Elliott Redeemed

Preload #2

by Scarlett Cole

A single mom and tortured musician find common ground in Scarlett Cole's Elliott Redeemed, the second standalone romance about the band Preload.

Elliott “Pyro” Dawson burns up the lead guitar like a legend. But the nickname Pyro isn’t just a clever play on words. It’s much darker. A past he's fought like hell to overcome.

Grocery store cashier Kendalee Walker is at her wits end and homeless. She's watched her fourteen-year-old son, Daniel, go so far off the rails, he can no longer see the tracks.

When the two are brought together, attraction flares, but the life of a badass rockstar couldn’t be more different than that of a struggling mom. Can Elliott find the family he never had with the sexy woman and her son, or will he fall back on dangerous habits?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Music, Contemporary Romance, Musicians, Dark, Abuse

384 pages, Paperback

First published August 29, 2017

About the author

Four-time RITA finalist, Scarlett Cole, is a contemporary romantic suspense / contemporary romance author (represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency) who calls both Toronto, Canada and Manchester, England home. A born city dweller, she periodically quashes the urge to live in the country by hiking up a mountain to remind herself that living away from people would terrify the pants off her.

She believes everybody deserves their love story to be told and loves her heroes on the rough and rugged side…and usually tall (because she married one of those 6ft 6” men you read about in romance!). She’s an A-type personality and Scorpio star sign, so good luck getting her to do anything she doesn’t want to.

When she isn’t writing, she’s happy to talk hot men and expensive shoes while drinking a cold gin and tonic. Don’t bring up olives. As far as Scarlett is concerned, they are the devil’s food. As long as you don’t bring up olives, she’s happy to hear from any time.

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If you want to know more about Scarlett's books, visit her at:
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Reviews

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

NOW LIVE!
Amazon * Barnes & Noble
Excerpt & Giveaway HERE.



Elliott Redeemed is the second in Scarlett Cole's Preload series, and follows Elliott Dawson as he meets a kid who he can relate to about his deepest secrets. Elliott also meets the kid's mom and feels an undeniable pull to her that he's never experienced before. Something about this mother and son force him to come to terms with parts of his life that he would rather forget. But Kendalee also brings out his protective side and Elliott refuses to just leave the struggling single mom alone to face her worries.

This book had me in tears, and these characters broke my heart. Elliott was such a strong character and I really admired him for never giving up on Kendalee and her son, Daniel. But what really made me love him was when we got to see how vulnerable he was around Daniel and how well he handled that situation. He never gave up on them and I really loved how determined he was when it came to their well being.

Kendalee was going through the toughest time in her life, and she she wasn't really sure how she was going to handle. So when Elliott came around offering his help, even though she was a little hesitant to take it, she eventually did. I liked how much she cared for her son and would do anything for him, but I also liked that she didn't stop herself from living her own life. Elliott was there for her when no one else was, and she never pushed him away like many would have done. I really liked her character for that reason, and I found her to be the perfect person for Elliott.

I did have a little issue with the ending and felt like it could have ended with more of an answer on a few things. But that didn't stop me from loving this book and these characters. I am in love with all of these band members, and I'm already counting down the days until we can get more of them.

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Aestas Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG!! This was such a GORGEOUS ROMANCE!! It was everything I was hoping it would be — heartfelt, sexy and full of feels!! And let me tell you, this hero was PURE ALPHA SWOON material!! If you love tortured heroes, strong heroines, gorgeous family dynamics, no stupid drama, and sexy swoon-filled love stories, you have to read this book!

So the story is about Elliot, a famous rock star with a tragic, painful past that had left him scarred inside and out. After child services removed him from his abusive home, he'd been bounced from foster family to foster family until he ended up in a group home which was where he bonded with a set of boys who would one day become his bandmates. They were not only close friends, but had truly become a family -- a close knit support network that were with each other through everything and shared an understanding of all that they'd survived together.

When he and his band arrive home from an exhausting international tour, he's looking forward to some rest but an unexpected request comes through for him to visit a children's hospital. It's there that he comes across a young teen boy lying in bed with severe burns and a heart-breaking story that he can relate to on a very personal and painful level. Having been through something very similar himself, he's compelled to reach out and help this kid however he can. And when he meets the boy's mother everything changes for him. She's beautiful, shy, and makes his heart race. He wants to help her and her boy in a way he can't even explain and he can't stop thinking about either one.

“You’re taking care of Daniel,” Elliot said calmly… “And I just decided I am taking care of you. Food. Shower, for as long as you need, then bed.”
“You can’t just kidnap me,” Kendalee argued. “Ever hear of consent?”
“It would appear that I am. And I can just see the two of us in court. Your honor, the woman needed some goddamn food, and I made her eat it. I am a cruel man,” he said somberly.

She of course can't believe that the rock star from her son's posters is really standing there trying to get her to accept his help and maybe coax her on a date or two but she also can't explain the way she feels drawn towards him...

“You moaned when my lips were on your skin.”
“You’re determined to ruin my mornings, aren’t you?” she asked, but the stern face she was trying to maintain was slipping, and he saw the makings of a smile in the twitch at the corner of her mouth.
“Hey, you only need to say the word, and I’ll not only make your morning, I’ll make your whole fucking week.”
The mask fell completely as she burst out laughing as he’d intended her to. “Honestly, Elliot. I have no idea what to do with you.”
“Well, you can leave that to me, because I’ve got at least twenty idea of what to do with you.”

Now, she's about a decade older than his twenty-seven years so the age gap was an adjustment for both of them. But the numbers meant little when compared to their growing love for each other. He was falling in love for the first time and she was experiencing true love after years of being in a loveless marriage.

Beware. Here come the shouty caps now because YOU GUYS!!! Elliot is DREAMY. He's SWOONY, SEXY, HEART-MELING. Gahhh!!! I dare you not to fall in love with him. I've always said that good-hearted tortured heroes are my favorite and he fit the bill in every way. I loved the way he cared so deeply for her and how he kept pushing to help her in a way that was always sweet, respectful and never crossed the line.

“It’s cool, Mom.” Daniel grinned at Elliot. “Are you and my mom dating?” He said the word as if it were the craziest idea ever.
… Elliot looked toward her first and took her hand, then turned to Daniel. “Yeah, we are. Is that a problem?”
“No,” Daniel said, confidently. “Just… she deserves… Just take care of her, okay?”

Elliot was definitely one of those "no games, no lies, no bullshit" type of guys (which you all know are my favorite) and whenever things got rough, he just pulled in closer and convinced her to work with him to get through whatever came up together. I also loved the way they TALKED through their issues. There was genuinely no stupid drama in this entire book. The characters made mistakes, but they were honest and understandable ones and it was so heart-warming to see them grow and worth through everything together.

“I’m mad, Elliot. Borderline furious. I don’t know how wise that is. Perhaps I should just go to Rachel’s and sleep on it. We could talk in—"

“No. That’s not us. When things get hard we pull toward each other, never away. Promise me, Lee. It’s the only rule I want.”

I also loved how protective he was of her son. Helping Daniel's through his trauma also forced Elliot to face his own past and confront everything he's tried so hard to bury. But it was worth it to him if it mean that he could help this kid in a way no one had been able to help him when he'd needed it.

“As a child,” he said deliberately… “I struggled with the lack of control in my life. I struggled with not feeling safe. Ever. I think that’s why I am able to help Daniel, because I actually know what it feels like to really walk a mile in his shoes.”

This book also had absolutely gorgeous family dynamics. Each book in this series is a standalone about a different couple, but you can read this book as a complete standalone. I had not read any of the other ones and I was never confused. I was able to emotionally connect to all the characters and I genuinely loved reading about this group.

Y'know, not every book is for every reader. And I think every avid reader is on a constant quest to find their next favorite book. Prior to reading this, I DNF'ed two other books in a row. They just weren't for me. But when that happens it leaves you wondering if maybe it's you who's off their game. Then I opened this book and I just instantly instantly connected to it. It's such a magical feeling every time that happens. I love it. I crave it. This is why I read.

Like I said, if you love tortured swoony heroes, strong single mom heroines, sexy romance, no drama but just the right dash of angsty, emotion, and feels, then this is a book you should read! I loved it and highly recommend it!

Rating: 4.5 stars!! Contemporary Adult Romance, can standalone.


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[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, let me say that I love this cover! Secondly, I think this is my favorite book in the series. It's my favorite because I absolutely loved the way Elliot pursued Kendalee. Elliot knew he wanted her and he went after her. He recreated her Pinterest boards! I love that! Plus, there is very little pushing away and no other women drama. For a rocker book, that's pretty rare.

There is some pretty heavy subject matter dealing with physical and sexual abuse, but I really like how the author handled everything. This whole series deals with some sort of past abuse since all the guys grew up in a group home together. It's part of the appeal of this series. These guys are super close and they have each others backs. We get to see these men overcome horrible pasts and succeed in an industry that is hard to succeed in while finding a woman who helps heal them. Great series! ARC provided by NetGalley.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elliot’s book is the second one in the Preload series! While this wasn’t my favourite, it had nothing to do with the sweet, sexy Elliot! I just felt that the relationship between Elliot and Kendalee went almost too quickly given the circumstances!

They meet at the children’s hospital where Lee’s son Daniel is admitted due to severe third degree burns over his lower half of his body. Daniel is a fourteen year old boy who burned his house down...he has so much emotional baggage it’s very sad...Elliot is visiting hurt kids, which Daniel ends up getting the benefit too, and when his rockstar idol comes to his room, it perks up the tortured teen!

When Elliot meets Daniel’s Mom...sparks fly and all he is compelled to do is take care of her and her son! There is so much more to this story but all I can absolutely say is that Elliot is such a sweetheart and even with his own emotional torment he treats Lee and Daniel like royalty!
I love too that he’s 10 years younger than her! It adds a different dynamic to their relationship that I enjoyed!!

All in all, a super read! This series continues to be emotional, romantic and very sexy! Each of these band members hold a special piece of my heart!!! I won’t ever forget their tortured souls!

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Elliott Redeemed by Scarlett Cole was an emotional and heartfelt read, and I loved it!

I loved the storyline, it was one of those stories that once you start reading you don't want to put down.
Elliott /"Pyro" and Kendalee were likable, relatable and I loved watching their romance develop.
These two were perfect for each other, Kendalee brought peace and calmness into Elliott's world and he brought love, trust, security and respect into her life.
Watching him with Kendalee was sweet, heartwarming and I loved that the age difference never once bothered Elliott, for me this added to my admiration of him and showed how much he loved her.

What I loved most of all was Elliott with Daniel, Kendalee's son. Oh boy did these two pull at my heartstrings, the instant connection they shared and the comfort Daniel found being with Elliott truly broke my heart.
I hated that these two tortured souls found a connection from sharing their demons :'(



Elliott Redeemed was a great read, I smiled, I laughed, I cried, I swooned and then I swooned some more.
This is the second book from the Preload series, each book can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them.

Can't wait for Nikan's book next in Nikan Recovered due for release October 17th 2017.

*Purchase Links*
Amazon - http://amzn.to/2kWTsB7
Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/2kSn9Yc
Barnes & Noble - http://ow.ly/GOIj30eo32p
Chapters Indigo - http://ow.ly/w2Gz30eo30X
iBooks - http://ow.ly/MRIm30eo2Zd

*A big thank you to the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.*

[Carvanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is more than the story of two people meeting and falling in love. This is the story of three individuals who are each broken in their own ways, each floundering to keep the fissures in their souls hidden from the world. Elliott Redeemed is filled with so much depth and emotion I felt myself being transported into the very center of these characters lives.

Kendalee and Elliott’s relationship was absolutely beautiful. I smiled, I laughed, I sighed and I swooned. However, Daniel, Kendalee’s son, and Elliott’s relationship can only be described as inspiring. It moved me to tears. Heartbroken tears, grief stricken tears, and then finally the cleansing tears of healing.

I won’t go into detail about the storyline. I felt the blurb did this book justice while allowing these characters’ stories to unfold naturally and I was glad I did not have more going into it. This was a spectacular read and if you don’t mind some angst with your romance, growth in your characters, adult responses to life situations, and a touch of humor to offset it all, this is the perfect book for you.

ARC provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press

Dual POV
Safe
Triggers Childhood physical and sexual abuse

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

Omg I need Elliott.



I have been dying for more of this series since Jordan's book. (Which was brilliant by the way) Elliot is a great guy, the things he has been through is horrible. He had no childhood it was robbed from him and it's something he will never forget. All he ever wanted was a family that luv him for who he was and he found that in his band Preload. The guys meet in a home years ago and they have been together ever since they so have there own problems but together they help each other. But lately Elliott was seeing some of his band members getting there own little family and he wanted that so much but he didn't think he could ever have that. He was still dealing with some heavy problems and they could get in the way of him having a family if he couldn't get things under control.



Kendalee is a hard working protective mother see would do anything for her teen son Daniel and at the min Daniel needs her more than anything. Kendalee as been through so much the least few year her husband is a cheat and causes drama and then there is the hard times she is going through with Daniel. That poor boy had me in tears throughout this book my heart broke for him. A little boy shouldn't have to go through what he did and he needed his family more than ever. But his mum is the only person he can trust and that was hard for him. Kendalee put her son first and always will but when she saw her son talking to the very sexy Elliott she starts feeling things she hasn't in a long while and she actually thought she shouldn't feel them she was still married and he looked younger than her but whatever he was talking to him about she hadn't seen that look on his face in a while and she could help them get a lil stronger.



These two characters have been through so much but together they seem to gel. They both have a lot to deal with and a lot of healing to do. There sexy chemistry is so strong that they find it hard to keep away from each other and with Elliott an his sexy texts talk and being a great guy it's hard not to fall for him. The way he his with Daniel just melted my heart so much. I thought no one from This band could take over Jordan I luv him so much but Elliott is up there with him. I could talk about him for ages there is just so much he did in this book that I luvd.



This book has me a wreck by the time it was finished. But I luvd every minute of it it was amazing. The story has me ducked in from the very start and till the very end. I couldn't get enough of it. This author really knows how to keep your attention. When you think the story is going to start calming down a little it take another turn and get even better. She really knows how to put a story together and come up with story lines that are amazing.



I would highly recommend this book. It can be read as a standalone but I would read the first book first. You get to see the rest of the guys in this book and it's another thing that I luv about this book is that you get to know more about them. The author also likes to tease you with what could happen with the other guys as well. I need Nikan's book so much right now. Overall there wasn't a thing that I didn't like about this book. Brilliant.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received for review

Another great Preload novel. These boys had a lot of issues to overcome. Elliott does it and helps out Kendalee's son, Daniel, in the process. There's no insta-love, but a very sweet love story. Remind me to let my future husband have "access" to my Pinterest boards.

Can't wait to see what Ms. Cole has in store for Nikan and Lennon.

[Rachael*Caribbean*girl*bibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoilers ahead, 3.5*


Elliott and his bandmate are asked to visit a sick child at hospital, while there Elliott is asked to visit another child and there he meets Daniel and his mom. For Elliott the attraction to Kendalee is instantaneous but as much as Elliott likes her and her son trying to help them brings his own demons roaring back

Kendalee has had a rough couple months, from finding out her husband is cheating to his leaving her for his younger Assistant and the most heartbreaking news of all that her fourteen years old son Daniel has been abused by her husband's twin brother...a man she'd trusted around her son. When Daniel acts out about his abuse and burns their house down as well as badly burning himself in the process Kendalee finds herself in a world of darkness. With her bank account drained by her husband and having been a stay at home mom for years Kendalee finds work at a grocery store and living in a friend's basement. Angry at all the twists her life has taken she has to put her son first and spend all her time at the hospital....to her shock it's a rock star a decade younger than her who turns out to be everything she never knew she needed

**********
So this was a tough one for me, I cried a few times as the book progressed. This isn't an easy book to read Elliot was physically abused as a child and we live through some flashbacks, Daniel was sexually abused by his uncle and we live through his telling of it but it was also a really emotional tale of three people who'd been through hell but held on to each other to reach the other side.

I loved Elliott, he'd been a typical rocker with his one night stands and such but he was only about Lee from the moment he met her.

Kendalee was a good h as well but my weakness is always for single parents and she was an awesome mom stuck in a really tough situation that was really heartbreaking and she just tried her best to hold it together for her son. I was scared when she initially refused Elliott's help, thinking she'd be one of those h's who needed help but was too stubborn to accept it. Thankfully she pulled herself together and compromised. She had a moment where she disappointed me with her reaction to Elliot's backstory but she went after him soon enough.

Kendalee's ex was around and he caused a bit of drama with wanting her back but she was smart enough to choose the better man

I appreciated the fact that Elliott accepted that he needed therapy to deal with his recurring issues of pyromania. Too many times in romance novels serious issues are brushed aside and solved by the love of the significant other and that is just too unrealistic for me

I did feel that there was a bit too much internal monologue and not enough dialogue between the mcs but I worked with it

All in all I enjoyed this one and may try the rest in this series


Child physical and sexual abuse
H had his share of women and his bandmates are manwhores as well
OM drama
Condom use except they didn't use it one time and nobody mentioned testing dammit
Older woman/younger man

[Anna lost in stories *A* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I get into any of my thoughts and feelings about this gem that I absolutely devoured in one sitting, I have to loudly and publicly say: J, you were right :) J is my younger sister and ever since she read this whole series months and months ago, she’s been pestering me to pick it up… because we started it sort of around the same time, but then I took a break after the first one and just… didn’t pick up this sequel for the longest time… I have no idea why… probably my reading mood changed and I was craving fantasy or whatnot… so it wasn’t until yesterday when I finally started this one… and then proceeded to read it in one sitting… I just couldn’t put it down :) fair warning, all of the stories in this series all about musicians from one band are very emotional and talk about multiple of serious issues… just in this one we have pyromania, as well as physical and sexual abuse… all of the guys in that group come from one foster home and deal with many issues… but I have to say that Scarlett Cole does an amazing job to always portray all of that very thoughtfully… her characters are always very complex… yes, they are flawed and make mistakes… sometimes very big ones… but they also act like adults and talk about it and try to deal with things in the best possible way… in this book we have a pretty unlikely couple… Kendalee is 37, with a 14 year old son currently in a hospital, going through a divorce, when she meets Elliott, a member of Preload, who is visiting a kid in the same hospital (like make-a-wish situation) they have immediate connection, but the timing of it all couldn’t have been worse… not only they have that spark, but Elliott really understands what Daniel, her son, is going through… which is hard and triggering for him as well… I don’t want to share too many details, because the story unfolds better if you know less at the beginning, but… *sighs* I am just in awe of Scarlett’s writing style… it’s absolutely amazing… she creates these beautifully complex characters and then shows us that even in very dark times, we can find something wonderful… how that little spark with another person can ignite in us things we didn’t expect are there… honestly you guys, at this point I am too much in awe of the story to sit down and write a more detailed review, so let me say this… I highly recommend this book, this whole series… just this author in general :) if you haven’t yet picked up her stories, you are missing out… and I am off to read the next installment :)

XOXO

A

[Rê · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 “Fire & Rock’n’Roll” Stars

ARC via NetGalley.

Thank you, Swerve!

I don't know why I keep getting surprised at how much I enjoy Scarlett Cole's books, especially when they're about one of my favorite romance tropes: rock stars.

I read Jordan Reclaimed, the first book in the Preload series in the beginning of the year and went all Wow, this is a pleasant surprise, and yet again felt the same way about Elliott Redeemed, which, yeah, totally makes me look silly.

Scarlett Cole has proven time and time again that she can write great, hot and angsty romance. She did it with her romantic suspense series, and, in my humble opinion, she's doing it even better now with the Preload series.

I'm still so very much in love with all the band members, and dying to get my hands on the next titles. I'm guessing Lennon's story will reduce me to ashes, so I'm here...not-so-patiently waiting for that.



Elliott Redeemed (this title is impossible to spell right with all the double laters. LOL) is the story of band's guitarist, and just like the rest of his friends, he has some serious issues due to a troubled childhood. Issues that follow him to this day. Elliott is a diagnosed pyromaniac, but he's been keeping his urge to set things on fire under certain level control. This control is threatened when Elliott visits a kids' hospital and meets Daniel, a teen who burned himself badly after setting fire to his parents' house.

Elliott also meets Daniel's mom, Kendalee, and that's when the romance kicks in.

I really enjoyed the fact that Kendalee was older than Elliott. She was a mature woman going through a lot (husband had cheated and left her, kid in the hospital, homeless), and she found in Elliott a chance to start things new. A chance to live her dreams and fantasies. Despite their age difference, I never felt like Kendalee had to "teach" Elliott anything. It felt more like they were both learning from each other, and trying to hold on to each other and build a new, happy life. *sighs*

One thing I wished had been better explored about Kendalee was her relationship with religion. I liked seeing a religious woman as the main character, but I thought the story could've explored that element better. I didn't feel like there was a conclusion to that arc.

I also wished Kendalee had been divorced already. I didn't feel like that plot involving her ex-husband added to the story in a positive way. Their romance didn't need another obstacle with everything that was already going on--Kendalee's doubt about how she fit in Elliott's life and how he fit in hers, her situation with Daniel and everything that had happened to him, and Elliott's secret and how it influenced Daniel's life. So the whole divorce thing was unecesssary, and almost left a bad taste in my mouth because she was still legally married when she started getting involved with Elliott.

Those two elements aside, I truly enjoyed how Kendalee and Elliott found each other and developed a beautiful relationship. I loved Elliott for putting himself out there to help Daniel, even though it was hard and brought back bad memories. I also loved the few scenes we got with the rest of the band members and their loved ones interacting.

As I said before, I'm anxious to see what Scarlett Cole writes next for these rock stars, and I'll try not to be surprised at how much I'll probably like that one, too.

[Treena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

Scarlett Cole is one of my go-to authors because her stories are so vivid, captivating, and heartwarming. She has a gift for making people on paper come to life and her words draw you into the lives of the characters. You want the characters to be real, to be your friends, and to grow with them.

Now for Elliott's story. Hoo boy! I have to warn you guys, you'll need tissues handy as you're reading this. There were times I was a snot-nosed mess huddled in bed trying to not to wake up my hubby and my kid. I was sniffling so loud. I'm not kidding. And if I wasn't crying, I was laughing during certain scenes. I was a crazy mess. But imo, the books that make me cry AND also make me laugh like an idiot... the ones that touch my heart and turn me into said hot mess are what I consider to be damn effing fantastic reads. This is one of them.

It's stories like this --- like Elliott, Kendalee and Daniel (Kendalee's son) that satisfy my booklover's heart. This book is more than a romance. At it's heart, it's about love, family, and relationships. You'll go on a journey that's at times heartbreaking and hard but at the end of it, you'll cheer for Elliott, Kendalee, and Daniel. I was so happy at how it all ended. I loved it.

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

This is the second book in Scarlett Cole’s Preload series about a band of metal rockers who had a hellish childhood, met in a group home and formed a band and became a tight-knit brotherhood – a ‘family’ that have been there for each other through thick and thin. Each of them have their demons to deal with, and lead guitarist Elliott ‘Pyro’ Dawson’s story brings us a beautiful, unexpected romance that absolutely stole my heart.

A fourteen-year-old boy made me realize I wasn’t whole. His mom made me realize I wanted to be.

First of all, I need to declare mad love for Elliott. His past left him scarred inside and out, and he still deals with dangerous impulses (mostly to do with fire – hence the nickname), but he has overcome so much, and as he watches his bandmates fall in love and start to build families of their own, he starts to long for something for himself, but fears he will never find it. It’s on a charity visit to a hospital to visit sick kids that he meets Daniel, a 14 year old boy who is in hospital with bad burns. Something about the boy reminds Elliott of himself, and he feels an instant connection to the troubled boy. And when he meets Daniel’s mother, she pretty much instantly knocks him off his feet.

Kendalee is Daniel’s mother. Daniel is all she has after her husband left them both for another woman, and when Daniel burned their family house to the ground as an act of vengeance against a painful past, the two of them were left homeless. She has been sleeping at a friend’s house with no money or possessions, working at a convenience store to get by and now her beloved son is injured and suffering. She’s at rock bottom. But when Elliott comes into Daniel’s life, she sees a spark in her troubled son that has been missing for so long. And more than that, the long-haired, tatted-up rocker shows her compassion and understanding, and gives her a shoulder to cry on when she needs it the most.

Oh Elliott, you stole my heart just as you did Kendalee’s. He is so much more than the rough, dirty rocker that he appears to be. He is a beautifully sensitive soul who is kind hearted, generous and sweet, and what he wants most is to be there for Kendalee and Daniel, helping them out and doing all he can to make their situation better. The fact that he wants her in a way that he’s never wanted anybody before is just the icing on the cake.

He had a job to do. To allow himself to fall in love with Kendalee, and to help Daniel. He couldn’t let his own shit get in the way … But would Kendalee stick around long enough for him to transform into the man he wanted to become?

And OMG I love these two together! From the first moment they are together there is a spark of something between them, but neither of them are in a place where they are ready to act on it. A slow friendship develops, which slowly and naturally turns into more - an open, honest and functional relationship that is sweet, passionate, real, emotional and beautifully, beautifully swoony.

“I want this,” he said with every ounce of honesty in his body. “You and me, Kendalee. I know there’s a pile of shit taller than the CN Tower that we have to deal with. But tell me this isn’t some experiment. That you aren’t going to just leave me, that you aren’t going to decide I’m not worth it,” he said, exposing his largest fear to her.
She cupped his cheek and he leaned into it. “I don’t know what the hell is going on in my life right now. But I’ll tell you this, Elliott. You are the only bright spark in it. This isn’t ‘some experiment’.”
… “Good. Because this,” he said, gesturing between the two of them, “is too damn…precious to be fleeting.”

I could feel the connection between Elliott and Kendalee, and loved watching their relationship develop. Elliott is there for her every step of the way and I just adored how understanding and gentle he was with her as he enters into the first relationship of his life. But don’t go thinking he’s a complete sappy pushover. The man is hotter than all hell with strong alpha tendencies. He knows what he wants, and he goes after it, and after all of that build-up, the sexy time is absolutely steaming! Emotional and passionate, down and dirty, Elliott and Kendalee’s connection in the bedroom is sizzling, and a reflection of their growing feelings for each other.



I loved Kendalee. Her situation is extreme and heartbreaking, and you can’t help but admire the way she just deals with it and carries on. I thought her reaction to Elliott and her doubts and fears about something developing between them were really well done. Not only is he ten years older than her, but they come from completely different lives, and there are some hurdles to cross. But I love how openly she accepts him into her life, bravely embracing all that he has to offer and giving herself over to him completely.

But they both have a lot going on in their lives, and with all of Kendalee’s drama, Elliott fears that his demons will be too much for her and Daniel. It’s going to take a lot of courage and understanding for them to get through everything that is potentially standing in their way.

“When things bet hard we pull toward each other, never away. Promise me, Lee. It’s the only rule I want.”

I loved this book. It’s a beautifully written, emotional story that grabbed from the very beginning and didn’t let me go. My heart broke for these characters and the individual battles they are facing, and there are some triggers to be aware of (child physical and sexual abuse), but it sets the scene for a beautiful love story that had me melting into a puddle of goo on the floor.

And as special as their romance is, Daniel is also an important part of their story, and I love how we got to see his relationship with his mom, as well as watching the special bond between him and Elliott. I love how Daniel opens up to his idol, and the way he openly accepts him as a part of his life – opening up to him and leaning on him as a pillar of support - is gorgeous and absolutely heartwarming.

As expected, the rest of the Preload boys are a big part of the story, and I not only loved catching up with the boys and their growing families, I loved seeing them all rally around to support Elliott, Kendalee and Daniel. This is a true family, and I love seeing it grow in each book. And speaking of which, there’s a great setup for Nikan’s book up next, and I cannot wait for it!

I loved this one! 4.5 stars.

Advanced Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Janja · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first story from this author and I can say it's not the last one.
The story touches the taboo topics that get you , when you imagine what and how the main heroes feel and how they fight from day to day.
Simply a deep and emotional story that reaches your heart.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second story in this Preload series and is such an emotional roller coaster ride - simply superb, though it deals with many disturbing issues so should, perhaps, come with a warning for anyone to whom such things may be triggers. Without giving too many spoilers away, this story involves physical, emotional and sexual abuse of children, arson and pyromania.

The members of the group Preload met whilst staying in a foster home and it is there that they became a family. The lady running the home encouraged them to play music and now they're a highly successful group. However, each member has his own particular demon from their past that affects how they behave and relate to others. The first story was Jordan Reclaimed and I loved that so I jumped at reading this sequel! 

This time Elliott Dawson is the member of the group who is the focus for this story. He reluctantly visits a hospital for sick children and it is a visit that will change his life. Whilst there he meets fourteen year old Daniel Walker who has suffered extensive burns after setting his home on fire. His mother, Kendalee Walker, is desperately trying to remain positive for her son, despite the fact that they are now homeless and so many traumatic events have happened to her during the last year. Elliott's nickname is 'Pyro' and his trigger is also fire. Daniel is a big fan of Preload and instantly connects with Elliott but the events in Daniel's life also act as a trigger for Elliott. When Kendalee comes in to visit, the attraction between them flares. However, she's a decade older than him, still married, homeless and has to continue to support Daniel. Whilst facing so many problems in her life can she give Elliott a chance? Can Elliott overcome his fears and temptations to find the family he really wants?

This truly is an emotional roller coaster with so many issues, twists and turns, you're never quite sure what will be around the next corner. It is an emotive read, a story of a journey from very dark places, overcoming so many things along the way, on the road to a much happier and loving future. It was great to learn more about other members of the band and to travel with Elliott, Kendalee and Daniel as they explored their relationships and helped each other along the way. This is a very moving story and I can't wait to read more about other members of Preload in future!

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars - 3 Flames

Although you don't necessarily have to read the first installment to keep up with this, I still strongly suggest it. Not just because it's an amazing story, but you get to understand the bands bond which is extremely important (at least in my eyes).

I'm falling in love. Each and every one of these Preload men have reached in to my heart, plucking their own specific string. To think that this is only the second story from the band makes me so happy. Because I'm already counting the days until I can get my hands on the next one...

Elliott is the guitarist. The hot as sin, body of a God, tattooed sleeve hunk that every woman would drool over. But underneath the armor is a very damaged man. A man who still struggles with his own personal demons. Which is why going to a children's hospital (part of the bands charity work) isn't the best idea. Throw in the fact that he's stepping in to the burn unit and it's an even bigger mistake. That is until he meets Daniel and his gorgeous mom, Kendalee. Wait, mom? Yep. But that apparently doesn't matter to Elliott, because there's something about her that helps him. And he's willing to do just about anything to keep her.

Kendalee is having THE worst year, and even worse month. A cheating husband, a son recovering from burns he got from starting a fire that burned down the house (the reason is heartbreaking) and being homeless would be enough to make any person completely break down. But she seems to be holding it together like a champ. And now? Now there's this really hot musician that her son worships hitting on her. Yep, she's stepped in to the land of "what the heck-ville". But guess what? She's finding herself again. She's allowing someone else to take care of her for a change and it feels good. But will it last?

There is so much more to this story than a love story. The healing process that each character goes through is beautiful to watch. The love that I felt through this book really hit home on so many levels. This story is amazing. The guys in the band are amazing. The way the story was told, is amazing. Do you see where I'm going with this? Yep. Amazing!!!! I can't wait for the next one.....please be Nik....PLEASE!!!!

*I received this book from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Susan (susayq ~) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scarlett Cole writes some of the VERY BEST heroes who have so much going on in their head, but have the most tender side to them! Elliott Dawson was just A-MA-ZING :)

So, we've come back to this group of rockers who are dysfunctionality at it's finest. They met in a group home, each having a horrible childhood that placed them there. As we've come to know these guys, I've fallen for each of them. Their individual histories, their history as a family of brothers, their ability to deal with the crap life handed them and make themselves better just blows me away. And the women they fall in love with is the icing on the cake.

Elliott and Kendalee meet in a children's hospital because her son, Daniel, is there with severe burns o. His legs after having torched his family home. His situation is such a trigger for Elliott, but Elliott knows he can help the kid. Daniel and his mom help Elliot as much as he helps them. They make him realize he isn't as recovered as he thought he was and he wants to be better for them. This was as heart breaking as it was beautiful.

I think I know what will happen with Nik's story, and I'll be glad to see it. But the story I am dying for is Lennon's. It can't come soon enough.

*thanks to Barclay Publicity for sharing a copy of this with me*

[Ekaterin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Je commencerais en me demandant comment ils ont pu publier le roman avec une couverture aussi immonde. J'ai du mal à comprendre. Je sais bien que tous les goûts sont dans la nature, mais là quand même c'est vraiment moche^^

Sinon trop de pathos tue le pathos pour moi. J'aime bien la série, j'avais beaucoup aimé le tome 1. Là c'est moyen quand même. Heureusement que Scarlett Cole va à la limite sans jamais la franchir. Elle arrive quand même à redresser à réajuster le misérabiliste.
Le fait qu'Elliot décide de s'interner pour se guérir sans pour autant attendre l'amour salvateur était la meilleure chose à faire.

[Francesca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Encore des thèmes lourds dans cette histoire. J’ai aimé le personnage d’Elliott qui est un soutien indéfectible en dépit de ses propres démons, et Lee qui est une héroïne très forte et admirable.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy wow, author Scarlet Cole has really impressed me with her Preload series. I had a myriad of emotions while reading Elliott Redeemed and I’ll admit I was a bit of an emotional wreck during parts of this story, but I have to give Ms. Cole credit for the way she handled the difficult parts of this book, that she didn’t gloss over the issues contained within its pages, she showed there was no magic fix, and I appreciate that the characters were put through the paces and made to work to get better and find the happiness they deserve. Often in books I find there is a rush to finish and everything is tied up way too easily, and I applaud this author for not taking the easy way out.

The last thing Elliott Dawson wants to do after a long tour is visit a children’s hospital, yet he can’t say no and with good reason and when he stumbles upon a 14 year old boy who is a huge fan and a burn victim, he knows immediately he is in over his head and that no good can come from of it give his own issues with fire but the minute the boy’s mother walks into the room Elliott knows he can’t and won’t turn his back on them no matter the damage it might do to his own mental well being.

Kendalee Walker’s entire life was turned upside down and sideways after her son sets fire to their home and burns it to the ground. With him in the hospital and devastating burns on a large part of his body, Kendalee has no home, very few belongings, and an agitated husband who walked out on them months ago to be with his much younger assistant. Given that her son refuses to see his father adds to her stress along with her son’s worsening depression. When she walks in his room she is blinded by the man sitting next to her son, but she can’t help but notice a remarkable difference in her son or the attraction she is feeling for someone so not her type and at least 10 years her junior.

This was not an easy story, this couple has many obstacles to overcome and in addition they both were striving to put Daniel’s needs first. With an a$$hole of a soon to be ex-husband, Elliott’s own issues with fire and abuse, Daniel dealing with way more than any 14 year old should every have to deal with, and Kendalee barely hanging on by a thread there were a lot of heavy moments in this book, but they were tempered with sexy banter, the joy of a new relationship, and the hope of healing for all of them. I loved the way Elliott was determined to make things easier for Kendalee and Daniel even though his interactions with them set off his own triggers, he wanted to be strong for them. Watching Kendalee come to life with Elliott and begin to understand everything that she’d been missing in her marriage. Elliott feeling calm around Kendalee something he’d never really felt with a woman before. And watching Daniel open up to Elliott when he struggled to do so with anyone else including his therapists and watching them bond over music and so much more was a thing of beauty.

Reading as many romances as I do in a year’s time, I often see themes repeat and that’s okay, but the two books I’ve read by author Scarlet Cole have gone above and beyond in the very best of ways. Complicated and messy but with an overwhelming sense of joy, rightness, and love, Elliott Redeemed is a not to be missed romance and one of my favorites of the year.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

[Lynsey A · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 my fave of the series stars

Oh, man, I really enjoyed this latest Preload series novel. It had so many elements in it that I like. The woman, not as experienced, past lover(s) never trying new things, a sweet child that draws hero and heroine closer together, rocker romance. Just all enjoyable things.

Our heroine, Kendalee is about 10 years older than Elliott and I loved this aspect of the story. I liked the way Cole drew on it to add a little something more to the story. It was cute seeing this decade older woman fall for the younger, handsome rocker that had found his way into her life.

Elliott and Lee (as he likes to call her) had some really great scenes together. Very sweet times and very sexy and romantic times.

♥ he pulled her toward him and wrapped his arm around her. It felt like all the puzzle pieces fell into place as she rested her head on his shoulder and sighed. When she leaned into him and placed her arm across his stomach, he almost swore. His brain quieted. It was a perfect moment.

♥ He pressed his lips to hers again. He kind of liked that it was the only way he could shut her up. In fact, he looked forward to shutting her up this way for a long while to come.

♥ “Are you okay?” she asked, placing a hand on his cheek. He leaned into her hand. “I’m better with you. And I guess that’s all that really matters for now.”

♥ She cupped his cheek and he leaned into it. “I don’t know what the hell is going on in my life right now. But I’ll tell you this, Elliott. You are the only bright spark in it. This isn’t “some experiment.’”

Just a super cute couple. They did have some things to overcome, mainly Elliott's attraction to fire and the fact that her son set fire to their house and was burned over the lower half of his body, but it really didn't take up a huge amount of the story and Lee quickly found her way back.

I love these two. I love how Elliott's love for her made him want to change, made him want to be better. You could see how he felt about her and how it was changing him as a man. I can't wait to see little snippets of them in future books, exploring their relationship further.

The next book is about Nikan and that one may be hard to read because it is about him and his girlfriend, Jenny, who he cheated on when they were together. We'll have to see how Ms. Cole writes that reconciliation and if it is worth it and done well.

Quotes & Faves:

♥ She pressed her fingertips to her swollen lips. Kissing Elliott was certainly cheaper than getting fillers...

♥ “I want you to know that I love you. With every beat of my heart. I need you to know that because I’m scared that what I’m about to tell you will change how you feel about me, and I’ll never get to say it to you.”

♥ “You think you want me to fuck you like you’re nothing,” Elliott whispered against the side of the neck as he slid deep inside her. “I can’t do that. But I’ll fuck you this way because I love you. Because you are everything, not nothing. Because it’s what you need, it’s what you asked of me. And I’d do anything you’d ask me to, Lee. Because love is accepting the rough with the smooth, and right now, I’ll take you anyway I can get you."

[Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Elliott Redeemed brought me the secrets Elliott kept, of his past, of how they affected his present, and what he did to deal with his darkness. Until he met Kendalee and Daniel, he was utterly lost.


Story:
There was a lot going on in Elliott Redeemed. Preload was back from tour, and more of the band members had moved out from their common house to be with their significant others. Elliott was back to having nightmares about his childhood, and I really wasn't sure any good was going to happen for him. As he went to the Children's Hospital to visit children with cancer, he stopped by at another room as well. That's how he met Daniel. Who had set fire on his house, and ultimately got badly burned himself. The friendship that developed between the teen and the rockstar was beautiful. And the chemistry between Elliott and Kendalee was there from the beginning.

One of the things I enjoyed the most about the story was that Kendalee was ten years older than Elliott. It was difficult for her to understand what he saw in her, especially because her husband had cheated on her before ultimately walking out on her and Daniel. New beginnings, harsh pasts, and redemption were the most poignant themes.
Characters:
Elliott was in the background during Jordan Reclaimed, but he was still fleshed out. In Elliott Redeemed, I got to know all his dark, sad secrets, and I was in awe of how he did his best to deal with his inner darkness.

Kendelee had lost her self worth after her husband left her and Daniel behind for another woman. She was strong, though, and would do anything for her son.

Daniel was a troubled teen, who didn't deal with his problems in the right way. And he got burned badly, but lived to tell the tale.

The other band-members as well as the two women who had saved them were present as well, and the camaraderie between the guys was so well done.
Writing style :
Written in past tense, third person perspective mostly from Elliott's point of view, Elliott Redeemed also included flashbacks into Elliott's troubled past. The dialogues were snappy and helped getting to know the other characters well.
Feels :
My feels were on complete overtime with Elliott Redeemed! I was disgusted and horrified by what the people who were supposed to love Elliott did to him in the past. I was sad for how he felt like he'd never be deserving of love. I cheered for both him and Kendalee when they stood tall for what they believed in. And I melted with the romance and acceptance.



He climbed out of bed and grabbed a pair of shorts, his bones and muscles aching from the thirty-five-concert tour. The air-conditioning was cold enough to freeze his balls off, but outside the hot muggy August air of downtown Toronto would be more than likely to melt them.

He was pretty certain he'd never slept with a woman older than he was. But she wore it so freaking well. Yeah, there were lines at the sides of her eyes, but they told him she'd laughed often once upon a time. And she was confident. He wondered if she'd be like that in bed.

Kissing Kendalee was just like the moment a song came together. The lyrics and the instruments and the pace and the rhythm all had to collide to create a song that could touch people.

[Rain]

A reverse age gap with a single mother and a rock star?! I thought this one would be a sure thing.

No rating as I dnf just over 50% in.

Somewhat spoilery ranting below:

Superficial and insta-lust just didn’t work here. I can’t believe after meeting her ONCE, he invites her to live with him (and his band mates) and spies on her Pinterest boards to further seduce her. After hearing over and over again about all the hundreds of hook-ups he’s had all around the world, but now he’s so taken with this mom 10 years his senior, insert eye roll.

The trauma that happened to her 14-year-old son was horrific. It was written well and I could understand why he did what he did.

This story would have worked so much better had the H been more invested in healing her son (and himself), than having sex with his mother. The H was almost 30 and he acted like a horny teenager. A slow burn after all the trauma they’ve all been though would have fit perfectly. She wasn’t even divorced yet. It just felt very superficial and fantasy rather than a deeply genuine relationship build from growth, rather than hormones. Maybe it gets better, but I had zero interest in reading further.

[Tami · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

Obviously part of a series, because characters were introduced to the book before an actual introduction. AKA not good standing on it's own. (I missed book 1 if you couldn't tell.) A very wonderful book otherwise. I was captivated from the very first sentence. I hope the author takes advantage of some of the critique I left on NetGalley, because this story so deserves a 5*.

This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Maria11 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story and writing. I just couldn’t really buy into the story. It just seemed all fairy tallish to me. One look and he just wants to take care of her, buy her everything, and pay for everything without even knowing her at all. Elliot just didn’t worm his way into my heart how the others in the band did.

I liked he story. Maybe I am just burned out because I read three in a row. It is good touching story.

[EscapeNBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

​Elliott Redeemed by Author Scarlett Cole is book two in the Preload series.

"Usually he cherished the silence and the freedom to be exactly who he was, but instead he’d itched for distraction, for company, to see her again."

Elliott is the lead guitarist for heavy metal band, Preload. Kendalee is a woman down on her luck. Her life is complicated before she sets eyes on the sexy lead guitarist, but those complications are about to become even more intense when their paths collide.

I loved how Scarlett Cole slowly painted for us the picture that was Elliott. It was a testament to the complexity of his character and the depth of emotional upheaval in his life.

“You have three seconds to push my hands out of the way, sweet Lee. You don’t, and I’m taking those lips of yours.”

The first mention of Kendalee made me seethe with rage and feel heartbroken all at the same time. I was tethered to this heroine and hero. The fact that she was older than Elliott was even more compelling. My initial thoughts were that she had been hurt and destroyed and I couldn't wait to see how Elliott was going to be the catalyst for healing her broken heart. But, more than that, I became aware that Elliott had his own demons that had to be exorcised. Author Scarlett Cole wrote about his struggles in such a way that his reactions were sensed and felt through the pages.
Losing one's self to a story and its characters is a book-lover's dream. That is exactly what happened to me in Elliott Redeemed. All-in, consumed in an avalanche of memories and emotions, it was such a great read, an emotional story of unrelenting love in life's most heated trials, and finding love and forgiveness.

Covering so many delicate and difficult issues, Author Scarlett Cole gave us characters, a storyline, and love that brought light and hope to everyone involved. Elliott Redeemed was an emotional story of unrelenting love in life's most heated trials.

[Kristiej · Rating 5 out of 5]

And having read two, I had to read three

*#*#*#*#

I adore this series so much. They make great comfort reads and in these tough times we need all the comfort we ca get. This is the second book in this series and I love it and so glad to do a reread of it.

**************************

so enjoyed – in fact more than enjoyed if that’s possible – the first book in this series, Jordan Reclaimed, that I was very keen on reading this one. The series is about a successful heavy metal band, Preload, whose home base is Toronto, ON Canada. They all grew up in the system and became best of friends and even brothers in a group home. Music was their escape.

Right from that alone I’m excited as I live close to Toronto and it’s obvious the author is familiar with the city too. I recognize streets and areas and even stores so it makes the book seem even that more real. Elliott Dawson is the hero of this book. It opens not long after Jordan Reclaimed ends. There are only two of the group living in their home now and Elliott is planning on buying them all out. But in the meantime he and fellow bandmate Nikan are living together. Nikan asks if Elliott would be willing to make a hospital visit with him to visit a young fan of the group. While he has his issues with hospitals, Elliott is a real good guy and agrees. While he’s there he notices another young patient, 14 year old Daniel, a burn victim. Daniel has suffered pretty bad burns when he set his home on fire. They say like recognizes like and Elliott can tell right away that he an Daniel both suffer from the same issue, an unnatural love of fire.

Elliott has worked years to overcome attraction to fire and his need to set them. Elliott became a pyromaniac when he was young in a way to deal with the trauma of his childhood and he could sense in Daniel the same thing and he wants to help him through it. It also doesn’t hurt that Elliott is strongly attracted to Daniel’s mother Kendalee Walker.

Kendalee is attracted to Elliott too. I mean he’s very good looking and he is good to her son, a big fan of Preload. But there are SO many reasons she can’t get involved with him. She’s older than him by a few years. She was shattered when her husband left her for a younger woman and cleaned out their joint bank account. She has her son and his ongoing issues to deal with. She is homeless since Daniel burned down their home. She spends all her time at either the hospital or her part time cashier’s job at No Frills – of note here, I was a part time cashier at a grocery store for 9 years and I often shop at No Frills myself. Her ex meets Elliott and is turned off right away. Elliott is a long haired rocker whom Daniel worships and refuses to have anything to do with his father. So any kind of relationship is almost impossible. But now that Elliott has taken an interest in Daniel, he runs into Kendalee more often and the more often he runs into her, the more he wants to help her and just plain wants her. But the closer he gets to both her and Daniel, the more his own issues begin taking over as he identifies with Daniel. As Daniel begins to confess to Elliott the abuse he has suffered, the harder it is for Elliott but he knows is leading to healing for Daniel so he’s undone in whatever he does.

This is another most excellent book in this series. While I preferred Jordan Reclaimed just a tad more, it was that I found Jordan extraordinary and special. It doesn’t take away for this book at all. Elliott is such a wonderful hero, so tortured, so loyal, so honorable, so everything that makes for great hero material.

Kendalee is also very well written. She has had so much thrown at her in such a short amount of time and she deals with it so well and remains strong and such a good mother. I love it when I adore both hero and heroine.
The secondary characters are also amazing. Daniel so damaged and I love seeing the other members of the band. It’s clear by the end who is going to be matched up in the next book and I can hardly wait for that one either. I’ve already pre-ordered it. I highly recommend this book. I think it could be a stand-alone but it is worth it to read the first book to if only to get insight into the tight bond these friends and brothers have.

[HMS · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4 stars
I'll start by stating that I am loving this series and can't wait to continue with it. With that said, I thought Kendalee was a bit too precious at times, too much of a grand martyr and at times a bit boring. She had her redeeming qualities, the biggest being an advocate for her son and her capacity for forgiveness. Elliott, well, is it wrong I liked that he was a pyromaniac? He didn't harm others, but it is an extraordinarily different compulsion to give a character in this genre. Their story is wonderful but the abrupt ending had me scratching my head. All in all a good story with likable characters.

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I fell in love with the guys from Preload in Jordan's book and now Elliott. He is a damaged man who is sort of finding his way. When he goes to the hospital to visit a dying child his life changes in a way that is so drastic that it's almost comical. He still has a lot of work to do and it takes a boy and his demons and a mom and her inspirational quotes along with the love he's found for both of them for him to try to heal once and for all. The question is whether or not she will still have him after she finds out his secrets and whether she'll be there for him.

When a visit from a local band member opens her son up and puts the first smile on his face in weeks, Kendalee, may not like their music but she loves the fact that her son is smiling, if just for a moment.

This book is an emotional roller-coaster and will bring tears to your eyes, smiles to you face, and anger to your heart. I have it three stars because at times it had some serious lulls. Will it keep me from recommending it or reading the next one? No. I can't wait for the next one.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put it down, absolutely fantastic read. Kristen Ashley was my go to author for tortured heroes but I have to say that Scarlett Cole is right there with her, between Dred, Jordan, and now Elliott, Ms. Cole's books are riveting and she has you rooting for the tortured soul to find his HEA.

You can see my full review along with an Excerpt and Giveaway here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...