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All My Life
"He tasted like sunshine and hate." Based on a true story.In the shadowed corners of the Bay Area of California, Ophelia Black, is a determined single mother navigating the rigors of nursing school while entangled in constant conflict with her ex, Jimmy. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she crosses paths with Tristan Lawrence, a brooding & hauntingly beautiful man with a past as tumultuous as the dangerous world of car theft he's embroiled in. As Ophelia and Tristan's worlds collide, their deepening connection unveils a passionate yet perilous affair, marked by crime, betrayal, and the harrowing quest for redemption.Their love story, set against the relentless struggle for a better life and the haunting shadow of Tristan's criminal past, pushes the boundaries of dark romance, exploring the intricate dance between love and betrayal, salvation and self-destruction. "All My Life" is a gripping narrative that delves into the heart of what it means to fight for love in a world that often seems determined to tear it apart.Please be aware of the heavy trigger warnings as this book contains mature materials & situations. Reader discretion is advised. For all content & trigger warnings, please check the author's website.
- GenresDark Romance
394 pages, Paperback
Published April 17, 2024
6 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 21, 2024
ARC Review with minimal spoilers
First off thank you Brianna for letting me be apart of your ARC Team!
Rate: 4/5⭐️
Spice: 4/5🌶️
This book! WOW! This book took you on an emotional rollercoaster! Ophelia and Tristan’s journey was loving, heartbreaking, sad, passionate and wild! I couldn’t put the book down! This is the epitome of “I can fix him” and how relatable is that! I think we have all had that someone in our lives.
We have all been torn between our head and our hearts. What we know is right and what we should technically let go! I wanted so bad to shake Ophelia and tell her girl come on! I also didn’t know how I felt about Tristian either! There were a few characters I absolutely didn’t like but I’ll let you read and figure out who they are😌
Overall easy, flowing, and captures your attention! Pick up this book! Make sure to check trigger warnings because there are a bit!
Congrats on your debut novel❤️
First off thank you Brianna for letting me be apart of your ARC Team!
Rate: 4/5⭐️
Spice: 4/5🌶️
This book! WOW! This book took you on an emotional rollercoaster! Ophelia and Tristan’s journey was loving, heartbreaking, sad, passionate and wild! I couldn’t put the book down! This is the epitome of “I can fix him” and how relatable is that! I think we have all had that someone in our lives.
We have all been torn between our head and our hearts. What we know is right and what we should technically let go! I wanted so bad to shake Ophelia and tell her girl come on! I also didn’t know how I felt about Tristian either! There were a few characters I absolutely didn’t like but I’ll let you read and figure out who they are😌
Overall easy, flowing, and captures your attention! Pick up this book! Make sure to check trigger warnings because there are a bit!
Congrats on your debut novel❤️
April 27, 2024
This was a whirlwind of intense emotions. Make sure to check trigger warnings.
All My Life is based on a true story. This book was not my typical type of read, but I was engrossed in the story from the moment I picked it up. The whole time I was thinking about how it just felt too real while simultaneously making my jaw drop at how incredibly traumatizing some of the situations were.
This is a dark domestic romance with a heavy focus on toxic relationship dynamics and how they’re not always apparent to the individuals involved in the relationship. But, gosh, they’re definitely apparent while reading it. She has a classic “I can fix him, he needs help” mentality, and he’s definitely a broken man. There is beauty mixed in with the toxicity, and I found myself both rooting for him to be repaired by her love and overwhelmingly giving nature, and wanting to scream at her to get out of there. Mostly wanting to scream at her to get out of there.
This is Brianna Gustafsson’s debut novel, but you wouldn’t be able to tell with how well written it is. The story flows well, with multiple twist and turns to keep you engaged. She will break your heart with the trauma she went through, and then put it back together when you realize how far she’s come.
All My Life is based on a true story. This book was not my typical type of read, but I was engrossed in the story from the moment I picked it up. The whole time I was thinking about how it just felt too real while simultaneously making my jaw drop at how incredibly traumatizing some of the situations were.
This is a dark domestic romance with a heavy focus on toxic relationship dynamics and how they’re not always apparent to the individuals involved in the relationship. But, gosh, they’re definitely apparent while reading it. She has a classic “I can fix him, he needs help” mentality, and he’s definitely a broken man. There is beauty mixed in with the toxicity, and I found myself both rooting for him to be repaired by her love and overwhelmingly giving nature, and wanting to scream at her to get out of there. Mostly wanting to scream at her to get out of there.
This is Brianna Gustafsson’s debut novel, but you wouldn’t be able to tell with how well written it is. The story flows well, with multiple twist and turns to keep you engaged. She will break your heart with the trauma she went through, and then put it back together when you realize how far she’s come.
April 20, 2024
100% would recommend!
It took me 24 hours after reading this book, to get my thoughts in order. I really had to sit and process this story, and that’s not a usual occurrence for me.
All My Life took me on an emotional roller coaster like I’ve never seen, while also bringing awareness to mental health and domestic violence.
One word I would use to describe this read is “Intense” because that’s what it was the entire time. I could not put this book down and even now after finishing it I can’t stop thinking about it.
Based on true events it’s incredibly relatable, and really helps you change perspective on certain topics.
Each character was well developed and well written, and I found myself growing attached to each one for their own reasons.
This book had me yelling, laughing and crying.
This is a must read!
It took me 24 hours after reading this book, to get my thoughts in order. I really had to sit and process this story, and that’s not a usual occurrence for me.
All My Life took me on an emotional roller coaster like I’ve never seen, while also bringing awareness to mental health and domestic violence.
One word I would use to describe this read is “Intense” because that’s what it was the entire time. I could not put this book down and even now after finishing it I can’t stop thinking about it.
Based on true events it’s incredibly relatable, and really helps you change perspective on certain topics.
Each character was well developed and well written, and I found myself growing attached to each one for their own reasons.
This book had me yelling, laughing and crying.
This is a must read!
April 19, 2024
A dark romance that had me on the edge of the seat for the entire thing. It’s very rare for me to end a book and STILL not know if I loved or hated a main character. There were so many times I wanted to shake Ophelia because how could she keep making the choices she was making (leaving that deliberately vague to avoid spoilers). At the same time, she was a deeply well rounded character that was flawed but in a way that felt so real.
This book needed to be written. For any young person drawn into love and lust, so far in over their head but fighting with every breath.
Not only was this a riveting and entertaining read but it hurt and healed parts of me I forgot about. Thank you to author for creating this book and having the courage to share it.
This book needed to be written. For any young person drawn into love and lust, so far in over their head but fighting with every breath.
Not only was this a riveting and entertaining read but it hurt and healed parts of me I forgot about. Thank you to author for creating this book and having the courage to share it.
April 20, 2024
All My Life is an intense rollercoaster. The way it was written, I would have had no idea this was a first novel for this author. Please read the trigger warnings before reading. This is a dark romance that brings attention and insight into mental health and domestic violence. I found this relatable and healing at the same time. This will have you on the edge of your of your seat while laughing, crying and sometimes wanting to throw your kindle. I’m still processing. I feel in love with Tristian and Ophelia, the chemistry was just 😮💨🥵.The character development was just brilliant and written in a way that really has you becoming attached to each one. Recommend, recommend, RECOMMEND!!
April 22, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Just wow! This book was both intense & riveting from the very beginning! Such a gripping story of love, passion, heartache, betrayal, bitter endings, and second chances. Bringing awareness to mental health issues, domestic violence, love, lust and being in over your head but persevering.
I was on an emotional roller coaster with all the feels. The characters were so easy to fall in love with. I felt Ophelia & Tristan’s hearts and throughly connected with them, becoming so attached I am still processing everything from the novel. Their chemistry was chef’s kiss 💋 🔥 🥵. Throughout the storyline I was on the edge of my seat with feels; I cried, laughed, swooned, and cried some more.
I highly RECOMMEND this book! I am in a serious book hangover, if you are a fan of the Ravenhood Series you will understand what I mean. Bravo, to Brianna, this book feels nothing like a debut novel; it was phenomenally written!
Just wow! This book was both intense & riveting from the very beginning! Such a gripping story of love, passion, heartache, betrayal, bitter endings, and second chances. Bringing awareness to mental health issues, domestic violence, love, lust and being in over your head but persevering.
I was on an emotional roller coaster with all the feels. The characters were so easy to fall in love with. I felt Ophelia & Tristan’s hearts and throughly connected with them, becoming so attached I am still processing everything from the novel. Their chemistry was chef’s kiss 💋 🔥 🥵. Throughout the storyline I was on the edge of my seat with feels; I cried, laughed, swooned, and cried some more.
I highly RECOMMEND this book! I am in a serious book hangover, if you are a fan of the Ravenhood Series you will understand what I mean. Bravo, to Brianna, this book feels nothing like a debut novel; it was phenomenally written!
April 28, 2024
This book is heavy and a lot to take in. The fact that's it based on a true story makes all the feelings so much more powerful. All throughout the book I wanted to both hug and shake the MCs. Ophelia is such a relatable character, doing whatever she can to better her situation. Tristan, shew I honestly don't know how I feel about him. He's very troubled, but I believe he truly loved Ophelia with everything he had to give. My heart truly broke for them. I was definitely left speechless.
In the end I'm glad she finally got her hea.
In the end I'm glad she finally got her hea.
April 24, 2024
100% would recommend and read again!
All my love had me on the edge of my seat, I didn’t want to put it down. Also based on a true story.
This book shows you the different sides of love and how it can feel good but toxic at the same time. The characters pull you in and keep you coming back for more. The characters are very well written and you can feel all their emotions as you read along.
All my love had me on the edge of my seat, I didn’t want to put it down. Also based on a true story.
This book shows you the different sides of love and how it can feel good but toxic at the same time. The characters pull you in and keep you coming back for more. The characters are very well written and you can feel all their emotions as you read along.
April 22, 2024
This book is heavy on the triggers, so be sure to read those before you start!
Having been a single parent trying to work and go to school, I could definitely relate to Ophelia on a personal level.
The story itself is haunting and emotional, touching on so many subjects some of us have experienced in our lives. It's raw and gritty, realistic to the point of being painful. My heart aches for both main characters.
It's so well written that it was hard to put down. I finished it in less than 24 hours.
5/5 stars
Having been a single parent trying to work and go to school, I could definitely relate to Ophelia on a personal level.
The story itself is haunting and emotional, touching on so many subjects some of us have experienced in our lives. It's raw and gritty, realistic to the point of being painful. My heart aches for both main characters.
It's so well written that it was hard to put down. I finished it in less than 24 hours.
5/5 stars
April 24, 2024
This book is an emotional rollercoaster. It had me feeling all of the emotional feels. I couldn’t hardly wait to dive into to this book. When I first started reading it, I knew I wasn’t going to be able to stop. From the way this book is written, you wouldn’t think this was a debut novel. It is very well written. I 100% recommend reading this book.
May 4, 2024
This book, 'All My Life' by Brianna Gustafsson, is a mesmerizing journey into the depths of toxicity. Gustafsson's skillful prose captivates from the very first page, drawing readers into a world where toxicity thrives in every interaction. What sets this book apart is not just its portrayal of toxicity but its exploration of the complexities behind it. Gustafsson delves deep into the psyche of her characters, exposing their vulnerabilities and insecurities with unflinching honesty.
Through nuanced and richly developed characters, Brianna Gustafsson masterfully navigates themes of manipulation, obsession, and betrayal. The narrative unfolds like a dark and twisted labyrinth, keeping readers on edge with each unpredictable turn. Yet, amidst the toxicity, there's a raw authenticity that resonates deeply. It's a testament to Gustafsson's talent that she can evoke such visceral reactions while also eliciting empathy for even the most flawed characters.
'For All My Life' is not just a book; it's an immersive experience that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature. It's a reminder that toxicity exists in various forms and that understanding it is key to navigating the complexities of relationships. With its compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes, this book will linger in your mind long after you've turned the final page.
As her first book I believe, it's an impressive achievement, demonstrating a level of skill. With such a captivating debut, I eagerly anticipate what Gustafsson has in store for readers in the future. I am looking forward to not only seeing this novel explode but your future novels as well.
Through nuanced and richly developed characters, Brianna Gustafsson masterfully navigates themes of manipulation, obsession, and betrayal. The narrative unfolds like a dark and twisted labyrinth, keeping readers on edge with each unpredictable turn. Yet, amidst the toxicity, there's a raw authenticity that resonates deeply. It's a testament to Gustafsson's talent that she can evoke such visceral reactions while also eliciting empathy for even the most flawed characters.
'For All My Life' is not just a book; it's an immersive experience that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature. It's a reminder that toxicity exists in various forms and that understanding it is key to navigating the complexities of relationships. With its compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes, this book will linger in your mind long after you've turned the final page.
As her first book I believe, it's an impressive achievement, demonstrating a level of skill. With such a captivating debut, I eagerly anticipate what Gustafsson has in store for readers in the future. I am looking forward to not only seeing this novel explode but your future novels as well.
May 1, 2024
“I can change him.”
So many people think this in a relationship, and it can be from something as small as the other person leaving their dirty socks in the floor to much heavier things.
All My Life was an emotional rollercoaster, and I’m so glad to have read a book like this. I always have people who tell me that I need a reality check and to quit reading romance…who’s to say that romance can’t be a reality check in itself? Definitely worth a read if you’re looking for the same thing.
This part of the story really stood out to me, and I would’ve highlighted it 100x if I could’ve.
I’m going to be honest, I really struggled hard to like Tristan. Even though it was known that he had a lot of issues and a rough past and even a rough present, I just couldn’t connect to him the way I had hoped.
Ophelia was definitely torn between her head and her heart and the small voice that wasn’t ready to give up.
It definitely was a heartbreaking story especially because there’s so many aspects that are relatable. I’ve never been in a relationship myself that was like theirs, but I’ve witnessed many.
April 21, 2024
This story truly had me in so many feelings and even after 24 hours of finishing it I am still in my feelings. Brianna Gustafsson did a fabulous job with Ophelia and Tristan's characters making me want to cry when they cried and scream when they screamed and on more than one occasion save them both from the life they were living. I have so much I can say but honestly, I don't want to give any spoilers because I wholeheartedly recommend reading this book especially because it is based on a true story. This is a dark thriller romance, so I do advise reading all triggers before starting.
Thank you, Brianna Gustafsson, for sharing this story with me. ❤
Thank you, Brianna Gustafsson, for sharing this story with me. ❤
May 14, 2024
Wow! This book was so intense. The whirlwind that Ophelia had endured not only with her baby father Jimmy but Tristin, had me feeling so bad for her. She just couldn't catch a break. I was shocked with how things turned out but honestly I wasn't surprised. I'm just happy that everything worked out in the end for her. As a CNA I love how much attention she gave the profession and how hard that job can be. I was able to relate to her compassion and made me love her more. The book did a few jumps in time. Not big jumps but it got a bit confusing but was still able follow. I enjoyed the book.
ARC review.
ARC review.
July 12, 2024
Listen, even writing this review I feel like I’m still processing😂 I read this book so quick just because I couldn’t wait to see what happened. The stoner in me loved the smoking parts in this book. Tristian and Ophelia are completely opposites for each other but I love it😭😩 she wanted to fix him, he needed help but all he could do was aggressively love her. Omfg, the ending of this book had me SO SAD. It didn’t feel like that was truly how it would end but omfg. Also can I just say I am more MIND-BLOWN this is based off a true story!?! Ugh I have so many question . This book is a whirlwind and as Brianna’s first debut novel it’s amazing. (Also her personality is pretty amazing too)
April 28, 2024
A very relatable dark romance based on real life events and trauma. This book had me feeling all the feelings: happy, sad, giddy with laughter, devastated and betrayed. I’m still reeling with all the events that happened throughout this book. All the characters felt so real and I was sucked into Ophelia and Tristan’s toxic story like I was living it with them. My feelings are still conflicted, do I love or hate the MMC?
A 5 star spicy must read!
•Forbidden love
•Hate to love you
•Found family
•Jealous boyfriend
A 5 star spicy must read!
•Forbidden love
•Hate to love you
•Found family
•Jealous boyfriend
January 11, 2025
Although I absolutely loved the story line and plot, the actual writing and grammar was often times so irritating. There was some points where the transitions to a different time or situation were hard to understand how much time had passed. Over all, I did love the book. The writing and grammar needs some work and there was several loose ends scattered throughout.
April 30, 2024
The most toxic book I’ve read.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews