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Complicated Us #1
The Beginning of Us
There’s something special about first love. It feels right; it looks right. It’s perfect in every way, until it isn’t.
Grayson Hale — the hot nerd, my first love. He was an enigma. Both mysteriously complicated and beautifully broken. The vacant look in his eyes reminded me of my own, almost as if our misery called to one another.
Colton Bennett — the sarcastic playboy, my second chance. He was a perfect facade. Rich, devastatingly beautiful…and everything that I should have stayed away from. His obsession led to my carefully laid plans crumbling at my feet.
And me? I was the fallen princess. I had given up on finding my soulmate a long time ago, but now they are both in my life. I’m torn between my truth and my lies — but I have to make a choice.
The thing about loving two men is that you know it will always end...
Grayson was my tragedy.
Colton was my heartbreak.
Grayson Hale — the hot nerd, my first love. He was an enigma. Both mysteriously complicated and beautifully broken. The vacant look in his eyes reminded me of my own, almost as if our misery called to one another.
Colton Bennett — the sarcastic playboy, my second chance. He was a perfect facade. Rich, devastatingly beautiful…and everything that I should have stayed away from. His obsession led to my carefully laid plans crumbling at my feet.
And me? I was the fallen princess. I had given up on finding my soulmate a long time ago, but now they are both in my life. I’m torn between my truth and my lies — but I have to make a choice.
The thing about loving two men is that you know it will always end...
Grayson was my tragedy.
Colton was my heartbreak.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 19, 2022
110 people are currently reading
1740 people want to read
About the author
Lylah James
27 books4,972 followersAuthor of The Mafia and His Angel. Creator of Alessio Ivanshov and Aylessio.
Reading is her first love and always will be.
Writing is her passion. She writes because the voices in her head won't stop and because they deserve to be heard and read. Lylah James writes about drool worthy and total alpha males, with strong and sweet heroines. She makes her readers cry - sob their eyes out, swoon, curse, rage and fall in love. Mostly known as the Queen of cliffhanger and the #evilauthorwithablacksoul, she likes to break her readers' hearts and then mend them again.
She uses all her spare time to write. If she is not studying, sleeping, writing or working - she can found with her nose buried in a good romance book, preferably with a hot alpha male.
Reading is her first love and always will be.
Writing is her passion. She writes because the voices in her head won't stop and because they deserve to be heard and read. Lylah James writes about drool worthy and total alpha males, with strong and sweet heroines. She makes her readers cry - sob their eyes out, swoon, curse, rage and fall in love. Mostly known as the Queen of cliffhanger and the #evilauthorwithablacksoul, she likes to break her readers' hearts and then mend them again.
She uses all her spare time to write. If she is not studying, sleeping, writing or working - she can found with her nose buried in a good romance book, preferably with a hot alpha male.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
April 6, 2024
Did a re-read April 2024, that cliffy still managed to get me in a chokehold, here's hoping the next book isn't too far away!!
'🆃🅷🅴 🅱🅴🅶🅸🅽🅽🅸🅽🅶 🅾🅵 🆄🆂' Is the first full length romance book in the 'Complicated us' trilogy by author Lylah James
Colton and Riley & Grayson.
This took me many many many hours to read, I feel drained, with so many emotions running through my bloodstream, I feel like I’ve been pulled through a hedge backwards then run over by a Mac truck.
What didn’t this book touch on..
So much angst, heart break, anger, an emotional roller coaster, I feel like a yo-yo where I fell under this authors trap, the good, the bad, the ugly sides of this book.
These characters and side characters will crawl under your skin. Our three main characters have more incommon than they realise, from their parents using them and abusing them, to the girl who slowly inched her way into their souls.
The good guy vs the asshole! And of course like a glutton for more angsty punishment I’m rooting for the asshole!
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
November 5, 2022
4.5
I've enjoyed everything I've ever read from Lylah James, and The Beginning of Us was no different! I know a lot of romance readers hate love triangles, but the people that like them are usually absolute trash for them. That's me. I'm people. Call me a masochist, but I love the torture of it all! Give me a well done love triangle, and I'll be yours forever! Of course, we are only on the first installment, so we have a lot more to go. That being said, by the end of this book, I was fully invested in the characters and their love.
The first half of the story focuses on each character and their individual struggles and lives. The romance comes into the picture more in the second half of the book, but I didn't feel like I got shorted on that end. The book is long enough to give me what I needed from both sides of the coin. The initial chapters are necessary for you to fall in love with and/or at least feel for Riley, Grayson, and Colton. I was already crying at 11 percent! These poor babies are put through the ringer! I wanted to kick everybody's ass that caused them pain!
I went from rooting for one guy to be with Riley to rooting for the other before the book was over. I love them both though, so I don't anyone to get hurt. Both men would be a good choice, and I can see her being happy with either of them. To me, that's what makes a good love triangle.
If angsty new adult romance and love triangles are your shit, this one's for you!!
P.S. I found myself wishing Lylah would write a story about Maddox and Lila only to find out she already did! 🙈😂 Needless to say, The Truth and Dare Duet is now on my TBR!
I've enjoyed everything I've ever read from Lylah James, and The Beginning of Us was no different! I know a lot of romance readers hate love triangles, but the people that like them are usually absolute trash for them. That's me. I'm people. Call me a masochist, but I love the torture of it all! Give me a well done love triangle, and I'll be yours forever! Of course, we are only on the first installment, so we have a lot more to go. That being said, by the end of this book, I was fully invested in the characters and their love.
The first half of the story focuses on each character and their individual struggles and lives. The romance comes into the picture more in the second half of the book, but I didn't feel like I got shorted on that end. The book is long enough to give me what I needed from both sides of the coin. The initial chapters are necessary for you to fall in love with and/or at least feel for Riley, Grayson, and Colton. I was already crying at 11 percent! These poor babies are put through the ringer! I wanted to kick everybody's ass that caused them pain!
I went from rooting for one guy to be with Riley to rooting for the other before the book was over. I love them both though, so I don't anyone to get hurt. Both men would be a good choice, and I can see her being happy with either of them. To me, that's what makes a good love triangle.
If angsty new adult romance and love triangles are your shit, this one's for you!!
P.S. I found myself wishing Lylah would write a story about Maddox and Lila only to find out she already did! 🙈😂 Needless to say, The Truth and Dare Duet is now on my TBR!
January 15, 2023
Don’t hate me!
It’s too much drama 🙄
I liked a lot love triangle but this was insane boring!
Unfortunately!
It’s too much drama 🙄
I liked a lot love triangle but this was insane boring!
Unfortunately!
October 31, 2022
I am fell in love with reading all over again.
“But I think I was meant to be here tonight.”
I was meant to find you — broken under the moonlight, in this field where nobody else saw you, but me. ”
October 26, 2022
I’ve always been a sucker for love triangle. But it’s written well? I am a goner!
We were first introduced to Riley, Grayson and Colton in The Truth and Dare Duet and I have been dying for their story since then.
The Beginning Of Us is without a doubt angsty. There’s actually so much to take in with their story.It’s emotional and heartbreaking. The story is told in multiple POVs and I really enjoyed that particularly because we got to know so much more about not just the characters but also their perspective on things. Riley is a soft character and you can’t help but feel super protective of her. Grayson is *sigh* my heart hurts when I think of him. He is so sweet, so kind,…he’s just good all together.
Colton. He is so misunderstood. He has multiple layers to him..some are heartbreaking, some are not so great but all in all, he is infuriatingly good all together too.
Look, I’ll admit that The Beginning of Us is draining but it’s the good kind that makes you take a moment to absorb all you went through reading it.
We’ll also pretend that Lylah didn’t just drop such a major cliffhanger.
We were first introduced to Riley, Grayson and Colton in The Truth and Dare Duet and I have been dying for their story since then.
The Beginning Of Us is without a doubt angsty. There’s actually so much to take in with their story.It’s emotional and heartbreaking. The story is told in multiple POVs and I really enjoyed that particularly because we got to know so much more about not just the characters but also their perspective on things. Riley is a soft character and you can’t help but feel super protective of her. Grayson is *sigh* my heart hurts when I think of him. He is so sweet, so kind,…he’s just good all together.
Colton. He is so misunderstood. He has multiple layers to him..some are heartbreaking, some are not so great but all in all, he is infuriatingly good all together too.
Look, I’ll admit that The Beginning of Us is draining but it’s the good kind that makes you take a moment to absorb all you went through reading it.
We’ll also pretend that Lylah didn’t just drop such a major cliffhanger.
dnf
December 19, 2022Dnf @65%
This was going good until it wasn’t. Too much time is being spent while they are teens. That is something I struggle with. I can understand that the author is trying to build up the characters backstories, but it was starting to drag a bit too much for me. I’m also only rooting for one guy, and I cannot see myself getting through the remaining two books in this trilogy.
This was going good until it wasn’t. Too much time is being spent while they are teens. That is something I struggle with. I can understand that the author is trying to build up the characters backstories, but it was starting to drag a bit too much for me. I’m also only rooting for one guy, and I cannot see myself getting through the remaining two books in this trilogy.
October 18, 2022
Probably in the minority but like do I care? Nope. But I have been a fan of Grayson since we got those miniscule scenes of him in the previous Dare duet. So when I found out he would play a part in this trilogy I was seated.
Colton and Riley are two characters who were intriguing to me and yes I love their scenes in the IDY (they were cute) but again Grayson had me wondering how he fit in.
Now this book sets up their story. As individuals and as a sort of love triangle. I do think that this was needed to see hoe these three get to where they are and what experiences lead them.
Each have their own story. Their own trauma and their own journey and I liked learning the foundations of what made them tick. My heart broke for each of them but again for me Grayson stood out.
I loved how each of their meet cute were very different. It fit the vibe of the guys and Riley got a taste I guess of two sides of a spectrum. Having Said that, some might say Grayson is too soft but for me after everything that BOTH of them had been through, I applaud him for still having that softness in him and being a protector.
Same with Colton, I think its so easy to pretend but so hard to let others in. And that was great ro read from his POV
Love Triangle is not my trope. I don't like it. But for Lylah I'd read it. At time I got annoyed with all of them. The miscommunication, the back and forth and Riley not making up her mind bur alas without all of that I guess we wouldn't have a story.
It's clear to me to see why so many love ColtonRiley. They were sassy, fun and had a nice push and pull. They had really cute scenes in this and it was really nice reading their relationship from Coltons POV. He i was reallt surprised with some of his actions but once i kept reading it helped me understand being in his head and where he is coming from.
I personally DONT ship GraysonRiley. I don't think Riley kind of deserves Grayson. That's my opinion lol I'm allowed to have it. I think and hope that he gets the third book and finds the love of his life. I'm Invested in him and will continue the Trilogy FOR him.
The ENDING....not talking about that. Lylah knows what she did. Lol.
I'm intrigued for the rest of the Trilogy to know what happens to Grayson. Sorry I'm invested in his story and well if he ends up with Riley I'll learn to love it loool. But I personally hope she ends up eith Colton so Grayson can have someone FOR HIM.
The tropes of the next book have me intrigued and i hope that each of them find what they're after. And once and for all rhis love triangle can be put to bed and people can be happy. But Lylah loved pain haha so who knows.
There was one character rep that I applaud Lylah for researching abd being respectful too. Its reallt refreshing seeing authors doing the actual work abd using sensitivity beta readers for such things.
MADDOXLILA CRUMBS MY BABIES. I WANT MORE.
I enjoyed this book being character focused. Give it a chnace you need this to build up where rhe rest of the story goes.
Be prepared for ANGST.
There are some TW please check before starting.
Colton and Riley are two characters who were intriguing to me and yes I love their scenes in the IDY (they were cute) but again Grayson had me wondering how he fit in.
Now this book sets up their story. As individuals and as a sort of love triangle. I do think that this was needed to see hoe these three get to where they are and what experiences lead them.
Each have their own story. Their own trauma and their own journey and I liked learning the foundations of what made them tick. My heart broke for each of them but again for me Grayson stood out.
I loved how each of their meet cute were very different. It fit the vibe of the guys and Riley got a taste I guess of two sides of a spectrum. Having Said that, some might say Grayson is too soft but for me after everything that BOTH of them had been through, I applaud him for still having that softness in him and being a protector.
Same with Colton, I think its so easy to pretend but so hard to let others in. And that was great ro read from his POV
Love Triangle is not my trope. I don't like it. But for Lylah I'd read it. At time I got annoyed with all of them. The miscommunication, the back and forth and Riley not making up her mind bur alas without all of that I guess we wouldn't have a story.
It's clear to me to see why so many love ColtonRiley. They were sassy, fun and had a nice push and pull. They had really cute scenes in this and it was really nice reading their relationship from Coltons POV. He i was reallt surprised with some of his actions but once i kept reading it helped me understand being in his head and where he is coming from.
I personally DONT ship GraysonRiley. I don't think Riley kind of deserves Grayson. That's my opinion lol I'm allowed to have it. I think and hope that he gets the third book and finds the love of his life. I'm Invested in him and will continue the Trilogy FOR him.
The ENDING....not talking about that. Lylah knows what she did. Lol.
I'm intrigued for the rest of the Trilogy to know what happens to Grayson. Sorry I'm invested in his story and well if he ends up with Riley I'll learn to love it loool. But I personally hope she ends up eith Colton so Grayson can have someone FOR HIM.
The tropes of the next book have me intrigued and i hope that each of them find what they're after. And once and for all rhis love triangle can be put to bed and people can be happy. But Lylah loved pain haha so who knows.
There was one character rep that I applaud Lylah for researching abd being respectful too. Its reallt refreshing seeing authors doing the actual work abd using sensitivity beta readers for such things.
MADDOXLILA CRUMBS MY BABIES. I WANT MORE.
I enjoyed this book being character focused. Give it a chnace you need this to build up where rhe rest of the story goes.
Be prepared for ANGST.
There are some TW please check before starting.
October 31, 2022
ch. 48: “colton calls out, his deep baritone voice”
ch. 50: “his familiar, deep baritone voice calls out to me”
epilogue: “his familiar, deep baritone voice comes through”
and that, folks, is an easter egg.
coltonriley endgame.
mrs james, I LOVE YOU. you made my YEAR. 🥹
5/5 🌟
ch. 50: “his familiar, deep baritone voice calls out to me”
epilogue: “his familiar, deep baritone voice comes through”
and that, folks, is an easter egg.
coltonriley endgame.
mrs james, I LOVE YOU. you made my YEAR. 🥹
5/5 🌟
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2022
NO WORDS JUST THOUGHTS
Lylah did not come to play with this book and I actually am speechless…
HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO SURVIVE WAITING FOR THE NEXT ONE *Cries*
I stayed up until 5am to read this and finish it so it’s safe to say that I am very very tired.
Anyways full review will be up tomorrow *
Lylah did not come to play with this book and I actually am speechless…
HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO SURVIVE WAITING FOR THE NEXT ONE *Cries*
I stayed up until 5am to read this and finish it so it’s safe to say that I am very very tired.
Anyways full review will be up tomorrow *
October 28, 2022
I tried to stay away from love triangles as much as I could, but when we first met them in the Truth or Dare Duet, I've been wanting to know how their love stories closed. Or how did they get their happily ever after. I'm so glad Lylah is giving us their story. BUT I dived into this book really scared. Lol I'm a Colton stan, so maybe that's why I'm so scared. What if Riley doesn't pick him? 😭
Three broken people. Two love stories. First love. Unrequited love. That's all I'm going to say. I don't want to spoil anything because you'll need to read the book yourself too experience it. It's soooo much more than just a love triangle romance books.
But can we all just get a moment about the cliffhanger!!! I NEED the next book!!!
Three broken people. Two love stories. First love. Unrequited love. That's all I'm going to say. I don't want to spoil anything because you'll need to read the book yourself too experience it. It's soooo much more than just a love triangle romance books.
But can we all just get a moment about the cliffhanger!!! I NEED the next book!!!
October 21, 2022
*Alexa, cue up Vigilante Shit by TSwift.*
Ya'll, LJ did NOT come to play with this book. She warned us all it was her longest and most emotional book to date, and she wasn't lying. By chapter three I had buckets of tears streaming down my face ; the pain each one of our characters goes through fractured my heart and soul to the point where my kids got all the squishy hugs and kisses (much to their dismay. Rude.) But oh goodness. When we meet Riley, Colton and Greyson, they are 15/16 respectively, but they have gone though more despair in their short lives than most adults will ever witness. Almost every grown up we come across in this book is absolutely repulsive, and add to the fact that you know this happens to so many kids IRL.. yeah, I cried. A lot. This part of the duet (or trilogy? Just take my money Lylah!) sets up who these kids are individually and then slowly sets up the romantic dynamics. And I am very vocal about my hate for love triangles since there's always the obvious winner from the start, but not this time. I was so connected to these characters that even when they did things that made me scream in frustration I still wanted to bundle them in my arms so the cruel world couldn't hurt then anymore. And the amount of emotion between them all?! Oh god.. it's pure pain and angst but in the most beautiful way too.
They are all fighters, and as much as I'm solely #TeamRiley and will support whoever she ends up with, I fell so in love with Greyson and Colton. We've seen glimpses of them before in Maddox's duet, but here we see who they really are, their pain, what makes them tick, and how their love for one girl unties them both -- even if Colton refuses to admit it. I can't even tell you which side I'm leaning on more because they all deserve their happy ever after. And that ENDING. EXCUSE ME, WHO HURT YOU LYLAH?!?!?
I'm going to be on pins and needles until the next book comes out, but trust me when I say the wait for another book from this author was well worth it. This is easily one of the best books of the year!!
Trigger Warnings: just assume all of them. But have tissues next to you because you'll need them!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
Ya'll, LJ did NOT come to play with this book. She warned us all it was her longest and most emotional book to date, and she wasn't lying. By chapter three I had buckets of tears streaming down my face ; the pain each one of our characters goes through fractured my heart and soul to the point where my kids got all the squishy hugs and kisses (much to their dismay. Rude.) But oh goodness. When we meet Riley, Colton and Greyson, they are 15/16 respectively, but they have gone though more despair in their short lives than most adults will ever witness. Almost every grown up we come across in this book is absolutely repulsive, and add to the fact that you know this happens to so many kids IRL.. yeah, I cried. A lot. This part of the duet (or trilogy? Just take my money Lylah!) sets up who these kids are individually and then slowly sets up the romantic dynamics. And I am very vocal about my hate for love triangles since there's always the obvious winner from the start, but not this time. I was so connected to these characters that even when they did things that made me scream in frustration I still wanted to bundle them in my arms so the cruel world couldn't hurt then anymore. And the amount of emotion between them all?! Oh god.. it's pure pain and angst but in the most beautiful way too.
They are all fighters, and as much as I'm solely #TeamRiley and will support whoever she ends up with, I fell so in love with Greyson and Colton. We've seen glimpses of them before in Maddox's duet, but here we see who they really are, their pain, what makes them tick, and how their love for one girl unties them both -- even if Colton refuses to admit it. I can't even tell you which side I'm leaning on more because they all deserve their happy ever after. And that ENDING. EXCUSE ME, WHO HURT YOU LYLAH?!?!?
I'm going to be on pins and needles until the next book comes out, but trust me when I say the wait for another book from this author was well worth it. This is easily one of the best books of the year!!
Trigger Warnings: just assume all of them. But have tissues next to you because you'll need them!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
October 20, 2022
This book wow Lylah has gone above and beyond with Riley, Colton, and Grayson's story. Every single scene. It's just so so good. Every emotion each character went through... I'M STILL IN SHOCK. This book is full of a rollercoaster ride with beautiful, loving, emotional, and sad moments. And Yes It made me cry.
Riley was so fragile it breaks my heart but it was so beautiful to see how she grew from being a weak person to someone strong who overcome her problems. My heart goes out to her.
Colton was a full-package deal lol. Handsome, Sexy, and Frustrating at times lol. He made me angry at times for his behavior towards Riley but he also made my heart melt. In the end, I was like it's not fair to him. But ahh I can't wait for the next book in the series the read more.
Grayson was a sweetheart. He made me cry 😭 every single time I can't get over him. He is a full package. So sweet, hardworking, thoughtful, and handsome. He sacrificed so much throughout the book I don't know what to do. I want a Grayson in my life.
This book is unlike any love triangle book I ever read. You can't just pick a favorite of one couple. And even if you pick a favorite. The way Lylah has characterized each character is so fabulous that you'll feel connected to each character. And that ending I don't know what I'm supposed to do until book 2 gets released it's so freaking unfair😭😭 Lylah I want book 2 now.
Full 5-Star Read. It's my One of the Top favorites of this year for sure.
Riley was so fragile it breaks my heart but it was so beautiful to see how she grew from being a weak person to someone strong who overcome her problems. My heart goes out to her.
Colton was a full-package deal lol. Handsome, Sexy, and Frustrating at times lol. He made me angry at times for his behavior towards Riley but he also made my heart melt. In the end, I was like it's not fair to him. But ahh I can't wait for the next book in the series the read more.
Grayson was a sweetheart. He made me cry 😭 every single time I can't get over him. He is a full package. So sweet, hardworking, thoughtful, and handsome. He sacrificed so much throughout the book I don't know what to do. I want a Grayson in my life.
This book is unlike any love triangle book I ever read. You can't just pick a favorite of one couple. And even if you pick a favorite. The way Lylah has characterized each character is so fabulous that you'll feel connected to each character. And that ending I don't know what I'm supposed to do until book 2 gets released it's so freaking unfair😭😭 Lylah I want book 2 now.
Full 5-Star Read. It's my One of the Top favorites of this year for sure.
October 21, 2022
WOW! I'm not a big fan of love triangle but this one???? absolutely yes!
I'm team coltonriley since dare to love and I am still team coltonriley, si I need the second book right now, not only for them BUT FOR THAT ENDING, what the hell was that Lylah????
Reading about these characters and the problems they have was so real and made me cry and fall in love with them. I can't choose between them cause it's impossible to.
I love reading about Lila and Riley friendship, I missed them, and of course Maddox🤧
The chemistry between the characters, the relationship and all the situation were so real, o know I'm going to be thinking in this book for a long time, at least until we have the second one!!
I'm team coltonriley since dare to love and I am still team coltonriley, si I need the second book right now, not only for them BUT FOR THAT ENDING, what the hell was that Lylah????
Reading about these characters and the problems they have was so real and made me cry and fall in love with them. I can't choose between them cause it's impossible to.
I love reading about Lila and Riley friendship, I missed them, and of course Maddox🤧
The chemistry between the characters, the relationship and all the situation were so real, o know I'm going to be thinking in this book for a long time, at least until we have the second one!!
November 11, 2022
Wow. This book was so good. The way I felt everything for Colton, Riley, and Grayson. I just want them all to be happy. I can’t wait to see what Lylah does with the other two books in this trilogy
October 31, 2022
Firstly, make sure to read trigger warnings before picking up this book.
Normally as soon as I finish a book I normally know 100% what I want to say about it. However after reading my first Lylah James book I needed to take a few days really process the heavy reals emotions she portrayed in this novel.
Love triangles will always have a special place in my heart. When written well they bring out deep emotions and heart ache which can be delicate to read about sometimes
Lylah truly had me in tears when describing some of the horrible experiences these characters went through and I was truly unsure what was going to happen and was on the edge of my seat waiting to read more.
Since this is a trilogy I’m so sad we have to wait so long to read the next installment because I am so nervously excited to get my hands on it.
At this moment in time I can’t decide who I hope Riley ends up with because I truly love and connect to Colton and Grayson in different ways.
Finally, I would like to thank Lylah for bringing awareness to eating disorders and how hard they can be to live with even after you’ve “recovered”.
Normally as soon as I finish a book I normally know 100% what I want to say about it. However after reading my first Lylah James book I needed to take a few days really process the heavy reals emotions she portrayed in this novel.
Love triangles will always have a special place in my heart. When written well they bring out deep emotions and heart ache which can be delicate to read about sometimes
Lylah truly had me in tears when describing some of the horrible experiences these characters went through and I was truly unsure what was going to happen and was on the edge of my seat waiting to read more.
Since this is a trilogy I’m so sad we have to wait so long to read the next installment because I am so nervously excited to get my hands on it.
At this moment in time I can’t decide who I hope Riley ends up with because I truly love and connect to Colton and Grayson in different ways.
Finally, I would like to thank Lylah for bringing awareness to eating disorders and how hard they can be to live with even after you’ve “recovered”.
November 11, 2022
The Beginning of Us is the first book in this trilogy and my first read from the author. This a new adult, coming-of-age, love triangle-ish kind of romance. I must admit that the first thing that grab me to read this book is the love triangle angle. I'm such a sucker for all the angst, drama and heartbreak that accompanies this kind of trope. I got all of that box ticked upon reading this angst-driven story.
The story is about three perfectly broken characters, Riley, Grayson and Colton. In this book, we learned of their fears, angers, and struggles. We watched them came out of it a little bit stronger and wiser. We saw how their lives got entangled with each other and came to the point that Riley had to choose. One will be her tragedy, the other her heartbreak. This is the first book and lawd, I'm already so emotionally invested, I don't think I can take it if she chooses just one. It's pure agony on my little black heart, argh! Can't wait to read book 2!
The story is about three perfectly broken characters, Riley, Grayson and Colton. In this book, we learned of their fears, angers, and struggles. We watched them came out of it a little bit stronger and wiser. We saw how their lives got entangled with each other and came to the point that Riley had to choose. One will be her tragedy, the other her heartbreak. This is the first book and lawd, I'm already so emotionally invested, I don't think I can take it if she chooses just one. It's pure agony on my little black heart, argh! Can't wait to read book 2!
December 22, 2022
There are not enough stars and words to express my feelings about this book. It's another masterpiece from Lylah James. This young adults world and those heroes are my forever favorite. My heart and soul are shattered right now and I need second book STAT. Highly recommend
Ta książka pochłonęła mnie do tego stopnia że nie mogłam się od niej oderwać, jednocześnie nie chcąc aby się skończyła.
Ta historia to zawarta to majstersztyk gatunku Young Adults romance. Słuchajcie, już dzisiaj mogę Wam powiedzieć, że to mój TOP READ grudnia! Dawno nie czytałam tak pięknej i bolesnej historii która porywa serce i duszę.
Lylah James po raz kolejny udowodniła, że nie przypadkowo znajduje się na liście moich ulubionych autorek.
Pierwsza część trylogii Complicated Us to geneza wprowadzająca nas w świat głównych bohaterów, gdzie w pierwszej połowie tej książki nie znajdziecie zbyt wiele z romantycznych uniesień, ale słuchajcie jakie to było dobre wzruszające, momentami rozrywające serce doświadczenie czytelnicze. I potwierdzam słowa jednej z moich bookfriends ze jest to jedna z wartościowszych książek przeczytanych w tym roku
W TBOU mamy pierwszoosobową narrację ale wyróżnia ją to, że napisana jest z perspektywy aż trzech głównych bohaterów Riley, Coltona oraz Graysona i od razu powiem, że nie jest to historia z typowym trójkątem miłosnym czy reverse harem.
W tej książce autorka porusza wiele życiowych, dramatycznych tematów z którymi zderzają się na co dzień młodzi ludzie. Skrajnie różne historie całej trójki bohaterów są miażdżące w skutkach. Każdy z nich prowadzi swoją własną życiową walkę tkwiąc w nim niczym więźniowie, i którym w pewnym sensie wolna wola została brutalnie odebrana. Los sprawia, że ich życiowe ścieżki w pewnym momencie przecinają się. Ich świat ponownie przewraca się do góry nogami, jednak czy okaże się być destrukcyjny w skutkach czy może jednak przyniesie im ukojenie którego od lat tak bardzo szukają i potrzebują.
W drugiej połowie tej książki autorka wprowadza nas już głębiej w strefę romansu głównych bohaterów, jednak do ich HEA jeszcze daleka droga i z każdym mijającym rozdziałem ta droga zdawała się wydłużać.
Wszystko skomplikowało się jeszcze bardziej, bo jak można osiągnąć szczęśliwe zakończenie kiedy w historię zamieszane są trzy serca.
Czym głębiej wpadałam w fabułę, tym bardziej miałam mętlik w głowie kogo chciałabym aby wybrała główna bohaterka Reily. Wszyscy byli tak złożonymi i ciekawymi postaciami, że każda możliwość była idealnym rozwiązaniem.
Reily z Coltonem byli jak ogień i woda, ale jakże elektryzująca i odurzająca była z ich para.
Reily z Graysonem byli jak dwie połówki jedynej duszy, a ich związek totalnym przeznaczeniem.
Autorka nie ułatwiała mi tej decyzji, mało tego, jeszcze bardziej plątała fabułę aby na końcu roztrzaskać moje serce na drobne kawałki.
Nie zdradzę Wam dużo z fabuły ponieważ chcę abyście mieli takie samo doświadczenie czytelnicze jak ja, ale mogę was zapewnić że nie będziecie mogli oderwać się od tej książki, a emocje będą się w was kotłowały niczym niebo przed burzą. Jak zwykle mam ogromną nadzieję, że w końcu autorka pojawi się w Polsce z tą oraz resztą swoich świetnych romansów i każdy z Was będzie miał okazję je przeczytać.
Wraz z tą historią mogłam ponownie spotkać moich ulubionych bohaterów z dylogii True And Dare. Autorka idealnie połączyła linie czasowe w obydwóch historiach i tym razem mogłam zobaczyć je z perspektywy innych bohaterów, kiedy Reily staje się najlepszą przyjaciółką Lila, a Colton to odwieczny przyjaciel Maddoxa i ta przyjaźń jest również istotnym elementem całej historii.
Pokochałam tych bohaterów jeszcze bardziej i z całą świadomością mogę Wam napisać że ten młodociany świat który stworzyła autorka w tych dwóch seriach, będzie na zawsze moim ulubionym.
Ta książka pochłonęła mnie do tego stopnia że nie mogłam się od niej oderwać, jednocześnie nie chcąc aby się skończyła.
Ta historia to zawarta to majstersztyk gatunku Young Adults romance. Słuchajcie, już dzisiaj mogę Wam powiedzieć, że to mój TOP READ grudnia! Dawno nie czytałam tak pięknej i bolesnej historii która porywa serce i duszę.
Lylah James po raz kolejny udowodniła, że nie przypadkowo znajduje się na liście moich ulubionych autorek.
Pierwsza część trylogii Complicated Us to geneza wprowadzająca nas w świat głównych bohaterów, gdzie w pierwszej połowie tej książki nie znajdziecie zbyt wiele z romantycznych uniesień, ale słuchajcie jakie to było dobre wzruszające, momentami rozrywające serce doświadczenie czytelnicze. I potwierdzam słowa jednej z moich bookfriends ze jest to jedna z wartościowszych książek przeczytanych w tym roku
W TBOU mamy pierwszoosobową narrację ale wyróżnia ją to, że napisana jest z perspektywy aż trzech głównych bohaterów Riley, Coltona oraz Graysona i od razu powiem, że nie jest to historia z typowym trójkątem miłosnym czy reverse harem.
W tej książce autorka porusza wiele życiowych, dramatycznych tematów z którymi zderzają się na co dzień młodzi ludzie. Skrajnie różne historie całej trójki bohaterów są miażdżące w skutkach. Każdy z nich prowadzi swoją własną życiową walkę tkwiąc w nim niczym więźniowie, i którym w pewnym sensie wolna wola została brutalnie odebrana. Los sprawia, że ich życiowe ścieżki w pewnym momencie przecinają się. Ich świat ponownie przewraca się do góry nogami, jednak czy okaże się być destrukcyjny w skutkach czy może jednak przyniesie im ukojenie którego od lat tak bardzo szukają i potrzebują.
W drugiej połowie tej książki autorka wprowadza nas już głębiej w strefę romansu głównych bohaterów, jednak do ich HEA jeszcze daleka droga i z każdym mijającym rozdziałem ta droga zdawała się wydłużać.
Wszystko skomplikowało się jeszcze bardziej, bo jak można osiągnąć szczęśliwe zakończenie kiedy w historię zamieszane są trzy serca.
Czym głębiej wpadałam w fabułę, tym bardziej miałam mętlik w głowie kogo chciałabym aby wybrała główna bohaterka Reily. Wszyscy byli tak złożonymi i ciekawymi postaciami, że każda możliwość była idealnym rozwiązaniem.
Reily z Coltonem byli jak ogień i woda, ale jakże elektryzująca i odurzająca była z ich para.
Reily z Graysonem byli jak dwie połówki jedynej duszy, a ich związek totalnym przeznaczeniem.
Autorka nie ułatwiała mi tej decyzji, mało tego, jeszcze bardziej plątała fabułę aby na końcu roztrzaskać moje serce na drobne kawałki.
Nie zdradzę Wam dużo z fabuły ponieważ chcę abyście mieli takie samo doświadczenie czytelnicze jak ja, ale mogę was zapewnić że nie będziecie mogli oderwać się od tej książki, a emocje będą się w was kotłowały niczym niebo przed burzą. Jak zwykle mam ogromną nadzieję, że w końcu autorka pojawi się w Polsce z tą oraz resztą swoich świetnych romansów i każdy z Was będzie miał okazję je przeczytać.
Wraz z tą historią mogłam ponownie spotkać moich ulubionych bohaterów z dylogii True And Dare. Autorka idealnie połączyła linie czasowe w obydwóch historiach i tym razem mogłam zobaczyć je z perspektywy innych bohaterów, kiedy Reily staje się najlepszą przyjaciółką Lila, a Colton to odwieczny przyjaciel Maddoxa i ta przyjaźń jest również istotnym elementem całej historii.
Pokochałam tych bohaterów jeszcze bardziej i z całą świadomością mogę Wam napisać że ten młodociany świat który stworzyła autorka w tych dwóch seriach, będzie na zawsze moim ulubionym.
October 18, 2022
Lylah came out swinging with this thorough and angst riddled romance. I’ve been dying for this book since reading Maddox and Lila’s duet, and I was not disappointed. Colton, Riley, and Grayson are so much more than I could have asked for. These characters go through so much individually that really shaped who they are as people and it’s at times so heartbreaking to see. I cried and broke for these characters and the trauma that they had to endure. I was not prepared for their stories and the emotional damage that they experienced. Lylah takes you on a hard path with these characters, but she shows you through their experiences how they came out stronger. How they persevered even through the toughest trials and tribulations. How even though it was hard they did not break. Is it an easy journey? Absolutely not. But it’s a powerfully immersive one that will shred your heart and soul for them.
I knew who I wanted to end up together before I even started this book. Like I said I’ve been waiting for it since Maddox and Lila. I’ve always shipped the same couple. At times while reading this I wasn’t sure if I still wanted them to happen. Seeing each character interact with each other, I was torn with whom I wanted. Their individual traumas turned them into people I’m not sure they ever would have been. But underneath who they’ve become you can sense who they really are if that makes sense. Yes, one of the characters is a pain in the ass and says stupid shit that will make you want to throw your kindle. Or better yet reach into the story and punch him. However, as you see him slowly change and soften it melts your heart. I really wasn’t sure if I could forgive him. But time and time again I couldn’t help myself from changing my mind. I should have known that Lylah wouldn’t let me hate him.
I loved so much about this story. It takes you all the way back to when they each first met. And shows how they evolved as the time passes. Each of Riley’s relationships between Colton and Greyson are so utterly different. Which makes sense as Colton and Grayson couldn’t be more different. But what I really enjoyed was seeing her connection to both. Was it stronger one way or the other? At times yes. But as the story progresses you can feel the change. It’s feels like a natural progression, it’s not forced or rushed. Also, I missed Maddox and Lila so I’m so glad that Lylah took us back that far because I loved seeing their relationship through Colton and Riley’s eyes. It was hysterical and makes me want to go back and reread their duet. The only thing I wish were different was the ending did feel rushed. It ended very abruptly, and I was kind of confused. However, this is a trilogy so I’m hopeful we will get answers in the books to come.
This story is more than a love story between three people. It’s about not letting evil win. It’s about inner strength and fortitude. It’s about being able to not only love yourself but forgive yourself as well. These characters love hard, and they love with an intensity that burns from the pages. They fought for themselves, and even though they each suffered things that could have shattered them, it’s the strength that they derived from it that really brings this story to life. You grieve the people that they could have been, but you also celebrate the people they’ve become. Bravo, Lylah.
Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Complimentary Copy
I knew who I wanted to end up together before I even started this book. Like I said I’ve been waiting for it since Maddox and Lila. I’ve always shipped the same couple. At times while reading this I wasn’t sure if I still wanted them to happen. Seeing each character interact with each other, I was torn with whom I wanted. Their individual traumas turned them into people I’m not sure they ever would have been. But underneath who they’ve become you can sense who they really are if that makes sense. Yes, one of the characters is a pain in the ass and says stupid shit that will make you want to throw your kindle. Or better yet reach into the story and punch him. However, as you see him slowly change and soften it melts your heart. I really wasn’t sure if I could forgive him. But time and time again I couldn’t help myself from changing my mind. I should have known that Lylah wouldn’t let me hate him.
I loved so much about this story. It takes you all the way back to when they each first met. And shows how they evolved as the time passes. Each of Riley’s relationships between Colton and Greyson are so utterly different. Which makes sense as Colton and Grayson couldn’t be more different. But what I really enjoyed was seeing her connection to both. Was it stronger one way or the other? At times yes. But as the story progresses you can feel the change. It’s feels like a natural progression, it’s not forced or rushed. Also, I missed Maddox and Lila so I’m so glad that Lylah took us back that far because I loved seeing their relationship through Colton and Riley’s eyes. It was hysterical and makes me want to go back and reread their duet. The only thing I wish were different was the ending did feel rushed. It ended very abruptly, and I was kind of confused. However, this is a trilogy so I’m hopeful we will get answers in the books to come.
This story is more than a love story between three people. It’s about not letting evil win. It’s about inner strength and fortitude. It’s about being able to not only love yourself but forgive yourself as well. These characters love hard, and they love with an intensity that burns from the pages. They fought for themselves, and even though they each suffered things that could have shattered them, it’s the strength that they derived from it that really brings this story to life. You grieve the people that they could have been, but you also celebrate the people they’ve become. Bravo, Lylah.
Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Complimentary Copy
Want to read
September 1, 2022No idea who or what this book is about.
Saw the authors name.
Saw it was the same author who blessed my kindle by writing A Vow Of Hate.
I want whatever this book is.
Saw the authors name.
Saw it was the same author who blessed my kindle by writing A Vow Of Hate.
I want whatever this book is.
December 12, 2022
| Socials |
Book: The Beginning of Us
Author: Lylah James
Series: Complicated Us Trilogy- Book 1
Age: 18+
Ratings: 3⭐ | 1🌶
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes: •Love Triangle-MFM •Enemies-to-Lovers •Tragedy •Slow-Burn
POV: Multiple
Cliffhanger: Yes
ARC: Yes
*N.B. Any Arcs received are reviewed with honesty.
⚠️ Trigger Warnings:
•Disordered Eating/Bulimia •Rehab •Bullying •Drug & Alcohol Abuse •Fostering/Adoption •Child Caretaker •Child Abuse (inc. SA to 15 year old) •Parental Abuse & Abandonment •Revenge Porn •Violence •Death •Car Accident •Stalking •Manipulation/Possessive
Who is it for?:
This is for anyone who enjoys romances bound by trauma. There is angst and tension as well as heartache. It is triggering, especially in the first half of the book.
~ All epic love stories have two things in common: havoc and anguish. ~
~ "You can't ruin me, Goldilocks. I'm already ruined. You can't burn me. I'm already lying in my own ashes." ~
Thoughts:
I enjoyed this first book in the trilogy. I particularly appreciated the stories told by all three characters and their individual traumas and experiences, especially in the first half of the book. It is a beautifully written nod to varying mental health disorders and the experiences that are so often hidden behind closed doors. It is very sad and heartbreaking in the beginning of the book. Setting up the story was paramount. It is a character driven story focusing on a love triangle between Riley, our female main, Colton & Grayson, our male mains. They each have their own personalities and issues to contend with. The dynamic between the characters is brilliant and the chemistry is there. I would have preferred more spice and the relationships don't actually start until half way through. It is a very slow burn and build up, I felt it did drag on a little too long. I also was not a huge fan of the time jumping. Reading a romance moment one chapter and then jumping ahead several months the following chapter was jarring as it feels like an unnatural progression in a romance. Nothing happens within those empty months, which doesn't seem logical to me. I understand needing to move the story along but nearly every chapter is a time jump. I'm not a big fan of that, maybe one or two but not constant. Overall I enjoyed this book and now set up is done, I just know that book 2 will be much better.
❤️ Happy Reading ❤
October 27, 2022
RTC
Merged review:
Confession: I hate love triangle love stories, particularly because they hurt as badly as this one does. But I love Lylah James, and I was so madly in love with this world and so curious about just what was the future for Riley- just WHO this characters ended up being. But to get there, Lylah asked the most important question of all- not where they ended up but where they came from. WHO were they? And that answer is one fought with pain and adversity, one unique woven with authentic connection, with meaningful bonds. But bonds that are complicated. Bonds that challenge as much as they heal.
Make no mistake - this story has no resolution. In fact, it’s barely a beginning. This is more of a prequel than the story itself, as Lylah lays the foundations to the backstory of each of these complicated, broken, and mesmerizing characters. Resilience and trauma are evenly layered as she constructs our three leading centers. We have disgraced queen B Riley- a strong but fragile heroine who is repeatedly broken down by her world and those around her. We have Colton and Grayson, two very different guys who struggle with their own issues and baggage. One sweet, serious and patient, one flippant, impulsive, and prodding- but both connect with Riley in a unique way. All of them share a hard knocks type fraternity amongst them- the unspoken and invisible connection you have with others who have suffered and struggled like you have. They somehow support and unsettle each other all at once- inspire a vulnerability and strength that's needed.
Part of what makes a good love triangle so good is that there is not clear or obvious choice- that the choice actually FEELs just like that, a hard decision. That the heart is well and truly divide. A lot of authors write triangles where they were clearly one leading man. This isn’t that story- thought I certainly have my opinions. Lylah isn’t scared to settle us heavily in the gray of indecision and confusion. Both have merits. Both fit her heart and soul. There is no easy or obvious choice. It’s what makes a love triangle- and it’s also why I loathe them usually, the angst of it, the agony, the bittersweetness of the HEA. We don’t get our choice here, and with two more books to come, I doubt we’ll truly get it anytime soon. But we do have an epic cliffhanger that will leave you reeling for more, and we have the beginning that Lylah wanted to create- she gives us the DNA for the REAL story that is about to come. And I can already tell- it’s gonna really hurt.
Merged review:
Confession: I hate love triangle love stories, particularly because they hurt as badly as this one does. But I love Lylah James, and I was so madly in love with this world and so curious about just what was the future for Riley- just WHO this characters ended up being. But to get there, Lylah asked the most important question of all- not where they ended up but where they came from. WHO were they? And that answer is one fought with pain and adversity, one unique woven with authentic connection, with meaningful bonds. But bonds that are complicated. Bonds that challenge as much as they heal.
Make no mistake - this story has no resolution. In fact, it’s barely a beginning. This is more of a prequel than the story itself, as Lylah lays the foundations to the backstory of each of these complicated, broken, and mesmerizing characters. Resilience and trauma are evenly layered as she constructs our three leading centers. We have disgraced queen B Riley- a strong but fragile heroine who is repeatedly broken down by her world and those around her. We have Colton and Grayson, two very different guys who struggle with their own issues and baggage. One sweet, serious and patient, one flippant, impulsive, and prodding- but both connect with Riley in a unique way. All of them share a hard knocks type fraternity amongst them- the unspoken and invisible connection you have with others who have suffered and struggled like you have. They somehow support and unsettle each other all at once- inspire a vulnerability and strength that's needed.
Part of what makes a good love triangle so good is that there is not clear or obvious choice- that the choice actually FEELs just like that, a hard decision. That the heart is well and truly divide. A lot of authors write triangles where they were clearly one leading man. This isn’t that story- thought I certainly have my opinions. Lylah isn’t scared to settle us heavily in the gray of indecision and confusion. Both have merits. Both fit her heart and soul. There is no easy or obvious choice. It’s what makes a love triangle- and it’s also why I loathe them usually, the angst of it, the agony, the bittersweetness of the HEA. We don’t get our choice here, and with two more books to come, I doubt we’ll truly get it anytime soon. But we do have an epic cliffhanger that will leave you reeling for more, and we have the beginning that Lylah wanted to create- she gives us the DNA for the REAL story that is about to come. And I can already tell- it’s gonna really hurt.
November 3, 2022
*ARC received for an honest review*
The Beginning of Us is the first book in the Complicated US Trilogy. I have been waiting for this book since the moment i met the characters and I'm happy I finally got it. Ngl love triangle is probably my least favorite trope to ever exist. But I wanted to give this book a chance cause its Lylah. I was confident whatever she had in store for us would both break me and fix me. And I wasn't wrong. She absolutely destroyed me with this book and giving me the next book in a way to heal the pain 🥺
This book was so so good. My gawd it was a roller-coaster of emotions. All the characters have their own complexities, traumas and triggers that made them into the people they are. I have been Team Colton since the start and went into the book being indifferent towards Grayson but I ended up falling in love with him. And he is my favorite character. I love Riley and Colton too. All of their backstory is so heartbreaking. They are strong and don't let their past bring them down. Riley's moments with each of them was so amazing. With Grayson, it was filled with cute and sweet moments. With Colton, it was full of fire and passion. Ofc the book wouldn't be complete without Lylah's signature element, Angst. The angst was so intense, to the point where I wanted to shake the characters and make them to take a right decision.
I have been ColtonRiley since the start. And Im confident, I'm getting my endgame with the way that last chapter was hinting. Even if I would be so happy if it happens, that's not my main and only focus. I just want all the characters to be happy in the end and be thriving. And get along well with each other.
ALSO WHAT WAS THAT ENDING. 😭😭
If I didn't know what happens in the future, I would have jumped of a hill. That was torture. What the heck, Lylah? You will be the end of me, woman. I'm sending you my therapy bills. 🤨
Anyways, Lylah really outdid herself with this one. She knows how to capture someone's interest and hook them to her stories from the first page itself. I'm so glad she is back after a long hiatus and always serving us her amazing work.
I can't wait to read the next book and see who Riley will choose and who will be getting the last book in the Trilogy.
The Beginning of Us is the first book in the Complicated US Trilogy. I have been waiting for this book since the moment i met the characters and I'm happy I finally got it. Ngl love triangle is probably my least favorite trope to ever exist. But I wanted to give this book a chance cause its Lylah. I was confident whatever she had in store for us would both break me and fix me. And I wasn't wrong. She absolutely destroyed me with this book and giving me the next book in a way to heal the pain 🥺
This book was so so good. My gawd it was a roller-coaster of emotions. All the characters have their own complexities, traumas and triggers that made them into the people they are. I have been Team Colton since the start and went into the book being indifferent towards Grayson but I ended up falling in love with him. And he is my favorite character. I love Riley and Colton too. All of their backstory is so heartbreaking. They are strong and don't let their past bring them down. Riley's moments with each of them was so amazing. With Grayson, it was filled with cute and sweet moments. With Colton, it was full of fire and passion. Ofc the book wouldn't be complete without Lylah's signature element, Angst. The angst was so intense, to the point where I wanted to shake the characters and make them to take a right decision.
I have been ColtonRiley since the start. And Im confident, I'm getting my endgame with the way that last chapter was hinting. Even if I would be so happy if it happens, that's not my main and only focus. I just want all the characters to be happy in the end and be thriving. And get along well with each other.
ALSO WHAT WAS THAT ENDING. 😭😭
If I didn't know what happens in the future, I would have jumped of a hill. That was torture. What the heck, Lylah? You will be the end of me, woman. I'm sending you my therapy bills. 🤨
Anyways, Lylah really outdid herself with this one. She knows how to capture someone's interest and hook them to her stories from the first page itself. I'm so glad she is back after a long hiatus and always serving us her amazing work.
I can't wait to read the next book and see who Riley will choose and who will be getting the last book in the Trilogy.
October 26, 2022
MY RATING: 3.5*
RELEASE DATE: 19 October 2022
CLIFFHANGER: Yes
ARC was kindly provided for an honest review
I have to admit that it took me a minute to warm up and get into this book…simply because love triangles are not my jam. But I’m glad I did.
There was so much going on. There was heartbreak, angst, anger that you should expect to this author.
I loved how the author managed to highlight the similarities between people from all walks of life. How the rich have just as much heartache as the poor and vice versa. The book was well-written, it flowed well and sucked you in from page one to the end…
However, as I said I had a hard time staying in the story. While I recognise that it was simply a setting up and introduction of the characters and story, there were some elements in so doing that felt unfinished and in some places jumpy.
Having said, I was entertained and look forward to the rest of the series.
Merged review:
MY RATING: 3.5*
RELEASE DATE: 19 October 2022
CLIFFHANGER: Yes
ARC was kindly provided for an honest review
I have to admit that it took me a minute to warm up and get into this book…simply because love triangles are not my jam. But I’m glad I did.
There was so much going on. There was heartbreak, angst, anger that you should expect to this author.
I loved how the author managed to highlight the similarities between people from all walks of life. How the rich have just as much heartache as the poor and vice versa. The book was well-written, it flowed well and sucked you in from page one to the end…
However, as I said I had a hard time staying in the story. While I recognise that it was simply a setting up and introduction of the characters and story, there were some elements in so doing that felt unfinished and in some places jumpy.
Having said, I was entertained and look forward to the rest of the series.
October 19, 2022
arc provided in exchange for an honest review:
firstly let me clarify that I absolutely despise love triangles but after reading do u dare I became so intrigued w these characters, I wanted to see how Lylah would pull this off. And wow, I acc ended up not hating the way this was executed.
This wasn’t an annoying love triangle where the heroine strings along two men, but rather it’s her love story w both of them at different points in her life.
Going into this book Lylah warned us to not expect the usual romance we’re used to from her, but I acc loved what she ended up doing w the characters and their stories.
Riley was so strong— I loved how she overcame things we saw her deal w in so you dare while still seeing her struggle and be human. She feels like such a raw and real character. Her friendship w Lila is everything and I’m so happy we got to see how that started.
Grayson- He’s my fav🥺 idk if he’s endgame or not, tho I’m really praying he is, but I love him nonetheless. He gave me all the butterflies 🦋 He’s the quiet closed off nice guy that acc treats Riley well. He gives her a yellow flower everyday and- sign- he reads😩 but he also has a possessive side! from the very start my heart broke for him and what he went through… I wish we got to see more of his backstory play out but I’m sure we will in the second book!
Colton- he disappointed me tbh. I still think he is redeemable but I had the same issues w him as I did w Maddox. He doesn’t treat Riley well, or women for that matter, and it’s all for absolutely no reason other than his own history. In the beginning and latter part of the book he says some nasty things to her that personally idk if I can get past. I’ve always been more of a bad boy kinda girl but he is just not it for me.
As always the writing is incredible and so heartfelt. You can truly tell that Lylah puts her heart into every book she puts out.
Also the way that ended??? that was not ok. Not. Ok. I need book two right now!!
If u love angst and complex but, for the most part, lovable characters than this is the book for you!
firstly let me clarify that I absolutely despise love triangles but after reading do u dare I became so intrigued w these characters, I wanted to see how Lylah would pull this off. And wow, I acc ended up not hating the way this was executed.
This wasn’t an annoying love triangle where the heroine strings along two men, but rather it’s her love story w both of them at different points in her life.
Going into this book Lylah warned us to not expect the usual romance we’re used to from her, but I acc loved what she ended up doing w the characters and their stories.
Riley was so strong— I loved how she overcame things we saw her deal w in so you dare while still seeing her struggle and be human. She feels like such a raw and real character. Her friendship w Lila is everything and I’m so happy we got to see how that started.
Grayson- He’s my fav🥺 idk if he’s endgame or not, tho I’m really praying he is, but I love him nonetheless. He gave me all the butterflies 🦋 He’s the quiet closed off nice guy that acc treats Riley well. He gives her a yellow flower everyday and- sign- he reads😩 but he also has a possessive side! from the very start my heart broke for him and what he went through… I wish we got to see more of his backstory play out but I’m sure we will in the second book!
Colton- he disappointed me tbh. I still think he is redeemable but I had the same issues w him as I did w Maddox. He doesn’t treat Riley well, or women for that matter, and it’s all for absolutely no reason other than his own history. In the beginning and latter part of the book he says some nasty things to her that personally idk if I can get past. I’ve always been more of a bad boy kinda girl but he is just not it for me.
As always the writing is incredible and so heartfelt. You can truly tell that Lylah puts her heart into every book she puts out.
Also the way that ended??? that was not ok. Not. Ok. I need book two right now!!
If u love angst and complex but, for the most part, lovable characters than this is the book for you!
October 20, 2022
Thank you very much Laylah and Candy Kane PR agency for Arc.
It was a new level. I find it very difficult to describe my condition after the book. In one word it was explosive and I still can't hold back my tears from certain moments. I thought Lylah James couldn't hurt anymore like in the book Mafia and his angel but she surpassed it all. She is my queen I can't understand how long I waited for her book. I didn't really like the triangle in regards to books but this book was all I needed. But still, I chose Team Grayson. He fell into my heart the first time I read about him I felt this character with every fiber of my heart.Now this book establishes their story. As individuals and as a kind of love triangle. I really think it was necessary to see how these three get to where they are and what experiences will lead them.
Each has their own story to tell. Their own trauma and their own journey, and I loved learning the basics of what drives them. My heart broke for each of them, but again for me Grayson stood out. Sometimes I think this world doesn't deserve him.🥺 He is a loving brother the kindest and best person. I still can't understand how the cruel world hasn't destroyed that side of him. I so want him to stay with Riley.
Also there is Colton who acts like he is cruel and sassy, fun but there was also his other side that wasn't seen by many. My heart ached so much for him his childhood in one word crap. But I can see why a lot of people choose to pair Riley and Colton. They had some really sweet scenes and it was really nice to read their relationship on Colton's behalf.
Riley is a blurry character for me I kept missing the details. On one side I understood her on the other side I didn't. He's very self-absorbed I felt so bad about her pain I was so pissed off at her parents if you can even call them that, they're so rotten. Who put so much psychological pressure on her.
This book broke my heart I'm so looking forward to the second book to understand the sequel........
It was a new level. I find it very difficult to describe my condition after the book. In one word it was explosive and I still can't hold back my tears from certain moments. I thought Lylah James couldn't hurt anymore like in the book Mafia and his angel but she surpassed it all. She is my queen I can't understand how long I waited for her book. I didn't really like the triangle in regards to books but this book was all I needed. But still, I chose Team Grayson. He fell into my heart the first time I read about him I felt this character with every fiber of my heart.Now this book establishes their story. As individuals and as a kind of love triangle. I really think it was necessary to see how these three get to where they are and what experiences will lead them.
Each has their own story to tell. Their own trauma and their own journey, and I loved learning the basics of what drives them. My heart broke for each of them, but again for me Grayson stood out. Sometimes I think this world doesn't deserve him.🥺 He is a loving brother the kindest and best person. I still can't understand how the cruel world hasn't destroyed that side of him. I so want him to stay with Riley.
Also there is Colton who acts like he is cruel and sassy, fun but there was also his other side that wasn't seen by many. My heart ached so much for him his childhood in one word crap. But I can see why a lot of people choose to pair Riley and Colton. They had some really sweet scenes and it was really nice to read their relationship on Colton's behalf.
Riley is a blurry character for me I kept missing the details. On one side I understood her on the other side I didn't. He's very self-absorbed I felt so bad about her pain I was so pissed off at her parents if you can even call them that, they're so rotten. Who put so much psychological pressure on her.
This book broke my heart I'm so looking forward to the second book to understand the sequel........
October 20, 2022
I knew their story was going to be angsty. I knew it was gonna break my heart... Boy, I was not prepared. When you say to yourself that you know Lylah James and her writing. That you're a clown for her characters. Are you really? Because yes, you're a clown for underestimating. I feel like her writing just gets more angsty and more heartbreaking.
Don't get me started on that cliffhanger. It wrecked me. I lost track of how many times I cried reading this book. I loved getting to know more of Grayson. We didn't see him much in Lila and Maddox's duet but I love him him. That cliffhanger BROKE ME. BUT I still love Colton more. I'm sorry but I do. Actually, no. I'm not sorry. It's called loyalty. I am a Colton stan and that'll never change.🙈
I can't wait to see hiw their stories align, respectively, with their love interest(s). December cannot come quick enough.
𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕:
• boy(s) obsessed (Grayson + Colton)
• light bully romance (Colton)
• a broody Colton
• Rivalry (Colton + Riley/Colton + Grayson)
• Forced Proximity (Colton + Riley)
• Grumpy x sunshine elements
• He falls first (Colton)
• High School romance
• Love triangle (RileyxGrayson/RileyxColton)
• Mental Health Rep
• Socialites
• Unrequited love (Colton + Riley)
October 22, 2022
4.5 🌟
🌼🧺🦋🎡🍊💔
i want to start off my saying that i absolutely despise love triangles which is why i don’t read them. but something about this intrigued me and i like lylah’s writing so i thought i should give it a try!
was not expecting to literally stay up until 5am just to finish this book in one day! i absolutely love reading heart wrenching angst that just makes you cry and want to throw up. like i literally felt the bile rising in my throat many times while reading this lol.
but wow. i really like that this book was set up in a way that mostly focused on each character’s own story rather than diving straight into the romance. instead of having a few flashbacks thrown in, we literally see how these characters grow and all of the dark secrets and traumas that they face. it really made you feel deeply for the characters. they truly all deserve their own happy ending with all the hardships that they’ve all faced. i love both grayson and colton but it’s definitely clear who she should/will end up with… this book does end on a cliff hanger and i just hope the next book comes asap cause i need more!! i also heard that whoever she doesn’t end up with gets his own happy ending in book 3 so i’m excited for that too!!! 😭❤️🩹
🌼🧺🦋🎡🍊💔
i want to start off my saying that i absolutely despise love triangles which is why i don’t read them. but something about this intrigued me and i like lylah’s writing so i thought i should give it a try!
was not expecting to literally stay up until 5am just to finish this book in one day! i absolutely love reading heart wrenching angst that just makes you cry and want to throw up. like i literally felt the bile rising in my throat many times while reading this lol.
but wow. i really like that this book was set up in a way that mostly focused on each character’s own story rather than diving straight into the romance. instead of having a few flashbacks thrown in, we literally see how these characters grow and all of the dark secrets and traumas that they face. it really made you feel deeply for the characters. they truly all deserve their own happy ending with all the hardships that they’ve all faced. i love both grayson and colton but it’s definitely clear who she should/will end up with… this book does end on a cliff hanger and i just hope the next book comes asap cause i need more!! i also heard that whoever she doesn’t end up with gets his own happy ending in book 3 so i’m excited for that too!!! 😭❤️🩹
October 19, 2022
THIS BOOK WRECKED ME. I CRIED READING IT
One word- heartbreaking
This book made me go through so many emotions and I had tears in my eyes reading some scenes. I read it in a day because I couldn’t stop. It was so addicting.
Ok so I was always team Colton and even before starting the book I had made up my mind to not get attached to Grayson. I didn’t think I would get attached to Grayson but alas I shouldn’t have ever underestimated Lylah. I fell in love with Grayson along with Riley and Colton. You cannot help but love all three of them and root for them throughout the book.
All three have their own stories and I feel like this book is so much more than a love triangle and is about how broken all of them are and about their individual struggles and journey.
That’s the way I would describe these three- broken but still so brave and beautiful.
I won’t spoil anything so I would just say that I don’t care anymore who Riley end up with and now I just want all three of them to get their happy ending. Goshh they deserve it. I’m rooting for all three of them.
AND THE WAIT FOR SECOND BOOK IS GOING TO KILL ME😭
One word- heartbreaking
This book made me go through so many emotions and I had tears in my eyes reading some scenes. I read it in a day because I couldn’t stop. It was so addicting.
Ok so I was always team Colton and even before starting the book I had made up my mind to not get attached to Grayson. I didn’t think I would get attached to Grayson but alas I shouldn’t have ever underestimated Lylah. I fell in love with Grayson along with Riley and Colton. You cannot help but love all three of them and root for them throughout the book.
All three have their own stories and I feel like this book is so much more than a love triangle and is about how broken all of them are and about their individual struggles and journey.
That’s the way I would describe these three- broken but still so brave and beautiful.
I won’t spoil anything so I would just say that I don’t care anymore who Riley end up with and now I just want all three of them to get their happy ending. Goshh they deserve it. I’m rooting for all three of them.
AND THE WAIT FOR SECOND BOOK IS GOING TO KILL ME😭
October 23, 2022
Author: Lylah James
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶/5
Enjoyment: 5/5
Series: Book 1
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA: No
KU: Yes
POV: Multiple , first person
Main Characters: Riley, Colton, and Grayson
Tropes: love triangle, high school/college, slowburn
The Beginning of Us is a love triangle, but it's more than that. It is the story of 3 individuals and their tragedies. Starting at age 14/15 we meet 3 characters that haven't had easy lives. This book is filled with angst, agony, heartbreak, roller-coaster of emotions, banter, and so much more.
I have been team Colton since Maddox and Lila's duet. The few glances we got of him and Riley in their book had me intrigued.
I pre-ordered the next book at chapter 10. I did not want to put this book down I was so invested in their stories.
I need the next book now!!! This author is known for her Cliffhangers, and this one did not disappoint!!!!!
This book was definitely needed. Lots of background information and character develops.
Not alot of steam, but this is a definitely a must read!!!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶/5
Enjoyment: 5/5
Series: Book 1
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA: No
KU: Yes
POV: Multiple , first person
Main Characters: Riley, Colton, and Grayson
Tropes: love triangle, high school/college, slowburn
The Beginning of Us is a love triangle, but it's more than that. It is the story of 3 individuals and their tragedies. Starting at age 14/15 we meet 3 characters that haven't had easy lives. This book is filled with angst, agony, heartbreak, roller-coaster of emotions, banter, and so much more.
I have been team Colton since Maddox and Lila's duet. The few glances we got of him and Riley in their book had me intrigued.
I pre-ordered the next book at chapter 10. I did not want to put this book down I was so invested in their stories.
I need the next book now!!! This author is known for her Cliffhangers, and this one did not disappoint!!!!!
This book was definitely needed. Lots of background information and character develops.
Not alot of steam, but this is a definitely a must read!!!!
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