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Black Tangled Heart
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B088PWKD4Y
Black Tangled Heart is a complete standalone. The Play On series are books connected by the theme of the arts industry, not by characters, and can be read in any order.
To my siblings, Jane was a friend. A pseudo-sister, the girl we grew up with.
To me? She was everything.
Our passion consumed us.
When our world fell apart, I thought our love would be the thing that held us together.
She was the love of my life. But she abandoned me when I needed her most.
And I'll never forgive her.
For years I've been planning my revenge against the people who took everything from me.
Jane won't be an exception. I'm coming for her.
She knows it.
She says she wants to help me serve my version of justice on the people who hurt me.
I'll let her.
She probably thinks it will save her from me.
It won't.
Black Tangled Heart is a complete standalone. The Play On series are books connected by the theme of the arts industry, not by characters, and can be read in any order.
To my siblings, Jane was a friend. A pseudo-sister, the girl we grew up with.
To me? She was everything.
Our passion consumed us.
When our world fell apart, I thought our love would be the thing that held us together.
She was the love of my life. But she abandoned me when I needed her most.
And I'll never forgive her.
For years I've been planning my revenge against the people who took everything from me.
Jane won't be an exception. I'm coming for her.
She knows it.
She says she wants to help me serve my version of justice on the people who hurt me.
I'll let her.
She probably thinks it will save her from me.
It won't.
374 pages, ebook
First published May 15, 2020
503 people are currently reading
4662 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Young
108 books28.3k followersSamantha is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee. Samantha has written over 60 books and is published in 31 countries. She writes emotional and angsty romance, often set where she resides—in her beloved home country Scotland. Samantha splits her time between her family, writing and chasing after two very mischievous cavapoos.
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Find Sam online at www.authorsamanthayoung.com, and on IG, TikTok and FB @authorsamanthayoung
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 651 reviews
May 21, 2020
***4.5 STARS***
Oh, my goodness, I feel like I have been through the wash. I am emotionally drained. I pulled an all-nighter because I could not put this book down. I had to know what happened. I cannot believe everything that happened in one book. This is one talented author.
This book delves into the relationship between Jamie and Jane. Jane is living in a foster home when she meets a girl, Lorna, in the stairwell of their apartment building. They become friends and soon Jane is accepted as part of Lorna’s family. In the meantime, Jane develops a crush on Lorna’s brother, Jamie. Jamie is the brooding, gorgeous teenager who writes stories and dreams of being a writer. (sigh)
Jamie and Jane meet when they are aged 15 and 13 respectively. Then the book spans their relationship over the next 15 or more years. They go through a lot and their love is put to the test repeatedly. I had tears in my eyes at one point because of the emotion the story evoked in me. Be prepared with the tissues.
I loved their love story. It endured many trials and tribulations and makes you wonder if they will even have a HEA. I must give a warning though that it contains underage sex (the heroine was 17) but the sex scenes were handled well in my opinion.
I highly recommend this one but be prepared for the emotional roller coaster and twists and turns.
Oh, my goodness, I feel like I have been through the wash. I am emotionally drained. I pulled an all-nighter because I could not put this book down. I had to know what happened. I cannot believe everything that happened in one book. This is one talented author.
This book delves into the relationship between Jamie and Jane. Jane is living in a foster home when she meets a girl, Lorna, in the stairwell of their apartment building. They become friends and soon Jane is accepted as part of Lorna’s family. In the meantime, Jane develops a crush on Lorna’s brother, Jamie. Jamie is the brooding, gorgeous teenager who writes stories and dreams of being a writer. (sigh)
Jamie and Jane meet when they are aged 15 and 13 respectively. Then the book spans their relationship over the next 15 or more years. They go through a lot and their love is put to the test repeatedly. I had tears in my eyes at one point because of the emotion the story evoked in me. Be prepared with the tissues.
I loved their love story. It endured many trials and tribulations and makes you wonder if they will even have a HEA. I must give a warning though that it contains underage sex (the heroine was 17) but the sex scenes were handled well in my opinion.
I highly recommend this one but be prepared for the emotional roller coaster and twists and turns.
December 27, 2020
5 STARS
I loved this so hard! SO FREAKING HARD! I can't even deal right now. I need a minute to calm my tits and collect my thoughts here.
Ok. I've calmed my tits. Maybe. I may have fangirling bursts throughout the review. Fair warning. So deal with it, mkay?
If you haven't read Young's Play On series yet, you're seriously missing out. I've loved every book so far, but this one was definitely my favorite. And if you haven't read the previous books, don't worry, they're all complete standalones. There's not even a crossover aside from being set in the same "world". Different characters, different stories, and all completely unforgettable.
The story here, there was just something about it that owned me so completely. It was magical, beautiful, and heartbreaking. It's told in two parts. The first part tells the story of how Jane and Jamie meet as kids and ultimately fall in love. The kind of love that's blistering and all consuming. The kind of love that can make you or break you, and it was MAGICAL. I lived for the two of them together. The progression of their characters was one of my favorite parts. Seeing Jane grow from a quiet, shy and unassuming child that doesn't want to rock the boat, into a stunning teenager that's just as shy but also isn't afraid to stand up for herself. She was this perfect balance of quiet strength that I fell hard and fast for. And Jamie? Be still my heart! The guy was intense even as a teenager.
Life doesn't always follow the plans you have, and soon Jamie and Jane fall apart as intensely as they fell in love. The second part is a second chance romance that reunites these two as adults and OMG I was so here for it. Jamie is no longer the young man that Jane once knew. He's colder. Harder. Angry. And full of vengeance, all of which is aimed at her.
As the layers of lies and betrayal get pulled back, the reader gets pulled in. This story was all encompassing. I was completely consumed by their romance and their story. I binge read it. This was one of those stories that I couldn't bear to put down for even a second. I was rabidly reading and never wanted it to end.
If you're looking for a gritty second chance romance, look no further. This was EVERYTHING!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
A love that consumes, consumes everything unto utter desolation.”
I loved this so hard! SO FREAKING HARD! I can't even deal right now. I need a minute to calm my tits and collect my thoughts here.
Ok. I've calmed my tits. Maybe. I may have fangirling bursts throughout the review. Fair warning. So deal with it, mkay?
If you haven't read Young's Play On series yet, you're seriously missing out. I've loved every book so far, but this one was definitely my favorite. And if you haven't read the previous books, don't worry, they're all complete standalones. There's not even a crossover aside from being set in the same "world". Different characters, different stories, and all completely unforgettable.
The story here, there was just something about it that owned me so completely. It was magical, beautiful, and heartbreaking. It's told in two parts. The first part tells the story of how Jane and Jamie meet as kids and ultimately fall in love. The kind of love that's blistering and all consuming. The kind of love that can make you or break you, and it was MAGICAL. I lived for the two of them together. The progression of their characters was one of my favorite parts. Seeing Jane grow from a quiet, shy and unassuming child that doesn't want to rock the boat, into a stunning teenager that's just as shy but also isn't afraid to stand up for herself. She was this perfect balance of quiet strength that I fell hard and fast for. And Jamie? Be still my heart! The guy was intense even as a teenager.
Life doesn't always follow the plans you have, and soon Jamie and Jane fall apart as intensely as they fell in love. The second part is a second chance romance that reunites these two as adults and OMG I was so here for it. Jamie is no longer the young man that Jane once knew. He's colder. Harder. Angry. And full of vengeance, all of which is aimed at her.
As the layers of lies and betrayal get pulled back, the reader gets pulled in. This story was all encompassing. I was completely consumed by their romance and their story. I binge read it. This was one of those stories that I couldn't bear to put down for even a second. I was rabidly reading and never wanted it to end.
If you're looking for a gritty second chance romance, look no further. This was EVERYTHING!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
May 17, 2020
"Loving me will be nowhere near as easy as it will be for me to love you."
Black Tangled Heart is the third book in the Play On Series. A stand-alone full of passion, complex characters, and suspense, Samantha Young delivers a blockbuster hit which kept me on the edge of my seat the entire read! Jane Doe is a girl that is no stranger to heartbreak and abandonment. When she befriends a family with a loving older sister, a smoking hot teenage boy, and a spunky girl named Lorna, Jane knows she has found her second home. Jane is well aware that falling for her best friend's older brother is forbidden territory and yet, the attraction between the two is too strong. Jamie knows that Jane is too young for him and that falling in love with her is off-limits but when she turns 18, he can finally have her. When Jane and Jamie finally connect the passion between the two is explosive. However, not everyone is happy that they are together and when some unexpected events tear them apart, it will take everything they have to stay together and survive the fall.
"Promise you'll never leave me again."Told in dual POV, Black Tangled Heart is by far my favorite read of 2020! It has been YEARS since I picked up a Samantha Young book and all I can say is, baby I'm back! The best element of Black Tangled Heart is the numerous twists and turns in the plot. Just when you think you have everything figured things out, the variables turn upside down once again. I loved the complex character development, the fluid dialogue between the characters, and the raw emotions this story evoked. I am not one to enjoy "high angst" so I am happy to report that Jamie and Jane's love story offered an ample amount of drama paired nicely with action, intrigue, and smoking hot passion (who doesn't want to dive into that mix of fun?)!
"If we don't at least try, then those bastards really did win."Overall, Black Tangled Heart will appeal to readers who enjoy a contemporary romance with a splash of taboo, action, and intense passion. Similar to one of my favorite classics The Count of Monte Cristo, Samantha Young has crafted an impeccable story that has found it's home on my forever favorites shelf. (Just to give you an idea of how much I loved it, I have already gone back to re-read my favorite moments!). Be forewarned, like me, you will probably run to Amazon and purchase the other PLAY ON books (like me)!!! I am truly looking forward to more Samantha Young goodness to come! Bravo!
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May 24, 2020
3 1/2 maybe 4 Stars
To be honest, I’m not fully sure how I feel about this book. It felt like two completely different stories, with two completely different heroes and heroines, wrapped into one storyline. I guess that was intentional, considering the overall plot, but I’m not sure I liked such a drastic change from the first half to the second. I understand why it happened though.
I loved the first half of Jamie and Jane’s love story. It was a definite 5 stars. The second half, however, I didn’t really enjoy that much. I became disappointed in Jamie and his ruthless revenge (though I get it) and a bit ambivalent toward Jane, which is sad considering how much I loved both of them at the beginning of the book. That said, I did love the ending.
I may raising my rating to 4 or 4 1/2 stars because as much as I didn’t enjoy the second half, I’m still thinking about it a few days later...and that says something!
To be honest, I’m not fully sure how I feel about this book. It felt like two completely different stories, with two completely different heroes and heroines, wrapped into one storyline. I guess that was intentional, considering the overall plot, but I’m not sure I liked such a drastic change from the first half to the second. I understand why it happened though.
I loved the first half of Jamie and Jane’s love story. It was a definite 5 stars. The second half, however, I didn’t really enjoy that much. I became disappointed in Jamie and his ruthless revenge (though I get it) and a bit ambivalent toward Jane, which is sad considering how much I loved both of them at the beginning of the book. That said, I did love the ending.
I may raising my rating to 4 or 4 1/2 stars because as much as I didn’t enjoy the second half, I’m still thinking about it a few days later...and that says something!
February 17, 2021
4.25 stars
This was such an emotional and heart wrenching best friend's brother romance. It started out with young love then took a turn I wasn't expecting. Jane and Jamie went through more than any couple should have to endure and it almost broke them. Almost. This was a story of redemption and second chances at love. I wish we would have had more time as them as adults as a couple, otherwise, I adored this one!
This was such an emotional and heart wrenching best friend's brother romance. It started out with young love then took a turn I wasn't expecting. Jane and Jamie went through more than any couple should have to endure and it almost broke them. Almost. This was a story of redemption and second chances at love. I wish we would have had more time as them as adults as a couple, otherwise, I adored this one!
Audio book source: Audible (purchased)
Story Rating: 4.25 stars
Narrators: Lauren Sweet and Joseph Discher
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 11 hours and 23 minutes
May 16, 2020
Reading this was like entering a time warp, going back to that moment where I first discovered my love of romance, where the storylines felt fresh and unique, and the feels were utterly explosive! Black Tangled Heart felt like that, like I was experiencing romance for the very first time and it's was breathtaking, soul stealing, pulse pounding! A heady, visceral, electrifying rush. I can't even tell you! I fell head first into a black hole of ALL things Jamie and Jane and I COULD NOT FIND MY WAY OUT.
I DIDN'T WANT TO.
It was emotional. It was physical. My heart raced, my chest ached, my tummy was so tight from angst, and my heart was FULLY invested in every moment with these characters.
I COULD NOT BREATHE READING.
I had so many feelings that at times I felt as if I was going to burst. This was an intoxicating experience. One I won't soon forget. Samantha Young delivers a sweeping love story! A gritty, heart-wrenching, twisty tale of love and vengeance!!! And there's not ONE thing I didn't love about it. This book makes you work for that HEA! It puts you through it as we follow Jamie and Jane through their teenage years into adulthood. We get to watch them passionately fall in love and then see as life teaches it's brutal lessons. It's tumultuous, it's devastating, yet so deep, so special.
I swear, as I sit here writing this review, I almost don't know what to say to do it justice. It's one of the best books I've read this year. IT HAS SOUL. It's a standalone. A COMPLETE standalone (I have NOT read the other Play On novels). And it is one that NEEDS to be put on your TBR.
I get asked ALL the time for recommendations, so here's one. A BIG ONE. You NEED this book. It will leave a mark on you. It will have you reeling and breathless, exhausted by the end, but so utterly fulfilled! It's a MUST READ.
I REPEAT: THIS. IS. A. MUST. READ!
5 stars is not enough. It's a SIX star read. And it's in my TOP 3 this year, sitting proudly beside A King So Cold by Ella Fields and From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout. I ADORED it and I highly recommend it.
I DIDN'T WANT TO.
It was emotional. It was physical. My heart raced, my chest ached, my tummy was so tight from angst, and my heart was FULLY invested in every moment with these characters.
I COULD NOT BREATHE READING.
I had so many feelings that at times I felt as if I was going to burst. This was an intoxicating experience. One I won't soon forget. Samantha Young delivers a sweeping love story! A gritty, heart-wrenching, twisty tale of love and vengeance!!! And there's not ONE thing I didn't love about it. This book makes you work for that HEA! It puts you through it as we follow Jamie and Jane through their teenage years into adulthood. We get to watch them passionately fall in love and then see as life teaches it's brutal lessons. It's tumultuous, it's devastating, yet so deep, so special.
I swear, as I sit here writing this review, I almost don't know what to say to do it justice. It's one of the best books I've read this year. IT HAS SOUL. It's a standalone. A COMPLETE standalone (I have NOT read the other Play On novels). And it is one that NEEDS to be put on your TBR.
I get asked ALL the time for recommendations, so here's one. A BIG ONE. You NEED this book. It will leave a mark on you. It will have you reeling and breathless, exhausted by the end, but so utterly fulfilled! It's a MUST READ.
I REPEAT: THIS. IS. A. MUST. READ!
5 stars is not enough. It's a SIX star read. And it's in my TOP 3 this year, sitting proudly beside A King So Cold by Ella Fields and From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout. I ADORED it and I highly recommend it.
May 8, 2020
*****FOUR STARS*****
{ARC Provided by Author}
I didn’t understand what pulled us together. I didn’t know what made Jane Doe the only woman who satisfied my heart, body, and soul. I didn’t need to know.
BLACK TANGLED HEART is an angst-filled, wildly steamy "second-chance/in-love-with-the-best friend’s older brother", contemporary romance. The pace of the plot progression was steady. It held my attention throughout. There is a secondary character that proves to be a consistent villain, it was easy to predict that she would cause a major rift between the Hero and Heroine. Jamie McKenna had the potential to be a super swoon-worthy Hero during the first half of the book when he and Jane were teenagers, but tragic life events, deception, and lies turn the once loving and kind-hearted boy into a cold, cruel and bitter man. His inability to see that Jane was still the same girl he fell in love with all those years ago left me feeling a little disappointed in that character. Jane was a very relatable and endearing Heroine. She experienced true loss and overcame many adversities. She became a woman with a fulfilling career and great friendships, but never forgot the people who were there for her when she was a young girl. She remained loyal to them and strived to right the wrongs that were inflicted upon those she loved.
Towards the end, certain characters find themselves in precarious situations that ramps up the action and is sure to induce some accelerated heart rates! The suspense will have you hanging on by a thread.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 4
Angst: 4
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4.5
BLACK TANGLED HEART releases on May 14th!
{ARC Provided by Author}
I didn’t understand what pulled us together. I didn’t know what made Jane Doe the only woman who satisfied my heart, body, and soul. I didn’t need to know.
BLACK TANGLED HEART is an angst-filled, wildly steamy "second-chance/in-love-with-the-best friend’s older brother", contemporary romance. The pace of the plot progression was steady. It held my attention throughout. There is a secondary character that proves to be a consistent villain, it was easy to predict that she would cause a major rift between the Hero and Heroine. Jamie McKenna had the potential to be a super swoon-worthy Hero during the first half of the book when he and Jane were teenagers, but tragic life events, deception, and lies turn the once loving and kind-hearted boy into a cold, cruel and bitter man. His inability to see that Jane was still the same girl he fell in love with all those years ago left me feeling a little disappointed in that character. Jane was a very relatable and endearing Heroine. She experienced true loss and overcame many adversities. She became a woman with a fulfilling career and great friendships, but never forgot the people who were there for her when she was a young girl. She remained loyal to them and strived to right the wrongs that were inflicted upon those she loved.
Towards the end, certain characters find themselves in precarious situations that ramps up the action and is sure to induce some accelerated heart rates! The suspense will have you hanging on by a thread.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 4
Angst: 4
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4.5
BLACK TANGLED HEART releases on May 14th!
May 17, 2020
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
-“A love that consumes, consumes everything unto utter desolation.”
-I feel like I’m coming out of my skin. You’re all I think about. You’re all I want.
Jane grew up in the foster system in California. She’d had no one since she was seven. She was an introvert who enjoyed her books and drawing, and tried to make the most of what she had. Then she meets two sisters and a brother from Boston who feel like home to her. The McKenna’s had also experienced a hard start in life, and they become family to her. Even the gorgeous, moody teenage brother Jamie who gave her butterflies and eventually made her believe she might have a promising future.
Jamie McKenna saw his little sister’s best friend Jane as a shy annoyance, until he didn’t. Suddenly he was noticing her in a whole different way. He couldn’t deny his attraction to her, but it was her kind heart that really hooked him. When they were together it just felt right. Soon she becomes his everything, and they share a once in a lifetime love. When their world falls apart they are left broken and feeling abandoned. Jamie is angry and has plans for vengeance. This even includes his once precious Jane. He is coming for everyone who wronged him, and he’d make them regret betraying him. He’s kept his emotions locked down tight, but just the sight of Jane has him drowning in memories. She claims she wants to help him get his justice, but he can’t let her close to his heart ever again. It’s a battle of wills, as each give as good as they get. Will this couple get a second chance at love, or will the past destroy the future?
-I wasn't sure I was comfortable with the depth of my feelings for Jane Doe.
-No one did it for me like she did.
-My soul was connected to hers. I doubted I could ever find true peace without Jane by my side.
Black Tangled Heart (A Play On novel) by Samantha Young is an emotional, heartbreakingly beautiful stand-alone second chance romance about loss, survival, friendship and soulmates. It goes from past to present and is told from both POV’s. It’s packed with angst, amazing banter, and explosive chemistry, and will keep you on the edge of your seat dying for more. This couple together was absolutely intoxicating. I loved these characters, and this story! Jane has a quiet strength and a kind heart, and Jamie is complex, intense, and there are so many layers to this passionate man. This is a book that will completely consume you. I couldn’t put it down!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2WEBPM9
(ARC provided by author)
-“A love that consumes, consumes everything unto utter desolation.”
-I feel like I’m coming out of my skin. You’re all I think about. You’re all I want.
Jane grew up in the foster system in California. She’d had no one since she was seven. She was an introvert who enjoyed her books and drawing, and tried to make the most of what she had. Then she meets two sisters and a brother from Boston who feel like home to her. The McKenna’s had also experienced a hard start in life, and they become family to her. Even the gorgeous, moody teenage brother Jamie who gave her butterflies and eventually made her believe she might have a promising future.
Jamie McKenna saw his little sister’s best friend Jane as a shy annoyance, until he didn’t. Suddenly he was noticing her in a whole different way. He couldn’t deny his attraction to her, but it was her kind heart that really hooked him. When they were together it just felt right. Soon she becomes his everything, and they share a once in a lifetime love. When their world falls apart they are left broken and feeling abandoned. Jamie is angry and has plans for vengeance. This even includes his once precious Jane. He is coming for everyone who wronged him, and he’d make them regret betraying him. He’s kept his emotions locked down tight, but just the sight of Jane has him drowning in memories. She claims she wants to help him get his justice, but he can’t let her close to his heart ever again. It’s a battle of wills, as each give as good as they get. Will this couple get a second chance at love, or will the past destroy the future?
-I wasn't sure I was comfortable with the depth of my feelings for Jane Doe.
-No one did it for me like she did.
-My soul was connected to hers. I doubted I could ever find true peace without Jane by my side.
Black Tangled Heart (A Play On novel) by Samantha Young is an emotional, heartbreakingly beautiful stand-alone second chance romance about loss, survival, friendship and soulmates. It goes from past to present and is told from both POV’s. It’s packed with angst, amazing banter, and explosive chemistry, and will keep you on the edge of your seat dying for more. This couple together was absolutely intoxicating. I loved these characters, and this story! Jane has a quiet strength and a kind heart, and Jamie is complex, intense, and there are so many layers to this passionate man. This is a book that will completely consume you. I couldn’t put it down!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2WEBPM9
May 17, 2020
IT'S FINALLY LIVE
In the first part of the book we go back in time.
Artist Jane is 13 and writer Jamie is 15 years old.
The day Jamie and his two sisters move into the apartment complex in Glendale, California, Jane becomes the new best friend of Jamie's younger sister Lorna. Their older sister Skye is an actress - she took the teenagers in when their mother died a few months ago.
Jane has been living with her current foster family for a couple years now. She's happy with them.
As the months and years go by, Jane and Jamie become friends ... and more. Jane's had a crush on Jamie since day one! But Jamie won't date her until she's 18.
And he does. They are so unbelievably happy together - even though they're still so young.
But then things happen and Jamie and Jane don't see each other again for six years.
What will happen with Jane & Jamie??
Will there be a Happily Ever After??
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
══════════════════
OY!
I really loved this.... but also ... ugh.
I don't even know where to start with my review.
Maybe with a huge complaint.
Sam! I really think this book should've been two books.
The first book with the young couple falling in love... and then the present.
I was so mad at the story while reading. The whole first half I kept wondering when the big thing from the blurb was going to happen - and what it was going to be. And then when it happened it was too late and I was still mad. Because it was a handful of stupid things that could've been prevented by talking about things and doing things differently. Ugh. I was mad at the people in the book and at Sam! I almost stopped reading. Several times. The blurb is so not what this book is about. The revenge thing doesn't even start in the first half of the book. So, either the blurb needs to be changed, or better yet - the book needs to be turned into two books with a few more pages added. Like more details about his professional life and her art and ... just more.
Now about the story. Or rather ... about how I loved it! I really did.
It was so full of all the feels!!
It was all so sad and heartbreaking and sweet and adorable and sexy and ugh.
I loved Jamie and Jane - even though they were really stupid with a lot of things.
But the story was really so very adorable and exciting and moving and just beautifully written.
I really need Netflix to come and do this!
BLACK TANGLED HEART was a heartbreakingly beautiful & emotional Young Adult/New Adult/Adult love & second-chance love story. Run to your nearest amazon for your own Jamie - this one is MINE! ☺
💜
💜
In the first part of the book we go back in time.
Artist Jane is 13 and writer Jamie is 15 years old.
The day Jamie and his two sisters move into the apartment complex in Glendale, California, Jane becomes the new best friend of Jamie's younger sister Lorna. Their older sister Skye is an actress - she took the teenagers in when their mother died a few months ago.
Jane has been living with her current foster family for a couple years now. She's happy with them.
As the months and years go by, Jane and Jamie become friends ... and more. Jane's had a crush on Jamie since day one! But Jamie won't date her until she's 18.
And he does. They are so unbelievably happy together - even though they're still so young.
But then things happen and Jamie and Jane don't see each other again for six years.
What will happen with Jane & Jamie??
Will there be a Happily Ever After??
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
══════════════════
OY!
I really loved this.... but also ... ugh.
I don't even know where to start with my review.
Maybe with a huge complaint.
Sam! I really think this book should've been two books.
The first book with the young couple falling in love... and then the present.
I was so mad at the story while reading. The whole first half I kept wondering when the big thing from the blurb was going to happen - and what it was going to be. And then when it happened it was too late and I was still mad. Because it was a handful of stupid things that could've been prevented by talking about things and doing things differently. Ugh. I was mad at the people in the book and at Sam! I almost stopped reading. Several times. The blurb is so not what this book is about. The revenge thing doesn't even start in the first half of the book. So, either the blurb needs to be changed, or better yet - the book needs to be turned into two books with a few more pages added. Like more details about his professional life and her art and ... just more.
Now about the story. Or rather ... about how I loved it! I really did.
It was so full of all the feels!!
It was all so sad and heartbreaking and sweet and adorable and sexy and ugh.
I loved Jamie and Jane - even though they were really stupid with a lot of things.
But the story was really so very adorable and exciting and moving and just beautifully written.
I really need Netflix to come and do this!
BLACK TANGLED HEART was a heartbreakingly beautiful & emotional Young Adult/New Adult/Adult love & second-chance love story. Run to your nearest amazon for your own Jamie - this one is MINE! ☺
💜
💜
May 12, 2020
Readers are in for a thrilling and emotional ride with this one! The storyline is engrossing, the characters are complex, and the chemistry is off-the-charts palpable. It's my favorite book by Samantha Young to date.
I had no idea what this book was about when I received an ARC (I didn't read the description) but because it was Samantha Young writing it, I didn't feel the need to check.
I stayed up until 2 a.m. reading last night and it was SO worth the loss of sleep. This story spans from childhood to adulthood and it's done with perfect pacing. I love that we get to see Jane and Jamie's relationship evolve over the years. It gives readers a real sense of all that they've lost and all that they need to regain. Sam writes some seriously steamy scenes and lots of them. Readers will definitely be satisfied in that regard :D
I highly recommend picking up this book if you want a robust love story with some suspense woven in.
I had no idea what this book was about when I received an ARC (I didn't read the description) but because it was Samantha Young writing it, I didn't feel the need to check.
I stayed up until 2 a.m. reading last night and it was SO worth the loss of sleep. This story spans from childhood to adulthood and it's done with perfect pacing. I love that we get to see Jane and Jamie's relationship evolve over the years. It gives readers a real sense of all that they've lost and all that they need to regain. Sam writes some seriously steamy scenes and lots of them. Readers will definitely be satisfied in that regard :D
I highly recommend picking up this book if you want a robust love story with some suspense woven in.
December 8, 2020
It has been a while since I read Miss Young book. When I picked up Black Tangle Heart, I was expecting a full angst drama romance. Revenge romance. What I found, disappointed me a bit. The first half of the book, where Jamie and Jane's young romance blossomed, it was romantic. Promising a heart break later on the middle of the book, I keep listening.
The last half, when Jamie changed into a different man, is ridiculous. Miss Young inspired by Count of Monte Cristo. The revenge that is brutal and heart breaking. Instead, I got a meek, mild, weak revenge plot. The transformation for Jamie is not dramatic/ convincing enough. It baffled me why Jamie suddenly hate Jane.
I am disappointed. I was expecting more. Certainly a writer with Miss Young caliber, can deliver much better story than this.
3 stars
The last half, when Jamie changed into a different man, is ridiculous. Miss Young inspired by Count of Monte Cristo. The revenge that is brutal and heart breaking. Instead, I got a meek, mild, weak revenge plot. The transformation for Jamie is not dramatic/ convincing enough. It baffled me why Jamie suddenly hate Jane.
I am disappointed. I was expecting more. Certainly a writer with Miss Young caliber, can deliver much better story than this.
3 stars
January 7, 2021
if there is one contemporary romance book I would recommend you to read now, it's this book.
I can't explain how much I LOVED reading Black Tangled Heart.
Don't over think it and just buy this book. You won't regret it.
I can't explain how much I LOVED reading Black Tangled Heart.
Don't over think it and just buy this book. You won't regret it.
January 14, 2021
first, let's take a moment of appreciation of this cover because holy smokes...
now, of to the book
it seems like this is a series all over the place for me..I really enjoyed book two but book one Play On and this one are just not my thing..
random ramblings of things that bothered me;
- his revenge against her is in a nutshell because she dared to leave him and move on (of course that is not a case but he thinks so)
- she stayed loyal to him and he slept around with OW during the separation
not this crap again..
- first part and second feel like two different books, I know we needed a larger introduction to link these two characters but it just didn't work out...
- jail plotline
- everyone says this is so emotional and my black heart didn't feel a thing
now, of to the book
it seems like this is a series all over the place for me..I really enjoyed book two but book one Play On and this one are just not my thing..
random ramblings of things that bothered me;
- his revenge against her is in a nutshell because she dared to leave him and move on (of course that is not a case but he thinks so)
- she stayed loyal to him and he slept around with OW during the separation
not this crap again..
- first part and second feel like two different books, I know we needed a larger introduction to link these two characters but it just didn't work out...
- jail plotline
- everyone says this is so emotional and my black heart didn't feel a thing
May 12, 2020
‘Perhaps our love was all-consuming. Perhaps it would devour us.’
Jane has been in foster since her adoptive parents passed away. This story begins when she is 13 years old. She is living with a nice foster couple but she is a bit of a loner. She loves to draw and when she is encouraged to go out and be social you will find her with her sketch pad and charcoal, lost in her creativity, alone.
‘Sketching made everything else go away. The loneliness. My fears. The separation I felt from almost everyone else. Drawing was my way to connect, but from a safe distance.’
It is during one of these quiet moments on the stairs at her apartment building that she meets Lorna, the new neighbour moving in. They are the same age and Lorna declares that from now on they will be best friends.Lorna has conditions for their friendship that change to suit her. She is quite domineering and at times a bit toxic but Jane is passive and loyal to her from now and for the years of their friendship.
Lorna lives with her two older siblings, brother Jamie and sister Skye. Skye is their caregiver and is climbing the career ladder as an actor. Lorna loves the interaction in their home and she is quickly absorbed into the warmth of the McKenna family. Jane quickly develops a crush on Jamie and it grows more as the years go by. She never tells Lorna because that is one of her friendship conditions.
‘Stormy ocean eyes glared at me from beneath a moody brow. We stared at each other a moment. A moment that felt like forever. My skin flushed.’
However, once Jamie catches up with his own feelings he realises that Jane is the girl he wants to be with. Thus begins an all consuming, lust filled, love story between these two. This coupling has a profound effect on the entire family and when an unthinkable tragedy occurs they are all ripped apart from each other.
‘I’ve never loved anyone like this. It feels too much.’ My heart leapt in my chest.’I feel it too.’ It was scary. Terrifying even. Yet it was the most exhilarating ride of my life.’
Ten years later this story picks up again and nothing is the same anymore. They are all in separate places, living separate lives but things are about to overlap and revenge is high on the agenda. And OMG, strap yourself in because things are about to get crazy...
This was such an addictive read! There are two parts to this story, the first part builds up the back story and the anticipation of what was to come in part two. Like the love story in this book, this was an all consuming reading experience for me.
Jane has been in foster since her adoptive parents passed away. This story begins when she is 13 years old. She is living with a nice foster couple but she is a bit of a loner. She loves to draw and when she is encouraged to go out and be social you will find her with her sketch pad and charcoal, lost in her creativity, alone.
‘Sketching made everything else go away. The loneliness. My fears. The separation I felt from almost everyone else. Drawing was my way to connect, but from a safe distance.’
It is during one of these quiet moments on the stairs at her apartment building that she meets Lorna, the new neighbour moving in. They are the same age and Lorna declares that from now on they will be best friends.Lorna has conditions for their friendship that change to suit her. She is quite domineering and at times a bit toxic but Jane is passive and loyal to her from now and for the years of their friendship.
Lorna lives with her two older siblings, brother Jamie and sister Skye. Skye is their caregiver and is climbing the career ladder as an actor. Lorna loves the interaction in their home and she is quickly absorbed into the warmth of the McKenna family. Jane quickly develops a crush on Jamie and it grows more as the years go by. She never tells Lorna because that is one of her friendship conditions.
‘Stormy ocean eyes glared at me from beneath a moody brow. We stared at each other a moment. A moment that felt like forever. My skin flushed.’
However, once Jamie catches up with his own feelings he realises that Jane is the girl he wants to be with. Thus begins an all consuming, lust filled, love story between these two. This coupling has a profound effect on the entire family and when an unthinkable tragedy occurs they are all ripped apart from each other.
‘I’ve never loved anyone like this. It feels too much.’ My heart leapt in my chest.’I feel it too.’ It was scary. Terrifying even. Yet it was the most exhilarating ride of my life.’
Ten years later this story picks up again and nothing is the same anymore. They are all in separate places, living separate lives but things are about to overlap and revenge is high on the agenda. And OMG, strap yourself in because things are about to get crazy...
This was such an addictive read! There are two parts to this story, the first part builds up the back story and the anticipation of what was to come in part two. Like the love story in this book, this was an all consuming reading experience for me.
May 12, 2020
3.5 stars
BLACK TANGLED HEART was a story of two parts and I love it when a book moves through time frames for the characters. The first part of this book gave me Kissing Booth vibes with the two MCs Jane and Jamie. The young love and connection between these two was desperate and passionate but also brushed with the sweetness of first love.
But this was much more than a love story, it was a story of families and their flaws. Jane was an unofficial family member of the McKenna siblings but she loved them and was loved by them. The side stories of Skye and Lorna were both painful to read.
When things went downhill in this story, all the characters were carried with it and life was transformed in a bad way. When time jumped it was fascinating to catch up with the new realities. I didn’t always care for some of the drama, nor was the Hollywood backdrop my favourite but I did like the suspenseful developments of the story.
It was difficult to look away from the intensity of Jamie and Jane’s connection and that carried this story through for me. This was a solid continuation of the Play On series, not my favourite, but I’d still love to read more in this series.
Thank you to the author for an early review copy.
This review can be found on A Take From Two Cities.
BLACK TANGLED HEART was a story of two parts and I love it when a book moves through time frames for the characters. The first part of this book gave me Kissing Booth vibes with the two MCs Jane and Jamie. The young love and connection between these two was desperate and passionate but also brushed with the sweetness of first love.
But this was much more than a love story, it was a story of families and their flaws. Jane was an unofficial family member of the McKenna siblings but she loved them and was loved by them. The side stories of Skye and Lorna were both painful to read.
When things went downhill in this story, all the characters were carried with it and life was transformed in a bad way. When time jumped it was fascinating to catch up with the new realities. I didn’t always care for some of the drama, nor was the Hollywood backdrop my favourite but I did like the suspenseful developments of the story.
It was difficult to look away from the intensity of Jamie and Jane’s connection and that carried this story through for me. This was a solid continuation of the Play On series, not my favourite, but I’d still love to read more in this series.
Thank you to the author for an early review copy.
This review can be found on A Take From Two Cities.
May 23, 2020
3.5 Stars 🌟
June 14, 2020
Ms. Samantha Young forewarned us that this novel will be an emotional roller coaster ride but I never expected it'll be draining/ this heavy. Black Tangled Heart is a coming-of-age romance novel about Jane Doe & Jamie McKenna. A trigger warning for everyone: it tackles abuse, addiction and has a revenge plot. If you uncomfortable with these topics, this might not be for you.
Jane Doe / Margot Higgins is a foster kid. Being an orphan at such a young age taught her a lot of lessons living in different households. You can say she's mature for her age and she's tougher and more independent than most kids. She's a lonely girl who's longing for love and affection. She found a family through her neighbors -- The McKennas. She's best friends with Lorna and she has an older sister, Skye, who's a rising star and Jamie, a future writer and Jane's love interest.
Jamie and Jane are connected with each other because of the pain they experienced and their passion for literature. Jamie is fascinated by her mysteriousness and they enjoy each others company. However, Jane promised Lorna she wouldn't date her brother or their friendship is done. It sounds selfish for Lorna and I lowkey hated her giving Jane an ultimatum. Their friendship is toxic as hell and if I were Jane, I shouldn't be friends with her.
Jane and Jamie dated shortly and torn apart when tragedy hits. Years later, they became enemies and there's a lot of pent up sexual tension between them. Will they ever find forgiveness and rekindle their relationship?
I have to omit some details to avoid spoilers. The story was gritty and slightly dark especially when you get on the second half of the story as the revenge plot takes in. Ms. Young outdone herself with that. Reviewing this book is a challenge. I need to compose myself after all the things happened in this book. It was a beautiful dark tale and I wish Jamie groveled more. Jane is too forgiving and he's lucky for that. Anyways, I love Jane very much. I want to protect her at all cost and I want to give her a tight hug.
Jane Doe / Margot Higgins is a foster kid. Being an orphan at such a young age taught her a lot of lessons living in different households. You can say she's mature for her age and she's tougher and more independent than most kids. She's a lonely girl who's longing for love and affection. She found a family through her neighbors -- The McKennas. She's best friends with Lorna and she has an older sister, Skye, who's a rising star and Jamie, a future writer and Jane's love interest.
Jamie and Jane are connected with each other because of the pain they experienced and their passion for literature. Jamie is fascinated by her mysteriousness and they enjoy each others company. However, Jane promised Lorna she wouldn't date her brother or their friendship is done. It sounds selfish for Lorna and I lowkey hated her giving Jane an ultimatum. Their friendship is toxic as hell and if I were Jane, I shouldn't be friends with her.
Jane and Jamie dated shortly and torn apart when tragedy hits. Years later, they became enemies and there's a lot of pent up sexual tension between them. Will they ever find forgiveness and rekindle their relationship?
I have to omit some details to avoid spoilers. The story was gritty and slightly dark especially when you get on the second half of the story as the revenge plot takes in. Ms. Young outdone herself with that. Reviewing this book is a challenge. I need to compose myself after all the things happened in this book. It was a beautiful dark tale and I wish Jamie groveled more. Jane is too forgiving and he's lucky for that. Anyways, I love Jane very much. I want to protect her at all cost and I want to give her a tight hug.
May 24, 2020
Would have been a 4 star read for me apart from this line:
Heroine actually said this to the Hero: "Why is it always the way? Huh?" A tear slipped down my cheek before I could stop it, and I hated myself for the weakness. Jamie's eyes followed the tear as if he were entranced. "Why is the woman always the one who's faithful with her body, but the guy never is?""
Great self-awareness from the author but such a pity that the author decides to still ensure the Heroine only ever has sex with the Hero (and she stays celibate during years of separation) whilst the Hero admits to having slept with other people both before the relationship started and also during the separation.
Seriously what is the point of that line?? Does it add to the story? NO IT DOES NOT. It only ensures that we get infuriated at the heroine for being a cliche.
This clearly highlights that the author is aware of these stupid cliches but does nothing to try and change them.
What would have made this a 5 star read for me is if the hero had stayed just as celibate as the heroine or the heroine was just as NOT celibate as the hero PLUS the heroine making the above comment about the hero's own story writing skills so that he ensures he writes about badass heroines
Heroine actually said this to the Hero: "Why is it always the way? Huh?" A tear slipped down my cheek before I could stop it, and I hated myself for the weakness. Jamie's eyes followed the tear as if he were entranced. "Why is the woman always the one who's faithful with her body, but the guy never is?""
Great self-awareness from the author but such a pity that the author decides to still ensure the Heroine only ever has sex with the Hero (and she stays celibate during years of separation) whilst the Hero admits to having slept with other people both before the relationship started and also during the separation.
Seriously what is the point of that line?? Does it add to the story? NO IT DOES NOT. It only ensures that we get infuriated at the heroine for being a cliche.
This clearly highlights that the author is aware of these stupid cliches but does nothing to try and change them.
What would have made this a 5 star read for me is if the hero had stayed just as celibate as the heroine or the heroine was just as NOT celibate as the hero PLUS the heroine making the above comment about the hero's own story writing skills so that he ensures he writes about badass heroines
May 26, 2020
A devastatingly beautiful tale of first love and second chances, Samantha Young's newest novel is to die for. We watch the leads slowly fall in love as teenagers, becoming each other's everything in a world that has not treated them kindly from a very young age. But then everything is tragically taken away from them and they don't see each other for years. When their paths cross again, they are no longer the same people they once were, and the hero has only one thing on his mind—revenge. Perfectly paced and gripping cover to cover, this rollercoaster of a story takes us on an emotional, sexy, exciting journey of two people finding their way back to one another. It sweeps us from the very first page and demands to be read in one sitting.
May 24, 2020
The cover alone screams angst filled love story. That’s only a taste of the beautiful love story of Jamie and Jane in “Black Tangled Heart.”
Before Jane Doe chases her fairytale into the arms of the man she loves. She’s reminded repeatedly love has its flaws. If her name is any indication of the sorrow she hindered living as an orphan girl in the shadow of others. Until she finds the one boy who helps her find her light. Although when you find someone who loves you as much as Jamie Mckenna loves Jane, it doesn’t go unnoticed by other’s jealousy.
Living in their own little happy bubble where they would spend the days sharing their love for books, art and written words and at night pass out tangled in arms and legs helping her forget how it felt not to be loved. Except Jane had been doing the one thing she promised not to do....crushing and falling hard for her bestie Lorna’s brother. That’s until Lorna would do the unthinkable and unleash her wrath toward their HEA. It was completely heartbreaking to watch their love crumple.
The book is divided in the past and the present. The past showcases Jamie and Jane’s love affair. An affair that will lead them to a lust filled obsession that will take a path to destruction. It was heartbreaking watching their love spiral out of control, especially in the hand of other’s deception.
The present will bring their love ten fold as a reminder what good brings together no man can bring apart. Not even by the hands of the man who promised to love you till the end of time. However when you been living in the confinement of four walls in prison for years it’s the only thing Jamie could think about. Vendetta on the people who took everything from you including the one person you thought was your ride and die till the end, Jane.
Again, I was gasping for air on how much I enjoy reading the magical words of Samantha Young’s writing. The intense moments were as great as the happy times. Then topping it off with the author’s ending Acknowledgement that brought me to tears, and the realization this book was definitely another 5 star read under my belt.
Before Jane Doe chases her fairytale into the arms of the man she loves. She’s reminded repeatedly love has its flaws. If her name is any indication of the sorrow she hindered living as an orphan girl in the shadow of others. Until she finds the one boy who helps her find her light. Although when you find someone who loves you as much as Jamie Mckenna loves Jane, it doesn’t go unnoticed by other’s jealousy.
Living in their own little happy bubble where they would spend the days sharing their love for books, art and written words and at night pass out tangled in arms and legs helping her forget how it felt not to be loved. Except Jane had been doing the one thing she promised not to do....crushing and falling hard for her bestie Lorna’s brother. That’s until Lorna would do the unthinkable and unleash her wrath toward their HEA. It was completely heartbreaking to watch their love crumple.
The book is divided in the past and the present. The past showcases Jamie and Jane’s love affair. An affair that will lead them to a lust filled obsession that will take a path to destruction. It was heartbreaking watching their love spiral out of control, especially in the hand of other’s deception.
The present will bring their love ten fold as a reminder what good brings together no man can bring apart. Not even by the hands of the man who promised to love you till the end of time. However when you been living in the confinement of four walls in prison for years it’s the only thing Jamie could think about. Vendetta on the people who took everything from you including the one person you thought was your ride and die till the end, Jane.
Again, I was gasping for air on how much I enjoy reading the magical words of Samantha Young’s writing. The intense moments were as great as the happy times. Then topping it off with the author’s ending Acknowledgement that brought me to tears, and the realization this book was definitely another 5 star read under my belt.
May 17, 2020
‘I didn’t understand what pulled us together. I didn’t know what made Jane Doe the only woman who satisfied my heart, body, and soul. I didn’t need to know. I just had to do what I could to not lose her.’
Black Tangled Heart has catapulted itself to the top of our list as one of our favourite Samantha Young books! What a story! We devoured every word in a book we found impossible to put down. Black Tangled Heart is first and foremost a standalone story of true and intense soulmate love, yet Samantha Young somehow wrapped it in a cloak of forbidden love, passion, suspense, deceit, revenge and utter heartbreak. But, towering above it all is a beautifully potent and epic romance we followed, hearts fully invested, from young love to tortured and painful adulthood.
‘A love that consumes, consumes everything into utter desolation.’
They say the path to true love never runs smoothly and for Jane Doe and Jamie McKenna, no truer words were spoken. Their love story took us from the tender years of 13 and 15 respectively, through to the present in a rollercoaster of emotions. Theirs was a love story that wasn’t without its hurdles and pitfalls, and later, it would be shrouded in a darkness that would consume them both.
“Loving you will be nowhere near as easy as it will be for me to love you. You get that, right?”
When Jamie McKenna and his younger sister Lorna, leave Boston to live with their big sister Skye, who is forging a successful career in California, they didn’t realise they would soon welcome another into their fold when Lorna befriends their neighbour, the lonely Jane Doe. A young girl who is fostered by a couple who live in the same apartment block, Jane struggles with her identity, doesn’t really fit in and feels unloved. That is until the McKenna’s offer her solace, the family she has desired for so long.
Jane revels in the friendship with the difficult Lorna but it isn’t until Jamie and Jane fall for one another some years later, that Lorna shows her true colours – her possessive and manipulative ways would cause the young couple and the family so much pain, but it was the direction Samantha Young eventually steered us that broke our hearts and took us completely by surprise. At that point, we had no idea where this story leading us, and we couldn’t have anticipated the emotional outpouring we would experience.
‘My soul was connected to hers. I doubted I could ever find true peace without Jane by my side.’
There is so much to Black Tangled Heart, and far be it for us to unravel any of the plots and ruin the experience for you. You really do need to go into this one blind. What we can say is that, as readers, we felt Samantha Young dug really deep to tell this story. The emotion and heartbreak bled from the pages, the sweet essence of young love was captured so exquisitely, the pain and poignancy the story took was topical and sensitively handled by an author who delivered a raw potency to Jamie and Jane’s love story. Black Tangled Heart is a story of family, love, hopes, dreams, revenge and loss, and the prose from this author was top class.
“One day,” she whispered, “we’re going to have that future we always talked about.”
Samantha Young delivered a beautifully crafted story that swung from sweet to torturous and everything in between. There was a darkness to this story we relished, and as much there were times she wrecked our hearts, we loved the enthralling journey this author led us on.
We challenge you not to take these characters and their stories into your hearts as you swoon, cry and feel every word in this painfully beautiful love story. As we closed the last page we reflected on a story that will stay with us for a long, long time to come. What a tremendous 5 star read!
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July 15, 2020
4.5-5 ⭐'s
Good Lord...why did I put this book off? It was sooo good and sooo tangled!
Jamie and Jane meet when he and his sisters move into Jane's apartment complex. Jane is thirteen and Jamie's younger sister, Lorna, immediately puts her in the best friend category and names off several rules that become very important in the future.
Jane is quiet and doesn't have really any friends so she welcomes Lorna's...and Jamie's friendship. She and Jamie have more of a slow build and as they become older, they have even more connections. This leads to Jane breaking one of her best friend rules.
Lorna is not a happy camper and starts to make things difficult, even going as far as trying to make Jane choose. Unfortunately, there are some problems with Jamie's older sister, Skye.
Events take a nasty turn - something I was shocked about (this is where the "black" tangled comes into play). However, this is also where things get angsty and it was so good even if Jamie was a bit of an arse.
Circumstances are crazy and I was glued to my kindle trying to figure out how things would get worked out. I loved how good Jane is and I loved how she affected Jamie. I wish I could say more!
The wrap up was pretty sweet and I was happy how things worked out. There are some bonus chapters that you don't want to miss out on.
Good Lord...why did I put this book off? It was sooo good and sooo tangled!
Jamie and Jane meet when he and his sisters move into Jane's apartment complex. Jane is thirteen and Jamie's younger sister, Lorna, immediately puts her in the best friend category and names off several rules that become very important in the future.
Jane is quiet and doesn't have really any friends so she welcomes Lorna's...and Jamie's friendship. She and Jamie have more of a slow build and as they become older, they have even more connections. This leads to Jane breaking one of her best friend rules.
Lorna is not a happy camper and starts to make things difficult, even going as far as trying to make Jane choose. Unfortunately, there are some problems with Jamie's older sister, Skye.
Events take a nasty turn - something I was shocked about (this is where the "black" tangled comes into play). However, this is also where things get angsty and it was so good even if Jamie was a bit of an arse.
Circumstances are crazy and I was glued to my kindle trying to figure out how things would get worked out. I loved how good Jane is and I loved how she affected Jamie. I wish I could say more!
The wrap up was pretty sweet and I was happy how things worked out. There are some bonus chapters that you don't want to miss out on.
May 16, 2020
Book is written in two parts.
First half is them as teenagers second half as adults with them broken up and the Hero on his plot for revenge.
As there is an age gap, he is 18 and she is 13 I think, he is with other girls before they get together.
After they split.
'I couldn’t bear to let anyone that close to me again, and he’d gone back to his old ways. Except worse. My Jamie, even before we dated, didn’t treat women like they were disposable.'
During the separation he is with others and he thinks she has a boyfriend but she isn't with anyone else.
'“Why is the woman always the one who’s faithful with her body, but the guy never is?”'
The reason for the separation I found it hard to understand why both of them didn't think might be the reason, esp as there had been issues.
And I wanted the heroine to be stronger and not fall at his feet.
The Hero kisses another woman deliberately in front of the heroine out of spite.
The heroine fake dates and kisses the date.
HEA.
Epilogue.
First half is them as teenagers second half as adults with them broken up and the Hero on his plot for revenge.
As there is an age gap, he is 18 and she is 13 I think, he is with other girls before they get together.
After they split.
'I couldn’t bear to let anyone that close to me again, and he’d gone back to his old ways. Except worse. My Jamie, even before we dated, didn’t treat women like they were disposable.'
During the separation he is with others and he thinks she has a boyfriend but she isn't with anyone else.
'“Why is the woman always the one who’s faithful with her body, but the guy never is?”'
The reason for the separation I found it hard to understand why both of them didn't think might be the reason, esp as there had been issues.
And I wanted the heroine to be stronger and not fall at his feet.
The Hero kisses another woman deliberately in front of the heroine out of spite.
The heroine fake dates and kisses the date.
HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2020
AHHHH!! Samantha Young has done it again!! I absolutely love her Play On series and was so excited for another story in this world. I am so obsessed with Jamie and Jane. Their connection was electric and fiery and I for one could not get enough. This is one of the best Samantha Young stories I have ever read!!!!
Without a doubt, I absolutely loved the different tropes in this story: Best friend's older brother/taboo type stories are my jam but there was something about Jamie and Jane that made this unforgettable. Their banter, back and forth and the level of awareness and tension between them was FIRE. I could not be any more in love with them. But then the second half of the story happened and BAM: I was consumed with the revenge plot, the angst, the secrets and the twists and turns in the story. GAH!! Black Tangled Heart is the absolute complete package. What a phenomenal ride and another reason why Young is on my auto click list! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
Without a doubt, I absolutely loved the different tropes in this story: Best friend's older brother/taboo type stories are my jam but there was something about Jamie and Jane that made this unforgettable. Their banter, back and forth and the level of awareness and tension between them was FIRE. I could not be any more in love with them. But then the second half of the story happened and BAM: I was consumed with the revenge plot, the angst, the secrets and the twists and turns in the story. GAH!! Black Tangled Heart is the absolute complete package. What a phenomenal ride and another reason why Young is on my auto click list! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
June 10, 2020
It's been a good few years since I read a Sam Young book, but this one really caught my eye and I am glad I took the plunge. The first half of the book was a real page-turner, a story of young love and overcoming childhood traumas. The second half took a slightly different turn and whilst it was good, I felt it was really hard to reconcile the hero of the present with who he was as a young man - I still loved reading it but it didn't quite hit the 5 star spot by the end.
3.5 Stars
3.5 Stars
November 3, 2020
the reviews misled me again :(
→ miscommunication trope is my least favorite thing ever.
→ where's the character development?
→ where's the bloody connection we should feel to the characters in general? we get a whole ass half a book to read about jane & jamie as kids but for what??? *insert tiktok sound* "you did this for what??"
→ this was supposed to be some crazy revenge story, but how can it be that if we get half of the book of exposition and exposition of the characters as annoying ass adults
→ too many cliches
→ samantha young is way too fucking awesome for this to be as bad as it was. it just felt like a book an author publishes in the beginning of their career. not after having countless hits
→ miscommunication trope is my least favorite thing ever.
→ where's the character development?
→ where's the bloody connection we should feel to the characters in general? we get a whole ass half a book to read about jane & jamie as kids but for what??? *insert tiktok sound* "you did this for what??"
→ this was supposed to be some crazy revenge story, but how can it be that if we get half of the book of exposition and exposition of the characters as annoying ass adults
→ too many cliches
→ samantha young is way too fucking awesome for this to be as bad as it was. it just felt like a book an author publishes in the beginning of their career. not after having countless hits
May 20, 2020
Such a beautiful story that really pulled at my heart strings. I absolutely loved the early days of the book, and felt so much passion between Jamie & Jane. Although I really enjoyed their story, it wasn’t the 5 star read I was hoping for, as there were parts that just couldn’t quite get there for me, especially in the later days, but still I couldn’t put it down and would definitely recommend it!
May 4, 2020
5 stars and all the feels!
Holy damn, what a ride! Dramatic, romantic, passionate, intense and angsty, Samantha Young brings all the feels to this book, and it’s an amazing read! Full of emotion, this second-chance-romance had me swooning, crying and falling in love over and over again, and I loved every moment of it!
This book is part of the Play On series, but note that these books are grouped together by theme (the arts) only. They are complete standalones with no character crossover, and they can be read in any order.
Jane grew up in the foster system. She’s had a tragic life, but she finds her place when she meets the McKenna family siblings. She becomes best friends with the youngest sibling, Lorna, gains an older sister figure in Skye, and falls madly and irrevocably in love with middle sibling, Jamie. Two years older than Jane, Jamie doesn’t see Jane as anything other than his younger sister’s friend, but he feels somewhat protective over her, but over the years as they get to know each other, his feelings begin to shift.
With teenage Jane and Jamie, we get an absolutely beautiful story of first love. It develops honestly and naturally, there is so much emotion between them, they share an incredible connection and passion for each other, and these two are just it for each other. And can I just say that I fell in mad love with 19 year old Jamie… because wow!
But in a dramatic twist, it all falls apart for our young lovers. It’s a tragic situation which made my heart ache, and it makes sense for the story. It’s not just stupid drama for the sake of it, but an extreme situation which leaves Jane and Jamie apart and broken-hearted.
Years later, and everything is different for both of them. Jamie, in particular, is a changed man, who has thought of little else other than the people who did wrong by him, and he wants revenge. Jane is on that list. And so, we get a second-chance-romance with an enemies-to-lovers twist as Jamie sets his sites on Jane (among others), seeking retribution for all that he’s been through.
The tone for the second part of this book is completely different from the first, and I loved the shift. Jane and Jamie are older now, they’ve been through a lot, and they are in completely different places in their lives. But the chemistry between them still sizzles, and my heart was pounding just waiting to see what would happen when they came back together. I don’t want to spoil the story so I won’t go into details, but I will say that I was not disappointed. It’s not an easy read, seeing two people who are so clearly destined to be together in a place that was so inconceivable from the beginning of their story, but I could understand where they were both coming from, and I was captivated, and could not put my kindle down, desperate to see how it was all going to play out.
It's harsh and brutal, and the angst is off the charts, but underneath it all is this epic sense of longing that made me ache for both of them. There are so many times I wanted to sit them down and make them deal with their issues, but looking back I can see that it was perfect, it happened as it needed to happen, and I relished the emotional journey that I went on with these characters. And was it worth it? Hell yes! Steamy, emotional, and so freaking swoony, I had tears in my eyes as these two found their way back to each other.
It all unfolds alongside a mystery/suspense storyline that works really well with the romance, and I was fully invested in seeing how it was all going to be resolved. There are some heartstopping moments, which add to the sense of excitement in the book, and it is really well put together.
I loved this book. It took me on a wild ride of emotions, and I fell in mad love with these characters and their story. Samantha Young writes so beautifully, and this is among my favourites of hers.
Fantastic – 5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Holy damn, what a ride! Dramatic, romantic, passionate, intense and angsty, Samantha Young brings all the feels to this book, and it’s an amazing read! Full of emotion, this second-chance-romance had me swooning, crying and falling in love over and over again, and I loved every moment of it!
This book is part of the Play On series, but note that these books are grouped together by theme (the arts) only. They are complete standalones with no character crossover, and they can be read in any order.
Jane grew up in the foster system. She’s had a tragic life, but she finds her place when she meets the McKenna family siblings. She becomes best friends with the youngest sibling, Lorna, gains an older sister figure in Skye, and falls madly and irrevocably in love with middle sibling, Jamie. Two years older than Jane, Jamie doesn’t see Jane as anything other than his younger sister’s friend, but he feels somewhat protective over her, but over the years as they get to know each other, his feelings begin to shift.
“Everyone but me is off-limits to you, Jane. You got that?”
“I don’t belong to you,” I whispered. It sounded weak. I hated that it sounded weak. Why did he do this to me? How could one person affect me so much?
“Yes, you do.” His voice was hoarse. “And I belong to you.”
With teenage Jane and Jamie, we get an absolutely beautiful story of first love. It develops honestly and naturally, there is so much emotion between them, they share an incredible connection and passion for each other, and these two are just it for each other. And can I just say that I fell in mad love with 19 year old Jamie… because wow!
“I’ve never loved anyone like this. It feels too much.”
My heart leapt in my chest. “I feel it too.”
It was scary. Terrifying, even. Yet it was the most exhilarating ride of my life.
But in a dramatic twist, it all falls apart for our young lovers. It’s a tragic situation which made my heart ache, and it makes sense for the story. It’s not just stupid drama for the sake of it, but an extreme situation which leaves Jane and Jamie apart and broken-hearted.
Years later, and everything is different for both of them. Jamie, in particular, is a changed man, who has thought of little else other than the people who did wrong by him, and he wants revenge. Jane is on that list. And so, we get a second-chance-romance with an enemies-to-lovers twist as Jamie sets his sites on Jane (among others), seeking retribution for all that he’s been through.
The tone for the second part of this book is completely different from the first, and I loved the shift. Jane and Jamie are older now, they’ve been through a lot, and they are in completely different places in their lives. But the chemistry between them still sizzles, and my heart was pounding just waiting to see what would happen when they came back together. I don’t want to spoil the story so I won’t go into details, but I will say that I was not disappointed. It’s not an easy read, seeing two people who are so clearly destined to be together in a place that was so inconceivable from the beginning of their story, but I could understand where they were both coming from, and I was captivated, and could not put my kindle down, desperate to see how it was all going to play out.
It's harsh and brutal, and the angst is off the charts, but underneath it all is this epic sense of longing that made me ache for both of them. There are so many times I wanted to sit them down and make them deal with their issues, but looking back I can see that it was perfect, it happened as it needed to happen, and I relished the emotional journey that I went on with these characters. And was it worth it? Hell yes! Steamy, emotional, and so freaking swoony, I had tears in my eyes as these two found their way back to each other.
I still loved her.
I would always love Jane.
It was the kid of love that would never fade.
It all unfolds alongside a mystery/suspense storyline that works really well with the romance, and I was fully invested in seeing how it was all going to be resolved. There are some heartstopping moments, which add to the sense of excitement in the book, and it is really well put together.
I loved this book. It took me on a wild ride of emotions, and I fell in mad love with these characters and their story. Samantha Young writes so beautifully, and this is among my favourites of hers.
Fantastic – 5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2020
BRILLIANT... CAPTIVATING... INTENSE...PASSIONATE...This book had me in twisted knots all the way through.
I literally couldn’t put it down.
Full review to come once my head and emotions settle... just wow!!!
I was so excited to dive into this new book from Samantha Young. I’ve truly enjoyed this series and has an idea of what I thought this book would be like..
Well excuse me.. this book was nothing like I expected.. it blew me away!! (Not to say my idea of it wouldn’t have blown me away.. just that it was not what I expected)
You are captivated with the relationships in this book.. truly so caught up emotionally with these characters.
I felt everything Jane went through and the relationships she had truly had her shine as a character. So complex and dynamic. I won’t do details but I will say.. she is amazing...such growth from her.. I love her!!
Jamie.. oh my.. HOLY FREAKING WOW!! The first half of this book was FIRE!! He is the epitome of a book boyfriend and I think he has bumped some of the others off their pedestals.. *swoon*
But when I said this book was nothing like I expected Samantha Young threw a curve ball and amped up my anxiety while reading. By this point, I was hunkered down and had to finish.. I HAD TO KNOW..
My only regret is I am now done and I feel such a loss for having to leave these characters..
Samantha Young did a fabulously ingenious job with this story.. These characters are a part of me and I may even say this is my favorite book by Samantha Young..
I’m still thinking about it.. feeling that draw to still be with these characters..
I highly recommend that you read this one!!
And you do not have to read the others in this series to read this one.. stand alone..
I literally couldn’t put it down.
Full review to come once my head and emotions settle... just wow!!!
I was so excited to dive into this new book from Samantha Young. I’ve truly enjoyed this series and has an idea of what I thought this book would be like..
Well excuse me.. this book was nothing like I expected.. it blew me away!! (Not to say my idea of it wouldn’t have blown me away.. just that it was not what I expected)
You are captivated with the relationships in this book.. truly so caught up emotionally with these characters.
I felt everything Jane went through and the relationships she had truly had her shine as a character. So complex and dynamic. I won’t do details but I will say.. she is amazing...such growth from her.. I love her!!
Jamie.. oh my.. HOLY FREAKING WOW!! The first half of this book was FIRE!! He is the epitome of a book boyfriend and I think he has bumped some of the others off their pedestals.. *swoon*
But when I said this book was nothing like I expected Samantha Young threw a curve ball and amped up my anxiety while reading. By this point, I was hunkered down and had to finish.. I HAD TO KNOW..
My only regret is I am now done and I feel such a loss for having to leave these characters..
Samantha Young did a fabulously ingenious job with this story.. These characters are a part of me and I may even say this is my favorite book by Samantha Young..
I’m still thinking about it.. feeling that draw to still be with these characters..
I highly recommend that you read this one!!
And you do not have to read the others in this series to read this one.. stand alone..
May 16, 2020
‘I didn’t understand what pulled us together. I didn’t know what made Jane Doe the only woman who satisfied my heart, body, and soul. I didn’t need to know. I just had to do what I could to not lose her.’
Black Tangled Heart has catapulted itself to the top of our list as one of our favourite Samantha Young books! What a story! We devoured every word in a book we found impossible to put down. Black Tangled Heart is first and foremost a standalone story of true and intense soulmate love, yet Samantha Young somehow wrapped it in a cloak of forbidden love, passion, suspense, deceit, revenge and utter heartbreak. But, towering above it all is a beautifully potent and epic romance we followed, hearts fully invested, from young love to tortured and painful adulthood.
‘A love that consumes, consumes everything into utter desolation.’
They say the path to true love never runs smoothly and for Jane Doe and Jamie McKenna, no truer words were spoken. Their love story took us from the tender years of 13 and 15 respectively, through to the present in a rollercoaster of emotions. Theirs was a love story that wasn’t without its hurdles and pitfalls, and later, it would be shrouded in a darkness that would consume them both.
“Loving you will be nowhere near as easy as it will be for me to love you. You get that, right?”
When Jamie McKenna and his younger sister Lorna, leave Boston to live with their big sister Skye, who is forging a successful career in California, they didn’t realise they would soon welcome another into their fold when Lorna befriends their neighbour, the lonely Jane Doe. A young girl who is fostered by a couple who live in the same apartment block, Jane struggles with her identity, doesn’t really fit in and feels unloved. That is until the McKenna’s offer her solace, the family she has desired for so long.
Jane revels in the friendship with the difficult Lorna but it isn’t until Jamie and Jane fall for one another some years later, that Lorna shows her true colours – her possessive and manipulative ways would cause the young couple and the family so much pain, but it was the direction Samantha Young eventually steered us that broke our hearts and took us completely by surprise. At that point, we had no idea where this story leading us, and we couldn’t have anticipated the emotional outpouring we would experience.
‘My soul was connected to hers. I doubted I could ever find true peace without Jane by my side.’
There is so much to Black Tangled Heart, and far be it for us to unravel any of the plots and ruin the experience for you. You really do need to go into this one blind. What we can say is that, as readers, we felt Samantha Young dug really deep to tell this story. The emotion and heartbreak bled from the pages, the sweet essence of young love was captured so exquisitely, the pain and poignancy the story took was topical and sensitively handled by an author who delivered a raw potency to Jamie and Jane’s love story. Black Tangled Heart is a story of family, love, hopes, dreams, revenge and loss, and the prose from this author was top class.
“One day,” she whispered, “we’re going to have that future we always talked about.”
Samantha Young delivered a beautifully crafted story that swung from sweet to torturous and everything in between. There was a darkness to this story we relished, and as much as it wrecked our hearts, we loved the enthralling journey this author led us on.
We challenge you not to take these characters and their stories into your hearts as you swoon, cry and feel every word in this painfully beautiful love story. As we closed the last page we reflected on a story that will stay with us for a long, long time to come. What a tremendous 5 star read!
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
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