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Confessions of Pain
Gabriel Maverick grew up on the wrong side of the tracks and held absolutely no hope of ever climbing out of the box his parents and society shoved him into. When small town gossip labeled him a failure, he believed it. All that changed, though, when he met Kelsey Morganston.
Kelsey Morganston not only grew up on the right side of the tracks, his family owned the tracks. To anybody on the outside looking in, Kelsey had it all. Small town society gently placed him into his box and failure wasn’t an option. All that changed though, when he met Gabriel Maverick.
Young love was immediate and forever. Suddenly, Gabriel felt like he could conquer the universe and Kelsey found an inner strength he hadn’t realized existed. In their small corner of the world with their desires hidden from everyone except each other, they believed their love was indestructible. They were mistaken. In one night, lies and misunderstandings destroy their love and forces Gabriel to run away from the town and Kelsey.
Ten years later, Gabriel is back and determined to exact revenge on the boy he used to love. Will hate blind him to what his heart tries telling him…or will love have a second chance?
Kelsey Morganston not only grew up on the right side of the tracks, his family owned the tracks. To anybody on the outside looking in, Kelsey had it all. Small town society gently placed him into his box and failure wasn’t an option. All that changed though, when he met Gabriel Maverick.
Young love was immediate and forever. Suddenly, Gabriel felt like he could conquer the universe and Kelsey found an inner strength he hadn’t realized existed. In their small corner of the world with their desires hidden from everyone except each other, they believed their love was indestructible. They were mistaken. In one night, lies and misunderstandings destroy their love and forces Gabriel to run away from the town and Kelsey.
Ten years later, Gabriel is back and determined to exact revenge on the boy he used to love. Will hate blind him to what his heart tries telling him…or will love have a second chance?
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2018
5 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
lost-interested
February 11, 2019DNF @ 23%
The monologue was too much, I couldn't bear Gabriel's inner thoughts for one second more!
The monologue was too much, I couldn't bear Gabriel's inner thoughts for one second more!
April 8, 2018
It's been a while since I stayed up past midnight to finish a book, but damn I had to finish this one.
To say I loved it would be an understatement.
I like misunderstandings, and if they are done right I love them. This one was done perfectly for me. The angst and hurt was worth it to get to the HEA. Gabriel and Kelsey had me hooked from the first. The rest of the team slotted in seamlessly and I loved seeing them all.
Wasn't expecting the drama at the end but I'm glad at least one brother got his just desserts
Thank you Claudia for the rec.
To say I loved it would be an understatement.
I like misunderstandings, and if they are done right I love them. This one was done perfectly for me. The angst and hurt was worth it to get to the HEA. Gabriel and Kelsey had me hooked from the first. The rest of the team slotted in seamlessly and I loved seeing them all.
Wasn't expecting the drama at the end but I'm glad at least one brother got his just desserts
Thank you Claudia for the rec.
April 11, 2018
3.5 reluctant stars, because miscommunication is a bitch
This was like, 90% of miscommunication at its worst. Like, I really did hate how they talked AROUND everything in an obvious attempt to create more drama and keep the story going a lot longer then it needed to be, or actually keep the main drama the misunderstanding instead of getting it over with by at least the 50% mark and then seeing our two MC's actually deal with their relationship and get to a solid place.
But...despite all this, despite how it pissed me off, I couldn't put it down. I think because I just wanted to get that moment where it was all revealed, where they saw how wrong they were and get back together and people stopped treated either of the MC's like shit - because Gabriel had his versions of events (which while perfectly valid, were different from Kelsey's version of events, that were also equally valid) - and Kelsey had his and their friends stood up for the other, so you had people left and right making accusations and being assholes without having the full story.
And of course they all, not just the MC's, talk around everything. It got really tiring after awhile, but these characters kept pulling me back in, the writing kept pulling me back in, and the story kept pulling me back in.
I wanted Kelsey to realize why Gabriel ran away (because I knew he would haven't actually done what Gabe thought he did) and why he was so angry. But Kelsey believed that Gabriel was angry for a completely different reason because of his manipulative and abusive brother, Wayne, so of courseee he didn't wonder why Gabriel was angry at him sometimes over things he didn't quite get, and pointed comment he made. OF COURSE he wasn't like "what do you mean?" nah, they had to, ya know, NOT talk.
And Gabriel, not once, said the words . So of course all this shit went on until the end, until the climax of the story.
But I couldn't help but like this story, a lot? One of the biggest tropes I hate, executed in the worst possible way too, and I still liked this, a lot. That is something. Because I just HAD to know what happened next, WHEN they'd all find out the truth. And in the flashbacks, Gabriel and Kelsey were incredibly sweet together, incredibly lovesick and adorable, and I just wanted more of that, so much more of them. I'd actually prefer a sequel, even if it meant some more drama and angst, if we got more of these two, more of their time together when they were teenagers and now that they're adults. Also, if there is a next book about Jax and Titus, I would be all for it ;).
There was some unnecessary drama at the end, although the motivations for why it happened weren't completely out of left field. But after everything was coming to light, and we could have got Gabriel and Kelsey talking out shit once and for all, we had to wait even longer. And they do talk at the end...but not enough, imo. It was also a slightly abrupt ending for me, even though they are happy at the end. But I wish we had gotten an epilogue. I was left with a sense of "that's it?" at the end because it didn't quite feel complete.
Now that all the drama and shit was something they moved past, could we not get more of them being together? It's not until around 80% or more that they even and then instead of it all coming to light from Kelsey and Gabriel talking, it comes to light another way. Frustrating.
But is this worth a read? Hell yeah, because it's fun and engaging as much as it angers and frustrates - and hell, misunderstandings might not be such a turn off in books for people, and if you love it, this is just the book for you lol. Even if you hate them like I do, I feel like you could enjoy it as well, because I never expected to like a book with miscommunication to THIS epic a level of miscommunication, but I did.
Could have been better, especially the ending and needed so much more of Gabriel and Kelsey together, like SO much more, but it was good. It was intriguing and un-put-downable for me. So definitely worth a read, in my opinion, and one hearty thumbs up from me! :D
This was like, 90% of miscommunication at its worst. Like, I really did hate how they talked AROUND everything in an obvious attempt to create more drama and keep the story going a lot longer then it needed to be, or actually keep the main drama the misunderstanding instead of getting it over with by at least the 50% mark and then seeing our two MC's actually deal with their relationship and get to a solid place.
But...despite all this, despite how it pissed me off, I couldn't put it down. I think because I just wanted to get that moment where it was all revealed, where they saw how wrong they were and get back together and people stopped treated either of the MC's like shit - because Gabriel had his versions of events (which while perfectly valid, were different from Kelsey's version of events, that were also equally valid) - and Kelsey had his and their friends stood up for the other, so you had people left and right making accusations and being assholes without having the full story.
And of course they all, not just the MC's, talk around everything. It got really tiring after awhile, but these characters kept pulling me back in, the writing kept pulling me back in, and the story kept pulling me back in.
I wanted Kelsey to realize why Gabriel ran away (because I knew he would haven't actually done what Gabe thought he did) and why he was so angry. But Kelsey believed that Gabriel was angry for a completely different reason because of his manipulative and abusive brother, Wayne, so of courseee he didn't wonder why Gabriel was angry at him sometimes over things he didn't quite get, and pointed comment he made. OF COURSE he wasn't like "what do you mean?" nah, they had to, ya know, NOT talk.
And Gabriel, not once, said the words . So of course all this shit went on until the end, until the climax of the story.
But I couldn't help but like this story, a lot? One of the biggest tropes I hate, executed in the worst possible way too, and I still liked this, a lot. That is something. Because I just HAD to know what happened next, WHEN they'd all find out the truth. And in the flashbacks, Gabriel and Kelsey were incredibly sweet together, incredibly lovesick and adorable, and I just wanted more of that, so much more of them. I'd actually prefer a sequel, even if it meant some more drama and angst, if we got more of these two, more of their time together when they were teenagers and now that they're adults. Also, if there is a next book about Jax and Titus, I would be all for it ;).
There was some unnecessary drama at the end, although the motivations for why it happened weren't completely out of left field. But after everything was coming to light, and we could have got Gabriel and Kelsey talking out shit once and for all, we had to wait even longer. And they do talk at the end...but not enough, imo. It was also a slightly abrupt ending for me, even though they are happy at the end. But I wish we had gotten an epilogue. I was left with a sense of "that's it?" at the end because it didn't quite feel complete.
Now that all the drama and shit was something they moved past, could we not get more of them being together? It's not until around 80% or more that they even and then instead of it all coming to light from Kelsey and Gabriel talking, it comes to light another way. Frustrating.
But is this worth a read? Hell yeah, because it's fun and engaging as much as it angers and frustrates - and hell, misunderstandings might not be such a turn off in books for people, and if you love it, this is just the book for you lol. Even if you hate them like I do, I feel like you could enjoy it as well, because I never expected to like a book with miscommunication to THIS epic a level of miscommunication, but I did.
Could have been better, especially the ending and needed so much more of Gabriel and Kelsey together, like SO much more, but it was good. It was intriguing and un-put-downable for me. So definitely worth a read, in my opinion, and one hearty thumbs up from me! :D
May 1, 2018
Miscommunication is a bitch...
November 18, 2018
This Book deserves all it's 5* and more... From time to time, I find books that swallow me... heart, body and soul... This book caught me from page one - I was hurting, ranting, crying right beside the mc's... because that's what an awesome book does...
When you believe you're not good enough, anything will bring forth your insecurities and you'll doubt yourself and your self worth... so when lies were shout and accusations thrown, Gabe ended up doubting the feelings of the one person that promissed him eternal love... He went from cloud nine to the deepest abyss and all he could do was run... run from the lies, from the hurt, and try to mend his broken heart... but deep down, a flame kept him going... He would turn the tables, he would get his revenge from the people that had wronged him so much... He would prove them wrong...
From the outside, Kelsey had everything a young guy could wish for... He came from a rich and powerful family, but from the inside... all he wanted was Gabe... He needed Gabe's love and strenght, he was his light, his reason to wake up every day, he was his rock, what made him able to face the harshness of his reality... But sudenly all was gone... He was left behind without a word and his world crumbled... How would he face all of it alone... why would he even try?
Gabe and Kelsey owned my heart during all their journey and what a journey it was... They got a second chance to make wrongs right... a second chance at happiness... But to make it possible, they needed to accept their feelings, find forgiveness inside of their hearts and make their confessions of pain...
Don't miss this wonderful book
When you believe you're not good enough, anything will bring forth your insecurities and you'll doubt yourself and your self worth... so when lies were shout and accusations thrown, Gabe ended up doubting the feelings of the one person that promissed him eternal love... He went from cloud nine to the deepest abyss and all he could do was run... run from the lies, from the hurt, and try to mend his broken heart... but deep down, a flame kept him going... He would turn the tables, he would get his revenge from the people that had wronged him so much... He would prove them wrong...
From the outside, Kelsey had everything a young guy could wish for... He came from a rich and powerful family, but from the inside... all he wanted was Gabe... He needed Gabe's love and strenght, he was his light, his reason to wake up every day, he was his rock, what made him able to face the harshness of his reality... But sudenly all was gone... He was left behind without a word and his world crumbled... How would he face all of it alone... why would he even try?
Gabe and Kelsey owned my heart during all their journey and what a journey it was... They got a second chance to make wrongs right... a second chance at happiness... But to make it possible, they needed to accept their feelings, find forgiveness inside of their hearts and make their confessions of pain...
Don't miss this wonderful book
May 7, 2018
✮4 Stars✮
May 26, 2019
I totally freaking loved this book! It’s a well Deserved 5⭐️
This is one of those books that will suck you completely in and will not let you go. Be prepared to do nothing at all for a few hours because you won’t want to put this book down.
First Love. Enemies to Lovers. Revenge. Second Chance. Tension filled, Romance.
Gabriel never thought he was good enough. All Kelsey ever wanted was Gabe. Even their Love couldn’t last through a teenage “betrayal” and After 10 years Gabriel is back for revenge on the boy who destroyed him. Kelsey is damaged and broken even years after Gabe left him, and nothing will heal him but Gabe. There is So much Hate, and Anger, and Hurt on both sides. But Nothing in this book is what it seems. There are so many Twists and Turns. There is a lot of well earned drama that needs to be sorted. I loved every single one of the Characters in this book. I just want more. It was a decent length but I still wouldn’t have minded reading another few hundred pages of all these men. And we better get a book with Jax and Titus next.
I am Totally Team Kelsey.
This is one of those books that will suck you completely in and will not let you go. Be prepared to do nothing at all for a few hours because you won’t want to put this book down.
First Love. Enemies to Lovers. Revenge. Second Chance. Tension filled, Romance.
Gabriel never thought he was good enough. All Kelsey ever wanted was Gabe. Even their Love couldn’t last through a teenage “betrayal” and After 10 years Gabriel is back for revenge on the boy who destroyed him. Kelsey is damaged and broken even years after Gabe left him, and nothing will heal him but Gabe. There is So much Hate, and Anger, and Hurt on both sides. But Nothing in this book is what it seems. There are so many Twists and Turns. There is a lot of well earned drama that needs to be sorted. I loved every single one of the Characters in this book. I just want more. It was a decent length but I still wouldn’t have minded reading another few hundred pages of all these men. And we better get a book with Jax and Titus next.
I am Totally Team Kelsey.
April 4, 2018
What a whirlwind. :)
When Gabriel and Kelsey were 17 years old they lost each other due to betrayal. Now, ten years later Gabriel wants revenge on the boy he once loved, only to realize he still loves Kelsey.
It’s a second chance romance, and it’s not overly sexual. I wanted more on-page suffering, instead of flashbacks. There were mentions of suicide and prostitution, I wanted to see that too. The author could’ve gone a bit more deeper emotionally. But rest assured, there was enough heartbreak as it is.
I wanted more of Kelsey, cause he seemed like a cute guy, angelic really, but it was mostly written from Gabriel’s point of view.
Is it weird, that I liked the secondary characters more, than the MC’s? I got a feeling that Ethan and Jeremiah have their own book, though I didn’t feel like I missed something.
Titus is adorbs!!! :D Totally reading his book, when it comes out.
When Gabriel and Kelsey were 17 years old they lost each other due to betrayal. Now, ten years later Gabriel wants revenge on the boy he once loved, only to realize he still loves Kelsey.
It’s a second chance romance, and it’s not overly sexual. I wanted more on-page suffering, instead of flashbacks. There were mentions of suicide and prostitution, I wanted to see that too. The author could’ve gone a bit more deeper emotionally. But rest assured, there was enough heartbreak as it is.
I wanted more of Kelsey, cause he seemed like a cute guy, angelic really, but it was mostly written from Gabriel’s point of view.
Is it weird, that I liked the secondary characters more, than the MC’s? I got a feeling that Ethan and Jeremiah have their own book, though I didn’t feel like I missed something.
Titus is adorbs!!! :D Totally reading his book, when it comes out.
April 9, 2018
This story quickly drew me in and kept me reading to find out what would happen next. The story is filled with interesting, complex, and believable characters, I enjoyed getting to know them. The story is heartbreaking, a little frustrating, filled with love and hope. This is the first book by this author I have read and it won’t be the last.
I received a copy of this book, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
I received a copy of this book, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
June 30, 2018
When I started reading this story I thought this would end up being a 3 star book. It was good but I didn't like Gabriel, at all. I understood why he was doing what he did but he really pushed my buttons and not in that I love him way. As the story enfolded I changed my mind, all I wanted to do was embrace him and Kelsey. Can't say much more than that or I'll ruin the story by giving too many spoilers and that would spoil the reading pleasure.
PS.....I want a story about Jax and Titus!
March 28, 2018
This was such an amazing book. I loved it. I don’t know if it is a second-chances or enemies-to-lovers romance, and I guess it doesn’t matter really. The important thing to know is that it is a wonderful story. It is a story full of surprises. Nothing is what you thought, and no one reacts the way you would expect. I kept turning the pages to see what happened next because I sure had no idea where the author would take me next.
Gabriel and Kelsey are boyfriends in high school. Both boys don’t have the easiest childhoods and families. When Gabriel is wrongfully accused of something hideous, he sees no other solution than to flee from his house.
After ten years, he sees his chance for the ultimate revenge, but things don’t go as he planned.
The story is mostly told from Gabriel’s point of view, so we get to know him really well. I think that is the strong point of this story. You might think Gabriel is a mean person for getting back to Kelsey the way he does, but I think he is anything but. The author manages to make him a loveable man despite his evil plans. He is a broken man, flawed and lost. Rich with development with so many layers, and he still loves Kelsey so very much, even if he doesn’t realize it. You read it in everything he does. With every step he takes and every word he says, he grows and he knows what to do. What started as a plan to get back at Kelsey, ends in getting back with Kelsey.
You can’t help falling in love with Kelsey. He is such a sweetheart. And talking about a lost soul. But he is strong, and he is a survivor despite all that happened to him. I think it is a good thing the author didn’t emphasize Kelsey’s past too much as that would have led to a who’s-to-blame story. We read enough about Kelsey to have your heart cry for him without diminishing what he went through.
Alternating flashbacks and present time, the author paints a beautiful picture of two boys who are forced to live apart by the wrongdoing (intentional and otherwise) of others. It is a poignant story. At times, gritty and dark. It is heartbreaking and funny. Yes, there are moments I had to laugh before I had to cry again.
Ethan, Jeremiah, and Titus (Oh, Titus. I love him, quirks and all), and Evie and Jax, are the ultimate friends. They enhance the story with their presence.
Highly recommended.
Gabriel and Kelsey are boyfriends in high school. Both boys don’t have the easiest childhoods and families. When Gabriel is wrongfully accused of something hideous, he sees no other solution than to flee from his house.
After ten years, he sees his chance for the ultimate revenge, but things don’t go as he planned.
The story is mostly told from Gabriel’s point of view, so we get to know him really well. I think that is the strong point of this story. You might think Gabriel is a mean person for getting back to Kelsey the way he does, but I think he is anything but. The author manages to make him a loveable man despite his evil plans. He is a broken man, flawed and lost. Rich with development with so many layers, and he still loves Kelsey so very much, even if he doesn’t realize it. You read it in everything he does. With every step he takes and every word he says, he grows and he knows what to do. What started as a plan to get back at Kelsey, ends in getting back with Kelsey.
You can’t help falling in love with Kelsey. He is such a sweetheart. And talking about a lost soul. But he is strong, and he is a survivor despite all that happened to him. I think it is a good thing the author didn’t emphasize Kelsey’s past too much as that would have led to a who’s-to-blame story. We read enough about Kelsey to have your heart cry for him without diminishing what he went through.
Alternating flashbacks and present time, the author paints a beautiful picture of two boys who are forced to live apart by the wrongdoing (intentional and otherwise) of others. It is a poignant story. At times, gritty and dark. It is heartbreaking and funny. Yes, there are moments I had to laugh before I had to cry again.
Ethan, Jeremiah, and Titus (Oh, Titus. I love him, quirks and all), and Evie and Jax, are the ultimate friends. They enhance the story with their presence.
Highly recommended.
April 12, 2018
Gabriel and Kelsey were high school loves who came from very different families. Kelsey's family was rich and connected, Gabriel was poor and his family was pretty uninvolved. They had plans to get away together until it all came crashing down right after they were together for the first time. Kelsey's father showed up at Gabriel's door with the cops claiming that Gabriel raped Kelsey. Gabriel was heartbroken and took off, running away from home.
Fast forward 10 years and we see that Gabriel is still totally affected by that night, and the only thing that has gotten him through was the plan to exact revenge on Kelsey for telling lies and breaking his heart. Of course, nothing is exactly like it seems, and both guys come to terms with the lies that were told, the heartbreaking events that have occurred over the past 10 years, and the love that is still very much there.
There was a lot of angst, especially surrounding the ridiculous lack of communication between the guys. I can see how rage and anger, sadness and guilt can put a damper on moving forward right away. It was painful to read though. My heart definitely hurt, especially for Kelsey. I am so glad they were able to come back together and work through their pain.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC received by LesCourt Author Services
Fast forward 10 years and we see that Gabriel is still totally affected by that night, and the only thing that has gotten him through was the plan to exact revenge on Kelsey for telling lies and breaking his heart. Of course, nothing is exactly like it seems, and both guys come to terms with the lies that were told, the heartbreaking events that have occurred over the past 10 years, and the love that is still very much there.
There was a lot of angst, especially surrounding the ridiculous lack of communication between the guys. I can see how rage and anger, sadness and guilt can put a damper on moving forward right away. It was painful to read though. My heart definitely hurt, especially for Kelsey. I am so glad they were able to come back together and work through their pain.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC received by LesCourt Author Services
March 30, 2018
OMG! Gut wrenching from the very beginning.. I was drawn in right from the very first page. My heart broke for Gabriel. He is driven by revenge & loss. Gabriel goes back after 10 years to where his life fell apart. Intent on hurting Kelsey like Kelsey had hurt him.
"Why couldn't he have let himself go and get fat and ugly? Why did he have to be so f***ing beautiful? Why did my heart still thunder wildly just for being near him?" Sigh..
A dynamic story of two men trying to navigate the enormity of the emotions that seeing each other again brings back for both of them.
My heart broke a little for Kelsey too. Knowing there was more to his story but not knowing what it was..
A heart breaking story of betrayal, friendship, finding family, memories, loss and revenge. I was fully engaged the whole way through. Cheering the good and annoyed and sometimes disappointed at the questionable decisions these characters made.
I really hope Titus & Jax get a book. Please...
Highly recommend!!
"Why couldn't he have let himself go and get fat and ugly? Why did he have to be so f***ing beautiful? Why did my heart still thunder wildly just for being near him?" Sigh..
A dynamic story of two men trying to navigate the enormity of the emotions that seeing each other again brings back for both of them.
My heart broke a little for Kelsey too. Knowing there was more to his story but not knowing what it was..
A heart breaking story of betrayal, friendship, finding family, memories, loss and revenge. I was fully engaged the whole way through. Cheering the good and annoyed and sometimes disappointed at the questionable decisions these characters made.
I really hope Titus & Jax get a book. Please...
Highly recommend!!
April 6, 2018
Wow, what a book!!!!!
I read this book in one sitting. This book was so amazing at how with one conversation of lies and no communication can lead to a decade of hurt and anger for 2 people.
Kelsey, in my opinion, was the one who got hurt the worst with lies. Until Gabe comes back for revenge and the truth comes out these 2 continue to hurt each other verbally.
I am curious to see more of these character in the story of Jax and Titus
I read this book in one sitting. This book was so amazing at how with one conversation of lies and no communication can lead to a decade of hurt and anger for 2 people.
Kelsey, in my opinion, was the one who got hurt the worst with lies. Until Gabe comes back for revenge and the truth comes out these 2 continue to hurt each other verbally.
I am curious to see more of these character in the story of Jax and Titus
June 29, 2018
WOW, just WOW! This deserves every single star and more.
Confessions of Pain by T.S. McKinney packs a powerful punch from beginning to end. Misconception, deceit, bigotry, privilege, and the innocence of youth take these men down a tempestuous path that shapes their budding adult lives.Two men from opposite sides of the tracks who are brought together by fate and determination, are torn apart by those who should love and protect them most.
Gabriel Maverick was so far on the wrong side of the tracks; with a family who could care less and society labeling him a failure, he was going through the motions with no hope in sight. That is until he met Kelsey. Then his world changed. Still hindered by self-doubt he couldn’t believe that Kelsey of all people would want him. Until his world shattered.
Kelsey Morganston was the extreme opposite of Gabriel. So far on the right side of the tracks with money and family power, living a sheltered, “perfect” albeit lonely life. That is until he met Gabriel and he came alive for the first time in is life. Then he lost it all.
What starts out as young love, bright and all consuming, turns into 10 years of pain (physical and mental) for both men. Gabriel has had to survive on ambiguity that has spun his life out of control creating a need for revenge. Kelsey, left behind, begins a downward spiral. If not for the love and protection of his best friends, Jax and Evie, he would have succeeded in destroying himself.
During their 10 years apart a lot has changed. Gabriel, driven by revenge and with the luck of finding “family”, has turned himself around and is quite the wealthy man. In a monetary sense that is. On the other hand, with the death of Kelsey’s father and the arrogance of his siblings, Kelsey’s family is no longer what they once were. Now they are struggling to keep the family business afloat.
The time is ripe for Gabriel to make his move and set his revenge plan into motion. But best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry and Gabriel soon discovers he needs Kelsey’s help. Simultaneously, truths are revealed, lies untangled, and the past is let go of – or at least put behind, as Gabriel and Kelsey regain what was really never lost.
There is a complex and comprehendable set of secondary characters that absolutely enhance this story line. With team Gabriel in one corner and team Kelsey in the other, these guys are blessed beyond words. As the two teams wage battle, they realize that not only does a business need saving, so do Gabriel and Kelsey. I think there could even be a spin off for these players, but only T.S. really knows.
There are so many great stories out there and every once in a while one truly stands out. This is the case for me with Confessions of Pain. If real life hadn’t gotten in the way, I would not have put this book down until the final page was read. Take this journey, while turbulent and gut wrenching, you will be left in awe by the strength and ability to let go of one’s past atrocities
Confessions of Pain by T.S. McKinney packs a powerful punch from beginning to end. Misconception, deceit, bigotry, privilege, and the innocence of youth take these men down a tempestuous path that shapes their budding adult lives.Two men from opposite sides of the tracks who are brought together by fate and determination, are torn apart by those who should love and protect them most.
Gabriel Maverick was so far on the wrong side of the tracks; with a family who could care less and society labeling him a failure, he was going through the motions with no hope in sight. That is until he met Kelsey. Then his world changed. Still hindered by self-doubt he couldn’t believe that Kelsey of all people would want him. Until his world shattered.
Kelsey Morganston was the extreme opposite of Gabriel. So far on the right side of the tracks with money and family power, living a sheltered, “perfect” albeit lonely life. That is until he met Gabriel and he came alive for the first time in is life. Then he lost it all.
What starts out as young love, bright and all consuming, turns into 10 years of pain (physical and mental) for both men. Gabriel has had to survive on ambiguity that has spun his life out of control creating a need for revenge. Kelsey, left behind, begins a downward spiral. If not for the love and protection of his best friends, Jax and Evie, he would have succeeded in destroying himself.
During their 10 years apart a lot has changed. Gabriel, driven by revenge and with the luck of finding “family”, has turned himself around and is quite the wealthy man. In a monetary sense that is. On the other hand, with the death of Kelsey’s father and the arrogance of his siblings, Kelsey’s family is no longer what they once were. Now they are struggling to keep the family business afloat.
The time is ripe for Gabriel to make his move and set his revenge plan into motion. But best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry and Gabriel soon discovers he needs Kelsey’s help. Simultaneously, truths are revealed, lies untangled, and the past is let go of – or at least put behind, as Gabriel and Kelsey regain what was really never lost.
There is a complex and comprehendable set of secondary characters that absolutely enhance this story line. With team Gabriel in one corner and team Kelsey in the other, these guys are blessed beyond words. As the two teams wage battle, they realize that not only does a business need saving, so do Gabriel and Kelsey. I think there could even be a spin off for these players, but only T.S. really knows.
There are so many great stories out there and every once in a while one truly stands out. This is the case for me with Confessions of Pain. If real life hadn’t gotten in the way, I would not have put this book down until the final page was read. Take this journey, while turbulent and gut wrenching, you will be left in awe by the strength and ability to let go of one’s past atrocities
April 11, 2018
Oh my god, angst, angst, angst! This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I think my muscles are actually sore from tensing up so much. I basically read this book in an entire day because I simply could not stop until I knew what was going to happen. This wasn't a slow burn. It was a long a tortuous inferno and for the first time, in a long time, I am able to say “Wow! I didn't see that coming.” (I’m kind of a book predicting genius 😉)
Second chance romances and young love are two of my favorite tropes. They never get old for me. Gabriel and Kelsey fell in love at a very young age, despite coming from two very different social backgrounds. They represent everything young love should in the beginning, but then lies and deceit tear them apart, causing Gabriel to run, and Kelsey to wonder what the hell happened. Both boys were left with overwhelming feelings of betrayal. Through the years, Gabriel forms a plan of revenge, meant to tear apart the life that Kelsey has built for himself, except as things unfold, he learned maybe things aren’t what he always thought they were.
Gabriel has fought and clawed his way through life to get where he is today. He believes the hatred he has toward both Kelsey and his family are what gives his life purpose and pushes him on, helping him survive on the streets and make it from one day to the next. In his mind, the only thing he has going for him is the hope that one day he’ll get his revenge. It’s a misguided purpose that lingers and festers for ten years, strengthening until it’s a bitter poison. I think it was his actions that got under my skin the most, because it was as if he had little to no control over how he acted or thought about Kelsey, even though sometimes, it killed him to do so. As if even though he knew he was hurting someone (or himself), but he still couldn’t refrain from going through with it. Gabriel was way past torn up on the inside over what happened between them, and those emotions - rage, anger, despair, grief - bubbled over into me as a reader, leaving me feeling raw and bruised. I hurt for him and I hurt for Kelsey, who was so clearly broken even before we understood how deep his shattered pieces went. My heart just hurt so much, for both of them.
I was really captured by this book all the way through. At the 50% mark but just when I was ready to get off the ride to go find the cotton candy and watch the 2 MCs begin to reconnect, I was jolted from the loading dock and sent on another round in the rollercoaster. I struggled to breathe until I crossed the finish line, because every time I started to relax and think okay maybe this time it will work out, something else would happen, sending me on another bend or down another hill. It was all too much for my delicate heart. Okay, maybe not ... but I was definitely ready to scream on more than one occasion.
There were times when the emotions and the situations seemed like they might a little too extreme for plausibility, especially where Kelsey was concerned, but somehow it fit. I didn’t question the motives or reasons too much and it didn’t pull me from the story at all. I wanted to be so frustrated with Gabriel for continuing with his plan, but I was so captivated with the story I found myself understanding him instead, almost the point of agreeing his actions needed to happen. At the same time, I wanted to shake Kelsey and say, “Stand up, you’re better than this!” I could feel his pain and heartache, and understood why he was so lost and broken. I wished I could reach through the pages and hug him. I also wanted to punch their friends in the face for their misguided anger and meddling, even though I could see their love and good intentions. Their goodness outdid their ugly, and in the end, kept the complaints I had sealed behind my lips. I didn’t want to like them, but I did. They worked.
So while a part of me didn’t / doesn’t want to like this book (because who likes to be put through the wringer?), I can’t say I don’t like it. It worked just as it should have, and was well done. Bravo!
If you like angst and watching two broke people crawling out of their pits of despair, even as they stand next to one another, this book is for you. If you like things sweet and warm and fuzzy, stay far far away.
Can I please give Kelsey that hug now?
Second chance romances and young love are two of my favorite tropes. They never get old for me. Gabriel and Kelsey fell in love at a very young age, despite coming from two very different social backgrounds. They represent everything young love should in the beginning, but then lies and deceit tear them apart, causing Gabriel to run, and Kelsey to wonder what the hell happened. Both boys were left with overwhelming feelings of betrayal. Through the years, Gabriel forms a plan of revenge, meant to tear apart the life that Kelsey has built for himself, except as things unfold, he learned maybe things aren’t what he always thought they were.
Gabriel has fought and clawed his way through life to get where he is today. He believes the hatred he has toward both Kelsey and his family are what gives his life purpose and pushes him on, helping him survive on the streets and make it from one day to the next. In his mind, the only thing he has going for him is the hope that one day he’ll get his revenge. It’s a misguided purpose that lingers and festers for ten years, strengthening until it’s a bitter poison. I think it was his actions that got under my skin the most, because it was as if he had little to no control over how he acted or thought about Kelsey, even though sometimes, it killed him to do so. As if even though he knew he was hurting someone (or himself), but he still couldn’t refrain from going through with it. Gabriel was way past torn up on the inside over what happened between them, and those emotions - rage, anger, despair, grief - bubbled over into me as a reader, leaving me feeling raw and bruised. I hurt for him and I hurt for Kelsey, who was so clearly broken even before we understood how deep his shattered pieces went. My heart just hurt so much, for both of them.
I was really captured by this book all the way through. At the 50% mark but just when I was ready to get off the ride to go find the cotton candy and watch the 2 MCs begin to reconnect, I was jolted from the loading dock and sent on another round in the rollercoaster. I struggled to breathe until I crossed the finish line, because every time I started to relax and think okay maybe this time it will work out, something else would happen, sending me on another bend or down another hill. It was all too much for my delicate heart. Okay, maybe not ... but I was definitely ready to scream on more than one occasion.
There were times when the emotions and the situations seemed like they might a little too extreme for plausibility, especially where Kelsey was concerned, but somehow it fit. I didn’t question the motives or reasons too much and it didn’t pull me from the story at all. I wanted to be so frustrated with Gabriel for continuing with his plan, but I was so captivated with the story I found myself understanding him instead, almost the point of agreeing his actions needed to happen. At the same time, I wanted to shake Kelsey and say, “Stand up, you’re better than this!” I could feel his pain and heartache, and understood why he was so lost and broken. I wished I could reach through the pages and hug him. I also wanted to punch their friends in the face for their misguided anger and meddling, even though I could see their love and good intentions. Their goodness outdid their ugly, and in the end, kept the complaints I had sealed behind my lips. I didn’t want to like them, but I did. They worked.
So while a part of me didn’t / doesn’t want to like this book (because who likes to be put through the wringer?), I can’t say I don’t like it. It worked just as it should have, and was well done. Bravo!
If you like angst and watching two broke people crawling out of their pits of despair, even as they stand next to one another, this book is for you. If you like things sweet and warm and fuzzy, stay far far away.
Can I please give Kelsey that hug now?
May 7, 2018
Oh my god, angst, angst, angst! This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I think my muscles are actually sore from tensing up so much. I basically read this book in an entire day because I simply could not stop until I knew what was going to happen. This wasn't a slow burn. It was a long a tortuous inferno and for the first time, in a long time, I am able to say “Wow! I didn't see that coming.” (I’m kind of a book predicting genius 😉)
Second chance romances and young love are two of my favorite tropes. They never get old for me. Gabriel and Kelsey fell in love at a very young age, despite coming from two very different social backgrounds. They represent everything young love should in the beginning, but then lies and deceit tear them apart, causing Gabriel to run, and Kelsey to wonder what the hell happened. Both boys were left with overwhelming feelings of betrayal. Through the years, Gabriel forms a plan of revenge, meant to tear apart the life that Kelsey has built for himself, except as things unfold, he learned maybe things aren’t what he always thought they were.
Gabriel has fought and clawed his way through life to get where he is today. He believes the hatred he has toward both Kelsey and his family are what gives his life purpose and pushes him on, helping him survive on the streets and make it from one day to the next. In his mind, the only thing he has going for him is the hope that one day he’ll get his revenge. It’s a misguided purpose that lingers and festers for ten years, strengthening until it’s a bitter poison. I think it was his actions that got under my skin the most, because it was as if he had little to no control over how he acted or thought about Kelsey, even though sometimes, it killed him to do so. As if even though he knew he was hurting someone (or himself), but he still couldn’t refrain from going through with it. Gabriel was way past torn up on the inside over what happened between them, and those emotions - rage, anger, despair, grief - bubbled over into me as a reader, leaving me feeling raw and bruised. I hurt for him and I hurt for Kelsey, who was so clearly broken even before we understood how deep his shattered pieces went. My heart just hurt so much, for both of them.
I was really captured by this book all the way through. At the 50% mark but just when I was ready to get off the ride to go find the cotton candy and watch the 2 MCs begin to reconnect, I was jolted from the loading dock and sent on another round in the rollercoaster. I struggled to breathe until I crossed the finish line, because every time I started to relax and think okay maybe this time it will work out, something else would happen, sending me on another bend or down another hill. It was all too much for my delicate heart. Okay, maybe not ... but I was definitely ready to scream on more than one occasion.
There were times when the emotions and the situations seemed like they might a little too extreme for plausibility, especially where Kelsey was concerned, but somehow it fit. I didn’t question the motives or reasons too much and it didn’t pull me from the story at all. I wanted to be so frustrated with Gabriel for continuing with his plan, but I was so captivated with the story I found myself understanding him instead, almost the point of agreeing his actions needed to happen. At the same time, I wanted to shake Kelsey and say, “Stand up, you’re better than this!” I could feel his pain and heartache, and understood why he was so lost and broken. I wished I could reach through the pages and hug him. I also wanted to punch their friends in the face for their misguided anger and meddling, even though I could see their love and good intentions. Their goodness outdid their ugly, and in the end, kept the complaints I had sealed behind my lips. I didn’t want to like them, but I did. They worked.
So while a part of me didn’t / doesn’t want to like this book (because who likes to be put through the wringer?), I can’t say I don’t like it. It worked just as it should have, and was well done. Bravo!
If you like angst and watching two broke people crawling out of their pits of despair, even as they stand next to one another, this book is for you. If you like things sweet and warm and fuzzy, stay far far away.
Can I please give Kelsey that hug now?
Second chance romances and young love are two of my favorite tropes. They never get old for me. Gabriel and Kelsey fell in love at a very young age, despite coming from two very different social backgrounds. They represent everything young love should in the beginning, but then lies and deceit tear them apart, causing Gabriel to run, and Kelsey to wonder what the hell happened. Both boys were left with overwhelming feelings of betrayal. Through the years, Gabriel forms a plan of revenge, meant to tear apart the life that Kelsey has built for himself, except as things unfold, he learned maybe things aren’t what he always thought they were.
Gabriel has fought and clawed his way through life to get where he is today. He believes the hatred he has toward both Kelsey and his family are what gives his life purpose and pushes him on, helping him survive on the streets and make it from one day to the next. In his mind, the only thing he has going for him is the hope that one day he’ll get his revenge. It’s a misguided purpose that lingers and festers for ten years, strengthening until it’s a bitter poison. I think it was his actions that got under my skin the most, because it was as if he had little to no control over how he acted or thought about Kelsey, even though sometimes, it killed him to do so. As if even though he knew he was hurting someone (or himself), but he still couldn’t refrain from going through with it. Gabriel was way past torn up on the inside over what happened between them, and those emotions - rage, anger, despair, grief - bubbled over into me as a reader, leaving me feeling raw and bruised. I hurt for him and I hurt for Kelsey, who was so clearly broken even before we understood how deep his shattered pieces went. My heart just hurt so much, for both of them.
I was really captured by this book all the way through. At the 50% mark but just when I was ready to get off the ride to go find the cotton candy and watch the 2 MCs begin to reconnect, I was jolted from the loading dock and sent on another round in the rollercoaster. I struggled to breathe until I crossed the finish line, because every time I started to relax and think okay maybe this time it will work out, something else would happen, sending me on another bend or down another hill. It was all too much for my delicate heart. Okay, maybe not ... but I was definitely ready to scream on more than one occasion.
There were times when the emotions and the situations seemed like they might a little too extreme for plausibility, especially where Kelsey was concerned, but somehow it fit. I didn’t question the motives or reasons too much and it didn’t pull me from the story at all. I wanted to be so frustrated with Gabriel for continuing with his plan, but I was so captivated with the story I found myself understanding him instead, almost the point of agreeing his actions needed to happen. At the same time, I wanted to shake Kelsey and say, “Stand up, you’re better than this!” I could feel his pain and heartache, and understood why he was so lost and broken. I wished I could reach through the pages and hug him. I also wanted to punch their friends in the face for their misguided anger and meddling, even though I could see their love and good intentions. Their goodness outdid their ugly, and in the end, kept the complaints I had sealed behind my lips. I didn’t want to like them, but I did. They worked.
So while a part of me didn’t / doesn’t want to like this book (because who likes to be put through the wringer?), I can’t say I don’t like it. It worked just as it should have, and was well done. Bravo!
If you like angst and watching two broke people crawling out of their pits of despair, even as they stand next to one another, this book is for you. If you like things sweet and warm and fuzzy, stay far far away.
Can I please give Kelsey that hug now?
February 1, 2020
If ever Bad Melodrama, Neverending Internal Monologue and Miscommunication gang raped Lady Romance, this would be their infant. For apart from the sheer energy tantamount to the momentum of a fright train, there is nothing to commend between those covers, especially not the terrible writing (of "said me" variety). The book is neither believable nor well-paced not romantic in the least, molehills are exalted into Himalaya-type mountains when it comes to the bumps of life for Gabriel and Kelsey, the so-called suffocating atmosphere of the small town dominated by the Morganston family amounts to zero, the entire cast of characters belongs in the worst telenovela or late-night television conceivable (when the least offending sin of a story is that nobody inside it has a distinct voice of their own no matter the part they are playing, things are really bad), and not a single societal issue is raised without being systematically mishandled and twisted into gross fudge: BDSM and self-harm are purposedly construed as if they were interchangeable, sexism writ large allows Mrs McKinney to treat all her women as harpies, a misplaced view of masculinity allows most of her male protagonists to behave in toxic fashion (poor Titus!) and to get their reward for being Neanderthals. If I could give negative stars, this books would be rated so low down under it would be on its way to reaching China.
April 15, 2018
Confessions of Pain took us on Gabe and Kelsey's journey that proved true love really can conquer all, even through lies and misunderstandings. Despite Kelsey's hateful family, Gabe and Kelsey found love and then recaptured it, discovering along the way that they'd never really lost it. Their story was a painful, but beautiful one. A tissue just might be helpful when reading their love story.
This book started a little slow to me, I think because of some of the back story/memories, but there was enough drama and suspense to more than make up for that and propel the story from good to great. Sometimes a story ramps up and then goes nowhere or is barely summed up. That was not the case with Confessions of Pain. T.S. McKinney continuously ramped up the story and then when the reader thought they were at the most suspenseful point and could see where it was going, she took us in a totally unsuspectingful and perfect direction. I was enthralled. I loved it!
Gabe and Kelsey's friends added a lot to the story. The caring and sometimes humorous exchanges added more depth to the book. I'd like to learn more about them, especially seeing how things might shake out with Jax and Titus.
This book started a little slow to me, I think because of some of the back story/memories, but there was enough drama and suspense to more than make up for that and propel the story from good to great. Sometimes a story ramps up and then goes nowhere or is barely summed up. That was not the case with Confessions of Pain. T.S. McKinney continuously ramped up the story and then when the reader thought they were at the most suspenseful point and could see where it was going, she took us in a totally unsuspectingful and perfect direction. I was enthralled. I loved it!
Gabe and Kelsey's friends added a lot to the story. The caring and sometimes humorous exchanges added more depth to the book. I'd like to learn more about them, especially seeing how things might shake out with Jax and Titus.
April 9, 2018
Confessions of Pain by author T.S. McKinney is written in dual POV. I like that. I got to really sink into the characters thoughts and lives that way. I love the emotional connection in this book. The very intense connection that makes me fall in love.
Gabriel and Kelsey have a complicated history. Gabriel has come from the poor family and Kelsey from the rich. When they are teenagers and find love, they are discovered, and Gabriel ends up running away. His family doesn’t want him gay and the locals are gonna say he raped his love.
So, he works hard toward his revenge. He becomes successful but hardened. He wants to make Kelsey pay and pay dearly.
Turns out Kelsey had nothing to do with what his family was doing. He is a good guy who never got over Gabriel. But this new man can he love him? He might be the quiet, shy man now, but he refuses to be a part of revenge. Can he teach Gabriel to love again?
I liked watching these characters come full circle. There is a lot of emotions they both must go through. It is intense and full of love. Overall a great love story that I really loved reading.
Five Shooting Stars
Gabriel and Kelsey have a complicated history. Gabriel has come from the poor family and Kelsey from the rich. When they are teenagers and find love, they are discovered, and Gabriel ends up running away. His family doesn’t want him gay and the locals are gonna say he raped his love.
So, he works hard toward his revenge. He becomes successful but hardened. He wants to make Kelsey pay and pay dearly.
Turns out Kelsey had nothing to do with what his family was doing. He is a good guy who never got over Gabriel. But this new man can he love him? He might be the quiet, shy man now, but he refuses to be a part of revenge. Can he teach Gabriel to love again?
I liked watching these characters come full circle. There is a lot of emotions they both must go through. It is intense and full of love. Overall a great love story that I really loved reading.
Five Shooting Stars
April 13, 2018
I absolutely loved this book, and my heart went out to Gabriel and Kelsey both. These two start out as hidden boyfriends in high school, Gabriel's from the wrong side of the tracks and Kelsey ,whose family was 'The" family. What should have been an amazing night, turns into a nightmare for both young men...sitting the stage for what's to come. Gabriel runs away from home, and for the next few years plots for revenge against Kelsey and his family. Kelsey sinks into depression with multiple suicide attempts. However, once Gabe comes home and buys Kelsey's family businesses neither can deny that they still care for each other....Gabriel learns that Kelsey never said that he raped him...and Kelsey learns the depths of the betrayal from his dad and brother. This book was full of all things good...I laughed, cried, and at times wanted to smack these two... however, I was thrilled that they finally got their act together....there was ups and downs....and some off the charts chemistry. I'm definitely looking forward to what comes next with these two. I'm also hoping that Jax and Titus are next, hint hint 😉
April 2, 2018
Gabriel Maverick is dirt poor, and lives with family that treats him as if he is disposable. When rich kid Kelsey Morganston approaches him wanting to be his friend, Gabe thinks he’s being punked. But what these two lonely teens don’t realize, is that they have so much more in common than being gay. Friendship blossoms into first love, and Gabe and Kelsey are forced to hide their feelings from their homophobic families. But one night, terror reaches in and strikes out, leaving Gabriel and Kelsey broken and apart…torn from each other in a way that causes a spiral of hatred and a thirst for revenge.
T.S. McKinney’s Confessions of Pain was rightly titled. This story will grip and squeeze your heart till you wonder if there will ever be any peace for our lovers. I enjoyed this heartbreaking romance, but would have liked to have had just a wee bit more background with Kelsey. His character was the one I wanted to reach into my book and hold and protect the most.
Highly recommend this story to lovers of m/m romance.
T.S. McKinney’s Confessions of Pain was rightly titled. This story will grip and squeeze your heart till you wonder if there will ever be any peace for our lovers. I enjoyed this heartbreaking romance, but would have liked to have had just a wee bit more background with Kelsey. His character was the one I wanted to reach into my book and hold and protect the most.
Highly recommend this story to lovers of m/m romance.
March 31, 2018
This was a really great, emotional read. My favorite type of second chance romance, where they have become enemies and have to work through it to get back to lovers. I especially love when it’s drawn out, all that nail-biting tension for as long as the story can possibly hold it.
I loved Gabriel, a broken hero with a well of dark pain inside. I didn’t connect as well with Kelsey, but I’m not sure if that’s just me. He was a heartbreaking character, and so real to me in ways. They were great together, pulled together time and again despite their conflicts.
Even though I loved how long the tension and anticipation lasted, the ending was a bit abrupt or maybe rushed. I had a few head tilt moments that left me scratching my head. Overall though, it was a great story. The suspense was amazing, and some really great dialogue. I’m looking forward to more, especially from some certain side characters in this book!!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy.
I loved Gabriel, a broken hero with a well of dark pain inside. I didn’t connect as well with Kelsey, but I’m not sure if that’s just me. He was a heartbreaking character, and so real to me in ways. They were great together, pulled together time and again despite their conflicts.
Even though I loved how long the tension and anticipation lasted, the ending was a bit abrupt or maybe rushed. I had a few head tilt moments that left me scratching my head. Overall though, it was a great story. The suspense was amazing, and some really great dialogue. I’m looking forward to more, especially from some certain side characters in this book!!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy.
March 31, 2018
Kelsey and Gabriel were in love. They had waited for a long time to be together. The night they finally made love was everything they wanted. Until it wasn't. Kelsey’s father and the sheriff showing up at Gabriel’s door, accusing him of rape, causing him to run. Ten years later he's back for his revenge.
Buying Kelsey’s family business is just the start in Gabriel’s plan. Along with Titus, Ethan and Jeremiah, his plans come to fruition. Buying the company, throwing the whole family out, and shutting it down should of felt better.
Lies and deception take time to untangle. Kelsey and Gabriel might discover the future they should of had. It's just going to take pain to get there.
I liked all the players in this story, specially Evie and Jax. The angst was drawn out though. An honest conversation would of sorted things. I do hope we get Titus and Jax’s story.
I received an ARC of this book for a review
Buying Kelsey’s family business is just the start in Gabriel’s plan. Along with Titus, Ethan and Jeremiah, his plans come to fruition. Buying the company, throwing the whole family out, and shutting it down should of felt better.
Lies and deception take time to untangle. Kelsey and Gabriel might discover the future they should of had. It's just going to take pain to get there.
I liked all the players in this story, specially Evie and Jax. The angst was drawn out though. An honest conversation would of sorted things. I do hope we get Titus and Jax’s story.
I received an ARC of this book for a review
April 13, 2018
This is a powerful, deeply emotional, heartbreaking and soul rebuilding story. Love this second chance at romance story! The name of this book is very appropriate, because these two men can only get to healing by getting through confessions of their pain. Two men who have feelings of betrayal and were broken because of the lies. There is lots of angst and it takes a while to get it all sorted. Communication was not their biggest strength.
This book grabbed me and i couldn't stop reading it until the last page. I definitely needed a box of tissues. The writing is so good and the story-line will keep you engaged. I loved the supporting characters and hope to see more of them in their own story.
This is my first book from this author and i will definitively be looking forward to reading more from them in the future!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my review.
This book grabbed me and i couldn't stop reading it until the last page. I definitely needed a box of tissues. The writing is so good and the story-line will keep you engaged. I loved the supporting characters and hope to see more of them in their own story.
This is my first book from this author and i will definitively be looking forward to reading more from them in the future!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my review.
April 5, 2018
I really enjoyed this book.
Gabe and Kelsey could not have come from more different backgrounds. Gabe was poor and Kelsey was a part of the town’s richest family. That didn’t stop them from becoming friends and then lovers. Unfortunately, misunderstandings and lies ruined their lives as Gabe felt forced to run away.
Fast forward 10 years and Gabe returns to town to exact revenge on Kelsey and Kelsey’s family. Soon Gabe starts to find out that revenge isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. And, that maybe everything he thought he knew isn’t exactly the truth.
If they take the time to talk, recconnect, and manage to figure out the truth, these two guys just might have a second chance!
I instantly liked these characters. I thought the storyline was wonderfully developed and I loved the suspense that lasted until the end.
Gabe and Kelsey could not have come from more different backgrounds. Gabe was poor and Kelsey was a part of the town’s richest family. That didn’t stop them from becoming friends and then lovers. Unfortunately, misunderstandings and lies ruined their lives as Gabe felt forced to run away.
Fast forward 10 years and Gabe returns to town to exact revenge on Kelsey and Kelsey’s family. Soon Gabe starts to find out that revenge isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. And, that maybe everything he thought he knew isn’t exactly the truth.
If they take the time to talk, recconnect, and manage to figure out the truth, these two guys just might have a second chance!
I instantly liked these characters. I thought the storyline was wonderfully developed and I loved the suspense that lasted until the end.
April 14, 2018
This story was heartbreaking and frustrating. Gabriel and Kelsey were meant to be together, but a lack of communication ruined their lives for years. I loved the characters, as well as their friends, but I was annoyed that no one asked for the majority of the book if Kelsey himself actually accused Gabriel, as Gabe believed he did. When they were separated, both their lives fell apart. It was painful for me how Gabe treated Kelsey when they were face to face again, and I hated that Kelsey was so insecure that he just took it. (I loved Jax and Evie defending Kelsey.) On the other hand, it was sweet to see their loving scenes. I am hopeful that their will be a follow-up story for the next couple, who I'm very excited about, and I hope that it mentions that Gabriel and Kelsey are in counseling so that they can truly let go of the past.
April 1, 2018
This book had my heart racing since page one. This is an amazing story. Kelsey and Gabriel were in love when they were kids still and then Gabriel has to run or be arrested. This whole time believing that Kelsey lie to get him arrested. So even after ten years Gabriel still feel the betrayal and plots his revenge. Now I just love how TS McKinney was able to bring the pain of Gabriel but at the same the confusion as to why he still has feelings for Kelsey. I couldn't put this book down. I had to figure out why Kelsey lied when you can still see that he is still in love with Gabriel. This story pulled on my heartstrings and I loved every min of it.
April 9, 2018
I love a second chance romance and Confessions of Pain slayed me in the best possible way! Gabriel and Kelsey bring so much emotion to this story. I love the dual POV. You really connect with both characters.
They have such a complicated history. Misunderstandings, betrayals and loss. When they come together again it is apparent that the love they once shared is still there. There is much to overcome but each realizes that the other is their soulmate. The road is not easy but they travel it together to find and accept their future together.
This story is rich with secondary characters that bring so much to the story. I am hoping there is a Jax and Titus story coming soon!!!
They have such a complicated history. Misunderstandings, betrayals and loss. When they come together again it is apparent that the love they once shared is still there. There is much to overcome but each realizes that the other is their soulmate. The road is not easy but they travel it together to find and accept their future together.
This story is rich with secondary characters that bring so much to the story. I am hoping there is a Jax and Titus story coming soon!!!
April 6, 2018
I absolutely loved this book.
Accused of a crime he didn't commit, Gabriel Maverick runs away from home at the young age of 18 and is force to survive on the streets until he joins the military. Gabriel runs away from his home, his town and his soul mate.
Kelsey Morganston is devastated when Gabriel suddenly disappears from his life. He is left behind to deal with his abusive family.
Ten years later, Gabriel returns home to exact revenge on the Morganstons.
This book had all the feels for me. I wanted to throw my kindle several times. I wanted to shake Gabriel and tell him to open his eyes and just take a look around and really see what was happening infront of him.
Gabriel and Kelsey's story sucked me in and had me recommending this book to my reading buddies.
Accused of a crime he didn't commit, Gabriel Maverick runs away from home at the young age of 18 and is force to survive on the streets until he joins the military. Gabriel runs away from his home, his town and his soul mate.
Kelsey Morganston is devastated when Gabriel suddenly disappears from his life. He is left behind to deal with his abusive family.
Ten years later, Gabriel returns home to exact revenge on the Morganstons.
This book had all the feels for me. I wanted to throw my kindle several times. I wanted to shake Gabriel and tell him to open his eyes and just take a look around and really see what was happening infront of him.
Gabriel and Kelsey's story sucked me in and had me recommending this book to my reading buddies.
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