Shred of Decency

Shattered Hearts of Carolina #2

by Jody Kaye

Aidy and Morgan are both looking for a fresh start. When fate brings them together, can they find a way to heal in each other’s arms?—A Nook Bestseller!

Owning up to your mistakes doesn't mean you won’t make more... especially when the right woman is involved.

I saw the anguish in her eyes when we met. Still, I tried ignoring Aidy’s reason for hiding out in Brighton. She wasn’t the only one looking for a fresh start.

The closer we get, the more my existence doesn’t feel so meaningless. I’m taking it slow for both our sakes. There’s no doubt in my mind the first woman I’ve ever fallen for has a future filled with endless possibilities... And a guy like me, who spent time behind bars, hasn’t got much to offer.

When Aidy’s secret is revealed, I can’t help taking it personally. If I had a shred of decency, I’d have let her continue to heal on her own terms. As someone who has already done hard time, what’s one more bad judgment call? Except will Aidy still love me if I play judge and jury to ensure her attacker pays?


—Morgan

Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2021

About the author

Jody Kaye writes interconnected steamy contemporary romance, including the unbridled Kingsbrier Quintuplets and the emotionally charged, multi-generational southern Shattered Hearts of Carolina series.

“Jody is a masterful storyteller, with beautifully developed characters, incredible landscapes and every now then and plot twists that will leave you reeling.” —Goodreads review

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Reviews

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a way, this is a story about surviving sexual assault, a process made easier by having love and support from those around you. Love does enable recovery, does it not?

My thanks to the author, Jody Kaye, for my e copy of this book. #Goodreads Giveaway

[Natalie Miernicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful story with lots of interesting, yet somewhat shady characters. You get a little insight into what they all do but it is still shrouded in mystery, but big personalities with big hearts to match! Aidy had everything from what it seemed on the outside but Morgan could see that she was hiding something and will do anything to make her smile and feel safe. A great feel good story about extended families and what love can do to heal you from the outside in.

[Robyn Corcoran · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new author for me and one I found to write in a very interesting yet enjoyable style. The book is a slow burn romance in one aspect mainly but really about so much more.

Morgan and Aidy are total opposites in some ways but not in others. I honestly felt so sorry for Morgan and while he did the honourable thing when still in college it didn’t seem right to me nor to many of the characters in the book, thankfully. We all make decisions and there are consequences, some that have shocking repercussions. This seems to be a recurring theme in the story and is handled well.

There are some great characters but lots of interesting things still going on in the background that are alluded to so many questions still remain. I’m a curious cat. 😆 I was a little bit disappointed there were a couple of discrepancies like Andy’s age being nineteen then all of a sudden she’s turning twenty-one yet two years didn’t seem to have passed. A tad confusing. But I really liked the epilogue and how it came full circle, explaining so much.

I do recommend this story and would like to read more in the series.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aidy has endured a traumatic event that no one should have to experience. Her way of dealing with the aftermath hasn’t allowed her to get closure or heal until Morgan comes into her life and sees a kindred soul.

Morgan has a painful past of his own and all he wants is a fresh start. Morgan can see the pain that Aidy is in and he is determined to show that she can trust him with not only her heart but her past as well.

The strength and resilience of Aidy shines through while Morgan is patient and understanding. This story takes us on an emotion filled journey as they prove that with love and support anything can be overcome.

[⭐Toonasa⭐ •Romance Book Lovers' Haven• · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Fighting-the-Demons & Being-Stronger-Together Stars⭐!
A Highly Emotional story which 1st Broke my heart & then mended it. Also have Fun+Amusing scenes to balance it out!
I love Morgan & Aidy❤, Adored their Friends & Family!

This Story is Longer than the Previous one (Splinter Of Hope).
ARC Received for a honest Review.

Aidy, smart+sweet, endures & overcomes a lot here. Her adoptive parents are great & since Aidy turned 18, She'd grown close with Kimber (A's Birth Mother), K's hubby-Trig & their baby (A's half Bro) Owen [From: Splinter Of Hope].

Morgan, Caring+Protective, had gone to Jail owning up to a crime he didn't commit. He's currently working for Trig, piecing his life back together. His sis-Cece works with Kimber. He Lives in Trig+Kimber's home.

The story starts with the aftermath of A heinous crime committed to Aidy: Rape, Her Virginity Stolen. Suffering, then Recovering. She doesn't tell anyone.. My heart hurted for her.

She met Morgan when she came to visit Kimber+Trig & babysat Owen. Though Aidy & Morgan mostly talk in passing the next few weeks, The connection+Desire b/w them was evident..But they thought they were way out of eachother's league.

Then Trig sends Morgan to rescue Aidy from a party.. A short Road trip, Him opening up a little... Their Relation takes a deeper turn.

Being Friends, meeting His Sis, A+M Finally Confessing Their desire, Dates, kisses, Being Couple❤ *swoon*..
But then she panics when they make-out..Truth time. We find out that Morgan & she may have more in common then we initially thought.

Morgan understands her, cares for her, is so sweet to her!
Their Relation Grows, The two healing together.. Studies, All family time, Moving up, Troubling 'Friendly' Secrets, Christmas Fun! *Chuckle*

“Falling in love is bigger than falling for a single person. It's accepting who they are and those they surround themselves with because every relationship, Every experience, weaves together, making a person whole and unique and worth loving.” ~Aidy

But Morgan knows, for her to fully move on, The guy who wronged her must Pay..Vengeance. (I'm Glad M has helpful friends!)
AND with A NEW YEAR, The two Have A NEW START. Start of their HEA. A Beautiful Future.
❤Love Confessions+Consummation❤ *Yay!*

The Later Scenes were Cute+Swoony! I loved the Ending and The epilogue was Gorgeous😍.

“There is nothing we can't get through because we've proven we're able to endure some of the worst curveballs life can throw at a person. I have an inner strength I was never aware of. I'm whole. I'm loved. I'm a survivor.” ~Aidy

P.s. The path to their HEA wasn't easy, both had Demons to fight, But their Love was worth It! Jody, you've written a beautiful story😍.

P.p.s. So excited For Cece & Dusty's Story❤.

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[Kim Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somehow, Jody has a way of reaching right down into your heart and soul, grabbing on, squeezing and doesn't let go! Each time I read one of her books, I say she can't ever do better, and then she does!
I truly never expected the characters and storylines from the Shattered Hearts of Carolina Series to grab me the way the Quints did, but I can say that they have in the most unexpected way!
While Aidy and Morgan's story deals with some really brutal issues - addiction, adoption, sexual assault, and many others, they are written with grace, and where I expected to find triggers, I found hope, and eventually beauty.
As with most, if not all, of Jody's female leads, Aidy is strong, courageous and compassionate - the trifecta, if you ask me! I don't care to read about simpering, weak woman, and you certainly won't find them in Jody's books!
I wasn't sure what to make of Morgan at first, however, he was once again a perfect mix of bad boy, along with charm, a generous and loving spirit, and compassion.
I really did not want to put this book down... I didn't want it to end (thank you for not wrecking me with another short, Jody!!! 🤣🤣). The storyline was so engaging - heartbreaking at times - and it was a thing of beauty to watch Aidy pull herself (aided by Morgan) from the depths of despair and become the woman she was intended to be!
This is an absolute must read!

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are some books we have read and will still read that we know are a story from imagination. This book however, has left me with the feeling these are people in my life and I know them personally. Not all authors have this amazing ability to draw you in to this degree, to want to be a part of, during and after the story ends.
Aidy is the daughter of Kimber, Ghillie and Don from the book Splinter of Hope. After a traumatic assault, she makes friends with Morgan who stays with Trig and Kimber. They have both been hurt, but together they help and heal each other.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.

[~lil maso~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new author for me and one I found to write in a very interesting yet enjoyable style. The book is a slow burn romance in one aspect mainly but really about so much more.

Morgan and Aidy are total opposites in some ways but not in others. I honestly felt so sorry for Morgan and while he did the honorable thing when still in college it didn’t seem right to me nor to many of the characters in the book, thankfully. We all make decisions and there are consequences, some that have shocking repercussions. This seems to be a recurring theme in the story and is handled well.

There are some great characters but lots of interesting things still going on in the background that is alluded to so many questions still remain. I’m a curious cat. I was a little bit disappointed there were a couple of discrepancies like Andy’s age being nineteen then all of a sudden she’s turning twenty-one yet two years didn’t seem to have passed. A tad confusing. But I really liked the epilogue and how it came full circle, explaining so much.

I do recommend this story and would like to read more in the series.

A wonderful story with lots of interesting, yet somewhat shady characters.

You get a little insight into what they all do but it is still shrouded in mystery, but big personalities with big hearts to match!

Aidy had everything from what it seemed on the outside but Morgan could see that she was hiding something and will do anything to make her smile and feel safe.

A great feel-good story about extended families and what love can do to heal you from the outside in.


*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
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[Tiffany Readz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars-Not What I Expected at All

From the blurb, I wasn't expecting Shred of Decency to be anything like it was. This is a book that opens your eyes to others and makes you stop and think when you're done reading it. This review will be vague to protect the storylines.

Jodi Kaye gives her readers quite a bit to chew on when it comes to the story of Aidy and Morgan. They both are carrying some heavy duty emotional baggage and it was a treat to see how they helped each other through the dark times. The story is heavy, however with the addition of friends and family, there is the perfect amount of humor as a nice break from the heavy at times.

"I didn't know that when everything was lost, I'd wind up finding you."

Aidy and Morgan were written perfect for each other, sure it took some time to get them where they needed to be and I was perfectly fine with that. Actually, I thought Aidy was moving a little fast in the beginning and needed to give her the benefit of the doubt. The girl knew what she was doing when it was all said and done.

The book is well written and I didn't realize it was part of a series. No wonder I wanted to get to know more about Aidy and Morgan's extended families. There was some pretty secret stuff going on with them that I never really figured out. That said, I felt the book read fine as a standalone, there was enough personal background given on each character to know where they fit in the story. Guess I better go back and start from the beginning now!

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shred of Decency is a story full of heavy emotions as there were some things that could be triggers for readers.  However, Jody Kaye wrote them with realism & grace since she didn't go into a ton of detail. Aidy went through something traumatic that no one should ever go through, but life is filled with not so good people.  Morgan comes along, and she sees something in him that calls to her, and yet, she still has some trust issues which I couldn't blame her for at all.  He's determined to show her that she can trust him to let him in about her past , and seriously, I was all kinds of emotional while experiencing everything along with them.  This is a story that was penned realistically, and definitely showcases how love can heal & conquer all.  So, hit your one click buttons to experience it all for yourselves!  HIGHLY RECOMMEND!  

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Aidy and Morgan’s story. Aidy is a survivor after a brutal and horrendous attach, which had made her stronger and she is a strong, caring, and compassionate heroine. Morgan is a bad boy who is totally charming, and this story is about two people who are trying to move on after things that happened when they were younger. These two are a perfect match for each other, but can they heal each other? This is a beautifully written tale which is raw, gritty, heart-breaking, as well as an emotional roller coaster journey throughout. Please be aware of the trigger warning before reading, as some sensitive topics as in this content, which this author has done a good job in covering.

[Kristina Beck · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great addition to Splinter of Hope. It discusses sensitive topics but not in excess. I'm not a fan of really dark books so I was thankful this WAS NOT so dark. The writing was excellent and she sure knows how to keep you guessing. There are still questions unanswered but that is on purpose and it makes you very curious for the next one. Kuddos again to the author.

The love between Kimber and Trig in book 1 was what attracted me the most. But there was a little something missing between Aidy and Morgen. But overall, a great book, and I'm looking forward to book 3.

[Larissa Rye · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-1/2 Stars

This book talked about quite a few serious topics. Excessive drinking, hazing, underage drinking, the criminal elements, rape & sexual assault. So the romance side of this book took a backseat in my opinion. To me this book was more about healing, as well as consequences from your actions. It was really well written, I just didn’t really connect with the characters. I think I should have read the previous books in this series & maybe I would have connected more.

Overall this book was well written, with a good storyline & relatable characters. I will say some things in this book may trigger some readers.

I received an arc of this book in return for an honest review.

[Joyffree · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to clarify first that I dropped into this series with Shred of Decency and IMO though it is a standalone I believe I would have better connected with the characters if I had read the previous releases.
This is a highly charged read that deals with some pretty tough realities that are prevalent on most college campuses. I also think it takes a very honest look at how society fails in many ways when it comes to the victims.
There is a strong connection between Morgan and Aidy. Morgan sees Aidy. Really sees her.
The story flows smoothly with an easy to follow time line that occasionally dips but overall kept me engaged. Some scenes tore at my heart strings while others left me with the feeling of hope.
I am curious now to go back to the beginning
This may have some triggers but know that where there is darkness there is light

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an emotional read but so brilliant.
I loved Aidy and how she tried to cope with what happened to her but she wasn't living until she met Morgan.
Morgan has lived through his own nightmare but when he meets Aidy he knows that he wants to make her smile again.
Full of heartbreak but also so much love.
A must read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Sandy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!. I cried and laughed reading this book. The book was beautifully written. I loved Aidy and Morgan's story.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[NanaX8 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome book of 2 people trying to move on from things that happened as they were growing up. Can they get thru the minefields to the love they both feel growing or will the minefields blow up in their faces. NOTE: May contain triggers for some with parties gone wrong, roofies and rape, etc. I volunteered an honest opinion for this book.

[Bernie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have read this author before you will recognize characters and references to those in other stories. They are parts of series, but it is not necessary to have read this series in order.
The couple are at odds but also in sync. Paisley runs away from the church on her wedding day to a successful cardiologist. She has specific but untold reasons. Her refuge is a strip club owned by Jake, a commitment and relationships phobe.
A fake relationship begins but there are the beginnings of something deeper, but as they each have baggage it does not bode well. There are challenges and changes to overcome and come to terms with before they can make it work.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book has a trigger warning but doesn't describe why exactly but does mention content that may be offensive. Also not the first book in the series. If you want to start from the beginning, make sure to read Splinter of Hope by Jody Kaye. However, I feel this story could be a standalone as well.
This story is from both Aidy's and Morgan's points of view; I loved the dual perspective. The beginning is gritty and includes a trigger warning. The characters begin to develop as the book evolves. I love how close Aidy and Morgan grow as they interact and embrace each other's words. There is lots of excellent knowledge in this book as the characters interact and overcome obstacles. Wow, I wasn't expecting so many twists and turns besides the obvious relational ones. I can't wait to see if their relationship makes it to the end of the book. Thru many trials and lots of guidance, this book does end happily. I loved when Aidy got stronger, and Morgan supported her. The family and friends in this story really make a difference. I love the lessons and profound thoughts that the author imparts to the reader in her story. While this came off gritty and with a trigger warning, it very well could have been a true story or someone else's story. This book hits close to reality and contains a great lesson in life. This book leaves a lasting impression just from the life lessons in it. I love how something awful is turned into something unique and then grew into more for the characters. Yes, this book has a trigger warning, but that isn't what this book is about. It is about overcoming bad things, making sure you come out stronger, and taking the wisdom from others to assist you. I feel the author did a great job incorporating sensitive topics into her story and the characters making the most of their reality

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in The Shattered Hearts of Carolina series and it is Aidy Morgan’s story. When Aidy is attacked it is so traumatic that she didn’t tell anyone and tried to carry on even though the pain and suffering is sometimes hard to bear but she still tries to move forward so that nobody suspects or finds out what happened to her. Morgan had been in prison for a crime that he didn’t commit but now released he just wants to move forward with his life and being the kind, caring and protective person he is when he meets Aidy he knows that she is hiding something big and he wants to help her but first she will have to trust him which is a big issue with all the baggage with they both have to carry. This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and heartbreak that will have you in tears so make sure that you have tissue’s ready because you are definitely going to need them. I couldn’t put this book down as the story pulled you in and had you turning the pages to see what happened next and what the outcome would be for Aidy Morgan in the end. I felt like i was there feeling and going through all the pain and suffering and Jody Kaye wrote this book with so much care and compassion on some very difficult subjects and i look forward to reading more of her books in the future.

[Ashley Jasper · Rating 3 out of 5]

Shred of Decency is my first book from Jody Kaye and it is heavy. But not in a bad way. Aidy and Morgan's story tackled some tough subjects.

I admired Aidy. She had this inner strength that just wouldn't quit. She battled her way out of the downward spiral her life became. It didn't hurt that she had an awesome support system around her. Including Morgan. A man who lived through his own hell. Who was determined to be more than the mistakes of his past.

There was no magic aha moment when they first met but there was comfort. Something neither had felt for quite some time. I liked the ease they had with each other. How they didn't have to hide their struggles. And little by little that acceptance let them start to laugh again.

My favorite thing about Aidy and Morgan's journey was how they both handled their situation with grace and dignity. They were more than what they had endured. And they used their pain, turned it into purpose and let it give them the power to own their future. Together.

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbreaking but so worth it

Shred of Decency is the second book in the Shattered Hearts of Carolina series. This book was published in 2020 but I am reading and reviewing it now, at the end of 2023. I discovered Jody Kaye a couple of years ago but never read her earlier books so I was happy to be able to get a copy of this book and dive into the world of the series. I will recommend that the books be read in order as the characters cross-over and seem to progress along the way. This story is about Aidy and Morgan, two people who have a lot of baggage. These two will make your heart heavy and at times make you reach for a tissue, at least it did for me. But along the way there is an uplifting which happens that will make you smile and hope for the best with this couple.

[Penny Ellgass · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series and is even better than the first.
Aidy and Morgan will inspire you, give you hope, and let you know that good things can come from bad.
If anyone has ever told you "Life is what you make it" that is what this story shows you. Yes bad stuff happens to good people, but that does not mean life is over. You pick up the pieces and put them back together. Yea, there might be a Crack or scar, but they just make a regular person into a light that shines or a spot to grab hold of.
Rad this story or you will miss out.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joyce Panitch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading the advanced reader copy of this book. The subject matter, while not exactly pleasant, was not graphic. That made it easier to read. Several of the characters in the book were introduced in Splinter of Hope. It was like revisiting old friends and seeing what they are up to now.

This book showed a maturity in writing and character development that I hadn’t seen in some of Jody’s earlier books. This series is a nice departure from the Kingsbrier series, which was fun to read. I can’t wait to read the final books in the series!

[Elisha Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Book 1, I had high hopes for Morgan and Aidy's story. Once again, Jody Kaye did not disappoint. The story was lengthier than Trig and Kimber's, and I still didn't want it to end. There is a lot of emotion (both good and bad) wrapped up in this story. The writing took me along for the ride, making me feel like I was part of their family. It also covers some pretty serious topics without being graphic. The seriousness is balanced really well with the love and romance (and some steam!) This was a great read and I can't wait to read book 3!

[Yvette89 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two people trying to start over. Both feel like they don’t have futures but come to realize they are each other’s future. This book will have you dealing with all the emotions. There are triggers and the warnings should be heeded. Aidy’s story is tearful but her getting through and getting stronger Is worth the read. The other did a good job of relaying the incidents without getting too detailed. It made Aidy’s circumstance more credible. A emotional journey that had you rooting for the characters.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book with strong characters and an emotional storyline. The author does a great job developing the story and deals with some touchy subjects perfectly. She pulled me in with the heartbreaking story and delivers a realistic read. She does a wonderful job painting her scenes , bringing the story to life. Highly recommend this book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Jennifer Kalainikas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story went places I didn't expect and I loved it. She gives just enough info to make you think without spelling out every detail which is a concept I love. This book makes you sit back and realize there are always multiple ways to see a situation. Love that she gave Aidy and Morgan their own voices to face and overcome their obstacles. A great love story with lots of depth.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read several books written by Jody Kaye; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mzlegz · Rating 4 out of 5]

From beginning to end, the intensity of feelings, emotions, secrets and actions were on GO!! Aidy and Morgan dealt with so much wrongness but their love for each other helped heal some of those hurts. Brandon bit off waaaaay more than he could chew and more like him need to be taken down a peg or ten!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.