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Damaged Souls #1
Bittersweet Melody
"Each choice and action made can either make or break you-in my case, it's left me with a gaping hole that I fill every day with guilt, shame, and regret. I should've saved him. I could've. But I didn't. Sometimes late at night when my demons haunt me, I wish I could go back. Back to when I was that naive, punk kid who thought the world was full of rainbows and butterflies. Back to where my soul didn't feel so stained and broken. But I can't. I have to live with my failures. And it doesn't matter how hard I run, there's no escaping my guilt."
Cooper Hensley is the perfect front man for Damaged Souls. After returning from his time as a Marine, all he wants to do is to bury himself into the rock and roll lifestyle with music, alcohol, and one night stands. Chasing sweet oblivion to numb his pain, nothing can rattle his carefully guarded heart . . . that is until Caylee Sawyer comes looking for the man she believes a hero, the best friend of her dead husband. What she finds instead is someone broken, someone who needs to forgive himself and move on, someone who affects her so completely, she can't walk away. But can she convince him to lower his guard long enough for her to claim his heart? And when he does, will she be prepared for the consequences?
Cooper Hensley is the perfect front man for Damaged Souls. After returning from his time as a Marine, all he wants to do is to bury himself into the rock and roll lifestyle with music, alcohol, and one night stands. Chasing sweet oblivion to numb his pain, nothing can rattle his carefully guarded heart . . . that is until Caylee Sawyer comes looking for the man she believes a hero, the best friend of her dead husband. What she finds instead is someone broken, someone who needs to forgive himself and move on, someone who affects her so completely, she can't walk away. But can she convince him to lower his guard long enough for her to claim his heart? And when he does, will she be prepared for the consequences?
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2014
63 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Belinda Boring
55 books1,268 followersA homesick Aussie living amongst the cactus and mountains of Arizona, Belinda Boring is a self proclaimed addict of romance and all things swoon worthy. It wasn’t long before she began writing, pouring her imagination and creativity into the stories she dreams. Whether urban fantasy, paranormal romance or romance in general, Belinda strives to share great plots with heart and characters that you can’t help but connect with. Of course, she wouldn’t be Belinda without adding heroes she hopes will curl your toes.
Surrounded by a supportive cast of family, friends and the man she gives her heart and soul to, Belinda is living the good life. Happy reading!
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Surrounded by a supportive cast of family, friends and the man she gives her heart and soul to, Belinda is living the good life. Happy reading!
You can find me:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Belind...
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/BelindaBoring
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 14, 2016
Have you ever read a book that you love, but when it came time to write the review you were at a total loss as to what to write? Well, BITTERSWEET MELODY was that book for me. I was not sure I could write a review that would accurately capture what I feel about this story.
This is my first time reading Belinda Boring's work and I have to say I was impressed. She has found a new fan in me and I will be adding her to my list of must-read authors. This book was everything I thought it would be. BITTERSWEET MELODY is a captivating story that will inspire you and leave you craving for more. I was pulled into the story from the moment I began reading. I did not want to put it down but, unfortunately, real life has a way of messing up our best-laid plans. By the time I was finished I was totally bowled over. Now I am impatiently waiting for the sequel.
The tale was narrated from two points of view, that of the hero (Cooper) and the heroine (Caylee). This helped me to understand their thoughts and feelings. This was important, especially in Cooper's case. Cooper was a complex character. They were so many layers to him. He came across as someone cold and unfeeling, but when you see what he has been through, you can't help but feel for him. He genuinely believes that he deserves to be in pain, and the only way he could cope was through alcohol and mindless sex. Guilt sure does have a way of colouring one's perception.
In spite of his reckless behaviour, I loved Cooper. Here we have a war veteran turned rocker, who was broken on the inside and who believes he is not worthy of forgiveness, yet Caylee believed otherwise. Caylee came looking for him to get answers about her husband's death. What she saw was a hero and a man worthy of love. She blew into his world and turned it upside down. She caused him to feel again.
I enjoyed the dialogue between them. It was not all dark and serious. There were moments of laughter. Then there was the constant push and pull vibe they had going on. One minute Cooper is giving in to his feelings and the next he is pulling away. However, Caylee did not give up on him no matter how much he frustrated her.
The romance did not happen quickly. Caylee and Cooper had no intention of falling in love. After all, she was still mourning the death of her husband, while he was blaming himself for the death of said husband. It came when they least expected it.
I appreciated the author's writing style. Her portrayal of the characters' emotions was awesome. She made me feel everything they were feeling. This made it easy to connect with them.
If you are looking for a story that will make you cry, laugh and likely scream then you will love BITTERSWEET MELODY. It is a great start to what appears to be a wonderful series. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
This is my first time reading Belinda Boring's work and I have to say I was impressed. She has found a new fan in me and I will be adding her to my list of must-read authors. This book was everything I thought it would be. BITTERSWEET MELODY is a captivating story that will inspire you and leave you craving for more. I was pulled into the story from the moment I began reading. I did not want to put it down but, unfortunately, real life has a way of messing up our best-laid plans. By the time I was finished I was totally bowled over. Now I am impatiently waiting for the sequel.
The tale was narrated from two points of view, that of the hero (Cooper) and the heroine (Caylee). This helped me to understand their thoughts and feelings. This was important, especially in Cooper's case. Cooper was a complex character. They were so many layers to him. He came across as someone cold and unfeeling, but when you see what he has been through, you can't help but feel for him. He genuinely believes that he deserves to be in pain, and the only way he could cope was through alcohol and mindless sex. Guilt sure does have a way of colouring one's perception.
In spite of his reckless behaviour, I loved Cooper. Here we have a war veteran turned rocker, who was broken on the inside and who believes he is not worthy of forgiveness, yet Caylee believed otherwise. Caylee came looking for him to get answers about her husband's death. What she saw was a hero and a man worthy of love. She blew into his world and turned it upside down. She caused him to feel again.
I enjoyed the dialogue between them. It was not all dark and serious. There were moments of laughter. Then there was the constant push and pull vibe they had going on. One minute Cooper is giving in to his feelings and the next he is pulling away. However, Caylee did not give up on him no matter how much he frustrated her.
The romance did not happen quickly. Caylee and Cooper had no intention of falling in love. After all, she was still mourning the death of her husband, while he was blaming himself for the death of said husband. It came when they least expected it.
I appreciated the author's writing style. Her portrayal of the characters' emotions was awesome. She made me feel everything they were feeling. This made it easy to connect with them.
If you are looking for a story that will make you cry, laugh and likely scream then you will love BITTERSWEET MELODY. It is a great start to what appears to be a wonderful series. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
October 19, 2015
This is my first Belinda Boring book, and I am now hooked!!! After reading this book she has shot to the top of my must read author list.
Cooper and Caylee's story is truly moving and so heartfelt.
Cooper is dealing with PSD and survivors guilt after loosing his best friend in Afghanistan during what should have been a routine patrol. Since returning he has serious trouble dealing with everyday life without a bottle and some pills to get him through.
Caylee is a widow. The love of her life died in Afghanistan and she wants closure of some kind so she can try to move past his death and live her life. There is only one person she can turn to for the answers she needs, Owen's best friend, Cooper.
What neither of them anticipate is that they both need each other to heal and the chemistry between them is so hot and potent that everyone around can see it but them.
I can't wait for the next instalment to find out what happens to Caylee and Cooper and if they get their much deserved HEA
Cooper and Caylee's story is truly moving and so heartfelt.
Cooper is dealing with PSD and survivors guilt after loosing his best friend in Afghanistan during what should have been a routine patrol. Since returning he has serious trouble dealing with everyday life without a bottle and some pills to get him through.
Caylee is a widow. The love of her life died in Afghanistan and she wants closure of some kind so she can try to move past his death and live her life. There is only one person she can turn to for the answers she needs, Owen's best friend, Cooper.
What neither of them anticipate is that they both need each other to heal and the chemistry between them is so hot and potent that everyone around can see it but them.
I can't wait for the next instalment to find out what happens to Caylee and Cooper and if they get their much deserved HEA
December 23, 2015
My Delusional Opinion:
THIS BOOK! Oh. My. GOSH!!
I think you might already have the general idea where this is headed. Haha!
In the interest of full disclosure, for those of you who don't already know, Belinda the FABULOUS, is my best friend and one of my business partners. Now that doesn't mean this will be a biased review. The reason Belinda and I became friends in the first place is because we knew we would always get an HONEST opinion from each other. Our whole working relationship is based on it, and I love that we can trust each other in this manner.
Under "normal" circumstances, having BFF (best friend forever) status would mean that I had the opportunity to read this book before anyone else. Due to some incredible health issues that made me basically comatose for a couple months, followed by trying to recover and adjust to new medication, and playing catch up with my own titles and business, I was unable to sit down and really lose myself in Bittersweet Melody until this week. However, I was aware of the plot line and premise, having discussed with Belinda much of the heavy research she had done for this book. I also had the extreme honor of creating the cover for this book. I am so pleased to say I got to be a part of this project, even though it is in the tiniest of ways.
Knowing the research that went into this book makes it even more special to me. Belinda was able to interview several respected friends who have served in the military, and was even granted a private, one-on-one interview with a soldier who suffers still from extreme PTSD. While the name of that individual was requested to be withheld, I know this interview touched Belinda in ways she never knew were possible, igniting her beautiful empathy for her characters, which literally flow from the pages.
I fell in love with battle-weary Cooper. His heart is cracking, ready to shatter into a billion pieces over the extremely traumatic horrors he is constantly reliving over and over in his head. When help finally comes, it does so in the most unexpected form--his best friend's widow--and Cooper cannot manage to reconcile that fact in his head. What transpires afterward is a battle of heart and mind against the extreme fear of letting go and learning to trust someone again--in essence, learning to feel GOOD emotions again.
This wonderfully crafted story tells of how the same trauma touched two innocent lives, and in their struggle to cope, these two damaged souls find their way to each other. Belinda's story eloquently flows from the pages, touching the emotions of the reader with gripping compassion and a certain "realness" and "honesty" that seems to be missing from many romance books today. This isn't just another run-of-the-mill, sexy, contemporary story. It is a gripping struggle of life after the ravages of war.
While written for an older audience, due to the sexual nature and other adult themes, all masterfully written as well, the true gem of this book was the internal struggles of the main characters. Sometimes life gets messy, and it takes a lot of untangling to work things out. But sometimes unwinding those threatening looking tangles can be the very thing that is needed to heal--to recover.
Belinda paces this story perfectly, allowing the reader to fall into the pages and become lost in this quiet, yet wonderful, tale of denial, self-resentment, guilt and grief. I HIGHLY recommend this beautiful, beautiful, story to anyone who likes feeling the tug on their heartstrings. You won't be disappointed! I'm now anxiously awaiting the sequel to this awesome story, to see the rest of what happens in Cooper and Caylee's world! I can't get my hands on it soon enough.
Hats off to my soul sister!! Girl, you ROCKED this one out of the park! HOMERUN! This book may have just topped my top reads of 2015. Thank you for sharing such a moving story with the world!
My Rating: 5 Totally Awesome Swoonworthy Hearts! (I wish I could give it hundreds more!)
GREAT NEWS! This book is FREE to read on Kindle Unlimited right now!
(This review originally published on http://thedelusionaldiaries.thequeens...)
THIS BOOK! Oh. My. GOSH!!
I think you might already have the general idea where this is headed. Haha!
In the interest of full disclosure, for those of you who don't already know, Belinda the FABULOUS, is my best friend and one of my business partners. Now that doesn't mean this will be a biased review. The reason Belinda and I became friends in the first place is because we knew we would always get an HONEST opinion from each other. Our whole working relationship is based on it, and I love that we can trust each other in this manner.
Under "normal" circumstances, having BFF (best friend forever) status would mean that I had the opportunity to read this book before anyone else. Due to some incredible health issues that made me basically comatose for a couple months, followed by trying to recover and adjust to new medication, and playing catch up with my own titles and business, I was unable to sit down and really lose myself in Bittersweet Melody until this week. However, I was aware of the plot line and premise, having discussed with Belinda much of the heavy research she had done for this book. I also had the extreme honor of creating the cover for this book. I am so pleased to say I got to be a part of this project, even though it is in the tiniest of ways.
Knowing the research that went into this book makes it even more special to me. Belinda was able to interview several respected friends who have served in the military, and was even granted a private, one-on-one interview with a soldier who suffers still from extreme PTSD. While the name of that individual was requested to be withheld, I know this interview touched Belinda in ways she never knew were possible, igniting her beautiful empathy for her characters, which literally flow from the pages.
I fell in love with battle-weary Cooper. His heart is cracking, ready to shatter into a billion pieces over the extremely traumatic horrors he is constantly reliving over and over in his head. When help finally comes, it does so in the most unexpected form--his best friend's widow--and Cooper cannot manage to reconcile that fact in his head. What transpires afterward is a battle of heart and mind against the extreme fear of letting go and learning to trust someone again--in essence, learning to feel GOOD emotions again.
This wonderfully crafted story tells of how the same trauma touched two innocent lives, and in their struggle to cope, these two damaged souls find their way to each other. Belinda's story eloquently flows from the pages, touching the emotions of the reader with gripping compassion and a certain "realness" and "honesty" that seems to be missing from many romance books today. This isn't just another run-of-the-mill, sexy, contemporary story. It is a gripping struggle of life after the ravages of war.
While written for an older audience, due to the sexual nature and other adult themes, all masterfully written as well, the true gem of this book was the internal struggles of the main characters. Sometimes life gets messy, and it takes a lot of untangling to work things out. But sometimes unwinding those threatening looking tangles can be the very thing that is needed to heal--to recover.
Belinda paces this story perfectly, allowing the reader to fall into the pages and become lost in this quiet, yet wonderful, tale of denial, self-resentment, guilt and grief. I HIGHLY recommend this beautiful, beautiful, story to anyone who likes feeling the tug on their heartstrings. You won't be disappointed! I'm now anxiously awaiting the sequel to this awesome story, to see the rest of what happens in Cooper and Caylee's world! I can't get my hands on it soon enough.
Hats off to my soul sister!! Girl, you ROCKED this one out of the park! HOMERUN! This book may have just topped my top reads of 2015. Thank you for sharing such a moving story with the world!
My Rating: 5 Totally Awesome Swoonworthy Hearts! (I wish I could give it hundreds more!)
GREAT NEWS! This book is FREE to read on Kindle Unlimited right now!
(This review originally published on http://thedelusionaldiaries.thequeens...)
October 25, 2015
Bittersweet Melody by Ember Casey is the powerful emotional journey of Cooper and Caylee. He is a veteran Marine honorably discharged dealing with his demons of the war and the self-imposed guilt of the loss of a fellow Marine and best friend, Owen Sawyer. Caylee is the widow of said fallen Marine who has worked hard these few years to move on but still has unanswered questions of what happened. The story starts with Caylee deciding she needs her questions answered and the only person who can do that is Cooper. By day Cooper works for his brother’s construction company and by night he is the lead singer of the popular local band, Damaged Souls. With this notoriety Cooper is able to lose himself in sex and alcohol so as not to remember what happened to his best friend or even himself. Then Caylee enters into his life. She honestly tells him she wants to be friends and selfishly hopes to ease some of the pain she is still feeling over losing her husband. Not sure if a friendship is the right idea for them Cooper agrees to it. Though they could not be more opposite in how they have chosen to live their lives since losing Owen, Caylee understands Cooper suffered much more than she in this loss – not only a friend but physically and mentally. She does her best to show her support and keep things light between them. But the sexual attraction she starts to develop is one she was not planning. Cooper is adamant they remain friends and nothing more is to come of it. He believes his feelings for Caylee should stay hidden and it is a deserved punishment for not being able to save her husband. But his resolve towards her is failing and his heart is yearning for more – something it has been hardened about since returning home. Throughout this amazing journey you find yourself falling so in love with both characters. Your heart is broken for all Cooper has and is still dealing with. And at the same time you are cheering Caylee on for her understanding and unfailing faith that all will end up as it should. And when they first kiss you are blown away by how you feel about it. It happens just at the right moment. Even through the joy of knowing Caylee wants to be with him Cooper fights the attraction still believing he does not deserve her – not only because of how damaged he feels he is but also the added reality that she is Owen’s widow. However a night of absolute surrender and passion leads both of them to understanding they are meant to be together. Though the story does give you the storybook ending of Caylee and Cooper getting together there is the powerful reality of what each character has and probably still will go through in the future of this love story. Ember Casey gives you the hard truth of how love is not all smiles and rainbows. There is tremendous pain and trials to get through. The added storyline of the PTSD and physical ailments that Cooper suffers just adds to the complexity of the story and real life human emotions she has put to the page for you to experience. I cannot wait for the next installment of their story.
October 28, 2015
Cooper and Caylee's story was absolutely inspiring. This book will shatter your heart and uplift your soul at the same time. Some authors write pretty words or paint a pretty picture, author Belinda Boring creates a masterpiece! Something that last long after the story is read, long after the writer types The End.... I can't wait for the next chapter that is Cooper and Caylee!! Five Star read. Recommend to 18+up due to adult situations...
August 21, 2016
What a truly powerful read. It's filled with so much emotion and heart it makes you fall I love instantly. The characters have this push and pull to them. The connection they made was slow but strong. Loved how they finally gave in to temptation and helped heal each other. They make each other better. Really glad I took the chance to read it.
November 12, 2015
What a perfect read for Veteran's Day - A Marine turned Rock Star - I mean what more could you ask for!! Loved this book - Can not wait for #2 - no cliffhanger, but a continuation - Great supporting cast ( I want to meet Rebecca!)
October 17, 2015
Review to come. ~
November 12, 2015
OMG! Awesome! Bels has done it again ! You rock girl! I swoon over Cooper! I loved Cooper Caylee Rebecca Martie all the band members and even Coopers brother and LOLA! 5 stars LOVED IT
October 25, 2015
Bittersweet Melody is a book about love, hope, loss, friendship, trust, and believing in yourself. Belinda Boring has done a great job of bringing all of those ideas together into one seamless story. Cooper Hensley is a smoking hot veteran from the Marines that has seen too much in war. He is broken and hanging on loosely. He doesn’t think that he deserves anything good out of life anymore and if content with letting the guilt of his time overseas eat away at him. Caylee Sawyer is trying to overcome the most traumatic and miserable time of her life. It is something that she thinks that Cooper can help her with. But the question is, Will Copper be willing and able to help her? It just might cost him more than either of them think. The storyline that Belinda has been able to weave together will draw you in and not let you go. Even after finishing this book (no cliffhanger!) you will still want more. You will even read the book over again just to get more. Belinda has brought the characters to life and makes you want to be a part of their lives and know as much as you can about them. I cannot wait for more books to come out about the people in this book. I know that I will love each and every one of them.
October 25, 2015
Awesome Book!
This is an awesome book; this is the first book in the A Damaged Souls series by Belinda Boring. Cooper Hensley is a former Marine who feels broken since his time in Afghanistan. He is trying to deal with PSD and the loss of his best friend that he lost in Afghanistan. He is the perfect front man for the band Damaged Souls. He wants to just lose himself in the rock and roll lifestyle. Caylee Sawyer comes looking for a hero, but when she sees Cooper she realizes that he is broken and that he needs to forgive himself in order to heal. If you are looking for a great romance that will leave you with all kinds of feelings then you need to read this book. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This is an awesome book; this is the first book in the A Damaged Souls series by Belinda Boring. Cooper Hensley is a former Marine who feels broken since his time in Afghanistan. He is trying to deal with PSD and the loss of his best friend that he lost in Afghanistan. He is the perfect front man for the band Damaged Souls. He wants to just lose himself in the rock and roll lifestyle. Caylee Sawyer comes looking for a hero, but when she sees Cooper she realizes that he is broken and that he needs to forgive himself in order to heal. If you are looking for a great romance that will leave you with all kinds of feelings then you need to read this book. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
October 3, 2015
I'm not sure how she does it, but every single book of Belinda Boring seems to get better and better. As much as I love her Mystic Wolves, it's so refreshing to read her deeper, darker and much more personal books.
This story of Cooper and Caylee is simply AMAZING. I was privileged enough, and absolutely honored to be chosen to beta read this tale while it was still a work in progress.
The character flow? ASTOUNDING! The banter, camaraderie and true, heartfelt friendships were beautifully written. For an author to be able to make you honestly feel the pain, grief, love, angst and symptoms of PTSD is just incredible.
Warning: YOU WILL GET SUCKED IN. You MAY experience sobbing, snot-faced, ugly cries. AND, your heart will probably melt just a little in the process. WOW. Just WOW.
This story of Cooper and Caylee is simply AMAZING. I was privileged enough, and absolutely honored to be chosen to beta read this tale while it was still a work in progress.
The character flow? ASTOUNDING! The banter, camaraderie and true, heartfelt friendships were beautifully written. For an author to be able to make you honestly feel the pain, grief, love, angst and symptoms of PTSD is just incredible.
Warning: YOU WILL GET SUCKED IN. You MAY experience sobbing, snot-faced, ugly cries. AND, your heart will probably melt just a little in the process. WOW. Just WOW.
October 19, 2015
WOW -- when I first starting reading books by Belinda Boring, I was WOW'd by how awesome she wrote!!! I have truly loved every book she has written!!! And believe me - this is just another amazing book by her!!!
Bittersweet Melody is telling the story of Cooper and Caylee. I love the way that she describes the characters and how she explains their feelings as the story unwinds. I don't write spoilers - but you will find that this is one of those books that once you start reading you will not be able to put the book down until you finish!!!
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
Bittersweet Melody is telling the story of Cooper and Caylee. I love the way that she describes the characters and how she explains their feelings as the story unwinds. I don't write spoilers - but you will find that this is one of those books that once you start reading you will not be able to put the book down until you finish!!!
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
October 25, 2015
I absolutely loved this book. The characters are GREAT! I fell in love with Caylee and Cooper right from the beginning and of course Caylee's roommate Rebecca and they guys in Cooper's band.
Cooper and Caylee both have gone through so much in their pasts, they have lost someone very special in their lives...Caylee's husband and Coopers best friend, Owen.
Caylee wants answers from Cooper and Cooper doesn't want to talk about any of what has happened. Caylee decides they should become friends.
Can the widowed college student and the ex-military lead singer of a band become friends and help each other heal?
Cooper and Caylee both have gone through so much in their pasts, they have lost someone very special in their lives...Caylee's husband and Coopers best friend, Owen.
Caylee wants answers from Cooper and Cooper doesn't want to talk about any of what has happened. Caylee decides they should become friends.
Can the widowed college student and the ex-military lead singer of a band become friends and help each other heal?
October 31, 2015
Belinda Boring hits a grand slam with her latest book Bittersweet Melody! I have so many feelings for this book all of them good. Belinda’s writing is so beautiful! There is this melody that flows in the words. It surrounds you and leaves you feeling everything that the characters are feeling! You will be pulling for Cooper and Caylee from the very start of the book. I can promise you will love them. I can also say with certainty that Cooper will have you swooning! I can’t wait for the next installment of Cooper and Caylee’s story Bittersweet Symphony!
October 25, 2015
first off i love Cooper and Caylee. i was given a copy of this book for my honest review and i give this book 5 stars. This was such a emotional book. i cried, i laughed, ans i yelled. Belinda did such a wonderful job showing all the emotions Cooper and Caylee was feeling. Cooper thought he didn't deserve happiness and went through so much since returning through war. Belinda help me understand PTSD by what Cooper was going through. This was my Favorite book by Belinda Boring so far. i can not wait to see what she comes up with next
October 25, 2015
Bittersweet Melody by Belinda Boring
4 1/2 stars
Caylee and Cooper are two damaged souls tied together in a way that can never be undone. As they each follow their path of heartbreak, and their path to healing, I was sucked in, had my heart twisted around in knots, and then had some hope for each of them to find a new happiness. Their banter and chemistry was both funny and steamy. I fell in love with Caylee and Cooper, and can't wait to read the next part!
4 1/2 stars
Caylee and Cooper are two damaged souls tied together in a way that can never be undone. As they each follow their path of heartbreak, and their path to healing, I was sucked in, had my heart twisted around in knots, and then had some hope for each of them to find a new happiness. Their banter and chemistry was both funny and steamy. I fell in love with Caylee and Cooper, and can't wait to read the next part!
November 4, 2015
This book captivated me from the start. The hardest part was real life taking away from reading. This story will stick with you. Damaged Cooper refuses to allow himself forgiveness for circumstances that were out of his control. Caylee is the reminder of those circumstances. But these two together have instant chemistry and a past that will either make them stronger or ruin their relationship before it starts.
Great start to what will become a must read series!!
Great start to what will become a must read series!!
July 14, 2016
This is Belinda's best book yet. This book has all THE FEELS. Every single one of them!!
There are so many levels of emotions that this book hits on. From giggling banter between best friends to one Smoking Hot Veteran who's guilt, sacrifice and struggle to do what he feels is the right thing will tear your heart out. Love it!!
There are so many levels of emotions that this book hits on. From giggling banter between best friends to one Smoking Hot Veteran who's guilt, sacrifice and struggle to do what he feels is the right thing will tear your heart out. Love it!!
October 22, 2015
A truly beautifully poetic story of moving on, letting go, and starting again. Two people with the same loss, one who is trying to move on, while the other chooses punishment. Something that seems as though it should be forbidden is the one thing to give them both the second chance they need. I was fully enthralled with Caylee and Coopers story. It was emotional, deep, and beautiful.
October 28, 2015
Heartbreakingly Beautiful
Heartbreaking is the word that comes to mind for a good portion of the book but not in a bad way, in a way that tears you down and makes you feel.
Belinda has a way of making you feel what's going on, how the characters are hurting and how they are broken beyond repair... or so they thought.
Enjoy part 1 in Cooper and Caylee's story, I know I did.
Heartbreaking is the word that comes to mind for a good portion of the book but not in a bad way, in a way that tears you down and makes you feel.
Belinda has a way of making you feel what's going on, how the characters are hurting and how they are broken beyond repair... or so they thought.
Enjoy part 1 in Cooper and Caylee's story, I know I did.
November 11, 2020
5 Stars for this emotional read!
This book is so heart-wrenching! My heart bleeds for both Carley and Cooper, but Cooper is far more broken than Carley. I was expecting the regular rock star romance ... but this book is far from it. It's also a story about a soldier with survivor's guilt that is struggling with life. I cried, I laughed and I swooned ... all the emotions that make a great book! I'm gonna dive right into "Bittersweet Symphony" where Carley and Cooper's story continues.
Carley and Cooper are tied together by one thing ... Owen, Carley's deceased husband and Cooper's best friend. Owen died in Cooper's arms in Afghanastan two years ago and Cooper will always blame himself for not protecting him. While Carley is trying to go on with her life, Cooper is drowning himself in pills, alcohol, music and women. Carley wants to help him move on, but she didn't expect to feel this immense attraction towards him. Will Cooper ever be able to see past her being Owen's wife (widow)?
This book is so heart-wrenching! My heart bleeds for both Carley and Cooper, but Cooper is far more broken than Carley. I was expecting the regular rock star romance ... but this book is far from it. It's also a story about a soldier with survivor's guilt that is struggling with life. I cried, I laughed and I swooned ... all the emotions that make a great book! I'm gonna dive right into "Bittersweet Symphony" where Carley and Cooper's story continues.
Carley and Cooper are tied together by one thing ... Owen, Carley's deceased husband and Cooper's best friend. Owen died in Cooper's arms in Afghanastan two years ago and Cooper will always blame himself for not protecting him. While Carley is trying to go on with her life, Cooper is drowning himself in pills, alcohol, music and women. Carley wants to help him move on, but she didn't expect to feel this immense attraction towards him. Will Cooper ever be able to see past her being Owen's wife (widow)?
January 16, 2019
Oh wow. This book had me at military, being a wife of an Army veteran and all. This book was great, just enough frustration to cause me to read like I’ve never read before. I had to stop myself from peaking a couple paragraphs ahead. This book is thick but I still managed to finish it in a day. It’s just that good. It’s close to ten o’clock at night and I want to start book two. Ugh…adulting. Cooper has demons galore from his time in the Marines. He wants nothing more than to drown his sorrows and try to hold things together. Caylee is his best friends’ widow. Come on now, doesn’t that sound appealing. There is fight in this story, fighting for life and love. It’s one that you can predict and one you can’t. It’s a story that will rip your heart out. Then it puts it right back a little less than it was before but a little more as well, if that makes any sense. It gives you hope. Beautifully written and very descriptive. Loved every minute of it.
June 6, 2017
This is a great book. Cooper has watched his best friend Owen die in Afghanistan. Cooper was also almost fatally injured. When Caylee, Owen's widow, comes to seek answers, Cooper doesn't want to talk. He has had two years of hell, with enough nightmares and pain to last a lifetime. Caylee at last makes Cooper answer a few questions and they both start thinking their might be attraction between them. Will they have enough strength and faith in second chances to take the next step?
August 31, 2024
Won't disappoint
A must read!!!
As always Belinda never fails to deliver a good story. The characters keep you wanting more. Can't wait for the second book.
A must read!!!
As always Belinda never fails to deliver a good story. The characters keep you wanting more. Can't wait for the second book.
November 20, 2016
3.5 stars
Bittersweet Melody was an okay read for me. Cooper is the lead singer of Damaged Souls and an ex-marine who knows what its like to go through life with memories that haunts your soul. He lost his best friend Owen during a mission, the same mission that took Caylee's husband from her. Caylee wants some answers and Cooper is the only one who can give her the answers she seeks. She knows digging into something so painful will hurt Cooper so they agree to a friendship that will eventually become more. This book gives you their journey as Cooper and Caylee realize that through pain there is always room for love. I enjoyed Cooper, Caylee, Rebecca and Marty's friendship and this book did make me laugh quite a few times but there were times where I wished the story flowed a little faster. This book ends with a cliffhanger that leaves readers wanting to know how things will end so be prepared.
Bittersweet Melody was an okay read for me. Cooper is the lead singer of Damaged Souls and an ex-marine who knows what its like to go through life with memories that haunts your soul. He lost his best friend Owen during a mission, the same mission that took Caylee's husband from her. Caylee wants some answers and Cooper is the only one who can give her the answers she seeks. She knows digging into something so painful will hurt Cooper so they agree to a friendship that will eventually become more. This book gives you their journey as Cooper and Caylee realize that through pain there is always room for love. I enjoyed Cooper, Caylee, Rebecca and Marty's friendship and this book did make me laugh quite a few times but there were times where I wished the story flowed a little faster. This book ends with a cliffhanger that leaves readers wanting to know how things will end so be prepared.
April 4, 2016
This is the story of Cooper Hensley - Former US. Marine Sgt., injured in the line of duty and even after two years he still blames himself for the death of his best friend, Owen Sawyer. Cooper tries to drown out his guilt and the nightmares with loud music, alcohol and loose women.
Caylee Sawyer, a young widow is looking for the man she considers a hero. Instead she finds Cooper - guilt-ridden, womanizing, nightmare-suffering, Cooper.
No matter how hard Cooper pushes her away, Caylee is drawn to him and she realizes that he is affecting her more than she ever thought.
Caylee wants answers that Cooper is not ready to give, the pain still fresh in his heart and mind. When Caylee presses him, things don't bode well for the new friends.
What will come of the friendship? Will Cooper ever let go of his guilt? Find out in this beautiful story of friendships, love and PTSD.
Caylee Sawyer, a young widow is looking for the man she considers a hero. Instead she finds Cooper - guilt-ridden, womanizing, nightmare-suffering, Cooper.
No matter how hard Cooper pushes her away, Caylee is drawn to him and she realizes that he is affecting her more than she ever thought.
Caylee wants answers that Cooper is not ready to give, the pain still fresh in his heart and mind. When Caylee presses him, things don't bode well for the new friends.
What will come of the friendship? Will Cooper ever let go of his guilt? Find out in this beautiful story of friendships, love and PTSD.
March 18, 2016
Cooper!!!!
I'm a big fan of Belinda Boring. With that being said, I've only read her Mystic Wolves series (love), so this book was a new experience. I love this book. Cooper is so annoying and stubborn I wanted to shake him. I love this book. Caylee is so strong and amazing. I love this book. The story was heart wrenching but flowed easily. The writing is exactly what I was expecting, perfect. I can't wait for the next book. Did I mention that I love this book.
I'm a big fan of Belinda Boring. With that being said, I've only read her Mystic Wolves series (love), so this book was a new experience. I love this book. Cooper is so annoying and stubborn I wanted to shake him. I love this book. Caylee is so strong and amazing. I love this book. The story was heart wrenching but flowed easily. The writing is exactly what I was expecting, perfect. I can't wait for the next book. Did I mention that I love this book.
December 24, 2017
Waiting on the next story
Caylee lost her husband Owen to war. Cooper lost his best friend Owen to war. After three years she wants closure and answers to move on with her life. Caylee wants to talk with the man who was with Owen when he died but Cooper can't talk about something that he blames himself for. He survived his friend didn't. Caylee is persistent though and determined that they both may move forward and maybe together.
Caylee lost her husband Owen to war. Cooper lost his best friend Owen to war. After three years she wants closure and answers to move on with her life. Caylee wants to talk with the man who was with Owen when he died but Cooper can't talk about something that he blames himself for. He survived his friend didn't. Caylee is persistent though and determined that they both may move forward and maybe together.
April 29, 2017
Good story
Honestly the story was fine. It has depth but it also lacks it. There wasn't really a whole lot going on in this book that couldn't be wrapped up in one book. I'd also like to see some lyrics. To get a feel for this band that is going to be the next big thing. They may have a great sound to there fans bit us as readers are pretty much left in the dark.
Honestly the story was fine. It has depth but it also lacks it. There wasn't really a whole lot going on in this book that couldn't be wrapped up in one book. I'd also like to see some lyrics. To get a feel for this band that is going to be the next big thing. They may have a great sound to there fans bit us as readers are pretty much left in the dark.
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