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The Council #1
Damaged Dreams
“It all starts there.”
Those were the last words my father spoke to me.
Five years ago, everything seemed perfect. I had it loving parents, best friends, and a potential boyfriend. But most of all, I had skating, and we were one step away from the Olympics.
Until they came for me, and secrets and betrayal rip my world apart. With everything crashing down around me, I’m isolated and broken. At 15, I find myself running for my life.
Finally, I find my way there, to The Aldridge School. A place where futures, dreams, and careers are made or broken. Skating is what brought me here, but I'm in search of so much more.
I wasn't expecting to meet people I could trust, much less connect with the six guys who enter my life. Finding my way back to myself, I'm learning that I don't always have to hide.
Searching for answers will lead me to discoveries that I'm not ready to hear. Each layer I uncover terrifies me more, and I find myself back in danger. Opposing forces each have a purpose for to be used or broken. I'm not sure which is worse.
Will my dreams be damaged again? Can I get my justice without losing myself?
Happiness is within my grasp. I just need to be alive to enjoy it—piece of cake.
*This is a why choose romance meaning the FMC will end up with three or more love interests. There is no cheating, and the final book will end in a HEA. There are three books in the series, and books 1 and 2 will end in cliffhangers, but they will be released close together! This book is a NA medium burn with MM, MFM, and MFMM meant for 18+ readers. While this is not a dark book, there are some dark themes. Some triggers to be aware of are sexual abuse, human trafficking, drugs, and suicide. Mental health is discussed and supported—possible triggers of ptsd, anxiety, and/or depression.
Those were the last words my father spoke to me.
Five years ago, everything seemed perfect. I had it loving parents, best friends, and a potential boyfriend. But most of all, I had skating, and we were one step away from the Olympics.
Until they came for me, and secrets and betrayal rip my world apart. With everything crashing down around me, I’m isolated and broken. At 15, I find myself running for my life.
Finally, I find my way there, to The Aldridge School. A place where futures, dreams, and careers are made or broken. Skating is what brought me here, but I'm in search of so much more.
I wasn't expecting to meet people I could trust, much less connect with the six guys who enter my life. Finding my way back to myself, I'm learning that I don't always have to hide.
Searching for answers will lead me to discoveries that I'm not ready to hear. Each layer I uncover terrifies me more, and I find myself back in danger. Opposing forces each have a purpose for to be used or broken. I'm not sure which is worse.
Will my dreams be damaged again? Can I get my justice without losing myself?
Happiness is within my grasp. I just need to be alive to enjoy it—piece of cake.
*This is a why choose romance meaning the FMC will end up with three or more love interests. There is no cheating, and the final book will end in a HEA. There are three books in the series, and books 1 and 2 will end in cliffhangers, but they will be released close together! This book is a NA medium burn with MM, MFM, and MFMM meant for 18+ readers. While this is not a dark book, there are some dark themes. Some triggers to be aware of are sexual abuse, human trafficking, drugs, and suicide. Mental health is discussed and supported—possible triggers of ptsd, anxiety, and/or depression.
ebook
First published December 4, 2020
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About the author
Kris Butler
48 books400 followersKris Butler writes under a pen name to have some separation from her everyday life. Writing has become her second love, providing a safe place to normalize mental health through her characters. Kris enjoys writing emotional books with flawed characters, sassy heroines, and all the book boyfriends she loves to drool over. You can find her at home most nights reading with her husband and furbaby, trying to maintain her nerdy sock collection, or playing tabletop games with her friends. Kris loves to talk with readers about her books, even if it’s just them yelling at her for that cliffhanger. If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review. You can find her in her reader group or on social media.
Follow Kris's journey as an author on Instagram (@authorkrisbutler) and Facebook, and join her reader group (Kris Butler's Misfit Penguins) for exclusive content.
If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review.
Follow Kris's journey as an author on Instagram (@authorkrisbutler) and Facebook, and join her reader group (Kris Butler's Misfit Penguins) for exclusive content.
If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
April 21, 2021
Pages: 431
My rating: 4
This book was a real surprise for me. It’s the debut book and debut series of the author Kris Butler. I was hoping for another really good read this year and now I got it.
It’s a contemporary, medium burn reverse harem book and it is NA. All characters are older than 20 but there are necessary flashbacks to a time when the characters were younger. I love slow burn if they have a good connection and growing from friendship to more relationship I enjoy to watch the relationship unfold. So this said for my taste the unfolding of the relationship was too fast. But I can feel the connection the people have and there are two in the group, who will be in the fold at the end of the series, but do not get there in the first book. The FMC likes ice skating and the rh guys are also into wintersports.
I like that there is not only the forming of rh going on but also there is a solid background story. We meet a lot of people and because I am pretty sure that by the time book 2 will be out, I need a list of the people we meet, I am leaving on at the end of thee review. Not only the names but also little traits of the persons, connections like sisters and so on, age and other details. If you miss something here, please comment on the missing trait.
I love Sawyer because she is a strong FMC. She has fears but she understands that she needs to face them, so she can be free. I like that she has a be truthful to my close friends and my harem policy. And I love, how she interacts with her guys and also her enemies (aka the mean girls).
This book captivated me and put me under its spell. It was entertaining, with a good humour, a compassionate FMC and I liked the other characters too.
This said, I am leaving a list of persons and their traits in spoiler tags. And after this list, there is another reminder for the next book: a summery of its content (again in spoiler tags)
The Characters:
The Summery (Detailed with lots of spoiler)
My rating: 4
This book was a real surprise for me. It’s the debut book and debut series of the author Kris Butler. I was hoping for another really good read this year and now I got it.
It’s a contemporary, medium burn reverse harem book and it is NA. All characters are older than 20 but there are necessary flashbacks to a time when the characters were younger. I love slow burn if they have a good connection and growing from friendship to more relationship I enjoy to watch the relationship unfold. So this said for my taste the unfolding of the relationship was too fast. But I can feel the connection the people have and there are two in the group, who will be in the fold at the end of the series, but do not get there in the first book. The FMC likes ice skating and the rh guys are also into wintersports.
I like that there is not only the forming of rh going on but also there is a solid background story. We meet a lot of people and because I am pretty sure that by the time book 2 will be out, I need a list of the people we meet, I am leaving on at the end of thee review. Not only the names but also little traits of the persons, connections like sisters and so on, age and other details. If you miss something here, please comment on the missing trait.
I love Sawyer because she is a strong FMC. She has fears but she understands that she needs to face them, so she can be free. I like that she has a be truthful to my close friends and my harem policy. And I love, how she interacts with her guys and also her enemies (aka the mean girls).
This book captivated me and put me under its spell. It was entertaining, with a good humour, a compassionate FMC and I liked the other characters too.
This said, I am leaving a list of persons and their traits in spoiler tags. And after this list, there is another reminder for the next book: a summery of its content (again in spoiler tags)
The Characters:
The Summery (Detailed with lots of spoiler)
August 14, 2023
Poorly written
This book had editing issues from the beginning, ones that honestly shouldn't have made it past beta reading but somehow did. The dialogue was very stilted and every character had the same "voice" aside from some Brit slang for Elias. The world building was meh, the plot was very predictable and there was no real reason to connect with the characters emotionally. The relationship building was extremely lacking and didn't fit with the characters' personalities. This should've been, at best, a rough draft. I don't feel the need to read anything else by this author.
This book had editing issues from the beginning, ones that honestly shouldn't have made it past beta reading but somehow did. The dialogue was very stilted and every character had the same "voice" aside from some Brit slang for Elias. The world building was meh, the plot was very predictable and there was no real reason to connect with the characters emotionally. The relationship building was extremely lacking and didn't fit with the characters' personalities. This should've been, at best, a rough draft. I don't feel the need to read anything else by this author.
December 9, 2020
DNF
I loved the premises of this book but I just wasn't meshing with the writing style, I found it really stilting and choppy when constantly reading sentences such as 'I did not know' 'I was not sure' plus having the character 'think' phrases like 'as any self-respectful teenager would', just sounded odd, do people actually think like that?
(also, shouldn't it be self respecting?)
I hate giving low stars but I just couldn't get into it.
I loved the premises of this book but I just wasn't meshing with the writing style, I found it really stilting and choppy when constantly reading sentences such as 'I did not know' 'I was not sure' plus having the character 'think' phrases like 'as any self-respectful teenager would', just sounded odd, do people actually think like that?
(also, shouldn't it be self respecting?)
I hate giving low stars but I just couldn't get into it.
November 22, 2020
OMG!!!! i highly recommend this book!!! It is filled with amazing characters that you will absolutely fall in love with! And I totally claim Mateo! The author knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire book. It has great story telling and packed with lots of steamy scenes. I seriously could not put this book down. It has you laughing, hot and bothered, angry, sad, crying, and a lot of wth and agh moments lol. Definitely a MUST READ NOW book.
March 22, 2021
⭐️✨ 1.5 Stars (rounded up to two)! ✨⭐️
So, I want to start this off by saying congratulations to the author! From what I can see this is her debut book, and that’s an amazing achievement.
The concept of this book is what drew me in, and I did manage to finish the book. I think it’s an excellent idea, and I’m really intrigued about the mystery of the whole thing, but I’m not going to be reading the second book, until I see another edition for this.
I struggled with the FMC, Sawyer, and even the guys. Sawyer was very in your face, very abrasive, and I couldn’t connect with her. That’s usually because I’ve not experienced things they have, but this time, it was that the character felt like a character.
You know when you read those books and you get so lost in the words that you forget it’s a book? This one just didn’t do that for me. I enjoyed the read, but it’s not one that I can place on my love list.
I’m not an author, and I’ve needed more than one friend to proofread my essays for college, but even I managed to find areas where the words were stilting and they disrupted my flow of reading. To me, the style used by this author is something that I’m sure I could get used to, but I don’t think I can. I’m not sure if this book was professionally edited, and I’m aware funds can be lacking for indie authors, but this book could use one! Even just to polish off the story, and the author’s natural voice.
The harem is another sore point for me. I could not tell you what Rhett looks like. As in, there’s no description I could see of this character, and I like to be able to visualise them. The group as a whole feels very forced, and the undeniable attraction between Rhett and Sawyer felt fake.
One thing I did love from this author was her representation for mental health issues. I feel the fact that she’s a therapist herself will benefit these characters, but I think that’s why I struggled with this book so much. The author’s analytical mind translated into the characters, and it made them harder to get to know.
Positives: Sawyer is funny, the book has an interesting storyline, and there is great representation of mental health.
Negatives: the overall story was hard to get through.
Personally, I wouldn’t really recommend this book unless you’re able to focus on the story and not a connection to the characters, or even the writing. I think it’s an excellent concept, but could use some polishing.
So, I want to start this off by saying congratulations to the author! From what I can see this is her debut book, and that’s an amazing achievement.
The concept of this book is what drew me in, and I did manage to finish the book. I think it’s an excellent idea, and I’m really intrigued about the mystery of the whole thing, but I’m not going to be reading the second book, until I see another edition for this.
I struggled with the FMC, Sawyer, and even the guys. Sawyer was very in your face, very abrasive, and I couldn’t connect with her. That’s usually because I’ve not experienced things they have, but this time, it was that the character felt like a character.
You know when you read those books and you get so lost in the words that you forget it’s a book? This one just didn’t do that for me. I enjoyed the read, but it’s not one that I can place on my love list.
I’m not an author, and I’ve needed more than one friend to proofread my essays for college, but even I managed to find areas where the words were stilting and they disrupted my flow of reading. To me, the style used by this author is something that I’m sure I could get used to, but I don’t think I can. I’m not sure if this book was professionally edited, and I’m aware funds can be lacking for indie authors, but this book could use one! Even just to polish off the story, and the author’s natural voice.
The harem is another sore point for me. I could not tell you what Rhett looks like. As in, there’s no description I could see of this character, and I like to be able to visualise them. The group as a whole feels very forced, and the undeniable attraction between Rhett and Sawyer felt fake.
One thing I did love from this author was her representation for mental health issues. I feel the fact that she’s a therapist herself will benefit these characters, but I think that’s why I struggled with this book so much. The author’s analytical mind translated into the characters, and it made them harder to get to know.
Positives: Sawyer is funny, the book has an interesting storyline, and there is great representation of mental health.
Negatives: the overall story was hard to get through.
Personally, I wouldn’t really recommend this book unless you’re able to focus on the story and not a connection to the characters, or even the writing. I think it’s an excellent concept, but could use some polishing.
November 22, 2020
I loved this book. Congratulations to the debut author she did a fantastic job and I look forward to seeing where her writing goes from here. Loved the storyline with just the right amount of mystery and intrigue to keep you on the edge of your seat. The steamy scenes were well written and hot and the characters were fun and relatable. I can’t wait for book two and can not recommend this enough
November 30, 2020
Before I begin my review for Damaged Dreams (The Council Series book one) by Kris Butler, I would personally like to thank the author for the opportunity to read this ARC and I have reviewed it honestly.
A delicious and discreetly dangerous debut, Damaged Dreams is set to shatter hearts, fracture souls and arouse secret desires. An immensely gripping tale of a girl with a huge heart and a group of men to fill the void. Prepare to smile, gasp, cry and laugh out loud as Sawyer and her men discover secrets and explore their sexualities in a deep and delightful tale.
Damaged Dreams features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ Contemporary romance
○ New Adult
○ Reverse Harem
○ LGBT
○ Sexual exploration
○ MM, MMF and MF
○ Smut
My overall rating for Damaged Dreams is…
5 Stars!
Oh my God, this book was spectacular! I'm not a person to dive into contemporary romance but have developed a curiosity into the world of RH and polyamorous relationships. To be honest, I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. The passion and patches of darkness in this carefully threaded tale are unbelievable! I found myself unconsciously smiling throughout and even laughing out loud at the sarcastic humour Butler brings to the table. To say this book is unforgettable is an understatement. An incredible debut.
A delicious and discreetly dangerous debut, Damaged Dreams is set to shatter hearts, fracture souls and arouse secret desires. An immensely gripping tale of a girl with a huge heart and a group of men to fill the void. Prepare to smile, gasp, cry and laugh out loud as Sawyer and her men discover secrets and explore their sexualities in a deep and delightful tale.
Damaged Dreams features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ Contemporary romance
○ New Adult
○ Reverse Harem
○ LGBT
○ Sexual exploration
○ MM, MMF and MF
○ Smut
My overall rating for Damaged Dreams is…
5 Stars!
Oh my God, this book was spectacular! I'm not a person to dive into contemporary romance but have developed a curiosity into the world of RH and polyamorous relationships. To be honest, I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. The passion and patches of darkness in this carefully threaded tale are unbelievable! I found myself unconsciously smiling throughout and even laughing out loud at the sarcastic humour Butler brings to the table. To say this book is unforgettable is an understatement. An incredible debut.
November 28, 2020
I felt for the young girl who had big dreams, a family, and first love. I felt for the young woman who persisted in spite of fear and an unknown danger.
I think this was a great debut book. It is truly the start of so much. Relationships, a mystery, emotions, and truth. I think the author did a wonderful job at character development. Giving us pieces to their personalities and hardships. Reconnecting a couple and starting other relationships.
Sometimes I did think how is all of this going to work or how important are all of them to Sawyer. Dare I say I am looking forward to more emotion? I think the glimpses of the past were really well written and I think its about to really take off in the next book. I do think it was really important for us to understand everything that was happening in this book was consensual and talked about, and there are so many light hearted moments. It makes you smile for Sawyer.
Sawyer is a young woman, a figure skater putting the pieces back together again for herself. When she accepts an instructor job and falls for the men of the house.
I kept an open mind and found myself believing in Sawyer, the beautiful, strong, confused, woman. She couldn’t help herself in a world of grey sweatpants and bare chests. She calls herself a hussy and I say HUSSY POWER.
Let them fall at your feet, take turns, and turn heads. They are a unit and so very loyal to one another. The author has me wanting to figure the past out and from what we learned of Sawyer, she doesn’t care how many keys it will take to unlock her past. She will do so with the support of her men until the very last key.
PS Rhett and Elias I see you !
December 3, 2020
Wow! Where to start?
I highly recommend Kris Butlers Debut Novel, Damaged Dreams. I was captivated from the start of her prologue and was pulled along in this story. I could not put this down, (passed out for 4 hours) and woke up needing to finish this ASAP. This book was filled with action with a side of mystery that I'm still trying to work out in my head. Steamy connections all around. I loved the sassy and witty girl that can give as much as she takes. I loved that not all of her love interests were an instant go, but the sexual tension was boiling. Kris did an excellent job laying twists and turns that weren't easily noticeable until it was already slapping you in the face. Who doesn't love hot athletes with more than just a bod? Even though this book was to die for, I mean it- I'm still in my book coma while writing this, I need to mention that this book did have some M/M. So if you're okay with some steam in M/M, MF, MFMM, then this book is for you. I wouldn't pass this up if I were you!! Damaged dreams for the win!
I highly recommend Kris Butlers Debut Novel, Damaged Dreams. I was captivated from the start of her prologue and was pulled along in this story. I could not put this down, (passed out for 4 hours) and woke up needing to finish this ASAP. This book was filled with action with a side of mystery that I'm still trying to work out in my head. Steamy connections all around. I loved the sassy and witty girl that can give as much as she takes. I loved that not all of her love interests were an instant go, but the sexual tension was boiling. Kris did an excellent job laying twists and turns that weren't easily noticeable until it was already slapping you in the face. Who doesn't love hot athletes with more than just a bod? Even though this book was to die for, I mean it- I'm still in my book coma while writing this, I need to mention that this book did have some M/M. So if you're okay with some steam in M/M, MF, MFMM, then this book is for you. I wouldn't pass this up if I were you!! Damaged dreams for the win!
November 30, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely love Sawyer is she is my complete spirit animal with her fun loving self, she has absolutely no filter and blurts things out when she flustered which speak to my heart. After being so lonely, scared and closed off she now has the opportunity to just be her and be a free spirit.
Let’s not forget her hot as sin roommates all freaking 6 of them. I mean damn can a girl just get 1 hot guy to want her like all of them want Sawyer. I love how each of the guys has a very special and very unique relationship with Sawyer and they are all very caring and protective of her. There is no judgment from anyone. It’s truly something special and getting to see each relationships development is beautiful.
I freaking loved this storyline I had no freaking clue where it was head and then BAM your hit right in the gut and thinking to yourself WTF is going on right now. Twists and turns keep you guessing until the very last page. Then you’re like what the what it’s over NO!
I cannot freaking wait to see where this story goes and I am along for the ride strap me in and let’s roll.
#bookstagrammer #reverseherem #krisbutler #amreading #damageddreams #newbookrelease
I absolutely love Sawyer is she is my complete spirit animal with her fun loving self, she has absolutely no filter and blurts things out when she flustered which speak to my heart. After being so lonely, scared and closed off she now has the opportunity to just be her and be a free spirit.
Let’s not forget her hot as sin roommates all freaking 6 of them. I mean damn can a girl just get 1 hot guy to want her like all of them want Sawyer. I love how each of the guys has a very special and very unique relationship with Sawyer and they are all very caring and protective of her. There is no judgment from anyone. It’s truly something special and getting to see each relationships development is beautiful.
I freaking loved this storyline I had no freaking clue where it was head and then BAM your hit right in the gut and thinking to yourself WTF is going on right now. Twists and turns keep you guessing until the very last page. Then you’re like what the what it’s over NO!
I cannot freaking wait to see where this story goes and I am along for the ride strap me in and let’s roll.
#bookstagrammer #reverseherem #krisbutler #amreading #damageddreams #newbookrelease
November 23, 2020
Omg!
This book!
Kris Butler has written one hell of a first book and I cant wait to read the next one in the series.
Damaged Dreams is about a young woman who has taken a position as an instructor in ice skating at a prestigious winter sports academy. She befriends her room mates, fellow instructors, and we have a reverse harem with FM MM FMM. Hawt! The sex scenes were mind blowing! Yes it was a slow burn but when it was on it was hawt! With humour too!
But what made this book shine was the mystery and the twists that left me on the edge of my seat gasping where is the next book! I need to know what happens next!
What i also love about Damaged Dreams is how its proactive in women's rights and liberation. I love Sawyers sass and cant wait to see what happens next!
This book!
Kris Butler has written one hell of a first book and I cant wait to read the next one in the series.
Damaged Dreams is about a young woman who has taken a position as an instructor in ice skating at a prestigious winter sports academy. She befriends her room mates, fellow instructors, and we have a reverse harem with FM MM FMM. Hawt! The sex scenes were mind blowing! Yes it was a slow burn but when it was on it was hawt! With humour too!
But what made this book shine was the mystery and the twists that left me on the edge of my seat gasping where is the next book! I need to know what happens next!
What i also love about Damaged Dreams is how its proactive in women's rights and liberation. I love Sawyers sass and cant wait to see what happens next!
November 27, 2020
.... It all starts in the first couple chapters. An amazingly fun and addictive read. This is a RH first book of a series. It has sexy and intriguing main characters. Can I please have Rhett? Our heroine Sawyer is wonderfully written (I wish I was more like her). She says what she thinks, she stands up for her friends, what is right, and she owns her own desires and sexuality. No qualm or excuses. The first part of the book is focused more on relationship development and the scenes get steamy quickly and evolve as the chapters fly by. As RH go, I really appreciated the fact that the author recognizes different relations grow and develop differently. She writes it in a semi- realistic way (semi realistic because unfortunately we don’t all get to experience a RH and multiple relationships simultaneously. Who really does? Such a shame). About midway through, the focus shifts more to the mystery behind the book (though still full of many bedroom hijinks). The author’s writing is strong and engaging. Once I started I didn’t want to stop. The story ends with a cliffhanger and lots of questions. I cannot wait to see what develops in Sawyer’s relationships and the mystery of the Council and who she is.
* This review is the honest opinion of the reader even though the book was received as an ARC.
* This review is the honest opinion of the reader even though the book was received as an ARC.
November 29, 2020
This book was incredible. I felt a little iffy with the first couple chapters, but was intrigued, and boy am I glad I read through the end! It had me hook, line, and sinker. The characters were incredible, the plot was captivating, and the ending left me desperate for more! It ends on a pretty big cliff hanger, so if that's not your speed, then probably not good to even start this book, but if you don't mind, then please get this book and read it asap!!!! It was hot, hot, hot and I can't rave about it enough. Kudos to the author for spinning an incredible story.
November 25, 2020
This story had me from the first page. The characters had me laughing and feeling everything with them. I love the chemistry the FMC has with all her guys. The way they all mesh and interact with each other was so good. This book is HOTT!!! I can’t wait to see what happens next. Lots of different feelings through out the whole book. Love it!!
November 22, 2020
Good first book from this author! Really loved the FMC she was just so funny and the word vomit had me laughing! The men were hot and spicy and I liked that they all had really different personalities.
At some points where I really wanted to feel all the emotions it felt almost clinical at times, more like they were all junior therapists instead of inside feeling their emotions.
But I did still like the story and will continue on with the series. It had a lot of twists and turns that I need answers too.
Also I licked Rey and Soren so they’re mine!
At some points where I really wanted to feel all the emotions it felt almost clinical at times, more like they were all junior therapists instead of inside feeling their emotions.
But I did still like the story and will continue on with the series. It had a lot of twists and turns that I need answers too.
Also I licked Rey and Soren so they’re mine!
September 15, 2021
One star, DNF 1/3 of the book.
Why? Cause it was boring, and I didn't like how it was written. It had random timeline jumps, and the POV changes? I legit could, not, with how the characters basically presented themselves by summarizing who they were each time? Like... dude, who you talking to??
If they're just reminding themselves about how they're moody, or a happy go lucky person (but not really, because they're faking it and inside they're just really dark and sad, and oh my gawd, I actually am a really damaged soul, but nobody knows it) then they must be fucking nuts man. This is just a major pet peeve of mine, so it was really difficult to ignore. Especially when there are so many of them. Speaking of... They all sounded the same. If I hadn't had the name of which character I was reading about in the beginning of the chapters, I'd honestly have assumed this was the same character repeating the same thing over and over again.
Why? Cause it was boring, and I didn't like how it was written. It had random timeline jumps, and the POV changes? I legit could, not, with how the characters basically presented themselves by summarizing who they were each time? Like... dude, who you talking to??
If they're just reminding themselves about how they're moody, or a happy go lucky person (but not really, because they're faking it and inside they're just really dark and sad, and oh my gawd, I actually am a really damaged soul, but nobody knows it) then they must be fucking nuts man. This is just a major pet peeve of mine, so it was really difficult to ignore. Especially when there are so many of them. Speaking of... They all sounded the same. If I hadn't had the name of which character I was reading about in the beginning of the chapters, I'd honestly have assumed this was the same character repeating the same thing over and over again.
did-not-finish
July 16, 2024DNF @ 18%
The writing rubs me the wrong way. Maybe it's the constant self-reflection all of the characters seem to do, or the odd times contractions aren't used, or the massive info dumps that make "Show, Don't Tell" weep tears of blood. We'll see the same scene from multiple people's POVs. Anything that actually happens is skimmed or skipped. Everything seems so nonsensical. Sawyer had a phone interview, yet they didn't realize she's a woman and put her in male housing, and it just so happens that all the women housing is full. Right.
And is the book really trying to convince us that Sariah and Sawyer aren't the same person?
The writing rubs me the wrong way. Maybe it's the constant self-reflection all of the characters seem to do, or the odd times contractions aren't used, or the massive info dumps that make "Show, Don't Tell" weep tears of blood. We'll see the same scene from multiple people's POVs. Anything that actually happens is skimmed or skipped. Everything seems so nonsensical. Sawyer had a phone interview, yet they didn't realize she's a woman and put her in male housing, and it just so happens that all the women housing is full. Right.
And is the book really trying to convince us that Sariah and Sawyer aren't the same person?
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January 24, 2021Holly shit. My brain is a complete jumbled mess after reading those last chapters. The bombs this author just threw at us just blew my mind. I knew there was something brewing, I knew there were secrets, but this? Damn, I’m speechless. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I’m in love. I was entranced by every word, every chapter, her writing is absolutely amazing. And the fact that we had all the characters POV was definitely a plus, because we were able to get inside the minds of these beautiful characters. And I loved each one of them. They are so different from each other, but they just fit together perfectly, like a big, happy family. The guys are amazing, the way they cherish their friendship and the way they cherish Sawyer is the sweetest thing ever. None of them is perfect, and each one of them carries baggage, some heavier than others, but that’s what brought them together, their demons found comfort in each other, and they created a beautiful friendship. Sawyer, well, she’s fucking amazing. I don’t even know where to start with her. Her crazy personality, her sassy mouth, her awkwardness that I found so endearing, her code orange moments, her penchant for jumping the guys bones, literally....damn I could go on and on, she’s just the most hilarious and best FMC ever. And she’s perfect for those broken guys, because she carries some broken pieces as well. She values every single one of them for being who they are, she embraces their vulnerability and she has a way to bring their true selfs out. And the same happens to her, they empower and believe in her, making it possible for her to express herself, to be free of the chains of her past. It was one of the best books I’ve ever read, and I can’t wait to see their relationship grow and how many more secrets will be uncovered 💗
December 7, 2020
Damaged Dreams by Kris Butler is a reverse harem sports romance. This is the first book in The Council Series.
The book does come with a caution "This book is a NA medium burn with MM, MFM, and MFMM meant for 18+ readers. While this is not a dark book, there are some dark themes. Some triggers to be aware of are sexual abuse, human trafficking, drugs, and suicide. Mental health is discussed and supported—possible triggers of ptsd, anxiety, and/or depression."
This is Kris's debut novel and she knocked it out of the park. The book was absolutely amazing! I was hooked from the first chapter and I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I am loving the relationships between Sawyer, Rhett, Rey, Soren, Mateo, Oliver, and Elias. I really enjoyed that we got each of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book does end on an amazing cliffhanger! I can't wait for the next book Shattered Secrets to be released in early 2021.
I would highly recommend this book if you love reverse harems, sports romance, romantic suspense, or contemporary romance. This book is a MUST read for romance readers.
The book does come with a caution "This book is a NA medium burn with MM, MFM, and MFMM meant for 18+ readers. While this is not a dark book, there are some dark themes. Some triggers to be aware of are sexual abuse, human trafficking, drugs, and suicide. Mental health is discussed and supported—possible triggers of ptsd, anxiety, and/or depression."
This is Kris's debut novel and she knocked it out of the park. The book was absolutely amazing! I was hooked from the first chapter and I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I am loving the relationships between Sawyer, Rhett, Rey, Soren, Mateo, Oliver, and Elias. I really enjoyed that we got each of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book does end on an amazing cliffhanger! I can't wait for the next book Shattered Secrets to be released in early 2021.
I would highly recommend this book if you love reverse harems, sports romance, romantic suspense, or contemporary romance. This book is a MUST read for romance readers.
January 22, 2021
This is a spectacular debut book!!! I went into this book thinking that it was going to just be about sports and mainly revolve around that... but boy was I wrong! This book had everything I could possibly want suspense, romance, drama, and humor. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
January 19, 2021
Fantastic
This book is amazing! Intrigued and mystery along with sexy times it's really good! I can't wait for book 2, the relationships develop at different speeds which makes it much more real and the multiple POV are great giving insight into each character and the discoveries are really good! Excellent story
This book is amazing! Intrigued and mystery along with sexy times it's really good! I can't wait for book 2, the relationships develop at different speeds which makes it much more real and the multiple POV are great giving insight into each character and the discoveries are really good! Excellent story
December 13, 2020
Great first entry in the series and fabulous debut novel!
I LOVED this one. My favorite thing? The way the entire group approached the relationship and group dynamic. Freaking kudos for that! I love the overall mystery theme too. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I LOVED this one. My favorite thing? The way the entire group approached the relationship and group dynamic. Freaking kudos for that! I love the overall mystery theme too. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
January 21, 2021
So this book happened...
So this book happened. I’ve been dancing around reading it. Thank god I did. You need this book in your life, it is so good. The twists and manipulations are intense. Everything about this book is amazing. I can’t wait for book two.
So this book happened. I’ve been dancing around reading it. Thank god I did. You need this book in your life, it is so good. The twists and manipulations are intense. Everything about this book is amazing. I can’t wait for book two.
May 3, 2021
First book I read by Kris Butler.
I love her writing style and how she builds a story...
This book hit me hard, first of all my dog is called Lucky (but she is a girl unlike in this book),
secondly here all the skating rings are closed for people over 12 so it has been months sinds
I have been able to skate but I loved reading about it, it's the fist book I read about ice skating and I have to say I really enjoyed it.
The story, I have no words for it except amazing and out of the box.
I am very intrigued to see what else happened in the past but also what the group will be facing in the next books...
All those interwoven details and then to dump them at the end smart move, my heart and brain couldn't take it...
I really need to know what happens, I look forward to read the next books in this series.
Thank you Kris Butler for this amazing story and sharing your gift with us.
I love her writing style and how she builds a story...
This book hit me hard, first of all my dog is called Lucky (but she is a girl unlike in this book),
secondly here all the skating rings are closed for people over 12 so it has been months sinds
I have been able to skate but I loved reading about it, it's the fist book I read about ice skating and I have to say I really enjoyed it.
The story, I have no words for it except amazing and out of the box.
I am very intrigued to see what else happened in the past but also what the group will be facing in the next books...
All those interwoven details and then to dump them at the end smart move, my heart and brain couldn't take it...
I really need to know what happens, I look forward to read the next books in this series.
Thank you Kris Butler for this amazing story and sharing your gift with us.
November 22, 2020
This debut book is absolutely amazing! I was gripped from the beginning and didn't want to stop reading at all. I was taken through an emotional rollercoaster and also found myself scaring my family by laughing so hard. The characters are all unique in their personalities but work so well along side each other. I found myself just sat speachless at the end not knowing what to do with myself! This is a total must read and it seriously has some 🔥🔥🔥 to it.
December 6, 2020
Lovely debut!
Congratulations to Kris on her debut novel! Wow! So much mystery and secrecy! I loved it. Seriously. Great job! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for these characters in the next book! Also- Rhett=mine.
Congratulations to Kris on her debut novel! Wow! So much mystery and secrecy! I loved it. Seriously. Great job! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for these characters in the next book! Also- Rhett=mine.
January 15, 2021
Amazing first book for the Author! I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the book as I read it in 2 days. I looked forward to book 2 and and continuing Sawyer’s journey of self discovery.
January 3, 2021
Wow!
I can't believe that this was this author's first book, it was so well written. It hooked me in right from the start and I couldn't put it down. I loved Sawyer's quirky internal monologue which was fun without being OTT - usually I hate comedic inner monologues which I usually don't find funny, but this one was so well written. I also loved all the different POVs, it helped the reader get to know all the personalities better - especially with 6 guys in the harem. I liked that some of the characters had mental health issues to deal with like anxiety, without it being a big deal or plot driven. The mystery storyline was interestingand balanced nicely with the relationship development.
Brilliant book, I cannot wait for the second installment!!! FYI I am not an ARC reader, I saw this book promoted in an RH FB group.
I can't believe that this was this author's first book, it was so well written. It hooked me in right from the start and I couldn't put it down. I loved Sawyer's quirky internal monologue which was fun without being OTT - usually I hate comedic inner monologues which I usually don't find funny, but this one was so well written. I also loved all the different POVs, it helped the reader get to know all the personalities better - especially with 6 guys in the harem. I liked that some of the characters had mental health issues to deal with like anxiety, without it being a big deal or plot driven. The mystery storyline was interestingand balanced nicely with the relationship development.
Brilliant book, I cannot wait for the second installment!!! FYI I am not an ARC reader, I saw this book promoted in an RH FB group.
February 4, 2021
First book I read by Kris Butler.
I love her writing style and how she builds a story...
This book hit me hard, first of all my dog is called Lucky (but she is a girl unlike in this book),
secondly here all the skating rings are closed for people over 12 so it has been months sinds
I have been able to skate but I loved reading about it, it's the fist book I read about ice skating and I have to say I really enjoyed it.
The story, I have no words for it except amazing and out of the box.
I am very intrigued to see what else happened in the past but also what the group will be facing in the next books...
All those interwoven details and then to dump them at the end smart move, my heart and brain couldn't take it...
I really need to know what happens, I look forward to read the next books in this series.
Thank you Kris Butler for this amazing story and sharing your gift with us.
I love her writing style and how she builds a story...
This book hit me hard, first of all my dog is called Lucky (but she is a girl unlike in this book),
secondly here all the skating rings are closed for people over 12 so it has been months sinds
I have been able to skate but I loved reading about it, it's the fist book I read about ice skating and I have to say I really enjoyed it.
The story, I have no words for it except amazing and out of the box.
I am very intrigued to see what else happened in the past but also what the group will be facing in the next books...
All those interwoven details and then to dump them at the end smart move, my heart and brain couldn't take it...
I really need to know what happens, I look forward to read the next books in this series.
Thank you Kris Butler for this amazing story and sharing your gift with us.
December 25, 2020
Loved it
This book is amazing. I love Sawyer and the guys. I just wish some of them would get out of there own way and just trust in that everyone will help and be there for each other. I can’t wait to read the next books.
This book is amazing. I love Sawyer and the guys. I just wish some of them would get out of there own way and just trust in that everyone will help and be there for each other. I can’t wait to read the next books.
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