One night of fun turns into a nightmare. Newly single, broken-hearted and being told she’ll never conceive naturally, Kara Knight drowns her sorrows at her best friend’s engagement party and falls into bed with the one person who was on her never-touch list—playboy rock star Hunter Collins.
Becoming pregnant is nothing short of a miracle.
But Hunter is haunted by a traumatic upbringing and isn’t prepared to become a father.
With Hunter on tour and Kara’s health at risk, is she destined to be a single mom? Or will a tragic twist of fate bring this unlikely pair together?
Tania Joyce is an author of rockstar, contemporary and new adult romance novels. Her stories thread romance, drama and passion into beautiful locations ranging from the dazzling lights and glitter of New York, to the rural countryside of the Hunter Valley.
She’s widely travelled, has a diverse background in the corporate world and has a love for shopping, shoes and Shiraz.
Tania draws on all her real-life experiences and combines them with her very vivid dreams to form the foundation of her novels. She likes to write about strong-minded, career-oriented heroes and heroines that go through drama-filled hell, have steamy encounters and risk everything as they endeavor to find their happy-ever-after.
DNF at 18%. I love the surprise baby trope and even knew this one would have a lot of tragedy mixed within the trope; but nobody has talked about the real tragedy here.
The MMC knocks up a “friend” after a one night stand and immediately demands she terminate. Why? Because his sister is autistic so his genetics must be messed up. He immediately plans to whisk his now pregnant friend to meet his autistic sister to prove to her that his sister should have what? Been aborted?
I was already hesitant to keep reading due to some problematic word choices when describing autistic individuals but this ended the story for me right away. There would be no redemption.
As a mother of two children who are autistic and may some day need the same level of care as hunters sister, I hope nobody I know or love reads this book and thinks maybe my children should have been aborted.
This book was an iffy start. The one night stand lead up is amateurish and a bit cringe. The author does redeem herself with the rest of the book.
Important TW (does include spoilers)
Severe endometriosis Premature birth Emergency csection and hysterectomy Infant loss
I WISH I was warned about infant loss. I wasn't in the right headspace and would have delayed reading this if I had known. February is the 19th anniversary of my 1st and most traumatic miscarriage. This book still made all those feelings from 19 yr ago bubble up. For the reason of no TW, I won't read this author again. Loss of trust.
All this to still say... the story was wonderful, although traumatic. The grief of both parents, with anger and guilt and emptiness... all wonderfully depicted and felt to the bones.
Dropped my star rating to 1 (would go lower) since the author's response to my email about her lack of trigger warnings was so incredibly dismissive. Even stating that her readers can stop if they get uncomfortable. Lady, you already triggered me if I have to stop. This author is working through her own issues and doesn't care about her reader's mental health. There is a way to be generic on a book description and have a foreword of more specific trigger warnings. Some dark romance writers even specify "turn the page for the TW list or skip to Chapter 1 if you don't care for spoilers." There are levels of loss and TW and readers deserve to know before reading.
OMG - this story was so amazing. Heartbreak and swoon! **originally posted @ ReadingDiva's Blog**
I was looking forward to Hunter’s story, I wanted to see what made him tick but I was not prepared for such a heart-wrenching story that took my breath away more than once.
The story starts with Kara & Hunter celebrating Gemma & Kyle’s engagement party and putting up a false sense of enjoyment while smiling and sharing drinks. But the reality is, these two characters have gone through enough relationship heartbreak and all they want is to stay away from relationships & commitments. But for Hunter, no relationships doesn’t translate into no sex. Hunter is insufferable, he is funny, he is charming, and he is sexy as hell. His charm is only as strong as his sex-appeal and his talent to pick up women is as good as his talent as an artist. If you read book #1 in the series you will agree that sometimes he can come across as childish and irresponsible but he is also loyal, prideful and flat out a great human being that recognizes his mistakes. Mistakes that have cost him heartbreak. His relationship with Gemma & Kyle was affected greatly by the things he did and he knew he couldn’t let that happen again. But now that things are better and Gemma and Kyle are happily engaged, Hunter wants to stay away from relationships and just focus on his music, and casual sex.
Kara is a great character. She is resilient, strong, independent and beautiful. She knows what she needs to do and goes for it, she isn’t afraid of experimenting & isn’t afraid of facing consequences. She might’ve been born of privilege but you wouldn’t be able to tell due to her simplicity and nature. Heartbroken and hurting from her recent breakup, Kara finds refuge in Hunter’s arms. But after reality sets in, she understands that her happiness may be short-lived. As the story flows Kara is given yet another shot at happiness, one she could’ve never expected. Her chance to be happy has finally arrived even if it means doing it alone.
The author did such an excellent job bringing these two characters together. The circumstances of how they came to be weren’t perfect, but nevertheless, the author did a fantastic job highlighting the reason why they needed each other. Kara and Hunter are very different, they come from different social backgrounds, they see a family with a different set of eyes, but they share a desire to stay away from things that could break their hearts. All the while understanding that while they see things differently, they find on each other things they didn’t think they wanted or needed.
Ruined is a fantastic story of love, second chances & passion. In a gut-wrenching way, the story explores very difficult and real situations that push these characters to their limit. Each of them dealt with their own version of hell and while each had their own mindset and reservations, they come to the realization that they are better together than apart. A fantastic story by Tania Joyce – I am looking forward to what she is giving us next.
I was given the opportunity to read an ARC of this novel by a new to me, Australian author. I was not expecting the emotional story that I got. I expected a rockstar romance, but this story went much deeper with a focus on endometriosis and autism being a couple of the themes in this book. There are some heartbreaking scenes in this story, so be warned you may need tissues.
This is the second book in the series, the first is Hunter, Kyle and Gemma's story, but I felt this worked well as a standalone as enough of their past history is made known to us throughout the story. I will go back and read Ripped at some point though.
We meet Hunter, rockstar extraordinaire or so he seems, when he is trying to convince fashionista Kara to let her hair down with him for one night of fun. Despite Hunter's ability to come across as a bit of an asshole, you can tell, well I could, that underneath there's more to him than meets the eye.
Kara and Hunter make for an unlikely couple at the beginning, for a start they can't stand each other. It was a pleasure to watch them grow and learn about each other as the story went on. I guess an unplanned pregnancy can create the need for many changes.
There's plenty of drama, only a small amount of angst, (thank goodness as I can't deal with real angsty stories) there's romance and some corny bits too (which since it's a romance it's allowed).
Tania Joyce has written a story I really enjoyed, with characters I grew to care about, and some extremely heartfelt moments, I look forward to reading more of her work.
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of this novel to review.
I love the surprise baby trope and I hoped I will like this book bit I hated the writing. I felt nothing for the plot, for the characters and nothing even in the most tragic part.
Frenemies Kara and Hunter get drunk and hook up and mostly regret it. Things get way worse when Kara becomes pregnant. The doctors have told Kara this was impossible so even though she has no intention of having a relationship with Hunter she's keeping her baby. 🎶Papa don't preach. I'm a keepin my baby.🎶 Now Hunter is fully against it and not only because of their non relationship and he's happy living his playboy lifestyle. He has a REAL reason and he's determined to change Kara's mind.
Gliding his hands upward, he shimmied up her sides, and settled them on her belly. On Ryan. It was the first time he’d touched her tummy. He splayed his fingers wide. With slow circles, he caressed their baby. Tears welled in her eyes as she placed her hands over his and entwined their fingers together.
I really liked this book! I wanted to cry for these two because they both have good reasons for how they feel about the pregnancy. As they get closer and were beginning to fall for each other I fell along with them. It was a great story. There is a part where I was sobbing but it was all worth it in the end.
This is the second book in the series and I think I'd have liked it even more if I had read the first book and knew the characters better. So I'm going to go back and read Gemma and Kyle's story next!
Ruined is truly a gut-wrenching read that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster whilst keeping you turning those pages. The myriad of emotions were huge during this tale of loss and love between rockstar Hunter and Kara. Their story and journey is a not a easy one, and covers some truly harrowing topics. This book was so beautifully written for the topics that it deals with. Tania Joyce nearly ruined me with this one. At one point, I was so overcome with emotion, I actually had to stop reading. This is a such a tear-jerking story but absolutely worth it in the end. The turmoil that both Hunter and Kara suffer tugged at my heart strings, I hurt right along with them. I loved every page of this book.
This is a tremendous story of love, second chances and passion. In a heart wrenching way, the story explores very difficult and real life situations that push these characters to their every limit. Each of them dealt with their own version of hell and whilst each had their own mindsets and reservations, they come to the conclusion that they are better together than apart. An absolutely fantastic story by Tania Joyce. I am looking forward to the next story in this series.
Quite surprised by this author (new to me). I got that she might be other than from US because we don't "fall pregnant" nor do we call our friends"mates" but it can be over looked IMHO. The story was so honest. Hunter did not love her. You'd get his POV and it was honest until it wasn't....but he grew so much. Kara was complex as well. She was a career woman in the fashion industry. She just had her boyfriend break up and after she found out her need of a hysterectomy.
These two hook up somewhat reluctantly. You can just sense this was not a good idea.
I cried. I freaked and I finally fell in love with Hunter. Rock on!-!
Be prepared to cuss, shake your head, swoon, and ugly cry all in the course of one book. If you’ve experienced tragic outcomes during fertility or pregnancy, be prepared. This one got to me a lot!!! I loved it so much I’m gonna go back and read the first book and then continue through the rest of this amazing series 💜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Wow! This book was so much better than the first one. I couldn’t put it down. Hunter and Kara were perfection. Struggling to overcome tragedy, both were able to make their way back to each other. I will definitely see what else is in store for these two characters in upcoming books.
I am really disappointed in myself for reading up to the 84% mark but this story was straight garbage. There was no love story. It was straight Kara being emotionally and mentally abused and then if that weren't enough, someone close to her dies. I pushed through the offensive autism chapters because I thought, it has to turn around right? -Something- is going to happen and Hunter is going have this enlightened moments and realise how f***** up everything he insinuates about autism, including the the blatant and near constant demand for an abortion because "that might be in his genes." But no. No corner is turned. They called his sister's case "extreme" and that's so offensive my brain seized. Jenny works independently, speaks well and can spout off stats and number about her favourite things, and she can execute self care (eating and bathing). But extreme is her having tantrums/outbursts at times.This is an example of why so many people have a stereotyped, narrow view of autism. So, coming from someone who is autistic: Go f*** yourself.
Since my ranting is well under way, I may as well touch how the author introduces Kara having endometriosis like it's an advanced stage cancer that was undetectable until that moment, and it's fatal. There's barely an explanation on what it is but no talk of degrees of severity or length of time she's been fighting her painful, bloodied crime scene worthy battles with it to give the reader a real sense of why pregnancy was unlikely or why having a hysterectomy was on the table. I couldn't believe this shit was being breezed over so much that I thought my brain was going to explode while my eyes blacked out the world in protest and protection to prevent further harm to my psyche by reading a word more of this dumpster fire.
My god, I really want to unread this book and listen to my instincts when I read another person's review who had the sense to quit at 18% and avoid this one.
This book definitely earns a spot among my favorites, despite it touching on themes that I usually steer clear of—like the death of a child. When Hunter and Kara’s son died, I was tempted to put the book down, as the tragedy hit me hard. It was a gut-wrenching, heartbreaking moment that almost made me abandon the story altogether. Yet, I found myself so invested in the characters, especially Kara, that I pushed on. I’m glad I did.
Hunter was difficult to like at first. He’s flawed, even downright unlikeable at times, but as the story progressed, I found myself rooting for him to get his happily ever after—especially with Kara. There's something raw and real about his journey, and you can’t help but cheer for him, flaws and all. It baffles me why this book received several low ratings on Goodreads, because for me, it’s a five-star read. From the very beginning, the story hooked me, and I couldn't put the book down.
One of the most powerful moments was that scene in the hospital. I actually cried while reading it, and for a moment, I wasn’t sure I had the heart to keep going. But I’m grateful I did, because the ending was worth it. The growth in Kara’s character was so well done. She started off as a seemingly uptight and timid character, but by the end, she had grown into someone strong and resilient. Hunter and Kara brought out the best in each other, making their journey all the more compelling.
In the end, this book isn’t just about loss—it’s about healing, redemption, and finding a way forward, even when it seems impossible. I wholeheartedly recommend it, and I can’t express how much I loved this story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
***Trigger Warning for anyone who has lost a baby in any way, shape, or form or ttc with struggle***
***Trigger Warning*** Please, please please, do not read this book if you have lost a baby in any way, shape, or form or are trying to conceive with struggle. ALSO MIGHT SPOIL PART OF BOOK IF YOU READ THIS PART SO IF YOU AREN'T TRIGGERED BY CHILD LOSS KEEP SCROLLING TO ANOTHER REVIEW... Continue reading below if you think you might be triggered so you can know why! Don't read this book if you have lost a child in any way, shape, or form. I tried to get through it... I really did. With having two miscarriages it's hard to hear a guy repetitively say they don't want a baby. I mustered through it... Then it's a trigger for anyone who has actually lost a baby in anyway due to the loss of a child in the book. Please please please do not read this book if you are triggered easily. I find myself not to be triggered as easily as most yet I couldn't finish this book. Do not do it to yourself to read this if you are triggered by loss or struggling to conceive. The guy says over n over again to get rid of it... She's ruining his life by not getting rid of it... Etc. I'm sure this book might have a happy ending... But I got about 60% through the book and had to stop. It's non-stop triggers. Save your heart and don't read this! From one fellow loss mom to the rest of you. Much love sent your way!
Ruined – The Price Of Play Everhide Rockstar Romance book 2 Tania Joyce ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Putting it out there – don’t think I’ve ever read a book that stirred so much emotion. Tania has more than blown this story so far out of the park… Is it possible to give a good 10 ⭐️ or even 100?. There’s just not enough. I don’t think I’ve ever read a story that I had to put down to keep myself in control, I’m normally read till it finishes especially if I adore the story, but after ugly tears I had to put it down and finish the following day.
If you haven’t read Ripped, please start there as it is the basis for the Everhide story, it will suck you in and spit you out. But ruined is a whole new level for Hunter. I secretly loved him in Ripped, I wanted him to be the forever for Gemma, now I’m so glad she chose Kyle, because it meant Hunter has his turn for happy ever after, sadly not everything goes as planned. Everhide is now bigger then ever, their name is up there with Shawn Mendes and Taylor Swift in the entertainment world. They’re on constant tour, which means fans and in particular women which is always a plus for Hunter – he is 💯 a woman’s man.
Kara Knight is best friend to Gemma, she’s hung around with Everhide many times and banters with Hunter each time their together. She drives him crazy, she’s smart, fun, quick witted and loves to stir him. But while celebrating Kyle and Gemma’s engagement party, the banter turns sexual… So with one night on offer, they head to the bedroom, where sparks fly and their relationship as it was changes for ever….
Kara suffers from Endometriosis, meaning falling pregnant was never meant to happen. Dealing with that is gut wrenching enough, but discovering that the one night with Hunter has indeed got her pregnant everything will change. With a very guarded family secret, Hunter has his reasons for not wanting a child, he cannot make Kara understand, but this is her only chance at motherhood, and if Hunter doesn’t want to step up she’ll do it herself.
On a Journey filled with everything from cursing, revelations, truths, tears to happiness. Hunter and Kara will either have to step up as parents or walk away from each other. If the issues between them are not enough to deal with, the paparazzi are just the crack in their worlds very Thin wire. They are relentless in every detail of Everhide which means Hunter and Kara become fair game. Enjoying her pregnancy should have been 9 months of love, but it becomes a tiresome defeat.
Oh dear God, this review is killing me… I can’t keep it in, I’m still reeling. Do yourself a favour READ THIS SERIES, but this book in particular is – book of the year for me!!!
This is the story of Kara and Hunter. They've known each other for a while, but sparks had never flared between them, until now. They both agree on one night together, but their choice leads to so much more for both of them. This is a journey of love and heartbreak. Finally finding happiness, and then losing it again. Can they break through their grief and find what they are both longing for, each other? I love everything about this book, from the characters to their story. It was a really heartfelt book. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Having read Ripped I wanted to see what Hunter's story would be about and I didn't expect it at all. Being with Kara makes him face his past and its secrets, but can that be enough to commit to her and their child?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved Kara and Hunters story. It was full of angst, frustration, hurt, heartbreak and love. It made me ugly cry and lol at Kara’s sass. There were a lot of times I wanted to scream and shout at Hunter to sort himself out. This is everything I love in a story along with a HEA.
This is one of the most beautiful, emotional stories I have read in such a long time. Two broken people break each other even further to overcome their deepest wounds to find love together. I sat waiting and waiting for the devastation to hit, it hit well and hard, and the romance that followed tugged on the heartstrings in a pure, raw way.
Hunter is a very naughty rockstar who just wants a bit of fun. Acting on his desires, he has one night with Kara, who just wants to have some fun before surgery that will change her life. Little does she know, all her dreams are about to come true, but Hunter's will be shattered. I really felt for Hunter, and Kara, as they grew, changed, lost, and finally found each other. Words cannot describe how much I adored this book without giving spoilers, and it's one that has gripped me ever since I turned that last page.
If you're afraid of a little emotion, this one isn't for you. Otherwise, read what is real and enjoy this book.
This book started off boring, predictable, fast-paced with not much chemistry, but then it morphed into real life tragedies, grief and high stake emotions. It was put together very well. It is a little too real for a book escape. I definitely teared up several times.
I know why this was named what it was....It ruined me? I cried ugly tears with a lump in my throat so big I couldn't breathe. JUST WOW!! The author really wrote an amazing novel that made you live through what the characters were going through. Just amazing!!
This book is book 2 in the Everhide Rockstar Romance series and in my opinion is better than book 1! Hunter is the charismatic one of the band trio who thrives on attention and who has women falling at his feet. This story is different from the typical “girl meets rockstar and they fall in love,” in fact a mutually agreed upon one night stand leads them down a path of many emotions including regret, remorse, anger, fear, devastation, loss, heartbreak, contentment and finally love. It’s definitely a great read! Keep your tissues handy!
Wow!! What a journey we go on in this amazing book with Kara and Hunter! I really loved Kara’s strength through such heart ache and Hunter’s development. Though I did need tissues…
I was destroyed by this book and then put back together at the end. I am addicted to this series a s can't wait to read the next one. I think I will do that now! Definitely a must read.
I tried, really tried with this book. I hope Hunter would redeem himself but honestly I just couldn't stand his attitude, the feelings towards autism were too much, it came across that he felt autistic children weren't worth giving birth to. I thought maybe he'd prove himself a great dad and I'd warm up to him but that was not to be.
This story just shredded my heart. It's raw, emotional, and makes you ugly cry. The heartache and loss just leave you hurting for these characters. It is a beautiful story about pain, loss, and finding love.
This was an incredible storyline written with lots of love and emotion throughout, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The author did an amazing job of developing this story and the characters and I can't remember the last time a book moved me as much as this one did, absolutely stunning. Definitely a five-star rating and one of the best stories this author has written.
Do NOT read this book late at night. I REPEAT do NOT! I couldn’t put it down and at 2am my heart was ripped from my chest! It’s such a heartbreaking story but also a great love story. Watching the love unfold and grow between these two characters is so heartwarming!