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Surviving Amber Springs
Let him who is without sin cast the first stone…
I’m the second-most hated person in Amber Springs.
First place honors go to my twin, Ethan; however, hate isn’t a strong enough word to convey how people feel about him.
Not that I blame anyone—some days, I hate him too. Mostly, I’m just lost and afraid, drowning in a sea of betrayal and guilt, wondering how this happened right under my nose.
There’s no choice but to leave. To move clear across the country in a last-ditch attempt to start over.
Transferring to a new school midway through senior year is hellish for most people. For me, it’s a welcome relief—until someone discovers our secret and now everyone knows.
The pointing, whispering, and scathing looks follow me around again, and I’m back to square one. Except, this time, I’m not alone.
Axel, Skeet, and Heath took me under their wing from the minute I arrived here. I’ve no idea why three of the hottest guys in town took any interest in me or why they continue to have my back, but I’m so grateful to have them in my corner.
Because, right now, they’re the only reason I’m not following my brother into an early grave.
This is an upper YA/NA standalone. Due to sensitive content and possible triggers, this book is recommended to readers aged 18 and older.
I’m the second-most hated person in Amber Springs.
First place honors go to my twin, Ethan; however, hate isn’t a strong enough word to convey how people feel about him.
Not that I blame anyone—some days, I hate him too. Mostly, I’m just lost and afraid, drowning in a sea of betrayal and guilt, wondering how this happened right under my nose.
There’s no choice but to leave. To move clear across the country in a last-ditch attempt to start over.
Transferring to a new school midway through senior year is hellish for most people. For me, it’s a welcome relief—until someone discovers our secret and now everyone knows.
The pointing, whispering, and scathing looks follow me around again, and I’m back to square one. Except, this time, I’m not alone.
Axel, Skeet, and Heath took me under their wing from the minute I arrived here. I’ve no idea why three of the hottest guys in town took any interest in me or why they continue to have my back, but I’m so grateful to have them in my corner.
Because, right now, they’re the only reason I’m not following my brother into an early grave.
This is an upper YA/NA standalone. Due to sensitive content and possible triggers, this book is recommended to readers aged 18 and older.
462 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2018
3017 people are currently reading
5461 people want to read
About the author
Siobhan Davis
112 books9,474 followersDownload a free copy of Tell It to My Heart: https://bit.ly/TITMHDLGR
Siobhan Davis™ is a USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Top 5 bestselling romance author. Siobhan writes emotionally intense stories with swoon-worthy romance, complex characters, and tons of unexpected plot twists and turns that will have you flipping the pages beyond bedtime! She has sold millions of books, and her titles are translated into several languages.
Prior to becoming a full-time writer, Siobhan forged a successful corporate career in human resource management.
Siobhan currently lives with her husband in Cyprus while their two grown-up sons reside at the family home in Ireland.
Connect with Siobhan:
Website: www.siobhandavis.com
Facebook: AuthorSiobhanDavis
Instagram: siobhandavisauthor
Email: siobhan@siobhandavis.com
TikTok: @siobhandavisauthor
Readers Group: https://bit.ly/35yTX14
I don't read messages on Goodreads or check my inbox. If you need to contact me, email is the best.
Siobhan Davis™ is a USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Top 5 bestselling romance author. Siobhan writes emotionally intense stories with swoon-worthy romance, complex characters, and tons of unexpected plot twists and turns that will have you flipping the pages beyond bedtime! She has sold millions of books, and her titles are translated into several languages.
Prior to becoming a full-time writer, Siobhan forged a successful corporate career in human resource management.
Siobhan currently lives with her husband in Cyprus while their two grown-up sons reside at the family home in Ireland.
Connect with Siobhan:
Website: www.siobhandavis.com
Facebook: AuthorSiobhanDavis
Instagram: siobhandavisauthor
Email: siobhan@siobhandavis.com
TikTok: @siobhandavisauthor
Readers Group: https://bit.ly/35yTX14
I don't read messages on Goodreads or check my inbox. If you need to contact me, email is the best.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 954 reviews
February 19, 2021
Blaire’s story is fucking heartbreaking. To put the RH storyline aside for one moment. I highly recommend this book just for the turmoil and strife that this character endured both before and during. And also on the other side for her to endure with strength and courage to try to overcome.
This is the story you don’t hear about unless it is in angry retribution. This is the story about the survivors of a catalyst, the ones who lost the person who caused so much upset and pain. And it is everything.
Not to sound like a broken record ... but this is the best RH I’ve ever read. While Share me was erotically satisfying, this one is an emotional triumph. Thanks so much Catherine, for the recommendation, it’s well beyond my expectations!
Really trying not to pick a favorite but Axel’s broody ass is definitely sticking out. Although Skeet’s flirting is adorable. And than there’s Heath’s protective sweet nature. I mean who needs one perfect guy when you can have three that have the same perfection?
Oh wow, Skeet’s family ... brought a big smile to my face.
No sharing in bed ... well that’s a huge change from The Sainthood series and how it kicked off. Can’t say I’m not a little disappointed.
“Relax, baby. I know what you need, and I’ll look after you. I promise.”-Can Axel know what I need? 🔥
Surviving a victim is sadness personified. Surviving the instigator is fucked. You’re not allowed to grieve, you’re not allowed to forget. You’re most definitely not allowed to live your life.
Everything unfolded like origami and you didn’t get the full picture until the very end. Such a great story.
This is the story you don’t hear about unless it is in angry retribution. This is the story about the survivors of a catalyst, the ones who lost the person who caused so much upset and pain. And it is everything.
Not to sound like a broken record ... but this is the best RH I’ve ever read. While Share me was erotically satisfying, this one is an emotional triumph. Thanks so much Catherine, for the recommendation, it’s well beyond my expectations!
Really trying not to pick a favorite but Axel’s broody ass is definitely sticking out. Although Skeet’s flirting is adorable. And than there’s Heath’s protective sweet nature. I mean who needs one perfect guy when you can have three that have the same perfection?
Oh wow, Skeet’s family ... brought a big smile to my face.
No sharing in bed ... well that’s a huge change from The Sainthood series and how it kicked off. Can’t say I’m not a little disappointed.
“Relax, baby. I know what you need, and I’ll look after you. I promise.”-Can Axel know what I need? 🔥
Surviving a victim is sadness personified. Surviving the instigator is fucked. You’re not allowed to grieve, you’re not allowed to forget. You’re most definitely not allowed to live your life.
Everything unfolded like origami and you didn’t get the full picture until the very end. Such a great story.
July 17, 2023
Unsure how to feel about this one. I really did enjoy it but some things felt rushed, giving it a 3 stars until I really think about it I guess, full review soon!
January 13, 2021
I liked the way all the secrets were revealed!
The storylines were good and there were stories within stories, nothing was as simple as it originally seemed and everything was revealed in good time. The relationships were perfect, like the one between Blaire and her twin brother, which was a tear jerker, and the ones between Blaire and Axel, Skeet and Heath. The guys were awesome for her. Just what she needed!
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The storylines were good and there were stories within stories, nothing was as simple as it originally seemed and everything was revealed in good time. The relationships were perfect, like the one between Blaire and her twin brother, which was a tear jerker, and the ones between Blaire and Axel, Skeet and Heath. The guys were awesome for her. Just what she needed!
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
December 6, 2018
I was both excited and tentative before starting Surviving Amber Springs, but by gosh did I adore it in the end. In fact, I came to enjoy this one a lot more than I’d initially anticipated.
I’m a big Siobhan Davis fan, as should be clear by now, and I’m always eager for her next release. Although Surviving Amber Springs sounded like another wonderful contemporary read, a part of me feared I would not enjoy this as much as I’d hoped. You see, the other reverse harem books by Siobhan Davis – the Alinthia books – are far from being my favourite Siobhan Davis reads. Part of this is because reverse harem books are not my favourite books to read, and despite all the signs pointing towards me enjoying this one I feared it would be a repeat of the Alinthia books.
Another element that had me worried was all the high school drama we had at the start of the book. I accept high school drama, but I quickly become bored of it. For part of this book, I feared it would be one of those stories where we became trapped into a cycle of high school drama.
A final aspect that had me worried – three worries about a Siobhan Davis book is unheard of, so you can imagine why I was so tentative at first – is that there were references to something I have personal experience with. I’m not going to say what, as it will give away some of the details of the book, but whenever such an aspect appears in books I’m worried. It’s one of those things that can be portrayed badly, and I’m always nervous that a book will send the wrong kind of message. I know Siobhan Davis deals with heavy issues on a regular basis, and she always deals with things well, but when it is something you have person experience with it is even more worrisome.
Now, before this becomes a repeat of my review of The Lost Savior, know I am not attacking Siobhan Davis for the things she includes in her books. This book may not have sounded like the book for me based upon the three above aspects, but there were many other things that did intrigue me. Moreover, I had high hopes Siobhan Davis would win me over when it came to the above. She is an author who has regularly won me over, and I had complete faith in her doing the same thing here.
Guess what – she did.
Siobhan Davis wowed me, taking my worries and proving them to be unfounded. Sure, certain things may have sounded like they may not have been for me, but Siobhan Davis did them so well that I enjoyed them.
The reverse harem element in this one was really well done. I have a few things that make it difficult for me to enjoy reverse harem as much as regular readers of the genre. The first is how much I have to stretch my imagination. I’m one of those people where no guy is interested in me, let alone multiple, so I prefer to stick to your standard romance. Love triangles are enough of an imagination stretch, so I prefer to keep it to a simple boy meets girl kind of story. Of course, I am willing to stretch my imagination when the story is good. My bigger issue, however, is when the reverse harem aspect is used simply as a way to play out certain erotic scenes. I’m no stranger to such scenes – if you look at all the erotica I read, you will see I rather enjoy such scenes and read them on a regular basis – yet I’ve read too many reverse harem books where the story has felt forced so such a thing can play out. Add in the fact the males always seem to be the same person in such books and I’m always tentative.
With Surviving Amber Springs we have none of those things. This was not a case of writing reverse harem to play out certain intimate scenes, far from it in fact. Nor was it a case of multiple males all being the same guy. With this one, we have three individual males who all add something to the story, with the reverse harem element playing in extremely well with the storyline. In fact, it’s one of the most natural reverse harem reads I have read.
The high school drama aspect was nowhere near as bad as I’d initially feared, with the details being played out before us taking up less of the book than I’d expected. I know a lot of people enjoy the high school drama element of young adult novels, but for me I want away from such a thing as much as possible. Those were the worst years of my life in many ways – and I’m not just saying that to sound like a cliché – and I want to distance myself from that sort of thing as much as possible, especially with how I’m now in a much better place. People hear stories of the kind of stuff that happened to me during my high school years and they believe it to be the plot of a movie or a book, so it makes sense that I would not want to spend my reading time being reminded of such times.
With Surviving Amber Springs the high school element was important. It was pivotal to the story and was really well done (as Siobhan Davis has demonstrated she is capable of doing in her other books). There are times when books give us high school drama for the sake of high school drama, with their being no explanation for the vicious ways (which I know from personal experience can be the case, but I prefer it when books explain how these things came to be), yet all the drama in this one had a reason. In fact, the drama was central to the storyline and not just a way to make high school seem more dramatic. It had purpose, and that is what I desire when a book includes a lot of high school drama.
The heavy issue I have personal experience with was done as well as any issue Siobhan Davis deals with. It was silly for me to have been fearful of how Siobhan Davis would deal with the topic, as she always deals with topics well, but the fear was there.
In fact, Surviving Amber Springs deals with numerous heavy topics. All of which were dealt with extremely well. All are relevant, and all will make you think about what is going on. The issues are part of a much bigger picture, with all the different elements being interwoven in a wonderful way. Each aspect draws upon the others, and they come together so well. You will feel so much, each element hitting a different emotion, and it will have you desperately turning the pages to see how everything comes together.
All in all, this book blew me away. It was so much more than I’d anticipated, my fears unnecessary. I admit to feeling as though things came together a bit too easily in the end, the timing of things was a bit too convenient for my liking. I also admit that I felt like the romance was a bit too quick to develop at the start, feeling a bit too close to insta-love for my liking when compared to other Siobhan Davis books where we get to watch the intense emotions develop over time. However, despite these things, the book had me insanely addicted throughout and I was not disappointed.
In fact, I’m willing – no, not just willing, I’m happy – to label this one of my top Siobhan Davis reads.
Without a doubt, Surviving Amber Springs is the perfect example of why Siobhan Davis is one of my favourite authors. She always writes stories with multiple interconnected elements, each done in a wonderful manner. She always writes stories with great characters, characters who are real and you can relate to. She always writes stories that hit hard, dealing with topics that will make you think if you’re not already thinking. The biggest reason why she is one of my favourite authors – beyond the expected of the great writing, addictive storylines, and all the tiny things that come together to make a great book – is she is one of the few authors who can win me over when I step out of my comfort zone with them. Siobhan Davis is the except to so many of my reading rules and Surviving Amber Springs hits on that more than any of her other books.
If you’re a Siobhan Davis fan you need to give Surviving Amber Springs a read, you will not be disappointed. If you’re new to Siobhan Davis and simply think Surviving Amber Springs sounds interesting, I cannot recommend this one enough.
To cut this review down to a simple sentence: Surviving Amber Springs is another winner from Siobhan Davis, sucking me ever deeper into the Siobhan Davis fandom – a fandom I’m already drowning in.
I’m a big Siobhan Davis fan, as should be clear by now, and I’m always eager for her next release. Although Surviving Amber Springs sounded like another wonderful contemporary read, a part of me feared I would not enjoy this as much as I’d hoped. You see, the other reverse harem books by Siobhan Davis – the Alinthia books – are far from being my favourite Siobhan Davis reads. Part of this is because reverse harem books are not my favourite books to read, and despite all the signs pointing towards me enjoying this one I feared it would be a repeat of the Alinthia books.
Another element that had me worried was all the high school drama we had at the start of the book. I accept high school drama, but I quickly become bored of it. For part of this book, I feared it would be one of those stories where we became trapped into a cycle of high school drama.
A final aspect that had me worried – three worries about a Siobhan Davis book is unheard of, so you can imagine why I was so tentative at first – is that there were references to something I have personal experience with. I’m not going to say what, as it will give away some of the details of the book, but whenever such an aspect appears in books I’m worried. It’s one of those things that can be portrayed badly, and I’m always nervous that a book will send the wrong kind of message. I know Siobhan Davis deals with heavy issues on a regular basis, and she always deals with things well, but when it is something you have person experience with it is even more worrisome.
Now, before this becomes a repeat of my review of The Lost Savior, know I am not attacking Siobhan Davis for the things she includes in her books. This book may not have sounded like the book for me based upon the three above aspects, but there were many other things that did intrigue me. Moreover, I had high hopes Siobhan Davis would win me over when it came to the above. She is an author who has regularly won me over, and I had complete faith in her doing the same thing here.
Guess what – she did.
Siobhan Davis wowed me, taking my worries and proving them to be unfounded. Sure, certain things may have sounded like they may not have been for me, but Siobhan Davis did them so well that I enjoyed them.
The reverse harem element in this one was really well done. I have a few things that make it difficult for me to enjoy reverse harem as much as regular readers of the genre. The first is how much I have to stretch my imagination. I’m one of those people where no guy is interested in me, let alone multiple, so I prefer to stick to your standard romance. Love triangles are enough of an imagination stretch, so I prefer to keep it to a simple boy meets girl kind of story. Of course, I am willing to stretch my imagination when the story is good. My bigger issue, however, is when the reverse harem aspect is used simply as a way to play out certain erotic scenes. I’m no stranger to such scenes – if you look at all the erotica I read, you will see I rather enjoy such scenes and read them on a regular basis – yet I’ve read too many reverse harem books where the story has felt forced so such a thing can play out. Add in the fact the males always seem to be the same person in such books and I’m always tentative.
With Surviving Amber Springs we have none of those things. This was not a case of writing reverse harem to play out certain intimate scenes, far from it in fact. Nor was it a case of multiple males all being the same guy. With this one, we have three individual males who all add something to the story, with the reverse harem element playing in extremely well with the storyline. In fact, it’s one of the most natural reverse harem reads I have read.
The high school drama aspect was nowhere near as bad as I’d initially feared, with the details being played out before us taking up less of the book than I’d expected. I know a lot of people enjoy the high school drama element of young adult novels, but for me I want away from such a thing as much as possible. Those were the worst years of my life in many ways – and I’m not just saying that to sound like a cliché – and I want to distance myself from that sort of thing as much as possible, especially with how I’m now in a much better place. People hear stories of the kind of stuff that happened to me during my high school years and they believe it to be the plot of a movie or a book, so it makes sense that I would not want to spend my reading time being reminded of such times.
With Surviving Amber Springs the high school element was important. It was pivotal to the story and was really well done (as Siobhan Davis has demonstrated she is capable of doing in her other books). There are times when books give us high school drama for the sake of high school drama, with their being no explanation for the vicious ways (which I know from personal experience can be the case, but I prefer it when books explain how these things came to be), yet all the drama in this one had a reason. In fact, the drama was central to the storyline and not just a way to make high school seem more dramatic. It had purpose, and that is what I desire when a book includes a lot of high school drama.
The heavy issue I have personal experience with was done as well as any issue Siobhan Davis deals with. It was silly for me to have been fearful of how Siobhan Davis would deal with the topic, as she always deals with topics well, but the fear was there.
In fact, Surviving Amber Springs deals with numerous heavy topics. All of which were dealt with extremely well. All are relevant, and all will make you think about what is going on. The issues are part of a much bigger picture, with all the different elements being interwoven in a wonderful way. Each aspect draws upon the others, and they come together so well. You will feel so much, each element hitting a different emotion, and it will have you desperately turning the pages to see how everything comes together.
All in all, this book blew me away. It was so much more than I’d anticipated, my fears unnecessary. I admit to feeling as though things came together a bit too easily in the end, the timing of things was a bit too convenient for my liking. I also admit that I felt like the romance was a bit too quick to develop at the start, feeling a bit too close to insta-love for my liking when compared to other Siobhan Davis books where we get to watch the intense emotions develop over time. However, despite these things, the book had me insanely addicted throughout and I was not disappointed.
In fact, I’m willing – no, not just willing, I’m happy – to label this one of my top Siobhan Davis reads.
Without a doubt, Surviving Amber Springs is the perfect example of why Siobhan Davis is one of my favourite authors. She always writes stories with multiple interconnected elements, each done in a wonderful manner. She always writes stories with great characters, characters who are real and you can relate to. She always writes stories that hit hard, dealing with topics that will make you think if you’re not already thinking. The biggest reason why she is one of my favourite authors – beyond the expected of the great writing, addictive storylines, and all the tiny things that come together to make a great book – is she is one of the few authors who can win me over when I step out of my comfort zone with them. Siobhan Davis is the except to so many of my reading rules and Surviving Amber Springs hits on that more than any of her other books.
If you’re a Siobhan Davis fan you need to give Surviving Amber Springs a read, you will not be disappointed. If you’re new to Siobhan Davis and simply think Surviving Amber Springs sounds interesting, I cannot recommend this one enough.
To cut this review down to a simple sentence: Surviving Amber Springs is another winner from Siobhan Davis, sucking me ever deeper into the Siobhan Davis fandom – a fandom I’m already drowning in.
January 26, 2019
Ive put off writing my review for this book because I’m torn. I am a big Reverse Harem fan, and while I loved the premise of the story, I feel like the RH aspect was unnecessary. Blaire had insane chemistry with one guy in particular (I won’t name him because I don’t want to spoil it for anyone who is yet to read) and I really did think that, yes there was an attraction with the other two, but they were kind of surplus to requirements. Had the story just been a Mf romance, I’m sure I would have loved it that little bit more.
December 23, 2018
Sometimes the ending brings home the entire story, wrings out your heart and renews your faith in real love, no matter how unconventional!
Siobhan Davis’ latest New Adult Reverse Harem stand alone, SURVIVING AMBER SPRINGS is a whirlwind of emotional turmoil. The cause is unraveled slowly throughout and it is a gut-kicker.
The story begins in high school and being a Reverse Harem book, it may seem too much, but there is never that gushy, squishy, teen puppy pile “love” going on, although be prepared for the high school drama in spades.
That said, once again, Siobhan Davis brings it home with her unique flare and talent for creating characters that feel far too real cast in scenarios that can be heavenly or hellish. Prepare yourself for graphic scenes of humiliation, pain and torment, but remember Siobhan Davis never leaves her characters without a happy ending and best of all, love.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Siobhan Davis!
Publication Date: December 26, 2018
Publisher: Siobhan Davis
Genre: NA Reverse Harem
Print Length: 365 pages
Available from: Amazon US ➡️ https://amzn.to/2PyyHL3
Amazon UK ➡️ https://amzn.to/2rDMGWe
Amazon AUS ➡️: https://amzn.to/2zZr62Z
Amazon CA ➡️ https://amzn.to/2PDxfqw
Universal link ➡️ https://smarturl.it/SurvivingAmberSpring
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Siobhan Davis’ latest New Adult Reverse Harem stand alone, SURVIVING AMBER SPRINGS is a whirlwind of emotional turmoil. The cause is unraveled slowly throughout and it is a gut-kicker.
The story begins in high school and being a Reverse Harem book, it may seem too much, but there is never that gushy, squishy, teen puppy pile “love” going on, although be prepared for the high school drama in spades.
That said, once again, Siobhan Davis brings it home with her unique flare and talent for creating characters that feel far too real cast in scenarios that can be heavenly or hellish. Prepare yourself for graphic scenes of humiliation, pain and torment, but remember Siobhan Davis never leaves her characters without a happy ending and best of all, love.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Siobhan Davis!
Publication Date: December 26, 2018
Publisher: Siobhan Davis
Genre: NA Reverse Harem
Print Length: 365 pages
Available from: Amazon US ➡️ https://amzn.to/2PyyHL3
Amazon UK ➡️ https://amzn.to/2rDMGWe
Amazon AUS ➡️: https://amzn.to/2zZr62Z
Amazon CA ➡️ https://amzn.to/2PDxfqw
Universal link ➡️ https://smarturl.it/SurvivingAmberSpring
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 8, 2019
I won’t ever be able to read this book ever again. Yes, it was amazing and yes I give it five stars for the way it made me feel. But I’m gonna be completely honest with you; I thought it was hella depressing. At one point I was full on crying my freaking eyes out. I don’t like that one bit. If I’d have read reviews sooner, maybe I would have seen the triggers it had. (I didn’t even read the blurb)
The book had twist after twist. And yes, I guessed pretty early on what happened. It was still cool to see the author surprise me even more because it was so much deeper than that. This was just too much for my heart to handle. I avoid books like these as if they’re the plague. I’m not talking about them being reverse harem either—which was the whole point of picking it up. It had been recommended a lot so I decided to read it.
I didn’t expect it to have this kind of impact on me. Despite how my review sounds, I did love it. Especially the parts witnessing Blaire fall in love with THREE amazing men. Kudos to the author for bringing me to my knees unexpectedly. If you’re looking for something light and fluffy, this isn’t it. This is not a black and white story...it has loads of grey.
The book had twist after twist. And yes, I guessed pretty early on what happened. It was still cool to see the author surprise me even more because it was so much deeper than that. This was just too much for my heart to handle. I avoid books like these as if they’re the plague. I’m not talking about them being reverse harem either—which was the whole point of picking it up. It had been recommended a lot so I decided to read it.
I didn’t expect it to have this kind of impact on me. Despite how my review sounds, I did love it. Especially the parts witnessing Blaire fall in love with THREE amazing men. Kudos to the author for bringing me to my knees unexpectedly. If you’re looking for something light and fluffy, this isn’t it. This is not a black and white story...it has loads of grey.
June 25, 2019
Rating: 2 stars
I find reviewing this book quite difficult as everything was a bit too obvious from the very beginning even though it was kept a mystery. But as no review gave any insight about said mystery, I will consider it a major spoiler and will say nothing about the story. I apologize for the even messier review than usual.
Like a lot of you, I am a very emotional and sensitive person and sometimes, I just need the read that will break me and leave me a sobbing mess. And as I love RH, I really thought Surviving Amber Springs would do the trick after reading a few reviews but found it pretty tedious.
In a few words: great idea, vanilla execution.
Surviving Amber Springs was the Disney version of a real tragedy.
The book had one epic scenario for a tearjerker, beautiful and heart-wrenching moment. It should have been a depressing yet poignant story about grief, betrayal and reconstruction, family, love and acceptance, but was more of a bumpy insta-romance with too many things clouding the heart of the novel. The book was too mainly focused about Blaire's relationship with the guys and other random subplots and the tragedy barely a constant to make the book really credible, but still present enough to have some very emotional scenes.
In the end, Surviving Amber Springs felt too superficial. I would have loved for Siobhan Davis to go all in and rip my heart out as she totally nailed her heavy scenes. But I also have to thank her as I am looking forward reading more -non RH- books with the same subject.
I find reviewing this book quite difficult as everything was a bit too obvious from the very beginning even though it was kept a mystery. But as no review gave any insight about said mystery, I will consider it a major spoiler and will say nothing about the story. I apologize for the even messier review than usual.
Like a lot of you, I am a very emotional and sensitive person and sometimes, I just need the read that will break me and leave me a sobbing mess. And as I love RH, I really thought Surviving Amber Springs would do the trick after reading a few reviews but found it pretty tedious.
In a few words: great idea, vanilla execution.
Surviving Amber Springs was the Disney version of a real tragedy.
The book had one epic scenario for a tearjerker, beautiful and heart-wrenching moment. It should have been a depressing yet poignant story about grief, betrayal and reconstruction, family, love and acceptance, but was more of a bumpy insta-romance with too many things clouding the heart of the novel. The book was too mainly focused about Blaire's relationship with the guys and other random subplots and the tragedy barely a constant to make the book really credible, but still present enough to have some very emotional scenes.
In the end, Surviving Amber Springs felt too superficial. I would have loved for Siobhan Davis to go all in and rip my heart out as she totally nailed her heavy scenes. But I also have to thank her as I am looking forward reading more -non RH- books with the same subject.
January 20, 2023
I didn’t dislike this book. Many parts of it were emotional, the characters were likable, it’s decent if you want a combination of "heavy angst" and "healing from trauma" and you don’t think about it too much. But the author handled a difficult topic VERY poorly. I don’t often get worked up about the message in a book, especially because I enjoy many dark reads where thinking about real world morals is boring, and you leave that at the door! But in this case, it’s unavoidable.
The plot: the heroine is moving to a new town for her last year of high school, after her brother did a school shooting and then got killed by police. This whole incident made her family pariahs in their old town. At her new school, she assumes a new name (so that people don’t recognize her from the news reports about her brother). She meets 3 guys, gets in an RH relationship, and their connection is sweet and healing after everything she’s been through. But then, more stuff is revealed about her past trauma and things go wrong. Then, there’s a time jump and she meets the heroes again in college (I think they’re separated for 2 years or so. It's not an aggressively long time jump and separation like in this author's other book Always Meant to Be).
One of the guys (Axel) felt like he had a much stronger connection with her than the other 2 guys (a jock one, and a cheerful one). This is an RH that feels like it could have been an MF. And, as usual for a book from this author, there’s an overload of too many traumatic things piled up. In this case, school shooting, bullying, rape, depression, PTSD, sex tapes, blackmail, a drug overdose, a suicide attempt. Unlike some of this author's other books, the “everything but the kitchen sink” plotting ALMOST works, here!
It’s the school shooting angle that sinks this. Basically, it’s revealed that the heroine’s brother was kind of justified in what he did, because the specific people he killed were monsters themselves, and did a horrific crime to the heroine. On its own, the plot of “This murderer who everyone thinks is a monster actually had a valid reason for it” is interesting! I like that in isolation. And I like that the heroine struggles with still loving her brother after he did something that everyone hates him for.
But the author should have done this a different way than a school shooting. Her brother could have killed those people literally ANY other way! Just tweak this plot a bit! That way, the focus of this story WOULD be on that interesting moral dilemma of a murderer doing it for a valid reason, and his surviving sister grappling with that. Conflating that with the entirely different topic of school shooting does NOT work. Because as it stands, this story feels like this author kind of…tripped and fell into writing a school shooting apologist book. And that's one of the most evil things in the world. Full stop. It IS a black and white issue, not a grey one.
Like, I'm sure the author doesn't mean it, but the message of this book is basically, "Some school shooters have valid reasons. Some victims deserve it." NO!!!!!!! Get out of here!! If the author just tweaked it and made the brother kill them in a different way, then that would fix so much of this. It's otherwise a pretty solid angsty book aside from this one element....but it's kind of a big deal!
I like a lot of fucked up reads, so I’m not usually one to pearl-clutch about a book's “message." But in this case, I do think this book is irresponsible. This author is Irish, not American (but this is set in America). And in an author’s note at the end, she said that she’s still impacted by this issue, so she wanted to explore it. Sure. Okay. But the end result is that that this is one topic where she should have stayed in her lane.
The plot: the heroine is moving to a new town for her last year of high school, after her brother did a school shooting and then got killed by police. This whole incident made her family pariahs in their old town. At her new school, she assumes a new name (so that people don’t recognize her from the news reports about her brother). She meets 3 guys, gets in an RH relationship, and their connection is sweet and healing after everything she’s been through. But then, more stuff is revealed about her past trauma and things go wrong. Then, there’s a time jump and she meets the heroes again in college (I think they’re separated for 2 years or so. It's not an aggressively long time jump and separation like in this author's other book Always Meant to Be).
One of the guys (Axel) felt like he had a much stronger connection with her than the other 2 guys (a jock one, and a cheerful one). This is an RH that feels like it could have been an MF. And, as usual for a book from this author, there’s an overload of too many traumatic things piled up. In this case, school shooting, bullying, rape, depression, PTSD, sex tapes, blackmail, a drug overdose, a suicide attempt. Unlike some of this author's other books, the “everything but the kitchen sink” plotting ALMOST works, here!
It’s the school shooting angle that sinks this. Basically, it’s revealed that the heroine’s brother was kind of justified in what he did, because the specific people he killed were monsters themselves, and did a horrific crime to the heroine. On its own, the plot of “This murderer who everyone thinks is a monster actually had a valid reason for it” is interesting! I like that in isolation. And I like that the heroine struggles with still loving her brother after he did something that everyone hates him for.
But the author should have done this a different way than a school shooting. Her brother could have killed those people literally ANY other way! Just tweak this plot a bit! That way, the focus of this story WOULD be on that interesting moral dilemma of a murderer doing it for a valid reason, and his surviving sister grappling with that. Conflating that with the entirely different topic of school shooting does NOT work. Because as it stands, this story feels like this author kind of…tripped and fell into writing a school shooting apologist book. And that's one of the most evil things in the world. Full stop. It IS a black and white issue, not a grey one.
Like, I'm sure the author doesn't mean it, but the message of this book is basically, "Some school shooters have valid reasons. Some victims deserve it." NO!!!!!!! Get out of here!! If the author just tweaked it and made the brother kill them in a different way, then that would fix so much of this. It's otherwise a pretty solid angsty book aside from this one element....but it's kind of a big deal!
I like a lot of fucked up reads, so I’m not usually one to pearl-clutch about a book's “message." But in this case, I do think this book is irresponsible. This author is Irish, not American (but this is set in America). And in an author’s note at the end, she said that she’s still impacted by this issue, so she wanted to explore it. Sure. Okay. But the end result is that that this is one topic where she should have stayed in her lane.
December 24, 2018
4.5 Stars
For anyone who has been following my reviews, you will know that I am a huge Siobhan Davis fan. Anything she writes, I will read. She has not written a single book that I did not enjoy. While I was excited to read Surviving Amber Springs, I was a bit apprehensive about it due to be YA - a dramatic, reverse harem YA at that.
Siobhan took all my worries and obliterated them. I was fearful of the typical, run-of-the-mill high school dramatics, along with reverse-harem just to show multiple love interests only to use that as a way to entertain particular erotic scenes. Both of those worries/fears were quickly put to the grave and that truly helped me enjoy this book so much.
Siobhan deals with some very heavy topics in this story and they are topics that are sadly, a part of our life now. But she handles with these issues with grace yet realism. Siobhan handles the issues with delicacy but doesn't shy away from heart of the problem, the rawness of it. And I love that - it allows the story line to feel more real.
As for the reverse harem aspect - most reverse harem I have read are in the paranormal or fantasy genre, so I was a bit skeptical on how this would play out. Siobhan definitely shows more emotion and heart between these characters than just the sheer attraction. While it felt a little too insta-love for me in the beginning (her books usually delve further into relationship development), you could still tell there was more between them all just one layer of attraction. I absolutely enjoyed that the attachments between each guy were different and Siobhan was amazing at keeping those attractions unique and separate; each guy held a prominent and important piece in Blaire's life.
Overall, the book and it's storyline was amazing. I love these characters and their story. While I felt things came together a little quickly and convenient in the end, that does not take away from the overall greatness of the book. The story itself was magnificent.
I love Siobhan's books. Her writing is so unique; she is descriptive, makes you feel the depth of each character and really pulls into the story. You feel every emotion these characters endure (as with all her books).
If you are Siobhan Davis fan, you need to read this one - RH fan or not. If you are new to Siobhan, I highly encourage you read this one, especially if you enjoy RH.
Surviving Amber Springs was so much more than I expected and has me loving Siobhan even more (if that were possible).
For anyone who has been following my reviews, you will know that I am a huge Siobhan Davis fan. Anything she writes, I will read. She has not written a single book that I did not enjoy. While I was excited to read Surviving Amber Springs, I was a bit apprehensive about it due to be YA - a dramatic, reverse harem YA at that.
Siobhan took all my worries and obliterated them. I was fearful of the typical, run-of-the-mill high school dramatics, along with reverse-harem just to show multiple love interests only to use that as a way to entertain particular erotic scenes. Both of those worries/fears were quickly put to the grave and that truly helped me enjoy this book so much.
Siobhan deals with some very heavy topics in this story and they are topics that are sadly, a part of our life now. But she handles with these issues with grace yet realism. Siobhan handles the issues with delicacy but doesn't shy away from heart of the problem, the rawness of it. And I love that - it allows the story line to feel more real.
As for the reverse harem aspect - most reverse harem I have read are in the paranormal or fantasy genre, so I was a bit skeptical on how this would play out. Siobhan definitely shows more emotion and heart between these characters than just the sheer attraction. While it felt a little too insta-love for me in the beginning (her books usually delve further into relationship development), you could still tell there was more between them all just one layer of attraction. I absolutely enjoyed that the attachments between each guy were different and Siobhan was amazing at keeping those attractions unique and separate; each guy held a prominent and important piece in Blaire's life.
Overall, the book and it's storyline was amazing. I love these characters and their story. While I felt things came together a little quickly and convenient in the end, that does not take away from the overall greatness of the book. The story itself was magnificent.
I love Siobhan's books. Her writing is so unique; she is descriptive, makes you feel the depth of each character and really pulls into the story. You feel every emotion these characters endure (as with all her books).
If you are Siobhan Davis fan, you need to read this one - RH fan or not. If you are new to Siobhan, I highly encourage you read this one, especially if you enjoy RH.
Surviving Amber Springs was so much more than I expected and has me loving Siobhan even more (if that were possible).
July 2, 2019
A book that made me think and ponder...a lot
It's a difficult subject altogether and the author made both sides of the horrible action palpable and real, thus making me ponder even more...
And when a book manages to do that, I find that the author did her/his job extraordinary well...
That's why, I'm goving the book 4.5 stars, since I didn't quite develop all the feels about all the characters...and yet, the background was "stronger" on impact than the main storyline, but since they are interconnected, they can't be looked at separately and yet somehow you can, with the deeper input on the background story...
well, well done
It's a difficult subject altogether and the author made both sides of the horrible action palpable and real, thus making me ponder even more...
And when a book manages to do that, I find that the author did her/his job extraordinary well...
That's why, I'm goving the book 4.5 stars, since I didn't quite develop all the feels about all the characters...and yet, the background was "stronger" on impact than the main storyline, but since they are interconnected, they can't be looked at separately and yet somehow you can, with the deeper input on the background story...
well, well done
March 14, 2022
I stayed up whole night reading this.
Not that that was that interesting, but it was the only time I got to read.
The story was enthralling. But I really wanted more of the characters. The meeting of all the characters and their development together could have used a little more context. As I said, the story was good, the delivery... Not so good.
But, I have some of Siobhan Davis books in TBR stock and I've inkling, I would still read her books. 🙇
Not that that was that interesting, but it was the only time I got to read.
The story was enthralling. But I really wanted more of the characters. The meeting of all the characters and their development together could have used a little more context. As I said, the story was good, the delivery... Not so good.
But, I have some of Siobhan Davis books in TBR stock and I've inkling, I would still read her books. 🙇
July 4, 2020
Check out the trailer here:
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Universal link ➡️ https://smarturl.it/SurvivingAmberSpring
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSiobha...
Amazon US ➡️ https://amzn.to/2PyyHL3
Amazon UK ➡️ https://amzn.to/2rDMGWe
Amazon AUS ➡️: https://amzn.to/2zZr62Z
Amazon CA ➡️ https://amzn.to/2PDxfqw
Universal link ➡️ https://smarturl.it/SurvivingAmberSpring
January 24, 2019
Unbelievably wonderfully written
This book was fantastic. I didn't want it to end. I was hooked on it after page one. There is so many ups and downs sadness,happiness, shock, situations that I didn't know was coming. The sex was unbelievable the men in this book. Oh my God. When Siobhan explained them I imagined what they look like. Holy Hell. Read this book.
This book was fantastic. I didn't want it to end. I was hooked on it after page one. There is so many ups and downs sadness,happiness, shock, situations that I didn't know was coming. The sex was unbelievable the men in this book. Oh my God. When Siobhan explained them I imagined what they look like. Holy Hell. Read this book.
November 18, 2018
Blaire loves one person more than anyone else on earth, her other half, her twin Ethan. He's the best man she knows until he does the unthinkable. Now she's left alone, confused, hurting, angry, hated. Driven from their home, Blaire and her parents move across the country in search of a new start. But you can only run for so long, it's impossible to truly escape the past. This time Blaire isn't alone. She doesn't have to face the judgment and condemnation on her own. Axel, Skeet, and Heath took Blaire in as one of their own from the first moment they met and they are determined to stand by her. As grateful as Blaire is to have the guys in her life, by her side, they may not be enough. This time it may just be too much.
Surviving Amber Springs is a tragic, contemporary RH. Every tragedy has multiple stories, many victims. This is a seldom explored, rarely sympathized view of one. It's gut-wrenching, traumatic, heartbreaking. Blaire's pain is palpable. Her loss overwhelming. Her confusion and anger understandable. The story is a compelling RH with great guys and believable relationships but it's so much more. It's a thought-provoking story of mistakes, misplaced judgments, second chances. There's pain on every conceivable level. It's a story of desperation, of giving up, of surviving.
This is not an easy story to read. It is worth the read, however. Siobhan Davis has created one of her best books yet. The subject matters in this book are ugly. It's human nature at it's worst and lowest. But the story is written with sensitivity and a complete lack of sensationalism. As a reader, you are immediately drawn into Blaire's life. You will hurt, worry, get angry, cry. You will fall in love with Axel and Skeet and eventually Heath. You will root for Blaire. You will understand. You won't agree, you won't forgive but you will understand. At times you won't be able to put the book down, at others you may need to put it down and walk away for a minute. In the end, you will realize that you just went through a remarkable journey with these characters. You will be able to breathe again.
Trigger warning: Gun violence, sexual violence, suicidal ideation
Surviving Amber Springs is a tragic, contemporary RH. Every tragedy has multiple stories, many victims. This is a seldom explored, rarely sympathized view of one. It's gut-wrenching, traumatic, heartbreaking. Blaire's pain is palpable. Her loss overwhelming. Her confusion and anger understandable. The story is a compelling RH with great guys and believable relationships but it's so much more. It's a thought-provoking story of mistakes, misplaced judgments, second chances. There's pain on every conceivable level. It's a story of desperation, of giving up, of surviving.
This is not an easy story to read. It is worth the read, however. Siobhan Davis has created one of her best books yet. The subject matters in this book are ugly. It's human nature at it's worst and lowest. But the story is written with sensitivity and a complete lack of sensationalism. As a reader, you are immediately drawn into Blaire's life. You will hurt, worry, get angry, cry. You will fall in love with Axel and Skeet and eventually Heath. You will root for Blaire. You will understand. You won't agree, you won't forgive but you will understand. At times you won't be able to put the book down, at others you may need to put it down and walk away for a minute. In the end, you will realize that you just went through a remarkable journey with these characters. You will be able to breathe again.
Trigger warning: Gun violence, sexual violence, suicidal ideation
October 19, 2020
Book: Surviving Amber Springs
Author: Siobhan Davis
Type: Standalone
Genre: New Adult Reverse Harem
POV: Multiple (First Person)
Rating: 5 Heart-wrenching Stars!
“The truth is everything, but sometimes the truth has to be sacrificed for the greater good.”
Warning:
“We’re not going anywhere, beautiful.” Skeet’s fighting spirit is alive and well. “We love you too much to just walk away now. Take whatever time you need, and when you’re ready, we’ll be waiting.”
W.O.W! Surviving Amber Springs is the most powerful and touching RH I've ever read. It was heart-wrenching and sensitive and dealt with some pretty hard stuff. The story, the characters, the circumstances, they pulled me in and I simply couldn't put this book down. There were so many ups and downs and potent emotions, it left me a mess by the end.
"I just want it to stop. The pain has sunk bone deep, soul deep, eradicating every trace of the person I used to be. The darkness has spread. Eating me alive from the inside out. And I can’t face it anymore."
I loved Blaire. She is one of the strongest protagonist I've come across. Her strength was inspiring. She's been through so much and she still pushes through and carries on.
“Sometimes we have to reach rock bottom to learn how to climb to the top.”
This book deserves all the stars. Highly recommended.
“You bring out the best in me, and you make me want to be a better man because I want to give you everything I can possibly offer. The love I feel for you is unsurpassed and infinite, and I will love you always and forever.”
Author: Siobhan Davis
Type: Standalone
Genre: New Adult Reverse Harem
POV: Multiple (First Person)
Rating: 5 Heart-wrenching Stars!
“The truth is everything, but sometimes the truth has to be sacrificed for the greater good.”
Warning:
“We’re not going anywhere, beautiful.” Skeet’s fighting spirit is alive and well. “We love you too much to just walk away now. Take whatever time you need, and when you’re ready, we’ll be waiting.”
W.O.W! Surviving Amber Springs is the most powerful and touching RH I've ever read. It was heart-wrenching and sensitive and dealt with some pretty hard stuff. The story, the characters, the circumstances, they pulled me in and I simply couldn't put this book down. There were so many ups and downs and potent emotions, it left me a mess by the end.
"I just want it to stop. The pain has sunk bone deep, soul deep, eradicating every trace of the person I used to be. The darkness has spread. Eating me alive from the inside out. And I can’t face it anymore."
I loved Blaire. She is one of the strongest protagonist I've come across. Her strength was inspiring. She's been through so much and she still pushes through and carries on.
“Sometimes we have to reach rock bottom to learn how to climb to the top.”
This book deserves all the stars. Highly recommended.
“You bring out the best in me, and you make me want to be a better man because I want to give you everything I can possibly offer. The love I feel for you is unsurpassed and infinite, and I will love you always and forever.”
December 16, 2018
What a tragic and powerful roller coaster ride of a story this was! I'm impressed with the ability Davis has to talk about something so sensitive and triggering and tell a different side of the story. To help people see that we don't always know all the facts in cases like this, but also show that it doesn't condone what was done. Yes, I'm being vague, but I feel like you must read it in order for the impact to hit as hard as it hit me. There's also the other issues that the main character must face both before and after the main incident. I can't imagine how Blaire must have felt in the aftermath of her own tragedy and then to have what happened with Ethan on top of that. She is a brave and flawed character that I think most of us will want to know and be cheering for in this story.
As always, Davis' writing fills me up and makes it super difficult to put my book down. I want to just sit and devour each book she writes in one sitting and get a little angry at real life for interfering with that! It was also one of Davis' books that first introduced me to reverse harem fiction. I wasn't sure how I would like it, but all doubt has been erased...at least in the case of her books! I've been enthralled with each one I've read so far. (The same can be said for other genres this author has made me love!)
There is a lot going on in this story and I can't possibly do it justice in a spoiler free review, so let me just say that if you are a fan of Siobhan Davis, you've got to check this one out. I encourage anyone with any interest in RH books to check it out as well. And if you like angsty contemporary romance, you should give it a shot!
*I was blessed with an ARC of this book, which I voluntarily reviewed.*
As always, Davis' writing fills me up and makes it super difficult to put my book down. I want to just sit and devour each book she writes in one sitting and get a little angry at real life for interfering with that! It was also one of Davis' books that first introduced me to reverse harem fiction. I wasn't sure how I would like it, but all doubt has been erased...at least in the case of her books! I've been enthralled with each one I've read so far. (The same can be said for other genres this author has made me love!)
There is a lot going on in this story and I can't possibly do it justice in a spoiler free review, so let me just say that if you are a fan of Siobhan Davis, you've got to check this one out. I encourage anyone with any interest in RH books to check it out as well. And if you like angsty contemporary romance, you should give it a shot!
*I was blessed with an ARC of this book, which I voluntarily reviewed.*
Read
October 12, 2021dnf
idk none of the characters appeal to me. at all. not the bad boy, not the one with a bitchy ow mean girl in tow, not skeet and not the main girl. the chemistr(ies) felt short too. 2 vital thing in a book and this one lack both
idk none of the characters appeal to me. at all. not the bad boy, not the one with a bitchy ow mean girl in tow, not skeet and not the main girl. the chemistr(ies) felt short too. 2 vital thing in a book and this one lack both
February 2, 2022
Update: what I thought Siobhan was eluding to did actually happen, and the devastation that both led up to it and the fallout crippled me. In a society where a school shooting happens seemingly every single day with no change in sight, we've become almost desensitized to it all.. but our author shows why this particular character acted the way they did, and although she didn't glorify his actions, I couldn't find it in me to be sympathetic for the lives lost.
If you're familiar with this authors work, then you'll know at least some form of abuse always makes its way into her books, but this.. this was hard for me to get through. And just when you think you know who the big bad is and why, you get thrown another heartbreaking curve ball.
The romance here took a back seat to the storyline and the mental health of our heroine, but honestly I loved that. You still feel the connection she has to all of her men, for me two in particular, and I love the different ways they loved her and vice versa. Plus I love how strong Blaire was throughout the book, and just how much stronger she got towards the end when she really started to take care of herself.
The RH plot line isn't the main focus, but I did really enjoy how none of the bullying came from any of the guys. They were just all about her from the jump, and we seldom see that.
So if you're looking for a new rh romance that's not all about the sexy times and has one hell of an emotional punch, this is for you. Just heed the trigger warning.
If you're familiar with this authors work, then you'll know at least some form of abuse always makes its way into her books, but this.. this was hard for me to get through. And just when you think you know who the big bad is and why, you get thrown another heartbreaking curve ball.
The romance here took a back seat to the storyline and the mental health of our heroine, but honestly I loved that. You still feel the connection she has to all of her men, for me two in particular, and I love the different ways they loved her and vice versa. Plus I love how strong Blaire was throughout the book, and just how much stronger she got towards the end when she really started to take care of herself.
The RH plot line isn't the main focus, but I did really enjoy how none of the bullying came from any of the guys. They were just all about her from the jump, and we seldom see that.
So if you're looking for a new rh romance that's not all about the sexy times and has one hell of an emotional punch, this is for you. Just heed the trigger warning.
December 6, 2018
Siobhan Davis is kind of a new author to me, but ever since I read When Forever Changes, I knew that she was going to win my heart a hundred times over because her stories feel so real and as real as they can feel because of the things that happen do tend to occur in real life. They touch your heart and soul.
Surviving Amber Springs broke my heart from the moment I started to the moment I finished. This book definitely had a beautiful and wonderful happy ending but the things that this poor girl endured throughout her high school years was just excruciatingly torture and what she had to go through to move and change her sur name, was just over and beyond painful and heartbreaking especially because just when she thought she could move forward, she was thrown backwards.
She had her three protectors that would never leave her side and loved and adored her to death, but sometimes that's just not enough. I loved how determined and strong she was throughout the book. She is definitely one of my favorite heroines I've ever read because to go through what she went through and still be able to be as strong as she could possibly be really takes determination and will power.
Surviving Amber Springs is definitely one of my top reads of 2018!
5 SURVIVING STARS
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
Surviving Amber Springs broke my heart from the moment I started to the moment I finished. This book definitely had a beautiful and wonderful happy ending but the things that this poor girl endured throughout her high school years was just excruciatingly torture and what she had to go through to move and change her sur name, was just over and beyond painful and heartbreaking especially because just when she thought she could move forward, she was thrown backwards.
She had her three protectors that would never leave her side and loved and adored her to death, but sometimes that's just not enough. I loved how determined and strong she was throughout the book. She is definitely one of my favorite heroines I've ever read because to go through what she went through and still be able to be as strong as she could possibly be really takes determination and will power.
Surviving Amber Springs is definitely one of my top reads of 2018!
5 SURVIVING STARS
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
February 14, 2019
If there was ever a book that leaves me speechless, its this one. I cant even begin to figure out how to say how beautiful this book is. I find myself wanting to start the book over to re-read it all over again!
This book follows Blaire who is broken beyond repair for something that happens in her life. Once you know what happens you want to break down with her and cry. All she goes through is heartbreaking and i'm so glad she finds the loves of her life to help her feel whole again.
I usually can pick a favorite book boyfriend, easily i might add. I cant say that with the book. I found myself switching and being conflicted until the very end. Siobhan does a wonderful job with keeping the twists coming and having go reassess how you feel about the characters and situations. When you think you have it all figured out, you find out you are sorely mistaken. She is the master at this and it makes me love her writing so much.
This book contains very sensitive subjects but i want to tell you to give it a shot, you will love every page you read and be so glad you picked it up. This will definitely go into my pile of books i will cherish and reread for the rest of my life.
This book follows Blaire who is broken beyond repair for something that happens in her life. Once you know what happens you want to break down with her and cry. All she goes through is heartbreaking and i'm so glad she finds the loves of her life to help her feel whole again.
I usually can pick a favorite book boyfriend, easily i might add. I cant say that with the book. I found myself switching and being conflicted until the very end. Siobhan does a wonderful job with keeping the twists coming and having go reassess how you feel about the characters and situations. When you think you have it all figured out, you find out you are sorely mistaken. She is the master at this and it makes me love her writing so much.
This book contains very sensitive subjects but i want to tell you to give it a shot, you will love every page you read and be so glad you picked it up. This will definitely go into my pile of books i will cherish and reread for the rest of my life.
December 27, 2018
So when I was sent the offer for an ARC of this book, I wasn’t sure what to expect since it didn’t really seem like my type of read. However, when I started to read, I was instantly sucked in by the unique characters. The author sets up the story with a huge mystery—what Blaire’s brother Ethan did.
Blaire is hugely affected by the loss of her brother and when her family is forced to move someplace new and start over, she doubts she’ll ever be the same again. That is until she meets Axel, Heath, and Skeet. There’s chemistry with all of them, and it’s not long until she finds herself forming relationships with all three. Though I thought they made the arrangements a bit quickly, I loved how the romance storylines developed differently with each couple. Not to mention the steamy scenes throughout the book.
I loved the way the author both touched down on difficult topics and also made the material readable and even funny at times. This book will definitely take you on a journey. Because of this book, I think I’ll start checking out more books in this genre.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.
Blaire is hugely affected by the loss of her brother and when her family is forced to move someplace new and start over, she doubts she’ll ever be the same again. That is until she meets Axel, Heath, and Skeet. There’s chemistry with all of them, and it’s not long until she finds herself forming relationships with all three. Though I thought they made the arrangements a bit quickly, I loved how the romance storylines developed differently with each couple. Not to mention the steamy scenes throughout the book.
I loved the way the author both touched down on difficult topics and also made the material readable and even funny at times. This book will definitely take you on a journey. Because of this book, I think I’ll start checking out more books in this genre.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.
January 1, 2019
I am still trying to process ...
I can’t even.... I was excited to see a new release by this author, having read both “Inseparable” and “When forever changes” and liked that they were t the same cookie cutter cr*p that seems to be regurgitated over and over by many of the current YA - NA writers.
This story however... ummm... 2 hours of my life I will never get back... I think it had/has potential to be a really great read.. I think there is potential in the main plot line.. and would have liked to have seen that developed as the story... the reverse harem thing really takes away from everything, it is confusing, ridiculous, stupidly unrealistic and makes the entire story hard to read, and makes a mockery of sexual assault and the gun violence/school shooting.
There is nothing hot about a girl that’s been assaulted having 3 boyfriends, 3 college aged guys willingly sharing a girl is not only ludicrous but seems awfully rapey as well.
I dunno, I am disappointed - at least it was free.
I can’t even.... I was excited to see a new release by this author, having read both “Inseparable” and “When forever changes” and liked that they were t the same cookie cutter cr*p that seems to be regurgitated over and over by many of the current YA - NA writers.
This story however... ummm... 2 hours of my life I will never get back... I think it had/has potential to be a really great read.. I think there is potential in the main plot line.. and would have liked to have seen that developed as the story... the reverse harem thing really takes away from everything, it is confusing, ridiculous, stupidly unrealistic and makes the entire story hard to read, and makes a mockery of sexual assault and the gun violence/school shooting.
There is nothing hot about a girl that’s been assaulted having 3 boyfriends, 3 college aged guys willingly sharing a girl is not only ludicrous but seems awfully rapey as well.
I dunno, I am disappointed - at least it was free.
March 26, 2019
Surviving Amber Springs was nothing at all what I thought it was going to be. For one, it didn't take place in Amber Springs. Well, a major event did, but the rest of the story did not. And there was a huge twist, and then another twist and boom an even big twist towards the end.
This book was not at all what I thought it was going to be, it was SO. MUCH. BETTER!
I thought it was really great, it made me laugh, and it made me cry as well. I felt a lot of things that Blaire felt throughout the book, and I loved getting some of the other characters POV as well. And it had a wonderful ending that was beautiful. And it dealt with a lot of heavy stuff, I mean really heavy!
The author also did something that I adored! She made the reverse harem not weird. I mean the heroine didn't feel like a whore because she was with them, she never once thought that, it was a beautiful thing, I loved it. I hate how a lot of RH authors do this to their heroines. It makes me beyond frustrated, but this author didn't do that in this one, and that made it even more awesome.
This book was not at all what I thought it was going to be, it was SO. MUCH. BETTER!
I thought it was really great, it made me laugh, and it made me cry as well. I felt a lot of things that Blaire felt throughout the book, and I loved getting some of the other characters POV as well. And it had a wonderful ending that was beautiful. And it dealt with a lot of heavy stuff, I mean really heavy!
The author also did something that I adored! She made the reverse harem not weird. I mean the heroine didn't feel like a whore because she was with them, she never once thought that, it was a beautiful thing, I loved it. I hate how a lot of RH authors do this to their heroines. It makes me beyond frustrated, but this author didn't do that in this one, and that made it even more awesome.
June 8, 2019
This book shook me!
I can barely think of anything to say, other than it was amazing and heartbreaking and beautiful! I cried more than once, and I don’t regret a single tear. It was such a wonderful story of love and empowerment after terrible tragedy, and I think everyone should read this book!
I can barely think of anything to say, other than it was amazing and heartbreaking and beautiful! I cried more than once, and I don’t regret a single tear. It was such a wonderful story of love and empowerment after terrible tragedy, and I think everyone should read this book!
November 15, 2018
This book was an amazing, emotional rollercoaster, and I would not change a single bit of it.
I love Siobhan's writing. Picking up one of her books feels like coming home. She always draws you into the stories so easily. I'm so glad I've continued to read her, even as she has explored other genres besides fantasy. Every time she took a leap with a genre or series, into something other than what I'm comfortable with, I felt hesitant. But every time I gave it a try, because I trust her as a writer to deliver. And she always does. I'm so glad that I've remained open minded. Because otherwise, I would have missed out on some of her best work.
This is exactly what has happened to me with this book. I have only ever read one other reverse harem book/series, and that as her Alinthia series. I thought the only reason it worked for me was because it was a fantasy series as well, so her being in a relationship with multiple guys is part of this cosmic bond they have.
That's not the case in SAS. It's a modern day reverse harem book. I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did. Everything felt completely natural in the relationship between Blaire and her three boyfriends. I thought I would be uncomfortable with things involving that dynamic but I wasn't.
There are some really amazing twists and turns in this book. Skeet and Axel were my favorites, I never figured out which I liked the best. They both had different qualities that really drew me to them. Heath would stumble occasionally, okay, kind of a lot. But he always redeemed himself. And let's admit it, that kind of character development is so fun to read!
The things in Blaire's past were heart breaking, and the way that Siobhan slowly unravels the story is perfection.
If you are a fan of Siobhan Davis's work, and you are open minded enough to give the reverse harem genre a try, then I would highly recommend this. I will note that there is material of a sensitive nature at the core of the story in this book.
I was very honored to read a beta copy of this book.
I love Siobhan's writing. Picking up one of her books feels like coming home. She always draws you into the stories so easily. I'm so glad I've continued to read her, even as she has explored other genres besides fantasy. Every time she took a leap with a genre or series, into something other than what I'm comfortable with, I felt hesitant. But every time I gave it a try, because I trust her as a writer to deliver. And she always does. I'm so glad that I've remained open minded. Because otherwise, I would have missed out on some of her best work.
This is exactly what has happened to me with this book. I have only ever read one other reverse harem book/series, and that as her Alinthia series. I thought the only reason it worked for me was because it was a fantasy series as well, so her being in a relationship with multiple guys is part of this cosmic bond they have.
That's not the case in SAS. It's a modern day reverse harem book. I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did. Everything felt completely natural in the relationship between Blaire and her three boyfriends. I thought I would be uncomfortable with things involving that dynamic but I wasn't.
There are some really amazing twists and turns in this book. Skeet and Axel were my favorites, I never figured out which I liked the best. They both had different qualities that really drew me to them. Heath would stumble occasionally, okay, kind of a lot. But he always redeemed himself. And let's admit it, that kind of character development is so fun to read!
The things in Blaire's past were heart breaking, and the way that Siobhan slowly unravels the story is perfection.
If you are a fan of Siobhan Davis's work, and you are open minded enough to give the reverse harem genre a try, then I would highly recommend this. I will note that there is material of a sensitive nature at the core of the story in this book.
I was very honored to read a beta copy of this book.
December 19, 2018
ARC provided by the author.
This book OMG I loved it. It wasn’t a book that I usually read but when the authors PA sent me an email and I read the synopsis I wanted to read it and I am glad I did. It was so emotional and heartfelt. I felt for all these characters. My favorite was Skeet and his family. I swear I kept a smile and laughed when him and his family were around. I can’t go into details of this book because you have to go in blind because so much happens and it will ruin the story. I loved the ending didn’t see it ending the way it did. This was my first book by this author and it won’t be my last. Now I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This book OMG I loved it. It wasn’t a book that I usually read but when the authors PA sent me an email and I read the synopsis I wanted to read it and I am glad I did. It was so emotional and heartfelt. I felt for all these characters. My favorite was Skeet and his family. I swear I kept a smile and laughed when him and his family were around. I can’t go into details of this book because you have to go in blind because so much happens and it will ruin the story. I loved the ending didn’t see it ending the way it did. This was my first book by this author and it won’t be my last. Now I can’t wait to read more of her books.
September 19, 2019
Id been dying to read this book for a long time because id heard from other readers what an amazing book this is. Usually when i hear that the book rarely lives up to the hype but not with this book it really does. My own recommendation is that you read this book with a big box of tissues because boy does it break your heart to only put it back together to break it again. A bittersweet story about a girl who has had some truly horrendous things happen in her life and how she learns to live, love, trust and the repercussions of that. Im in agreement it really is an amazing book!
January 17, 2019
DNF’d at 40%. I want my time back. This book was terrible and not representative of this author’s writing. This reverse harem story was not written for 18yr old characters. It was absurd. Insta-love and very cheesy dialogue. Not recommended.
March 10, 2019
I can't tell you how many times my heart broke throughout this book! Blaire has such a strong determined personality and I felt for her through out the hole book, would definitely recommend this to anyone!
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