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Music City Diaries #1
Beautiful Agony
Motorcycles, burly men, and danger were all part of my childhood. Growing up in the Maverick’s—Mississippi’s biggest and toughest motorcycle club—was different than most of the girls at school, but I loved every minute of it. So much, that my goal was to join the ranks when I was of age.
When I passed Maverick Culling Defense, my dad’s program to become a Maverick, I thought my life was finally beginning. Turned out, being a twenty-year-old virgin was the least of my worries.
When my life took a massive shift in a direction I never saw coming, I was left with a brokenness that consumed me. Could I turn this utter agony around into something beautiful? Or was I destined to always be that broken girl, afraid of her shadow?
This is a prequel for Darcie, from the Tattooed Hearts series. You do not need to read those before reading this as this book takes place beforehand. There will be some overlap, so like always, reading both will enhance your story experience. This series will be a why-choose romance, meaning Darcie will not have to settle for one dessert. The beginning of her story is dark, and this book contains content warnings for sexual assault and rape. Please be advised before reading. This story is intended for readers 18+ due to the language and content. This book does end on a cliffhanger.
When I passed Maverick Culling Defense, my dad’s program to become a Maverick, I thought my life was finally beginning. Turned out, being a twenty-year-old virgin was the least of my worries.
When my life took a massive shift in a direction I never saw coming, I was left with a brokenness that consumed me. Could I turn this utter agony around into something beautiful? Or was I destined to always be that broken girl, afraid of her shadow?
This is a prequel for Darcie, from the Tattooed Hearts series. You do not need to read those before reading this as this book takes place beforehand. There will be some overlap, so like always, reading both will enhance your story experience. This series will be a why-choose romance, meaning Darcie will not have to settle for one dessert. The beginning of her story is dark, and this book contains content warnings for sexual assault and rape. Please be advised before reading. This story is intended for readers 18+ due to the language and content. This book does end on a cliffhanger.
- GenresWhy ChooseContemporary
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2022
43 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Kris Butler
48 books400 followersKris Butler writes under a pen name to have some separation from her everyday life. Writing has become her second love, providing a safe place to normalize mental health through her characters. Kris enjoys writing emotional books with flawed characters, sassy heroines, and all the book boyfriends she loves to drool over. You can find her at home most nights reading with her husband and furbaby, trying to maintain her nerdy sock collection, or playing tabletop games with her friends. Kris loves to talk with readers about her books, even if it’s just them yelling at her for that cliffhanger. If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review. You can find her in her reader group or on social media.
Follow Kris's journey as an author on Instagram (@authorkrisbutler) and Facebook, and join her reader group (Kris Butler's Misfit Penguins) for exclusive content.
If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review.
Follow Kris's journey as an author on Instagram (@authorkrisbutler) and Facebook, and join her reader group (Kris Butler's Misfit Penguins) for exclusive content.
If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 28, 2022
Promising and Powerful Prequel 🖤
So good I finished in one sitting!!
I abhor any kinds of sexual violence (please check the TW for this book) but I love the realistic way Kris deals with the aftermath of events and how Darcie finds her confidence again! 🥰
After being traumatised by a supposed ally of her dads MC Darcie and her shadow, the protective Mad Dog, are on the run - knowing they’ll never be able to return to their old life 😢 however all may actually not have been what it seemed with the Maverick’s and her fathers role 🫢
Another event forces Mad Dog to break Darcie’s heart even more but actually starts the process of her healing ❤️🩹 I love the diary entries, it’s a unique aspect Kris brings that gives us insight into that process 🥰
Darcie finds her self in the city of music and struggling to get by she takes on a new job, that with her past some people may question but actually helps her find her confidence and sexuality! Building connections along the way that actually may be closer to home than she thinks…..
Which brings me onto Darcie’s men - wow what a mix! There’s Mad Dog the one she just can’t let go; Chase who appears to have two personalities; Shy Cowboy the mystery; and Damon the bad boy jerk - she had an entirely different connection to each one but none are secure or stable 😖
I can’t wait to find out who Cowboy is and I suspect there may be more to Chase’s actions and words there at the end but if not then he damn well deserved Darcie’s reaction!!
On the run again will Darcie ever truly be able to find a home and mend her heart?!?!
So good I finished in one sitting!!
I abhor any kinds of sexual violence (please check the TW for this book) but I love the realistic way Kris deals with the aftermath of events and how Darcie finds her confidence again! 🥰
After being traumatised by a supposed ally of her dads MC Darcie and her shadow, the protective Mad Dog, are on the run - knowing they’ll never be able to return to their old life 😢 however all may actually not have been what it seemed with the Maverick’s and her fathers role 🫢
Another event forces Mad Dog to break Darcie’s heart even more but actually starts the process of her healing ❤️🩹 I love the diary entries, it’s a unique aspect Kris brings that gives us insight into that process 🥰
Darcie finds her self in the city of music and struggling to get by she takes on a new job, that with her past some people may question but actually helps her find her confidence and sexuality! Building connections along the way that actually may be closer to home than she thinks…..
Which brings me onto Darcie’s men - wow what a mix! There’s Mad Dog the one she just can’t let go; Chase who appears to have two personalities; Shy Cowboy the mystery; and Damon the bad boy jerk - she had an entirely different connection to each one but none are secure or stable 😖
I can’t wait to find out who Cowboy is and I suspect there may be more to Chase’s actions and words there at the end but if not then he damn well deserved Darcie’s reaction!!
On the run again will Darcie ever truly be able to find a home and mend her heart?!?!
August 5, 2022
This title is so fitting as this story is truly a beautiful agony. Darcie's journey to date is gut wrenching and that cliff hanger, smh. I am extremely ready for book 2.
August 1, 2022
I find this a very well-chosen tittle. This is indeed a beautiful agony.
I really enjoyed reading about Darcie's life. See how she became the loving and fun girl from Tattooed Hearts.
This book is intense but also so heartbreaking, full of sass (credits to Kris). But also this shows us that the darkest moment in your life doesn't have to define you, that you can turn it around and make it your strength.
We see Darcie grow and get to know her men that are a part of her life.
That cliffhanger, why?
Please be sure to check the trigger warnings.
My heart broke for the diary. That did it for me.
I really enjoyed reading about Darcie's life. See how she became the loving and fun girl from Tattooed Hearts.
This book is intense but also so heartbreaking, full of sass (credits to Kris). But also this shows us that the darkest moment in your life doesn't have to define you, that you can turn it around and make it your strength.
We see Darcie grow and get to know her men that are a part of her life.
That cliffhanger, why?
Please be sure to check the trigger warnings.
My heart broke for the diary. That did it for me.
July 31, 2022
This was soooo good!! I really and truly enjoyed seeing into Darcie's life and how she came to be the fun loving girl we all fell in love with in Tattooed Hearts! It was intense and heartbreaking as well as fun and sassy, watching her turn her darkest moment into her biggest strength. You really get to see her grow and get to know the men in her life. I can not wait to see where this goes in the next book. Absolutely loved it! Could not put it down and definitely highly recommend this whole series!!
July 30, 2022
Beautiful Agony is a prequel and the FMC, Darcie, has a heartbreaking story. Darcie life really is an agony because of the all the emotional trouble the men in her life bring her. She is forced to go one the run and work hard just to put a roof over her head and food on the table.
This book is filled with betrayal, secrets, mystery and twists. It was a great start to Darcie’s story and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
This book is filled with betrayal, secrets, mystery and twists. It was a great start to Darcie’s story and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
August 4, 2022
Darcie is a damaged soul. She was an MC princess who was dealt a crap hand and had to go on the run. Every man in her life has let her down in some way. A couple let her down in the worst way.
I love that she has a diary she writes her mom who has passed away. It breaks your heart how she hasn’t been able to make any real friends until Lenox comes into the picture. They become besties right off the bat. Then Lenox leaves her to go back home and she is alone again.
This ends on a cliffy. I so can’t wait for more.
I love that she has a diary she writes her mom who has passed away. It breaks your heart how she hasn’t been able to make any real friends until Lenox comes into the picture. They become besties right off the bat. Then Lenox leaves her to go back home and she is alone again.
This ends on a cliffy. I so can’t wait for more.
September 29, 2024
Starring Darcie from Kris Butler's Tattoed Hearts Duet, Beautiful Agony explores her past and how she found herself in Nashville.
This story is brilliantly written and I couldn’t put it down once I started reading. If you love plot twists and realistic characters this is for you
This story is brilliantly written and I couldn’t put it down once I started reading. If you love plot twists and realistic characters this is for you
August 5, 2022
This book is aptly titled. Darcie is a beautiful soul that is in so much internal pain. She’s experienced something too many woman have and the results changes the way she sees herself and the world around her. Despite her agony she keeps pushing forward and seeing her start to transform and take back her power and control is beautiful.
Maddox. Ooh Maddox, I have fluctuating feelings about him. His love and devotion to Darcie is evident but his methods kind of make me mad for Darcie! Like I get it but always ahhhh! I cant wait to see where things go with the other guys Darcie is connecting with. The ending has be on the edge of my seat!
This book was another favorite of mine and it earned every star! Be sure to check trigger warnings as there are events that could be too much for some.
Maddox. Ooh Maddox, I have fluctuating feelings about him. His love and devotion to Darcie is evident but his methods kind of make me mad for Darcie! Like I get it but always ahhhh! I cant wait to see where things go with the other guys Darcie is connecting with. The ending has be on the edge of my seat!
This book was another favorite of mine and it earned every star! Be sure to check trigger warnings as there are events that could be too much for some.
August 11, 2022
I received an Advanced Reader Copy for an honest and voluntary review
WOW!! I loved Darcie’s story ♥️ She was such a great character, in The Tattooed Hearts Duet, and I’m so glad we’re getting her backstory here!! Darcie has had quite the life!! She’s amazing and tough, but unfortunately she’s also had to put herself back together. I felt so many emotions reading this story, and I was rooting for Darcie so hard 🌷 I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
Darcie’s dad is the president of an MC, and she thought she’d become one of his soldiers. Unfortunately a terrifying situation puts Darcie and a friend on the run. After she’s abandoned in Nashville, the Music City, Darcie has to figure out what to do next. She ends up meeting an array of people, and goes on a very interesting journey, but there are still some unsavory people lurking around every corner….
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 💙🖤
WOW!! I loved Darcie’s story ♥️ She was such a great character, in The Tattooed Hearts Duet, and I’m so glad we’re getting her backstory here!! Darcie has had quite the life!! She’s amazing and tough, but unfortunately she’s also had to put herself back together. I felt so many emotions reading this story, and I was rooting for Darcie so hard 🌷 I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
Darcie’s dad is the president of an MC, and she thought she’d become one of his soldiers. Unfortunately a terrifying situation puts Darcie and a friend on the run. After she’s abandoned in Nashville, the Music City, Darcie has to figure out what to do next. She ends up meeting an array of people, and goes on a very interesting journey, but there are still some unsavory people lurking around every corner….
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 💙🖤
August 5, 2022
Beautiful Agony....what a perfect title for this book! Darcie's story has made me want to cry and just hold her and tell her the world isn't really such an awful place, but we all know that is a lie...especially Darcie! She had learned that lesson the hard way time and again at this point. I love her story though, because she never let's the world win...she always gets back up and fights! She finds herself and who she wants to be!
The men in her life are very diverse and intriguing... I'm interested to see where things are going to end up in the next book...
Her diary entries are a very unique and wonderful addition to the storyline.
Now, if I can just hold on to this cliff until I find out what happens next....
The men in her life are very diverse and intriguing... I'm interested to see where things are going to end up in the next book...
Her diary entries are a very unique and wonderful addition to the storyline.
Now, if I can just hold on to this cliff until I find out what happens next....
August 16, 2022
Another banger from Kris Butler! This book is aptly titled, Darcie is a beautiful soul in so much internal pain. Despite her agony she keeps pushing forward and seeing her start to transform and take back her power and control is beautiful. It reminded me of Kris' other series where you get to see the growth of a strong female character.
Maddox, I have fluctuating feelings about him. His love and devotion to Darcie are evident but his methods make me mad for Darcie! I can't wait to see where things go with the other guys Darcie is connecting with. As always, Kris leaves us on a heck of a cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what happens next!
This book was another favorite of mine and it earned every star! Be sure to check trigger warnings as some events could be too much.
Maddox, I have fluctuating feelings about him. His love and devotion to Darcie are evident but his methods make me mad for Darcie! I can't wait to see where things go with the other guys Darcie is connecting with. As always, Kris leaves us on a heck of a cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what happens next!
This book was another favorite of mine and it earned every star! Be sure to check trigger warnings as some events could be too much.
August 5, 2022
Honestly I didn't think much about Darcie when we met her in Lennox's book. Like, I was glad our girl got a female bestie during such a rough time, but I thought of Darcie as more of a back drop character.
Thank you Kris Butler for giving this character life and a story that we never would have expected. Thank you for not shaming women who choose sex work for whatever their reasons may be.
I love how the chapters were broken up with diary entries. It is called Music City Diaries after all. And it feels like a good reminder that sometimes when our feelings are too much, putting pen to paper can help us focus.
Honestly the ending was amazing to me. Not so much of a cliffhanger to make me pissed off, but kept me intrigued in wanting to continue the series. I'm so excited for the next book to find out about what happened to Maddox, and to see more of Lennox and her boys
Thank you Kris Butler for giving this character life and a story that we never would have expected. Thank you for not shaming women who choose sex work for whatever their reasons may be.
I love how the chapters were broken up with diary entries. It is called Music City Diaries after all. And it feels like a good reminder that sometimes when our feelings are too much, putting pen to paper can help us focus.
Honestly the ending was amazing to me. Not so much of a cliffhanger to make me pissed off, but kept me intrigued in wanting to continue the series. I'm so excited for the next book to find out about what happened to Maddox, and to see more of Lennox and her boys
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2022
I am officially hooked on Kris’s books! The name Beautiful Agony is fitting for this book. It’s emotional – it’s beautiful agony. Darcie is dealing with the aftermath of a traumatizing event and on top of it all now she finds herself on the run with Mad Dog. Things get complicated and he ends up having to leave her. Now she is on her own – no friends, no family, in an unknown city. Darcie must decide what to do with her life, but she’s determined to work through her problems. I really enjoyed her story; I can’t wait to see what happens next for her. If you like dark, emotional RH reads set in Music City, Nashville, this is a great book for you. It’s all about healing from within, and how to move past trauma, and I loved every minute of it. It’s heartbreaking, yet healing, powerful but full of pain. The only fault I could find is that it wasn’t longer!! I’m hooked, I’ll be back for more.
August 7, 2022
This was...WOW! I was left speechless. This book had romance, angst, suspense, plot twists and slight trigger warnings but it is all worth it because the story is perfection.
You cannot not love Darcie, she goes through a bit but has the strength to persevere. She is one of my favorites now and her ability to befriend and speak to people just makes me able to connect with her. The men we meet can be funny, drool-worthy, and dreamy but Maddox takes the cake for me. Trust me, we get spicy bits and the romance is hot. Like I said, the story is a page-turner and I seriously need book 2...like now! I seriously recommend you read this book!!
You cannot not love Darcie, she goes through a bit but has the strength to persevere. She is one of my favorites now and her ability to befriend and speak to people just makes me able to connect with her. The men we meet can be funny, drool-worthy, and dreamy but Maddox takes the cake for me. Trust me, we get spicy bits and the romance is hot. Like I said, the story is a page-turner and I seriously need book 2...like now! I seriously recommend you read this book!!
August 7, 2022
I enjoyed reading Darcie’s story. I will say please heed the trigger warnings. What is listed are not triggers for me, but some scenes affected me more than I thought they would. However, I enjoyed her story. It is definitely distressing at times, but I enjoyed how she persevered regardless of what was thrown at her. I liked seeing Darcie grow through the story and of course getting to know the men in her life. I like Maddox, you have to read it to meet him. I also liked the diary she writes her mom. This is definitely a book you will not want to put down once you start, I highly recommend you read it. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 10, 2022
Beautiful Agony, Music City Diary book 1 by Kris Butler, will take you on a roller coaster ride filled with twists and turns, ups and downs, and spit you out at the end feeling as raw and emotional as Darcie. This trip into Darcie's life was everything I expected and so much more. I was definitely perched on the edge of my seat the whole way through. The characters are well developed and engaging. Darcy goes from being strong, to surviving her own personal trauma; and has to build herself back up again so that it doesn't destroy her. I am definitely looking forward to reading more about Darcie, her men, Lennox and anyone else Ms. Butler decided to add to the mix!
August 1, 2022
OMG if there is one thing Kris Butler does right beside writing amazing books it is writing epic cliffhangers JFC… My freaking black heart completely broke for Darcie seriously how much can one person take before they finally break. Everyone in Darcie’s life has let her time and she was felt one of the most craptastic hands but what does she do she picks herself up and runs. The Diary entries for me are the best part and the friendship Darcie forms with Lennox these two were meant to be BFFs…. I can’t wait to see where her story takes us but I can tell we are in for one wild freaking ride.
August 2, 2022
Beautiful agony, such an apt title for what is a heartbreakingly beautiful story about Darcie.
This book hits hard straight away, heed the trigger warnings and protect yourself if needed. Kris, as always, has written another book with sensitivity and reality.
This is a slow burn RH, which considering the main bulk of story is about healing, this was to be expected. The harem potentials are still relatively unknown so I can't wait till book 2 to see who gets to help Darcie with her healing journey.
(I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review)
This book hits hard straight away, heed the trigger warnings and protect yourself if needed. Kris, as always, has written another book with sensitivity and reality.
This is a slow burn RH, which considering the main bulk of story is about healing, this was to be expected. The harem potentials are still relatively unknown so I can't wait till book 2 to see who gets to help Darcie with her healing journey.
(I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review)
August 5, 2022
Agonizingly Good!!
Kris Butler put me and the FMC, Darcie, through the ringer on this one. So much angst, so much heartache and gaspy moments that left me floored. Did that really just happen?!?! Wonderful book. I loved Darcie and my heart just broke for her. And Maddox!! My poor tortured soul. And that ending!!! I did not see that coming. What is going on? Wonderful read. Couldn’t put it down and I can’t wait to see where the story goes. Read trigger warnings!! There is on page scenes that are dark.
5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶
Kris Butler put me and the FMC, Darcie, through the ringer on this one. So much angst, so much heartache and gaspy moments that left me floored. Did that really just happen?!?! Wonderful book. I loved Darcie and my heart just broke for her. And Maddox!! My poor tortured soul. And that ending!!! I did not see that coming. What is going on? Wonderful read. Couldn’t put it down and I can’t wait to see where the story goes. Read trigger warnings!! There is on page scenes that are dark.
5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶
August 14, 2022
While this book is connected to the Tattooed Hearts duet, you do not have to read them before you read this. I have not had the chance to read Tattooed Hearts and it did not ruin the book for me in any way, honestly, it made me want to read the duet so I can get more of these characters. This book is super emotional and does contain some triggers, so I highly recommend reading the warnings before you jump in. I loved reading Darcy's story because in the face of despair she kept going and trying to make a new life for herself. I am excited to read what comes next for Darcy.
August 3, 2022
This book was amazing.
The FMC goes through a ton of pain and suffering before discovering the beauty of healing, reinventing, and falling in love with herself.
The men that were slowly introduced are intriguing and sexy with plenty of danger to keep you wanting more. I loved every second of this read, quickly devouring it in a few hours.
I can't wait for book 2 ESPECIALLY after that cliffhanger.
The FMC goes through a ton of pain and suffering before discovering the beauty of healing, reinventing, and falling in love with herself.
The men that were slowly introduced are intriguing and sexy with plenty of danger to keep you wanting more. I loved every second of this read, quickly devouring it in a few hours.
I can't wait for book 2 ESPECIALLY after that cliffhanger.
August 3, 2022
I can't wait for more!!
Beautiful Agony is the prequel to the Music City Diaries series. Its the story of Darcie from the Tattooed Hearts series. Its a dark reverse harem.
Kris Butler is AMAZING!!!
Darcie's story will break your heart and you will be begging for more after that ending! She has gone thru so much and has been let down by so many people. I can't wait to see how much she grows!
I was glued to these pages and i can't wait for more!
Beautiful Agony is the prequel to the Music City Diaries series. Its the story of Darcie from the Tattooed Hearts series. Its a dark reverse harem.
Kris Butler is AMAZING!!!
Darcie's story will break your heart and you will be begging for more after that ending! She has gone thru so much and has been let down by so many people. I can't wait to see how much she grows!
I was glued to these pages and i can't wait for more!
August 5, 2022
Be prepared with snacks and drinks on hand as I couldn't put this down at all and finished it as soon as I could. I really love how realistic the story is and how it pulls on your feelings. Seeing how events from the past form you the way you are. Seeing the heartbreak and healing is fantastic. I'm a fan for sure but wow! Sometimes you read a book and actually fall silent after finishing and this was one in my book. Will there be a happily ever after for Darcy?
August 18, 2022
This book is a prequel from the Tattooed Hearts series. I love reverse harem and this is one of the best! There are some seriously dark themes so if you have triggers beware, but I have none and loved this book. I leave you with a warning and it is that this book ends on a serious cliffhanger but totally worth it! Definitely a must read immediately if you love reading excellent romance!
January 25, 2024
Based on the description I thought Darcie would be a bit different when faced with tool behavior from some characters. This book got incredibly dark, quickly. Darcie's reaction to the first abuse makes sense to me, although any response to abuse is valid. Ultimately, it was a good read but wasn't what I expected.
September 2, 2024
It is relatively short and very fast paced which I liked.
It is a bit dark, you need to read TW beforehand (SA and abuse, for instance).
Small spoiler:
Other TW is: There are other men and you are guessing will or won’t he be a part of the harem 🙃 I personally don’t have problems with that and I liked the guessing game :
It is a bit dark, you need to read TW beforehand (SA and abuse, for instance).
Small spoiler:
Other TW is: There are other men and you are guessing will or won’t he be a part of the harem 🙃 I personally don’t have problems with that and I liked the guessing game :
August 2, 2022
This story truly fits it's title, Beautiful agony. I was excited to learn more about the fun Darcie we've met from tattooed hearts collection. She's such a strong person. That cliffhanger tho. I can't wait to read the next story.
August 5, 2022
Fell in love with Darcie!!!! Emotional from the beginning and Kris draws you in from the get-go! The heartbreak just destroyed me and built back up with Darcie's determination to make it! I am dying for the rest of the story!!!!
August 8, 2022
My gosh Kris Butler just pulls all the emotions out of me and Beautiful Agony is no exception. The cliffhanger is brutal in a way that I just come to love from Kris. And the story. I can't wait to read the next one!
August 9, 2022
Darcie's story is dark but with the dark comes light and her journey towards the light is both heartbreaking and empowering. You will find yourself crying at her hurdles and willing her to succeed at living her life. I can't wait to read the next part of her story!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews