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Serenity
We all have things in life we cannot change. Serenity is in the acceptance.
Kit Marsden is proud that she’s put her heroin use in the past. She’d really just prefer if no one made a big deal about it so she can move on with her life. After all, people hear the word “heroin,” smile politely, and run for the hills. Kit would have more success ignoring her past if her NA meetings weren’t at the library where she nearly died. Plus, she can’t stop thinking about the librarian, Thea Harris.
Thea’s desperate to protect her library and keep it a safe place for the community. She’s used to keeping her life orderly and predictable, working hard, and preparing for every possibility at work and at home. But nothing prepares her for Kit Marsden.
Will Kit and Thea be able to embrace who they are, what they want, and what they can create together, or will the library and their chance at love falter?
Cover Artist: Tammy Sedick
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Words: 78,000
Kit Marsden is proud that she’s put her heroin use in the past. She’d really just prefer if no one made a big deal about it so she can move on with her life. After all, people hear the word “heroin,” smile politely, and run for the hills. Kit would have more success ignoring her past if her NA meetings weren’t at the library where she nearly died. Plus, she can’t stop thinking about the librarian, Thea Harris.
Thea’s desperate to protect her library and keep it a safe place for the community. She’s used to keeping her life orderly and predictable, working hard, and preparing for every possibility at work and at home. But nothing prepares her for Kit Marsden.
Will Kit and Thea be able to embrace who they are, what they want, and what they can create together, or will the library and their chance at love falter?
Cover Artist: Tammy Sedick
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Words: 78,000
264 pages, Paperback
Published July 31, 2020
4 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
Jesse J. Thoma
9 books48 followersJesse Thoma splits her professional time between graduate school and work. She is a project manager in a clinical research lab and spends a good amount of time in methadone clinics and prisons collecting data and talking to people. Jesse grew up in Northern California but headed east for college. She never looked back, although her baseball allegiance is still loyally with the San Francisco Giants. She has lived in New England for ten years and has finally learned to leave extra time in the morning to scrape snow off the car. Jesse is blissfully married and is happiest when she is out for a walk with her wife and their dog, pretending she still has the soccer skills she had as an eighteen-year-old, eating anything her wife bakes, or sitting at the computer to write a few lines. (from the publisher's website)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 27, 2022
**'It's easier to tell certain stories of how people wound or even hurt each other than of what might bind them together..'
Mediocre read!
Just a bit bland/low energy storytelling --- chemistry between the two leads, just a wee bit.
Mediocre read!
Just a bit bland/low energy storytelling --- chemistry between the two leads, just a wee bit.
July 23, 2020
This was well worth the read. I have to admit I was a little on the fence about reading this one. While I had fun with Thoma’s Holt Lasher action series, I think I was worried a book about a heroin addict might be too depressing. I’m glad the early reviews gave me the kick I needed to read this because this was better than I had anticipated. Yes, this story is about a tough subject, but I thought Thoma’s story choices were really well done.
Considering opioid addiction is so rampant in the US, I’m surprised this is one of the few WLW books I have read about a recovering heroin addict. Maybe because it is a tough subject to tackle so authors shy away, well they could take a page out of Thoma’s book because she handled it really well. The drug use was taken seriously, but it never felt like the book was becoming preachy or going the other way and making light of things. It showed the awful sides of drug abuse, but the book wasn’t depressing and hard to read. If anything, this book gave me a little hope.
My favorite part ended up being the romance. It is opposites attract, butch/femme romance and it completely worked for me. I felt the chemistry immediately and I enjoyed watching their connection grow in front of my eyes. I really loved the dialogue. The flirting and teasing was so well done that it put a smile on my face and made my heart happy.
I’m going to keep this review on the shorter side for me. This is the kind of book that is hard to really describe, so you really just have to read it for yourself. I have enjoyed all of Thoma’s books but I think this was her best written one so far. And, it’s also the kind of book that I bet I won’t soon forget. I would recommend this to romance fans that want something with some depth. I’m very glad I read this one.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
Considering opioid addiction is so rampant in the US, I’m surprised this is one of the few WLW books I have read about a recovering heroin addict. Maybe because it is a tough subject to tackle so authors shy away, well they could take a page out of Thoma’s book because she handled it really well. The drug use was taken seriously, but it never felt like the book was becoming preachy or going the other way and making light of things. It showed the awful sides of drug abuse, but the book wasn’t depressing and hard to read. If anything, this book gave me a little hope.
My favorite part ended up being the romance. It is opposites attract, butch/femme romance and it completely worked for me. I felt the chemistry immediately and I enjoyed watching their connection grow in front of my eyes. I really loved the dialogue. The flirting and teasing was so well done that it put a smile on my face and made my heart happy.
I’m going to keep this review on the shorter side for me. This is the kind of book that is hard to really describe, so you really just have to read it for yourself. I have enjoyed all of Thoma’s books but I think this was her best written one so far. And, it’s also the kind of book that I bet I won’t soon forget. I would recommend this to romance fans that want something with some depth. I’m very glad I read this one.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
July 23, 2020
I’m always careful who I read after authors who write exceptionally well, as I don’t want to treat the one following unfairly. Not everyone can come after Caren J. Werlinger and look good too. I don’t know why I thought Jesse J. Thoma could withstand the challenge since I’ve only ever read one of her books, before I started reviewing.
Maybe because that book, Seneca Falls, made an impression. Since I tend to forget a lot, that in itself is telling.
Guess what? It was the best choice.
When Kit and Thea meet for the first time, Kit is in withdrawal and Thea thinks she’s about to OD on the steps to the library. A few months later, a Narcotics Anonymous meeting brings them back together in that same place. Kit is clean and trying to move on, struggling with the idea that people will always see her as a heroin addict. As for Thea, she’s doing her best to make the library a safe place, for everyone. The connection between them is undeniable but both worry their past will stand in the way of a future together.
Serenity is the perfect example of opposites attract: “Kit screamed excitement, unpredictability, and chaos. Thea craved stability, predictability, and routine”, writes Thoma. Despite all their differences, their journeys are similar, in that they’re both beating the odds and fighting back, even if their first instinct is to protect themselves against the world outside and the feelings it carries along.
The best thing about this novel is the characters. Both Kit and Thea feel very real, but the same can be said about every supporting character, be it Kit’s cousin Josh, Thea’s friends and colleagues, Kit’s sponsor, the drug dealers or Frankie, Thea’s teenage not-so-secret admirer. Kit’s attitude and actions are at times annoying and frustrating but they fit with the character and where she’s coming from. The way drugs and addiction are handled is outstanding, never in a patronizing way but never romanticizing drug use either.
I’m a sucker for stories of redemption and for characters who push their limits, prove themselves to be more than others seem to think. Serenity is all that, and well-written too.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Maybe because that book, Seneca Falls, made an impression. Since I tend to forget a lot, that in itself is telling.
Guess what? It was the best choice.
When Kit and Thea meet for the first time, Kit is in withdrawal and Thea thinks she’s about to OD on the steps to the library. A few months later, a Narcotics Anonymous meeting brings them back together in that same place. Kit is clean and trying to move on, struggling with the idea that people will always see her as a heroin addict. As for Thea, she’s doing her best to make the library a safe place, for everyone. The connection between them is undeniable but both worry their past will stand in the way of a future together.
Serenity is the perfect example of opposites attract: “Kit screamed excitement, unpredictability, and chaos. Thea craved stability, predictability, and routine”, writes Thoma. Despite all their differences, their journeys are similar, in that they’re both beating the odds and fighting back, even if their first instinct is to protect themselves against the world outside and the feelings it carries along.
The best thing about this novel is the characters. Both Kit and Thea feel very real, but the same can be said about every supporting character, be it Kit’s cousin Josh, Thea’s friends and colleagues, Kit’s sponsor, the drug dealers or Frankie, Thea’s teenage not-so-secret admirer. Kit’s attitude and actions are at times annoying and frustrating but they fit with the character and where she’s coming from. The way drugs and addiction are handled is outstanding, never in a patronizing way but never romanticizing drug use either.
I’m a sucker for stories of redemption and for characters who push their limits, prove themselves to be more than others seem to think. Serenity is all that, and well-written too.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2021
I was impressed with this tale of addiction, recovery and reality. Kit's internal struggle with addiction is offset with her wit and charm. I loved that even as a recovering addict, she looked for the best in people no matter how she was treated. Thea the uptight librarian was an interesting contrast to the free spirited Kit. Thoma takes her time revealing the reasons Thea behaves the way she does giving the reader a bigger payoff when Kit succeeds in romancing the reluctant librarian. The secondary characters add a lot of depth to the story and help deepen our understanding of the two mains.
Looking forward to more reads from this author to watch.
Looking forward to more reads from this author to watch.
July 12, 2020
TW: drug abuse.
This is an amazing book. I don't rate books outside integers, but this one is a high-four for me.
Serenity is an emotionally intense story. Librarian Thea Harris thought Kit Marsden had overdosed the first time they met. That encounter turns out to be the beginning of Kit's sobriety. Kit desperately wants to put her past behind her and be a new person without all the baggage of a heroin addict. When the orderly Thea comes into her life again, their connection is undeniable. But Thea comes from a family with addiction history, and with libraries being her safe places, she hopes her library is a haven for all. When drug activities start to seep in, Kit has to learn to face her history and Thea needs to decide if her definition of everyone includes users.
I love Kit and Thea. They are both so much fun but with so much baggage. Their relationship is playful sometimes, but also every definition of risk-taking. I cannot imagine how difficult it must have been for them to fully embrace each other in their lives, but I am so happy they did. I love their chemistry, how they are so in-tuned with each other, and that they both have their own issues to work through. Kit, in particular, just breaks my heart. She tries so hard and is so scared, and I just want to tell her she is wonderful and worthy of love. She also reminds me a bit of Aiden Carlisle from Jae's Conflict of Interest , one half of my all-time favorite wlw couples.
The secondary characters are great, too. Frankie is a sixteen-year-old living a life too close to drugs. She worships Thea and finds connection with Kit. That probably means she is a catalyst for Kit and Thea's relationship to work. Will we get a book on Frankie's future one day? Maybe not, but I can dream. Then there is Kit's cousin Josh. He is the best person anyone can ask for in life. Though he ruthlessly teases Kit all the time, he loves her with all his heart and has never given up on her. He is also painfully honest and I wish there were more real people like him.
The story has one theme, and that is drugs. I appreciate that Thoma did not paint a bad picture for users and made them very relatable. If addiction is a potential trigger, reading this book might not be the best idea. If it is not, I totally recommend Serenity.
There were two things I did not particularly enjoy. The first one was that the characters used “I’m not blind” multiple times as a throwaway. Ableist language is not okay. The other one was that the last chapter (not the epilogue) escalated a little too quickly for me, but this was a matter of personal taste and the plot was still pretty reasonable.
Serenity is a beautiful book about making peace with your past and accepting your own history to become a stronger person. Most of the story is set in a library and involves a certain hot woman covered in sawdust. If you like either, read this.
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is an amazing book. I don't rate books outside integers, but this one is a high-four for me.
Serenity is an emotionally intense story. Librarian Thea Harris thought Kit Marsden had overdosed the first time they met. That encounter turns out to be the beginning of Kit's sobriety. Kit desperately wants to put her past behind her and be a new person without all the baggage of a heroin addict. When the orderly Thea comes into her life again, their connection is undeniable. But Thea comes from a family with addiction history, and with libraries being her safe places, she hopes her library is a haven for all. When drug activities start to seep in, Kit has to learn to face her history and Thea needs to decide if her definition of everyone includes users.
To say Thea was beautiful was like saying a waterfall was wet. Although accurate, it failed to capture just how exquisite Thea was.
I love Kit and Thea. They are both so much fun but with so much baggage. Their relationship is playful sometimes, but also every definition of risk-taking. I cannot imagine how difficult it must have been for them to fully embrace each other in their lives, but I am so happy they did. I love their chemistry, how they are so in-tuned with each other, and that they both have their own issues to work through. Kit, in particular, just breaks my heart. She tries so hard and is so scared, and I just want to tell her she is wonderful and worthy of love. She also reminds me a bit of Aiden Carlisle from Jae's Conflict of Interest , one half of my all-time favorite wlw couples.
Tell her you usually feel like a firecracker ready to explode, but when she holds your hand it feels like she extinguishes the fuse.
The secondary characters are great, too. Frankie is a sixteen-year-old living a life too close to drugs. She worships Thea and finds connection with Kit. That probably means she is a catalyst for Kit and Thea's relationship to work. Will we get a book on Frankie's future one day? Maybe not, but I can dream. Then there is Kit's cousin Josh. He is the best person anyone can ask for in life. Though he ruthlessly teases Kit all the time, he loves her with all his heart and has never given up on her. He is also painfully honest and I wish there were more real people like him.
The story has one theme, and that is drugs. I appreciate that Thoma did not paint a bad picture for users and made them very relatable. If addiction is a potential trigger, reading this book might not be the best idea. If it is not, I totally recommend Serenity.
There were two things I did not particularly enjoy. The first one was that the characters used “I’m not blind” multiple times as a throwaway. Ableist language is not okay. The other one was that the last chapter (not the epilogue) escalated a little too quickly for me, but this was a matter of personal taste and the plot was still pretty reasonable.
Serenity is a beautiful book about making peace with your past and accepting your own history to become a stronger person. Most of the story is set in a library and involves a certain hot woman covered in sawdust. If you like either, read this.
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2020
4.5 Stars
This is the best book I've read in a long time. The plot-line is unique, the characters are fully developed, the pacing is near-on perfect, the heat factor is perfect for the plot, and the angst level has the perfect balance. (Hmm. I just realized I said perfect 3 times. Need I say more?)
What I found most refreshing about this book was that it wasn't formulaic, as in the typical blow up around the 80% mark. (At that point I normally do an eye roll and lower my rating). Don't get my wrong, these two definitely have to fight for their happy ever after, but it comes across as realistic and not convoluted. Something I greatly appreciated.
Copy generously provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley
This is the best book I've read in a long time. The plot-line is unique, the characters are fully developed, the pacing is near-on perfect, the heat factor is perfect for the plot, and the angst level has the perfect balance. (Hmm. I just realized I said perfect 3 times. Need I say more?)
What I found most refreshing about this book was that it wasn't formulaic, as in the typical blow up around the 80% mark. (At that point I normally do an eye roll and lower my rating). Don't get my wrong, these two definitely have to fight for their happy ever after, but it comes across as realistic and not convoluted. Something I greatly appreciated.
Copy generously provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley
August 9, 2020
Serenity.... a story about addiction, trust and learning to love yourself.
I flew through this book... it was exceptionally good. You have a number of characters in the story, those being Kit an recovering heroin addict whose trying to forget, and librarian Thea who comes with her own past problems and trust issues. You have other characters , such as Josh, Frankie, Walter and a few 'interesting characters' such as Zookeeper. The romance is there between Kit and Thea, the sparks fly between the pair from almost the beginning which 'lifts' the seriousness of the book a little.
It's not often you read about drug issues, but this is written really well, you can tell research as been done for the story. I would like to say tho, that this book may cause triggers for people, so please just keep that in mind. All in all, yes, it is a very good read.
This is the first book I've read from Jesse J. Thoma, I really did enjoy it and really recommend it.
4*
I was given a copy for a honest review.
Happy reading :D
I flew through this book... it was exceptionally good. You have a number of characters in the story, those being Kit an recovering heroin addict whose trying to forget, and librarian Thea who comes with her own past problems and trust issues. You have other characters , such as Josh, Frankie, Walter and a few 'interesting characters' such as Zookeeper. The romance is there between Kit and Thea, the sparks fly between the pair from almost the beginning which 'lifts' the seriousness of the book a little.
It's not often you read about drug issues, but this is written really well, you can tell research as been done for the story. I would like to say tho, that this book may cause triggers for people, so please just keep that in mind. All in all, yes, it is a very good read.
This is the first book I've read from Jesse J. Thoma, I really did enjoy it and really recommend it.
4*
I was given a copy for a honest review.
Happy reading :D
September 17, 2020
5 Stars for Serenity written by Jesse J. Thoma
This is the first book I’ve read by Jesse J. Thoma. Truth be told, I requested this book from Netgalley because of the cover, title and that it takes place in a library. Normally, I would not pick up a book which the main character is or was a heroin addict because I don’t normally read books with a lot of angst or dark themes such as drug addiction. I’m glad I made an exception. I did find it wasn’t as dark or angst filled as I imagined, but it wasn’t without them either.
Kit and Thea meet under unusual circumstances to say the least. Kit just stumbled out of the public library’s woman’s bathroom and collapsed on the front steps. The head librarian, Thea was about to inject Kit with naloxone (an opioid reversal drug), when Kit convinced her that she was in withdrawal and didn’t need it.
And so begins a slow burn romance. Thea thinks that would be the last she’d see of Kit but instead sees her regularly when Kit attends NA meetings at the library. This book follows two very different women, both of whom affected by drug addiction. Kit more directly and Thea who is determined to keep drugs out of “her” library. She wants the library to be a safe sanctuary as it was for her growing up.
I really liked this book, from Kit and Thea’s journey to the supporting cast of the diverse side characters. They range from the cranky older Librarian, a teenager with addict parents, and to Kit’s supportive cousin, Josh.
I highly recommend this book, even if like me it is not your usual fare. Step out of your comfort zone, it worked for me.
This is the first book I’ve read by Jesse J. Thoma. Truth be told, I requested this book from Netgalley because of the cover, title and that it takes place in a library. Normally, I would not pick up a book which the main character is or was a heroin addict because I don’t normally read books with a lot of angst or dark themes such as drug addiction. I’m glad I made an exception. I did find it wasn’t as dark or angst filled as I imagined, but it wasn’t without them either.
Kit and Thea meet under unusual circumstances to say the least. Kit just stumbled out of the public library’s woman’s bathroom and collapsed on the front steps. The head librarian, Thea was about to inject Kit with naloxone (an opioid reversal drug), when Kit convinced her that she was in withdrawal and didn’t need it.
And so begins a slow burn romance. Thea thinks that would be the last she’d see of Kit but instead sees her regularly when Kit attends NA meetings at the library. This book follows two very different women, both of whom affected by drug addiction. Kit more directly and Thea who is determined to keep drugs out of “her” library. She wants the library to be a safe sanctuary as it was for her growing up.
I really liked this book, from Kit and Thea’s journey to the supporting cast of the diverse side characters. They range from the cranky older Librarian, a teenager with addict parents, and to Kit’s supportive cousin, Josh.
I highly recommend this book, even if like me it is not your usual fare. Step out of your comfort zone, it worked for me.
September 13, 2020
After reading “Seneca Falls” I wanted to read more books by Thoma. I have to admit that I was a bit afraid that this one would be too heavy and depressing for me, but after reading several reviews I decided to read it and I’m not disappointed. Even though this book deals with some heavy topics and is an emotional read, I found it to be low on angst and not depressing.
Drug abuse is the main topic of the book as the lives of both main characters, Kit and Thea, show the two sides of drug abuse and its effects on their surroundings. Kit is a heroin addict who meets Thea for the first time at the all-time low point in her life, the point at which she decides to get sober. A year later they meet again.
There’s immediate attraction between Kit and Thea, but their relationship develops very slowly, which I though was nicely done and very believable seeing their backgrounds. The story is set mainly in the library where Thea works and where Kit has her NA meetings. The library is located in a neighborhood known for high drug use and Thea fights for creating and maintaining a drug-free environment in the library, so people have a place they can feel safe in. A book set in mainly one place can sometimes be repetitive or boring, but this book held my interest the entire book.
Kit is a wonderful person, she’s kind, sensitive and playful and sometimes even cocky, but also has very low self-esteem, due to her history. She closes herself off to a relationship as she’s afraid she’ll destroy the happiness someday. She struggles with self-acceptance as she wants to forget about her past and only look at the future instead of letting her past make her stronger. Thea is kind, helpful and craves stability and order. She also has a history involving drug abuse, but from the perspective of the other side, she has been let down and abandoned too many times. Because of this, she’s afraid to trust people (especially drug users even if sober). Clearly, they first have to overcome their own problems if they want to make a relationship work and their journey is quite special.
I really like the writing style of Thoma and will read more of her books, this was a beautiful emotional romance.
Drug abuse is the main topic of the book as the lives of both main characters, Kit and Thea, show the two sides of drug abuse and its effects on their surroundings. Kit is a heroin addict who meets Thea for the first time at the all-time low point in her life, the point at which she decides to get sober. A year later they meet again.
There’s immediate attraction between Kit and Thea, but their relationship develops very slowly, which I though was nicely done and very believable seeing their backgrounds. The story is set mainly in the library where Thea works and where Kit has her NA meetings. The library is located in a neighborhood known for high drug use and Thea fights for creating and maintaining a drug-free environment in the library, so people have a place they can feel safe in. A book set in mainly one place can sometimes be repetitive or boring, but this book held my interest the entire book.
Kit is a wonderful person, she’s kind, sensitive and playful and sometimes even cocky, but also has very low self-esteem, due to her history. She closes herself off to a relationship as she’s afraid she’ll destroy the happiness someday. She struggles with self-acceptance as she wants to forget about her past and only look at the future instead of letting her past make her stronger. Thea is kind, helpful and craves stability and order. She also has a history involving drug abuse, but from the perspective of the other side, she has been let down and abandoned too many times. Because of this, she’s afraid to trust people (especially drug users even if sober). Clearly, they first have to overcome their own problems if they want to make a relationship work and their journey is quite special.
I really like the writing style of Thoma and will read more of her books, this was a beautiful emotional romance.
July 28, 2020
Thea Harris has what she’d always wanted and that was to be head librarian and here she was doing just that. She always thought that a community library should do more than just loan books to the people who used the library. It should be the safe place that Thea’s childhood community library was to her. Raised by parents who could not overcome their own addictions,Thea always had a ‘kit’ ready with the life saving meds needed to bring an addict back from an overdose.
Kit Marsden had reached the library just in time. She finally got the drugs she needed to keep her going. She’d left home for something we are never made aware of but she now lived looking for her next fix. Unfortunately or fortunately instead of scoring a ‘safe’ drug what she had instead was a drug tainted by a dangerous additive. Throwing that buy in the toilet she made for the door, trying to get away before she passed out. Thea didn’t know that Kit didn’t take an overdose but she still followed her trying to help.
That’s how the two MC’s met and what follows is a very well written story about drugs used that for some has become a way of life. Ms Thoma has given us a little look about just what's involved along with a pretty hot love story. Very, very good story.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
Kit Marsden had reached the library just in time. She finally got the drugs she needed to keep her going. She’d left home for something we are never made aware of but she now lived looking for her next fix. Unfortunately or fortunately instead of scoring a ‘safe’ drug what she had instead was a drug tainted by a dangerous additive. Throwing that buy in the toilet she made for the door, trying to get away before she passed out. Thea didn’t know that Kit didn’t take an overdose but she still followed her trying to help.
That’s how the two MC’s met and what follows is a very well written story about drugs used that for some has become a way of life. Ms Thoma has given us a little look about just what's involved along with a pretty hot love story. Very, very good story.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
November 19, 2020
The reason I liked this is because it dealt with the tough topic of addiction. The main character was flawed and I was drawn to her. I wanted to have faith in her and believe she could maintain sobriety. Even though the overall theme was heavy, there was an ongoing feeling of hope.
August 9, 2020
What an interesting and unique read. Not the typical storyline which was a pleasant surprise. The peculiar secondary characters added a sense of this is who I am and I may have stuff to deal with but I am dealing. Kit Marsden, recovering heroin addict, construction worker, looking to put her past drug use behind her. Thea Harris, librarian extraordinaire, looking to have her library be the go to place for all, no matter what issues a person may have.
Drugs are prevalent in this community, there are sellers and there are users. Kit the user believes that mum's is the word when it comes to her past drug use. With the aid of her cousin, peer mentor, Ethel, and the NA meetings she is slowly pulling herself together. But, when she meets Thea there is a move forward, fall back going on that she is having difficulty shaking. Thea finds a pull of attraction when she meets and interacts with Kit. In general, Thea leads a vanilla life and realizes that some color is needed because she really is not as happy as she could be. But is she ready for the color that Kit brings?
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
Drugs are prevalent in this community, there are sellers and there are users. Kit the user believes that mum's is the word when it comes to her past drug use. With the aid of her cousin, peer mentor, Ethel, and the NA meetings she is slowly pulling herself together. But, when she meets Thea there is a move forward, fall back going on that she is having difficulty shaking. Thea finds a pull of attraction when she meets and interacts with Kit. In general, Thea leads a vanilla life and realizes that some color is needed because she really is not as happy as she could be. But is she ready for the color that Kit brings?
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
July 21, 2020
Reading a book that is mostly set in and around a library makes me want to read even more books.
The story starts with Kit almost overdosing in the library bathroom, she stumbles outside and when she passes out on the library steps Thea is called in to come and help her. No help was needed as Kit didn't OD, she just passed out, but she vowed then and there to get clean. After getting clean the NA meeting Kit attends gets moved to the library that changed the course of her life. She meets Thea again and the librarian is not sure what to think of the handsome stranger that she recognizes somehow. When it all clicks even Thea with her addict parents can't keep away from Kit. Both struggle with insecurities and doubts about a relationship, even being friends might be an issue. Once they found some common ground in the teenager that is Frankie they develop more of a rapport with each other and maybe even their own feelings.
The secondary characters in this book add a good dimension to the story, even the drug dealers seem somewhat likable, and who wants to like a drug dealer? Frankie, Josh, and Walter are my favourite secondary characters. Walter holds a very special place in my heart from now on. A thing I didn't like about this book is all the running away Kit did and everyone just forgiving her. I understand the running away but the forgiveness shouldn't and can't always be that easy. Overall I think the book does a good job of portraying a recovering addict and a support system of a substance abuser and how they also have to live with an addiction. The writing did both sides of the story justice and I think it could be confronting for someone who is or was in a similar situation.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
The story starts with Kit almost overdosing in the library bathroom, she stumbles outside and when she passes out on the library steps Thea is called in to come and help her. No help was needed as Kit didn't OD, she just passed out, but she vowed then and there to get clean. After getting clean the NA meeting Kit attends gets moved to the library that changed the course of her life. She meets Thea again and the librarian is not sure what to think of the handsome stranger that she recognizes somehow. When it all clicks even Thea with her addict parents can't keep away from Kit. Both struggle with insecurities and doubts about a relationship, even being friends might be an issue. Once they found some common ground in the teenager that is Frankie they develop more of a rapport with each other and maybe even their own feelings.
The secondary characters in this book add a good dimension to the story, even the drug dealers seem somewhat likable, and who wants to like a drug dealer? Frankie, Josh, and Walter are my favourite secondary characters. Walter holds a very special place in my heart from now on. A thing I didn't like about this book is all the running away Kit did and everyone just forgiving her. I understand the running away but the forgiveness shouldn't and can't always be that easy. Overall I think the book does a good job of portraying a recovering addict and a support system of a substance abuser and how they also have to live with an addiction. The writing did both sides of the story justice and I think it could be confronting for someone who is or was in a similar situation.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
August 14, 2020
Serenity send me on an emotional rollercoaster. It gave me an inside peek at drug usage, what recovery is like and accepting who you are. It also gives the flip side of the coin. The outsider who has to figure out if they can actually be with someone who is a recovering drug user. Either way Thoma does a very good job at giving us both sides of the story in Serenity.
When I first read the synopsis of Serenity, I went back and forth about if I should read it or not. I am glad that I took the chance on reading it. It was well written and I felt it accurately portrayed many things about drug usage and the affects of those who are surrounded by it. Serenity grabs you from the start with a very intense scene introduction Kit Marsden and Thea Harris. Kit is a heroin user Thea is the Head Librarian where Kit has come to use drugs. After the initial introduction the books settles in to a nice rhythm where you learn the ins and out of recovery and how it plays into a newly formed relationship between Kit and Thea. There is attraction and chemistry between the mains, but both of them are hesitant to start anything because of the situation. I liked the push and pull between the mains and the secondary characters really did give more depth to this story.
Serenity was very unique romance dealing with lots of real world issues. I give it 4.25 stars.
This arc was provided by publisher for an honest review.
When I first read the synopsis of Serenity, I went back and forth about if I should read it or not. I am glad that I took the chance on reading it. It was well written and I felt it accurately portrayed many things about drug usage and the affects of those who are surrounded by it. Serenity grabs you from the start with a very intense scene introduction Kit Marsden and Thea Harris. Kit is a heroin user Thea is the Head Librarian where Kit has come to use drugs. After the initial introduction the books settles in to a nice rhythm where you learn the ins and out of recovery and how it plays into a newly formed relationship between Kit and Thea. There is attraction and chemistry between the mains, but both of them are hesitant to start anything because of the situation. I liked the push and pull between the mains and the secondary characters really did give more depth to this story.
Serenity was very unique romance dealing with lots of real world issues. I give it 4.25 stars.
This arc was provided by publisher for an honest review.
June 22, 2022
I met this author at RI Pride and was excited to purchase her book (and she signed it for me!) Honestly, I’m not the biggest romance fan but a lesbian romance novel every now and again really lifts my spirits. This book was thoughtfully written, the characters were well done, and I felt it wrapped up nicely. It was just enough of a slow burn to keep me interested! I look forward to seeing where this author is a few years down the line!
4/5 stars!
4/5 stars!
August 1, 2020
When the romancing include snuggles on the porch when unwilling to part, witnessing her date perform celebratory dance along the streets after a successful date night, rendezvous under oak trees and experiencing the exhilaration of kisses unlike any, Thea the librarian found herself falling for Kit, someone that she should not develop feelings for.
This is a book about a budding romance that is fraught with challenges and its underlying issues due to one of the main characters being a reformed addict.
There are some hard truths laid out in the book on the lives of reformed addicts, users and the people who are in relationships with them. When the voice of reason begs to be heard, can the heart resist its logic? It was a book I enjoyed with lovable characters with one in particular I rooted to get back on her feet.
I just reviewed Serenity by Jesse J. Thoma. #NetGalley
This is a book about a budding romance that is fraught with challenges and its underlying issues due to one of the main characters being a reformed addict.
There are some hard truths laid out in the book on the lives of reformed addicts, users and the people who are in relationships with them. When the voice of reason begs to be heard, can the heart resist its logic? It was a book I enjoyed with lovable characters with one in particular I rooted to get back on her feet.
I just reviewed Serenity by Jesse J. Thoma. #NetGalley
January 18, 2021
I've had this book in my TBR for several months, waiting till I felt ready to tackle the tough subject matter. You don't often see a romance that features a recovering heroin addict, but the characters, the dialogue, and the story all flowed perfectly for me. This is my first book from this author, but it certainly won't be the last.
July 20, 2020
I was lucky enough to be given a copy of this by net galley and couldn’t wait to get stuck in
Within the first few lines I was hooked on this book. Reading past bedtime and tired eyes but not wanting to give in and stop.
When Kit and Thea meet it was a possible overdose and the starting point for Kit’s sobriety. A year on and the pair meet again back at the library where it all began.
Kit is a recovering heroin addict who has turned her life around, living and working with Josh- her cousin who is caring, loving and likes to tease her.
Thea is a library worker who is desperate to keep the library as a safe place for all with her own addiction story.
During the story you understand why Thea is so keen to keep the library a safe place for anyone who needs it including kit -who almost overdosed there and a young teen Frankie who is living Thea’s past life.
The way both Kit and Thea look out and care for Frankie in her difficult situation is refreshing. Giving her hope that things will get better.
Thea and Kit relationship has its ups and down, Kit wanting to keep things hidden in the past and Thea not wanting to leave her comfort zone soon realise with the help of Walter, Carrie, Josh, Ethel and ‘The zookeeper’ that things are not always best that way.
With the overdose in the library toilets almost breaking the relationship apart who will survive and who doesn’t love a good tool belt
I think this book is a must read and I’d give it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Within the first few lines I was hooked on this book. Reading past bedtime and tired eyes but not wanting to give in and stop.
When Kit and Thea meet it was a possible overdose and the starting point for Kit’s sobriety. A year on and the pair meet again back at the library where it all began.
Kit is a recovering heroin addict who has turned her life around, living and working with Josh- her cousin who is caring, loving and likes to tease her.
Thea is a library worker who is desperate to keep the library as a safe place for all with her own addiction story.
During the story you understand why Thea is so keen to keep the library a safe place for anyone who needs it including kit -who almost overdosed there and a young teen Frankie who is living Thea’s past life.
The way both Kit and Thea look out and care for Frankie in her difficult situation is refreshing. Giving her hope that things will get better.
Thea and Kit relationship has its ups and down, Kit wanting to keep things hidden in the past and Thea not wanting to leave her comfort zone soon realise with the help of Walter, Carrie, Josh, Ethel and ‘The zookeeper’ that things are not always best that way.
With the overdose in the library toilets almost breaking the relationship apart who will survive and who doesn’t love a good tool belt
I think this book is a must read and I’d give it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 14, 2020
Kit is struggling with her history of being a heroin addict. She would like to forget this part of her life and start over, but real life is not as easy as she would like it to be.
Thea runs the library in a rough neighborhood and tries to keep it free of drugs to create a safe place for the visitors.
Kit's NA group meets in Thea's library, and that's how they get closer.
Author Jesse J. Thoma's book "Serenity" describes how a former drug addict seeks her place in life and copes with the burdens of a former addict. Early in her life, Thea has experienced the impact that substance abuse can have and must struggle to give a former addict a significant place in her life again.
The story is well written and interesting. I would have liked to know a little more about Kit's and Thea's family background, but you could already get a good picture of what kind of upbringing they came from.
I received a copy from netgalley in exchange for a an honest review.
Thea runs the library in a rough neighborhood and tries to keep it free of drugs to create a safe place for the visitors.
Kit's NA group meets in Thea's library, and that's how they get closer.
Author Jesse J. Thoma's book "Serenity" describes how a former drug addict seeks her place in life and copes with the burdens of a former addict. Early in her life, Thea has experienced the impact that substance abuse can have and must struggle to give a former addict a significant place in her life again.
The story is well written and interesting. I would have liked to know a little more about Kit's and Thea's family background, but you could already get a good picture of what kind of upbringing they came from.
I received a copy from netgalley in exchange for a an honest review.
March 29, 2021
Serenity, such an important thing to find and only available to us deep intro our souls.
I loved the book, loved Kit and Thea and the secondary characters (even the Zookeeper and Parrot Master and how weird they are). The chemistry between the MC is perfect and they are so sweet and good together I couldn’t stop reading. Maybe I would have loved more of them together before everything collapsed but, all in all, the story worked perfectly and the trigger for things going to hell was so very touching.
Interesting read to know more about people who uses and how they live their lives battling, accepting and fighting day after day to live that that other half which will be always present.
A great book indeed.
I loved the book, loved Kit and Thea and the secondary characters (even the Zookeeper and Parrot Master and how weird they are). The chemistry between the MC is perfect and they are so sweet and good together I couldn’t stop reading. Maybe I would have loved more of them together before everything collapsed but, all in all, the story worked perfectly and the trigger for things going to hell was so very touching.
Interesting read to know more about people who uses and how they live their lives battling, accepting and fighting day after day to live that that other half which will be always present.
A great book indeed.
July 15, 2020
This is a very good book. I enjoyed it specially after so many uninteresting read, the reason why this is a 4 not 5 rating, I felt like the author was repeating the same excuse over and over again. I do get the intensity of the situation and how difficult it must be, but the whole story was based on this one thing. I did not feel like Kit was developing until the very end. I mean they could struggle with many things but to make one step forward then 10 back frustrated me . Also I wanted to know Kit age and surprisingly zoo too "forgot her full nickname ", not age but her story I really found her interesting. Thea’s character was lovely
The relationship itself is amazing, very funny and mature
This book talks heavily about drugs if this is not a problem then I'd recommend it. it's well written
thank you for the team and the author for the free copy
The relationship itself is amazing, very funny and mature
This book talks heavily about drugs if this is not a problem then I'd recommend it. it's well written
thank you for the team and the author for the free copy
August 6, 2020
A delightful book, Serenity took me to a place that is entirely rare these days, a place where words between characters have more meaning than their literal sense. Those words begin to bridge between souls to form the connections we long to keep close to our hearts. Much of the book is built around sparkling dialogue between Thea and Kit that kept me entranced in their story, although at times we are kept waiting for something to happen other than just the dialogue. Fortunately, both women are entirely entertaining and are just good human beings. You can’t help but root for their happily ever after. A wonderful way to spend time with your imagination, this book is so worth it. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2020
Enjoyable read.
I generally try to write reviews without specific spoilers, but heads up, I don’t know if I can do that here.
I was having a good time even before I was forced to really think about the situation, which I’m counting as a plus. Four and a half stars.
I generally try to write reviews without specific spoilers, but heads up, I don’t know if I can do that here.
I was having a good time even before I was forced to really think about the situation, which I’m counting as a plus. Four and a half stars.
August 11, 2020
A somewhat darker romance which focus on the importance of being true to each other and keeping an open discussion.
Kit: Recovering heroin user. Kit wants everyone to stop bringing up her previous use, so she can move on with her life.
Thea: Growing up with addicted parents Thea wants her library to be the haven she herself felt the library was when she was a child.
Pro:
A non glamourous view of the work during sobriety – I like that the book focus on the work after the first critical part.
The importance of community – The book shows the importance of someone having your back, and that we all need someone to support us.
Being true – One of the best parts of this book is how an open discussion can make you see a different approach and input to something you yourself see.
Different life stories - The book shows different inputs on a tough subject and lets you see how drug use effect different parts of society, not just for the user.
Con:
-
This review is based on NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
Kit: Recovering heroin user. Kit wants everyone to stop bringing up her previous use, so she can move on with her life.
Thea: Growing up with addicted parents Thea wants her library to be the haven she herself felt the library was when she was a child.
Pro:
A non glamourous view of the work during sobriety – I like that the book focus on the work after the first critical part.
The importance of community – The book shows the importance of someone having your back, and that we all need someone to support us.
Being true – One of the best parts of this book is how an open discussion can make you see a different approach and input to something you yourself see.
Different life stories - The book shows different inputs on a tough subject and lets you see how drug use effect different parts of society, not just for the user.
Con:
-
This review is based on NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
August 7, 2020
Given that libraries have always been my haven, where being surrounded by books helps my body to breathe, I can totally relate to one of the main characters in this book. A commitment to making sure that a library serves the community and welcomes everyone is a philosophy of enlightenment. All the way through this book I am happily nodding in agreement and the image of the place makes me so happy that the romance, to me, is secondary. It’s actually nicely done and expertly paced. Well done for not making the librarian a shy push over; whilst books may be preferred over people, librarians are tough cookies.
An enjoyable read that held my interest throughout the book. The drug addiction is handled really well and is not over sentimentalised or so full of cliches that it makes you cringe. Summer holidays are a bit messed up in the current pandemic, but Bold Strokes is amazingly managing to publish summer reads. Thank you to everyone for all your work.
An enjoyable read that held my interest throughout the book. The drug addiction is handled really well and is not over sentimentalised or so full of cliches that it makes you cringe. Summer holidays are a bit messed up in the current pandemic, but Bold Strokes is amazingly managing to publish summer reads. Thank you to everyone for all your work.
August 8, 2020
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review form NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books.
This is the first book I have read by Thoma and I quite enjoyed it. This is not a topic you see a lot in Lesfic, recovering heroin addict, someone who got hooked through the opioids she was taking after an injury. Also the being in rough neighborhood and having to talk with and work with drug dealers so that everyone remains safe was a really interesting and realistic story line, I like lesfic that resembles real life, because too much of lesfic is unrealistic jobs, money, cars, intelligence, and everyone has the perfect body. I like messy and real and that is what you will get if you read this story. Thoma is also a world class story teller and she writes a story that has you not wanting to put the book down even to sleep.
The book was about Kit who was the recovering addict and Thea the woman who tries to save her life when she thinks that Kit is going to overdose in the library.Kit does not overdose, but uses that as a make up call and she goes and gets clean. When she meets Thea again it is before her NA meetings that are being held in the very library she almost overdosed in. The love story is spectacular and it goes slow which is what I like It is more realistic that way. I thought the characters were interesting and had many flaws. The one criticism is that she never quite gets into why Kit and her cousin are the black sheep of the family and why they have been disowned by their very wealthy families. She mentions it and then does not come back to it and that leaves the story a little incomplete for me. Overall this is a sold read and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
This is the first book I have read by Thoma and I quite enjoyed it. This is not a topic you see a lot in Lesfic, recovering heroin addict, someone who got hooked through the opioids she was taking after an injury. Also the being in rough neighborhood and having to talk with and work with drug dealers so that everyone remains safe was a really interesting and realistic story line, I like lesfic that resembles real life, because too much of lesfic is unrealistic jobs, money, cars, intelligence, and everyone has the perfect body. I like messy and real and that is what you will get if you read this story. Thoma is also a world class story teller and she writes a story that has you not wanting to put the book down even to sleep.
The book was about Kit who was the recovering addict and Thea the woman who tries to save her life when she thinks that Kit is going to overdose in the library.Kit does not overdose, but uses that as a make up call and she goes and gets clean. When she meets Thea again it is before her NA meetings that are being held in the very library she almost overdosed in. The love story is spectacular and it goes slow which is what I like It is more realistic that way. I thought the characters were interesting and had many flaws. The one criticism is that she never quite gets into why Kit and her cousin are the black sheep of the family and why they have been disowned by their very wealthy families. She mentions it and then does not come back to it and that leaves the story a little incomplete for me. Overall this is a sold read and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
July 24, 2020
This book was such a fun ride. Once I started, I quickly became invested in Kit and Thea’s budding relationship and rushed through the book swept up in their sweet romance. While some points in their relationship seemed a little too romanticized, the majority of their story was believable, sweet, and sexy. Readers will fall for Kit and Thea dreaming for a love like theirs.
I appreciated that the book conquered so many topics from drug addictions to divorce. The author made the character’s struggles believable and wasn’t afraid to jump straight into their narrations — rather than delicately skim over them. Kit’s journey especially was beautifully written and read true.
Simply put, this book is a must read for anyone with a beating heart and a passion for romcoms
I appreciated that the book conquered so many topics from drug addictions to divorce. The author made the character’s struggles believable and wasn’t afraid to jump straight into their narrations — rather than delicately skim over them. Kit’s journey especially was beautifully written and read true.
Simply put, this book is a must read for anyone with a beating heart and a passion for romcoms
July 31, 2020
This is a great book that challenges the reader on some tough topics. I really fell for young Frankie. Maybe it's the mother in me but I just wanted to hug her, fix her dinner and tuck her in a warm bed. I felt for both main characters with how much they'd been through. As usual for this author the writing is smart and emotive. I must admit I hope there's a sequel that delves into Zookeeper's story. There seemed to be so much mystery around her. I definitely recommend this book. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2021
A unique read. Not the type of story that I usually read, but I'm glad that I did. This book tells a story about a recovering heroin Addict, Kit Mardsen, struggling to forget her addiction, when she found herself in love with a librarian, Thea Harris, Kit's life became even more complicated.
Kit and Thea relationship has ups and downs because of their both past traumas with drug addiction.
It's a really heavy theme, although is well worthy to read. Thoma is a great writer and I can wait to read more of her work.
Kit and Thea relationship has ups and downs because of their both past traumas with drug addiction.
It's a really heavy theme, although is well worthy to read. Thoma is a great writer and I can wait to read more of her work.
October 8, 2020
Truly loved this book. It covers some dark topics, language, sexuality, and drug use. All in all, it’s well written. Great thought out characters and storyline. The book also touches on death from drug overdose and how one of the characters deals with that. While the other main character is dealing with trying to stay sober. No one is immune to the trouble that family and friends get into, but you can come out of it stronger in the end by protecting yourself. Enjoy!
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