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If You’re Reading This
Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26He wasn't trying to be famous. He was trying to die.
Danny's been chasing death on camera for over a year. Twenty stunts, millions of views, and not a single scar. No one asked why. No one cared enough to stop him.
Until Iris. A life coach with more empathy than boundaries, who sees through his performance and offers him something no one else has: time.
Twenty sessions. No pressure. No promises.
Just two people, both standing too close to the edge. One trying to fall, and one trying to reach him before he does.
This isn't a love story. It's a survival story, disguised as one.
Danny's been chasing death on camera for over a year. Twenty stunts, millions of views, and not a single scar. No one asked why. No one cared enough to stop him.
Until Iris. A life coach with more empathy than boundaries, who sees through his performance and offers him something no one else has: time.
Twenty sessions. No pressure. No promises.
Just two people, both standing too close to the edge. One trying to fall, and one trying to reach him before he does.
This isn't a love story. It's a survival story, disguised as one.
Unknown Binding
Expected publication February 24, 2026
5 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
....so many words to be said about this one but refuse to give any spoilers.
Danny..oh my sweet tortured Danny. Danny is set out a mission to let the world end his life one dangerous task at a time but little does he know he will become a YouTube sensation when he shares videos of the wild & dangerous things he attempts. He meets Iris his new life coach and his world slowly changes. Watching Danny grow through his healing was so special. It was a true reminder that kindness goes a long way. That alls it can take is 1 person, 1 gesture to change someone's life...make them want to stay. UGH so many feels so many real life reminders. This one was so good, had me crying at the end. Do NOT read this for the spice..its pretty non existent but thissss story is SO much more than a romance full of schmexy time. Its real, raw, and relatable and I am SO in love with these two!
Danny..oh my sweet tortured Danny. Danny is set out a mission to let the world end his life one dangerous task at a time but little does he know he will become a YouTube sensation when he shares videos of the wild & dangerous things he attempts. He meets Iris his new life coach and his world slowly changes. Watching Danny grow through his healing was so special. It was a true reminder that kindness goes a long way. That alls it can take is 1 person, 1 gesture to change someone's life...make them want to stay. UGH so many feels so many real life reminders. This one was so good, had me crying at the end. Do NOT read this for the spice..its pretty non existent but thissss story is SO much more than a romance full of schmexy time. Its real, raw, and relatable and I am SO in love with these two!
Review of advance copy received from Author
How do you even begin to review a book that feels less like words on a page and more like a mirror held up to your own soul?
I’m going to start by breaking the rules. Five stars are simply not enough for what Rae has accomplished here. This is a solid, unwavering 6-star read. It is breathtaking, raw, and utterly transformative.
I have read every single book you have written. I’ve been a fan of your storytelling since day one, and I thought I knew the extent of your talent.
I was wrong.
While I have loved all your previous works, If You’re Reading This is in a league of its own. This is your masterpiece. Without a doubt, this is my new favorite Rae Lloyd book.
It’s hard to articulate the visceral reaction I had to this story. It didn’t just touch my heart, it cracked it open. I have never in my entire reading life felt so completely and utterly seen by a book. There were moments I had to put my Kindle down because it felt like Rae had somehow stepped inside my head, taken my most guarded thoughts and fears, and laid them out on the page with gentle, terrifying accuracy.
The vulnerability in this writing is staggering. It’s a story that acknowledges the darkest corners of the human experience but holds your hand tightly while guiding you toward the light.
I already know that If You’re Reading This has instantly become a "forever book" for me. This is the book I will pull off the shelf on bad days. It will be my comfort read for years, perhaps decades, to come because even though it shattered me, it also put me back together with so much hope
I’m going to start by breaking the rules. Five stars are simply not enough for what Rae has accomplished here. This is a solid, unwavering 6-star read. It is breathtaking, raw, and utterly transformative.
I have read every single book you have written. I’ve been a fan of your storytelling since day one, and I thought I knew the extent of your talent.
I was wrong.
While I have loved all your previous works, If You’re Reading This is in a league of its own. This is your masterpiece. Without a doubt, this is my new favorite Rae Lloyd book.
It’s hard to articulate the visceral reaction I had to this story. It didn’t just touch my heart, it cracked it open. I have never in my entire reading life felt so completely and utterly seen by a book. There were moments I had to put my Kindle down because it felt like Rae had somehow stepped inside my head, taken my most guarded thoughts and fears, and laid them out on the page with gentle, terrifying accuracy.
The vulnerability in this writing is staggering. It’s a story that acknowledges the darkest corners of the human experience but holds your hand tightly while guiding you toward the light.
I already know that If You’re Reading This has instantly become a "forever book" for me. This is the book I will pull off the shelf on bad days. It will be my comfort read for years, perhaps decades, to come because even though it shattered me, it also put me back together with so much hope
Review of advance copy received from Author
Being selected as an ARC reader for If You Are Reading This by Rae Lloyd was such a privilege—and let me tell you, this book is unlike anything I’ve read before.
This is a slow-burn story, and while that may turn some readers off, I strongly encourage you to stick with it. Read the chapters. Let the story unfold. With each one, another piece of the puzzle clicks into place, and before you realize it, you’re fully invested.
My heart absolutely ached for Danny. Rae gives just enough insight into his childhood to help you truly understand him without being overly graphic. You feel his pain, his confusion, and his deep sense of unworthiness in a very real way.
And Iris, I loved her. She comes into Danny’s life as his Life Coach, but what unfolds is so much deeper. She challenges his perspective, helping him move from simply surviving to actually living. Watching that shift was powerful.
One thing to note: the story moves across different years, so paying attention to the chapter titles is important to fully appreciate the timeline but once you do, it adds to the emotional depth rather than distracting from it.
This is not your typical romance filled with constant on page intimacy. Instead, it’s about growth, healing, and the slow, meaningful build of a connection. Seeing Danny go from feeling purposeless and undeserving of life to realizing he’s always had value and finding someone who helps him see that made this book absolutely worth the read.
A truly touching and thought-provoking story. I’m very much looking forward to whatever Rae gives us next.
This is a slow-burn story, and while that may turn some readers off, I strongly encourage you to stick with it. Read the chapters. Let the story unfold. With each one, another piece of the puzzle clicks into place, and before you realize it, you’re fully invested.
My heart absolutely ached for Danny. Rae gives just enough insight into his childhood to help you truly understand him without being overly graphic. You feel his pain, his confusion, and his deep sense of unworthiness in a very real way.
And Iris, I loved her. She comes into Danny’s life as his Life Coach, but what unfolds is so much deeper. She challenges his perspective, helping him move from simply surviving to actually living. Watching that shift was powerful.
One thing to note: the story moves across different years, so paying attention to the chapter titles is important to fully appreciate the timeline but once you do, it adds to the emotional depth rather than distracting from it.
This is not your typical romance filled with constant on page intimacy. Instead, it’s about growth, healing, and the slow, meaningful build of a connection. Seeing Danny go from feeling purposeless and undeserving of life to realizing he’s always had value and finding someone who helps him see that made this book absolutely worth the read.
A truly touching and thought-provoking story. I’m very much looking forward to whatever Rae gives us next.
January 28, 2026
Let me start by saying this was my second book by Rae and I am so ready to dive into more. This was so different than the last I read, but boy did it put me through it.
This one was tough. Check your triggers and do not enter this lightly, but man this book captured my whole heart. It was beautiful. It was heartbreaking. & it was so real. This one had me laughing, crying, smiling, and then crying again. I was feeling so much! The emotional rollercoaster was one like I haven’t felt in along time. It absolutely broke me & then put me back together in the best way. I felt so much of this story in my own self & seeing it written out, just gave a space of acknowledgment that truly felt so healing.
Just when I was put back together the author note brought me to tears again. Truly just one of those stories that is worth telling and will forever stick with me. One that makes you think deeper and gives a safe place for so many people.
Thank you, Rae for the early reading opportunity and trusting me with this story. I cannot wait for the world to experience this one for themselves!!
This one was tough. Check your triggers and do not enter this lightly, but man this book captured my whole heart. It was beautiful. It was heartbreaking. & it was so real. This one had me laughing, crying, smiling, and then crying again. I was feeling so much! The emotional rollercoaster was one like I haven’t felt in along time. It absolutely broke me & then put me back together in the best way. I felt so much of this story in my own self & seeing it written out, just gave a space of acknowledgment that truly felt so healing.
Just when I was put back together the author note brought me to tears again. Truly just one of those stories that is worth telling and will forever stick with me. One that makes you think deeper and gives a safe place for so many people.
Thank you, Rae for the early reading opportunity and trusting me with this story. I cannot wait for the world to experience this one for themselves!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“If You’re Reading This” by Rae Lloyd is a powerful, compassionate exploration of survival and healing in the aftermath of profound trauma. Through unflinching honesty and deeply human storytelling, it confronts the long shadows cast by childhood sexual abuse, chronic isolation, and the quiet, exhausting battle with self-worth a victim can experience. Rae does not sanitize or sugar coat the most difficult parts of trauma. Death wishes, numbness, and the belief of being fundamentally unlovable are all laid bare in exceptional detail but the narrative never feels exploitative or sensationalist. Instead, it feels brave and vulnerable.
What makes this book extraordinary is its frankness and balance. The darkness is real and heavy, yet it is met with moments of tenderness, clarity, and even unexpected beauty. Healing is portrayed not as a neat, linear journey, but as a messy, uneven process marked by setbacks, small victories, and self-compassion. The writing invites the reader into that process, offering a sense of being seen and understood without judgment. Of all Rae’s books, this is most beautifully written. For anyone who has felt alone inside their pain, this book offers quiet companionship.
Ultimately, this is a story about reclaiming life. It shows how learning to love oneself and others after trauma can feel foreign, frightening, and even undeserved, yet still possible. Joy returns not as a sudden revelation, but as something gently rediscovered in fragments: connection, meaning, and the courage to keep going. This book does not promise easy answers, but it does offer something far more valuable. It offers a chance at hope. It explores the belief that a person is never too far down a self-destructive path to discover redemption. It is an incredibly moving read that will stay with you long after the final page.
What makes this book extraordinary is its frankness and balance. The darkness is real and heavy, yet it is met with moments of tenderness, clarity, and even unexpected beauty. Healing is portrayed not as a neat, linear journey, but as a messy, uneven process marked by setbacks, small victories, and self-compassion. The writing invites the reader into that process, offering a sense of being seen and understood without judgment. Of all Rae’s books, this is most beautifully written. For anyone who has felt alone inside their pain, this book offers quiet companionship.
Ultimately, this is a story about reclaiming life. It shows how learning to love oneself and others after trauma can feel foreign, frightening, and even undeserved, yet still possible. Joy returns not as a sudden revelation, but as something gently rediscovered in fragments: connection, meaning, and the courage to keep going. This book does not promise easy answers, but it does offer something far more valuable. It offers a chance at hope. It explores the belief that a person is never too far down a self-destructive path to discover redemption. It is an incredibly moving read that will stay with you long after the final page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy received from author
Kinda contains spoilers so read at your own risk
Wow what an adventure, one minute you feel like your heart is breaking in two for Danny but the next it feels like its being woven back together by Iris. It really gives you an insight into the life of someone who's had it tough and thinks doing crazy things and leaving it up to fate or chance or God will help them end it so they dont physically have to do it or make that decision.
Side note: Did I detect a cheeky little easter egg for heated rivalry in there?
I loved the growth of the relationship between Danny and Iris, her showing him kindness and compassion while showing him how to be kind to himself and that not all people are bad and want to use you. She shows him the genuine kindness of people that wish to help others no ulterior motives. Iris helped Danny work through his pain in his time, in his own way no judgement just being present.
And just when you think its looking like a happily ever after your heart gets ripped out of your chest and leaves you sobbing in your room on a Monday afternoon.
Actually scratch that...... your heart gets ripped out but it does get put back together again.
This book feels like love letter for those who've had it tough, struggled, been knocked down and gotten back up again, It makes you feel uncomfortable but seen.
Everybody has their own journey filled with ups and downs but this book shows that no matter what youve been through you can get through it and a simple act of kindness can be that spark that Lights the fire in you to heal and remember there are things worth living for.
"Dopamine instead of Death"
Kinda contains spoilers so read at your own risk
Wow what an adventure, one minute you feel like your heart is breaking in two for Danny but the next it feels like its being woven back together by Iris. It really gives you an insight into the life of someone who's had it tough and thinks doing crazy things and leaving it up to fate or chance or God will help them end it so they dont physically have to do it or make that decision.
Side note: Did I detect a cheeky little easter egg for heated rivalry in there?
I loved the growth of the relationship between Danny and Iris, her showing him kindness and compassion while showing him how to be kind to himself and that not all people are bad and want to use you. She shows him the genuine kindness of people that wish to help others no ulterior motives. Iris helped Danny work through his pain in his time, in his own way no judgement just being present.
And just when you think its looking like a happily ever after your heart gets ripped out of your chest and leaves you sobbing in your room on a Monday afternoon.
Actually scratch that...... your heart gets ripped out but it does get put back together again.
This book feels like love letter for those who've had it tough, struggled, been knocked down and gotten back up again, It makes you feel uncomfortable but seen.
Everybody has their own journey filled with ups and downs but this book shows that no matter what youve been through you can get through it and a simple act of kindness can be that spark that Lights the fire in you to heal and remember there are things worth living for.
"Dopamine instead of Death"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What did I just read? 🥺✨
Yep… the waterworks were real with this one.
Quotes I will never forget — “you saved me.” “You’re the first person who truly saw me-really saw me- and didn’t look away. “
If You’re Reading This by Rae Lloyd follows Danny, a man shaped by a deeply traumatic childhood and painful past. He struggles to find a reason to keep going, pushing himself into dangerous, life-threatening stunts as a way of testing fate — almost daring life to give him a reason to stay.
This story doesn’t shy away from the ugly truth of healing. It shows how messy, painful, and raw recovery from trauma can be. At times it hurts to read because it feels so real.
Then along comes Iris — our FMC with a true heart of gold. She doesn’t see Danny as someone broken who needs fixing. Instead, she sees someone worth loving, worth fighting for, and worth showing that life can still be beautiful. She gives him experiences he never had growing up and reminds him that living can mean more than just surviving.
I was absolutely sobbing by the end. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A five-star read with a stunning, emotional ending that I won’t forget anytime soon. Danny’s story will stay with me for a long time.
This book tackles heavy topics, so definitely check trigger warnings beforehand. I finished it in two days because I simply couldn’t put it down — it keeps you hooked while delivering a powerful message about healing, self-worth, and learning that you deserve to live.
Honestly… I’m still a little speechless. This is a story about finding yourself and realizing your life is worth fighting for — and it’s one you’re going to want to read.
Yep… the waterworks were real with this one.
Quotes I will never forget — “you saved me.” “You’re the first person who truly saw me-really saw me- and didn’t look away. “
If You’re Reading This by Rae Lloyd follows Danny, a man shaped by a deeply traumatic childhood and painful past. He struggles to find a reason to keep going, pushing himself into dangerous, life-threatening stunts as a way of testing fate — almost daring life to give him a reason to stay.
This story doesn’t shy away from the ugly truth of healing. It shows how messy, painful, and raw recovery from trauma can be. At times it hurts to read because it feels so real.
Then along comes Iris — our FMC with a true heart of gold. She doesn’t see Danny as someone broken who needs fixing. Instead, she sees someone worth loving, worth fighting for, and worth showing that life can still be beautiful. She gives him experiences he never had growing up and reminds him that living can mean more than just surviving.
I was absolutely sobbing by the end. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A five-star read with a stunning, emotional ending that I won’t forget anytime soon. Danny’s story will stay with me for a long time.
This book tackles heavy topics, so definitely check trigger warnings beforehand. I finished it in two days because I simply couldn’t put it down — it keeps you hooked while delivering a powerful message about healing, self-worth, and learning that you deserve to live.
Honestly… I’m still a little speechless. This is a story about finding yourself and realizing your life is worth fighting for — and it’s one you’re going to want to read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I stepped out of my comfort zone with this one, and I am so glad that I did.
The book is told from the POV of Danny. Danny has had a rough upbringing; his mother had left him, and he ended up in the system, going from foster home to foster home. He spent the most time in the home of a prominent community member and ended up being abused. This left Danny feeling like he was not worthy of love or affection and that he didn't deserve it either.
Fast forward, and Danny is now in his thirties, hating life. He would rather just not be on this earth. He has no one, no friends, no family. He doesn't want to actually commit the act himself, so he decides to complete 20 death-defying acts in hopes that one of them will end his misery. SPOILER ALERT---- They don't! He also chooses to upload each act to YouTube, which earns him a ton of followers, but not one person cares enough to reach out to a man in need of a friend.
Danny does end up making a friend in a roundabout way, and this friend challenges him to see a life coach. After 20 sessions, if Danny's feelings have not changed, the friend will not interfere and will leave Danny to his own devices.
Enter Iris. I adored Iris; she was fun but soft. Caring but not judgmental. She was exactly what Danny needed!
The ending had my heart racing and the tears falling. That is all I am going to give you because you need to experience this one for yourselves. This book made me ponder life and how precious it truly is.
The book is told from the POV of Danny. Danny has had a rough upbringing; his mother had left him, and he ended up in the system, going from foster home to foster home. He spent the most time in the home of a prominent community member and ended up being abused. This left Danny feeling like he was not worthy of love or affection and that he didn't deserve it either.
Fast forward, and Danny is now in his thirties, hating life. He would rather just not be on this earth. He has no one, no friends, no family. He doesn't want to actually commit the act himself, so he decides to complete 20 death-defying acts in hopes that one of them will end his misery. SPOILER ALERT---- They don't! He also chooses to upload each act to YouTube, which earns him a ton of followers, but not one person cares enough to reach out to a man in need of a friend.
Danny does end up making a friend in a roundabout way, and this friend challenges him to see a life coach. After 20 sessions, if Danny's feelings have not changed, the friend will not interfere and will leave Danny to his own devices.
Enter Iris. I adored Iris; she was fun but soft. Caring but not judgmental. She was exactly what Danny needed!
The ending had my heart racing and the tears falling. That is all I am going to give you because you need to experience this one for yourselves. This book made me ponder life and how precious it truly is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely amazing book.
It's clear that Rae has put countless hours into research for SO MANY topics for this book, and not just surface level either. I'm extremely impressed even though I've read Rae's work before, I still continue to be blown away by the diversity and breadth of skill she has as an author.
As for the story itself, without spoilers, what an emotional rollercoaster. At one point I was staring into my kindle lost for words.
This book really delves into some hard truths a lot of people never venture into and reading it sometimes felt like therapy, entertainment and life lessons all in one.
It's been a long time since a story kept me ok my toes and kept me glued to the couch like this one did!
I feel so extremely privileged to have been able to read this book as some of its lessons will stick with me for a long time.
It may or may not have also given me plenty of new bucket list items :)
If you are in the category of having read the blurb and thought "I don't know if this is for me", give it a try anyway, because amazingly, that is a reoccurring theme of this book and I will certainly remember the lessons of giving things a chance even if they don't sound like my thing initially.
You won't regret it :)
It's clear that Rae has put countless hours into research for SO MANY topics for this book, and not just surface level either. I'm extremely impressed even though I've read Rae's work before, I still continue to be blown away by the diversity and breadth of skill she has as an author.
As for the story itself, without spoilers, what an emotional rollercoaster. At one point I was staring into my kindle lost for words.
This book really delves into some hard truths a lot of people never venture into and reading it sometimes felt like therapy, entertainment and life lessons all in one.
It's been a long time since a story kept me ok my toes and kept me glued to the couch like this one did!
I feel so extremely privileged to have been able to read this book as some of its lessons will stick with me for a long time.
It may or may not have also given me plenty of new bucket list items :)
If you are in the category of having read the blurb and thought "I don't know if this is for me", give it a try anyway, because amazingly, that is a reoccurring theme of this book and I will certainly remember the lessons of giving things a chance even if they don't sound like my thing initially.
You won't regret it :)
January 20, 2026
If Your Reading This- Advance Reader Copy, thank you to the author
5 Stars!
This book was heartbreaking and beautiful. This is a story written from a male POV that takes place during two time lines. Following our MMC Danny who is a suspenseful content creator chasing his next thrill and these thrill chasing adventures lead up to a friend helping with an intervention with meeting a life coach and him agreeing to 20 sessions in hopes to change outlook on life.
This is raw and sad and the author does such a great job taking us into the dark corners of this man’s guarded mind and getting a front row seat to seeing it all unfold as someone working through a scary past that has been buried deep within himself and meeting someone unexpected, who ends up helping him unpack it all and come to the conclusion that maybe being worthy and seen and loved is ok.
This story has themes of depression, ptsd, talks of suicide, healing, love, childhood trauma (check your triggers) GooGoo Dolls Iris comes to mind after reading this book.
This is definitely a story that sticks with you. I think Danny will live with me for a long time.
“Are you alive”….”debatable”
5 Stars!
This book was heartbreaking and beautiful. This is a story written from a male POV that takes place during two time lines. Following our MMC Danny who is a suspenseful content creator chasing his next thrill and these thrill chasing adventures lead up to a friend helping with an intervention with meeting a life coach and him agreeing to 20 sessions in hopes to change outlook on life.
This is raw and sad and the author does such a great job taking us into the dark corners of this man’s guarded mind and getting a front row seat to seeing it all unfold as someone working through a scary past that has been buried deep within himself and meeting someone unexpected, who ends up helping him unpack it all and come to the conclusion that maybe being worthy and seen and loved is ok.
This story has themes of depression, ptsd, talks of suicide, healing, love, childhood trauma (check your triggers) GooGoo Dolls Iris comes to mind after reading this book.
This is definitely a story that sticks with you. I think Danny will live with me for a long time.
“Are you alive”….”debatable”
February 16, 2026
This is my first book by Rae Lloyd, and from what I understand, this one isn't like the others. I am ok with that because I enjoyed her writing as a whole.
This book is heavy. It took me about a week to get through, not because it wasn't good, but because the material was something I had to be in the right frame of mind for. While some of the things are "extreme", the content is very real.
We have our MMC, Danny, who tries 20 different ways chasing death, but not successfully. A friend sends him to a life coach, Iris, who quickly becomes someone who sees right through him and gives him everything he's never had. Time, attention, love.
If you have triggers, please check them out. This story could hit home for a lot of people and I want you to go in knowing that. This story was done so well and told in a way that it needed to be done. The ending is one that will stick with me and I will always recommend.
Thank you Rae for the opportunity to read this story early and wish you all the luck in the world with this!
This book is heavy. It took me about a week to get through, not because it wasn't good, but because the material was something I had to be in the right frame of mind for. While some of the things are "extreme", the content is very real.
We have our MMC, Danny, who tries 20 different ways chasing death, but not successfully. A friend sends him to a life coach, Iris, who quickly becomes someone who sees right through him and gives him everything he's never had. Time, attention, love.
If you have triggers, please check them out. This story could hit home for a lot of people and I want you to go in knowing that. This story was done so well and told in a way that it needed to be done. The ending is one that will stick with me and I will always recommend.
Thank you Rae for the opportunity to read this story early and wish you all the luck in the world with this!
January 21, 2026
What do I say? If You’re Reading This was AMAZING! It was raw. It was real. It was life. This is the 4th book of Rae’s I have read. Like the others it did not disappoint. This book totally wrecked me. It broke me. I cried many times. But then it put me back together. It healed me. I felt everything that the characters felt. I felt the brokenness of a grown man when he was a child. He was totally destroyed, abused as a child. He was put back together by the sweetest girl. Their relationship was the purest, most innocent, beautiful thing.
How Danny went through life thinking nobody cared about him or loved him. I am so thankful he found Iris and she was able to heal him.
I don’t know how Rae Lloyd’s mind works. She is amazing at what she does. Her writings are beautiful.
I CANNOT wait to read her next book. I am so blessed and honored to be able to read this book. I would give this book ten stars if possible.
How Danny went through life thinking nobody cared about him or loved him. I am so thankful he found Iris and she was able to heal him.
I don’t know how Rae Lloyd’s mind works. She is amazing at what she does. Her writings are beautiful.
I CANNOT wait to read her next book. I am so blessed and honored to be able to read this book. I would give this book ten stars if possible.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This book hit me hard..
I struggle every single day. I fight off the darkness that clings to me from my past every day. I can never seem to explain what it’s like trying to move on and work through trauma. I know what it’s like to think that the world would be a better place if I wasn’t in it. Just like the character in this story, I never thought I’d make it this far. I never thought I’d find someone who loves me for me and sits with me in my pain. I never thought I’d have two daughters who look up to me. I never thought I’d get the chance to work with teens who are navigating life while trying to process the things they’ve been through.
This book made me feel heard. It made me feel understood. It made me want to continue trying to live. It made me want to tell others to stay! We don’t always see the possibility for good when we’re so deep in our pain, but I can honestly say I’m glad I stay! If you ever need a listening ear my DMs are open!
Just stay. 🫶🏻
I struggle every single day. I fight off the darkness that clings to me from my past every day. I can never seem to explain what it’s like trying to move on and work through trauma. I know what it’s like to think that the world would be a better place if I wasn’t in it. Just like the character in this story, I never thought I’d make it this far. I never thought I’d find someone who loves me for me and sits with me in my pain. I never thought I’d have two daughters who look up to me. I never thought I’d get the chance to work with teens who are navigating life while trying to process the things they’ve been through.
This book made me feel heard. It made me feel understood. It made me want to continue trying to live. It made me want to tell others to stay! We don’t always see the possibility for good when we’re so deep in our pain, but I can honestly say I’m glad I stay! If you ever need a listening ear my DMs are open!
Just stay. 🫶🏻
January 21, 2026
Where do I even start? I could not put this book down.
I love Danny so much, the entire book I just wanted to give him a hug 😭 his experiences, being inside his head while he talked/thought about the things that he’s going through was heartbreaking & also so beautiful.
Iris & Carter are both phenomenal characters, I wish we would have gotten to see a little more of Carter because he was just one of those characters you love & he’s the friend we all need. 🖤
Iris you can see the beautiful soul she has in every single interaction. From the moment she came on page I loved her.
As usual, Rae is an amazing author. She writes characters so real & multifaceted that you can relate to them in one way or another. Every time a story makes me actually feel things, I know it’s a 5🌟read for me & this one absolutely did!
I love Danny so much, the entire book I just wanted to give him a hug 😭 his experiences, being inside his head while he talked/thought about the things that he’s going through was heartbreaking & also so beautiful.
Iris & Carter are both phenomenal characters, I wish we would have gotten to see a little more of Carter because he was just one of those characters you love & he’s the friend we all need. 🖤
Iris you can see the beautiful soul she has in every single interaction. From the moment she came on page I loved her.
As usual, Rae is an amazing author. She writes characters so real & multifaceted that you can relate to them in one way or another. Every time a story makes me actually feel things, I know it’s a 5🌟read for me & this one absolutely did!
February 3, 2026
I think this was a good read with strong characters and a unique twist on a meaningful theme. I really loved the YouTube channel idea with the comments. It was the first I’ve read like that.
I loved Iris as a character. Her quirkiness felt authentic and refreshing, and she brought warmth and lightness to some very heavy moments. That said, I wanted more from the relationship itself. The emotional connection between Iris and Danny needed a bit more depth to fully sell the relationship. The buildup was there, but it fell just short of fully landing and a dual POV would have added so much. Also, I felt like the interaction with the father also felt too brief and rushed for its emotional weight.
Overall, this was a sweet, heartfelt book that is worth reading! You can tell Rae is getting stronger as an author with each book she writes!
I loved Iris as a character. Her quirkiness felt authentic and refreshing, and she brought warmth and lightness to some very heavy moments. That said, I wanted more from the relationship itself. The emotional connection between Iris and Danny needed a bit more depth to fully sell the relationship. The buildup was there, but it fell just short of fully landing and a dual POV would have added so much. Also, I felt like the interaction with the father also felt too brief and rushed for its emotional weight.
Overall, this was a sweet, heartfelt book that is worth reading! You can tell Rae is getting stronger as an author with each book she writes!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is so freaking good.
It's such a sweet, slow burn while it's also haunting and horrifying.
There's were parts where I felt like the author knew some of my deepest secrets; the ones I never talk about.
The dual time line captivated me and kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
The peaceful and fufilled feelings that I have after just finishing it for the second time are a testament to how amazing this author is. This book was an amazing journey.
I loved the main character's sense of humor and found myself laughing out loud at both the dark and light humor. If I had the gift of being able to write like Rae does, I'd want my book to be just like this. An experience. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It's such a sweet, slow burn while it's also haunting and horrifying.
There's were parts where I felt like the author knew some of my deepest secrets; the ones I never talk about.
The dual time line captivated me and kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
The peaceful and fufilled feelings that I have after just finishing it for the second time are a testament to how amazing this author is. This book was an amazing journey.
I loved the main character's sense of humor and found myself laughing out loud at both the dark and light humor. If I had the gift of being able to write like Rae does, I'd want my book to be just like this. An experience. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I knew when Rae was writing another book that it would be incredible. I didn’t know how deeply it would touch me though. Rae writes so beautifully that I am always immediately captivated. This book begins on some hard truths, then it peels even more truths back layer by layer.
Rae doesn’t skim over uncomfortable topics or real life traumas, she presents them in a way that the reader can understand the pain the character experiences. If You’re Reading This is a beautiful, gripping, gut wrenching book about life and healing after inescapable hurt. This is a survivor story, written in a raw, yet tender way.
I was moved to tears and late for work because I couldn’t stop reading when I reached the last chapters.
Thank you Rae, for making survivors feel seen.
Rae doesn’t skim over uncomfortable topics or real life traumas, she presents them in a way that the reader can understand the pain the character experiences. If You’re Reading This is a beautiful, gripping, gut wrenching book about life and healing after inescapable hurt. This is a survivor story, written in a raw, yet tender way.
I was moved to tears and late for work because I couldn’t stop reading when I reached the last chapters.
Thank you Rae, for making survivors feel seen.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t think I’ve ever felt as many emotions while reading one book as I did with If You’re Reading This. I was giggling, sad, frustrated, hopeful and genuinely happy at different points, sometimes all within the same chapter. I laughed out loud, felt my chest tighten in anticipation, cried hardcore and found myself relating to Danny many times. It pulled me in completely and made me care in a way that stuck with me long after I finished. Even months later, I still remember how intensely it made me feel. This is one of those books that doesn’t just tell a story, it puts you through it emotionally and you’re going to thank Rae for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was beautiful! It was also heavy and uncomfortable for me. I laughed and cried and it hit really, really close to home! There are no crisitisms for it, it is a heavy topic and a good writer should make you feel alllll of it. Rae definitely does! Danny does not want to continue life, his mind is made up and he has a plan. Then Danny meets Iris and maybe his mind isnt so made up, maybe... I was so invested in seeing Danny find his way through his struggle that I shared nightly updates with my husband and he too became invested! Rae has a way with words that pulls you in immediately and her characters become people in your life.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book absolutely wrecked me—in the best possible way. The emotions hit hard and just kept building, layer after layer, until everything exploded in a breathtaking crescendo. It made me feel things I honestly didn’t know a book could make me feel.
I was in tears by the end, completely undone. I couldn’t put it down for a second, and when I finally finished, I just sat there staring at the book in silence, trying to comprehend what I had just experienced.
I still can’t believe it’s over. I already know I’ll be reading it again. Ray Lloyd is on another level entirely—each book somehow more original, more powerful, and more unforgettable than the last.
I was in tears by the end, completely undone. I couldn’t put it down for a second, and when I finally finished, I just sat there staring at the book in silence, trying to comprehend what I had just experienced.
I still can’t believe it’s over. I already know I’ll be reading it again. Ray Lloyd is on another level entirely—each book somehow more original, more powerful, and more unforgettable than the last.
January 27, 2026
It’s 11:15 at night and I just finished this book and knew I couldn’t go to sleep without writing this review. This is the first book I’ve read by Rae Lloyd and to say I loved it would be an absolute understatement.
From the perspective of an avid reader this book captivated me from the prologue and never let up on me. As a mental health professional this story was an amazing journey that I felt privileged to be allowed to go on with these characters. I don’t want to reveal any spoilers so I will leave my review by simply saying that I will be recommending this book to anyone who asks if I’ve read anything great lately
From the perspective of an avid reader this book captivated me from the prologue and never let up on me. As a mental health professional this story was an amazing journey that I felt privileged to be allowed to go on with these characters. I don’t want to reveal any spoilers so I will leave my review by simply saying that I will be recommending this book to anyone who asks if I’ve read anything great lately
January 31, 2026
This book is raw and beautiful. Rae did an amazing job of weaving past and present, broken and healed. Everyone needs an Iris in their life… and Danny? I think there’s a fraction of Danny in everyone—whether as a flicker of self doubt or as a heartbreakingly real demon. Danny’s character showed us how living is messy while Iris reminded us that’s okay. The flickers of hesitation and realization that Danny had were so honest and refreshing because life is never black and white. Sometimes you need to shatter a mug against a wall or break down in tears. I will be talking about this book for a while!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is my favorite book from this author so far. The cover is beautiful, as always, but it’s what’s inside that truly stays with you.
The author has such a powerful way with words, you don’t just read the story, you feel it. The pain, the love, the anxiety, the fragile hope woven throughout every page. I found myself reading it slower than I normally would, almost selfishly stretching it out because I didn’t want it to end. I was honestly a little afraid of the ending and what it might do to my heart.
This isn’t just a love story it’s a survival story. And it’s one that lingered with me long after I turned the final page
The author has such a powerful way with words, you don’t just read the story, you feel it. The pain, the love, the anxiety, the fragile hope woven throughout every page. I found myself reading it slower than I normally would, almost selfishly stretching it out because I didn’t want it to end. I was honestly a little afraid of the ending and what it might do to my heart.
This isn’t just a love story it’s a survival story. And it’s one that lingered with me long after I turned the final page
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rae Lloyd knocked it out of the park again!
If you want a book that hits all the emotions, this is it. I gasped out loud, laughed, smiled, and cried while reading it.
Danny’s story is written so well that it honestly feels like you’re right there with him, living everything as it happens.
The emotions are raw, and the reminder that you’re not alone hits hard. This book could honestly be life-changing for the right person.
If you want a book that feels real, emotional, and sticks with you long after you’re done, definitely pick this one up.
If you want a book that hits all the emotions, this is it. I gasped out loud, laughed, smiled, and cried while reading it.
Danny’s story is written so well that it honestly feels like you’re right there with him, living everything as it happens.
The emotions are raw, and the reminder that you’re not alone hits hard. This book could honestly be life-changing for the right person.
If you want a book that feels real, emotional, and sticks with you long after you’re done, definitely pick this one up.
January 26, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️WOW … I don’t even know what to say. This book was amazing. It was so emotional. It really makes you think about all of the post you are looking at on social media in a different light. Are they actually ok? Is this a cry for attention? The depth that the author goes into Danny’s emotional turmoil is phenomenal! I laughed in this book, I cried, I was disturbed. It was everything. Definitely check your triggers as there is foster child abuse (sexual assault), the entire book is about suicide, and other things. But if you can get through it, it is definitely worth the read!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Rae has done it again!!
Such a powerful book that had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The whole time reading it I was wondering what Danny was going to do next. It wasn’t like her other books and honestly I think it was my favorite out of her other ones so far. Had an intense message in it as well that will help people understand that there is always help for you even though you may not want it. Iris did a great job with that also. The whole thing was just so well written. I can’t wait until your next one!! Keep em coming!!
Such a powerful book that had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The whole time reading it I was wondering what Danny was going to do next. It wasn’t like her other books and honestly I think it was my favorite out of her other ones so far. Had an intense message in it as well that will help people understand that there is always help for you even though you may not want it. Iris did a great job with that also. The whole thing was just so well written. I can’t wait until your next one!! Keep em coming!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omg, just wow! This book is something else and let me see if I can explain why. I have read Rae’s other books but this one hit differently. I thought I knew what kind of book it will be but this one made you feel all the feels, the words hit you so deep, the struggles that Danny went through, the sobbing (which you can almost hear) the laughter, the fear and wow, the pain that you can literally feel. Only start reading this when you know you can finish it in one shot as it’s not easy to put down. Read it and you will see exactly what I mean, you won’t regret it!
Review of advance copy
This book was both powerful and heartbreaking. It truly opened my eyes to the depth of what others endure. The story was deeply emotional from beginning to end, and the ending completely caught me off guard with a major plot twist I never saw coming. I found myself crying near the end because of what unfolded. This is a story that makes you feel everything—sadness, shock, empathy, and hope—all at once.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This story captured my attention from the moment the story began. I felt a connection to Danny. I have suffered with depression and found myself struggling with reasons to stay. Danny’s struggle felt personal and I felt like this story was a version of therapy for me. From darkness to light, this books sends you on an eye opening journey of Danny’s trauma and his growth. Thank you Rae for this story. Beautifully written.
Review of advance copy
What can I say. This book was amazing. The story is sweet and dark at the same time. It is simple yet so very complicated. I found it so hard to put it down.
I felt so much reading this. I gasped outloud. I shed tears. It had me wishing I could be in there to help, to hurt and to share the tears. I didn't want it end. It sent me for a loop I did not expect to feel so much. It was a lot in the best way possible.
I felt so much reading this. I gasped outloud. I shed tears. It had me wishing I could be in there to help, to hurt and to share the tears. I didn't want it end. It sent me for a loop I did not expect to feel so much. It was a lot in the best way possible.
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