Here is how you can help raise money and awareness for mental health:
📗 Purchase a book from the amazing books listed below! We hope you will #1click4charity a number of these amazing books! The portion of sales is from ANY platform: digital, print, and audio.
📗If you have read one of the wonderful stories included, gift a copy to a friend who might love it!
📗 Share the image below or any custom photos the participating authors share on social media to raise awareness and show your support.
📗 In this digital age, COMMENTS are currency, so as you see these images, PLEASE Comment.
The Keith Milano Memorial Fund was established to help raise awareness about the devastating and deadly disease that is mental illness. Keith’s spirit and laughter are kept alive through our efforts to increase mental illness awareness and raise money for education and imperative research. Keith often struggled with society’s perception of mental illness. Our hope is that by having the strength to say that Keith was “Bipolar,” we can strip away the stigma and help others to be more open about their disease.
Watch to learn more about the Milano Sprung Family’s mission
AFSP is the only national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research and education and to reaching out to people with mood disorders and those affected by suicide. AFSP is a fully accredited 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization incorporated in the state of Delaware with primary offices in New York City. Federal tax ID # is 13-3393329.
💚 If you have read all the way to the bottom of this post, please know we are beyond grateful for your support.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required. Also, if you follow the Bookshop.org links, I may earn a commission from them, whose fees support independent bookshops.
Published on: 26 January 2021 Published by: Entangled Publishing, LLC Type: trilogy, series, inter-connected Genre: Billionaire Romance, Dark Romance, New Adult & College Romance Author: Helen Hardt Book Length: 400 pages Read: 11 January 2022 Shelved: 13 January 2022 Rating: 3 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐
She gave him control in the bedroom. But is she losing control of her identity?
Dating Boston’s billionaire bachelor has opened up a new world for Skye Manning. Opportunities are suddenly everywhere, her new career is flourishing, and she experiences luxury she’s only seen in the pages of magazines. So why does she feel like she’s losing herself?
Braden Black never meant to fall for Skye, and he still tries to resist a relationship he knows he’s not wired for. But not only has Skye awoken something inside him—he’s stirring something dark and forbidden inside his Cinderella. Something even he can’t control…
Start this amazing series off with Darkly, Follow Me Darkly told from the hero’s point of view, or spice up your reading with Braden’s story any time while enjoying the Follow Me series.
Review
Follow Me Under is part two of the Follow Me trilogy and starts exactly where Book 1 left off. It continues from Skye Manning’s experiences on managing to new business venture (influencer), being a famous billionaire’s girlfriend, and discovering herself.
The writing is easy to relate to and follow. This book is very character-driven, with Skye “driving the show.” The first-person POV used by the author heightens the emotional turmoil running through Skye’s head and heart. The plot balances well with each new “introduction” Braden’s showing Skye.
In the first part of the book, I wouldn’t say I liked how Skye turned out in this book – it felt a total 180 to what she was trying to achieve when Book 1 ended. She spiraled into something extreme – a bit “out-of-character” that I felt envisioned her from Book 1. Skye seemed to be “trying too hard” to mold herself into something she isn’t – to fit an unrealistic mold. I understand the author’s position and that this is the second book in the series – a “big twist” is needed to hook readers on, BUT I was saddened (and frustrated) with Skye. I don’t appreciate how Skye regressed into a needy and insecure girlfriend.
On the other hand, Braden can do no wrong for me, and this book proves it. Yes, he has his flaws and secrets, but I believe Braden’s the rational one in the relationship. I liked him from Book 1 and more so in this book. He’s growing forward here – changing and opening his mind to a “relationship,” which enamored me.
The intimate BDSM scenes in this book will let one’s imagination run wild! I appreciate the author’s descriptions and details of the various tasteful, respectful BDSM scenes – all well and extensive in research. However, I was still bothered with what was happening to Skye that I might have missed out on thoroughly enjoying the scenes.
Overall, I wasn’t too happy with a few things in this book. I appreciate the author giving conflict to the already tumultuous relationship of Skye and Braden. Still, I wish she made Skye a bit stronger than spiral to a secret that wrecks her self-identity. I like how Braden is the reverse of what I expected. His alpha-dominant yet rational, relaxed, calm behavior is a welcome surprise. He is one of the most patient dominant alpha characters I have ever read. He seems to accept Skye’s persistent and challenging personality in having her in his life, compared to the rest of his past partners. I like the honesty that both main characters try to be for each other, to the best of what they can do at that time. Given this, I cannot leave myself not to know what happens to Skye and how everything develops between her and Braden so that I will continue to Book 3. I am hoping for deeper character exploration in that one.
Oh? What are your hard limits? I only have one. What is it? I dont’ talk about it. Don’t you think I should know? So I don’t bring it up? Trust me, Skye. You will never bring it up.
~ Follow Me Under, Helen Hardt
Published on: 27 July 2021 Published by: Entangled Publishing, LLC Type: trilogy, series, inter-connected Genre: Billionaire Romance, Dark Romance, New Adult & College Romance Author: Helen Hardt Book Length: 400 pages Read: 13 January 2022 Shelved: 14 January 2022 Rating: 5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
He unleashed the darkness in her…but it might cost them both.
Billionaire Braden Black has one hard limit in the bedroom. He doesn’t talk about it, and he doesn’t engage in it. But when his lover, Skye Manning, begs him for it, he has to face facts—while he may be able to buy her anything, he can’t give her this. Though he loves her desperately, he’s starting to worry their relationship can’t continue.
Skye Manning has fallen down the rabbit hole and become captive to her needs. When Braden asks her why she desires something so dark, and she finds she can’t respond, she knows she’ll have to come up with those answers on her own. She’s willing, but she wants something in return—Braden’s complete honesty about his past.
Because Skye is convinced her needs, his limits…everything is tied to this one secret.
Review
Follow Me Always is more psychological and mental versus deviances and intimacy in Book 2. There is a lot of “soul searching” and overcoming internal issues discussed. After all these years, some ugly secrets come out, and some hit closer to home than Skye realized.
I like how the author provided details about mental health struggles, the stigma of therapy (to some), and the healing for Skye and Braden. It made my heart sing with joy about how Skye was really growing – moving forward through unrealized and repressed memories. Many background and flashbacks will dive deep into the whys and hows for Skye and Braden.
It involves other outside characters that either help or hinder, which makes the plot and scenes exciting and provocative at the same time. The suspense and mystery provide an excellent reprieve from the heavy emotional flashbacks between Skye and Braden. Ironically, under all the “cool and calm” demeanor of Braden hides the emotional scar that will rock readers’ minds! This “breakdown” and “life-threatening” episode forced Skye to fight for them as a couple. The theme of love and family rings true here.
Follow Me Always is even better than Book 1! I liked the “work-in-progress” parts and the suspense in the end. Without giving away too much, I was surprised at the plot twist with a satisfactory resolution at the end. I liked how the secondary characters indirectly play significant roles
“Thanks for being there with me last night.” “Skye, where else on earch would I be other than with the woman I love?”
~ Follow Me Always, Helen Hardt
Overall, the Follow Me series is a unique, thought-provoking, fascinating read about human behavior, life-changing circumstances, and redemption. It is nothing like the dark romantic drama books I have encountered, though some pieces serve as an ode to previous erotic books. Comparing Skye and Braden to other dark romance novels would not be fair. The only common theme is dark and romantic, but the rest is new, refreshing, and genuine. The series is dark, raw, and poignant, especially in Book 3, wherein readers see the path that Skye and Braden had to walk through. They match how each one reacted to the other, especially in the last book. Some may say that the “healing” bit is a bit too fast but note that Skye sought the proper professional help that worked for her.
Highly recommend this series to readers who love dark romance, BDSM, angst, and troubled characters with suspense peppered randomly.
Start this amazing series off with Darkly, Follow Me Darkly told from the hero’s point of view, or spice up your reading with Braden’s story any time while enjoying the Follow Me series.
You can also find out Braden’s POV (Book #1 in the hero’s POV) with Darkly. It can be read and enjoyed in any order!
Synopsis:
Read Darkly after Follow Me Under.
Self-made billionaire Braden Black is used to getting what he wants when he wants it. So when aspiring photographer Skye Manning doesn’t immediately fall into his bed, Braden finds himself craving her even more. And when she finally does submit to him, no one is more surprised than Braden that the thrill of the chase didn’t satisfy his appetite—to the contrary, it only fueled it. Behind Skye’s dedication and focus, he sees a natural submissive, and he’s determined to bring her out.
Skye Manning takes charge of her life. Everything she does brings her one step closer to her goal of becoming an internationally known photographer. Until Braden Black. He challenges her, shows her more pleasure than she ever imagined between the sheets, but he asks something in return—something she can never give up. Her control.
But Braden Black never backs down from a challenge.
About the Author
#1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Helen Hardt’s passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award-winning author of romantic fiction, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family. Helen loves to hear from readers.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required.
Published: 14 October 2021 Published by: Kirkwall Books Type: standalone, HEA Genre: Contemporary Romance Tropes: Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract, Vacation, Hero With an Accent, Workplace Romance, Slow Burn, Holiday, Older Heroine, Road Trip Author: Jacquelyn Middleton Print Pages: 381 pages Read: 29 September 2021 Shelved: 02 October 2021 Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Madeleine Joy is feeling more meh than merry. When an Icelandic volcano erupts six days before Christmas, hazardous ash congests European airspace, canceling flights indefinitely—including the thirty-something’s connection to Paris. Stranded alone in London, separated from her sister, and with the devastating one-year anniversary of her best friend’s tragic death just days away, Madeleine has never felt less festive. And as if things couldn’t get worse, the cute guy driving the cab to her hotel won’t shut up about carolers and tinsel…
Julian Halliwell is one of life’s sunny optimists. A former music journalist, he’s embraced his love for London by starting his own black cab business, enthusiastically ferrying passengers from one historic landmark to another. But life hasn’t always been easy for Julian. Having navigated several life-changing setbacks including a cruel betrayal by his former fiancée, Julian remains hopeful that he’ll meet somebody kind, who shares his love of music, a corgi dog named Winnie – and, of course, the magic of Christmas time in London.
Despite being an unlikely match, fate seems determined to throw them together. But can the grieving American find joy again in a world where the lights have all but dimmed?
From Jacquelyn Middleton, the award-winning author of UNTIL THE LAST STAR FADES, comes a heartwarming Christmas story of love, loss, serendipity, and the belief that what’s meant for you won’t pass you by.
Content/trigger warnings: coarse language, closed-door sex scenes, disenfranchised grief, unexpected death of a loved one (backstory), cheating partner (backstory), therapy, loved up mentions of Love Actually and The Holiday, zero mentions of any pandemics.
Review
Moominmamma
Winnie
Covent Garden, Regent Street, Tower Bridge
Note: trigger warnings indicated by the author are:- “coarse language, closed-door sex scenes, disenfranchised grief, unexpected death of a loved one (backstory), cheating partner (backstory), therapy, loved up mentions of Love Actually, and The Holiday, zero mentions of any pandemics.”
Madeleine “Maddie” Joy is supposed to be spending the holidays with her sister, Shantelle. Unfortunately, a volcano’s volcanic activity thwarts their plans by not allowing any flights to enter to or fro London until further notice.
On the other hand, Julian “Jules” Halliwell is a taxi driver that picked up Madeleine when she arrived in London. His former job is in the music industry, and coincidentally, Maddie’s idol!
From the very start, Maddie’s and Jules’s attraction between each other is palpable. The connection between them that follows through serendipitous events is magnetic. What happens next is a whirlwind of taxi rides, fascinating and unique tourist spots, and an undeniable bond between rider and passenger at Christmas in London!
The Certainty of Chance is a wonderful read! Told from both Madeleine and Julian’s POVs, both characters are rich in personality, personal baggage, varying outlooks, and experiences.
From the very beginning, readers will know this is a heavy book. Told from both Maddie and Jules’ POV, the story hints/mentions/states heavy topics: loss, angst, depression, infidelity, healing, redemption, etc. Initially, I was worried about the story’s direction because it is tricky and possibly overwhelming, but my concern was unfounded. The author expertly built up the story with a wanderlust escapism approach and brave characters who were kind and understanding enough to create safe spaces for each other and the readers. I love how the main characters approached each other’s issues with respect and kindness. They understood each other in their way but still acknowledged the difference in their stance. A lot happens in the book, but I expect everything from this author based on her past books – exploring locations, people, and culture. I love how the author creates beautiful characters that make readers want to invest time and emotions against the backdrop of London and during the Christmas season.
I love both characters. Maddie and Jules were the perfect fit for each other. They may not be for their previous partners, but they are each other’s healing and redemption. They are both caring, emphatic, and charismatic. Their connection is infectious that it will be impossible not to be swept by their charm and hilarious banter. I appreciate the “quiet, reflective” moments between both main characters, and their feelings grew organically, even in a short time.
In the true style of the author, the supporting casts were terrific. I love how family and friends were integral in pushing Maddie and Jules to realize how their serendipitous encounter is MEANT-TO-BE and that they needed each other to be “whole.” I also enjoyed seeing past characters mentioned in the author’s previous books who lend a hand or two to the story.
Overall, The Certainty of Chance BLEW ME AWAY!
For the usual readers of my blog, this statement is HUGE. I do not state this often, most especially because I recently read many excellent books. This book has imprinted itself on my subconsciousness.
My reaction was very unexpected because initially, my reaction to the summary was only lukewarm, but upon finishing the book’s first chapter, there was no turning back. I felt the pull of the storyline, the escapism, and the characters made the book a real page-turner. This book TOPS the author’s previous book by a considerable margin!!! Floored by the addicting nature that sprang out from me because of this book, I savored each page and made sure I took my time instead of speeding it through. It is an all-encompassing book that dove into the facets of humanity – physically, mentally, and emotionally stimulating!
PROS:
Great world-building through Madeleine’s and Julian’s eyes: an expert and novice of the area
Many excellent musical references from various era
Wanderlust effect from exploring London’s tourist spots and a few hidden gems
Christmas movies, British eats, and slang galore
Sensitive and poignant discussion on mental health and grief handling
Cute Winnie, the corgi!!! *enough said*
CONS:
Absolutely nothing! The book is perfect as it is – an outstanding balance of sweet and sultry scenes.
Jacquelyn Middleton is a multi-award-winning author of love stories for hopeful romantics—‘hopeful’ because her novels are always optimistic and she believes ‘happily ever afters’ are more important now than ever before. But life is messy, relationships are messy, and her books aren’t afraid to go there, too. If you enjoy character and relationship-driven stories about people dealing with the triumphs and disasters we all face, Jacquelyn’s books are for you.
In 2019, she was named BEST CANADIAN AUTHOR at the RWA’s Toronto Romance Writers ‘Northern Hearts’ Awards for UNTIL THE LAST STAR FADES. She is also the author of LONDON BELONGS TO ME, LONDON, CAN YOU WAIT? and SAY HELLO, KISS GOODBYE, all published by Kirkwall Books.
An own voices author, Jacquelyn has dealt with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression all her life, and is dedicated to depicting mental health challenges realistically and empathetically in her novels.
Jacquelyn’s books have been featured by The Hollywood Reporter, NBC News, The Los Angeles Times, The New York Daily News, USA Today, Cosmo, Redbook, and the Huffington Post.
A life-long Maple Leafs fan and Anglophile, Jacquelyn previously worked in television broadcasting and as an award-winning freelance writer. She loves comic cons, London, and theatre, and lives in Toronto with her British husband and her Japanese Spitz.
Here is how you can help raise money and awareness for mental health
📘 Purchase a book from the amazing books listed below! We hope you will #1click4charity a number of these amazing books! The portion of sales is from ANY platform: digital, print, and audio.
📘 If you have read one of the wonderful stories included, gift a copy to a friend who might love it!
📘 Share the image below or any of the custom photos the participating authors share on social media to raise awareness and to show your support.
📘 In this digital age, COMMENTS are currency so as you see these images PLEASE Comment
The Keith Milano Memorial Fund was established to help raise awareness about the devastating and deadly disease that is mental illness. Keith’s spirit and laughter are kept alive through our efforts to increase awareness about mental illness and to raise money for education and imperative research. Keith often struggled with society’s perception of mental illness. Our hope is that by having the strength to say that Keith was “Bipolar” we can strip away the stigma and help others to be more open about their disease.
Watch to learn more about the Milano Sprung Family’s mission
AFSP is the only national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research and education, and to reaching out to people with mood disorders and those affected by suicide. AFSP is a fully accredited 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization incorporated in the state of Delaware with primary offices in New York City. Federal tax ID # is 13-3393329.
Currant7 Recommends 