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Darkest Skies #3
Salvation
Reformed gang boss Dante Pope is out after a four-year stretch in prison. But freedom has found him faster than he’s ready for. His only brother hates him, and with nothing but PTSD and a newfound fascination with plants for company, the outside world is a terrifying place.
A prisoner rehabilitation scheme lands him at a stately home that might as well be the moon. Working for gorgeous gardener Sid is a welcome distraction—his shoulders are broad, his rugged jaw unshaven, and his long, tanned legs?
Wow.
But Sid has problems of his own. A life-changing disease has left him limited in ways he can’t bear and accepting help, even from a stranger, makes him want to curl up and die.
If Dante would let him.
Newsflash: he won’t, and he’s not a stranger for long. With his dark smile and sinister ink, Dante Pope is the most beautiful man Sid has ever seen. Life is hard, but falling for each other is easy.
Sunshine and shadows.
Old ghosts can haunt Dante all they like. Loving Sid is the only salvation he’ll ever need.
Salvation is a sweetly angsty standalone MM romance novel in the Darkest Skies series. Expect: second chances, forced proximity, friends-to-lovers, and buckets of hurt/comfort themed loveliness. Content warnings for childhood trauma, violence, and chronic illness.
A prisoner rehabilitation scheme lands him at a stately home that might as well be the moon. Working for gorgeous gardener Sid is a welcome distraction—his shoulders are broad, his rugged jaw unshaven, and his long, tanned legs?
Wow.
But Sid has problems of his own. A life-changing disease has left him limited in ways he can’t bear and accepting help, even from a stranger, makes him want to curl up and die.
If Dante would let him.
Newsflash: he won’t, and he’s not a stranger for long. With his dark smile and sinister ink, Dante Pope is the most beautiful man Sid has ever seen. Life is hard, but falling for each other is easy.
Sunshine and shadows.
Old ghosts can haunt Dante all they like. Loving Sid is the only salvation he’ll ever need.
Salvation is a sweetly angsty standalone MM romance novel in the Darkest Skies series. Expect: second chances, forced proximity, friends-to-lovers, and buckets of hurt/comfort themed loveliness. Content warnings for childhood trauma, violence, and chronic illness.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2021
59 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
About the author
Garrett Leigh
94 books2,402 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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October 3, 2021
Identity is a complex and fluid notion.
Who you are, what you are, and how you are defined is ever-changing. Both Dante and Sid are morphing from one aspect of their life cycle to another.
And the struggle is real.
Dante has just been released from prison for good behavior. This is sadly ironic since he doesn’t believe there’s a good bone in his body. He’s no longer “Pope” the road boy who ruled. He’s shed his peel but doesn’t know what’s next.
Sid is working on accepting his fate after diagnosis and is at odds with the world most of the time. Until Garrett’s smooth wrist flicks them together. Sid sees Dante for who he is now. His vision isn’t clouded with sins from before. He doesn’t hear screams from his past. He only knows somehow Dante has the road map to his tangled mind, body, and soul. He navigates smoothly around barricades and breaks as if he has some secret clues.
The path of tomorrow is terrifying and exhilarating. But neither man will ever be free of who they were so they may discover who they can be unless they break self-imposed chains. But sometimes, the past just doesn’t want to let you go.
Every time I open a new story from Leigh I think, “Okay, I’m ready. Let’s do this!” Then I dip a toe in and the outside world fades away and I’m caught, spinning in a cyclone of emotions. I clutch my chest as if to protect my heart and surge ahead anxious yet confident. I know I’m going to hurt because they will hurt. But I also know that we will all be okay in the end. I was slightly concerned this time because I wasn’t impressed with Dante in the previous books. I mean let’s face it, he did horrendous things. Be that as it may, dreadful actions do not make a dreadful person. Prison is not some magical rebirth, cleansing stains from your soul. But for Dante, it released him from a cage. Being locked up was the first time he was ever actually free. As if destiny was mocking him, this newfound freedom was quickly snatched away by invisible demons. He was never proud of who he was but he can’t stop himself from hating not only his previous actions but his very being. Blinded by hate Dante can’t see the future ahead…till Sid stumbles into his path and forces him to refocus. He forgets about his own wounds and craves to ease the pain in Sid’s gorgeous eyes. He can’t think about tomorrow just yet…but maybe he can let himself have today, a quiet day with the sexy gardener that lets him fly with his feet firmly on the ground.
I could never pick a favorite when it comes to Garrett’s guys but Sid is like no other. He astounds me with his determination. He’s as stubborn as a toddler in the midst of a tantrum but his headstrong drive keeps his disease from taking over his entire life. Mostly. Accepting his limitations is far from easy but embracing the idea of solitary days from here on out cuts even deeper. No one would willingly shackle themselves to Sid now. Because that’s what it would be. A helpless chain to his unpredictable body. Despite his firm pushes, Dante pulls him in anyways. Sid is shocked to discover that his disease doesn’t have to swamp him after all and maybe working with the current rather than against will allow him to catch his breath when the rapids get rough. Sid never dreamed he could have a relationship with someone since his biggest commitment is his disease. Without his permission, Dante slips behind his walls and sees all of his embarrassing weaknesses. Curiously, this only makes their bond stronger. But then everything goes sideways and Sid loses his tentative grip on Dante. Was he wrong after all? Did he fancy him so much that passion misled him and his tender trust was cast aside? Or is fate cruel enough to give him everything he never knew he needed only to whisk it away with the twilight sky as the sole witness? I suppose you’ll just have to find out for yourself. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go eat something green. There is magic in that.
Beware of: Forgiveness is most challenging and most important when it’s hard to lock eyes with the offender and face them…in the mirror. Inner strength doesn’t mean you can’t share a path…or a helping hand. Redemption and salvation go side by side…delivering those who ask and believe.
This book is for: If you’re searching for an emotionally driven story with two imperfect men looking to dig deep and start anew, I’d love for you to meet Sid and Dante. Can I suggest you start with Redemption though? I always find that footsteps are easier to track from the beginning.
Book UNfunk
Who you are, what you are, and how you are defined is ever-changing. Both Dante and Sid are morphing from one aspect of their life cycle to another.
And the struggle is real.
Dante has just been released from prison for good behavior. This is sadly ironic since he doesn’t believe there’s a good bone in his body. He’s no longer “Pope” the road boy who ruled. He’s shed his peel but doesn’t know what’s next.
Sid is working on accepting his fate after diagnosis and is at odds with the world most of the time. Until Garrett’s smooth wrist flicks them together. Sid sees Dante for who he is now. His vision isn’t clouded with sins from before. He doesn’t hear screams from his past. He only knows somehow Dante has the road map to his tangled mind, body, and soul. He navigates smoothly around barricades and breaks as if he has some secret clues.
The path of tomorrow is terrifying and exhilarating. But neither man will ever be free of who they were so they may discover who they can be unless they break self-imposed chains. But sometimes, the past just doesn’t want to let you go.
Every time I open a new story from Leigh I think, “Okay, I’m ready. Let’s do this!” Then I dip a toe in and the outside world fades away and I’m caught, spinning in a cyclone of emotions. I clutch my chest as if to protect my heart and surge ahead anxious yet confident. I know I’m going to hurt because they will hurt. But I also know that we will all be okay in the end. I was slightly concerned this time because I wasn’t impressed with Dante in the previous books. I mean let’s face it, he did horrendous things. Be that as it may, dreadful actions do not make a dreadful person. Prison is not some magical rebirth, cleansing stains from your soul. But for Dante, it released him from a cage. Being locked up was the first time he was ever actually free. As if destiny was mocking him, this newfound freedom was quickly snatched away by invisible demons. He was never proud of who he was but he can’t stop himself from hating not only his previous actions but his very being. Blinded by hate Dante can’t see the future ahead…till Sid stumbles into his path and forces him to refocus. He forgets about his own wounds and craves to ease the pain in Sid’s gorgeous eyes. He can’t think about tomorrow just yet…but maybe he can let himself have today, a quiet day with the sexy gardener that lets him fly with his feet firmly on the ground.
I could never pick a favorite when it comes to Garrett’s guys but Sid is like no other. He astounds me with his determination. He’s as stubborn as a toddler in the midst of a tantrum but his headstrong drive keeps his disease from taking over his entire life. Mostly. Accepting his limitations is far from easy but embracing the idea of solitary days from here on out cuts even deeper. No one would willingly shackle themselves to Sid now. Because that’s what it would be. A helpless chain to his unpredictable body. Despite his firm pushes, Dante pulls him in anyways. Sid is shocked to discover that his disease doesn’t have to swamp him after all and maybe working with the current rather than against will allow him to catch his breath when the rapids get rough. Sid never dreamed he could have a relationship with someone since his biggest commitment is his disease. Without his permission, Dante slips behind his walls and sees all of his embarrassing weaknesses. Curiously, this only makes their bond stronger. But then everything goes sideways and Sid loses his tentative grip on Dante. Was he wrong after all? Did he fancy him so much that passion misled him and his tender trust was cast aside? Or is fate cruel enough to give him everything he never knew he needed only to whisk it away with the twilight sky as the sole witness? I suppose you’ll just have to find out for yourself. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go eat something green. There is magic in that.
Beware of: Forgiveness is most challenging and most important when it’s hard to lock eyes with the offender and face them…in the mirror. Inner strength doesn’t mean you can’t share a path…or a helping hand. Redemption and salvation go side by side…delivering those who ask and believe.
This book is for: If you’re searching for an emotionally driven story with two imperfect men looking to dig deep and start anew, I’d love for you to meet Sid and Dante. Can I suggest you start with Redemption though? I always find that footsteps are easier to track from the beginning.
Book UNfunk
September 2, 2021
OMG, just OMG.
That's it, I'm not capable of writing an actual review just yet 🤣
***
Right, three days later and I think I can about marshall my thoughts into a coherent review.
Dante Pope. Where to start with Dante Pope. At the end of Redemption I hated him and wanted him to go to Hell in a fiery ball of destruction, even after his one good deed.
But the Dante Pope in this book? OMG he was something else, he's vulnerable, he's desperate to find a sense of peace, he's aching for love because he's never had it, and he's so very much deserving of finding a family who is there for him.
He's complicated, complex and compelling as a character. And I have so many feelings for and about him it's unreal.
This isn't really a redemption story, it's a story of new beginnings, of finding a new way to live and of discovering that when you find your person, they will love you unconditionally, even through all the hard times.
In comparison to the other two in this series, this one is almost angst free when it comes to the road life, there is little threat because Dante has served four years in prison and he's kept his head down and his nose clean.
When he's told he's been found a placement scheme helping as an assistant gardener on a big country estate, it's a relief, something he can do and not have to think about anything other than the feel of soil under his hands.
And like the prison gardens he's been tending inside, his freedom is tied into this growth and development, where he finds more than just the solitude he's become accustomed to.
He also finds Sid. I have so much empathy for Sid, who isn't really coping with his life-changing diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. The degenerative nerve disease has caused havoc and left him unable to do his job properly.
The sparks when they meet are instant. They gravitate to each other, even when both are trying to convince themselves it would be a disaster and that they have nothing to offer.
Dante is utterly convinced he's still an evil man while showing every day that he is actually a gentle soul who was set on his criminal path by the circumstances of life rather than deliberate choice.
Sid is doing everything he can to try and not show the vulnerability his illness has given him, he's frustrated and thinks his body's betrayal means he's not worthy to have a relationship.
This is understandably a slow burn-ish book, but it's not lacking at all. The connection between the two men is palpable and as they each open up to the other, we see how their lives can adapt and move to accommodate even the hardest of circumstances.
I adored everything about this. Even the arrival of Asa Gerrard, who brings the same sense of menace and yet who also carries the same weakness - of love - as Luis, Benito and now Dante have fallen victim to.
Honestly, I could discuss this book for ever, the changes Dante makes to his own life, the way he chooses to make the best of his second chance, the way Sid lives as best as he can with his condition.
If you've not picked up this series, please do, it's absolutely fabulous!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
That's it, I'm not capable of writing an actual review just yet 🤣
***
Right, three days later and I think I can about marshall my thoughts into a coherent review.
Dante Pope. Where to start with Dante Pope. At the end of Redemption I hated him and wanted him to go to Hell in a fiery ball of destruction, even after his one good deed.
But the Dante Pope in this book? OMG he was something else, he's vulnerable, he's desperate to find a sense of peace, he's aching for love because he's never had it, and he's so very much deserving of finding a family who is there for him.
He's complicated, complex and compelling as a character. And I have so many feelings for and about him it's unreal.
This isn't really a redemption story, it's a story of new beginnings, of finding a new way to live and of discovering that when you find your person, they will love you unconditionally, even through all the hard times.
In comparison to the other two in this series, this one is almost angst free when it comes to the road life, there is little threat because Dante has served four years in prison and he's kept his head down and his nose clean.
When he's told he's been found a placement scheme helping as an assistant gardener on a big country estate, it's a relief, something he can do and not have to think about anything other than the feel of soil under his hands.
And like the prison gardens he's been tending inside, his freedom is tied into this growth and development, where he finds more than just the solitude he's become accustomed to.
He also finds Sid. I have so much empathy for Sid, who isn't really coping with his life-changing diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. The degenerative nerve disease has caused havoc and left him unable to do his job properly.
The sparks when they meet are instant. They gravitate to each other, even when both are trying to convince themselves it would be a disaster and that they have nothing to offer.
Dante is utterly convinced he's still an evil man while showing every day that he is actually a gentle soul who was set on his criminal path by the circumstances of life rather than deliberate choice.
Sid is doing everything he can to try and not show the vulnerability his illness has given him, he's frustrated and thinks his body's betrayal means he's not worthy to have a relationship.
This is understandably a slow burn-ish book, but it's not lacking at all. The connection between the two men is palpable and as they each open up to the other, we see how their lives can adapt and move to accommodate even the hardest of circumstances.
I adored everything about this. Even the arrival of Asa Gerrard, who brings the same sense of menace and yet who also carries the same weakness - of love - as Luis, Benito and now Dante have fallen victim to.
Honestly, I could discuss this book for ever, the changes Dante makes to his own life, the way he chooses to make the best of his second chance, the way Sid lives as best as he can with his condition.
If you've not picked up this series, please do, it's absolutely fabulous!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
September 9, 2021
How is this the best book of the series? WHEN IT HAS THE MOST HATED CHARACTER OF THE SERIES?!! 😦😦
I actually know the answer to that one, it's one word: Fucking Sid please have my babies UGH!!!! 😫🥲🥰🥰🥰❤
I mean...
"Sid.
Yup. That would do it. Dante reckoned he could raise a smile from the saddest soul. The moodiest heart. Even the nastiest bastards Dante had ever known, and there’d been lots".
Same Dante, same. 😍🤩
Sid is a grumpy bear, with a heart of gold, a little possessive and stubborn as hell and I LOVED HIS ASS!! He made this funny, sweet, warm and lovely and I just.... uhahhhavsbb!! marry me bitch!!! 🥵🥵
*calms herself* *Clears her throat*
Anyways...
Dante was *whispers* a lucky bastard, ehem... a surprisingly awesome character, his redemption was not really big, like normally the author will show why he did things and then I would go: ahhh, he was fucked up for a reason. In Salvation that happened but I felt the biggest change was just that Dante wanted to be better, for his brother and then for Sid. So it was lovely to see that he was bad, period, the author didn't try to change his past but his future, and all started with his brother getting his own redemption.
I mean look at this!!!
"You have to. He’s your brother. Loving him made the good parts of you, even if you fucked it up in the end. If you hadn’t loved him, you wouldn’t know how to love Sid".
So yeah, this was lovely, I loved the setting and how Sid disease was displayed and how he fought it, how Dante loved him and how... I JUST LOVED THIS SHIT! 😍🤩😍🤩
*Mic drop*
I actually know the answer to that one, it's one word: Fucking Sid please have my babies UGH!!!! 😫🥲🥰🥰🥰❤
I mean...
"Sid.
Yup. That would do it. Dante reckoned he could raise a smile from the saddest soul. The moodiest heart. Even the nastiest bastards Dante had ever known, and there’d been lots".
Same Dante, same. 😍🤩
Sid is a grumpy bear, with a heart of gold, a little possessive and stubborn as hell and I LOVED HIS ASS!! He made this funny, sweet, warm and lovely and I just.... uhahhhavsbb!! marry me bitch!!! 🥵🥵
*calms herself* *Clears her throat*
Anyways...
Dante was *whispers* a lucky bastard, ehem... a surprisingly awesome character, his redemption was not really big, like normally the author will show why he did things and then I would go: ahhh, he was fucked up for a reason. In Salvation that happened but I felt the biggest change was just that Dante wanted to be better, for his brother and then for Sid. So it was lovely to see that he was bad, period, the author didn't try to change his past but his future, and all started with his brother getting his own redemption.
I mean look at this!!!
"You have to. He’s your brother. Loving him made the good parts of you, even if you fucked it up in the end. If you hadn’t loved him, you wouldn’t know how to love Sid".
So yeah, this was lovely, I loved the setting and how Sid disease was displayed and how he fought it, how Dante loved him and how... I JUST LOVED THIS SHIT! 😍🤩😍🤩
*Mic drop*
June 29, 2025
Still and forever 5 stars as as a re-read in June 2025
I’ve lost time of how many times i’ve re-read this book in my life because any time I need a pick me up, I find myself reaching out for these characters and it does the job, each and every time. I just adore this book so much.
_______
5 “I love him, and whatever happens in my life from this point on, I always fucking will” stars
Sid lay back down, and it was Dante’s turn to raise his head. Moonlight bathed the room. Above the lightning bolt tattoo on his face, his eyes seemed to gleam, and his trademark half-smile was almost ethereal. He’s happy. The realisation was a long time coming, but Sid was ready for it. Had Dante found salvation? Sid didn’t know. All he knew for certain was that loving Dante would always be his.
If you want to know how i’m doing, i’m pretty sure the stuffed animal I was holding while reading this book is drowning due to how much I cried while reading the book. This book absolutely shatered me, but I loved it, so much.
In the next few weeks when i’m in a reading slump again and I cannot read anything and i’m asking myself why, please point me to this book. I loved this book so much that I don’t think i’ll be able to get into anything else for a little while, due to how much I will be missing this book. This book had everything I have ever wanted in a book and it was absolutely perfect me.
It’s no secret that I read this entire series just for this book. This book is Dante’s story, which was the evil character in the previous books. The redemption of an evil character is probably my favourite trope of all time. I was so excited for this book and i’m happy to report it was everything I wanted it to be.
This is an accurate representation of what I will look like in the future when I recommend this book to everyone I ever talk to. Because god this book, there wasn't one thing about it that didn't work for me.
Brief Summary
Dante just got out of prison. He developed a passion for gardening while he was in prison so he was placed on a rehabilitation scheme to be a gardener’s assistant when he gets out of prison. He was arrested for drug possesion and he used to be a gang leader and a drug dealer. He was very evil and manipulated his brother into doing bad things for him and hurt his brother, a lot. He’s trying to do better and get his life back to a better place. Dante is Sid’s assistant at the gardening company. Sid loves his job but he needs an assistant because he has multiple sclerosis and there is some things he cannot do anymore. They end up falling in love over small acts of kindness they do for the other.
First, I’m pretty sure I could write an entire novel just explaining how much I love Dante. He was shown to us in the previous books in this series as this evil force who didn’t care about anyone. But the Dante we get in this book is broken and he just wants someone to unconditionaly love him because he never had that. Dante was so lost and he didn’t know how to start living again. I liked that Dante was aware that he wasn’t the best person in the past and then he tried his hardest to become a better person. Dante really hated himself for what he did and thought he was evil and that there was no coming back from it. I really loved how a big part of the book was Dante learning to forgive himself. I felt for Dante so much and while I strongly disliked him in the previous books in this series, all I wanted for him in this book was to heal from his traumas and find his happy ever after. There was atleast 17381638 times while reading this book while all I wanted was to hug Dante.
Second, I absolutely adored Sid. Everything about him, his strenght, his happiness, the fact that was sunshine personified even on his bad days. He was such a good love interest for Dante and I never could have imagine someone better suited for Dante than Sid was.
Third, I liked that the angst in this book didn’t often come from gang related drama like in the previous two books in this series. Most of this angst in this book came from Dante and who he is as a person and him ajusting to his new life and that really worked for me, because I much prefer when my angst comes from characters and their lives and not outside sources.
Fourth, there is a side plot in this book and normally I don’t really like side plots but I liked that the one in this book wasn’t too present and didn’t take too much pages of the book. The book was still mostly relationship focused so I didn’t mind the side plot at all.
Fifth, the hurt/comfort in this book was absolutely immaculate. I loved how Sid and Dante always took care of each other. I absolutely adored how Sid accepted Dante like he was and he never judged him for his past. I loved how Sid was always hyping Dante up and telling him he wasn’t an awful human being. It was what Dante needed to be able to start healing and it was so lovely to see. I loved how Dante always observed Sid and took in the clues of how Sid was feeling so he could give Sid what he needs, it was so sweet. I loved Dante taking care of Sid during his MS relapses. I loved how Sid knew Dante and he trusted him through it all. I just adored how Sid never doubted Dante and how he loved him for who he is.
Sixth, Dante gets out of prison at the start of the book and I loved seeing him ajust to the world and how so many things scared him and how it took him a while to feel comfortable outside of prison. For example, he kept taking pictures of all the pretty flowers where he lived because he wanted to remember them and it was the sweetest thing ever.
Seventh, I don’t have multiple sclerosis so i’m not the best authority on the matter but the way it was done here felt very relastic to what I know about it. I really liked how the descriptions were done, they were very vivid and I liked that it was a big part of Sid’s life because thats how it would realistically be. I liked that we got to see Sid’s relapses and him not doing well instead of just seeing his better days.
Eight, Dante has PTSD and those description felt very well done to me. I loved how he had frequent flashbacks and would zone out during certain events because they reminded him of the traumatic event he lived.
Ninth, I’m not the biggest fan of characters keeping a secret from their partner and Dante kept something from Sid but the reason why was made clear by the book and I could understand why he did it so much that it never actually bothered me. It was really easy for me to understand why he didn’t want to tell Sid everything about his life in the gang and it made sense to me. Do I wish he didn’t keep that secret? Of course, but i’m not holding it against him, he had his reasons to do it and they made sense to me, enough that I forgive him for doing it in the first place.
This book has found its place in my top 3 books of the year and it will very hard for another book to take its place.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I’ve lost time of how many times i’ve re-read this book in my life because any time I need a pick me up, I find myself reaching out for these characters and it does the job, each and every time. I just adore this book so much.
_______
5 “I love him, and whatever happens in my life from this point on, I always fucking will” stars
Sid lay back down, and it was Dante’s turn to raise his head. Moonlight bathed the room. Above the lightning bolt tattoo on his face, his eyes seemed to gleam, and his trademark half-smile was almost ethereal. He’s happy. The realisation was a long time coming, but Sid was ready for it. Had Dante found salvation? Sid didn’t know. All he knew for certain was that loving Dante would always be his.
If you want to know how i’m doing, i’m pretty sure the stuffed animal I was holding while reading this book is drowning due to how much I cried while reading the book. This book absolutely shatered me, but I loved it, so much.
In the next few weeks when i’m in a reading slump again and I cannot read anything and i’m asking myself why, please point me to this book. I loved this book so much that I don’t think i’ll be able to get into anything else for a little while, due to how much I will be missing this book. This book had everything I have ever wanted in a book and it was absolutely perfect me.
It’s no secret that I read this entire series just for this book. This book is Dante’s story, which was the evil character in the previous books. The redemption of an evil character is probably my favourite trope of all time. I was so excited for this book and i’m happy to report it was everything I wanted it to be.
This is an accurate representation of what I will look like in the future when I recommend this book to everyone I ever talk to. Because god this book, there wasn't one thing about it that didn't work for me.
Brief Summary
Dante just got out of prison. He developed a passion for gardening while he was in prison so he was placed on a rehabilitation scheme to be a gardener’s assistant when he gets out of prison. He was arrested for drug possesion and he used to be a gang leader and a drug dealer. He was very evil and manipulated his brother into doing bad things for him and hurt his brother, a lot. He’s trying to do better and get his life back to a better place. Dante is Sid’s assistant at the gardening company. Sid loves his job but he needs an assistant because he has multiple sclerosis and there is some things he cannot do anymore. They end up falling in love over small acts of kindness they do for the other.
First, I’m pretty sure I could write an entire novel just explaining how much I love Dante. He was shown to us in the previous books in this series as this evil force who didn’t care about anyone. But the Dante we get in this book is broken and he just wants someone to unconditionaly love him because he never had that. Dante was so lost and he didn’t know how to start living again. I liked that Dante was aware that he wasn’t the best person in the past and then he tried his hardest to become a better person. Dante really hated himself for what he did and thought he was evil and that there was no coming back from it. I really loved how a big part of the book was Dante learning to forgive himself. I felt for Dante so much and while I strongly disliked him in the previous books in this series, all I wanted for him in this book was to heal from his traumas and find his happy ever after. There was atleast 17381638 times while reading this book while all I wanted was to hug Dante.
Second, I absolutely adored Sid. Everything about him, his strenght, his happiness, the fact that was sunshine personified even on his bad days. He was such a good love interest for Dante and I never could have imagine someone better suited for Dante than Sid was.
Third, I liked that the angst in this book didn’t often come from gang related drama like in the previous two books in this series. Most of this angst in this book came from Dante and who he is as a person and him ajusting to his new life and that really worked for me, because I much prefer when my angst comes from characters and their lives and not outside sources.
Fourth, there is a side plot in this book and normally I don’t really like side plots but I liked that the one in this book wasn’t too present and didn’t take too much pages of the book. The book was still mostly relationship focused so I didn’t mind the side plot at all.
Fifth, the hurt/comfort in this book was absolutely immaculate. I loved how Sid and Dante always took care of each other. I absolutely adored how Sid accepted Dante like he was and he never judged him for his past. I loved how Sid was always hyping Dante up and telling him he wasn’t an awful human being. It was what Dante needed to be able to start healing and it was so lovely to see. I loved how Dante always observed Sid and took in the clues of how Sid was feeling so he could give Sid what he needs, it was so sweet. I loved Dante taking care of Sid during his MS relapses. I loved how Sid knew Dante and he trusted him through it all. I just adored how Sid never doubted Dante and how he loved him for who he is.
Sixth, Dante gets out of prison at the start of the book and I loved seeing him ajust to the world and how so many things scared him and how it took him a while to feel comfortable outside of prison. For example, he kept taking pictures of all the pretty flowers where he lived because he wanted to remember them and it was the sweetest thing ever.
Seventh, I don’t have multiple sclerosis so i’m not the best authority on the matter but the way it was done here felt very relastic to what I know about it. I really liked how the descriptions were done, they were very vivid and I liked that it was a big part of Sid’s life because thats how it would realistically be. I liked that we got to see Sid’s relapses and him not doing well instead of just seeing his better days.
Eight, Dante has PTSD and those description felt very well done to me. I loved how he had frequent flashbacks and would zone out during certain events because they reminded him of the traumatic event he lived.
Ninth, I’m not the biggest fan of characters keeping a secret from their partner and Dante kept something from Sid but the reason why was made clear by the book and I could understand why he did it so much that it never actually bothered me. It was really easy for me to understand why he didn’t want to tell Sid everything about his life in the gang and it made sense to me. Do I wish he didn’t keep that secret? Of course, but i’m not holding it against him, he had his reasons to do it and they made sense to me, enough that I forgive him for doing it in the first place.
This book has found its place in my top 3 books of the year and it will very hard for another book to take its place.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
September 11, 2021
**** 4.5 stars ****
To whom it may concern, GL redeemed Dante Pope. 🤯
Absolutely loved both character's vulnerability, and how well and real she crafted them.
And I can only wish Dante and Sid all the best because I truly believe they belong together.
I think this was my favourite.
To whom it may concern, GL redeemed Dante Pope. 🤯
Absolutely loved both character's vulnerability, and how well and real she crafted them.
And I can only wish Dante and Sid all the best because I truly believe they belong together.
I think this was my favourite.
November 7, 2021
***4.5 - 5 Stars***
I swear this author has some maaaaad skills! It's pretty rare for me that I fall in love with such a certified a**hole that was Dante Pope. But she once again reminded me that everyone deserves a second chance. And Sid? Damn, that man pulled at my maternal instinct something fierce. 😅
I'm a bit emotionally drained and outsuffered after so much roughness, but after piecing my heart back together, I'll be back to get some much needed holiday feelz. 😉
I swear this author has some maaaaad skills! It's pretty rare for me that I fall in love with such a certified a**hole that was Dante Pope. But she once again reminded me that everyone deserves a second chance. And Sid? Damn, that man pulled at my maternal instinct something fierce. 😅
I'm a bit emotionally drained and outsuffered after so much roughness, but after piecing my heart back together, I'll be back to get some much needed holiday feelz. 😉
October 27, 2021
I really enjoyed the first two books, but this was my favourite.
Redeeming Dante seemed an impossible job (he was after all an evil a****** in the first book), but Garrett Leigh managed it with aplomb.
I have no idea if there are men like Dante in real life who eventually ‘see the light’, realize their wrong-doings and who genuinely want to be better, more honest, more caring, but I sincerely hope so.
It was agonizing watching him struggle with his self-confidence, his lack of self-belief and low expectations of life. Brilliantly written!
Just as well that Sid sees the man that Dante is under his indifferent shell. He doesn’t care what Dante was or did in the past, but takes stock of the man he sees NOW, and that is enough for him.
I loved Sid, his grumpiness, his sensitivity, the way he copes with his debilitating disease (which, btw, is very well and accurately described) and how he opens his heart to Dante.
There may be a teeny bit of insta-everything to start with, but the relationship development is slow, captivating and gorgeous. Both men need each other in exactly the way they are. And it’s sheer joy watching them unfold and find a happiness neither would have dared to hope for.
Fabulous book!
Highly recommended!
Redeeming Dante seemed an impossible job (he was after all an evil a****** in the first book), but Garrett Leigh managed it with aplomb.
I have no idea if there are men like Dante in real life who eventually ‘see the light’, realize their wrong-doings and who genuinely want to be better, more honest, more caring, but I sincerely hope so.
It was agonizing watching him struggle with his self-confidence, his lack of self-belief and low expectations of life. Brilliantly written!
Just as well that Sid sees the man that Dante is under his indifferent shell. He doesn’t care what Dante was or did in the past, but takes stock of the man he sees NOW, and that is enough for him.
I loved Sid, his grumpiness, his sensitivity, the way he copes with his debilitating disease (which, btw, is very well and accurately described) and how he opens his heart to Dante.
There may be a teeny bit of insta-everything to start with, but the relationship development is slow, captivating and gorgeous. Both men need each other in exactly the way they are. And it’s sheer joy watching them unfold and find a happiness neither would have dared to hope for.
Fabulous book!
Highly recommended!
September 6, 2021
THIS is how you redeem a character. When I read Luis's book never in a million years did I think I would ever end up liking Dante. And I don't like him, I freaking love him! If ever a character earned his happy it's Dante.
Dante and Sid have a special place in my heart.
Loved it! 4.5 stars
Dante and Sid have a special place in my heart.
Loved it! 4.5 stars
December 3, 2021
Audio - 4 Stars
Story - 4.25 Stars
Story - 4.25 Stars
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September 5, 2021
I never thought the author could write a book about Dante and make me love him. I should have known better.
So, this book is about Dante Pope. A character we already met in Redemption and Deliverance, the first and second book in this Darkest skies series. He was not a likable person there. In fact, I hated him. He made his brother Luis do time, and even when he got out and made clear he wanted out of the road life that got him in prison, Dante wouldn't let him. He tried to manipulate Luis to do as he wanted without caring for his brother's wants and needs. Dante was this cold, manipulative, selfish man who was incapable of caring, let alone loving, someone. I hated what he did to Luis and Paolo. I hated how he used people just to satisfy his own ego. And then I learned Dante got his own book, and really, can you blame someone for being skeptical, knowing for what he did and how he acted? But I had not counted on Garrett Leigh's sublime ability to rehabilitate him. To make me not only care for him, but end up LOVING him. I loved this bastard, I felt for him. Damn. How did she do that?!
The story takes us on a journey when Dante leaves prison after doing half the time he was sentenced to do. He goes to work in the gardens of a manor, where Sid will be his supervisor. When these two men meet, there's an immediate connection. Although his struggles are nothing like Dante's, Sid has his own demons to fight, and maybe that's what both men recognize in one another. All the hurdles life throws at them, the daily fight to keep standing, to survive.
There's friendship, but there's also more - an attraction they both can't resist, despite the fact Dante tries to tell Sid what a bad bet he is. Over and over again, he tells Sid not to have too much faith in him, because he is not worth it. He's a bad guy, he's done awful things in his past, not in the least to his own brother. But I loved how Sid was capable of seeing the new Dante, the changed version of this man who struggled to accept he actually did change, that it was possible for him to become a better person. I loved how Dante took care of Sid, how he seemed to be the only one to know what Sid needed and how to give that to him. How his selfishness evaporated because he put Sid's needs first before his own. And Sid saw all these good sides in him. I loved how they slowly learned to trust each other. I loved how Dante slowly experienced he was capable of loving someone, just accepting he could.
Then Sid's hands were warm on his shoulders, and his breath feathered Dante's ear. "You're not a sorry sack of shit, and I want you too. I just don't want you to do something for the wrong reasons. Trust me, I've been there, and whatever abyss you're searching for, when you find it, it's never deep enough."
Dante turned to face Sid. "I do trust you. Maybe it's you who doesn't trust me, and I don't blame you for that. I just - fuck." He shook his head, exhausted by the push and pull that had flared between them since they'd met. "I want you, and that's not going to change, whatever psychological bullshit reason you think up for us not to do this."
So, this book is about Dante Pope. A character we already met in Redemption and Deliverance, the first and second book in this Darkest skies series. He was not a likable person there. In fact, I hated him. He made his brother Luis do time, and even when he got out and made clear he wanted out of the road life that got him in prison, Dante wouldn't let him. He tried to manipulate Luis to do as he wanted without caring for his brother's wants and needs. Dante was this cold, manipulative, selfish man who was incapable of caring, let alone loving, someone. I hated what he did to Luis and Paolo. I hated how he used people just to satisfy his own ego. And then I learned Dante got his own book, and really, can you blame someone for being skeptical, knowing for what he did and how he acted? But I had not counted on Garrett Leigh's sublime ability to rehabilitate him. To make me not only care for him, but end up LOVING him. I loved this bastard, I felt for him. Damn. How did she do that?!
The story takes us on a journey when Dante leaves prison after doing half the time he was sentenced to do. He goes to work in the gardens of a manor, where Sid will be his supervisor. When these two men meet, there's an immediate connection. Although his struggles are nothing like Dante's, Sid has his own demons to fight, and maybe that's what both men recognize in one another. All the hurdles life throws at them, the daily fight to keep standing, to survive.
There's friendship, but there's also more - an attraction they both can't resist, despite the fact Dante tries to tell Sid what a bad bet he is. Over and over again, he tells Sid not to have too much faith in him, because he is not worth it. He's a bad guy, he's done awful things in his past, not in the least to his own brother. But I loved how Sid was capable of seeing the new Dante, the changed version of this man who struggled to accept he actually did change, that it was possible for him to become a better person. I loved how Dante took care of Sid, how he seemed to be the only one to know what Sid needed and how to give that to him. How his selfishness evaporated because he put Sid's needs first before his own. And Sid saw all these good sides in him. I loved how they slowly learned to trust each other. I loved how Dante slowly experienced he was capable of loving someone, just accepting he could.
Then Sid's hands were warm on his shoulders, and his breath feathered Dante's ear. "You're not a sorry sack of shit, and I want you too. I just don't want you to do something for the wrong reasons. Trust me, I've been there, and whatever abyss you're searching for, when you find it, it's never deep enough."
Dante turned to face Sid. "I do trust you. Maybe it's you who doesn't trust me, and I don't blame you for that. I just - fuck." He shook his head, exhausted by the push and pull that had flared between them since they'd met. "I want you, and that's not going to change, whatever psychological bullshit reason you think up for us not to do this."
If there ever was a redemption story, where the antagonist turned protagonist and it feels genuine and real, this is that story. I mean, the way Garrett Leigh does character development is excellent. How could she otherwise make me fall for Dante so hard after hating him so much?! That's all due to her sublime writing. And it's not to make excuses, because that's the last thing Dante would do himself, but he did have a shitty life before. He was dealt some shitty cards. All he wanted was to do right to his mother, who manipulated him into road life without him realizing she wasn't honest with him. And once he was there, it was all he had. His mother left him and Luis, and then road life was all he knew, the only way to survive. Yes, he turned into this cold mf-er, but he wouldn't have survived if he had ever allowed his heart to be involved. That's what it was: survival. And now he found Sid, and he finally could let go. He finally could allow himself to feel. If the bad ghosts of his past would leave him alone, and he was afraid they wouldn't.
Sid used his leg to haul himself upright, landing so far into Dante's personal space it was almost funny. "Who's Paolo?"
Wariness danced in Dante's eyes. "My brother's boyfriend. He hates me too. More, probably."
"I have evidence that says he doesn't." Sid held up the short note. "He's left you his number and told you to call him if you need anything. Why would he do that if he hated you?"
Dante blinked and took the note back. A tremor shook his fingers as his gaze darted rapidly over the page. "I don't know why he'd do that. I haven't seen him in years."
"He loves your brother, though, right?"
"Yeah," Dante choked out. "Like, so fucking much. And Luis loves him the same. They'd die for each other."
"That's nice."
"Is it?"
"I think so." Sid laid a cautious hand on Dante's forearm and rubbed the warm skin he found there. "If it makes him happy."
"It makes Luis happy. I can't tell with Paolo. Last time I saw him he wanted to set me on fire."
A faint smile played on Dante's lips.
He likes Paolo.
But there was sadness too. And so much self loathing Sid could taste it in the weighted air between them.
Sid is struggling with MS, a terrible disease that has changed him and the way he lived his life. I don't know a lot about the disease, but the way Garrett Leigh describes Sid's daily fights with his own body, makes it feel so very real and genuine. I admire her for not shying away from difficult topics.
And the way she describes how road life must have been. That's one thing I love about her books too: her perfectly researched topics that make all her story's feel very real.
So yes, it turns out I fell in love with Dante Pope. And with Sid. With them as a couple. They were just perfect for each other. A love that was meant to be. And it's been a few days since I stopped reading their story, and still they linger in my mind. I think this might even be my favorite book in this series.
I highly recommend the Darkest Skies series. Those books are totally worth your time.
You won't regret reading them.
I was kindly given an ARC by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest, true and voluntary review
August 10, 2021
someone gave this 3* and it's not out yet, so I gave it 5* because I hate people rating before release and dragging shit down, and before anyone says they might have had an ARC -- the author literally just finished writing it like yesterday. So no, no they don't.
June 9, 2022
“Dante Pope was a beautiful soul, but a complex one. Fragile when he thought no one was looking, not even Sid, and made of stone when he thought the whole world was against him.”
This is such a beautiful story of redemption. It’s an angsty slow burn and one of the best hurt/comfort romances I’ve ever read. Dante, a reformed gang boss recently released from prison, suffers from PTSD. And Sid, the grumpy head gardener where Dante has secured a job, has multiple sclerosis.
Neither man considers himself worthy of love, but they feel a strong undeniable attraction. Dante is full of self-loathing and guilt. To really appreciate what a ruthless bastard he was and his epic redemption arc, you must read the previous books in the series. And Sid can’t imagine anyone wanting to deal with his debilitating condition and compromised sexual performance.
They’re both grumpy men who don’t talk much, especially Dante who survived on the streets by his ability to read and manipulate people. But he’s worked hard on himself through therapy and gardening. Caring for someone is something new for him and Sid is the first person whose happiness he cares about. Sid is determined to give Dante a second chance. He can’t help trusting Dante despite Dante’s own insistence that he’s no good. The sex scenes are emotional as they adapt and work through Sid’s limitations.
“I don’t believe you’re evil.”
Dante’s answering smile was as empty as his eyes. “Then you don’t know me.”
This time he did walk away, leaving Sid with a pounding heart and tingling hands that had nothing to do with lesions on his brain and everything to do with a spell Dante Pope had cast on him.”
This is such a beautiful story of redemption. It’s an angsty slow burn and one of the best hurt/comfort romances I’ve ever read. Dante, a reformed gang boss recently released from prison, suffers from PTSD. And Sid, the grumpy head gardener where Dante has secured a job, has multiple sclerosis.
Neither man considers himself worthy of love, but they feel a strong undeniable attraction. Dante is full of self-loathing and guilt. To really appreciate what a ruthless bastard he was and his epic redemption arc, you must read the previous books in the series. And Sid can’t imagine anyone wanting to deal with his debilitating condition and compromised sexual performance.
They’re both grumpy men who don’t talk much, especially Dante who survived on the streets by his ability to read and manipulate people. But he’s worked hard on himself through therapy and gardening. Caring for someone is something new for him and Sid is the first person whose happiness he cares about. Sid is determined to give Dante a second chance. He can’t help trusting Dante despite Dante’s own insistence that he’s no good. The sex scenes are emotional as they adapt and work through Sid’s limitations.
“I don’t believe you’re evil.”
Dante’s answering smile was as empty as his eyes. “Then you don’t know me.”
This time he did walk away, leaving Sid with a pounding heart and tingling hands that had nothing to do with lesions on his brain and everything to do with a spell Dante Pope had cast on him.”
August 17, 2021
I took time to think about this review before writing it, partly because writing the review means the book is over for now and I'm still not ready to let go of Dante and Sid.
I also adored the first two books in this series. These guys stole my heart, and I know I'll reread them. You could read this book as a standalone, but it wouldn't have the same impact. Dante Pope is not a nice guy in the first two books, and while I can tell you that and you can glean that information from this book, you really need to experience his downfall to truly appreciate his salvation. Plus, they're excellent books, so it's not a hardship at all, assuming you enjoy gritty, angsty (in the true sense of the word), emotional stories with nuanced and flawed characters. This book is all that and more.
Garrett Leigh created - channeled? I'm kind of convinced authors are mediums - the perfect man for Dante, who has gotten his comeuppance in prison and now just wants to get along with his life, work with plants and, surprisingly to him, be with Sid. Sid just wants to get along, work with plants, pretend that his body isn't betraying him, and surprisingly to him, be with Dante.
They get there eventually but the journey is warm, sexy and funny, yet achingly poignant. And that's really what life's about isn't it? The warm, funny, sexy, achingly poignant journey?
I also adored the first two books in this series. These guys stole my heart, and I know I'll reread them. You could read this book as a standalone, but it wouldn't have the same impact. Dante Pope is not a nice guy in the first two books, and while I can tell you that and you can glean that information from this book, you really need to experience his downfall to truly appreciate his salvation. Plus, they're excellent books, so it's not a hardship at all, assuming you enjoy gritty, angsty (in the true sense of the word), emotional stories with nuanced and flawed characters. This book is all that and more.
Garrett Leigh created - channeled? I'm kind of convinced authors are mediums - the perfect man for Dante, who has gotten his comeuppance in prison and now just wants to get along with his life, work with plants and, surprisingly to him, be with Sid. Sid just wants to get along, work with plants, pretend that his body isn't betraying him, and surprisingly to him, be with Dante.
They get there eventually but the journey is warm, sexy and funny, yet achingly poignant. And that's really what life's about isn't it? The warm, funny, sexy, achingly poignant journey?
December 5, 2021
Garrett Leigh always writes such lovely hurt/comfort romances, and Dante and Sid are candidates for some seriously overdue happily ever after. It's fabulous watching these two dance around each other till they finally give up and dive into bed. Of course, their chemistry is smoking hot and Leigh writes gorgeous sex scenes... beautifully performed by Dan Calley.
Salvation can be read (or listened to) as a standalone.
an audiobook copy of Salvation was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
Salvation can be read (or listened to) as a standalone.
an audiobook copy of Salvation was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
February 2, 2023
Wow, I ... have a lot of feelings about this book. Sid and Dante are just spectacular. They should not work, in any circumstances... and yet together they're like a super nova 😍
It blows me away when this happens - that Dante, the guy you hate most in a series, becomes the one you root for the most, whose layers are peeled back like an onion and you realize there's a beautiful person under all that rage and pain and fear. I love me a good anti-hero, I really do. Some people's lives are a wild tangle of barbed wire and seeing them find a truly new beginning that leads to healing and peace and profound love is really a beautiful thing. It takes real skill to write a character in such a way that they are redeemable without having their past white-washed.
Sid snorted and gave into the urge to drift to Dante's side. "There's nothing chill about being lonely as fuck. It's horrible, and being around you makes me feel like I'm living again." Dante slid his hands over Sid's hips, reeling him in. "I don't understand how someone as vibrant as you needs a fuck-up like me to feel alive." "So? You don't need to understand everything. Just let it happen."
Sid's story is tough. I'm an RN and also have a brother-in-law with MS... I know all too well what MS can do to a person and I feel like Leigh did a GREAT job of showing us just how profound and unique of an impact that disease can have on someone's whole being, their sense of self, etc. There was no shying away from the difficult parts... and somehow the way that Dante fit into Sid's life as a caring, understanding, and accepting partner was really incredible.
Sid brings light into Dante's very dark world... and Dante fill's all of Sid's empty spaces.
TL;DR: A beautiful story with complex and authentic characters, realistic and passionate sex, and true romance you can really feel. My favorite in the series.
It blows me away when this happens - that Dante, the guy you hate most in a series, becomes the one you root for the most, whose layers are peeled back like an onion and you realize there's a beautiful person under all that rage and pain and fear. I love me a good anti-hero, I really do. Some people's lives are a wild tangle of barbed wire and seeing them find a truly new beginning that leads to healing and peace and profound love is really a beautiful thing. It takes real skill to write a character in such a way that they are redeemable without having their past white-washed.
Sid snorted and gave into the urge to drift to Dante's side. "There's nothing chill about being lonely as fuck. It's horrible, and being around you makes me feel like I'm living again." Dante slid his hands over Sid's hips, reeling him in. "I don't understand how someone as vibrant as you needs a fuck-up like me to feel alive." "So? You don't need to understand everything. Just let it happen."
Sid's story is tough. I'm an RN and also have a brother-in-law with MS... I know all too well what MS can do to a person and I feel like Leigh did a GREAT job of showing us just how profound and unique of an impact that disease can have on someone's whole being, their sense of self, etc. There was no shying away from the difficult parts... and somehow the way that Dante fit into Sid's life as a caring, understanding, and accepting partner was really incredible.
Sid brings light into Dante's very dark world... and Dante fill's all of Sid's empty spaces.
TL;DR: A beautiful story with complex and authentic characters, realistic and passionate sex, and true romance you can really feel. My favorite in the series.
September 11, 2021
*3.5 stars*
September 13, 2021
Unexpected in the Best way
I'm at a loss for words because with how malicious Dante was in Luis' book, I did not know what to expect from his book. I'm however exceedingly happy with how it panned out.
He being paired with Sid was perfection because both men were far from perfect. I know that sentence was confusing but trust me, read this book and you'll know exactly what I'm talking about.
I'll Re-read the series and write a more thorough review but this small review is to let you know to READ THIS BOOK and if you've not read the series, READ THIS SERIES.
You will NOT regret it.
I'm at a loss for words because with how malicious Dante was in Luis' book, I did not know what to expect from his book. I'm however exceedingly happy with how it panned out.
He being paired with Sid was perfection because both men were far from perfect. I know that sentence was confusing but trust me, read this book and you'll know exactly what I'm talking about.
I'll Re-read the series and write a more thorough review but this small review is to let you know to READ THIS BOOK and if you've not read the series, READ THIS SERIES.
You will NOT regret it.
June 16, 2022
The character I hated most became the most loved!!!
Dante and Sid ❤️❤️
Dante and Sid ❤️❤️
December 8, 2021
Great end to the trilogy! I'm just sorry that being so very stupidly busy at the moment, prevents me from writing proper reviews of the novels I've been reading
July 13, 2021
DANTE, DANTE, DANTE . . . oh boy, what a man ❤
In Salvation, we see Dante; the antagonist of book 1 and Luis' brother from Redemption (Book 1), after he got out of prison after he was arrested in book 1. Dante has made a lot of mistakes, and wasn't a good person, or rather, didn't act like a good person before. But prison changes him. As part of his probation, he end up working at an estate in the gardens, helping out the gardener; Sid.
Sid, who's 28 years old, has been living with a chronic illness for the past few years that has made his life a bit more difficult, and his job harder to do.
I loved this book ! I had a smile on my face all the time whilst reading. Dante and Sid had so much chemistry, and they cared for each other so much. I loved how much they communicated, and how they showed their care for each other through little things constantly, and how they were always aware of each other.
Dante is the sweetest ever. I fell in love with him. He didn't act nice while he was on the streets, and we see that in book 1 especially. He was like a caricature, and he seemed heartless through his actions towards his little brother in Redemption. But in this book, we see how vulnerable and nice and sweet and how much he actually love his brother.
Sid, blond, blue eyed Sid, is also very sweet, and quite optimistic for a person who's living with so much pain. He's immediately smitten with Dante, and vice versa. I loved seeing their interactions, i loved their talks, when they bantered, and when they reassured each other, whenever they were there for each other, seeing how much they respected each other
. . . i could go on all day about them !
Read this book ! you'' be doing yourself a huge favour because . . .wow !
I received this ARC from GRR in exchange for an honest review.
In Salvation, we see Dante; the antagonist of book 1 and Luis' brother from Redemption (Book 1), after he got out of prison after he was arrested in book 1. Dante has made a lot of mistakes, and wasn't a good person, or rather, didn't act like a good person before. But prison changes him. As part of his probation, he end up working at an estate in the gardens, helping out the gardener; Sid.
Sid, who's 28 years old, has been living with a chronic illness for the past few years that has made his life a bit more difficult, and his job harder to do.
I loved this book ! I had a smile on my face all the time whilst reading. Dante and Sid had so much chemistry, and they cared for each other so much. I loved how much they communicated, and how they showed their care for each other through little things constantly, and how they were always aware of each other.
Dante is the sweetest ever. I fell in love with him. He didn't act nice while he was on the streets, and we see that in book 1 especially. He was like a caricature, and he seemed heartless through his actions towards his little brother in Redemption. But in this book, we see how vulnerable and nice and sweet and how much he actually love his brother.
Sid, blond, blue eyed Sid, is also very sweet, and quite optimistic for a person who's living with so much pain. He's immediately smitten with Dante, and vice versa. I loved seeing their interactions, i loved their talks, when they bantered, and when they reassured each other, whenever they were there for each other, seeing how much they respected each other
. . . i could go on all day about them !
Read this book ! you'' be doing yourself a huge favour because . . .wow !
I received this ARC from GRR in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2023
I am so glad Dante got a redemption story because he really intrigued me in book one and I needed to see what happened for him.
Dante and Sid just fit together so well and it was actually nice for this book to move away from the gang life to focusing on character rehabilitation.
All honesty, I could have easily rated this five stars if the whole bit with Asa hadn't happened. For me it felt like there was already enough internal and external conflict going on without adding that to the mix too. I just felt like they'd been through enough already I guess!
I've really enjoyed this series and I'm definitely going to miss Dante and Luis Pope.
Dante and Sid just fit together so well and it was actually nice for this book to move away from the gang life to focusing on character rehabilitation.
All honesty, I could have easily rated this five stars if the whole bit with Asa hadn't happened. For me it felt like there was already enough internal and external conflict going on without adding that to the mix too. I just felt like they'd been through enough already I guess!
I've really enjoyed this series and I'm definitely going to miss Dante and Luis Pope.
September 23, 2021
I had some issues with this book. Was looking forward to witnessing Dante’s transformation but truly this was not the case here. I hated him in book #1, he was a monster who acted like he totally hated his brother and I wanted to watch him change since I love a bad boy turning good but the truth is that he already got out of prison a different man.
Not a shred of that hideous man was at site, only a good person with a bad past, trying with everything he got to separate this two individuals. I was robbed!!! Take that with a very insta love and you might understand why I’m slightly disappointed.
Not a shred of that hideous man was at site, only a good person with a bad past, trying with everything he got to separate this two individuals. I was robbed!!! Take that with a very insta love and you might understand why I’m slightly disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2021
Oh Dante, my heart 💔❤😍😭😍🥰
September 7, 2021
- 2.5 -
Both characters were really interesting, but for some reason the story never managed to pull me in.
I think there were too many mental monologues, it lost my interest halfway through.
Both characters were really interesting, but for some reason the story never managed to pull me in.
I think there were too many mental monologues, it lost my interest halfway through.
July 22, 2021
4,5/5
Garrett Leigh a fait un pari risqué en nous offrant l'histoire de Dante. On entrevoit une petite lueur d'espoir à la fin de « Deliverance », comme quoi il reste, malgré tout, du bon en lui... J'avais hâte de découvrir son histoire, de le connaître tout simplement.
Je ne sais pas si mon avis, mes impressions, sont biaisés. Car j'adore cette série, j'adore les personnages et j'adore l'écriture de Garrett Leigh, en particulier dans ce genre d'histoire, les histoires de rédemption et de reconstruction. Ce n'est donc pas un secret, car même s'il est vrai que j'avais une certaine appréhension avant de lire ce roman, je l'ai tout simplement adoré. J'avais aussi peur de lire un roman de cet auteur en ce moment, car j'ai besoin de tout sauf de lectures difficiles dans le sens tragique ou souffrance, et de ne pas l'apprécier à sa juste valeur.
Dante Pope est le frère de Luis Pope. On le connaît donc par l'intermédiaire de son frère et dans quoi il trempait avant...avant son incarcération. Et pour avoir croisé son chemin, il est vrai qu'il fait froid dans le dos. Après quatre années passées en prison, Dante Pope sort sous approbation. Il va devoir effectuer des travaux de jardinage dans une demeure, au côté de Sid, un homme dont la santé fragile nécessite un peu d'aide.
S'il est vrai que Sid flashe sur la beauté de l'ancien taulard très vite, c'est une belle relation de complicité, une belle amitié, qui va naître entre les deux personnages.
J'ai adoré Sid, c'est un homme tellement intelligent, qui d'emblée va donner une chance à Dante. Il va voir au-delà de ce que les gens voient et même au-delà de ce que Dante voit et pense de lui-même. J'ai aimé aussi la façon dont l'auteur a abordé la maladie de Sid, c'est le genre de chose qu'elle maîtrise, car elle fait avec tact, en ne masquant jamais la réalité, elle la présente telle qu'elle est, à savoir dure. Elle l'a fait avec Sid... et j'ai aimé aussi qu'il n'y ait pas de drama inutile comme on peut le voir dans ce genre d'histoire, ces deux hommes sont matures et savent ce qu'ils veulent dans la vie, même si la petite interrogation se pose, elle n'handicape pas Sid et ne freine pas Dante.
Les années ont passé et Dante sait qu'il a fait du mal autour du lui, à sa famille, à son frère sa seule famille. La manière dont la relation entre Sid et Dante se tisse est superbe. J'ai aimé chacune de leurs interactions, chaque dialogue, qui ont à chaque fois leur sens et leur but. Je ne pensais pas voir Dante si compréhensif envers Sid et sa maladie, mais c'est là qu'on voit que c'est aussi quelqu'un d'intelligent, qui comprend vite et bien, sans préjugés. J'ai aimé sa prévenance envers lui, à vouloir l'aider... Ce travail finira par être bien plus qu'un simple travail...
Je pourrais écrire des lignes et des lignes sur Dante et Sid... J'ai tellement aimé ces personnages. Dante m'a surprise mais je savais que c'était un homme bon, malgré ses choix. Et je pense que ces années passées en prison, ses actions l'ont malgré tout conduit à Sid, au côté duquel il a trouvé ce dont il cherchait, ce dont il avait besoin, son chez-lui, son salut. Garrett Leigh a réussi à me faire aimer un personnage détestable, même si elle avait déjà placé la petite lueur en fin de tome précédent. Cette lueur s'est agrandit auprès de Sid, doucement mais sûrement, et je ne pouvais qu'en ressortir fière de lui, malgré tout, en comprenant là d'où il vient, sans oublier pour autant ce dont il a fait, mais en pensant surtout à ce qu'il est capable de faire aujourd'hui.
Encore une fois, la façon qu'a eu l'auteur de relier Dante à Luis ou Paolo était chouette, naturelle aussi. Le petit message envoyé par Dante dans lequel il fait une demande particulière, était adorable. C'était une petite chose anodine qui représente aussi tellement pour Dante déjà, ce premier contact, mais aussi ce dont il cherchait à faire pour Sid. J'attendais une certaine confrontation, du moins je l'espérais. Dante et Luis sont frères après tout, et j'ai eu le passage que je voulais et il était parfait !
J'ai hâte de pouvoir découvrir la petite histoire de Noël que l'auteur nous suggère à la fin, je ne veux pas quitter cet univers ni les personnages :(
Garrett Leigh a fait un pari risqué en nous offrant l'histoire de Dante. On entrevoit une petite lueur d'espoir à la fin de « Deliverance », comme quoi il reste, malgré tout, du bon en lui... J'avais hâte de découvrir son histoire, de le connaître tout simplement.
Je ne sais pas si mon avis, mes impressions, sont biaisés. Car j'adore cette série, j'adore les personnages et j'adore l'écriture de Garrett Leigh, en particulier dans ce genre d'histoire, les histoires de rédemption et de reconstruction. Ce n'est donc pas un secret, car même s'il est vrai que j'avais une certaine appréhension avant de lire ce roman, je l'ai tout simplement adoré. J'avais aussi peur de lire un roman de cet auteur en ce moment, car j'ai besoin de tout sauf de lectures difficiles dans le sens tragique ou souffrance, et de ne pas l'apprécier à sa juste valeur.
Dante Pope est le frère de Luis Pope. On le connaît donc par l'intermédiaire de son frère et dans quoi il trempait avant...avant son incarcération. Et pour avoir croisé son chemin, il est vrai qu'il fait froid dans le dos. Après quatre années passées en prison, Dante Pope sort sous approbation. Il va devoir effectuer des travaux de jardinage dans une demeure, au côté de Sid, un homme dont la santé fragile nécessite un peu d'aide.
S'il est vrai que Sid flashe sur la beauté de l'ancien taulard très vite, c'est une belle relation de complicité, une belle amitié, qui va naître entre les deux personnages.
J'ai adoré Sid, c'est un homme tellement intelligent, qui d'emblée va donner une chance à Dante. Il va voir au-delà de ce que les gens voient et même au-delà de ce que Dante voit et pense de lui-même. J'ai aimé aussi la façon dont l'auteur a abordé la maladie de Sid, c'est le genre de chose qu'elle maîtrise, car elle fait avec tact, en ne masquant jamais la réalité, elle la présente telle qu'elle est, à savoir dure. Elle l'a fait avec Sid... et j'ai aimé aussi qu'il n'y ait pas de drama inutile comme on peut le voir dans ce genre d'histoire, ces deux hommes sont matures et savent ce qu'ils veulent dans la vie, même si la petite interrogation se pose, elle n'handicape pas Sid et ne freine pas Dante.
Les années ont passé et Dante sait qu'il a fait du mal autour du lui, à sa famille, à son frère sa seule famille. La manière dont la relation entre Sid et Dante se tisse est superbe. J'ai aimé chacune de leurs interactions, chaque dialogue, qui ont à chaque fois leur sens et leur but. Je ne pensais pas voir Dante si compréhensif envers Sid et sa maladie, mais c'est là qu'on voit que c'est aussi quelqu'un d'intelligent, qui comprend vite et bien, sans préjugés. J'ai aimé sa prévenance envers lui, à vouloir l'aider... Ce travail finira par être bien plus qu'un simple travail...
Je pourrais écrire des lignes et des lignes sur Dante et Sid... J'ai tellement aimé ces personnages. Dante m'a surprise mais je savais que c'était un homme bon, malgré ses choix. Et je pense que ces années passées en prison, ses actions l'ont malgré tout conduit à Sid, au côté duquel il a trouvé ce dont il cherchait, ce dont il avait besoin, son chez-lui, son salut. Garrett Leigh a réussi à me faire aimer un personnage détestable, même si elle avait déjà placé la petite lueur en fin de tome précédent. Cette lueur s'est agrandit auprès de Sid, doucement mais sûrement, et je ne pouvais qu'en ressortir fière de lui, malgré tout, en comprenant là d'où il vient, sans oublier pour autant ce dont il a fait, mais en pensant surtout à ce qu'il est capable de faire aujourd'hui.
Encore une fois, la façon qu'a eu l'auteur de relier Dante à Luis ou Paolo était chouette, naturelle aussi. Le petit message envoyé par Dante dans lequel il fait une demande particulière, était adorable. C'était une petite chose anodine qui représente aussi tellement pour Dante déjà, ce premier contact, mais aussi ce dont il cherchait à faire pour Sid. J'attendais une certaine confrontation, du moins je l'espérais. Dante et Luis sont frères après tout, et j'ai eu le passage que je voulais et il était parfait !
J'ai hâte de pouvoir découvrir la petite histoire de Noël que l'auteur nous suggère à la fin, je ne veux pas quitter cet univers ni les personnages :(
September 5, 2021
this was tough atfirst, because i strongly dislike Dante after Redemption. it was a good read… am i gonna say this? i am gonna say it but.. i am disappointed in this.
May 29, 2022
I stayed up til 3AM to finish this and I can’t wait to do it all again. My only criticism would be how often they started cooking and then snuck off, gives me anxiety about a fire starting every time lol 😅
November 22, 2021
Had there been less of the “self-deprecation and placation” rinse and repeat cycle, I would’ve given it a higher rating. Still a good book though. Garrett Leigh knows her stuff. 🙌
September 3, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
There is something about most Garrett Leigh novels that speak to me and Salvation is a book I was able to easily get caught up in. Dante has not been a good man. He knows it, his brother knows it, and the crew back in London know it. He’s also not trying to hide it and lets Sid know from the start that he’s not a good man. But Sid only sees the Dante from now, not the Dante from then, and he likes what he sees.
Dante’s journey is a redemption story, but it is not an absolution story as Dante knows the consequences of his past will linger forever. He has been seen in the Darkest Skies series in previous books as Luis’ brother and we were supposed to not like him then—really not like him. But here he’s out of the gang life, calmer, more introspective, and owns who he is. Dante doesn’t try to make excuses for the way his life has played out, even though the origin of his downward spiral wasn’t his fault. He’s just trying to figure out what he does next.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
There is something about most Garrett Leigh novels that speak to me and Salvation is a book I was able to easily get caught up in. Dante has not been a good man. He knows it, his brother knows it, and the crew back in London know it. He’s also not trying to hide it and lets Sid know from the start that he’s not a good man. But Sid only sees the Dante from now, not the Dante from then, and he likes what he sees.
Dante’s journey is a redemption story, but it is not an absolution story as Dante knows the consequences of his past will linger forever. He has been seen in the Darkest Skies series in previous books as Luis’ brother and we were supposed to not like him then—really not like him. But here he’s out of the gang life, calmer, more introspective, and owns who he is. Dante doesn’t try to make excuses for the way his life has played out, even though the origin of his downward spiral wasn’t his fault. He’s just trying to figure out what he does next.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
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