This is one of those books that you cannot say a huge amount about the actual content of the story-line, for fear of giving massive chunk of the plot away or what will ultimately turn out to be a spoiler.
"Life sucks sometimes…"
The author has definitely got the knack of interweaving the lives of her characters, and pulling all the plot points together seamlessly so that the journey you take with them, although emotional is a pretty smooth ride for the reader, even though for the characters is more of an out-of-control rollercoaster.
Porter Reese; single dad, widower, struggling to keep his head above water and juggle all the facets of his life, while dealing with the crushing guilt of actions from his past.
Hiding in plain sight…
Charlotte Mills; single-woman, mother, struggling to keep herself out of the darkness, acting fine, in the hope that her friends and family think she’s not as close to the edge as she is, while dealing with the crushing guilt of actions from her past.
It was easier to stay in the darkness than it was to brave the sunlight…
The connection between them is instant, the banter and verbal sparring sweet and funny, the issues that they are both trying to deal with, and start to share with each as they gain trust are dark, desperately sad, and it is difficult to see how either of them will every truly be happy again.
When your entire world was pitch-black, even the tiniest flicker looked like a lighthouse…
That dynamic between the two of them is what kept me reading, the author has set this duology up so that this is a couple, that as a reader you are desperate too see get their happily ever after (together), but ultimately and at the point the book finished, don’t know if they will actually manage it, with everything that has happened, and is likely to happen in the next book.
I am dying to see how this plays out though, and thankfully The Brightest Sunset is due for release on 27th July, so we don’t have too long to wait.
ARC generously provided by the author, via InkSlinger PR in exchange for the above honest review.
**My review will also appear on Straight Shootin' Book Reviews -
https://straightshootinbookreviews.com
ITs LIVE!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2tYlkMY
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2u5aPrp
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2u5dCAX
Amazon AU: http://amzn.to/2u4XsHs
My first foray into the writing of Aly Martinez, was definitely a good one. The Darkest Sunrise offered up two broken characters, trying to find their way back to the light, and although pretty heavy in its themes, the story didn’t get bogged down with drama and angst.
This is one of those books that you cannot say a huge amount about the actual content of the story-line, for fear of giving massive chunk of the plot away or what will ultimately turn out to be a spoiler.
"Life sucks sometimes…"
The author has definitely got the knack of interweaving the lives of her characters, and pulling all the plot points together seamlessly so that the journey you take with them, although emotional is a pretty smooth ride for the reader, even though for the characters is more of an out-of-control rollercoaster.
Porter Reese; single dad, widower, struggling to keep his head above water and juggle all the facets of his life, while dealing with the crushing guilt of actions from his past.
Hiding in plain sight…
Charlotte Mills; single-woman, mother, struggling to keep herself out of the darkness, acting fine, in the hope that her friends and family think she’s not as close to the edge as she is, while dealing with the crushing guilt of actions from her past.
It was easier to stay in the darkness than it was to brave the sunlight…
The connection between them is instant, the banter and verbal sparring sweet and funny, the issues that they are both trying to deal with, and start to share with each as they gain trust are dark, desperately sad, and it is difficult to see how either of them will every truly be happy again.
When your entire world was pitch-black, even the tiniest flicker looked like a lighthouse…
That dynamic between the two of them is what kept me reading, the author has set this duology up so that this is a couple, that as a reader you are desperate too see get their happily ever after (together), but ultimately and at the point the book finished, don’t know if they will actually manage it, with everything that has happened, and is likely to happen in the next book.
I am dying to see how this plays out though, and thankfully The Brightest Sunset is due for release on 27th July, so we don’t have too long to wait.
ARC generously provided by the author, via InkSlinger PR in exchange for the above honest review.
**My review will also appear on Straight Shootin' Book Reviews -
https://straightshootinbookreviews.com
February 5, 2020
4.25 stars
“Two people alone in the darkness. No questions. No judgments. No faking it.”
I would like to say that I feel bad for everyone who read this book before the the second one was released. I can’t imagine how it felt to wait after that cliffhanger. Because even though that ending was predictable to me, it was still really sad. The whole book was really sad. It was twenty seven chapters of sadness!
This was a really emotional gut wrenching story. It was intense, raw, and different than anything I’ve ever read. I felt sad while reading this book. I felt sad and frustrated. My heart bleed for these characters. All of them. I would really advice going into this book blindly. You wouldn’t want it to be spoiled, trust me.
“But I don’t have to know in order to recognize it. The inferno burns inside me too.”
She scoffed and stabbed a finger in my direction. “You have no idea what you’re talking about. We don’t share an inferno, Porter. You wouldn’t last a day in my flames.”
I felt Charlotte’s pain. It was agonizing and heartbreaking. I can’t imagine how hard it was for her. I wanted to hug her and bring her to the light or just set there with them in the darkness. Porter was so sweet and charming. I feel so sad that he had to go through that.
I loved that the first conflict was acknowledged early. I was scared that it would take a lot of time to discover that “lie”, but I was glad that it was discovered early. Aly Martinez writing is beautiful and captivating. She’s so talented, her stories are well written, and unputdownable. And I want to read all of her books.
Song recommendation:
Conversations in the dark by John Legend
The sound of silence by Disturbed
Let me love the lonely by James Arthur
“Two people alone in the darkness. No questions. No judgments. No faking it.”
I would like to say that I feel bad for everyone who read this book before the the second one was released. I can’t imagine how it felt to wait after that cliffhanger. Because even though that ending was predictable to me, it was still really sad. The whole book was really sad. It was twenty seven chapters of sadness!
This was a really emotional gut wrenching story. It was intense, raw, and different than anything I’ve ever read. I felt sad while reading this book. I felt sad and frustrated. My heart bleed for these characters. All of them. I would really advice going into this book blindly. You wouldn’t want it to be spoiled, trust me.
“But I don’t have to know in order to recognize it. The inferno burns inside me too.”
She scoffed and stabbed a finger in my direction. “You have no idea what you’re talking about. We don’t share an inferno, Porter. You wouldn’t last a day in my flames.”
I felt Charlotte’s pain. It was agonizing and heartbreaking. I can’t imagine how hard it was for her. I wanted to hug her and bring her to the light or just set there with them in the darkness. Porter was so sweet and charming. I feel so sad that he had to go through that.
I loved that the first conflict was acknowledged early. I was scared that it would take a lot of time to discover that “lie”, but I was glad that it was discovered early. Aly Martinez writing is beautiful and captivating. She’s so talented, her stories are well written, and unputdownable. And I want to read all of her books.
Song recommendation:
Conversations in the dark by John Legend
The sound of silence by Disturbed
Let me love the lonely by James Arthur
July 18, 2017
Wow. The chemistry between Charlotte and Porter just jumped off the page. They had been simply existing until they met one another and the pieces fell together. Their armor was cracked, but not broken. I absolutely loved their witty banter. This is one of those couples that you just KNOW are meant for one another.
"No. Not like that. I'm talking about one where you'd spend the rest of your night touching your bruised lips, and I'd spend the rest of mine desperately trying to memorize the way you tasted."
The conflict is heartbreaking. I was enthralled by the raw emotion. The writing, imagery, and pacing were solid. While some of the plot was not difficult to foresee, the journey was still quite powerful and I felt the special moments right along with our characters.
"Let me in, Charlotte. We'll take it slow and start in the dark if that's what you need. But I want you in the light, sweetheart. Whatever it takes to get you there, I'll do it. I just need you to let me in so I can try."
Porter is a great hero. He has all the makings of a sexy leading man but how he deals with his challenges just takes him to a whole other level. Charlotte has gone through something no mother should and as a result has closed herself off. Nobody gets to her the way that Porter does and it makes for a great read! This is a safe read with no cheating, rape, etc.
Complimentary copy voluntarily reviewed.
"No. Not like that. I'm talking about one where you'd spend the rest of your night touching your bruised lips, and I'd spend the rest of mine desperately trying to memorize the way you tasted."
The conflict is heartbreaking. I was enthralled by the raw emotion. The writing, imagery, and pacing were solid. While some of the plot was not difficult to foresee, the journey was still quite powerful and I felt the special moments right along with our characters.
"Let me in, Charlotte. We'll take it slow and start in the dark if that's what you need. But I want you in the light, sweetheart. Whatever it takes to get you there, I'll do it. I just need you to let me in so I can try."
Porter is a great hero. He has all the makings of a sexy leading man but how he deals with his challenges just takes him to a whole other level. Charlotte has gone through something no mother should and as a result has closed herself off. Nobody gets to her the way that Porter does and it makes for a great read! This is a safe read with no cheating, rape, etc.
Complimentary copy voluntarily reviewed.
March 5, 2020
The book started really well, but the characters and plot were a bit flat - AND I guessed the twist pretty fast!
However, I’m still curious to know how the plot will unfold in the second book...
However, I’m still curious to know how the plot will unfold in the second book...
July 13, 2017
****4 STARS****
I knew it was a cliffhanger before I started reading it. I normally don't do cliffhangers but I saw the second book comes out on 7/27/17 and decided to read it. It's good. I'll give it a proper review soon.
I knew it was a cliffhanger before I started reading it. I normally don't do cliffhangers but I saw the second book comes out on 7/27/17 and decided to read it. It's good. I'll give it a proper review soon.
July 7, 2017
This was an emotional trip that stripped me bare, and left me feeling utterly heartbroken. I knew going into this that it wasn’t going to be an easy read but I was surprised at how much I felt towards these characters. The things they went through, the all consuming hurt and grief and trying to put one foot in front of the other, was a sight to see.
Sometimes we as human beings don’t know just how much power we have over our everyday lives. We can choose to make it better or we can just sit there in the darkness and let it pass us by. Watching these characters maneuver from the dark to the light was not an easy read but let me tell you, every tear, every stolen moment, every single one of those fears, was worth it.
Charlotte is a shell of the woman who she once was and that’s understandable. Ten years ago, her entire world was ripped apart leaving her to be an empty person. Moving on wasn’t easy especially when all she wanted was curl up and let grief take over. But Charlotte didn’t do that because she forced herself to work hard and become one of the best pulmonologist doctors in the state.
Getting through the day was a struggle, and smiling when all you wanted to do was to close your eyes and not be in the moment, took a small miracle. Through it all, Charlotte has managed to get through everyday life even and form some sort of normalcy. Having relationships on the other hand, now that’s a different story. But it all changes when the charming Porter Reese sets his sights on her and being alone in the dark, is no longer an option.
Porter Reese understood me. Not in sentences. But in the silence.
Porter Reese has been through his fair share of heartbreak. Being a single father and business owner isn’t easy on most days but there’s nothing he wouldn’t do to make sure his kids have the best life possible. Tired of going through the motions, Porter finally meets someone that he wants to get to know on a more personal level. But getting in with Charlotte is not going to be an easy task because heartbreak is her first name and tragedy is her last.
Will Porter and Charlotte have a chance at falling in love?
Or will their past be their downfall before they even get started?
This really was a touching and emotional story about loss, finding love when you least expected it, and having someone who understood you on a level that was not only pure agony, but heartwarming at the same time. Porter and Charlotte’s story was not an easy one to read at times but I loved that they had a kindred spirit with each other and with all the hurt, they’ve managed to just BE in their moment. The only issue I had with this story was that it was a bit predictable and I wanted it to have that element of surprise. Aside from that, this was an enjoyable read with some of the best characters I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about and I can’t wait for part 2!
July 21, 2017
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: I loved their dialogue! They were witty and it had me smiling so big at my iPad like a loon! I did get a little tired of the "darkness" references, but that could very well be my grumpiness popping out. I also guessed the big twist pretty much at the beginning of the book, so I wasn't all that shocked with the cliffy...but I am eager to see how this ends. Hopefully I get a HEA for them 🤞🏻😜
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Charlotte and Porter's story. I'm going to keep this brief in hopes of not ruining it. Charlotte and Porter both have a traumatic past, and they find kindred spirits in each other when they meet at one of Charlotte's work functions. Porter is desperate to have Charlotte treat his struggling son's health issues, but he is side tracked when he meets Charlotte and realizes that they are alike in a lot of ways. They dance around the idea of a relationship for a while, but eventually give in. There are some big steps made in helping both of them heal, some sexy times...and a cliffy.
POV: This alternated between Charlotte and Porter's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. It is shorter than I usually like my books, but I let that go since it was a duet and together they make a good length book. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but instant connection. They haven't shared "ILYs" yet.
H rating: 5 stars. Porter. I loved him! He was patient with the h, caring and and an awesome dad (even though I would've liked more scenes with the kids tbh), and sexy! A great combo IMO 😉
h rating: 4 stars. Charlotte. I liked her. She had a horrific past that as a mom myself I couldn't even imagine, and I have become eager for her to get a HEA.
Sadness level: Low, I didn't need any tissues -- but it does cover some heavy subjects.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes *BIG SPOILERS*
Closure: This has a cliffhanger ending, so no closure yet. The next book The Brightest Sunset will be released on July 27th.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: I loved their dialogue! They were witty and it had me smiling so big at my iPad like a loon! I did get a little tired of the "darkness" references, but that could very well be my grumpiness popping out. I also guessed the big twist pretty much at the beginning of the book, so I wasn't all that shocked with the cliffy...but I am eager to see how this ends. Hopefully I get a HEA for them 🤞🏻😜
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Charlotte and Porter's story. I'm going to keep this brief in hopes of not ruining it. Charlotte and Porter both have a traumatic past, and they find kindred spirits in each other when they meet at one of Charlotte's work functions. Porter is desperate to have Charlotte treat his struggling son's health issues, but he is side tracked when he meets Charlotte and realizes that they are alike in a lot of ways. They dance around the idea of a relationship for a while, but eventually give in. There are some big steps made in helping both of them heal, some sexy times...and a cliffy.
POV: This alternated between Charlotte and Porter's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. It is shorter than I usually like my books, but I let that go since it was a duet and together they make a good length book. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but instant connection. They haven't shared "ILYs" yet.
H rating: 5 stars. Porter. I loved him! He was patient with the h, caring and and an awesome dad (even though I would've liked more scenes with the kids tbh), and sexy! A great combo IMO 😉
h rating: 4 stars. Charlotte. I liked her. She had a horrific past that as a mom myself I couldn't even imagine, and I have become eager for her to get a HEA.
Sadness level: Low, I didn't need any tissues -- but it does cover some heavy subjects.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes *BIG SPOILERS*
Closure: This has a cliffhanger ending, so no closure yet. The next book The Brightest Sunset will be released on July 27th.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
July 10, 2017
ALL THE FREAKING STARS!!!!!!!
No questions. No judgments. No faking it.
Wow, wow, wow! I'm speechless. Not surprised, just speechless. Three hours, that's how long it took me to read this masterpiece of a book. To say this was amazing is an understatement. I can't wait for this to go live and for you to read this one. So freaking awesome, so freaking worth it. You will not be disappointed.
I'm convinced that if Aly Martinez writes it, I will read it no matter what. Every single book I've read of hers is a favorite of mine. The woman is a master storyteller and her books are always so well rounded and refreshing. I can't even explain it, she's just one of the bests. I will gladly lose my sleep again in order to read her amazing books, they are that good!
I can't tell you anything about this book, other than this is Book 1 and it ends on a huge cliffhanger. Nothing more, pick it up when it comes out. It's currently on pre-order for 99 cents. Go in blind, don't peek, and prepare to be amazed. I need Book 2 yesterday. This one has become an instant favorite and I absolutely recommend, about 1000%!
**An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
No questions. No judgments. No faking it.
Wow, wow, wow! I'm speechless. Not surprised, just speechless. Three hours, that's how long it took me to read this masterpiece of a book. To say this was amazing is an understatement. I can't wait for this to go live and for you to read this one. So freaking awesome, so freaking worth it. You will not be disappointed.
I'm convinced that if Aly Martinez writes it, I will read it no matter what. Every single book I've read of hers is a favorite of mine. The woman is a master storyteller and her books are always so well rounded and refreshing. I can't even explain it, she's just one of the bests. I will gladly lose my sleep again in order to read her amazing books, they are that good!
I can't tell you anything about this book, other than this is Book 1 and it ends on a huge cliffhanger. Nothing more, pick it up when it comes out. It's currently on pre-order for 99 cents. Go in blind, don't peek, and prepare to be amazed. I need Book 2 yesterday. This one has become an instant favorite and I absolutely recommend, about 1000%!
**An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
October 12, 2018
So I've been kind of sort of binge reading Aly Martinez :D I really love her writing. This one made me cry at the end. Damn, the woman can bring the angst!
July 21, 2021
My goal is to bring down my TBR pile from the number it's currently at down to 50 by the end of this year. So I chose this Aly Martinez book randomly. Now the surprise when my kindle said that I've read this whole duet already, but in Goodreads it still mark at "to-read". Who do I trust more? Apparently not my Kindle, because I started reading this book and not even 5 chapters in and everything came back with a vengeance and I remember everything that happened even in the chronological order.
Now that story time is over, a lil about the book. Charlotte as the heroine was fine, Porter as the Hero was also fine. The romance was too insta-lovey for me, cuz upon their first interaction Porter & Charlotte had this insane connection and saw the darkness in e/o and I'm like hmm okay ehh whatever. Since I've already read this all the plot twists were predictable lol.
Basically I don't have much to complain about, but it didn't have any impact or made me feel anything either. Didn't regret re-reading it tho, cause now I'm one book closer at reaching my goal. ✌️
Now that story time is over, a lil about the book. Charlotte as the heroine was fine, Porter as the Hero was also fine. The romance was too insta-lovey for me, cuz upon their first interaction Porter & Charlotte had this insane connection and saw the darkness in e/o and I'm like hmm okay ehh whatever. Since I've already read this all the plot twists were predictable lol.
Basically I don't have much to complain about, but it didn't have any impact or made me feel anything either. Didn't regret re-reading it tho, cause now I'm one book closer at reaching my goal. ✌️
December 18, 2018
3.5 - 3.75 stars
I liked the story, but struggled a bit with the writing.
Second half of the book was much better.
Give me action and WORDS!!!
I guessed the twist in the 1st chapter from his POV, when they told me he had a son.
Liked the heroine. I didn't support her every decision, but I don't dare to judge a woman, who lost her child.
Sweet hero. I adored how he cared for his kids. *swoon*
His brother & her BFF... I hope they stay together or will they get their own book(s)?
I didn't like that they made his dead ex-wife a villain.
I liked the story, but struggled a bit with the writing.
Second half of the book was much better.
Give me action and WORDS!!!
I guessed the twist in the 1st chapter from his POV, when they told me he had a son.
Liked the heroine. I didn't support her every decision, but I don't dare to judge a woman, who lost her child.
Sweet hero. I adored how he cared for his kids. *swoon*
His brother & her BFF... I hope they stay together or will they get their own book(s)?
I didn't like that they made his dead ex-wife a villain.
Want to read
May 27, 2017I CANNOT EVEN TALK ABOUT HOW EXCITED I AM!
July 13, 2017
★5 STARS★
If I may boldly say, this is Aly Martinez at her best. Phenomenal in her storytelling, The Darkest Sunrise is a raw and highly emotive portrayal of two strangers bound together by their grief.
In many ways it reminded me of the poem “Soul meets soul on lovers lips” by Percy Bysshe Shelley. Granted it’s the unstemmed pain which flows though them that is the source of the recognition they share, but in this pain is the beginning of an unlikely but pure and honest relationship that blossoms.
It’s a book that already received much praise and after reading I too am among those showering Ms Martinez with adulation. She drives the story in such a way the reader is invested from the outset and such is the pay off i’m left in desperate need to the conclusion.
For those going in I would say to forget the hype and take it as it comes. If you receive it like I did, you’ll surely
August 9, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Book 1 of 2 from The Darkest Sunrise duet
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Charlotte Mills was a well know expert in her field. As a doctor, she dedicated her life to her career and her patients. But she did it for a purpose - to distract her from her crumbling past. Being in the darkness has taken a toll on her until she found someone who showed her how much she had missed in life.
Porter Reese recognized the pain in Charlotte's eyes. Having his own demons to fight, he knew what it's like to be crippled by the past. He would do anything to make sure she's happy, but sometimes happiness took a lot more work to achieve.
I'm glad I finally had time to read this one. I had no idea of what the book is about before reading. It turned out to be a bonus for me because it involved a subject matter that touched my heart.
Charlotte was a broken woman. She put on a mask to show the world how she was fine when she was far from it. I could feel the thorns in her heart.
I think Porter was such an amazing male character. He was not whole, still, he’s not only fully functional, but also could provide rays to brighten other people's lives.
The storyline was interesting. The fast pace story made me want to race to the finish line to find out the truth. However, I had my theory at the very beginning which made the ending non surprising for me. Good thing I still enjoyed the journey.
The Darkest Sunrise is a tale of two people bound by darkness working their way out into the light. It would appeal to fans of romance with element of suspense.
Books in the series:
⚜️ 💢 ⚜️ . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC & Loyda . . . ⚜️ 💢 ⚜️
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Book 1 of 2 from The Darkest Sunrise duet
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Charlotte Mills was a well know expert in her field. As a doctor, she dedicated her life to her career and her patients. But she did it for a purpose - to distract her from her crumbling past. Being in the darkness has taken a toll on her until she found someone who showed her how much she had missed in life.
Porter Reese recognized the pain in Charlotte's eyes. Having his own demons to fight, he knew what it's like to be crippled by the past. He would do anything to make sure she's happy, but sometimes happiness took a lot more work to achieve.
I'm glad I finally had time to read this one. I had no idea of what the book is about before reading. It turned out to be a bonus for me because it involved a subject matter that touched my heart.
But how do you move forward when all you really want is to go back?
Charlotte was a broken woman. She put on a mask to show the world how she was fine when she was far from it. I could feel the thorns in her heart.
Porter might have wanted company in the darkness. But, with a single taste of the warmth, I wanted to bask in the sunlight.
I think Porter was such an amazing male character. He was not whole, still, he’s not only fully functional, but also could provide rays to brighten other people's lives.
It was a truth and a fact not even I could deny. Mine. It was my fault. Always and forever.
The storyline was interesting. The fast pace story made me want to race to the finish line to find out the truth. However, I had my theory at the very beginning which made the ending non surprising for me. Good thing I still enjoyed the journey.
The Darkest Sunrise is a tale of two people bound by darkness working their way out into the light. It would appeal to fans of romance with element of suspense.
Books in the series:
⚜️ 💢 ⚜️ . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC & Loyda . . . ⚜️ 💢 ⚜️
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
July 14, 2017
ALL THE STARS!!!
O. M. F-ing. G.
This was such an awesome book, I didn��t want it to end and thank goodness this was just the beginning of Porter and Charlotte’s journey. I’ve only just finished reading this heart stomping story so trying to gather my thoughts and just deal.
Charlotte and Porter have their own individual stories in this book and are dealing with their own personal struggles but when they meet for the first time something feels right, they feel lighter. Porter recognises the darkness in Charlotte, it’s the same kind he sees in the mirror himself every day. This dull void. Going through the motions, trying to move forward with no real closure in sight. Emotional survival.
‘Holy. Shit. There it was, blazing in her eyes. The emptiness. My emptiness.’
Charlotte was devastated after losing her son when he was a baby. She has never forgiven herself for what happened and has carried the weight of blame around with her since that day. She has never really been open to any personal happiness in the last 10 years, instead focusing on her career. She is a very well regarded surgeon and all of her time & energy goes into her patients.
Porter has heard of Charlotte, he has a very sick child who he is desperate to get help for. He is hoping that Charlotte will be the answer to his prayers and will do anything to get her to help him. However, in trying to make an initial connection with her for help he ends up making a much deeper connection with her. He just feels this pull between them and she feels it too.
‘I’d been waiting for over a decade to take a single breath that didn’t hurt. And, no matter how much I tried to deny it, nothing hurt with Porter, not even in the darkness.'
And this was when I realised I was falling in love with Porter Reese. OMG, he is just so freaking cute & sexy & hot & funny & swoony & everything. Like Charlotte he is fighting his own inner demons, wondering if he could have done more all those years ago when he lost his wife. However, he has his children and job to take up all of his time so in a way he too hasn’t really let go of the thoughts that still haunt him too.
Together, Charlotte and Porter are incredible. He is happy to sit in the darkness with her until she is ready to come back into the light. The banter between them is so cute & funny. This is all very new and is going to take time but both of them are prepared to take a leap of faith, it’s about time they found some happiness.
‘My laugh got louder until tears hit my eyes. So this was what living felt like.’
And this is about the time in a story when things turn to shite right? OMG if you are going to end on a cliffhanger then this is the biggest one I have ever experienced. I could feel it coming, hoping I was wrong but couldn’t look away.
This is a gripping, emotional, heart wrenching read that I inhaled, seriously I was sneak reading at work and went to the toilet so often just to read that I’m pretty sure people probably think I have a UTI. I need the next book now!
Note: As soon as this book is released you HAVE to read it, drop everything and read this book!
O. M. F-ing. G.
This was such an awesome book, I didn��t want it to end and thank goodness this was just the beginning of Porter and Charlotte’s journey. I’ve only just finished reading this heart stomping story so trying to gather my thoughts and just deal.
Charlotte and Porter have their own individual stories in this book and are dealing with their own personal struggles but when they meet for the first time something feels right, they feel lighter. Porter recognises the darkness in Charlotte, it’s the same kind he sees in the mirror himself every day. This dull void. Going through the motions, trying to move forward with no real closure in sight. Emotional survival.
‘Holy. Shit. There it was, blazing in her eyes. The emptiness. My emptiness.’
Charlotte was devastated after losing her son when he was a baby. She has never forgiven herself for what happened and has carried the weight of blame around with her since that day. She has never really been open to any personal happiness in the last 10 years, instead focusing on her career. She is a very well regarded surgeon and all of her time & energy goes into her patients.
Porter has heard of Charlotte, he has a very sick child who he is desperate to get help for. He is hoping that Charlotte will be the answer to his prayers and will do anything to get her to help him. However, in trying to make an initial connection with her for help he ends up making a much deeper connection with her. He just feels this pull between them and she feels it too.
‘I’d been waiting for over a decade to take a single breath that didn’t hurt. And, no matter how much I tried to deny it, nothing hurt with Porter, not even in the darkness.'
And this was when I realised I was falling in love with Porter Reese. OMG, he is just so freaking cute & sexy & hot & funny & swoony & everything. Like Charlotte he is fighting his own inner demons, wondering if he could have done more all those years ago when he lost his wife. However, he has his children and job to take up all of his time so in a way he too hasn’t really let go of the thoughts that still haunt him too.
Together, Charlotte and Porter are incredible. He is happy to sit in the darkness with her until she is ready to come back into the light. The banter between them is so cute & funny. This is all very new and is going to take time but both of them are prepared to take a leap of faith, it’s about time they found some happiness.
‘My laugh got louder until tears hit my eyes. So this was what living felt like.’
And this is about the time in a story when things turn to shite right? OMG if you are going to end on a cliffhanger then this is the biggest one I have ever experienced. I could feel it coming, hoping I was wrong but couldn’t look away.
This is a gripping, emotional, heart wrenching read that I inhaled, seriously I was sneak reading at work and went to the toilet so often just to read that I’m pretty sure people probably think I have a UTI. I need the next book now!
Note: As soon as this book is released you HAVE to read it, drop everything and read this book!
July 13, 2017
Aly Martinez is one of very few authors who’s books make my TBR before the blurb is even written. I just know I can count on her to write a book that I will be so emotionally invested in that from the moment I pick it up until the second I put it down I am nowhere but in that book. The only issue I have is that I always feel the need to wait until I am in a reasonable stable head space (for me this is a hard task) with very little else on my calendar so I can read the book with only minimal muttering to my husband as all the pieces fall in to place as I read it.
And The Darkest Sunrise nailed every single thing I have come to expect from Aly Martinez. I have just finished the first book in the duet and I am a hyper, emotionally fragile, muttering mess. I am completely on the verge of a nervous breakdown and I know I wont feel whole again until I turn the last page on The Brightest Sunset.
The connection between Charlotte and Porter was so palpable I could almost feel every one of their interactions. And from the very beginning I was dying to see them find a work around for their very unique issues and manage to ride off into the sunset together. I absolutely loved them both and my heart broke every time we got another piece of each of their individual broken pieces.
Porter was so much the perfect man and I fell in love with how hard he chased Charlotte and fought to build something with her. I loved that he was such an amazing father. He is just the complete all around package and the plot twists and drama bombs never even dented his positivity that Charlotte was exactly who he needed in his life. Even when it all looked completely impossible.
And for how completely shattered Charlotte was her inner strength and complete lack of excuses just made her all the more endearing. Of course the secondary characters were equally as amazing and despite the heartbreak and drama there was also a lot of small pieces of humour all through the book that made sure I didn’t spend every second reading this book in a sobbing puddle on the lounge. That said I am in for a long night since I know I am not going to sleep easy until I have finished this perfect duet.
And The Darkest Sunrise nailed every single thing I have come to expect from Aly Martinez. I have just finished the first book in the duet and I am a hyper, emotionally fragile, muttering mess. I am completely on the verge of a nervous breakdown and I know I wont feel whole again until I turn the last page on The Brightest Sunset.
The connection between Charlotte and Porter was so palpable I could almost feel every one of their interactions. And from the very beginning I was dying to see them find a work around for their very unique issues and manage to ride off into the sunset together. I absolutely loved them both and my heart broke every time we got another piece of each of their individual broken pieces.
Porter was so much the perfect man and I fell in love with how hard he chased Charlotte and fought to build something with her. I loved that he was such an amazing father. He is just the complete all around package and the plot twists and drama bombs never even dented his positivity that Charlotte was exactly who he needed in his life. Even when it all looked completely impossible.
And for how completely shattered Charlotte was her inner strength and complete lack of excuses just made her all the more endearing. Of course the secondary characters were equally as amazing and despite the heartbreak and drama there was also a lot of small pieces of humour all through the book that made sure I didn’t spend every second reading this book in a sobbing puddle on the lounge. That said I am in for a long night since I know I am not going to sleep easy until I have finished this perfect duet.
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