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Stranded
Four college students decide to spend their winter break out in the middle of nowhere with no cell service or internet. Sounds like a great idea, right?
I mean, what could go wrong?
The answer—Everything.
A fun vacation away from everything turns into a fight for survival, stranded far away from home.
I mean, what could go wrong?
The answer—Everything.
A fun vacation away from everything turns into a fight for survival, stranded far away from home.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 11, 2021
36 people are currently reading
704 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,534 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
December 18, 2021
This book is catnip for angst junkies. 👌
Spoilers
Basic plot;
There was a college party.
Boy sees girl. Stares.
Girl sees boy. Stares.
Then next thing you know, his BFF sees the same girl and everything goes to shit!
Boy tells BFF to go speak to her, because boy always puts BFF first.
Bff and girl fall in love and go steady. Boy is jealous and pines for the girl and acts like a man slut.
Three years go by…
Boy starts dating the Girl’s sister. (For 1 month)
BFF is heartbroken & tells the boy that he cheated on the h one time.
Boy tells the BFF not to tell the h.
Four of them go on a winter vacation to some cabin deep in the mountains.
💕BFF dating h
💕H dating sister
There is a blizzard on the way, the car flips over and..
BFF and sister are killed.
Boy and Girl are now stranded at a cabin, but they’re finally together.
Its not a HEA yet,
**this is the beginning of the book, they now have to deal with all the guilt, jealousies, grief, unrequited love, and cheating secrets, etc.
🚩Safety
🥳No cheating
- MCs did not cheat on their partners. (But they did have feelings for each other and they covered it up by being rude and nasty).
-the h did love the OM.
- No double dipping between the sisters.
He didn’t have sex with the sister, but he did make out with her while dating her for 1 month, and he said he might’ve had sex with the sister at the cabin (where they were all headed before the accident), so he took a box of condoms. The sister pressured him for sex constantly, but he said he couldn’t go through with it, because he knew if he had sex with the sis, then he would lose all his chance with the h.
The sister did tell the h that H made her come, so they did something but no intercourse. This pissed me off, no lie 😂.
- no descriptive love scenes with other people.
- sis looked nothing like the h. The H didn’t love the ow, but he said she made him feel good about himself.
- at 80%, the h forces a break (to get over guilt and to grief properly),making each other date random people (& even have sex if they wanted). They both dated but didn’t sleep around. He did kiss someone he used to hook up with because h wouldn’t go out with him without this “break period” but he couldn’t even get it up..
Ends in a HEA with a cute epilogue 8 yrs later.
Recommend if you like emotional and angst stories.
Spoilers
Basic plot;
There was a college party.
Boy sees girl. Stares.
Girl sees boy. Stares.
Then next thing you know, his BFF sees the same girl and everything goes to shit!
Boy tells BFF to go speak to her, because boy always puts BFF first.
Bff and girl fall in love and go steady. Boy is jealous and pines for the girl and acts like a man slut.
Three years go by…
Boy starts dating the Girl’s sister. (For 1 month)
BFF is heartbroken & tells the boy that he cheated on the h one time.
Boy tells the BFF not to tell the h.
Four of them go on a winter vacation to some cabin deep in the mountains.
💕BFF dating h
💕H dating sister
There is a blizzard on the way, the car flips over and..
BFF and sister are killed.
Boy and Girl are now stranded at a cabin, but they’re finally together.
Its not a HEA yet,
**this is the beginning of the book, they now have to deal with all the guilt, jealousies, grief, unrequited love, and cheating secrets, etc.
🚩Safety
🥳No cheating
- MCs did not cheat on their partners. (But they did have feelings for each other and they covered it up by being rude and nasty).
-the h did love the OM.
- No double dipping between the sisters.
He didn’t have sex with the sister, but he did make out with her while dating her for 1 month, and he said he might’ve had sex with the sister at the cabin (where they were all headed before the accident), so he took a box of condoms. The sister pressured him for sex constantly, but he said he couldn’t go through with it, because he knew if he had sex with the sis, then he would lose all his chance with the h.
The sister did tell the h that H made her come, so they did something but no intercourse. This pissed me off, no lie 😂.
- no descriptive love scenes with other people.
- sis looked nothing like the h. The H didn’t love the ow, but he said she made him feel good about himself.
- at 80%, the h forces a break (to get over guilt and to grief properly),making each other date random people (& even have sex if they wanted). They both dated but didn’t sleep around. He did kiss someone he used to hook up with because h wouldn’t go out with him without this “break period” but he couldn’t even get it up..
Ends in a HEA with a cute epilogue 8 yrs later.
Recommend if you like emotional and angst stories.
October 2, 2022
WOW! This book was completely unexpected, I don’t even know what compelled me to purchase it but I’m so glad I did. It went down a path that flew at me out of nowhere. I consumed this in no time at all. Loved the little twists, loved these two, just wish it was longer because I didn’t want to leave that little abandoned house in the middle of nowhere, but super glad they got their HEA.
June 2, 2021
This book gripped my heart from the first chapter. I couldn't stop reading it.
Not at all what I was expecting after reading the blurb.
Very heartbreaking and raw read. Also beautiful and captivating.
Cooper and Everly brought out all the feels. It was a wild and intense ride that's for sure. My heart still hurts and is reeling from this whirlwind read.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Not at all what I was expecting after reading the blurb.
Very heartbreaking and raw read. Also beautiful and captivating.
Cooper and Everly brought out all the feels. It was a wild and intense ride that's for sure. My heart still hurts and is reeling from this whirlwind read.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
June 1, 2021
This was DEFINITELY not the story I was expecting after reading the blurb but it absolutely dominated my night because I couldn't stop reading and ended up finishing this book in less than 24 hours!
"She said that I want to be all dark and moody, but really I'm powerful enough to light up the sky."
This book intrigued me from the first chapter and only consumed my mind from that point on. The fear, helplessness and tragedy had my heart racing. The unknown, desperation and suspense had me on the edge of my seat. The tension, chemistry and allure between these two characters was nothing short of magnetic. This story was emotional and filled with grief, guilt and angst but it was also filled with hope, survival and a love that was built from overcoming so many obstacles.
"We're past punishing ourselves for what we never had any control over in the first place. Because love is absolutely out of control."
This was my first read from this author and it will not be my last! This book was so unexpected but one that MUST be read!!
"She said that I want to be all dark and moody, but really I'm powerful enough to light up the sky."
This book intrigued me from the first chapter and only consumed my mind from that point on. The fear, helplessness and tragedy had my heart racing. The unknown, desperation and suspense had me on the edge of my seat. The tension, chemistry and allure between these two characters was nothing short of magnetic. This story was emotional and filled with grief, guilt and angst but it was also filled with hope, survival and a love that was built from overcoming so many obstacles.
"We're past punishing ourselves for what we never had any control over in the first place. Because love is absolutely out of control."
This was my first read from this author and it will not be my last! This book was so unexpected but one that MUST be read!!
June 11, 2021
Stranded starts off with a bang and grabs hold of you and doesn't let go until the end.
I've read books about being stranded before but this one definitely has its own twist. Makes you think what you would do in their situation and how you would handle things. These four friends set off for an epic winter vacation in which whatever could go wrong does. It's scary and angsty and as steamy as you can dream of! I love stories where you get invested in their choices and how they play out. Definitely grab this one if you're looking for a good read! Cooper and Everly will make you wonder what will happen next with every page!
I've read books about being stranded before but this one definitely has its own twist. Makes you think what you would do in their situation and how you would handle things. These four friends set off for an epic winter vacation in which whatever could go wrong does. It's scary and angsty and as steamy as you can dream of! I love stories where you get invested in their choices and how they play out. Definitely grab this one if you're looking for a good read! Cooper and Everly will make you wonder what will happen next with every page!
November 21, 2023
Road trip and stranded in a cabin trope:
H has gf - heroine’s sister
h has bf - hero’s bff
Both ow and om die during road trip
Hours later (deceased’s blood literally hardly dried) and Hxh are getting it on in said cabin
No
Definitely not
ETA
Had it been labelled a “dark” read this scenario would be apt but it’s just weird in this book
H has gf - heroine’s sister
h has bf - hero’s bff
Both ow and om die during road trip
Hours later (deceased’s blood literally hardly dried) and Hxh are getting it on in said cabin
No
Definitely not
ETA
Had it been labelled a “dark” read this scenario would be apt but it’s just weird in this book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2021
*3.25* Wish this one had been better. It had forced proximity, life and death survival, and crazy level of steam. However, the dialogue felt off at times, and the characters phony and unreal. I loved the beginning and the end, the middle could have used some work. Has a hea.
June 11, 2021
This one was so different from Nicole Dykes other books . There’s loss and grief and a lot of emotions.
What a ride this book was. Although the title is self explanatory , I didn’t see any of this coming. You aren’t ready.
Cooper and Everly are such brave characters. They were put in a difficult situation that I’m not sure how I would even react. You kind of go through mixed emotions about them but Nicole has a way of changing your mind
What a ride this book was. Although the title is self explanatory , I didn’t see any of this coming. You aren’t ready.
Cooper and Everly are such brave characters. They were put in a difficult situation that I’m not sure how I would even react. You kind of go through mixed emotions about them but Nicole has a way of changing your mind
June 15, 2021
Stranded is a standalone and Nicole's newest release.
This maybe my favorite story by Nicole to date and it's definitely one of her absolute best!
This story pulled me in from the start and refused to let me go until I finished it. You honeslty will have no idea what to expect. The best way to read this book is to go in blind. It definitely is a one click book for sure.
My reviews are always spoiler free. I really can not do this review justice without spoilers but I will not do that 😉. Stranded was really one of the best. I'll keep saying it.
Nicole is one of my one-click authors. She always delivers beautifully written work. She doesn't disappoint. Stranded is a handsdown on my all time top favorite reads list. I can't wait for more from Nicole!!
This maybe my favorite story by Nicole to date and it's definitely one of her absolute best!
This story pulled me in from the start and refused to let me go until I finished it. You honeslty will have no idea what to expect. The best way to read this book is to go in blind. It definitely is a one click book for sure.
My reviews are always spoiler free. I really can not do this review justice without spoilers but I will not do that 😉. Stranded was really one of the best. I'll keep saying it.
Nicole is one of my one-click authors. She always delivers beautifully written work. She doesn't disappoint. Stranded is a handsdown on my all time top favorite reads list. I can't wait for more from Nicole!!
June 30, 2021
From the start, you are thrown into this amazing, edge of your seat story. Heartbreak is nearly immediate. Grief is staggering. Lust is overwhelming. Every one of my emotions was affected in one way or another from this author’s words and her ability to create this magnificent story.
This book really surprised me and had me reading every free chance, because there never seemed to be a good stopping point. Each chapter ended with your heart in turmoil, it seemed, and you wanted to quickly turn the page and hope for the best that maybe, just maybe, peace would find them and their troubled minds.
And even though this was another one that I wasn’t really in the mood for at the beginning, that all quickly changed as I got sucked in practically from the start. I thought this would be just another book I had to read. But it ended up owning me. I need more from this new to me author! What other stories has she created that may strip me bare like this one did?? I can’t wait to find out.
Heartbreaking, but beautifully told, this story was absolutely fantastic. 5 Stars!!
This book really surprised me and had me reading every free chance, because there never seemed to be a good stopping point. Each chapter ended with your heart in turmoil, it seemed, and you wanted to quickly turn the page and hope for the best that maybe, just maybe, peace would find them and their troubled minds.
And even though this was another one that I wasn’t really in the mood for at the beginning, that all quickly changed as I got sucked in practically from the start. I thought this would be just another book I had to read. But it ended up owning me. I need more from this new to me author! What other stories has she created that may strip me bare like this one did?? I can’t wait to find out.
Heartbreaking, but beautifully told, this story was absolutely fantastic. 5 Stars!!
June 3, 2021
OMG!!!! THE EMOTIONS, WOAHHH
I read this in one sitting as I simply couldn't put it down. This story absolutely consumed me. At the beginning of the book I was heartbroken and shocked, totally didn't see what was coming. Then the hotness, and damn steamy scenes that fogged up my glasses.Cooper and Everly take you through every emotion possible from heartbreak,guilt and betrayal to steaminess (is that even a word?) and love. This story will most definitely consume you as it did me and once again Nicole has written an amazing story that no doubt will be circling around my brain for a good while.
I read this in one sitting as I simply couldn't put it down. This story absolutely consumed me. At the beginning of the book I was heartbroken and shocked, totally didn't see what was coming. Then the hotness, and damn steamy scenes that fogged up my glasses.Cooper and Everly take you through every emotion possible from heartbreak,guilt and betrayal to steaminess (is that even a word?) and love. This story will most definitely consume you as it did me and once again Nicole has written an amazing story that no doubt will be circling around my brain for a good while.
June 19, 2021
I really enjoyed this book it has a unique plot and after seeing it plastered all over Instagram I knew I had to read it plus I’m a huge fan of this authors work . Stranded is a forced proximity stand-alone that gripped my heart from the first chapter it’s heartbreaking and emotional it deals with grief , pain and suffering and how to cope with loss the chemistry between Cooper and Everly was intense this was such a wild ride and I really enjoyed it!
June 13, 2021
Omg! I devoured this book! Tragedy brings two people together! It was exciting and the chemistry, phew, over the top! Fantastic story!!
June 17, 2021
Amazing story 💕
“The bad boy and the good girl. Come on. It’s a tale as old as time. I mean, you guys were the perfect storm.”
❤️🔥 Young love
💔 Heartbreak
❤️🔥 Dual POV
💔 Loss
❤️🔥 Amazing feels and characters
💔 Survivor’s guilt
Going in I certainly did not expect this story. I knew it would be special coming from Ms. Dykes. Her ability to pull the heartstrings is guaranteed every time.
I loved the heartbreak, angst, the see saw of mixed emotions. This is one ride you’ll not forget soon. Beautiful story of love, survival, and what if’s. The choices we make and the effects after we’re gone. What others can see looking in, which we don’t realise or admit to ourselves.
Amazingly poignant read. Well done!
Heat 5/5 Stars 5/5
“The bad boy and the good girl. Come on. It’s a tale as old as time. I mean, you guys were the perfect storm.”
❤️🔥 Young love
💔 Heartbreak
❤️🔥 Dual POV
💔 Loss
❤️🔥 Amazing feels and characters
💔 Survivor’s guilt
Going in I certainly did not expect this story. I knew it would be special coming from Ms. Dykes. Her ability to pull the heartstrings is guaranteed every time.
I loved the heartbreak, angst, the see saw of mixed emotions. This is one ride you’ll not forget soon. Beautiful story of love, survival, and what if’s. The choices we make and the effects after we’re gone. What others can see looking in, which we don’t realise or admit to ourselves.
Amazingly poignant read. Well done!
Heat 5/5 Stars 5/5
October 22, 2024
I just read this ARC within 24 hours, addictive steamy romance story that was extremely easy to read. Thank you Wildfire Marketing for the opportunity to review an ARC. I look forward in reading more of Nicole’s books.
This is quite a taboo romance story in some aspects, which some readers may take offence to. But I think it was written well and raw.
This story jumps right into it where we are introduced to Everly and her younger sister; Aria. Everly has been dating Liam for 3 years, while his best friend Cooper has just started dating Aria. So with this, they decide to spend their winter break in a cabin away from life for a well deserved break.
Until a horrid accident happens on the way, leaving two of the passengers stranded in the middle of no where. These two are then forced to find an abandoned cabin for warmth, canned food and water. What they didn’t expect was past feelings to come alight and to find warmth in each other.
Truths then come to light, and when they are rescued, they must face their actions as well as a new present without two of their closest.
The connection between the two main characters was obvious from the first chapter they were introduced. I had no idea where this story was going but I felt their connection. This story is about new adults, finding themselves in a position they never wanted to be in and facing guilt without regret for actions they never thought they would do.
The only negative I have is I do wish the author didn’t rush into the story as much, as I felt like the beginning was quick and the ending then dragged a bit. I liked the author provided a great epilogue but I still felt like it dragged a little to get to that point.
BUT all in all, I still adored this story and loved the characters, and I easily give it 4.5/5 stars, with 4/5 steam. I also look forward in reading more by this author now that I have been introduced as I definitely enjoyed her easy reading writing skill.
This is quite a taboo romance story in some aspects, which some readers may take offence to. But I think it was written well and raw.
This story jumps right into it where we are introduced to Everly and her younger sister; Aria. Everly has been dating Liam for 3 years, while his best friend Cooper has just started dating Aria. So with this, they decide to spend their winter break in a cabin away from life for a well deserved break.
Until a horrid accident happens on the way, leaving two of the passengers stranded in the middle of no where. These two are then forced to find an abandoned cabin for warmth, canned food and water. What they didn’t expect was past feelings to come alight and to find warmth in each other.
Truths then come to light, and when they are rescued, they must face their actions as well as a new present without two of their closest.
The connection between the two main characters was obvious from the first chapter they were introduced. I had no idea where this story was going but I felt their connection. This story is about new adults, finding themselves in a position they never wanted to be in and facing guilt without regret for actions they never thought they would do.
The only negative I have is I do wish the author didn’t rush into the story as much, as I felt like the beginning was quick and the ending then dragged a bit. I liked the author provided a great epilogue but I still felt like it dragged a little to get to that point.
BUT all in all, I still adored this story and loved the characters, and I easily give it 4.5/5 stars, with 4/5 steam. I also look forward in reading more by this author now that I have been introduced as I definitely enjoyed her easy reading writing skill.
April 23, 2022
I was generously given an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
f: Everly
m: Cooper
(Dual POVs)
I don't want to give too much away cause I think it's best to go in blind and go for the ride, but trust me when I say this book is a unique gem! This isn't a light and fluffy romance, this book is filled with lots of heart wrenching emotions. There's a sense of forbiddenness to this couple that gives them grief that almost feels insurmountable. The grief brings some self loathing which makes for some twisted conversations.
I fell in love with the characters in this book. Everly is strong, confident and speaks her mind. She's the type that goes against the current even if it brings her some grief. She doesn't cave under the pressure of what other people want, particularly her parents. Cooper is so fucking loyal it's heartbreaking. He may have this bad boy image on the outside but on the inside, I don't think there's a bad bone in his body. He cares so much for the people he loves, he would rather see himself suffer than them. These two together have a fiery passion that is raw and rough and leaves them clawing at each other for more.
As per usual, Nicole is a mastermind at weaving in plot twists and making it all fit together cohesively. This is another book that showcases Nicole's style of angst, forbidden and unpredictable and I absolutely loved it!
Favorite Quotes:
This thing between us was always undeniable. -Cooper
"I don't know what I'm supposed to feel."
"I don't think you get to choose."
"It was real."-Cooper
*Beta read
*Buddy read with Brie! (June)
f: Everly
m: Cooper
(Dual POVs)
I don't want to give too much away cause I think it's best to go in blind and go for the ride, but trust me when I say this book is a unique gem! This isn't a light and fluffy romance, this book is filled with lots of heart wrenching emotions. There's a sense of forbiddenness to this couple that gives them grief that almost feels insurmountable. The grief brings some self loathing which makes for some twisted conversations.
I fell in love with the characters in this book. Everly is strong, confident and speaks her mind. She's the type that goes against the current even if it brings her some grief. She doesn't cave under the pressure of what other people want, particularly her parents. Cooper is so fucking loyal it's heartbreaking. He may have this bad boy image on the outside but on the inside, I don't think there's a bad bone in his body. He cares so much for the people he loves, he would rather see himself suffer than them. These two together have a fiery passion that is raw and rough and leaves them clawing at each other for more.
As per usual, Nicole is a mastermind at weaving in plot twists and making it all fit together cohesively. This is another book that showcases Nicole's style of angst, forbidden and unpredictable and I absolutely loved it!
Favorite Quotes:
This thing between us was always undeniable. -Cooper
"I don't know what I'm supposed to feel."
"I don't think you get to choose."
"It was real."-Cooper
*Beta read
*Buddy read with Brie! (June)
June 10, 2021
Now that is a way to start a book!! I was not expecting the events that occur at the start of the book from when I read the blurb. Nicole threw one heck of a twist into the story from the beginning and I was stunned, gripped and ready to see how the story played out.
Everly and Cooper are stranded in an abandoned cabin fighting to survive after going through something I didn't see coming. A forced proximity romance in one sense but in another these two were always meant to come together. For the last several years Copper and Everly have hated each other, always at odds and never quite calling a truce. When they have to learn to rely on each other to survive the chemistry ignites in more ways than one.
This story was not what I was expecting at all, and I don't know why I am surprised. Nicole always writes the broken stories and the flawed characters so well and this book is just that at it's core. The plot highlights how raw and real these two main characters are, what they go through together is not something that happens every day. How they handle it all, the emotions during and the aftermath that follows is very real and Nicole wrote it beautifully. The epilogue was perfection! It really brought the story to a close in the best way and if you haven't read a Nicole Dykes book yet this is a great place to start! If you think you have read books about being stuck in a cabin during a snowstorm before I challenge you to read this and not love the direction it takes.
Everly and Cooper are stranded in an abandoned cabin fighting to survive after going through something I didn't see coming. A forced proximity romance in one sense but in another these two were always meant to come together. For the last several years Copper and Everly have hated each other, always at odds and never quite calling a truce. When they have to learn to rely on each other to survive the chemistry ignites in more ways than one.
This story was not what I was expecting at all, and I don't know why I am surprised. Nicole always writes the broken stories and the flawed characters so well and this book is just that at it's core. The plot highlights how raw and real these two main characters are, what they go through together is not something that happens every day. How they handle it all, the emotions during and the aftermath that follows is very real and Nicole wrote it beautifully. The epilogue was perfection! It really brought the story to a close in the best way and if you haven't read a Nicole Dykes book yet this is a great place to start! If you think you have read books about being stuck in a cabin during a snowstorm before I challenge you to read this and not love the direction it takes.
June 12, 2021
This was my first time reading this author, and it won’t be my last. The author takes you on an emotional ride from start to finish. I loved the connections between the characters and how they were each-other rock through a extremely hard and devastating time.
This story is about Everly and Cooper. What was supposed to be a fun trip during Christmas break, takes a turn for the worse. Left with no one else to rely on but each-other. This is a story about loss, love and survival. With a tiny bit of an enemy to lovers vibe in the beginning. It’s about Two people who “can’t stand each other” who ultimately have to rely on each-other for survival. The chemistry through this story was great, and the connection these two share was what kept the story going.
Overall this was a quick emotional ride. And I genuinely enjoyed it. I defiantly recommend reading this one.
This story is about Everly and Cooper. What was supposed to be a fun trip during Christmas break, takes a turn for the worse. Left with no one else to rely on but each-other. This is a story about loss, love and survival. With a tiny bit of an enemy to lovers vibe in the beginning. It’s about Two people who “can’t stand each other” who ultimately have to rely on each-other for survival. The chemistry through this story was great, and the connection these two share was what kept the story going.
Overall this was a quick emotional ride. And I genuinely enjoyed it. I defiantly recommend reading this one.
Read
June 6, 2021“You walked into that party, and your eyes met mine. You smiled. I’ll never forget that smile.”
What You’ll Find:
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Forced Proximity
✔️One Bed
✔️Steamy
✔️Dual POV
MINI REVIEW
This one starts with a heartbreaking twist that I didn’t see coming. And then develops into a bit of a twisted/forbidden and steamy, enemies to lovers romance. Unfortunately though, this one wasn’t for me. I just didn’t feel the connection, or the emotion I expected to with the initial storyline. You definitely have to suspend reality, and I just couldn’t get there with this one. The ending was sweet and I suspect this will be many others jam though! I look forward to seeing what’s next from this author!
What You’ll Find:
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Forced Proximity
✔️One Bed
✔️Steamy
✔️Dual POV
MINI REVIEW
This one starts with a heartbreaking twist that I didn’t see coming. And then develops into a bit of a twisted/forbidden and steamy, enemies to lovers romance. Unfortunately though, this one wasn’t for me. I just didn’t feel the connection, or the emotion I expected to with the initial storyline. You definitely have to suspend reality, and I just couldn’t get there with this one. The ending was sweet and I suspect this will be many others jam though! I look forward to seeing what’s next from this author!
June 11, 2021
You guys, this book deserves so much love!! Stranded is a standalone romance novel that will have your jaw dropping in literally just the first few chapters. It brings on so many emotions, questions your morals, and it’ll hurt in the best way. Everly and Cooper are REAL in every way from their feelings to their unfortunate fight for survival. It’s like a bad car accident: it’s intense you can’t look away and you need to know what happens. I was hooked every second of the way trying to see how they’d survive everything physically emotionally and mentally. Nicole writes real heartache well and this book will both hurt and excite you but it’s all worth it especially with all the sexy bath times involved
June 1, 2021
Oh my god! What a story. It was so heartbreaking all the while being completely heartwarming. Survival, forbidden love, undeniable attraction, what more could you ask for?
This story is intense, I went into this book blind and was so surprised and awed by what transpired.
Cooper and Everly went through so much together: the tragedy, the emotion, the love, it was such a beautiful story of grief, love and growth.
I definitely recommend this story to anyone who loves an emotional roller coaster romance 😍
This story is intense, I went into this book blind and was so surprised and awed by what transpired.
Cooper and Everly went through so much together: the tragedy, the emotion, the love, it was such a beautiful story of grief, love and growth.
I definitely recommend this story to anyone who loves an emotional roller coaster romance 😍
May 30, 2021
I was given an ARC in return for an honest review. I absolutely loved this story!! This is the first book I have read by this author and I am currently adding all her books to my TBR!! The angst in this book was amazing! I devoured it in 24 hours. I couldn't read it fast enough to see what happened next
June 14, 2021
Loved it! The banter between the two main characters was great and I really enjoyed the pacing.
June 14, 2021
Loved it
I have read everyone of Nicole's book's and I have loved everyone of them and this one is no different it is as all of hers are hard to put down you want to read it from front to back without putting it down Coop and Ev love story is heartfelt and emotional so please go grab any of Nicole's book's you won't regret it I promise
I have read everyone of Nicole's book's and I have loved everyone of them and this one is no different it is as all of hers are hard to put down you want to read it from front to back without putting it down Coop and Ev love story is heartfelt and emotional so please go grab any of Nicole's book's you won't regret it I promise
June 17, 2025
4.5⭐️
June 17, 2021
Just heartwarming
This was a profoundly good story. I absolutely fell in love with Everly. Her heart is so big that at times I felt sad at the things that were effecting her. This is a wonderful story of survival, trauma and emotional turmoil. I’m glad I read it.
This was a profoundly good story. I absolutely fell in love with Everly. Her heart is so big that at times I felt sad at the things that were effecting her. This is a wonderful story of survival, trauma and emotional turmoil. I’m glad I read it.
June 3, 2021
Between the fact that I was emotional and that this book breaks your heart into a thousand pieces, I ended up swollen with a heavy heart and wishing that life was as beautiful as that epilogue.
Although from the title you get an idea of what the book is about (which I didn't pay that much attention to and I regret it), it's about the story of four friends who go on vacation and due to a series of events things don't go as planned. Now they have to fight against circumstances and against life in order to get back to what they once called reality. The love in this story is so great that it is not only a couple's love but when it is it consumes you in seconds. I don't want to give any details because it could be a spoiler. I can only tell you to have tissues, a bottle of water, and something to hug every now and then.
Nicole is a pro at contradicting your feelings and going from cold to hot in five seconds. Each chapter reads fairly quickly because you immediately want to know what will happen. It plays with your sense of reality and suddenly brings a tear to your eye followed by a chuckle.
🌟Forced Proximity
🌟Forbidden Love
🌟Steamy Romance
🌟“Hate to Love”
"𝙒𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙮 𝙗𝙚 𝙗𝙖𝙙, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙬𝙚'𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙢𝙣 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨"
ESP
Entre que andaba emocional y que este libro te revienta el corazón en mil pedazos, terminé hinchada con el corazón golpeado y ganas que la vida fuera tan bella como ese epílogo.
Aunque desde el título te das una idea sobre qué va el libro (cosa que no le di tanta atención y me arrepiento), trata sobre la historia de cuatro amigos que se van de vacaciones y por una serie de acontecimientos las cosas no salen como lo tenían planeado. Ahora tienen que luchar contra las circunstancias y contra la vida para poder regresar a lo que alguna vez llamaron realidad. El amor en esta historia es tan grande que no solamente es de pareja pero cuando lo es te consume en segundos.
Nicole es una profesional en contradecir tus sentimientos y pasar de frío a caliente en cinco segundos. Cada capítulo se lee bastante rápido porque inmediatamente quieres saber qué va a pasar. Juega con tu sentido de la realidad y de repente te saca una lágrima seguida de una risa.
3.8
Although from the title you get an idea of what the book is about (which I didn't pay that much attention to and I regret it), it's about the story of four friends who go on vacation and due to a series of events things don't go as planned. Now they have to fight against circumstances and against life in order to get back to what they once called reality. The love in this story is so great that it is not only a couple's love but when it is it consumes you in seconds. I don't want to give any details because it could be a spoiler. I can only tell you to have tissues, a bottle of water, and something to hug every now and then.
Nicole is a pro at contradicting your feelings and going from cold to hot in five seconds. Each chapter reads fairly quickly because you immediately want to know what will happen. It plays with your sense of reality and suddenly brings a tear to your eye followed by a chuckle.
🌟Forced Proximity
🌟Forbidden Love
🌟Steamy Romance
🌟“Hate to Love”
"𝙒𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙮 𝙗𝙚 𝙗𝙖𝙙, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙬𝙚'𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙢𝙣 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨"
ESP
Entre que andaba emocional y que este libro te revienta el corazón en mil pedazos, terminé hinchada con el corazón golpeado y ganas que la vida fuera tan bella como ese epílogo.
Aunque desde el título te das una idea sobre qué va el libro (cosa que no le di tanta atención y me arrepiento), trata sobre la historia de cuatro amigos que se van de vacaciones y por una serie de acontecimientos las cosas no salen como lo tenían planeado. Ahora tienen que luchar contra las circunstancias y contra la vida para poder regresar a lo que alguna vez llamaron realidad. El amor en esta historia es tan grande que no solamente es de pareja pero cuando lo es te consume en segundos.
Nicole es una profesional en contradecir tus sentimientos y pasar de frío a caliente en cinco segundos. Cada capítulo se lee bastante rápido porque inmediatamente quieres saber qué va a pasar. Juega con tu sentido de la realidad y de repente te saca una lágrima seguida de una risa.
3.8
May 30, 2021
Stranded is a new stand-alone romance from Nicole Dykes, to be released on June 11. We were lucky enough to receive an arc from the author (someone sent us an arc?!?!?!). The story follows Everly and Cooper as they are stranded in a cabin after surviving a car accident that left two other passengers dead.
This book definitely has a fast physical burn but a slow emotional one. Meaning, there’s a heavy dose of smut but the character’s are complete emotional tornados. Everly and Cooper have been dancing around each other for years and now that they’re thrown together in this high stakes situation, they have to confront the guilt of betraying their family. Sometimes it felt like Cooper and Everly were having the same fight over and over again, but considering that it was a rather huge obstacle standing in the way of their relationship this didn’t feel repetitive or frustrating. While the characters are stranded in the cabin there’s really not much to do plot-wise other than have them survive and confront their feelings (and use each other to pass the time, wink wink nudge nudge). I think it would have been very appealing for an author to leave the characters trapped because it’s really the ideal scenario to force them to confront their feelings with no outside factors, but Dykes resists the temptation. By moving the story to a new setting when she did, she prevented the storyline from feeling too drawn-out to the point that it became boring. Instead, she keeps driving the plot and the character’s relationship forward by giving them new challenges to contend with.
From the start of the book I definitely had plot-twist predictions that I was absolutely positive were going to come true, and exactly none of them did. Romance novels are obviously very trope heavy, and this isn’t really an exception (hello “there’s only one bed”) but the plot was still unpredictable. When I realized none of my predictions were going to come true, I had no idea how Everly and Cooper were going to move past the baggage but I think that the author brought the story to a very satisfying conclusion. It wasn’t wrapped up with a pretty little bow, but it felt very true to the characters and the story.
This was my first Nicole Dykes book but I’ll definitely be picking up more!
This book definitely has a fast physical burn but a slow emotional one. Meaning, there’s a heavy dose of smut but the character’s are complete emotional tornados. Everly and Cooper have been dancing around each other for years and now that they’re thrown together in this high stakes situation, they have to confront the guilt of betraying their family. Sometimes it felt like Cooper and Everly were having the same fight over and over again, but considering that it was a rather huge obstacle standing in the way of their relationship this didn’t feel repetitive or frustrating. While the characters are stranded in the cabin there’s really not much to do plot-wise other than have them survive and confront their feelings (and use each other to pass the time, wink wink nudge nudge). I think it would have been very appealing for an author to leave the characters trapped because it’s really the ideal scenario to force them to confront their feelings with no outside factors, but Dykes resists the temptation. By moving the story to a new setting when she did, she prevented the storyline from feeling too drawn-out to the point that it became boring. Instead, she keeps driving the plot and the character’s relationship forward by giving them new challenges to contend with.
From the start of the book I definitely had plot-twist predictions that I was absolutely positive were going to come true, and exactly none of them did. Romance novels are obviously very trope heavy, and this isn’t really an exception (hello “there’s only one bed”) but the plot was still unpredictable. When I realized none of my predictions were going to come true, I had no idea how Everly and Cooper were going to move past the baggage but I think that the author brought the story to a very satisfying conclusion. It wasn’t wrapped up with a pretty little bow, but it felt very true to the characters and the story.
This was my first Nicole Dykes book but I’ll definitely be picking up more!
June 11, 2021
Cooper and Everly hate each other, but behind all their banter there are a lot of underlying feelings for each other. And though they tried to fight it off, they just couldn’t hold it in any longer. And though it brings them pain whenever they act on it, it’s also something way different than they have ever felt and experienced before.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting the thing that happened at the beginning of this book; but I also think it was the perfect build up for their story. I will also admit that the forbidden aspect of this book took me aback a little and made it a little difficult to connect with Cooper and Everly. But as I got to know them better and see more of their personality, it was easier to connect with them. Then again, maybe this difficulty might have been because of my mood (I’ve been in one for quite some time now).
I really loved Cooper. He was loyal, protective and so damn caring of those he loves. Everly was a really strong heroine, even when she didn’t think so. She was also very loyal and even when she comes off as someone negative, she is truly someone that wants to bring happiness to others. Throughout the book my heart broke for this two characters. Not just because of what happened at the beginning of the book, but also because of what their past and their family situation.
Overall, I really did enjoyed this book and it was hard to put down. Even with the difficulty to connect with both characters at first, I ended up loving them. This was my first book by this author and I can say with certainty it won’t be my last.
If you love enemies to lovers, forced proximity, forbidden, steamy and emotional reads; I recommend you give this one a try!
💕 𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒒𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔 💕
~ “You walked into that party, and your eyes met mine. You smiled. I’ll never forget that smile”
~ “Because I’m in love with Cooper, and I’m not fighting it anymore.”
~ “This thing between us was always undeniable.”
~ “I’ve loved you for years. Long before that fucking wreck. It wasn’t grief or being afraid. I was finally getting to have you.”
*𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄*
I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting the thing that happened at the beginning of this book; but I also think it was the perfect build up for their story. I will also admit that the forbidden aspect of this book took me aback a little and made it a little difficult to connect with Cooper and Everly. But as I got to know them better and see more of their personality, it was easier to connect with them. Then again, maybe this difficulty might have been because of my mood (I’ve been in one for quite some time now).
I really loved Cooper. He was loyal, protective and so damn caring of those he loves. Everly was a really strong heroine, even when she didn’t think so. She was also very loyal and even when she comes off as someone negative, she is truly someone that wants to bring happiness to others. Throughout the book my heart broke for this two characters. Not just because of what happened at the beginning of the book, but also because of what their past and their family situation.
Overall, I really did enjoyed this book and it was hard to put down. Even with the difficulty to connect with both characters at first, I ended up loving them. This was my first book by this author and I can say with certainty it won’t be my last.
If you love enemies to lovers, forced proximity, forbidden, steamy and emotional reads; I recommend you give this one a try!
💕 𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒒𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔 💕
~ “You walked into that party, and your eyes met mine. You smiled. I’ll never forget that smile”
~ “Because I’m in love with Cooper, and I’m not fighting it anymore.”
~ “This thing between us was always undeniable.”
~ “I’ve loved you for years. Long before that fucking wreck. It wasn’t grief or being afraid. I was finally getting to have you.”
*𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄*
June 14, 2021
Stranded - Nicole Dykes
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
::: SPOILER-FREE REVIEW :::
Rating: 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Holy WOW!!! What a beautiful story!!!
I heard all about this book from different bookstagrammers. I also heard that this was about 2 people stranded in the middle of nowhere/survival romance... so when Nicole reached out to me here on Instagram, I had to say yes. 💜
It was absolute stunning perfection in every way. My heart is just overflowing with emotions.
I fell in love with the story from page one. You might think that the first page is a little early to proclaim love for a book but I instantly connected -- it was like I'd just stepped right into the story.
Stranded was nothing like I expected. I excepted it to be like a 50 Shades of Grey fan fiction with just a lot of sex scenes... No, it wasn't it was so much more. I knew I was going to like Cooper (because he sounded hot), but I had no idea that I was going to love him. That he was going to be actually interesting in a realistic way. I also loved Everly. She is strong, confident and speaks her mind. And that's how I like my female characters.
I loved the chemistry and the slow build between them. Even though the feelings were fought most of the book, you could still feel them brewing just below the surface. The bond they built while facing their own mortality while struggling for daily survival was awe inspiring.
This story is intense, I went into this book blind and was so surprised and awed by what transpired. This book was an absolute page turner, the story held me captive from beginning to end, never predictable and absolutely romantic, it was everything I hope for in a novel.
I honestly did not expect to love this as much as I did. The writing was excellent, the storyline realistic, and the characters were very easy to like and relate to.
For all those of you who are looking for a great story filled with love defying the odds in the most unlikely of situations…along with realistic upheavals filled with terrifying and heartbreaking situations where everything could mean life or death. Stranded is for you!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
::: SPOILER-FREE REVIEW :::
Rating: 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Holy WOW!!! What a beautiful story!!!
I heard all about this book from different bookstagrammers. I also heard that this was about 2 people stranded in the middle of nowhere/survival romance... so when Nicole reached out to me here on Instagram, I had to say yes. 💜
It was absolute stunning perfection in every way. My heart is just overflowing with emotions.
I fell in love with the story from page one. You might think that the first page is a little early to proclaim love for a book but I instantly connected -- it was like I'd just stepped right into the story.
Stranded was nothing like I expected. I excepted it to be like a 50 Shades of Grey fan fiction with just a lot of sex scenes... No, it wasn't it was so much more. I knew I was going to like Cooper (because he sounded hot), but I had no idea that I was going to love him. That he was going to be actually interesting in a realistic way. I also loved Everly. She is strong, confident and speaks her mind. And that's how I like my female characters.
I loved the chemistry and the slow build between them. Even though the feelings were fought most of the book, you could still feel them brewing just below the surface. The bond they built while facing their own mortality while struggling for daily survival was awe inspiring.
This story is intense, I went into this book blind and was so surprised and awed by what transpired. This book was an absolute page turner, the story held me captive from beginning to end, never predictable and absolutely romantic, it was everything I hope for in a novel.
I honestly did not expect to love this as much as I did. The writing was excellent, the storyline realistic, and the characters were very easy to like and relate to.
For all those of you who are looking for a great story filled with love defying the odds in the most unlikely of situations…along with realistic upheavals filled with terrifying and heartbreaking situations where everything could mean life or death. Stranded is for you!
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