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Cell Block C
A Thousand Cuts
I used to believe in fairy tales.
But then I grew up and I realized that life isn't like the books I once loved so much.
There are no princes riding in on their white horses.
No magic wands or fairy god mothers.
And no happily ever afters.
Ryland Thorpe taught me the hard way that good doesn't always win and sometimes the people we trust the most are the ones that can hurt us the deepest.
At fifteen, my world began and ended with him.
He was my older brother's best friend.
He was my protector.
He was the boy I had loved since I was old enough to understand what loving someone meant.
And he was a liar…
It's been five years since I've seen him.
Five long years and the memory of him still haunts me like it was yesterday.
Only he's not just a memory anymore.
Prison has hardened him, changed him, altered him in ways I never expected. But beneath it all I can still see a glimmer of the boy I used to love.
When lies are exposed and secrets are revealed, I find myself questioning everything I thought I knew.
They say the first cut is the deepest.
They were wrong…
A Thousand Cuts is a complete standalone novel in the Cell Block C Series.
A five book series- each book written by a different author in The Romance Collaborative.
But then I grew up and I realized that life isn't like the books I once loved so much.
There are no princes riding in on their white horses.
No magic wands or fairy god mothers.
And no happily ever afters.
Ryland Thorpe taught me the hard way that good doesn't always win and sometimes the people we trust the most are the ones that can hurt us the deepest.
At fifteen, my world began and ended with him.
He was my older brother's best friend.
He was my protector.
He was the boy I had loved since I was old enough to understand what loving someone meant.
And he was a liar…
It's been five years since I've seen him.
Five long years and the memory of him still haunts me like it was yesterday.
Only he's not just a memory anymore.
Prison has hardened him, changed him, altered him in ways I never expected. But beneath it all I can still see a glimmer of the boy I used to love.
When lies are exposed and secrets are revealed, I find myself questioning everything I thought I knew.
They say the first cut is the deepest.
They were wrong…
A Thousand Cuts is a complete standalone novel in the Cell Block C Series.
A five book series- each book written by a different author in The Romance Collaborative.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2022
64 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Toppen
55 books1,815 followersMelissa Toppen is a USA Today Bestselling Author who specializes in New Adult and Contemporary Romance. She is a lover of books and enjoys nothing more than losing herself in a good novel. She has a soft spot for romance and focuses her writing in that direction; writing what she loves to read.
For more information on Melissa and her books, visit www.melissatoppen.com
For more information on Melissa and her books, visit www.melissatoppen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
October 14, 2021
2.5-stars
MEH or the BAD:
Meh overall with predictable romance & plot so skipped the last 20 pages. Average pacing/chars/sexual chemistry. A couple detailed S scenes & the rest hinted at as H&h continue their secret affair while both were living with h's bro.
Didn't care for 20yo waitress & college-student h that much since she was immature & impulsive. She basically acted like an average college student who's ruled by her hormones & social pressure and nothing that special for an h. Although understandable that she was charmed by her ex-BF 2 years ago & she felt betrayed by her long-time love/crush H for dealing drugs that landed him to serve a 7yr-prison sentence, I didn't like that she slept with her controlling ex-BF & regretted it after he showed his true colors.
The GOOD:
Liked 26yo bro's BFF & ex-con-after-5-yrs-in-prison-for-drugs H's character for his sense of decency & self-sacrifice to take the fall for h's bro's decisions that landed him in prison instead of h's bro & for taking care of h since she was young.
Sexual History:
h only slept with her ex-BF who ended up being a jealous & controlling man but their r/s ended when he had to leave for college 2 years ago. H had many casual/random lovers since he was 14 but no GF until h.
MEH or the BAD:
Meh overall with predictable romance & plot so skipped the last 20 pages. Average pacing/chars/sexual chemistry. A couple detailed S scenes & the rest hinted at as H&h continue their secret affair while both were living with h's bro.
Didn't care for 20yo waitress & college-student h that much since she was immature & impulsive. She basically acted like an average college student who's ruled by her hormones & social pressure and nothing that special for an h. Although understandable that she was charmed by her ex-BF 2 years ago & she felt betrayed by her long-time love/crush H for dealing drugs that landed him to serve a 7yr-prison sentence, I didn't like that she slept with her controlling ex-BF & regretted it after he showed his true colors.
The GOOD:
Liked 26yo bro's BFF & ex-con-after-5-yrs-in-prison-for-drugs H's character for his sense of decency & self-sacrifice to take the fall for h's bro's decisions that landed him in prison instead of h's bro & for taking care of h since she was young.
Sexual History:
h only slept with her ex-BF who ended up being a jealous & controlling man but their r/s ended when he had to leave for college 2 years ago. H had many casual/random lovers since he was 14 but no GF until h.
January 28, 2020
This was a sweet, slow burn romance.
Teenage love turns into hate and turns back into love. Second chances.
There is lies and forgiveness, anger turned into passion.
Ryland and Ainsley began being sibling like, Ryland always being there for Ainsley and then all of a sudden he is not. She is angry and resentful that he left her.
When he returns though, she is very angry and ignores him as much as she can but he gently and kindly remains there for her.
This was a beautiful story!
Teenage love turns into hate and turns back into love. Second chances.
There is lies and forgiveness, anger turned into passion.
Ryland and Ainsley began being sibling like, Ryland always being there for Ainsley and then all of a sudden he is not. She is angry and resentful that he left her.
When he returns though, she is very angry and ignores him as much as she can but he gently and kindly remains there for her.
This was a beautiful story!
July 30, 2020
I had been wanting to read this book since the cover reveals for the series were revealed! I've read a few books from three out of five of the authors writing standalone books in this series, so I was really excited for all the books in the series to release because they all sound exactly my type of reads! I grabbed a copy of this book as soon as it released and read it as soon as I could! After reading, I can say that I enjoyed this book a lot! I was intrigued right from the first chapter and it only took me a few sittings to read! The plot had plenty of romance in it and even a few seriously hot scenes! There was also a big secret in the plot, but it was kinda easy to guess! It played a big part of the plot though and it did have an impact on it! There was a bit of action and suspense in the plot as well, which added a lot to it and made me enjoy it more! The characters were also amazing and made this book even better! Ainsley was the main female character, and in this book she was angry at her love interest and she had a good reason to be! She felt like he betrayed her and left her! Ainsley also only had brother left and they had a very close relationship! I liked Ainsley a lot in this book and she went through a lot of realisation in this book and realised who she really mattered! I loved that she stood up to her brother as well when it came to her relationship with her love interest! Ryland was the main male character and love interest of Ainsley! I felt for Ryland in this book because he had just got out of prison and he was trying to rebuild his life! Ainsley didn't make this easy for him, but Ryland understood why she was angry! Ryland did really well for himself in this book and he had a new job and was getting back on his feet! I loved the way he was with Ainsley as well! It was easy to see that he had deep feelings for her and really cared about her! I loved that this book was written from both Ainsley and Ryland's point of views! I was hoping that it was going to be written from dual point of view before I started reading, but the synopsis makes it sound like it was only going to be written from the female character's point of view! I'm really happy that Ryland's point of view was in there too! It helped me connect more with both Ainsley and Ryland and understand how they were feeling! It allowed for more things to happen in the plot as well, which helped as both characters were going through their own situations! I now can't wait to read the next book in this series! I know that it's going to be a complete standalone and written by a different author, but the book sounds amazing, so I can't wait to read it! The next book releases in April, which isn't that long of a wait and I'll definitely be reading it as soon as it releases! The ending of this book was also left at the perfect place for the characters! The cover for this book is also seriously hot and I love it a lot! It would definitely draw me to the book if I didn't already know the author's name and the cover model is the perfect Ryland!
February 5, 2020
Ainsley and her brother Finn were very close to his best friend Ryland and they were each other’s support system or at least they were until Ryland ended up in jail. Ainsley was devastated as her feelings for him were not those of a friend or even a sibling and his loss left a huge hole in her life. Even though he is out of jail she isn’t about to let him back into her life.
There is so much more to why Ryland ended up in jail than Ainsley knows and he doesn’t want to hurt her any more than he already has. He will not stop trying until he proves to her that they belong together.
This is an emotional story about love, healing and new beginnings. Ryland is a good man and there is no denying that they are meant to be.
There is so much more to why Ryland ended up in jail than Ainsley knows and he doesn’t want to hurt her any more than he already has. He will not stop trying until he proves to her that they belong together.
This is an emotional story about love, healing and new beginnings. Ryland is a good man and there is no denying that they are meant to be.
January 6, 2020
Ainsley, Finn, Ryland and Lily are about to take you on a trip through friendships, family love, protection, fate, all the emotions that start as chemical crush, twist to anger, grow to hate and after revelations love is back in the forefront.
Love hurts but secrets can scar the soul. This one is emotionally deep. You can just feel the love and protective nature of each of these characters.
Love, love, love the writing, the moral, the plot and how our characters pull the reader into the journey with them. Get ready to good and bad cry. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
Love hurts but secrets can scar the soul. This one is emotionally deep. You can just feel the love and protective nature of each of these characters.
Love, love, love the writing, the moral, the plot and how our characters pull the reader into the journey with them. Get ready to good and bad cry. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
January 31, 2020
It is always a pleasure and an honor to receive a book by Melissa to read and review it.
This occasion is about A Thousand cuts, the story of Ainsley and Ryland, both endearing, loving, tender, loyal, strong, sacrificed and passionate characters, who give everything for the beings they love and their family
the plot has the necessary ingredients to be a great success, secrets, secrets and more secrets and much more
I really recommend this book, you will not regret
Ryland is a dream, you're going to love him
This occasion is about A Thousand cuts, the story of Ainsley and Ryland, both endearing, loving, tender, loyal, strong, sacrificed and passionate characters, who give everything for the beings they love and their family
the plot has the necessary ingredients to be a great success, secrets, secrets and more secrets and much more
I really recommend this book, you will not regret
Ryland is a dream, you're going to love him
February 4, 2020
A Thousand Cuts was a slow burn brother's best friend romance which will hold your attention. You will like the characters. Ryland and Ainsley were amazing together and I loved the support Finn and Lily provided them. The story had some angst, suspense and mystery as this couple's romance unfolds and it will evoke a range of emotions from you. Yes there were some twists I saw coming but I enjoyed the story which was well written. Although a fast read I would recommend it to all lovers of contemporary romance.
January 5, 2020
Wow what a great read this was. I loved the connection Ryland and Ainsley had since she was little. This was more than a friend's to romance read, so much more. These two seemed to be destined for each other from the beginning, it took some over coming of some huge obstacles tho. Ainsley seems to of captured more than Rylands attention tho, when her life is in danger, everyone has to put their differences aside to help her.
February 7, 2020
This was a good afternoon read full of drama twist and turns the main characters interaction was crazy good. I liked the story plot no spoilers here.
January 22, 2023
“If there’s one person in this world that has the ability to make me feel better, Ryland Thorpe is it.”
★★★☆☆
🌶️
♡ brother’s best friend
♡ slow burn
♡ second chance (sort of)
♡ dual POV
This was a cute, short love story about family, loyalty, and passion. Ryland sacrifices five years of his life in prison all for Ainsley. She ends up hating him for leaving her. When he gets out, he resists the urge to be with her out of respect for Finn, Ainsley’s older brother and Ryland’s best friend. But Ainsley takes the initiative to finally be with him after being in love with him since she was a little girl. They end up hiding their relationship from Finn and when he ends up finding out, more secrets are revealed.
I felt the ending was a little rushed. I would have loved for there to be more of Ryland and Ainsley’s relationship development.
Overall though, I love Melissa Toppen’s books. They are all comfort reads, through and through.
★★★☆☆
🌶️
♡ brother’s best friend
♡ slow burn
♡ second chance (sort of)
♡ dual POV
This was a cute, short love story about family, loyalty, and passion. Ryland sacrifices five years of his life in prison all for Ainsley. She ends up hating him for leaving her. When he gets out, he resists the urge to be with her out of respect for Finn, Ainsley’s older brother and Ryland’s best friend. But Ainsley takes the initiative to finally be with him after being in love with him since she was a little girl. They end up hiding their relationship from Finn and when he ends up finding out, more secrets are revealed.
I felt the ending was a little rushed. I would have loved for there to be more of Ryland and Ainsley’s relationship development.
Overall though, I love Melissa Toppen’s books. They are all comfort reads, through and through.
February 4, 2020
Enjoyed
I enjoyed this story for a few different reasons. This book was told in both the POV of Ryland and Ainsley. Not only is this book told in dual point of view but it also has flashbacks of the past to help understand the story in the feelings of the main characters. I also enjoyed this story because it sucks you in and you really feel for these characters. Also I absolutely love all of these characters I think a lot of that has to do with I feel like they could be real life people that I actually know even if the storyline could actually happen.
I enjoyed this story for a few different reasons. This book was told in both the POV of Ryland and Ainsley. Not only is this book told in dual point of view but it also has flashbacks of the past to help understand the story in the feelings of the main characters. I also enjoyed this story because it sucks you in and you really feel for these characters. Also I absolutely love all of these characters I think a lot of that has to do with I feel like they could be real life people that I actually know even if the storyline could actually happen.
February 5, 2020
Ryland and Ainsley was a very beautiful brothers best friend/little sister love story. He tried very hard to stay away but surprise surprise SHE was the one that made a move. She took the initiative to go after what she wanted and I enjoyed every minute of it. Ryland was very respectful of Ainsley and was very considerate of her brother’s feelings because of everything they shared. It wasn’t easy and they was a heart stopping moment but they came out on top. Loved it!!
May 1, 2022
3.75 🍭🍭🍭🍭
This book I liked! The story was different, original and Greg characters developed intense feelings.
The chemistry was always present and I loved how the MCs felt for each other.
The friend, Lily was nice and I liked that she got together with Finn. However, at some point I disliked Finn because he was cruel and ungrateful, after everything the hero did for him.
Maybe, the Oscar drama was a bit extra tho…
This book I liked! The story was different, original and Greg characters developed intense feelings.
The chemistry was always present and I loved how the MCs felt for each other.
The friend, Lily was nice and I liked that she got together with Finn. However, at some point I disliked Finn because he was cruel and ungrateful, after everything the hero did for him.
Maybe, the Oscar drama was a bit extra tho…
April 1, 2020
Blue Collar Felon Romance
I love this book!
Ainsley has loved Ryland since she was a kid. Ryland is out of prison after 5 years. They navigate their new normal as grown ups. Ryland was loyal and stead fast. Ainsley was strong willed and a hard worker. This book is definitely great and the background of the characters was so relatable. You will not regret reading this!!!
I love this book!
Ainsley has loved Ryland since she was a kid. Ryland is out of prison after 5 years. They navigate their new normal as grown ups. Ryland was loyal and stead fast. Ainsley was strong willed and a hard worker. This book is definitely great and the background of the characters was so relatable. You will not regret reading this!!!
September 15, 2020
Loved it all.
It was all amazing. Melissa did an amazing job with the secret Ryland and Finn had. You figure it out. It you don’t know exactly how it will play out. I do have to say Finn dug himself a deep hole when he blew up. Crazy good book. Ryland was such a great guy who wouldn’t love him. Ainsley just had to put them boys in their place and take what was hers.
It was all amazing. Melissa did an amazing job with the secret Ryland and Finn had. You figure it out. It you don’t know exactly how it will play out. I do have to say Finn dug himself a deep hole when he blew up. Crazy good book. Ryland was such a great guy who wouldn’t love him. Ainsley just had to put them boys in their place and take what was hers.
February 4, 2020
When ainsley thinks Ryland is her forever boy somehow he gets himself in a world of trouble but after 5 years and that bad boy is back can her heart take it!
August 13, 2020
Loved
This was a beautifully written story. I loved getting to know Ryland and Ainsley. They shared a true love story.
This was a beautifully written story. I loved getting to know Ryland and Ainsley. They shared a true love story.
July 11, 2021
Amazing book
What an amazing book. This book not only had the challenge of a new relationship, but a relationship with family. Couldn't put it down
What an amazing book. This book not only had the challenge of a new relationship, but a relationship with family. Couldn't put it down
abandoned-cant-sit-thru-this-crap
March 10, 202325%
February 3, 2020
A Thousand Cuts (Cell Block C) is a brother's best friend love story. It was well written, it has some drama, and some twists that will surprise you. I read it all in a couple of hours. You will like Ryland and Ainsley, they have a deep loving connection. It wasn't easy for them, but I enjoyed reading how they muddled their way through it all. I liked that Ainsley stood up for herself. You also get to see her brother fall in love too which is a bonus in my book. Great story!
February 2, 2020
I liked this book but freely admit that I had complicated feelings about it. In all the book is well very written and engaging. The story line offers a smartly crafted blend of deep emotions, drama, angst, tension, suspense, danger and heat. The characters were a split decision for me. I really liked Ryland. He was definitely one of the good guys and had a heart of gold. It was unfortunate that he also had a chronic case of good intensions (and we all know where those lead) and in my opinion was way too self-sacrificing and forgiving. As for Ainsley, I wanted to like her more but could never get there. I did sympathize with her about some things but the slack you can cut someone that is a teenager is much more than the slack that an adult deserves. At some point, you are supposed to wake up, wise up and see things as they are and not simply as you would like them to be. Add to that the fact that I thought she came this close to falling into the TSTL category and yeah, I was not her biggest fan. In spite of my feelings toward her, I did like these two as a couple. The brother's best friend trope is one I enjoy. You can expect to experience a wide range of emotions as this couple's romance unfolds. This is my candid, volitional review.
Merged review:
I liked this book but freely admit that I had complicated feelings about it. In all the book is well very written and engaging. The story line offers a smartly crafted blend of deep emotions, drama, angst, tension, suspense, danger and heat. The characters were a split decision for me. I really liked Ryland. He was definitely one of the good guys and had a heart of gold. It was unfortunate that he also had a chronic case of good intensions (and we all know where those lead) and in my opinion was way too self-sacrificing and forgiving. As for Ainsley, I wanted to like her more but could never get there. I did sympathize with her about some things but the slack you can cut someone that is a teenager is much more than the slack that an adult deserves. At some point, you are supposed to wake up, wise up and see things as they are and not simply as you would like them to be. Add to that the fact that I thought she came this close to falling into the TSTL category and yeah, I was not her biggest fan. In spite of my feelings toward her, I did like these two as a couple. The brother's best friend trope is one I enjoy. You can expect to experience a wide range of emotions as this couple's romance unfolds. This is my candid, volitional review.
Merged review:
I liked this book but freely admit that I had complicated feelings about it. In all the book is well very written and engaging. The story line offers a smartly crafted blend of deep emotions, drama, angst, tension, suspense, danger and heat. The characters were a split decision for me. I really liked Ryland. He was definitely one of the good guys and had a heart of gold. It was unfortunate that he also had a chronic case of good intensions (and we all know where those lead) and in my opinion was way too self-sacrificing and forgiving. As for Ainsley, I wanted to like her more but could never get there. I did sympathize with her about some things but the slack you can cut someone that is a teenager is much more than the slack that an adult deserves. At some point, you are supposed to wake up, wise up and see things as they are and not simply as you would like them to be. Add to that the fact that I thought she came this close to falling into the TSTL category and yeah, I was not her biggest fan. In spite of my feelings toward her, I did like these two as a couple. The brother's best friend trope is one I enjoy. You can expect to experience a wide range of emotions as this couple's romance unfolds. This is my candid, volitional review.
February 3, 2020
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
I used to believe in fairy tales. But then I grew up and I realized that life isn't like the books I once loved so much. There are no prince riding in on their white horses. No magic wands or fairy go mothers. And no happily ever afters. Ryland Thorpe taught me the hard way that good doesn't always win and sometimes the people we trust the most are the ones that can hurt us the deepest. At fifteen, my world began and ended with him. He was my older brother's best friend. He was my protector. He was the boy I had loved since I was old enough to understand what loving someone meant. And he was a liar... It's been five years since I've seen him.. Five long years and the memory of him still haunts me like it was yesterday. Only he is not just a memory anymore. Prison has hardened him, changed him, altered him in ways I never expected. But beneath it all I can still see a glimmer of the boy I used to love. When lies are exposed and secrets are revealed, I find myself questioning everything I thought I knew. They say the first cut is the deepest. They were wrong.
Wow this book is amazing and one slow burn of a read. Your about to go on a magical journey with Ainsley, Finn, Ryland and Lily. A journey of family and love with a twist of fate, throw in some anger and you have one heck of a soup that is going to take your breath. I will go ahead and warn you that you are going to fall in love with Ryland and you just might not get your heart back. I just don't know that I have enough words to say how much this book is going to affect you and how it is going to steal your heart. There is some serious drama, tension, suspense, danger and kindle melting passion and heat. Don't even think about it. Just pick this book up and enjoy this one as much as I did.
I used to believe in fairy tales. But then I grew up and I realized that life isn't like the books I once loved so much. There are no prince riding in on their white horses. No magic wands or fairy go mothers. And no happily ever afters. Ryland Thorpe taught me the hard way that good doesn't always win and sometimes the people we trust the most are the ones that can hurt us the deepest. At fifteen, my world began and ended with him. He was my older brother's best friend. He was my protector. He was the boy I had loved since I was old enough to understand what loving someone meant. And he was a liar... It's been five years since I've seen him.. Five long years and the memory of him still haunts me like it was yesterday. Only he is not just a memory anymore. Prison has hardened him, changed him, altered him in ways I never expected. But beneath it all I can still see a glimmer of the boy I used to love. When lies are exposed and secrets are revealed, I find myself questioning everything I thought I knew. They say the first cut is the deepest. They were wrong.
Wow this book is amazing and one slow burn of a read. Your about to go on a magical journey with Ainsley, Finn, Ryland and Lily. A journey of family and love with a twist of fate, throw in some anger and you have one heck of a soup that is going to take your breath. I will go ahead and warn you that you are going to fall in love with Ryland and you just might not get your heart back. I just don't know that I have enough words to say how much this book is going to affect you and how it is going to steal your heart. There is some serious drama, tension, suspense, danger and kindle melting passion and heat. Don't even think about it. Just pick this book up and enjoy this one as much as I did.
February 3, 2020
I really enjoyed this book of the Cell Block C Series. Once I started reading, I did not want to put down the book til I was finished with the story.
It begins with Finn and Ainsley who are siblings. Finn being the oldest has
to raise his baby sister when their father dies and it’s just the two of them on their own. For many years Finn’s childhood best friend Ryland was also part of if their little family. But unfortunate circumstances lands Ryland in jail.
Now it’s 5 years later and Ryland has been released and hoping he can come back to the only place he called home. Finn’s kept in touch with him while he was in jail but Ainsley has been hurt and very upset and has had no contact with him. Now that he’s home, she’s still mad at him and won’t talk to him.
All three are living in the same house and eventually things begin to thaw between Ainsley and Ryland. She has been attracted to Ryland in her teens and always looked up to him and he was always very protective of her. Now she’s grown up and the attraction is growing between them. And one night alone in the house they give into their passion! Hottt! Finn and Ainsley’s best friend Lily are caught together and they begin their relationship. But Ainsley and Ryland need to keep their relationship from Finn for now.
This story takes on some twist, turns and major reveals! Someone from Ainsley’s past comes back and causes some unexpected suspense.
Melissa gives us hurt, healing, suspense and love in Ainsley and Ryland’s story. But I also enjoyed Finn and Lily too. Another great book from Melissa Toppen! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It begins with Finn and Ainsley who are siblings. Finn being the oldest has
to raise his baby sister when their father dies and it’s just the two of them on their own. For many years Finn’s childhood best friend Ryland was also part of if their little family. But unfortunate circumstances lands Ryland in jail.
Now it’s 5 years later and Ryland has been released and hoping he can come back to the only place he called home. Finn’s kept in touch with him while he was in jail but Ainsley has been hurt and very upset and has had no contact with him. Now that he’s home, she’s still mad at him and won’t talk to him.
All three are living in the same house and eventually things begin to thaw between Ainsley and Ryland. She has been attracted to Ryland in her teens and always looked up to him and he was always very protective of her. Now she’s grown up and the attraction is growing between them. And one night alone in the house they give into their passion! Hottt! Finn and Ainsley’s best friend Lily are caught together and they begin their relationship. But Ainsley and Ryland need to keep their relationship from Finn for now.
This story takes on some twist, turns and major reveals! Someone from Ainsley’s past comes back and causes some unexpected suspense.
Melissa gives us hurt, healing, suspense and love in Ainsley and Ryland’s story. But I also enjoyed Finn and Lily too. Another great book from Melissa Toppen! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 7, 2020
I used to believe in fairy tales.
But then I grew up and I realized that life isn’t like the books I once loved so much.
There are no princes riding in on their white horses.
No magic wands or fairy god mothers.
And no happily ever afters.
Ryland Thorpe taught me the hard way that good doesn’t always win and sometimes the people we trust the most are the ones that can hurt us the deepest.
At fifteen, my world began and ended with him.
He was my older brother’s best friend.
He was my protector.
He was the boy I had loved since I was old enough to understand what loving someone meant.
And he was a liar…
It’s been five years since I’ve seen him.
Five long years and the memory of him still haunts me like it was yesterday.
Only he’s not just a memory anymore.
Prison has hardened him, changed him, altered him in ways I never expected. But beneath it all I can still see a glimmer of the boy I used to love.
When lies are exposed and secrets are revealed, I find myself questioning everything I thought I knew.
They say the first cut is the deepest.
They were wrong…
Loved Ryland & Ainsley's story. It was beautifully written and heartfelt! Their relationship wasn't an easy one, and it was so amazing to watch how they grew and over came the obstacles. There was a twist in their story that I definitely didn't see coming! I highly recommend this book!
But then I grew up and I realized that life isn’t like the books I once loved so much.
There are no princes riding in on their white horses.
No magic wands or fairy god mothers.
And no happily ever afters.
Ryland Thorpe taught me the hard way that good doesn’t always win and sometimes the people we trust the most are the ones that can hurt us the deepest.
At fifteen, my world began and ended with him.
He was my older brother’s best friend.
He was my protector.
He was the boy I had loved since I was old enough to understand what loving someone meant.
And he was a liar…
It’s been five years since I’ve seen him.
Five long years and the memory of him still haunts me like it was yesterday.
Only he’s not just a memory anymore.
Prison has hardened him, changed him, altered him in ways I never expected. But beneath it all I can still see a glimmer of the boy I used to love.
When lies are exposed and secrets are revealed, I find myself questioning everything I thought I knew.
They say the first cut is the deepest.
They were wrong…
Loved Ryland & Ainsley's story. It was beautifully written and heartfelt! Their relationship wasn't an easy one, and it was so amazing to watch how they grew and over came the obstacles. There was a twist in their story that I definitely didn't see coming! I highly recommend this book!
February 4, 2020
A Thousand Cuts was best friend's little sister/friends to lovers book.
Although, Ryland and Ainsley begin more like brother and sister because Ryland has known Ainsley since she was a baby. Ryland had a tough upbringing and Ainsley and her brother were always there for him and vice versa. Life hasn't been a bowl of cherries for Finn (Ainsley's older brother) and Ainsley. After the death of Ainsley and Finn's father, they all become a family. Then something happens that takes Ryland away from them. When he returns, all is not forgiven by Ainsley. It will take a lot to change her mind. Ainsley isn't the girl she was when Ryland left. She is a young woman now and the feelings he has for her are nowhere near sister-like. Can Ryland convince Ainsley that he is still the guy who cares about her and would do anything for her? Can Ryland convince Finn that he is good enough for his little sister?
This is an emotional story with a lot of layers. I enjoyed pulling every last layer back to discover this beautiful love story. It is not an easy love story but definitely worth the read. It had a great plot and wonderful characters. I loved the way Ryland is patient with Ainsley and works hard to regain her trust. Their chemistry and affection for one another are palpable. There is also action thrown in here that had my heart in my throat. Overall, a really good read that will tug at the heartstrings.
****ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.****
Although, Ryland and Ainsley begin more like brother and sister because Ryland has known Ainsley since she was a baby. Ryland had a tough upbringing and Ainsley and her brother were always there for him and vice versa. Life hasn't been a bowl of cherries for Finn (Ainsley's older brother) and Ainsley. After the death of Ainsley and Finn's father, they all become a family. Then something happens that takes Ryland away from them. When he returns, all is not forgiven by Ainsley. It will take a lot to change her mind. Ainsley isn't the girl she was when Ryland left. She is a young woman now and the feelings he has for her are nowhere near sister-like. Can Ryland convince Ainsley that he is still the guy who cares about her and would do anything for her? Can Ryland convince Finn that he is good enough for his little sister?
This is an emotional story with a lot of layers. I enjoyed pulling every last layer back to discover this beautiful love story. It is not an easy love story but definitely worth the read. It had a great plot and wonderful characters. I loved the way Ryland is patient with Ainsley and works hard to regain her trust. Their chemistry and affection for one another are palpable. There is also action thrown in here that had my heart in my throat. Overall, a really good read that will tug at the heartstrings.
****ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.****
February 5, 2020
Ainsley has grown up knowing what loosing someone feels like. By the age of thirteen she was living alone with her older brother, both parents gone. Ryland who was her brother's best friend was her protector and friend back in those days as well. Fighting all the turmoil in her life, she has turned out to be strong willed, determined young lady, working hard for her future. College while working hard to help keep the home and them afloat. Five years later and she still feels the loss of Ryland in her life.
Ryland had more of a family with Finn and Ainsley than he had in his own home. Uninterested mother and an abusive stepfather were great excuses to spend time away from home. He makes the ultimate sacrifice to help keep Finn and Ainsley together but with that means secrets and lies. All he wanted to do was protect Ainsley but now that he is back, she is so angry at him.
This was an emotional slow burn, friends to lovers story, with the added twist of him being her brother's best friend. Will Ainsley be able to push away the anger and understand that her love is stronger than the pain? Will she convince him that she is not the little girl who needs protecting anymore? Or will the truths unfold and cut too deep for them to come out happy in the end?
This was a great start to this collaboration, and I can't wait to read the others.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Ryland had more of a family with Finn and Ainsley than he had in his own home. Uninterested mother and an abusive stepfather were great excuses to spend time away from home. He makes the ultimate sacrifice to help keep Finn and Ainsley together but with that means secrets and lies. All he wanted to do was protect Ainsley but now that he is back, she is so angry at him.
This was an emotional slow burn, friends to lovers story, with the added twist of him being her brother's best friend. Will Ainsley be able to push away the anger and understand that her love is stronger than the pain? Will she convince him that she is not the little girl who needs protecting anymore? Or will the truths unfold and cut too deep for them to come out happy in the end?
This was a great start to this collaboration, and I can't wait to read the others.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
February 4, 2020
Ryland and Ainsley were amazing together. Best friends little sisters are always off limits but throw in the little nugget that you also helped raised her and the stakes get so much higher.
Ryland fought his attraction to Ainsley but she is a feisty woman who goes after what she wants. She has waited many years to finally be a woman who can turn Ryland's eye, so when she noticed him looking, she took full advantage, after she managed to tame her anger towards him for breaking his promise five years ago. As his charm starts to break down her hardened heart and forgiveness starts to soften it, Ainsley remembers she doesn't hate him, she can't hate the only man she's ever loved, she only hates what he has done.
I loved all the naughtiness and playful games from Ryland and Ainsley as they tried to give their relationship a chance to bloom. Secret kisses and stolen minutes made this a slow-burn scorcher.
As always, author Melissa Toppen throws in a few twists to bring out the gut-wrenching angst and there are a few nail biting scenes as well. Her side characters, Lily, Finn, Matt, and Davis fit well in the story, making it come to life. They all had an interesting part to play in forming this small-town world and blue-collar romance.
A Thousand Cuts was an awesome read and a great start to the Cell Block C series. Can't wait for all the rest.
Ryland fought his attraction to Ainsley but she is a feisty woman who goes after what she wants. She has waited many years to finally be a woman who can turn Ryland's eye, so when she noticed him looking, she took full advantage, after she managed to tame her anger towards him for breaking his promise five years ago. As his charm starts to break down her hardened heart and forgiveness starts to soften it, Ainsley remembers she doesn't hate him, she can't hate the only man she's ever loved, she only hates what he has done.
I loved all the naughtiness and playful games from Ryland and Ainsley as they tried to give their relationship a chance to bloom. Secret kisses and stolen minutes made this a slow-burn scorcher.
As always, author Melissa Toppen throws in a few twists to bring out the gut-wrenching angst and there are a few nail biting scenes as well. Her side characters, Lily, Finn, Matt, and Davis fit well in the story, making it come to life. They all had an interesting part to play in forming this small-town world and blue-collar romance.
A Thousand Cuts was an awesome read and a great start to the Cell Block C series. Can't wait for all the rest.
March 3, 2021
Wonderfully Angsty
Ryland. *swoon*
He's a rare breed. Life didn't deal him a good hand and he played it as best as he could. He had one goal, and he thought he succeeded. But it seems he didn't. Now the only girl who has ever mattered in his life hates him with a visceral rage so deep she won't stay in the same room with him.
But Ryland's waters run deep, and he had a lot of time to think in prison. He's become a man who understands the long game.
This book has pretty much all the feels you could ask for, especially if you're into angst. Because neither Ryland or Ainsley, the girl he adores, have had any easy life. They're not rich kids driving fast cars and going to prep school in designer clothes. Ainsley and her brother have been scratching out an existence while she finished college, and Ryland...well, it hasn't been fun for him, either.
The chemistry between Ainsley and Ryland is white hot with that delicious enemies to friends taint. The story itself is bittersweet and a reminder that some people have more than the average amount of good within them. My only complaint with this story was the narrator: I really didn't love her, but as the story progressed I got used to her cringeworthy style and learned how to tune it out and enjoy the story.
Ryland. *swoon*
He's a rare breed. Life didn't deal him a good hand and he played it as best as he could. He had one goal, and he thought he succeeded. But it seems he didn't. Now the only girl who has ever mattered in his life hates him with a visceral rage so deep she won't stay in the same room with him.
But Ryland's waters run deep, and he had a lot of time to think in prison. He's become a man who understands the long game.
This book has pretty much all the feels you could ask for, especially if you're into angst. Because neither Ryland or Ainsley, the girl he adores, have had any easy life. They're not rich kids driving fast cars and going to prep school in designer clothes. Ainsley and her brother have been scratching out an existence while she finished college, and Ryland...well, it hasn't been fun for him, either.
The chemistry between Ainsley and Ryland is white hot with that delicious enemies to friends taint. The story itself is bittersweet and a reminder that some people have more than the average amount of good within them. My only complaint with this story was the narrator: I really didn't love her, but as the story progressed I got used to her cringeworthy style and learned how to tune it out and enjoy the story.
February 5, 2020
A Thousand Cuts was an amazing story filled with everything which makes romance great. Ainsley & Ryland were besties since they were kids, with love following. For whatever reason, he just ended all of it, so she didn't even have her protector anymore, and she was very hurt & angry. Fast forward 5 years, and he's back, although he's not the same boy she loved, not to mention, she's not feeling it to even talk to him. However, she did spy here & there the boy that she once knew as he's back to fix things with her first & foremost. There are lies & secrets which made for f-bomb worthy twists & turns, leaving me stunned at all that took place and/or what was hidden to come to light. The angst levels are obviously off the charts, while the slow burn of second chances seriously hurt me as it was so frustrating. There's so much more which I'm not inclined to reveal, as A Thousand Cuts is so amazing, it's just better going in blind to experience it. So hit that one click button, as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
February 6, 2020
Cue the tissues! An emotional, slow-build brother’s best friend romance with interesting characters. I loved Ryland as the ex-con thrown back into his old life after five years in the pen. As expected there are a lot of changes but what didn’t change was his love for Ainsley even if it evolved into a more romantic love. I like that he’s torn between his loyalty to his best friend and his growing feelings for Ainsley. Such a stand up guy! Grownup Ainsley is still crushing on the hunky man she grew up with even when she’s mad at his wrongdoing. And then there’s big bro Finn. Always there for his sister and his best friend. There are a few twists that were fairly obvious and the villain was a little too on the nose but played out well. It was a little slow paced for me especially with the breaks with the flashbacks and the repetition. Best friend Lily rounded out the group and was a wonderful support for Ainsley. All in all an enjoyable read with a budding romance, a little mystery and danger and a few twists. Good start to a new series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
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