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Inside The Maelstrom #1
Inside The Maelstrom: Part One
It started when I tried to kill a magnolia tree. With my car. While I was driving it.
Okay, maybe it wasn’t just the tree I was trying to kill. But that wasn’t the end of it. No, I wasn’t even halfway through the spiralling vortex that would consume my life.
When a dangerous driving charge gets me put in a fancy rehab for rich kids and socialites with eating disorders, I intended to do my time and then leave. I was going to leave behind the sports star who was addicted to uppers, the coke-head lawyers, the cutters and the space cadets. I was going to leave behind him.
Bored, listless, and filthy dirty rich. If there was a waste of oxygen, it was Hendrick Kenley. Although I wasn’t sure why he was in rehab, because he was special (read rich) enough to not have to do group therapy with the rest of us. Didn’t matter, I avoided him and his beautiful cruel smirk, and read until my sentence was over.
Fate, that glorious bitch, had other plans though. Days before my release, I pick up a book. Jules Verne’s Twenty-Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. I’d read through the rest of the Sunny Outlook Center’s meagre library. But in the margins of that tatty paperback was my future. Words from a past inmate of this institution that spoke to my soul and begged me to come find him.
Problem was, unlike the rest of the people in the Sunny Outlook, my parents had taken out a second mortgage to pay for my stay. My mystery beau was calling me to Europe, France to be exact. So I had to make a deal with the Devil, and by Devil I mean Hendrick Kenley and his cohort of disenchanted fools.
But they offered me a deal I couldn’t refuse; they’d pay for everything for the trip, travelling on a private plane at that, but I had to let them come along.
There was a reason for the adage that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. I’d learn the truth of that the hard way.
Inside the Maelstrom is an enemies to lovers contemporary reverse harem romance. May contain possibly triggering themes around mental health.
Okay, maybe it wasn’t just the tree I was trying to kill. But that wasn’t the end of it. No, I wasn’t even halfway through the spiralling vortex that would consume my life.
When a dangerous driving charge gets me put in a fancy rehab for rich kids and socialites with eating disorders, I intended to do my time and then leave. I was going to leave behind the sports star who was addicted to uppers, the coke-head lawyers, the cutters and the space cadets. I was going to leave behind him.
Bored, listless, and filthy dirty rich. If there was a waste of oxygen, it was Hendrick Kenley. Although I wasn’t sure why he was in rehab, because he was special (read rich) enough to not have to do group therapy with the rest of us. Didn’t matter, I avoided him and his beautiful cruel smirk, and read until my sentence was over.
Fate, that glorious bitch, had other plans though. Days before my release, I pick up a book. Jules Verne’s Twenty-Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. I’d read through the rest of the Sunny Outlook Center’s meagre library. But in the margins of that tatty paperback was my future. Words from a past inmate of this institution that spoke to my soul and begged me to come find him.
Problem was, unlike the rest of the people in the Sunny Outlook, my parents had taken out a second mortgage to pay for my stay. My mystery beau was calling me to Europe, France to be exact. So I had to make a deal with the Devil, and by Devil I mean Hendrick Kenley and his cohort of disenchanted fools.
But they offered me a deal I couldn’t refuse; they’d pay for everything for the trip, travelling on a private plane at that, but I had to let them come along.
There was a reason for the adage that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. I’d learn the truth of that the hard way.
Inside the Maelstrom is an enemies to lovers contemporary reverse harem romance. May contain possibly triggering themes around mental health.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2021
165 people are currently reading
1152 people want to read
About the author
Grace McGinty
67 books2,217 followersWhen I was nine, my grandmother and her friends used to read and swap Harlequin Mills and Boons novels. When I was busted reading one, they started sneaking me boxes full of strong heroines and rugged men. Thus started a long love affair with the romance genre.
Then I discovered urban fantasy, and fell in love with broody Alphas and sexy paranormals, and combining them together was a no brainer.
Then I discovered Reverse Harem.... Oh my. Why choose, am I right?
Then I discovered urban fantasy, and fell in love with broody Alphas and sexy paranormals, and combining them together was a no brainer.
Then I discovered Reverse Harem.... Oh my. Why choose, am I right?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
October 5, 2025
It’s giving Gossip Girl, if the whole cast actually checked into rehab and started dealing with their issues. I’m a sucker for trauma bonding with a side of romance, so the setup had me hooked from the beginning. Also, I didn’t know “rehab romance” was a trope, but apparently it is (it was giving 28 Days, shoutout to Sandra 🙌).
FYI, the Gossip Girl reference is purely for the aesthetic. They’re just my default shorthand for rich twenty-somethings. The heroes who are richer than God, free of real responsibilities, yet somehow still carrying the weight of the entire world on their impossibly tailored shoulders.
So the plot! The heroine stumbles across a book in rehab, full of snarky, thoughtful margin notes written by mysterious “Nemo.” The book is essentially a roadmap of adventures. When the hero and his too-rich-to-function friends offer the heroine an escape, she follows Nemo’s breadcrumb trail across the globe. Cute idea, but as a mid-twenties adult…their travel plans stressed me out. New York → London → Paris → Kolkata?? The logistics alone gave me hives, not to mention their nonexistent packing skills.
My other gripe: Hendricks. He’s in rehab, but we never really know why. It’s alluded to, but mostly feels like “my dad sucks, let me vibe here.” So that was a tad confusing. However, I will say, the bromance between the guys was actually a highlight. They’re more like brothers than friends, and it gave the story some heart.
The romance started losing steam around the halfway mark. The spice dialled up, but it split into what felt like two separate stories: Viva + Sampson on one side, Drix + Otto on the other. Their relationship was sweet, but I selfishly prefer my harems to be laser-focused on the heroine. Also, they keep talking about sacking her off because they don’t do emotions and it’s ruining the vibe.
By 60% I abandoned ship, swam to shore, and stayed on dry land. Not a bad book, just not my book. This does sting, as I really do love The Daymakers
FYI, the Gossip Girl reference is purely for the aesthetic. They’re just my default shorthand for rich twenty-somethings. The heroes who are richer than God, free of real responsibilities, yet somehow still carrying the weight of the entire world on their impossibly tailored shoulders.
So the plot! The heroine stumbles across a book in rehab, full of snarky, thoughtful margin notes written by mysterious “Nemo.” The book is essentially a roadmap of adventures. When the hero and his too-rich-to-function friends offer the heroine an escape, she follows Nemo’s breadcrumb trail across the globe. Cute idea, but as a mid-twenties adult…their travel plans stressed me out. New York → London → Paris → Kolkata?? The logistics alone gave me hives, not to mention their nonexistent packing skills.
My other gripe: Hendricks. He’s in rehab, but we never really know why. It’s alluded to, but mostly feels like “my dad sucks, let me vibe here.” So that was a tad confusing. However, I will say, the bromance between the guys was actually a highlight. They’re more like brothers than friends, and it gave the story some heart.
The romance started losing steam around the halfway mark. The spice dialled up, but it split into what felt like two separate stories: Viva + Sampson on one side, Drix + Otto on the other. Their relationship was sweet, but I selfishly prefer my harems to be laser-focused on the heroine. Also, they keep talking about sacking her off because they don’t do emotions and it’s ruining the vibe.
By 60% I abandoned ship, swam to shore, and stayed on dry land. Not a bad book, just not my book. This does sting, as I really do love The Daymakers
March 25, 2022
These are true and authentic characters with human emotions that are too big to handle at times. Aside from this being a RH, there are external partners used in destructive ways
😭 gut wrenching cliffhanger
🔥 RH romance with MM
🔥 three 24yo H’s, two are billionaires
🔥 21yo h
🥵 crazy hot sex
⚠️ casual ONS partners during courting
⚠️ mental illness (highs, lows, self harm)
Aviva Robinson is a damaged soul. I don’t know exactly what’s ailing her but depression is a bitch who has no remorse. After a fateful night she’s sent to Heath Buckley Center, a private inpatient treatment facility in Tampa, Florida. That’s where she meets Hendrick Kenley. And ultimately his two best friends, Sampson Rubio and Otto (don’t think we ever get his last name) 🤔
In an ill conceived plan, Hendrick decided to bring Aviva on her dream round the world trip chasing scribbling another patient left behind in Jules Verne novels. Along the way lines get blurred and all three find themselves in an unpredicted predicament. That is until self destruction takes hold and things implode.
I can’t begin to tell you how invested I was in these characters. They are broken, damaged, and worth loving. In their own words:
😇 Otto is a saint
👺Hendrick is a demon
😈 Sampson is the devil
And Aviva, she’s their Good Girl
Looking inside the head of Aviva and Kendrick is equal parts enlightening and frustrating. You see they want to do right but their brains are telling them to be destructive. The same could be said for Sampson’s but to a lesser degree. Yet it’s inside Otto’s POV that will pull at your heart and make you hurt.
I don’t know what to expect from the adventure around the world but I’m praying it turns into an epiphany type moment, almost something cathartic. And in the end I pray Aviva and her men get their HEA … all of them. Please Grace don’t break our hearts.
✨Part 2 is up for preorder now ✨
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
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😭 gut wrenching cliffhanger
🔥 RH romance with MM
🔥 three 24yo H’s, two are billionaires
🔥 21yo h
🥵 crazy hot sex
⚠️ casual ONS partners during courting
⚠️ mental illness (highs, lows, self harm)
Aviva Robinson is a damaged soul. I don’t know exactly what’s ailing her but depression is a bitch who has no remorse. After a fateful night she’s sent to Heath Buckley Center, a private inpatient treatment facility in Tampa, Florida. That’s where she meets Hendrick Kenley. And ultimately his two best friends, Sampson Rubio and Otto (don’t think we ever get his last name) 🤔
In an ill conceived plan, Hendrick decided to bring Aviva on her dream round the world trip chasing scribbling another patient left behind in Jules Verne novels. Along the way lines get blurred and all three find themselves in an unpredicted predicament. That is until self destruction takes hold and things implode.
I can’t begin to tell you how invested I was in these characters. They are broken, damaged, and worth loving. In their own words:
😇 Otto is a saint
👺Hendrick is a demon
😈 Sampson is the devil
And Aviva, she’s their Good Girl
Looking inside the head of Aviva and Kendrick is equal parts enlightening and frustrating. You see they want to do right but their brains are telling them to be destructive. The same could be said for Sampson’s but to a lesser degree. Yet it’s inside Otto’s POV that will pull at your heart and make you hurt.
I don’t know what to expect from the adventure around the world but I’m praying it turns into an epiphany type moment, almost something cathartic. And in the end I pray Aviva and her men get their HEA … all of them. Please Grace don’t break our hearts.
✨Part 2 is up for preorder now ✨
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
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April 6, 2022
It’s been a long time since a book consumed me the way this book did. It was impossible to put it down. It felt like witnessing a car crash and being unable to look away. You know it’s going to be awful and it’s going to hurt, but there’s something preventing you from doing the sensible thing and look the other way.
I knew the ending would hurt, but jfc I wasn’t prepared. I’m so glad I waited until the duology was completed because now I can just pick up the next book and get all my answers.
I’m obsessed with each character, I couldn’t tell you which one is my favorite because in every POV, I thought oh he’s my favorite, and so on and on.
Hendrix is a beautiful disaster. Otto is just too good for this world. Sampson is so intense, he gave me tingles. The three together, and their own intricate relationships, created something so unique and captivating, they’ve become my whole personality at this point.
I loved how unhinged the premise was, and how little the book cared about making sense of it. We were just supposed to join for the ride and enjoy the madness. And that’s exactly what I did.
Still not sure how I feel about Evans, tho. Was he necessary for the story? I’m not sure. I think the four of them together were captivating enough on their own. But I’m intrigued to see what happens with Evans in the next book.
I’m finishing my review here because I’m anxious to pick up part 2! Lol
I knew the ending would hurt, but jfc I wasn’t prepared. I’m so glad I waited until the duology was completed because now I can just pick up the next book and get all my answers.
I’m obsessed with each character, I couldn’t tell you which one is my favorite because in every POV, I thought oh he’s my favorite, and so on and on.
Hendrix is a beautiful disaster. Otto is just too good for this world. Sampson is so intense, he gave me tingles. The three together, and their own intricate relationships, created something so unique and captivating, they’ve become my whole personality at this point.
I loved how unhinged the premise was, and how little the book cared about making sense of it. We were just supposed to join for the ride and enjoy the madness. And that’s exactly what I did.
Still not sure how I feel about Evans, tho. Was he necessary for the story? I’m not sure. I think the four of them together were captivating enough on their own. But I’m intrigued to see what happens with Evans in the next book.
I’m finishing my review here because I’m anxious to pick up part 2! Lol
March 26, 2022
Ok, so I'll preface this with: I sort of applied and won an ARC of this book in Grace's Facebook group and was SHOCKED to find it on my Kindle yesterday. And grateful. I love Grace's work, so to receive an advanced copy of one of her books is a treasure.
Ok, onto the book.
If you can't feel anything inside your heart and the world is full of beige, how do you spend your days? Aviva has depression and feels empty. It's exhausting. She ends up in a rehab centre after an incident with a magnolia tree and she suffers through treatment by reading (same). A book inspires her to travel and a rich boy at the centre offers to pay for the trip as long as his two besties can come along. She's got nothing to lose when she's discharged, and so the adventure begins with them looking for books in shops on a scavenger hunt around the world. I loved that.
There's a lot going on mentally in this book and though the subject matter is heavy, it's not written in a way that you feel its weight. Aviva's excitement over new experiences provides a protective shell over all of them and the guys can't help but care for her. But when you've felt nothing for so long can you trust any new feelings as being real? Or deserved?
I love the close relationship the guys have and how Aviva slips into a comfortable position within that group. The romantic side of things happen in smooth fashion, though it feels like we're dancing on the tip of a knife where we'll tumble into chaos at any moment. I love that feeling of living on the edge and Grace captures this perfectly.
This is the first part of a duet so I was gutted when I read the last page of the book. Part two isn't expected to be out until March 2022 so at least that's not too long to wait. Or maybe I should say it's worth the wait? Can't wait to see where the story is headed! I loved this and if you like steamy books filled with adventure, snarky banter, and hot, complicated rich boys then you'll probably enjoy this. It was so good!
🍆🍆🍆🍆🍆/5 "aubergines" to keep you occupied in those lonely hotel rooms
Ok, onto the book.
If you can't feel anything inside your heart and the world is full of beige, how do you spend your days? Aviva has depression and feels empty. It's exhausting. She ends up in a rehab centre after an incident with a magnolia tree and she suffers through treatment by reading (same). A book inspires her to travel and a rich boy at the centre offers to pay for the trip as long as his two besties can come along. She's got nothing to lose when she's discharged, and so the adventure begins with them looking for books in shops on a scavenger hunt around the world. I loved that.
There's a lot going on mentally in this book and though the subject matter is heavy, it's not written in a way that you feel its weight. Aviva's excitement over new experiences provides a protective shell over all of them and the guys can't help but care for her. But when you've felt nothing for so long can you trust any new feelings as being real? Or deserved?
I love the close relationship the guys have and how Aviva slips into a comfortable position within that group. The romantic side of things happen in smooth fashion, though it feels like we're dancing on the tip of a knife where we'll tumble into chaos at any moment. I love that feeling of living on the edge and Grace captures this perfectly.
This is the first part of a duet so I was gutted when I read the last page of the book. Part two isn't expected to be out until March 2022 so at least that's not too long to wait. Or maybe I should say it's worth the wait? Can't wait to see where the story is headed! I loved this and if you like steamy books filled with adventure, snarky banter, and hot, complicated rich boys then you'll probably enjoy this. It was so good!
🍆🍆🍆🍆🍆/5 "aubergines" to keep you occupied in those lonely hotel rooms
December 1, 2021
Question. Is it just me, or is everything Grace writes just fantastically amazing?! Thisssss…. Was so freaking good. So much more than I was expecting. I love Aviva. I adore Otto. Drix is an @hole, so of course I have a soft spot for him. And Sampson is also an @hole in his own way, so I’m keeping him too. And the surprise addition? I was rooting for him the whole flipping book! That ending though?! Dear gods. I love me some cliffies and I jumped right on off. 😍 I’m ready for book 2 already! 💜
November 26, 2022
Read below if you want to know why I stopped reading. This was not for me.
The heroine has sex with the orderly, who is not the hero. The orderly has sex with a lot of the patients/inmates so she is nothing special to him wither. The heroine’s parents are working endless hours so she would be in this facility and not jail and I feel she did not appreciate what they were doing to save her. She just has random sex even though she knows this behavior can get her in trouble. Kicked out, but whatever. She repeatedly had sex with the orderly, Corey, because she was bored. One time, she even did it so the hero, Hendrix, would know what she was up to. Playing mind games which I think she was a pro at.
I was unable to connect when the first few chapters was the hearing about her sex escapades with the orderly. You may enjoy those type of stories so pick it up. You will read all about it.
DNF. Good luck.
The heroine has sex with the orderly, who is not the hero. The orderly has sex with a lot of the patients/inmates so she is nothing special to him wither. The heroine’s parents are working endless hours so she would be in this facility and not jail and I feel she did not appreciate what they were doing to save her. She just has random sex even though she knows this behavior can get her in trouble. Kicked out, but whatever. She repeatedly had sex with the orderly, Corey, because she was bored. One time, she even did it so the hero, Hendrix, would know what she was up to. Playing mind games which I think she was a pro at.
I was unable to connect when the first few chapters was the hearing about her sex escapades with the orderly. You may enjoy those type of stories so pick it up. You will read all about it.
DNF. Good luck.
December 2, 2021
Do you know what it feels like to be empty?
This was a wild ride. Grace McGinty is an amazing writer. This entire story, although not yet finished - I am dying over here waiting for Part 2 - was captivating and riveting. I felt for Aviva and Hendricks while in the hospital. While I have never been in those specific shoes, we all get the type of feels where we might feel like we don't belong. We all have our highs and lows. I was able to relate to these characters in today's world on a personal level. THEN - When we are introduced to Otto and Sampson, that entire world changes.
We are thrown into this wild goose chase of "literary search for salvation" around the world and I LOVE IT!
**********
Aviva finds a book in the hospital by Jules Verne with notes of opinions in the entire book and a final note at the end..."Come and find me, and if our destinies are meant to intertwine, Ill be waiting with the Franc's..." This feeling she gets when reading this persons notes is unfamiliar, especially since she "doesn't feel" anymore. This is the start for her daring adventure. Hendricks enlists himself and his friends as Viva's guide, as he can pay for this trip. A deal is made even if it might be with the devil himself.
Aviva finds herself in the middle of either a nightmare or fantasy, she can't be sure. Hendricks Otto, Samson and even Evan....are all not what she expected and she is losing herself to an overwhelming amount of feelings. She set rules for the guys and their womanizing ways. Can she hold herself to these rules too? After all, "self destruction could be such a f*ing beautiful way to go""
NY to France to Paris, India, Japan... the trip of a lifetime to find whom she dubbed, 'Nemo,' the mystery man she's searching for - turned into a search for salvation for herself. The intimacy she feels to each guy is bringing up things Aviva didn't think shed ever feel again. But this can only be temporary....only until she finds her 'Nemo.' Right??
"Your madness is the worst kind, Aviva. Its the kind that infects those around you."
When their womanizer ways come back into fold and Aviva takes a slap of realty, she reminds herself, she needs to do this trip for herself. For her own sanity. To feel again and be loved. The guys end up heading back home into a whirlwind of chaos and back to their broken past.
And we are left with wanting Part 2 soooooo freaking bad!!!! lol
**********
I love this book. It is definitely not a a story for the brokenhearted. All of these characters, while amazing, have ghosts. They have struggles. They are all so messed up with what realty should be and is. Together, they really do create a maelstrom. Its beautiful, ugly and broken and I cannot wait to see how it unfolds.
"Love, its a wild force. Ferocious and cruel, or a soothing savior. Its always a gamble, but its a wager between God and the Devil to which side the coin will land."
I hope we see more development with Evan. And while I love all of the other guys, I need their dose of realty to hit them soon! I hope Aviva finds herself happy in part 2. I cant wait.
I received an ARC copy of this book for my honest review and opinion. Thank you!
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 4/5
*First person POV (all main characters)
*Fast-Med Burn (40ish%)
*Mental Health Triggers
*MM
*MMFM Romance (Maybe MMFMM) *fingers crossed*
*HEA? No...........
This was a wild ride. Grace McGinty is an amazing writer. This entire story, although not yet finished - I am dying over here waiting for Part 2 - was captivating and riveting. I felt for Aviva and Hendricks while in the hospital. While I have never been in those specific shoes, we all get the type of feels where we might feel like we don't belong. We all have our highs and lows. I was able to relate to these characters in today's world on a personal level. THEN - When we are introduced to Otto and Sampson, that entire world changes.
We are thrown into this wild goose chase of "literary search for salvation" around the world and I LOVE IT!
**********
Aviva finds a book in the hospital by Jules Verne with notes of opinions in the entire book and a final note at the end..."Come and find me, and if our destinies are meant to intertwine, Ill be waiting with the Franc's..." This feeling she gets when reading this persons notes is unfamiliar, especially since she "doesn't feel" anymore. This is the start for her daring adventure. Hendricks enlists himself and his friends as Viva's guide, as he can pay for this trip. A deal is made even if it might be with the devil himself.
Aviva finds herself in the middle of either a nightmare or fantasy, she can't be sure. Hendricks Otto, Samson and even Evan....are all not what she expected and she is losing herself to an overwhelming amount of feelings. She set rules for the guys and their womanizing ways. Can she hold herself to these rules too? After all, "self destruction could be such a f*ing beautiful way to go""
NY to France to Paris, India, Japan... the trip of a lifetime to find whom she dubbed, 'Nemo,' the mystery man she's searching for - turned into a search for salvation for herself. The intimacy she feels to each guy is bringing up things Aviva didn't think shed ever feel again. But this can only be temporary....only until she finds her 'Nemo.' Right??
"Your madness is the worst kind, Aviva. Its the kind that infects those around you."
When their womanizer ways come back into fold and Aviva takes a slap of realty, she reminds herself, she needs to do this trip for herself. For her own sanity. To feel again and be loved. The guys end up heading back home into a whirlwind of chaos and back to their broken past.
And we are left with wanting Part 2 soooooo freaking bad!!!! lol
**********
I love this book. It is definitely not a a story for the brokenhearted. All of these characters, while amazing, have ghosts. They have struggles. They are all so messed up with what realty should be and is. Together, they really do create a maelstrom. Its beautiful, ugly and broken and I cannot wait to see how it unfolds.
"Love, its a wild force. Ferocious and cruel, or a soothing savior. Its always a gamble, but its a wager between God and the Devil to which side the coin will land."
I hope we see more development with Evan. And while I love all of the other guys, I need their dose of realty to hit them soon! I hope Aviva finds herself happy in part 2. I cant wait.
I received an ARC copy of this book for my honest review and opinion. Thank you!
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 4/5
*First person POV (all main characters)
*Fast-Med Burn (40ish%)
*Mental Health Triggers
*MM
*MMFM Romance (Maybe MMFMM) *fingers crossed*
*HEA? No...........
August 4, 2022
This book was like being on a wild ride to outer space where my organs are twisted turned and scrambled. The book opens with heroine Aviva trying to destroy her life, quite literally. Aviva from the outside has a great life and should have no problems. Of course many of us know no matter how happy, complete and content in your life-mental health does not care or discriminate. Aviva in many ways is an adrenaline junkie because she loves the rush and simply to be reminded she's alive. After getting into a crash she is sent to a a healing resort. Basically the rich persons equivalent of rehab. It's here that Aviva meets Hendricks, the loaded son of a prominent Senator and cocky asshole manwhore. Aviva could give two shits about Hendricks or his money. In fact she clearly loathes him and doesn't hide the fact which really only intrigues Hendricks more. Through him she meets his two besties Otto and Sampson, also rich and wealthy young men she wants nothing to do with. But when Hendricks offers to fund a trip around the world she could hardly say no. They set off and in many ways conduct a treasure hunt while looking for a man called 'Nemo' who leaves notes in old Jules Vernes novels. At first I was excited about the traveling but really they don't spend much time exploring and they go quite a few places. Personally it felt like once they left the center everything sped up and I was barely hanging on. It doesn't take long for things between them all to become sexual but it's the feelings that arise for all of them that's puts them to the test. There is a rather gut punching cliffhanger and I'm dying to jump into the next one. It was full of drama and crazy-ness but like a junkie I need more.
December 3, 2021
I received this book as an ARC from Grace!
I can’t rave enough about this book. As someone with bi-polar 2, I identified with the characters in this book so much- specifically Hendrick.
Grace portrayed mental illness so respectfully and accurately. Her prose and character development is perfect as always. She manages to humanize two spoiled rich boys and their respective “care takers” are the cinnamon roll balance the book needs.
Aviva is such a little spitfire and I really empathized with how she never fit in, feeling like a black hole etc.
Definitely check the trigger warnings for this book, but as someone with mental illness, I loved it.
Well done, Grace and I’m anxiously awaiting book two!
I can’t rave enough about this book. As someone with bi-polar 2, I identified with the characters in this book so much- specifically Hendrick.
Grace portrayed mental illness so respectfully and accurately. Her prose and character development is perfect as always. She manages to humanize two spoiled rich boys and their respective “care takers” are the cinnamon roll balance the book needs.
Aviva is such a little spitfire and I really empathized with how she never fit in, feeling like a black hole etc.
Definitely check the trigger warnings for this book, but as someone with mental illness, I loved it.
Well done, Grace and I’m anxiously awaiting book two!
February 24, 2023
Damn. That was so good. So much queerness. So much angst. Nuanced looks at mental illness.
LOVED IT.
LOVED IT.
March 31, 2022
Well this was ridiculously engaging!
I don't read contemporary romance very often, but when I do I like it dark (as long as there's no non-con, as that makes me rage) and filled with messed up characters. I also don't read RH much anymore, so this was a double whammy.
I have to say, I was sucked in immediately and this was one of the sort of books where you just say to yourself 'one more chapter then I'll go to bed' and suddenly it's stupid I clock and you've read 70%.
This is tropey as hell, but they're done very well. I thought the various character's mental heath issues was dealt with sensitively, without becoming gratuitous, and there was a good balance between plot and relationship development, as well as the dynamic between the characters. That ending was pretty gut punching as well.
I'm a less talented writer this type of book could easily have had me eyerollong until I DNF, but instead I can't wait to jump to the next. If you like dark, contemporary RH with damaged characters, then this is an excellent choice.
I don't read contemporary romance very often, but when I do I like it dark (as long as there's no non-con, as that makes me rage) and filled with messed up characters. I also don't read RH much anymore, so this was a double whammy.
I have to say, I was sucked in immediately and this was one of the sort of books where you just say to yourself 'one more chapter then I'll go to bed' and suddenly it's stupid I clock and you've read 70%.
This is tropey as hell, but they're done very well. I thought the various character's mental heath issues was dealt with sensitively, without becoming gratuitous, and there was a good balance between plot and relationship development, as well as the dynamic between the characters. That ending was pretty gut punching as well.
I'm a less talented writer this type of book could easily have had me eyerollong until I DNF, but instead I can't wait to jump to the next. If you like dark, contemporary RH with damaged characters, then this is an excellent choice.
December 11, 2021
Grace McGinty is a brilliant writer and her stories never fail to take you on a thrilling ride. Inside the Maelstrom is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. It takes you on a journey for love and into the minds of the mentally ill.
While in an inpatient treatment center, Aviva finds a book with notes written in it. Wanting to find the writer of those notes, she sets off on a journey of a lifetime.
Aviva slowly falls and has an intricate relationship with each guy, bringing its own unique set of challenges. These characters are beautifully complex and complicated. I love multiple POVs. The cliffhanger leaves you reeling and I’m already dying for book 2. What I’m trying to say is….read this book!
While in an inpatient treatment center, Aviva finds a book with notes written in it. Wanting to find the writer of those notes, she sets off on a journey of a lifetime.
Aviva slowly falls and has an intricate relationship with each guy, bringing its own unique set of challenges. These characters are beautifully complex and complicated. I love multiple POVs. The cliffhanger leaves you reeling and I’m already dying for book 2. What I’m trying to say is….read this book!
December 17, 2021
Inside the Maelstrom is a thing of broken beauty. My heart was swept along by the push and pull of the tides and I feel devastated in the best way. As someone with BPD, Viva hit me right in the freakin' feels; the chronic emptiness, the desperation to just feel and the overwhelming joy that simply feeling can bring. So if you struggle with any of these issues, think before you read, but damn it's worth it.
December 4, 2021
Inside the Maelstrom is a seriously addictive, completely captivating RH romance with a unique storyline and layered, complex characters.
What an original concept! Enemies to lovers meets global scavenger hunt, this book takes the reader on an adventure around the world right alongside the characters.
There is an intense complexity to these characters that had my emotions running haywire. Our heroine Avivia is used to feeling numb but comes alive when she meets billionaire playboys Henrick and Sampson, along with their childhood best friend Otto. These men are all so different yet complement each another perfectly, and Aviva slides right in like the puzzle piece they never knew they were missing, even with an established MM relationship within the group. Maelstrom is told in alternating POV, allowing the reader an opportunity to dive deep into each character’s feelings and witness the complexity of their relationships with one another.
Once these characters begin their adventure the story moves quickly as they jet set from city to city following Aviva on her search to solve a mystery and perhaps find herself along the way. Grace throws a twist into the mix with an unexpected potential love interest for Aviva which I loved! I am a big fan of RH books where you don’t know exactly how the romantic relationships will all play out.
Overall, I really loved this book and would recommend this for any fan of angsty contemporary RH romance. I should also mention there is a brutal cliffhanger but part two is is already up for preorder!
What an original concept! Enemies to lovers meets global scavenger hunt, this book takes the reader on an adventure around the world right alongside the characters.
There is an intense complexity to these characters that had my emotions running haywire. Our heroine Avivia is used to feeling numb but comes alive when she meets billionaire playboys Henrick and Sampson, along with their childhood best friend Otto. These men are all so different yet complement each another perfectly, and Aviva slides right in like the puzzle piece they never knew they were missing, even with an established MM relationship within the group. Maelstrom is told in alternating POV, allowing the reader an opportunity to dive deep into each character’s feelings and witness the complexity of their relationships with one another.
Once these characters begin their adventure the story moves quickly as they jet set from city to city following Aviva on her search to solve a mystery and perhaps find herself along the way. Grace throws a twist into the mix with an unexpected potential love interest for Aviva which I loved! I am a big fan of RH books where you don’t know exactly how the romantic relationships will all play out.
Overall, I really loved this book and would recommend this for any fan of angsty contemporary RH romance. I should also mention there is a brutal cliffhanger but part two is is already up for preorder!
December 11, 2021
I love this RH with mm
This one has really good plot
Plus so steamy
Cant wait for next book..... I m dying to know what will happen.... Who is he
This one has really good plot
Plus so steamy
Cant wait for next book..... I m dying to know what will happen.... Who is he
Want to read
March 20, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/20/2022)! 🎁
February 17, 2023
Full RTC but this book has officially ruined any other RHs for me because this was perfection
dnf
October 5, 2025DNF just not in the mood? May try again later
April 2, 2022
I'm not crying, you are!!
Oh my goodness, a book full of real human emotions. Yes I cried but that is a huge credit to the author. If you can make a reader cry, you make them feel.
Oh my goodness, a book full of real human emotions. Yes I cried but that is a huge credit to the author. If you can make a reader cry, you make them feel.
March 25, 2022
ARC received from Grace in exchange for honest review
Inside the Maelstrom ripped my heart out, smashed it into pieces, stomped all over it, scooped up the mush and re moulded it, only to be ripped out all over again.
I feel this book is different to any of Grace’s other books, it’s certainly a lot heavier (not dark) due to the mental illnesses that some of the characters go through (bipolar, anxiety and depression).
Although its not the main focal point (once you get a few chapters in) it is always there in the background as you get deeper into the book.
Grace has written in such a way that shows the realities of living with a mental illness and how it can effect those around them, particularly the ones who love them.
Although this book is heavy the writing is very sweet, all the guys absolutely adore Aviva and would do anything to see her happy and smile.
Imma tell you the last few chapters almost killed me and the cliffhanger!! Jeepers!! GRACE!!
What are you doing to me!!
Can not rate this book highly enough
(Side note to definitely read the trigger warnings first)
Inside the Maelstrom ripped my heart out, smashed it into pieces, stomped all over it, scooped up the mush and re moulded it, only to be ripped out all over again.
I feel this book is different to any of Grace’s other books, it’s certainly a lot heavier (not dark) due to the mental illnesses that some of the characters go through (bipolar, anxiety and depression).
Although its not the main focal point (once you get a few chapters in) it is always there in the background as you get deeper into the book.
Grace has written in such a way that shows the realities of living with a mental illness and how it can effect those around them, particularly the ones who love them.
Although this book is heavy the writing is very sweet, all the guys absolutely adore Aviva and would do anything to see her happy and smile.
Imma tell you the last few chapters almost killed me and the cliffhanger!! Jeepers!! GRACE!!
What are you doing to me!!
Can not rate this book highly enough
(Side note to definitely read the trigger warnings first)
December 12, 2021
3 or 4 stars?
I don't have to like characters, but they do need to be redeemable. I'm not sure 2 of 4 male characters are likeable, much less redeemable. Also, I'm conflicted on how the relationship played out, and if I'll read the next book. The trail of Nemo is the most interesting part to be right now.
I don't have to like characters, but they do need to be redeemable. I'm not sure 2 of 4 male characters are likeable, much less redeemable. Also, I'm conflicted on how the relationship played out, and if I'll read the next book. The trail of Nemo is the most interesting part to be right now.
April 4, 2022
2 ✨✈️🗽🎡
Category: just wasn't for me (too superficial, too much too quickly, not always comprehensible).
"Love, it’s a wild force. Ferocious and cruel, or a soothing savior. It’s always a gamble, but it’s a wager between God and the Devil to which side the coin will land."
Category: just wasn't for me (too superficial, too much too quickly, not always comprehensible).
"Love, it’s a wild force. Ferocious and cruel, or a soothing savior. It’s always a gamble, but it’s a wager between God and the Devil to which side the coin will land."
January 4, 2024
4.5 -⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
"Can you imagine loving someone so much that you couldn't stand the idea of humanity without them? I want that kind of love, and nothing else will do."
Note: I read this as a compendium so Part 1 and 2 were read in a single book. This will be identical to the one I post on Part Two.
Inside the Maelstrom is an Adult Why Choose Contemporary Romance following Aviva, a young woman who has been sent to a health care facility after intentionally crashing her vehicle head on into a neighbour's tree. The center is a rehabilitation centre the best money people can buy but it also comes with snobby rich patients as well. Aviva is biding her time to get out when she comes across a book hidden in the library that draws her in and tempts her with a journey of the life time...if she could afford it.
Enter Hendrick Kenley, an annoyingly handsome with a mysterious pasts offers her the capital for her adventure but with one condition - that he and his friends can tag along. Knowing her family can never afford this life changing experience she needs after paying for her treatment she knows she needs to take this risk...what she never expecting was she would land.
I DEVOURED this book in the span of a day. I had just finished reading The Daymakers is knew I immediately needed more Grace McGinty and this book delivered the same vibe and then some.
It is important to note that you should check your trigger warners as reference to substance abuse, thoughts of self harm, and suicide are addressed in this book. At the same time they are addressed in a respectful manner.
Aviva is a fascinating character I enjoyed diving into. She is struggling to find herself in many ways and seeing her finally be able to explore and see the world. Drix is a complex character who's backstory unfolds in a moving way that further enthralled me. Otto is the sweetest and most understanding characters that was a balm to all the angst and stress that filled between other characters. Sampson was this fascinating balance of angst but also had such a sweet spot that turned feral for the people he loved. Evan follows a trend I notice with Grace McGinty's writing in why choose. Evan tries to hold himself back because of his job but once he is firmly involved I enjoyed the safe place he provided despite the tumultuous events going on.
This book is a 5 spicy pepper out of 5 spicy pepper as it is why choose so you should expect multiple partner scenes with mf, mm, mfm, mmfm, and more. The spice is fast burn but in this angsty way and it also varies between characters. The characters are attracted to each other but depending on their baggage they would hold back, or give in physically but refuse to accept the feelings. I felt this didn't fully feel like enemies to lovers but there is an antagonist between them. I felt it was more about their aggressive personalities and the sexual tension than anything else and it worked. As the story progressed it made the romance more powerful and I loved it.
"Oh, Good Girl, you can't fathom that bad things I want to do to you...I want to make you beg for me. I want to be your whole fing world...I want to consume you."
In terms of story and world I was drawn into the adventure from the beginning. I felt the treasure hunt style journey for Aviva really provided a nuanced framework for the story that was really well timed as I was just reading about Jules Vernes. There is more to it as we unpack Drix's family, vengeful characters, and mental health and it all comes together. The story has its dark elements but the balance of a raw romance that stuck with me made the journey worth it. Part 1 ends of a pretty big cliffhanger but as i read the bound copy I was immediately able to dive into Part 2 which made things so much easier to bear. Except snarky quips, attempts to protect each other, trust issues, and more as these character learn about themselves and ways to turn to others. The ending has poignancy to it and I loved it.
If you are looking for an adventure around the world filling with dysfunctional families, antagonistic relationships turning to love, and all the spice this book will deliver! And it's on Kindle Unlimited!
Happy Reading!
"Can you imagine loving someone so much that you couldn't stand the idea of humanity without them? I want that kind of love, and nothing else will do."
Note: I read this as a compendium so Part 1 and 2 were read in a single book. This will be identical to the one I post on Part Two.
Inside the Maelstrom is an Adult Why Choose Contemporary Romance following Aviva, a young woman who has been sent to a health care facility after intentionally crashing her vehicle head on into a neighbour's tree. The center is a rehabilitation centre the best money people can buy but it also comes with snobby rich patients as well. Aviva is biding her time to get out when she comes across a book hidden in the library that draws her in and tempts her with a journey of the life time...if she could afford it.
Enter Hendrick Kenley, an annoyingly handsome with a mysterious pasts offers her the capital for her adventure but with one condition - that he and his friends can tag along. Knowing her family can never afford this life changing experience she needs after paying for her treatment she knows she needs to take this risk...what she never expecting was she would land.
I DEVOURED this book in the span of a day. I had just finished reading The Daymakers is knew I immediately needed more Grace McGinty and this book delivered the same vibe and then some.
It is important to note that you should check your trigger warners as reference to substance abuse, thoughts of self harm, and suicide are addressed in this book. At the same time they are addressed in a respectful manner.
Aviva is a fascinating character I enjoyed diving into. She is struggling to find herself in many ways and seeing her finally be able to explore and see the world. Drix is a complex character who's backstory unfolds in a moving way that further enthralled me. Otto is the sweetest and most understanding characters that was a balm to all the angst and stress that filled between other characters. Sampson was this fascinating balance of angst but also had such a sweet spot that turned feral for the people he loved. Evan follows a trend I notice with Grace McGinty's writing in why choose. Evan tries to hold himself back because of his job but once he is firmly involved I enjoyed the safe place he provided despite the tumultuous events going on.
This book is a 5 spicy pepper out of 5 spicy pepper as it is why choose so you should expect multiple partner scenes with mf, mm, mfm, mmfm, and more. The spice is fast burn but in this angsty way and it also varies between characters. The characters are attracted to each other but depending on their baggage they would hold back, or give in physically but refuse to accept the feelings. I felt this didn't fully feel like enemies to lovers but there is an antagonist between them. I felt it was more about their aggressive personalities and the sexual tension than anything else and it worked. As the story progressed it made the romance more powerful and I loved it.
"Oh, Good Girl, you can't fathom that bad things I want to do to you...I want to make you beg for me. I want to be your whole fing world...I want to consume you."
In terms of story and world I was drawn into the adventure from the beginning. I felt the treasure hunt style journey for Aviva really provided a nuanced framework for the story that was really well timed as I was just reading about Jules Vernes. There is more to it as we unpack Drix's family, vengeful characters, and mental health and it all comes together. The story has its dark elements but the balance of a raw romance that stuck with me made the journey worth it. Part 1 ends of a pretty big cliffhanger but as i read the bound copy I was immediately able to dive into Part 2 which made things so much easier to bear. Except snarky quips, attempts to protect each other, trust issues, and more as these character learn about themselves and ways to turn to others. The ending has poignancy to it and I loved it.
If you are looking for an adventure around the world filling with dysfunctional families, antagonistic relationships turning to love, and all the spice this book will deliver! And it's on Kindle Unlimited!
Happy Reading!
April 9, 2024
Wowza, what a great read!!
I love love love books dealing with mental health, particularly mental institutions and such. We started out with our FMC, Aviva, getting put into a mental institution because of her lack of self preservation. She has felt "empty" all of her life and thus decides to drive into the neighbors tree at full speed.
Of course, this didn't work and she was subsequently sent to Heath Buckley Center, an institution built for and by the rich. That's where we meet our first guy, Hendrick Kenley. Hendrick has bipolar disorder and gives off the "I'm rich and can do anything I want" vibes. He doesn't think things through and is very impulsive. After a few months, he forms this sort of obsession with Aviva and overhears her talking to her parents about wanting to travel the world when she gets out. With her parents being middle class, they obviously cannot afford to do this so Hendrick decides to take Aviva, himself, and his two other friends on a world-wide trip.
Aviva actually wanted to go around the world because of a book she found at the institution that another man had written in. Basically, we know nothing about this guy however Aviva is obsessed with his writings and sees a sort of soulmate in him. In his writings, he includes clues as to where he'll be going next and thus starts the around-the-world adventure. I was honestly pretty upset with Aviva over the course of this book because she literally FINDS her happiness but is just so set on finding this "Nemo" guy. Ugh, annoying. Hopefully Nemo is worth it - I really wanna know who he is! It'll KILL me if it turns out to be some random old guy lmaooooooo.
Okay moving on to more interesting things - the rest of the guys!! Now don't get me wrong, I enjoyed Hendrick's character, however the other guys were PERFECTION in my eyes. Otto is, technically, the second guy we meet AND the sweetest of the bunch. He isn't as wealthy as the other two and is very humble, forgiving, and caring. He's basically the mother hen of the group (who just so happens to be in a sexual relationship with one of the guys. SWOON). He's genuinely such a sweetheart and I'm SO UPSET where this book ended he NEEDS his happily ever after PLEASE give it to him.
Sampson is our last (but my favorite) guy. He's the asshole of the group, at least at the beginning. Very much giving "I don't care about anyone or anything since I can buy it all anyway." Bro is filthy rich and a complete dick but LAWDD once he really falls for Aviva shit gets HOTTT. I love him, really really love him. He's a great character and he's definitely the one who would punch all the guys at the bar for looking at his woman for too long. Love my protective, brooding man.
Evan technically wasn't apart of the group for the whole book in THAT way. He was their bodyguard, specifically Sampson's. However over the course of the book he also slowly falls for Aviva and enjoys his time with her. I'll admit, I liked him more when he was just pining for her from afar. Kind of didn't like how their first time together went. Esp am iffy with where he and Aviva were at towards the end. I like him, but tbh I only LOVE him when it's not just him and Aviva but all the guys too. They all really are a package deal, it'd feel weird with just one.
The ending wasn't the worst cliff hanger I've ever seen however it definitely leaves me wondering what'll happen next. Hendrick's dad never fails to piss me tf off. Hopefully we'll get to see the guys get their revenge on that SOAB in the next book. So, overall I'm very excited to read the next book and see what happens to everyone and their relationships. This was a great read that covers so many subjects including but not limited to complicated relationships, mental health issues, and finding happiness when all you've felt is emptiness. I've really enjoyed it. 5/5
I love love love books dealing with mental health, particularly mental institutions and such. We started out with our FMC, Aviva, getting put into a mental institution because of her lack of self preservation. She has felt "empty" all of her life and thus decides to drive into the neighbors tree at full speed.
Of course, this didn't work and she was subsequently sent to Heath Buckley Center, an institution built for and by the rich. That's where we meet our first guy, Hendrick Kenley. Hendrick has bipolar disorder and gives off the "I'm rich and can do anything I want" vibes. He doesn't think things through and is very impulsive. After a few months, he forms this sort of obsession with Aviva and overhears her talking to her parents about wanting to travel the world when she gets out. With her parents being middle class, they obviously cannot afford to do this so Hendrick decides to take Aviva, himself, and his two other friends on a world-wide trip.
Aviva actually wanted to go around the world because of a book she found at the institution that another man had written in. Basically, we know nothing about this guy however Aviva is obsessed with his writings and sees a sort of soulmate in him. In his writings, he includes clues as to where he'll be going next and thus starts the around-the-world adventure. I was honestly pretty upset with Aviva over the course of this book because she literally FINDS her happiness but is just so set on finding this "Nemo" guy. Ugh, annoying. Hopefully Nemo is worth it - I really wanna know who he is! It'll KILL me if it turns out to be some random old guy lmaooooooo.
Okay moving on to more interesting things - the rest of the guys!! Now don't get me wrong, I enjoyed Hendrick's character, however the other guys were PERFECTION in my eyes. Otto is, technically, the second guy we meet AND the sweetest of the bunch. He isn't as wealthy as the other two and is very humble, forgiving, and caring. He's basically the mother hen of the group (who just so happens to be in a sexual relationship with one of the guys. SWOON). He's genuinely such a sweetheart and I'm SO UPSET where this book ended he NEEDS his happily ever after PLEASE give it to him.
Sampson is our last (but my favorite) guy. He's the asshole of the group, at least at the beginning. Very much giving "I don't care about anyone or anything since I can buy it all anyway." Bro is filthy rich and a complete dick but LAWDD once he really falls for Aviva shit gets HOTTT. I love him, really really love him. He's a great character and he's definitely the one who would punch all the guys at the bar for looking at his woman for too long. Love my protective, brooding man.
Evan technically wasn't apart of the group for the whole book in THAT way. He was their bodyguard, specifically Sampson's. However over the course of the book he also slowly falls for Aviva and enjoys his time with her. I'll admit, I liked him more when he was just pining for her from afar. Kind of didn't like how their first time together went. Esp am iffy with where he and Aviva were at towards the end. I like him, but tbh I only LOVE him when it's not just him and Aviva but all the guys too. They all really are a package deal, it'd feel weird with just one.
The ending wasn't the worst cliff hanger I've ever seen however it definitely leaves me wondering what'll happen next. Hendrick's dad never fails to piss me tf off. Hopefully we'll get to see the guys get their revenge on that SOAB in the next book. So, overall I'm very excited to read the next book and see what happens to everyone and their relationships. This was a great read that covers so many subjects including but not limited to complicated relationships, mental health issues, and finding happiness when all you've felt is emptiness. I've really enjoyed it. 5/5
September 9, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
I wasn't totally sure what to expect from this book, despite reading the blurb and trigger warnings, so it started out way darker than I thought it would with Aviva purposely crashing her car into a tree. When she gets sent to a mental health and rehab facility for the uber-rich to address her self-harm attempt, she meets Hendrick and his two best friends, Otto and Sampson, and her life changes forever. The guys, along with Sampson's bodyguard Evan, take Aviva on a round-the-world trip to follow clues she found in a Jules Verne novel at the rehab facility. While on their journey, relationships blossom between all four guys and Aviva, and Hendrick and Otto's longstanding love affair is finally acknowledged.
This book was a really beautiful exploration of mental health struggles (Aviva's self-harm and depression and Hendrick's bipolar disorder) and how they affect you and everyone around you. It didn't shy away from discussing all the ways people numb their pain - by escaping real life, by blowing their money, through physical and sexual release, and when it's really bad, by alienating those you love most. I was so glad to see that medication was a prominent treatment for both Aviva and Hendrick, because it was so accepted and normalized as a part of what they needed to survive. I wish real life was more like that, and there wasn't such a stigma or taboo on needing help.
Every character was distinct yet relatable in some way, and I was so sympathetic to them all. Aviva was a feather in the wind, never able to be pinned down but with so much love to give. Otto, the sweetest of them all, was the most compassionate man and I loved him for wearing his heart on his sleeve always. Hendrick was wild and rebellious on the outside, but on the inside he was actually just a traumatized kid who was never shown what real love looked like for far too long. Sampson was a greedy asshole, but at the same time was so willing to give anything he needed of himself and his resources to everyone he loved. And Evan was the protector of them all, a little bit on the outside but always the one watching out for everyone's best interests. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be sweet Otto, but I can't really pick one because they were a package deal and each contributed so much to the story in their own ways.
This book was very spicy, and had all the pairings of Aviva and the guys plus Hendrick and Otto. At times, the spice was used as a numbing agent for their issues, but it was always brought back around to the way they cared for each other and loved each other. But also, sometimes it was just straight up spice because it was fun.
The cliffhanger on this part 1 was crazy, and I immediately jumped into part 2 to find out what happened.
The duet-style audiobook narration by Juno Cooper, Grayson Owens, and Christian Fox was fantastic. Keeping track of the POVs was easy with the multiple narrators, even with both guys voicing two MMCs each. Juno soloed every female character, and she sounded great for all of them. All three infused the characters' emotions into the story and made me believe everything they were saying. Whether they were spiraling, sarcastic, or loving, there was no doubt that they were having strong feelings, and they really came through in the performances. There were no issues with the overall production, everything was seamless.
Thank you to PinUp Audio and the author, Grace McGinty, for the audiobook ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion!
I wasn't totally sure what to expect from this book, despite reading the blurb and trigger warnings, so it started out way darker than I thought it would with Aviva purposely crashing her car into a tree. When she gets sent to a mental health and rehab facility for the uber-rich to address her self-harm attempt, she meets Hendrick and his two best friends, Otto and Sampson, and her life changes forever. The guys, along with Sampson's bodyguard Evan, take Aviva on a round-the-world trip to follow clues she found in a Jules Verne novel at the rehab facility. While on their journey, relationships blossom between all four guys and Aviva, and Hendrick and Otto's longstanding love affair is finally acknowledged.
This book was a really beautiful exploration of mental health struggles (Aviva's self-harm and depression and Hendrick's bipolar disorder) and how they affect you and everyone around you. It didn't shy away from discussing all the ways people numb their pain - by escaping real life, by blowing their money, through physical and sexual release, and when it's really bad, by alienating those you love most. I was so glad to see that medication was a prominent treatment for both Aviva and Hendrick, because it was so accepted and normalized as a part of what they needed to survive. I wish real life was more like that, and there wasn't such a stigma or taboo on needing help.
Every character was distinct yet relatable in some way, and I was so sympathetic to them all. Aviva was a feather in the wind, never able to be pinned down but with so much love to give. Otto, the sweetest of them all, was the most compassionate man and I loved him for wearing his heart on his sleeve always. Hendrick was wild and rebellious on the outside, but on the inside he was actually just a traumatized kid who was never shown what real love looked like for far too long. Sampson was a greedy asshole, but at the same time was so willing to give anything he needed of himself and his resources to everyone he loved. And Evan was the protector of them all, a little bit on the outside but always the one watching out for everyone's best interests. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be sweet Otto, but I can't really pick one because they were a package deal and each contributed so much to the story in their own ways.
This book was very spicy, and had all the pairings of Aviva and the guys plus Hendrick and Otto. At times, the spice was used as a numbing agent for their issues, but it was always brought back around to the way they cared for each other and loved each other. But also, sometimes it was just straight up spice because it was fun.
The cliffhanger on this part 1 was crazy, and I immediately jumped into part 2 to find out what happened.
The duet-style audiobook narration by Juno Cooper, Grayson Owens, and Christian Fox was fantastic. Keeping track of the POVs was easy with the multiple narrators, even with both guys voicing two MMCs each. Juno soloed every female character, and she sounded great for all of them. All three infused the characters' emotions into the story and made me believe everything they were saying. Whether they were spiraling, sarcastic, or loving, there was no doubt that they were having strong feelings, and they really came through in the performances. There were no issues with the overall production, everything was seamless.
Thank you to PinUp Audio and the author, Grace McGinty, for the audiobook ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion!
October 12, 2024
4.25 stars out of 5.
Reverse Harem/Why Choose story with a lot of plot, plentiful delicious spice and excellent mental health representation.
If you're interested in reading a good polyamorous book, this is definitely for you. If you like good spice and good writing, this is also for you. If you love mental health representation then what are you doing? Run!
First things first, this book involves mental illness so if that's not for you, this book isn't for you. I loved that aspect though. Initially I wondered how the mental illness amongst characters and creating relationships in that space would be handled, would it be well done and believable? Would it ignore the mental illness as they created new bonds? Grace didn't ignore the mental health aspects as she forged new relationships and she did do it all well. There was truth and depth to her characters, Aviva and the guys with all their struggles, that wasn't shied away from and was active throughout the courtship.
Secondly the spice was POPPING. And I do mean it was delicious.
I fell in love with the characters. Whoever doesn't fall in love with Otto has issues! His love for his people and the way he cared for them was spectacular. I felt sorry for Evan a lot. Well I felt sorry for all of them at different points, because they all had their stuff you know? Whether it was the world on their shoulders and caretaker (Otto), bipolar disorder (Drix), not knowing how to enter into non employee status (Evan) or shitty family stuff (Sam and Drix). I loved the dynamic between Sampson and Evan- around Evan being there in the background all this time and then that changing and Sampson not knowing how to cope, it felt believable and a bit deliciously alpha.
I think the thing that held me back from rating this book 5 out of 5 was simply that individually I like the sub plots throughout the story (her chasing this unknown character across the world through bookshops which was one of my favourite elements of this book, each of their family dramas etc) but together it felt a little too much and maybe at times just a little clunky. I also think I'm not much into the polyamorous stuff when theres more than maximum 3 guys, so this one with 4 again just seemed like it was a little too much? For me, and it's totally personal preference, it takes away from the believability of the story just a bit.
I really did enjoy this book though and highly recommend you pick it up.
Reverse Harem/Why Choose story with a lot of plot, plentiful delicious spice and excellent mental health representation.
If you're interested in reading a good polyamorous book, this is definitely for you. If you like good spice and good writing, this is also for you. If you love mental health representation then what are you doing? Run!
First things first, this book involves mental illness so if that's not for you, this book isn't for you. I loved that aspect though. Initially I wondered how the mental illness amongst characters and creating relationships in that space would be handled, would it be well done and believable? Would it ignore the mental illness as they created new bonds? Grace didn't ignore the mental health aspects as she forged new relationships and she did do it all well. There was truth and depth to her characters, Aviva and the guys with all their struggles, that wasn't shied away from and was active throughout the courtship.
Secondly the spice was POPPING. And I do mean it was delicious.
I fell in love with the characters. Whoever doesn't fall in love with Otto has issues! His love for his people and the way he cared for them was spectacular. I felt sorry for Evan a lot. Well I felt sorry for all of them at different points, because they all had their stuff you know? Whether it was the world on their shoulders and caretaker (Otto), bipolar disorder (Drix), not knowing how to enter into non employee status (Evan) or shitty family stuff (Sam and Drix). I loved the dynamic between Sampson and Evan- around Evan being there in the background all this time and then that changing and Sampson not knowing how to cope, it felt believable and a bit deliciously alpha.
I think the thing that held me back from rating this book 5 out of 5 was simply that individually I like the sub plots throughout the story (her chasing this unknown character across the world through bookshops which was one of my favourite elements of this book, each of their family dramas etc) but together it felt a little too much and maybe at times just a little clunky. I also think I'm not much into the polyamorous stuff when theres more than maximum 3 guys, so this one with 4 again just seemed like it was a little too much? For me, and it's totally personal preference, it takes away from the believability of the story just a bit.
I really did enjoy this book though and highly recommend you pick it up.
September 9, 2025
Review of "Inside the Maelstrom" by Grace McGinty
A Daring Journey of Madness and Mental Health
Grace McGinty's Inside the Maelstrom is a masterclass in weaving a treasure hunt adventure with a deeply personal and raw exploration of mental health. It’s a compelling, chaotic, and utterly consuming read that dives headfirst into the lives of a damaged heroine and the rich bad boys who become entangled in her quest for self-discovery.
The book is performed by a trio of fantastic narrators: Grayson Owens, Juno Cooper, and Christian Fox. Their performances must be on-point to capture the serious drama and the heavy mental health themes, and they succeed beautifully. This isn't just a romance; it's a story that is trauma informed and handles its subject matter with a very good mental health rep.
The plot is as unhinged as its characters. We are introduced to a heroine who, after a desperate act, finds herself in a swanky rehab for the rich. It's here that a peculiar treasure hunt begins, sending her on a wild goose chase across Europe. The only catch? She has to make a deal with a devil—Hendrick Kenley and his group of troubled, filthy rich friends. The dynamic between them is intense, and their journey is less about finding treasure and more about finding themselves.
The characters are all broken, damaged, and worth loving, each with their own demons. They are flawed and real, and their struggles with addiction and depression are explored with a respectful and authentic voice. The book doesn't shy away from the hard parts, making their journey to a potential happily ever after a gut wrenching and emotional experience.
In the end, Inside the Maelstrom is a wild ride that’s part mystery, part psychological drama, and all heart. It's a testament to the fact that even in the midst of chaos and self-destruction, there is always hope for healing and love.
A Daring Journey of Madness and Mental Health
Grace McGinty's Inside the Maelstrom is a masterclass in weaving a treasure hunt adventure with a deeply personal and raw exploration of mental health. It’s a compelling, chaotic, and utterly consuming read that dives headfirst into the lives of a damaged heroine and the rich bad boys who become entangled in her quest for self-discovery.
The book is performed by a trio of fantastic narrators: Grayson Owens, Juno Cooper, and Christian Fox. Their performances must be on-point to capture the serious drama and the heavy mental health themes, and they succeed beautifully. This isn't just a romance; it's a story that is trauma informed and handles its subject matter with a very good mental health rep.
The plot is as unhinged as its characters. We are introduced to a heroine who, after a desperate act, finds herself in a swanky rehab for the rich. It's here that a peculiar treasure hunt begins, sending her on a wild goose chase across Europe. The only catch? She has to make a deal with a devil—Hendrick Kenley and his group of troubled, filthy rich friends. The dynamic between them is intense, and their journey is less about finding treasure and more about finding themselves.
The characters are all broken, damaged, and worth loving, each with their own demons. They are flawed and real, and their struggles with addiction and depression are explored with a respectful and authentic voice. The book doesn't shy away from the hard parts, making their journey to a potential happily ever after a gut wrenching and emotional experience.
In the end, Inside the Maelstrom is a wild ride that’s part mystery, part psychological drama, and all heart. It's a testament to the fact that even in the midst of chaos and self-destruction, there is always hope for healing and love.
December 13, 2021
Gritty, full of angst and raw emotions
Sometimes a book appears just at the right moment. A favourite author, you go in blind, and devour it. This was the case with Inside The Maelstrom.
Ms. McGinty is not only extremely talented, her ability to swap tropes seamlessly is an absolute pleasure to read. This book, she slayed it on a totally new level. Contemporary RH, ticks all the boxes with a cast of complex characters.
“Sometimes I worried he wasn’t even attracted to me, but addicted to saving me.” - Hendrix
Drix and Otto, these two I cried for. Pretty much all of them, this relationship however is truly touching. The mental health issues are a roller coaster, and not to be taken lightly. I wanted to wrap Otto up and keep him safe, while he watched out for everyone’s heart but his own.
“I want to consume you.” - Sampson
Throw in Sampson. I honestly don’t know who I empathized with the most. I knew Sam’s character was going to be complex as heck. I have a new favourite book boyfriend with Sam.
“I had felt nothing for so long. But now, I felt rage—and it was glorious.” - Aviva.
Viva broke my heart from page one. Like an accident waiting to happen, you could see both hers and Drix’ crashes, yet kept reading.
This is beautifully written. I’d not expect otherwise from Ms. McGinty. While not complete, the cliffy isn’t overly harsh, the depth in this book—there are so many layers.
Sometimes a book appears just at the right moment. A favourite author, you go in blind, and devour it. This was the case with Inside The Maelstrom.
Ms. McGinty is not only extremely talented, her ability to swap tropes seamlessly is an absolute pleasure to read. This book, she slayed it on a totally new level. Contemporary RH, ticks all the boxes with a cast of complex characters.
“Sometimes I worried he wasn’t even attracted to me, but addicted to saving me.” - Hendrix
Drix and Otto, these two I cried for. Pretty much all of them, this relationship however is truly touching. The mental health issues are a roller coaster, and not to be taken lightly. I wanted to wrap Otto up and keep him safe, while he watched out for everyone’s heart but his own.
“I want to consume you.” - Sampson
Throw in Sampson. I honestly don’t know who I empathized with the most. I knew Sam’s character was going to be complex as heck. I have a new favourite book boyfriend with Sam.
“I had felt nothing for so long. But now, I felt rage—and it was glorious.” - Aviva.
Viva broke my heart from page one. Like an accident waiting to happen, you could see both hers and Drix’ crashes, yet kept reading.
This is beautifully written. I’d not expect otherwise from Ms. McGinty. While not complete, the cliffy isn’t overly harsh, the depth in this book—there are so many layers.
March 19, 2022
I finished reading Inside the Maelstrom: Part One a few days ago and I still don’t quite know how to sum up the magic that Grace McGinty has managed to capture in this book. This contemporary romance is written about characters who are eighteen and in their early twenties, so typically new adult, and yet their depth of experiences makes this story so much more as they fight to make and maintain human connections. This book is beautifully composed with characters that entwine themselves in your heart and a plot that you can’t help but want to devour.
Inside the Maelstrom: Part One is a captivating reverse harem romance filled with suspense, drama and the full range of feelings. This book has a plot and characters that seem so simple on the surface but once you look underneath you see the depth and complexity that is present and the true greatness of the book is found. Every character is brilliantly written with the small details being just as important to the larger story. Grace McGinty sensitively explores mental health with two of the main characters having diagnosed conditions and issues of medication, spiraling and mood swings explored. I also loved the poetry of the clues being found in Jules Verne books and that he, and Nemo, were leading the characters on a journey of self-discovery around the world.
Inside the Maelstrom: Part One is as the name suggests a duet and it ends on an emotionally fraught cliffhanger. In the space of less than 300 pages these characters have captured your heart and ripped it apart and you can’t help but worry what is to come next for them. Grace McGinty is a brilliant author and this series will stay with you long after the final page.
Inside the Maelstrom: Part One is a captivating reverse harem romance filled with suspense, drama and the full range of feelings. This book has a plot and characters that seem so simple on the surface but once you look underneath you see the depth and complexity that is present and the true greatness of the book is found. Every character is brilliantly written with the small details being just as important to the larger story. Grace McGinty sensitively explores mental health with two of the main characters having diagnosed conditions and issues of medication, spiraling and mood swings explored. I also loved the poetry of the clues being found in Jules Verne books and that he, and Nemo, were leading the characters on a journey of self-discovery around the world.
Inside the Maelstrom: Part One is as the name suggests a duet and it ends on an emotionally fraught cliffhanger. In the space of less than 300 pages these characters have captured your heart and ripped it apart and you can’t help but worry what is to come next for them. Grace McGinty is a brilliant author and this series will stay with you long after the final page.
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July 9, 2022Spoilers ahead
Authors Talia Hibbert and Helen Hoang opened my eyes to mental health in writing but I don’t know why with this book I really felt what I would assume would be the strength needed by someone who is in the support network of someone with a mental illness. I can’t fathom how I would function if I was the mother of Aviva, my God, the strength and mental fortitude needed 😰
OK to the book now I would like to think that I understand the quest for freedom, independence etc but what Aviva does to her parents, my God, she just texts and sends pics after months of being in a mental institution because she tried to commit suicide. Runs off, and then OK I’m taking this way too personal but some of the things she was doing walking around barefoot in the city, really, and eating food from street vendors who……okay let me just stop there.
From that rant, it would seem I had too many issues with Aviva, I probably got way too invested in the story which just means that wow, Grace McGinty can write.
No more spoilers just that this book is not for everyone, jeez
Authors Talia Hibbert and Helen Hoang opened my eyes to mental health in writing but I don’t know why with this book I really felt what I would assume would be the strength needed by someone who is in the support network of someone with a mental illness. I can’t fathom how I would function if I was the mother of Aviva, my God, the strength and mental fortitude needed 😰
OK to the book now I would like to think that I understand the quest for freedom, independence etc but what Aviva does to her parents, my God, she just texts and sends pics after months of being in a mental institution because she tried to commit suicide. Runs off, and then OK I’m taking this way too personal but some of the things she was doing walking around barefoot in the city, really, and eating food from street vendors who……okay let me just stop there.
From that rant, it would seem I had too many issues with Aviva, I probably got way too invested in the story which just means that wow, Grace McGinty can write.
No more spoilers just that this book is not for everyone, jeez
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