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Golden Hour
Lina Ragelis prides herself on her bravery and strength, two traits that have served her well in her career in the US Army. Having been disconnected from her family since she turned eighteen, Lina has learned to rely solely on herself--and her slightly overbearing best friend--and she swears she prefers it that way.
It's an easy lie for someone who has spent her entire life dodging love. Lina's pretty certain that she's damaged goods. But the truth is, she's the kind of person everyone wants in their corner, and the kind of woman many women want to love.
Having had more than her fair share of challenges and hardships, there isn't much that scares Lina. Life would be so much easier if she were afraid of something basic--like spiders--instead of something significant. Something like real, true, healthy love.
It's an easy lie for someone who has spent her entire life dodging love. Lina's pretty certain that she's damaged goods. But the truth is, she's the kind of person everyone wants in their corner, and the kind of woman many women want to love.
Having had more than her fair share of challenges and hardships, there isn't much that scares Lina. Life would be so much easier if she were afraid of something basic--like spiders--instead of something significant. Something like real, true, healthy love.
250 pages, Paperback
First published July 19, 2022
18 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Kat Jackson
6 books77 followersKat is a thirty-something-year-old high school English teacher who has been buried in and under books for thirty-some years. Kat is a lifelong learner, and currently has two masters degrees: one in English Literature, and another in Clinical & Counseling Psychology. She puts far too much stock into words, so what better thing to do than become a writer? (Truth is, she’s been writing since she was twelve years old.)
Kat lives in Pennsylvania with her cliched three cats, a whole lot of books, and some houseplants that she tries very hard to keep alive…but honestly, they’re all dead except for one. Running preserves most of Kat’s sanity, and in her “spare time” she also works as a mental health therapist.
Librarian note: Multiple authors with the same name in the GR database; this author is entered with 2 spaces.
Kat lives in Pennsylvania with her cliched three cats, a whole lot of books, and some houseplants that she tries very hard to keep alive…but honestly, they’re all dead except for one. Running preserves most of Kat’s sanity, and in her “spare time” she also works as a mental health therapist.
Librarian note: Multiple authors with the same name in the GR database; this author is entered with 2 spaces.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 20, 2022
3.75 stars. It’s hard to describe this book and my feelings about it. This was the first book by Jackson that I read and it won’t be my last, even though I had to get used to the writing style. Personally, I would not classify this book as a romance. It’s quite a tough read and I would classify it under drama or the road to self-healing in which a romance plays a part. Lina, the MC, has PTSD, she doesn’t acknowledge this herself though, and is therefore getting deeper and deeper in a psychological and emotional black hole.
As mentioned, I had to get used to the writing style. Third person, one POV is not my favorite and the narrative felt chaotic at the start. This also largely due to Lina’s state of mind. Once I got used to it I appreciated the writing. The first half of the book had its ups and downs for me. Obviously, the theme is not light, but thoughts were jumbled and there were many flashbacks, some I found interesting and important to the story, others like the romance with Candice (that you know is a crash and burn from the start) couldn’t really capture my attention. I was also not certain how much I liked Lena herself.
In the second half of the book the romance between Lina and Regan takes off. The storyline shifts more to the present and this part of the book made it for me. Largely because of Regan, she is the best, what a wonderful and patient character, and she is the perfect match for the wounded Lina. Also, in the second part Lina becomes more comfortable in her own skin and I liked seeing her heal (I also liked her as a person better). The (sort of) butch-butch paring was a nice detail, something that Lina seemed to struggle a bit with herself.
Lina and her friends Caitlin and Mallory make their appearance in the book “Across the Hall” which I have not read (something I did not realize as I like to read books in order), but I could follow it easily. I do want to note that the names in this book were very confusing for me, they were too much alike (Caitlin, Carolyn, and Candice) and I kept mixing them up.
All in all, this book is definitely not the average romance, it captured my attention and I especially liked the second half a great deal. I can recommend this if you’re looking for that slightly messy emotional read.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
As mentioned, I had to get used to the writing style. Third person, one POV is not my favorite and the narrative felt chaotic at the start. This also largely due to Lina’s state of mind. Once I got used to it I appreciated the writing. The first half of the book had its ups and downs for me. Obviously, the theme is not light, but thoughts were jumbled and there were many flashbacks, some I found interesting and important to the story, others like the romance with Candice (that you know is a crash and burn from the start) couldn’t really capture my attention. I was also not certain how much I liked Lena herself.
In the second half of the book the romance between Lina and Regan takes off. The storyline shifts more to the present and this part of the book made it for me. Largely because of Regan, she is the best, what a wonderful and patient character, and she is the perfect match for the wounded Lina. Also, in the second part Lina becomes more comfortable in her own skin and I liked seeing her heal (I also liked her as a person better). The (sort of) butch-butch paring was a nice detail, something that Lina seemed to struggle a bit with herself.
Lina and her friends Caitlin and Mallory make their appearance in the book “Across the Hall” which I have not read (something I did not realize as I like to read books in order), but I could follow it easily. I do want to note that the names in this book were very confusing for me, they were too much alike (Caitlin, Carolyn, and Candice) and I kept mixing them up.
All in all, this book is definitely not the average romance, it captured my attention and I especially liked the second half a great deal. I can recommend this if you’re looking for that slightly messy emotional read.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2022
3.75 ⭐️
Kat Jackson is a new author for me. Although the book is not always easy to read, it will not be my last by Jackson. It is not a classic romance novel. First and foremost, it is about Lina Ragelis facing her PTSD, but more importantly, she has to accept it first. She has taken a job in Kitty Hawk, a few hours from her home, to find more clarity and to face her fears with a change of scenery. It is here that she meets Regan. The mutual attraction is palpable from the first moment, and the better they get to know each other, the greater Regan's impact on Lina and her struggle with traumatic memories.
At first, I had a little trouble getting into the story, as it wasn't always easy to catch Lina's nightmares and state of mind. With many flashbacks (I know they are important to understand Linas’s character, but in my opinion, there were too many) we learn about her history of hapless relationships and what happened that led to her trauma. Her fight buddy Keeley and her friends Caitlin and Malory play a big and important role in this part, they are really good people, friends you want in your own life. It is not until the middle of the book that the romance with Regan picks up steam, the flashbacks become fewer, and the story takes place more often in the present. As important as the first half of the story is, I liked the second part better.
Lina is convinced that she is a damaged person and at first doesn't believe that such a wonderful woman like Regan could even be interested in her. It takes a lot of convincing and patience on Regan's part, for Lina to dare to think of possibilities. The butch-butch pairing was a nice surprise, not only for Lina. Actually, Regan is not her type at all, but maybe she should open up her mind. And we all know, with whom we fall in love, can't be controlled, and that's a good thing. It's also good to see that finally Lina is facing her fears and nightmares and she's slowly feeling better and better so that she can free herself from the shackles of evil memories – with the help of Regan. I guess, sometimes you need somebody from outside, to get through all the shit.
Both characters are interesting women, obviously, Lina was more complicated and harder to understand, but she is a very fine person. She struggles a lot with her past but she is learning to deal with it, and let some of the past go. Regan is a nurse and an absolute sweetheart, strong, patient, caring, understanding, and overall a wonderful human being. I had a little crush on her myself. Their mutual attraction was real and how the feelings got deeper and they fell in love, was beautiful.
A captivating story with some tough themes such as PTSD, but overall a good book with a very nice second half. I also had to get used to the third-party narration.
ARC was provided by Bella Books to LezReviewBooks.com in exchange for an honest review.
Kat Jackson is a new author for me. Although the book is not always easy to read, it will not be my last by Jackson. It is not a classic romance novel. First and foremost, it is about Lina Ragelis facing her PTSD, but more importantly, she has to accept it first. She has taken a job in Kitty Hawk, a few hours from her home, to find more clarity and to face her fears with a change of scenery. It is here that she meets Regan. The mutual attraction is palpable from the first moment, and the better they get to know each other, the greater Regan's impact on Lina and her struggle with traumatic memories.
At first, I had a little trouble getting into the story, as it wasn't always easy to catch Lina's nightmares and state of mind. With many flashbacks (I know they are important to understand Linas’s character, but in my opinion, there were too many) we learn about her history of hapless relationships and what happened that led to her trauma. Her fight buddy Keeley and her friends Caitlin and Malory play a big and important role in this part, they are really good people, friends you want in your own life. It is not until the middle of the book that the romance with Regan picks up steam, the flashbacks become fewer, and the story takes place more often in the present. As important as the first half of the story is, I liked the second part better.
Lina is convinced that she is a damaged person and at first doesn't believe that such a wonderful woman like Regan could even be interested in her. It takes a lot of convincing and patience on Regan's part, for Lina to dare to think of possibilities. The butch-butch pairing was a nice surprise, not only for Lina. Actually, Regan is not her type at all, but maybe she should open up her mind. And we all know, with whom we fall in love, can't be controlled, and that's a good thing. It's also good to see that finally Lina is facing her fears and nightmares and she's slowly feeling better and better so that she can free herself from the shackles of evil memories – with the help of Regan. I guess, sometimes you need somebody from outside, to get through all the shit.
Both characters are interesting women, obviously, Lina was more complicated and harder to understand, but she is a very fine person. She struggles a lot with her past but she is learning to deal with it, and let some of the past go. Regan is a nurse and an absolute sweetheart, strong, patient, caring, understanding, and overall a wonderful human being. I had a little crush on her myself. Their mutual attraction was real and how the feelings got deeper and they fell in love, was beautiful.
A captivating story with some tough themes such as PTSD, but overall a good book with a very nice second half. I also had to get used to the third-party narration.
ARC was provided by Bella Books to LezReviewBooks.com in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2022
This is a new to me author. I must say this story wasn’t exactly what I was expecting, I think it surpassed my expectations, but it wasn’t the easiest read. That goes for both the subject and the writing.
Lina is a character you just hope gets it right but she has trouble dealing with, or even admitting she has, PTSD. The way this story is told borders on clinical retelling sometimes and it was hard for me to get into. The chapter, or partial chapters, that flashback to the reasons for Linda’s PTSD and general behaviour aren’t chronological and come when it suits the present day story, or so it seems. I don’t care for those chapters. I do understand them as a vehicle to get the general feeling across, but maybe it could have been different? Regan is what seems to be the opposite of Lina, aside from them both being on the butch side, she’s this ray of sunshine. We know she’s a nurse, about her best friend, but we don’t learn a lot about her. Just that she is a solid person who Lina can depend on.
Oh, extra points for this butch-butch pairing by the way!
Anyway, what makes this story for me is Regan, she offers quiet support, grounds Lina and leaves me with this overall feeling of contentment I suppose.
I guess that was the author’s intention with this character, but I am not sure it was intended to be so strong, more for a balance.
This book is a little messy, but in a good sorta emotional way. This sentence makes no sense but I’m sticking with it. It’s a captivating read, but not comfortable or easy. It’s good though
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
Lina is a character you just hope gets it right but she has trouble dealing with, or even admitting she has, PTSD. The way this story is told borders on clinical retelling sometimes and it was hard for me to get into. The chapter, or partial chapters, that flashback to the reasons for Linda’s PTSD and general behaviour aren’t chronological and come when it suits the present day story, or so it seems. I don’t care for those chapters. I do understand them as a vehicle to get the general feeling across, but maybe it could have been different? Regan is what seems to be the opposite of Lina, aside from them both being on the butch side, she’s this ray of sunshine. We know she’s a nurse, about her best friend, but we don’t learn a lot about her. Just that she is a solid person who Lina can depend on.
Oh, extra points for this butch-butch pairing by the way!
Anyway, what makes this story for me is Regan, she offers quiet support, grounds Lina and leaves me with this overall feeling of contentment I suppose.
I guess that was the author’s intention with this character, but I am not sure it was intended to be so strong, more for a balance.
This book is a little messy, but in a good sorta emotional way. This sentence makes no sense but I’m sticking with it. It’s a captivating read, but not comfortable or easy. It’s good though
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
July 16, 2022
Lina isn’t sure what she expects to happen when she leaves New Jersey for Kitty Hawk, North Carolina for eleven months. She just knows she needs a change. If only she could run away from herself and the nightmares that plague her existence. She can’t call it what it is because that would make it too real. She never plans on someone like Regan coming into her life. Regan, who is unlike anyone Lina has ever known and may be exactly the person she’s always needed.
This is my first Kat Jackson book and it will certainly not be my last. PTSD is not an easy subject to tackle, but Jackson handles the subject with sensitivity and while doing so brings to life a heartbreaking character who I am certain not to forget. Using flashbacks to Lina’s time in the military complete the picture of how Lina has got to this point. And her sessions with her therapist shows how far she has to go to pull herself out of the darkness.
Fortunately for Lina, she has a wonderfully supportive group of friends, her best friend Caitlin and her gf Mallory, from Jackson’s earlier book, Across the Hall and her military pal, Keeley. But it’s the ray of sunshine that is Regan, who comes along at exactly the right moment, and shows Lina that her failed relationships may be a thing of the past, if she can accept that she deserves to be treated well.
I became invested in this story and in Lina immediately. I wanted to reach in and just give her a hug. There are so many veterans who suffer from PTSD and only a few brave authors have dared to write about it. I applaud Kat Jackson for writing this book. This is a subject that isn’t easy but in ignoring its existence, we do a disservice to all those who risked their lives for our freedom, who suffer from PTSD. Golden Hour is more than a story of a character trying to cope with her past, it is a book that is laced with laugh out loud moments, beautiful coastal views and characters who will stay with you long after you have read the last page.
An ARC was received from Bella Books via NetGalley for an honest review.
This is my first Kat Jackson book and it will certainly not be my last. PTSD is not an easy subject to tackle, but Jackson handles the subject with sensitivity and while doing so brings to life a heartbreaking character who I am certain not to forget. Using flashbacks to Lina’s time in the military complete the picture of how Lina has got to this point. And her sessions with her therapist shows how far she has to go to pull herself out of the darkness.
Fortunately for Lina, she has a wonderfully supportive group of friends, her best friend Caitlin and her gf Mallory, from Jackson’s earlier book, Across the Hall and her military pal, Keeley. But it’s the ray of sunshine that is Regan, who comes along at exactly the right moment, and shows Lina that her failed relationships may be a thing of the past, if she can accept that she deserves to be treated well.
I became invested in this story and in Lina immediately. I wanted to reach in and just give her a hug. There are so many veterans who suffer from PTSD and only a few brave authors have dared to write about it. I applaud Kat Jackson for writing this book. This is a subject that isn’t easy but in ignoring its existence, we do a disservice to all those who risked their lives for our freedom, who suffer from PTSD. Golden Hour is more than a story of a character trying to cope with her past, it is a book that is laced with laugh out loud moments, beautiful coastal views and characters who will stay with you long after you have read the last page.
An ARC was received from Bella Books via NetGalley for an honest review.
April 17, 2025
While I have been following Kat Jackson on TikTok for a while, and I met her last summer at GCLS, I had never read any of her books until now. I have a signed copy of In Bloom, which I’ll read someday, but at the moment, my ears are much better at focusing than my eyes. And then Golden Hour appeared in my Audible suggestions, and I’m a sucker for sunsets, so voilà, I didn’t read the blurb, I dived in and let Kat Jackson’s words and Lila Winters’s voice carry me away.
A military lab technician, Lina believes she’s unlovable, or not worthy of love. Her parents, then her lovers made her feel like she was never enough, and then, there’s her PTSD. I don’t know if anyone can come back from active war zones one hundred per cent healthy, and PTSD on top of her low sense of self-worth has convinced her no one deserves to be burdened with her. And then she meets Regan, a gorgeous, sweet, funny, strong, gentle nurse, who makes her want to at least try.
This audiobook was at once pretty hard to listen to and extremely cute and healing. As someone with my own PTSD—I’ve written about it in previous reviews—I’m always mindful of potential triggers, even though I manage it a lot better now than I used to. I loved Regan’s open mind, her understanding, her absence of judgement, her patience too. Her calming presence and her respect and love for everything Lina is felt utterly believable to me. As did the descriptions of the physical and emotional manifestations of PTSD-related episodes. Jackson’s writing is efficient, to the point when the reader is in Lina’s head, mellower when Regan is on page. I enjoyed Lila Winters’s narration a lot as well, to my ears it fit each character to a T.
Read all my reviews on my website (and please get your books from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
July 27, 2022
Kat Jackson has written another excellent book! If you've not already, check some of her other books out.
Golden hour is no exception, I love her writing style and her books have ‘drawn’ me in.
This story focuses on Lina, a veteran, who struggles with trauma, and PTSD. She struggles with the world and her emotions and keeps her circle small. The storyline is more drama based with romance and dips back into her past a few times.
I enjoyed the Golden hour, it wasn't full of angst, although, I do wish there were more ‘sparkes’ between Lina and Regan.
I've given the Golden Hour a 3.7 out of 5.
I'd love to see a sequel 😃
Golden hour is no exception, I love her writing style and her books have ‘drawn’ me in.
This story focuses on Lina, a veteran, who struggles with trauma, and PTSD. She struggles with the world and her emotions and keeps her circle small. The storyline is more drama based with romance and dips back into her past a few times.
I enjoyed the Golden hour, it wasn't full of angst, although, I do wish there were more ‘sparkes’ between Lina and Regan.
I've given the Golden Hour a 3.7 out of 5.
I'd love to see a sequel 😃
July 2, 2022
This is a story about Army veteran Lina who is still on active duty working in a research lab. She has spent 2 tours in Afghanistan and 1 in Syria. She suffers from PTSD and has terrible nightmares. While working in North Carolina she meets Regan who is an RN at a local hospital. Regan is super sweet and kind and helps Lina overcome her demons.
This was a book filled with many flashbacks of Lina’s time in a war zone and with ex partners who treated her poorly. And the third party narration was a bit odd. Overall I liked this book very much and would recommend it. I have a very close family member who served in the Army in Iraq and can relate well to the feelings Lina has. Also having spent time jn North Carolina I really enjoyed the beach house and the beautiful sunsets.
Arc received for a voluntary and honest review from Bella Books via NetGalley.
This was a book filled with many flashbacks of Lina’s time in a war zone and with ex partners who treated her poorly. And the third party narration was a bit odd. Overall I liked this book very much and would recommend it. I have a very close family member who served in the Army in Iraq and can relate well to the feelings Lina has. Also having spent time jn North Carolina I really enjoyed the beach house and the beautiful sunsets.
Arc received for a voluntary and honest review from Bella Books via NetGalley.
October 21, 2024
Very much Part 2 of ‘Across The Hall.’ And loved it for that. The PTSD up front and in your face: convincing, real and totally worth it. Highly recommended.
July 28, 2022
I really like Kat Jackson's writing style and this is the third novel I've read of hers. Golden Hour revolves around Lina, who is currently still serving in the US Army. Due to her experience serving, she has developed PTSD and this story unpacks her experience with PTSD quite a lot. At times, this book is quite heavy to read, but I still really enjoyed it. Her love interest, Regan, is possibly the sweetest character I've read in quite a while. She's so incredibly patient and kind, and due to this their romance is absolutely lovely to follow.
Although I'm not usually a fan of flashbacks, I think Kat Jackson uses them well in this novel. I'm also so happy Lina got her own story, who we are introduced as a side character in Across the Hall. Although her story went a different way than I anticipated, I still really enjoyed getting to know her more.
I'm looking forward to reading more from Jackson in the future.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Although I'm not usually a fan of flashbacks, I think Kat Jackson uses them well in this novel. I'm also so happy Lina got her own story, who we are introduced as a side character in Across the Hall. Although her story went a different way than I anticipated, I still really enjoyed getting to know her more.
I'm looking forward to reading more from Jackson in the future.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2025
This book.. It was by chance I picked this up. Full review to follow.
August 4, 2022
While writing my comments, I listened to the song Golden Hour by Kacey Musgraves. What a beautiful song and an attractive woman. Just saying. I do love me some sun set and sun rise. Lina Ragelis, lab tech in the the US Army dealing with PTSD, family stuff and avoiding love. There is so much to like about Regan. She is a nurse with a caring heart and understands the value and importance of the golden hour. The read is in the third person. It took me a moment to get in the swing and then I had to keep the friends straight. Lina's best friend Catlin and her partner Mallory were so supportive and encouraging. This is a tough read with some real life issues. The butch/butch dynamic was interesting and not something I see much in lesbian reads. I thought it fit really well in this story.
ARC provided by Bella Books via NetGalley
ARC provided by Bella Books via NetGalley
July 8, 2024
A little slow. Minimal drama.
July 4, 2022
I love the title of this book. I’ve spent the last several Christmas holidays on an east coast island and I love the how people come to the beach for the magic light as the sun is setting. Lina Ragelis is temporarily living at a beach house in Kitty Hawk, NC after getting her heart broken at home in NJ. She has been in the Army since she was 18, serving in three foreign tours working in medical labs. She continues her lab work now stateside. Lina’s previous relationships have not been healthy for her and her PTSD is flaring since coming to the beach. She feels that she is damaged and too much work for someone to take on. She meets Regan who is a nurse at the hospital where she is assigned. Regan is different from anyone she’s been attracted to in the past.
The PTSD is heart breaking and at times difficult to read. Lina does have best friends Caitlin and Mallory from Jackson's book Across The Hall. They care and try to help monitor her from NJ. Lina herself is in therapy and trying to be out with people but it is hard. Regan is understanding but has conditions she wants met. Some of the story is told in flashbacks to early times in the military. It made me appreciate how hard living with PTSD can be. I really liked Regan. She wants a relationship and even while she is patient with Lina she communicates her own needs and expectations.
This is a book that can be read on its own. But technically it is a sequel to Across The Hall. Lina is introduced as a side character in that story. It took looking at my reviews of previous books by the author before I made the connection. This was not an easy romance because of the emotional issues involved. But I believe in their potential HEA. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for an ARC in exchange for a review. (3.5 stars)
The PTSD is heart breaking and at times difficult to read. Lina does have best friends Caitlin and Mallory from Jackson's book Across The Hall. They care and try to help monitor her from NJ. Lina herself is in therapy and trying to be out with people but it is hard. Regan is understanding but has conditions she wants met. Some of the story is told in flashbacks to early times in the military. It made me appreciate how hard living with PTSD can be. I really liked Regan. She wants a relationship and even while she is patient with Lina she communicates her own needs and expectations.
This is a book that can be read on its own. But technically it is a sequel to Across The Hall. Lina is introduced as a side character in that story. It took looking at my reviews of previous books by the author before I made the connection. This was not an easy romance because of the emotional issues involved. But I believe in their potential HEA. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for an ARC in exchange for a review. (3.5 stars)
June 30, 2022
I absolutely lucked into reading Kat Jackson's debut novel, Begin Again, a couple of years ago, and since then she has become one of my favorite authors. Among her now four books, there is not one cookie-cutter or standard trope used, and I have to say it's really refreshing. I can't imagine many other authors out there brave enough to tackle an army PTSD story, especially today, when the definitive series on the subject has already been written and knocked out of the park (I'm looking at you, Emily Noyes). Kat Jackson does it masterfully.
There are so many aspects to Golden Hour that make this a completely different story. Obviously, when a character is dealing with PTSD we have to know what caused the trauma in their earlier life. Jackson intersperses the flashbacks so perfectly well-timed that it's almost impossible to stop reading because we MUST know what happened. The flashbacks are told in past tense, but the present day is told in third person present tense from Lina's POV, and it really works.
The peripheral characters, who are friends and co-workers of the MCs, are extremely well developed. But what I really loved about this book is that Lina and Regan "aren't each others' type", so the friends-to-reluctant-lovers is perfection. I never wanted this book to end.
There are so many aspects to Golden Hour that make this a completely different story. Obviously, when a character is dealing with PTSD we have to know what caused the trauma in their earlier life. Jackson intersperses the flashbacks so perfectly well-timed that it's almost impossible to stop reading because we MUST know what happened. The flashbacks are told in past tense, but the present day is told in third person present tense from Lina's POV, and it really works.
The peripheral characters, who are friends and co-workers of the MCs, are extremely well developed. But what I really loved about this book is that Lina and Regan "aren't each others' type", so the friends-to-reluctant-lovers is perfection. I never wanted this book to end.
July 2, 2022
The Golden Hour surprised and impressed me by its depth and gritty narration. Lina is a veteran and not all is glory. Even as a lab technician she payed a steep price. With great skill Jackson immerses the reader into Lina‘s mental struggles. We are taken on a fascinating journey. With flashbacks to the past and revisiting former relationships this story feels like an adult coming of age story: Lina cleans house inside and outside. The budding romance is delicate and far from insta-love or the trite ‚love heals all‘. Love becomes incrementally part of Lina‘s journey.
This is not always an easy read but so rewarding. I loved how Jackson lets us experience Lina’s struggles „first hand“. The character development is excellent. The darker aspects were balanced by the setting and sun-setting of the story in the Outer Banks, the caring of Lina‘s friends (cameo-appearances from Across The Hall) and the slow emergence of a new life and love. An excellent and compelling read.
Thanks for the ARC via netgalley. The review is written voluntarily.
This is not always an easy read but so rewarding. I loved how Jackson lets us experience Lina’s struggles „first hand“. The character development is excellent. The darker aspects were balanced by the setting and sun-setting of the story in the Outer Banks, the caring of Lina‘s friends (cameo-appearances from Across The Hall) and the slow emergence of a new life and love. An excellent and compelling read.
Thanks for the ARC via netgalley. The review is written voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
The mind is as beautiful as it is fragile and this book does a marvelous job showcasing its duality. The main characters take a bit to find their footing, but once they do the synergetic relationship is soul-renewing.
This author did a great job portraying a character with combat PTSD. From sweat-filled nightmares, to bouts of dissociation, to triggers known and unknown, to nights of insomnia, to the plaguing hyper-vigilance, even down to the daymares that haunt the main- they have woven in delicate truths about the disorder while keeping her human and strong.
It is a soul heavy read, but worth every heart clench. I was swept away by the effortless dialogue, the funny repartee, and the scenery depicted throughout each chapter. I was beyond grateful that this was not love at first sight. Instead, it's love through trial and tribulation. It's a friendship and a courting that allows growth and comfort and trust to develop organically. It's being real- going into a relationship that says this will be hard, but I see you, you matter to me, and I am here for it all.
This author did a great job portraying a character with combat PTSD. From sweat-filled nightmares, to bouts of dissociation, to triggers known and unknown, to nights of insomnia, to the plaguing hyper-vigilance, even down to the daymares that haunt the main- they have woven in delicate truths about the disorder while keeping her human and strong.
It is a soul heavy read, but worth every heart clench. I was swept away by the effortless dialogue, the funny repartee, and the scenery depicted throughout each chapter. I was beyond grateful that this was not love at first sight. Instead, it's love through trial and tribulation. It's a friendship and a courting that allows growth and comfort and trust to develop organically. It's being real- going into a relationship that says this will be hard, but I see you, you matter to me, and I am here for it all.
July 26, 2022
This is not a romance per se. It is more a book about 18-year Army veteran, Lina Ragelis, who is closed off and keeps her distance from everyone in order to avoid being calling weak. She suffers from almost nightly nightmares and hates belng startled by anything or anyone. She is on a TDY assignment to Kitty Hawk and meets Regan who somehow slides beneath her walls and settles into Lina’s heart. When the fourth of July fireworks drive her back to Afghanistan to relive the suicide bomber who changed her life and not for the better. During one brief moment of semi-clarity during a particularly vivid episode, Lina calls Regan, who rushes to her side. While Lina does not label herself as suffering from PTSD until late in the book, most readers will pick up on it from the beginning.
If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to suffer from PTSD, read this book. Jackson puts her readers into Lina’s mind as she suffers through episode after episode of PTSD-driven feelings of inadequacy and utter terror.
While Jackson’s novel is not a romance, there are romantic elements in it. Jackson’s main character suffers from a condition few of us can even imagine and does a good job of it, but at the expense of developing Lina into a fully realized character.
My thanks to Bella Books and NetGalley for an eARC.
If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to suffer from PTSD, read this book. Jackson puts her readers into Lina’s mind as she suffers through episode after episode of PTSD-driven feelings of inadequacy and utter terror.
While Jackson’s novel is not a romance, there are romantic elements in it. Jackson’s main character suffers from a condition few of us can even imagine and does a good job of it, but at the expense of developing Lina into a fully realized character.
My thanks to Bella Books and NetGalley for an eARC.
July 25, 2022
Lina Ragelis served in the US Army with honor but after leaving the army she has seemed to make it a career out of not having any kind of relationship. Now her best friends are after her to open herself up to the possibility of love. Caitlin has known Lina forever it seemed but it’s not until she enlists the help of her own girlfriend, Mallory.
Dealing with PTSD has been something she’d tried to conquer on her own. But she’s now seeing a therapist or I should say visiting her Doctor online. Lina has decided she needs a change so she took a friend's invitation to spend time at his cottage. It’s there she meets up with Regan, a nurse working at the local hospital.
With some twists and turns, along with a few laughs and tears we have ourselves a really nice read. Very, very enjoyable.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
Dealing with PTSD has been something she’d tried to conquer on her own. But she’s now seeing a therapist or I should say visiting her Doctor online. Lina has decided she needs a change so she took a friend's invitation to spend time at his cottage. It’s there she meets up with Regan, a nurse working at the local hospital.
With some twists and turns, along with a few laughs and tears we have ourselves a really nice read. Very, very enjoyable.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
July 19, 2022
This was a well written beautiful heart felt story, I loved how Kat writing addressed Lina PTSD, it really gave the story depth, Well done!! I recommend 4.5 stars
I received an ARC copy from the publisher Bella Books via NetGalley for my honest review.
I received an ARC copy from the publisher Bella Books via NetGalley for my honest review.
November 11, 2022
Let me start by prefacing this with a few things:
* This isn’t a generic review (little summary)
* What I write are my honest reactions and opinions, and is not meant to be fluff or smoke up this author’s skirt
* This is based on reading the book and listening to the Audible version simultaneously (I tend to miss things in one or the other)
I started this story, Lina’s journey, on November 1 without having read any previous reviews or synopses. I prefer not to have any preconceived information going in.
Golden Hour isn’t a traditional cutesy, sweeter than cotton candy romance, although there is romance in it - good romance. This is a love story about finding out how to love yourself enough to untether from your past, and how to accept genuine, unfiltered love in return.
Lina’s escape to the Outer Banks is unclear at first. To address her past? To refresh her present? To find her future? Turns out all three. The more I read and listened, the more I had to address things in my own distance and recent pasts that weirdly aligned with Lina’s. The Good, Bad, and Ugly.
I tip my glass of Malbec to the author who, with absolute grace and respect, laid bare Lina’s demons as well as letting her ultimate desires sprout slowly.
Lina likes to think she’s broken or at least parts of her are broken. This is the part I hated for Lina but also connected with her. I don’t think she is completely broken despite her relationship traumas and her PTSD. She’s more bent and bruised. Totally repairable.
Lina has a support system who tells her like it is, but Lina is stubborn and knows she has to deal with things on her own, for the most part. Caitlyn is Lina’s proclaimed bff but she wasn’t my favorite. I found her to be a bit shallow and selfish. Mallory, Caitlyn’s girlfriend, is Lina’s voice of reason, that little voice she needs to hear to straighten out her thoughts. Keeley, Lina’s battle buddy, is her true bff. They’ve been through a lot together, highs and very low lows.
But the one thing missing is someone who doesn’t know Lina’s history. Someone who comes in with no preconceived notions. The Universe drops Regan into Lina’s orbit via a farmer’s market and some corn. (I wish the author would do some kind of give away with this book and…corn.)
From the very beginning Regan treats Lina like an equal, human being…loving, caring, direct, honest. Lina’s former “partners” objectified her for their own needs and whims, and when they were done with her they put her up on a shelf until they wanted her again. And to an extent, Lina is aware of this but she handcuffs herself to the idea that one day, maybe, they’ll want more.
The numerous flashbacks in this story give us an insight into Lina’s internal struggle with being available when these women come in and out of her life. The more time she spends with Regan Lina begins to understand what it’s like for someone to care about her and want to be with her for no other reason than because they want to and they like her for her. And throughout the story we see Lina’s personal growth to get to where Lina accepts Regan’s love. Regan takes the time to want to know Lina, everything about her, something Lina isn’t used to.
The walls Lina has up aren’t your standard sheetrock and plywood. Her walls are thick layers of concrete, steel, barbed wire, and fire breathing dragons…maybe even an alligator filled moat. But Regan sees and knows this and lets Lina know how she feels about her, but also lets Lina decide when she’s ready to let her in.
And eventually, Lina realizes that she doesn’t want to be without Regan and wants the love she’s never experienced before.
Lina’s journey is difficult and fun to watch at the same time. A lot of things, small things, in this story made me smile for various reasons. Some also squeezed my heart, and I had to stop reading or turn the Audible off for a while. I see Lina and Regan in people I know and in parts of myself. This, again, attests to the superb writing style and storytelling prowess of Ms. Jackson.
The descriptions the author creates throughout this book put me directly into the story. I felt Lina’s anguish. My body reacted to the fireworks and PTSD. I felt the sand annoying me. I saw each golden hour. I’m a self-proclaimed weather nerd, and there were many little bits of weather descriptions included that I loved. Again, the descriptions were not fluffy or inflated. Every single detail was described with concise, brilliant precision.
“The idea is to write it so that people hear it and it slides through the brain and goes straight to the heart.” - Maya Angelou
* This isn’t a generic review (little summary)
* What I write are my honest reactions and opinions, and is not meant to be fluff or smoke up this author’s skirt
* This is based on reading the book and listening to the Audible version simultaneously (I tend to miss things in one or the other)
I started this story, Lina’s journey, on November 1 without having read any previous reviews or synopses. I prefer not to have any preconceived information going in.
Golden Hour isn’t a traditional cutesy, sweeter than cotton candy romance, although there is romance in it - good romance. This is a love story about finding out how to love yourself enough to untether from your past, and how to accept genuine, unfiltered love in return.
Lina’s escape to the Outer Banks is unclear at first. To address her past? To refresh her present? To find her future? Turns out all three. The more I read and listened, the more I had to address things in my own distance and recent pasts that weirdly aligned with Lina’s. The Good, Bad, and Ugly.
I tip my glass of Malbec to the author who, with absolute grace and respect, laid bare Lina’s demons as well as letting her ultimate desires sprout slowly.
Lina likes to think she’s broken or at least parts of her are broken. This is the part I hated for Lina but also connected with her. I don’t think she is completely broken despite her relationship traumas and her PTSD. She’s more bent and bruised. Totally repairable.
Lina has a support system who tells her like it is, but Lina is stubborn and knows she has to deal with things on her own, for the most part. Caitlyn is Lina’s proclaimed bff but she wasn’t my favorite. I found her to be a bit shallow and selfish. Mallory, Caitlyn’s girlfriend, is Lina’s voice of reason, that little voice she needs to hear to straighten out her thoughts. Keeley, Lina’s battle buddy, is her true bff. They’ve been through a lot together, highs and very low lows.
But the one thing missing is someone who doesn’t know Lina’s history. Someone who comes in with no preconceived notions. The Universe drops Regan into Lina’s orbit via a farmer’s market and some corn. (I wish the author would do some kind of give away with this book and…corn.)
From the very beginning Regan treats Lina like an equal, human being…loving, caring, direct, honest. Lina’s former “partners” objectified her for their own needs and whims, and when they were done with her they put her up on a shelf until they wanted her again. And to an extent, Lina is aware of this but she handcuffs herself to the idea that one day, maybe, they’ll want more.
The numerous flashbacks in this story give us an insight into Lina’s internal struggle with being available when these women come in and out of her life. The more time she spends with Regan Lina begins to understand what it’s like for someone to care about her and want to be with her for no other reason than because they want to and they like her for her. And throughout the story we see Lina’s personal growth to get to where Lina accepts Regan’s love. Regan takes the time to want to know Lina, everything about her, something Lina isn’t used to.
The walls Lina has up aren’t your standard sheetrock and plywood. Her walls are thick layers of concrete, steel, barbed wire, and fire breathing dragons…maybe even an alligator filled moat. But Regan sees and knows this and lets Lina know how she feels about her, but also lets Lina decide when she’s ready to let her in.
And eventually, Lina realizes that she doesn’t want to be without Regan and wants the love she’s never experienced before.
Lina’s journey is difficult and fun to watch at the same time. A lot of things, small things, in this story made me smile for various reasons. Some also squeezed my heart, and I had to stop reading or turn the Audible off for a while. I see Lina and Regan in people I know and in parts of myself. This, again, attests to the superb writing style and storytelling prowess of Ms. Jackson.
The descriptions the author creates throughout this book put me directly into the story. I felt Lina’s anguish. My body reacted to the fireworks and PTSD. I felt the sand annoying me. I saw each golden hour. I’m a self-proclaimed weather nerd, and there were many little bits of weather descriptions included that I loved. Again, the descriptions were not fluffy or inflated. Every single detail was described with concise, brilliant precision.
“The idea is to write it so that people hear it and it slides through the brain and goes straight to the heart.” - Maya Angelou
February 6, 2024
"Golden Hour" by Kat Jackson is a compelling narrative that delves deep into the complexities of human emotions, trauma, and the painstaking journey towards healing. While this book is technically considered a romance, it's more of a drama than a romance.
Lina, a strong and brave character with a military background, explores themes of self-reliance, trauma, and the elusive want for love. Lina's journey is not just about confronting her PTSD—a condition she's in denial about—but also about navigating through her chaotic inner world, marked by a blend of resilience and vulnerability.
Kat Jackson normally has a very distinct writing style, but even this is slightly different, characterized by a third-person single POV which mirrors Lina's tumultuous state of mind. As the novel progresses, the depth of Jackson's storytelling prowess becomes apparent, offering a richly textured understanding of the protagonist's psyche.
Overall though, the narrative structure, with its non-linear flashbacks, was not my cup of tea, even if it serves as a critical device for unveiling the layers of Lina's past and its impact on her present.
Regan, a character embodying patience and warmth, marks a turning point in the story, bringing light to Lina's dark world. Regan's presence not only catalyzes Lina's healing process but also enriches the narrative with a depiction of a supportive and nurturing relationship. The portrayal of a butch-butch pairing adds a refreshing dimension to the romance genre, challenging conventional norms and exploring the dynamics of such a relationship with sensitivity and insight.
While the novel may stray from traditional romance narratives, it is precisely this departure that lends "Golden Hour" its strength. It's a testament to Jackson's skill that the book engages with tough themes like PTSD, self-discovery, and the power of love and friendship in the face of adversity.
"Golden Hour" stands out for its raw and honest exploration of trauma, the nuanced portrayal of relationships, and the hopeful message of finding strength in vulnerability.
Lina, a strong and brave character with a military background, explores themes of self-reliance, trauma, and the elusive want for love. Lina's journey is not just about confronting her PTSD—a condition she's in denial about—but also about navigating through her chaotic inner world, marked by a blend of resilience and vulnerability.
Kat Jackson normally has a very distinct writing style, but even this is slightly different, characterized by a third-person single POV which mirrors Lina's tumultuous state of mind. As the novel progresses, the depth of Jackson's storytelling prowess becomes apparent, offering a richly textured understanding of the protagonist's psyche.
Overall though, the narrative structure, with its non-linear flashbacks, was not my cup of tea, even if it serves as a critical device for unveiling the layers of Lina's past and its impact on her present.
Regan, a character embodying patience and warmth, marks a turning point in the story, bringing light to Lina's dark world. Regan's presence not only catalyzes Lina's healing process but also enriches the narrative with a depiction of a supportive and nurturing relationship. The portrayal of a butch-butch pairing adds a refreshing dimension to the romance genre, challenging conventional norms and exploring the dynamics of such a relationship with sensitivity and insight.
While the novel may stray from traditional romance narratives, it is precisely this departure that lends "Golden Hour" its strength. It's a testament to Jackson's skill that the book engages with tough themes like PTSD, self-discovery, and the power of love and friendship in the face of adversity.
"Golden Hour" stands out for its raw and honest exploration of trauma, the nuanced portrayal of relationships, and the hopeful message of finding strength in vulnerability.
September 1, 2022
I say this all the time it seems but this is the first time reading anything by Kat Jackson.
I'm not too sure how I feel about this book exactly. The writing is well done. For the most part I do like the main character Lina. I like her battle buddy Keeley. I like her best friend Caitlin although I like Caitlin's girlfriend and Lina's friend Mallory more. I think the author spends too much time in the past bemoaning the breakup and state of an affair with a presumably straight married woman who doesn't reciprocate in bed. Lina's affair with Lt Candice Barrows irritated me. Why she had such intense feelings for a woman who won't return her feelings, and this seems to be a pattern of Lina's to choose women like this, befuddled me. Her episodes of PTSD are pretty frequent in the beginning, although we don't learn what event took place that causes the PTSD until too late in the book in my opinion. We get a really vivid, realistic picture of it in a scene about the 4th of July. This is really when things really do begin with Regan and Lina. Previously we meet Regan at the Farmer's market and then they are working at the hospital together but really starting to get to know each other begins kind of during and after the 4th of July scene. It takes until almost 70% of the book before Lina and Regan start to get to know each other. As I'm finally reading that part of the book it's like I sigh and say finally we are at the part of the book I've been waiting all this time to get to and finally we are at the good parts. The ending 30% of the novel is my favorite part and the ending made me smile.
So would I recommend this book? I think yes because of the last third of the book but I'm pretty sure I won't be picking up this title to reread and that is a benchmark for me—whether I see myself wanting to reread a title or not. I will give the author another try to see if I feel differently about another book with a different premise.
I'm not too sure how I feel about this book exactly. The writing is well done. For the most part I do like the main character Lina. I like her battle buddy Keeley. I like her best friend Caitlin although I like Caitlin's girlfriend and Lina's friend Mallory more. I think the author spends too much time in the past bemoaning the breakup and state of an affair with a presumably straight married woman who doesn't reciprocate in bed. Lina's affair with Lt Candice Barrows irritated me. Why she had such intense feelings for a woman who won't return her feelings, and this seems to be a pattern of Lina's to choose women like this, befuddled me. Her episodes of PTSD are pretty frequent in the beginning, although we don't learn what event took place that causes the PTSD until too late in the book in my opinion. We get a really vivid, realistic picture of it in a scene about the 4th of July. This is really when things really do begin with Regan and Lina. Previously we meet Regan at the Farmer's market and then they are working at the hospital together but really starting to get to know each other begins kind of during and after the 4th of July scene. It takes until almost 70% of the book before Lina and Regan start to get to know each other. As I'm finally reading that part of the book it's like I sigh and say finally we are at the part of the book I've been waiting all this time to get to and finally we are at the good parts. The ending 30% of the novel is my favorite part and the ending made me smile.
So would I recommend this book? I think yes because of the last third of the book but I'm pretty sure I won't be picking up this title to reread and that is a benchmark for me—whether I see myself wanting to reread a title or not. I will give the author another try to see if I feel differently about another book with a different premise.
August 7, 2023
Lina Regelis is the focus of this book. The story revolves between modern day, and the flashbacks to her time in the army and what caused her PTSD.
Kat Jackson has a lot of characters in this book. As I found when reading The Roads Left Behind, I had some trouble keeping track of who was who. Therefore, this book also took me quite some time to become invested in the story.
Lina’s nightmares make her life hard to bare. She can’t seem to escape from herself. She has some wonderful friends who support her, but she falls into an unhealthy affair with a woman who is married to a man. The affair is on and off because of the woman’s rocky marriage that continues to be on, but every time it’s off, Lina opens her arms again to this woman.
Lina, working as a lab technician in a hospital in Kitty Hawk, NC, finally begins to heal, thanks to a nurse she met there. Regan was an angel, a kind, caring, wonderful and understanding woman. This was my favorite part of the story, getting to watch the healing process and the development of the love between them. It was a joyful experience to feel how happy Lina became and how it brought such joy to Regan and to Lina’s support group. Kat Jackson did a marvelous job of conveying the many emotions found in this book. (I don’t consider anything I’ve said to be spoilers because one must read this to experience it.)
Kat Jackson has a lot of characters in this book. As I found when reading The Roads Left Behind, I had some trouble keeping track of who was who. Therefore, this book also took me quite some time to become invested in the story.
Lina’s nightmares make her life hard to bare. She can’t seem to escape from herself. She has some wonderful friends who support her, but she falls into an unhealthy affair with a woman who is married to a man. The affair is on and off because of the woman’s rocky marriage that continues to be on, but every time it’s off, Lina opens her arms again to this woman.
Lina, working as a lab technician in a hospital in Kitty Hawk, NC, finally begins to heal, thanks to a nurse she met there. Regan was an angel, a kind, caring, wonderful and understanding woman. This was my favorite part of the story, getting to watch the healing process and the development of the love between them. It was a joyful experience to feel how happy Lina became and how it brought such joy to Regan and to Lina’s support group. Kat Jackson did a marvelous job of conveying the many emotions found in this book. (I don’t consider anything I’ve said to be spoilers because one must read this to experience it.)
March 19, 2023
"Ameliorate".
Don't ask my why but Jackson's use of the word "ameliorate" just made me smile and love this book so much more. That isn't the reason I gave the book 5 stars though.
It has been a LONG, LONG time since I have read a lesbian romance. Honestly, they typically just depress me and so I avoid them, so this is my first foray into the lesbian romance world in a LONG time and I have to say I am glad this book is the one I chose to read first.
I won't talk about how completely freaky it was that not one but TWO of Lina's exes have the exact same names as two of my exes - the book was awesome in spite of that!
The real reason I loved this book as much as I did is because it felt like me. I know what it is like to be the person in the relationship always giving. I know what it is like to have people I love being non-committal. I know what it feels like to not be chosen. What I DON'T know yet are the other parts, but reading the book made me feel for a second that something else MIGHT be possible. It was nice to lose myself in thoughts of possibilities.
I can't wait to read more of Jackson's books.
Don't ask my why but Jackson's use of the word "ameliorate" just made me smile and love this book so much more. That isn't the reason I gave the book 5 stars though.
It has been a LONG, LONG time since I have read a lesbian romance. Honestly, they typically just depress me and so I avoid them, so this is my first foray into the lesbian romance world in a LONG time and I have to say I am glad this book is the one I chose to read first.
I won't talk about how completely freaky it was that not one but TWO of Lina's exes have the exact same names as two of my exes - the book was awesome in spite of that!
The real reason I loved this book as much as I did is because it felt like me. I know what it is like to be the person in the relationship always giving. I know what it is like to have people I love being non-committal. I know what it feels like to not be chosen. What I DON'T know yet are the other parts, but reading the book made me feel for a second that something else MIGHT be possible. It was nice to lose myself in thoughts of possibilities.
I can't wait to read more of Jackson's books.
July 31, 2022
Rapidly becoming one of my favourite Lesbian authors, she writes intelligent books that explore more than just a romance. In this one we have the story of Lina who is struggling with PTSD from her last tour in Afghanistan, she has escaped to the coast for peace and quiet but just ahead of the 4th of July it's anything but. I thought her character was well developed and her PTSD portrayed well and realistically. I also enjoyed her friends who are trying to be supportive from afar. When she meets Regan at a farmers market, she proves to offer the gentle understanding Lina needs if she can allow herself to accept it. Giving hope to anyone who needs to know that you can find a trauma informed partner.
With thanks to Netgalley and to the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
With thanks to Netgalley and to the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2022
Lina is in the Army and has served in the Middle East. She goes from her home in New Jersey to North Carolina to be by herself. Her friends want her to come home, but Lina is determined to be by herself dealing with PTSD and the death of her friend Brit in Afghanistan. Lina thinks she is broken and not relationship material. Lina meets Regan but is afraid of showing too much of herself. The plot is very good and the characters surrounding Lina make for a good story. I re4commend this book for romance readers. I received this ARC from Net Galley for an honest review.
January 26, 2024
🎧
4.5⭐️
This was an excellent novel chronicling the effects of war and PTSD on the life of the survivor and her ability to form a meaningful relationship. I was completely invested in Lina's story which is told in a dual timeline fashion. We meet her in present time and begin to see there is very much a story we have not been let in on. Then, as we see her struggling in present time, flashbacks show us what brought her to this place. It is a powerful device that is skillfully used by the author.
4.5⭐️
This was an excellent novel chronicling the effects of war and PTSD on the life of the survivor and her ability to form a meaningful relationship. I was completely invested in Lina's story which is told in a dual timeline fashion. We meet her in present time and begin to see there is very much a story we have not been let in on. Then, as we see her struggling in present time, flashbacks show us what brought her to this place. It is a powerful device that is skillfully used by the author.
February 22, 2025
Beautifully written. The perfect balance of tragedy where I held my breath and humor that made me genuinely laugh. It was nice seeing a book where the MC’s issues weren’t solved because of someone, but rather supported through it by someone who made the decision to stay.
Though this MC struggles with PTSD from the military, there were several scenes regarding her mental health that are relatable to anyone who has ever experienced dissociation, panic attacks, depression, and/or suicidal ideation.
Though this MC struggles with PTSD from the military, there were several scenes regarding her mental health that are relatable to anyone who has ever experienced dissociation, panic attacks, depression, and/or suicidal ideation.
August 2, 2024
This is a sequel to Across the Hall, which I would recommend reading first. I really enjoy Kat Jackson's writing-- it has a depth to it beyond your traditional fare. Here the looping nature of the story didn't highlight it as well as in other of her work, but it was still a very well-told story. The ending felt a bit abrupt, however.
September 18, 2024
This book was amazing. It had all the messy entanglements of real life woven together with beautiful imagery. An intimate journey of recovery and self acceptance, grief, and PTSD.
The love Lina is surrounded by is beautiful despite her own struggles as to how she sees herself.
Heartbreaking and beautiful
The love Lina is surrounded by is beautiful despite her own struggles as to how she sees herself.
Heartbreaking and beautiful
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