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Bring Me Back
A contemporary romance about hope, mental health, and the healing power of love.
After surviving a suicide attempt, Phoenix Bridges has been given a second chance at life—one she isn’t sure what to do with. When she’s released from a psychiatric treatment center, she moves into her family’s old shore house in New Jersey to figure out how to start over. She expects the town to be desolate in the winter months.
What she doesn’t anticipate is the gorgeous, brooding cop who lives next door.
James Russo blames himself for being unable to save his mother years ago. Now he’s made it his life’s mission to help everyone he can. So when he catches a glimpse of his beautiful new neighbor crying through her bedroom window, he’s determined to be her refuge.
Sparks fly as they grow close and share their tragic pasts. But when danger unexpectedly strikes, James is helpless to stop it as Phoenix gets caught in the crossfire.
Will Phoenix fight for the life she never wanted, or will James lose the one he loves all over again?
*TW: This book contains some sensitive subject matter.
REVIEWS:
★★★★★ "Beautiful, emotional, and so steamy. James and Nix's story is haunting and unputdownable. FIVE STARS!!!" -Tia Louise, USA Today bestselling author
★★★★★ “A heartfelt love letter to those struggling with life, loss and even acceptance. Nix and James are the perfect example of how love can open your eyes to a new perspective and help guide you through darkness into hope. Emotional, thought provoking and overflowing with romance that will leave you looking out the window wishing your next door neighbor was a hot, broody cop.” -Cambria Hebert, Bestselling Author
★★★★★ “A plot that was a mix of emotional healing, suspense, gasp-worthy—and holy hotness, that made this powerful story absolutely epic!” -ARC Reader
★★★★★ “Wow. This book has left me speechless. Heartwarming, beautiful, emotional, and spicy. I truly did not know how much I needed this book until I was reading it.” -ARC Reader
After surviving a suicide attempt, Phoenix Bridges has been given a second chance at life—one she isn’t sure what to do with. When she’s released from a psychiatric treatment center, she moves into her family’s old shore house in New Jersey to figure out how to start over. She expects the town to be desolate in the winter months.
What she doesn’t anticipate is the gorgeous, brooding cop who lives next door.
James Russo blames himself for being unable to save his mother years ago. Now he’s made it his life’s mission to help everyone he can. So when he catches a glimpse of his beautiful new neighbor crying through her bedroom window, he’s determined to be her refuge.
Sparks fly as they grow close and share their tragic pasts. But when danger unexpectedly strikes, James is helpless to stop it as Phoenix gets caught in the crossfire.
Will Phoenix fight for the life she never wanted, or will James lose the one he loves all over again?
*TW: This book contains some sensitive subject matter.
REVIEWS:
★★★★★ "Beautiful, emotional, and so steamy. James and Nix's story is haunting and unputdownable. FIVE STARS!!!" -Tia Louise, USA Today bestselling author
★★★★★ “A heartfelt love letter to those struggling with life, loss and even acceptance. Nix and James are the perfect example of how love can open your eyes to a new perspective and help guide you through darkness into hope. Emotional, thought provoking and overflowing with romance that will leave you looking out the window wishing your next door neighbor was a hot, broody cop.” -Cambria Hebert, Bestselling Author
★★★★★ “A plot that was a mix of emotional healing, suspense, gasp-worthy—and holy hotness, that made this powerful story absolutely epic!” -ARC Reader
★★★★★ “Wow. This book has left me speechless. Heartwarming, beautiful, emotional, and spicy. I truly did not know how much I needed this book until I was reading it.” -ARC Reader
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2022
1968 people are currently reading
15460 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Granata
19 books2,977 followersKristen Granata is a bestselling romance author known for writing inspirational, emotional stories with realistic characters who struggle through the darkest parts of life and come out stronger on the other side.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2zblG7G
Instagram: https://bit.ly/34LUfge
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3xOqPMm
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3cuvtEg
Kristen openly shares her mental health struggles with depression and anxiety. Her message is a beacon of hope to anyone who is suffering: You are not alone. She delicately weaves this theme into her writing, and demonstrates the ability of love to heal after tragedy.
When she's not teaching or writing, Kristen is reading, tripping over something, indulging in her messy love affair with popcorn, and annoying her wife and step-daughters by incessantly singing along to The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
Kristen was born in Brooklyn, New York. She currently lives in New Jersey with her wife & her two step-daughters.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2zblG7G
Instagram: https://bit.ly/34LUfge
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3xOqPMm
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3cuvtEg
Kristen openly shares her mental health struggles with depression and anxiety. Her message is a beacon of hope to anyone who is suffering: You are not alone. She delicately weaves this theme into her writing, and demonstrates the ability of love to heal after tragedy.
When she's not teaching or writing, Kristen is reading, tripping over something, indulging in her messy love affair with popcorn, and annoying her wife and step-daughters by incessantly singing along to The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
Kristen was born in Brooklyn, New York. She currently lives in New Jersey with her wife & her two step-daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,130 reviews
September 18, 2022
DNF 46%
It felt like a book written by someone who used their characters to say what they always wanted to tell someone or wanted to be told by someone. The dialogues felt too much like a ‘having an answer for everything’ in a sense that it wasn’t realistic for me anymore. The patient became the therapist for everyone who let her speak.
I want to ride my boat on tragedy. And this book felt like an involuntary therapy session. I can’t say anything about their love story since it hasn’t started yet at this point.
Oh and… what is a cooking session without spices? What about msg? Sauces? Where comes the taste from? Did they just throw everything in a pan and then it was the most delicious thing ever? I am nitpicking, I know.
It felt like a book written by someone who used their characters to say what they always wanted to tell someone or wanted to be told by someone. The dialogues felt too much like a ‘having an answer for everything’ in a sense that it wasn’t realistic for me anymore. The patient became the therapist for everyone who let her speak.
I want to ride my boat on tragedy. And this book felt like an involuntary therapy session. I can’t say anything about their love story since it hasn’t started yet at this point.
Oh and… what is a cooking session without spices? What about msg? Sauces? Where comes the taste from? Did they just throw everything in a pan and then it was the most delicious thing ever? I am nitpicking, I know.
May 13, 2023
I dropped it at 56%.
Now, I get it, okay? Depression is different for everyone, and I understand that the author had gone through something similar.
HOWEVER, this book wasn’t written properly. I feel like it had too much potential, but it fell flat. The characters were… they had no proper characterization. Every time the topic of mental health or struggles came up, it read like a self-help book. The dialogues, both in and out of such scenes, were dramatic, cringy, and just awkward. Also, this moved way too damn fast for what should be the appropriate pace for a book like this one; tell me why at like 10% she’s insinuating personal things to practical strangers??? It felt very incredibly unrealistic to me.
What sealed the nail for me, however, was when the FMC informed the MMC of her suicide attempt and he flipped out on her and blamed her for her depression. He belittled her, called her weak and selfish. He told her she hadn’t tried hard enough, and that he can’t “be with someone like her.”
God, can someone be even more pathetic? Like, I get it. Dude’s mother committed suicide as well and he was the one who found her, so I understand his trauma. But this? To tell her—you know what? I’m just going to put up some quotes here because I’m enraged:
Dumb FUCK. The fact that she trusted him enough to tell him and he did this to her.
God fucking damn it, this son of a fucking bitch
I’ve hated so many MMCs before but this one really slides up in the ranking
Throw the whole fucking man away. He doesn’t even deserve to be recycled. This motherfucker.
Now, I get it, okay? Depression is different for everyone, and I understand that the author had gone through something similar.
HOWEVER, this book wasn’t written properly. I feel like it had too much potential, but it fell flat. The characters were… they had no proper characterization. Every time the topic of mental health or struggles came up, it read like a self-help book. The dialogues, both in and out of such scenes, were dramatic, cringy, and just awkward. Also, this moved way too damn fast for what should be the appropriate pace for a book like this one; tell me why at like 10% she’s insinuating personal things to practical strangers??? It felt very incredibly unrealistic to me.
What sealed the nail for me, however, was when the FMC informed the MMC of her suicide attempt and he flipped out on her and blamed her for her depression. He belittled her, called her weak and selfish. He told her she hadn’t tried hard enough, and that he can’t “be with someone like her.”
God, can someone be even more pathetic? Like, I get it. Dude’s mother committed suicide as well and he was the one who found her, so I understand his trauma. But this? To tell her—you know what? I’m just going to put up some quotes here because I’m enraged:
“You… you slit your wrist?”
A tear slides down her cheek as she nods. “Yes.”
“Why would you do that?”
“I just wanted the pain to stop. I didn’t know what else to do.”
A bitter laugh rips from my chest, and it doesn’t sound like my own. “You couldn’t figure out that you needed to go to therapy instead of killing yourself?”
Dumb FUCK. The fact that she trusted him enough to tell him and he did this to her.
“It was a mistake that almost cost you your life. How could you do something so selfish?”
“It’s not selfish, James. It’s depression.”
“What about your family? Did you think about how they would feel after you died? No wonder your family doesn’t want anything to do with you.”
God fucking damn it, this son of a fucking bitch
Phoenix muffles a sob and follows me into the hallway. “Wait. James, please don’t leave. Let’s talk about this.”
“Talk?” I spin around. “How can you expect me to stay after what you just told me?”
“I… I don’t know. I understand this brings up a lot for you, and that’s why I wanted to talk to you about it.”
“No, you don’t understand. You don’t have a fucking clue. Do you know why? Because you aren’t the one who was left by choice. You’re the one who made a selfish decision that affected everyone else in your life except you. You hurt everyone who loved you, and you told them that they didn’t matter enough.”
I’ve hated so many MMCs before but this one really slides up in the ranking
I stab the air with my finger. “You could’ve done better. You could’ve tried harder. Anything! You could’ve done anything except for killing yourself. How could you even think of doing that?” My own cheeks are wet now as I toss the words at her like daggers. “Phoenix, I can’t be with someone like you.”
I seriously wish the kid who shot him killed him
Throw the whole fucking man away. He doesn’t even deserve to be recycled. This motherfucker.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2023
DNF @ 37%
Stoped reading when I read “Colleen Hoover is the best.”
Hell no
I have more self respect than that
Regardless if the book was going well, anyone with thoughts that align with that statement is WRONG
Stoped reading when I read “Colleen Hoover is the best.”
Hell no
I have more self respect than that
Regardless if the book was going well, anyone with thoughts that align with that statement is WRONG
July 27, 2022
I LOVED this book!
BRING ME BACK by Kristen Granata is live & available on Kindle Unlimited!
The heroine is a suicide survivor & she moves right next door to a broody cop. And by “next door” I mean she can see directly into his bedroom window 🥵
👉🏼 Suicide survivor heroine
👉🏼 Broody cop hero
👉🏼 Pit bull rescue
👉🏼 Next door neighbors
👉🏼 Handcuffs (need I say more?)
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3zzrNPM
BRING ME BACK by Kristen Granata is live & available on Kindle Unlimited!
The heroine is a suicide survivor & she moves right next door to a broody cop. And by “next door” I mean she can see directly into his bedroom window 🥵
👉🏼 Suicide survivor heroine
👉🏼 Broody cop hero
👉🏼 Pit bull rescue
👉🏼 Next door neighbors
👉🏼 Handcuffs (need I say more?)
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3zzrNPM
June 24, 2023
Considering the good reviews, I’m not sure if I read the same book as other people because this was a flop. The premise of the book is good but the writing was so cringe and awful. If this wasn’t my book club book I would’ve DNF’d this after the third time I read “I got your six.”
August 16, 2022
Absolutely fucking no.
July 25, 2022
I knew as soon as I saw the synopsis for this one, it was going to be my favorite Kristen Granata to date. But what I didn’t know, is how emotional it was going to make me throughout the entire book, with parts completely gutting me.
As someone who struggles on and off with depression, the representation in this one was amazing. I felt for Phoenix so deeply; my heart really went out to her. Her character development throughout the entire book was so well written. And those Russo men! My whole entire heart. I wanted to hug every single one of them. Especially Leo. Talk about character development! What an amazing turn around and friend. I could feel James’ love for Phoenix through the pages every time I read his POV. That punching bag scene completely BROKE ME. (IYKYK 😭) The steam and tension between Phoenix & James was so on point. I loved this one so much and will be thinking about every single person in this book for a long time. 4.5 ⭐️ (rounded to 5)
A HUGE, HUGE thank you to Kristen Granata for having me be a part of her arc team & for sending this one over! Check out Bring Me Back on its pub date 7/27!
(TW: suicide, suicide attempt, depression, loss of parent, addiction, strained family relationships)
As someone who struggles on and off with depression, the representation in this one was amazing. I felt for Phoenix so deeply; my heart really went out to her. Her character development throughout the entire book was so well written. And those Russo men! My whole entire heart. I wanted to hug every single one of them. Especially Leo. Talk about character development! What an amazing turn around and friend. I could feel James’ love for Phoenix through the pages every time I read his POV. That punching bag scene completely BROKE ME. (IYKYK 😭) The steam and tension between Phoenix & James was so on point. I loved this one so much and will be thinking about every single person in this book for a long time. 4.5 ⭐️ (rounded to 5)
A HUGE, HUGE thank you to Kristen Granata for having me be a part of her arc team & for sending this one over! Check out Bring Me Back on its pub date 7/27!
(TW: suicide, suicide attempt, depression, loss of parent, addiction, strained family relationships)
April 11, 2023
The beginning of this book was good. Nothing special really. Just one of those romance books that you read really fast, enjoy most of the ride but it's nothing memorable enough to make it to your top list.
But after maybe 30% (or even less), things started to decline. And it happened really fast.
First it was the dialogue. Imagine you take it out all the clichés that you ever read in a book or saw in a romcom and put them in the middle of a book mixed it up with every single predictable thing that came out of self help book at the beginning of the 00's. That's how the two main characters communicated.
Then we had the third act conflict that happened at 57% of the book. A conflict caused by the main girl's depression and the ISSUE that the guy had with it because of his mom.
If you're not prepared to be with someone with a mental health issue is one thing, if you have traumas related to anything and the other person triggers that in you and you have to keep your distance is also fine. BUT WHAT'S NOT EVER FINE IS YOU TREATING THE OTHER PERSON LIKE COMPLETE SHIT AND SAYING A BUNCH OF REALLY HURTFUL THINGS JUST BECAUSE THEY HAVE DEPRESSION.
That is completely unacceptable and something that a romance author should never use as a conflict just for the guy a couple of pages later to realise not by himself, but being told by his younger brother how shitty that was.
A mediocre apology and we, like our main girl, just have to forget every single thing he said and move on.
Happily ever after my ass.
And let's not even talk about the drama and the "plot twist" that happened out of nowhere at 90% of this book.
Overall, this was a MESS IN THE WORST WAY POSSIBLE.
But after maybe 30% (or even less), things started to decline. And it happened really fast.
First it was the dialogue. Imagine you take it out all the clichés that you ever read in a book or saw in a romcom and put them in the middle of a book mixed it up with every single predictable thing that came out of self help book at the beginning of the 00's. That's how the two main characters communicated.
Then we had the third act conflict that happened at 57% of the book. A conflict caused by the main girl's depression and the ISSUE that the guy had with it because of his mom.
If you're not prepared to be with someone with a mental health issue is one thing, if you have traumas related to anything and the other person triggers that in you and you have to keep your distance is also fine. BUT WHAT'S NOT EVER FINE IS YOU TREATING THE OTHER PERSON LIKE COMPLETE SHIT AND SAYING A BUNCH OF REALLY HURTFUL THINGS JUST BECAUSE THEY HAVE DEPRESSION.
That is completely unacceptable and something that a romance author should never use as a conflict just for the guy a couple of pages later to realise not by himself, but being told by his younger brother how shitty that was.
A mediocre apology and we, like our main girl, just have to forget every single thing he said and move on.
Happily ever after my ass.
And let's not even talk about the drama and the "plot twist" that happened out of nowhere at 90% of this book.
Overall, this was a MESS IN THE WORST WAY POSSIBLE.
November 30, 2022
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Overall I really enjoyed this book and despite the heavy subject matter it was a fun story to read. The characters were interesting in their own way and I thought it was great how we got to see the heroine and hero each having their own struggles and dealing with them in different ways.
But even though I enjoyed it there were things that I didn't like all that much. Mostly the pacing of the story that sometimes felt a little too rushed. Like the heroine was constantly having these events happen one after the other, like break ins, fight clubs, and family drama. It made it feel never ending and from one problem to the next there wasn't enough time always to really see the effects. And then there were the real life author references that honestly felt really weird. The heroine and hero reading together was really cute but bringing up an actual book by Kandi Steiner and even going into detail about it was just odd in my opinion.
Maybe that sounds like I hated the book, but I really didn't. I loved the emotions and the romance was very sweet. I also adored the connection Nix had with James' brother Leo. This definitely won't be my last book from this author.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Overall I really enjoyed this book and despite the heavy subject matter it was a fun story to read. The characters were interesting in their own way and I thought it was great how we got to see the heroine and hero each having their own struggles and dealing with them in different ways.
But even though I enjoyed it there were things that I didn't like all that much. Mostly the pacing of the story that sometimes felt a little too rushed. Like the heroine was constantly having these events happen one after the other, like break ins, fight clubs, and family drama. It made it feel never ending and from one problem to the next there wasn't enough time always to really see the effects. And then there were the real life author references that honestly felt really weird. The heroine and hero reading together was really cute but bringing up an actual book by Kandi Steiner and even going into detail about it was just odd in my opinion.
Maybe that sounds like I hated the book, but I really didn't. I loved the emotions and the romance was very sweet. I also adored the connection Nix had with James' brother Leo. This definitely won't be my last book from this author.
December 27, 2023
check tws🤍 I loved this one🥺
March 18, 2024
“And James?”
“Yes, beautiful?”
“Bring your bossy pants.”
This was like a hallmark movie. It was cheesy and lacking depth and I’ll never think about it again.
“Yes, beautiful?”
“Bring your bossy pants.”
This was like a hallmark movie. It was cheesy and lacking depth and I’ll never think about it again.
December 26, 2022
There are three Queens in my Emotional Romance castle, sitting on their thrones side by side in all their power and glory: Colleen Hoover, Brittainy C. Cherry and Kristen Granata.
If you know me, you know Kristen is one of my absolute favorite authors. Her books changed my life in the most literal sense. They have gotten me through very dark times in the last few years and made me fall in love with this genre in a way I didn’t know I could. Her words make me feel. Not only do they make me fall in love with the couple, with their stories and with love. They make me feel hopeful, because she describes exactly how I feel, how I often see myself when I’m down and she tells me through these stories what I need to hear in order to push through. Ever heard saying that a book is a reflection of its author? I’ve always believed that. And if you follow Kristen on social media, you’ll see her heart reflected in every single one of her books.
Bring me Back is a very vivid example of that. I would’ve devoured this book in one sitting if it wasn’t because I had to be a responsible adult and pay attention to life. I felt like I was swallowed by the story. And as soon as I finished it, I wanted to go back to page one and read it all over again so bad that I’m sad that I’m never going to be able to experience it for the first time ever again! Yes. That. Freaking. Good. I’m not sure if a review will ever do justice to my feelings about this book, but I’m going to try.
Phoenix and James were so captivating, lovable and intriguing by themselves and as a couple. Their chemistry was so natural. I genuinely laughed out loud with their banter and cried like a baby with all the situations that got them together. They found in each other the sweetest, most wholesome love but also a family they both needed so hard. Kristen created two pieces of one same heart that fit their cracked spots together so perfectly in every way. Kristen always digs deep into the heart of her characters, bringing out the good, bad and the ugly to the surface of every page in such a beautiful way, this time she put on the gear and the snorkel and not only did she dive all the way into the darkest places, but she healed everything from the inside out.
Phoenix was the most relatable heroine ever. I cried so hard reading her POV. I connected with her instantly. I am not a suicide survivor, but I’ve struggled with suicidal thoughts in the past. My heart ached with hers and her desire to fight for her life and turn things around. Her struggle with depression was so real and I felt my heart heal a little as she literally put on the armor and hit right back like the damn warrior she was. I loved that it was that same strength that gave her the drive to fight for everyone around her, especially for James. She knew she deserved a love like that. She went all in. She was vulnerable, open and so incredibly passionate. She allowed herself to dream and love again in a way that made my heart soar. Her relationship with James’ family was to die for and her love for little Wilbur melted my heart. I loved how quickly she clicked with them and how quickly she became one of them. Her friendship with Leo was friendship goals! (ehem… cough* cough* Is Leo’s story next? no pressure but… is it?). She was such a real, refreshing and inspiring character to read. In every inner thought, daily affirmation and words of wisdom she spoke, I felt my heart healing a little more.
James. My beautiful, sexy police officer James. Before I talk about how much I love him, I need to say this: TJ (Fighting the Odds will always be the holy patron of Kristen Granata’s church. Bryce (Someone You Love) is the saint on his left side and Officer James Freaking Russo is sitting on his right side performing miracles on his own. Holy mother of all things swoony and sexy… This guy is book boyfriend goals! The guy was made of all the sweetness of this world. I had to stop and sigh several times with the things he said and did, not only for Phoenix but for others. He was a guy who cared so deeply that was willing to give up his own life for the ones he loved. I loved to see him and Leo bickering, seeing him in action as a police officer and making Phoenix feel safe and cared for, without even knowing that she was saving him and helping him heal all along. He was what Phoenix needed in his entirety. His willingness to heal, to learn, to put himself in a position to not just be who everyone needed but also to let others in and help him too… aaaaahhh… I squealed for half of the book seeing his growth and healing journey. And also… A uniform never read this hot before… damn!
Their cooking lessons, reading Romance books together, saving puppies, giving each other what they needed... Lord have mercy, every time I thought it couldn’t get any better they proved me wrong over and over again. Their relationship flowed so beautifully and naturally and I loved every single second of their banter and every single moment that got them closer together. My heart was fluttering and felt so gooey with so many romantic gestures and moments when they were simply there for one another. Little moments that might’ve seemed simple but meant the world. I couldn’t put the book down, it was wholesome, romantic and holy hotness, all the steam coming out of my kindle. My friends, sexy times in this book are off the freaking charts (yep, handcuffs and a uniform may or may not be involved). A plot that was a mix of emotional, healing, suspenseful and gasp worthy at the same time that made this powerful story absolutely epic!
I’m not surprised, Kristen always does that. She did it again as I knew she would. There is a space in my heart for this story and also in my favorite bookshelf right next to the rest of her books. I am in awe of this masterpiece. If you’ve loved Kristen’s book in the past, mark your calendars for July 27th and don’t miss this amazing story. And if you haven’t read anything by her, I beg you to give this author a chance. Her writing is something no Romance reader should ever miss.
A hundred million thanks to Kristen Granata for gifting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I look up to you as a beautiful human being, a badass warrior and the incredibly talented author you are.
If you know me, you know Kristen is one of my absolute favorite authors. Her books changed my life in the most literal sense. They have gotten me through very dark times in the last few years and made me fall in love with this genre in a way I didn’t know I could. Her words make me feel. Not only do they make me fall in love with the couple, with their stories and with love. They make me feel hopeful, because she describes exactly how I feel, how I often see myself when I’m down and she tells me through these stories what I need to hear in order to push through. Ever heard saying that a book is a reflection of its author? I’ve always believed that. And if you follow Kristen on social media, you’ll see her heart reflected in every single one of her books.
Bring me Back is a very vivid example of that. I would’ve devoured this book in one sitting if it wasn’t because I had to be a responsible adult and pay attention to life. I felt like I was swallowed by the story. And as soon as I finished it, I wanted to go back to page one and read it all over again so bad that I’m sad that I’m never going to be able to experience it for the first time ever again! Yes. That. Freaking. Good. I’m not sure if a review will ever do justice to my feelings about this book, but I’m going to try.
Phoenix and James were so captivating, lovable and intriguing by themselves and as a couple. Their chemistry was so natural. I genuinely laughed out loud with their banter and cried like a baby with all the situations that got them together. They found in each other the sweetest, most wholesome love but also a family they both needed so hard. Kristen created two pieces of one same heart that fit their cracked spots together so perfectly in every way. Kristen always digs deep into the heart of her characters, bringing out the good, bad and the ugly to the surface of every page in such a beautiful way, this time she put on the gear and the snorkel and not only did she dive all the way into the darkest places, but she healed everything from the inside out.
“Regardless of what you’ve been through, you’re still standing. That seems pretty damn strong to me.”
Phoenix was the most relatable heroine ever. I cried so hard reading her POV. I connected with her instantly. I am not a suicide survivor, but I’ve struggled with suicidal thoughts in the past. My heart ached with hers and her desire to fight for her life and turn things around. Her struggle with depression was so real and I felt my heart heal a little as she literally put on the armor and hit right back like the damn warrior she was. I loved that it was that same strength that gave her the drive to fight for everyone around her, especially for James. She knew she deserved a love like that. She went all in. She was vulnerable, open and so incredibly passionate. She allowed herself to dream and love again in a way that made my heart soar. Her relationship with James’ family was to die for and her love for little Wilbur melted my heart. I loved how quickly she clicked with them and how quickly she became one of them. Her friendship with Leo was friendship goals! (ehem… cough* cough* Is Leo’s story next? no pressure but… is it?). She was such a real, refreshing and inspiring character to read. In every inner thought, daily affirmation and words of wisdom she spoke, I felt my heart healing a little more.
“I can find it within myself to love my brokenness. It’s now that I realize: I’m the one person I needed to have my back all along. I’ve got my own damn six.”
James. My beautiful, sexy police officer James. Before I talk about how much I love him, I need to say this: TJ (Fighting the Odds will always be the holy patron of Kristen Granata’s church. Bryce (Someone You Love) is the saint on his left side and Officer James Freaking Russo is sitting on his right side performing miracles on his own. Holy mother of all things swoony and sexy… This guy is book boyfriend goals! The guy was made of all the sweetness of this world. I had to stop and sigh several times with the things he said and did, not only for Phoenix but for others. He was a guy who cared so deeply that was willing to give up his own life for the ones he loved. I loved to see him and Leo bickering, seeing him in action as a police officer and making Phoenix feel safe and cared for, without even knowing that she was saving him and helping him heal all along. He was what Phoenix needed in his entirety. His willingness to heal, to learn, to put himself in a position to not just be who everyone needed but also to let others in and help him too… aaaaahhh… I squealed for half of the book seeing his growth and healing journey. And also… A uniform never read this hot before… damn!
“Mine. I will do everything in my power to protect her, to never let her feel an ounce of pain ever again. She’s mine, and I’m hers. Nothing will change that, and nothing will take her from me ─whatever may come.”
Their cooking lessons, reading Romance books together, saving puppies, giving each other what they needed... Lord have mercy, every time I thought it couldn’t get any better they proved me wrong over and over again. Their relationship flowed so beautifully and naturally and I loved every single second of their banter and every single moment that got them closer together. My heart was fluttering and felt so gooey with so many romantic gestures and moments when they were simply there for one another. Little moments that might’ve seemed simple but meant the world. I couldn’t put the book down, it was wholesome, romantic and holy hotness, all the steam coming out of my kindle. My friends, sexy times in this book are off the freaking charts (yep, handcuffs and a uniform may or may not be involved). A plot that was a mix of emotional, healing, suspenseful and gasp worthy at the same time that made this powerful story absolutely epic!
I’m not surprised, Kristen always does that. She did it again as I knew she would. There is a space in my heart for this story and also in my favorite bookshelf right next to the rest of her books. I am in awe of this masterpiece. If you’ve loved Kristen’s book in the past, mark your calendars for July 27th and don’t miss this amazing story. And if you haven’t read anything by her, I beg you to give this author a chance. Her writing is something no Romance reader should ever miss.
A hundred million thanks to Kristen Granata for gifting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I look up to you as a beautiful human being, a badass warrior and the incredibly talented author you are.
October 25, 2022
Everything happens super fast, with little to no details. There isn’t even enough to spark your imagination. A lot of the content felt forced as if trying to meet a word/spice scene requirement
Read
March 27, 2023dnf at 49% 🫠
January 17, 2024
3 ✰ As someone who suffered from depression since I was 7, I loved the idea of showing that when everything is dark, there’s always a light in the end. ✨
There’s multiple topics in this book that I related to and I loved this book for it!
But as someone which had people
supporting me, I hated to see that this FMC family left her at her lowest and then her love interest did the same thing because of his damn trauma which is not an excuse.
I didn’t really like the MMC, till half through he was alright but after that scene I couldn’t look at him the same way as before.
I LOVED LEO THO! TAKE ME, GET ME DRUNK WITH HIM AND ILL STILL MARRY HIM! 🫦🫶🏻
He was funny but also very relatable and i was rooting for her and Leo instead but… ILL TAKE HIM! I loved the mental health dedications and all of it but the romance was unnecessary and I didn’t personally enjoy it.
There’s multiple topics in this book that I related to and I loved this book for it!
But as someone which had people
supporting me, I hated to see that this FMC family left her at her lowest and then her love interest did the same thing because of his damn trauma which is not an excuse.
I didn’t really like the MMC, till half through he was alright but after that scene I couldn’t look at him the same way as before.
I LOVED LEO THO! TAKE ME, GET ME DRUNK WITH HIM AND ILL STILL MARRY HIM! 🫦🫶🏻
He was funny but also very relatable and i was rooting for her and Leo instead but… ILL TAKE HIM! I loved the mental health dedications and all of it but the romance was unnecessary and I didn’t personally enjoy it.
May 7, 2025
Este libro es hermoso.
Me sentí tan identificada que no paré de llorar.
Me sentí tan identificada que no paré de llorar.
January 31, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶.5
Next Door Neighbor Cop Romance.
“I always got your six”
“and I’ve got yours”
Not only was this book emotional, it was also funny & steamy at times!
I was captivated from the beginning of this one, I couldn’t put it down. It was a one sitting kind of read! I found myseld relating to each character in one way or another. The mentions of mental illness’s are described so perfectly as well, it’s a true picture of what it’s like to deal with mental health issues.
I related to Pheonix a lot more than I would have liked to, but life happens & i’m grateful to be here, still living this life while reading many books!
This book deals with anxiety, depression & suicide. It’s one that will absolutely pull on your heartstrings, but will keep you hooked with these characters. James & Pheonix are wonderful together, regardless of their falling out they quickly regain what they had before.
James has a younger brother Leo, who Pheonix has a bond with instantly as they both struggle with some of the same issues. Leo made me laugh and made me want to cry all at the same time. He was an instant favorite of mine & I hope we get to see more of him in the future.
Yall wont regret reading this one. It’s been like a week since I finished it & i’m always thinking back about certain scenes…😩😏
“Bring me back, James.”
“I always will.”
🌶.5
Next Door Neighbor Cop Romance.
“I always got your six”
“and I’ve got yours”
Not only was this book emotional, it was also funny & steamy at times!
I was captivated from the beginning of this one, I couldn’t put it down. It was a one sitting kind of read! I found myseld relating to each character in one way or another. The mentions of mental illness’s are described so perfectly as well, it’s a true picture of what it’s like to deal with mental health issues.
I related to Pheonix a lot more than I would have liked to, but life happens & i’m grateful to be here, still living this life while reading many books!
This book deals with anxiety, depression & suicide. It’s one that will absolutely pull on your heartstrings, but will keep you hooked with these characters. James & Pheonix are wonderful together, regardless of their falling out they quickly regain what they had before.
James has a younger brother Leo, who Pheonix has a bond with instantly as they both struggle with some of the same issues. Leo made me laugh and made me want to cry all at the same time. He was an instant favorite of mine & I hope we get to see more of him in the future.
Yall wont regret reading this one. It’s been like a week since I finished it & i’m always thinking back about certain scenes…😩😏
“Bring me back, James.”
“I always will.”
July 29, 2022
⭐ 5.0 ⭐
God, this book is so beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time. 💔 It's perfect, just perfect! 👏
James, the hero, is everything...😍🥰 Now... I want one James, just for me! 😁 Where are you "James", where?
And Leo... Sweet, sweet boy!
Nix... Oh my God, Nix...💔❤️ 💪👏
If you are like her, you need to know that you are so strong, you're not alone and that we all have some kind of purpose in this world. And no matter what, you can be the hero/heroine in your own story/life and have one awesome happy ending!
P.S. Remember! Somebody out there loves you even if you don't see it or feel it.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
“What am I going to do with you?"
“Just love me. Because I love you with my whole heart..."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Yes... So simple, yet so powerful! True love... 💪❤️
God, this book is so beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time. 💔 It's perfect, just perfect! 👏
James, the hero, is everything...😍🥰 Now... I want one James, just for me! 😁 Where are you "James", where?
And Leo... Sweet, sweet boy!
Nix... Oh my God, Nix...💔❤️ 💪👏
If you are like her, you need to know that you are so strong, you're not alone and that we all have some kind of purpose in this world. And no matter what, you can be the hero/heroine in your own story/life and have one awesome happy ending!
P.S. Remember! Somebody out there loves you even if you don't see it or feel it.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
“What am I going to do with you?"
“Just love me. Because I love you with my whole heart..."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Yes... So simple, yet so powerful! True love... 💪❤️
May 9, 2023
i liked the accuracy of depression at the beginning of the book and i thought they’re relationship was cute for the most part but when james found out she had depression and flipped on her and everyone said “oh but she’s better now”,, i really didn’t like that because what happens if she isn’t always “better” like the whole reason he got with her is bc she’s “better now” and i think that’s weird. what will happen when she has a rough patch, will he flip again? just very odd imo. also i know james was trying to help her to reconnect with her family but especially her mom i felt weird abt bc the way she reacted to her depression was nasty, why would you want to reconnect with that? and then lastly, the line “ Stop making ourselves the victims in our own lives, and start being the warriors we are.” i hate idek how to explain it feels ?? weird to say that idk
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2022
Dark themes but well handled. Phoenix tried tot end her life and when she leaves treatment she moves to her families summer house down the shore in NJ. The family that pretty much abandoned her when she needed them most. Her first night is crazy and also leads to her meeting James, his dad and soon after his brother.
James sees the pain in her eyes and is wanting to help her. In doing so they will grow close, He sees her hurt but more he sees her strength. just as things are going well, her past and the present will present huge obstacles in their HEA, one she believes everyone deserves.
James sees the pain in her eyes and is wanting to help her. In doing so they will grow close, He sees her hurt but more he sees her strength. just as things are going well, her past and the present will present huge obstacles in their HEA, one she believes everyone deserves.
March 21, 2023
All the things wrong with this book:
- Forced pop culture references.
- Dialogue pulled out from a suicide self help book.
- No plot.
- Lackluster romance.
- One dimensional characters.
- Unseasoned food.
Was not a fan.
- Forced pop culture references.
- Dialogue pulled out from a suicide self help book.
- No plot.
- Lackluster romance.
- One dimensional characters.
- Unseasoned food.
Was not a fan.
February 17, 2023
3.7/5⭐️
This felt like therapy and I devoured it. I loved the positive affirmations that are presented and how the subject of mental health and how it affects a person is presented. Nixie&James were a nice couple to read and I love that they are both softies, especially him after being cold and closing himself off from everyone because of what he experienced in the past. I got mad when he got angry at her for what she did in the past. I mean I understand why he felt that way but he didn't have the right to get mad and tell her those awful things…And the plot is very basic but it still kept me entertained from the first page.
This felt like therapy and I devoured it. I loved the positive affirmations that are presented and how the subject of mental health and how it affects a person is presented. Nixie&James were a nice couple to read and I love that they are both softies, especially him after being cold and closing himself off from everyone because of what he experienced in the past. I got mad when he got angry at her for what she did in the past. I mean I understand why he felt that way but he didn't have the right to get mad and tell her those awful things…And the plot is very basic but it still kept me entertained from the first page.
July 9, 2024
Okay as a lot of people have already said James flipping on her when she told him about her suicide attempt was absolutely disgusting. I read this because I've enjoyed her hockey books for something fun and I saw a TikTok, but this was just bad. First the love interest and his family break into her house even though James and Jim his dad are cops. I will say I loved Leo and drew but drew trying to say he had feelings for her no. Also letting Cory get away with attempted murder is wild to me. Mental health doesn't negate the fact he shot somebody. Yes he needs help but it felt like Mrs granta was pushing mental health the entire book without handling it with understanding while also being grounded in reality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2022
Thank you Kristen for letting me receive an ARC of your newest book (OUT NOW!). I always knew I was going to love it and the 5⭐️ review should be no surprise.
This book has everything you’d expect from Kristen:
-Deep and moving dialogue
-A positive outlook on therapy/dealing with mental health
-Incredible, thought out, deep characters
-Steam
-Scenes to make you cry both from happiness and sometimes even a little sadness
And most of all the feeling it gives you, that you are never alone 💛
Everyone read this book!
Tropes:
Neighbours
Protection
Emotional
Steam:
🔥🔥🔥/5
This book has everything you’d expect from Kristen:
-Deep and moving dialogue
-A positive outlook on therapy/dealing with mental health
-Incredible, thought out, deep characters
-Steam
-Scenes to make you cry both from happiness and sometimes even a little sadness
And most of all the feeling it gives you, that you are never alone 💛
Everyone read this book!
Tropes:
Neighbours
Protection
Emotional
Steam:
🔥🔥🔥/5
December 20, 2024
I love how people try to become poetic when talking about their trauma and suffering. No ones says stuff like that. You don’t say these words aloud. You don’t say, “I’m filled with darkness.” It’s so cringe. Not trying to demean the whole depression plot, not at all, but it was written poorly. It was giving teenagers throughout the whole book.
September 16, 2022
screaming crying and throwing up
March 1, 2023
omg so dumb, but i think i’m ready to read my real books now 🤩
April 16, 2023
yeah yeah suicide is bad and life is worth living bla bla bla who cares 😩
August 5, 2024
not the blue lives matter romance 😭😭 i’m reading brainrot romances rn bc i need them i fear
November 2, 2025
TW : suicide, depression
I expected a romance book including mental health issues to be more enriching, emotional, empowering, and realistic. This didn't even seem to be in the right genre. First, it is as if it's written as the author's own voice, rather than a plot with characters and their own stories. the author had things to say and express which i understand and appreciate but through this book she just gave her own life a different name. To put it simply, it felt like a letter you'd write to yourself in a story form of giving the main character a different name.
Believe me, it was extremely evident, with the daily affirmations and the way the message of depression wasn't naturally given but forcibly emphasised. Like the heroine had a solution and answer to everything now that she was on the path to heal. Felt like a podcast where someone has a script.
Would've been better if it flowed exactly as a depressed character's inner thought process is because that's the whole point. so that we see what's inside the head of a character with mental illness. But nope, instead of a patient we got the wanna-be therapist as the character. Every moral and "message" was evidently thrown in our face every 2 second - yes depression is a mental illness, you can't help it, seek mental help, go to therapy etc etc. nope. Felt like a commercial.
Second, booktok romance authors mentioned? Colleen Hoover glaze? Kandi Steiner promotion? um okay..weird, and put me off.
I expected a romance book including mental health issues to be more enriching, emotional, empowering, and realistic. This didn't even seem to be in the right genre. First, it is as if it's written as the author's own voice, rather than a plot with characters and their own stories. the author had things to say and express which i understand and appreciate but through this book she just gave her own life a different name. To put it simply, it felt like a letter you'd write to yourself in a story form of giving the main character a different name.
Believe me, it was extremely evident, with the daily affirmations and the way the message of depression wasn't naturally given but forcibly emphasised. Like the heroine had a solution and answer to everything now that she was on the path to heal. Felt like a podcast where someone has a script.
Would've been better if it flowed exactly as a depressed character's inner thought process is because that's the whole point. so that we see what's inside the head of a character with mental illness. But nope, instead of a patient we got the wanna-be therapist as the character. Every moral and "message" was evidently thrown in our face every 2 second - yes depression is a mental illness, you can't help it, seek mental help, go to therapy etc etc. nope. Felt like a commercial.
Second, booktok romance authors mentioned? Colleen Hoover glaze? Kandi Steiner promotion? um okay..weird, and put me off.
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