hings had gone badly in Yokohama, but Aviva wasn’t about to quit. She needed to see where this crazy journey ended, needed to find Nemo and see if it was possible to fight back her demons and win. Following the newest clue to Hong Kong, Evan now guarding her body very closely, Aviva tries to move on.
But it’s impossible.
Those assholes had wormed their way beneath her skin like a tattoo inked with poison, and she was never going to be the same again.
For the guys, flying home with a broken heart becomes the least of their problems as Hendrick’s dad finally makes his move, leaving Hendrick and Sampson locked up behind bars and Otto scrambling to get them out.
But no matter how hard it got, they wouldn’t–couldn’t–drag Aviva into it. Because Hendrick’s father was a sociopath who would stop at nothing to cheat his way to the very top, even if he had to grind Hendrick beneath his boot to get there.
Inside the Maelstrom: Part Two is the final part of this Reverse Harem duet, and contains M/M. This duet contains several confronting themes, especially around mental health, and reader discretion is advised
When 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?
Okay, don’t take me wrong, the conclusion to this story was satisfying, and several plot twists even made me gasp. I’m utterly in love with the vibe of this world and I think that’s the problem. I was so invested, that made me have some complains, too. So allow me to vent a little bit, please lol
Personally, what I need in a RH is for each relationship to feel important and for all the guys to be equal and share the same amount of time with the MC. In this case, I felt things were unbalanced, especially with Evans.
I wasn’t sure about him in the first book, and apparently my gut instinct was right. He didn’t really fit in the story or the romance. At least for me. I couldn’t see the chemistry with Aviva, or the bromance with the other men, who were extremely close together. It felt more like they accepted his presence to keep her happy, and that’s not very appealing.
And still, he got more scenes with Aviva than any of the other three guys. I understand the idea was to spend more time building up his relationships and making it make sense for him to join their family. But honestly? It didn’t work for me. Which sucked, because I couldn’t care less about him and I had to read 3…4? smut scenes with him. Meanwhile Otto barely shared any screen time with Aviva and only got one smut scene in the whole duology. Sampson didn’t get that much time, either. And they were my favorites. Which made me sad and understandably frustrated.
And on top of all that, Grace McGinty wrote a fade-to-black orgy scene that I’ll never forgive her for lol There aren’t group activities in these books, not even with the MC and the two guys that are together. What a wasted opportunity. She wrote such interesting dynamics and never got to explore them fully.
Other than that, I actually loved this duo. I know I mostly complained, but that happens sometimes when you adore a series and it’s almost perfect.
4.5 Stars This was a wonderful RH duet. Laden with some outrageous drama, the books are also equal parts a real emotional journey for a group of young adults trying to fit into this crazy world. There are smoking hot MM and group scenes as well as some OW drama (early on in Brooke 1) so be forewarned. Overall I really enjoyed this duet I only wish there was more of a personal revelation for Aviva as it didn’t really feel like she dealt with her own issues and demons. I just worry and hope the guys are not a crutch for her as that could potentially cause issues down the road. Alas this could just be me whining because the epilogue only goes so far as 12 months 🥵🥵 Each of these characters are f.awed and damaged by the world. Somehow, like a puzzle they all fit together and provide all the qualities they need for their own happiness, damn the opinion of others.
“…Without his sadness, I would have never known that being this happy was possible.”
Grace McGinty took us all on a whirlwind journey with part one of Inside the Maelstrom. With part two, she built us a family.
When it felt like Aviva’s quest to find Nemo was at a standstill, she intended to go back home, back to her parents, back to her beige life, back to just being who she was. Returning to New York with Evan, there was no way Aviva would ever have guessed that her life was never going to be beige again. She had no intentions of seeing the guys. Enter Tobias Lecter, Sampson’s lawyer. Sampson was being charged with the kidnapping and human trafficking of Aviva. Senator Kenley was trying to have Hendrick committed to a mental health facility and take charge of his money. Aviva couldn’t leave. No, she knew her place was right there with Evan, Hendrick, Otto, and Sampson. Of course, she had no idea her decision to stay would include a court case, assassination attempts, death, and the unexpected results of finally locating Nemo.
Underneath all the love and excitement of the journey, McGinty continued the backbone of the story of living with mental illness, for both the inflicted and the loved ones. The subtleness of the character of mental illness in this story is perfect. Let us not forget, without Aviva’s depression and Nemo’s mental illness, this adventure wouldn’t have ever begun.
So, what are you waiting for? I’m not going to answer the mystery of Nemo for you.
On a journey around the world to find herself while battling a lifetime of mental illness, Aviva discovers the ultimate prize- joy, contentment, and an intense and all-consuming love.
The characters in this series couldn’t be more different. But together they all seem to work, their jagged pieces slotting against each other’s to fit perfectly. Emotions are running high for Aviva and her guys but when it matters most, this crew bands together, steadfastly supporting one another through tumultuous times. Maelstrom is an emotional read, and Grace beautifully portrays the struggle of living with mental illness, and balances it alongside a beautiful and passionate love story. The romance is sexy and sweet, and the spicy scenes are hot and plentiful.
While some aspects of this book are typical for a contemporary romance, this story itself is unique and original. There are heavy themes and gutting emotion, but it’s also an overall fun and engaging read. Fans of contemporary RH will enjoy this book, especially if you like unique storylines. Book 1 is higher angst with some enemies to lovers themes, but book 2 is more emotional and sweet. Fantastic conclusion to the Maelstrom duet!
Picking up right where part 1 left off, we find Aviva and Evan separated from Hendrick, Otto, and Sampson for a short while. When they reunite, it's to find that the firestorm of Hendrick's life, thanks to the worst father ever, is a danger to them all. This second half got pretty wild in plot, and really upped the ante for drama and intrigue versus focusing on the relationships. I preferred the quiet times between the 5 characters to the rest of the craziness, but the added drama did keep me reading for hours without stopping. I really loved the conclusion to the Jules Verne world tour, too. It was lovely and heartwarming in its sadness.
Overall, I thought this whole book (part 1 and 2) was a dark, realistic look at the struggles of mental health, a really beautiful way to show that love isn't always a straight line, and that the family you choose is often far more important than the one you're born into.
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!
This was a unique reverse harem, as I’ve never read a book with a type of scavenger/book hunt, and it was a refreshing read. I loved all the characters, but I REALLY want to know if we are going to be getting a story on Lottie and those 2 twins mentioned in the epilogue?? Please say yes! She intrigued me and with her having the twins with her it made me wonder if that was a setup for us to have a new story about her coming up. I really hope so!
All of these things are something Aviva wanted from part 1 and we were left in a whirlwind of chaos at the end that I had no idea how was going to shape up. In part 2...we got everything and more. Much like part 1, part 2 is beautiful and broken. I loved everything about this book!
**** While Aviva needed to find Nemo as much as she needed air to breath, she knew things just weren't the same without Hendricks, Sampson and Otto. With Evan by her side (I LOVED Evan) and how happy he made her, something was just missing in her search now. When they flew back home, they never expected to arrive in the center of a scandal.
Once reunited with the guys, she quickly finds out that Hendricks father finally made his move. In order to deter Ten Kinleys harsh allegations, a quick decision is made and fifty-eight minutes later, Aviva's life is changed forever.
Now along with trying to get back on track with finding Nemo and following his clues, the group also face a fight for their future that no one saw coming. When life-attempts are made and blood is drawn, Viva and Evan move on without the others to follow their lead.
"...because without his sadness, I would've never known that being this happy was possible."
Together, the 5 of them are a force. Together they realize they have everything they all ever wanted. Their all-consuming love is life altering and no matter what comes their way, they face together.
"they speak to my soul"
****
"...This wasn't about finding and f*ing Nemo. It was about the search, about finding someone who thinks like me, suffers like me. Walking in someone else’s footsteps to see where it all might end."
I absolutely loved this book! It was heartbreaking, "profound and earth-shattering" and together they were all so devoted, you were rooting for their happy ending every step of the way. The ending came and I wasn't ready to say goodbye. This story, while I cant personally relate to really does speak to your soul. These characters were so broken. So lost..but together, they were found. They were missing their final piece and when Aviva showed up, she came in like a tornado and changed their entire future without them even realizing they wanted something different.
This author is truly an amazing writer and I absolutely adored this book!! I hope maybe we can get more on Lottie later. But I wouldn't change anything on this series. Amazing!
Maelstrom touches on sensitive topics, though predominately told. Unlike book one, the spiral’s weren’t shown, and abruptly ended. It was an easier read. It didn’t drag me in and connect in the same way. Something felt missing.
“Aviva was teaching us that being weak for a moment was okay. She was there to hold us up until we could be strong again.”
More a suspense with the fall out of Drix’ father’s actions, and the culmination of years of criminal behaviour. We did receive Drix’ backstory. I felt this was dry much his book.
“Hendrick was a magnet, drawing people to him. I’d just filled in the gaps and cemented them together.” - Viva
Hendrix was the center character for me. Otto, remained his other half. Samson and Evan, I still felt existed on the outer edge. Viva however kept them all together.
Wow, that ending even made me well up a bit, and that rarely happens.
There is no denying that this duet have been very sensitively written regarding the depiction of mental health. I was very impressed with that aspect. It also was ridiculously enthralling, despite being a little ridiculous as well.
If you like contemporary RH with broken characters, a lot of heart, spice, but not constant with no plot, then I really recommend this series.
A beautiful story that proves that sometimes true family is found and formed <3 I have enjoyed all the characters and how they all have their faults and mental health issues, but they fit together like puzzle pieces. The plot was good (a very emotional journey around the world) and all the twist, turns and cliff hanger (end of book one), I wish we got more time with the MFC and all the guys (together or individually).
Wow, this was a duo I didn't realise I needed. Heartfelt, warm and found family. I didn't just like this duo, I loved it. I cried with the characters, I laughed and felt cross for them. You most certainly made me feel everything. Thank you for giving us this to read.
this book didn’t leave me feeling good; however, it is a happy ending. it made me queasy
i’m sorry i’m going to rant here but i want to clarify that by no means do i think that this book is a bad book it’s just…the subplot ruined the book for me it’s not bad so i shouldn’t say ruined but it doesn’t make sense
ok….why would Nemo, a suicidal man, leave a note in a mental hospital that he admitted himself to, come up with a plan to make a scavenger hunt through notes in Jules Verne’s novels only for the person who completed the hunt find that he is dead? what kind of sh*t is that? no like really i’m not trying to be disrespectful but wth?
i also don’t understand how Nemo is this guy that sort of is giving out FMC hope? like throughout the book even AFTER she finds out he committed suicide she is using his quotes to make her smile??? how morbid is that? like….i don’t understand the reasoning behind his motive at all.
in the end she even says,
“Under his name was one last Verne quote, one last clue on how to live, from a man who died too soon.”
i get that he ended up leaving her his fortune but even she says herself that she looked forward to seeing how someone who has the same problems as her ends up and for her to find him dead….AND APPARENTLY HE LEFT THESE CLUES KNOWING HE WAS GOING TO COMMIT SUICIDE
this just made me uncomfortable and icky which i guess is the point of the book there isn’t always a happy ending to every story which i understand
i just found it weird that he would do that and that he….idk it just leaves you feeling confused & distraught idk how to explain it…he never got his happy ending he never found love but she did so…idk it was confusing to me and struck me as messed up
and mitch!!!! i feel so bad for him. i wish we were able to read the letter Will (nemo) left for him
i’m not going to rate this book because idk what to give it idk
confused/5
why would you put a depressed person on a scavenger hunt giving them hope and for them to find out that the person they’ve been reading clues from and getting to know through their notes is dead but don’t mind that bc they have you their multibillion dollar fortune! like what? idk idk idk
this book is good like i kept on flipping through it but ykw ratings are based on how the reader feels so honestly i’m giving it a 2 bc i didn’t like the subplot i’m sorry or the theme and it was even worse that they kept using him as like—whatever
2/5
this is my most nonsensical review ever lmao
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
REVIEW: This book is stunning, an absolutely amazing look at mental health and manipulation. While Part 1 looks primarily at the building of their unique relationship and the building of ones self after a spiral into depression Part 2 really looks into triggers and how the people around us effect our mental health. In Part 1 Drix is barley stable and flies of the handle very easily, this feeds Aviva and the madness in her mind - which in turn sets off Otto's need for control and Sam's coldness. In Part 2 the 4 of them have come together and balance each other and we now see how outside factors trigger them; parents, the media, assassination attempts, the island. I think, in part, this is the addition to the 5th guy. While no character is healed, it shows how much exterior factors where triggering them and how far they have come. This is an amazing outlook into mental health that is not typically shown in books. The action throughout the book does not just target a single character even though the plot centers around Drix's abusive father. There is so much growth in all the characters it's a stunning display of character arc's.
The only negative thing that stood out to me is after the assignation attempts there are injuries that are never addressed again. The main one being at one point, Aviva has fractured her arm and it is in a cast and it is never mentioned again.
Also why does Evan hate the FBI?
And are we ever getting a novella of some kind with Lottie and her two guys? How does that go? Those side characters am I right?
I would definitely consider this a must read, but then again, if you read Part 1 you must be chomping at the bit for Part 2, especially with Part 1's cliffhanger.
MESSAGE TO GRACE: First off, I hate you Grace, how did you trigger my allergies from Australia.... Secondly, I THOUGHT WE AGREED NO MORE KILLING I don't even care. That was mean. I mean, one of them deserved it, but not the fish. Third, this totally confirms my theory that every book you've written not just your paranormal books exist in the Grace-verse and I appreciate that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
What a disappointment. This series had the potential to be SO good, but it fell short for a few reasons. 1. The complete lack of group scenes. We're told that some variations happen, but we don't get to explore them in any way - not even a threesome is viewed. 2 The nonstop pushing of LGBTQI+ rights and issues. A remark or a fight against an antagonist makes sense - they are a harem. However, it's continually added to the inner dialog and conversations for no reason. 3. Our quest ending in a "dead end". This was heartbreaking & while you could see it coming, I feel that this should be listed in the CW since we get so attached. 4. Easter eggs to other books and unansweres questions. The eggs to other books were obvious and didn't relate to our story at all. They were simply shoehorned into the story. It was disruptive to the narrative and gave away enough that those books won't hold an interest for me now since I know the basics of their story. Questions like what happened with the FEDs or the corrupt judge/psychiatrists, left me feeling like the story was cut short.
"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!
What's a trip around the world to find your true self and love. Sign me up
I gave this a 5 stars cause it was so brilliantly written. Such an amazing Job from the author. She bring in all the feels. This story took these guys on not just any journey but a path to discovery. To discover love acceptance and to become family and to support one another through the ups and downs that life and mental illness can bring. I absolutly loved this duet you get to learn about each person individually and how their characters grew as they found love and acceptance. None had an easy life. Otto and Avia didn't have such a bad life at all. Avia was just lost I think but home life for her and Otto wasn't bad. Sampson well he had a father who cared less for him as if he didn't exist but still not bad. Evan not so bad either. But my poor Hendrix he has been put through hell and back. And I just knew when I started reading this that it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes people are the way they are because of what's going on in their life. I dont know how but I just knew and I'm sorry if anyone's disagrees with me but I'm so happy it was Hendrix married her not 1x but 2x. If it wasn't for him none would be together and he I think deserve the most happiness. Now they are all richer then God with Avia inheritance of billions and Sampson multi millions and Hendrix's almost billionaire status and Even I have no clue but he owns his own business and had funds to take her to continue the journey with his own money so he may not be as rich as the others but he is definitely not middle class either lol. So no none would ever be without anything ever again. Thanks for writing this duet I hope it's on paperback I want to buy them.
This is book two in the Inside the Maelstrom duet, and the conclusion to Aviva and her mens’ story. By the end of the book I was satisfied with the resolution of every storyline——sans one.
Title: Inside the Maelstrom: Part Two by Grace McGinty POV(s): Multiple—First Person Interconnected Series: Yes Standalone: No Cliffhanger: No HEA: Relationship: Reverse Harem, M/M Genre(s): Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense Triggers: Yes Tags/Tropes: ❖ Assassination-Attempts ❖ Marriage-of-Convenience ❖ Mental-Health ❖ Rich-MMCs ❖ Wealthy-Corrupt-Antagonist
My reason for bumping this down a star wasn't for the plot or characters or any of that, it was actually just because the smut scenes weren't my favorite. They weren't as exciting or new and fun as some I've read before, so that's the only reason for the 4/5 stars!
The rest has been a very exciting, emotional ride. I loved the premise of this story and I actually ADORE the whole Nemo plot line. It was amazing. Really. I didn't fully expect all that went down with that but GOD I adored it. Nemo helped Aviva despite not being there to see her follow his clues. Her finding her happiness has truly been so fun to read about. I could physically feel hers and the guys' love for each other throughout the entire book and it was just an absolute experience.
This duet has made me feel a range of emotions, but above all it's made me feel hope. Made me experience true happiness from someone else's perspective. It's been a journey - one that I've really loved and cherished. The underlying themes throughout are just perfect and really bring the books together. I'd recommend this duet to anyone who's looking for a fun, exciting and slightly crazy experience with a loveable RH group. Really, all of the characters were amazing (and Evan certainly grew on me.)
The characters have a lot of potential, and the plot is so crazy that it's brilliant.
otto is the heart, Sampson the brains, and hendrix the usual "fun one" to balance the boys out. He also has bipolar disorder and has an abusive father.
then there is Evans (10+ years older than them), Sampsons bodyguard , and the groups protector.
aviva had an "average" upbringing and sufferers from depression.
what a group they make! when Evans is added to the poly group, it seems to change the whole dynamic and not necessarily in a good way. it feels forced as viva barely thinks about him to start with, but then he gets so much page time in book 2.
I love Grace 's books, and this was no exception. the only reason I gave it 4 stars is because something about the book confuses me... i know that the spicy scenes are not the most important part...however, I don't understand why the 1:1 scenes are explicitly described, yet there is one group scence described but then for the rest of the books they are fade to black? especially with it being a mmfmm and a few group playtime... made no sense to me.
I enjoyed it all overall, but the niggles means 4☆ overall
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Omg omg omg! Part 2 is here. It is the stunning conclusion to the Inside the Maelstrom duet. It did not disappoint. It picks up where we left off in book 1. Aviva is on her own, well not really, she has Evan at her back and they are traipsing around the world following Nemo’s clues. But Evan and Aviva reunite with Hendrick, Sampson and Otto in New York.
This book is truly heartfelt, but it’s not without the drama. Hendrick’s father is determined to take his son down and take his money by any means necessary. Which may or may not include a geriatric having a seizure behind the wheel. That will make more sense when you read it.
Aviva and her guys are seriously getting whiplash because everything just seems to be coming at them left and right but they are battle ready. This book will take you on a roller coaster ride!
I’m also super curious about a certain side character who literally just popped up. I hope there’s a story there soon!
I cannot say enough good things about this book! I loved every single part of it. And the second book was just as good if not better than the first. I’m not giving any spoilers because not knowing while I was reading was such a great way to experience this book. The relationships the characters share were so perfect. I loved all the relationships in the RH but my favorite was probably the poly relationship within the harem, I loved how equally the three of them loved each other. I also loved how they came together to be a family and saw how much sense it made for them all to be a “unit” and the RH didn’t feel forced at all but completely natural. I absolutely adored Sampson in this book and I will not say why but I feel it deserves to be said. This book is going to make you cry but ultimately to me, it felt like a book about love, healing, and moving forward despite things trying to hold you back.
AMAZING !!!! I wish I could give more stars for the emotional roller coaster this story was!
I am an avid reader, and I find that when a story line can have my tears rolling then immediately laughing out loud startling everyone around me well it’s hard to do. Inside the Maelstrom is perfectly titled. The character’s are unique and real in a way that leaves you a little sad that the ride is over & you can’t just peek into their lives just a bit more. I love all the guys that this beautifully sad girl has found and how she doesn’t allow them to define her, she still finds herself and they help her do that. In the majority of reverse harems (my favorites) the men are all alpha macho which is fine and these guys are alpha’s but not controlling and they don’t require her to make her life all about them. Amazing work, I could keep going but I think you understand my gist at this point. Excellent read!!!!!
Inside The Maelstrom : Part Two is the conclusion this series deserved. Grace McGinty is a genius as she has taken these diverse characters, a beautifully unique plot and lots of angst and feelings and created a masterpiece. Thank you so much Grace for showcasing mental health through a realistic and positive lense.
From the start Inside the Maelstrom: Parts One & Two appear to be the story of Aviva searching for Nemo with the help of Drix, Otto and Sampson and then later Evan. Aviva is determined to follow the breadcrumb trail of clues left by him in the works of Jules Verne and crosses the globe to do so. Instead, this book is one of self-discovery of the characters as they face and battle their personal demons and grow both as individuals and a group. Inside the Maelstrom is the ultimate example of ‘it is not the destination it is the journey’ as without the experiences that the characters were exposed to in their search for Nemo they would not have grown and developed the relationship they had by the end.
Grace McGinty has produced sweet magic on a page with the Inside the Maelstrom Duet finding the perfect balance between strength and vulnerability in her characters as they search for happiness and peace. This book is definitely in my top 5 reads of 2022.
Picking up from the first book….Aviva and Evan are off searching for the elusive Nemo, while the others are caught up in a carefully laid trap by the Senator.
When Aviva reunites with the others, the Senator turns up the heat with a determination to bring Hendrix down. Can Aviva and her men find the happiness they deserve or will they be torn apart?
….who is Nemo? Well, you’ll have to read to find out….
Grace McGinty, you’ve done it again! This series is beautifully done and it’s no wonder why I love your writing so much. If you haven’t picked up a Grace McGinty book yet, you’re absolutely missing out.
Loved it.... sad it's over.... hoping for more one day!!!
Inside The Maelstrom part 2 picks up right after the events of the intense ending of part 1, and really, intense is putting it mildly. Just like with the first part, this was just as fast paced with lots of new adventures, loads of threats and of course we finally find out who Nemo is.
Just a tip..... if, like me, you dove right down deep into the Maelstrom rabbit hole, you may need a tissue or 10. I found part 2 to be a bit more emotionally driven with plenty of tears, happy sweet moments, fair amount of disbelief and wonder. The relationship between Aviva and her guys is hot, sweet and a little crazy, but they really do bring out the best in each other.
We were introduced to a few new characters, Tobias, Mitch and Lottie, and I am really, really hoping for a spin-off or 2????
Apparently, the key to breaking a Spec Ops soldier was to make him explain that he was part of a polyamorous relationship.
After Aviva and Evan realises that the quest to find Nemo cannot continue with the guys, they reunite with Otto, Hendrick and Sampson and she's quickly pulled into the maelstrom that is their world. The focus is very much on it's not about getting to the ending, but the journey.
I love, love, love how, at no point, are the character's magically "cured", but instead we see them in all of their many different facets that make them perfectly imperfect for each other.
Perfectly addresses mental health in such an authentic way, while subtly highlighting other societal norms *chefs kiss*
Thank you, Grace McGinty for taking me on such a beautiful journey.
Please read the trigger warnings before reading this book.
Inside My Heart 5+ Read What can I say about the second book that I didn’t already say about the first book? Ever finish reading a book/series/duet and immediately wish you had never read it so you could experience reading it for the first time again? This story, these characters, the writing. Thank you for the journey Grace McGinty ❤️! You can sense the tenderness with which Grace approached the incredibly hard topics of mental health and abuse. The development of each of the characters was so touching. Gah, I’m just going to keep getting teary eyed every time I think about these characters and their journey ❤️. This duet has become one of my all time favorite top 5 books. Please read trigger warnings before you begin the journey.