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New Haven #2
Revive Me, Part One: The Act
Mallory
The first time I kissed Christopher Johnson, I knew he would be my biggest mistake. It didn’t stop me from wanting him though, and when the ghosts from my past came barging into the present, it didn’t stop me from agreeing to let him help.
It was supposed to be a simple business arrangement, a few months of playing a role that came far too easily to the both of us, but it wasn’t long before it became more.
Love. Devotion. Heartbreak in its truest form.
Some people say life is for the living, but I say life is for the prepared. For the planners who know that controlling every piece on the board is the only way to get the result you want.
To avoid unfortunate complications like having your heart broken by a man past experiences taught you, you never should have trusted in the first place.
Christopher
There’s nothing in this world I wouldn’t do for Mallory Kent.
I think I knew it the first time I laid eyes on her, and it’s remained one of my unspoken truths for the two years that I’ve known her. But I never thought I’d get the opportunity to do anything about it because Mallory is one of those people who doesn’t need anyone.
She’s strong, serious, and always in control of every situation around her, which is why the second I see her looking panicked and uncertain in the arms of a figure from her past, I don’t think. I just act.
I had no idea that one small decision would lead to this. A fake relationship—designed to solve her problems and mine—turned real. An earth shattering love torn apart by the very forces that led to its conception. Forces that turned me into the source of our destruction.
There’s nothing in this world I wouldn’t do for Mallory Kent, including break her heart to save her soul.
The first time I kissed Christopher Johnson, I knew he would be my biggest mistake. It didn’t stop me from wanting him though, and when the ghosts from my past came barging into the present, it didn’t stop me from agreeing to let him help.
It was supposed to be a simple business arrangement, a few months of playing a role that came far too easily to the both of us, but it wasn’t long before it became more.
Love. Devotion. Heartbreak in its truest form.
Some people say life is for the living, but I say life is for the prepared. For the planners who know that controlling every piece on the board is the only way to get the result you want.
To avoid unfortunate complications like having your heart broken by a man past experiences taught you, you never should have trusted in the first place.
Christopher
There’s nothing in this world I wouldn’t do for Mallory Kent.
I think I knew it the first time I laid eyes on her, and it’s remained one of my unspoken truths for the two years that I’ve known her. But I never thought I’d get the opportunity to do anything about it because Mallory is one of those people who doesn’t need anyone.
She’s strong, serious, and always in control of every situation around her, which is why the second I see her looking panicked and uncertain in the arms of a figure from her past, I don’t think. I just act.
I had no idea that one small decision would lead to this. A fake relationship—designed to solve her problems and mine—turned real. An earth shattering love torn apart by the very forces that led to its conception. Forces that turned me into the source of our destruction.
There’s nothing in this world I wouldn’t do for Mallory Kent, including break her heart to save her soul.
479 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2022
1345 people are currently reading
8233 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Seegars
10 books2,313 followersJ.L. Seegars is a dedicated smut peddler and lifelong nerd who’s always had a love of words, storytelling and drama. When she isn’t writing messy and emotionally complex characters like the ones she grew up around, she’s watching reality TV, supporting her fellow authors by devouring their work or spending time with her husband and son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 721 reviews
August 26, 2023
My heart is literally breaking. The way I don’t know if I can watch them go through more pain in the next book because how can I ever recover from this HEARTBREAK???
To start off I am so happy with having a black and curvy girl as the heroine because there isn’t enough representation so this is already giving what it needed to give.
The last two chapters were so painful and like watching a car crash you can’t look away from. And the last passage of the book had me ugly crying.
Yall I’m so sorry but Chris could’ve done better he could’ve fought more he could’ve idk TOLD HER THE TRUTH?? The fact that I know this shit isn’t gonna be resolved for something like 12 years later is truly a tragedy.
And guys the INVITE on that last page????! Yo talk about a knife to the heart. I am so gutted and desperate for the following two books because Chris and Mal will be keeping me up at night.
Also idk if I’m the only one but the pre Restore Me Dom and Sloane crumbs we got in this book had me feeling like I was in on a dirty little secret which means I must immediately go reread Restore Me because I am their biggest fan 🫶🏾
Mallory Kent could ask me for the moon, and I’d find a way to get it for her. She could ask me for the stars, and I’d steal them from the sky. She could ask for my heart, and, well….she already has that. She just doesn’t know it yet.
the feel of Mallory’s skin against mine makes irreparable changes to the structure of my DNA.
Chris is an anomaly. A departure from all the meager expectations I had for my life. He made me want more. More goodness. More adventure. More passion and fearlessness. More love.
To start off I am so happy with having a black and curvy girl as the heroine because there isn’t enough representation so this is already giving what it needed to give.
The last two chapters were so painful and like watching a car crash you can’t look away from. And the last passage of the book had me ugly crying.
Yall I’m so sorry but Chris could’ve done better he could’ve fought more he could’ve idk TOLD HER THE TRUTH?? The fact that I know this shit isn’t gonna be resolved for something like 12 years later is truly a tragedy.
And guys the INVITE on that last page????! Yo talk about a knife to the heart. I am so gutted and desperate for the following two books because Chris and Mal will be keeping me up at night.
Also idk if I’m the only one but the pre Restore Me Dom and Sloane crumbs we got in this book had me feeling like I was in on a dirty little secret which means I must immediately go reread Restore Me because I am their biggest fan 🫶🏾
I hope looking at him always takes my breath away.
March 9, 2023
How could you do this to me Ms Seegars💔😭
Spent 400pages falling in love with them…for what?! To have my heart broken?
How can one man go from book boyfriend status to ‘let me at him sis’ in 2 seconds flat! Im fuming
As much as I sound angry (Don’t get me wrong I’m fuming) its a good thing, I love when a book puts me through all the emotions and this definitely did that, my heart rate increased, tears sprung to my eyes. All signs of a great book.
Part 2 here I come…
Spent 400pages falling in love with them…for what?! To have my heart broken?
How can one man go from book boyfriend status to ‘let me at him sis’ in 2 seconds flat! Im fuming
As much as I sound angry (Don’t get me wrong I’m fuming) its a good thing, I love when a book puts me through all the emotions and this definitely did that, my heart rate increased, tears sprung to my eyes. All signs of a great book.
Part 2 here I come…
May 9, 2025
4/5
- Omg I actually can’t get over how much I LOVED this book!! The fake dating trope felt so believable and I love that both of the main characters had so much depth within their individual stories.. but when they finally came together AH I COULD SCREAM.
- I ordered the book before this one was even finished because I loved it that much. I really love how the spice wasn’t the forefront of the book and we got so much tension & build up first.
- I can totally see this being a five star series once I get deeper into the series. The end of this book was WILD!!
- Omg I actually can’t get over how much I LOVED this book!! The fake dating trope felt so believable and I love that both of the main characters had so much depth within their individual stories.. but when they finally came together AH I COULD SCREAM.
- I ordered the book before this one was even finished because I loved it that much. I really love how the spice wasn’t the forefront of the book and we got so much tension & build up first.
- I can totally see this being a five star series once I get deeper into the series. The end of this book was WILD!!
February 4, 2023
crying screaming shaking throwing up hyperventilating dying-
the. very. last. page.
J.L SEEGARS HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO ME?/?/?/?/?/?:?
J.L SEEGARS HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO ME?/?/?/?/?/?:?
March 4, 2024
“Mallory Kent could ask me for the moon, and I’d find a way to get it for her. She could ask me for the stars, and I’d steal them from the sky. She could ask for my heart, and, well….she already has that. She just doesn’t know it yet.”
What is JL Seegars doing to my heart. This was heartbreaking and sad and had me raging most of the time because of what Chris and Mallory had to go through in their lives. All the trauma and pain they felt all those years, the nightmares that were slowly killing them every night until they find each other.
The two broken characters who never knew what it meant to be truly loved and treasured healed each other in so many ways. I must say the writing has improved a lot in this book and I am liking the plot a lot so far. It's angsty, heart-aching, emotional but also wholesome. Chris and Mallory are perfect for each other and it's not just because they helped each other heal and grow from their traumatic past but it was also because of the way they both cared and loved each other.
My only problem was that it was too long. I mean I knew that Mal and Chris's story had a lot of ups and downs for over a decade and that JL will atleast write two books for them but still this book covered only their college life part in which she was focused mostly on the budding relationship and friendship between Mallory and Chris and also on how their past truama affected them. It was great and I liked how she handled the grief and healing in this and it was realistic. Mallory's character development was also realistic but I saw no development in Chris's character and mostly because he was still doing everything his father wanted him to do and sure he has reasons because he didn't wanted Mallory to get hurt but what he's doing is also hurting Mallory.
➸ Mallory: My heart broke for Mallory in this and what she had to experience all those years ago and the pain, sadness, nightmares and scars that are reminders of the part of her life she wants to forget. She's a helper and fixer of their group who's always ready to help the people she loves. I was so happy for her when she met Chris, who loved her and was patience with her all the time. Helped her realise that she's everything she wants to be.
➸ Chris: He never had anyone who could love him unconditionally except his sister. He didn't realised but he was just a marionette to his father who manipulated and controlled him for his own sake. Chris can never live a happy life unless he breaks away from the manipulated strings of his father's attachment.
I liked how Chris and Mallory's relationship developed. How they began to trust each other, accepted each other with all their broken but healing hearts, how they confided in each other, helped each other heal, how they waited for one another until they felt right and okay to share their traumatic past experiences. It was all so painful but also something so heartwarming.
The ending was a punch to my gut. I still can't believe Chris's father did that to him! I can't believe Chris let him do that but it's not his fault for believing his father can be a good man. I can't believe there are two more books until Mal and Chris have their happy ending and it's all messing my mind right now.
Please check out trigger warnings before reading this book.
What is JL Seegars doing to my heart. This was heartbreaking and sad and had me raging most of the time because of what Chris and Mallory had to go through in their lives. All the trauma and pain they felt all those years, the nightmares that were slowly killing them every night until they find each other.
The two broken characters who never knew what it meant to be truly loved and treasured healed each other in so many ways. I must say the writing has improved a lot in this book and I am liking the plot a lot so far. It's angsty, heart-aching, emotional but also wholesome. Chris and Mallory are perfect for each other and it's not just because they helped each other heal and grow from their traumatic past but it was also because of the way they both cared and loved each other.
My only problem was that it was too long. I mean I knew that Mal and Chris's story had a lot of ups and downs for over a decade and that JL will atleast write two books for them but still this book covered only their college life part in which she was focused mostly on the budding relationship and friendship between Mallory and Chris and also on how their past truama affected them. It was great and I liked how she handled the grief and healing in this and it was realistic. Mallory's character development was also realistic but I saw no development in Chris's character and mostly because he was still doing everything his father wanted him to do and sure he has reasons because he didn't wanted Mallory to get hurt but what he's doing is also hurting Mallory.
➸ Mallory: My heart broke for Mallory in this and what she had to experience all those years ago and the pain, sadness, nightmares and scars that are reminders of the part of her life she wants to forget. She's a helper and fixer of their group who's always ready to help the people she loves. I was so happy for her when she met Chris, who loved her and was patience with her all the time. Helped her realise that she's everything she wants to be.
“Chris is an anomaly. A departure from all the meager expectations I had for my life. He made me want more. More goodness. More adventure. More passion and fearlessness. More love.”
➸ Chris: He never had anyone who could love him unconditionally except his sister. He didn't realised but he was just a marionette to his father who manipulated and controlled him for his own sake. Chris can never live a happy life unless he breaks away from the manipulated strings of his father's attachment.
“The feel of Mallory’s skin against mine makes irreparable changes to the structure of my DNA.”
I liked how Chris and Mallory's relationship developed. How they began to trust each other, accepted each other with all their broken but healing hearts, how they confided in each other, helped each other heal, how they waited for one another until they felt right and okay to share their traumatic past experiences. It was all so painful but also something so heartwarming.
“It is a job, princess.” Chris’ eyes glow. Frustration etched in his features as he thumps his chest. “Keeping you safe? Making sure you’re okay at all times? It is a job, and it’s my fucking job. One I signed on for long before you knew you were mine. One I’ll keep doing even if one day, down the road, you decide I’m no longer fit for the role.”
The ending was a punch to my gut. I still can't believe Chris's father did that to him! I can't believe Chris let him do that but it's not his fault for believing his father can be a good man. I can't believe there are two more books until Mal and Chris have their happy ending and it's all messing my mind right now.
Please check out trigger warnings before reading this book.
November 24, 2022
Beautifully written, with such care given to emotion and character development. This is a long book, and we get a lot of back story for Chris and Mal. Their love is truly epic ❤️
February 23, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this but that plot twist at the end 🤯😭
But also I’m so tired of reading about shitty parents
But also I’m so tired of reading about shitty parents
Read
January 24, 2026Well damn…😳🤦🏽♀️😩review to come
June 5, 2023
First off let me start off but saying JL Seegars’s pen is actually insane. The writing is so beautiful and it just allows you to dive in and be immersed in the world so easily. This was an absolutely devastating heartbreak and the fact I have to wait till November or longer for a part two is killing me. With that being said, no one talk to until it drops because I’m in mourning.
One chapter in and I was engulfed in this book and immediately connected to the characters. So there is nothing more I want for Mal than to have peace because she’s my twin. I love her to infinity and beyond and always will.
I went into this book scared cause I saw a lot of the ARC readers reactions. And I was right to be scared cause my heart still hurts. The little bits of Eric and especially seeing how happy he made Sloane hurt me so much and I wasn’t expecting it. Also, Dominic… my mannnn was really going through it. Like that man was miserable YEAR AFTER YEAR AFTER YEAR and it only makes Restore Me matter to me more.
Chris and Mal’s relationship and their love MY GOD. They really did something for me and their story was such a journey. It was painful and heartbreaking yet devastating beautiful. You just don’t understand how perfect they were and then… we aren’t even gonna talk about this.
WELL ACTUALLY I have to say this, that [redacted] at the end was absolutely sickening. I threw my phone across the room when I hit the end. I was quite literally shaking because wow… just wow… I had to sit in my bed for a second and just process and to be honest I’m still processing.
JL Seegars as always you are going hit for hit for hit. Sooo you know you wanna combine part two and three. You know you want to so why not go ahead and just do it :) save me from some heartbreak.
One chapter in and I was engulfed in this book and immediately connected to the characters. So there is nothing more I want for Mal than to have peace because she’s my twin. I love her to infinity and beyond and always will.
I went into this book scared cause I saw a lot of the ARC readers reactions. And I was right to be scared cause my heart still hurts. The little bits of Eric and especially seeing how happy he made Sloane hurt me so much and I wasn’t expecting it. Also, Dominic… my mannnn was really going through it. Like that man was miserable YEAR AFTER YEAR AFTER YEAR and it only makes Restore Me matter to me more.
Chris and Mal’s relationship and their love MY GOD. They really did something for me and their story was such a journey. It was painful and heartbreaking yet devastating beautiful. You just don’t understand how perfect they were and then… we aren’t even gonna talk about this.
WELL ACTUALLY I have to say this, that [redacted] at the end was absolutely sickening. I threw my phone across the room when I hit the end. I was quite literally shaking because wow… just wow… I had to sit in my bed for a second and just process and to be honest I’m still processing.
JL Seegars as always you are going hit for hit for hit. Sooo you know you wanna combine part two and three. You know you want to so why not go ahead and just do it :) save me from some heartbreak.
February 10, 2023
4.75/5.
THE ENDING. WTF. I COULD THROW UP RIGHT NOW. I FEEL LIKE I JUST GOT PUNCHED IN THE FACE. I am starting part two as soon as I’m finished writing this review.
This book exceeded my expectations holy!! I was waiting for Mallory’s and Chris’ story because of the breadcrumbs I got in Restore Me. I am LIVING for the drama in this book. I wanted to know what happened between them so bad and I wasn’t expecting this at all. I fell in love with Mallory in book one and she was AMAZING. She is everything I love in a FMC. She’s strong, bold, and ambitious, you seriously can’t help but love her. Her character is so well written. I love reading about authentic love, and Chris and Mallory had SOO MUCH CHEMISTRY. I WAS ITCHING FOR SOMETHING TO HAPPEN BETWEEN THEM, THE TENSION WAS HIGH GUYS. IN ALMOST EVERY DAMN SCENE. Their love story is an epic one. From them helping one another with their trauma, to them having their own food spot. It all felt too damn real, that’s why the ending hit me so hard because I became so involved in their progress as a couple, I’m salty as shit that happened. I was also really happy to see Eric and Sloane together, even though it was bittersweet because he’s gone. Sloane was truly happy with him so Restore Me hits different now too when I think about it. I got to finally see the brotherhood between him and Dom, and how close him and Mallory were. It’s going to hit so hard having to experience his death in part two, the family dynamic between all the characters in this book was amazing. I’m honestly just a mess right now after reading this.
THE ENDING. WTF. I COULD THROW UP RIGHT NOW. I FEEL LIKE I JUST GOT PUNCHED IN THE FACE. I am starting part two as soon as I’m finished writing this review.
This book exceeded my expectations holy!! I was waiting for Mallory’s and Chris’ story because of the breadcrumbs I got in Restore Me. I am LIVING for the drama in this book. I wanted to know what happened between them so bad and I wasn’t expecting this at all. I fell in love with Mallory in book one and she was AMAZING. She is everything I love in a FMC. She’s strong, bold, and ambitious, you seriously can’t help but love her. Her character is so well written. I love reading about authentic love, and Chris and Mallory had SOO MUCH CHEMISTRY. I WAS ITCHING FOR SOMETHING TO HAPPEN BETWEEN THEM, THE TENSION WAS HIGH GUYS. IN ALMOST EVERY DAMN SCENE. Their love story is an epic one. From them helping one another with their trauma, to them having their own food spot. It all felt too damn real, that’s why the ending hit me so hard because I became so involved in their progress as a couple, I’m salty as shit that happened. I was also really happy to see Eric and Sloane together, even though it was bittersweet because he’s gone. Sloane was truly happy with him so Restore Me hits different now too when I think about it. I got to finally see the brotherhood between him and Dom, and how close him and Mallory were. It’s going to hit so hard having to experience his death in part two, the family dynamic between all the characters in this book was amazing. I’m honestly just a mess right now after reading this.
June 11, 2023
I sit here a mess and in shambles. I hate Reese and RJ with everything in me!! This is not fair! And JL wasn’t lying when she said Chris had reasons for leaving Mallory not once but twice! This first reason is killing me and idk what to do with myself but pray we get to give Mal some understanding of it all in book 2 cause she doesn’t know that all Chris does is for her! Omg I am not ok! This book was beautifully written and the emotion through all the highs and even the lows was done so well. The glimpses of Eric, Sloane and Nic were so good and gives more meaning to Restore Me! I definitely recommend this book!
October 15, 2022
5 STARS
I have never in my life felt like my heart was ripped out, stomped on and then left into pieces like I have with the ending of this story, it’s only part 1 but holy hell what a fucking story.
Mal and Chris are what dreams are made of. Honestly this is one of the best romances I have read this year. This was truly one of the most beautiful contemporary romances I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading, truly. The emotions in this, the chemistry, the overall development: literal perfection.
And let’s not forget this is a black romance, written by a black author but holy smokes you are TRULY missing out if you don’t read JL Seegars. She writes some of the best you will ever read.
I’m going to be screaming over this book, and crying and sobbing till part 2. I am unwell.
READ THIS
I have never in my life felt like my heart was ripped out, stomped on and then left into pieces like I have with the ending of this story, it’s only part 1 but holy hell what a fucking story.
Mal and Chris are what dreams are made of. Honestly this is one of the best romances I have read this year. This was truly one of the most beautiful contemporary romances I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading, truly. The emotions in this, the chemistry, the overall development: literal perfection.
And let’s not forget this is a black romance, written by a black author but holy smokes you are TRULY missing out if you don’t read JL Seegars. She writes some of the best you will ever read.
I’m going to be screaming over this book, and crying and sobbing till part 2. I am unwell.
READ THIS
June 17, 2023
Omg. I’m so damn mad right now. I knew the ending wasn’t going to be happy but damn. Chris dad is a real piece of shit. I can’t even begin to explain how disgusting he is. I feel so bad for Mal. I feel bad for Chris too because obviously he is trying to protect Mal as he has always done. The love between Mal & Chris was so apparent from the very beginning. I was literally smiling until the last chapter. I can’t wait to see what happens next with these two. I enjoyed this more than Restore me.
March 6, 2024
3.5 stars? I really enjoyed Restore Me, and I’ve been anticipating this book/duet for so long. I liked the set-up/storyline, and I’m still a fan of JL Seegars’s writing. However, I wanted more tension (they liked each other from the jump and I didn’t buy into any reason keeping them apart), much of the conflict came down to miscommunication, and it was far too long.
August 29, 2024
This book was so good. I really enjoyed it.
I wasn’t going to read this series but boy am I glad I did. I loved Restore Me so much and thought I wouldn’t enjoy this one as much but I enjoyed it as much.
Even with the trigger warning at the beginning, I still was so triggered with Mallory retelling her story to Chris. I had to take a day. I see so much of myself in Mallory it’s crazy.
I did not see that ending happening at all. I know the author said they wouldn’t have an HEA, yet but still…. Chris bending down on his knee was not on my bingo cards at all!!!
Let me gone dive to part 2.
I wasn’t going to read this series but boy am I glad I did. I loved Restore Me so much and thought I wouldn’t enjoy this one as much but I enjoyed it as much.
Even with the trigger warning at the beginning, I still was so triggered with Mallory retelling her story to Chris. I had to take a day. I see so much of myself in Mallory it’s crazy.
I did not see that ending happening at all. I know the author said they wouldn’t have an HEA, yet but still…. Chris bending down on his knee was not on my bingo cards at all!!!
Let me gone dive to part 2.
May 5, 2025
4.5 - J. L. Like why would you break my heart ❤️🩹. All i can think about is when Cardi B said “WHAT WAS THE REASON?!” 🤣!!!
Slow burns can be iffy iffy sometimes but J. L. writes them so well. She knows how to draw in you and make you fall in love with the characters. Their journey, backstory and more. Mallory had been through something’s that took her moment to really come to terms with. It even changed her outlook on relationships. Then Chris seems to have it all but he just wants to be his own person. Not be so controlled by people that should love him.
I love them together and how Chris was protective. Making your Mallory knew she was in control. A real gentleman. However, his dad on the other is a straight up _____ (you know the word). Ready to get into part two because my heart can’t stay like this.
Quotes:
“If it were anyone else i would make them stop. I would tell them i don’t want their drama cause i already have enough fucked up shit in my head. But for Mallory I’ll absorb a lifetime of pain and heartache.”
“At some point, we need to take responsibility for trusting the wrong people.”
“I realized for the first time in forever i slept through the night. No nightmares. No strangling cries from my mother’s ghost. Just a peaceful perfection of a heart that’s finally found their home.”
Slow burns can be iffy iffy sometimes but J. L. writes them so well. She knows how to draw in you and make you fall in love with the characters. Their journey, backstory and more. Mallory had been through something’s that took her moment to really come to terms with. It even changed her outlook on relationships. Then Chris seems to have it all but he just wants to be his own person. Not be so controlled by people that should love him.
I love them together and how Chris was protective. Making your Mallory knew she was in control. A real gentleman. However, his dad on the other is a straight up _____ (you know the word). Ready to get into part two because my heart can’t stay like this.
Quotes:
“If it were anyone else i would make them stop. I would tell them i don’t want their drama cause i already have enough fucked up shit in my head. But for Mallory I’ll absorb a lifetime of pain and heartache.”
“At some point, we need to take responsibility for trusting the wrong people.”
“I realized for the first time in forever i slept through the night. No nightmares. No strangling cries from my mother’s ghost. Just a peaceful perfection of a heart that’s finally found their home.”
April 16, 2025
I Was GOOD until the end!
The ending of Part One GUTTED me! J.L. has such away with weaving the emotional aspect of relationships into her words. I felt every bit if anger I imagine the main characters felt as their world was attacked. I needed a break before I start Part Two to put this review together. Off to incur more emotional damage from Chris and Mallory. 🫣
The ending of Part One GUTTED me! J.L. has such away with weaving the emotional aspect of relationships into her words. I felt every bit if anger I imagine the main characters felt as their world was attacked. I needed a break before I start Part Two to put this review together. Off to incur more emotional damage from Chris and Mallory. 🫣
July 19, 2023
Definitely enjoyed Mal and Chris’s story more than Restore Me. Definitely more plot and knowing a bit more about the characters than just the smut - which I appreciated.
⚡️
Mal needs to learn to speak up. Say it with your chest sis, and not just at school. She could’ve blown all that shit up by just saying something!! And hiding things from people she knows cares for her was the crazy part. Like, why hold that in for so long?
Chris, stuck between a rock and a hard place. He has to choose between True love versus losing it all and his dads wrath. I get it. He definitely didn’t think some of his decisions through. BUT, leaving out certain details left him in a bad situation. And being a trust fund baby with mama issues made it no better. It was like dad was the puppeteer. 🫣
⚡️
Mal needs to learn to speak up. Say it with your chest sis, and not just at school. She could’ve blown all that shit up by just saying something!! And hiding things from people she knows cares for her was the crazy part. Like, why hold that in for so long?
Chris, stuck between a rock and a hard place. He has to choose between True love versus losing it all and his dads wrath. I get it. He definitely didn’t think some of his decisions through. BUT, leaving out certain details left him in a bad situation. And being a trust fund baby with mama issues made it no better. It was like dad was the puppeteer. 🫣
November 20, 2022
A Story
This was incredibly well written. But I don’t know how feel about it outside of that. I don’t know if it was the heaviness of the topics or because I’m not a particular fan of the “my rich family runs my life” trope, or what. But something made it hard for me to connect with the characters or maybe because this is a tragedy instead of a romance and it just left me feeling melancholy? Im not sure of anything. It was a captivating read though and I had to force myself to put it down.
This was incredibly well written. But I don’t know how feel about it outside of that. I don’t know if it was the heaviness of the topics or because I’m not a particular fan of the “my rich family runs my life” trope, or what. But something made it hard for me to connect with the characters or maybe because this is a tragedy instead of a romance and it just left me feeling melancholy? Im not sure of anything. It was a captivating read though and I had to force myself to put it down.
April 24, 2024
Had to take this book for another spin… I wanted to hear the audio and it was so much better after the first read… I love these two… it is a slow burn but with reason… their love is powerful.. patient… passionate… Chris is a good man.. with a controlling father.. Mal is a smart goal oriented woman.. she forced herself into that role after someone took advantage of her… I just love them.. I love the supporting characters.. I enjoyed the story…. I enjoyed them…
December 7, 2022
⭐️: 5|5 🌶: 2.95|5 BASED OFF TENSION VIBES ALONE 😅😮💨🔥
Stats:
• College Romance
• Friends to Lovers
• Brothers Bestfriend
• Fake Dating
• Billionaire MMC
•BLACK New Adult Romance
Thoughts:
HOLY F—K’n SLOOOOOOOWWW BUURNN
Where do I even began with this one. This is a story I’ve been dying for and it DID NOT disappoint. With this only being her second release Mrs. Seegars has made it abundantly clear that she’s a force to be reckoned with. Her writing is impeccable, her characters (love them or hate them) are magnets…Drawing you in and forcing you feel for them in a way that is so pure and unassuming.
I DEVOURED this story…. Licked my metaphorical fingers CLEAN and left zero crumbs. But the taste & small remnants will be more on my souls for the couple ALWAYS.
Mallory:
It was an INSTANT & BLISSFUL FALL at introduction (in Restore Me) for Mallory Kent. She was the crazy outspoken best friend/ sis in law anyone would beg to have. J.L. gave us just enough of this CURVY beauty to know there was definitely some unresolved issues there… this story takes place in college some years after her trauma. Hiding behind straight A’s her friends and loving brother. Even though she’s vigilant, she doesn’t see love & heartbreak when it comes at FULL FORCE knocking her gracefully off her feet.
Christopher:
Siiiggghhh….. I just want to lick him & knew him in the b@lls at all once.
We speak of knight in shining armor, but I was not all prepared for Christopher Johnson. From a game of truth or dare laced in pinned up desire, smothered longing, and chemistry that couldn’t at all be denied. A whirlwind whirlwind romance began. Chris has his own demons though… a future not of his own making. Expectations and family tradition. The beautiful boy born with a silver spoon tries vehemently to go against the grain. But there strong more seasoned forces at work.
Revive Me Part One: The Act is a heartbreakingly beautiful story about two people unconsciously pulling one another from pain and trauma. Truly falling in love for the first time and attempting to fight to that love….
Thought sometimes….fighting for that mean losing it.
1000% Recommended | 18+
ALWAYS check content warnings|TW
Stats:
• College Romance
• Friends to Lovers
• Brothers Bestfriend
• Fake Dating
• Billionaire MMC
•BLACK New Adult Romance
Thoughts:
HOLY F—K’n SLOOOOOOOWWW BUURNN
Where do I even began with this one. This is a story I’ve been dying for and it DID NOT disappoint. With this only being her second release Mrs. Seegars has made it abundantly clear that she’s a force to be reckoned with. Her writing is impeccable, her characters (love them or hate them) are magnets…Drawing you in and forcing you feel for them in a way that is so pure and unassuming.
I DEVOURED this story…. Licked my metaphorical fingers CLEAN and left zero crumbs. But the taste & small remnants will be more on my souls for the couple ALWAYS.
Mallory:
It was an INSTANT & BLISSFUL FALL at introduction (in Restore Me) for Mallory Kent. She was the crazy outspoken best friend/ sis in law anyone would beg to have. J.L. gave us just enough of this CURVY beauty to know there was definitely some unresolved issues there… this story takes place in college some years after her trauma. Hiding behind straight A’s her friends and loving brother. Even though she’s vigilant, she doesn’t see love & heartbreak when it comes at FULL FORCE knocking her gracefully off her feet.
Christopher:
Siiiggghhh….. I just want to lick him & knew him in the b@lls at all once.
We speak of knight in shining armor, but I was not all prepared for Christopher Johnson. From a game of truth or dare laced in pinned up desire, smothered longing, and chemistry that couldn’t at all be denied. A whirlwind whirlwind romance began. Chris has his own demons though… a future not of his own making. Expectations and family tradition. The beautiful boy born with a silver spoon tries vehemently to go against the grain. But there strong more seasoned forces at work.
Revive Me Part One: The Act is a heartbreakingly beautiful story about two people unconsciously pulling one another from pain and trauma. Truly falling in love for the first time and attempting to fight to that love….
Thought sometimes….fighting for that mean losing it.
1000% Recommended | 18+
ALWAYS check content warnings|TW
June 5, 2023
JL seegars writes SLOWWWWWW burns. Like I’m talking slow motion. HOWEVER I really like this story. I wasn’t a big fan of Sloane and Dom’s story because I felt sooo much was missing but this book helped fill in a lot.
This series shows me patience is a virtue. A lot of my many answers I wanted after book 1 are answered.
I really love Mal and Chris together. I do appreciate the warning this is not the happy ending.
One star off because I really despite the excess internal dialogue. It draws out the book so much and I felt a lot of it could’ve been cut out to he more concise and to the point.
I want more of Mallory and Chris interacting not their internal dialogue.
This series shows me patience is a virtue. A lot of my many answers I wanted after book 1 are answered.
I really love Mal and Chris together. I do appreciate the warning this is not the happy ending.
One star off because I really despite the excess internal dialogue. It draws out the book so much and I felt a lot of it could’ve been cut out to he more concise and to the point.
I want more of Mallory and Chris interacting not their internal dialogue.
November 20, 2022
bro. part two has to come quick i can’t handle this. i need it rn. i’m so conflicted. if chris had just talked to mal, told her that he tried to get him arrested so that he doesn’t bother her again, told her that his father was blackmailing him and her, she would have understood. i think people underestimated mal and ther emotional capability because i understand chris cared and still does care but he always tries to save her instead of communicating. he was an amazing lover. he needs to fix this rn. right now. bro the wedding invitation broke my heart. i cant do this. i just need part two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2022
4.5/5 ☆
need part 2 now!!
need part 2 now!!
February 10, 2024
4.5⭐️ IM NOT OK 😭😭😭😭
August 24, 2025
Mallory and Chris’ love story was so good. Part 1 of 3 so I knew going in that it would be a slow burn and end on a cliffhanger. I met the couple in one of my favorite books Restore Me and based on their interactions I knew their story would be filled with all the feels.
Chris had me wrapped around his fingers immediately and I already was a fan of Mallory because of her appearance in Restore Me. Their chemistry was amazing and so was their friendship and how it oh so slowly grew into more was just mwah.
It was fun to see Sloane prior to Restore Me. Her and Mallory are sisters despite not being blood related.
I saw the ending coming but it still hurt like hell.
So excited to continue with Part 2.
Chris had me wrapped around his fingers immediately and I already was a fan of Mallory because of her appearance in Restore Me. Their chemistry was amazing and so was their friendship and how it oh so slowly grew into more was just mwah.
It was fun to see Sloane prior to Restore Me. Her and Mallory are sisters despite not being blood related.
I saw the ending coming but it still hurt like hell.
So excited to continue with Part 2.
January 20, 2026
WTF!!!! Chris father is beyond trifling!!!! This ending has me traumatized and heartbroken 💔😭
July 21, 2025
ok so this series is very much worth the hype wow
October 27, 2022
3.5/5 I loved the book and i love JL Seegars. My only qualm is that sometimes she would drag things out with unnecessary descriptions that ruined the flow. Not every description needs to be long and made into an analogy. I think doing this takes away from the more important descriptions. Sometimes it was like… get to the point already. This only started annoying me about 80% into the book though, but it became very irksome.
Anyway, I loved the pining bw Chris and Mal, and how the lack of communication wasnt always as childish as other will-they-wont-they plots. Chris is a sweet and caring bf and all i wanted for Mallory was to allow herself to be loved and protected by him. So sad that the minute she finally gave herself over and stopped fighting 24/7, Chris let her down.
i loved how the representation with having a bigger black woman didnt feel forced. It just came naturally. MC women in romances are often made to be helpless figures who need to be protected by a man, esp ones who dealt with the things that Mal dealt with. But JL Seegars did amazing in ensuring that Mal found strength within her self and ADDED protection from Chris. I cant wait to read the next one where they finally get their happy ending.
Anyway, I loved the pining bw Chris and Mal, and how the lack of communication wasnt always as childish as other will-they-wont-they plots. Chris is a sweet and caring bf and all i wanted for Mallory was to allow herself to be loved and protected by him. So sad that the minute she finally gave herself over and stopped fighting 24/7, Chris let her down.
i loved how the representation with having a bigger black woman didnt feel forced. It just came naturally. MC women in romances are often made to be helpless figures who need to be protected by a man, esp ones who dealt with the things that Mal dealt with. But JL Seegars did amazing in ensuring that Mal found strength within her self and ADDED protection from Chris. I cant wait to read the next one where they finally get their happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2022
4.75 ⭐️
3🌶
*Check author provided CW’s*
I am in a glass case of emotion.
The way Seegars’ words firmly embed themselves in your god damn soul. It is otherworldly. I am so emotionally raw reading her work, and “Revive Me” might be the most visceral so far.
The emotional journeys we witness through the dual POVs of Chris and Mal are so engrossing there is nothing you can do to look away.
I am not really sure what else to say about this book other than I got lost in Seegars’ prose time and again and I couldn’t have been happier about it.
Also… Chris 🥵. SIR. “Princess?” I am 💀. I have died. I am a ghost.
3🌶
*Check author provided CW’s*
I am in a glass case of emotion.
The way Seegars’ words firmly embed themselves in your god damn soul. It is otherworldly. I am so emotionally raw reading her work, and “Revive Me” might be the most visceral so far.
The emotional journeys we witness through the dual POVs of Chris and Mal are so engrossing there is nothing you can do to look away.
I am not really sure what else to say about this book other than I got lost in Seegars’ prose time and again and I couldn’t have been happier about it.
Also… Chris 🥵. SIR. “Princess?” I am 💀. I have died. I am a ghost.
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