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The Girl That Would Be Lost
Contemporary/MF/Slow Burn/Second Chance/Strong h/Grey-Dark/Abused h not by H
Jake would protect Kat with his life, but would he be too late?
I couldn’t remember what it was like to be a child. That innocence was stolen from me at the tender age of nine. The one bright spot I had in foster care was Jake. But nothing good ever lasted long. All too soon, he was taken from me, and once more, I found myself treading water to keep from drowning.
Then I met Richard. The golden boy who promised me the world but only gave me more of the same terror I’d known growing up. There was only one way to escape my husband’s grasp…run and never look back.
So here I was, thirty, alone, and fighting to stand on my own.
Would I be able to find the happiness I’d dreamed of, or would Richard find a way to pull me back under?
When I met Kate at the age of ten, I knew she was my soulmate and that I wanted to marry her, but my plans were crushed when we were torn apart. Instead, she became the memory that taunted me. At thirty-one, I’d climbed the social media ladder and lived the life that most people envied, yet the happiness I sought eluded me.
So, I decided to head home and re-evaluate my life. One chance encounter later, fate had given me a second chance. The moment I saw Kate, I knew I would lay my life down for her. Richard had taken everything from her, and I wanted to be the balm her heart needed to heal.
Could I save her without paying the ultimate price, or was Richard’s malice stronger than I ever could’ve imagined?
Jake would protect Kat with his life, but would he be too late?
I couldn’t remember what it was like to be a child. That innocence was stolen from me at the tender age of nine. The one bright spot I had in foster care was Jake. But nothing good ever lasted long. All too soon, he was taken from me, and once more, I found myself treading water to keep from drowning.
Then I met Richard. The golden boy who promised me the world but only gave me more of the same terror I’d known growing up. There was only one way to escape my husband’s grasp…run and never look back.
So here I was, thirty, alone, and fighting to stand on my own.
Would I be able to find the happiness I’d dreamed of, or would Richard find a way to pull me back under?
When I met Kate at the age of ten, I knew she was my soulmate and that I wanted to marry her, but my plans were crushed when we were torn apart. Instead, she became the memory that taunted me. At thirty-one, I’d climbed the social media ladder and lived the life that most people envied, yet the happiness I sought eluded me.
So, I decided to head home and re-evaluate my life. One chance encounter later, fate had given me a second chance. The moment I saw Kate, I knew I would lay my life down for her. Richard had taken everything from her, and I wanted to be the balm her heart needed to heal.
Could I save her without paying the ultimate price, or was Richard’s malice stronger than I ever could’ve imagined?
522 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2022
23 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
Brooklyn Cross
42 books2,171 followersWriting is not just a passion for me. It is a lifeline to my sanity.
I have always loved writing but suffer from severe dyslexia and short-term memory retention issues. I struggled in school while I worked every night on re-training my brain.
I was frequently treated like I would never succeed, and I found myself putting my love for writing on a shelf.
Even at the age of six, I found it easier to communicate with animals than people, which was a big reason why I was drawn to dressage horseback riding. I remained focused on my passion for riding until I had to step away from the competition world for personal reasons.
Today, my desire for writing and storytelling has been rekindled. I have published multiple books and will never let anyone or anything hold me back again.
I am a proud romance author who offers my readers morally grey heroes, a ton of spice, epic journeys, and redemption stories.
-Follow Your Dreams-
I have always loved writing but suffer from severe dyslexia and short-term memory retention issues. I struggled in school while I worked every night on re-training my brain.
I was frequently treated like I would never succeed, and I found myself putting my love for writing on a shelf.
Even at the age of six, I found it easier to communicate with animals than people, which was a big reason why I was drawn to dressage horseback riding. I remained focused on my passion for riding until I had to step away from the competition world for personal reasons.
Today, my desire for writing and storytelling has been rekindled. I have published multiple books and will never let anyone or anything hold me back again.
I am a proud romance author who offers my readers morally grey heroes, a ton of spice, epic journeys, and redemption stories.
-Follow Your Dreams-
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
October 18, 2022
3,5 💘💘🤨🌟s
Jake was 11,5 y.o. and Kat 10 y.o. when they were roommates in a foster home and shared a wonderful connection and bond. Unfortunately, three years later they were sent to separate houses and there was no communication between them afterwards.
Jake was lucky and was placed with an amazing family but Kat was not and she went through a very hard time...
Fate or universe wasn’t done with them yet though and they were brought back together for a second chance, seventeen years later.
This would have been a great read for me sans all those intense sex scenes.
It was beautifully written, angsty, deep, gripping and heartbreaking. I couldn’t stop reading despite being slow burn.
The ambience which engulfed the story, excluding the sex scenes, was sentimental, enthralling and soul stirring.
The sex festivals that were incorporated within the story felt inconsistent and unsuited compared to the rest. It looked as if it was written by two different authors, because the writing style was inharmonious.
Gone were the romance and the emotions.
While the spirit was emotional and heart wrenching, it turned abruptly and unfittingly into a fiercely smutty one.
Needless to say I skipped them after my first encounter...
So, interested or not in those scenes, it is worth giving it a chance.
Jake was 11,5 y.o. and Kat 10 y.o. when they were roommates in a foster home and shared a wonderful connection and bond. Unfortunately, three years later they were sent to separate houses and there was no communication between them afterwards.
Jake was lucky and was placed with an amazing family but Kat was not and she went through a very hard time...
Fate or universe wasn’t done with them yet though and they were brought back together for a second chance, seventeen years later.
This would have been a great read for me sans all those intense sex scenes.
It was beautifully written, angsty, deep, gripping and heartbreaking. I couldn’t stop reading despite being slow burn.
The ambience which engulfed the story, excluding the sex scenes, was sentimental, enthralling and soul stirring.
The sex festivals that were incorporated within the story felt inconsistent and unsuited compared to the rest. It looked as if it was written by two different authors, because the writing style was inharmonious.
Gone were the romance and the emotions.
While the spirit was emotional and heart wrenching, it turned abruptly and unfittingly into a fiercely smutty one.
Needless to say I skipped them after my first encounter...
So, interested or not in those scenes, it is worth giving it a chance.
October 6, 2022
I am so glad that Brooklyn took a chance on a different type of story because she slayed this one!!
I loved it! Like, seriously... I couldn't stop reading. I needed to find out what happened between these two! One of my top couples for sure! I was blown away by just how great this was!!
This story packs a heartbreakingly beautiful punch to the feels. Angsty in its own way, suspenseful, but yet still filled with so much hope and love. You yearn for the happiest of second chances.
I love how all the stepping stones were placed for the friendship. The love and connection was so real and authentic.
Lexi had lived through her own personal nightmare. As a child and then as an adult. Taking the chance, she gets out and finds herself in a small town. Befriended by her landlord and neighbor, she finds herself feeling a sense of peace, finally. Not enough that she doesn't question everything, everyone and look over her shoulder every step of the way. New possibilities flood her life. She wants to feel happy and complete, but she knows there is something missing, someone missing.
Jake met the girl who captured him body and soul, as a teen, in a foster home. He knew it even at such a young age. After getting split up he vows to find her again. In adulthood, he finds himself in the public eye. That doesn't appease his heartache, nor the woman, drinking or dr*gs. Only one thing will, only one person will.
Their connection to each other is so strong. Chemistry was fire!! Jake was perfection and Lexi was amazing! One of the best second chance love stories I've read in a while!!
I loved it! Like, seriously... I couldn't stop reading. I needed to find out what happened between these two! One of my top couples for sure! I was blown away by just how great this was!!
This story packs a heartbreakingly beautiful punch to the feels. Angsty in its own way, suspenseful, but yet still filled with so much hope and love. You yearn for the happiest of second chances.
I love how all the stepping stones were placed for the friendship. The love and connection was so real and authentic.
Lexi had lived through her own personal nightmare. As a child and then as an adult. Taking the chance, she gets out and finds herself in a small town. Befriended by her landlord and neighbor, she finds herself feeling a sense of peace, finally. Not enough that she doesn't question everything, everyone and look over her shoulder every step of the way. New possibilities flood her life. She wants to feel happy and complete, but she knows there is something missing, someone missing.
Jake met the girl who captured him body and soul, as a teen, in a foster home. He knew it even at such a young age. After getting split up he vows to find her again. In adulthood, he finds himself in the public eye. That doesn't appease his heartache, nor the woman, drinking or dr*gs. Only one thing will, only one person will.
Their connection to each other is so strong. Chemistry was fire!! Jake was perfection and Lexi was amazing! One of the best second chance love stories I've read in a while!!
November 7, 2022
4.75/5 ⭐️
3.25/5 🌶
Tropes:
- romantic suspense
- small town romance
- second chance
- childhood best friends to strangers to lovers
- protective hero
- mc’s were foster siblings
- stalker threat towards heroine
- found family
- slow burn but not slow slow (i can’t stand extremely slow burn)
- no third act break up
POV: first person - dual
Type: stand-alone
This was amazing! It was kinda long but there was not one moment that dragged on, in my opinion. It was very beautifully written but not overly complex either.
I will remember this book for a very long time. 100% recommend!!
3.25/5 🌶
Tropes:
- romantic suspense
- small town romance
- second chance
- childhood best friends to strangers to lovers
- protective hero
- mc’s were foster siblings
- stalker threat towards heroine
- found family
- slow burn but not slow slow (i can’t stand extremely slow burn)
- no third act break up
POV: first person - dual
Type: stand-alone
This was amazing! It was kinda long but there was not one moment that dragged on, in my opinion. It was very beautifully written but not overly complex either.
I will remember this book for a very long time. 100% recommend!!
October 7, 2022
The Girl That Would Be Lost A Book In The Battered Souls World Written by Brooklyn Cross is a heart wrenching second chance at love romance that will entrance you right from the beginning with its beautifully strong characters and a heartbreaking plot full of angst, suspense and of course unconditional love.
This is a story of unbreakable friendships and young love that withstands the test of time as two young characters in the foster system are essentially torn from each and lose connection with each other until finally chance puts them in each other’s paths many years, and much pain and trauma, later.
Kate/Lexi has overcome so much and essentially survived hell as life dealt her one crappy hand after another. First as a child lost in the foster system and then later on as an adult trapped in a horrible and emotionally abusive relationship. Enduring so much pain and trauma, she finally reaches her breaking point and runs. Ironically to the one town where her former best friend and one true love Jake also currently resides.
Jake also has hit a patch in his life where he’s struggling and returns home to try and find himself again. Once a struggling youth tossed in the foster care system he now lives a life in the public eye with wealth and all things that go along with it. But one thing he’s still missing is the one girl that stole his heart years ago. So when he finds that fate once again placed Then in each other’s path he vows that this time he won’t let her go. And not even a crazy ex, obsessed fans or death itself will stop him from finally being with his girl.
I absolutely love Jake and Lexi’s connection even after years and years apart and how their chemistry was nothing but pure fire!! These two characters were amazing as individuals but pure perfection together with a powerful and true connection that even a sadistic ex and time couldn’t keep apart. If you’re a fan of second chance love stories that I pack a punch then you definitely want to add this one to your list!
This is a story of unbreakable friendships and young love that withstands the test of time as two young characters in the foster system are essentially torn from each and lose connection with each other until finally chance puts them in each other’s paths many years, and much pain and trauma, later.
Kate/Lexi has overcome so much and essentially survived hell as life dealt her one crappy hand after another. First as a child lost in the foster system and then later on as an adult trapped in a horrible and emotionally abusive relationship. Enduring so much pain and trauma, she finally reaches her breaking point and runs. Ironically to the one town where her former best friend and one true love Jake also currently resides.
Jake also has hit a patch in his life where he’s struggling and returns home to try and find himself again. Once a struggling youth tossed in the foster care system he now lives a life in the public eye with wealth and all things that go along with it. But one thing he’s still missing is the one girl that stole his heart years ago. So when he finds that fate once again placed Then in each other’s path he vows that this time he won’t let her go. And not even a crazy ex, obsessed fans or death itself will stop him from finally being with his girl.
I absolutely love Jake and Lexi’s connection even after years and years apart and how their chemistry was nothing but pure fire!! These two characters were amazing as individuals but pure perfection together with a powerful and true connection that even a sadistic ex and time couldn’t keep apart. If you’re a fan of second chance love stories that I pack a punch then you definitely want to add this one to your list!
October 4, 2022
Damn - Brooklyn Cross has quickly become one of my top authors!
This is the first book in The Battered Souls Series and I am seriously in love with Lexi and Jake!...
This is a second chance romance and it's deep! There's no denying that, it deals with some heartbreaking situations and it made my heart hurt but damn was it worth it!
Lexi has come to a new town in the hopes of a do-over. She had a tough start in life - very freaking tough - and just when she thought all was good, she'd found a good home, a best friend who she loved with every fibre of her being and vice versa, and she was on her way to being truly happy... They were torn apart. Shipped off and no way of finding each other.
Life takes them in different directions and unfortunately it wasn't the happy ending she'd hoped for - hence the do-over.
Jake hit the jackpot with his family, it was everything that every child deserves.
After spending several years touring the world, living it up, overindulging, he soon realised he wasn't happy and
back home he came.
Cue the second chance! But it's not all sunshine and rainbows, especially when Lexis past threatens to surface again. Can she stand up for herself or does she need to run again??....
I loved this book, it's filled with real life tough upbringings, it has abuse, it has recovery,sadness as well as friendships, love and soulmates - what more could you possibly want??
An excellent read that I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
This is the first book in The Battered Souls Series and I am seriously in love with Lexi and Jake!...
This is a second chance romance and it's deep! There's no denying that, it deals with some heartbreaking situations and it made my heart hurt but damn was it worth it!
Lexi has come to a new town in the hopes of a do-over. She had a tough start in life - very freaking tough - and just when she thought all was good, she'd found a good home, a best friend who she loved with every fibre of her being and vice versa, and she was on her way to being truly happy... They were torn apart. Shipped off and no way of finding each other.
Life takes them in different directions and unfortunately it wasn't the happy ending she'd hoped for - hence the do-over.
Jake hit the jackpot with his family, it was everything that every child deserves.
After spending several years touring the world, living it up, overindulging, he soon realised he wasn't happy and
back home he came.
Cue the second chance! But it's not all sunshine and rainbows, especially when Lexis past threatens to surface again. Can she stand up for herself or does she need to run again??....
I loved this book, it's filled with real life tough upbringings, it has abuse, it has recovery,sadness as well as friendships, love and soulmates - what more could you possibly want??
An excellent read that I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
October 6, 2022
An emotional rollercoaster
Kat and Jake's story was absolutely breathtaking! This book was packed full of romance, suspense and plenty of steam and spice. Kats journey to find herself was truly beautiful and emotional.
Kat and Jake's story was absolutely breathtaking! This book was packed full of romance, suspense and plenty of steam and spice. Kats journey to find herself was truly beautiful and emotional.
October 7, 2022
This story is beyond words, just wow! This is the debut book in Brooklyn’s new battered souls series. It follows Kat and Jake who met as foster children and then became separated soon after. They grow up in different worlds. Jake joining the social media influencer world and Kat joining high society after marrying a doctor. But things don’t appear as they would seem for either as they try to leave those lives behind and start over. The story of Jake and Kat is one of my favourites!
This is a MF romance, slow burn, second chance with stalker threats. Both characters have PTSD of varying degrees and Brooklyn does an amazing job of showing her readers how this can effect one’s life as both characters try to escape/cope through their traumas from the past.
Please check trigger warnings.
This is a MF romance, slow burn, second chance with stalker threats. Both characters have PTSD of varying degrees and Brooklyn does an amazing job of showing her readers how this can effect one’s life as both characters try to escape/cope through their traumas from the past.
Please check trigger warnings.
October 10, 2022
What an absolutely beautiful second chance love story that kept me completely captivated and glued to the pages never wanting to give up these amazing characters. The emotions just poured off the pages and had me laughing, crying and clutching my chest hoping my heart doesn’t burst out of it. Kat and Jake took me on one hell of an emotionally heart-wrenching journey of healing, forgiveness and finding happiness with your true soul mate.
Kat is such an incredible woman with a heartbreaking past. Every time she revealed parts of her story my heart would ache over the incredibly tragic moments that she had to survive. The fact that she was strong enough to put her mind and body through what she did in order escape her hellish life brought tears to my eyes and hope for her happy ending.
I was on the edge of my seat with anticipation of when Jake and Kat would actually see each other again after almost twenty years. And let me tell you that my heart was absolutely soaring when it happened. I couldn’t keep the smile off my face. These two are just so perfect for each other and I just wanted every thing to work out for them in the end.
Such a beautifully written story that was filled with emotional turmoil, drama, heartache, suspense, violence and some very twisted and unexpected moments that had me shocked and reeling with such utter hatred. But this amazing story was also filled with funny, sweet and incredibly heartwarming moments with an amazing ending that left my heart full of love. I absolutely loved every second of it.
Kat is such an incredible woman with a heartbreaking past. Every time she revealed parts of her story my heart would ache over the incredibly tragic moments that she had to survive. The fact that she was strong enough to put her mind and body through what she did in order escape her hellish life brought tears to my eyes and hope for her happy ending.
I was on the edge of my seat with anticipation of when Jake and Kat would actually see each other again after almost twenty years. And let me tell you that my heart was absolutely soaring when it happened. I couldn’t keep the smile off my face. These two are just so perfect for each other and I just wanted every thing to work out for them in the end.
Such a beautifully written story that was filled with emotional turmoil, drama, heartache, suspense, violence and some very twisted and unexpected moments that had me shocked and reeling with such utter hatred. But this amazing story was also filled with funny, sweet and incredibly heartwarming moments with an amazing ending that left my heart full of love. I absolutely loved every second of it.
October 15, 2022
A Rainbow Promise…
“After rain there's a rainbow, after a storm there's calm, after the night there's a morning, and after an end there's a new beginning.”
That quote has a new meaning to me after reading The Girl That Would Be Lost by Brooklyn Cross.
Wow! I am completely blown away by the story of Kat and Jake. Both had suffered as children and were placed into foster care. They were placed separately with a family and from the moment Jake saw Kat walk in with her case worker he knew she was his person. They may have been young but they were each other’s soulmate. Unfortunately their foster family fell apart and they were separated but Jake swore and promised he would find her. Years would pass before it seems fate would direct them back into the direction of each other.
This story took me on an emotional ride. The things Kat and Jake suffered through as children were heartbreaking. Their story is not for the faint at heart but it’s so worth the read.
This felt so real, I was drawn in and could not stop turning the page until the end. I loved how the author guided us seamlessly from the past to the present time. The book just flowed perfectly telling the tale of two lost souls that were pulled apart during a storm of life and pieced back together in time to see the rainbow after the rain.
“After rain there's a rainbow, after a storm there's calm, after the night there's a morning, and after an end there's a new beginning.”
That quote has a new meaning to me after reading The Girl That Would Be Lost by Brooklyn Cross.
Wow! I am completely blown away by the story of Kat and Jake. Both had suffered as children and were placed into foster care. They were placed separately with a family and from the moment Jake saw Kat walk in with her case worker he knew she was his person. They may have been young but they were each other’s soulmate. Unfortunately their foster family fell apart and they were separated but Jake swore and promised he would find her. Years would pass before it seems fate would direct them back into the direction of each other.
This story took me on an emotional ride. The things Kat and Jake suffered through as children were heartbreaking. Their story is not for the faint at heart but it’s so worth the read.
This felt so real, I was drawn in and could not stop turning the page until the end. I loved how the author guided us seamlessly from the past to the present time. The book just flowed perfectly telling the tale of two lost souls that were pulled apart during a storm of life and pieced back together in time to see the rainbow after the rain.
October 9, 2022
Contemporary Romance
Such a beautiful story that had me in a chokehold. I felt the MFC pain from her traumatic past and I felt the love from the MMC. Brooklyn Cross ha recently been introduced to me and I was in need of a book to break me out of a slump. I thought this nice slow burn would do the trick. Not only did it break me out of my slump, it gave me all the feels I was missing in my reading lately. This definitely won’t be the last book I read of Brooklyns.
If you love a book that has:
M/F stand-alone
Protective Hero
Second chance
Slow burn
Spice
Stàlker threat
Contemporary
Grey dark
Traumatic past
Than this is for you.
Such a beautiful story that had me in a chokehold. I felt the MFC pain from her traumatic past and I felt the love from the MMC. Brooklyn Cross ha recently been introduced to me and I was in need of a book to break me out of a slump. I thought this nice slow burn would do the trick. Not only did it break me out of my slump, it gave me all the feels I was missing in my reading lately. This definitely won’t be the last book I read of Brooklyns.
If you love a book that has:
M/F stand-alone
Protective Hero
Second chance
Slow burn
Spice
Stàlker threat
Contemporary
Grey dark
Traumatic past
Than this is for you.
November 10, 2022
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶
HEA
I didn't expect to like this book as much as I did.
Fair warning, the characters don't officially meet again until about 45% of the way through. The first half is all about the h's backstory and her trying to build her life back up after leaving her abusive ex. And the H trying to separate himself from the negative and toxic life of being an influencer.
I would usually hate how long it took for the characters to reconnect, but I was honestly invested in their personal lives and didn't mind the wait. But, once they finally do reconnect, its game-on. There's no seperating them. Despite the dark topics, this book was sweet and wholesome.
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶
HEA
I didn't expect to like this book as much as I did.
Fair warning, the characters don't officially meet again until about 45% of the way through. The first half is all about the h's backstory and her trying to build her life back up after leaving her abusive ex. And the H trying to separate himself from the negative and toxic life of being an influencer.
I would usually hate how long it took for the characters to reconnect, but I was honestly invested in their personal lives and didn't mind the wait. But, once they finally do reconnect, its game-on. There's no seperating them. Despite the dark topics, this book was sweet and wholesome.
October 13, 2022
Oh My Heart
This book is absolutely amazing. Kat and Jake's story was absolutely breathtaking and emotional. Their story is packed full of romance, suspense, plenty of spice and heat 🔥🔥🔥. Kat's journey to find herself was beautiful and heartbreaking. I was drawn in right from the very start. I couldn't stop reading until the end. Brooklyn Cross knows how to make her characters come to life right on the pages. We experience a rollercoaster of emotions while reading what Kat and Jake were going through, like we were right there with them. This story does have some dark themes so just be prepared. Brooklyn Cross gets an A+ for The Girl That Would Be Lost. I cannot wait for what is going to come next.
I was allowed to read an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is absolutely amazing. Kat and Jake's story was absolutely breathtaking and emotional. Their story is packed full of romance, suspense, plenty of spice and heat 🔥🔥🔥. Kat's journey to find herself was beautiful and heartbreaking. I was drawn in right from the very start. I couldn't stop reading until the end. Brooklyn Cross knows how to make her characters come to life right on the pages. We experience a rollercoaster of emotions while reading what Kat and Jake were going through, like we were right there with them. This story does have some dark themes so just be prepared. Brooklyn Cross gets an A+ for The Girl That Would Be Lost. I cannot wait for what is going to come next.
I was allowed to read an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2022
I received an Advanced Reader Copy for an honest and voluntary review
WOW 🫢 This book was AMAZING!! This story made me absolutely cry 😢 Jake and Kat were fantastic characters, and my heart broke for both of them 💔 Life definitely gave these two a tough hand, the only happiness they ever had was each other, but it was ripped away from them. I couldn’t stop reading this book!! I had to know what was going to happen next!! Even though the flashbacks were heartbreaking, and could be triggering for some readers, Brooklyn handled these subjects with care ♥️ I definitely enjoyed the flashbacks (whether they depicted Kat’s abuse, Jake and Kat’s time in foster care, etc), because it made me feel what the characters felt. Plus it helped me understand their headspace in the present.
🖤Each reader is different, please keep the TWs in mind while reading this book🖤
Kat and Jake spent a few years in a foster home together. They became extremely close, and Kat even fell in love with him. Unfortunately the rug was pulled out from under them, because they were pulled from the home due to the foster parents getting a divorce, and separated. Jake made the promise, he would always find Kat.
Jake ended up becoming a social media presence, via singing, but is extremely unhappy. He tries to drown himself in women, alcohol and drugs, but he can never erase Kat from his mind
Kat went a different way. She was homeless, but fell for the high school quarterback in her junior year. They ended up getting married, and he became extremely abusive. Kat finally gets the courage to run, and changes her name to Alexis/Lexi. She finds a quaint little town, where she feels safe and happy, but she does continue looking over her shoulder making sure Richard (her abusive husband) can’t find her. Kat starts to meet the townsfolk, while dealing with trauma from her past, and trying to break the chains that held her down
Will Jake and Richard both try to find Kat…..
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 🖤💙
WOW 🫢 This book was AMAZING!! This story made me absolutely cry 😢 Jake and Kat were fantastic characters, and my heart broke for both of them 💔 Life definitely gave these two a tough hand, the only happiness they ever had was each other, but it was ripped away from them. I couldn’t stop reading this book!! I had to know what was going to happen next!! Even though the flashbacks were heartbreaking, and could be triggering for some readers, Brooklyn handled these subjects with care ♥️ I definitely enjoyed the flashbacks (whether they depicted Kat’s abuse, Jake and Kat’s time in foster care, etc), because it made me feel what the characters felt. Plus it helped me understand their headspace in the present.
🖤Each reader is different, please keep the TWs in mind while reading this book🖤
Kat and Jake spent a few years in a foster home together. They became extremely close, and Kat even fell in love with him. Unfortunately the rug was pulled out from under them, because they were pulled from the home due to the foster parents getting a divorce, and separated. Jake made the promise, he would always find Kat.
Jake ended up becoming a social media presence, via singing, but is extremely unhappy. He tries to drown himself in women, alcohol and drugs, but he can never erase Kat from his mind
Kat went a different way. She was homeless, but fell for the high school quarterback in her junior year. They ended up getting married, and he became extremely abusive. Kat finally gets the courage to run, and changes her name to Alexis/Lexi. She finds a quaint little town, where she feels safe and happy, but she does continue looking over her shoulder making sure Richard (her abusive husband) can’t find her. Kat starts to meet the townsfolk, while dealing with trauma from her past, and trying to break the chains that held her down
Will Jake and Richard both try to find Kat…..
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 🖤💙
October 7, 2022
Amazing !
I absolutely loved this book ! I would rate this 5+ stars! I was drawn in right from the start. and couldn't stop reading until the end. Brooklyn cross gives her characters such depth and I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions while reading what they were going through. I absolutely adored Kat and Jake as well as their friends and family. The story has dark themes so heed any trigger warnings. There is a lot of steamy good times and well as suspence. I looked forward from the next book in this series
I absolutely loved this book ! I would rate this 5+ stars! I was drawn in right from the start. and couldn't stop reading until the end. Brooklyn cross gives her characters such depth and I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions while reading what they were going through. I absolutely adored Kat and Jake as well as their friends and family. The story has dark themes so heed any trigger warnings. There is a lot of steamy good times and well as suspence. I looked forward from the next book in this series
October 7, 2022
A ball of emotions and impacting. Kate’s husband Richard stripped her of everything. Jake has loved her forever after then met in foster care. He has lived a life rewarding fantastic life when he goes back home he comes face to face with the one person he has always and still loved. This such an impacting story. Loved this but there isn’t one of Brooklyn’s book that I haven’t loved.
I received this copy and my spoiler free review is voluntary
I received this copy and my spoiler free review is voluntary
October 10, 2022
This story left me with so many feelings!!! I may have even shed a tear or two (haven’t done that in a bit). I was not prepared! In a good way I promise. While still having a distinctly Brooklyn Cross writing style, Kate(or Kat) & Jake’s story was full of second chance angsty vibes but, definitely still showing those darker/suspenseful elements I’ve come to love about her stories. And, of course the hard-fought HEA for our MCs!
Kate and Jake new from a young age that they had a connection. A connection that would follow them even after they were forced apart. Despite both of their lives going in such different directions, the universe brings them back together again when they needed each other the most. Kate, reinventing herself and starting a new life. Jake, trying to figure out what he really wants his life to look like. I really liked that we got to know them both as individuals before they meet again. It felt as though they knew they could stand on their own but, were so much stronger together; That made far more sense in my head. 😜
Kate endures some horrific things at the hands of her ex and though she shares this soul-deep connection with Jake, she still questions whether she is worthy. Jake makes it his mission to show her that she is and that nothing will stand in his way of protecting her and loving her. Ugghhhh, I just loved them. 😍🤗💕 And, I definitely loved reading their story and seeing their reunion and their second chance at being together.
As always, so happy to get to read another ARC of Brooklyn’s!
✨Quick Notes✨
Second Chance
Suspense
Definitely some darker themes
So emotional! Had my stomach in knots
Contemporary romance
Slow burn
Read description & triggers for this
MCs get a HEA
✨Ratings✨
💗💗💗💗💗
🌶🌶🌶🌶
✨Some of my favorite things✨
Olly! I loved her protectiveness and she was extra sassy!
Jake and his family were just 😍💞
Jake and Kate’s reunion 💗💗💗
Kate and Jake new from a young age that they had a connection. A connection that would follow them even after they were forced apart. Despite both of their lives going in such different directions, the universe brings them back together again when they needed each other the most. Kate, reinventing herself and starting a new life. Jake, trying to figure out what he really wants his life to look like. I really liked that we got to know them both as individuals before they meet again. It felt as though they knew they could stand on their own but, were so much stronger together; That made far more sense in my head. 😜
Kate endures some horrific things at the hands of her ex and though she shares this soul-deep connection with Jake, she still questions whether she is worthy. Jake makes it his mission to show her that she is and that nothing will stand in his way of protecting her and loving her. Ugghhhh, I just loved them. 😍🤗💕 And, I definitely loved reading their story and seeing their reunion and their second chance at being together.
As always, so happy to get to read another ARC of Brooklyn’s!
✨Quick Notes✨
Second Chance
Suspense
Definitely some darker themes
So emotional! Had my stomach in knots
Contemporary romance
Slow burn
Read description & triggers for this
MCs get a HEA
✨Ratings✨
💗💗💗💗💗
🌶🌶🌶🌶
✨Some of my favorite things✨
Olly! I loved her protectiveness and she was extra sassy!
Jake and his family were just 😍💞
Jake and Kate’s reunion 💗💗💗
October 11, 2022
Stephannie's 5-Star Review:
This is a beautiful story of 2 young kids (Kate and Jake) coming together when they needed someone; they found each other and formed a bond. That bond stayed with them even when they were torn apart from each other. Kate/Lexi is a survivor who went through hell and back and is still standing strong. I don't think many would survive what she did and come out the other side. There are a lot of dark things that happen to her that are physical and emotional. But she escapes and reconnects with Jake. Even after that everything isn't smooth but she doesn't give up. Jake is going through some things himself and comes home to regroup. When he finds Kate, he can't believe his eyes and struggles to reconnect with her at first. But he is going to do everything he can to keep her forever this time.
I really loved this one. I loved their connection and how powerful it is. These two have chemistry and even with everything going on I know these two are meant to be. One-click this amazing second-chance romance today!
This is a beautiful story of 2 young kids (Kate and Jake) coming together when they needed someone; they found each other and formed a bond. That bond stayed with them even when they were torn apart from each other. Kate/Lexi is a survivor who went through hell and back and is still standing strong. I don't think many would survive what she did and come out the other side. There are a lot of dark things that happen to her that are physical and emotional. But she escapes and reconnects with Jake. Even after that everything isn't smooth but she doesn't give up. Jake is going through some things himself and comes home to regroup. When he finds Kate, he can't believe his eyes and struggles to reconnect with her at first. But he is going to do everything he can to keep her forever this time.
I really loved this one. I loved their connection and how powerful it is. These two have chemistry and even with everything going on I know these two are meant to be. One-click this amazing second-chance romance today!
October 9, 2022
what an incredible read
What an emotional journey that was.
Jake and Kat’s story was truly heartbreaking but also heartwarming at the same time.
What Kat had to endure most of her life was horrendous and you can see how truly brave and strong she is to overcome everything that has happened.
I was so happy when Jake finally worked up the nerve to see her and her reaction at the door had me laughing.
I devoured this book in one sitting I absolutely could not put it down.
I am a huge fan of Brooklyn Cross’ books and can’t wait to read what comes next.
What an emotional journey that was.
Jake and Kat’s story was truly heartbreaking but also heartwarming at the same time.
What Kat had to endure most of her life was horrendous and you can see how truly brave and strong she is to overcome everything that has happened.
I was so happy when Jake finally worked up the nerve to see her and her reaction at the door had me laughing.
I devoured this book in one sitting I absolutely could not put it down.
I am a huge fan of Brooklyn Cross’ books and can’t wait to read what comes next.
October 11, 2022
Over the Rainbow
Brooklyn Cross’s first book in ‘The Battered Souls World’ series grabbed my interest and heart immediately. The author portrays the FMC that sees herself as weak but with everything she has endured, she is certainly a strong woman. She flees a bad situation and starts a new life incognito. Her old childhood, now wild bad boy, friend comes back into her life. But will their reunion be one of joy or will it put her in danger? You need to read this amazing book to find out all the unexpected details. Highly recommended and definitely a MUST read!
Brooklyn Cross’s first book in ‘The Battered Souls World’ series grabbed my interest and heart immediately. The author portrays the FMC that sees herself as weak but with everything she has endured, she is certainly a strong woman. She flees a bad situation and starts a new life incognito. Her old childhood, now wild bad boy, friend comes back into her life. But will their reunion be one of joy or will it put her in danger? You need to read this amazing book to find out all the unexpected details. Highly recommended and definitely a MUST read!
November 4, 2022
Normally, the 2nd change trope is not for me but d@mn am I glad that I took the chance and I'm in awe that this author did too. It's a story that I did not see coming. Our characters Kate and Jake's journey to get their second chance after "what seems a lifetime" apart will evoke emotions you didn't even know you had. It's a magnificent read if you're looking for something different and I really recommend it 😊 ❤️
August 27, 2023
So very good!AWESOME
OMG, this book was outstanding and sometime painful to read. The fear,betrayal,evil and lack of humanity people generate and force on others is overwhelming. But unconditional love and friendship over rule such evil. You will fall in love with younger versions of Jake and Kate. As they grow into strong yet vulnerable adults your love will also grow. There is a great and all consuming love that defy time. Great family dynamic. The lovemaking is off the charts. You will not be disappointed by selecting this book.
OMG, this book was outstanding and sometime painful to read. The fear,betrayal,evil and lack of humanity people generate and force on others is overwhelming. But unconditional love and friendship over rule such evil. You will fall in love with younger versions of Jake and Kate. As they grow into strong yet vulnerable adults your love will also grow. There is a great and all consuming love that defy time. Great family dynamic. The lovemaking is off the charts. You will not be disappointed by selecting this book.
October 6, 2022
All i can say is wow. This was heart wrenching, the story of Kat and Jake was so painful to read but at the same time it was refreshing. When they found each other again I really enjoyed their reunion. This book is amazing and is a definite must read.
October 7, 2022
This author can’t go wrong. Another win.
Dark and suspenseful, we get Kate/Lexi who escapes an abusive husband and finds a new lease on life and friends. But the threat of her husband lingers. Fate reunites her with the only man, Jake, she’ll ever loved.
The suspense sucked me in and despite the horrors she endured, I was riveted to see what would transpire. Her husband is one scary dude who ranks up there with some psycho villains.
The steam level was nuclear and expected. When these two reunited it set off fireworks. So glad Jake and her had that chance to be happy. Gave me warm fuzzies to read their shared past as kids.
Dying to see if a story will focus on his brother and her friend. Them two could have a hot, enemies to lovers romance.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
Dark and suspenseful, we get Kate/Lexi who escapes an abusive husband and finds a new lease on life and friends. But the threat of her husband lingers. Fate reunites her with the only man, Jake, she’ll ever loved.
The suspense sucked me in and despite the horrors she endured, I was riveted to see what would transpire. Her husband is one scary dude who ranks up there with some psycho villains.
The steam level was nuclear and expected. When these two reunited it set off fireworks. So glad Jake and her had that chance to be happy. Gave me warm fuzzies to read their shared past as kids.
Dying to see if a story will focus on his brother and her friend. Them two could have a hot, enemies to lovers romance.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
October 6, 2022
So so good
Fabulous story I can’t say enough about it . Just read it you will love Jake & Kat ❤️ I’m hoping for Ollie and Jayce’s story because there has to be one.
Fabulous story I can’t say enough about it . Just read it you will love Jake & Kat ❤️ I’m hoping for Ollie and Jayce’s story because there has to be one.
October 6, 2022
What a surprising slow burn from Brooklyn Cross! Jake and Kat were destined to be together and drawn to each other from a very young age. They were separated and both moved on with their lives but each wondered about the other from time to time and they both had “what if” moments.
Jake had a loving family but they couldn’t fill the void left by Kat and Kat had a rough childhood and even rougher marriage. Kat decided she needed a change and that put her back in Jake’s path once again. Jake is unsure at first but finally decides to take control of the situation and when he does, he does not hold back.
This book has all the spice we’ve come to expect from Brooklyn, but it’s definitely a little later in the book. It has all the amazing details she loves to include as well. The story line is fantastic and the characters growth is written in great detail. I had hoped Jake would have taken control and met up with Kat sooner, I felt like he delayed the inevitable and while this is a slow burn, it was a very slow burn. I can’t wait to read her next book!
Jake had a loving family but they couldn’t fill the void left by Kat and Kat had a rough childhood and even rougher marriage. Kat decided she needed a change and that put her back in Jake’s path once again. Jake is unsure at first but finally decides to take control of the situation and when he does, he does not hold back.
This book has all the spice we’ve come to expect from Brooklyn, but it’s definitely a little later in the book. It has all the amazing details she loves to include as well. The story line is fantastic and the characters growth is written in great detail. I had hoped Jake would have taken control and met up with Kat sooner, I felt like he delayed the inevitable and while this is a slow burn, it was a very slow burn. I can’t wait to read her next book!
March 30, 2023
Need More From This Author!
Oh wow this was a good read.
I enjoyed learning about their back story as the story progressed. The build up to the reunion was everything I was waiting for. What a great story from this author and I would definitely suggest this as a read.
Oh wow this was a good read.
I enjoyed learning about their back story as the story progressed. The build up to the reunion was everything I was waiting for. What a great story from this author and I would definitely suggest this as a read.
April 10, 2023
💜❤️🔥twin flame❤️🔥💜🌈second chance💜🌈
Brooklyn took me for an emotional roller coaster with this story. This book hits all your emotions. I absolutely loved Jake and Lexi/Kat journey as well as their family and friends. This second chance Romance told in dual POV with a HEA ending will have you crying. There is so much in this story from the emotional/physical abuse that Kat suffered for most of her life. To Jake also having his own demons he had to work through. To all the in between things as well. 5+ ⭐️’s with lots of 🌶️ from Jake’s dirty talk!
Brooklyn took me for an emotional roller coaster with this story. This book hits all your emotions. I absolutely loved Jake and Lexi/Kat journey as well as their family and friends. This second chance Romance told in dual POV with a HEA ending will have you crying. There is so much in this story from the emotional/physical abuse that Kat suffered for most of her life. To Jake also having his own demons he had to work through. To all the in between things as well. 5+ ⭐️’s with lots of 🌶️ from Jake’s dirty talk!
April 6, 2023
This was everything my heart needed. There were definitely some dark elements; SA (not the H), stalking, PTSD, verbal and mental @buse, t*rture etc., but at the core a beautiful story of lost love. So many what could have been moments, missed chances, and so much pain. Kat and Jake worm their way into your heart and just stay there. I never doubted for a second that their HEA was secure, after everything that happened while they were separated, there was no way either of them was letting anything come between them. Their love was so pure but also the chemistry and undeniable pull between them was beyond hot!!! Flaming hot and while it took a while to get there, oh boy was it worth it!!!! I loved this book so much. It's definitely a book I could read again and again. Plus there is more to come!!!! Yay for side characters that make you want more!!! I cannot wait to see everyone again!!!
October 20, 2022
Brooklyn Cross always brings the heart and heat to a story and this is no exception.
It’s clear from the start that Jake and Kat (later known as Lexi) are destined to be together. From the moment they meet in foster care, their bond is undeniable and their childhood interactions were some of my favorite moments in the book. Despite the many hurts life has dealt them, their love for each other is what makes it all bearable, which is why it hurts so much when life forces them apart.
Jake goes on to live a life that most would envy-a "dream" life with fame, money and glamour, yet deep down he can't deny that it means nothing without Kat by his side. Kat on the other hand finds herself married to a man whose beautiful facade hides a dark and brutal underbelly and my heart broke for her during the flashbacks of her time with Richard. She showed so much strength during her time with him, and even more so when she fled, taking on a new life and name (Lexi). Although she's determined to have a fresh start, forming new friendships and a career, her mind and her heart continues to wander back to Jake and the life they could have had.
When life once again brings these two together, their chemistry and connection with each other is undeniable. It was sweet and incredibly hot at the same time, and I loved watching these two face the many challenges life continued to throw at them.
Definitely an intriguing slow burn, second chance romance that not only packs a surprising amount of heat, but more importantly all the emotions that come when two soulmates finally have their chance at their HEA.
It’s clear from the start that Jake and Kat (later known as Lexi) are destined to be together. From the moment they meet in foster care, their bond is undeniable and their childhood interactions were some of my favorite moments in the book. Despite the many hurts life has dealt them, their love for each other is what makes it all bearable, which is why it hurts so much when life forces them apart.
Jake goes on to live a life that most would envy-a "dream" life with fame, money and glamour, yet deep down he can't deny that it means nothing without Kat by his side. Kat on the other hand finds herself married to a man whose beautiful facade hides a dark and brutal underbelly and my heart broke for her during the flashbacks of her time with Richard. She showed so much strength during her time with him, and even more so when she fled, taking on a new life and name (Lexi). Although she's determined to have a fresh start, forming new friendships and a career, her mind and her heart continues to wander back to Jake and the life they could have had.
When life once again brings these two together, their chemistry and connection with each other is undeniable. It was sweet and incredibly hot at the same time, and I loved watching these two face the many challenges life continued to throw at them.
Definitely an intriguing slow burn, second chance romance that not only packs a surprising amount of heat, but more importantly all the emotions that come when two soulmates finally have their chance at their HEA.
April 1, 2023
Average Read
Trope: childhood best friend/connection, foster care, woman fleeing domestic violence, second chance romance
Slow burn level: 50%
Heroine escaped an abusive husband and is hiding and rebuilding her life in a small town. Starts her own bakery business. Makes a friend.
Hero is a social media influencer/model/actor. Tired of the party life and taking time at home with his adoptive family he wants a break. He sees heroine and after making sure it was her, he is determined not to never let her go again.
Unfortunately It was difficult for me to believe in the actions of the heroine. Many decisions seemed to be inconsistent with the fear and trauma she's been through. For instance, I think it would take her longer to commit to starting a business in the new community, for her to make a close friend, and to allow her bakery to be featured in local newspaper, for her to instantly have sex with Jake upon meeting for the first time again in over a decade, for her to quickly feel safe and okay with her EX learning where she lives. For how timid and panicked the author made the heroine, it's just hard for me to buy in to her truly doing these things without much worry.
HEA (no pregnancy)
Near death crisis
Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, rape
Trope: childhood best friend/connection, foster care, woman fleeing domestic violence, second chance romance
Slow burn level: 50%
Heroine escaped an abusive husband and is hiding and rebuilding her life in a small town. Starts her own bakery business. Makes a friend.
Hero is a social media influencer/model/actor. Tired of the party life and taking time at home with his adoptive family he wants a break. He sees heroine and after making sure it was her, he is determined not to never let her go again.
Unfortunately It was difficult for me to believe in the actions of the heroine. Many decisions seemed to be inconsistent with the fear and trauma she's been through. For instance, I think it would take her longer to commit to starting a business in the new community, for her to make a close friend, and to allow her bakery to be featured in local newspaper, for her to instantly have sex with Jake upon meeting for the first time again in over a decade, for her to quickly feel safe and okay with her EX learning where she lives. For how timid and panicked the author made the heroine, it's just hard for me to buy in to her truly doing these things without much worry.
HEA (no pregnancy)
Near death crisis
Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, rape
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