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Boundaries #2
The Girl in the Closet
BIRDIE
Escaping an unthinkable nightmare, I’m given a second chance at life. Cole Trenton is the first person to look past the broken girl. But the moment I give him my heart he leaves.
Secrets never stay buried, and mine returns with a vengeance.
Cole walks back into my life when I need him most. He shows me how to be strong, that monsters only have the power you give them.
But my biggest fear remains.
How do I silence the girl in the closet before I lose Cole again?
COLE
I always knew Birdie Liles was different, but that didn’t stop me from falling for her.
After years of being away, I return home to bury my best friend,
only to learn that Birdie’s in trouble.
If I had known about the monster from her past, I never would’ve left.
I went to fight someone else’s war while I left the woman I love unprotected.
But I’m here now, and I’m ready to send Birdie’s demon right back to hell.
Please note: The Girl In The Closet contains graphically violent scenes that may be upsetting to some readers.
Escaping an unthinkable nightmare, I’m given a second chance at life. Cole Trenton is the first person to look past the broken girl. But the moment I give him my heart he leaves.
Secrets never stay buried, and mine returns with a vengeance.
Cole walks back into my life when I need him most. He shows me how to be strong, that monsters only have the power you give them.
But my biggest fear remains.
How do I silence the girl in the closet before I lose Cole again?
COLE
I always knew Birdie Liles was different, but that didn’t stop me from falling for her.
After years of being away, I return home to bury my best friend,
only to learn that Birdie’s in trouble.
If I had known about the monster from her past, I never would’ve left.
I went to fight someone else’s war while I left the woman I love unprotected.
But I’m here now, and I’m ready to send Birdie’s demon right back to hell.
Please note: The Girl In The Closet contains graphically violent scenes that may be upsetting to some readers.
191 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2015
541 people are currently reading
1407 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Horst
44 books1,620 followersPlease find me under my new profile Michelle Heard >>> https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
November 21, 2018
➽When I try to think of my past, the darkness is always waiting
ready to suck me right back in and suffocate me.
THE GIRL IN THE CLOSET: Is the second revised romance book in Author Michelle Heard’s ‘Southern Heroes’ series. Dual POV’S
We’re first introduced to seventeen year old Bridget aka Birdie, adopted twelve years ago by a pastor and his wife, she came to them with scars marring her body and mind, scared of her own shadow, severly broken, her father the boogeyman is castrated, serving a fifteen year sentence for what he did to her.
Her story is her story to tell, it's raw, it's heartbreaking, it's ugly.
She’d always harboured a crush on Cole but knowing deep down that it would never be reciprocated, but that’s where she’s wrong, he’d always had his eye on her, she’s just always seemed shy and unapproachable walking away every time he’d try and strike up a conversation with her, hiding behind her friends. She just wanting to be invisible, to keep everyone at arm's length. She didn't want them to get hurt.
Thinking there was no hope for anything to transpire between them Cole and his best friend join the Marines.
But things escalated quickly between them when they found themselves in each others company. And he begins to regret signing up so hastily.
Eight years go by
This part of the story wrung out all the feels..A second chance is on the cards for these two, he's back from the war, and she's never left their hometown. I couldn't get enough of these two, they were the perfect match for each other, I devoured their story, I loved it, I wanted more, I craved more, I needed more but I'm glad I got to spend the time I did with them.
A time for healing, a time for putting the past behind them, a time to love again fully, a time to embrace their survivor battle wounds.
My favourite passage (The story about pebbles)
➽ Life is full of pebbles you pick up along the way
Some might be smooth and others rough around the edges,
but that it doesn't matter what they look like.
It only matters what you do with them.
We all throw our pebbles into the same lake
and the ripples we make affect the ripples of other people.
Some people's pebbles skid over the water and they have a smooth life
where others peoples pebbles get tossed around by stormy waves.
Then there are pebbles which sink, and those people don't get to live that long.
The girl in the closet is highly addictive, raw, gritty, emotional, unique, unconventional and utterly unputdownable. I highly recommend this!!
* Teasers used are off the authors facebook page *
November 26, 2018
So I don't know what to say about this one. It was a good book, but lord it was depressing as F-CK. From beginning to end...depressing without a single lighthearted break until the very end. That said, the writing was still very good. It was well paced. The plot was engaging. The baddie aspect was OK (a little underdeveloped). I wouldn't say this was an angsty book relationship wise, mostly because this couple is not even a couple until 77% into the book (although they both love the other). Needless to say, because of the slow burn nature of the story the heat level was super low. There was also no OW or OM drama.
There was a good cast of secondary characters (one of which appears to already have a book of his own), and both main characters were likable. The heroine was a virgin (groan), but in this case, it made sense. I don't think the hero was a manwhore, but I am reasonably sure he slept with OW in the eight years they were apart. Which I am adding because I know it will bother some people since he claimed to be "in love with her always." However, it is never mentioned one way or the other. Last, it was all wrapped up in a sweet ending.
November 27, 2018
THE GIRL IN THE CLOSET by Michelle Heard
GENRE: Dark Romance
NARRATION: Dual POV
BOOK DETAILS: Standalone
MY THOUGHTS:
The subject matter is dark and disheartening, but the story is resolute and emotional and extremely well written. The burn is slow and torturous but will have you itching for more.
Cole and Bridget aka Birdie’s journey is a sad and tragic, but it is a reminder to us all that love is a powerful weapon and can help heal even the most broken of souls.
I read this book in the one sitting, it’s a page turner, tear jerker, nail biter, gritty and intense second chance love story. The characters are very well developed, and the storyline flowed
smoothly. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more from this author
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
Teaser used is off the authors Facebook page
MY RATINGS: (All ratings are out of 5)
HERO RATING: 4
HEROINE RATING: 4
BLUSH RATING: 3
DARKNESS RATING: 3.5
PLOT RATING: 4
OVERALL:4 Blushing Stars
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July 3, 2022
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Excellent - Highly Recommended
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
February 13, 2020
This is the second in this series of books and I am hooked and these two character’s will take you through a range of emotions. Not a safe read so be warned this could be a trigger for some readers.
Bridget or as she is known to all as Birdie was adopted by the local Pastor and his wife twelve years ago after a traumatic past, her body covered in scars and scared of everything after everything her father had put her through she was a broken soul but when she was safe and he is locked away she could start to rebuild herself each day at a time. And then she met Cole she fell for him as a young girl but knew that he could never feel that way about her and remained withdrawn from him. She Couldn’t be more wrong and they spend the night together right before he leaves for the marines, its eight years later and Cole has returned from the marines a broken soul who lost his best friend, he is back and staying in her house. The feelings she has always harboured for Cole are still there but her past is still haunting her will she be able to let it go and finally give herself to the man she loves?
Cole knew that Birdie was different the moment that he met her but with her shy and withdrawn felt that there was no way that she would ever see him in that way and with his best friend enrolled in to the marines but before he leaves he knows he has to make her hips and hopes that she will wait for him. Its eight years until he sees Birdie again and he returns as a shell of the man he was when he left, back in his hometown to bury his best friend but seeing Birdie heals something in him each day. Little does he know that the danger Birdie once was in has returned and when he discovers what she went through he is determined to be by her side. Can they survive their pain together and live the life they were meant to have?
This book isn’t easy to read but there is no way that you cannot fall in love with both of the characters, Birdie’s strength, fight and the way she can love is astounding and Cole is the perfect hero, together they are two broken souls that are each other’s light. Highly recommended read, 5*
Bridget or as she is known to all as Birdie was adopted by the local Pastor and his wife twelve years ago after a traumatic past, her body covered in scars and scared of everything after everything her father had put her through she was a broken soul but when she was safe and he is locked away she could start to rebuild herself each day at a time. And then she met Cole she fell for him as a young girl but knew that he could never feel that way about her and remained withdrawn from him. She Couldn’t be more wrong and they spend the night together right before he leaves for the marines, its eight years later and Cole has returned from the marines a broken soul who lost his best friend, he is back and staying in her house. The feelings she has always harboured for Cole are still there but her past is still haunting her will she be able to let it go and finally give herself to the man she loves?
Cole knew that Birdie was different the moment that he met her but with her shy and withdrawn felt that there was no way that she would ever see him in that way and with his best friend enrolled in to the marines but before he leaves he knows he has to make her hips and hopes that she will wait for him. Its eight years until he sees Birdie again and he returns as a shell of the man he was when he left, back in his hometown to bury his best friend but seeing Birdie heals something in him each day. Little does he know that the danger Birdie once was in has returned and when he discovers what she went through he is determined to be by her side. Can they survive their pain together and live the life they were meant to have?
This book isn’t easy to read but there is no way that you cannot fall in love with both of the characters, Birdie’s strength, fight and the way she can love is astounding and Cole is the perfect hero, together they are two broken souls that are each other’s light. Highly recommended read, 5*
September 26, 2015
Twisted Boundaries could not be a more perfect title for this amazing story of tragedy, revenge, and the will to survive and love again. This is a crossover between two brilliant series (the other being the Tainted Ink series) by Michelle Horst, and can be read as a stand alone, but I encourage you to read the whole series. It’s beautifully chaotic and you will be drawn into the dark and emotional world these characters bring to life.
This is Cole and Bridget’s (Birdie to some people) story, and it starts us off at the beginning, when they were teenagers. Birdie had a horrid start at life, and very few people know the truth behind her shyness and affliction towards people. Cole brings out feelings in her she never dreamed she could have, being her complete opposite, he’s strong willed, protects his loved ones, and loves fiercely.
Although neither admits their true feelings towards one another for literal years, they have the most magnetic connection. It draws you in and shows you what absolute love and cherishing someone with all your heart and soul can really be like. Their story had me in tears all the way through, between their separate lives and when they’re rejoined after 6 yrs, that being when Cole returns from the military.
Cole steps back into town, depressed and angry, after losing his best friend in the war, not knowing the demons that have been circling Birdie, and resurfacing into the present. All he sees is the beautiful angel he left behind, and all he knows it that he will fight to bring her out of the darkness she’s surrounded by. The scars of both their pasts will test them in every way possible, but the two of them together just might break through that unbearable wall of heartache.
Cole and Birdie have taken over my heart; they are two of the most precious characters I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about. They’re the true testament to surviving your past to make your present all you want it to be. Absolutely beautiful!
This is Cole and Bridget’s (Birdie to some people) story, and it starts us off at the beginning, when they were teenagers. Birdie had a horrid start at life, and very few people know the truth behind her shyness and affliction towards people. Cole brings out feelings in her she never dreamed she could have, being her complete opposite, he’s strong willed, protects his loved ones, and loves fiercely.
Although neither admits their true feelings towards one another for literal years, they have the most magnetic connection. It draws you in and shows you what absolute love and cherishing someone with all your heart and soul can really be like. Their story had me in tears all the way through, between their separate lives and when they’re rejoined after 6 yrs, that being when Cole returns from the military.
Cole steps back into town, depressed and angry, after losing his best friend in the war, not knowing the demons that have been circling Birdie, and resurfacing into the present. All he sees is the beautiful angel he left behind, and all he knows it that he will fight to bring her out of the darkness she’s surrounded by. The scars of both their pasts will test them in every way possible, but the two of them together just might break through that unbearable wall of heartache.
Cole and Birdie have taken over my heart; they are two of the most precious characters I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about. They’re the true testament to surviving your past to make your present all you want it to be. Absolutely beautiful!
November 26, 2018
3.5 stars
"A fear only has the power your mind gives it."
The Girl In The Closet deals with very tough topic that makes this whole book pretty dark and depressive. And this is also the reason why this story is a slow burn romance. But due to a great writing style and well developed characters, you won't be bored once. This story has a lot to give if you are open and read between the lines.
"I love you so much. Not only because you helped me, but because you reached into the darkness and brought me out into the light."
Cole and Birdie were quite a match. Both beautifully written with well paced character development, they give this story a beautiful and intense frame.
The Girl In The Closet is a gritty, emotional and unique story that will make your heart ache.
"You've taught me how to look at myself and the world. I no longer see darkness. When I close my eyes, you're all I see. It's okay. I'll be your air, and you can be my light."
"A fear only has the power your mind gives it."
The Girl In The Closet deals with very tough topic that makes this whole book pretty dark and depressive. And this is also the reason why this story is a slow burn romance. But due to a great writing style and well developed characters, you won't be bored once. This story has a lot to give if you are open and read between the lines.
"I love you so much. Not only because you helped me, but because you reached into the darkness and brought me out into the light."
Cole and Birdie were quite a match. Both beautifully written with well paced character development, they give this story a beautiful and intense frame.
The Girl In The Closet is a gritty, emotional and unique story that will make your heart ache.
"You've taught me how to look at myself and the world. I no longer see darkness. When I close my eyes, you're all I see. It's okay. I'll be your air, and you can be my light."
November 22, 2018
I couldn't see how the stories by Ms. Heard, could be better with each word in the book. This is a story of the Dark and Haunting life of a girl in the closet. It's gut-wrenching reading and emotional enough to bring me to tears. But it is not only of the story of a girl it's the story of friends and family and love.
This the second book of the Southern Heros. The first was The Ocean Between Us. There are six in total. I personally recommend to all to read all but in order of their release, as the characters from first to second and so forth are in each story.
Heads up you will need tissues when reading.
This the second book of the Southern Heros. The first was The Ocean Between Us. There are six in total. I personally recommend to all to read all but in order of their release, as the characters from first to second and so forth are in each story.
Heads up you will need tissues when reading.
December 12, 2018
The Girl in the Closet was one hell of an emotionally dark read. It slowly ripped my heart out and put it back together again. I loved every agonizing minute of it! This book will stay with me for a long time!
September 29, 2015
**** 5 Cranky Stars ****
Twisted Boundaries could not be a more perfect title for this amazing story of tragedy, revenge, and the will to survive and love again. This is a crossover between two brilliant series (the other being the Tainted Ink series) by Michelle Horst, and can be read as a stand alone, but I encourage you to read the whole series. It’s beautifully chaotic and you will be drawn into the dark and emotional world these characters bring to life.
This is Cole and Bridget’s (Birdie to some people) story, and it starts us off at the beginning, when they were teenagers. Birdie had a horrid start at life, and very few people know the truth behind her shyness and affliction towards people. Cole brings out feelings in her she never dreamed she could have, being her complete opposite, he’s strong willed, protects his loved ones, and loves fiercely.
Although neither admits their true feelings towards one another for literal years, they have the most magnetic connection. It draws you in and shows you what absolute love and cherishing someone with all your heart and soul can really be like. Their story had me in tears all the way through, between their separate lives and when they’re rejoined after 6 yrs, that being when Cole returns from the military.
Cole steps back into town, depressed and angry, after losing his best friend in the war, not knowing the demons that have been circling Birdie, and resurfacing into the present. All he sees is the beautiful angel he left behind, and all he knows it that he will fight to bring her out of the darkness she’s surrounded by. The scars of both their pasts will test them in every way possible, but the two of them together just might break through that unbearable wall of heartache.
Cole and Birdie have taken over my heart; they are two of the most precious characters I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about. They’re the true testament to surviving your past to make your present all you want it to be.
Absolutely beautiful!
Twisted Boundaries could not be a more perfect title for this amazing story of tragedy, revenge, and the will to survive and love again. This is a crossover between two brilliant series (the other being the Tainted Ink series) by Michelle Horst, and can be read as a stand alone, but I encourage you to read the whole series. It’s beautifully chaotic and you will be drawn into the dark and emotional world these characters bring to life.
This is Cole and Bridget’s (Birdie to some people) story, and it starts us off at the beginning, when they were teenagers. Birdie had a horrid start at life, and very few people know the truth behind her shyness and affliction towards people. Cole brings out feelings in her she never dreamed she could have, being her complete opposite, he’s strong willed, protects his loved ones, and loves fiercely.
Although neither admits their true feelings towards one another for literal years, they have the most magnetic connection. It draws you in and shows you what absolute love and cherishing someone with all your heart and soul can really be like. Their story had me in tears all the way through, between their separate lives and when they’re rejoined after 6 yrs, that being when Cole returns from the military.
Cole steps back into town, depressed and angry, after losing his best friend in the war, not knowing the demons that have been circling Birdie, and resurfacing into the present. All he sees is the beautiful angel he left behind, and all he knows it that he will fight to bring her out of the darkness she’s surrounded by. The scars of both their pasts will test them in every way possible, but the two of them together just might break through that unbearable wall of heartache.
Cole and Birdie have taken over my heart; they are two of the most precious characters I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about. They’re the true testament to surviving your past to make your present all you want it to be.
Absolutely beautiful!
April 29, 2019
Birdie Liles barely survive her early childhood, now she lives with her amazing adoptive parents and just tries to live day to day. She dresses in to long sleeves to hid her scars but it is the ones in side, of her father, the bogeyman, that haunt her the most.
Cole knows she is different, didn't stop him for falling for her. Before he leaves for the Marines he has to make her his, not for just a conquest, but his, to wait for him. As the two get a little closer, some of her secrets will be revealed only enamoring her to him more. When she is willing to give them a chance he cant be happier. When basic is over and he returns home he finds a different Birdie then the one he left. She is distant, wants nothing to do with him or anyone.
Now, years later he is back to bury his best friend. He is lost. When he is told by another friend, a cop, he needs his help, this will give him direction at least. When he learns the person is Birdie. He knows he needs to help, when he sees the file of what is chasing her, what she has been through, he is stunned but her strength, her beauty and knows he will do anything to protect her, end her nightmare and see herself for the amazing woman she is.
This is a dark read, if you don't fall in love with Birdie, you are dead inside. Her strength, her fight, her beauty inside and out is amazing. I am crushing hard. What she went through,..SMH.... i know it is a book, but we also know things like this happen in real life. Makes you wish we could all be a hero like Cole.
Cole knows she is different, didn't stop him for falling for her. Before he leaves for the Marines he has to make her his, not for just a conquest, but his, to wait for him. As the two get a little closer, some of her secrets will be revealed only enamoring her to him more. When she is willing to give them a chance he cant be happier. When basic is over and he returns home he finds a different Birdie then the one he left. She is distant, wants nothing to do with him or anyone.
Now, years later he is back to bury his best friend. He is lost. When he is told by another friend, a cop, he needs his help, this will give him direction at least. When he learns the person is Birdie. He knows he needs to help, when he sees the file of what is chasing her, what she has been through, he is stunned but her strength, her beauty and knows he will do anything to protect her, end her nightmare and see herself for the amazing woman she is.
This is a dark read, if you don't fall in love with Birdie, you are dead inside. Her strength, her fight, her beauty inside and out is amazing. I am crushing hard. What she went through,..SMH.... i know it is a book, but we also know things like this happen in real life. Makes you wish we could all be a hero like Cole.
Read
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I am.
My eyes are filled with stars,
my feet planted firmly on the ground.
My fingertips are in the pond of destiny
making ripples through life.
I’ve been to hell and back,
holding the scales of truth.
I’m your conscience,
and every haunting memory.
I’ve seen the cruelty of love.
I’ve bathed in the acid of deceit.
I’ve felt the coldness of death.
I’ve seen it all.
I’m chaos.
I’m revenge.
I am Fate.
Free with Kindle Unlimited!
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KW877K9
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07KW877K9
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07KW877K9
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07KW877K9
I am.
My eyes are filled with stars,
my feet planted firmly on the ground.
My fingertips are in the pond of destiny
making ripples through life.
I’ve been to hell and back,
holding the scales of truth.
I’m your conscience,
and every haunting memory.
I’ve seen the cruelty of love.
I’ve bathed in the acid of deceit.
I’ve felt the coldness of death.
I’ve seen it all.
I’m chaos.
I’m revenge.
I am Fate.
November 27, 2018
Allll the feels for this one! The Girl in the Closet has me on the edge of my seat one minute, and reading through my tears the next. These characters are so broken, and the way they pick up each other’s pieces is just so beautiful. I loved it so much!
September 28, 2015
Twisted Boundaries, the third book in the Boundaries series is fierce, dark, hits hard & deep and it's the best of the series so far.
As with each book in the Boundaries series Michelle takes you on a devastatingly beautiful journey. From the very beginning my heart sat in my throat. Just the prologue alone caused chills to run up and down my spine.
This harrowing tale is traumatic, poignant and incredibly moving. I'm unsure how many times my breath lodged in my throat and my heart shattered. What's so perfect about this story is that Michelle uses issues that cut deep and make you think, they make you feel and in turn engrains itself into your very soul.
But having said that, while reading I couldn't help but feel the hope and love that literally oozed itself off the page. I found myself silently cheering for Birdie and wanting everything and more for this character.
Cole was perfect, a damaged soul himself but full of motivation and love. There are some spectacular moments in the book that will make you cry, purely because they are such huge milestones for the characters development and are written exquisitely.
Michelle has fast become one of my favourite authors and with each and every release her writing and story telling improves which in turn delivers another 5 star read!
As with each book in the Boundaries series Michelle takes you on a devastatingly beautiful journey. From the very beginning my heart sat in my throat. Just the prologue alone caused chills to run up and down my spine.
This harrowing tale is traumatic, poignant and incredibly moving. I'm unsure how many times my breath lodged in my throat and my heart shattered. What's so perfect about this story is that Michelle uses issues that cut deep and make you think, they make you feel and in turn engrains itself into your very soul.
But having said that, while reading I couldn't help but feel the hope and love that literally oozed itself off the page. I found myself silently cheering for Birdie and wanting everything and more for this character.
Cole was perfect, a damaged soul himself but full of motivation and love. There are some spectacular moments in the book that will make you cry, purely because they are such huge milestones for the characters development and are written exquisitely.
Michelle has fast become one of my favourite authors and with each and every release her writing and story telling improves which in turn delivers another 5 star read!
September 26, 2015
There's a line that should never be crossed and that is how a father treats his daughter. Twisted Boundaries shows you exactly how messed up a man who should not be a father can be. I cried throughout this story and when I read it again I will cry again. It gets into your heart and rips it up from the inside out.You know something bad is going to happen from the beginning, but when the bad does happen and come out it's more heartbreaking than you would expect.
I suggest everyone read this amazing story. It tells of a woman going through the motions of life while trying to cope with her horrific past. It is a definite 5 stars.
You can read it as a stand alone, but if you would like to know more about some of the other characters I suggest you read the other two Boundaries Series books by Michelle and the Tainted Ink Series books.
Once again this is an amazing story by Michelle. She is an amazing writer and story teller.
I suggest everyone read this amazing story. It tells of a woman going through the motions of life while trying to cope with her horrific past. It is a definite 5 stars.
You can read it as a stand alone, but if you would like to know more about some of the other characters I suggest you read the other two Boundaries Series books by Michelle and the Tainted Ink Series books.
Once again this is an amazing story by Michelle. She is an amazing writer and story teller.
December 3, 2018
This is book two in the Southern Heroes series.
My heart broke for Birdie. She has been through so much that we can’t help but hope she gets a break.
Cole is the only light in her life. He has loved Birdie from afar but left to join the military. Cole comes back broken. Can two broken souls help each other? Can they reach the light together?
This is another brilliantly written story from this author. I adore her writing and I found this one faultless. I highly recommend this read. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
My heart broke for Birdie. She has been through so much that we can’t help but hope she gets a break.
Cole is the only light in her life. He has loved Birdie from afar but left to join the military. Cole comes back broken. Can two broken souls help each other? Can they reach the light together?
This is another brilliantly written story from this author. I adore her writing and I found this one faultless. I highly recommend this read. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
October 2, 2015
WOW! This one is my favorite so far. I devoured this book today. I can not wait for Reece's book.
December 2, 2018
Broke my fucking heart but I loved this to bits.
November 30, 2018
“A fear only has the power your mind gives it.” Cole’s words seep right into my bones, cutting deep.
“Then you haven’t experienced real fear,” I whisper.
Second book in the Southern Heroes series, we are introduced to Birdie and Cole and these two have had their share of suffering throughout their lives. Their journey is hard, full of anguish, loss, fear and pain. It is not an easy book, it is a reading that makes you think that sometimes in life, evil is closer than you might think.
The book begins with a teenager Bridget (Birdie) living in a peaceful town, with her adoptive parents and her foster brother. She is an incredibly shy girl, so she feeds a Platonic passion for Cole, a popular boy from her school. But her shy, withdrawn mood masks a distancing she imposes because of everything that has happened. Her past is terrible, sad and brutal. She was rescued with five years older after a series of unimaginable events.
What she did not expect was that Cole was interested in her, too. And on a visit that ends abruptly, those two will be close, and little by little the well-built walls of Birdie will begin to collapse. Cole with his patient, loving and detached way will win the heart of the protagonist. But with the threat of the past prowling around again, Birdie will walk away, breaking the heart of a passionate Cole.
Eight years later. Two characters marked by life. A real and close threat. A second chance. A protector. And a frightened girl desperate to stop feeling scared.
The book is very good! Birdie had a horrible childhood. The reports of what happened to her provoked tears. It is monstrous to think that whoever should love us unconditionally is capable of such atrocity. Even after so much time, she still lives in fear, does not feel safe anywhere. The beginning of the book where shows her and Cole starting a relationship was sweet and brought a calmer tone to the narrative, blending nicely with the dark part.
Cole was the perfect Prince Charming that Birdie needed as a teenager, and as an adult he was the highly trained soldier who protected her. He also suffered greatly. First to think that the girl he loved did not correspond, then losing his parents, facing the war and finally facing the greatest tragedy that shocked him and motivated him back home. Two characters broken, each one way, but they need each other so they can breathe.
The characters in the first book appear in the story, as well as a few others that will be part of the upcoming books. The plot of Reece and Clay seems to be interesting. The song and the excerpts that appear at the beginning of the chapters were brilliant.
The human being is capable of goodness and beauty but can also show malice and ugliness. We all have skeletons in the closet, but here he runs away from the metaphor and becomes literal. Birdie faced the boogeyman, left scorched, but survived. Even with scars and memories she won. Cole was her biggest prize in this madness called life.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
https://avidezliteraria.wordpress.com/
“Then you haven’t experienced real fear,” I whisper.
Second book in the Southern Heroes series, we are introduced to Birdie and Cole and these two have had their share of suffering throughout their lives. Their journey is hard, full of anguish, loss, fear and pain. It is not an easy book, it is a reading that makes you think that sometimes in life, evil is closer than you might think.
The book begins with a teenager Bridget (Birdie) living in a peaceful town, with her adoptive parents and her foster brother. She is an incredibly shy girl, so she feeds a Platonic passion for Cole, a popular boy from her school. But her shy, withdrawn mood masks a distancing she imposes because of everything that has happened. Her past is terrible, sad and brutal. She was rescued with five years older after a series of unimaginable events.
What she did not expect was that Cole was interested in her, too. And on a visit that ends abruptly, those two will be close, and little by little the well-built walls of Birdie will begin to collapse. Cole with his patient, loving and detached way will win the heart of the protagonist. But with the threat of the past prowling around again, Birdie will walk away, breaking the heart of a passionate Cole.
Eight years later. Two characters marked by life. A real and close threat. A second chance. A protector. And a frightened girl desperate to stop feeling scared.
The book is very good! Birdie had a horrible childhood. The reports of what happened to her provoked tears. It is monstrous to think that whoever should love us unconditionally is capable of such atrocity. Even after so much time, she still lives in fear, does not feel safe anywhere. The beginning of the book where shows her and Cole starting a relationship was sweet and brought a calmer tone to the narrative, blending nicely with the dark part.
Cole was the perfect Prince Charming that Birdie needed as a teenager, and as an adult he was the highly trained soldier who protected her. He also suffered greatly. First to think that the girl he loved did not correspond, then losing his parents, facing the war and finally facing the greatest tragedy that shocked him and motivated him back home. Two characters broken, each one way, but they need each other so they can breathe.
The characters in the first book appear in the story, as well as a few others that will be part of the upcoming books. The plot of Reece and Clay seems to be interesting. The song and the excerpts that appear at the beginning of the chapters were brilliant.
The human being is capable of goodness and beauty but can also show malice and ugliness. We all have skeletons in the closet, but here he runs away from the metaphor and becomes literal. Birdie faced the boogeyman, left scorched, but survived. Even with scars and memories she won. Cole was her biggest prize in this madness called life.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
https://avidezliteraria.wordpress.com/
September 26, 2015
Twisted boundaries is an amazing combination of a beautiful love story and a dark and twisted tale of grit and revenge! This book brings together two of my favorite series of Michelle's and I was so excited to read about it! Grab your tissues because if you've read Michelle's books, they bring tears, but this one is going to make you cry happy and sad tears throughout.
We finally get to hear Cole's story after getting glimpses of him in the Tainted Ink series. He's such a strong, sensitive yet protective man. A yin to Bridget's (aka Birdie) shy, vulnerable, but determined yang. These two were meant for each other and their story was perfectly written to show that.
When we first meet Cole, he's just a teenager, but he comes to Birdie's rescue when her awful past is brought up. And when he comes to her rescue again after his cousin, Wyatt (who's recently had his own book released!) tosses her into the water, it's as if fate has placed his kiss upon these two. You could tell even as kids that Cole and Birdie were meant to be together.
Fast forward through the six long years they were kept apart to present day. When a broken and nearly defeated Cole returns from the Marines with his best friend in a coffin, he doesn't realize that the past is about to come back and haunt him and Birdie in ways that make them test their trust, their strength and their faith in one another.
Birdie has survived with the scars of her past, literally. What she lived through with her father was her own personal nightmare. And when that past comes back to get its final revenge, Cole is one who's there to shield and protect her while teaching her to fight and be strong, sometimes for the both of them. But they eventually pick up each other's pieces along the way.
Two quotes really stood out to me, almost bookending their journey together, one from Cole and one from Birdie:
I can't tear my eyes away from his eyes as they hold mine in a penetrating gaze. "You just need to see the light, Bridget. It's always there"
"I no longer see darkness. When I close my eyes, you are all I see"
This book is without a doubt one of Michelle Horst's best works to date (which is saying something seeing as how all her works are beyond amazing). The dark comes to light in this penultimate tale that can be read as a standalone. But I strongly encourage you you read the Tainted Ink series and the Boundaries series as they are just plain awesome!
We finally get to hear Cole's story after getting glimpses of him in the Tainted Ink series. He's such a strong, sensitive yet protective man. A yin to Bridget's (aka Birdie) shy, vulnerable, but determined yang. These two were meant for each other and their story was perfectly written to show that.
When we first meet Cole, he's just a teenager, but he comes to Birdie's rescue when her awful past is brought up. And when he comes to her rescue again after his cousin, Wyatt (who's recently had his own book released!) tosses her into the water, it's as if fate has placed his kiss upon these two. You could tell even as kids that Cole and Birdie were meant to be together.
Fast forward through the six long years they were kept apart to present day. When a broken and nearly defeated Cole returns from the Marines with his best friend in a coffin, he doesn't realize that the past is about to come back and haunt him and Birdie in ways that make them test their trust, their strength and their faith in one another.
Birdie has survived with the scars of her past, literally. What she lived through with her father was her own personal nightmare. And when that past comes back to get its final revenge, Cole is one who's there to shield and protect her while teaching her to fight and be strong, sometimes for the both of them. But they eventually pick up each other's pieces along the way.
Two quotes really stood out to me, almost bookending their journey together, one from Cole and one from Birdie:
I can't tear my eyes away from his eyes as they hold mine in a penetrating gaze. "You just need to see the light, Bridget. It's always there"
"I no longer see darkness. When I close my eyes, you are all I see"
This book is without a doubt one of Michelle Horst's best works to date (which is saying something seeing as how all her works are beyond amazing). The dark comes to light in this penultimate tale that can be read as a standalone. But I strongly encourage you you read the Tainted Ink series and the Boundaries series as they are just plain awesome!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2018
A sign of a good book is not being able to put it down and I definitely read this in one sitting.
I was entranced by Birdie and Coles story.
Birdie's story is fascinating, a girl who was locked away in a cupboard for years by her father and obviously this has psychological side effects even now she is in a loving home.
Birdie is a shy girl and due to her scars always wears long-sleeved clothing but something about her captivates Cole. Cole and Birdie go to the same school and I wish there was more of the early years in the story, stolen glances, feelings, how protective Cole felt of her, however, the story jumps to Cole going into the Marines just before anything could happen between them, when they are only just discovering they are attracted to each other.
Cole goes into the marines and returns years later with his own nightmares but due to living in the same town reconnects with Birdie the girl he never forgot.
The GIRL IN THE CLOSET is a heartwarming story although, in a dark setting, it's moving and has a mixture of hope and fears within the plot.
Another unforgettable read by Michelle Heard.
Arc received for review purposes
I was entranced by Birdie and Coles story.
Birdie's story is fascinating, a girl who was locked away in a cupboard for years by her father and obviously this has psychological side effects even now she is in a loving home.
Birdie is a shy girl and due to her scars always wears long-sleeved clothing but something about her captivates Cole. Cole and Birdie go to the same school and I wish there was more of the early years in the story, stolen glances, feelings, how protective Cole felt of her, however, the story jumps to Cole going into the Marines just before anything could happen between them, when they are only just discovering they are attracted to each other.
Cole goes into the marines and returns years later with his own nightmares but due to living in the same town reconnects with Birdie the girl he never forgot.
The GIRL IN THE CLOSET is a heartwarming story although, in a dark setting, it's moving and has a mixture of hope and fears within the plot.
Another unforgettable read by Michelle Heard.
Arc received for review purposes
October 12, 2015
Twisted Boundaries. What can I say? Cole and Bridget. Those two were destined to be together right from the start. Cole. The type who secretly watches over you, guides you to where you want to be and loves you wholeheartedly until you believe it yourself. He loved Bridget. And Bridget loved him right back. She had been through more than anyone should ever go through. I have no idea how this poor girl was able to live let alone start her own business and make something of herself. That's what made them perfect for each other. He brought her out of her comfort zone and allowed her to defend herself. To live her life without her past getting in the way. And she brought him back down to earth. To show him what love actually is. This was a beautiful novel and one that has a special meaning. It's deals with love and loss, pain and suffering, and finding your own happily ever after. Fear means nothing when you have all you've ever wanted by your side. Amazing job, Michelle. You've knocked it out of the park again.
November 23, 2018
Birdie is a young woman who has a terrible past adopted into a loving family at a young age. Her past hasn't been forgotten it's almost a living entity inside her that she can't let go. To say she is cautious about letting people in is an understatement.
Cole is a family friend who somehow manages to gain her trust. The one problem is he thought he never had a chance with her and has enlisted in the Marines and is due to leave soon.
This is such a breathtakingly beautifully written love story. I challenge you not to fall for Cole both before he goes and when he comes back from war a shell of the man he once was. The way he loved Birdie made my heart happy she had always been his one and time hadn't changed that.
I'm not going to spoil it but I will say when her past comes back how far will he go for the woman he has always loved. A story about love and healing and second chances. Simply stunning.
Cole is a family friend who somehow manages to gain her trust. The one problem is he thought he never had a chance with her and has enlisted in the Marines and is due to leave soon.
This is such a breathtakingly beautifully written love story. I challenge you not to fall for Cole both before he goes and when he comes back from war a shell of the man he once was. The way he loved Birdie made my heart happy she had always been his one and time hadn't changed that.
I'm not going to spoil it but I will say when her past comes back how far will he go for the woman he has always loved. A story about love and healing and second chances. Simply stunning.
November 26, 2018
It has been awhile since I've read a story from this author. I don't know how the author does it but she knows how to pull ya in. I loved how time didn't mean a thing when it came to the relationship Cole had with Birdie. He fell in love with the shy girl who he always wanted to say hi to at the lockers. Later, he fell in love with the woman who was brave in the face of overwhelming fear.
Cole didn't see Birdie the way she saw herself. He looked at what was on the inside and not what was decorated on the outside. I loved Cole because of his protective instinct, his loyalty to family and friends, and his overwhelming love for Birdie. I would say it doesn't matter if you stumble across the Boogeyman as long as you have Cole Trenton in your corner.
Cole didn't see Birdie the way she saw herself. He looked at what was on the inside and not what was decorated on the outside. I loved Cole because of his protective instinct, his loyalty to family and friends, and his overwhelming love for Birdie. I would say it doesn't matter if you stumble across the Boogeyman as long as you have Cole Trenton in your corner.
November 29, 2018
A past horrifically etched upon her skin, a life never forgotten.
A never ending nightmare before the sanctuary of Lyman was hers. Trapped and tortured, petrified and alone in darkness.
So many years lost as they find each other. so little time left together.
Birdie by name and by nature, scared and ready to fly but with reason.
Cole the guy with one girl embedded in his heart.
I can't believe I've not read Michelle heard before now, where on earth have I been!!
What a journey! I feel emotionally shattered after reading this!
The sadness lingers on within me even though the book has ended.
Her past struck a chord, and the notes still play in my mind.
I want to read the stories of the others now!
A never ending nightmare before the sanctuary of Lyman was hers. Trapped and tortured, petrified and alone in darkness.
So many years lost as they find each other. so little time left together.
Birdie by name and by nature, scared and ready to fly but with reason.
Cole the guy with one girl embedded in his heart.
I can't believe I've not read Michelle heard before now, where on earth have I been!!
What a journey! I feel emotionally shattered after reading this!
The sadness lingers on within me even though the book has ended.
Her past struck a chord, and the notes still play in my mind.
I want to read the stories of the others now!
November 30, 2018
This is a new to me author and I didn't realize this was book 2 in a series. Having said that, I don't feel that I missed anything as there doesn't seem to be an overlapping story line. If you looking for a sappy, happy book - yeah, this isn't it. Birdie has a very traumatic childhood that has followed her into adulthood. Cole is dealing with some heavy loss when he returns home and sees his unrequited love. Could it be their time now? Can they help each other slay demons?
I loved the pace of this story and didn't skim at all as I didn't want to miss any details. I was happy to see these characters in flashbacks as teenagers so we could understand the choices that they made then rather than just being told. I'll definitely read more from this author.
I loved the pace of this story and didn't skim at all as I didn't want to miss any details. I was happy to see these characters in flashbacks as teenagers so we could understand the choices that they made then rather than just being told. I'll definitely read more from this author.
September 26, 2015
I was lucky enough to win an ARC of this book from the author. Having read and loved the first 2 books I would have been purchasing it anyway. I wouldn't have been wasting my money. I love this series, and this book didn't disappoint. The story follows Bridget (Birdie) and Cole as they both try to fight off their demons and accept their scars. Birdie, as a child, was abused by her monster of a father. Cole has lost his best friend to war. Loved this story. Loved the characters, can't wait to read more about them all.
September 27, 2015
I RECIEVED A ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. OMG! I SWEAR THIS SERIES KEEPS GET ING BETTER AND BETTER!! You fall in love with these books for entirely different reasons. Cole and Bridget ( Birdie) their story will blow you away. And I will never look at skeletons in the closet the same way again!!
November 30, 2018
Amazing
This is such a heart breaking story. The abuse that Birdie goes though most her life is hard to read but written in a way that makes you need to know more. Coles story of the losses as a marine is so destroying it makes you sob. This book is a hard but to read but well worth it. A story of first loves and torture. A definite must read. I love the Southen Hero's series and can't wait for the next one.
This is such a heart breaking story. The abuse that Birdie goes though most her life is hard to read but written in a way that makes you need to know more. Coles story of the losses as a marine is so destroying it makes you sob. This book is a hard but to read but well worth it. A story of first loves and torture. A definite must read. I love the Southen Hero's series and can't wait for the next one.
November 28, 2018
Second book of the Southern Heroes series, Michelle Heard brings a beautiful mix of light and dark, love and loss, pain and redemption. The Girl in the Closet can be read as a standalone although this is my first from this author and I honestly didn't know about the series. I didn't feel confused at all with the story, which is great, but I will be going back to book one to catch up and make sure nothing else is missed.
Bridget "Birdie" Liles started her life in a nightmare at the hands of her abusive father. Put away for 15 years in prison after years of torture, she has been living a brand new life well away from her past in a new town with her adoptive family. But such traumatic experiences don't just go away, leaving Birdie in a constant state of fear for the day the Boogeyman comes back for her, this time to take her life for good.
Cole Trenton has been intrigued with Birdie for years but never was able to voice his emotions. Now about to graduate high school and ship out to join the Marines, it's now or never to find out once and for all if Birdie feels the same way. One night of honesty and newfound romance goes quickly up in flames with Cole gone for basic training and Birdie's worst nightmare back to haunt her. Stubbornness like no other has Birdie pushing everyone she ever cared about away, and what could have been something great with Cole turns into a distant memory.
The Girl in the Closet was a pretty quick read, especially with the beginning and having to fast forward 8 years. As sweet as it was knowing Cole had such feelings for Birdie and vice versa I wish there was something to help explain when he started catching said feelings. Since Birdie always kept away from most people there never was a time that stood out that said it was "the moment" when things changed. I do love that Cole never gave up or took no for an answer and even without knowing what all happened to Birdie in the past, he had such a great sense of how to treat her and never tried to force anything more to happen.
This story was actually a lot different than what I thought I was going to read. There were times of the darkness I was expecting but I felt they were rushed a bit. The storyline also shifted to accommodate Cole and his demons after leaving the Marine Corps, and I did love this side as well but sometimes I felt it overshadowed Birdie's story. I did love these two together knowing both were damaged in different ways and knew how to be better for the other. Birdie and Cole are just too cute and I would love to see more of them in upcoming books. Overall I enjoyed The Girl in the Closet, the writing was to the point and had me feeling plenty of the same emotions as the characters and I definitely see myself continuing on with this series.
Bridget "Birdie" Liles started her life in a nightmare at the hands of her abusive father. Put away for 15 years in prison after years of torture, she has been living a brand new life well away from her past in a new town with her adoptive family. But such traumatic experiences don't just go away, leaving Birdie in a constant state of fear for the day the Boogeyman comes back for her, this time to take her life for good.
Cole Trenton has been intrigued with Birdie for years but never was able to voice his emotions. Now about to graduate high school and ship out to join the Marines, it's now or never to find out once and for all if Birdie feels the same way. One night of honesty and newfound romance goes quickly up in flames with Cole gone for basic training and Birdie's worst nightmare back to haunt her. Stubbornness like no other has Birdie pushing everyone she ever cared about away, and what could have been something great with Cole turns into a distant memory.
The Girl in the Closet was a pretty quick read, especially with the beginning and having to fast forward 8 years. As sweet as it was knowing Cole had such feelings for Birdie and vice versa I wish there was something to help explain when he started catching said feelings. Since Birdie always kept away from most people there never was a time that stood out that said it was "the moment" when things changed. I do love that Cole never gave up or took no for an answer and even without knowing what all happened to Birdie in the past, he had such a great sense of how to treat her and never tried to force anything more to happen.
This story was actually a lot different than what I thought I was going to read. There were times of the darkness I was expecting but I felt they were rushed a bit. The storyline also shifted to accommodate Cole and his demons after leaving the Marine Corps, and I did love this side as well but sometimes I felt it overshadowed Birdie's story. I did love these two together knowing both were damaged in different ways and knew how to be better for the other. Birdie and Cole are just too cute and I would love to see more of them in upcoming books. Overall I enjoyed The Girl in the Closet, the writing was to the point and had me feeling plenty of the same emotions as the characters and I definitely see myself continuing on with this series.
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