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Riven #2
Rend
After a whirlwind romance, a man with a painful past learns to trust the musician who makes him believe in happy endings.
Matt Argento knows what it feels like to be alone. After a childhood of abandonment, he never imagined someone might love him—much less someone like Rhys Nyland, who has the voice of an angel, the looks of a god, and the worship of his fans.
Matt and Rhys come from different worlds, but when they meet, their chemistry is incendiary. Their romance is unexpected, intense, and forever—at least, that’s what their vows promise. Suddenly, Matt finds himself living a life he never thought possible: safe and secure in the arms of a man who feels like home. But when Rhys leaves to go on tour for his new album, Matt finds himself haunted by the ghosts of his past.
When Rhys returns, he finds Matt twisted by doubt. But Rhys loves Matt fiercely, and he’ll go to hell and back to triumph over Matt’s fears. After secrets are revealed and desires are confessed, Rhys and Matt must learn to trust each other if they’re going to make it. That means they have to fall in love all over again—and this time, it really will be forever.
Roan Parrish’s pitch-perfect Riven novels can be read together or separately:
RIVEN | REND
Matt Argento knows what it feels like to be alone. After a childhood of abandonment, he never imagined someone might love him—much less someone like Rhys Nyland, who has the voice of an angel, the looks of a god, and the worship of his fans.
Matt and Rhys come from different worlds, but when they meet, their chemistry is incendiary. Their romance is unexpected, intense, and forever—at least, that’s what their vows promise. Suddenly, Matt finds himself living a life he never thought possible: safe and secure in the arms of a man who feels like home. But when Rhys leaves to go on tour for his new album, Matt finds himself haunted by the ghosts of his past.
When Rhys returns, he finds Matt twisted by doubt. But Rhys loves Matt fiercely, and he’ll go to hell and back to triumph over Matt’s fears. After secrets are revealed and desires are confessed, Rhys and Matt must learn to trust each other if they’re going to make it. That means they have to fall in love all over again—and this time, it really will be forever.
Roan Parrish’s pitch-perfect Riven novels can be read together or separately:
RIVEN | REND
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2018
About the author
Roan Parrish
35 books2,041 followersRoan Parrish lives in Philadelphia, where she is gradually attempting to write love stories in every genre.
When not writing, she can usually be found cutting her friends’ hair, meandering through whatever city she’s in while listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and self-tattooing. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique.
She is represented by Courtney Miller-Callihan of Handspun Literary Agency.
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Roan’s website
When not writing, she can usually be found cutting her friends’ hair, meandering through whatever city she’s in while listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and self-tattooing. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique.
She is represented by Courtney Miller-Callihan of Handspun Literary Agency.
Roan's Newsletter
Roan's Facebook Group
Roan on Twitter
Roan on Instagram
Roan’s website
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September 21, 2022
reread: sept 2022
god, Rhys and Matt never fail to make me cry. even when i knew certain scenes were coming, i still end up crying. 😭 definitely one of my fav heart-wrenching books and it's still constantly on my mind. <3
***
"Does it feel like a relief to be mine, Matt? Does it feel good to know that no matter what you do, you can't get rid of me? That you can fuck up, and we can fight, and I'll still be here. That you'll still belong to me?"
this was one of the most emotionally exhausting (aka the best kind of stories tbh) books i've ever read and the five stars shouldn't be a surprise bc i eat that shit up. angst, hurt/comfort, pain. i loved all of it.
i think what surprised me most about this book (and why it felt realistic, in my case) was how relatable Matt was for me. although i've mentioned in other reviews how i relate with a certain character's trait or personality, Matt's thoughts, insecurities, fears felt like my own. my heart broke for him. whether it was how he always felt like a burden or he was never good enough, always thinking people (lover, family or friends) will eventually leave, i understood him bc i've been in that place. Rhys was the definition of someone who was ideal: he listens and pays attention, he's very caring, protective, soft. in spite of that, i loved his character bc he wasn't perfect either. there were moments when he was shown to just believe what people are telling him bc he wants to believe things are okay, even when they aren't. these two had so many cute, as well as emotional and heartbreaking, moments throughout this book that i was smiling, laughing and crying all at once.
also!! i absolutely adored how Matt and Theo have formed an unlikely friendship that worked well for them. they were so cute. 🥺
p.s. if anyone knows any books with a marriage in crisis plot that hit you in the feels, pls lmk!! i definitely need more after this. 😌
god, Rhys and Matt never fail to make me cry. even when i knew certain scenes were coming, i still end up crying. 😭 definitely one of my fav heart-wrenching books and it's still constantly on my mind. <3
***
"Does it feel like a relief to be mine, Matt? Does it feel good to know that no matter what you do, you can't get rid of me? That you can fuck up, and we can fight, and I'll still be here. That you'll still belong to me?"
this was one of the most emotionally exhausting (aka the best kind of stories tbh) books i've ever read and the five stars shouldn't be a surprise bc i eat that shit up. angst, hurt/comfort, pain. i loved all of it.
i think what surprised me most about this book (and why it felt realistic, in my case) was how relatable Matt was for me. although i've mentioned in other reviews how i relate with a certain character's trait or personality, Matt's thoughts, insecurities, fears felt like my own. my heart broke for him. whether it was how he always felt like a burden or he was never good enough, always thinking people (lover, family or friends) will eventually leave, i understood him bc i've been in that place. Rhys was the definition of someone who was ideal: he listens and pays attention, he's very caring, protective, soft. in spite of that, i loved his character bc he wasn't perfect either. there were moments when he was shown to just believe what people are telling him bc he wants to believe things are okay, even when they aren't. these two had so many cute, as well as emotional and heartbreaking, moments throughout this book that i was smiling, laughing and crying all at once.
also!! i absolutely adored how Matt and Theo have formed an unlikely friendship that worked well for them. they were so cute. 🥺
p.s. if anyone knows any books with a marriage in crisis plot that hit you in the feels, pls lmk!! i definitely need more after this. 😌
Read
November 10, 2018No rating.DNF@ around 40%.
I tried,I really did but after two weeks I'm throwing in the towel here.
I'm not in the least bit bothered about these characters.I found what I read so depressing and boring.Apparently it gets better in the second half...I honestly wasn't interested to find out.
Just about everyone loved this so probably best to move along and check out other reviews.
Review copy provided by NetGalley
I tried,I really did but after two weeks I'm throwing in the towel here.
I'm not in the least bit bothered about these characters.I found what I read so depressing and boring.Apparently it gets better in the second half...I honestly wasn't interested to find out.
Just about everyone loved this so probably best to move along and check out other reviews.
Review copy provided by NetGalley
October 15, 2019
Audiobook - 5 stars
Story - 4.35 stars
“I can only afford to pick up guys on Wednesdays,” he said, indicating the dollar-drink sign.
Lawd Cheesus! I guess this is what we call angst!
Rhys already stole the show for me in book 1, so, i was excited to read his story. I was not prepared for the rollercoaster that was Rhys and Matty's relationship.
I completely get why this was book had mixed reviews and a couple of Dnfs. It was frustrating as hell.
I didn't even realize this book was told solely from Matty's POV until i was done. Reflecting on the story then I was like waaaaaaaiiit! Ha! I have been played. This was written in a way that i felt i got Rhys POV too.
Roan!
Matty! Matty! what a frustrating. adorable, damaged and all that shit character. He was exhausting and interesting to know, i love him. Matt and Rhys deserve each other, i don't think they can survive with other people. I felt their relationship was codependent, low key dysfunctional. Matty's background explains why he is so guarded and skittish at times. I wanted to shake him at time but that wouldn't have helped. He needed time and once i decided to give him that, i stopped being frustrated.
Rhys on the other hand, is all warm and sunny with some saviour complex. He loves to be needed, he is the one who has it all together. I love Rhys, but i wanted to shake too sometimes. Good thing Caleb did the shaking for me. Matty and Rhys complimented each other well.
The first half of the book was a bit slow, i decided to be patient and the rest delivered. I enjoyed Roan's writing, her way of storytelling is different, she focuses more on character and character development rather than plot and it worked for me. I love that she doesn't follow that same old romance formula. Everything happens backwards.
The Sex scenes were hot and frequent, these two love to get down and dirty. Me likey alot.
The humor was just right to balance the angst. One minute i want to strangle Matty, the next i want to hug him, the next i am laughing so hard. Yaap! Rollercoaster indeed.
I loved Theo and Matty's friendship, it was is so precious.
Story - 4.35 stars
“I can only afford to pick up guys on Wednesdays,” he said, indicating the dollar-drink sign.
Lawd Cheesus! I guess this is what we call angst!
Rhys already stole the show for me in book 1, so, i was excited to read his story. I was not prepared for the rollercoaster that was Rhys and Matty's relationship.
I completely get why this was book had mixed reviews and a couple of Dnfs. It was frustrating as hell.
I didn't even realize this book was told solely from Matty's POV until i was done. Reflecting on the story then I was like waaaaaaaiiit! Ha! I have been played. This was written in a way that i felt i got Rhys POV too.
Roan!
Matty! Matty! what a frustrating. adorable, damaged and all that shit character. He was exhausting and interesting to know, i love him. Matt and Rhys deserve each other, i don't think they can survive with other people. I felt their relationship was codependent, low key dysfunctional. Matty's background explains why he is so guarded and skittish at times. I wanted to shake him at time but that wouldn't have helped. He needed time and once i decided to give him that, i stopped being frustrated.
Rhys on the other hand, is all warm and sunny with some saviour complex. He loves to be needed, he is the one who has it all together. I love Rhys, but i wanted to shake too sometimes. Good thing Caleb did the shaking for me. Matty and Rhys complimented each other well.
The first half of the book was a bit slow, i decided to be patient and the rest delivered. I enjoyed Roan's writing, her way of storytelling is different, she focuses more on character and character development rather than plot and it worked for me. I love that she doesn't follow that same old romance formula. Everything happens backwards.
The Sex scenes were hot and frequent, these two love to get down and dirty. Me likey alot.
The humor was just right to balance the angst. One minute i want to strangle Matty, the next i want to hug him, the next i am laughing so hard. Yaap! Rollercoaster indeed.
I loved Theo and Matty's friendship, it was is so precious.
March 6, 2021
The fact that I’m immediately rereading this? New favorite book, no question
This is the marriage in crisis book I’ve been looking for!!! Matt and Rhys married two months into their whirlwind romance and now a year later they’re facing their first trials as a married couple. Rhys, a musician, is going on tour for his debut album and Matt, a social worker, stays home to hold down the fort as Rhys’s absence opens old wounds for him.
There’s so much to adore about this story, the love and intimacy radiates off the page. Rhys and Matt are without a doubt a new favorite couple for me. I love how this book discusses Matt’s trauma and abandonment issues without asserting that love is all that’s needed to cure lasting emotional trauma. I loved how it discussed Rhys and his savior complex as well. Beyond that I also adored the way this book handled angst, it was never frustrating or too drawn out these characters have so many valuable, necessary adult conversations about their emotions and it was beautiful. I just adored this couple and their journey so so much. They were sweet, and funny, and their relationship was everything. This author has a gorgeous writing style, she crafted some truly amazing characters here and reading about them was heartwarming, heartbreaking and absolutely beautiful.
Also the sex scenes are amazing so that’s always a plus
This is the marriage in crisis book I’ve been looking for!!! Matt and Rhys married two months into their whirlwind romance and now a year later they’re facing their first trials as a married couple. Rhys, a musician, is going on tour for his debut album and Matt, a social worker, stays home to hold down the fort as Rhys’s absence opens old wounds for him.
There’s so much to adore about this story, the love and intimacy radiates off the page. Rhys and Matt are without a doubt a new favorite couple for me. I love how this book discusses Matt’s trauma and abandonment issues without asserting that love is all that’s needed to cure lasting emotional trauma. I loved how it discussed Rhys and his savior complex as well. Beyond that I also adored the way this book handled angst, it was never frustrating or too drawn out these characters have so many valuable, necessary adult conversations about their emotions and it was beautiful. I just adored this couple and their journey so so much. They were sweet, and funny, and their relationship was everything. This author has a gorgeous writing style, she crafted some truly amazing characters here and reading about them was heartwarming, heartbreaking and absolutely beautiful.
Also the sex scenes are amazing so that’s always a plus
November 25, 2018
I really enjoyed reading "Riven" and so when I saw this one go up...I, of course, had to read it too... But...let me start off by saying that these books are nothing alike. This one was actually much darker/emotional than I expected.
This book is about an already established couple Rhys and Matt. I've got to be honest here and say that I don't remember much about these two from the first book, just that Rhys is Caleb's ex. That said...I read a lot of books, so it's hard to remember every single detail. Plus I'm getting older
This book is told from Matt's pov and let me tell you...it wasn't always the easiest to read. Matt is dealing with some very heavy issues and when Rhys goes on tour with his band...those issues become ever larger...
This book definitely brought on the waterworks for me !!!
These two don't give up though. They keep fighting, especially Rhys...he won't give up on Matt and I really loved him for that.
This book was a very sweet, lovable, sexy and hot emotional rollercoaster ride... I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us next !!
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September 18, 2018
Holy hell, get the tissues ready, folks!
This one put me through the emotional ringer. Matt is our exclusive narrator here, and he is a sad dude. A product of the foster system, he learned never to want anything.
And even though Chapter 1 begins 18 months into his marriage to Rhys, and he's so in love, he doesn't trust that happiness will last for him.
The first half of this book was gut-wrenching. It is a black cloud over your head and you just want to curl up in a fetal position to make the pain go away. How can someone be so broken? How can someone literally not want anything because he's never even thought to ask for it?
But...…
I couldn't put it down. Every painful word resonated into some of the best character development. I read this in one sitting.
And the second half happened. What a refreshing way to show resolution of marital problems. The black clouds parted, the sun rays descended, and the angels were singing. I loved, loved, loved the second half.
If you're going into this one expecting it to be anything like Riven, you will be in for a surprise. It's like comparing Books 1 and 2 of the Middle of Somewhere series.
I will settle on 4 stars because I liked the story overall, even with the pain of the first half. Parrish is very talented in her writing skills.
Best quote of the book:
This one put me through the emotional ringer. Matt is our exclusive narrator here, and he is a sad dude. A product of the foster system, he learned never to want anything.
And even though Chapter 1 begins 18 months into his marriage to Rhys, and he's so in love, he doesn't trust that happiness will last for him.
The first half of this book was gut-wrenching. It is a black cloud over your head and you just want to curl up in a fetal position to make the pain go away. How can someone be so broken? How can someone literally not want anything because he's never even thought to ask for it?
But...…
I couldn't put it down. Every painful word resonated into some of the best character development. I read this in one sitting.
And the second half happened. What a refreshing way to show resolution of marital problems. The black clouds parted, the sun rays descended, and the angels were singing. I loved, loved, loved the second half.
If you're going into this one expecting it to be anything like Riven, you will be in for a surprise. It's like comparing Books 1 and 2 of the Middle of Somewhere series.
I will settle on 4 stars because I liked the story overall, even with the pain of the first half. Parrish is very talented in her writing skills.
Best quote of the book:
I loved his transition from fuckbeast to cuddlemonster.
January 30, 2019
Audio – 5++++ Thanks Simone for giving me a heads up that about the audio coming out. It was more than worth the “painful” wait. LOL
Story – 5++++ Roan Parrish is officially a favorite/go to author for me.
This book was fucking amazing! My favorite by the author to date.
In short, Rhys and Matt are married and deeply in love. They come from very different backgrounds which influences their expectations of marriage. The relationship angst was high and exhausting but at NO time did these guys doubt the love they shared. It takes a while, and there are hurt feelings, but they want their marriage to work. How can you not root for a couple like them???
Shockingly enough, I’m not going to complain about there being too many sex scenes. Why??? Because there was nothing dull about them. The scenes were pure passion, and the dirty talk was so possessive, I just about turned into a puddle of goo.
I need book 3 NOW!!
Story – 5++++ Roan Parrish is officially a favorite/go to author for me.
This book was fucking amazing! My favorite by the author to date.
In short, Rhys and Matt are married and deeply in love. They come from very different backgrounds which influences their expectations of marriage. The relationship angst was high and exhausting but at NO time did these guys doubt the love they shared. It takes a while, and there are hurt feelings, but they want their marriage to work. How can you not root for a couple like them???
Shockingly enough, I’m not going to complain about there being too many sex scenes. Why??? Because there was nothing dull about them. The scenes were pure passion, and the dirty talk was so possessive, I just about turned into a puddle of goo.
I need book 3 NOW!!
November 27, 2018
Full review now posted, November 27
I have to admit, I was a little disappointed that Rend was not about Theo and Caleb, the couple from Riven, but it is about Caleb’s oldest friend, Rhys. We already know Rhys is married to Matt, and Rend is their story.
The first half of the book is, well, rather boring. It tells of Matt’s day to day life, and I just felt like it was almost void of any emotion from Matt. Rhys is full of life and is madly in love with Matt, but Matt is struggling. The second half of the book, you learn more about Matt’s heartbreaking past, and it had me wondering if the author made the first half emotionally boring to make the reader feel so much in the second half, because the emotions hit you hard. Matt, started questioning if he was good enough for Rhys, even feeling unworthy of being loved. His childhood is full of heartache and hurt, and you begin to understand why Matt is so afraid, but Rhys will fight for him.
Yes, Theo and Caleb are in this book, quite a lot, actually. I enjoyed catching up with them and seeing such a strong bond between Caleb and Rhys.
Once again, the author’s writing will hit you with all the feels, and I have a feeling, this story will be with me for a long time.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit, I was a little disappointed that Rend was not about Theo and Caleb, the couple from Riven, but it is about Caleb’s oldest friend, Rhys. We already know Rhys is married to Matt, and Rend is their story.
The first half of the book is, well, rather boring. It tells of Matt’s day to day life, and I just felt like it was almost void of any emotion from Matt. Rhys is full of life and is madly in love with Matt, but Matt is struggling. The second half of the book, you learn more about Matt’s heartbreaking past, and it had me wondering if the author made the first half emotionally boring to make the reader feel so much in the second half, because the emotions hit you hard. Matt, started questioning if he was good enough for Rhys, even feeling unworthy of being loved. His childhood is full of heartache and hurt, and you begin to understand why Matt is so afraid, but Rhys will fight for him.
Yes, Theo and Caleb are in this book, quite a lot, actually. I enjoyed catching up with them and seeing such a strong bond between Caleb and Rhys.
Once again, the author’s writing will hit you with all the feels, and I have a feeling, this story will be with me for a long time.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2018
Disclaimer: I'm not sure how to write a coherent review for this book. I was twisted up in feelings from beginning to end.
I went into Rend by Roan Parrish expecting a similar book to Riven, but the fact is they're entirely different. I think I had a lump in my throat through most of the book. It's told through Rhy's POV, and due to his childhood, he's afraid of being too happy because he's always in fear of the rug being swepped from under him. Matt was solid throughout and was ever so patient with Rhys' feeling- he's a caretaker.
Rend had me from their first meeting to the very end. Roan Parrish can fucken write.
If you're in the mood for a story that is:
-Full of feels
-Melancholic
-Excellent character development
-Outstanding relationship growth
-Flawless writing
-Hot and emotionally charged sex scenes
-And everlasting love
Then, read this book. I highlighted the hell out of this book. My favorite passage:
This was a love letter. A fucking love letter from a man I'd only met five times. A love letter saying things I'd never imagined anyone would say, seeing me in a way I'd never seen myself. As I read it again a room opened inside me, turning emptiness to possibility, solitude to potential. A room opened inside me, and I wanted to fill it with Rhys. I wanted to choose. I wanted, for the first time in my grungy fucking life, to choose someone and make them mine. And it terrified me. "Oh fuck," I said to no one. "Oh fuck, fuck, fuck me."
HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT.
March 11, 2019
Story: 5 STARS!
Audio: 5+ STARS!
So, I ended up LOVING this one, but truth be told, when I started, I was a little cranky.
First, it revolves around an established couple so I didn't get to experience that new love high that I love so much. And second, it's mostly about only one character's fight with his demons.
But it didn't take me long to go from cranky ===> pleased ===> thrilled.
Because I adore a well-written story that's driven by emotion rather than events. And let's just say that Rend gave me plenty to sink my teeth into. I was in heaven.
Plot in a nutshell: Rhys is a steady, well-rounded guy. His confidence and sunny disposition are a testament to his stable, supportive, loving upbringing.
Matt is a product of the foster system. His deep-seated fears and vulnerabilities are a reflection of his heart-breaking, uncertain childhood.
These two very different men find each other, fall in love, get married and live happily ever after . . . or do they?
Even though he can't fathom what Rhys sees in him, Matt has no intention of losing the best thing that's ever happened to him.
Emotional and heartfelt, Rend kicked my ass in such a good way. I love that this author has things to say and she says them beautifully. Plus, she goes about it in a very explicit way. :D I couldn't ask for more.
Another Roan Parrish book for my 2019 Favorites shelf!
Audio: 5+ STARS!
"I don't know how to do this."Oh, man . . . ooey, gooey, coming-of-age New Adult GOODNESS from Roan Parrish. And what a performance by Greg Boudreaux!
So, I ended up LOVING this one, but truth be told, when I started, I was a little cranky.
First, it revolves around an established couple so I didn't get to experience that new love high that I love so much. And second, it's mostly about only one character's fight with his demons.
But it didn't take me long to go from cranky ===> pleased ===> thrilled.
Because I adore a well-written story that's driven by emotion rather than events. And let's just say that Rend gave me plenty to sink my teeth into. I was in heaven.
Plot in a nutshell: Rhys is a steady, well-rounded guy. His confidence and sunny disposition are a testament to his stable, supportive, loving upbringing.
Matt is a product of the foster system. His deep-seated fears and vulnerabilities are a reflection of his heart-breaking, uncertain childhood.
These two very different men find each other, fall in love, get married and live happily ever after . . . or do they?
Even though he can't fathom what Rhys sees in him, Matt has no intention of losing the best thing that's ever happened to him.
I wanted it for him. I wanted him to have everything he'd ever hoped for.Matt does everything to be everything for Rhys until there's just nothing left to give, leaving them both devastated as they scratch and claw to hold on to one another . . .
Emotional and heartfelt, Rend kicked my ass in such a good way. I love that this author has things to say and she says them beautifully. Plus, she goes about it in a very explicit way. :D I couldn't ask for more.
Another Roan Parrish book for my 2019 Favorites shelf!
September 24, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Sheesh. Talk about hitting you where it hurts.
This one was hard to read. Most of the book in fact. It was very melancholic. Even with Rhys' sunny disposition.
My hurt broke time after time for Matt.
I really feel like I should remember Matt from Riven. After all, Matt and Rhys were married before Theo and Caleb even met. But I don't.
Much like Riven, the writing is flawless. It's captivating. It's full of so much emotion.
Great addition to the series. I think Noe needs a book. Or Huey. Oh....maybe Noe and Huey! :)
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Sheesh. Talk about hitting you where it hurts.
This one was hard to read. Most of the book in fact. It was very melancholic. Even with Rhys' sunny disposition.
My hurt broke time after time for Matt.
I really feel like I should remember Matt from Riven. After all, Matt and Rhys were married before Theo and Caleb even met. But I don't.
Much like Riven, the writing is flawless. It's captivating. It's full of so much emotion.
Great addition to the series. I think Noe needs a book. Or Huey. Oh....maybe Noe and Huey! :)
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
February 14, 2019
I was so in the mood for an established couple romance!
I hadn’t really put it all together when I was reading Riven, but Caleb‘s ex-partner and best friend, Rhys, is married to Matt. I remember Theo being kinda uncomfortable reaching out to Rhys when he needed help with Caleb and Matt was there...
Anyway, don’t worry about any of that, Rend can be read as a standalone. We see Theo and Caleb a fair bit, but none of their story will be spoiled if you read this one first.
There were so many things that made this novel incredible. Matt’s narration of his life story is a heart breaker, and beautifully done. Thinking of everything this young man went through and how he’s processed it, it's humbling to see where he is at the start of this novel.
I enjoyed watching Rhys come to understand Matt’s story, and reevaluate his own life. What it adds to him as a person, and what it does for their relationship is powerfully moving.
Of course Rend is full of all the gorgeous prose I expect from Roan Parrish. I highlighted so many meaningful statements and poetic thoughts… reading over them now, it’s too hard to pick just one to share here. I’ll take the easy way out and simply encourage everyone to read this truly stunning novel.
It was some of the most beautiful angst I’ve ever read, and it was a journey I’d happily take again.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for the purpose of my honest review
I hadn’t really put it all together when I was reading Riven, but Caleb‘s ex-partner and best friend, Rhys, is married to Matt. I remember Theo being kinda uncomfortable reaching out to Rhys when he needed help with Caleb and Matt was there...
Anyway, don’t worry about any of that, Rend can be read as a standalone. We see Theo and Caleb a fair bit, but none of their story will be spoiled if you read this one first.
There were so many things that made this novel incredible. Matt’s narration of his life story is a heart breaker, and beautifully done. Thinking of everything this young man went through and how he’s processed it, it's humbling to see where he is at the start of this novel.
I enjoyed watching Rhys come to understand Matt’s story, and reevaluate his own life. What it adds to him as a person, and what it does for their relationship is powerfully moving.
Of course Rend is full of all the gorgeous prose I expect from Roan Parrish. I highlighted so many meaningful statements and poetic thoughts… reading over them now, it’s too hard to pick just one to share here. I’ll take the easy way out and simply encourage everyone to read this truly stunning novel.
It was some of the most beautiful angst I’ve ever read, and it was a journey I’d happily take again.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for the purpose of my honest review
December 6, 2018
Review to come, maybe? We’ll see. I’m a little overwhelmed about what to write, because this one hit me on a cellular level. Oh fuck it, I’ll try. Here goes nothing…
This book isn’t for all capital-R-Romance readers. First off, it’s about an established couple, which isn’t everyone’s bucket of fun. Secondly, it’s not all hearteyes and pixie dust. The angst is real, it doesn’t feel contrived for plot’s sake, and it’s not easily resolved.
This story IS for... Readers who sometimes feel like the Romance genre is a pigeonhole. Who crave reading past the HEA, deeper, for better or worse. Who might even want to glean a few hundred bucks’ worth of therapy from a $5 book.
I adore Riven. I’ve read it twice in the last six months. This book is different from Riven, but there's a consistent thing between them that has made Roan Parrish an autobuy for me from now on: her willingness and ability to navigate psychological waters. Not only does she clearly know of what she writes, but her skill in doing so is on point.
So if you’re looking for some light fluff (and no judgement, that’s exactly what we all need sometimes), leave this one on the shelf for now. But if you are down for going on a cathartic journey where the characters have to really work for it… REND.
P.S. I hardcore loved Theo’s and Caleb’s appearances here as my favorite secondary characters ever. If you couldn’t get enough of them in Riven (ahem-buddy read partner-ahem), you’ll love that too. More than just a cameo!
This book isn’t for all capital-R-Romance readers. First off, it’s about an established couple, which isn’t everyone’s bucket of fun. Secondly, it’s not all hearteyes and pixie dust. The angst is real, it doesn’t feel contrived for plot’s sake, and it’s not easily resolved.
This story IS for... Readers who sometimes feel like the Romance genre is a pigeonhole. Who crave reading past the HEA, deeper, for better or worse. Who might even want to glean a few hundred bucks’ worth of therapy from a $5 book.
I adore Riven. I’ve read it twice in the last six months. This book is different from Riven, but there's a consistent thing between them that has made Roan Parrish an autobuy for me from now on: her willingness and ability to navigate psychological waters. Not only does she clearly know of what she writes, but her skill in doing so is on point.
So if you’re looking for some light fluff (and no judgement, that’s exactly what we all need sometimes), leave this one on the shelf for now. But if you are down for going on a cathartic journey where the characters have to really work for it… REND.
P.S. I hardcore loved Theo’s and Caleb’s appearances here as my favorite secondary characters ever. If you couldn’t get enough of them in Riven (ahem-buddy read partner-ahem), you’ll love that too. More than just a cameo!
September 25, 2021
5 stars. I loved this book!
Rhys, Rhys, Rhys. Such a perfect amazing loving man.
Matt, I just want to hug him forever.
His demons, his doubts, his fears. It hurt so much to read these pages, but it was so beautiful to watch him fight and heal.
I was a bit worried reading about a married couple. I hate breaks, break-ups, separations. They make me nervous and anxious. But thankfully, that’s not what this book was about. It was about being broken and not being able to be happy in your new perfect life with your perfect husband.
It broke my heart, but that’s okay. Some people are broken, but they can heal. They can find happiness. It’s there somewhere, you just can’t give up. This is one of those books that help remind us of that. Don’t give up, you can make it. You got this.
I loved the ending so much. Such a hard earned HEA.
And the secondary characters. I loved Grin, I loved Mona. I loved that we got to see so much of Theo and Caleb.
The writing was beautiful once again. I need to read a lot more books by this author.
My review is all rambling and probably makes little sense. Just read the book. (But read book 1 first)
Rhys, Rhys, Rhys. Such a perfect amazing loving man.
Matt, I just want to hug him forever.
His demons, his doubts, his fears. It hurt so much to read these pages, but it was so beautiful to watch him fight and heal.
I was a bit worried reading about a married couple. I hate breaks, break-ups, separations. They make me nervous and anxious. But thankfully, that’s not what this book was about. It was about being broken and not being able to be happy in your new perfect life with your perfect husband.
It broke my heart, but that’s okay. Some people are broken, but they can heal. They can find happiness. It’s there somewhere, you just can’t give up. This is one of those books that help remind us of that. Don’t give up, you can make it. You got this.
I loved the ending so much. Such a hard earned HEA.
And the secondary characters. I loved Grin, I loved Mona. I loved that we got to see so much of Theo and Caleb.
The writing was beautiful once again. I need to read a lot more books by this author.
My review is all rambling and probably makes little sense. Just read the book. (But read book 1 first)
November 30, 2018
Me ha parecido... maravilloso. Roan Parrish siempre sabe conectar conmigo como lectora, crea personajes que me hacen sufrir profundamente por lo reales que me parecen. Esta vez lo ha vuelto a conseguir, me gustó muchísimo Riven, pero quizás este me ha gustado incluso más.
El libro parte de un punto difícil para mí, la pareja ya está formada, es un matrimonio y una de las cosas con las que yo más disfruto es ser testigo de cómo se conocen los protagonistas y se van enamorando. Aquí ese proceso ya está superado, ellos están ya profundamente enamorados, pero son dos personas muy distintas, en el exterior y fundamentalmente en el interior debido a sus experiencias vitales. Matt ama a Rhys y Rhys ama a Matt, pero Matt arrastra demasiado equipaje debido a su difícil infancia, juventud, abandonos, y a pesar de haber encontrado a Rhys y tener todo para ser feliz, no encuentra la forma. Por su parte, Rhys ama a Matt, pero no sabe cómo ayudarle... Realmente en el libro ocurre poco, está exclusivamente enfocado en el desarrollo de su relación, en altos y bajos y la búsqueda de la felicidad mutua. Es muy muy romántico, mucho, con escenas de sexo maravillosas, escenas de peleas maravillosas y declaraciones de amor maravillosas. Yo no soy sicóloga, quizás su relación es demasiado codependiente, quizás no es la más sana de las relaciones, pero como dice Theo en algún momento (protagonista de Riven) es su relación, lo que funciona para ellos y lo que les hace felices.
Y todo esto acompañados de secundarios, conocidos (Theo y Caleb) y nuevos (Noé y Grin), que lo único que hacen es mejorar la historia.
Muy recomendable, lo más destacable es que es un libro de sentimientos escrito para hacer sentir al espectador un abanico enorme de emociones.
El libro parte de un punto difícil para mí, la pareja ya está formada, es un matrimonio y una de las cosas con las que yo más disfruto es ser testigo de cómo se conocen los protagonistas y se van enamorando. Aquí ese proceso ya está superado, ellos están ya profundamente enamorados, pero son dos personas muy distintas, en el exterior y fundamentalmente en el interior debido a sus experiencias vitales. Matt ama a Rhys y Rhys ama a Matt, pero Matt arrastra demasiado equipaje debido a su difícil infancia, juventud, abandonos, y a pesar de haber encontrado a Rhys y tener todo para ser feliz, no encuentra la forma. Por su parte, Rhys ama a Matt, pero no sabe cómo ayudarle... Realmente en el libro ocurre poco, está exclusivamente enfocado en el desarrollo de su relación, en altos y bajos y la búsqueda de la felicidad mutua. Es muy muy romántico, mucho, con escenas de sexo maravillosas, escenas de peleas maravillosas y declaraciones de amor maravillosas. Yo no soy sicóloga, quizás su relación es demasiado codependiente, quizás no es la más sana de las relaciones, pero como dice Theo en algún momento (protagonista de Riven) es su relación, lo que funciona para ellos y lo que les hace felices.
Y todo esto acompañados de secundarios, conocidos (Theo y Caleb) y nuevos (Noé y Grin), que lo único que hacen es mejorar la historia.
Muy recomendable, lo más destacable es que es un libro de sentimientos escrito para hacer sentir al espectador un abanico enorme de emociones.
December 9, 2018
READ MY REVIEW ON THE BLOG
We met Matty and Rhys in RIVEN. Since they were married then already I didn't expect that we'd get a story about them. Little did I know how hurt and desperate the quiet Matty was. His childhood trauma made it impossible for him to believe that somebody could love him unconditionally, and that's what Rhys did.
They married after a few months of dating, and while the love between them was undoubtedly there, they didn't know each other enough, that they could settle into their life together and not have let it be affected by their respective pasts. Storm clouds start to appear, when Rhys, a musician whose star is rising, leaves to go on a two months tour and Matty stays behind. All of a sudden the shy, introverted beautiful young man has to deal with his demons and doubts about pretty much everything except their love for one another.
I wandered through the empty house as if I might find Rhys in a cupboard or under a chair like a misplaced book.
Rhys is a fixer, his sunny disposition finds something good in everything and everyone. His frustration and fear are overwhelming when he realizes that he can't help or fix Matt.
There were some incredibly angsty and emotional parts in REND, some made me hurt for Matty so much that I got choked up. He was so hungry for Rhys's love, but his abandonment issues made it impossible for him to enjoy what he had at first. Rhys did everything he could, this big, sweet, patient guy who loved his husband with his whole being.
“Am I your real life person?” I blurted, leaning my head back against the couch.
“You’re my everything person.”
There was a lot of sex in this book and while I'm usually all for some dirty, hot boy-on-boy lovin' I found myself skimming those parts at some point. There was also an exorbitant amount of "I love yous" which I only realized later, that they had a purpose. Rhys just really needed to hammer it into Matt's head by repeating it over and over again.
Healing went both ways - Rhys always wanted a relationship like his parents had, but until Matt none of his previous relationships wanted to be serious. Matt was made for Rhys - finally he could shower his love on someone who soaked it up like a sponge and returned his feelings.
"...it was like I had to break apart the universe and remake it as one where I could love you more."
When you grow up in a steady home you can forget that some people aren't that lucky. It's definitely good that you can and nobody should feel guilty about it. But at the same time a reminder that other people may need help because of their childhood will put the things, we whine about, into perspective. I didn't mean to get all philosophical on you but REND definitely resonated with me, because it showcases the damage a child with a negligent and unloving parent can sustain. Matt is that child and he was lucky to find somebody with an endless capacity to love and the patience of a saint.
I loved how Theo and Matt's friendship grew and turned into something special. And Caleb proved to be an amazing friend to Rhys, somebody who provided the insight his friend couldn't see because he was too close to the issue.
"I’m saying Matt has had a rough go of things and never dealt with them. And then you came along. Big old beast of sunshine and plans and charisma and a steady damn hand. And he fell in love with you. And suddenly Matt— with all that shit in his past— was hanging out with you all the time. Where do you think that shit went? It didn’t disappear. It didn’t transform from pain to joy like water to fucking wine, Nyland.”
Roan Parrish's writing is really special and beautiful. It was something I loved in the previous installment and my admiration for her art has only been cemented in this one. Personally I loved RIVEN a little bit more story-wise, however, Rhys and Matt were wonderful characters and I am definitely looking forward to reading RAZE. I wonder who that will be about?
November 18, 2018
I'm not going to lie to you...I wasn't really prepared for the emotional roller-coaster that was Rend. I immediately requested an arc after reading Riven based solely on the love I'd had for Riven (one of my few 5-stars-for-real reads this year), and I didn't even read the blurb for Rend, I just thought, "It must be mine!" Luckily it all worked out in the end.
We first met Rhys in Riven as an already married man, and Caleb's ex, who's still his best friend. Rend is told entirely from Rhys's husband, Matt's, point of view and begins with the night Matt meets Rhys, a larger-than-life gorgeous Viking of a man who's incredibly, and mind-boggingly, into Matt. But Matt grew up in the system and his past is what shapes him and the relationship he has with Rhys.
We're all works in progress, some more than others. Matt and Rhys love each other madly, and would do anything for the other. Which leads to a minor relationship miscommunication that happens so often: One partner assuring the other that it's fine, I'm fine so they don't impede the other's dream - even to their own detriment.
While it was gut-wrenching at times, what Matt and Rhys go through together to make sure their happily ever after continues is heartbreaking and heartwarming and has made me all gooey love eyes at this. I LOVE LOVE LOVE RHYS...and Matt's wonderful too.
The only thing that would have made this better, for me, would have been having Rhys's POV. This needed Rhys's POV, IMO. Regardless, I absolutely loved reading this and would heartily recommend. Best if read after Riven, because even though it could probably standalone, it's better for having read Caleb and Theo's story.
Established relationship romance with a single first-person POV, medium angst, vigorous and super hot sex scenes, dirty talk, emotional growth, an enduring love that just needed a little work, and a very, very happy ending.
4.75 stars
Advanced Review Galley copy of Rend provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
We first met Rhys in Riven as an already married man, and Caleb's ex, who's still his best friend. Rend is told entirely from Rhys's husband, Matt's, point of view and begins with the night Matt meets Rhys, a larger-than-life gorgeous Viking of a man who's incredibly, and mind-boggingly, into Matt. But Matt grew up in the system and his past is what shapes him and the relationship he has with Rhys.
This was a love letter. A fucking love letter from a man I'd only met five times. A love letter saying things I'd never imagined anyone would say, seeing me in a way I'd never seen myself. As I read it again a room opened inside me, turning emptiness to possibility, solitude to potential. A room opened inside me, and I wanted to fill it with Rhys. I wanted to choose. I wanted, for the first time in my grungy fucking life, to choose someone and make them mine. And it terrified me. "Oh fuck," I said to no one. "Oh fuck, fuck, fuck me."
We're all works in progress, some more than others. Matt and Rhys love each other madly, and would do anything for the other. Which leads to a minor relationship miscommunication that happens so often: One partner assuring the other that it's fine, I'm fine so they don't impede the other's dream - even to their own detriment.
"...it was like I had to break apart the universe and remake it as one where I could love you more...I know I did a lot of damage. When I was breaking it apart. I know I hurt you. I was clumsy with it. But I wouldn't ever want to go back there. To that other world where I didn't know how to love you. I wouldn't want to live there.
While it was gut-wrenching at times, what Matt and Rhys go through together to make sure their happily ever after continues is heartbreaking and heartwarming and has made me all gooey love eyes at this. I LOVE LOVE LOVE RHYS...and Matt's wonderful too.
The only thing that would have made this better, for me, would have been having Rhys's POV. This needed Rhys's POV, IMO. Regardless, I absolutely loved reading this and would heartily recommend. Best if read after Riven, because even though it could probably standalone, it's better for having read Caleb and Theo's story.
Established relationship romance with a single first-person POV, medium angst, vigorous and super hot sex scenes, dirty talk, emotional growth, an enduring love that just needed a little work, and a very, very happy ending.
4.75 stars
Advanced Review Galley copy of Rend provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Want to read
May 23, 2018I don't even know what it's about, but after reading Riven I am TOTALLY all in.
September 25, 2018
*** 3.75 stars
Rend was an emotional rollercoaster for me. First of all, it's not about two people getting together and everything stops with their Happy Ever After. It's about what happens afterwards and about how to fight for your relationship if problems are arising.
The main focus of this book was definitely the relationship between the two MCs and their character development was very well written.
We have Rhys, a sunny musician from a happy home, leaving his husband to go on a tour. And then there is said husband, Matt (our first person narrator), who has some serious abandonment issues amongst other things and who basically falls apart when Rhys leaves. Like really falls apart with nightmares and scary little imaginative friends like that dude here:
Matt sure does have his reasons to be the way he is but there were some things that bugged me about him:
- He had... zero self esteem at all and he was depressed (my medical opinion at least).
- He was so very much dependent on Rhys that at times I found their relationship unhealthy. I mean, I get it... it's also somehow romantic to need your partner so much and it works since Rhys is a possessive guy, but...
When Rhys needed someone, he had to turn to Caleb (yeah, we get Caleb and Theo from book 1 :P) and that right there is why both partners should be strong alone.
Being in Matt's head was on the one side interesting because the dark thought spirals were very realistic but on the other side it was also very much exhausting. Thank goodness, he takes the right steps at some point.
All in all, it is an emotional, angsty read in the hurt/comfort-genre which thankfully gets lighter during the second half of the book. I would recommend it to those who are fed up with fluffy and want a lot of twisted feelings and an emotional read. Pure Roan Parrish style actually, so if you loved her books, you will probably love that one, too.
**ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Rend was an emotional rollercoaster for me. First of all, it's not about two people getting together and everything stops with their Happy Ever After. It's about what happens afterwards and about how to fight for your relationship if problems are arising.
The main focus of this book was definitely the relationship between the two MCs and their character development was very well written.
We have Rhys, a sunny musician from a happy home, leaving his husband to go on a tour. And then there is said husband, Matt (our first person narrator), who has some serious abandonment issues amongst other things and who basically falls apart when Rhys leaves. Like really falls apart with nightmares and scary little imaginative friends like that dude here:
Matt sure does have his reasons to be the way he is but there were some things that bugged me about him:
- He had... zero self esteem at all and he was depressed (my medical opinion at least).
- He was so very much dependent on Rhys that at times I found their relationship unhealthy. I mean, I get it... it's also somehow romantic to need your partner so much and it works since Rhys is a possessive guy, but...
When Rhys needed someone, he had to turn to Caleb (yeah, we get Caleb and Theo from book 1 :P) and that right there is why both partners should be strong alone.
Being in Matt's head was on the one side interesting because the dark thought spirals were very realistic but on the other side it was also very much exhausting. Thank goodness, he takes the right steps at some point.
All in all, it is an emotional, angsty read in the hurt/comfort-genre which thankfully gets lighter during the second half of the book. I would recommend it to those who are fed up with fluffy and want a lot of twisted feelings and an emotional read. Pure Roan Parrish style actually, so if you loved her books, you will probably love that one, too.
**ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Shelved as 'dnf'
November 1, 2018dnf @ 35%
Very well written but I'm the wrong reader for this story. It isn't working for me.
Very well written but I'm the wrong reader for this story. It isn't working for me.
November 5, 2019
Fabulous!!!!
I want to do this book justice with my review, but I fear that I can't. It was just so....
Refreshing: This isn't your typical romance. It followed a new playbook, one with moves and plays I haven't seen before. How often do we get a "romance" with a married couple? For this, I thank Roan Parrish.
Introspective: We only see Matt's POV. Through his eyes we struggle with his inner ghosts--those of the past, present, and future. Even though were in his thoughts a lot, I never felt like I got sucked in the mire. His fears, joys, and love kept me moving forward with him. And as uncertain as he was in himself, I had faith that Parrish would pull Matt through his inner demons toward an HEA. After all, this is a romance. But I admit that I loved the uncertainty that I didn't know what would happen from one minute to the next.
Sexy: The heat, the sex, the dirty talk, the need in this book was off the charts for me!! The sex never felt staid, it was new and fresh--like I said earlier, this book is following a new playbook.
Well crafted and written: A book that is so singularly character driven has to be well written and crafted since it relies on the intricacies of human thought and emotions rather than plot. I loved how the words played out on the page. Beautiful!
This book was all of the above and so much more. The characters, one seemingly perfect and the other less than, both face their flaws and strengths. Both grow and change in a way that is subtle, but so, so right and believable.
You don't need to read the previous book, Riven, to enjoy this one, but I would highly recommend doing so. Theo and Caleb both make appearances in this one.
I already had Roan Parrish down as one of my favorite MM authors. Now, it's cemented.
I have the next book preordered.
Enjoy this one. It's angsty, but in a very good and very real way.
I want to do this book justice with my review, but I fear that I can't. It was just so....
Refreshing: This isn't your typical romance. It followed a new playbook, one with moves and plays I haven't seen before. How often do we get a "romance" with a married couple? For this, I thank Roan Parrish.
Introspective: We only see Matt's POV. Through his eyes we struggle with his inner ghosts--those of the past, present, and future. Even though were in his thoughts a lot, I never felt like I got sucked in the mire. His fears, joys, and love kept me moving forward with him. And as uncertain as he was in himself, I had faith that Parrish would pull Matt through his inner demons toward an HEA. After all, this is a romance. But I admit that I loved the uncertainty that I didn't know what would happen from one minute to the next.
Sexy: The heat, the sex, the dirty talk, the need in this book was off the charts for me!! The sex never felt staid, it was new and fresh--like I said earlier, this book is following a new playbook.
Well crafted and written: A book that is so singularly character driven has to be well written and crafted since it relies on the intricacies of human thought and emotions rather than plot. I loved how the words played out on the page. Beautiful!
This book was all of the above and so much more. The characters, one seemingly perfect and the other less than, both face their flaws and strengths. Both grow and change in a way that is subtle, but so, so right and believable.
You don't need to read the previous book, Riven, to enjoy this one, but I would highly recommend doing so. Theo and Caleb both make appearances in this one.
I already had Roan Parrish down as one of my favorite MM authors. Now, it's cemented.
I have the next book preordered.
Enjoy this one. It's angsty, but in a very good and very real way.
June 5, 2022
This book was angsty. So very angsty. But beautiful. So very beautiful.
Reread 2022-06-05
This book is still so very angsty but so very beautiful. And I loved every single second of it. I love Rhys's steady presence and I just want to wrap Matt in bubbles until he stops hurting.
Reread 2022-06-05
This book is still so very angsty but so very beautiful. And I loved every single second of it. I love Rhys's steady presence and I just want to wrap Matt in bubbles until he stops hurting.
February 6, 2019
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. Just wow. Roan outdid herself with this one. Matt and Rhys are an amazing couple and my heart pounded when Matt was going through his troubles. We meet Rhys in Riven, which is another amazing book. Rhys was sort of involved with Caleb, but then Caleb and Theo get together and Rhys is their friend. I loved Rhys. His character was just beautifully written. He is a big man and he takes such care with Matt, which Matt can't help but love. When Matt forgets his wallet and can't pay for groceries, Rhys loves that and of course uses his card. And Matt on one hand doesn't like himself when he forgets, but he LOVES it when Rhys takes care of him and, well, babies him, but in a good way. The whole time I am reading this Matt comes across as a man just waiting to be made into a submissive, kneeling and begging and serving. That doesn't happen, but when Rhys is away on tour, Matt felt so lost and alone, and he didn't have Rhys around telling him what to do, or reminding him to eat or go shopping for food. It would have been 100% genuine if their relationship had morphed into that. Shame it doesn't, although still in a way they are because Matt is built that way and demands Rhys own him and hold him never let go.
This book isn't just about Matt and Rhys's relationship. There is a surprising supernatural element to this too.
Matt's emotions are all over the place and my heart ached for him. I think he needs professional help, and I don't know how they plan to handle Rhys going on tour in the future. What really got me was that I wasn't being force fed his emotions. They grew naturally and I never once felt like it wasn't genuine. It's hard to explain, and I don't want to give away too much of the story anyway, but know that Matt couldn't help himself when it came to loving Rhys and he still struggles with believing that Rhys loves him and really wants to be with him. This is part of what is driving Matt so crazy with Rhys being gone. His absence, regardless of the fact that he is coming back, makes Matt feel like he has been abandoned like when his mom left. Poor Matt. He needs Rhys just like Rhys needs Matt. These two wouldn't survive without the other.
I whole heartedly recommend this book and the series and I see there is a 3rd book on the horizon. Can't wait to see what it's about! Squee! 5 stars
Wow. Just wow. Roan outdid herself with this one. Matt and Rhys are an amazing couple and my heart pounded when Matt was going through his troubles. We meet Rhys in Riven, which is another amazing book. Rhys was sort of involved with Caleb, but then Caleb and Theo get together and Rhys is their friend. I loved Rhys. His character was just beautifully written. He is a big man and he takes such care with Matt, which Matt can't help but love. When Matt forgets his wallet and can't pay for groceries, Rhys loves that and of course uses his card. And Matt on one hand doesn't like himself when he forgets, but he LOVES it when Rhys takes care of him and, well, babies him, but in a good way. The whole time I am reading this Matt comes across as a man just waiting to be made into a submissive, kneeling and begging and serving. That doesn't happen, but when Rhys is away on tour, Matt felt so lost and alone, and he didn't have Rhys around telling him what to do, or reminding him to eat or go shopping for food. It would have been 100% genuine if their relationship had morphed into that. Shame it doesn't, although still in a way they are because Matt is built that way and demands Rhys own him and hold him never let go.
This book isn't just about Matt and Rhys's relationship. There is a surprising supernatural element to this too.
Matt's emotions are all over the place and my heart ached for him. I think he needs professional help, and I don't know how they plan to handle Rhys going on tour in the future. What really got me was that I wasn't being force fed his emotions. They grew naturally and I never once felt like it wasn't genuine. It's hard to explain, and I don't want to give away too much of the story anyway, but know that Matt couldn't help himself when it came to loving Rhys and he still struggles with believing that Rhys loves him and really wants to be with him. This is part of what is driving Matt so crazy with Rhys being gone. His absence, regardless of the fact that he is coming back, makes Matt feel like he has been abandoned like when his mom left. Poor Matt. He needs Rhys just like Rhys needs Matt. These two wouldn't survive without the other.
I whole heartedly recommend this book and the series and I see there is a 3rd book on the horizon. Can't wait to see what it's about! Squee! 5 stars
December 11, 2018
Since Out of Nowhere, I’ve been reading Roan Parrish’s books waiting and hoping for the next Colin, whose struggles I felt like my own and who made me so happy when he finally found the strength to face and overcome his demons. Matt came pretty close, although I’ve a strong feeling that if I’d read this book around the time I read Out of Nowhere for the first time, I wouldn’t be here making distinctions between the two of them.
As a romance reader, I’ve sometimes said that I didn’t believe in a couple’s HEA because the way they got there didn’t make me feel like they’d learned to deal with problems and setbacks as a couple. By the time this book begins, Matt and Rhys have been married for more than a year and they’re very much in love, they adore each other, but, as cute and adorable as their first months together were, they are one of those couples.
Not because of anything any of them did wrong, just because getting married isn’t a magic wand, being in love often isn't enough and vows don’t “make” a marriage, and by the time they got married they were heels over head for each other but still a work-in-progress.
Neither of them realizes how things are perfect only on the surface until it’s time for Rhys’s first tour away from home, when Matt finds himself alone to deal with all the fears he’s buried deep inside and tried to forget about.
Some readers will probably find this book depressing, Matt’s head isn’t a happy place most of the time, Rhys and Matt have to work for their relationship and it’s not an easy, smooth path, but I didn’t mind (for the record, I’m probably not the best judge, Colin’s head was ten times worse and I never had a problem with it). The sweet and carefree moments offered a good balance to Matt’s darker thoughts and I spent more time smiling than feeling down, because throughout the book you can see how deeply in love Rhys and Matt are. Despite the fact that they have to learn how to be a “real” couple, it’s never in doubt that they’ll put in the work and come out the other side together.
As a romance reader, I’ve sometimes said that I didn’t believe in a couple’s HEA because the way they got there didn’t make me feel like they’d learned to deal with problems and setbacks as a couple. By the time this book begins, Matt and Rhys have been married for more than a year and they’re very much in love, they adore each other, but, as cute and adorable as their first months together were, they are one of those couples.
Not because of anything any of them did wrong, just because getting married isn’t a magic wand, being in love often isn't enough and vows don’t “make” a marriage, and by the time they got married they were heels over head for each other but still a work-in-progress.
Neither of them realizes how things are perfect only on the surface until it’s time for Rhys’s first tour away from home, when Matt finds himself alone to deal with all the fears he’s buried deep inside and tried to forget about.
Some readers will probably find this book depressing, Matt’s head isn’t a happy place most of the time, Rhys and Matt have to work for their relationship and it’s not an easy, smooth path, but I didn’t mind (for the record, I’m probably not the best judge, Colin’s head was ten times worse and I never had a problem with it). The sweet and carefree moments offered a good balance to Matt’s darker thoughts and I spent more time smiling than feeling down, because throughout the book you can see how deeply in love Rhys and Matt are. Despite the fact that they have to learn how to be a “real” couple, it’s never in doubt that they’ll put in the work and come out the other side together.
September 26, 2018
5 Stars
I loved Riven, it was my first book by this author, I knew immediately I wanted to continue this series. I will be honest, I usually avoid highly emotional books. I am such a tender hearted, sappy, softie that they really affect me and truth here, I’m a complete and total ugly crier. So when I read a friend’s review, I took a pause because she started off with how broken hearted she was for Matty. And she was right on it, this story had me so twisted up inside, the unfairness life can put people through. The guilt that I can’t take in every forgotten child and give them the love I douse my own children with. So to say I was affected by this story, well that would be an understatement, not only did I have my husband checking in On me, but also my 16 year old who just wanted to make sure Mom was alright.
With the crying aside, I’m so very glad I read this story. Matty and Rhys were a story of opposite forces coming together to form a wholeness and there is no light without darkness.
I highlighted nearly each passage of Matt’s inner thoughts, they really made me take a pause and think about how words have the power affect a person so deeply. Matt struggled using his words but I think he ultimately found his own strength when he could finally express his thoughts into words.
I’m babbling, I know, but I really found this story to be such a wonderful journey. The writing was captivating and really just drew me into Rhys and Matt’s world. I loved it, plain and simple. I’m really hoping there is another addition to this series.
**ARC kindly provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
I loved Riven, it was my first book by this author, I knew immediately I wanted to continue this series. I will be honest, I usually avoid highly emotional books. I am such a tender hearted, sappy, softie that they really affect me and truth here, I’m a complete and total ugly crier. So when I read a friend’s review, I took a pause because she started off with how broken hearted she was for Matty. And she was right on it, this story had me so twisted up inside, the unfairness life can put people through. The guilt that I can’t take in every forgotten child and give them the love I douse my own children with. So to say I was affected by this story, well that would be an understatement, not only did I have my husband checking in On me, but also my 16 year old who just wanted to make sure Mom was alright.
With the crying aside, I’m so very glad I read this story. Matty and Rhys were a story of opposite forces coming together to form a wholeness and there is no light without darkness.
I highlighted nearly each passage of Matt’s inner thoughts, they really made me take a pause and think about how words have the power affect a person so deeply. Matt struggled using his words but I think he ultimately found his own strength when he could finally express his thoughts into words.
I’m babbling, I know, but I really found this story to be such a wonderful journey. The writing was captivating and really just drew me into Rhys and Matt’s world. I loved it, plain and simple. I’m really hoping there is another addition to this series.
**ARC kindly provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
September 17, 2018
4.25 stars.
Rend was super an enjoyable read! The characters were really well developed and I loved their story. No matter how heartbreaking and a hard read it was at times.
If I'm being honest, I did enjoy book 1 a tad bit more. And if I haven't already said this, I'm now a huge fan of Roan Parrish and I need more.
I can't wait for everyone to read this one.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Rend was super an enjoyable read! The characters were really well developed and I loved their story. No matter how heartbreaking and a hard read it was at times.
If I'm being honest, I did enjoy book 1 a tad bit more. And if I haven't already said this, I'm now a huge fan of Roan Parrish and I need more.
I can't wait for everyone to read this one.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2019
I've given this an A+ for narration (duh!) and a B+ for content at AudioGals.
Rend isn’t an easy book to read or listen to, but it’s one that well repays the time spent with it. It’s the tale of a marriage on the edge of collapse and a troubled young man who is dealing with some very real, very deep emotional issues – and I came away from it having experienced laughter and tears, moments of joy, moments of pain and everything in between. When an author can do that simply through the arrangement of words on a printed page… it’s powerful stuff. And when you then take those words and give them to a narrator of the calibre of Greg Boudreaux – who I knew would nail, absolutely and perfectly, every single emotion behind them – there was never a doubt that I was going to be reduced to a pile of emotional rubble by the end.
You can read the rest of this review at AudioGals.
Rend isn’t an easy book to read or listen to, but it’s one that well repays the time spent with it. It’s the tale of a marriage on the edge of collapse and a troubled young man who is dealing with some very real, very deep emotional issues – and I came away from it having experienced laughter and tears, moments of joy, moments of pain and everything in between. When an author can do that simply through the arrangement of words on a printed page… it’s powerful stuff. And when you then take those words and give them to a narrator of the calibre of Greg Boudreaux – who I knew would nail, absolutely and perfectly, every single emotion behind them – there was never a doubt that I was going to be reduced to a pile of emotional rubble by the end.
You can read the rest of this review at AudioGals.
June 8, 2022
Took me far to long to get to the second audiobook, Rend. Absolutely loved. Cute romance and easy to get invested in the plot
February 27, 2019
4.5 stars!! 💘💕 Loved it!! It's a heart-breaking love story of Matt and Rhys told from Matt's POV. This is the second book in the Riven series, but it is nothing like the first book. Riven was angsty.. but Rend is emotionally draining.. 😭
In all honesty, Matt and Rhys should be enjoying their HEA, since the story starts with the married couple living a perfect life, full of romance, passion and understanding. But the deep cracks start showing up when Matt is by himself for a few months when Rhys is on tour. The long distance plays into Matt's insecurities and abandonment issues and slowly he starts to unravel and self-destruct. Rhys, unable to comprehend without full knowledge of Matt's past is left helpless and guilty. It is agonizing to read sometimes because Matt's struggles feel so real.. .because who has not tried to escape their painful past by pretending that everything is fine.... 💔. But pretense can last only so long and soon the shadows of his past start effecting Matt's "perfect" relationship with Rhys. Despite their fights, there is never a question about their love for each other, but can their love survive such turmoil? Can Matt outrun his past? Will they find their actual HEA?
The story is slow at times and Matt's POV is frustrating too..., but the hurt is real and you feel his and Rhys's pain. But they never give-up and that is the huge take-away for me, that if you know that you have something good, then fight to keep it.
Highly recommended for fans of "love-hurts" trope..💔👍👍
In all honesty, Matt and Rhys should be enjoying their HEA, since the story starts with the married couple living a perfect life, full of romance, passion and understanding. But the deep cracks start showing up when Matt is by himself for a few months when Rhys is on tour. The long distance plays into Matt's insecurities and abandonment issues and slowly he starts to unravel and self-destruct. Rhys, unable to comprehend without full knowledge of Matt's past is left helpless and guilty. It is agonizing to read sometimes because Matt's struggles feel so real.. .because who has not tried to escape their painful past by pretending that everything is fine.... 💔. But pretense can last only so long and soon the shadows of his past start effecting Matt's "perfect" relationship with Rhys. Despite their fights, there is never a question about their love for each other, but can their love survive such turmoil? Can Matt outrun his past? Will they find their actual HEA?
The story is slow at times and Matt's POV is frustrating too..., but the hurt is real and you feel his and Rhys's pain. But they never give-up and that is the huge take-away for me, that if you know that you have something good, then fight to keep it.
Highly recommended for fans of "love-hurts" trope..💔👍👍
December 28, 2018
This was exhausting.
I do have to admit I read this book in one sitting and couldn’t put it down, but I can’t say I really enjoyed it.
I normally really love books with established couples where one of them is having some issues and the other one has to provide all kinds of comfort. But I felt as if there was not enough comfort in this.
I could understand Matt’s issues and I really felt for him. But I was also a bit frustrated how it all seemed so gloom and doom. Every time Rhys tried to help Matt, it was obvious Rhys couldn’t really help him. And I get it, Matt obviously needed therapy and not just a patient husband. But these guys were just hurting all the time, and it made me feel so tired.
I don’t think Roan Parrish’s books are for me. They all seem to be pretty depressing.
I do have to admit I read this book in one sitting and couldn’t put it down, but I can’t say I really enjoyed it.
I normally really love books with established couples where one of them is having some issues and the other one has to provide all kinds of comfort. But I felt as if there was not enough comfort in this.
I could understand Matt’s issues and I really felt for him. But I was also a bit frustrated how it all seemed so gloom and doom. Every time Rhys tried to help Matt, it was obvious Rhys couldn’t really help him. And I get it, Matt obviously needed therapy and not just a patient husband. But these guys were just hurting all the time, and it made me feel so tired.
I don’t think Roan Parrish’s books are for me. They all seem to be pretty depressing.
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