What do you think?
Rate this book
Love Beyond Words #1
Nonverbal
She only wanted a fleeting connection. But with him, nothing is as superficial as it seems…
Paige is trapped in an abusive family. To escape mentally, she obsesses about EDM and something she has yet to experience: a satisfying physical connection with a man. Her simple goal seems within reach when she finds an unexpected spark with her best friend’s brother...until he puts up firms walls between them.
Brody is a dedicated bachelor focused solely on his sister’s well-being. But when Paige suddenly moves in, she upends Brody's life and makes him question his entire stance on relationships. Their chemistry is undeniable. Yet, his sister made Paige off-limits, and one wrong move could send his sister’s fragile mental health spiraling.
As Paige is drawn to Brody’s caring nature and safe presence, her deep-seated trust issues and fear of her family cause serious anguish. And Brody already knows he’s fallen for Paige. But admitting his feelings would only hurt his sister and might be more than what Paige is looking for.
Keeping his distance is for the best. But letting her go means worrying about her very life…
An intense and uplifting own voices romance with characters you'll want to hug one after the other—perfect for fans of Aly Martinez.
Nonverbal is the first book in the Love Beyond Words series. If you enjoy protective cinnamon roll heroes, bubbly and compassionate neurodiverse heroines, and friendships that are ride or die, you'll fall in love with Brody, Paige, and Amber.
This is an Own Voices book. TW for strong language, abuse, ableism, and drug addiction.
Paige is trapped in an abusive family. To escape mentally, she obsesses about EDM and something she has yet to experience: a satisfying physical connection with a man. Her simple goal seems within reach when she finds an unexpected spark with her best friend’s brother...until he puts up firms walls between them.
Brody is a dedicated bachelor focused solely on his sister’s well-being. But when Paige suddenly moves in, she upends Brody's life and makes him question his entire stance on relationships. Their chemistry is undeniable. Yet, his sister made Paige off-limits, and one wrong move could send his sister’s fragile mental health spiraling.
As Paige is drawn to Brody’s caring nature and safe presence, her deep-seated trust issues and fear of her family cause serious anguish. And Brody already knows he’s fallen for Paige. But admitting his feelings would only hurt his sister and might be more than what Paige is looking for.
Keeping his distance is for the best. But letting her go means worrying about her very life…
An intense and uplifting own voices romance with characters you'll want to hug one after the other—perfect for fans of Aly Martinez.
Nonverbal is the first book in the Love Beyond Words series. If you enjoy protective cinnamon roll heroes, bubbly and compassionate neurodiverse heroines, and friendships that are ride or die, you'll fall in love with Brody, Paige, and Amber.
This is an Own Voices book. TW for strong language, abuse, ableism, and drug addiction.
- GenresRomanceContemporaryAdult
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2022
56 people are currently reading
1385 people want to read
About the author
Raina Ash
17 books92 followersRaina Ash writes stories about healing love—stories that are emotional, funny, and uplifting. Expect complex, resilient women searching for love, passion that's off the charts, neurodiverse characters, and protective men you can’t help but crush on.
Raina lives in Arizona with two cats and several plants she struggles to keep alive. She enjoys quiet moments, video games, crafting for nerdy causes, and sushi. Lots of sushi.
She can be found on Instagram and TikTok @RomanceByRaina. Visit www.romancebyraina.com for updates about soon-to-be released books and freebies.
Raina lives in Arizona with two cats and several plants she struggles to keep alive. She enjoys quiet moments, video games, crafting for nerdy causes, and sushi. Lots of sushi.
She can be found on Instagram and TikTok @RomanceByRaina. Visit www.romancebyraina.com for updates about soon-to-be released books and freebies.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
May 6, 2022
Genre: New Adult, Romance
Publication Date: April 8, 2022
Rating: 4 no-words-needed stars!
Favorite Quote: “Can we discuss this like the two rational people who we're not?”
What I liked about the book:
1. I absolutely loved that Paige was nonverbal autistic. I loved even more that the author showed how freaking smart, resourceful, and empathetic she was, as these are traits frequently thought of as not being associated with autistic individuals.
2. I loved that there is not a single character in this book who is not dealing with something.
This book is chalked full of super rich and emotionally complex characters who you just want to hug one right after the other.
Amber has legit demons that she chases with any relief she can get, Brody has straight up trust issues, and Paige has essentially been brainwashed her whole life as to what love and a relationship are. I am honestly so happy these three found each other. This is the found family stuff I love!
3. I'm totally calling the next book is Miguel and Amber! Love spin off potential and they have to be end game right??? I mean, he's a total love addict while she is addicted to literally everything else, and he paid for her rehab as a "favor" to his best friend / her brother...If that doesn't say soul mates in a romance series, I don't know what does!
4. I love watching a "player" fall to his knees in love, especially for the "nerd girl". It's such a fun trope and I can't help but love it every damn time.
What didn’t do it for me:
1. I did not love the commentary from her stepdad. It felt pretty out of place at points and unrealistic. Whatever, we're not supposed to like him anyways, so I guess it doesn't matter.
2. As an extremely sex-positive person (I mean, you've read my blog right??), I was a little wide-eyed over how much of the book was about sex and chasing the elusive big "O". I appreciated the way the book handled porn and her watching it, but I could have dealt with a little less of her mind focusing on nothing but sex. It took away a bit of the romantic tone I was looking for at the beginning.
I received a copy of this ARC from BookSirens and the publisher in exchange for my honest review. Check it out if you like strong MCs, guys that fall first, and found family!
Publication Date: April 8, 2022
Rating: 4 no-words-needed stars!
Favorite Quote: “Can we discuss this like the two rational people who we're not?”
What I liked about the book:
1. I absolutely loved that Paige was nonverbal autistic. I loved even more that the author showed how freaking smart, resourceful, and empathetic she was, as these are traits frequently thought of as not being associated with autistic individuals.
2. I loved that there is not a single character in this book who is not dealing with something.
This book is chalked full of super rich and emotionally complex characters who you just want to hug one right after the other.
Amber has legit demons that she chases with any relief she can get, Brody has straight up trust issues, and Paige has essentially been brainwashed her whole life as to what love and a relationship are. I am honestly so happy these three found each other. This is the found family stuff I love!
3. I'm totally calling the next book is Miguel and Amber! Love spin off potential and they have to be end game right??? I mean, he's a total love addict while she is addicted to literally everything else, and he paid for her rehab as a "favor" to his best friend / her brother...If that doesn't say soul mates in a romance series, I don't know what does!
4. I love watching a "player" fall to his knees in love, especially for the "nerd girl". It's such a fun trope and I can't help but love it every damn time.
What didn’t do it for me:
1. I did not love the commentary from her stepdad. It felt pretty out of place at points and unrealistic. Whatever, we're not supposed to like him anyways, so I guess it doesn't matter.
2. As an extremely sex-positive person (I mean, you've read my blog right??), I was a little wide-eyed over how much of the book was about sex and chasing the elusive big "O". I appreciated the way the book handled porn and her watching it, but I could have dealt with a little less of her mind focusing on nothing but sex. It took away a bit of the romantic tone I was looking for at the beginning.
I received a copy of this ARC from BookSirens and the publisher in exchange for my honest review. Check it out if you like strong MCs, guys that fall first, and found family!
![Profile Image for Andrea ☾ [is inconsistently consistant].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1642113904i%2F116166019._UY200_CR2%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
not-for-me
January 18, 2023DNF at 23%
I was really excited after reading the blurb, but this book really did not work for me. I always try to push myself harder to finish books if they’re ARCs, but this one had so many toxic, difficult plotlines… And not necessarily in the ways I expected. It felt like everything was all over the place. The rest of the review has spoilers, but only about the first five chapters.
To be completely honest, being inside of Brody’s mind feels like a penance. The guy’s pretty gross. Firstly, he decides that, although there’s a strange woman who’s been clearly abused in his house, for her first day there he’s going to put on a porno on the living room TV and jerk off there while she’s in her room/the gym, because “this used to be my house” and now there are “all these females moving into my place and taking over.” Those are literal quotes. I’m sorry, but what the f*ck? Lack of self-awareness and human decency aside, the use of “females” triggers the sh*t out of me. Female is an ADJECTIVE and can only be used as a noun when referencing animals or plants. Even if you try to use it as one, the implication of it referring to a thing, a non-being, is still there. Women are not objects. Using vernacular that implies we are is part of the problem, and I’m so tired.
The extremely judgmental comments he makes about his own sister were hard to get past, as well. “Amber slathers on beige foundation as if it will restore her youth. Even though she dresses like a teen, men can tell she’s pushing thirty”. That comes from the guy who just minutes after this interaction almost throws a temper-tantrum when he’s told he needs to do the responsible thing and not visit his “favorite stripper”. I wish I was kidding – but, hey, I’m sure the stripper wore zero make up and was, what? Nineteen? Would that be good enough, or no? Would that be too young? Too old? Ugh, I just couldn’t stand the guy. Also, he’s a bodybuilder and trainer, and the ableist/ fatphobic comments coming from the MMC kept making me itchy, along with the inappropriate thoughts about his clients - all female clients, of course. So I’ll say it again for the people in the back: people who are fat can be HEALTHY! And visible muscles don’t necessarily to equate to health, of any kind.
The manwhore /sex-starved semi-virgin dynamic never works for me either, and I can already tell this story is basically going to be that in a nutshell. This book is also, I believe, trying to be sex positive in a way that feels kind of wrong and judgmental. I’m not putting those quotes here because I genuinely don’t want to read them again, but if you have a friend who’s a sex worker, and then you make comments about her being “cheap” even though she’s pretty much saving your life – I don’t care if you’re mad or worried- you suck. So yeah, I was pretty much done after that. And then there’s a rape/drugs chapter. It’s just too much, and none of it particularly good.
Like I said, overall this book felt like a penance that I’m not willing to pay. So I’m giving up.
*Thank you Net Galley for the eARC*
I was really excited after reading the blurb, but this book really did not work for me. I always try to push myself harder to finish books if they’re ARCs, but this one had so many toxic, difficult plotlines… And not necessarily in the ways I expected. It felt like everything was all over the place. The rest of the review has spoilers, but only about the first five chapters.
To be completely honest, being inside of Brody’s mind feels like a penance. The guy’s pretty gross. Firstly, he decides that, although there’s a strange woman who’s been clearly abused in his house, for her first day there he’s going to put on a porno on the living room TV and jerk off there while she’s in her room/the gym, because “this used to be my house” and now there are “all these females moving into my place and taking over.” Those are literal quotes. I’m sorry, but what the f*ck? Lack of self-awareness and human decency aside, the use of “females” triggers the sh*t out of me. Female is an ADJECTIVE and can only be used as a noun when referencing animals or plants. Even if you try to use it as one, the implication of it referring to a thing, a non-being, is still there. Women are not objects. Using vernacular that implies we are is part of the problem, and I’m so tired.
The extremely judgmental comments he makes about his own sister were hard to get past, as well. “Amber slathers on beige foundation as if it will restore her youth. Even though she dresses like a teen, men can tell she’s pushing thirty”. That comes from the guy who just minutes after this interaction almost throws a temper-tantrum when he’s told he needs to do the responsible thing and not visit his “favorite stripper”. I wish I was kidding – but, hey, I’m sure the stripper wore zero make up and was, what? Nineteen? Would that be good enough, or no? Would that be too young? Too old? Ugh, I just couldn’t stand the guy. Also, he’s a bodybuilder and trainer, and the ableist/ fatphobic comments coming from the MMC kept making me itchy, along with the inappropriate thoughts about his clients - all female clients, of course. So I’ll say it again for the people in the back: people who are fat can be HEALTHY! And visible muscles don’t necessarily to equate to health, of any kind.
The manwhore /sex-starved semi-virgin dynamic never works for me either, and I can already tell this story is basically going to be that in a nutshell. This book is also, I believe, trying to be sex positive in a way that feels kind of wrong and judgmental. I’m not putting those quotes here because I genuinely don’t want to read them again, but if you have a friend who’s a sex worker, and then you make comments about her being “cheap” even though she’s pretty much saving your life – I don’t care if you’re mad or worried- you suck. So yeah, I was pretty much done after that. And then there’s a rape/drugs chapter. It’s just too much, and none of it particularly good.
Like I said, overall this book felt like a penance that I’m not willing to pay. So I’m giving up.
*Thank you Net Galley for the eARC*
January 15, 2023
This story was amazing, I enjoyed reading it. I was so engulfed in the moments between Brody and Paige, instant attraction but forbidden from the start. It was emotional reading how people reacted towards Paige and how they treated her except for Brody and Amber. Overall a great book that I'd recommend to my romance friends.
dnf
June 27, 2023Nonverbal
dnf @ 2%
While technically I dnf'd this only a few pages in, I did skim quite a bit further to see if it would get better, because as an autistic I really do want to support autistic authors where possible. Unfortunately, that just wasn't possible with this book.
Brody, the love interest, was just a horrible human being - sorry but his actions and the way he thinks of and speaks to women early on is just not redeemable then to make him a love interest. And I won't even get in to all his ableist and fatphobic comments.
Frankly, there was a tonne of ableism in this book, and it's clear the author has a lot of internalised ableism (and I won't even get into the ableism in a lot of the reviews of this book). I'm also just not into all the overly dramatic toxic storylines, it just feels like trauma porn (absolutely not saying it's not possible that this is all happening to one person, but the way it was written just felt off to me).
On top of all this, I didn't vibe with the writing style and if I'm being completely honest, just felt it was poorly written.
I genuinely can't recommend this one to anyone. Also very confused by the comparisons to Talia Hibbert and Helen Hoang - the only similarity is an ND/autistic mc, there are no similarities in the writing style, storylines, the way the rep is written, etc. Definitely don't go into this thinking you're getting anything like Talia Hibbert or Helen Hoang's writing (both of which are authors I highly recommend!).
dnf @ 2%
While technically I dnf'd this only a few pages in, I did skim quite a bit further to see if it would get better, because as an autistic I really do want to support autistic authors where possible. Unfortunately, that just wasn't possible with this book.
Brody, the love interest, was just a horrible human being - sorry but his actions and the way he thinks of and speaks to women early on is just not redeemable then to make him a love interest. And I won't even get in to all his ableist and fatphobic comments.
Frankly, there was a tonne of ableism in this book, and it's clear the author has a lot of internalised ableism (and I won't even get into the ableism in a lot of the reviews of this book). I'm also just not into all the overly dramatic toxic storylines, it just feels like trauma porn (absolutely not saying it's not possible that this is all happening to one person, but the way it was written just felt off to me).
On top of all this, I didn't vibe with the writing style and if I'm being completely honest, just felt it was poorly written.
I genuinely can't recommend this one to anyone. Also very confused by the comparisons to Talia Hibbert and Helen Hoang - the only similarity is an ND/autistic mc, there are no similarities in the writing style, storylines, the way the rep is written, etc. Definitely don't go into this thinking you're getting anything like Talia Hibbert or Helen Hoang's writing (both of which are authors I highly recommend!).
May 17, 2022
How is it possible that I was unfamiliar with Raina Ash's work before I cracked open the spine of "Nonverbal"? I have already ordered almost everything in this author's back catalog, because if her previous works are even half as entertaining as "Nonverbal," then I am in for a treat. Paige, the neurodivergent female protagonist who communicates primarily through a voice app on her phone, is probably one of the best characters that I've had the pleasure of seeing in a book so far this year, because she's incredibly endearing, kind, smart, honest, and funny (even when she is not trying to be). In fact, I caught myself grinning frequently as I read Paige's POV, which is full of amusing passages and thoughts that are unintentionally hilarious. For example, in the first chapter, I laughed aloud when Paige thinks to herself that “Amber said Brody f**** anything that moves, but I think she’s exaggerating. That would take up way too much of his day. How would he have time for anything else?"
While I loved the sweet naiveté displayed by Paige in the aforementioned quote, I also really appreciated that the author did not make the heroine an innocent little girl who lacks experience in all aspects of life, including the bedroom. All too often, people with autism are portrayed in stories as chidllike or asexual beings, when in reality, they often have the same desires as neurotypical individuals, and Raina Ash perfectly captures this in "Nonverbal." Paige is not always comfortable with people touching her without her permission, but she has a healthy sex drive and she is fascinated by porn (to such a degree that she watches it almost every day and creates lists of her favorites).
To be worthy of a gem like Paige, the male protagonist had to be phenomenal as well, and Brody certainly fits that bill. Ash designed a character that is equal parts hunky bodybuilder and cinnamon-roll hero, because while Brody might look big and intimidating to others (thanks in large part to the muscles he has developed as a professional weight trainer), he is actually just a sweet, giant teddy bear when it comes to his girl. He's not only charming and effusive in how he shares his feelings with Paige, but he's also very accommodating of her quirks — after all, what other man do you know who would willingly buy his girlfriend new porn movies every week? Most importantly, Brody does everything in his power to ensure that Paige always feels safe and comfortable in his home, which makes him the best kind of hero and an ideal book boyfriend.
Likewise, Brody exhibited a combination of patience and determination when it came to helping Paige solve a problem that she had inside the bedroom, and his constant sensitivity to her needs was wonderful to witness. In particular, I admired that the author did not take the easy way out by having Paige's issue be fixed overnight, because I have read several books in the past where the female main characters had a dilemma similar to the one that Paige faces in "Nonverbal," and I recall finding it unrealistic that those women were seemingly 'cured' the second they were touched by the male leads. Raina Ash, on the other hand, offers a more authentic and believable portrayal of this problem, as Brody and Paige spend a significant amount of time trying to figure out what the latter character requires in order to be fully satisfied.
In short, Raina Ash has penned a heartfelt and delightful story full of lovable characters, realistic situations, and a passionate romance that feels inevitable from the moment Brody and Paige first lock eyes. If you are looking for your next five-star read, I highly recommend that you take a chance on "Nonverbal."
"I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While I loved the sweet naiveté displayed by Paige in the aforementioned quote, I also really appreciated that the author did not make the heroine an innocent little girl who lacks experience in all aspects of life, including the bedroom. All too often, people with autism are portrayed in stories as chidllike or asexual beings, when in reality, they often have the same desires as neurotypical individuals, and Raina Ash perfectly captures this in "Nonverbal." Paige is not always comfortable with people touching her without her permission, but she has a healthy sex drive and she is fascinated by porn (to such a degree that she watches it almost every day and creates lists of her favorites).
To be worthy of a gem like Paige, the male protagonist had to be phenomenal as well, and Brody certainly fits that bill. Ash designed a character that is equal parts hunky bodybuilder and cinnamon-roll hero, because while Brody might look big and intimidating to others (thanks in large part to the muscles he has developed as a professional weight trainer), he is actually just a sweet, giant teddy bear when it comes to his girl. He's not only charming and effusive in how he shares his feelings with Paige, but he's also very accommodating of her quirks — after all, what other man do you know who would willingly buy his girlfriend new porn movies every week? Most importantly, Brody does everything in his power to ensure that Paige always feels safe and comfortable in his home, which makes him the best kind of hero and an ideal book boyfriend.
Likewise, Brody exhibited a combination of patience and determination when it came to helping Paige solve a problem that she had inside the bedroom, and his constant sensitivity to her needs was wonderful to witness. In particular, I admired that the author did not take the easy way out by having Paige's issue be fixed overnight, because I have read several books in the past where the female main characters had a dilemma similar to the one that Paige faces in "Nonverbal," and I recall finding it unrealistic that those women were seemingly 'cured' the second they were touched by the male leads. Raina Ash, on the other hand, offers a more authentic and believable portrayal of this problem, as Brody and Paige spend a significant amount of time trying to figure out what the latter character requires in order to be fully satisfied.
In short, Raina Ash has penned a heartfelt and delightful story full of lovable characters, realistic situations, and a passionate romance that feels inevitable from the moment Brody and Paige first lock eyes. If you are looking for your next five-star read, I highly recommend that you take a chance on "Nonverbal."
"I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 19, 2023
This was decent but just didn’t hit the mark for me. There was a lot going on at times but also nothing.. some parts felt super drawn out and unnecessary. Also, the entire book led us up to one part and it was over in a flash…
That said, I did enjoy parts of Paige and Brody’s relationship. Brody is super caring and supportive of Paige no matter what. Even knowing she has issues in the bedroom, he devotes himself to her and getting her past those issues. He was shown as a playboy in the beginning but is a completely different person with Paige.
Personally, I didn’t really care for Paige. Not sure why.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review with my honest opinion.*
That said, I did enjoy parts of Paige and Brody’s relationship. Brody is super caring and supportive of Paige no matter what. Even knowing she has issues in the bedroom, he devotes himself to her and getting her past those issues. He was shown as a playboy in the beginning but is a completely different person with Paige.
Personally, I didn’t really care for Paige. Not sure why.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review with my honest opinion.*
May 31, 2022
An amazing book!
Absolutely loved this book! I love that the main character is autistic. Paige blew me away. She made me experience emotions I hadn’t even thought possible. Brody is perfect. In all the ways that count best. He’s an awesome brother, friend, coach, and of course boyfriend.
I loved everything about this book! I can’t wait to read more by this author. You should absolutely read this book now.
Absolutely loved this book! I love that the main character is autistic. Paige blew me away. She made me experience emotions I hadn’t even thought possible. Brody is perfect. In all the ways that count best. He’s an awesome brother, friend, coach, and of course boyfriend.
I loved everything about this book! I can’t wait to read more by this author. You should absolutely read this book now.
January 23, 2023
Multiple trigger warnings so be warned
Spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
It was a good book, I feel like it played a huge part of how some disabled people get treated by family members without even really realizing it, sadly not always good. I also loved every moment with Brody and Paige
I received an advanced reader copy for this book
Spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
It was a good book, I feel like it played a huge part of how some disabled people get treated by family members without even really realizing it, sadly not always good. I also loved every moment with Brody and Paige
I received an advanced reader copy for this book
May 18, 2022
Trigger warning - 18+ (heavily detailed sex) domestic abuse, alcohol & drug use
This story follows Paige, 25, autistic and under conservatorship from her mother and violent stepfather. Paige does not speak and uses an app on her phone to communicate. And her story to escape and live her life they way she wants
While I appreciate the diversity of the main character, her whole story focused heavily on an obsession with sex. I do feel the author could of highlighted how sometimes autism can enhance this aspect but you kind of have to do your own research there. I love how Paige speaking through her phone was just as easy to read as any other conversation in a novel. That was a great thing!
The supporting characters were written in well and I do like how this book supported therapy and asking for help
Thank you to the publisher, author and BookSirens for an advanced readers copy of this novel
This story follows Paige, 25, autistic and under conservatorship from her mother and violent stepfather. Paige does not speak and uses an app on her phone to communicate. And her story to escape and live her life they way she wants
While I appreciate the diversity of the main character, her whole story focused heavily on an obsession with sex. I do feel the author could of highlighted how sometimes autism can enhance this aspect but you kind of have to do your own research there. I love how Paige speaking through her phone was just as easy to read as any other conversation in a novel. That was a great thing!
The supporting characters were written in well and I do like how this book supported therapy and asking for help
Thank you to the publisher, author and BookSirens for an advanced readers copy of this novel
May 9, 2022
This is a well written book with a deeply emotional storyline. The author brings strong characters and deals with some tough issues. She pulled at my heart with all the struggles and pain and shows how love and support help to heal. She paints her scenes vividly and had me glued to the pages from start to finish. I highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
May 9, 2022
I loved this book so much. The characters are realistic and very relatable. I enjoy nonverbal communication (sign language is one I’ve been working on) and it was great to see the forms of communication portrayed. This book managed to show the painful realities of some lives, and still prevail with strong messages of hope and survival.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 7, 2022
This was my first read from this author. I loved this book. It had me laughing from the start. I mean the introduction between Paige and Amber's brother was hilarious. I really enjoyed this story and it will not be the last book from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 26, 2023
This book was very refreshing as it is not very often you get to see Autistic main characters in romance books!
I loved the characters in this book and was enthralled by the story by the end of the first page!
I loved the characters in this book and was enthralled by the story by the end of the first page!
June 19, 2022
Very interesting take on a romance character. Non verbal is interesting in today it’s very current
April 3, 2023
This story follows Paige a nonverbal, 25, autistic female who’s runaway with the help of her best friend Amber.
Amber rescues her from an unsafe environment and lets her stay at her place, only catch is.. Amber has a tall handsome older brother, Brody and Paige has to promise not to sleep with him. 😏
(Personally I absolutely love the best friends brother trope)
I have to admit at the start when we’re first introduced to Brody I didn’t like him. Buff gym guy with a massive porn collection.. Ehh not my thing, but that’s what makes this situation perfect for Paige because she has an obsession with sex and having never “had the big O” this is time for her to “study” sex.
Diving deeper into the story there’s more going on than you realise. There’s Brody and Paige are bonding in ways Amber would disapprove of (If she knew), Amber’s bad habits, learning it’s not always about sex and orgasming and the finding out what is Paige running from. — Also myself learning not to judge a character too quickly, Brody turns out to be a protective, caring, teddy bear 🧸💗
This story was a rollercoaster, I’d be laughing, crying and hanging on the edge on my seat reading in suspense for was going to happen next. I read this in one sitting and was enthralled with the story. It was emotional but an enjoyable read. I also loved how the books mentions how asking for help is okay and that it supported therapy.
Being neurodiverse myself, I definitely appreciated the diversity of the main character and all of the situations/issues that Paige has. I personally have been in a lot of the situations that Paige has been in and while lot of neurodiverse people aren’t represented well when written about and I feel as though Raina Ash (Author) did an excellent job writing Paige.
Overall I loved this book and think it’s definitely worth the read!
Trigger Warning! I’d like to advise people interested in reading this book that there are some sensitive topics talked about in this book. Please at any time during this book you feel uncomfortable or triggered, please take a break, stop reading, talk to a friend or seek help.
*
*
*
Some of the TW’s include:
Physical abuse
Family/domestic violence
Sexually explicit scenes
Drug & Alcohol abuse
Mentions of attempted unaliving.
Many thanks to NetGalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Amber rescues her from an unsafe environment and lets her stay at her place, only catch is.. Amber has a tall handsome older brother, Brody and Paige has to promise not to sleep with him. 😏
(Personally I absolutely love the best friends brother trope)
I have to admit at the start when we’re first introduced to Brody I didn’t like him. Buff gym guy with a massive porn collection.. Ehh not my thing, but that’s what makes this situation perfect for Paige because she has an obsession with sex and having never “had the big O” this is time for her to “study” sex.
Diving deeper into the story there’s more going on than you realise. There’s Brody and Paige are bonding in ways Amber would disapprove of (If she knew), Amber’s bad habits, learning it’s not always about sex and orgasming and the finding out what is Paige running from. — Also myself learning not to judge a character too quickly, Brody turns out to be a protective, caring, teddy bear 🧸💗
This story was a rollercoaster, I’d be laughing, crying and hanging on the edge on my seat reading in suspense for was going to happen next. I read this in one sitting and was enthralled with the story. It was emotional but an enjoyable read. I also loved how the books mentions how asking for help is okay and that it supported therapy.
Being neurodiverse myself, I definitely appreciated the diversity of the main character and all of the situations/issues that Paige has. I personally have been in a lot of the situations that Paige has been in and while lot of neurodiverse people aren’t represented well when written about and I feel as though Raina Ash (Author) did an excellent job writing Paige.
Overall I loved this book and think it’s definitely worth the read!
Trigger Warning! I’d like to advise people interested in reading this book that there are some sensitive topics talked about in this book. Please at any time during this book you feel uncomfortable or triggered, please take a break, stop reading, talk to a friend or seek help.
*
*
*
Some of the TW’s include:
Physical abuse
Family/domestic violence
Sexually explicit scenes
Drug & Alcohol abuse
Mentions of attempted unaliving.
Many thanks to NetGalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 20, 2022
I received an advance review copy of Nonverbal by Raina Ash for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Nonverbal comes in like a wrecking ball with some pretty messed up characters and at least a few mysteries. It starts with a young lady with an unknown abuser who has only one thing on her mind, the Big O. Her BFF saviour who tries to help liberate her from her situation in all the wrong ways and her besties horny as hell big brother.
At the start I was feeling all kinds of WTF and almost chose to put this in my miniscule DNF pile. But thanks to some previous reviews on Good Reads (as well as my own stubborness) I persevered and I'm so happy I did. Underneath a pile of strong language and heaps of dysfunction, l found some really great, lovable and loyal characters with a story I couldn't put down.
The farther you dive into this story, the more you understand these characters and why they are the way they are. I really did fall in love with our heroine Paige and loved seeing what truly was hidden inside Brody. Each character went through a personal transformation and came out better on the other side.
I would definitely recommend this book and would advise to hold on tight until the end. This story has a great amount of depth and takes on topics of abuse, addiction and autism to name a few. I look forward to reading future books by Rains Ash.
Nonverbal comes in like a wrecking ball with some pretty messed up characters and at least a few mysteries. It starts with a young lady with an unknown abuser who has only one thing on her mind, the Big O. Her BFF saviour who tries to help liberate her from her situation in all the wrong ways and her besties horny as hell big brother.
At the start I was feeling all kinds of WTF and almost chose to put this in my miniscule DNF pile. But thanks to some previous reviews on Good Reads (as well as my own stubborness) I persevered and I'm so happy I did. Underneath a pile of strong language and heaps of dysfunction, l found some really great, lovable and loyal characters with a story I couldn't put down.
The farther you dive into this story, the more you understand these characters and why they are the way they are. I really did fall in love with our heroine Paige and loved seeing what truly was hidden inside Brody. Each character went through a personal transformation and came out better on the other side.
I would definitely recommend this book and would advise to hold on tight until the end. This story has a great amount of depth and takes on topics of abuse, addiction and autism to name a few. I look forward to reading future books by Rains Ash.
October 26, 2022
I LOVED reading every page of this book. I will not give the synopsis since you can read the blurb and others give more detail but I definitely recommend! The chemistry, sexiness, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things very interesting. I cannot wait to read more by this author. Definitely worth your time!.
June 3, 2022
I really loved this book! I loved the main characters, Brody and Paige (and Amber). This is a very important story. I wish there were more books like this out there.
May 1, 2023
Book: Nonverbal by Raine Ash
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication: 25th May 2022
Alexa, Play Sleep well by d4vd
Wow,this book was so very complex and hooked me in from the very beginning.
The characters made me cry, got me frustrated and sent me in a happy place.
Every single character was going through something and it felt so real and heartfelt.
Brody and Paige were so beautifully portrayed, the back stories, their struggles , understanding each other and in the end creating something so beautiful in this journey was confounding.
Thank you NetGalley and pink fox publishing for the ARC copy.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication: 25th May 2022
Alexa, Play Sleep well by d4vd
Wow,this book was so very complex and hooked me in from the very beginning.
The characters made me cry, got me frustrated and sent me in a happy place.
Every single character was going through something and it felt so real and heartfelt.
Brody and Paige were so beautifully portrayed, the back stories, their struggles , understanding each other and in the end creating something so beautiful in this journey was confounding.
Thank you NetGalley and pink fox publishing for the ARC copy.
May 21, 2022
Multiple trigger warnings so be sure to check before reading!
Some parts of this story I loved and others I just didn’t. I feel like the first chapter we were kind of thrown into the book but at the same time - it fit and I’m not exactly sure how else it could have started. I also didn’t love the ending. Just felt a little ridiculous to me.
What I did love: the spice. It was so spicy. Also, Brody. Everyone needs a Brody in their life.
I was given an Advanced Reader Copy in return for an honest review.
Some parts of this story I loved and others I just didn’t. I feel like the first chapter we were kind of thrown into the book but at the same time - it fit and I’m not exactly sure how else it could have started. I also didn’t love the ending. Just felt a little ridiculous to me.
What I did love: the spice. It was so spicy. Also, Brody. Everyone needs a Brody in their life.
I was given an Advanced Reader Copy in return for an honest review.
Read
January 29, 2023❤️Protective cinnamon-roll bodybuilder hero
❤️Funny, caring, and endearing neurodiverse heroine
❤️Best friend's brother, off-limits romance
❤️Guy falls first
❤️Steam levels that will melt your Kindle (and possibly set your paperback on fire)
❤️Walking in on him *ahem* and staying to watch
❤️Emotionally intense with a satisfying HEA
❤️Funny, caring, and endearing neurodiverse heroine
❤️Best friend's brother, off-limits romance
❤️Guy falls first
❤️Steam levels that will melt your Kindle (and possibly set your paperback on fire)
❤️Walking in on him *ahem* and staying to watch
❤️Emotionally intense with a satisfying HEA
April 9, 2023
Basic idea is good
Basic idea is good. No verbal 25 year old autistic girl falls in love with her girlfriend's brother. She is being physically abused by her stepfather. Her mother is her guardian and emotionally abused her. The book feels very Harlequin like.
Basic idea is good. No verbal 25 year old autistic girl falls in love with her girlfriend's brother. She is being physically abused by her stepfather. Her mother is her guardian and emotionally abused her. The book feels very Harlequin like.
August 11, 2022
I had to sit on this for a day before writing my review. After some thought, this is a solid 3.5 stars. For the most part, I feel like the author did a good job representing autism, mental illness, and grief.
The book jumps in headfirst to Paige meeting Brody. Usually I like a little more build up but I felt it worked for this story. There’s some mystery to what is happening with Paige and the fact that we don’t see why she moves in with Brody beforehand heightens that. I will say, it wasn’t difficult to figure out what was going on but I also don’t think it was supposed to be (for the reader). Paige definitely made me laugh with her antics. If you know anything about autism, one of the biggest indicators is difficulty with social cues. Paige definitely struggled with this. But Brody was such an understanding and patient person. The best things about this book were Brody showing unconditional love and the fact that the love wasn’t some magical cure for Paige.
If you’re looking for a spicy book that also hits your feels, makes you laugh, and features neurodivergent characters, I recommend.
SPOILERS
**********
**********
Paige has never had an orgasm and she’s on a mission to have one. It was a little much but at the same time, understandable. A lot of neurodivergent people hyperfixate on certain things. Not being able to finish was a major block for Paige. It hurt her self esteem and the outlook she had on romantic relationships.
I fully expected that the first time she and Brody had sex, she would magically be able to come. That wasn’t what happened and I was impressed that the author wrote it that way. I’ve read so many books where the love interest suddenly makes everything the heroine (or hero) struggles with disappear. Brody was so understanding and patient with Paige and was willing to do anything to help her get past it. Sometimes I wanted him to be a little less chatty. Paige and I were on the same page with that. 🤣
The abuse from her mother and stepfather was a little hard to read. My autistic stepson has dealt with the same emotional and mental abuse from his mom. I almost felt like I was reading their relationship, it was so similar. Luckily he has not been physically abused but seeing something written that hit so close to home was difficult.
I wish we could have seen a little more of the progress as far as Paige getting out of the guardianship. But at the same time I feel it would have made the book unnecessarily long.
I also thought that Paige would regain her voice because of Brody. Again, his love didn’t end up being the magical cure which made me happy.
The side story for Amber was good and I look forward to reading her book where I’m sure we will get more insight.
The book jumps in headfirst to Paige meeting Brody. Usually I like a little more build up but I felt it worked for this story. There’s some mystery to what is happening with Paige and the fact that we don’t see why she moves in with Brody beforehand heightens that. I will say, it wasn’t difficult to figure out what was going on but I also don’t think it was supposed to be (for the reader). Paige definitely made me laugh with her antics. If you know anything about autism, one of the biggest indicators is difficulty with social cues. Paige definitely struggled with this. But Brody was such an understanding and patient person. The best things about this book were Brody showing unconditional love and the fact that the love wasn’t some magical cure for Paige.
If you’re looking for a spicy book that also hits your feels, makes you laugh, and features neurodivergent characters, I recommend.
SPOILERS
**********
**********
Paige has never had an orgasm and she’s on a mission to have one. It was a little much but at the same time, understandable. A lot of neurodivergent people hyperfixate on certain things. Not being able to finish was a major block for Paige. It hurt her self esteem and the outlook she had on romantic relationships.
I fully expected that the first time she and Brody had sex, she would magically be able to come. That wasn’t what happened and I was impressed that the author wrote it that way. I’ve read so many books where the love interest suddenly makes everything the heroine (or hero) struggles with disappear. Brody was so understanding and patient with Paige and was willing to do anything to help her get past it. Sometimes I wanted him to be a little less chatty. Paige and I were on the same page with that. 🤣
The abuse from her mother and stepfather was a little hard to read. My autistic stepson has dealt with the same emotional and mental abuse from his mom. I almost felt like I was reading their relationship, it was so similar. Luckily he has not been physically abused but seeing something written that hit so close to home was difficult.
I wish we could have seen a little more of the progress as far as Paige getting out of the guardianship. But at the same time I feel it would have made the book unnecessarily long.
I also thought that Paige would regain her voice because of Brody. Again, his love didn’t end up being the magical cure which made me happy.
The side story for Amber was good and I look forward to reading her book where I’m sure we will get more insight.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2023
5/5 ⭐
5/5 🌶️
I picked up Nonverbal because I really enjoy supporting authors who write about neurodivergent main characters. I had never heard of this author before and wasn't sure what to expect... but I was stunned with how much I adored this story. It was hilarious, relatable, heartbreaking and super spicy; I enjoyed every moment.
Paige is so loveable. She's bright, sunshiney happiness on the cloudiest of days, despite her demons that are way darker than I thought they'd be. Her home life is so rough and she found this escape in the only person she's ever trusted or connected with. Amber helps her get away from the hospital and moves her in with her big brother where she soon learns what family really means. I loved Brody too. He's such a good guy and incredibly selfless, which quickly helps him earn Paige's trust. I love the way he treated her like an adult and was always asking for permission to invade her space. He was so freaking sweet.
I enjoyed the conclusion as well. I know some people felt like it was too quick, but I thought it was great. As much as this story is driven by Paige's abuse, the real story is her and Brody and even Amber and I'm glad her abusers didn't take up too many pages. I'm also really excited about the next novel in the series which is coming next month. I can't wait to read more about Amber and her guy.
5/5 🌶️
I picked up Nonverbal because I really enjoy supporting authors who write about neurodivergent main characters. I had never heard of this author before and wasn't sure what to expect... but I was stunned with how much I adored this story. It was hilarious, relatable, heartbreaking and super spicy; I enjoyed every moment.
Paige is so loveable. She's bright, sunshiney happiness on the cloudiest of days, despite her demons that are way darker than I thought they'd be. Her home life is so rough and she found this escape in the only person she's ever trusted or connected with. Amber helps her get away from the hospital and moves her in with her big brother where she soon learns what family really means. I loved Brody too. He's such a good guy and incredibly selfless, which quickly helps him earn Paige's trust. I love the way he treated her like an adult and was always asking for permission to invade her space. He was so freaking sweet.
I enjoyed the conclusion as well. I know some people felt like it was too quick, but I thought it was great. As much as this story is driven by Paige's abuse, the real story is her and Brody and even Amber and I'm glad her abusers didn't take up too many pages. I'm also really excited about the next novel in the series which is coming next month. I can't wait to read more about Amber and her guy.
May 28, 2022
Thank you to BookSirens and the publisher for the arc of Nonverbal by Raina Ash.
When Paige moves in with her best friend Autumn she doesn't expect Autumn's brother, Brody, to live there or to be so hot. Trying to keep her past a secret and figure out if she really is broken Paige seduces Brody who is trying to keep his distance from his sister's best friend. When Autumn finally agrees that she does need help for past trauma and current addictions Paige and Brody become closer with Autumn out of the house. Finally finding a way for her brain to allow her to orgasm Paige realizes that she isn't broken but reality comes crashing down when she finds herself on the news labelled as a runaway. Paige returns to her abusive household and Brody only wants to get her back.
Even writing this basic description out makes me realize how many plot lines are going on and I've already realized there were things that I forgot about while writing this. There seems to be two major sections of this book and the first is slower but you don't get the character right interactions that I would hope for in a slow section, however the second part of the book makes up for that in action and resolving of the problems. I appreciated the inclusion of the main character being on the spectrum, and it not being mentioned as actually being autism until near the end of the story. You could make guesses based on Paige's actions but it was never confirmed just like Paige's home life was hinted at but never confirmed until after you'd seen Paige being successful as a woman out on her own.
Overall this was a quick read that I fully enjoyed. It did feel like I wasn't making progress at about the halfway point but that didn't stop me from picking the book up to finish it which was nice. 4 stars.
When Paige moves in with her best friend Autumn she doesn't expect Autumn's brother, Brody, to live there or to be so hot. Trying to keep her past a secret and figure out if she really is broken Paige seduces Brody who is trying to keep his distance from his sister's best friend. When Autumn finally agrees that she does need help for past trauma and current addictions Paige and Brody become closer with Autumn out of the house. Finally finding a way for her brain to allow her to orgasm Paige realizes that she isn't broken but reality comes crashing down when she finds herself on the news labelled as a runaway. Paige returns to her abusive household and Brody only wants to get her back.
Even writing this basic description out makes me realize how many plot lines are going on and I've already realized there were things that I forgot about while writing this. There seems to be two major sections of this book and the first is slower but you don't get the character right interactions that I would hope for in a slow section, however the second part of the book makes up for that in action and resolving of the problems. I appreciated the inclusion of the main character being on the spectrum, and it not being mentioned as actually being autism until near the end of the story. You could make guesses based on Paige's actions but it was never confirmed just like Paige's home life was hinted at but never confirmed until after you'd seen Paige being successful as a woman out on her own.
Overall this was a quick read that I fully enjoyed. It did feel like I wasn't making progress at about the halfway point but that didn't stop me from picking the book up to finish it which was nice. 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2023
4⭐️
This story jumps right in with characters who are flawed, not perfect but feel real.
It’s not a fairytale romance, but a romance non the less.
The characters are not like any I’ve read about before. Yet Paige reads relatable, Amber is a great best friend and her incredible brother Brody make for the perfect boyfriend.
I liked that the book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics like addiction and abuse, but that the main story is the love between Paige and Brody.
Thank you to the Pink Fox Publishing and NetGalley for the chance to read a free advanced copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This story jumps right in with characters who are flawed, not perfect but feel real.
It’s not a fairytale romance, but a romance non the less.
The characters are not like any I’ve read about before. Yet Paige reads relatable, Amber is a great best friend and her incredible brother Brody make for the perfect boyfriend.
I liked that the book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics like addiction and abuse, but that the main story is the love between Paige and Brody.
Thank you to the Pink Fox Publishing and NetGalley for the chance to read a free advanced copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2023
Nonverbal: A Best Friend's Brother Romance is such a unique New Adult romance. I honestly can't even think of other books that have nonverbal main characters. I love the main character Paige. She is nonverbal autistic. I also really like Brody. I love the forbidden romance and instant attraction. This is also a very spicy book. I love the representation of a nonverbal autistic character and that character being the main character.
Thank you NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
April 26, 2023
I think this was really easy and quick to read, and I read this book in just a few hours. This was a great story with several different subjects that I normally wouldn’t read about in a book, but I really enjoyed it as being something different.
I really liked that all of the main characters had a deeper background story, and was really curious to find out more about everyone throughout the book.
Check trigger warnings before reading this!
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC of this book!
I really liked that all of the main characters had a deeper background story, and was really curious to find out more about everyone throughout the book.
Check trigger warnings before reading this!
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC of this book!
June 8, 2022
I enjoyed the different perspective of this book. The struggle of Amber with self loathing and the processing of issues by Paige and the connections she mentally makes that to a “normal” person may seem ridiculous where close enough to reality to be saddening. I appreciate the characters and the story that love feels different to everyone.
February 1, 2023
Overall I enjoyed the book and would recommend others to read it. I like the perspective of a neurodivergent heroine looking for what she wasn’t able to find on her own. I love that there was no quick fix and it took work to accomplish her goal from both Paige and Brody.
There are some triggers including physical and emotional abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, and graphic sex scenes. So be warned if you are not into that in romance stories.
At first, I found Brody to be a bit annoying but he quickly stole my heart in small ways that made me over all enjoy the story. It is a light easy read.
**I did receive a free giveaway from the publishers for my honest review of this book.
There are some triggers including physical and emotional abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, and graphic sex scenes. So be warned if you are not into that in romance stories.
At first, I found Brody to be a bit annoying but he quickly stole my heart in small ways that made me over all enjoy the story. It is a light easy read.
**I did receive a free giveaway from the publishers for my honest review of this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews