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Graffiti Hearts #3
Beautiful Serenity
Trust ~ a belief that someone is reliable, good, honest…
Javie
I thought my life had been dictated to me by my birth but then I met Ritza, a beauty who’s drowning in sadness and holding onto secrets. As hard as she tries to not be seen, she has become my only focus. Now the life I once knew has become a distant memory because I want more. I’m helplessly drawn to the beauty she is trying so desperately to hide. Can I prove to her I’m worthy of her trust and love?
Ritza
Life as I knew it will never be the same. One night- a night I can’t remember- has changed me forever. Now I’m damaged, dirty, and dare I say, unworthy. But my brokenness doesn’t matter because I don’t trust men enough to want a happily ever after. Until I meet Javie. He is able to tame the demons that haunt me, but as much as his strong presence and calm demeanor is a balm to my broken soul, I’m not sure it’s enough. But next steps are never easy. In fact, they are sometimes the hardest you’ll take.
Javie
I thought my life had been dictated to me by my birth but then I met Ritza, a beauty who’s drowning in sadness and holding onto secrets. As hard as she tries to not be seen, she has become my only focus. Now the life I once knew has become a distant memory because I want more. I’m helplessly drawn to the beauty she is trying so desperately to hide. Can I prove to her I’m worthy of her trust and love?
Ritza
Life as I knew it will never be the same. One night- a night I can’t remember- has changed me forever. Now I’m damaged, dirty, and dare I say, unworthy. But my brokenness doesn’t matter because I don’t trust men enough to want a happily ever after. Until I meet Javie. He is able to tame the demons that haunt me, but as much as his strong presence and calm demeanor is a balm to my broken soul, I’m not sure it’s enough. But next steps are never easy. In fact, they are sometimes the hardest you’ll take.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2022
19 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Tori Alvarez
11 books177 followersWriting sassy, angsty love stories you can fall into.
Lover of coffee, wine & travel.
Click below for all the latest!
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Lover of coffee, wine & travel.
Click below for all the latest!
https://linktr.ee/mstorialvarez
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorToriAl...
https://www.instagram.com/mstorialvarez/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 2, 2021
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ritza is struggling with a traumatic experience where she was drugged and raped. She doesn’t remember everything but experiences panic attacks when something sparks a vague memory. She has a hard time talking and opening up about this experience, but once she lays eyes on Javier she feels this wave of calmness.
I have I say, from the moment I met Javier in the first book I couldn’t wait for his story with Ritza AND I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED.
I have grown to love characters who have experienced something traumatic and watching them grow and become open about these things literally brings tears to my eyes. I swear if I didn’t work during the day I would have binged this book.
Tori Alvarez, you really killed it on this book. I’m so grateful I got to experience these amazing characters and the journey they went on together
Ritza is struggling with a traumatic experience where she was drugged and raped. She doesn’t remember everything but experiences panic attacks when something sparks a vague memory. She has a hard time talking and opening up about this experience, but once she lays eyes on Javier she feels this wave of calmness.
I have I say, from the moment I met Javier in the first book I couldn’t wait for his story with Ritza AND I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED.
I have grown to love characters who have experienced something traumatic and watching them grow and become open about these things literally brings tears to my eyes. I swear if I didn’t work during the day I would have binged this book.
Tori Alvarez, you really killed it on this book. I’m so grateful I got to experience these amazing characters and the journey they went on together
April 14, 2022
My heart is so full! I've been waiting for this story for such a long time! Tori Alvarez was one of the first Latina Romance Authors I read and I fell so in love with her writing, her characters and their beautiful stories. This book wasn't the exception, it was the perfect way to crown this amazing series that is currently one of my favorites.
Toni, Alex and Javier Martinez have been some of my favorite characters, their story, their humble beginnings and their strength and resilience as a family and the beautiful Latinx representation are some of the things that I've loved so much about them and seeing this book gave me the most perfect resolution to their amazing journey with a book that hit my heart with so many feelings and emotions that are so difficult to describe. It touches many difficult topics with so much care and heart, it made me swoon, sigh dreamily and smile hard with a romance that was more than a fairytale, more than a pursue for a happy ever after between a couple, but a journey to find healing, true love and light after tragedy and devastation.
Javie had me intrigued since book 1, he is one of those characters that would stay in the background looking at everything, making you wondering how things looked from his perspective. He was always loyal and protective of Toni and Alex and the anticipation for his story was so strong, because I knew he was going to be amazing and he definitely was everything I was hoping he was going to be: A perfect, protective and down to earth Alpharoll-hero with a heart of gold.
He was sweet, caring and understanding, always saving his Alpha side whenever was needed and OMG! was he so sexy and swoony when he did! I loved how understanding he was of Ritza and how much he helped her to heal her own wounds without even knowing what he was doing! He was so respectful of her boundaries and never tried to cross them. I've always said consent is sexy, but this man took it to a whole different level that made me squeal a couple of times, especially because he was being empathetic and understanding without even knowing why, it was just the way he was! Not even thinking twice to put Ritza's needs and comfort first!
Have you ever read a character when you instantly wish they were real because you would love to be their friend? That's what I felt with Ritza, she was such a beautiful soul but so scattered because of her tragic past, still she was so strong and resilient without even knowing. Her journey towards healing felt real and authentic, I loved how Tori wrote her situation and her process so delicately and with so much heart. We meet her in a very dark spot in her life, trying to find herself and her voice again and even though it was heartbreaking to see her in such pain, it was also beautiful to see her being born again from her ashes and finding hope in her family, her friends and also Javie. I felt so inspired by her strength and her willingness to fight for her happiness and to feel like herself again, even when she didn't feel strong at all or when she thought she wasn't worthy.
Loved seeing her ups and downs in her healing process, not only because it made me root for her and her happy ending even more, but because it was a perfect example that healing isn't linear at all, sometimes you take two steps forward and then you find yourself going back five steps. Ritza had a wonderful family that wanted to see her happy and the love of a man that was there for her no matter what. Romance aside, it was beautiful to see her finding the light at the end of such a dark tunnel and realizing how much she was worth her own fight and happiness. The depth and clarity of her character was one of the most beautiful things of the book and I am in awe of how beautifully she was written.
I just loved how their relationship developed through the story, it was definitely a worth the wait slow burn that needed to be handled with the care and pace it had. They were so sweet and romantic together! The stolen glances, hidden smiles, gentle touches and the patience they had to take things further made my heart flutter. They formed a sweet friendship that even though took time to strengthen the trust, was full of respect and true care for each other and everyone around them were able to see that.
The true love, care and respect they had for one another showed in every conversation and moment they had together, especially in the sexy times. My heart was bursting with how sweet and tender their steam was! The consent, the care, the attentiveness, the words of affirmation and how safe Javie made Ritza feel... aaaahhhh!!! I could squeal forever! A standing ovation to Tori Alvarez, she really nailed it! It was exactly what they both needed to make their connection even more special and stronger than it was already.
It made me happy to see Alex, Toni, Lola and Garret again (it was like seeing old friends after a long time) while falling in love with new characters like Ritza's parents, her best friend Cici and her big brother Damian. Tori Alvarez always writes the Latinx family connection and bond in a way that feels so close to my heart and reading these beautiful characters, how much they love, support and defend each other fills my heart with so much joy.
I loved this book so much it hurts now that is over, it was a beautiful story of how love really heals our wounds and when love is real, it brings the best of ourselves and it wants everything from us, even the darkest, most hurtful spots we think are unlovable.
This family, these characters and this fictional world will always be in my heart!
A huge thanks to my beautiful friend and extraordinary author Tori Alvarez for giving me the chance to beta read for this absolutely wonderful book and for gifting me a copy to re-read and review. Seeing my name in the acknowledgment section is a true honor!
Toni, Alex and Javier Martinez have been some of my favorite characters, their story, their humble beginnings and their strength and resilience as a family and the beautiful Latinx representation are some of the things that I've loved so much about them and seeing this book gave me the most perfect resolution to their amazing journey with a book that hit my heart with so many feelings and emotions that are so difficult to describe. It touches many difficult topics with so much care and heart, it made me swoon, sigh dreamily and smile hard with a romance that was more than a fairytale, more than a pursue for a happy ever after between a couple, but a journey to find healing, true love and light after tragedy and devastation.
Javie had me intrigued since book 1, he is one of those characters that would stay in the background looking at everything, making you wondering how things looked from his perspective. He was always loyal and protective of Toni and Alex and the anticipation for his story was so strong, because I knew he was going to be amazing and he definitely was everything I was hoping he was going to be: A perfect, protective and down to earth Alpharoll-hero with a heart of gold.
"He's safe and sweet and... so incredibly sexy. has the perfect balance of a cute guy next door with a badass hardness. Not too guy next door to be boring and not too harsh, which can be a turn off."
He was sweet, caring and understanding, always saving his Alpha side whenever was needed and OMG! was he so sexy and swoony when he did! I loved how understanding he was of Ritza and how much he helped her to heal her own wounds without even knowing what he was doing! He was so respectful of her boundaries and never tried to cross them. I've always said consent is sexy, but this man took it to a whole different level that made me squeal a couple of times, especially because he was being empathetic and understanding without even knowing why, it was just the way he was! Not even thinking twice to put Ritza's needs and comfort first!
"I know you're in pain. But I want to be with you. I want to walk beside you while you figure it out."
Have you ever read a character when you instantly wish they were real because you would love to be their friend? That's what I felt with Ritza, she was such a beautiful soul but so scattered because of her tragic past, still she was so strong and resilient without even knowing. Her journey towards healing felt real and authentic, I loved how Tori wrote her situation and her process so delicately and with so much heart. We meet her in a very dark spot in her life, trying to find herself and her voice again and even though it was heartbreaking to see her in such pain, it was also beautiful to see her being born again from her ashes and finding hope in her family, her friends and also Javie. I felt so inspired by her strength and her willingness to fight for her happiness and to feel like herself again, even when she didn't feel strong at all or when she thought she wasn't worthy.
"Her quiet strength is unmistakable. The storm she is weathering is huge, but she continues to move forward."
Loved seeing her ups and downs in her healing process, not only because it made me root for her and her happy ending even more, but because it was a perfect example that healing isn't linear at all, sometimes you take two steps forward and then you find yourself going back five steps. Ritza had a wonderful family that wanted to see her happy and the love of a man that was there for her no matter what. Romance aside, it was beautiful to see her finding the light at the end of such a dark tunnel and realizing how much she was worth her own fight and happiness. The depth and clarity of her character was one of the most beautiful things of the book and I am in awe of how beautifully she was written.
I just loved how their relationship developed through the story, it was definitely a worth the wait slow burn that needed to be handled with the care and pace it had. They were so sweet and romantic together! The stolen glances, hidden smiles, gentle touches and the patience they had to take things further made my heart flutter. They formed a sweet friendship that even though took time to strengthen the trust, was full of respect and true care for each other and everyone around them were able to see that.
The true love, care and respect they had for one another showed in every conversation and moment they had together, especially in the sexy times. My heart was bursting with how sweet and tender their steam was! The consent, the care, the attentiveness, the words of affirmation and how safe Javie made Ritza feel... aaaahhhh!!! I could squeal forever! A standing ovation to Tori Alvarez, she really nailed it! It was exactly what they both needed to make their connection even more special and stronger than it was already.
It made me happy to see Alex, Toni, Lola and Garret again (it was like seeing old friends after a long time) while falling in love with new characters like Ritza's parents, her best friend Cici and her big brother Damian. Tori Alvarez always writes the Latinx family connection and bond in a way that feels so close to my heart and reading these beautiful characters, how much they love, support and defend each other fills my heart with so much joy.
I loved this book so much it hurts now that is over, it was a beautiful story of how love really heals our wounds and when love is real, it brings the best of ourselves and it wants everything from us, even the darkest, most hurtful spots we think are unlovable.
This family, these characters and this fictional world will always be in my heart!
A huge thanks to my beautiful friend and extraordinary author Tori Alvarez for giving me the chance to beta read for this absolutely wonderful book and for gifting me a copy to re-read and review. Seeing my name in the acknowledgment section is a true honor!
Read
November 10, 2022The Graffiti Hearts series got NEW COVERS!!
September 29, 2022
This was my first read by the author.
I really liked it.
This story was heart breaking and beautiful.
The way Javier takes care of her because of her trauma is absolutely beautiful and I loved it 🖤
Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful story with the world!
I really liked it.
This story was heart breaking and beautiful.
The way Javier takes care of her because of her trauma is absolutely beautiful and I loved it 🖤
Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful story with the world!
November 30, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and this is my own and honest review.
I’ve been waiting for Javies book for ages after reading about his cousin and brother in their books.
Javie was the more sensitive brother, and this showed up in Beautiful Serenity. Having been brought up in a tough neighbourhood he is no stranger to hardship and struggles but when he meets Ritza he sees something in her that others don’t.
This is where then the story truly starts. Ritza has been through incredible personal trauma which she is suffering with everyday until Javie walks into her life. There are moments in this book that I did find frustrating as I really just wanted to shake Ritza and tell her to get the help she so clearly needed and not even letting her family in to help her.
I did find the story a little repetitive at times but I guess this was part of the process for Ritza. Overall I did enjoy the book as it had a very good message to it regarding personal safety.
I’ve been waiting for Javies book for ages after reading about his cousin and brother in their books.
Javie was the more sensitive brother, and this showed up in Beautiful Serenity. Having been brought up in a tough neighbourhood he is no stranger to hardship and struggles but when he meets Ritza he sees something in her that others don’t.
This is where then the story truly starts. Ritza has been through incredible personal trauma which she is suffering with everyday until Javie walks into her life. There are moments in this book that I did find frustrating as I really just wanted to shake Ritza and tell her to get the help she so clearly needed and not even letting her family in to help her.
I did find the story a little repetitive at times but I guess this was part of the process for Ritza. Overall I did enjoy the book as it had a very good message to it regarding personal safety.
January 3, 2022
This was my first introduction to the Graffiti Hearts Series and can be read as a standalone.
♥Ritza is fighting dark demons from her past. She’s the kind of woman you can’t help but love, but a traumatic experience has left her closed off.
♥Javier is strong and sexy but can be super supportive and tender when he needs to. He takes care of his woman! I love a slow burn, and this story delivers in heaps! The steamy scenes were done with so much care. Javier was so tender and sweet, he took the time to give her the attention she needed to make her feel safe. #beststeamyscenes
♥If you are looking for a love story that will make you believe in true love, then look no further.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
♥Ritza is fighting dark demons from her past. She’s the kind of woman you can’t help but love, but a traumatic experience has left her closed off.
♥Javier is strong and sexy but can be super supportive and tender when he needs to. He takes care of his woman! I love a slow burn, and this story delivers in heaps! The steamy scenes were done with so much care. Javier was so tender and sweet, he took the time to give her the attention she needed to make her feel safe. #beststeamyscenes
♥If you are looking for a love story that will make you believe in true love, then look no further.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2021
After reading Alex's story (which I loved), I couldn't wait to get my hands on Javie's book. I loved him from the start. He's the strong, silent type who is gentle, protective and oh-so swoon-worthy. Ritza's story nearly broke my heart, but I loved seeing how she fought her demons and grew stronger. And together, these two made my heart melt. I love this series and highly recommend you read it.
September 27, 2022
3.5 ⤴️
Serenity was a bittersweet read. It was a love story of self and learning to trust again. It was working through terror to get to a place of healing and moving forward.
What I loved most about the story was Ritza’s resolve and dedication to do the work to heal and take back her life after enduring a tragedy. I love the care, gentleness, and support that her family and friend gave her, to do the work and not wallow and let that trauma cause her to self-destruct.
When I saw that only 4 months had passed since Ritza’s violation and falling fast for Javie, I was thinking, girl pump the breaks, you’re not ready. This is not the time. Focus on you. Sometimes getting into a relationship when you’re fighting demons can be cause for disaster.
A piece of the story was a very tough pill to swallow. Some of Ritza’s flashbacks were brutal and I had to wince at. I know the author had to dig deep to get through this. 💔
Ritza was slow to heal and that’s what I liked most. It was a very realistic account, from my own opinion. Things do not change or get better overnight. It takes time, it takes work. The takeaway message was wonderful - that life won’t be the same, but can go on in a positive direction.
I also really liked Javie; he was so loving, caring and attentive to Ritza’s needs. I do wish that most his story was focused on his insights and who he was, rather than his family dealings.
I believe all young ladies should read this story. If there weren’t so many steamy sex scenes I’d pass it to my baby girl, but she’ll have to wait a couple years for this one. In the meantime we will continue deep conversations on safety precautions and hope and pray we can avoid the dangers lurking in this crazy world.
Serenity was a bittersweet read. It was a love story of self and learning to trust again. It was working through terror to get to a place of healing and moving forward.
What I loved most about the story was Ritza’s resolve and dedication to do the work to heal and take back her life after enduring a tragedy. I love the care, gentleness, and support that her family and friend gave her, to do the work and not wallow and let that trauma cause her to self-destruct.
When I saw that only 4 months had passed since Ritza’s violation and falling fast for Javie, I was thinking, girl pump the breaks, you’re not ready. This is not the time. Focus on you. Sometimes getting into a relationship when you’re fighting demons can be cause for disaster.
A piece of the story was a very tough pill to swallow. Some of Ritza’s flashbacks were brutal and I had to wince at. I know the author had to dig deep to get through this. 💔
Ritza was slow to heal and that’s what I liked most. It was a very realistic account, from my own opinion. Things do not change or get better overnight. It takes time, it takes work. The takeaway message was wonderful - that life won’t be the same, but can go on in a positive direction.
I also really liked Javie; he was so loving, caring and attentive to Ritza’s needs. I do wish that most his story was focused on his insights and who he was, rather than his family dealings.
I believe all young ladies should read this story. If there weren’t so many steamy sex scenes I’d pass it to my baby girl, but she’ll have to wait a couple years for this one. In the meantime we will continue deep conversations on safety precautions and hope and pray we can avoid the dangers lurking in this crazy world.
September 28, 2022
Have you ever felt that you were in the right place at the right time? That there is a purpose for you being in a certain place?
Well, meet Javie and Ritza. The 2 characters from 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖��� 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 by @mstorialvarez
Javie needed something in his life and Ritza needed something to help her heal! The instant his eyes met Ritza he knew there was something there. Ritza dealing with her traumas, scared to trust, scared to be seen, and unsure felt something when meeting Javie too.
This story was one to read. From the character story, to the awareness it brings. I loved the sense of family, and friends there that are linked as family. I loved how when someone is in need in this close-knit family, family is there to ban together to lend a hand, be a shoulder, or just a presence. While Ritza's story broke my heart, I love how her and Javie's story was told. The blooming love, the patient love, the swoon worthy moments as well as the steamy hot scenes!
The way the story is read, one can see it as a real situation with real life events. It was well written to bring the characters and story to life!
Well, meet Javie and Ritza. The 2 characters from 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖��� 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 by @mstorialvarez
Javie needed something in his life and Ritza needed something to help her heal! The instant his eyes met Ritza he knew there was something there. Ritza dealing with her traumas, scared to trust, scared to be seen, and unsure felt something when meeting Javie too.
This story was one to read. From the character story, to the awareness it brings. I loved the sense of family, and friends there that are linked as family. I loved how when someone is in need in this close-knit family, family is there to ban together to lend a hand, be a shoulder, or just a presence. While Ritza's story broke my heart, I love how her and Javie's story was told. The blooming love, the patient love, the swoon worthy moments as well as the steamy hot scenes!
The way the story is read, one can see it as a real situation with real life events. It was well written to bring the characters and story to life!
December 31, 2021
Did I stay up till 2am reading this book even though I knew I had to get up early the next morning to take my son to a dentist during a snow storm? You bet I did, and it was worth the lack of sleep!
Javie and Ritza were the sweetest people that totally warmed my heart. Javie knows that Ritza is guarded but doesn’t know why. Through his never ending support and just being him he helped Ritza show the inner strength she always had, and man is she a warrior! Please be sure to read the trigger warnings, this book has mentions and memories of rape but I personally thought they were handled with great sensitivity.
I was dreaming about Javie because he’s the swooniest cinnamon roll hero (my favorite) and thinking about this book days later, I’m still thinking about it!
This is the third book in the Graffiti Hearts series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. I planned on reading all the books but I jumped right in with this one, and I’ll definitely be going back to read the others!
Javie and Ritza were the sweetest people that totally warmed my heart. Javie knows that Ritza is guarded but doesn’t know why. Through his never ending support and just being him he helped Ritza show the inner strength she always had, and man is she a warrior! Please be sure to read the trigger warnings, this book has mentions and memories of rape but I personally thought they were handled with great sensitivity.
I was dreaming about Javie because he’s the swooniest cinnamon roll hero (my favorite) and thinking about this book days later, I’m still thinking about it!
This is the third book in the Graffiti Hearts series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. I planned on reading all the books but I jumped right in with this one, and I’ll definitely be going back to read the others!
January 1, 2022
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Tori & Embers and Ashes PR*
What a powerful heart breaking read this was by Tori Alvarez. I loved Javie and Ritza's story so so much. Ritza has been through hell and back but Javie was there to pick the pieces up for her. 😔 this really pulled at my heart. I cannot wait to read more by Tori Alvarez.
What a powerful heart breaking read this was by Tori Alvarez. I loved Javie and Ritza's story so so much. Ritza has been through hell and back but Javie was there to pick the pieces up for her. 😔 this really pulled at my heart. I cannot wait to read more by Tori Alvarez.
January 4, 2022
Melt Your Kindle and Your Heart
Javie and Ritza's story is so beautiful. I knew I was going to love Javie in his appearance in Tragically Beautiful, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much. He was the ultimate cinnamon roll hero. He treated Ritza exactly like she needed to be treated, and watching them was, well, BEAUTIFUL.
When my heart wasn’t breaking for Ritza, I was smiling at Javie. Reading this book gave me all the amazing feels. It was really well-written, and the steamy scenes were not only spicy but in perfect balance with the rest of the book. Javie can definitely deliver on all fronts.
Though in some ways it’s a slow burn (which I usually struggle with), the author handled it SO well, I didn’t even mind. I actually welcomed it. It fit the story and the characters perfectly.
I won’t give away any details, but I felt the author handled the sensitive content really well. In my opinion, she showed the recovery of the character who’d gone through a lot in a really realistic way. Read the trigger/content warnings, but it really is well done.
I cannot give this book enough stars. I LOVED it so much. You need Javie and Ritza in your life — you won’t be sorry.
Javie and Ritza's story is so beautiful. I knew I was going to love Javie in his appearance in Tragically Beautiful, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much. He was the ultimate cinnamon roll hero. He treated Ritza exactly like she needed to be treated, and watching them was, well, BEAUTIFUL.
When my heart wasn’t breaking for Ritza, I was smiling at Javie. Reading this book gave me all the amazing feels. It was really well-written, and the steamy scenes were not only spicy but in perfect balance with the rest of the book. Javie can definitely deliver on all fronts.
Though in some ways it’s a slow burn (which I usually struggle with), the author handled it SO well, I didn’t even mind. I actually welcomed it. It fit the story and the characters perfectly.
I won’t give away any details, but I felt the author handled the sensitive content really well. In my opinion, she showed the recovery of the character who’d gone through a lot in a really realistic way. Read the trigger/content warnings, but it really is well done.
I cannot give this book enough stars. I LOVED it so much. You need Javie and Ritza in your life — you won’t be sorry.
March 6, 2022
Trust again
Alvarez brought out her best for this love story. What happens when you fall for a person who’s trust has been broken beyond recognition? What happens when you’re the one person she’s willing to trust again? Alvarez handles these themes beautifully. The romance starts off with some of my favorite types of moments. The way two people dance around one another as they realize that there’s a spark between them, the discovery process that begins to play out, and the understanding that the person our MC has fallen for has a traumatic past and her heart needs careful handling. And so Javie handles Ritza’s heart, her situation, and his love and desire for her carefully. There’s nothing I love more than a rough around the edges masculine romantic hero that can do that well and Javie does that well. I would recommend this novel for those that like to read about someone who can rebuild after a traumatic event to open their heart again.
Alvarez brought out her best for this love story. What happens when you fall for a person who’s trust has been broken beyond recognition? What happens when you’re the one person she’s willing to trust again? Alvarez handles these themes beautifully. The romance starts off with some of my favorite types of moments. The way two people dance around one another as they realize that there’s a spark between them, the discovery process that begins to play out, and the understanding that the person our MC has fallen for has a traumatic past and her heart needs careful handling. And so Javie handles Ritza’s heart, her situation, and his love and desire for her carefully. There’s nothing I love more than a rough around the edges masculine romantic hero that can do that well and Javie does that well. I would recommend this novel for those that like to read about someone who can rebuild after a traumatic event to open their heart again.
January 3, 2022
This was the first book I read in this series. While it can be read on its own, I definitely felt like I was missing something and maybe some of the other events were overlapping.
Ritza is working in her brother’s garage. She has a painful past that leaves her not trusting of others and prone to panic attacks. She has spent months keeping to herself and not really going out or talking to anyone but her best friend and family. When she brings in Javier for a job interview she feels a connection to him. Something about him makes her feel comfortable around him.
It was so beautiful to watch their relationship grow. It was an interesting combination of insta-love and slow burn. Javier was everything Ritza needed. He knew her in ways she didn’t even know. I absolutely melted when he explained how he checks her pulse when he holds her hand in order to tell when a panic attack is about to come on. Beautiful story!
Ritza is working in her brother’s garage. She has a painful past that leaves her not trusting of others and prone to panic attacks. She has spent months keeping to herself and not really going out or talking to anyone but her best friend and family. When she brings in Javier for a job interview she feels a connection to him. Something about him makes her feel comfortable around him.
It was so beautiful to watch their relationship grow. It was an interesting combination of insta-love and slow burn. Javier was everything Ritza needed. He knew her in ways she didn’t even know. I absolutely melted when he explained how he checks her pulse when he holds her hand in order to tell when a panic attack is about to come on. Beautiful story!
September 30, 2022
This was a face paced beautiful story of surviving trauma and healing . Ritza is hiding beneath the hoodies of her brother and staying close to him as she helps him work in the auto body shop he owns after a horrific incident at college . She has shut down and doesn’t go out much or feel much of anything .
Her brother hires a new guy to contract work , Javier , and he instantly is drawn to Ritza while knowing deep down she’s hiding something . Javie and Ritza have a connection and a friendship starts to bloom and for once in a long time , she’s excited and not so scared .
This story holds family values , sexual trauma , drugs , violence , and healing for all . The writing is phenomenal and truly captivated a sweet moment of a beautiful relationship in the making . Taco night with drinks were my favorite and seeing how patient And loving Javier is was truly a breath of fresh air . I definitely recommend this one .
CW/TW::::: down below
Rape ( not vivid told via flash backs ) drugs , absent parents , date rape drugs , protective brother , sexual content
Her brother hires a new guy to contract work , Javier , and he instantly is drawn to Ritza while knowing deep down she’s hiding something . Javie and Ritza have a connection and a friendship starts to bloom and for once in a long time , she’s excited and not so scared .
This story holds family values , sexual trauma , drugs , violence , and healing for all . The writing is phenomenal and truly captivated a sweet moment of a beautiful relationship in the making . Taco night with drinks were my favorite and seeing how patient And loving Javier is was truly a breath of fresh air . I definitely recommend this one .
CW/TW::::: down below
Rape ( not vivid told via flash backs ) drugs , absent parents , date rape drugs , protective brother , sexual content
January 21, 2022
Lyrical and beautiful Javie and the woman he was able to be there for, Ritza. Such a lovely and soulful, angsty story. I loved watching her strength grow in the glow of his care and love. This book is exactly what you need on a cold day, it will warm you up with both heartfelt and sometimes beautifully painful story and all the steam. I truly adored how deftly Tori Alvarez handled subject matter that could seem trite or played for sympathy. It was well written and Javie is a man everyone could use in their lives. Well done.
September 27, 2022
This was a contemporary romance but it wasn’t your typical romance because it covered a heavy subject matter which could be triggering.
This story was slow for me in the beginning but the way it started to develop 40% in completely made up for it. Ritza was sexually assaulted and doesn’t want to be around people but staying home suffocates her. She wants peace and not to always feel like she is on the verge of losing it. That's when Javie enters the scene. I liked how the relationship between the two was handled with care and in a very realistic way. He has a calmness about him that Ritza is drawn to. Javie can tell right away that she is struggling with something and he wants to be her source of comfort. My heart melted at the goodness of Javie! 3.75 stars.
This story was slow for me in the beginning but the way it started to develop 40% in completely made up for it. Ritza was sexually assaulted and doesn’t want to be around people but staying home suffocates her. She wants peace and not to always feel like she is on the verge of losing it. That's when Javie enters the scene. I liked how the relationship between the two was handled with care and in a very realistic way. He has a calmness about him that Ritza is drawn to. Javie can tell right away that she is struggling with something and he wants to be her source of comfort. My heart melted at the goodness of Javie! 3.75 stars.
September 27, 2022
Javie and Ritza were a perfect match. Both damaged and in need of saving but not knowing at all what the remedy would be.
Javie is so observant and patient with Ritza as she battles her tragedy, completely unknowing of what that tragedy even is. The slow process of healing that she needed begins to form when she immediately senses he's different.
I really enjoyed their story and the amount of confidence Ritza builds back in herself while leaning on Javie for support, yet him never taking credit for the growth she makes.
Great read!!
Javie is so observant and patient with Ritza as she battles her tragedy, completely unknowing of what that tragedy even is. The slow process of healing that she needed begins to form when she immediately senses he's different.
I really enjoyed their story and the amount of confidence Ritza builds back in herself while leaning on Javie for support, yet him never taking credit for the growth she makes.
Great read!!
September 27, 2023
Ritza is going through past trauma and meets Javie, whose calming presence puts her at ease. While he's supportive of her, the bulk of the work is done by Ritza herself. He encourages her gently without being overbearing, he doesn’t push - not physically or for her to open up.
If you’re looking for a book where the FMC is recovering, but don’t want an alpha hole as her companion, then I strongly recommend!
I read this without reading the other books in the series- I will probably catch up though. :)
If you’re looking for a book where the FMC is recovering, but don’t want an alpha hole as her companion, then I strongly recommend!
I read this without reading the other books in the series- I will probably catch up though. :)
January 2, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved Javie from the previous books and couldn’t wait to get my hands on his story.
It was everything. Ritza was everything Javie needed and loved their story. I couldn’t put this book down.
Recommend this to everyone. It’s book 3 of the series but can be read as a standalone.
****PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING*****
*ARC received for an honest review*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars
It was everything. Ritza was everything Javie needed and loved their story. I couldn’t put this book down.
Recommend this to everyone. It’s book 3 of the series but can be read as a standalone.
****PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING*****
*ARC received for an honest review*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars
September 25, 2022
A gentle hero. An injured heroine. Trauma, healing, love, support... this was a sweet but intense love story. The trauma referenced is sexual assault and the heroine's healing process has graphic scenes. But it's real, not a fairytale. As such, the author adds value to the reading experience. Readers find education, perspective, hope, and even reminders to have important discussions with loved ones. This was my first experience with the author Tori Alvarez but it will not be the last!
October 1, 2022
This was my first book by this author and I loved it.
It’s book three in the series.
Javier is amazing so patient and understanding. Definitely swoon worthy the way he takes his time with Ritza.
I connected so much with this book.
Sometimes a broken person just needs the right person to help put them back together.
This book will definitely leave some tears. But also a smile at the end.
It is a slow burn but I promise you it’s worth the wait.
#thebookishgirlsteam
It’s book three in the series.
Javier is amazing so patient and understanding. Definitely swoon worthy the way he takes his time with Ritza.
I connected so much with this book.
Sometimes a broken person just needs the right person to help put them back together.
This book will definitely leave some tears. But also a smile at the end.
It is a slow burn but I promise you it’s worth the wait.
#thebookishgirlsteam
January 9, 2022
Patience is a Virtue
Javie is the best man ever.
I absolutely loved this story. The emotional turmoil and recovery of the female lead, Ritza, is felt through every page in the book.
This book has some triggers but it also embodies the element of safety and family support.
A wonderful read
Javie is the best man ever.
I absolutely loved this story. The emotional turmoil and recovery of the female lead, Ritza, is felt through every page in the book.
This book has some triggers but it also embodies the element of safety and family support.
A wonderful read
February 19, 2022
Little do Ritza and Javie know that they need each other. He demonstrates he's everything she needs while she returns the favor too! This is a good story demonstrating how hearts heal and find love too.
*Check trigger warnings prior to reading*
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*Check trigger warnings prior to reading*
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 10, 2022
Lost for words...
Wow... This was a slow burn romance and it was an amazing heartbreaking put me back together ride.. Javier and Ritza story broke me and slowly brought me back.. There story separate is gut wrenching but them together made you want to fall in love all over again and fight for one another. Absolutely loved this book and really really enjoyed there story..
Wow... This was a slow burn romance and it was an amazing heartbreaking put me back together ride.. Javier and Ritza story broke me and slowly brought me back.. There story separate is gut wrenching but them together made you want to fall in love all over again and fight for one another. Absolutely loved this book and really really enjoyed there story..
September 26, 2022
A beautiful hurt/ comfort story with a hea
This book hit a little deep with me based on my own past and it makes me so sad Javie isn't real for me and the countless people out there. So often I'm searching for a great comfort/hurt book and it's rare I find one I enjoy, but this slow burn definitely did the trick.
This book hit a little deep with me based on my own past and it makes me so sad Javie isn't real for me and the countless people out there. So often I'm searching for a great comfort/hurt book and it's rare I find one I enjoy, but this slow burn definitely did the trick.
January 3, 2022
This is book 3 of the series but it can be read as a standalone. Ritza was exactly what Javie needed! And he was everything she needed too! It was a good story of healing and finding love.
*Check trigger warnings prior to reading*
*Check trigger warnings prior to reading*
July 23, 2023
Heart touching and healing
I really loved Javie and Ritza! I adored how their relationship progressed. The family dynamic was amazing and patient they were. It was a story of love, growth, about bravery and healing. A must read!
I really loved Javie and Ritza! I adored how their relationship progressed. The family dynamic was amazing and patient they were. It was a story of love, growth, about bravery and healing. A must read!
January 7, 2022
loved!!
So beautiful. So tragic. The perfect love to remove Ritzas terror. I always knew Javi would be amazing. This story broke me but also gave me hope.
So beautiful. So tragic. The perfect love to remove Ritzas terror. I always knew Javi would be amazing. This story broke me but also gave me hope.
October 16, 2023
Absolutely love this book!
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