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Darkest Skies #1
Redemption
Reformed gangster Luis falls hard for his boss. When friendship turns to love, it’s up to Paolo to convince him second chances are worth the pain. Luis Pope is back on the street after a six year stretch in prison, but life on the outside seems just out of reach, especially when the whole neighbourhood knows his face for all the wrong reasons.Paolo’s temper makes it hard to keep staff, and he knows Luis’s rep all too well. But his nonno believes in redemption, and Luis isn’t the tough guy Paolo remembers. Prison has left its mark, inside and out, and all the kindness in the world can’t fix the three inch scar on Luis’s skull.And it can’t keep ghosts locked up. Luis’s the best worker Paolo’s ever had, and Luis’s happier than he’s ever been. But his old life doesn’t want to stay in the past. Trouble comes to call, and when it makes him an offer he can’t refuse, keeping Paolo safe hurts the most. Redemption is an angsty, standalone MM romance novel, with second chances, found family, friends-to-lovers, and buckets of hurt/comfort themed loveliness.
300 pages, Paperback
First published June 25, 2020
180 people are currently reading
2380 people want to read
About the author
Garrett Leigh
94 books2,400 followersShe/Her
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
May 20, 2021
Redemption. Forgiveness. Salvation. This beautiful story spares no one and no heart, gripping with such ferocity that reformation is the only option. On a more personal note, I’ve been fragile lately but no matter, I’ll always share my whole heart when it comes to Leigh’s stories. I know that she does the same… putting everything into her creations and my trust and confidence are boundless when it comes to GL. This gritty tale is the epitome of ‘everything they didn’t know they needed‘ and I adored discovering all the reasons why it was worth it right along with them. Not every story Garrett creates pivots around food but I always appreciate those that do. A hungry soul is fed with food made with love…and Paolo knows this firsthand. The power of good comfort food is something he understands. Running his grandparent’s restaurant is more than a job, it’s his life. When a familiar bad boy returns to the neighborhood his first instinct is to give him the cold shoulder but his grandfather’s wisdom echoes in the quiet kitchen. When it comes to second chances, everyone deserves one. Who knows why they fell? Maybe they tripped or perhaps they were pushed? But if they are willing to start over, why not help them?
What's to like: As usual with her stories, Leigh delivers a deeply layered story. Family is a key element here but with polarizing effects. Luis has done his time and he’s eager to leave his past behind him. Unfortunately, his wishes are like grasping sand in his hands and they slip away before his eyes. He just wants to keep his head down while maintaining a roof over it and start fresh. But new beginnings aren’t always simple or easy. Paolo, on the other hand, has been shaped into the fiery passionate man he is by the love from his Nonno and Nonna. His path was cleared and paved by them and he vows to continue their legacy of filling more than empty bellies. When the familiar stranger appears in his cafe, he’s caught off guard and feels tremors in the foundation. Everything is about to change…and he’s not sure he’s ready. Blindsided love is one of my favorite things!
What's to love: Things begin with a chance and end with fate and I was enraptured every step of the way. It’s clear from the start that Luis isn’t exactly free. I held my breath and prayed he would break away from his chains. Paolo was full of life but not exactly living to his full potential. Luis balanced his off-kilter world and reminded him of what he was missing. Pride would never let him admit it but he was slowly sinking. Luis was a life preserver but at the same time, Paolo sheltered him from the storm. It was absolutely beautiful. I was nervous and excited. I melted and burned. And…I salivated. Ha! There’s much to love about Leigh’s trademark angst and this was no exception.
Beware of: Tension so thick, you’ll need wellies to wade through. Gang survival isn’t always pretty but always admirable. A stark reminder that everyone is worthy of love…imperfections, and all. And an ending that will warm you to your core.
This book is for: If you’re looking for those blinding rays that appear after a thunderstorm, I highly recommend this courageous couple and their savory yet sweet story.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: As usual with her stories, Leigh delivers a deeply layered story. Family is a key element here but with polarizing effects. Luis has done his time and he’s eager to leave his past behind him. Unfortunately, his wishes are like grasping sand in his hands and they slip away before his eyes. He just wants to keep his head down while maintaining a roof over it and start fresh. But new beginnings aren’t always simple or easy. Paolo, on the other hand, has been shaped into the fiery passionate man he is by the love from his Nonno and Nonna. His path was cleared and paved by them and he vows to continue their legacy of filling more than empty bellies. When the familiar stranger appears in his cafe, he’s caught off guard and feels tremors in the foundation. Everything is about to change…and he’s not sure he’s ready. Blindsided love is one of my favorite things!
What's to love: Things begin with a chance and end with fate and I was enraptured every step of the way. It’s clear from the start that Luis isn’t exactly free. I held my breath and prayed he would break away from his chains. Paolo was full of life but not exactly living to his full potential. Luis balanced his off-kilter world and reminded him of what he was missing. Pride would never let him admit it but he was slowly sinking. Luis was a life preserver but at the same time, Paolo sheltered him from the storm. It was absolutely beautiful. I was nervous and excited. I melted and burned. And…I salivated. Ha! There’s much to love about Leigh’s trademark angst and this was no exception.
Beware of: Tension so thick, you’ll need wellies to wade through. Gang survival isn’t always pretty but always admirable. A stark reminder that everyone is worthy of love…imperfections, and all. And an ending that will warm you to your core.
This book is for: If you’re looking for those blinding rays that appear after a thunderstorm, I highly recommend this courageous couple and their savory yet sweet story.
Book UNfunk
dnf
December 27, 2021DNF @ 26% ... I'm going to try other books by this author in the future but I'm just not vibing with the writing style or the characters. I feel too distant from them.
June 16, 2021
Gotta say book #2 is my fav hands down.
There is always something to balance the heaviness in GL's books. It can be steam or a relatable RL routine.
But oh man, this one was sad.
None of the guys had it easy.
Such a hard life with sadness constantly looming over it.
And I could never breathe easily and feel them fully happy.
Dante, now I get why so many friends have mentioned him.
Seriously writing skills will be required to save his sorry ass.
I can't wait for his story.
There is always something to balance the heaviness in GL's books. It can be steam or a relatable RL routine.
But oh man, this one was sad.
None of the guys had it easy.
Such a hard life with sadness constantly looming over it.
And I could never breathe easily and feel them fully happy.
Dante, now I get why so many friends have mentioned him.
Seriously writing skills will be required to save his sorry ass.
I can't wait for his story.
dnf
July 17, 2020dnf @ 69%
It's me, not the book. I liked the characters well enough, but the story went into the direction I was hoping it wouldn't go.
It's me, not the book. I liked the characters well enough, but the story went into the direction I was hoping it wouldn't go.
June 18, 2020
So, so good. Full review tomorrow.
***
Garrett Leigh kept me awake until half one this morning with this book. I started reading it around 10pm, thought I'd just get a few chapters in and then could not actually put it down until I'd made sure that Paolo and Luis were going to be okay.
I mean, it's a romance, so I knew they'd be okay eventually, but oh my gawd the tensions throughout this book were immense.
Not between them, they're just utterly perfect for each other, the way they just meld together is a joy, fraught as it is with all the extra complications that come from who they are as individuals.
And this is why Garrett's writing is my book drug of choice.
She crafts characters and settings which feel like you're just sneaking a peak into real peoples' lives who she knows and who just said yeah, go for it Garrett, write our story when she puts forth an idea for her next release.
Nothing is easy about this book, Luis spent six years in prison for a pretty shitty crime, he's not an innocent man by any stretch. But he's also not a bad man, family pressure gave him a life he wouldn't have chosen and he was happy to do his time.
Now he's out and life is confusing and oh how my heart hurt for Luis. He's not the man his reputation painted him and his six years inside have markedly changed him, both mentally and physically.
Paolo's grandfather Toni's caff (because that's how you pronounce a London greasy spoon 😉 ) gives him his first sense of peace in years and the man running it, his first spark of attraction in just as long.
I loved their relationship development. From wary work colleagues, through to friends, into intimacy and the wonderful emotionally vulnerability of falling in love, but with this overpowering sense of foreboding threatening everything.
Because Luis might have turned his back on his former life, but that's not a decision he's allowed to make on his own and my heart was racing so much as the narrative sped along to the eventual conclusion - hence why I was still reading at 1.30am.
The big major drama plot surprised me in one way, but - and there'll be no spoilers here - also didn't at all. Because this book's main driving thread through everything is about family, about loyalty, about making decisions on the knife's edge.
The Epilogue is just all ends up wonderful and I really, really wish that Toni's Cafe did exist in a tucked away corner of a South London High Street, filled with builders and locals alike, passing hipsters with annoying mustaches wanting beans on toast with the smell of fried bacon and Italian tomato sauce on a Sunday.
I think I'd like to spend hours there just watching Paolo and Luis work together, seamlessly blending love and found-family into a Happy Ever After that feels utterly grounded in truth.
Now I can't wait to see if there will be more, and who is the focus of the next Darkened Skies novel, because there's one candidate here who I think would be a fascinating character to explore and a great redemption narrative to work.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
***
Garrett Leigh kept me awake until half one this morning with this book. I started reading it around 10pm, thought I'd just get a few chapters in and then could not actually put it down until I'd made sure that Paolo and Luis were going to be okay.
I mean, it's a romance, so I knew they'd be okay eventually, but oh my gawd the tensions throughout this book were immense.
Not between them, they're just utterly perfect for each other, the way they just meld together is a joy, fraught as it is with all the extra complications that come from who they are as individuals.
And this is why Garrett's writing is my book drug of choice.
She crafts characters and settings which feel like you're just sneaking a peak into real peoples' lives who she knows and who just said yeah, go for it Garrett, write our story when she puts forth an idea for her next release.
Nothing is easy about this book, Luis spent six years in prison for a pretty shitty crime, he's not an innocent man by any stretch. But he's also not a bad man, family pressure gave him a life he wouldn't have chosen and he was happy to do his time.
Now he's out and life is confusing and oh how my heart hurt for Luis. He's not the man his reputation painted him and his six years inside have markedly changed him, both mentally and physically.
Paolo's grandfather Toni's caff (because that's how you pronounce a London greasy spoon 😉 ) gives him his first sense of peace in years and the man running it, his first spark of attraction in just as long.
I loved their relationship development. From wary work colleagues, through to friends, into intimacy and the wonderful emotionally vulnerability of falling in love, but with this overpowering sense of foreboding threatening everything.
Because Luis might have turned his back on his former life, but that's not a decision he's allowed to make on his own and my heart was racing so much as the narrative sped along to the eventual conclusion - hence why I was still reading at 1.30am.
The big major drama plot surprised me in one way, but - and there'll be no spoilers here - also didn't at all. Because this book's main driving thread through everything is about family, about loyalty, about making decisions on the knife's edge.
The Epilogue is just all ends up wonderful and I really, really wish that Toni's Cafe did exist in a tucked away corner of a South London High Street, filled with builders and locals alike, passing hipsters with annoying mustaches wanting beans on toast with the smell of fried bacon and Italian tomato sauce on a Sunday.
I think I'd like to spend hours there just watching Paolo and Luis work together, seamlessly blending love and found-family into a Happy Ever After that feels utterly grounded in truth.
Now I can't wait to see if there will be more, and who is the focus of the next Darkened Skies novel, because there's one candidate here who I think would be a fascinating character to explore and a great redemption narrative to work.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
October 24, 2021
***3.5 - 4 Stars***
A bit too insta-y and too much sex (*coughs* yeah, I can't believe I thought that either) to give it more stars, but I completely felt for both guys.
And since book-masochism is a thing... on to the next!
A bit too insta-y and too much sex (*coughs* yeah, I can't believe I thought that either) to give it more stars, but I completely felt for both guys.
And since book-masochism is a thing... on to the next!
August 18, 2021
3.7⭐
First time reading the author! It took me a little time adjust to her writing style but when I did it, it was great.
Luis just got out of jail and wants to rebuild his life without problems and Paolo gives him the opportunity to start from cero working in his cafe. They end up falling in love (maybe a little tol quickly) but with the sweet scenes and the dynamics between them it becomes comfortable to read. Great steamy scenes.
I liked the mcs. I hated Luis's brother (Dante). I felt sorry for him. He chased Luis to get back to his business. It's horrible because Luis didn't want to have anything with him and Dante kept pushing. Dude, leave him alone, find someone else... The life he has is miserable and he has no one to love him. Fortunately, the story is not about him. 😌
The story focuses more on the mcs. There is not much development in the others.
Anyway, I liked it. 🤗❤️
First time reading the author! It took me a little time adjust to her writing style but when I did it, it was great.
Luis just got out of jail and wants to rebuild his life without problems and Paolo gives him the opportunity to start from cero working in his cafe. They end up falling in love (maybe a little tol quickly) but with the sweet scenes and the dynamics between them it becomes comfortable to read. Great steamy scenes.
I liked the mcs. I hated Luis's brother (Dante). I felt sorry for him. He chased Luis to get back to his business. It's horrible because Luis didn't want to have anything with him and Dante kept pushing. Dude, leave him alone, find someone else... The life he has is miserable and he has no one to love him. Fortunately, the story is not about him. 😌
The story focuses more on the mcs. There is not much development in the others.
Anyway, I liked it. 🤗❤️
September 11, 2021
4 “Redemption? Nah. He just wanted to live” stars
“Stop thinking you’re not worth it, because you are. You’re worth the fucking world to me, and it doesn’t matter what other people do or say, nothing about that is ever going to change.”
In the past, after reading another series by Garett Leigh, I thought that her and I just didn’t vibe very well and I wasn’t going to read more of her books for a while as they didn’t seem to be for me. But I just had to read this series for the third book in the series, i’m a sucker for redemption books where we see the evil character be evil in the previous books in the series so I absolutely need that book in my life. I’m happy to report that so far i’m really vibing with this series and I really enjoyed this book.
Side note, i’m happy to report that I already stromgly dislike Dante and that I couldn’t be more excited to read his book, I cannot wait to read the story of his redemption.
Brief summary
Luis just got out of prison and he was in a gang before that happened. He needs to find a job as he doesn’t have money. Pablo works in his family’s cafe and Luis goes there looking for a job. Pablo employs him and they fall in love, after they both go through a lost of angst.
First, please, dear Garett Leigh, can you give all of your characters a free certificate so they can attend a class on how to properly use their cellphones? These people always have their phones off at the most dire moments in a book. Which isn’t very good for communication, I suggest that they turn their phones on, we could skip so much miscommunication that way.
Second, I’m a sucker for books that most people would quality boring. Just following characters around while they go through their lives with copious amount of conflict included is my favourite part of any book. So I was pleased that most of this book was just that. I liked that most of the conflict in the book was related to the characters and their lives and introspection instead of coming from outside sources. This is kind of stuff I love reading about the most so I loved that part of the book.
Third, the vibe of most of this book is misery. Both main characters have had an hard life and nothing seemed to be easy for them. And I have said it before but those vibes are my absolute favourite vibes in books. I loved seeing the misery and then I loved seeing it slowly get better for the main characters.
Fourth, my favourite part of any book where one of the main character just got out of prison is seeing them ajust to the outside world. I love seeing them being scared of it and then slow getting used to things. The descriptions of Luis getting out of prison were so vivid and I loved how everything scared him and I loved how it took a long time for him to ajust to his surroundings. Also I liked how Luis wanted the silence when he was in prison but he didn’t enjoy the silence and being alone when he got out of prison, that felt like such a realistic thing for him to feel and I really enjoyed it.
Fifth, I really liked Pablo, he was very fiery and he always tried to be happy even if he’s had an hard life. And I really likes Luis who was suffering but tried his best to do better than he did in the past. I really enjoyed these characters and I enjoyed them together, they were such a good match for each other. I really loved these two together. I loved how Pablo would always cook for Luis, it was so sweet. I loved how they always cared about each other and took care of the other.
Sixth, I really liked how Pablo was wary of Luis at first, because he only know Luis for his involvement in a gang. And I like how he slowly got to know Luis and realized that he had nothing to be wary about. This was such a fascinating thing to read about to me.
Seventh, Luis has trouble hearing and I really liked when we were in his head and got the descriptions of what he could ear and what he couldn’t hear and how his earing impacted his actions, that was so fascinating to me.
Eight, I love pining in books so I loved how these two started pining for each other the second they met. There was so much pining in this book and I adored reading about it.
Ninth, I really enjoyed the sex scenes, there was a good amount of them for the story and I loved reading them all.
Tenth, There was a side plot of Luis brother, Dante, and him being completely evil and trying to recruit Luis to come back to the gang and basicaly not caring about Luid at all. I really enjoyed that side plot but I felt like it was a little too present at times and took over the main characters and their relationship. I just don’t really enjoy when some sections of a book aren’t about the main characters so sometimes the side plot got a little in the way for me and I wanted to go back to hearing about the main characters.
Eleventh, there was a little too much miscommunication for my taste. These guys were often hiding something from each other and it just was a little too much for me. I just wish that they talked to each other a bit more. I understood why they were hiding those things and they had good reasons to do it, miscommunication is just not my favourite thing in books so it got on my nerves a little, expecially since most of the drama in the book was caused by a miscommunication that could have been fixed in 2 sentences if only they talked to each other.
I really enjoyed this book and i’m so excited to read the next ones in the series.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
“Stop thinking you’re not worth it, because you are. You’re worth the fucking world to me, and it doesn’t matter what other people do or say, nothing about that is ever going to change.”
In the past, after reading another series by Garett Leigh, I thought that her and I just didn’t vibe very well and I wasn’t going to read more of her books for a while as they didn’t seem to be for me. But I just had to read this series for the third book in the series, i’m a sucker for redemption books where we see the evil character be evil in the previous books in the series so I absolutely need that book in my life. I’m happy to report that so far i’m really vibing with this series and I really enjoyed this book.
Side note, i’m happy to report that I already stromgly dislike Dante and that I couldn’t be more excited to read his book, I cannot wait to read the story of his redemption.
Brief summary
Luis just got out of prison and he was in a gang before that happened. He needs to find a job as he doesn’t have money. Pablo works in his family’s cafe and Luis goes there looking for a job. Pablo employs him and they fall in love, after they both go through a lost of angst.
First, please, dear Garett Leigh, can you give all of your characters a free certificate so they can attend a class on how to properly use their cellphones? These people always have their phones off at the most dire moments in a book. Which isn’t very good for communication, I suggest that they turn their phones on, we could skip so much miscommunication that way.
Second, I’m a sucker for books that most people would quality boring. Just following characters around while they go through their lives with copious amount of conflict included is my favourite part of any book. So I was pleased that most of this book was just that. I liked that most of the conflict in the book was related to the characters and their lives and introspection instead of coming from outside sources. This is kind of stuff I love reading about the most so I loved that part of the book.
Third, the vibe of most of this book is misery. Both main characters have had an hard life and nothing seemed to be easy for them. And I have said it before but those vibes are my absolute favourite vibes in books. I loved seeing the misery and then I loved seeing it slowly get better for the main characters.
Fourth, my favourite part of any book where one of the main character just got out of prison is seeing them ajust to the outside world. I love seeing them being scared of it and then slow getting used to things. The descriptions of Luis getting out of prison were so vivid and I loved how everything scared him and I loved how it took a long time for him to ajust to his surroundings. Also I liked how Luis wanted the silence when he was in prison but he didn’t enjoy the silence and being alone when he got out of prison, that felt like such a realistic thing for him to feel and I really enjoyed it.
Fifth, I really liked Pablo, he was very fiery and he always tried to be happy even if he’s had an hard life. And I really likes Luis who was suffering but tried his best to do better than he did in the past. I really enjoyed these characters and I enjoyed them together, they were such a good match for each other. I really loved these two together. I loved how Pablo would always cook for Luis, it was so sweet. I loved how they always cared about each other and took care of the other.
Sixth, I really liked how Pablo was wary of Luis at first, because he only know Luis for his involvement in a gang. And I like how he slowly got to know Luis and realized that he had nothing to be wary about. This was such a fascinating thing to read about to me.
Seventh, Luis has trouble hearing and I really liked when we were in his head and got the descriptions of what he could ear and what he couldn’t hear and how his earing impacted his actions, that was so fascinating to me.
Eight, I love pining in books so I loved how these two started pining for each other the second they met. There was so much pining in this book and I adored reading about it.
Ninth, I really enjoyed the sex scenes, there was a good amount of them for the story and I loved reading them all.
Tenth, There was a side plot of Luis brother, Dante, and him being completely evil and trying to recruit Luis to come back to the gang and basicaly not caring about Luid at all. I really enjoyed that side plot but I felt like it was a little too present at times and took over the main characters and their relationship. I just don’t really enjoy when some sections of a book aren’t about the main characters so sometimes the side plot got a little in the way for me and I wanted to go back to hearing about the main characters.
Eleventh, there was a little too much miscommunication for my taste. These guys were often hiding something from each other and it just was a little too much for me. I just wish that they talked to each other a bit more. I understood why they were hiding those things and they had good reasons to do it, miscommunication is just not my favourite thing in books so it got on my nerves a little, expecially since most of the drama in the book was caused by a miscommunication that could have been fixed in 2 sentences if only they talked to each other.
I really enjoyed this book and i’m so excited to read the next ones in the series.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
July 14, 2020
*4.5 stars*
YES! That's the Garrett Leigh I love. After all the fluffy, fake-sweet, wishy washy characters that tip toe around each other, GL's gritty, no nonsense narrative was exactly what I needed. Sexy AF too!
Is this going to be a series???
YES! That's the Garrett Leigh I love. After all the fluffy, fake-sweet, wishy washy characters that tip toe around each other, GL's gritty, no nonsense narrative was exactly what I needed. Sexy AF too!
Is this going to be a series???
June 25, 2020
Redemption by Garrett Leigh is a beautiful story about new beginnings.
I'm not going to give you a summary of the book; I'll tell you if you love:
-Romance
-Angst that hurts so good
-Deep connection/Chemistry
-Hurt/Comfort
-Dual POVs
and
-Garrett Leigh's signature quiet, emotional storytelling
Then this book isn't one to be skipped. I love Luis & Paolo.
5 Stars
I'm not going to give you a summary of the book; I'll tell you if you love:
-Romance
-Angst that hurts so good
-Deep connection/Chemistry
-Hurt/Comfort
-Dual POVs
and
-Garrett Leigh's signature quiet, emotional storytelling
Then this book isn't one to be skipped. I love Luis & Paolo.
5 Stars
August 2, 2020
This was a different Garrett Leigh, and I liked it though at times a struggled with the constant feeling of dread whilst reading this. I love the angst and feels that Leigh always brings to her writing, but this time the fear that Luis was going to wreck and lose all he had worked so hard for really left me unsettled for a great part of the book.
I'm not complaining and I still really liked their story though I could have done without that monster of a brother, but must admit I was relieved to get to the end and for Luis and Paolo to get their happy.
I'm not complaining and I still really liked their story though I could have done without that monster of a brother, but must admit I was relieved to get to the end and for Luis and Paolo to get their happy.
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May 21, 2021OUT NOW IN EBOOK AND AUDIO
EBOOK CURRENTLY ONL 99C/99P
EBOOK:
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3199OPb
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3l2LuXd
AUDIO
Audible US: https://adbl.co/325hwc2
Audible UK: https://adbl.co/3iQJBdZ
EBOOK CURRENTLY ONL 99C/99P
EBOOK:
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3199OPb
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3l2LuXd
AUDIO
Audible US: https://adbl.co/325hwc2
Audible UK: https://adbl.co/3iQJBdZ
June 30, 2020
~ 3.75 Stars ~
I'm hard to please at the moment. Everything I read seams to be missing this something to push it over the hump of pleasant enough read.
Paolo is smart-mouthed, sharp-tongued, fiery cafe owner. Works 7 days a week and does everything himself. Despite his reluctance to hire ex-gang member, just out of prison Luis... well, he ends up being a godsend.
Luis is quiet, and out of sorts. Being out of prison after 6 years has shifted his equilibrium. All he wants is money in his pocket, roof over his head and food in his belly. He just wants a life. Unfortunately he might be done with his brother Dante and his gang, but they aren't quite done with him.
They work seamlessly around one another, and slip into bed just as effortlessly.
There is this routine that's established from the get go that makes their slip from tentative friendship, into bed and into love seamless.
Luis and Paolo are two sides of the same coin. Simple men, same background, without any big consuming desires rather a want for a simple existence. The angst and conflict is mostly external but it does cause this ominous tone throughout the entire story and a rift between Luis and Paolo.
This is the first Garrett Leigh I've managed to finish, though I have plenty on TBR, I'm never in the right mood for them. I have to say, I really enjoyed the dialogue. The back and forth between Luis and Paolo, smooth, sharp, believable. My absolute favorite scenes took place right there in the cafe, Luis silently doing dishes while Paolo curses and berates customers while cooking. That easy camaraderie and coexistence that happens is really well done.
Pleasant read. Did it blow me away? Not really. Was it memorable? Not really. But despite those two niggles this a well written solid romance that has this familiarity to it. Rooted in a reality in sense. Very believable.
Highly recommend for those who are a fan of romances rooted in reality.
I'm hard to please at the moment. Everything I read seams to be missing this something to push it over the hump of pleasant enough read.
Paolo is smart-mouthed, sharp-tongued, fiery cafe owner. Works 7 days a week and does everything himself. Despite his reluctance to hire ex-gang member, just out of prison Luis... well, he ends up being a godsend.
Luis is quiet, and out of sorts. Being out of prison after 6 years has shifted his equilibrium. All he wants is money in his pocket, roof over his head and food in his belly. He just wants a life. Unfortunately he might be done with his brother Dante and his gang, but they aren't quite done with him.
They work seamlessly around one another, and slip into bed just as effortlessly.
There is this routine that's established from the get go that makes their slip from tentative friendship, into bed and into love seamless.
Luis and Paolo are two sides of the same coin. Simple men, same background, without any big consuming desires rather a want for a simple existence. The angst and conflict is mostly external but it does cause this ominous tone throughout the entire story and a rift between Luis and Paolo.
This is the first Garrett Leigh I've managed to finish, though I have plenty on TBR, I'm never in the right mood for them. I have to say, I really enjoyed the dialogue. The back and forth between Luis and Paolo, smooth, sharp, believable. My absolute favorite scenes took place right there in the cafe, Luis silently doing dishes while Paolo curses and berates customers while cooking. That easy camaraderie and coexistence that happens is really well done.
Pleasant read. Did it blow me away? Not really. Was it memorable? Not really. But despite those two niggles this a well written solid romance that has this familiarity to it. Rooted in a reality in sense. Very believable.
Highly recommend for those who are a fan of romances rooted in reality.
June 30, 2020
4,5 stars
Leigh Garrett has done it again.
Loved the drama, loved the angst, loved the Britishness and the genuinely nice guys.
This is a great read, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Ex-con Luis is a changed man when he leaves prison after 6 years – but making a new start is a Himalaya to climb, particularly when his gangster brother Dante is intent to bring him back into the fold. Luis comes across as a broken man with very little expectation of the world and what it can hold for him. And looking after himself is totally alien to him.
Café owner Paolo shines with a big grumpy heart, an Italian temper (which made me grin) and the willingness to give Luis a chance. But breaking down the walls Luis has put up around him, proves more than difficult – there is so much uncertainty! Apart when they sizzle together – then the connection between them is tangible.
We know right from the beginning that Dante is going to cause Luis some trouble. What chance has Luis got to stay clean? How can he distance himself from his past? How can he keep Paolo and his family out of his brother’s reach?
That worry is right there from the beginning and kept me totally on my toes. But while I loved the tension caused by this situation, I was a teeny bit disappointed how easily it was resolved in the end.
I also wondered non-stop why Luis doesn’t have a probation officer or anywhere (or anyone) he has to contact after his time inside. But maybe that’s an American thing?
Another winner by Garrett Leigh (and the smell of those bacon and egg rolls made my mouth water every single time!)
Leigh Garrett has done it again.
Loved the drama, loved the angst, loved the Britishness and the genuinely nice guys.
This is a great read, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Ex-con Luis is a changed man when he leaves prison after 6 years – but making a new start is a Himalaya to climb, particularly when his gangster brother Dante is intent to bring him back into the fold. Luis comes across as a broken man with very little expectation of the world and what it can hold for him. And looking after himself is totally alien to him.
Café owner Paolo shines with a big grumpy heart, an Italian temper (which made me grin) and the willingness to give Luis a chance. But breaking down the walls Luis has put up around him, proves more than difficult – there is so much uncertainty! Apart when they sizzle together – then the connection between them is tangible.
We know right from the beginning that Dante is going to cause Luis some trouble. What chance has Luis got to stay clean? How can he distance himself from his past? How can he keep Paolo and his family out of his brother’s reach?
That worry is right there from the beginning and kept me totally on my toes. But while I loved the tension caused by this situation, I was a teeny bit disappointed how easily it was resolved in the end.
I also wondered non-stop why Luis doesn’t have a probation officer or anywhere (or anyone) he has to contact after his time inside. But maybe that’s an American thing?
Another winner by Garrett Leigh (and the smell of those bacon and egg rolls made my mouth water every single time!)
July 17, 2020
3.75 Stars!
Classic Garrett Leigh. And I'm a big fan. But reading this one, I felt this sense of dread the entire time.
I hated Dante. And I was justing waiting for what happened to happen. And I didn't want it to happen. But it happened anyways.
That happening aside. The writing was on point. The angst. The emotions. The chemistry. The characters. All classic GL.
I just hated that weight. That knot in my gut the whole time I read this one. Not a fan of the gang/mobster lifestyle. And I didn't want it for Luis.
Classic Garrett Leigh. And I'm a big fan. But reading this one, I felt this sense of dread the entire time.
I hated Dante. And I was justing waiting for what happened to happen. And I didn't want it to happen. But it happened anyways.
That happening aside. The writing was on point. The angst. The emotions. The chemistry. The characters. All classic GL.
I just hated that weight. That knot in my gut the whole time I read this one. Not a fan of the gang/mobster lifestyle. And I didn't want it for Luis.
July 8, 2020
4.5 stars
Gritty, complex, and ultimately so hopeful - ‘Redemption’ will break your heart and stitch it back together in the best way.
After serving six years in prison, Luis returns back to his old neighbourhood determined to stay out of trouble, and away from his toxic brother.
Despite his misgivings, Paolo decides to take a chance on Luis and hire him for his cafe (a diner, for us Canadians and Americans).
There’s an immediate connection between the two men, but it develops and builds in layers. Both MCs have their demons, and they don’t let others in easily.
Despite that, they just clicked on such a deep level. And the passion between them, once they give in to it, was incredibly intense.
I absolutely loved seeing how Paolo and Luis chipped away at each other’s walls bit by bit.
Luis, in particular, carried so much weight on his shoulders. My heart hurt for him. If only he’d let Paolo love him the way other man so clearly wanted to!
The relationship is a challenge. They may spend their days working together, and then eventually spend their nights wrapped around each other - but there’s no promise of forever about it.
There’s a sense of foreboding through the book, and Luis’ past does inevitably catch up.
While things were very uncertain for a while, the fragile love carries the two men to the other side and they end up all the stronger for it.
The ending was the perfect happy ever after for Luis and Paolo!
I’d highly recommend ‘Redemption’ to anyone looking for an angsty yet heartwarming MM read.
Gritty, complex, and ultimately so hopeful - ‘Redemption’ will break your heart and stitch it back together in the best way.
After serving six years in prison, Luis returns back to his old neighbourhood determined to stay out of trouble, and away from his toxic brother.
Despite his misgivings, Paolo decides to take a chance on Luis and hire him for his cafe (a diner, for us Canadians and Americans).
There’s an immediate connection between the two men, but it develops and builds in layers. Both MCs have their demons, and they don’t let others in easily.
Despite that, they just clicked on such a deep level. And the passion between them, once they give in to it, was incredibly intense.
I absolutely loved seeing how Paolo and Luis chipped away at each other’s walls bit by bit.
Luis, in particular, carried so much weight on his shoulders. My heart hurt for him. If only he’d let Paolo love him the way other man so clearly wanted to!
The relationship is a challenge. They may spend their days working together, and then eventually spend their nights wrapped around each other - but there’s no promise of forever about it.
There’s a sense of foreboding through the book, and Luis’ past does inevitably catch up.
While things were very uncertain for a while, the fragile love carries the two men to the other side and they end up all the stronger for it.
The ending was the perfect happy ever after for Luis and Paolo!
I’d highly recommend ‘Redemption’ to anyone looking for an angsty yet heartwarming MM read.
October 6, 2020
dnf @52%
Don't have much to say about this one. While I liked the idea of the story, I lost interest in it pretty quickly. Admittedly that's partly my fault. But when the lovers stop resisting the pull towards each other and give in, and the only thing left in the way of their romance is some outside factor that you know eventually will be resolved one way or another, I don't much care what happens from that point on. Sadly.
Don't have much to say about this one. While I liked the idea of the story, I lost interest in it pretty quickly. Admittedly that's partly my fault. But when the lovers stop resisting the pull towards each other and give in, and the only thing left in the way of their romance is some outside factor that you know eventually will be resolved one way or another, I don't much care what happens from that point on. Sadly.
March 9, 2022
4.25
”hurts so good”
stars
Moody. Angsty. Passionate. Emotional.
“But God, Luis loved him… loved him so much he’d almost blurted it out in the park, and again when Paolo had fucked him so sweetly Luis had been close to tears with the pleasure. Luis could still feel it now, the profound heat, the wonder, the love. And the grief at letting it go.“
— boss/assistant
— cafe owner/ex-con
— hurt/comfort
— slow burn
— disability
— gangs
Moody. Angsty. Passionate. Emotional.
“But God, Luis loved him… loved him so much he’d almost blurted it out in the park, and again when Paolo had fucked him so sweetly Luis had been close to tears with the pleasure. Luis could still feel it now, the profound heat, the wonder, the love. And the grief at letting it go.“
— boss/assistant
— cafe owner/ex-con
— hurt/comfort
— slow burn
— disability
— gangs
September 12, 2020
Once I began this book, I could not put it down till I finished. It was so good and just right for my current mood.
Prior to reading this, it had been quite some time since I'd read a book by Garrett Leigh and while I knew I liked her writing, I honestly didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did which makes me so happy. Who doesn't like it when they enjoy a book? Certainly not me!
Luis and Paulo were just right for each other and I lived for their intimate moments(no, not just the sex ; although that didn't hurt lol!). It brought me so much joy to watch them get more acquainted with each other and subsequently fall in love despite all the baggage both carried. I enjoyed every bit of it.
Prior to reading this, it had been quite some time since I'd read a book by Garrett Leigh and while I knew I liked her writing, I honestly didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did which makes me so happy. Who doesn't like it when they enjoy a book? Certainly not me!
Luis and Paulo were just right for each other and I lived for their intimate moments(no, not just the sex ; although that didn't hurt lol!). It brought me so much joy to watch them get more acquainted with each other and subsequently fall in love despite all the baggage both carried. I enjoyed every bit of it.
March 4, 2021
This was good until somewhere past the half-way mark, where the story devolved into pages of repetitive, monotonous moping and a seriously half-assed street gang plot.
April 30, 2021
This is my second Garrett Leigh novel and I think I am obsessed. Her writing pulls you into the point of not being able to concentrate on anything but the story.
Luis has just been released from prison after six years. He was sent to prison in the same town that he was from and knows that he will never be able to escape. Not only does everyone know who he was but he knows that his brother won't let him off the hook so easy. His only goal in mind is to find a job that ensures he can pay rent and eat. His first stop, the small diner that used to make the best tea in town. Luis thinks that things are looking up for him when he sees a "help wanted" sign in the window. Life doesn't seem to work out too well for Luis though because the surly owner of the diner told him that the job is no longer available. Luis doesn't know if the job really isn't available or if it is the curse of who he once was biting him in the ass.
Paolo has been running his family diner since his grandparents were put in different homes. With his grandmother not doing well and his grandfather getting up in age he knows that his business is the only way to ensure that the only family he has is kept safe. When Luis Pope walks into his diner looking for a job Paolo thinks that Luis is just taking the piss because no Pope man would ever work at a place that like. It isn't until Paolo really starts looking at Luis that he sees that the man he once was might not be the man he is now. After a brief conversation with his grandfather about second chances Paolo finds himself offering Luis the job of bus boy.
Neither Luis nor Paolo expected that a simple job would lead them down the path that they are own. Not only have they fallen into bed together but both men are realizing that they might have more feelings for the other than they first thought. Paolo is temperamental and just doesn't like people, but he likes Luis and that in itself speaks volumes. Luis never thought he would fall for his boss but that is exactly what is happening because Paolo doesn't look at him anymore like an ex-convict but like a man. When Luis's brother starts coming around it threatens everything that they have started to build and the only way that Luis can keep Paolo safe is to stay away from him. Except Paolo isn't Ok with that because he loves Luis and knows that he deserves more than what he thinks he does.
Hearts are broken, lies are told and the past can't seem to stay in the past as Luis and Paolo fight to keep the life they both so desperately want. GAH! When I started this book, I wasn't looking for any type of story except for something that made me feel. Let me tell you, Leigh made me feel so much in this story that it’s a wonder my heart is still beating. The hurt/comfort storyline can be a bit overplayed but with how real Luis and Paolo were I found myself just loving them from the start.
Luis has just been released from prison after six years. He was sent to prison in the same town that he was from and knows that he will never be able to escape. Not only does everyone know who he was but he knows that his brother won't let him off the hook so easy. His only goal in mind is to find a job that ensures he can pay rent and eat. His first stop, the small diner that used to make the best tea in town. Luis thinks that things are looking up for him when he sees a "help wanted" sign in the window. Life doesn't seem to work out too well for Luis though because the surly owner of the diner told him that the job is no longer available. Luis doesn't know if the job really isn't available or if it is the curse of who he once was biting him in the ass.
Paolo has been running his family diner since his grandparents were put in different homes. With his grandmother not doing well and his grandfather getting up in age he knows that his business is the only way to ensure that the only family he has is kept safe. When Luis Pope walks into his diner looking for a job Paolo thinks that Luis is just taking the piss because no Pope man would ever work at a place that like. It isn't until Paolo really starts looking at Luis that he sees that the man he once was might not be the man he is now. After a brief conversation with his grandfather about second chances Paolo finds himself offering Luis the job of bus boy.
Neither Luis nor Paolo expected that a simple job would lead them down the path that they are own. Not only have they fallen into bed together but both men are realizing that they might have more feelings for the other than they first thought. Paolo is temperamental and just doesn't like people, but he likes Luis and that in itself speaks volumes. Luis never thought he would fall for his boss but that is exactly what is happening because Paolo doesn't look at him anymore like an ex-convict but like a man. When Luis's brother starts coming around it threatens everything that they have started to build and the only way that Luis can keep Paolo safe is to stay away from him. Except Paolo isn't Ok with that because he loves Luis and knows that he deserves more than what he thinks he does.
Hearts are broken, lies are told and the past can't seem to stay in the past as Luis and Paolo fight to keep the life they both so desperately want. GAH! When I started this book, I wasn't looking for any type of story except for something that made me feel. Let me tell you, Leigh made me feel so much in this story that it’s a wonder my heart is still beating. The hurt/comfort storyline can be a bit overplayed but with how real Luis and Paolo were I found myself just loving them from the start.
July 31, 2022
There was something about this story that made me totally soaked in it and I couldn't tear myself away from it.
Initially, I expected this story to be darker, but in the end it turned out to be not so much. And at times it was downright cute and sweet.
Especially when it comes to Paolo and Luis' relationship. I guess it's because Luis isn't some dark, unrepentant criminal I initially took him to be, but a cute, slightly shy guy. I also have a sweet spot for guys in my books who have some disability. However, I expected that Luis's hearing problems would have a greater bearing on this story.
Of course, the plot is a bit dark at times, after all Luis was in the mafia and his brother is still in charge of it. I am not entirely convinced of the rationality of all the decisions Luis made, especially when it comes to dealing with his brother’s demands. Sometimes his actions really frustrated me. But I think he and Paolo really fit together. And the tortured main character is what I look for very often in my romance books, so I'm not surprised that this particular story attracted me so much.
Somehow I didn't expect that this is the beginning of the series and I have mixed feelings about the main characters in the other books. But I'll add them to my tbr and see what happens. Probably one day I will read them.
Initially, I expected this story to be darker, but in the end it turned out to be not so much. And at times it was downright cute and sweet.
Especially when it comes to Paolo and Luis' relationship. I guess it's because Luis isn't some dark, unrepentant criminal I initially took him to be, but a cute, slightly shy guy. I also have a sweet spot for guys in my books who have some disability. However, I expected that Luis's hearing problems would have a greater bearing on this story.
Of course, the plot is a bit dark at times, after all Luis was in the mafia and his brother is still in charge of it. I am not entirely convinced of the rationality of all the decisions Luis made, especially when it comes to dealing with his brother’s demands. Sometimes his actions really frustrated me. But I think he and Paolo really fit together. And the tortured main character is what I look for very often in my romance books, so I'm not surprised that this particular story attracted me so much.
Somehow I didn't expect that this is the beginning of the series and I have mixed feelings about the main characters in the other books. But I'll add them to my tbr and see what happens. Probably one day I will read them.
October 19, 2020
Garrett mete a los personajes a veces en un entorno que parece que nada puede salir bien, pero siempre hay una salida. Estos personajes, gente normal en muchos sentidos, despiertan mucha ternura, y su historia también.
July 17, 2020
Oh my heart! I hate injustices and this one had a few, but it all turned out well at the end! 🥰
Luis goes out of jail after going through a 6 six year sentence, he feels lost and doesn't know what to do, the only family he's got, got him in jail in the first place so he didn't have somewhere to go. He remembers that he likes tea from the Cafe in the neighborhood, so he goes and meets Paolo, and gets a job, and then everything happens.
This story is about a man who was good in his core but his environment and his family made him bad, and after going through a jail sentence he found redemption. And another man who was from the same environment but he had a good family. So he became a good man. They find each other and heal together.
It's a beautiful and touching story, the main characters dynamics flowed effortlessly and the plot was constantly good. Why not 5 stars? It lacked something, a little fire perhaps, but it's a wonderful read! 🤩❤
Luis goes out of jail after going through a 6 six year sentence, he feels lost and doesn't know what to do, the only family he's got, got him in jail in the first place so he didn't have somewhere to go. He remembers that he likes tea from the Cafe in the neighborhood, so he goes and meets Paolo, and gets a job, and then everything happens.
This story is about a man who was good in his core but his environment and his family made him bad, and after going through a jail sentence he found redemption. And another man who was from the same environment but he had a good family. So he became a good man. They find each other and heal together.
It's a beautiful and touching story, the main characters dynamics flowed effortlessly and the plot was constantly good. Why not 5 stars? It lacked something, a little fire perhaps, but it's a wonderful read! 🤩❤
June 6, 2022
I enjoyed Luis and Pope relationship. How they went from friends to lovers. The love, adoration and trust that they felt for each other was beautiful.
However, I wished the plot was a bit more umm developed? It was a bit boring and it dragged. I expected more action so, maybe it was: "it's me, not the book".
However, I wished the plot was a bit more umm developed? It was a bit boring and it dragged. I expected more action so, maybe it was: "it's me, not the book".
August 8, 2021
Could not put it down
The title of the book says it...it's about redemption and second chances. There is also a large dose of hurt-comfort, too, which I cannot resist.
I love how Paolo and Luis fit together. I love the gritty feel of this world Garrett Leigh has so skillfully built. I love that the characters have to work for their HEA, and keep working to hold onto it.
The sex scenes are sizzling, and there's plenty of tension throughout.
I just loved it, and went right on into Deliverance!
The title of the book says it...it's about redemption and second chances. There is also a large dose of hurt-comfort, too, which I cannot resist.
I love how Paolo and Luis fit together. I love the gritty feel of this world Garrett Leigh has so skillfully built. I love that the characters have to work for their HEA, and keep working to hold onto it.
The sex scenes are sizzling, and there's plenty of tension throughout.
I just loved it, and went right on into Deliverance!
June 23, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/06/23/...
Rating: 5 Stars – absolutely perfect
Thank you to Signal Boost Promotions for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 5 Stars – absolutely perfect
Thank you to Signal Boost Promotions for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2021
Overall book rating: 3.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
I'm just going to say that this one was okay.
Not my favorite GL but also not a disappointing read.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
I'm just going to say that this one was okay.
Not my favorite GL but also not a disappointing read.
May 9, 2021
Luis is trapped, even though he's out of prison. He desperately wants a new, clean start with no violence, no crime, no more guilt, and he's willing to work a menial job to get it. But his brother- the reason he went to jail, the reason for so much of what he did in his previous life - isn't likely to let him go. Crime is his brother's way of life and a relative who was loyal enough not to say a word when caught before is an asset he's not likely to give up. Luis knows he's living on borrowed time.
Paolo is trapped too, running his grandfather's little diner solo, trying to make enough money to pay for the nursing home fees for both grandparents, and carving out nonexistent spare time to visit them. Hiring Luis- one of the delinquent Pope brothers - is a risk but he's desperate for help, and something about Luis appeals deeply to Paolo.
And for a while, it seems to be going great. But Luis is right - his brother is not going to leave him alone for long.
I enjoyed these characters and their very real dilemmas. The fast romance made sense, with a past crush, and a very isolated present for both of them. I wondered how the author was going to extricate them from the fairly hopeless position they were in mid-book. The answer came a bit easily and a bit serendipitously, and I wished there'd been more of the logical consequences with law enforcement on page in the wrap up. But it worked without being too impossible or demanding that the characters warp themselves out of shape morally. And I was rooting for these two to get their HEA. The drama did not become melodrama, the men stayed true to who they were, and the romance was sweet amid the stark realities of what they were dealing with.
Paolo is trapped too, running his grandfather's little diner solo, trying to make enough money to pay for the nursing home fees for both grandparents, and carving out nonexistent spare time to visit them. Hiring Luis- one of the delinquent Pope brothers - is a risk but he's desperate for help, and something about Luis appeals deeply to Paolo.
And for a while, it seems to be going great. But Luis is right - his brother is not going to leave him alone for long.
I enjoyed these characters and their very real dilemmas. The fast romance made sense, with a past crush, and a very isolated present for both of them. I wondered how the author was going to extricate them from the fairly hopeless position they were in mid-book. The answer came a bit easily and a bit serendipitously, and I wished there'd been more of the logical consequences with law enforcement on page in the wrap up. But it worked without being too impossible or demanding that the characters warp themselves out of shape morally. And I was rooting for these two to get their HEA. The drama did not become melodrama, the men stayed true to who they were, and the romance was sweet amid the stark realities of what they were dealing with.
September 11, 2021
DNF @ 31%.
Garrett Leigh is always a mixed bag for me, and unfortunately this was a miss.
I’m not getting where the draw is coming from between the MCs and while I’m 1/3 of the way in, nothing has really happened. I’m just not interested enough to read another book 200 pages of cooking food and washing dishes
Garrett Leigh is always a mixed bag for me, and unfortunately this was a miss.
I’m not getting where the draw is coming from between the MCs and while I’m 1/3 of the way in, nothing has really happened. I’m just not interested enough to read another book 200 pages of cooking food and washing dishes
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