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Imbalanced Minds
I could have had it all. A happily ever after. A future to call my own. But between being consumed by Cory Whitman and suffocated by my manipulative ex-boyfriend, the anguish of my past overshadowed the love I craved.
My dreams of happiness became haunted nightmares.
My thoughts are loud but my demons are louder. Piecing myself back together won’t be easy.
If only the man I crave didn’t have to see me hit rock bottom for us to have any chance at all.
My dreams of happiness became haunted nightmares.
My thoughts are loud but my demons are louder. Piecing myself back together won’t be easy.
If only the man I crave didn’t have to see me hit rock bottom for us to have any chance at all.
248 pages, Paperback
Published June 15, 2021
1 person is currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Cole J. Powell
8 books95 followersCole J. Powell is a New Zealand author who writes fierce heroines and cutthroat alphas.
She loves writing books with suspenseful plots and twisted storylines.
She thanks you sincerely for taking the time to read and review her work.
For more please visit her on Facebook or Instagram.
She loves writing books with suspenseful plots and twisted storylines.
She thanks you sincerely for taking the time to read and review her work.
For more please visit her on Facebook or Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 23, 2021
Wow! Debut novel?! I’m impressed. 😮 This was an emotional rollercoaster, and it was written in such a way that you feel what the characters felt. I love that mental health was discussed throughout, but especially after the relationship with Tyrell. I love that Corey was alpha possessive! 🥵 Great book! BUT…I’m now curious about the MC though!
May 23, 2021
For a debut novel, Cole has penned a beauty.
Full of suspense, high on steam, with some laughs thrown in, this book was a breeze to read.
In saying that, there are triggers in this book.
It’s got some tough subjects that it deals with but it is done in a respectful and original way.
I have no doubt in my mind that I will be reading more of Cole’s work in the future, this book has hooked me to her brand of crazy (because I LIKE it).
Full of suspense, high on steam, with some laughs thrown in, this book was a breeze to read.
In saying that, there are triggers in this book.
It’s got some tough subjects that it deals with but it is done in a respectful and original way.
I have no doubt in my mind that I will be reading more of Cole’s work in the future, this book has hooked me to her brand of crazy (because I LIKE it).
July 8, 2021
Amazing debut!!
Imbalanced Minds is a story of devastation, of loving from afar, and of silent suffering while putting on a mask to hide the brokenness from the world. It’s a story of undeniable attraction and fighting with everything you have to protect the one your heart belongs to.
Cory and Iris know they are made for each other. But with a past like Iris's that comes back to bite, they go through hell and uncertainty before finally reaching their oh-so-satisfying HEA!!
Highly recommended!!!
Imbalanced Minds is a story of devastation, of loving from afar, and of silent suffering while putting on a mask to hide the brokenness from the world. It’s a story of undeniable attraction and fighting with everything you have to protect the one your heart belongs to.
Cory and Iris know they are made for each other. But with a past like Iris's that comes back to bite, they go through hell and uncertainty before finally reaching their oh-so-satisfying HEA!!
Highly recommended!!!
June 27, 2021
Awesome Debut Book
I was surprised to find out this book was the authors debut. It doesn’t read as a debut book.
Cole J Powell has written a story that kept my attention from cover to cover.
I love books that have multiple POV’s and this book has them and they were done perfectly.
I don’t put spoilers in my reviews so I apologize if that’s what you were looking for.
This book did put me on a emotional rollercoaster. Mental health was discussed in this book and if that is a trigger for you then I ask that you please take that under consideration.
I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
I was surprised to find out this book was the authors debut. It doesn’t read as a debut book.
Cole J Powell has written a story that kept my attention from cover to cover.
I love books that have multiple POV’s and this book has them and they were done perfectly.
I don’t put spoilers in my reviews so I apologize if that’s what you were looking for.
This book did put me on a emotional rollercoaster. Mental health was discussed in this book and if that is a trigger for you then I ask that you please take that under consideration.
I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
July 1, 2021
I would have never guessed that this was the authors debut book! She went all in and didn't hold back. I was hooked right away and found it hard to out down. Looking forward to more by Cole J. Powell.
August 13, 2021
Loved it!!! And this cover is stunning.
June 25, 2021
This was a great debut by a author I will definitely be reading more of in the future. I enjoyed the rollercoaster and angst that this book took me on
June 1, 2021
Imbalanced Minds is Cole J. Powell's debut novel and she doesn't shy away from the tough subjects.
With some heavy topics, that could be triggering to some, Powell brings light to issues that many could potentially relate to.
Iris, the female lead, is broken and bruised and is working on finding her way, when suddenly her brother's best friend is brought back into her life, a man that she has been crushing on since high school. This is the perfect cross between forbidden love/brother's best friend.
For her debut, Powell does an amazing job and is carving a niche in the world of romance.
With some heavy topics, that could be triggering to some, Powell brings light to issues that many could potentially relate to.
Iris, the female lead, is broken and bruised and is working on finding her way, when suddenly her brother's best friend is brought back into her life, a man that she has been crushing on since high school. This is the perfect cross between forbidden love/brother's best friend.
For her debut, Powell does an amazing job and is carving a niche in the world of romance.
January 26, 2023
•.¸( *•.¸♥️¸.•*´)¸.•*´🖤`*•..¸(*•.¸♥️¸.•*´)¸.•
💫*•🖤... MY 5-⭐ REVIEW ...🖤•*💫
.•*(¸.•*´♥️`*•.¸)`*•.🖤¸.• *(¸.•* ♥️ ´*•.¸)*•.
Imbalanced Minds by Cole J Powell
Reviewed by Judy Robichaud/Dare To Love Romance Reviews
EEP! MY ROMANCE LOVING CUP RUNNETH OVER! I WAS BLOWN AWAY FROM BEGINNING ALL THE WAY TO THE 5-⭐ FINISH!
Cole J. Powell is a "new to me author" and my bestie recommended her books to me as well as recommending Imbalanced Minds specifically. I knew if she loved it, chances were right up there that I would too. I was eager to jump right in and get this reading party started. Let me tell you the author did not disappoint! This story was exciting, suspenseful and engaging throughout its entirety. I love me a damsel in distress romance but it's even better when the heroine isn't afraid to show her weaknesses and vulnerabilities and at the same time exhibit strength. She was a force and so much more.
There are some dark themes covered in this romance that may be triggering for some, but I am so very pleased at how the author didn't get into the graphic details and delicate nature of said dark subject matter. It simply wasn't necessary. What she did write, was written with such heart, empathy and finesse that I didn't need any more details than what was given. I appreciated that very much.
Iris Jones is our quirky, lovable, funny, dirt bike riding heroine who has been through the ringer, both emotionally and physically. Good gawd man! What she's been through would test everyone's resolve. She's like the energizer bunny. She takes a licking and keeps on ticking. What do I mean? Well, I just can't say. Sorry not sorry. Okay, I'll say this, her past is dark and it's catching up to her. There. That's all you're getting out of me! 😉...
She's been in love with Cory since college but just can't seem to get him to make a move. Well, it could be because he's Iris's brother Justin's best friend. Awkward!
Iris's parents run the family business, Jones MotoX and Iris works there as a business manager. And she loves to ride. You're going to love her parents. I sure did!
Our hero is Cory Whitman, Iris's object of affection and all around hottie. As I said he's her brother's best friend. Her brother has made it clear to him that his sister is off limits. Which is interesting because he's dating Iris's best friend Nat! Talk about a walking contradiction. I guess that's how all big brothers would react. Go figure. Anywho.....
Cory has a dark history and fights those demons on a daily basis. I know, you want deets right? Yeah, not gonna happen. No spoilers allowed. What I will say is that it plays a role in this romance.
A need to go out on the town, a night of dancing at a club her brother told her about, a pair of sexy strong arms, a dirty whisperer, an unwelcome and disturbed blast from the past, but more than all that, a rejection so big, it starts a beautiful young woman on a collision course she'd rather not be in. One that sends her spiraling into a huge world of hurt.
A shocking confession leaves her wanting to show Cory that he WAS worthy of her, worthy of being a man to be proud of, a man worthy of forgiveness, a man worthy of her attention, a man worthy of love, her love, no matter what his past and its secrets held.
Then it happened, a devastating lie from the one man she thought would never hurt her did, and that lie tilted her world on its axis and thrust her heart first into a stratosphere of unending debilitating pain. Trust me when I say the words he spewed her way were mean, and incredibly hurtful. He not only broke her heart, he decimated her spirit to say the least. She was so broken. So very broken. She didn't think she would ever get through the indescribable and crippling pain.
Then one day she woke up feeling reenergized and thought it was time to get back out and into the land of the living. So she and Nat did just that. Turns out she was wrong. So very wrong. A good time out with her bestie turned out to be more than she bargained for. So... much... more!
After a horrifying and ghastly event takes place, an innocent woman is left even more broken than before. For some, heated and angry feelings surface and guilt settles in. With whom? I'm not telling. Will the one man who tore Iris's world apart before this event be the one man she needs the most when it really counts? Will he step up to the plate and be the man she needs him to be? Deserves him to be? Or will he remain in the dark fighting his own personal demons? Hmm, more great questions and still no answer from this reviewer...
Iris struggles to heal and suffers from the recent terrifying and life altering events that took place. Events that pulled the rug of safety right out from underneath her. I tell ya I wanted to jump inside the pages of this book and slay her demons for her. Iris pushes forward by putting on a brave face with those who love and worry about her the most.
Iris's attempts at a courageous fight with evil backfires when evil rears their ugly head once again. Bringing all that intense fear to the surface then back down the rabbit hole right along with Iris once more. Will it be possible for her to ever feel truly safe again knowing evil still lurks around every corner? Her fears are very real and very close.
Can Iris prove to the one man who owns her heart, and wraps her in security that he can in fact love her completely despite his demons while simultaneously fighting her own? Will they both come to accept that with healing comes the freedom to let go, and with that freedom comes forgiveness and with forgiveness comes love? Hmm, all I can say is that it's one helluva journey they are on.
When safety becomes a dangerous issue once more, can Cory keep the one woman he loves safe? Will he need reinforcements from an unlikely source? Sorry dang it, these lips aren't doing the talking.
What I will tease you with is there's a very suspenseful part that involves a closet and I swear, my heart was beating right out of my chest. This book most definitely didn't lack in the exciting suspense department that's for sure.
Can Iris and Cory get past the madness, both past and present, get the help they both need and finally be free of their demons? When danger comes calling, will help get there in time? And finally, will this couple be free to celebrate their love instead of hiding it?
While there were plenty of bad times to be had, when the words on the pages got too serious, too dark, it was the author's quick wit delivery of silliness and shenanigans through her characters that helped this reader pull through it.
*******
BOOK FAVORITES:
* I loved the friendship between Iris and Nat, Iris's best friend and may I say she is hilarious and loyal to a tee. Get those two roomies together and anything goes. I belted out loud laughing more than a few times. Given some of the dark themes in this story, it was a welcome break from that darkness. I mention this character because of her role in Iris's life. Everyone needs a Nat as their bestie. But her character is more than all fun and games. Her loving and caring nature towards Iris made me love her even more.
Favorite passage/line:
* This is my all time favorite book passage of any book I've ever read. It literally gave me full on body chills and I swear a few tears escaped me. And that last line? That last line just about did me in. Swoonylicious comes to my mind. It was brilliant!
"... happiness is the highest level of success. No matter what life throws at you, whom you choose to be with or what you choose to do with your life, it’s that happiness is your strength and I want to be your happiness.”
*******
I'm thrilled to say that the ending was... hmm, how should I put it? It was an absolute celebration of love and pure happiness. Gotta love that!
Imbalanced Minds by Cole J. Powell has it all. A swoonylicious lickable hero who I fell madly in love with, a heroine whose sheer strength defied all odds and who stole my heart, really fantastic characters that I couldn't even say who my favorite character was because I loved them all, one of my all time favorite families, a storyline filled with all good and bad things, riveting nail biting suspense, angsty, heart wrenching and heartbreaking drama including the good and bad and all the ugly, throw in some bad arse bikers, and an evildoer who you'll just love hating but love watching their demise and an ending sure to please every romance lover out there. At least it did for this romance lover. Kudos to the author for the care and sensitivity she used relating to the highly sensitive mental health subject matter. It really did impress me. It's not all sunshine and roses and neither is real life. The author kept it real and on point. Have I mentioned the swoony hero I loved so much? Oh yeah, I think I may have.... I could go on and on and on about all his swoony and chivalrous ways but I guess I can't let all of the cats out of the bag. I need to leave something for the next readers...
The writing was so surprisingly good seeing that this was the author's debut release. This romance is sure to please romance lovers everywhere. It was very exciting to say the least and it hit all the feels. I just couldn't help loving and rooting for this amazing duo and the long hard road they navigated towards their happily ever after.
This may have been my first read by this author but it will absolutely NOT be the last! It's an instant fangirlship for me! Simply put, I loved it! Amazing job Cole J. Powell! Imbalanced Minds blew me away from beginning all the way to the 5-star finish! A truly great 5-Star overall reading experience.
💫*•🖤... MY 5-⭐ REVIEW ...🖤•*💫
.•*(¸.•*´♥️`*•.¸)`*•.🖤¸.• *(¸.•* ♥️ ´*•.¸)*•.
Imbalanced Minds by Cole J Powell
Reviewed by Judy Robichaud/Dare To Love Romance Reviews
EEP! MY ROMANCE LOVING CUP RUNNETH OVER! I WAS BLOWN AWAY FROM BEGINNING ALL THE WAY TO THE 5-⭐ FINISH!
Cole J. Powell is a "new to me author" and my bestie recommended her books to me as well as recommending Imbalanced Minds specifically. I knew if she loved it, chances were right up there that I would too. I was eager to jump right in and get this reading party started. Let me tell you the author did not disappoint! This story was exciting, suspenseful and engaging throughout its entirety. I love me a damsel in distress romance but it's even better when the heroine isn't afraid to show her weaknesses and vulnerabilities and at the same time exhibit strength. She was a force and so much more.
There are some dark themes covered in this romance that may be triggering for some, but I am so very pleased at how the author didn't get into the graphic details and delicate nature of said dark subject matter. It simply wasn't necessary. What she did write, was written with such heart, empathy and finesse that I didn't need any more details than what was given. I appreciated that very much.
Iris Jones is our quirky, lovable, funny, dirt bike riding heroine who has been through the ringer, both emotionally and physically. Good gawd man! What she's been through would test everyone's resolve. She's like the energizer bunny. She takes a licking and keeps on ticking. What do I mean? Well, I just can't say. Sorry not sorry. Okay, I'll say this, her past is dark and it's catching up to her. There. That's all you're getting out of me! 😉...
She's been in love with Cory since college but just can't seem to get him to make a move. Well, it could be because he's Iris's brother Justin's best friend. Awkward!
Iris's parents run the family business, Jones MotoX and Iris works there as a business manager. And she loves to ride. You're going to love her parents. I sure did!
Our hero is Cory Whitman, Iris's object of affection and all around hottie. As I said he's her brother's best friend. Her brother has made it clear to him that his sister is off limits. Which is interesting because he's dating Iris's best friend Nat! Talk about a walking contradiction. I guess that's how all big brothers would react. Go figure. Anywho.....
Cory has a dark history and fights those demons on a daily basis. I know, you want deets right? Yeah, not gonna happen. No spoilers allowed. What I will say is that it plays a role in this romance.
A need to go out on the town, a night of dancing at a club her brother told her about, a pair of sexy strong arms, a dirty whisperer, an unwelcome and disturbed blast from the past, but more than all that, a rejection so big, it starts a beautiful young woman on a collision course she'd rather not be in. One that sends her spiraling into a huge world of hurt.
A shocking confession leaves her wanting to show Cory that he WAS worthy of her, worthy of being a man to be proud of, a man worthy of forgiveness, a man worthy of her attention, a man worthy of love, her love, no matter what his past and its secrets held.
Then it happened, a devastating lie from the one man she thought would never hurt her did, and that lie tilted her world on its axis and thrust her heart first into a stratosphere of unending debilitating pain. Trust me when I say the words he spewed her way were mean, and incredibly hurtful. He not only broke her heart, he decimated her spirit to say the least. She was so broken. So very broken. She didn't think she would ever get through the indescribable and crippling pain.
Then one day she woke up feeling reenergized and thought it was time to get back out and into the land of the living. So she and Nat did just that. Turns out she was wrong. So very wrong. A good time out with her bestie turned out to be more than she bargained for. So... much... more!
After a horrifying and ghastly event takes place, an innocent woman is left even more broken than before. For some, heated and angry feelings surface and guilt settles in. With whom? I'm not telling. Will the one man who tore Iris's world apart before this event be the one man she needs the most when it really counts? Will he step up to the plate and be the man she needs him to be? Deserves him to be? Or will he remain in the dark fighting his own personal demons? Hmm, more great questions and still no answer from this reviewer...
Iris struggles to heal and suffers from the recent terrifying and life altering events that took place. Events that pulled the rug of safety right out from underneath her. I tell ya I wanted to jump inside the pages of this book and slay her demons for her. Iris pushes forward by putting on a brave face with those who love and worry about her the most.
Iris's attempts at a courageous fight with evil backfires when evil rears their ugly head once again. Bringing all that intense fear to the surface then back down the rabbit hole right along with Iris once more. Will it be possible for her to ever feel truly safe again knowing evil still lurks around every corner? Her fears are very real and very close.
Can Iris prove to the one man who owns her heart, and wraps her in security that he can in fact love her completely despite his demons while simultaneously fighting her own? Will they both come to accept that with healing comes the freedom to let go, and with that freedom comes forgiveness and with forgiveness comes love? Hmm, all I can say is that it's one helluva journey they are on.
When safety becomes a dangerous issue once more, can Cory keep the one woman he loves safe? Will he need reinforcements from an unlikely source? Sorry dang it, these lips aren't doing the talking.
What I will tease you with is there's a very suspenseful part that involves a closet and I swear, my heart was beating right out of my chest. This book most definitely didn't lack in the exciting suspense department that's for sure.
Can Iris and Cory get past the madness, both past and present, get the help they both need and finally be free of their demons? When danger comes calling, will help get there in time? And finally, will this couple be free to celebrate their love instead of hiding it?
While there were plenty of bad times to be had, when the words on the pages got too serious, too dark, it was the author's quick wit delivery of silliness and shenanigans through her characters that helped this reader pull through it.
*******
BOOK FAVORITES:
* I loved the friendship between Iris and Nat, Iris's best friend and may I say she is hilarious and loyal to a tee. Get those two roomies together and anything goes. I belted out loud laughing more than a few times. Given some of the dark themes in this story, it was a welcome break from that darkness. I mention this character because of her role in Iris's life. Everyone needs a Nat as their bestie. But her character is more than all fun and games. Her loving and caring nature towards Iris made me love her even more.
Favorite passage/line:
* This is my all time favorite book passage of any book I've ever read. It literally gave me full on body chills and I swear a few tears escaped me. And that last line? That last line just about did me in. Swoonylicious comes to my mind. It was brilliant!
"... happiness is the highest level of success. No matter what life throws at you, whom you choose to be with or what you choose to do with your life, it’s that happiness is your strength and I want to be your happiness.”
*******
I'm thrilled to say that the ending was... hmm, how should I put it? It was an absolute celebration of love and pure happiness. Gotta love that!
Imbalanced Minds by Cole J. Powell has it all. A swoonylicious lickable hero who I fell madly in love with, a heroine whose sheer strength defied all odds and who stole my heart, really fantastic characters that I couldn't even say who my favorite character was because I loved them all, one of my all time favorite families, a storyline filled with all good and bad things, riveting nail biting suspense, angsty, heart wrenching and heartbreaking drama including the good and bad and all the ugly, throw in some bad arse bikers, and an evildoer who you'll just love hating but love watching their demise and an ending sure to please every romance lover out there. At least it did for this romance lover. Kudos to the author for the care and sensitivity she used relating to the highly sensitive mental health subject matter. It really did impress me. It's not all sunshine and roses and neither is real life. The author kept it real and on point. Have I mentioned the swoony hero I loved so much? Oh yeah, I think I may have.... I could go on and on and on about all his swoony and chivalrous ways but I guess I can't let all of the cats out of the bag. I need to leave something for the next readers...
The writing was so surprisingly good seeing that this was the author's debut release. This romance is sure to please romance lovers everywhere. It was very exciting to say the least and it hit all the feels. I just couldn't help loving and rooting for this amazing duo and the long hard road they navigated towards their happily ever after.
This may have been my first read by this author but it will absolutely NOT be the last! It's an instant fangirlship for me! Simply put, I loved it! Amazing job Cole J. Powell! Imbalanced Minds blew me away from beginning all the way to the 5-star finish! A truly great 5-Star overall reading experience.
December 23, 2023
Imbalanced Minds is a debut novel from Cole, and damn she has most definitely found her calling as an author.
Can Iris who is now a cracked shell, hollow and broken, be brought back to life by Cory, her brother’s best friend? What a journey!! Iris and Cory's story took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride that wreaked havoc on my poor heart and emotions.
The suspense had me on edge, the action had my heart racing, and the angst slayed my heart and had me reaching for the tissues.
The steam between Iris and Cory heated up my Kindle, and the perfectly placed humour particularly the antics between besties Iris and Nat had me giggling like a schoolgirl.
And.... oh my Alpha!! these men I. CAN'T. EVEN..... Hello SWOON!!!!!
I loved a number of the secondary characters and will be keeping my fingers crossed they pop up in future books.
Adoration for this book aside, the inclusion of some tough and sensitive subjects means there are triggers in this book and should be considered prior to reading.
If this story is any indication I will most definitely be reading any future work from Cole.
I Highly Recommended this heartbreaking, suspenseful, steamy, angst filled, and oh so swoon-worthy read!!
Can Iris who is now a cracked shell, hollow and broken, be brought back to life by Cory, her brother’s best friend? What a journey!! Iris and Cory's story took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride that wreaked havoc on my poor heart and emotions.
The suspense had me on edge, the action had my heart racing, and the angst slayed my heart and had me reaching for the tissues.
The steam between Iris and Cory heated up my Kindle, and the perfectly placed humour particularly the antics between besties Iris and Nat had me giggling like a schoolgirl.
And.... oh my Alpha!! these men I. CAN'T. EVEN..... Hello SWOON!!!!!
I loved a number of the secondary characters and will be keeping my fingers crossed they pop up in future books.
Adoration for this book aside, the inclusion of some tough and sensitive subjects means there are triggers in this book and should be considered prior to reading.
If this story is any indication I will most definitely be reading any future work from Cole.
I Highly Recommended this heartbreaking, suspenseful, steamy, angst filled, and oh so swoon-worthy read!!
June 25, 2021
Great Debut Book: Imbalanced Minds
Debut author, Cole J Powell has put together an amazing book that held me in its thrall from start to finish, and almost had the same completeness of feel throughout the plot suggestive of a more seasoned storyteller. Her writing was succinctly descriptive, giving enough information to round out the video playing in my head as I read through, without distracting me with superfluous words.
It’s written in a multi-POV layout, and I just loved reading Iris and Cory’s story, not just from them, but from another secondary character too, that of Natalie, Iris’ best friend, also her brother’s girlfriend.
Iris Rose Jones, such a beautiful name for an inspiring young woman who was put through the wringer by her author. Ms Powell did not take it easy on her, and there was so much in her life for many readers to identify with. We are at the start of her story where she is working to re-build her confidence after finally getting it together enough to leave her abusive now ex-boyfriend. She’s finally enjoying the freedom of being with her BFF Natalie, when at a club she not only has the one man she’s had a crush on forever finally show his intense interest in her, but also has a run-in with her ex, and she is left both elated, scared and frustrated on the same night.
Cory was just a gorgeous man with doubts and problems of his own. He’d been hiding his true feeling of love and intense attraction for his best friend’s sister for years. He knew she was interested, but her brother interfered, and she then seemed to be interested in another, until her relationship ended. Unfortunately, he felt his problems made him unworthy of her, so, in trying to ease back from her, Cory more than broke her heart, he shattered the soul she’d only just been re-building. It was beyond brutal. But, I couldn’t bring myself to dislike him for it though, hearing it in his POV meant we heard his heartbreak and knew his true best intentions. The result though, from Iris’ POV was debilitatingly heart-breaking.
If there was any beef I had with a character, it was Justin. He took the big brother protection thing to heart, even overdoing it to the point of hypocrisy. He didn’t want his best friend paying attention to his little sister, all while banging his little sister’s best friend of the same age. In saying that, after a particularly harrowing incident, he settled his backside down and saw Cory’s intentions for the best that they were. Whoa, those moments between Iris and Cory once they got into it??? Pure 🔥🔥🔥
Triggers have been spoken of, but to be honest, I believe the writing has been delicately balanced against the need to provide enough detail for the story without traumatising the reader. Although I appreciate everyone has different tolerances. This heaviness was offset by the moments of crazy lightness between friends, or the impromptu idiotic behaviour from the characters, similar to what we might do when we think people aren’t watching.
For all that there was a heavy darkness flowing through Iris’ life experiences, Ms Powell encouragingly showed that the best in life can still be reached. The happy in life HAS to be fought for by some people who struggle with trauma or mental health, and it’s not a weakness to ask for help, oftentimes it’s a necessity.
I can’t wait to see what Author Cole J Powell has in the works for her next book. 4 Stars ❤💙✰•
#mumsalwaysreading #bookblogger #bookreviewer #book📖 #book📚 #bibliophile #bookwhore
Debut author, Cole J Powell has put together an amazing book that held me in its thrall from start to finish, and almost had the same completeness of feel throughout the plot suggestive of a more seasoned storyteller. Her writing was succinctly descriptive, giving enough information to round out the video playing in my head as I read through, without distracting me with superfluous words.
It’s written in a multi-POV layout, and I just loved reading Iris and Cory’s story, not just from them, but from another secondary character too, that of Natalie, Iris’ best friend, also her brother’s girlfriend.
Iris Rose Jones, such a beautiful name for an inspiring young woman who was put through the wringer by her author. Ms Powell did not take it easy on her, and there was so much in her life for many readers to identify with. We are at the start of her story where she is working to re-build her confidence after finally getting it together enough to leave her abusive now ex-boyfriend. She’s finally enjoying the freedom of being with her BFF Natalie, when at a club she not only has the one man she’s had a crush on forever finally show his intense interest in her, but also has a run-in with her ex, and she is left both elated, scared and frustrated on the same night.
Cory was just a gorgeous man with doubts and problems of his own. He’d been hiding his true feeling of love and intense attraction for his best friend’s sister for years. He knew she was interested, but her brother interfered, and she then seemed to be interested in another, until her relationship ended. Unfortunately, he felt his problems made him unworthy of her, so, in trying to ease back from her, Cory more than broke her heart, he shattered the soul she’d only just been re-building. It was beyond brutal. But, I couldn’t bring myself to dislike him for it though, hearing it in his POV meant we heard his heartbreak and knew his true best intentions. The result though, from Iris’ POV was debilitatingly heart-breaking.
If there was any beef I had with a character, it was Justin. He took the big brother protection thing to heart, even overdoing it to the point of hypocrisy. He didn’t want his best friend paying attention to his little sister, all while banging his little sister’s best friend of the same age. In saying that, after a particularly harrowing incident, he settled his backside down and saw Cory’s intentions for the best that they were. Whoa, those moments between Iris and Cory once they got into it??? Pure 🔥🔥🔥
Triggers have been spoken of, but to be honest, I believe the writing has been delicately balanced against the need to provide enough detail for the story without traumatising the reader. Although I appreciate everyone has different tolerances. This heaviness was offset by the moments of crazy lightness between friends, or the impromptu idiotic behaviour from the characters, similar to what we might do when we think people aren’t watching.
For all that there was a heavy darkness flowing through Iris’ life experiences, Ms Powell encouragingly showed that the best in life can still be reached. The happy in life HAS to be fought for by some people who struggle with trauma or mental health, and it’s not a weakness to ask for help, oftentimes it’s a necessity.
I can’t wait to see what Author Cole J Powell has in the works for her next book. 4 Stars ❤💙✰•
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June 23, 2021
What a mind-blowing roller coaster ride This story is and I am so glad to have jumped onboard. Iris—oh boy—what that girl went through at times made me, and still makes me, feel so many different emotions. My heart ached for her but it also rejoiced for her, it feared and despaired for her too. I will admit I wanted to shake her on a few occasions but it’s not until the end of the story when everything really comes full circle that I then felt bad about that… I am always honest. 😉 What this book explored are some life lessons and they were explored well too!
Corey is a fabulous character who literally melted my heart and I couldn’t think of anyone better for Iris. Yes. He stuffed up but he’s male. 🤷🏻♀️😆 He is a much deeper thinker than you first believe and as the story evolves you realise how this depth only aids Iris.
Natalie is a doll of a character, I loved her, enough said. 😂 I truly hope we get to see more of her in future books. Justin—well—he was the overbearing big brother and boy did he take on that role well. He redeems himself but I have to say I think there might be more to Justin, he intrigues me.
There’s Plenty of intense drama that gets your heart tearing into pieces. What I enjoyed the most was that even though there were some very traumatic and incredibly awful scenes for Iris—they weren’t graphically described, but instead, were carefully written to give enough detail without the gore. When the action heats up, once again, the descriptions have you on the edge of your seat with fear and anticipation, I loved every minute. The darker elements, and they are dark and heavy but as I said not depressing for the reader, are real, though, and perhaps that the scariest thing! To balance these there’s a lighter side with some fun banter between characters and quirky behaviours—like the way Natalie tries to substitute other words for curse words was hilarious, for example… crab sticks 🤣 I loved this light relief in the book.
This debut book shows how much promise this author has and I look forward to reading more of her work.
Corey is a fabulous character who literally melted my heart and I couldn’t think of anyone better for Iris. Yes. He stuffed up but he’s male. 🤷🏻♀️😆 He is a much deeper thinker than you first believe and as the story evolves you realise how this depth only aids Iris.
Natalie is a doll of a character, I loved her, enough said. 😂 I truly hope we get to see more of her in future books. Justin—well—he was the overbearing big brother and boy did he take on that role well. He redeems himself but I have to say I think there might be more to Justin, he intrigues me.
There’s Plenty of intense drama that gets your heart tearing into pieces. What I enjoyed the most was that even though there were some very traumatic and incredibly awful scenes for Iris—they weren’t graphically described, but instead, were carefully written to give enough detail without the gore. When the action heats up, once again, the descriptions have you on the edge of your seat with fear and anticipation, I loved every minute. The darker elements, and they are dark and heavy but as I said not depressing for the reader, are real, though, and perhaps that the scariest thing! To balance these there’s a lighter side with some fun banter between characters and quirky behaviours—like the way Natalie tries to substitute other words for curse words was hilarious, for example… crab sticks 🤣 I loved this light relief in the book.
This debut book shows how much promise this author has and I look forward to reading more of her work.
June 21, 2021
I absolutely adored this book, it was a truly scintillating read that attacks your emotions and is deeply profound.
The way Powell weaves the darkness of depression and the uncontrollable rage of anger through Iris and Cory is amazing, it's raw, it's real and you feel their individual pain and anguish.
The journey they each go through in itself is a form of therapy for each of them. There are major set backs but together they become a safe space and ground each other.
This book is a dark forbidden romance, there is only love between the FMC and the MC, even though their actions/words at times are questionable. All that motivates them is a deep, profound love and a need to protect and care for each other. Dark themes are explored through Iris's ex Tyrell he's the main catalyst for all the major events and traumas that are explored, both physically and mentally, although these are a challenge to read they add so much depth to the issues that Powell explore throughout.
Considering this is a debut book I think Powell has found her calling and I hope she releases many more.
May 25, 2021
4*
Iris has her eye on Cory but been her brothers best friend he's had the keep off my sister speech.
She's trying to get her life back after her ex Tyrell controlled her but things are about to explode and not entirely to plan.
I loved the friendship between Iris and her best friend Nat everyone needs their friendship.
This is the author's debut novel and I must say it was hard to tell. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from her.
Iris has her eye on Cory but been her brothers best friend he's had the keep off my sister speech.
She's trying to get her life back after her ex Tyrell controlled her but things are about to explode and not entirely to plan.
I loved the friendship between Iris and her best friend Nat everyone needs their friendship.
This is the author's debut novel and I must say it was hard to tell. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from her.
June 25, 2021
I'M FLOORED, IMBALANCED MINDS IS A DEBUT NOVEL!
Cole J. Powell slayed her debut.
Suspense, emotion, some darkness and just the right amount of steam, all written in a way you feel. Iris' story had me hooked from the beginning
I can't wait to read more from this author.
*Note I'm late with this review, I apologize for that.
Cole J. Powell slayed her debut.
Suspense, emotion, some darkness and just the right amount of steam, all written in a way you feel. Iris' story had me hooked from the beginning
I can't wait to read more from this author.
*Note I'm late with this review, I apologize for that.
June 26, 2021
What a fantastic debut book.if you didn't know that this was coles first you never would have guessed it so good and written to perfection.i won't leave any spoilers here but this read and author and brilliant I will definitely be looking forward to reading more from this author.this book from start to finish was so good
June 19, 2021
Wow such a profound story. This author definitely nailed what its like living with depression and anxiety. You're definitely good at acting and wearing the mask. This book was full of angst, suspense and many trials of adversity. Lets not forget love. So excited for the hea.
June 22, 2021
I didn’t realise this was a debut novel until I came here to write a review! I enjoyed this book. It’s quite dark in places, could be a trigger for some but also twists and secrets with a side of steamy romance. What more could you want? Great debut book!
June 26, 2021
A good debut!
What an emotional rollercoaster for a debut author! The beginning was a little difficult for me to follow but it definitely got better. I loved how mental health was a focus and I cannot wait for more!
What an emotional rollercoaster for a debut author! The beginning was a little difficult for me to follow but it definitely got better. I loved how mental health was a focus and I cannot wait for more!
June 23, 2021
Oh my lort!
This book took me on a journey where I couldn't anticipate what was going to happen next!
This book took me on a journey where I couldn't anticipate what was going to happen next!
June 6, 2021
A good read and a new author to me. I enjoyed the story and the little twists throughout the book. I’m glad there was a happy ending and that Iris got her happy ending.
November 28, 2022
I love the book and it is a really good book.
June 26, 2021
This is a debut from this author and what an outstanding job she has done, and she is certainly an author to look out for in the future. This is Corey and Iris’s story. Corey is Iris’ overprotective brothers’ best friend, and he has kept his feeling hidden from her because of the bro code. Iris is a broken shell of herself thanks to a manipulative ex. No spoilers though, this is a story which deserves to be read! This is a well written story which is raw, gritty, and an emotional roller coaster journey throughout, and is filled with action, suspense, danger, angst, family, friendships, humor, great secondary characters, and love, which all leads to an endearing and steamy addictive page turner. There may be triggers for some due to the sensitive subject matter! I look forward to reading more from this talented author and I highly recommend this story.
October 31, 2021
This is the authors debut and I loved it was glued to the pages from page one until the end. What a mind blowing roller coaster ride this story is and I am so glad to have jumped onboard. It was written in such a way that you feel what the characters felt.
I love that mental health was discussed throughout. Mental health issues are such a huge part of many peoples everyday life and a lot of people don't talk about them for many different reasons but it's nice to seen it written and not hidden away. If that is a trigger for you then I ask that you please take that under consideration.
Iris is broken and bruised and is working on finding her way when suddenly her brother's best friend is brought back into her life, a man that she has been crushing on since high school.
Highly recommend this and will definitely read more from this author.
I love that mental health was discussed throughout. Mental health issues are such a huge part of many peoples everyday life and a lot of people don't talk about them for many different reasons but it's nice to seen it written and not hidden away. If that is a trigger for you then I ask that you please take that under consideration.
Iris is broken and bruised and is working on finding her way when suddenly her brother's best friend is brought back into her life, a man that she has been crushing on since high school.
Highly recommend this and will definitely read more from this author.
August 10, 2021
Great debut
I enjoyed Iris and Cory's story. Mental health issues are such a huge part of many peoples everyday life, it's good to see it written down, and not hidden away. I'm hoping there will be a second book with Nat and Justin, she's one crazy chick and I found her and Iris chuckleable. A good strong story with a HEA.
Hope to read more from this author.
I enjoyed Iris and Cory's story. Mental health issues are such a huge part of many peoples everyday life, it's good to see it written down, and not hidden away. I'm hoping there will be a second book with Nat and Justin, she's one crazy chick and I found her and Iris chuckleable. A good strong story with a HEA.
Hope to read more from this author.
November 12, 2021
Incredible read that send me on an emotional rollercoaster and left me with so many feelings. This author has done an extraordinary job in writing this book and cannot wait to read more by her.
June 21, 2022
Sweet type of read
March 28, 2022
Recieved free on Kindle.
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