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Benson Siblings #2
Promises
She was beautifully broken. I was her balm.
They say unrequited love hurts the most.
Well it sucks to be me then.
My heart has belonged to my best friend for longer than I care to remember.
At least until her.
The sweetest girl with a haunted past.
And darkness which seeps out of her pores, surrounding her with a haze of desolation.
It started with a need to unburden ourselves.
Now I can't think of anything else.
Her touch. Her smile. Her blue eyes.
It feels like the past is repeating itself.
With a girl I can never have.
Ellie Kirkwood extracted a promise from me.
And now I want all of her in return.
A friends to lovers romance romance set in Sarah Bailey's Dark Universe. This is a standalone in an interconnected series.
*Please be advised, this story contains sensitive content/subject matter. Please see author's website for full details*
They say unrequited love hurts the most.
Well it sucks to be me then.
My heart has belonged to my best friend for longer than I care to remember.
At least until her.
The sweetest girl with a haunted past.
And darkness which seeps out of her pores, surrounding her with a haze of desolation.
It started with a need to unburden ourselves.
Now I can't think of anything else.
Her touch. Her smile. Her blue eyes.
It feels like the past is repeating itself.
With a girl I can never have.
Ellie Kirkwood extracted a promise from me.
And now I want all of her in return.
A friends to lovers romance romance set in Sarah Bailey's Dark Universe. This is a standalone in an interconnected series.
*Please be advised, this story contains sensitive content/subject matter. Please see author's website for full details*
Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2020
34 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Bailey
47 books2,207 followersSarah writes dark, contemporary, erotic and paranormal romances. They adore all forms of steamy romance and can always be found with a book or ten on their Kindle. They love anti-heroes, alpha males and flawed characters with a little bit of darkness lurking within. Their writing buddies nicknamed Sarah: 'The Queen of Steam' for their pulse racing sex scenes which will leave you a little hot under the collar.
Born and raised in Sussex, UK near the Ashdown Forest, they grew up climbing trees and building Lego towns with their younger brother. Sarah fell in love with novels as a teenager reading their aunt's historical regency romances. They have always loved the supernatural and exploring the darker side of romance and fantasy novels.
Sarah currently resides in the Scottish Highlands with their husband. Music is one of their biggest inspirations and they always have something on in the background whilst writing. They are an avid gamer and are often found hogging their husband's Xbox.
Born and raised in Sussex, UK near the Ashdown Forest, they grew up climbing trees and building Lego towns with their younger brother. Sarah fell in love with novels as a teenager reading their aunt's historical regency romances. They have always loved the supernatural and exploring the darker side of romance and fantasy novels.
Sarah currently resides in the Scottish Highlands with their husband. Music is one of their biggest inspirations and they always have something on in the background whilst writing. They are an avid gamer and are often found hogging their husband's Xbox.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 4, 2019
I promise to hold this book in my heart forever.
Oh this book...it ruined me. In a good way.
I haven't read an angsty book in a very long time, so to be emersed back into angsty town was a somewhat nice experience. Nice because I adore James and Ellie. No really, they are my favourite couple in Sarah Bailey's dark romance/corrupt empire universe. As much as I was spoilt in seeing all of my beloved couples from the previous books in the series, James and Ellie take the throne as ultimate couple.
This book was different from the others. People will refer to this book as a slow burner and I'd agree, but I wouldn't at all, not even for a second, say this book is slow to start. If anything, it is perfectly paced, the chemistry is off the charts and the devotion is heart wrenching!
A book has never been named more appropriately. I lived for every promise.
For every tragedy there was healing. Connection. Acceptance. I can honestly say this book is a beautiful masterpiece with so many twists, reveals, such raw emotion and real characters you can't help but love.
There were moments where my blood boiled due to a character's stupidity (no spoilers), I consider it a win when I get frustrated at a character's behaviour because if I can complain about them and talk about them like their real then the author has done a fab job.
I'm always blown away and impressed by every book Sarah releases but I was SO impressed by this one. Sarah gave it a real family orientated feel, very community involved which gave it something more. I like that this wasn't as dark as the others and that it was more about moving on from the past and recovering from trauma.
This book promises healing and growth (you see what I did there?)
Anyway before I write an essay about how much I adore this book I'll end it here by saying I can't wait to see more of James and Ellie in the next Benson sibling book. I'd be sorely disappointed if I didn't get to see them as much gathering by the amount of other character involvement in Promises. I'm so intrigued by Prohibit and so ready to get to finally meet the twins properly!
Thank you Sarah, for this wonderfully emotional book that completely warmed my heart.
Oh this book...it ruined me. In a good way.
I haven't read an angsty book in a very long time, so to be emersed back into angsty town was a somewhat nice experience. Nice because I adore James and Ellie. No really, they are my favourite couple in Sarah Bailey's dark romance/corrupt empire universe. As much as I was spoilt in seeing all of my beloved couples from the previous books in the series, James and Ellie take the throne as ultimate couple.
This book was different from the others. People will refer to this book as a slow burner and I'd agree, but I wouldn't at all, not even for a second, say this book is slow to start. If anything, it is perfectly paced, the chemistry is off the charts and the devotion is heart wrenching!
A book has never been named more appropriately. I lived for every promise.
For every tragedy there was healing. Connection. Acceptance. I can honestly say this book is a beautiful masterpiece with so many twists, reveals, such raw emotion and real characters you can't help but love.
There were moments where my blood boiled due to a character's stupidity (no spoilers), I consider it a win when I get frustrated at a character's behaviour because if I can complain about them and talk about them like their real then the author has done a fab job.
I'm always blown away and impressed by every book Sarah releases but I was SO impressed by this one. Sarah gave it a real family orientated feel, very community involved which gave it something more. I like that this wasn't as dark as the others and that it was more about moving on from the past and recovering from trauma.
This book promises healing and growth (you see what I did there?)
Anyway before I write an essay about how much I adore this book I'll end it here by saying I can't wait to see more of James and Ellie in the next Benson sibling book. I'd be sorely disappointed if I didn't get to see them as much gathering by the amount of other character involvement in Promises. I'm so intrigued by Prohibit and so ready to get to finally meet the twins properly!
Thank you Sarah, for this wonderfully emotional book that completely warmed my heart.
October 31, 2019
Fantastic and emotional
I loved this book!!! The story of James and Ellie that is told in Promises by Sarah Bailey is so filled with emotional depth and is such a pleasure to have read. This is the second book in the Benson Siblings series and this time it is James turn. He remains in love with his best friend even though that is unrequited and has been dating one of his employees, not a complicated situation there at all!!! Ellie has had more than a hard life so far for her fairly short number of years. He drug addict father sold her at fourteen she was beaten, abused and raped until she was rescued from sex slavery at the age of twenty. Lets just say that she is scarred both emotionally and externally and does not trust. I will admit that I used more than a few kleenex's while reading this story so make sure you have some by your side because you are going to need them.
James and Ellie's relationship has a lot of dimension and depth to it as it grows and changes along the way. Sarah Bailey has taken a really tough and dark subject matter and written it with care and a delicate hand so as not to drag the reader into a bottomless pit of sorrow. Instead she shows through the characters that you can change your life and rise above you past, even finding and accepting the love everyone deserves.
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
I loved this book!!! The story of James and Ellie that is told in Promises by Sarah Bailey is so filled with emotional depth and is such a pleasure to have read. This is the second book in the Benson Siblings series and this time it is James turn. He remains in love with his best friend even though that is unrequited and has been dating one of his employees, not a complicated situation there at all!!! Ellie has had more than a hard life so far for her fairly short number of years. He drug addict father sold her at fourteen she was beaten, abused and raped until she was rescued from sex slavery at the age of twenty. Lets just say that she is scarred both emotionally and externally and does not trust. I will admit that I used more than a few kleenex's while reading this story so make sure you have some by your side because you are going to need them.
James and Ellie's relationship has a lot of dimension and depth to it as it grows and changes along the way. Sarah Bailey has taken a really tough and dark subject matter and written it with care and a delicate hand so as not to drag the reader into a bottomless pit of sorrow. Instead she shows through the characters that you can change your life and rise above you past, even finding and accepting the love everyone deserves.
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
September 16, 2019
#whyisjamessoperfect
James Benson is my newest book boyfriend! He's witty and sexy AF. More than that, despite the abuse and heartbreak he's had in his life, he loves deeply. He's trustworthy and loyal, and there isn't anything he wouldn't do for Ellie. Swoon.
We first met James in the Corrupt Empire series. If you haven't read it, get on with it! You'll be happy you did. Anyway, James is Avery's best friend, and boy do they have some history together. I won't post any spoilers, but I'll say this, James has some issues to deal with before he can fully love Ellie.
Ellie is a strong, intelligent, and broken. But she's also a fighter, and she is fighting for normal. She only wants to forget the pain of her past and live a normal life, sans men. That is until she meets James. What starts with one promise, leads to many more and this couple finds a real and passionate love that will make you swoon.
I absolutely LOVED this book. Ms. Bailey outdid herself, and I can't wait to read Fi and Jen's stories!
James Benson is my newest book boyfriend! He's witty and sexy AF. More than that, despite the abuse and heartbreak he's had in his life, he loves deeply. He's trustworthy and loyal, and there isn't anything he wouldn't do for Ellie. Swoon.
We first met James in the Corrupt Empire series. If you haven't read it, get on with it! You'll be happy you did. Anyway, James is Avery's best friend, and boy do they have some history together. I won't post any spoilers, but I'll say this, James has some issues to deal with before he can fully love Ellie.
Ellie is a strong, intelligent, and broken. But she's also a fighter, and she is fighting for normal. She only wants to forget the pain of her past and live a normal life, sans men. That is until she meets James. What starts with one promise, leads to many more and this couple finds a real and passionate love that will make you swoon.
I absolutely LOVED this book. Ms. Bailey outdid herself, and I can't wait to read Fi and Jen's stories!
September 26, 2019
Ellie and James met by chance when she was the bartender at his brother's wedding. Their conversation ended with them promising each other to met up again in a month's time if both of them are still unattached. That is the start of a friendship which quickly lead to them confiding in each other the horrors of their pasts, both of them having had to deal with cruel abuse. This is the story of two people who had to learn to trust in each other and also to trust in their own worth despite the sorrows of their past, two people who healed each other and discovered their strength in the other. But ultimately it is a story of love having the power to heal so much of our pain and past hurts. The author weaved a story of horrors in such a way that itnis not so hard to read about it even though you cannot imagine someone to live through something like that. A very good, well written book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 28, 2019
This is the second Benson Siblings book and this is James and Ellie's story. Can this book be read as a standalone, yes but I would highly recommend reading the series Corrupt Empire, even though this is Aiden and Avery's story, James being Avery's best friend, this is where we meet him and begin to know his layers. Actually both James and Ellie come with a variety of layers to their characters and it makes for an amazing story as we are a part of them shedding some, strengthening some and growing new ones in this book. The journey that these two characters embark is not an easy one but is love worth it if it comes easy? Can these two characters not only find their HEA but begin to heal each other and leave their tragic pasts in the past? This is an emotional roller coaster of a read but worth each and every one. Enjoy!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 16, 2019
I loved finally reading Jame's story and seeing what happened with him in his mind as well as finding his happily ever after. I truly can't wait to see how the twins move on from the damaged past and to find their hea.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 17, 2019
Beautifully written romance. This story involves difficult but real topics. I like the way the author approaches and incorporates these in her story. This story is deep, touching and at times emotional. Their relationship is beautiful and strong and very hot too. Will definitely continue to read this series.
October 3, 2019
I was unaware that this was book two in the series. However, it can be read as a standalone. The book was about unrequited love and moving on. Unfortunately, the h has a darkness she is fighting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 16, 2022
So this is James’ book, the youngest of the Benson siblings, who we first meet in the Corrupt Empire series as Avery’s best friend.
The Benson siblings have all suffered by the hands of their father, and it seems James has serious self doubts due to Zach’s continued verbal abuse and belittlement. James is struggling with his feelings for Avery and loves her from the sidelines. James finds it hard to open up to anyone and can’t seem to look past Avery to have a meaningful relationship of his own.
Ellie has a past of abuse as well, and the way she has suffered at the hands of her parents is heartbreaking. Ellie is trying to move on with her life and has no intention of putting herself out there, but then she meets James. And they seem to hit it off, and agree to a friendship. The two make promises to each other to show up and share stories from their past. But they both start to feel more, crave more than just a friendship. But James isn’t sure how to pursue Ellie due to her past and Ellie isn’t sure she can handle always coming second to Avery.
I love how these two finally give in to what they want, each other. James is beyond gentle with her and he makes it totally clear to Ellie that she comes first. Ellie finally has an understanding of what it truly means to be loved and cared for. We get to see another side of James, to which Ellie compliments beautifully. The tension and passion between these two is so good. In the end they both have to face their demons with their parents, but then they can finally move on from their dark pasts.
The Benson siblings have all suffered by the hands of their father, and it seems James has serious self doubts due to Zach’s continued verbal abuse and belittlement. James is struggling with his feelings for Avery and loves her from the sidelines. James finds it hard to open up to anyone and can’t seem to look past Avery to have a meaningful relationship of his own.
Ellie has a past of abuse as well, and the way she has suffered at the hands of her parents is heartbreaking. Ellie is trying to move on with her life and has no intention of putting herself out there, but then she meets James. And they seem to hit it off, and agree to a friendship. The two make promises to each other to show up and share stories from their past. But they both start to feel more, crave more than just a friendship. But James isn’t sure how to pursue Ellie due to her past and Ellie isn’t sure she can handle always coming second to Avery.
I love how these two finally give in to what they want, each other. James is beyond gentle with her and he makes it totally clear to Ellie that she comes first. Ellie finally has an understanding of what it truly means to be loved and cared for. We get to see another side of James, to which Ellie compliments beautifully. The tension and passion between these two is so good. In the end they both have to face their demons with their parents, but then they can finally move on from their dark pasts.
April 26, 2024
Remarkable
Ellie was sold at fourteen, and spent the next six years as a slave to various men. Working behind a bar, she meets James, in love with his best friend and still coming to terms with the events in Provoked.
Damaged by her past and unused to dealing with normal relationships, Ellie's friendship with James, and the blurred lines, is so agonisingly well-written, you can't help but care about her. He is damaged too, both by his father's words and actions. Bailey conveys the angst as he deliberates the best way forward for Ellie.
Moving and borderline traumatic, this is a terrific story.
Ellie was sold at fourteen, and spent the next six years as a slave to various men. Working behind a bar, she meets James, in love with his best friend and still coming to terms with the events in Provoked.
Damaged by her past and unused to dealing with normal relationships, Ellie's friendship with James, and the blurred lines, is so agonisingly well-written, you can't help but care about her. He is damaged too, both by his father's words and actions. Bailey conveys the angst as he deliberates the best way forward for Ellie.
Moving and borderline traumatic, this is a terrific story.
September 27, 2019
Promises by Sarah Bailey marches on with the Corrupt Empire universe that we've both enjoyed and been scared to fucking death over. While not required reading for comprehension, this novel is a follow up the last story, Provoked. That novel featured dark romance elements somewhat similar to the ultra dark concepts we've grown accustomed to, however, Promises looks to take things in a new direction. Throughout everything in the series so far, a young man named James has been at least partially involved in everyone else's romance. As the best friend of Avery (from the trilogy), and the brother of Dante (from Provoked), James is a man out of place in this literature universe, hilariously clueless at first glance to the dark horrible details of the relationships he has indirectly helped cultivate. As you'd expect, this has left James on the short end of the stick, and very sullen about the prospects of his own love life. While holding up a barstool at his brother's wedding, compelled to do so from watching his only true love, Avery, live her life with another man, a pretty bartender manages to grab his attention. Ellie's a pretty good reader of human emotion, and she is drawn to strike up a conversation with James about what's bugging him. After a surprisingly pleasant back and forth, Ellie writes a "promise" on a bar napkin that she and James will meet again and start to share a little about their lives. From the end of their first conversation, James and Ellie will live by their promises, but could they possibly understand what they've just gotten themselves into?
As we've grown accustomed with this series , the POV will flip back and forth between the pair with each chapter. As the reader settles into a VERY slow burn dark romance, we're fed bits of what brought Ellie and James together in this context. Moments during the exposition will fill you with palpable amounts of dread of course, and the human suffering will be a cause for pause and attention during certain exchanges. What is new, however, is the presentation of these dark elements. James and Ellie have a dark and horrible past with horrible parents, and in Elle's case, years of absolute torment. Reading her hardship is bad enough in past tense, but it's an important step to have a story approach this from the angle of healing. The kindred spirits of the two make for a beautiful concept of love when all else appears completely hopeless. James being involved with a love interest where the male MC isn't the man responsible for the female lead's trouble is a nice change, and the relationship can develop and blossom in a way we can all root for. Promises gives the author a chance to flex their muscles into more identifiable romantic elements. The genuine flirting and buildup makes for an amazing first kiss...and other "first" things as well. Bailey is the "Queen of Steam" after all, and the sexual elements of Promises are delivered with scorching heat, and without compromise. James is learning to be himself beyond the shadow of his despicable father, and maybe now can finally express that in a healthy and meaningful way.
Verdict: Promises by Sarah Bailey is a fresh approach to the Corrupt Empire's ever challenging and ever more rewarding dark romance idea. While most of the intensity comes from character background instead of present-tense moments of panic, the shiver down your spine moments will still take the reader to the darkest depths of the human mind. Moreover, it will still amaze you that that love can blossom out of this wretched hopeless soil. James and Ellie come from very different places, but are connected through the series' universe which will satisfy fans of this evolving setting. As a standalone novel, the love story is enriching and believable, with spark igniting sexual encounters and a HEA ending that makes the whole journey worthwhile. When I first picked up this novel, I couldn't think of anyone less to aspire to than James Benson. Now that I know what makes him tick, he'll forever be one of my favorite literary characters.
Special thanks to Sarah Bailey for providing an advance review copy of Promises to TehBen.com All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As we've grown accustomed with this series , the POV will flip back and forth between the pair with each chapter. As the reader settles into a VERY slow burn dark romance, we're fed bits of what brought Ellie and James together in this context. Moments during the exposition will fill you with palpable amounts of dread of course, and the human suffering will be a cause for pause and attention during certain exchanges. What is new, however, is the presentation of these dark elements. James and Ellie have a dark and horrible past with horrible parents, and in Elle's case, years of absolute torment. Reading her hardship is bad enough in past tense, but it's an important step to have a story approach this from the angle of healing. The kindred spirits of the two make for a beautiful concept of love when all else appears completely hopeless. James being involved with a love interest where the male MC isn't the man responsible for the female lead's trouble is a nice change, and the relationship can develop and blossom in a way we can all root for. Promises gives the author a chance to flex their muscles into more identifiable romantic elements. The genuine flirting and buildup makes for an amazing first kiss...and other "first" things as well. Bailey is the "Queen of Steam" after all, and the sexual elements of Promises are delivered with scorching heat, and without compromise. James is learning to be himself beyond the shadow of his despicable father, and maybe now can finally express that in a healthy and meaningful way.
Verdict: Promises by Sarah Bailey is a fresh approach to the Corrupt Empire's ever challenging and ever more rewarding dark romance idea. While most of the intensity comes from character background instead of present-tense moments of panic, the shiver down your spine moments will still take the reader to the darkest depths of the human mind. Moreover, it will still amaze you that that love can blossom out of this wretched hopeless soil. James and Ellie come from very different places, but are connected through the series' universe which will satisfy fans of this evolving setting. As a standalone novel, the love story is enriching and believable, with spark igniting sexual encounters and a HEA ending that makes the whole journey worthwhile. When I first picked up this novel, I couldn't think of anyone less to aspire to than James Benson. Now that I know what makes him tick, he'll forever be one of my favorite literary characters.
Special thanks to Sarah Bailey for providing an advance review copy of Promises to TehBen.com All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 19, 2019
I loved this book! James and Ellie’s story is extremely emotional but such a great read.
Promises is the second installment in the Benson Siblings saga and is centered around James and Ellie. Though it is not required, this book can stand alone, I still recommend reading the series in order starting with Provoked (Dante and Liora’s story) and actually going back to the Corrupt Empire series and reading it first. The CE series centers on Avery (James’s best friend) and Aiden but James has a strong presence in their story and it ties into Promises (his book).
I do not know how Baily does it but she draws out the emotions of her characters in such a way that you feel as if you are sharing their experiences with them. The scenes and emotions are poignant, the writing engaging, the storyline engrossing and the characters amazing. There is plenty of angst, twists and turns, and steamy romance to enjoy, as well as secrets shared, strong bonds developed, family, friendship, and love.
Promises is not as dark as Provoked but still deals with some of the same heavy issues - the repercussions of mental, physical, and verbal abuse and human trafficking, as well as the aftermath of trying to find yourself, rebuild your life, and learn that you matter and deserve to be loved – all of which these two characters struggle with throughout this story. They have a long, heartbreaking journey as they work through their tragic pasts and fight for love and to have the future they deserve.
I was actually a bit surprised by James’s character. I had envisioned him a certain way from the CE series, but after reading Promises and really getting to know his character, that totally changed for me. He was sincere and had a huge heart despite his upbringing. He was loyal and loved deeply and you could count on him when it mattered. He had a huge emotional battle to overcome in this story and I was really shocked at learning more about his background and relationship with Avery. It was saddening to see what she actually put him through and watching him deal with his unrequited love while wanting to be everything for Ellie at the same time.
Ellie’s story was just as tragic, if not actually more so. Yet for her to turn out to be the strong, beautiful woman she did was nothing short of amazing after what she endured. She was determined to make her life better. She still lived in the shadows, due to her past, but was working hard to overcome her fears and believe she was worthy and deserving of a new life and love. She was an amazing character. She and James had some serious roadblocks to overcome in their journey to a happy ending.
This was a deeply emotional story with a great ending. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC of this book from the author and I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Promises is the second installment in the Benson Siblings saga and is centered around James and Ellie. Though it is not required, this book can stand alone, I still recommend reading the series in order starting with Provoked (Dante and Liora’s story) and actually going back to the Corrupt Empire series and reading it first. The CE series centers on Avery (James’s best friend) and Aiden but James has a strong presence in their story and it ties into Promises (his book).
I do not know how Baily does it but she draws out the emotions of her characters in such a way that you feel as if you are sharing their experiences with them. The scenes and emotions are poignant, the writing engaging, the storyline engrossing and the characters amazing. There is plenty of angst, twists and turns, and steamy romance to enjoy, as well as secrets shared, strong bonds developed, family, friendship, and love.
Promises is not as dark as Provoked but still deals with some of the same heavy issues - the repercussions of mental, physical, and verbal abuse and human trafficking, as well as the aftermath of trying to find yourself, rebuild your life, and learn that you matter and deserve to be loved – all of which these two characters struggle with throughout this story. They have a long, heartbreaking journey as they work through their tragic pasts and fight for love and to have the future they deserve.
I was actually a bit surprised by James’s character. I had envisioned him a certain way from the CE series, but after reading Promises and really getting to know his character, that totally changed for me. He was sincere and had a huge heart despite his upbringing. He was loyal and loved deeply and you could count on him when it mattered. He had a huge emotional battle to overcome in this story and I was really shocked at learning more about his background and relationship with Avery. It was saddening to see what she actually put him through and watching him deal with his unrequited love while wanting to be everything for Ellie at the same time.
Ellie’s story was just as tragic, if not actually more so. Yet for her to turn out to be the strong, beautiful woman she did was nothing short of amazing after what she endured. She was determined to make her life better. She still lived in the shadows, due to her past, but was working hard to overcome her fears and believe she was worthy and deserving of a new life and love. She was an amazing character. She and James had some serious roadblocks to overcome in their journey to a happy ending.
This was a deeply emotional story with a great ending. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC of this book from the author and I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
September 27, 2019
Unrequited love as James was still in love with his bestie Avery. It didn’t really matter that Avery was happily married to the man of her dreams with a beautiful baby daughter. They were still best friends and shared practically everything together, which I thought was terribly unfair for James.
By the time Ellie entered the scene, James was trying to figure out how to breakup with one of his employees he started dating to dull the ache he had over Avery’s pregnancy.
His life was truly a dismal mess as he pined relentlessly for Avery.
All of this paled in comparison to Ellie’s awful past. Sold by her drug addicted abusive father at fourteen, beaten and abused and raped at fifteen and forced into sexual slavery until she was rescued at age twenty. Her inner and outer scars were numerous, horrifying, and heartbreaking.
Their tentative promise to meet each other monthly to share their dark and twisty past was the start of their relational growth that was filled mutual understanding of horrifying abuse.
Spoilers ahead: I rejoiced when Ellie interpreted Avery and James’s dysfunctional relationship immediately. I cheered when James finally found the courage to tell Avery how much of his life was compromised because of her selfish behavior when they were teens. I know that Avery had gone through a lot too, but I did not like her and how she took James and his love for granted.
Kudos to this author who developed Ellie and James’s relationship to be the priority for each other. James was a fitting hero to Ellie and true to his word, he always made Ellie his number one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
By the time Ellie entered the scene, James was trying to figure out how to breakup with one of his employees he started dating to dull the ache he had over Avery’s pregnancy.
His life was truly a dismal mess as he pined relentlessly for Avery.
All of this paled in comparison to Ellie’s awful past. Sold by her drug addicted abusive father at fourteen, beaten and abused and raped at fifteen and forced into sexual slavery until she was rescued at age twenty. Her inner and outer scars were numerous, horrifying, and heartbreaking.
Their tentative promise to meet each other monthly to share their dark and twisty past was the start of their relational growth that was filled mutual understanding of horrifying abuse.
Spoilers ahead: I rejoiced when Ellie interpreted Avery and James’s dysfunctional relationship immediately. I cheered when James finally found the courage to tell Avery how much of his life was compromised because of her selfish behavior when they were teens. I know that Avery had gone through a lot too, but I did not like her and how she took James and his love for granted.
Kudos to this author who developed Ellie and James’s relationship to be the priority for each other. James was a fitting hero to Ellie and true to his word, he always made Ellie his number one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2019
I was lucky to have received this book as an arc and of course then realising it was part of a series beginning with Corrupt so of course before I started this one I went right back to the beginning and wow what a read from then to now I have had! Thoroughly enjoyed all the books, and couldn’t wait to get to this one the more I read, I knew James book was going to be a great read, he was such an important character in all the books I was just hoping his story would turn out with a HEA, and with him and Ellie meeting and both their horrendous histories being shared between them and the way they were with their napkins! That was just sooo sweet, I loved how their relationship developed and I’ve got to admit I loved Ellie for standing up to Avery, my heart broke for both of them throughout this book and I absolutely loved the ending but hoping we’ll get catch ups with them in the twins books! 🤞Looking forward to reading them and I’m really hoping we’ll get Brent’s story 😉🤞
September 29, 2019
A BRILLIANT, OUTSTANDING READ THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND!!!!!
OMG ive been waiting for James story and boy was it a fantastic read. The storyline is full of love and understand. Pain and torment So much heartache.
James is one amazing man, even though he grew up in a house full abuse from his father he turned out to be a understand and patient man. When he meets Ellie at Dantes wedding he sees in her a soul mate that has darkness and pain and Ellie see right through him and has no problem telling him.
But Ellie has a past that might be a problem. Will James understand and be there for her or will he Be there for his best friend Avery??
This is a brilliant read honestly I couldnt put it down its an outstanding read!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG ive been waiting for James story and boy was it a fantastic read. The storyline is full of love and understand. Pain and torment So much heartache.
James is one amazing man, even though he grew up in a house full abuse from his father he turned out to be a understand and patient man. When he meets Ellie at Dantes wedding he sees in her a soul mate that has darkness and pain and Ellie see right through him and has no problem telling him.
But Ellie has a past that might be a problem. Will James understand and be there for her or will he Be there for his best friend Avery??
This is a brilliant read honestly I couldnt put it down its an outstanding read!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 27, 2019
This is the second installment in Sarah Bailey’s the Benson’s Siblings series. This book is about James, youngest of the Bensons, and Ellie, who experienced years of emotional, sexual, and physical abuse. These characters have experienced much trauma in their lives and are drawn to each other. This book is well written, highly emotional, dramatic, and full of twists and turns. The Promise novel should be read after completing the Corrupt Empire series and the first book of this series, Provoked, as they give the reader insight into James’ history. Sarah Bailey has written another outstanding book and series. I highly recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2019
Ellie and James' story really deserves a ten-star review, honestly! The hurtful backgrounds they both come from, only to come together in love, helping one another learn to trust again, is heartwarming, beautiful, sad at times, and ultimately shows us that, while we all go through hardships, there is a way to heal and learn to love and trust again.
I had the wonderful opportunity to be an ARC reader, for this gorgeously-written novel, by one of my favorite British authors, Sarah Bailey. I'm planning on getting the CORRUPT EMPIRE series soon.
If you haven't gotten a chance to read her work, then I'd suggest you hop on that. You'll not be disappointed, I promise you that!
I had the wonderful opportunity to be an ARC reader, for this gorgeously-written novel, by one of my favorite British authors, Sarah Bailey. I'm planning on getting the CORRUPT EMPIRE series soon.
If you haven't gotten a chance to read her work, then I'd suggest you hop on that. You'll not be disappointed, I promise you that!
September 27, 2019
This is such a sad story about adults who had been damaged physically and emotionally by their parents. “Provoked” which is also a great read, started the story, but there is enough background information that this one can be read as a stand-alone. Ellie was sold by her father and ultimately was mentally, physically, and sexually abused for six years. James and his siblings were systematically belittled and abused by their vile father who is in jail for the murder of their mother. This author makes you want to hug and care for these characters. The world building is extraordinary. Excellent read!
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 28, 2019
Therapy or how to move on
I liked this book way better than Dante’s.
Janes is the one who is in love with his best friend, Avery. Who is happily married with a baby. He hooked up with employee, Cassie when Avery told him she was pregnant. So, he’s stringing Cassie along when he meets bartender, Ellie. They make a promise.
So begins their joint therapy sessions, they both have old hurts that they are trying to move past.
Steamy but Ellie has a complicated past, that James has to tread carefully.
I liked that we really got into his messed up head.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked this book way better than Dante’s.
Janes is the one who is in love with his best friend, Avery. Who is happily married with a baby. He hooked up with employee, Cassie when Avery told him she was pregnant. So, he’s stringing Cassie along when he meets bartender, Ellie. They make a promise.
So begins their joint therapy sessions, they both have old hurts that they are trying to move past.
Steamy but Ellie has a complicated past, that James has to tread carefully.
I liked that we really got into his messed up head.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 28, 2019
I thought that this was a great read. I really enjoyed reading about both Ellie and James' messed up past and how they are working through them together. I liked how much insight I got from both their POV. I just really felt like I connected to them both. It was the best kind of emotional read.
Ellie, who is trying to move on from her trauma, meets James at his brother's wedding while bartending. James is battling his own trauma and his unrequited love for his best friend. When they promise to meet each other after connecting through their emotional connection, one promises lead to another.
Ellie, who is trying to move on from her trauma, meets James at his brother's wedding while bartending. James is battling his own trauma and his unrequited love for his best friend. When they promise to meet each other after connecting through their emotional connection, one promises lead to another.
October 2, 2019
This is the second book in the Benson Siblings series, and the story of James, and Ellie. James has been harboring feeling for his best friend for years, unable to get over her, he's had several unfulfilling relationships. But when he meet Ellie he feel a connection, Ellie is damaged from many years of abuse, and James is broken from many years of unrequited love. Can James, and Ellie help each other heal? This was a great read, the characters well written, and the book was emotional, intense, dramatic, twisted, and steamy. I highly recommend this book, and series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2019
This book is amazing! I was excited that James received his own book. His story was heartbreaking in its own right. I was so glad that he found someone that he was able to share and not hide who he was. Not even his best friend knew the whole truths of what he experienced. And for him to find someone that needed him as much as he needed her. The fact that they had mad attraction to each other but the insecurities to share them, added to the story. Was so glad they found each other. I am so psyched to read the next saga for the this family.
October 16, 2019
This is such an emotional story .James and Ellie had been damaged in the past, physically and emotionally hurt by their parents. Ellie was sold by her father and ultimately was mentally, physically, and sexually abused for years.
James and his siblings were systematically abused by their vile father who is in jail for the murder of their mother. You will want to hug ,care and root for them.
Excellent read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
James and his siblings were systematically abused by their vile father who is in jail for the murder of their mother. You will want to hug ,care and root for them.
Excellent read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2019
Loved the book it was great, the story was well written and the characters were interesting. James finally finishes the relationship with Avery, now he is having a hard time getting over her. James went to his brothers wedding, Ellie worked behind the bar serving drinks, James and Ellie start talking now they meet up learning to trust each other, after thegg both had horrible pasts.
Thank you for you allowing me to review your book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you for you allowing me to review your book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2019
Listen up, slow burn romance lovers--this one's for you. Oh, the slow build was just amazing in this book. Those are my favorite types of relationships to read about. I love starting a book with two troubled souls and seeing them slowly shed their reservations and fall in love. James is in love with someone else at the beginning of this book, and Ellie is a bit broken and doesn't even understand what true emotion is. Watching them fall in love was beautiful. I couldn't put it down! Happy reading!
September 23, 2019
I really loved reading James and Ellie story. This story was really amazing and heartbreaking.
Promises is the second book in the Besond siblings series. I can act as a standalone but I would recommended reading book 1 in this serie and reading The corrupt empire serie. Really can't wait to read the next book in this serie.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Promises is the second book in the Besond siblings series. I can act as a standalone but I would recommended reading book 1 in this serie and reading The corrupt empire serie. Really can't wait to read the next book in this serie.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2019
I read books that call out to me be it the cover or the blurb but James and Ellie didn't call to me, they screamed my name and tapped me on the shoulder.
What an emotional and heartbreaking journey. James and Ellie took me on an alphabet of feelings that even after I followed them to the end, I was still trying to find my heart.
Sarah just found a fan for life, with such incredible writing. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
What an emotional and heartbreaking journey. James and Ellie took me on an alphabet of feelings that even after I followed them to the end, I was still trying to find my heart.
Sarah just found a fan for life, with such incredible writing. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
September 27, 2019
This was my first read from this author. At the beginning we get a glimpse of a lot of characters all at once, so it's a little confusing at the beginning who is who. Or it could be, because I haven't read the previous book.
So, James is in love with Avery, who is married to someone else. The story starts at James' brother's wedding. I liked James as a character. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So, James is in love with Avery, who is married to someone else. The story starts at James' brother's wedding. I liked James as a character. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2019
INTOXICATING!
An intoxicating read that is so easy to get wrapped up in as you feel the struggles and turmoil seep into your heart and mind with a thirst to get to the end making it impossible to put down. Hot passionate chemistry, emotionally gripping and impacting twists. An amazing read that I absolutely enjoyed and highly suggest as a must read.
An intoxicating read that is so easy to get wrapped up in as you feel the struggles and turmoil seep into your heart and mind with a thirst to get to the end making it impossible to put down. Hot passionate chemistry, emotionally gripping and impacting twists. An amazing read that I absolutely enjoyed and highly suggest as a must read.
September 28, 2019
You won't want to miss James and Ellie’s story it is the second book in the series and while it can be read on its own I think they are better read in order. This is a fantastic read but is warned it is quite an emotional read my heart just broke at everything he had gone through but he had not let it break him. This is such a great read I just could not get enough.
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