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Self Inflicted
We're bad for each other in so many ways, but when he's touching me this way - igniting my body with his fingertips - I don't care about the consequences...
Layla
I'm the queen of self-sabotage.
A messy, chaotic downer with a heart buried so deep in the dark depths of my body, I'm not sure it can ever be found. Then I meet Remington Paulson - my new stepbrother.
He makes me glow despite the rusted patina of trauma coating my soul and forces me to consider taking a stand for the first time in my life. So why do I want to break his heart?
Rem
I swear I didn't know she was my stepsister when I pursued the most beautiful, scowling creature I'd ever seen.
The moment I tasted those cherry lips and experienced an unguarded version of her, I fell hard.
Nothing in life is easy, but that hasn't stopped me from barreling head-first into making my dreams come true. Layla Barlow will be mine. I don't care if the entire world knows it.
*Self-Inflicted is a step-sibling novel with semi-dark themes and explicit romance.
Layla
I'm the queen of self-sabotage.
A messy, chaotic downer with a heart buried so deep in the dark depths of my body, I'm not sure it can ever be found. Then I meet Remington Paulson - my new stepbrother.
He makes me glow despite the rusted patina of trauma coating my soul and forces me to consider taking a stand for the first time in my life. So why do I want to break his heart?
Rem
I swear I didn't know she was my stepsister when I pursued the most beautiful, scowling creature I'd ever seen.
The moment I tasted those cherry lips and experienced an unguarded version of her, I fell hard.
Nothing in life is easy, but that hasn't stopped me from barreling head-first into making my dreams come true. Layla Barlow will be mine. I don't care if the entire world knows it.
*Self-Inflicted is a step-sibling novel with semi-dark themes and explicit romance.
- GenresRomance
Unknown Binding
Published July 9, 2024
6 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
Melissa K. Morgan
12 books33 followersMelissa K. Morgan is a self proclaimed book nerd that lives in the Pacific Northwest with her incredible husband and two spirited children. She has been self publishing for over ten years. When she's not writing romance novels, she likes to date her husband, binge read books, attempt to bake, and watch documentaries. Her guilty pleasures are peanut butter cups, wine, over the top reality television, and a good anti-hero. If you're looking for stories filled with unique characters, steamy romance, and plots with a twist, check her out!
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May 17, 2024Self-Inflicted is coming July 9th!
This is a spicy, taboo romance full of banter and heat. I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
This is a spicy, taboo romance full of banter and heat. I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
August 14, 2024
I was given the honor of being an ARC reader for this book. Here is my honest review 💜📚
"Self Inflicted" delves into the complex and tumultuous life of Layla, a young woman with a turbulent relationship with her mother, leading to a difficulty in committing to others. The story takes a surprising turn when Layla unknowingly engages in a romantic encounter with a man at a party, only to discover later that he is her soon-to-be stepbrother, Remington.
The author skillfully weaves a narrative that is emotionally charged and filled with turmoil as the main character grapples with addiction and emotional struggles. The forbidden nature of Layla and Remington's relationship adds a layer of complexity to the story, as they navigate their feelings for each other while being acutely aware of the societal taboos surrounding their situation.
The shared passion for music between the characters serves as a poignant backdrop to their evolving relationship, adding depth and richness to their connection. The progression from enemies to lovers is expertly portrayed, offering a compelling and engaging reading experience for fans of this trope.
"Self Inflicted" is a poignant and gripping read that explores themes of love, family, addiction, and societal expectations. Melissa Kay Morgan has crafted a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for those who enjoy compelling romance novels with a touch of forbidden love.
"Self Inflicted" delves into the complex and tumultuous life of Layla, a young woman with a turbulent relationship with her mother, leading to a difficulty in committing to others. The story takes a surprising turn when Layla unknowingly engages in a romantic encounter with a man at a party, only to discover later that he is her soon-to-be stepbrother, Remington.
The author skillfully weaves a narrative that is emotionally charged and filled with turmoil as the main character grapples with addiction and emotional struggles. The forbidden nature of Layla and Remington's relationship adds a layer of complexity to the story, as they navigate their feelings for each other while being acutely aware of the societal taboos surrounding their situation.
The shared passion for music between the characters serves as a poignant backdrop to their evolving relationship, adding depth and richness to their connection. The progression from enemies to lovers is expertly portrayed, offering a compelling and engaging reading experience for fans of this trope.
"Self Inflicted" is a poignant and gripping read that explores themes of love, family, addiction, and societal expectations. Melissa Kay Morgan has crafted a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for those who enjoy compelling romance novels with a touch of forbidden love.
June 30, 2024
**ARC REVIEW**
Wow. ⬅️⬅️
That is literally all l'm capable of is: ➡️➡️Wow.
This is 100% my favorite ARC I have ever read by a landslide. I don't know if I'm just a sucker for the rockstar romance but this was giving HEAVY "The Words" by Ashley Jade and "Drive" by Kate Stewart which is my favorite book of all time.
I was completely swept away by this book and it's been a while since l've been so immersed in a book that I thought about it while I was working my 9-5 or just out living life. I read 70% of it on Friday night and all day Saturday it was on my mind CONSTANTLY. This is one of those that I honestly want to take some time to digest and process before posting about it but I can't because you have to know that it comes out on July 9th and you HAVE to get it!
This books grabs you by the soul and is deeply, emotionally complex. The spice was immaculate and open door and articulated exceptionally and it wasn't even close to my favorite thing about this read. It was so refreshing and not long for no reason with unnecessary drama. The FMC struggled with vulnerability but it was so relatable and endearing and genuine. I loved her and her MMC.
I'm pleading with you to read this. I have never encountered a more underrated book, author, ARC, ANYTHING. This is exceptional. Stay on top of this release. You will not regret it, I swear to you.
Taboo Romance ✅
He Falls First ✅
Rockstar Romance ✅
Longing/Pining ✅
Open Door ✅
Dual POV ✅
"She'll tell me I'm crazy then I'll get mad and say something rude. Then I'll try to kiss her because I'll feel like crap for being a dick and she'll push me away and tell me to fuck off. It's like I told her before, fighting is kind of our thing."
"He's always been this breath of fresh air in my stagnant life."
Wow. ⬅️⬅️
That is literally all l'm capable of is: ➡️➡️Wow.
This is 100% my favorite ARC I have ever read by a landslide. I don't know if I'm just a sucker for the rockstar romance but this was giving HEAVY "The Words" by Ashley Jade and "Drive" by Kate Stewart which is my favorite book of all time.
I was completely swept away by this book and it's been a while since l've been so immersed in a book that I thought about it while I was working my 9-5 or just out living life. I read 70% of it on Friday night and all day Saturday it was on my mind CONSTANTLY. This is one of those that I honestly want to take some time to digest and process before posting about it but I can't because you have to know that it comes out on July 9th and you HAVE to get it!
This books grabs you by the soul and is deeply, emotionally complex. The spice was immaculate and open door and articulated exceptionally and it wasn't even close to my favorite thing about this read. It was so refreshing and not long for no reason with unnecessary drama. The FMC struggled with vulnerability but it was so relatable and endearing and genuine. I loved her and her MMC.
I'm pleading with you to read this. I have never encountered a more underrated book, author, ARC, ANYTHING. This is exceptional. Stay on top of this release. You will not regret it, I swear to you.
Taboo Romance ✅
He Falls First ✅
Rockstar Romance ✅
Longing/Pining ✅
Open Door ✅
Dual POV ✅
"She'll tell me I'm crazy then I'll get mad and say something rude. Then I'll try to kiss her because I'll feel like crap for being a dick and she'll push me away and tell me to fuck off. It's like I told her before, fighting is kind of our thing."
"He's always been this breath of fresh air in my stagnant life."
June 8, 2024
I COULD NOT PUT THIS DOWN. Literally stayed up all night to read it. Full disclosure, I received an ARC and I am soooooo thankful I did! Really, I should have known when I read the dedication: “For the alt rock loving bookworms that read past their bedtime, suffer from book hangovers, and enjoy romantic smut.– This is for you and me.” And dang did Melissa deliver.
I loved this book. I loved the characters. I loved the progression in both romance and characters themselves. It’s rare that a taboo romance scratches all the itches without being actually problematic, but that’s exactly what Melissa has done here. You’ll find yourself rooting for Layla & Rem, even when their biggest challenge is getting out of their heads (self inflicted is *very* self aware) and you’re literally cheering on in the background as they grow and learn throughout. I loved that the characters weren’t one-dimensional. I felt like I knew them and they had depth—they grew as the story progressed. And the romance? Great. It’s a powerful and undeniable relationship. The ANGST makes my little romance reader heart happy, and the payoff is well worth the wait.
Okay but now for the SPICE.
I’d give it a solid 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️(4/5). Sex scenes are explicit, and detailed. No fade to black. Also read the warnings at the beginning of the book. I’d say it’s on the lighter side of actual kink, but everyone’s scale is different. And this is a ROMANTIC SMUT. It’s done really well, and Layla & Rem’s feelings are the driving factors. I also usually have a hard time if the characters are under 22 ish (because seriously, I feel like no one was a “sex god” At that age) but I had noooooo issues here. Everything was HOT and believable.
Overall if you’re looking for spicy smut AND romance, this is definitely for you! 🖤
I loved this book. I loved the characters. I loved the progression in both romance and characters themselves. It’s rare that a taboo romance scratches all the itches without being actually problematic, but that’s exactly what Melissa has done here. You’ll find yourself rooting for Layla & Rem, even when their biggest challenge is getting out of their heads (self inflicted is *very* self aware) and you’re literally cheering on in the background as they grow and learn throughout. I loved that the characters weren’t one-dimensional. I felt like I knew them and they had depth—they grew as the story progressed. And the romance? Great. It’s a powerful and undeniable relationship. The ANGST makes my little romance reader heart happy, and the payoff is well worth the wait.
Okay but now for the SPICE.
I’d give it a solid 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️(4/5). Sex scenes are explicit, and detailed. No fade to black. Also read the warnings at the beginning of the book. I’d say it’s on the lighter side of actual kink, but everyone’s scale is different. And this is a ROMANTIC SMUT. It’s done really well, and Layla & Rem’s feelings are the driving factors. I also usually have a hard time if the characters are under 22 ish (because seriously, I feel like no one was a “sex god” At that age) but I had noooooo issues here. Everything was HOT and believable.
Overall if you’re looking for spicy smut AND romance, this is definitely for you! 🖤
July 9, 2024
ARC REVIEW
This book is well written and both the MFC and MMC have been written with a lot of depth. The dynamic between the 2 main characters is relatable, heart wrenching and sends the reader on a roller coaster of emotions between the 2 characters.
The theme of forbidden Step Sibling love is dark twisted but beautiful at the same time. Delving into the family dynamic of the MFC’s traumas, past and mother with a MMC who is so invested in her with his own traumas is a beautiful but tragic love story.
This book breaks all the traditional norms of a family unit with 2 broken souls finding forbidden love, hope and healing within each other.
This book is well written and both the MFC and MMC have been written with a lot of depth. The dynamic between the 2 main characters is relatable, heart wrenching and sends the reader on a roller coaster of emotions between the 2 characters.
The theme of forbidden Step Sibling love is dark twisted but beautiful at the same time. Delving into the family dynamic of the MFC’s traumas, past and mother with a MMC who is so invested in her with his own traumas is a beautiful but tragic love story.
This book breaks all the traditional norms of a family unit with 2 broken souls finding forbidden love, hope and healing within each other.
December 18, 2025
When I received this as an ARC, I was a little hesitant because of the step-sibling romance. Everything else in the description peaked my interest so I knew I had to give it a try! That being said I loved it!
Even though their relationship is taboo, and could have been a very uncomfortable one to read, she did an amazing job! I thought the way Melissa weaved their story together was fantastic! You got to see the character growth from the beginning to the end. The way she built each character (even some of smaller characters) was amazing! There was a reason for each character and you could tell it was meticulously crafted to tie back into Layla and Remington to explain who they were and why they became the people that they were.
The storyline and characters were great, and I loved how it was split into two parts. I felt it really showed the depth of the two characters and how far they had come. I also loved the two POV’S. It gave the story more depth and you were able to relate to them more. I thought the balance between the storyline and the romance and the spice was well balanced and one did not outshine the other!
Overall it was wonderful and I found myself wanting to find out more to their story, which is always how I can tell I enjoyed it!
Even though their relationship is taboo, and could have been a very uncomfortable one to read, she did an amazing job! I thought the way Melissa weaved their story together was fantastic! You got to see the character growth from the beginning to the end. The way she built each character (even some of smaller characters) was amazing! There was a reason for each character and you could tell it was meticulously crafted to tie back into Layla and Remington to explain who they were and why they became the people that they were.
The storyline and characters were great, and I loved how it was split into two parts. I felt it really showed the depth of the two characters and how far they had come. I also loved the two POV’S. It gave the story more depth and you were able to relate to them more. I thought the balance between the storyline and the romance and the spice was well balanced and one did not outshine the other!
Overall it was wonderful and I found myself wanting to find out more to their story, which is always how I can tell I enjoyed it!
June 25, 2024
** I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
This was the first book by Melissa K Morgan I’ve read and have to say her writing style is fresh and flows well. The banter was top notch and I really liked the character development throughout.
There were times where I’d like to smack the MC’s upside the head for antics they got into.
Self Inflicted was an angsty read that is perfect for someone who is looking to dip their toe in the taboo genre.
The characters are 18-19 when they meet and have an instant connection. Unfortunately for them it turns out that their respective parents are getting married which turns them into step siblings. This definitely throws a wrench in their connection.
The story follows along as they maneuver the ins and outs of their new relationship and what it means for their future.
This was the first book by Melissa K Morgan I’ve read and have to say her writing style is fresh and flows well. The banter was top notch and I really liked the character development throughout.
There were times where I’d like to smack the MC’s upside the head for antics they got into.
Self Inflicted was an angsty read that is perfect for someone who is looking to dip their toe in the taboo genre.
The characters are 18-19 when they meet and have an instant connection. Unfortunately for them it turns out that their respective parents are getting married which turns them into step siblings. This definitely throws a wrench in their connection.
The story follows along as they maneuver the ins and outs of their new relationship and what it means for their future.
June 18, 2024
I can't remember the last time I read a romance story that make me cry sad, happy and satisfying tears. From love interest - hate - second chance love just AMAZING!!! 😭 The book is well-written and you can feel the emotions from both MC and FC. For all forbidden love fans, you must read this!
July 8, 2024
*ARC REVIEW*
This got me hooked right from the start and I'm gonna start by telling you to go get your copy because it is so worthy!
I often don't know where to begin with my reviews, especially when the book makes me go through so many emotions… So be patient with me as I try to convey how much I loved this while trying to not give any spoilers 🙏
Where to start with Layla and Remington?
Layla and Rem are a lot: a lot of fear and a lot of love. As much as they were perfect for each other, there were moments of so much toxicity between them that made this all the more visceral.
There were times I'd be so frustrated with both of them, OMG, did I want to slap some sense into them 😅
What I loved the most:
🟢 Rem
🟢 Bridget
🟢 Rem
🟢 Hemingway's Rejects and Aly
🟢 Rem
🟢 And have I mentioned I loved Rem? Cause I really did!
“Layla bug”
“His lips graze my neck, (...) “Beautiful. Unique. Girl.”” *swoon*
What I hated:
🔴 Layla's mother… That woman made me almost throw my reader against the wall with how infuriating she is 😤
🔴 Max 🤮
If forbidden/taboo romance - they're step siblings - is your jam, and you love angst with HEA this is the book for you! And if not, it might still be because it's honestly a beautiful love story about learning to trust, to believe in love and overcoming your traumas.
Tropes & microtropes:
🎸Rockstar romance
🎤Step siblings
🎸He falls first
🎤So much pining/longing
🎸A bit of angst
🎤Dual POVs
🎸Open door
⚠️TRIGGER WARNINGS:⚠️
* Bullying
* Foul Language
* Alcohol Use
* Alcoholism
* Cheating – NOT between main characters
* Explicit Sex:
+Mild choking
+Biting
+Praise Kink
+Dirty Talk
* Emotional Abuse
* Divorce
* Death of Parent
I was given an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This got me hooked right from the start and I'm gonna start by telling you to go get your copy because it is so worthy!
I often don't know where to begin with my reviews, especially when the book makes me go through so many emotions… So be patient with me as I try to convey how much I loved this while trying to not give any spoilers 🙏
Where to start with Layla and Remington?
Layla and Rem are a lot: a lot of fear and a lot of love. As much as they were perfect for each other, there were moments of so much toxicity between them that made this all the more visceral.
There were times I'd be so frustrated with both of them, OMG, did I want to slap some sense into them 😅
What I loved the most:
🟢 Rem
🟢 Bridget
🟢 Rem
🟢 Hemingway's Rejects and Aly
🟢 Rem
🟢 And have I mentioned I loved Rem? Cause I really did!
“Layla bug”
“His lips graze my neck, (...) “Beautiful. Unique. Girl.”” *swoon*
What I hated:
🔴 Layla's mother… That woman made me almost throw my reader against the wall with how infuriating she is 😤
🔴 Max 🤮
If forbidden/taboo romance - they're step siblings - is your jam, and you love angst with HEA this is the book for you! And if not, it might still be because it's honestly a beautiful love story about learning to trust, to believe in love and overcoming your traumas.
Tropes & microtropes:
🎸Rockstar romance
🎤Step siblings
🎸He falls first
🎤So much pining/longing
🎸A bit of angst
🎤Dual POVs
🎸Open door
⚠️TRIGGER WARNINGS:⚠️
* Bullying
* Foul Language
* Alcohol Use
* Alcoholism
* Cheating – NOT between main characters
* Explicit Sex:
+Mild choking
+Biting
+Praise Kink
+Dirty Talk
* Emotional Abuse
* Divorce
* Death of Parent
I was given an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2024
5 stars
Damn! This book caught me off guard with how much I loved it!
Broken Family
Lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers
Taboo
Rockstar Romance
He Falls Fast & Hard
Touch her and die
Forbidden Love
Layla has closed her heart to love. There is no convincing her otherwise.
Trying to please her parents, she learns by the age of 18 that it’s impossible.
Layla is torn between staying with her narcissistic self-absorbed mother or her father who has been consumed in his work for her entire adult life
Now her dad is engaged and starting a new life with his fiancé Bridget and her son Elijah who is older than Layla and is a keep-to-himself, out-all-night, typical guy.
Life in general is causing so much angst for Layla that all she can do to stay sane is work hard before heading off to college.
Rem is all-in music obsessed and has been since before his father’s death. He and his band mates have a goal to become Rockstars and take over the world with their music. A chance encounter brings Rem and Layla together and once he sees her, he knows there will never be anyone else for him.
Now all he has to do to is convince Layla and cold heart that love is possible.
I am obsessed with the love-hate/hot-cold relationship between Layla and Rem!! He so badly wants her to choose him but Layla is too broken to give in to her desires. So instead, she viciously works to prove to him that she is no good for him. Rem being Rem, he dishes it back in torturous ways.
Gah! This book was such a great page turner! I laughed, I cried! I had all the feelings reading this!!
Damn! This book caught me off guard with how much I loved it!
Broken Family
Lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers
Taboo
Rockstar Romance
He Falls Fast & Hard
Touch her and die
Forbidden Love
Layla has closed her heart to love. There is no convincing her otherwise.
Trying to please her parents, she learns by the age of 18 that it’s impossible.
Layla is torn between staying with her narcissistic self-absorbed mother or her father who has been consumed in his work for her entire adult life
Now her dad is engaged and starting a new life with his fiancé Bridget and her son Elijah who is older than Layla and is a keep-to-himself, out-all-night, typical guy.
Life in general is causing so much angst for Layla that all she can do to stay sane is work hard before heading off to college.
Rem is all-in music obsessed and has been since before his father’s death. He and his band mates have a goal to become Rockstars and take over the world with their music. A chance encounter brings Rem and Layla together and once he sees her, he knows there will never be anyone else for him.
Now all he has to do to is convince Layla and cold heart that love is possible.
I am obsessed with the love-hate/hot-cold relationship between Layla and Rem!! He so badly wants her to choose him but Layla is too broken to give in to her desires. So instead, she viciously works to prove to him that she is no good for him. Rem being Rem, he dishes it back in torturous ways.
Gah! This book was such a great page turner! I laughed, I cried! I had all the feelings reading this!!
July 16, 2024
Self Inflicted
I could not wait for this one to be released. I kept seeing teasers for it on TikTok. Melissa K. Morgan blue me away. She stuck true to her characters feelings. Although Layla has doubts in herself because of the way she was brought up. Others don’t. Layla learns that over time. I don’t want to give away much more than that. But if you love reading about rockers and a little tabu love. This will be right up your alley…
I could not wait for this one to be released. I kept seeing teasers for it on TikTok. Melissa K. Morgan blue me away. She stuck true to her characters feelings. Although Layla has doubts in herself because of the way she was brought up. Others don’t. Layla learns that over time. I don’t want to give away much more than that. But if you love reading about rockers and a little tabu love. This will be right up your alley…
July 8, 2024
Thank you for this ARC 🖤🖤
"You're soaking for me when you shouldn't be." "Yes."
"Does it feel good?" "Yes."
"Trying to get over you has been the hardest fucking thing I've ever had to do. Worse than grieving my dad's death. You're this poison in my system that won't leave."
Layla and Rem 🥹 wow. I'm on a Taboo train and I apparently don't want to leave. I LOVED that Rem fell first, and I'm a sucker for musicians so you can imagine how I was drooling over him. Both Rem and Layla are broken and beautiful and I loved every single page. Their push and pull, their tension, their inability to get over each other 🥲
🖤 Dual POV
🖤 Taboo (Stebsiblings)
🖤 Stubborn FMC
🖤 Pierced MMC
🖤 He Falls First
🖤 Rockstar Romance
🖤 Love to Hate to Love
🖤 Second Chance
"You're soaking for me when you shouldn't be." "Yes."
"Does it feel good?" "Yes."
"Trying to get over you has been the hardest fucking thing I've ever had to do. Worse than grieving my dad's death. You're this poison in my system that won't leave."
Layla and Rem 🥹 wow. I'm on a Taboo train and I apparently don't want to leave. I LOVED that Rem fell first, and I'm a sucker for musicians so you can imagine how I was drooling over him. Both Rem and Layla are broken and beautiful and I loved every single page. Their push and pull, their tension, their inability to get over each other 🥲
🖤 Dual POV
🖤 Taboo (Stebsiblings)
🖤 Stubborn FMC
🖤 Pierced MMC
🖤 He Falls First
🖤 Rockstar Romance
🖤 Love to Hate to Love
🖤 Second Chance
December 9, 2024
Great Rockstar Romance!
I must say I usually stray away from a rockstar romance but I LOVE a stepbrother romance so I gave this book a shot and I’m SO GLAD I DID! I devoured this book in a day! My attention was captured from the very start. Rem and Layla had my heart hurting for the both of them through their roller coaster of emotions for either other. Im so glad they got their happily ever after!
I must say I usually stray away from a rockstar romance but I LOVE a stepbrother romance so I gave this book a shot and I’m SO GLAD I DID! I devoured this book in a day! My attention was captured from the very start. Rem and Layla had my heart hurting for the both of them through their roller coaster of emotions for either other. Im so glad they got their happily ever after!
July 27, 2024
✰.5/5
🌶🌶🌶/5
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽ Tropes ☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
☁︎Taboo Romance☁︎
☁︎Second Chance☁︎
☁︎Forbidden Romance☁︎
☁︎Step-Siblings☁︎
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾ Thoughts ☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
☁︎DNF’d at 62%, the first time. Picked it back up and this is what I think…
☁︎I have no idea where to start. The characters were unlikable and frustrating. They acted like children for the whole first half of the book yet wanted to be treated like adults and do adult things. I thought once we had time jumped five years there would be some maturity but that was short-lived… The attraction made no sense with how they acted sometimes. It seemed like she just wanted drama in the story without any reason to have the drama. As the FMC would explode with anger, do something incredibly stupid, and then apologize for it and they would be making out…. This story lacks depth and development.
☁︎ Once I saw the time jump and how the FMC hadn’t matured at all I gave up and DNF’d the first time. I thought the FMC would show some development but I was wrong. I did finish it but came to the same conclusion: I wanted to like this book since it seemed like a fun taboo but I felt like it was way too all over the place and too much drama with so little reason that it wasn’t enjoyable.
˖⁺‧₊˚☁️˚₊‧⁺˖Recommended for ppl who…˖⁺‧₊˚☁️˚₊‧⁺˖
☁︎Don't care deeply about character development☁︎
☁︎Smut lovers☁︎
☁︎Taboo girlies☁︎
🌶🌶🌶/5
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽ Tropes ☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
☁︎Taboo Romance☁︎
☁︎Second Chance☁︎
☁︎Forbidden Romance☁︎
☁︎Step-Siblings☁︎
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾ Thoughts ☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
☁︎DNF’d at 62%, the first time. Picked it back up and this is what I think…
☁︎I have no idea where to start. The characters were unlikable and frustrating. They acted like children for the whole first half of the book yet wanted to be treated like adults and do adult things. I thought once we had time jumped five years there would be some maturity but that was short-lived… The attraction made no sense with how they acted sometimes. It seemed like she just wanted drama in the story without any reason to have the drama. As the FMC would explode with anger, do something incredibly stupid, and then apologize for it and they would be making out…. This story lacks depth and development.
☁︎ Once I saw the time jump and how the FMC hadn’t matured at all I gave up and DNF’d the first time. I thought the FMC would show some development but I was wrong. I did finish it but came to the same conclusion: I wanted to like this book since it seemed like a fun taboo but I felt like it was way too all over the place and too much drama with so little reason that it wasn’t enjoyable.
˖⁺‧₊˚☁️˚₊‧⁺˖Recommended for ppl who…˖⁺‧₊˚☁️˚₊‧⁺˖
☁︎Don't care deeply about character development☁︎
☁︎Smut lovers☁︎
☁︎Taboo girlies☁︎
June 19, 2024
Let me start out by saying I have a serious problem with signing up for books and then not uploading them to my spreadsheet. I totally forgot about this book until it popped up on my kindle. I’m so thankful that my half-asleep, past self signs up for arcs. It makes my day when I absolutely adore them.
Alright so, Layla and Rem are a freaking mess. They love each other so much, they hate each other. It’s quite comical how their thing is to fight 🤣 the concept is a little taboo as they’re step-siblings but just by marriage. Not my first step-sibling book, definitely will not be my last… Anyway, they meet before their parents introduce them and as much as they TRY to stay away from each other, they just can’t. There’s lots of ups and downs and time skips and toe-curling spice.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Alright so, Layla and Rem are a freaking mess. They love each other so much, they hate each other. It’s quite comical how their thing is to fight 🤣 the concept is a little taboo as they’re step-siblings but just by marriage. Not my first step-sibling book, definitely will not be my last… Anyway, they meet before their parents introduce them and as much as they TRY to stay away from each other, they just can’t. There’s lots of ups and downs and time skips and toe-curling spice.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2024
Layla is the girl with her family’s expectations on her shoulders. She wants to write and sing, but her now-divorced parents want her to go to law school like her father. When she meets a musician by the name of Remington, their one night stand goes incredibly wrong when they discover they’re soon to be stepsiblings. This is a taboo, strangers-to-lovers-to-stepsiblings romance with enough twists and turns to keep you hooked page after page. The spice is hot, but what kept me captivated was how hard Remington fought for Layla to see what she could be, far beyond being his. He was both hard and soft, and I loved every second. Layla was also a strong FMC, just with the ability to sabotage herself at every turn. I will definitely be reading this again!
July 11, 2024
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
RUN don’t walk to read this book 😭 You won’t regret it!
Self-Inflicted is a forbidden rockstar romance that will send you on a very twisty rollercoaster. The family drama, the angst, the mental health representation, plot, spice, all of the stuff that is needed for an amazing book. It was there!
I fell in love with Rem, as one does, and couldn’t see any red flags 😭 It’s a me problem.. IM AWARE. I wasn’t sure whose side I was on half the time all I know is that this man has a tongue piercing and dark hair so he wins.
I loved this book so much. I loved how the POVs are formatted because that was the first time i’ve read them like that. I was interested the entire time and I could barely put it down because I needed to know what was next. It kept me engaged and entertained. I loved this authors writing and I am hoping to read more of her works in the future. This read was five stars for me!!
🩵: Forbidden
🩵: Rockstar
🩵: He Fell First
🩵: HEA
🩵: Protective MMC
🩵: Feisty FMC
🩵: MF
RUN don’t walk to read this book 😭 You won’t regret it!
Self-Inflicted is a forbidden rockstar romance that will send you on a very twisty rollercoaster. The family drama, the angst, the mental health representation, plot, spice, all of the stuff that is needed for an amazing book. It was there!
I fell in love with Rem, as one does, and couldn’t see any red flags 😭 It’s a me problem.. IM AWARE. I wasn’t sure whose side I was on half the time all I know is that this man has a tongue piercing and dark hair so he wins.
I loved this book so much. I loved how the POVs are formatted because that was the first time i’ve read them like that. I was interested the entire time and I could barely put it down because I needed to know what was next. It kept me engaged and entertained. I loved this authors writing and I am hoping to read more of her works in the future. This read was five stars for me!!
🩵: Forbidden
🩵: Rockstar
🩵: He Fell First
🩵: HEA
🩵: Protective MMC
🩵: Feisty FMC
🩵: MF
June 10, 2024
When I tell you I could not stop reading this... I could not stop reading this!!! I got so involved with these Characters, I felt their frustrations, their pain, and their happiness. I had to know what was going to happen to the point that I couldn't stop thinking about this book when I had to put it down to get stuff done. The character development was there, the plot was there, and the spice was deff there!!!! My heart broke for Layla and for Rem, I felt their pain deeply but I also fell in love with me at the same time!! Well worth the journey to see where Rem and Layla end up!!
June 18, 2024
While reading, I became emotionally attached to Layla. I cried with her and rooting her on, despite all the mountains she had to overcome. This book is going to be on my most-read list. I will return to it when I have nothing to read or just need a really good story to read.
All opinions are my own
All opinions are my own
July 15, 2024
Absolutely loved Layla and Remington's story because it was emotional, angsty, raw, spicy and such a rollercoaster.
Their passion was off the charts, as was their overall fight to be together.
It was a hard fought HEA, but that made it even sweeter.
Highly recommend.
Their passion was off the charts, as was their overall fight to be together.
It was a hard fought HEA, but that made it even sweeter.
Highly recommend.
July 30, 2024
Plot/Storyline : ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice : 🌶️🌶️.5
Editing (typos, grammar, etc) : ✏️✏️✏️✏️
ELIJAH.REMINGTON.PAULSON.
This man breaks all the rockstar stereotypes and takes a spot on my list as one of the ideal book boyfriends.
The premise of this book is a crowd-pleaser : step-siblings (forbidden aspect), second-chance, slow burn with a time jump (there is a part one when they are teenagers and a part two that takes place five years later); both are musicians but she is insecure when it comes to her music and he helps her come out of her shell. So, the plot and potential is absolutely there from the author.
I’ll be honest, however, I had a difficult time connecting with the author’s prose which made it tedious to enjoy the book. A lot of conversations felt… disjointed, not connecting appropriately with the inner dialogue (lack of flow in some parts particularly between the main characters).
Most of the spice occurs in part two when the main characters are adults. Most scenes are brief yet fairly detailed - nothing too explicit or shocking.
I applied to receive an advanced reader’s copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Spice : 🌶️🌶️.5
Editing (typos, grammar, etc) : ✏️✏️✏️✏️
ELIJAH.REMINGTON.PAULSON.
This man breaks all the rockstar stereotypes and takes a spot on my list as one of the ideal book boyfriends.
The premise of this book is a crowd-pleaser : step-siblings (forbidden aspect), second-chance, slow burn with a time jump (there is a part one when they are teenagers and a part two that takes place five years later); both are musicians but she is insecure when it comes to her music and he helps her come out of her shell. So, the plot and potential is absolutely there from the author.
I’ll be honest, however, I had a difficult time connecting with the author’s prose which made it tedious to enjoy the book. A lot of conversations felt… disjointed, not connecting appropriately with the inner dialogue (lack of flow in some parts particularly between the main characters).
Most of the spice occurs in part two when the main characters are adults. Most scenes are brief yet fairly detailed - nothing too explicit or shocking.
I applied to receive an advanced reader’s copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
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